23 February 2005

Kansas African American Affairs Commission to celebrate Kansas African American Community Day at the Capitol

Topeka, KS – In recognition of the 79th anniversary of Black History Month, the Kansas African-American Affairs Commission (KAAAC) and Governor Kathleen Sebelius will host African-American Community Day at the Capitol at 10:00 a.m., Thursday, February 24 in the 2nd floor Rotunda at the Capitol. Rev. Dr. E. Alan Benson, Pastor of Asbury/Mt. Olive United Methodist Church and President of the Topeka Branch of the NAACP, will be the featured speaker. This event combines a Black History Month Celebration with legislative visits at the Capitol.

This year the KAAAC and the Governor will present Distinguished Service Awards to four individuals and one corporation for their work in Kansas communities. The individual recipients are: Foster Chisholm, Retired, Topeka, Kansas; Gloria J. Davis, Superintendent, Garden City/Dodge City Public schools; Charles McAfee, Architect, Wichita, Kansas and Wandra Minor, Customer Service Coordinator, Shawnee Kansas. The Corporate award recipient is the Kansas Speedway.

“We have invited African American leaders from throughout the state to come together to celebrate Black History Month and also to honor those who have sacrificed in service to our community. It is also important for us to visit with the members of the legislature about issues that affect the African American community,” said Danielle Dempsey-Swopes, Executive Director, Kansas African American Commission. “The KAAAC is working hard to increase the leadership participation of African Americans involved in Kansas government and community service.”

The day will include a luncheon where Senator Donald Betts, Wichita, will be the featured speaker. Reservations for the luncheon can be made by calling the KAAAC Office at (785) 478-1645. Attendees may also participate in afternoon workshops and a legislative reception at 4:30 p.m.

The event is sponsored by the KAAAC, HDB Construction, Capitol Federal Savings, Security Benefit and Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co.