Ethnic fair events discussed

The success of the recent visit of Dr. Roy Ebihara — a member of the Japanese colony that once existed in Clovis — was discussed during the Cultural & Ethnic Affairs Committee meeting at noon Tuesday at Clovis Community College.

The upcoming Clovis/Curry County Ethnic Fair — scheduled to take place July 19 at Hillcrest Park — was also discussed.

“They are planning a fun run,” said Clovis Legislative and Community Development Director Claire Burroughes. “Then they will have a car show, (and) a talent show.”

Area students in grades 6-12 will be able to participate in the fair through either a speech or poster contest.

Also, community members are welcome to participate in the fair through Nigerian-inspired drum dances and batik tie dye. Those interested will be given the tools and knowledge to do just that during a series of workshops.

The workshops are coordinated by members of Agalu, whom Burroughes described as a Nigerian cultural troupe. Those who attend the workshops will be able to showcase what they learned during the ethnic fair.

The ethnic fair will also feature dances from various cultures, including Native American dances as well as a performance of a Japanese dance by Cannon Air Force Base spouses.

A visiting delegation from Clovis’ sister city — Kasama, Zambia — was also discussed.

The delegation is expected in the fall, Burroughes said.

“It’s an opportunity for a cultural exchange between the two (cities),” she said, adding that Kasama and Clovis became sister cities two years ago.

Burroughes also said the public is welcome to Cultural & Ethnic Affairs Committee meetings, which will take place weekly until the Clovis/Curry County Ethnic Fair.

Fast facts

What: Cultural & Ethnic Affairs Committee meetings

When: Noon on Tuesdays until July 19

Where: Clovis Community College room 405

Information: Selmus Price, 749-6570