THE AFRICAN MARKETPLACE RETURNS TO AKRON'S PREMIER CULTURAL EVENT

This year's attendees will have the opportunity to enjoy the sights & sounds of Africa and America for the 31st year of the festival, as never before. Not only will there be plenty of activities for the children, but the African Marketplace, complete with merchandise, food and craft booths will be out in force.

A lot has changed since the first festival. Sure, you can buy African clothes, books and gifts for the family online. But, there's still something to be said about knowing the person you're buying from personally and feeling their warmth and enthusiasm for the products they sell and the people they serve.

Come on out this Sunday and see what treasures our vendors and artisans have in store for you and yours.

The festivities begin at 11am with Harambee center stage. Be there, or be square.

WELCOME SWITCH TO AKRON THIS SATURDAY

Formed in Mansfield, Ohio in 1974 under the name First Class. Featuring brothers Bobby and Tommy DeBarge and Greg Williams, all of whom hailed from Grand Rapids, Michigan along with Akron, Ohio natives Phillip Ingram (brother of James Ingram), Eddie Fluellen and Jody Sims. At the time, they called themselves First Class. They joined Barry White's background group 'White Heat' as background musicians and were let go shortly thereafter.

This Saturday marks their long overdue return to Ohio on Saturday night at Al C. Sanders restaurant on Romig Road, in Akron, OH. Come on out and join the celebration. Admission is just $5.00. The food is excellent, the music will be tight. With you on the set all will be right.

The party starts at 8pm and ends at the stroke of midnight. Be there or be square. The band will perform at the African American Festival on Sunday night. If you can't make it out Saturday night join us at Lock 3 on Sunday for a fun filled day of FREE poetry, music and activities for the whole family. Arrive before 5 and see Switch, after dark, for FREE.