African American Family Day Set For Next Month

 ALBANY, NY - New York State Office of General Services (OGS) Commissioner, John C. Egan, today announced that African American Family Day, the free family-friendly event at the Empire State Plaza is the place to be on Saturday, August 7, from noon – 7 p.m.

"African American Family Day is one of the premiere events of the summer season here at the Empire State Plaza," Commissioner said. "It is a wonderful day filled with community spirit, entertainment, cultural activities and so much more. There will be live music, dancing, singing, a special children's area – something for every generation. This is an event not to be missed and I encourage everyone in the Capital Region to come down and enjoy it."

"The Owner/Operators of the McDonald's restaurants of the Capital Region, and their managers and crew are proud to be sponsoring the African American Festival," according to Renee Reardon, President of the McDonald's Co-op of the region. "Our founder Ray Kroc once said, 'We have an obligation to give something back to the community that gives so much to us'. African American Family Day in Albany has become such a significant event in our community. We're thrilled to be here."

McDonald's African American Family Day will feature a full day of activities and entertainment for all ages including:

• The Michael Jackson Dance Off (12:15 p.m.) – Sport your Michael Jackson gear and strut your stuff at the Main Stage as the day kicks off with an energetic tribute to the pop star that will get your feet moving and your hands clapping!

• A tribute to African American Veterans (3:30 p.m.) with remarks from retired General Rosetta Burke, member of the 369th Infantry Regiment New York National Guard, United States Army Reserve; and a performance by the Albany Charter Community "Kings and Queens" Drill Team.

• Popular local and national musical acts including rapper Range (4:10 p.m.), local groovemasters the Powerhouse Funk Band (4:30 p.m.) and national recording artist Norman Connors (5:45 p.m.).

• Albany's largest group performance of the Electric Slide (6:45 p.m.) - grab your friends and form a line by the main stage and show 'em what you've got.

• Three stages of entertainment going non-stop all day that will include: gospel singers; a fashion show; dance troupes; theatrical groups; poetry slam; local kids showing off their singing, dancing, and poetry skills; and so much more.

• Special exhibits and historical workshops at the New York State Museum provided by Filling in the Gaps in American History (FIGAH), a Community Partner, an African village presented by Hamilton Hill Arts Center, health and wellness screenings, child ID program, community organization informational tables, ethnic foods, fraternities and sororities.

• Kid's Zone with bounce rides, pony rides, face painting, arts and crafts, sidewalk art, clowns and more.