Hi Everyone,

FYI.

I received information from a poet and griot (Afrikan Storyteller) from St. Petersburg, FL named Kwabena Dinizulu. He does several presentations: "Aesop to Hip Hop: the Afrikan Oral Tradition" and "Word Jam: Open Mike Poetry Jam" in school and public libraries.

Aesop Hop Hop is appropriate for all ages but specifically appeals to Gr. K - 8. The presentation is 40 - 50 minutes or can be tailored to specific needs. It uses fables, folktales, poetry and proverbs to address subjects critical to character development and cultural diversity. A teacher's guide and learning materials are available upon booking. Word Jam: Open Mike Poetry Jam is for teens in grades 9 - 12. The program is a 3 hour event consisting of two 90 min. segments for the workshop and poetry slam or it can be tailored to your specific needs. Even though he's based in FL he has ties to this area so he's willing to do programs in NJ. Here is his contact information:

Kwabena Dinizulu P. O. Box 10448 St. Petersburg, FL 33733-0448 813-247-3870 (Home) 727-324-7722 (Cell) email: spok...@poetngriot.com Kwab...@verizon.net

Another performer sent me his information via e-mail. He's from Michigan and I doubt he'd come without charging for mileage as he states in his e-mail but maybe he didn't realize I was in NJ.

Here's what he sent:

My name is Jim Cruise The "Spoon Man". I am a professional family entertainer and published author. The title of my book is "Spoon Boy". I have been performing full time for 20 years. My web site is www.SpoonMan.biz http://www.spoonman.biz/ I have video clips on my site.

My cost can be as inexpensive as $300 per show with multiple bookings. I do not charge any mileage expenses. I do however ask that I would be able to sell my book after the performance.

I also offer a spoon playing workshop (BYOS)-Bring Your Own Silverware - for teens and adults.. Thanks for your time.

Jim 1-888-859-6158

Regards,

Sharon Rawlins Youth Services Consultant NJ State Library

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