Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories 1

Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories

1 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival Congratulations National Association of Black Storytellers

Still Hunting

and Making Music and Telling Stories ...After All These Years

Judge Tom Gene Curtis

2 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories

Greetings From The Co-Founder “A little shrub may grow into a big tree.” – Sudan

“Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works…” Matthew 5:16

Dear Friends & Family of The National Association of Black Storytellers,

“Ring-a-ling-ling, Ring-a-ling-ling!” Storytelling bells are ringing! “Well, oh, Well, Well! It’s Sto---rytelling time!”

Peace and Blessings! Amani, Imani, Ife and Namaste. Peace faith, love and warm greetings to all of you. Karibu! Welcome to the “In The Tradition…” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival & Conference: “Coming Home…Our Family Tells Stories!” Yes, my sisters, brothers and children, we have come home to the great city of Baltimore to share our stories of respect, gratitude, service, history and love.

On the shoulders of the Ancestors…We stand. On the everlasting wisdom of the Elders…We lean. On the promise of our children’s Future…We lift up!

In 1975, on the grounds between the Lincoln Memorial and the Washington Monument, Mother Mary Carter Smith and I met at the Festival of American Folk Life sponsored by the Smithsonian Institution where both of us were featured storytellers. We discussed the idea of one day, someday, having a festival that would preserve and cherish storytelling from the African diaspora. Storytelling is a survival tool for a people, an elixir for living and the response to the phenomena of nature.

As you partake in the richness of this festival, hopefully you will discover that we tell stories in many styles and in many forms. We drum them, we dance them, we wear the stories we tell and wrap them around our souls. “Wrap me up in mudcloth, Kuba around my feet Indigo for my bed, A piece of that Kente for my head Grandma’s quilt draped on my shoulders, Adinkra hugging my hips Cowrie shells across my chest, A piece of that applique for my dress.”

Asante sana! A big thank you to the following: The City of Baltimore, The Baltimore Marriott Inner Harbor at Camden Yards, The Griot Circle of Maryland, Inc., Keepers of The Culture, The Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Dylan Pritchett, Festival Director, Janice Curtis Greene Co-Director and Griots’ Circle President, Caroliese Frink Reed, Barbara Eady, Fellisco Keeling, Carolyn Carroll, Eslyn Hinmon, Jana Long and Rebecca Hoffberger, Founder & Director of the American Visionary Art Museum.

Asante sana to our NABS Board of Directors, Akbar Imhotep-President, Executive Director, Vanora Legaux, National Program Directors Baba Jamal Koram, Bunjo Butler and Elisha Minter. Also, many thanks to Linda Gorham, Mama Edie Armstrong and those who gave of their time on Festival Committees. A special asante sana to Charlie Brown for his continued support and dedication. Also, special thanks to the fourteen affiliates of NABS for their support and love!

A “Blue Butterfly” is flying above our heads. “Angels” are watching us from on high. Enjoy and reclaim your story!

“Spread The Word,” Mama Linda – Co-Founder

“Be grateful to the tree so that it may yield more fruits.” – Shona

3 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival

Greetings From The President

Greetings 30th Anniversary Festival & Conference Attendees:

On behalf of the Board of Directors, our Co-Founders Mama Linda Goss and the late Mother Mary Carter Smith and our membership, I greet you in the peace, love, harmony and in the joy of a moment that promises to be filled with a lifetime of memories and unforgettable storytelling!

CAN YOU FEEL IT??? The buzz has been growing for thirty years. The call went out at the beginning of time. You have responded to the call. SPREAD THE FEELING!!!

CAN YOU HEAR IT??? Vibrations are everywhere. Covered drums are humming. Rhythms are ready to be unleashed. From our heartbeats to the pulse of the universe, we are tuning into our story. LISTEN!!!

CAN YOU SEE IT??? Outfits have been chosen and coordinated. Our African-ness changes the dynamics of wherever we land. Our faces and smiles reflect our commitment to a shared mission. LOOK! SEE! ENJOY!

We have “Come Home” to Baltimore, the center of the Blackstorytelling universe, to tell our stories, embrace our colleagues and drink from the well of inspiration.

We have “Come Home” to fellowship and be re-baptized in our love of stories and the love we have for each other.

We have “Come Home” to celebrate our stories, our mission, ourselves and to renew our commitment to telling our stories “In the Tradition…”

Thank you for making this historic moment possible! Asante sana to the Griots’ Circle of Maryland for being such awesome hosts as they welcome us Home! Enjoy our 30th Anniversary Festival and Conference. Spread the word about what you see and experience here. You have answered the call and know that you will be changed.

Respectfully and sincerely yours “In the Tradition…”,

Akbar Imhotep/President

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Greetings From The Festival Director

Welcome Home! This year’s festival marks a milestone. Thirty years celebrating the African oral tradition is a major accomplishment of purpose, honor, respect and commitment to make a difference in our families, communities, state, country and the world. We have been truly blessed to be among the few national organizations that have survived. But, that’s what we do…survive!

The National Association of Black Storytellers have survived because of the vision of our Co- Founders, Mother Mary Carter Smith and Mama Linda Goss, the support of our affiliates, members, committed past and present Board members, hosting affiliates and like-minded communities throughout the country, being lead by the ancestral voices and the many, many, many NABS supporters who have given of their time, energy, donations and spirit along the way. This year, like no other, we will honor all of these efforts by presenting the best Festival & Conference EVER as we celebrate “Coming Home…Our Family Tells Stories!”

Although this year marks NABS’ accomplishments of thirty years, I’d be remiss to not acknowledge the other twenty-nine years! Affiliates, and individual members, who have hosted our annual reunion must be praised for taking on the challenge to invite us to their city and provide a foundation for the continuance of our mission and building our organization and shaping our Festival & Conferences. This year represents their vital “breath” that has afforded us the opportunity to have our NABS voice heard and felt.

The Griots’ Circle of Maryland, Inc. has done a masterful job in keeping this tradition alive with their dedication, hard work and planning to honor that tradition. Asante sana to them and the other twenty-nine!!!

Our prayer is that once you reflect back on ”Coming Home..” you will feel inspired, honored, rejuvenated and empowered. We want you to feel that all of your efforts and sacrifices were worth it and you can’t wait for next year’s gathering. So, WELCOME to “Coming Home…Our Family Tells Stories!” There truly is no place like home!

The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, the second best time is now! - African Proverb

Dylan Pritchett

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Storytellers, Story Listeners, Story Singers & Story Lovers,

On behalf of our ancestor beloved and founder, Mother Mary Carter Smith, the Griots' Circle of Maryland, Inc. welcomes you to Baltimore for our 30th Annual "In the Tradition..." Festival Conference. &

Wow! Has it been 30 years already? Yes, it's been 30 years since the vision for a platform for Black Storytellers was conceived by Mama Mary Carter Smith and Mama Linda Goss in 1982 and the first festival was held at Baltimore's Morgan State University.

Baltimore is not only the home of our -‐ beloved co founder Mother Mary Carter Smith and ancestor Mother Mary Carter Smith it is the current Founding Ancestor home of co-‐founder Mama Linda Goss. Baltimore is home to Linda Jenkins Brown and Tunki Baltimore Baku. is known Janice Curtis Greene, nt Preside for Chesapeake Bay blue crabs and Maryland fried chicken.

Baltimore offers the Inner Harbor, National Great Blacks in Robert Smith, P Vice resident Wax Museum, Hampton National Historic Site, Benjamin Deborah Fakunle, Treasurer Banneker Historical Park and Museum, Reginald Lewis Museum, Eubie Blake Center, Motherhouse of the Oblate William Starke, Financial Secretary Sisters of Providence and the historic Arena Players Theater of which Mother Mary Carter Smith was a founding member. Patricia Dennis, Recording Secretary Gather 'round the for table a Homecoming as Our Family Ruth Wickham, Corresponding Tells Stories. Hear the story Elders of how Jim & June Secretary McAbee planned a wedding in 3 months for $500 that turned into a 61 year honeymoon. Mama Celebrate Edna S. Bunjo Butler, Director Growing Ruff's 90th birthday. Delight in tales of Anansi & Brer Griots Literacy Learning Program Rabbit. Share tales of triumph over tragedy, lies and

laughter, family and faith. Share your stories with us as P.O. Box 68064 Baltimore, MD 21215 NABS ushers in a new decade of preserving and 410-‐788-‐3555 perpetuating Black History, Folklore and Stories in the [email protected] African Oral Tradition. www.griotscircleofmarylandinc.org Welcome to Baltimore, "The Center of the Universe"!

6 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Alpha Zeta Chapter MTFF 25TTFFH ANNIVERSARY CEBRATION

Greetings from the President of Alpha Zeta Chapter November 14, 2012

Sherl B. Woodland Greetings National Black Storytellers, It is with great pleasure that I congratulate you in celebrating 30 years of storytelling. It is through this art that you have continued to pass on traditions, customs and history via oral communication. Alpha Zeta Chapter is happy and proud of the legacy that you have passed down through the years. We are indeed glad to join you at your annual conference as we look back at the very first National Festival held at Morgan State University where we partnered with you under the dynamic leadership of Soror Linda J. Brown. Alpha Zeta Chapter pays tribute and homage to Sorors Linda J. Brown and Mary Carter Smith for the love and dedication to National Black Storytellers and the Griots’ Circle of Maryland. May NABS, Inc., continue to stay steadfast in contributing to the American culture “…In the Tradition….” Of Black Storytelling. Sincerely, Sherl B. Woodland, President

“Building Our Legacy – Celebrating Our Heritage”

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Be A Storyteller And Be Heard

I would like to congratulate members of the National Association of Black Storytellers (NABS) for thirty wonderful years of storytelling!

As Baltimore hosts NABS annual storytelling conference and festival, it is vital that we showcase the amazing talents of these gifted men and women. Poet Maya Angelou once said “Words mean more than what is set down on paper. It takes the human voice to infuse them with deeper meaning.” These storytellers’ voice commands each story and lures each listener to their depth of their imaginations.

A great storyteller not only finds their voice in the tales they share but captivates the audience and have them hanging on to every word they deliver. These are the members of NABS. During this conference, thousands of children, teens and adults will experience the wonders of storytelling from a black perspective. It’s going to be a learning experience like no other with more than two dozen one- of-a-kind performances and workshops including concerts, Scholars Panel and performances by renown poets.

NABS returns to Baltimore where it all began. Its mission of providing more opportunities for African-American storytellers lives on. During this conference we hope to discover and hear from the next generation of voices who will preserve and share NABS legacy.

Welcome home NABS.

Carla D. Hayden CEO Enoch Pratt Free Library

prattlibrary.org 400 Cathedral Street Baltimore, MD 21201-4484 p 410-545-3115 f 410-396-8134

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STATE OF MARYLAND OFFICE OF THE LT. GOVERNOR

ANTHONY G. BROWN LT. GOVERNOR

STATE HOUSE 100 STATE CIRCLE ANNAPOLIS, MARYLAND 21401-1925 (410) 974-2804 (TOLL FREE) 1-800-811-8336

TTY USERS CALL VIA MD RELAY

A MESSAGE FROM LIEUTENANT GOVERNOR ANTHONY G. BROWN

October 2012

Dear Friends:

It is my pleasure to welcome the National Association of Black Storytellers back home to Baltimore, Maryland for the 30th Annual “In the Tradition…” Festival & Conference.

Once again, community leaders, distinguished guests, educators, friends and families will unite from across the nation this weekend in the birthplace of your organization to celebrate this renowned art form, which embodies the spirit, heritage and culture of Africa and its people.

I want to congratulate NABS on 30 years of contributing your time and resources to ensure that people across our nation continue to benefit from the strength and richness of the storytelling tradition. Because of your service and commitment, the culture and stories that wrote our history centuries ago will continue to shape the story of our people as they are passed on to the next generation.

Governor O’Malley and I have long believed in the value of the arts. Not only do they seek to entertain us, but they also provide a vehicle for teaching our children the value of other cultures in addition to their own. That is why we will continue to fight to bring important national conferences like this one to Maryland and to maintain art education as a priority in the classroom. With your continued partnership and support, we are building a stronger tomorrow for the families of our great State.

Thus, on behalf of all Marylanders, I send my best wishes for a wonderful celebration.

Sincerely,

Anthony G. Brown

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Featured Tellers

TAHIRA TAHIRA is a storyteller, poet, vocalist and percussionist with a bachelor’s degree from Temple University’s School of Communication and Theatre. Whether performing her original works or her vast repertoire of stories from the African oral tradition, she brings to her audience messages of courage, hope and spiritual strength. An advocate of using the arts to bring about social change, TAHIRA says: “My mission is to shed light in dark places to reveal the brilliance of human spirit.” Blending, song, poetry and story, TAHIRA’s high-energy performances delight listeners of all ages. She has performed in more than 100 cities throughout the country since becoming a full- time performing artist in 1996, appearing at schools, libraries, national conferences, performing arts centers, colleges, and community and senior centers. TAHIRA is the recipient of a Delaware Division of the Arts Individual Artist Fellowship and has been a featured teller at National Association of Black Storytelling Festival.

Kala Jojo Kala Jojo - The Tall Storyteller – The one whose voice and music takes you from the Congo to Philly, and back again; from childhood to elder- hood; from despair to bright-eyed curiosity and hope. Kala performs sensitive, interactive, and thought-provoking compositions. Weaving songs and ditty’s born of African heritage into stories of cultural diversity, healing, conflict resolution, and sidesplitting humor.

He has delighted audiences throughout the U.S.A. with an enviable approval rating among the young and older fans. Audience approval has generated encore performances on such stages all over the country.

Diane Ferlatte Steeped in the oral tradition, as a child Diane Ferlatte spent time on her grandparent’s porch in Louisiana, listening to neighbors and family swap stories, lies and tales. From those humble beginnings, she has become internationally acclaimed sharing her stories and songs worldwide while performing on six different continents. In addition to Diane’s historical & personal stories, she draws from a deep well of folktales, myths, legends, and fables to inform, entertain, and inspire all. While many of her stories & songs have African and African American roots, she loves to tell any story that holds truths touching upon our common humanity, our history & our culture. Her recordings include a Grammy nomination, and additional awards include the National Association of Black Storytellers’ Zora Neale Hurston Award, National Storytelling Network’s Circle of Excellence Award, and the California Arts Council’s Highest Ranking.

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Featured Tellers

Rex Ellis Dr. Rex M. Ellis is presently the Director of the Center for Museum Studies at the Smithsonian Institution. Prior to coming to the Smithsonian, Dr. Ellis directed the Department of African American Interpretation and Presentations at the Colonial Williamsburg Foundation in Williamsburg, Virginia. He received his Bachelor of Fine Arts from Virginia Commonwealth University, a Masters in Fine Arts from Wayne State University and an Ed.D from the College of William and Mary. He was also in instructor in the Department of Speech Communications and Theater Arts at Hampton University. Dr. Ellis is the author of Beneath the Blazing Sun: Stories from the African American journey andThe Ups and Downs of Being Brown. In addition, Dr. Ellis has served on The NABS Board of Directors and is a Master storyteller.

Victoria Burnett Victoria is a national and internationally recognized master storyteller/vocalist. Originally from Washington D.C., she says, “my parents were natural born southern storytellers. My father was a minister and my mother a musician.” I grew up on their musical well-seasoned insightful stories. Through her upbringing, Victoria realized that music and story are equally powerful tools of communication. She blends her skills as a teacher, Librarian, singer and performer to become what she calls a “Story Musicologist.” She has earned a masters degree in education with an emphasis in integrating the art of storytelling, music and movement from Lesley University, Cambridge, Mass. She has been a frequently featured master teller for the National Association of Black Storytellers, Smithsonian Institute Folk-Life Festival, J. Paul Getty Museum and most recently a consultant for the Walt Disney Corporation.

In The Spirit Performance Duo: In the Sprit combines the talents of vocalist Glenda Zahra Baker and Storyteller Emily Hooper Lansana. Emily and Zahra share the belief that creative expression can be a positive force of change. For more than twenty years, they have worked together teaching and performing their message of hope and determination. Their interactive spirit filled stories and songs engage audiences in a memorable, soulful way. Highlights of their performance history include: The National Association of Black Storytellers Festival and Conference, The National Storytelling Festival, The Illinois Storytelling Festival, Dance Africa Chicago and a number of museums, community and educational institutions across the country. 13 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival

Featured Tellers

Mitch “Gran’daddy Junebug” Capel Mitch Capel also known as “Gran’daddy Junebug” is a storyteller, poet, author, comedian, auctioneer, and emcee. He has been described by major publications as a “word magician”, “a national treasure” and “unexpectedly powerful”. He has been featured at major storytelling festivals throughout the United States including The National Storytelling Festival in Jonesborough, TN; The Timpanogas Storytelling Festival in Orem, Utah; Signifyin’ & Testifyin’ in MN and has been “the okra in the gumbo” at the NABS festival since 1988. He is a Life Member of NABS and was the recipient of the 2010 Zora Neale Hurston Award. Mitch has been labeled the “national interpreter” of poet laureate Paul Laurence Dunbar having memorized over 70% of his work. He calls himself “a full time honors student at the university of life”.

Sonia Sanchez Poet. Mother. Professor. National and International lecturer on Black Culture and Literature, Women’s Liberation, Peace and Racial Justice. Sponsor of Women’s International League for Peace and Freedom. Board Member of MADRE. Sonia Sanchez is the author of over 20 books. Sonia Sanchez has lectured at over 500 universities and colleges in the United States and has traveled extensively, reading her poetry in Africa, Cuba, England, the Caribbean, Australia, Europe, Nicaragua, the People’s Republic of China, Norway, and Canada. She was the first Presidential Fellow at Temple University and she held the Laura Carnell Chair in English at Temple University. In December of 2011, Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter selected Sonia Sanchez as Philadelphia’s first Poet Laureate, calling her “the longtime conscience of the city.”

Charlotte Blake Alston Master Storyteller, Narrator, and Singer

Charlotte Blake Alston is a storyteller, narrator, instrumentalist and singer who performs in venues throughout North America and abroad. She breathes life into traditional and contemporary stories from African and African American oral and cultural traditions. Her solo performances are often enhanced with traditional instruments such as djembe, mbira, shekere or the 21-stringed kora. In 1999, Charlotte began studying the kora and the West African history-telling traditions of Senegal, Mali, Guinea and Guinea Bissau. Her teacher was the highly respected Senegalese griot (jali), Djimo Kouyate. Ms. Alston has produced several commissioned works including narrative texts for orchestras and opera companies. In 2009 she was the recipient of the Zora Neale Hurston Award, the highest award bestowed by the National Association of Black Storytellers.

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Featured Tellers

Janice Curtis Greene Janice Curtis Greene is an accomplished storyteller, an American Griot. She has been telling African, African American and Multicultural stories for over 20 years. She is currently the President of the Griots’ Circle of Maryland, Inc., a Life Member of NABS and is the resident Griot for the National Association of Black Media Workers in Baltimore. Janice has delighted adult and student audiences at various churches, schools, colleges, libraries, hospitals and festivals throughout the United States and as far away as Canada, Jamaica, Zambia, South Africa and Egypt. Janice mesmerizes her audiences with folktales, original stories and Bible Stories set to syncopated Rap rhythms. Janice has performed with the Baltimore Symphony Orchestra and is also known for her portrayals of African American females such as Harriett Tubman, Rosa Parks, Phyllis Wheatley and Mother Mary Lange foundress of the Oblate Sister of Providence.

Karima Amin Karima Amin is a life-long resident of Buffalo, NY. She is well known in her community and beyond as a storyteller, retired public school educator, children’s author, percussionist, and community activist. Three decades of telling stories has led to many opportunities: sharing once weekly stories for 10 years on local radio; having her first children’s book, The Adventures of Brer Rabbit and Friends, published in London, England; and traveling to Africa for the first time in 2002, to share stories at a Global Family Reunion Festival on Goree Island, Senegal. She believes in two East African proverbs that speak to the power of story. In Kenya they say, “Talking to one another is loving one another;” in Somalia: “Listening to one another is knowing one another.” As every culture has its stories, storytelling unites us around the globe.

Diane Macklin Diane Macklin, Storyteller has delighted audiences for over 15 years, telling tales seasoned with rhythm, sounds, and movement. Her approach to telling stories is “dynamic” (The Washington Post) and engaging for all ages. She has performed from Massachusetts to California for venues such as the National Air and Space Museum, Discovery Theatre, Cincinnati’s Playhouse in the Park, FUNDA/Rhode Island Storytelling Festival, and Wolf Trap’s Theatre-in-the-Woods.

She is also the resident storyteller for the Smithsonian National Museum of African Art’s “Let’s Read About Africa” program. As a performer, certified educator, and writer, Diane believes in “Making a Difference, One Story at a Time.”

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Featured Tellers

Sarai Abdul-Malik Sarai Abdul-Malik is a talented oral expressionist with a dedication and passion for multiple disciplines in the oral art aesthetic. Raised by a professional storyteller, Queen Nur, Sarai developed a gift for performing and creating at a very early age. She has been trained in Classical and Jazz voice and has developed into a versatile vocalist. Sarai uses the creative drive of each of her backgrounds to enrich the others.

In addition to being a storyteller and a vocalist, Sarai applies her gift for words by writing original poetry. In every song there is a story, in every story there is a poem, in every poem there is a song.

Special Presenter

Griots’ Circle of Maryland

Special Presenter Keepers of The Culture Philadelphia, PA

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Workshops

MASTER CLASS The Oral Tradition and the Written Tradition: Let’s Fuse them and Use Them: We are the Griots for the 20th Century

Sharon M. Draper, Author and Educator – Cincinnati, OH Sharon will talk about our common history and how we must share that with the next generation. Remember skate keys and 45 rpms and the milk man? She will also talk about publishing our stories and give suggestions as to how to accomplish that. Handouts and old-time penny candy will be distributed.

Master Class The Wisdom of Sonia Sanchez

Sonia Sanchez, Author, Poet, Activist, Poet-Laureate of Philadelphia, Philadelphia, PA There is no better poet, sister, activist or wordsmith to learn the mindset necessary to create cultural awareness through the medium of poetry than with Sonia Sanchez! Experience the how- to and why of using words to stir a generation, consciousness and people.

The How-To And Value Of Storytelling in Childhood Education

John Kinderman Taylor, Maser Teaching Artist, Director of International Movement Arts Institute, Baltimore, MD. Three-time National Capital Region Emmy Award winner John Kinderman Taylor is nationally recognized for his innovations in educating, entertaining, and inspiring the imaginations of thousands of children, teachers and parents over the past 5 decades. Join Kinderman as he teaches the elements of weaving story, song and movement to create programs for children in their early developmental years.

LAMBAN: Experiencing Storytelling Through Rhythm, Song & Dance

Cheryl Hinton, Storyteller, Theatrical Singer, Actress, Costumer, Baltimore, MD Mama Cheryl Hinton is a member of the Griots’ Circle of Maryland and is also co-founder of Mama Talk, a storytelling duo and previously co-hosted a Maryland Public Television show called the Talking Drum. Accompanied by Deborah Pierce-Fakunle and former Growing Griots David Fakunle and Duane Hinton, they will teach LAMBAN to attendees. Come dressed ready to move!

How To Begin A Youth Literacy Learning Program

S. Bunjo Butler, Master Storyteller, NABS National Director of Adopt-A Teller Program, Coordinator of Learning Literacy Program, Baltimore, MD & Baba Jamal Koram, Master Storyteller, Founder of the African American Storyteller Arts institute, NABS National Affiliate Director, Alexandria, VA. Bunjo Butler and Baba Jamal Koram will present the award-winning Growing Griots Literacy Learning Project. The aim is to discuss the project to give direction and advice toward fulfillment of the Youth component requirements for each NABS affiliate. Also appropriate for library systems, community activists and progressive organizations in reaching community youth and bringing positive cultural programs to the community. 17 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival

Workshops

Stories Stitched in Quilts

Gloria Kellon, Quilter and Artist – Shaker Heights, OH Gloria Kellon will be assisted by Jackkia Boyd as they unravel the stories hidden between the stitches of cherished quilts that you remember from years ago. Today’s quilts send messages to bring about change. The stitches, stories, memories and love binds quilts to us through generations.

Creating Your Ancestral Story Cloth

Carolyn “Kooki” Davis, Artist, World Renown Master Doll Maker, SeaTac, WA By combining a variety of prints and textures, using authentic fabrics, symbols, cowry shells, mudcloth, etc., each participant will make an individual collage style 15”x12” Ancestral Story Cloth! The creativity is taken one step further by journalizing their artwork to create their narrative story! Kooki will supply all materials, i.e. beads, buttons, shells, fabrics, safety pins, glue and found objects. Maximum number of participants is 22 for Adult workshop.

10 Steps in Starting A Sustainable 501 (C)(3) Nonprofit Organization For Tellers

Jimmy & Tonja Caldwell, Storytellers, Business Consultants and Workshop Presenters in the Nonprofit Sector, Broken Arrow, OK. Starting a non-profit organization doesn’t need to be a complicated process. If you know and follow the right steps, you can transform your vision into reality. Participants will learn the fundamental skills and leave with the necessary tools, techniques and best practices needed to start and manage a sustainable nonprofit organization.

Celebrating Language From The Black Side

Tejumola Ologboni, Master Storyteller, Percussionist, Activist, Educator, Milwaukee, WI

The magic of Teju is in his words, creativity and use of the art of storytelling to awake cultural consciousness and responsibility. This workshop is designed to discuss the origin of words spoken within the Black community and the importance of taking responsibility for what we say by understanding the history of Black language. Intended for Teens and Youth

Conversation with the Elders

The importance of passing on history, wisdom and knowledge to our youth is vital to continuing progress within our community and culture. We will continue our, now, tradition of this popular session in hopes of making generational connections with our youth. Join this “circle” and learn as much as share!!

Adinkrahene Intended for Teens and Youth.

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Scholars

Caroliese Frink Reed Sister Caroliese Frink Reed is a storyteller and high school Librarian in Philadelphia, PA. She is a Founding Member of Keepers of the Culture, Inc. and was present at the founding of the Association of Black Storytellers (now known as the National Association of Black Storytellers Inc) in Philadelphia. Sister Reed served as Administrative Assistant, President, and Past President if NABS Inc.

She has served as a member of the “In The Tradition...” Festival Committee for the past 15 years. She is one of the co-editors of NABS’ first publication Sayin Something: Stories From the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. Sister Reed has had a front row seat to the depth, breath, and vitality of Blackstorytelling in America.

Dr. Ellis is the author of Beneath the Blazing Sun: Stories from the African American journey andThe Ups and Downs of Being Brown. In addition, Dr. Ellis has served on The NABS Board of Directors and is a Master storyteller.

Leslie Carolyn Edwards Leslie Carolyn Edwards holds BA degrees in Anthropology and English, a Master’s degree in Journalism and Communication, and a Ph.D. in Interdisciplinary Studies, with a dissertation on African American Storytelling: Collective Memory, Creative Resistance, and Personal Transformation.

She has more than fifteen years’ experience as a broadcast and print journalist, producer, and writer. She currently teaches High School English with the Rochester City School District and is a part-time Instructor at SUNY Empire State College in a variety of studies in Journalism, Communication, Writing, and Literature. She has always used storytelling as a parent, writer, and teacher; she is currently secretary and past president of the Blackstorytelling League of Rochester, NY.

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Zora Neale Hurston Awardees Dr. Gladys-Marie Fry “I stand on my own truth!”

Dr. Gladys-Marie Fry is an award-winning scholar, author, lecturer, historian, curator, storyteller and cultural treasure of Maryland and Washington, D.C. In 1967, Dr. Fry made history when he became the first African American to receive a PH.D. in Folklore. She received her doctorate in folklore at Indiana University at Bloomington, the number one folklore department in the country. She currently is Professor Emeritus of Folklore and English at the University of Maryland at College Park where she was the first African American hired in the English Department and the first African American to receive tenure there. She taught there from 1969-1999 and brought living storytellers to her classes by inviting tellers, including our beloved Mary Carter Smith, to speak to them.

Dr. Fry is the author of two ground-breaking books. One is Stitched from The Soul: Slave Quilts From The Antebellum South and Night Riders In Black Folk History. Dr. Fry has received numerous awards, grants and fellowships such as The Guggenheim Award, the National Endowment For The Arts, the National Endowment for the Humanities, Fellow at the National Humanity Center at Research Triangle Park, North Carolina and the Fulbright. She’s also a Fellow of the American Folklore Society. Dr. Fry has also curated many major exhibitions including the Renwick Gallery at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington, D.C. and the Museum of American Folk Art in New York, New York.

Dr. Fry’s work authenticates the function, purpose, style, setting and value of Black Storytelling as a survival tool in the community. Her dedication to preserve oral stories in Black culture has set the benchmark for us to attain. Dr. Gladys-Marie Fry’s lifetime work and dedication is the epitome of worthiness of our highest honor, the Zora Neale Hurston Award!

Dr. Joanne Martin Joanne Martin is the co-founder and president of America’s first wax museum of African American history. The National Great Blacks In Wax Museum, Inc. is located in Baltimore, Maryland. Dr. Martin and her husband, Dr. Elmer Martin, established the museum in 1983 to: stimulate an interest in African-American history; use great leaders as role models to motivate youth to achieve; dispel myths of racial inferiority; and work in conjunction with other nonprofit, charitable organizations seeking to improve the social and economic status of African-Americans. Today more than 150,000 visitors visit the museum annually.

Dr. Martin is one of two children born in Yulee, Florida to Mr. and Mrs. Jerry Mitchell. She graduated from Florida A&M University with a Bachelor of Arts in French; Case Western Reserve University with a Master of Arts in Reading Education; and Howard University with a Doctor of Philosophy in Educational Psychology. For 15 years Dr. Martin worked in the Learning Skills Center at Coppin State University, first as a coordinator and from 1985 to 1992 as the director. She and her husband, Dr. Elmer Martin, have co-authored many publications involving the black family, black women, and racial and cultural diversity. Dr. Martin and her husband have received public acclaim as the founders of America’s First Black History Wax Museum, gaining media exposure from as far away as Europe and Africa.

In 2001, Dr. Elmer Martin died suddenly while on a research trip in Egypt. Dr. Joanne Martin has since then led the institution in its successful efforts to: obtain National designation by act of the U.S. Congress; acquire all of the properties in the 1600 block for Museum expansion; create the Museum as a tourism destination for the City of Baltimore.

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Zora Neale Hurston Awardees Deborah Asante Word Dancer, Truth Enhancer, Book Lover, Joy Discoverer, Blues Chaser, Hope Placer, World Traveler, Jazz Gatherer, Dream Farmer, Child Charmer, Justice Seeker, History Keeper… There are so many ways to say Storyteller!

Deborah Asante resides in Indianapolis, Indiana, where she has become one of the city’s most lauded storytellers and extraordinary creative talents. Asante is also Founder and Artistic Director of the Asante Children’s Theatre. Yes, she has trained as an actor and director, though “It is my high regard for the power of stories and their cultural significance that drives my performance”. Throughout her career she has received numerous awards and recognition which include Aesop Cup for Tall Tales from the National Association of Black Storytellers, Youth Investment award from the Indiana Youth Institute, and the Achievement in Arts/ Music/Theatre Award from the Center for Leadership Development. Deborah has twice been honored as a Creative Renewal Arts Fellow by the Arts Council of Indianapolis.

Dylan Pritchett Dylan Pritchett is a native of Williamsburg, Virginia. Since 1990, Mr. Pritchett has been a full-time storyteller. His main storytelling objective is to professionally share the African oral tradition while teaching morals, values and history through this artform. Dylan’s work extends beyond the classroom to museums, arts centers, historical sites, television and recordings. In addition to recording several albums of folk tales, he has created the voices of many historical characters on museum recordings and exhibits.

Dylan, (pronounced DIE-lan), is honored to be a NABS Life Member who has served as President of the NABS, Inc. (2007-2009) and served ten years on it’s Board of Directors. He is proud of being a Co-Editor for the NABS publication, Sayin’ Somethin.’ Dylan has also serves as Festival Director for the 2009 (Little Rock), 2010 (Minneapolis) and 2012 (Baltimore) Festival & Conferences. Along the way, Dylan authored his first children’s picture book, The First Music. All accomplishments, however, are attributed to his wife Patricia, son Dylan Jr., daughter Shannan, his ancestors and the “Blue Man” who speaks to him daily!

Karima Amin Karima Amin is a life-long resident of Buffalo, NY. She shares stories with story lovers of all ages, as an independent contractor and as a member of Spin-A-Story Tellers; Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of Western NY; We All Storytellers (tandem telling with Sharon Holley); the National Association of Black Storytellers; Daughters of Creative Sound; and the Just Buffalo Literary Center, where she is a resident Writer-in-Education. Dedicated to making her community a better place, in 2005 she founded Prisoners Are People Too, Inc., a community education initiative which serves, in part, as a platform for the stories of incarcerated and formerly incarcerated men, women, and children.

Karima has received numerous awards for her work in education, community, social justice, and the arts. She has been honored as Black Educator of the Year (1977), Outstanding Artist of the Year (1995), Dedicated Community Servant of the Year (2007), and Distinguished Humanitarian of the Year (2009). Her bio appears in Who’s Who Among African Americans.

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Youth Awards

Abdul Karriem Muhammad started storytelling around the age of 10 or 11, when he first joined the ASE Youth Ensemble. Full of passion and zeal for whatever endeavor set in his path, this home-schooled freshman is a natural born leader. Currently, Abdul participates in two mentor internship programs in music and science. While an avid artist, this ninth grader also loves science and is particularly interested in electrical and agricultural engineering. He is a well rounded and dedicated young black man, who plays the piano, tap dances, bakes, sews toys, and enjoys swimming and martial arts. As a young entrepreneur, Abdul loves using his gifts and passions to earn his own money.

Sajdah Maryam Muhammad started storytelling around the age of 7 or 8, when she joined the ASE Youth Ensemble. Sajdah is a very focused and dedicated sixth grade home school student whose favorite subject is science. In addition to storytelling, she plays the cello, loves to sew and cook (sweets are her favorites), and is enjoying swimming and martial arts. She is enjoying “finding and honoring her own voice”. Her parents are very proud of how much storytelling has added to her life and her ability to give back to her community through the “power in words”.

Breyanne Culver lives in Decatur, Georgia. She is a ninth grader at Towers High School. At age seven, stage fright kept her from making it to the storytelling stage. Now it is hard to keep her away. At the 2011 National Association of Black Storytellers festival, she won first place in the youth Liars Content. She was one of the five finalists from Georgia in the National Storytelling Network Youth Showcase in 2011. She has told at a fundraiser for Haiti, on TV, Callanwolde Fine Arts Center, day cares and libraries. She is a member of Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia. The electric bass guitar is her musical instrument of choice. When she is not telling stories, you will find her reading a book.

Whitney Johnson is a talented 10th grader at Connexions Leadership Community Academy School for the Performing Arts. She is an actress and storyteller. Whitney has recently completed her first book of poetry, “My Life is Told Out Loud”, which she hopes to have published next year. This book is a compilation of original poems letting the reader into Whitney’s innermost secrets. She tells of how she handles loneliness and what love means to her. Whitney’s life, like many teenagers, filled with uncertainty and difficult family situations. Whitney uses her poetry to overcome challenges and rise like a Phoenix from the ashes of life. Whitney graduated from the Growing Griots’ Literacy Learning Program in 2008 and has returned each year to act as student mentor helping new students. Whitney has performed at the National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and the Greater Baltimore Urban League Whitney Young Gala.

Shania Alford Shania Alford is a graduate of the KIPP Ujima Village Academy and is currently a student at the Institute of Notre Dame High School, (IND), one of the most challenging private high schools in Maryland. Shania is a member of the Griots’ Circle of Maryland and was a student in the Growing Griots Literacy Learning Program in 2008 and after graduating from the program, has returned each year to act as Youth Mentor. Her well researched portrayals of Zora Neale Hurston and Harriet Tubman at National Great Blacks in Wax Museum and the Greater Baltimore Urban League Whitney Young Gala have brought both rave reviews and requests for appearances at other programs and church functions. Shania Alford is the future of Storytelling and truly deserves the 2012 Youth Award. 22 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories

Circle of Elders Awards

Mama Edie Armstrong Charlie Brown Kucha Brownlee Chicago Association of Black Storytellers Griots’ Circle of Maryland Chicago Association of Black Storytellers

Kooki Davis Lyn Ford Griots’ Circle of Maryland Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers Akbar Imhotep KUUMBA Storytellers of Georgia

James McAbee Edna Ruff Yawa Tupra Griots’ Circle of Maryland Griots’ Circle of Maryland North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers

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Patrons Mother Mary Carter Smith $40 Tom Curtis Barbara Eady Thomas Southern David Anderson Denise Kimbrough Jennie Crittendon Jane Crouse Onawumi Jean Moss Yawa Tupra Gloria Kellon

Mama Linda Goss $25 Thomas Southern Storyteller Sponsor Tom Curtis Barbara Eady The Fabricators MzRebekah King Ami D. Jackson Ruth Anderson Mary Ann Harris Jennie Crittendon Onawumi Jean Moss Yawa Tupra Storyteller Sponsor The Fabricators Linda Jenkins Brown $15 Thomas Southern Mildred Ponder Stennis Tom Curtis

Barbara Eady Rechelle & Mzuri King Rudy & Sabrina King Gwen Hillary Oni Lasana Cynthia Tompkins Jennie Crittendon Jennie Crittendon in memory of Brother Blue Onawumi Jean Moss Yawa Tupra

Tunki Baku $5 Tom Curtis Barbara Eady Nia & David Fears Elijah & Amyah King Cornelia Cain-Heard Linda Goss Jennie Crittendon Onawumi Jean Moss Judy Bateman Yawa Tupra

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Life Member Sponsorship We are blessed to have such dedicated, supportive and giving Life Members! A special call went out to NABS’ Life Members to help enhance this year’s celebration. ASANTE SANA to those who answered the call!

Joanne Banks “Amy D.” Jackson Stanley “Bunjo” Butler Fellisco Keeping Beverly Cottman Vanora Legaux Carolyn “Kooki” Davis Dylan Pritchett Dr. Joyce Duncan Thomas Southern Roxanne Erickson Dr. Mildred P. Stennis Elaine Gregory Barbara Stevens Gwen Hilary Anonymous Donor Eslyn Hinmon

2012 Festival & Conference Committees Dylan Pritchett, Festival Director Janice Curtis Greene, Co-Festival Director

ADMINISTRATIVE AWARDS SOUVENIR JOURNAL Carolyn Carol Rosie Chapman Barbara Eady Fellisco Keeling Marie Sims Joan Stevenson Vanora Legaux

PROGRAM SELECTION YOUTH Caroliese Frink Reed Janice Curtis Greene Elisha Minter Janice Curtis Greene Caroliese Frink Reed Emiley Bailey Keesha Dixon Keesha Dixon Deborah Pierce Fakunle VENDORS HOSPITALITY Olayeela Daste Griots’ Circle Eslyn Hinmon of Maryland, Inc.

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I say, “Do you want a Story?” You say, “Yes I do!” Well you’re in luck got a story just for you!

Janice Curtis Greene (with an “e” on the end)

Congratulations to Griots’ Circle Members: Zora Neale Hurston Award Recipients

Dr. JoAnne Martin and Dr. Gladys-Marie Fry Circle of the Elders Inductees Charlie Brown, James McAbee, Kooki Davis and Edna Ruff Youth Award Recipients Shania Alford and Whitney Johnson

Tunki Baku Mama Mary Carter Smith Linda Jenkins Brown

In Memory of Griots’ Circle Ancestor Members

Mother Mary Carter Smith Tunki Baku Linda Jenkins Brown Joan Coursey Edward Martin Sarah Smith Christine Johnson Stevenson Worrell Sarah “Sassy” Crocket

Congratulations to the National Association of Black Storytellers 30th Annual “In The Tradition...” Festival & Conference 2012 Baltimore, Maryland, “The Center of the Universe”

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Welcome Home! Welcome to Baltimore!

Bob Smith

A storyteller for the young and the young at heart, Bob has told for Elementary Schools to Senior Centers.

A past winner of the NABS Festival and Conference LIARS CONTEST, Bob promises to lie request. only upon

For more information for your school, club, museum, wedding or other event go to: www.bobthegriot.com (410)209-‐7231 [email protected]

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Congratulations National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. for 3 Decades of Excellence

We invite the NABS family to join us as we celebrate our 22nd Annual Master Storytelling Festival

September 24 –26, 2013 in Minneapolis, MN

This year’s Theme:

We had an Amazing time with our Featured Tellers at our 21st Annual where our theme was:

“It’s Time To Get Busy! It’s Time To Draw From The Wisdom Well!”

If you are a NABS member and you’d like to be considered as a 2013 Featured Teller with us, please submit your experience & work sample digitally (electronically ) by May 17, 2013 to [email protected].

Nothando Zulu President Black Storytellers Alliance 1112 Newton Avenue North Minneapolis, MN 55411

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For Mama Linda Goss

Co-Founder of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc.

Ring ‘Dem Bells!

We ring ‘dem bells for Linda For the Queen Mother, Sister, Momma, Warrior, Storyteller, and Friend We ring ‘dem bells for Linda Teacher, Blues Woman, Historian, Mother, and Wife. She is a Healer, Mentor, Culture Keeper, Musician, and Poet. Her bells tell the story of life.

‘Dem bells are the bells of FREEDOM, Bells of rhythm and rhyme, When we hear ‘dem bells we come a runnin’ ‘Cause we know we’re gonna have a real good time. “Telling our story and claiming our glory,” that’s what Linda’s about. Illuminating truth, spreading the word, getting the message out, Wise Woman, Gifted One, Elder and Sage. With ‘dem bells, she tells the stories for everyone, from infant to old age.

Now let us ring ‘dem bells for Linda, A prayer for her healing and strength. May God grant her health, wisdom, and energy To overcome this awesome test. We know that God’s answer is always yes! He sees us whole, perfect, and complete. We rejoice in faith with the knowledge that the enemy has suffered a great defeat. “No weapon formed against her shall prosper.” “Nothing is too hard for God.” “Joy comes in the Morning.” “Love is the answer.”

Ring ‘dem bells for Linda, A prayer of Thanksgiving today. For health and total recovery To this we say, Ase! Ase! Ase!

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Type to enter text Mother Mary Carter Smith

Lifted up as Ancestor a Legacy given to all who See Hear Feel Remember You... You as Mother You as Griot

Healing broken hearts Encouraging creative minds Bringing light to communities As a Divine Voice Penetrating fear loss and pain

to see possibility in the impossible to live as an act of love in peace and reconciliation with faith in the Almighty

Patient while the Bud of Hope slowly unfurls to show the Beauty of Pure Love deep inside Our Mother Griot...

We miss you We love you We will remember you! - In Loving Memory, Diane Macklin

Mary Carter Smith February 10, 1919 - April 24, 2007

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Best Wishes For A Good Conference To The Griots’ Circle of Maryland From The Family & Friends of Edna A. Ruff

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Congratulations to the “ GRIOTS’ CIRCLE OF MARYLAND INC” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference

Baltimore Metropolitan Area Chapter of the 9th & 10th (Horse) Cavalry Buffalo Soldiers & The Milford Mill Jr. ROTC

Post Office Box 5850 Baltimore, Maryland 21208 www.baltimorebuffalosoldier.org

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Congratulations to the National Association of Black Storytellers on your 30th Annual “In the Tradition” Black Storytelling Festival and Conference!

National Storytelling Network www.storynet.org

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We’re Coming Home……… Keepers Of The Culture, Inc. Philadelphia's Afrocentric Storytelling Group To tell stories

and give tribute to our Co-‐ Founder Mama Linda Goss at the 30th Annual

National Black Storytelling Salutes Festival and ~Featured Tellers~ Conference Charlotte Blake Alston in Baltimore, MD Kala Jojo TAHIRA

~Special Presenter~ Sarai Abdul-Malik

~Scholars Panel ist~ Caroliese Frink-Reed

~Workshop Presenter~ Bunjo Butler

Officers: Saundra Gilliard, President � Queen Nur, Vice-‐President �TAHIRA, Treasurer Caroliese Frink-‐Reed, Recording Secretary AItiya Ola, Spiritual Caretaker

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Congratulations NABS on the 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival & Conference and to CABS members:

Dr. MaryAnn Harris Lyn Ford NABS President-Elect Circle of Elders

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Congratulations To Circle of Elders Honoree

Edna A. Ruff

From

Her Children Earl Ruff Jr. Martha Ruff William Ruff Helen Copeland Stanley Ruff

“In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival

30 th Anniversary National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference Congratulations NABS & Griots’ Circle of Maryland

In Loving Memory of Mother Mary Carter Smith, Sister Linda Jenkins Brown, and Brother Blue

Vanora Franklin Legaux Life Member, Past President, Executive Director

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THE GRIOTS CIRCLE OF MARYLAND, INC. CONGRATULATES Griots’ Circle 2012 AWARDEES

Mother Mary Carter Smith our Founder

Zora Neale Hurston Awardees Dr. Gladys-Marie Fry Dr. JoAnne Martin Circle of the Elders Inductees Charles E. Brown II Kooki Davis James McAbee Edna Ruff Youth Award Recipients Shania Alford and Whitney Johnson

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SHADOW OF ANITA, THE STORYTELLER

By Eleanor Anderson

I III Anita Her smile was wide as There was nobody sweetah She gathered you inside her She was tiny, but tall Circle of imagination Her shadow was large Her days were full of the It spread over mountains Spice of Life And things that were small Her years spent through Enough to squeeze through No ordinary strife Keyholes or cracks in the wall Her feisty spirit crackled Until the end II With her wit and wisdom She shared her gifts for But held no regretful woe Spinning tales With the young and old IV And all It’s hard to lose someone Who came to listen We know To the booming voice from But we just have to Her tiny self Let her go Eyes were made to glisten Her shadow was purple and magic With glee or fear, or Her leaving us is tragic Some definite suspicion We shall miss her so As her own sparkled V With her rendition of But she left us her shadow A mesmerizing spell of fictitious To fill Characters and impossible situations With tales of strength and beauty, Valor and values that are Real - for all Who want to know Goodbye, Anita – Ride the wind! The Ancestors are waiting To welcome you in

This poem was written in Tribute to Elder Anita Timbers – Founding Vice President of the Detroit Association of Black Storytellers, who made her transition on September 3, 2012 at the age of 96.

DETROIT ASSOCIATION TH OF BLACK STORYTELLERS SALUTES THE 30 ANNUAL NATIONAL BLACK STORYTELLING FESTIVAL AND CONFERENCE

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Eslyn G. Hinmon “MAMA DELIGHT”

CONGRATULATES The National Association of Black Storytellers On Their 30th Anniversary of the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference WELCOME HOME!!!

Member of the Griots’ Circle of Maryland & the National Association of Black Storytellers

Storyteller Mama Delight delivers eloquent tales of African and African American origins. Her performances have delighted audiences at libraries, museums and community events.

Mama Delight warms the hearts of children and adults with stories that inspire an atmosphere of joy and wonderment.

1401 Martin Drive Catonsville, Maryland 21229 410-744-9292 BABA SIMBA MOLLOCK Storyteller

Member of the Griot’s Circle of Maryland & The National Association of Black Storytellers

Baba Simba Mollock shares colorful tales from Anansi the Spider to his personal family life which is richly rooted in African-American tradition.

His performances have delighted audiences at schools, universities, libraries, museums and senior centers.

Baba Simba’s dynamic energy thrills children and adults. His stories are multiculturan, interactive and just plain fun to listen to!

1613 Kingsway Road Baltimore, Maryland 21218

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The Black Storytellers of San Diego, Inc. congratulate The National Association of Black Storytellers On celebrating 30 years of "In the Tradition..." Coming Home – Our Family Tells Stories

Members Board Youth Member Dr. Annjennette S. McFarlin: President Dr. Maxine Sherard Floyd Meldrum Linda Brown: Vice-President Dr. Carrol Waymon Florence Edmunds: Secretary Joyce Suber Life Member Dr. T. Ford: Treasurer/Grant Writer Marc Chery Retired Federal Judge Gwendolyn Chamberlain Calvin Manson Elizabeth Riggs O.J. Mozon Jr. Kudumu Moyenda Honorary Members Veronica Henson-Phillips Surgeon General Bernard ‘Yiribe Thomas Kimberlydawn Wisdom Esther Anthony Thomas Betty Cordice Dennis and Esther Pierson George G. Clark III: Photographer

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“Let her speak who has seen with her own eyes” –Congo

425 West 162nd Street ● New York, NY 10032-4301 ● Tel: 212.568.1645 e-mail: [email protected] website: www.africanfolkheritagecircle.org

CONGRATULATIONS ! National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. & Griots’ Circle of Maryland, Inc.

“In The Tradition . . .” th 30 Annual National Black Storytelling Festival & Conference

“COMING HOME…Our Family Tells Stories”

“There is a home, A home of a sort, Which holds a generation of stories in its Lot. It is a home, A home set apart…Liberation in its soul, And Love in Its heart.” Inspired by Sharmila Ranade’s ~ “Home”

HOPE ◊ MOTIVATION ◊ ACHIEVEMENT ◊ VICTORY NOVEMBER 14 – 18, 2012 • BALTIMORE, MARYLAND

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HATS OFF! HATS OFF! HATS OFF! IT’S NABS’ 30th ANNIVERSARY!!

______

“God’s truth is all around us and stories teach us more of it.”

CONGRATULATIONS NABS!!!

Thomas Southern Life Member NABS Harlem, New York

The Blackstorytelling League of Rochester

salutes the 30th Annual National Association of Black Storytellers Festival and Conference

Coming Home…Our family tells stories

The Blackstorytelling League of Rochester P.O. Box 40473 Rochester, NY 14604 www.blackstorytelling.org *pass it on*pass it on*pass it on* pass it on*pass it on*pass it on*pass it on*

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Dylan Pritchett

We are so very proud of you and all that you do.

“What you help a child to love can be more important than what you help him to learn.” ~African proverb

Thank You Dad For The Love!

We Love You, Shannan, Dylan Jr. and “Wife”

56 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories ONAWUMI JEAN MOSS

ONAWUMI JEAN MOSS, an award winning soulful storyteller and co author (with Patricia C. McKissack), is a keynote speaker, narrator, voice actor, creator and facilitator of workshops and residencies. This consummate teaching artist holds a Master’s degree in Adolescent Psychology. In recognition of her dedication to providing support for students’ academic work, the ground-breaking Moss Quantitative Skills Center at Amherst Col- lege, stands in honor of twenty-five years of her service as a dean and student advocate. Onawumi’s thoughtfully crafted solo performances, workshops and residencies-brimming with inspiration, humor, acapella singing - focus on themes of importance to sponsors. Listeners /participants of diverse backgrounds and CONTACT INFO: www.onawumi.com age groups throughout the USA have dubbed her 1-413- 575-4277 [email protected] an AUDIENCE FAVORITE! ETERNAL THANKS to MOTHER MARY, NABS ANCESTORS and SISTER LINDA ! LET’S KEEP ON PUSHIN’

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Alpha Zeta Chapter

The members of Alpha Zeta Chapter congratulate The National Black Storytellers, Inc. on its th 30 Anniversary of “…In the Tradition…” We pay tribute to Soror Linda J. Brown and Soror Mary Carter Smith

Sherl Woodland, President, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Alpha Zeta Chapter Freeda Thompson, Chair, Myrtle Tyler Faithful Fund, Inc.

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Shania Alford We congratulate you on your 2012 NABS YOUTH AWARD You are a remnant of the fabric that our ancestors used to shape many lives. Keep sowing We Love You Eric & Earlyn Michael & Janet and Chavez

NATIONAL STORYTELLING CONFERENCE

Richmond, Virginia August 1-4, 2013 We Grow Storyte ers www.storynet.org 1-800-525-4514

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The Griots' Circle of Maryland Growing Griots Literacy Learning Program

Congratulates 2012 NABS Youth Award Recipients Growing Griots Shania Alford and Whitney Johnson

PLANTING SEEDS TO GROW Home Is Where My Story Begins and

“I Remember Mama in a Happy Way…….”

MAMA ALICE RYLES BLAND – 1904-‐2005

MAMA CLARA JOHNSON LEE – 1905-‐1981

MAMA FLORIA “NELLIE” PIERCE – 1914 -‐ 1992

MAMA MARY CARTER SMITH – 1919-‐2007

MAMA MARY LEE PIERCE – 1929 -‐ 1979

“I sing because I’m happy. I sing because I’m free. His eye is on the sparrow and I know He watches me.”

Mama Deborah,Mama the T alk Afropella G riot NABS, Inc. National Great Blacks in Wax Museum, Inc.

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CONGRATULATIONS

~~"'~~~.. itflh~ ""i -KARIMA AMIN- 2012 ZORA NEALE HURSTON HONOREE Your family is proud of the three decades you've devoted to Bla cks torytelling ! We pray for you to continue.

Greetings to Sequoia Members Members Doris Pollard Bernice Bradshaw Ophelia Brown-Carter Ophelia Brown-Carter and the Lorraine Dorsey 30th Annual “In The Tradition...” Margaret Green National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference Ellaweise Minser November 14-18, 2012 Doris Pollard Baltimore, Maryland Jean Scott Shirley Jo Shelton Sequoia’s CSC, Inc. Geraldine Wiggins Baltimore Maryland

civic s social s charity

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The Baltimore Folk Music Society Congratulates The National Association of Black Storytellers on this 30th Anniversary Celebration

The Baltimore Folk Music Society’s storytelling group, Fourth at Four StoryFolk, supports and promotes storytelling in the Baltimore area with monthly meetings and its annual Tellabration!

This year’s theme is "Storytellers by Nature" on Sunday, Nov. 18 at The Irvine Nature Center, 2 to 5 pm. For more information visit www.bfms.org or call 410-321-8419.

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TRADITION KEEPERS: BLACK STORYTELLERS OF WNY CONGRATULATES NABS, INC. & GRIOTS’ CIRCLE OF MARYLAND AND KARIMA AMIN, ZORA NEALE HURSTON AWARDEE

“IN THE TRADITION…” 30th ANNUAL NATIONAL BLACK STORYTELLING FESTIVAL AND CONFERENCE “WE NURTURE…WE HONOR…WE PRAISE”

Congratulations NABS, Inc. and Griots’ Circle of Maryland “In the Tradition . . .” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference And to Karima Amin, Zora Neale Hurston Awardee Daughters of Creative Sound, Buffalo NY [email protected]

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Congratulations NABS & Griot’s Circle of Maryland 30th National Festival and Conference

NSOUL

Nubian Storytellers of Utah Leadership P. O. Box 571252 Salt Lake City, Utah 84157-1252

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In loving memory of Charles Thomas Smith One of the first trained Black paratroopers of the U.S. Army

Victoria (wife) Victor and Karl (sons)

Ujabari Quilts: Fabrics and Quilts with an Ethnic Flair! An on-line fabric store

www.ujabariquilts.com

Ethnic & Batik Fabrics Longarm Quilting Quilts  Classes (check website for schedule)

Angela Roberts-Burton (410) 961-1009 Baltimore, Maryland “Telling the Trials, Tribulations and Triumphs of Our Enslaved Ancestors” Dressed in period attire, teaching children from 8-80 years old about their history through demostrations and the spoken word.

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Happy 30th Anniversary NABS BUTTERBEAN TALES Rosa Ashby Metoyer Storyteller 6415 3rd Street Alexandria, LA 71302 318-448-3885 [email protected]

RUTH EDMONDS HILL Oral History Coordinator

SCHLESINGER LIBRARY RADCLIFFE INSTITUTE FOR ADVANCED STUDY HARVARD UNIVERSITY

10 Garden Street Cambridge, MA 02138

Phone: 617-495-8618 Fax: 617-496-8340 Email: ruth_hill@radcliff e.edu

Storyteller Sylvia Yancy-Davis

Sylvia Yancy-Davis 104 Heyman Lane Alexandria, LA 71303 318-613-1017

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Congratulations NABS, on 30 Years!

Join us in Rhode Island for Another Celebration of Black Storytelling January 19-27, 2013

This event made possible in part by a grant from the Rhode Island State Council on the Arts For More information: www.ribsfest.org

The Friends of the Benjamin Banneker Historical Park and Museum Welcome The National Association of Black Storytellers to Baltimore!

Home of NABS Affiliate, The Griots’ Circle of Maryland Come visit the museum and log cabin on the land where Benjamin Banneker lived!

The Benjamin Banneker Park and Museum 300 Oella Ave; Catonsville Md 21228 410-877-1081, Museum Open: Tues - Sat 10 - 4

66 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories

Maryland’s First Choice for Workers’ Compensation Insurance Proud to support the 30th Annual Ask your agent for an IWIF quote National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference or visit iwif.com

67 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BLACK STORYTELLERS HISTORY Esteemed storytellers Mary Carter Smith of Baltimore, Maryland and Linda Goss of Philadelphia, Pennsylvania are the founders of the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. They conceived the idea in 1982 to give more opportunities for African American storytellers to be heard and for more of the rich heritage of the African Oral Tradition to be shared and preserved. The first “In the Tradition…” Festival of Black Storytelling was held in the McKeldin Center at Morgan State University in Baltimore, Maryland on November 18-19, 1983. Festival sponsors were the Alpha Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. (Linda Jenkins Brown, Chapter Basileus) and Morgan’s Social Science Department. The festival had also received a grant from the Maryland Humanities Council, Inc. In November 1984, the second Festival of Black Storytelling was held in Philadelphia. It was at this time that these two visionary storytellers saw and felt participants desire and need to share, celebrate and preserve the African and African American Oral Tradition as a formal entity. They invited the public to join them in formally organizing a national association. Thus began the Association of Black Storytellers. The first officers and Board members were: Linda Goss, President; Larry G. Coleman, Vice President; Maxine LeGall, Secretary; Ardie S. Brown, Treasurer; Alice McGill, Historian; Ayubu Kamu, Parliamentarian; Dena Hargans, Chaplain; Mary Carter Smith, Board Chairperson; Marian Barnes, Administrative Assistant; and Board members, Lawanda Randall, Rita Cox and Paul Keens-Douglas. The Association was incorporated in 1990 and became known as the National Association of Black Storytellers, Inc. (NABS). In 1997, in Cleveland, the festival expanded to become the National Black Storytelling Festival and Conference. There are fourteen NABS affiliates. NABS welcomed its first affiliate organization, Detroit Michigan, in 1992. The others are African Folk Heritage Circle, New York, NY; ASE: Chicago Association of Black Storytellers, Chicago, IL; Black Storytellers Alliance, Minneapolis, MN; Blackstorytelling League, Rochester, NY; Cleveland Association of Black Storytellers, Cleveland, OH; Griots’ Circle of Maryland, Baltimore, MD; Keepers Of The Culture, Philadelphia, PA; Kuumba Storytellers of Georgia, Decatur, GA; North Carolina Association of Black Storytellers, Raleigh, NC; Black Storytellers of San Diego, San Diego, CA; Rhode Island Black Storytellers, Providence, RI; Tradition Keepers: Black Storytellers of Western New York, Buffalo, NY and Wichita Storytellers: Keepers of the Stories, Wichita, Kansas. Many esteemed members have served as Board members and given of their time, expertise and ongoing support since 1983. Currently, the officers and Board members are: Co-Founder Linda Goss; President Akbar Imhotep; President-Elect Dr. Mary Ann Harris; Treasurer Deborah Pierce- Fakunle; and Board members, Robert A. Smith, Masankho Banda and Kay Merril. Vanora Franklin Legaux serves as NABS Executive Director. nabsinc.org

68 Coming Home ... Our Family Tells Stories

69 “In The Tradition ...” 30th Annual National Black Storytelling Festival

Thank you for blessing

Griots Are Living Baltimore with your presence. Traveling Libraries Come mercies as you depart and Check Us Out! keep telling our stories. Come back soon!

Standing on the Shoulders Founding of Our Ancestor Mother Mary Carter Smith Congratulations to the National Association of Black Storytellers on Our 30th Annual "In the Tradition ..." Festival & Conference Baltimore, Maryland 2012