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Dobbs Ferry Celebrates Black History Month

DOBBS FERRY, N.Y. – With a rousing performance by the Bokandeye African-American Dance Theater that included dancing, drums and music, the Dobbs Ferry Middle School culminated its study of Black History Month with a celebration on Friday.

“We do black history all month long, this is the culminating event,” said Anne Pecunia, Dobbs Ferry Middle School assistant principal.  “Every year we try and do something different.”

The Bokandeye theater group from the YWCA of Yonkers performed the finale of the honorary celebration with African drumming, dancing and music. The group also brought students and teachers on stage for a dance battle that drew thunderous applause and amused cheers from the filled auditorium. 

“It just brings it together. Every year we try to give them something different,” Pecunia said. “We need to appreciate the rich heritage.”  

The celebration also featured performances from the Heritage Choir, made up of students and teachers, and the school’s step team, the Steeping Eagles. Dobbs Ferry student Elijah Hubbard honored the late Michael Jackson with a dance tribute, including the moon walk, to the soundtrack of "Billie Jean."

Tsha Gregory, who is a teaching assistant at the school, helped organize the event and lead the Heritage Choir in a performance of “Where is the Love?” by the Black Eyed Peas.  Some teachers even stepped out for the individual rapping solos.  Gregory runs both the Stepping Eagles and the Heritage Choir clubs in the school. 

“This year is about remembering our past,” Gregory said.  “I want to say that all the students worked very hard to perform here today and I want them to know I am proud of each and every one of them.”

With so many musical performances at the celebration, Gregory also wanted to mention one of her inspirations while speaking to the crowd.

“I’d be remiss if I didn’t say that we need to give a big hand-clapping tribute to the late, great Whitney Houston,” she said.

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