One Voice of Newton County is presenting its annual African American Heritage Festival on Saturday, Feb. 27, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Newton County High School's Porter Auditorium. This event is free to the public. The festival will include history bowls and classic debate competitions featuring middle and high schools from both Rockdale and Newton counties. Several area schools will be represented. One Voice will also announce its essay contest winners who will be awarded scholarships for post secondary education. One Voice, a conglomeration of various churches and para-church organizations throughout Newton County, wishes to express its thanks to both superintendents of schools, all principals, teachers, parents and the Covington News for making African American history a priority. Food vendors will be available all day.
The heritage festival is unique to Newton County.
"The heritage festival is simply a great opportunity to display the talents of our area youth." She continues, "We've also been encouraged by the racial diversity of our participants in previous events and we hope that African American history continues to be embraced by all," said event organizer Carla Hull.