How The World Celebrates

Part of the “Winter Happenings” at NS was “Celebrations Around The World" and billed as a fun, educational, and tasty program to teach youth how other cultures and countries celebrate. The children learned some history, geography, fun facts, played games and sampled food.  Requests were made to the JPL family asking for volunteers to represent various countries and cultures.  Everyone eagerly agreed.

Lilia Simonton (M) and Emma Pancho (M), dressed in traditional clothing, represented the Philippines.   They presented a slide show and later taught the children to play Sipa, kicking bundled rubber bands, and Tinikling, a dance with Bamboo poles.  Eva Newton, Urban Core Teen Librarian, represented Iceland.  She presented the folklore of the mischievous Yule Lads.   Jackie Spiritas (GB) represented Israel and the Jewish traditions. She lit a Menorah and later taught the children to play the dreidel game. Angela Richman (SOM) represented the Hispanic cultures of Colombia, Mexico and Spain. She brought a full display board as well as treats for tasting and other items and icons. Everyone smiled when she told of the custom of fresh yellow underwear to bring in the New Year and her daughter, Amy, ran around rolling an empty suitcase to represent greeting a new year full of travel.  Presenter Nancy Quinones of the Puerto Rican/Hispanic Chamber of Commerce represented Puerto Rico.  Besides leading the children in an impromptu percussion band, she brought coconut treats as well.

 

The Friends of Brentwood Library prepared and served two tables full of fruit and tasty treats with an international flair.  There were approximately 70 participants and everyone learned something and enjoyed it.  Betty Williams, Library Associate, Sr. at Brentwood Branch, who contributed this articles, says, "Thank you Family!"