Cutest Tells Cute:
“Until yesterday, I was totally ignorant of everything I’m about to tell you. So listen up.
"Although a bus trip to Topeka was not originally part of my Monday plans, I found myself in Topeka at Washburn University’s White Hall.
"First, I didn’t know anything about the annual FREE Sunflower Music Festival in Topeka: nine nights of orchestra, chamber, ensembles and jazz which is still going on – ends June 29th.
"This concert series began in 1987. Who knew? Did I mention it’s free? The hall has great acoustics and comfortable seating and I heard some great jazz! The always amazing Angela Hagenbach and David Basse doing the vocals (separately) with the Sunflowers All Star Jazz Band doing the rest. It was fabulous! Go to https://sunflowermusicfestival.org/sunflower-music-festival-program-schedule/ because there’s still time. And yes, did I say it’s free? Extraordinary.
"Second, still speaking of jazz and my oblivion, let’s put June 6, 2025 on our calendars now. You drive me to Parkville where the revival of the Parkville Jazz and Blues Festival will be returning for its second year.
"The reason for its resurgence is a very small group of remarkable individuals, the Banneker School Foundation Restoration Project, has decided to restore the first school for black children in Platt County to its original glory – and historical significance. This one- room school house, originally built in 1855 on Park College (now University) property, was the site of the school in which more than 70 students (from first through tenth grade) learned their lessons.
"Yes, third point, I knew nothing about this certifiable piece of history so very close to us. In 2008, it was listed on Missouri’s Most Endangered Historic Places because of its significant deterioration, and now volunteers have committed to recreating the school and turning it into a living history lesson and museum.
"Their major fundraiser, among several during the year, is the Jazz Festival next year to which David Basse and Angela Hagenbach have also committed their extensive talents. I definitely want to go on June 6th in Parkville, another event which I didn't even know existed - but now I do.
"Ok, Cute? Please write it down for us!”
P.S. For more info, check out https://bannekerschoolparkvillemo.org/ or https://plattecountylandmark.com/ At least write it down now . . . it's amazing (and perhaps frightening) how fast next June will be here!
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