WARREN Festival to honor black achievers

The CEO estimates that 10,000 people attend the festival over three days.
WARREN -- The 19th annual Trumbull African-American Achievers Association Festival will kick off Friday with its Striving for Unity theme.
The Rev. Irvin R. Williams, CEO of the organization, estimated that the festival attracts about 10,000 people downtown over its three days.
The event runs through Sunday in Courthouse Square and includes a parade, African cultural displays, food, rides, entertainment, games and arts and crafts.
The festival begins at noon Friday with a ribbon cutting, with Doug Franklin, city council president, and Fred Harris, safety-service director, cutting the ribbon.
The late Van Williams, a cousin of the Rev. Mr. Williams, started the event out of a concern that the accomplishments and contributions of black people were going unnoticed.
Realtor Mark Herron is the grand marshal for the Saturday parade. Gospel Sunday showcases the talents of area church groups, soloists and choirs.
Another annual TAAAA event is induction into the association's Hall of Fame. Earlier this year, nine adults and two students were inducted, recognizing blacks who have a positive impact on the community in leadership, community service, development, entrepreneurship, family development, education, religious-outreach programs and artistic talent.
Group leaders say they try to recognize people who are still living so members get to see the influence they've had.