By ELISABETH DYER and DENISE WATSON BATTS
Published April 2, 2004
TAMPA - The University of South Florida's Institute on Black Life is hosting a research conference, "The Black Child and Family: Strengthening and Empowering the Village," April 8-10 at the Marshall Center.
The purpose is to provide a venue for researchers, community activists and service providers to examine the issues negatively impacting the black community. Some of the planned sessions include early childhood literacy, the impact of HIV/AIDS on children and families, male and female relationships, closing the achievement gap and building strong communities.
Dr. Ben Carson, professor and director of pediatric neurosurgery at the Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions, is the keynote speaker April 9. Carson is an author and known in the medical community for his work in separating conjoined twins. Family Fun Fest will run from noon to 6 p.m. April 10.
All events are free and open to the public but registration is required and due by Monday. Participants can register online at www.usf.edu/ibl or by calling 974-4727.
MacFarlane Park will show new elementary magnet program
NORTHEAST MACFARLANE - Get a glimpse of the MacFarlane Park magnet elementary school opening in August during an open house from 1 to 3 p.m. Saturday at 1721 N MacDill Ave.
MacFarlane Park is converting from an alternative education school to an elementary magnet with a focus on international studies. The school will pull students from across Hillsborough County. No qualifications are needed to apply. For information, call principal Susan Turner at 356-1760.
Schaarai Zedek will hold open house for children
PARKLAND ESTATES - Schaarai Zedek Religious School invites children ages 3 to 15 to an open house from 9:30 to 11 a.m. Sunday at 3303 W Swann Ave. Children can visit classrooms, meet rabbis and staff, and enjoy snacks. About 400 students attend two sessions of classes that meet from 8:30 to 10:45 a.m. and 10:15 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
