CU-Lock Haven hosts 22nd annual Kent's Fest musical talent show for children and adults with disabilities

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Commonwealth University-Lock Haven's Council of Exceptional Children student group hosted the 22nd annual Kent's Fest Celebration on Friday, April 10, in the East Campus gym. The musical talent show for children and adults with disabilities brought together area schools in a heartwarming celebration of creativity, unity and inclusion.

This year's theme, "A Day on Broadway," lived up to its name as students from various special education programs took the stage to showcase their stellar performances. Approximately 600 students in grades kindergarten through 12 from Keystone Central, Jersey Shore Area, Williamsport Area, Penns Valley Area, Bellefonte Area, South Williamsport, Montoursville Area, Montgomery Area and Loyalsock Township school districts participated. CARES of Central PA, an adult agency, also took part in the event, with approximately 700 attendees coming to watch the performances throughout the day.

Thirty-five Lock Haven student-volunteers helped plan, organize and support the event and the Bald Eagle football team helped setup for the event. Before the event, students created posters for each classroom based on their selected song performance, helped with decorations and delivered T-shirts to participants. On the day of the event, students supported classrooms and performers.

"Kent's Fest is always a very special event for our community. The celebration provides an opportunity for individuals with exceptionalities to display their musical abilities," said Dr. Erica Jones, event coordinator and professor in the Department of Early Childhood and Exceptionality Programs. "The day is filled with smiles, laughter and the pure joy of acceptance for everyone in attendance. I feel extremely fortunate to continue to facilitate this cherished tradition year after year."

Event sponsors included the Clinton County Community Foundation, Bayada Home Heathcare, S & L Builders, Clinton Control Inc., Lowe's of Mill Hall, Miele Amusements, Sons & Daughters of Italy - Lodge No. 146 Inc., Loyal Order of the Moose No. 145, Kiwanis Club of Mill Hall, Marconi's Service Station, Brigandi, Gleghorn and Haffley Insurance Agency, Coploff, Ryan & Houser, Gail B. Landers, Gail D. Nestlerode, Kelly M. Bower, Sherry Miller, Tom Myers and Glossner's Concrete Inc.

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• Exceptionality Programs

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