Yuma Glance 4-8-08

Evolution of rap, hip-hop is subject of lecture; DAR meets Saturday; Democratic candidates appear at Spring Fling; Arizona Connections Academy offers session; Public comment sought on pedestrian safety plan

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EVOLUTION OF RAP, HIP-HOP IS SUBJECT OF LECTURE

  The evolution of rap and hip-hop as forms of communication and expression will be the subject of a lecture Thursday that is open to the public.

  Matthew C. Whitaker, an assistant professor of history and African and American studies at Arizona State University, is scheduled to speak from 1:45 to 2:45 p.m. at Room BA111 at the main campus of Arizona Western College.

  Whitaker is the author of "Race Work: The Rise of Civil Rights in the Urban West" and chief executive officer of the Whitaker Group, a diversity consulting firm.

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DAR MEETS SATURDAY

  The Yuma Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution will meet Saturday at 10 a.m. at the Fortuna Del Rey Golf Course Restaurant, 13650 North Frontage Road.

  Anyone interested in becoming a member is welcome to attend.

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DEMOCRATIC CANDIDATES APPEAR AT SPRING FLING

  Various Democratic candidates for local and state offices will speak and meet with the public Friday during the Yuma County Democratic Party's annual Spring Fling Salute at the Gowan Company patio, 370 S. Main St.

  The event begins with a 6 p.m. meet and greet, followed by 7 p.m. dinner and introduction of candidates and programs.

  Beto's Other Place will cater the dinner, and music will be provided by Ann James.

  Tickets are $25 and available at the Democratic headquarters, 1600 S. 4th Ave., Suite D. For more information, call 783-HOPE.

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ARIZONA CONNECTIONS ACADEMY OFFERS SESSION

  The public can learn Thursday about an in-home elementary and high school curriculum offered by Arizona Connections Academy.

   Academy representatives will hold an information session beginning at 6 p.m. at Peter Piper Pizza, 2850 S. Pacific Ave., to explain the "public school at home" program, an alternative to the traditional classroom.

   Parents with students in grades kindergarten through 12th are eligible to enroll their children in the program.

  Those wishing to attend Thursday's session are asked to make reservations online at www.ConnectionsAcademy.com.

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PUBLIC COMMENT SOUGHT ON PEDESTRIAN SAFETY PLAN

  The Arizona Department of Transportation is seeking feedback to complete its Pedestrian Safety Action Plan.

  The public can provide input in a survey at ADOT's Bicycle and Pedestrian Program Web site: www.azbike ped.org.