On September 23, 2006 the Coomacka Team partnered with Kings Plaza Mall in Brooklyn New York to bring Coomacka Island to the community. It was a rough start at first, due to some minor technical difficulties with the sound, but the outcome couldn't have been better. Both children and parents were excited the entire time as they heard the stories and sounds from Coomacka Island. Children competed in Hula Hoop and Dance contests for prizes. Some parents got into the act showing off some of the latest dances from the Caribbean.

The highlight for me was some time between 1pm and 2pm. We were holding our second story book reading and the children and parents all gathered round and listened attentively. The children showed off their listening skills and intelligence by answering questions related to The Story of Spider & Ant. One child, who will remain anonymous, even expressed sympathy for Anansi Jr. Spider by citing that he, too, was afraid of the dark. During the subsequent Hula Hoop and Dance competitions I looked up at the second floor of the mall to see a huge audience clapping and cheering the children on. I will always remember that day.

If you didn't have a chance to make take a look at some of these photos from this memorable day in Coomacka Island history.

As always thanks for the continued support!

-The Coomacka Team

Crafts from the Island

The Illustrator

A proud Reader of Coomacka Island: Anansi Jr. and the Mango Truck

Plotting the next contest

Q/A

Interview with a Champion

Sisters Locked in Heated Competition

Dance Competition