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Juneteenth Celebration in Pocatello on June 21

Jan Gillette & daughter Kolae Tan won the red velvet cake contest, ci 2023

The Pocatello Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) will honor the fourth local resumption of the Juneteenth celebration, the day celebrated as emancipation day, “the end of slavery,” on June 21, from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Pocatello Senior Activity Center, 427 N. Sixth. The public is invited. McKenzie Young is joined with Jan Gillette, the President of Pocatello Branch of NAACP, to learn about this enormously significant day for African Americans, June 19, 1865, and how it will be celebrated locally with an ethnic and traditional food picnic and other activities.

“At the NAACP, we believe in honoring the rich traditions and holidays celebrated by the Black community,” says Pocatello Branch President Jan Gillette. “These moments are not only a time for reflection and pride, but also an opportunity for everyone to come together in joy, music, food, and fun. The NAACP is for everyone. We welcome all who are passionate about justice, equity, and community empowerment to get involved and celebrate with us. Let’s uplift, support, and celebrate—together.” Ethnic and traditional foods will be served starting at noon, including chicken and barbecued ribs, and ethnic side dishes—blackeyed peas, red beans and rice, potato salad, cole slaw, corn bread, watermelon, red velvet cake, which is considered a soul food staple dessert, and more desserts.

Activities will be kid-friendly with plenty of games to play and prizes. For adults, there will be ethnic music played by ISU alum Glynn Osborne, an auction, raffles and a red velvet cake baking contest. NAACP 2025 Scholarship winners will be revealed.

“We are proud to announce the winners of our 2025 NAACP Scholarships—three outstanding students who will receive support thanks to the generous donations from our community,” Gillette says. “Your contributions make a real difference in shaping the future of these young leaders.”

All are welcome to attend. Tickets to eat and support Pocatello NAACP cost $25 for adults, $15 for children ages 6-12, and children five and under eat free. Ticket sales are at the College Market, the Grapevine, the Bru House Galilei, by emailing pocatellonaacp@live.com, calling 208-478-2150, or writing Pocatello Branch NAACP, P.O. Box 4192, Pocatello, ID 83205. Follow the NAACP on Facebook at facebook.com/Pocatello.Branch.NAACP.

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McKenzie began working at the station in 2003 while moseying her way through her undergraduate degree in Communication and Rhetorical studies [2012]. Her outgoing personality and involvement in various activities makes for a perfect fit to promote campus and community organizations and events*.