Michael 'Pooh' Eliott is a former athlete and coach at Logan County High School. He is activein helping the youth of the community.
For the last 144 years, African Americans in Western Kentucky have held a celebration, commemorating the Emancipation Proclamation. Traditionally
falling in early August of each year, the celebratory event is commonly known as “The 8th of August.” This year, the 2010 8th of
August opening ceremonies will be held on August 6, at Mt. Zion Baptist Church in Russellville..
The 8th of August is a three-day celebration that will bring thousands of tourists to Russellville to enjoy the restaurants, hotels, retail
stores and outlets.
With a tradition dating back to 1983, The 8th of August Dustbowl is an outdoor basketball tournament which has gained much popularity. This
year the tournament will be sponsored by The Dustbowl Committee, partnered with The Roots Revisited Program of Logan County.
The Roots Revisited Program of Logan County is a youth community program that works to expose the children of Russellville to a wide range of cultural
activities, boosting individual self-esteem. The Program provides an alternative to the negative impact of drugs, gangs, violence and hopelessness. The
Program’s belief is that exposure to positive influences in a child’s life will help that individual develop into a model citizen who will enrich the
community in which they live.
In order for The 8th of August to be a successful event, donations are needed. The Dustbowl Committee is asking you to help support our
tradition and the youth of our community. All necessary funds will be used to pay event staff, referees and security. The remainder of the proceeds
will be given to The Roots Revisited Program to help build a stronger community of youth.
If you are interested in making a donation to this wonderful celebration of life and freedom, please make checks payable to, The 8th of
August Dustbowl Committee.
Donations can be mailed to: The Roots Revisited Program, 252 S. Morgan St., Russellville, Ky. 42276