A&M International Kicks Off WBCA with Twilight Pops Concert Sat., Feb. 6

The nation's largest birthday bash for America's first president will be even bigger this year as Texas A&M International University kicks off this year's Washington's Birthday Celebration Association festivities with a free outdoor "Twilight Pops Concert."

The free concert, the first of its kind in Laredo's history, will be held Saturday, February 6 from 4 - 6 p.m. at the University's main plaza. Free parking will be available on the three large parking lots that border the campus with shuttles available to transport concert goers from their cars to the performance area.

A&M International president Dr. Charles Jennett said the event will provide the city with a relaxed, wholesome afternoon of rousing patriotism, fun, and unparalleled entertainment from a rainbow of local talent.

"The University is honored to be part of the WBCA celebration, and we are proud to host an event that will showcase some of the finest musicians, vocalists, and dancers in the region," Dr. Jennett noted.

Among the performers for the Twilight Pops Concert are the Texas A&M International University Band; vocalist Fritz Gechter, assistant professor of Fine Arts at A&M International; and the University's Modern Dance Troupe, Ballet Folklorico Infantil, High Twisters dance team, Classical Spanish Ballet, and Ballet Folklorico.

Some of the music and dance pieces to be performed are: the National Anthem, a presentation of patriotic music, "The Streets of Laredo," "Deep in the Heart of Texas," "Las Chiapanecas," "Flor de Piña," "Tanguillos de Cadiz," "The Best of Gypsy Kings Medley," "La Bruja," "La Bamba," and "El Carnaval."

In addition to the great music and dance, the Twilight Pops Concert will also feature great food from around the world.

"Members of University's international student community will present sample foods from their countries and offer information about the many countries that are represented at A&M International," explained Dr. Steven Brown, Dean of Student Affairs and concert chairperson.

Food and refreshments will also be sold during the concert. The event will be alcohol-free.

For additional information on the "Twilight Pops Concert" at A&M International Feb. 6, please call the University's Office of Public Affairs at 326-2180. University office hours are 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Monday - Friday.

Journalists who need additional information or help with media requests and interviews should contact the Office of Public Affairs and Information Services at pais@tamiu.edu