By KARAN MINNIS, Guardian Lifestyles Reporter

Most Bahamians don't need a reason to travel but if you do, the Bahamian American Cultural Society of New York is calling you to visit them, as they host the 2008 New York Bahamas Culture Day in the Big Apple with The Bahamas' very own Kirkland "K.B." Bodie in the entertainment line up.

Set to take place on Sunday, Aug. 31 at Pier 66 Maritime on the Hudson River at West 16th St & 12th Avenue, this event will feature Bahamian jazz artist Desiree Cox, a mini Junkanoo parade, and native food and drinks.

"The society has designed the Bahamas Culture Day to refresh life and enliven the spirit through the area," says Beryl Edgeocmbe, president/co-founder of the Bahamian American Cultural Society (BACS).

"For the past 10 years people in increasing numbers came from all over the Atlantic States and the islands to enjoy both the unique expressions of Bahamian Culture and its blend with other African, Caribbean, and American Cultures, but we want more people there. It's a really great event that we try our best to keep in touch with the Bahamian culture.

"So from 12 noon until 12 midnight all roads will lead to Pier 66 Maritime on the Hudson River at West 26th Street & 12th Avenue, New York City for this grand event."

Throughout the day will be many activities including musical chairs, passing the hat, Brown Girl in the Ring, even a cultural heritage dancing workshop.

"We're also going to have Bahamian flag face painting, Bahamian item raffles, a mini Junkanoo rush out, and Junkanoo workshop. Additionally, Bahamian music will be played continuously throughout the day. And no cultural day would be complete without Bahamian food and drinks provided by Bahamian chefs. We'll even have fresh conch salad made while you wait by 'Conch Man Evans'," she said.

Then it will be time for a true Bahamian line-up with local artists K.B. , Dr. Desiree Cox and Jasmin Thomas, kicking kick off some of the best in Bahamian entertainment at 6 p.m.

"Everyone knows K.B will most likely steal the show," says Edgecombe.

According to K.B, he will. "People can expect for me to represent this country in A1 fashion. I am, if not the best, I am at least in the top two of what The Bahamas has to offer. I consider myself the gold medalist of The Bahamas, so, I will represent as I should."

Adding that he expects to be on stage for at least a half hour, K.B says that he will perform all of his original numbers.

"This is not my first time performing in New York, but it's my first time at this event, so I will be doing all my original stuff. I can promise you that. I don't do any covers, only originals. So I will be there to represent The Bahamas in style. I think that any opportunity to represent my country is a great one as that's my number one focus in life. So I will be flying high on this one."

With something for everyone in the family to partake, organizers of the event want you to hop on the plane to join them in the fun.

For more information on the 2008 Bahamas Culture Day, you can visiit www.BahamianAmericanCulturalSociety.Org or call 212-213-0562.

2008 Bahamas Culture

Day in New York

When: Sunday, Aug. 31

Where: Pier 66 Maritime on the Hudson River at West 16th St & 12th Avenue, New York

Performers:

Kirkland "K.B." Bodie

Jazz artist Desiree Cox

Junkanoo rush out