Every February, the U.S. honors the contributions and sacrifices of African Americans who have helped shape the nation. Black History Month celebrates the rich cultural heritage, triumphs and adversities that are an part of our country's history. This year, our Jefferson County kids participated in activities to learn and celebrate Black History Month.

Activities included learning to paint like Alma Thomas, who taught art in Washington, D.C. for 35 years at Shaw Junior High School, Alma Thomas created a new style of painting. Her vibrant dabs of color, called “Alma stripes,” gained the artist recognition that has grown over the years.  

They also learned about George Crum, who invented the potato chips and incorporated the information into a Healthy Habits lesson by learning how too much salt can affect the body. They even made a healthier version of potato chips by making them on the griddle.

Moises Cardenas-Mendoza says attending the Boys & Girls Club of the Eastern Panhandle taught him to make the best out of any situation. "The Club was a great way for me to stay out of trouble and engage socially. I liked that the adults there were willing to teach us things while also allowing us to engage in various activities."

After graduating from high school, Moises received a Bachelor's Degree in Social Media Marketing with a Minor in Advertising from WVU. After working for others, Moises started his own business in Martinsburg, SC Studios, which provides digital and social media marketing services.

Moises says his advice to current Club kids is "Open yourself up to learning and making as many new friends as possible. Even if they don't fit the profile of your current friend group. There is beauty in differences!"