Ko-Thi Dance Company is celebrating 40 years of providing a vehicle by which artists may study, research, document, teach and present the dance, music and cultural histories of the African world. Following a performance recently held at the Mitchell Park Domes, Ferne Yangyeitie Caulker, founder of the Ko-Thi stands next to a quilt that was commissioned by the dance company’s board of directors to honor the acclaimed group’s founder for her 40 years of dedicated service. Also shown above is the quilter, Ethel White. The quilt is called, ‘AYA, Spirit of Fern’. AYA is the African Adinkra symbol representing the spirit of the fern plan. Endurance, Independence, Defi ance against obstacles, Hardiness, Perseverance, and Resourcefulness are the very qualities symbolized by AYA and by Ferne’s quest for excellence in touching lives through Ko-Thi. (Photo By Harry Kemp)