Heavenly melodies filled the South Miami-Dade Cultural Arts Center in Cutler Bay as world renown Fisk Jubilee Singers presented a memorable evening concert on Nov. 9. More than 300 patrons were inspired by the flawless performance of the inimitable and historic a cappella ensemble directed by Paul T. Kwami.
Negro spirituals such as Ain’t Got Time to Die and Give Me Jesus elevated concert goers and glorified the strength and creativity of the African-American slave. The highlight of the event was the outstanding joint performance with the Coral Reef Senior High School Chorale. Bravo to the students and their director, John Rose, for lending their talent. Members of the newly reorganized local Fisk Alumni Association, under the leadership of Lori Ford Bailey, were on hand and excited to help promote both the concert and their beloved alma mater.
Others seen on the scene include: Zola Baker Coleman, Anna Maria Ellis, Elizabeth Ibarra, Thomasena Mitchell, Jacqueline Moody (former Jubilee singer), Dr. Robert Moore, Doris Penn, Iral Porter, Dr. Dazelle Simpson, Terrence Williams, Barry and Bryley Wilson, and all the way from Palm Coast, former South Floridian Sue Beatty Fray. The Girls Scouts, Jack and Jill of America, The Links Inc., the Deltas, and AKAs were a few of the community organizations that were represented.
A fun evening of dining, comedy and dance was enjoyed by members of the WISH Foundation Inc. and their supporters at the 6th Emerald Gala & Silent Auction. Held recently at the Miami Marriott Biscayne Bay Hotel, about 600 attendees celebrated the 25th anniversary of the foundation, which serves the local community through its service programs, charitable giving, and collaboration with the Gamma Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. Barbara Mason-Gardiner, chairman of the board of directors, and Sandra L. Jackson of AKA, presented more than $5,000 to
Breakthrough Miami and the Black Archives, History and Research Foundation of South Florida Inc. A side-splitting comedy show was the featured entertainment provided by comedians Marvin Dixon, Michael “Tight Mike” Randolph, and Antoine Scott. The lovely Miss Miami Gardens, Aja Watkins, served as mistress of ceremonies, and guests danced the night away to the soulful sounds of DJ Stan.
Congratulations to Tara J. Pasteur, event chairperson, for an enjoyable affair. Among those seen on the scene were: honorary chairperson Congresswoman Frederica S. Wilson, Miami-Dade County Commissioner Audrey Edmonson, Sharon Anderson, Richard and Virla Barry, Patricia Carter and the Carter clan from Fort Lauderdale, Dr. Dorothy J. Fields, Dwanita Fields, Darlene Hargrove, Irene Johnson, Juanita C. Johnson,
Carolyn Mond, Maud P. Newbold, Elvis Paschal, Shelly Rochelle, Alan White and Sharon Diane Williams.
Linda J. Johnson, a Miami native, is a veteran educator with the Miami-Dade County Public Schools, a certified etiquette consultant, and also serves on nonprofit boards in the community. She can be reached at lindaj754@aol.com
No Comment