Marshall AACC hosts inaugural Mother’s Day scholarship gala

From Staff Reports

Last Saturday’s inaugural Mother’s Day Gala, presented by the African American Celebration Committee, offered the perfect way to kickoff the special holiday.

“If you missed last Saturday’s African American Celebration Committee’s first Annual Mother’s Day Gala, you missed an event that people with be talking about until next Mother’s Day,” said Stacy Adams, executive liaison of the AACC.

“This event gave those who attended time to reflect on legacies left by moms who are no longer with us physically, who remain in our hearts, and time for mothers (and those who have stepped into the role as mother) to think about the legacy to be left,” said Adams.

Welcoming attendees to the occasion, Juanita Green thanked all for coming to the event, set aside to honor, cherish and uplift the incredible women who have shaped lives.

“From the resilience of our ancestors to the strength of our mothers today, we pay homage to the unwavering love and sacrifice that have nurtured us through the generations,” said Green. “May this gathering be a fitting tribute to the boundless love of mothers everywhere.”

Noting the mission of the organization and purpose of the event, AACC president Sharon Johnson shared how she came up with a vision several years ago to promote unity in the city by doing various events and activities that brought the community together.

“This is one of those,” she said, noting the Mother’s Day gala serves as a scholarship fundraiser. “We also have the African American Black History Parade and festival. We want to promote unity, cultural awareness and also the academic success of students. So that’s the purpose of this gala, is to raise money so that we would be able to award students that live in Harrison County money to go off to college.”

With that said, AACC member Vickie Jackson announced this year’s scholarship recipient, Julius Johnson, a senior at Marshall High School. Johnson, who boasts a 5.9 grade point average and ranks in the top 10% of his class, plans to attend Stephen F. Austin University following graduation. He plans to study nursing with a focus in pediatric nursing.

Receiving a rousing applause, Johnson thanked all for their support.

“I just want to say thank you to everybody involved for investing in my future, and also a special thank you to all the mothers out there for this upcoming Mother’s Day,” said Johnson.

“And a special thank you to my mother for investing in my future and my future successes,” he added.

As an expression of appreciation to mothers, all were given a dainty corsage of their choice. Door prizes were also given away to several lucky winners.

“The men were dressed to impress as well by escorting their special lady to the gala,” said Adams. “Everyone was runway ready.”

The entertainment for the evening, Christian comedian DP Jefferson; and Gabriel “Saxman” Johnson, both of Shreveport, kept attendees intrigued with their riveting performances.

“Christian comedian D P Jefferson kept the crowd engaged with his vernacular speech, puns, wordplay and juxtaposition,” said Adams. “He taught the men how to stand up to their significant other from underneath the bed, made the door prize winners work for their prizes by dancing. He kept the crowd laughing and anticipating the arrival of Gabriel ‘Saxman’ Johnson.”

“Saxman did not disappoint!,” Adams continued. “The mellow, bright, rich tones filled the Marshall Convention Center forcing our guests to fill the dance floor. He took the time to play happy birthday to those who were celebrating a birthday as well as Mother’s Day.”

Saxman even topped off his performance, personally gifting each lady with a red rose. A great time was had by all, including Winifread Williams, who traveled down for the occasion from her Wills Point home.

“We can’t wait for next year,” Williams told the AACC committee. “My mom and I had a great time.”

The AACC expressed appreciation to the respective businesses that supported the event with donations and door prizes. Donors included: Applebees, Audrey B’s, B&C Cleaners, Blackbird Bath House, Blake Furniture, Bodacious Barbeque, Cajun Tex, Chili’s, Day Spring Equestrian Therapy, Deborah’s Boutique, Gecko Pest Control, Ivan Smith Furniture, Loretta’s Boutique, Marshall Regional Arts Council, Pelz Jewelers and Roseville Bed & Breakfast.

“Countless hours were put into making this first Annual Mother’s Day Gala a success,” said Adams. “AACC is thrilled to continue bringing family friendly events to Marshall.”