by Shawn Nowlin
The Roanoke Branch of the N.A.A.C.P has been a staple in the community for years. On Sunday (June 28) the local chapter sponsored the 2nd annual “Jazz On The Lawn” event which focused on raising funds for the National ACT–SO (Afro Academic Cultural Technological Scientific Olympics) competition.
This year five local students – Jasmine Armster (Medicine & Health), Kai Washington – Brown (Dance), Danae Antoine (Visual Arts), all from William Fleming High; Curtis Staples, Jr. (Business & Entrepreneurship) and Aisha Brown (Poetry) both from Salem High, will head to Philadelphia, PA (July 9-12) to compete in their respective categories against students throughout the nation.
“We are blessed to have five gold medalists make it all the way to nationals…last year we brought home a bronze medal,” said Brenda Hale who is currently serving her 6th term as local NCAAP president. “Some of the most talented people often talked about are products of ACT–SO such as Jada Pinkett – Smith (producer), Mos Def (musician) and Anthony Anderson (actor).”
Over one hundred people – from all over the area were treated to a great event that lasted just over two hours. Patrick Curtis, a former WFHS Colonel and ACT–SO recipient, served as event emcee keeping the audience actively engaged with his vibrant personality.
This year’s entertainment lineup included: Brian Thompson, PT Band, Patice Holland and Sophisticated Sounds. Good entertainment can transform any good event into a great affair. Some songs performed were upbeat while others were laid back which created the perfect balance for the well-attended affair. Often acknowledged as one of the true music pioneers, Bill Withers was just one legendary musician the performers paid homage to by performing renditions to some of his most popular hits.
As is the case with most summertime events of this caliber, the fried fish was a solid sender and topped the list of other treats that were in abundance. With low humidity and temperatures in the 80s the weather could not have been better.
“Over the years I noticed the Barlows would host a number of functions,” event organizer Molly DeBerry said regarding Clint and Tia Barlow who graciously agreed to hold the event on their property. “I just approached them about the fundraiser and with Clint being a former educator himself he agreed.”
ACT–SO Chairperson Gloria Randolph King was unable to attend but played an important part behind the scenes. Events like this do not happen every week so when one does the community typically comes out in full support. In the coming weeks legendary singer Jane Powell will be performing at the same location. Good luck to all five high school students as they travel to compete in the City of Brotherly Love!!!
