Carolyn Suttles
Just Folks Association presented its sixth annual Martin Luther King Program on January 15, 2018 in the Tuscany Falls Ballroom. The theme of the morning was “Honoring a Man of Peace.” Chairperson Ray Lewis and his committee brought together dignitaries from civic groups, churches and dancers to praise the enduring dream of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. PebbleCreek organizations were personally invited, many were first time attendees.
The evening began with greetings from the Just Folks Association president, Claude Dixon. He thanked everyone for coming and thanked Ray Lewis for taking on the task of being chairperson for the 2018 celebration. Bill Barnard, General Manager of PebbleCreek, gave remarks. It was an honor for him to be a part of such a commemorative event. Flavour led the audience with a piano rendition of the anthem, Lift Every Voice and Sing. Reverend Dr. Gil Stafford, gave the opening prayer. Mayor Georgia Lord welcomed the crowd of over 250 attendees. The Commemorative Message was delivered by Reverend Bruce Jackson of Rector of St. John the Baptist Episcopal Church, Glendale, AZ. In his message, he thanked Dr. Martin King for getting us to this point and leading us on a path to fulfill his dream. Praise dancer, Minister Natosha Edmonds grace the floor giving tribute to Dr. King in dance.
The benediction prayer was given by Reverend Dr. Gil Stafford and as the tradition lives on, everyone joined hands and sang We Shall Overcome. It was an inspirational evening with tributes in honor of a great man who did great things for the betterment of all mankind. But, it wasn’t over yet. With the announcement by Pamela Jackson, the celebration began. Music was provided by Flavour featuring saxophonist, Brian Donalson and Lawrence Ross on keyboards. Attendees danced and celebrated on into the night. Thank you, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.