“LORD, how we got over – we’ve come a mighty long way!” Lyrics from a Black spiritual express the struggles suffered by Black folks at the hands of Slavery and segregation – a blight on American History! February, designated Black History Month, swell with celebrations in recognition of unsung Black Heroes/Sheroes in the San Francisco community who make a difference! BAYVIEW HUNTERS Point vibrations riveting in the spirit – THE last stand where Black folks maintain a tight community fighting to survive – STILL trying to keep a presence!
Where are the next generation of Black men and women to carry the torch? Can’t be those men standing on DA CORNER, pants hanging below their butts, empty minds, lack vision for the future!
The landmark Bayview OPERA HOUSE Ruth Williams Memorial Theater, located at 4705 Third St., will feature stimulating programs in celebration of Black History. This Sunday, February 19, 3 p.m. speaker SAM EDWARDS, “Remembering Spirituals: The Bridge that brought US over” President and co-founder of Friends of Negro Spirituals, Edwards is committed to keeping the gospel alive. Traditional spiritual music has been a part of the Negro experience since slavery. The afternoon event will honor Mr. JOE GALLAREAD, longtime community resident and activist, and the Tuskegee Airmen.
Saturday, February 25, 8 p.m. DR. RHOSS – TOPHAT Productions: Live at DA SAVOY, a rhythm and Blues tribute to past and present celebrity artists along with a musical stage play depicting scenes from the renowned Harlem nightclub. Local singers impersonate artists such as Lou Rawls, Teddy Pendergrass, Anita Baker. Wonderful show. There will be an Old School Dance Party after the 8-10 p.m. performance. Guest of Honor will be Ms. MARY BOOKER., Playwright/Director, who has produced stellar productions at the Opera House.
Sunday, February 26, 3 p.m. renowned MARCUS SHELBY Quartet featuring vocalist FAYE CAROL (AWESOME) in a musical tribute to HARRIET TUBMAN and Jazz, Harriet Tubman, freedom fighter, Civil War hero, and women’s suffrage champion, was a runaway slave who became known as the “BLACK MOSES of her people.” She led hundreds of slaves to freedom along the Underground Railroad. Guest of Honor will be Ms. DORRIS VINCENT, Longtime Bayview resident, community activist and member of Bayview Hunters Point Project Area Committee (PAC).
CONGRATULATIONS TO NAOMI KELLY, surrounded by family, friends, city officials, was sworn in Tuesday, February 7, by San Francisco MAYOR ED LEE to serve as City Administrator, a job he held for years. Ms. Kelly is a bright shining star on the horizon!
R.I.P. – WHITNEY HOUSTON, February 11, 2012, age 48.
HEY, IT’S NICE TO BE NICE AND TO ALL OF YOU OUT THERE … LOOK FOR ME … I’LL BE THERE …
E-mail Rochelle at iheard@earthlink.net
