Event participants help themselves to a tasty buffet style meal prepared by J&S Cafteria.

It was a spiritual kinship experienced by all, as women from all walks of life gathered at he YMI Cultural Center for the first annual Pre-Mother’s Day celebration.

from Staff Reports

Priscilla Robinson-Ndiaye, author of “A Mother’s Cry – He’s Still My Child,” and the visionary for this special event, gave opening remarks. Following Ms. Ndiaye’s opening, Mr. Harry Harrison, Director of the YMI Cultural Center, welcomed the guests to the center. He invited everyone to visit Veronika Hart’s awesome African art exhibit, which will be on display at the YMI Cultural Center until May 31, 2008.

Asked what prompted her to hold such an event, Ms. Ndiaye remarked, “God put it on my heart, and I had to do it.” She did it, and she did it well! The people who supported her effort during the first half of the program were: Mayor Terry Bellamy who, as always, greeted the guests graciously, and co-visionary, sponsor, and Mistress of Ceremonies Denise Miller. Minister Andrea Purcell gave a heartfelt prayer, which established the mood for the event.

Other participants were: Lucille White, a poet; Dwayne Barton, an author; Clarence “Shawntae” Robinson, the son in “A Mother’s Cry-He’s Still My Child;” Sarah Williams, educator-author of “Backside of the Country;” and poet Kendra Webber.

Event participants dine as they listen to a host of motivational speakers.

Before the end of the first half, Kimberly McMinn, First Lady of H. B. Ferguson Church, presented a tribute to mothers by singing “I Don’t Feel No Ways Tired,” and a prayer. The ladies and gentlemen who were present dined on a delicious meal catered by J & S Cafeteria. During dinner, they were entertained by Shari Smith, who also presented a tribute to mothers through song.

Minister Fran Grant opened the second half of the program by presenting words of empowerment to the women, who listened attentively. Karle Mapp offered a closing tribute to mothers through song, and acknowledgements were given. Before closing this special event, the floor was opened for sharing words of encouragement. Closing remarks and a prayer by Denise Hunt-Miller concluded the event.

Ms. Ndiaye, a cordial hostess, had a vision, and what a vision it was. We all look forward to next year’s “Pre-Mothers’ Day Celebration.”

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