[Posted Jan. 30, 2008]

Virginia Aires Celebrate Their 27th Anniversary in Gospel Music

By Rev. G. Paris M. Kelly
Freelance writer 

     Although a snow storm was predicted in the Tidewater area on Saturday, Jan. 19, the Solid Rock Ministries Worldwide of Chesapeake kept pressing onward and upward. 
   The group entertained more than 1,000 people who attended the two-day anniversary celebration at the Chesapeake Conference Center. Special guests were Harvey Watkins and the Canton Spirituals and Vickie Winans.
Other participants included the Rev. Anthony Crowder, of Covenant Fellowship Church, and Minister Parker of Solid Rock Worldwide Ministries.  Radio announcer Donald Easton, was there with other radio personalities.
National recording artist Charles Stanley performed with his son, Quest. Stanley, who had both eyes removed after being diagnosed with cancer 40 years ago, performed “I’m Never Alone,” with his son, Quest, who has had one eye removed because of a cancer diagnosis.

  Although the generational condition has passed from father to son, noted Rodney (Mailman) Mills, lead singer and founder of the Virginia Aires, so has exceptional musical talent.
   “We are looking at two miracles,” Mills said.  “Charles has not allowed the condition to stop him from using his gift to the glory of God.”
    Truly the presence of the Lord was in the Chesapeake Conference Center.  After the Virginia Aires performance Dr. Ella P. Ward, a member of the Chesapeake City Council embraced the audience to bring greetings from the City of Ch esapeake.   
    The Rev. G. Kelly, founder and CEO of the Connectional Ministries and Mission 2000, read a proclamation from the Governor’s office for the Virginia Aires, which will be formally presented on March 15 at the Hugo A. Owens Middle School at the Virginia Classic of Chesapeake Concert which will honor two outstanding citizens, the Honorable Dr. Hugo A. Owens Sr. and The Honorable Florine Clarke.  
    The event will start at 5:30 p.m.  For information, please call (757) 545-6835 for tickets.  The feature artist will be Luther Barnes and the Sunset Jubliaires.  The concert is open to the general public. 

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