Posted Date: June 25, 2008

Celestial's Night At The Oscars

By Evelyn Sears Peevy

   Saturday night, June 7th was the Night at the Oscars when long time musician Mrs. Florence Long Walker was honored by Celestial Baptist Church in Portsmouth where Dr. Leon J. Boone is pastor. The program featured Rev. Jeffery Coleman as the master of ceremonies. Mrs. Walker entered the church on the arm of her son-in-law Michael Hill as well as with an honor guard. A red carpet was there for her entrance, and a saxophone serenade by Mr. Cedric Jones was rendered as she strolled in. Two musical selections opened the program and various awards were then given the honoree.
    The Granny Award was presented by Miss Michaela Hill and Mrs. Russelle Hill.
    Two dear friends, Mrs. Mildred McGriff and Mrs. Mable Latimer gave the Image Award.
    Mr. Wesley Hardy presented the honoree the Angel Award. Mesdames Vanesaa Ellis and Betty Grant presented the Tony Award, and Rev. Ann Joyce presented the Academy Award.
  Special guests were musicians John Vann and James Handy. The grand finale, a piano and organ duet, was presented by Rev. H. L. Long and the honoree Mrs. Florence Long Walker. Both the honoree and her pastor, Rev. Leon J. Boone gave closing remarks.

Click Here to Subscribe to the New Journal and Guide.