Some highlights from the events of 2009
One of the thirteen winners of the annual Project on Racism Essay Contest
sharing his essay with invited guests.
Luncheon guests listen to student essay during the annual Martin Luther
King, Jr. Awards Luncheon in the Culture Center – Saturday, January
17, 2009
Governor Joe Manchin III and First Lady Gayle C. Manchin present the Governor’s
“Living the Dream” Award to Mr. L. Newton Thomas, Jr. Mrs.
Newton is also photographed.
Arley Johnson of Huntington gave an oral interpretation of Martin Luther
King, Jr.’s “I Have a Dream” speech at The Capitol Gala
“The Dream is Alive” program on Saturday, January 17, 2009
at the Culture Center, State Capitol Complex in Charleston.
Gloria Thompson of London per formed musical selections, and Arley Johnson
of Huntington gave a dramatic presentation of J. R. Clifford, a trailblazer
in many aspects of West Virginia’s black history.
The Appalachian Children’s Chorus, under the direction of Selina
Midkiff, performed at The Capitol Gala
Commissioner Randall Reid-Smith of the West Virginia Division of Culture
and History joined in singing with The Appalachian Children’s Chorus
Citizens who attended the Ecumenical Service for Dr. King
on Monday, January 19, 2009, take the traditional symbolic march to the
State Capitol joining the Governor’s Inaugural Parade.
