FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

The event will begin with a program and reception at the Lightle Center on Friday, February 16, 2007. The keynote speaker will be Dr. Mitzi Ann Washington. On Saturday, February 17, at 11:00 a. m., there will be a parade in Searcy to highlight African-Americans in White County who are making history. The Grand Marshall will be Reverend James Hart, Pastor, St. John Baptist Church, West Point, Arkansas. The parade will end at Spring Park where refreshments will be served. A representative from Governor Mike Beebe’s office will be on hand to make a presentation. On Sunday evening, February 18, the Philander Smith Choir will perform at the First United Methodist Church in Searcy, Arkansas. Attendance to all events will be free of charge.

The theme is "Living the Legacy" which focuses on the legacy of our forefathers, past or recent.  It encompasses rights of all forms.  Although many of our forefathers did not reap the fruits of their labors, we are living that legacy today. Specifically, the event weekend will emphasize significant contributions of White Countians.

The St. Mary Assistance and Prevention Program is a faith-based non-profit organization incorporated in the State of Arkansas and registered in White County. The SAPP is headquartered at St. Mary CME Church, located at the corner of Park and Sowell Streets. The mission of the SAPP is to provide little or no-cost assistance to the community with programs ranging from after-school service tutoring programs to substance abuse referral services. The SAPP is also active in prevention services within the community.