African-American heritage in Franklin celebrated
Published 12:28 pm Wednesday, September 23, 2015
![The Ebitzu Dancers from Richmond came to perform in the festival, which took place at Barrett’s Landing Park in downtown Franklin. -- Frank Davis | Tidewater News](https://www.thetidewaternews.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/26/2015/09/Festival-2-web.jpg)
The Ebitzu Dancers from Richmond came to perform in the festival, which took place at Barrett’s Landing Park in downtown Franklin. — Frank Davis | Tidewater News
FRANKLIN
The real stars of the annual Franklin African-American Festival held on Saturday at Barrett’s Landing Park were the young members of the Boys & Girls Club modeling troupe. Representing the Franklin Boys & Girls Club of Southeast Virginia, they hit the red carpet modeling a wide selection of clothes ranging from leisure to dress wear. The ages ranged from 6 to 10 as they stepped and then danced during their debut.
Other groups that performed during the event were the Voices of Triumph, the 58 West Band, the Ebitzu African Dancers from Richmond, Paul Armstrong and the local well-known VIP Band.
Linda Russell served as the mistress of ceremony of the event, which was sponsored by the Franklin Department of Parks and Recreation.
- The Boys & Girls Club Modeling Troupe waves to the audience after their performance. In front, from left, Jamyrah Pierce 10; Aniyah Pierce, 6; Taliyah Hall, 6; Brayden Haley, 2; Brandon Holmes, 5; LaBria Knight, 5; Jaden Deloatch, 5; back, Lajeria Knight 7; Joi Haley, 7; Ahlajah Bryant, 7; Faith Haley, 8; and Naija Boone, 6. Parents of the troupe, not pictured, are coordinator Joyce Deloatch, Jaleesa Pierce, Kesha Outlaw, Shanta Haley, LaToya Cary and Hope Haley.
- The Ebitzu Dancers entertained at the Franklin African-American Festival this past Saturday.
- The Ebitzu Dancers from Richmond came to perform in the festival, which took place at Barrett’s Landing Park in downtown Franklin. — Frank Davis | Tidewater News
- Anthony Goodwyn a member of the VIP Band
- Linda Russell, the lead singer for Voices of Triumph, also served as mistress of ceremonies.