Locust Grove - What an awesome event!  I had the privilege of being a part of such a wonderful experience.  The anniversary was a well-arranged, nicely balanced program.  It was good to see so many friends and family members come out to support Acclaim on their first anniversary celebration.

The emcee, Pastor Sanford Reaves, got the program off to a fiery start and kept it rolling along smoothly.  The Praise Dancers from Mount Zion Baptist in Locust Grove, Virginia, performed to “Stomp” by Kirk Franklin and God’s Property.  What an amazing job they did.  There were at least fifteen dancers ranging from seven to sixteen years old with some great moves.  One thing I really enjoyed about them is that they seemed to be having fun while they were ministering to us.  Keep up the good work.

I was also impressed with the other two groups that performed.  The Shady Grove Men’s Chorus from Orange, Virginia, did an awesome job.  My dear friend Pastor Joseph Moore played the keyboard for them and I must say I really enjoyed them.  One of my all-time favorites Faithful Connection came along and pumped things up even more.  That is the group I play for, and they continue to inspire me each time we perform.  If you see any of these names on flyers in your areas, I encourage you to go out and support them, and I’m sure you will be blessed.

And now to the honorees - Acclaim!  The performance, outfits, and song selection were properly chosen.  The audience was really into it, and the overall performance was great.  The musicians kept the music in the pocket, and the ladies just did their thing.  I’m glad I was presented with the opportunity to be a part of Acclaim’s first anniversary celebration, and I want to say to them, "Job well done!"  To those who missed it, make sure you don’t miss the next one!