l.robinson1@charter.net

It was their night to shine.

For the seventh consecutive year, the Suffolk Redevelopment and Housing Authority honored its young and adult scholars in the East Suffolk Community Center on Friday night. From honor roll students to adults pursuing education goals, 41 certificates told a story of hard work on the part of the recipients.

&uot;We want to show our appreciation to our achievers who are driven by a passion for what they do,&uot; said Phyllis Harrison, Section 8 Resident Initiative specialist.

The night had all the components of a major awards ceremony complete with a hip-hop performance by the SRHA Women in Black and a moving power-point presentation that highlighted the housing authority’s commitment to youth enrichment. Spoken-word artist Anita McDowell was able to generate a lot of energy from the young and older members of the audience as she had them repeat, &uot;I know I can – be what I want to be – and if I work hard at it, I’ll be where I want to be.&uot;

SRHA Executive Director Clarissa E. McAdoo presented the awards to each of the recipients. She gave special recognition to the parents of the youths because &uot; I know they (the students) don’t do it alone.&uot; She also applauded staff’s diligent efforts in pulling off the grand event.

SRHA Commissioner Thelma Hinton, representing the board, congratulated all of the parents and children &uot;for a job well done. This is an excellent program.&uot; Hinton recalled that she was the first recipient of a trophy at the original awards ceremony seven years ago when she graduated from Norfolk State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work.

School Board member Fran Alwood also spoke highly of the achievers, and encouraged them to continue their efforts throughout high school and beyond. Board member John Riddick echoed those sentiments.

&uot;I’ll be watching for you when the high school honor graduates come before us,&uot; said Alwood.

Vice Mayor Leroy Bennett stressed to the scholars to always remember that there’s a greater source that should receive credit.

&uot;I think God should always get the credit. With his help all things are possible,&uot; Bennett told the crowd. &uot;Keep God first in front of everything you do and you will succeed and you will prosper.&uot;

Councilman Curtis R. Milteer also attended.