By Evelyn Wall
Special to the News-Herald

Plans have been finalized for the 24th semi-annual reunion of the Booker T. Washington Alumni Association with classes ranging from the first graduating class in 1937 to the last one in 1969. The event will take place this weekend from July 8-10. The association is inviting the community to join them in activities.

Events will be held at the Hilton Garden Inn on East Constance Road and Booker T. Washington Elementary School on Walnut Street. Schedule of events is as follows:

Friday, July 8

At 9 a.m., a golf outing for interested people will take place at the Suffolk Golf Course.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., registration will be held at the Hilton.

From 6 p.m. to midnight, the “An Evening of Elegance” dinner and dance will be held at the Hilton.

Saturday, July 9

At 9 a.m., a breakfast will take place for former students and guests, followed by a business meeting for alumni association members only at the elementary school.

From noon to 2:30 p.m., a historical bus tour of Suffolk will take place for interested people. The bus will load at the Hilton.

From 2 to 6 p.m., a picnic will be held at the elementary school.

From 7 to 10 p.m., a “Parade of Talent Showcase” will take place at the elementary school. One of the main attractions in this program is Richard Elliot, a jazz saxophone player. Elliot, 51, known for his zebra-striped tenor saxophone, was a member of the Funk Band Tower of Power for five years during the 1980s. His solo career took off when he remade the Percy Sledge classic “When a Man Loves a Woman.” Other well-known songs include “In the Groove,” “Take Your Time,” “Crush,” “Chill Factor,” “Corner Pocket” and “Sly,” as well as remakes of classic pop songs like “I’m Not in Love” and the Luther Vandross hits “Here and Now” and “Your Secret Love.” In 2005, Elliot joined trumpeter Rick Braun as they co-founded their own label, ARTizen Music Group, now known as Artistry Music. Among the first albums on that label is Metro Blue, Elliot’s own. Comedian Steven Alexander from Portsmouth will also make an appearance, along with various talent performances from members of the association and the community.

Sunday, July 10

At 11 a.m., a worship service will be held at the elementary school.

For more information, call 539-4221, 539-5507 or 539-3689.