SEVAA at the S.A.Y. Festival on 35th Street

By Rev. Glenda P. Murray-Kelly

Special to the New Journal and Guide 

On Saturday, September 12, 2015, The Southeastern Virginia Arts  Association, Inc., (SEVAA) participated in the Scholar, Arts &  Youth (S.A.Y) Festival on 35th Street. The festival had five hot  spots.  There was entertainment by the youth on the 500  block.  The 600 block consisted of entertainment by SEVAA on  35th & Newport Ave.  The Park Place Business Association, Inc.  (PPBA) coordinated the vendors on 35th Street. Live  entertainment was hosted at the 35th Street Venue and at  Granny’s Kitchen. 

   During this great celebration of the Arts, Dr. Brynda Parker, an  educator of music and employee of the Norfolk Public School  System, was bestowed the honor of SEVAA, Inc. “Woman in the  Arts” 2015-2016.  Mr. Brian Pinner, also a music educator and  graduate of Norfolk State University in music and the lead  saxophonist for Forte Jazz Band was bestowed the honor of SEVAA,  Inc. “Man in the Arts” 2015-2016. 

  Certificates of appreciation were provided to 30 individuals who  volunteered their service to the organization. Poetikk Justice  (SEVAA 2014-2015) “Woman in the Arts” was present to  congratulate Dr. Parker. Minister Earl Bynum, (SEVAA 2014-2015)  SEVAA “Man in the Arts” sent his acknowledgement to the  organization. Angel Bell still holds the title of (SEVAA 2014-2015) Youth in the Arts. Zach Hines, of MJ Entertainer, (aka)  Michael Jackson impersonated performed on the 600 block. 

The performers were not concerned about the weather and performed even in the  rain. Tidewater Community College Blue Moon Jazz Ensemble opened  the entertainment on the corner of 35th Street & Newport Ave. It  was an “Old School Block Party” with people traveling from seven  states to participate. 

The S.A.Y. Festival was presented by the Park Place Business Association, Inc., Imam Vernon Fareed, President, and chaired by businessman Rodney Jordan, Chairman of  the Norfolk School Board.

SEVAA is a multi-discipline organization specializing in five artistic disciples which are: Music; Visual Arts; Dance; Theater and Literary Arts. If you are interested in learning more about  SEVAA please call Mr. Edward Joyner, Chairman of the Board at  (757) 623-3300.