Friends and family slowed down to savor the moments of indulging in delicious food and conversation for the 70th birthday of Charlotte Walls. Some arrived from out of state and for the party, which was held at the African-American Cultural Society.

Walls’ children - Mark, Crystal and Frankie – were delighted to pay tribute. It also was a pleasure for Bill Prince, who is Walls’ gentleman caller. Pariate, Charlaya, Gregory, Imani and Marissa also rendered esteem for their grandmother.

Walls’ life was amplified because of the lives she has touched and was expressed through prayer by Bishop Philip King of Newfound Favor Ministries. Walls is by profession a registered nurse.

Festive evening of food, music

The bishop continuing on, blessed the food that was delectably prepared by Mark. Welcoming the guests in narrative form was Evangelist Faye Dadzie.

It was an evening that no one will forget, especially since Walls looks so much younger than 70 and exemplifies the phrase coined that "70 is the new 50."

Music for listening and dancing were karaoke classics by Miss Patty. As a teaser, Barbara Johnson sang "Don’t Mess With Bill," which supposedly was Walls singing the title hit, referring to her gentleman caller.

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Cultural presentations scheduled at AACS

Cultural presentations are prevalent on the events calendar at the African-American Cultural Society (AACS). Donald Bryant, who has 35 years of research on African History, will discuss the influence and effects of his research. He’s scheduled for presentation on Thursday, Feb. 11.

A discourse on "Red Fire, Black Firefighters" will be featured on Thursday, Feb. 18. It will be facilitated by retired New York City Fire Department Captain Vincent W. Julius.

He will discuss the period of 1938 to 1984 of the Vulcan Society, the brotherhood of Black firefighters.

The Thursday discourses are free but donations are always welcome.

The AACS, at 4422 U.S. 1 North in Palm Coast, can be reached at 386-447-7030.

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Director seeking ads for ‘Purlie’

Delight yourselves in knowing that Carlos Ann Butler will be directing the musical "Purlie." Performances will take place at the Ormond Beach Performing Arts Center on July 9 and 10.

Butler says the ticket price will be $20. Playbill ads are available now at $20 each, or $10 to only print your name.

If interested, call Butler at 386-445-8443.

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As always, remember our prayers for the sick, afflicted and bereaved.