State Senator James Sanders Jr. Holds Successful Salute to Gospel Concert Event

Senator James Sanders Jr. (D-Rochdale) held a hugely successful  “Salute to Gospel” concert before a packed house of more than 400 people at the Jamaica Performing Arts Center on February 27. The guests enjoyed a complimentary before the two-hour event, which boasted a variety of entertainment that included singers, dancers and a gospel comedian.
 
The show was hosted by MC James Hodge and co-hosted by gospel comedian Mike Gee, who had the audience in stitches with his unique brand of religious themed humor. The concert performers included Praise Dance Ministry, Jamel Lewis & Relentless, the City of Oasis Church Choir, house band Rifz, and solo singers - John Thompson, Renee McWilliams and Kobie Brown Jr.
 
One of the show’s main highlights was a 20-minute gospel medley performed by the Greater Allen A.M.E of New York Children’s Choir led by Michael Pugh, a former finalist on Sunday’s Best, a televised gospel talent competition. The group was formed last year and included members as young a three years old. Although it was only their second public performance, these talented children had the crowd on its feet.
 
During the event, Senator Sanders presented proclamations to several area pastors, recognizing them for the good work in the community. They were: the Rev. Edy Bichotte of Bethany French Baptist Church, the Rev. Victor T. Hall of Calvary Baptist Church, the Rev. Darryl James of Grace Church, the Rev. Richard Moore of Holy Unity Baptist Church of Jamaica, the Rev. Dr. Calvin Rice of New Jerusalem Baptist Church, the Rev. Matthew Singh of New Haven Ministries and the Rev. Owen Williams of St. Mark Missionary Baptist Church.
 
“There is perhaps no genre of music more emotional and jubilant than gospel,” Sanders said. “It brought me great joy to see so many community members – seniors, parents and children – on their feet, clapping and enjoying themselves during this evening of song, dance and praise.”
 
The Salute to Gospel was sponsored by Delta, Greater Jamaica Development Corporation, Arverne View, Joe’s Music Academy and Magic Soul Food.
 
Special condolences to Pastor David Wright and the NY Fellowship Mass Choir on the loss of their fellow brother De’Von Pickett.