Review of CAC@SJB's "Moment of Noize" Gathering: An Afternoon Full of Blessings

Glenn Angel Echevarria, Gregory Mills (Chairman of the International Agency For Minority Artist Affairs in Harlem, N.Y.), and Luis Bernard share a moment at the Center's Moment of Noize Community gathering on Sat. Nov. 8th

CAC@SJB held it's first MOMENT OF NOIZE community gathering on Saturday, Nov. 8th, and what resulted was an unforgettable afternoon, full of art, music, poetry.. and a few unexpected surprises that stirred the spirit of each individual who was in attendance.  It was a cold, damp, and rainy day.. but that couldn't keep the sun from shining brightly inside of the Center this afternoon.  

Luis Bernard introduces a moved Greg Mills 

after reciting a powerful and personal poem

The Center for the Arts & Culture @SJB hosted the first in what we are looking to be a series of gatherings of the dynamic artisans, activists, and organizers of our inner-city communities.  The purpose for this will be to open the doors of the Center at St. John's to all community residents who want to be a part of something special while making a difference in our communities that are so under-served, under-utilized, and simply bypassed.  

Glenn Angel acknowledges Greg Mills, recites words from 

Nelson Mandela's Inaugural speech, and sings in honor of

new President-elect, Barack Obama

From beginning to end, the afternoon was full of wonderful revelations of spirit, courage, and yes.. a whole lot of talent!  Guests spoke, shared their thoughts, their hopes, sang songs, read their poetry, and just let it loose.  There were a few surprises and unexpected guests that added even more to the whole experience. One of those special guests was Mr. Gregory Mills (Chairman of the International Agency for Minority Artist Affairs and Art Gallery Curator at the Adam Clayton Powell State Building in Harlem), who came all the way down from Harlem U.S.A. to present the Center with a special gift of blessings.  It was truly a memorable moment for all of us, and we were greatly honored to have him come and bless us the way that he did.  We greatly thank you, Mr. Mills!

(Left to right) Richie Robles, Gregory Mills, Jeorlaine Hill, Luis Bernard, Jaqueline Cordova, 

Kris Echevarria, & Glenn Angel at the Center's community gathering 

We are going to host a number of these Moment of Noize community gatherings at the Center in the new year, and all community residents looking for a place to make a difference and share their gifts are very welcome to join us at these special gatherings.  In the meantime, the Center will be hosting our Annual Holiday Jam 2008 on Saturday, Dec. 13th from 12 noon - 5 pm.  We are in the midst of planning all the festivities for this special event that will be a whole guest filled afternoon of poetry performances, music, and a brand new group art exhibition featuring some wonderful paintings and artwork that will definitely inspire your mind and feed your soul.  If you already know us, we wouldn't have it any other way!

Keep posted for updates and the official invitation for this special Holiday Jam 2008 event on this blog in the coming week.  It's going to be very special, and an event not to be missed.  Hope to see you all there.. and may you all stay safe, be blessed, and have a wonderful Thanksgiving!