Three cheers to these Churchland girls

Nineteen Churchland Middle School cheerleaders journeyed to Norfolk State University last month to participate in a dance and cheer competition. It was a first competition for the girls and though they didn’t place, coach Porlicia Brown says they had a great time and learned a lot. Cheering is new to most of the team of seventh- and eighth-graders who perfected their cheers at the school’s basketball, football and volleyball games. This is Porlicia’s second year as cheer coach and she’s molding a well-rounded team. The girls put together and donated a Thanksgiving food basket and will entertain at next week’s Echoes of Joy, a yearly day of caring for those in need. The squad is gearing up for an April competition at Kings Dominion. Porlisha does double duty for the city: she also teaches Zumba, senior aerobics and yoga through the Parks and Recreation department. 

The mission of the Church and Community in Action is two-fold: to improve communities by organizing and supporting the efforts of religious, civic, social and educational leaders and to connect those who’d like to help with organizations already doing the work. The CCIA has hosted an annual Martin Luther King Jr. breakfast for 15 years to honor individuals who’ve made a difference where they live. At this month’s gathering, city councilman and Churchland resident Paige Cherry was honored for his work in the political arena and school board member Costella Williams was lauded for her efforts in education. City fire chief Don Horton was honored for community leadership and pastor D.A. Peace of Zion-Bethel United Church of Christ for faith leadership. Melvin Marriner of Grove Church was the keynote speaker for the event. Elaine Breathwaite and New Mount Olivet Baptist pastor and CCIA president Milton Blount coordinated the event. Elaine gave me a summary of the CCIA’s many programs, which include HIV workshops, two anti-gang workshops with national speakers, summer youth summits, tutoring and scholarships. 

Thanks for sharing your Churchland news. Contact me at 717-0628 or pamelawrites@hotmail.com

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