In another night of music and praise, Trigg County High School saw another 3 of its alumni return to the familiar confines of the Little Theatre to share their voices with the community.

Part of the Berea College Black Music Ensemble, 2003 graduates Demetrius Russell, Sherita Walker, and Leah Drennan of the Class of 2005 were warmly greeted by friends and family, and the community as a whole on April 1, 2006.

Berea College is located in Berea, KY, about 40 miles to the south of Lexington. With a 1,500-member student body, the private school awards scholarships to all students, and is highly selective in recruitment.

Russell was very glad to be home with his sister LaTrita, who helped organize the event. “I haven’t been here since my senior year, and feel really good about it.” He said he had been studying music while at school, with an emphasis on the piano. Accompanying the ensemble on a keyboard for most of the night, Russell took center stage for a solo vocal performance, which moved a few of his fellow members to tears.

The energy of the entire program was palpable, with the choir dancing on the stage, and the audience in the aisles.

A veteran of performances here in Trigg County, including singing the Star Spangled Banner before sporting events, Walker said that she loved being back home, and was proud to show off what she had learned in school. The real reason for her pride, she said, “What we are here to do tonight is to lift up the name of Jesus.”

According to LaTrita Russell, none of the performers were paid for this event, though a collection was taken to help defray costs of lodging and travel expenses. She estimated the audience to number around 75, but was uncertain just how many people were on hand.

“It is exciting to have such a spiritual and uplifting performance here, and to see family,” she commented as she made final preparations for the program.

For the rest of this story, please see this week's edition of The Cadiz Record.