2018 Magic Penny Award Ceremony

by Louise Pease

The Magic Penny Award ceremony, presented at the culmination of the CMN Annual Conference, celebrated the lifetime achievements of Kim Harris and Reggie Harris. Kim and Reggie were honored for their thirty-year careers as performers, community builders, teachers, and organizers.

Introductions made by conference co-chair Joanie Calem and Magic Penny committee chair Stuart Stotts were followed by remarkable vocal tributes. Liz Buchanan led a medley of “Oh Freedom,” “Woke Up This Morning,” and “We Shall Not Be Moved.” Two of a Kind sang “Heaven is Less Than Fair” with Susan Salidor, followed by “Ain’t Gonna Let Nobody,” led by Joanie Calem. “Brick a Day,” about the First Baptist Church in Montgomery, was sung by Stuart Stotts and chorus, followed by “Harriet Tubman” and “Follow the Drinking Gourd,” led by Amy Conley and Nancy Hershatter.

Magpie and Amy Blake sent heartfelt testimonials of appreciation to Kim and Reggie. Kim Wallach led the song “Give Light.”

Kim and Reggie closed the celebration beautifully with the songs “Windows of the Heart” and “Wade in the Water.” They were each presented with a gorgeous story quilt, depicting elements of the Underground Railroad, sewn by Francie Ginocchio.