ROCKINGHAM— The magic was in the air as the Richmond Raiders traveled to the National Beta Club Convention in Orlando, Florida to showcase their unique talents and academic abilities.
Advisors Suzanne Hudson, Kelly Russell, Shanda Roberson, Arthur Gilliam, and Hollie Hudson, all traveled with the group to ensure their safety and provide encouragement. For four days, students competed in six events. Noemi Juarez and Josh Brewer, were each National Champions in Spanish (Division 2) and Photography. Maggi Chambers placed third for Speech (Division 2), and Chasity Davis finished in the top ten for Acrylic Art.
Perhaps one of the most moving moments of the afternoon proved to be the group talent performance. Silhouettes were designed by Aladarias Griffin and Nic Wilkes, and dancers accompanied each singer.
A total of 40 students began preparing in July of last year for this performance, and during preparations each speaker was asked to write a story. It soon became clear what song the students would perform: “One Voice” by the Wailin’ Jennys.
The Raiders earned a spot at the State Competition in Greensboro, NC after previously being turned down for the chance to perform. Advisor Hollie Hudson noted that ,”anytime you work on something for this long, there’s going to be a high point and a low point.” Fortunately, Raider Magic offers perseverance and hope.
The Raider Senior Beta Club went on to place third at the national level at the recent Senior Beta Convention in Orlando, Florida.
“At the end of the day, they knew what they needed to do,” said Suzanne Hudson. “The love made it that much more special. We have an amazing group that we can keep building with in the future.”
