Internationally acclaimed local author Bettye Johnson was honored last night (September 11) in a Lifetime Achievement Evening celebrating Yelm-area citizens in a first-of-any such celebrations hosted by Blue Bottle owner Michelle Jones and Jean Isaacs.
Ms. Jones told the Yelm Community Blog, "Our objective is to honor into the future people who are alive - rather than doing farewell parties!"
The evening's program opened wsith the gratitude expressed to Ms. Johnson by Emcee Mary McCann, followed by a toast, accolades, and stories. Harpist Mary Abrahmson played an interlude as the guests arrived,followed by Bettye's arrival in a chuffeured-driven, weating her signature hat with a red rose.
Musical Tributs included Soprano Mayra Pena's outstanding solo of Mi Chiamane Mimi from Puccini's LaBoheme, which moved Ms. Johnson and the entire audience. An encore duet of Somewhere Over the Rainbow with Ms. Pena and harpist Abrahmson was very touching. The evening continued after a short break and a wonderful light feast with Cara Clarke, Steve Bartlett and Stephan Abuan's rendition of You Are the Sunshine of my Life.
Blue Bottle owner Jones selected Ms. Johnson for this first evening of lifetime achievement becuse of her author's nights being held at the Blue Bottle, bringing new people and recognition to this local business. Indeed, a lady who has just come to an authors' night and met Ms. Johnson for the first time last Monday was so moved to attend.
Local author Renee Webb who was inspired by Ms. Johnson to write her book Journey to My Master Teacher, summed up her experience about Ms. Johnson saying, Bettye Johnson is for the advancement of women - she is a radiant example of a woman going down a path of a living dream.
Ms. Johnson responded, "Yes, I am 80 years young. Frankly, I've got plans for my future."
Congratulations to Bettye Johnson! And, thanks to Michelle Jones for thinking to honor our area citizens while they can enjoy the accolades! Steve Klein
For future information, visit Klein's blog http://www.yelm.com/
Bettye Johnson is a two-time Independent Publishers Books Award winner for
Secrets of the Magdalene Scrolls - 2006
Mary Magdalene, Her Legacy - 2008
A Christmas Awakening
Awakening the Genie Within
Johnson's website is http://www.magdalene scrolls.com
Her books are available for purchase from her website.
Also, visit her blogs: http://secretsofthemagdalenescrolls.blogspot.com and
http://feminine-point-of-view.blogspot.com
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