WS Chronicle

The banquet hall at the Enterprise Center was filled with anticipation last week as hundreds waited to hear who would be recognized as Mother of the Year. Since 2000, Anita “Boss Lady” Dean-Arnette of The Light (1340 AM and 103.5 FM) has invited listeners to send letters to nominate their mothers or other deserving caregiver for Mother of the Year.

From humble beginnings in a conference room with a handful of participants, this year Dean-Arnette and station officials read dozens of letters to decide the winner. Before announcing the winner during the event on Thursday, May 9, Dean-Arnette talked about how the event applauded all the mothers in attendance and those who were nominated. She said, “Several years back I decided this would be a good way to give our mothers their flowers while they can still smell them.

“I say on the radio all the time, love isn’t love until you give it away and so when you love somebody, you show them that you love them and with something as simple as a letter, you can show them.” She continued, “It’s simply an honor to be nominated, for someone to take the time to write a letter. We thank God for every letter we’ve received over the years because this is something I thought fitting, because it’s a way to say we love you.”

Mayor Allen Joines was also on hand during the event to help wish the women in attendance a happy Mother’s Day and to congratulate Dean-Arnette’s continued success. After lunch and entertainment from several different performers, it was time to announce the winners.

This year’s Mother of the Year title was awarded to 92-year-old Lilly Robinson. Along with a crown, “2019 Mother of the Year” sash, a gift basket, a new Sunday hat and outfit, Robinson also received a four-day cruise to the Bahamas. Dorothy Johnson, who finished in second place, received an all-expense-paid trip to Atlanta, and Alberta McMillian received a trip to Savannah for finishing third.

There were also several honorable mentions announced during the event: Annette Nichols, Christina Dalton-Hairston, Florence Corpening, Josephine Frasier, and Guster Black.

Although only one could take home the title of Mother of the Year, Boss Lady and The Light made sure every mother in attendance left with something. Books, gift baskets and other items were donated by generous volunteers and others who support the station.

The Light (1340 AM and 103.5 FM) is the Piedmont’s top-ranked urban gospel music station. Midday Praise with Boss Lady is on air Monday-Friday from noon to 3 p.m. For more information, visit http://lightthetriad.com.