Grammy-nominated international recording artist Shanice
The New Pittsburgh Courier has learned that Focus On Renewal is having a mural dedication to celebrate and honor McKees Rocks and Hays Manor.
But the kicker is, Grammy-nominated international recording artist Shanice, who broke out on the world scene with the 1991 hit, “I Love Your Smile,” is scheduled to attend the ceremony.
Shanice, whose full name is Shanice Wilson-Knox, lived in Hays Manor for part of her early childhood. Her portrait will be included in the mural; the portrait being done by JoAnne Elliott-Pugh. The design of the entire mural was created by local artists Mary Sue Flick and Willie Dawson, with input from Elliott-Pugh and 12 local residents from McKees Rocks and Hayes Manor. The mural will depict a phoenix rising over the cityscape of McKees Rocks.
The mural dedication ceremony, open to the public, will take place at 4 p.m., Nov. 27, outside the Father Ryan Arts Center, 420 Chartiers Ave. Wilson-Knox will be presented with a symbolic key to McKees Rocks.
NEW FOCUS ON RENEWAL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR DIONA JONES
Focus On Renewal, the Courier has also learned, welcomed a new executive director, announced on Nov. 13, in Diona Jones. A release from Focus On Renewal stated that Jones, formerly deputy director, has “played a pivotal role in the organization” over the past four years, “spearheading various initiatives aimed at community development.”
Focus On Renewal is all about creating opportunities for residents in McKees Rocks and Stowe Township live a better life by “providing a range of programs and services delivered with dignity and respect,” according to its website.
“We are thrilled to have Mrs. Diona Jones as our new Executive Director,” said Terry Ketchum, board member at Focus On Renewal, in a statement. “Her passion for community development and extensive experience make her the ideal candidate for this role. Mrs. Jones brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her new position and her passion for making a difference. We look forward to working closely with Mrs. Jones as we continue to impact McKees Rocks positively.”
Focus On Renewal board president, Tammy Spencer Bey, added: “Diona cares deeply for the residents of the Sto-Rox community and is a results-oriented leader with a successful record of transformational change, fiscal growth and team-building. She has the full support of the Focus On Renewal Board to carry out this critical leadership role.”
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