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From left, Diana Banks, LaShonda Brown and Betty Marsalis. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Andrew Little, Andrell Hardy, Neifa Hardy and Kristen Little. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Delicious brisket was served as part of the dinner choices served at the gala, thanks to Rolling River Reloaded, who catered the event. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Each guest was greeted with a charcuterie box filled with cheese, fruit, meals, crackers and pickled okra. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Full house, No problem. MDP Reach and guests enjoy the evening at the Vidalia Convention Center Saturday. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson, Marla Gibson, and Mayor and Mrs. Buz Craft of Vidalia. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Surprised by the announcement, Cheryl Givens hugs Marsalis as tears stream down her face and presenters clap in congratulatory celebration. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Tony Fields of the Natchez-Adams School District, Adams County Attorney Tony Heidelberg, Betty Marsalis, Edwards Brown, owner of Positive Choices Counseling, Cheryl Givens, MDP Reach Community Impact Award recipient, Dr. Roderick Givens, and Fred Marsalis Jr. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Fred Marsalis Jr., Barbara Bruce, John Grady Burns and Robbie Cade Furdge. Burns represented Visit Natchez who receive the Leading Sponsor honors for its continued support. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson sings for the crowd Saturday night at the MDP Reach Gala. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

Fred Marsalis Jr., owner of MDP Fitness and founder of MDP Reach. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

From left, Dr. Roderick Givens, Sydney Eidt, Emily Moon, Erica Williams Andy Moon and Rachel Seabolt. (Katherine Parker for The Natchez Democrat)

By KATHERINE DE’NA PARKER

Special to The Natchez Democrat

NATCHEZ—As laughter echoed across the Natchez Bluff and the scent of good food mixed with spring air, something deeper than celebration filled the weekend skies: connection.

In its second year, MDP Reach Weekend 2025 returned with a powerful reminder that unity isn’t just possible — it’s happening.

Organized by Fred Marsalis Jr., the weekend offered a packed lineup of fitness competitions, scholarship awards, health screenings, a gala, and a Sunday Funday that brought together people from all backgrounds in the Miss-Lou.

“We have so much division within our community,” Marsalis shared candidly. “I love a good party, but as you get older, you realize there needs to be a point behind the party. That’s how MDP Reach was born. To build something that brings people together in real, lasting ways.”

With support from sponsors including Visit Natchez, Merit Health Natchez, Delta Bank, Concordia Bank, Walmart, Spirits of Natchez, Hallelujah Wine & Spirits, Oasis Assisted Living, and others, the weekend raised funds for scholarships and local causes such as the Special Olympics and the Brightest Stars Ball.

Mayor Buzz Craft of Vidalia offered his endorsement.

“I want to thank Frederick Marsalis, his family, and all the sponsors for putting the event on. We support him 100%, and I encourage everybody else to get on board.”

Natchez Mayor Dan Gibson and his wife, Marla Gibson, were also in attendance, showing their support.

“We salute Fred Marsalis and his vision for unity in our community, for teamwork, for a better Miss-Lou where we all get along,” Mayor Gibson said.

“And some very good dancers!” Marla Gibson added.

“We’re proud to sponsor — to help spread more faith in some people. We promote fitness, diversity, and inclusion — everything Fred stands for. We’re happy to be a part of it,” said Kay Ketchings, marketing director at Merit Health Natchez.

For Preston Johnson, the event was about more than just good music and community. It was about transformation.

“You see people from all different walks of life coming together. There’s music, laughter, and excitement. It’s a beautiful thing to see what Natchez is doing and where it’s going. Please continue to contribute to the cause,” Johnson added. “Scholarships, community service, outreach programs — it’s just a beautiful thing.”

Among the honorees was Cheryl Sanford Givens, a pediatric physical therapist who lived and worked in the Miss-Lou for over 20 years. Her voice was soft but strong as she reflected on receiving the award for community involvement.

“It was completely unexpected,” she said. “But I loved working with the children of Natchez, Vidalia, and Ferriday. I pray the Miss-Lou realizes we have more in common than different. It’s time to come together.”

Givens, who now lives in Atlanta but returns often, is preparing for a mission trip to the Philippines to provide physical therapy for children who have never received care.

“It’s about supporting MDP Reach, promoting health and wellness, and encouraging people to become fit,” she added.

The energy throughout the night was electric — and emotional. Marsalis, that emotion was personal.

“I’m overwhelmed, but in the best way,” he said. “When you put love out into the world and that love comes back, it hits you deep. Every table was full. We raised thousands for scholarships. We showed what’s possible when community comes first.”

And his message to youth — especially those who are neurodivergent or feel overlooked — was clear and inspiring.

“Don’t let anyone deter you. If you’ve got a dream, protect it. You can build something powerful right here. You don’t have to leave Natchez or Vidalia to make something of yourself. I’m living proof.”

The weekend closed today with Sunday Funday, held on the bluff overlooking the Mississippi River. It was complete with food vendors, line dancing, bounce houses, and a cigar and culture fest.

“This is a testament to our sponsors and everyone who bought a ticket,” Marsalis said. “They could have been elsewhere, but they chose to be here. And that means everything. Tonight was a collection of love. And hopefully, a beacon of hope.”

To get involved with MDP Reach or support future events, contact Fred Marsalis Jr. at 601-807-5712 or email mdp1llc@gmail.com. Follow MDP Reach on Facebook for updates.

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