The city of Selma hosted the second annual Selma’s Transformation Gala Friday evening at the George Evans Reception Hall.

The inside of the reception hall was completely reimagined. Tables were dressed in blue tablecloths and topped with branch centerpieces surrounded by candles. White drapes were hung over head and behind the stage, illuminated with blue spotlights and a live band performed jazz in the corner of the room.

“This one tops the one we had last year, and I’m sure the one next year will even be better,” Mayor George Evans said during his opening remarks.

A backdrop covered in sponsor logos and “The 51st Annual March on Selma Celebration” was set next to the entrance for photos as guests arrived.

“I am really excited about the turn out that we’ve had here tonight,” Evans said.

Approximately 150 people were in attendance.

“We are looking forward to honor ing some people, recognize some people and just have some fellowship and make sure that everybody know that we’re moving forward,” Evans said.

Robbie Montgomery, TV personality and Sweetie Pie owner; Dr. Regina Benjamin, former White House surgeon general; the Rev. D. Joseph Lowery, The Joseph and Evelyn Lowery Institute for Justice and Human Rights; Dr. Hadiyah-Nicole Green, scientist and cancer researcher; and Attorney Morris Dees, Southern Poverty Law Center founder, were all awarded the National Icon Award.

Montgomery was the keynote speaker for the evening and Hank Stewart, Emmy Award winning poet, recited several poems including his poem, “Who I Am.”

People came from near and far to attend. Zenyabou Afrika Touré travelled from Detroit with her three children to attend this year’s anniversary.

“I first came as a young girl and then returned in my early 20s and have been coming ever since,” Touré said.

Her children attended the bridge crossing last year for the first time. She said they had such a wonderful and profound experience that they wanted to come back again this year.

Touré and her children are planning to attend all the events planned for the weekend. She said they had just left the Mock Trial at the Dallas County Court House before attending the gala.

“We’re just so grateful and elated to be here to experience the energy, the hospitality and the love,” Touré said. “We look forward to coming to more in the future.”