Debra Smith Quotations

I think it is terrific to see people investing in our youth.

You feel the electricity and the energy. We are giving something to them -- our gifts -- and they are giving something back to us -- their appreciation. And it's a beautiful exchange. That's why I'm a performer.

The sponsors made all the difference. Not only did they cover event costs but provided prizes for the student participants as well.

Everybody's store was closed down. They wouldn't give us gas for the buses, they pulled shotguns on us. We didn't have no food. We had to hang out the windows to get water.

It's very powerful. Seeing a story like that depicted -- you can't help but be affected by it.

I just want them to be familiar with the history of Buena Vista. I want them to know how blessed we are to be in the neighborhood today.