The Optima Health Best of the 7Cities

The Optima Health #BestOfThe7Cities presented by E-Z Pass highlighted the great works and accomplishments of local businesses, activists, teachers, athletes, and churches in the area. The #BestOfThe7Cities was a 10-week competition that showcased many aspects of the African-American community in Hampton Roads. The Awards Gala on May 20th at the historic Attucks Theatre was the local event in the 7Cities and was a celebration of the nominees, small business and the arts with performances ranging from a violinist to an opera singer to a step team and spoken word artist. Thanks to everyone who helped make this possible!

Congratulations to all the 2018 winners:

Best Teacher: Latoya Hill, Indian River Middle School, Chesapeake

Best Barber Shop: Sharp Edgez Barber Shop, Portsmouth

Best Pastor: Kim Brown, Mount Lebanon Baptist Church, Chesapeake

Best Athlete: Nyla Young, King’s Fort High School, Suffolk

Best Car Wash: Unique Mobile Detailing, Virginia Beach

Best Beauty Salon: Shadez of Beauty, Chesapeake

Best Activist: Myesha Collins

Best Coach: Xavier Bell, Team XCWT

Best Soul Food: A-Mayes-N Soulfood, Norfolk

Best Choir: The Mount Unity Choir, Chesapeake


Thank you to all the performers:

Violinist: Eric Stanley

Opera Singer: Denise Battle 

Step Team: Iconz

Spoken Word: Neisha Himes aka Beautiful Dizaster

Gospel Singer: Traci George 


Thank to all our presenters:

Curtis Johnson, Optima Health 

Anita Jefferson, Military Circle Mall

Clarence Bivens, Metro PCS

Vernon Lee Jr., Hampton Roads Youth Foundation

Don Carey, Jacksonville Jaguars 

Kit Wilgus, Safe Ride in the City

Beverly Banister, Banister Nissan

Ruth Jones Nichols, Foodbank of SE Virginia and Eastern Shore


Click here for pictures



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