The West Broad Street/ Johnny Mercer Task Force and The Johnny Mercer Centennial Committee presented a day of celebration recognizing the African American influences on the music of Johnny Mercer on November 16.

Dr. Charles Elmore, professor emeritus of humanities, Savannah State University, wowed those gathered at the celebration breakfast. Elmore took the audience back to the days when West Broad Street was “king”! Elmore, who did research for over five years in preparation for his book All That Savannah Jazz, obtained vital information of the way life was on West Broad St. The book depicts the thriving night life and music of theaters and vaudeville. To purchase Elmore’s book, All That Savannah Jazz, visit amazon. com.

Dr. Clifford Hardwick, III, and Joe Bruen set the pace for “A Morning on West Broad”, which explored the daily experiences of those who lived on West Broad St. from the early 1900’s.

Dr. Charles Elmore “An Evening on West Broad: Jazz in 1930’s Style”culminated the day’s events. Many came dressed in attire of the time. Fashions were donated by A Touch Of Afrika. Teddy Adams and Friends.Vintage automobiles lined the street, further setting the tone for the evening.

Johnny Mercer is getting a posthumous 100th birthday celebration, culminating with the unveiling of a life-size statue. to be unveiled on November 18, 2009 in Ellis Square from 12:00 -1:00 p.m. The public is invited.