Sherry and Carnell “Cadillac” Williams host
National M.O.M. Squad Meeting

            Without a doubt, the most exciting Exchange Bank of Alabama Art of Competition Special Event Series event so far is the weekend hosting of the MOM Squad and Cadillac Williams.  The M.O.M. Squad, a national organization, formed to benefit at-risk youth with a focus on community service, was in Gadsden May 2nd & 3rd to further their mission and to celebrate the Year of Alabama Sports.  While all of the M.O.M (Mothers on a Mission) Squad members are mothers of national celebrities, many of them are mothers of athletes.

            While in Gadsden, the group visited elementary and middle schools, as part of their literacy campaign, to read with children and to provide encouragement.  On Saturday, the youth and parents who participate in Gadsden City School’s 21st Century after school program had a fun day at Imagination Place Children’s Museum and met Carnell “Cadillac” Williams, whose mother Sherry is the host MOM.  Williams, a native of Gadsden, is an NFL running back for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and former Auburn Tigers running back.

            "When I found out we were going to Alabama, I didn't know what to expect" said JacQuetta Clayton, MOM Squad President and mother of Baltimore Raven player Mark Clayton. "I am glad I came, Gadsden is a wonderful city and has really showed their love for us.  We want more people involved in tutoring and youth programs.  I hope to come back again soon."

            In addition to visiting the local schools, the MOM Squad was honored at Downtown Gadsden's First Friday events.  On Saturday afternoon, Imagination Place offered special activities for visitors based the NCAA's "Stay In Bounds" character building program.  Many of the activities were led by the MOM Squad.  Also, in celebration of the Year of Alabama Sports, Cadillac Williams signed autographs.  After these activities the MOMS were honored by Mayor Sherman Guyton at a dinner and dance.  A special thank you is in order to the MOM Squad, Tony, Belinda and ** Reddick, Representative Jack Page,

Attendees:
MOM                   -        MOM OF:
Bonita Jackson – Adrian Peterson, Minnesota Vikings
Mary Anthony – Carmelo Anthony, NBA Denver Nuggets
Carolyn Smith – Will Smith Oscar Nominee/actor
Chauntini Carter – Aubrayo Franklin, SF 49rs
Eleanor Starks – Max Starks – Pittsburg Steelers
Fatima  Smith – Michael Beasley, Kansas State
Gloria Thompson – Torrence Marshall, Green Bay
JacQuetta Clayton – Mark Clayton, Baltimore Ravens
Janice Johnson – Rudi Johnson, Cincinnati Bengals
Lela Reed – Don’te Nocholson, former Tampa Bay Buc
MarQuetha Walker – Maquis Walker – Minnesota Vikings
Mary Cay Rackers – Neil Rackers – Arizona Cardinals
Maureen Bryant – MOM Squad VP
Monica Smith – Nolan Smith, Duke University
Pat Odiachi – Patrick Chukwurah – Tampa Bay Bucs
Rosiland Williams, In Loving Memory Darrent Williams, Denver Broncos
Sheila Norman – Josh Norman, former San Diego Charger
Sandy McCrary – Michael McCrary, retired Baltimore Raven
Sherry Williams – Carnell “Cadillac” Williams. Tampa Bay Bucs
Irene Perry – Christopher Perry – Cincinnati Bengals
Terry Bell – Tatum Bell, Detroit Lions