POTTSTOWN PA – “A Journey in Music+: Black History Continued,” a celebration of Black history in the past, present and future, is scheduled for Feb. 27 (2026; Friday) at 1 p.m. in the dining room of the TriCounty Active Adult Center, 288 Moser Rd., Ste. 1.
The free event, open to the public, acknowledges that “everyone is welcome here” at the center. It features guest speaker and master of ceremonies the Rev. Nathan Coleman of Bethel Baptist Church in Phoenixville. He will serve as the guide on this historic journey. The observance also includes:
- Several musical selections by Philadelphia-based vocalist, William P. Ramsey, who has performed across Europe as a tenor and countertenor with renowned choirs and as a soloist;
- A dance performance by Chester resident and life-long dancer Bria Weeden; and
- Honors for two community change-makers who represent Black History in the Pottstown region, both past and present.
Honoring Past and Present Change-Makers
To close its celebration, the center will honor two community change-makers who represent Black history in the Pottstown region, both past and present. In their own way, it says, “each chose a path that included serving their community and promoting diversity, equity and inclusion throughout their working years into their retirement.
Margaret Amy Coppedge Banks
In honoring the past, the center will pay tribute to the contributions of Margaret Amy Coppedge Banks to the Pottstown community.
Her award is being accepted posthumously by her daughter, the Rev. Marlene Wood. Banks dedicated her life to many local initiatives, including the Town Watch Response Team, the Retired Seniors Program, Family Literacy Project, Family Services, and the Ricketts Community Center. Her community service has been recognized at local, state and national levels.
Hettie Webb
In honoring the present, the center recognize the continued service of Hettie Webb to generations of children at the Ricketts Community Center.
Webb’s dedication remains behind the scenes, but her commitment to young people can be seen in the relationships she has formed with youth who have now entered adulthood. They continue to send their children to the Ricketts Center to play, learn and eat with “Mrs. Hettie.” Webb is also active with her congregation at Bethel Community Church of Pottstown, where she is in the choir, and assists with food distribution and community outreach efforts.
A Collaborative Effort
The event is a collaborative effort between the center and its Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee. It reports the committee has been re-energized “to provide a framework for fostering an environment where everyone, especially people who have been historically excluded or marginalized, can participate fully, be treated fairly and feel a genuine sense of belonging.”
The committee consists of the center’s staff, board of directors, and members who are tasked with revitalizing its purpose and focus in the coming years.
The center is committed to creating a welcoming community for all older adults, age 50 and older. It offers a daily variety of fitness classes, educational programs, recreational and social activities; a daily, fresh-cooked sit-down lunch; occasional trips, a strong support and referral network, and strives to build a safe and encouraging community.
Photos provided by the TriCounty Active Adult Center
Our entertainment reporting covers the arts and culture, shows, exhibits, performances, festivals, and community-related activities within, or that affect residents of, Montgomery, Berks, and Chester PA counties. Find more entertainment articles here. Also, see and join the Pottstown Arts and Cultural Alliance group on Facebook.
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