When someone is regarded as a legend, that person made significant contributions during his or her lifetime. But generally, that legend status is earned posthumously. We Are Moss Point Incorporated (WAMP) believes that genuine legends should be recognized and celebrated while they are still making great strides.
This year marks the 12th year of recognizing people and businesses who have made extraordinary contributions while they are still among the living. WAMP Founder Charlotte Brown believes it is important to give them their flowers now rather than after they are gone.
“The inspiration for the Living Legends Ball came from the legendary Living Legends celebration hosted by Oprah Winfrey, where she honored influential individuals who had made significant contributions in the arts and entertainment industry,” Brown said. “Seeing the power of celebrating people while they are still living inspired the organization to create its own version of that experience for our community.”
The 2026 Living Legends who will be celebrated on July 25, are Harry McDonald, Sr. and Franzetta Wells Gladney Sanders. The Small Business of the Year honoree is Marenda Harper with Harper Realty.
Mrs. Brown said that while the Moss Point event is on a much smaller scale than that of the famous native Mississippian, the vision and recognition is just as large as they recognize and celebrate those people who have made lasting impacts on the lives of others.
“The goal is not simply to host an annual gala but also to build a prestigious tradition that grows in influence and reputation each year,” she said. “Just as Oprah’s event became a highly respected platform for honoring excellence, WAMP aspires for the Living Legends Ball to become one of the Gulf Coast’s premier recognition events—an occasion where community leaders, educators, entrepreneurs, public servants, and changemakers are celebrated for their legacy, service, and impact.”
But what makes someone a legend? WAMP has specific criteria in selecting the annual honorees that include exceptional contributions to the community, utilization of individual time, influence, talents or resources to improve the lives of others, and have impacted not only their local community but also the broader region, state or even national audiences.
“We are looking for those individuals who demonstrate a lasting legacy of service, leadership, achievement and community involvement,” Mrs. Brown said. “Nominees are accepted, but the board will make the final decision on the legends.”
Each year WAMP traditionally honors one man, one woman and one small business. Mrs. Brown said the Small Business of the Year recognition criteria aligns with the same principles used for the living legends including impact, service and contribution to the community.
“The business must make a positive impact on the community, contribute to the local economy, maintain a positive reputation and show resilience,” Mrs. Brown said. “They must support community initiatives, schools, nonprofits, youth programs, or civic organizations and serve as a role model and inspiration for aspiring entrepreneurs.”
Proceeds from the Living Legends Ball are returned to the community through scholarships to local youth. Mrs. Brown said as the event continues to grow in popularity, she has goals of growing attendance and community participation at the ball and possibly honoring additional legends and businesses.
“We want to continue to use the event as a platform to promote positive community leadership and civic engagement,” Mrs. Brown said. “We hope to have additional support of WAMP’s broader vision of expanding programs and increasing its impact throughout Jackson County.”
