Cassandra Gaines was honored recently at the Trumpet Awards at the Marriott Marquis in Atlanta.  Gaines, who has been the manager of the Muskogee Civic Center for five years and the manager of the Roxy Theater since 2000, was one of 23 women who were honored during the event

"It's truly an honor for me to be receiving the award from the Trumpet Foundation," said Gaines, who was selected for her tireless efforts to promote the state of Oklahoma and her community work.

Being acknowledged for her accomplishments is nothing new to Gaines, who has been inducted into the Oklahoma Jazz Hall of Fame and has received a spate of citations over the years from the Oklahoma governors and lieutenant governors for her work for the state.

The award was presented to Gaines during High Tea with High Heels, a popular event that has become a tradition at the annual Trumpet Awards.

Muskogee native Xernona Clayton is president and chief executive officer of the Trumpet Awards Foundation.  Gaines explained that Clayton "has been my mentor for years," adding "All of this has been done through the grace of God. I give him all the glory. He's my visionary."

The annual Trumpet Awards acknowledges the accomplishments of men and women who have significantly contributed to enhancing the quality of life for all ... individuals and/or groups who augment the richness of this great global society by partnering with the cause of justice and equality of all.