By Marilyn Ford
The Dillon County Branch of the NAACP held their Annual Freedom Fund Banquet Saturday, February 6, 2016 at Brandi’s Banquet Hall in Dillon, South Carolina. The Selected Theme: “The Struggle Continues!”
The introduction of the Dais, Toastmistress, and Special Guests was efficiently done by Mr. James and Reverend Hazel Moultrie. The toastmistress of the evening was the elegant Minister Evelyn Williams. Reverend Frankie Thomas, Pastor of New Faith Baptist Church of Dillon, South Carolina led the audience in singing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” in joyous uplifting melodious voices. Elder Kevin Thomas led us to the Throne of Grace.
The hearty welcome came from Mr. Willie Bethea, Second Vice President. We were enthusiastically greeted by Mrs. Connie Manning, Mayor Pro Tem of the City of Dillon, South Carolina.
Mrs. Lynn Bowman sang a Medley of Spirituals; “Amazing Grace Shall Always Be My Song of Praise,” “I Surrender All,” and “For Your Glory.” An aura of reverence enveloped the Hall as this talented songstress lifted her voice in Worship.
Mrs. Clara Boatwright conducted the solemn Memorial Tribute. The memory flame was in honor of Mrs. Willie Dell McQueen. The candle flickered brightly as she spoke fondly of recollections that emitted loving memories.
The Speaker of the Hour; Reverend Dr. Alvin Costello Robinson, Pastor of Pleasant Grove Missionary Church, Marion, South Carolina was introduced by Reverend Dr. Roanell Hough, Pastor of Friendship Baptist Church of Dillon, South Carolina. Reverend Robinson, a resident of Pamplico, South Carolina is the son of the late Mr. Nathaniel and Mrs. Lelia J. Robinson. He served honorably in the U.S. Military and is the proud father of three children and three grandchildren. He is the recipient of many accolades; Chairman of the Little Pee Dee Manor, 1992-present, a board member of the Pee Dee Regional Transitional Shelter, 1992-present, The Moderator for the Little Pee Dee Educational and Missionary Association 1986-1993, he secured grant money for the construction of a fifty three unit Housing Project for the elderly and mildly impaired, he encouraged the development and expansion of Pleasant Grove Baptist Church, The Pleasant Grove Academy and the A.C. Robinson Family Resource Center. His educational background; A B.A. degree in Social Studies from Allen University, Columbia, South Carolina 1968, A Master’s Degree in Education, Francis Marion University, 1978, A Bachelor’s of Divinity, Morris College, Sumter, South Carolina, 1980, an Honorary Doctorate of Divinity, Morris College, 1994 and a Doctorate of Christian Education, 2004. Dr. Robinson is a retired Educator of the Pamplico School System. He has extended experiences in Community and Church leadership. He shares his experience and talents with others to equip them with the tools and abilities to become great community leaders.
Mrs. Myra Bethea eloquently sang from her heart the spiritual “Destiny” by Tina Campbell. Praises went up in response for this gifted talented illustrious Woman of Faith.
Reverend Robinson chose as his subject “The Struggle is Real.” When, Where, Why did the struggle begin? When will it end? He stated the struggle began when S-I-N entered History. We are in a struggle! “If you hate us, you hate yourself, we are all his creation, yet we can’t get along.” When one hurts, everyone should feel some pain! We are all Americans! Dr. Robinson gave factual Economic Statistics and Comparisons on Consumers and Entrepreneurs in America. There is a wide economic disparity among the various minority and majority groups of American People. We need to be producers! “Hold on in the midst of the struggle-Hold on! At the conclusion of his dynamic and powerful message the receptive audience gave Dr. Robinson a standing ovation and a resounding applause.
The Remarks and Appeal was given by Ms. Angel Bethea, President of the Dillon County Branch NAACP. This organization has worked diligently to benefit humanity since its insurrection in 1909. We are encouraged to join the NAACP; Membership has its privileges!
The food was blessed and the Benediction given by Elder Kevin Thomas. A sumptuous Dinner was served and the hour of socialization continued. We appreciate the support of our Sponsors, Patrons, and Program Participants.
All Hats off to the NAACP Officers and the Freedom Fund Banquet Committee, the Hostesses, the Entertainment Committees and the Toastmistress for doing a stupendous job! “Thou who has by thy might, led us into the light, Keep us forever in they path we pray.”