By Marilyn Ford
The Dillon County Branch of the NAACP held their Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday, February 1, 2014 at Brandi’s Banquet Hall in Dillon, South Carolina.
The introduction of the Dais, Toastmaster, and Special Guests was done by Mrs. Mary Alice Townsend.  
The toastmaster of the evening was Mr. Wayne McRae.  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.  
Afterwards, Reverend Fest Bethea led us to the throne of Grace.
The warm welcome came from Ms. Thomasena Moultrie, Secretary of the Dillon County Branch of the NAACP.   Greetings were extended by Dr. Lutherine Williams of the Latta City Council and Mr. James McRae, Dillon County School Board.
“The Women of Worship” sang the Spiritual “Prayer Will Change Things”.  The Praise Dance Team of Ebenezer Baptist Church was dynamic as they worshipped in movement and rhythm.  Their talented Religious Performances were enthusiastically received by the audience.
Mrs. Christine McCoy conducted The Memorial Tribute.  The Memory Candle was lit in honor of the deceased persons of the organization on the local, state and national levels.  The candle flickered brightly as her fond reflections emitted reverence and lasting memories.  The “The Twenty Third Psalm” was sung at the conclusion.
The Speaker of the Hour; Reverend Cathy Covington Charles was introduced by Mrs. Sharon Grissett.  The “Women of Worship” befitting Sermonic Selection was “I trust In God”.
Reverend Charles chose as her Text “A Midnight Deliverance.”  Acts: 16:25.  God is concerned about making you Holy rather than making you happy.  Deliverance should make you rejoice, and testify about good things.  God focuses on your deliverance and he will set you free from Life’s Battles.  
He will break the chains in your Life.  Break the chains of confusion, addiction and other pitfalls.  “Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the Morning”.  We all have Midnight Experiences.  If not?  Keep on Keeping on!  How important is freedom?  The NAACP is an instrument of Life, not death!  We are too busy being competitive rather than being about our Fathers Business.  We should praise God in all Things!  Let us be careful as to who brings us a word, because some words come from the wrong source.  We should praise God everyday; Yes, God is real.  I Thank God!  At the conclusion of her dynamic and powerful message the audience gave a standing ovation and a resounding applause.
The appeal was given by Mr. Famon Whitfield, Jr., 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 Reverend Kenneth Johnson, Pastor of Saint Paul African Methodist Episcopal Church, Floydale, South Carolina.  A sumptuous Dinner was served and the hour of socialization continued. Dinner Music was provided by the incredibly talented Master Renzalo Brock Mack, the son of Mr. Renzalo and Mrs. Mary Mack.  We appreciate the support of all of our sponsors and patrons. .  All Hats off to the NAACP Officers and the Freedom Fund Banquet Committee, the Hostesses, the Entertainment Committees, and The Toastmaster for doing a stupendous job.  “Thou who has by Thy might led us into the light, keep us forever in the path we Pray.”