By Marilyn Ford
The Dillon County Branch of the NAACP held their Annual Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday, February 7, 2015 at Brandi’s Banquet Hall in Dillon, South Carolina.
The introduction of the Dais, Toastmaster, and Special Guests was done by Mrs. Claretha  Whitfield.  The toastmaster of the evening was Mr. Leroy McLain.  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, Pastor of St. Beulah Missionary Baptist Church, Bennettsville, South Carolina led us to the throne of Grace.
The warm Welcome came from Mrs. Cynthia Pernell.   We were greeted by Mr. Kenneth Smith, representing the Prince Hall Group and an Advocate for the developing Boys and Girls Youth Center: Mr. Tonny McNeil, Director of the Dillon County Economic Development Board.  Mr. McNeil gave an overview of the accomplishments of 2014 and the positive goals and objectives for 2015.  His report was enthusiastically received by the capacity filled audience.
Elder Rebekah Grice Baker of Outreach Family Fellowship, Dillon, South Carolina melodiously sang the “The Evidence”.  The beautiful rendition was a smooth jazzy version of scriptures emphasized walking by “Faith the evidence of things unseen”.
Mrs. Mary Alice Townsend 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 Speaker of the Hour; Reverend Jeremy Bethea, Pastor of the Historic Mt. Olive Baptist Church, Mullins, South Carolina was introduced by Mrs. Nina Bradley, First Vice President of the NAACP.  Reverend Bethea a native of Bennettsville, South Carolina is the son of Mr. Johnny James Bethea and the late Mrs. Mary Edith Bethea.  He is a graduate of Gupton-Jones College of Mortuary Science in Atlanta, Georgia, Francis Marion University, Florence South Carolina and a Member of Alpha Phi Alpha, Fraternity, Incorporated.  He is a dedicated member of the United States National Guard.  He is the Director of the Family Business; Bethea Funeral Home, Bennettsville, South Carolina.  Reverend Bethea was anointed and appointed to preach the Gospel.  “He is not a Went, he was Sent”!  Since 2002 he has faithfully served as Pastor of the Historic Mr. Olive Baptist Church.  Our speaker has strived to live each day as an example of God’s awesomeness and as an illustration of His Promises.  He is married to the former Dr. Candace Rhames.  They are the proud parents of three beautiful precious children, Justin, Jamison and Jillian.
Elder Rebekah Grice Baker’s, befitting Sermonic Selection was an original composition from Psalm 91: “Hallelujah”!  This multi-talented Woman of God truly put a “Sweet Sweet Spirit” in the atmosphere.
Reverend Bethea chose as his text “Take a Step”, Nehemiah 2:17.  One should take a stand.  When you stand alone believe in God even when no one believes you.  The people were distress because of the condition of the wall and the fact that the city was left unprotected.   Nehemiah could not forget where he came from. The Temple and the Wall was rebuilt.
There is work to be done, God will equip us for the tasks we are called to do.  A thousand mile journey begins with a single step.
Do not allow criticism to affect you…everyone will not see your vision or the resources; do not share your plans, God is in the Miracle Making  Business…Keep Stepping!  At the conclusion of his dynamic and powerful message the receptive audience gave Reverend Bethea a standing ovation and a resounding applause.
The 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 Reverend Fest Bethea.  A sumptuous Dinner was served and the hour of socialization continued.
We appreciate the support of all of our Sponsors, Patrons and Program Participants.