AME Northeast Conference WMS Holds Annual Workshop

By Betsy Finklea
The Northeast Conference Women’s Missionary Society (WMS) of the Seventh Episcopal District of the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church was held in Latta on Saturday. Approximately 138 people were in attendance.
After various greetings from WMS leaders and others, the workshop began led by Jacqueline Bethea, Northeast Conference Second Vice-President.
The first presentation was by Dillon County Disaster Preparedness Director Moses Heyward.
Heyward explained that part of his job is to train people to be prepared. Heyward said one of the most important things that one can do is to have an emergency plan.
Heyward said in cases of severe weather events such as floods and ice that people will be expected to survive until someone can get to them. He said people should have enough water, food, and supplies to last for at least three days. He handed out a sheet that recommended the following items for an emergency kit:
– Three-day supply of non-perishable food.
-Three-day supply of water -one gallon of water per person per day.
-Portable, battery-powered radio or television and extra batteries.
-Flashlight and extra batteries.
-First aid kit and manual.
– Sanitation and hygiene items (moist towelettes and toilet paper).
-Fire extinguishers.
-Matches and waterproof container.
-Whistle.
-Extra clothing.
-Kitchen accessories and cooking utensils, including a can opener.
-Photocopies of credit and identification cards.
-Cash and coins.
-Special needs items, such as prescription medications, eye glasses, contact lens solutions, and hearing aid batteries.
– Other items to meet your unique family needs.
Heyward said that everyone needs a back-up plan for when the electricity or gas goes out. He said those who have special needs should have a plan. He said people should be proactive.
Heyward talked about the importance of having a fire extinguisher in your kitchen. He also said that people need smoke alarms in their houses in their bedrooms or where they sleep and in the hallway. He discussed a Red Cross program that is putting smoke alarms in homes.
Heyward then did a Bull’s Eye fire extinguisher demonstration. Using a new system purchased by the county, he trained people on the proper use of a fire extinguisher. He said if you have a kitchen fire, one should call 9-1-1 first. He said that people shouldn’t grab the pot and run. After calling 9-1-1, then use the fire extinguisher.
The next topic that Heyward covered was the difference between a warning and a watch. A watch means that severe weather is possible, and it is time to get prepared. A warning means that severe weather has been sighted in your area. He also spoke briefly about going to a shelter. He said one shouldn’t expect a hotel; they should expect a place for basic needs.
Another important thing that he said everyone needs is a yellow safety vest in their car. He said if one has a flat tire or has to get out of the car for any reason, they should have on a yellow emergency vest. He handed out several weather radios, safety vests, and ink pens.
Heyward answered questions from the audience upon the conclusion of his presentation.
Rev. Mary Holmes-Singleton, the Seventh Episcopal District Coordinator for “Donate for Life,” was the second presenter.
Holmes-Singleton said too many African-American men and women are dying due to the lack of organ donations.
Holmes-Singleton shared the personal story of her father and how that led to her work with organ donation. She said the body goes into the ground, and the soul goes to God. She said by giving and organ donation, you let someone else live.
She said people need to be educated about what it means to be a donor. She talked about the difference between being a living donor and a deceased donor. She said she is on Facebook and will come to churches to make presentations. She said another person did not need to be lost.
Rev. Reuben Wright of Life Point was the next to speak. With help he stretched out a list of those waiting for kidney transplants which reached across the sanctuary. He asked that those in attendance make a difference and give the gift of life.
Brenda Pugh told the story of her son who was buried the day before his 33rd birthday. He was her only child.
Pugh said he was able to help four other people. She said she believed that God had a plan in the beginning and that was that her son would save the lives of other people.
Pugh said people have many misconceived ideas about organ donation.
Pugh said she was very proud to be a donor mom. She said in spite of her sadness she has joy because of the blessing he was to four other people. She said she is proud to tell the story.
Holmes-Singleton made a few additional comments, and then answered questions.
Rev. Leonard Simmons made a few additional comments, and the workshop adjourned. Guests enjoyed a delicious lunch.

PHOTOS BY BETSY FINKLEA/THE DILLON HERALD