By Betsy Finklea
Gordon Park was dedicated on Saturday.
A special ceremony and ribbon cutting was held.
Tonny McNeil, Dillon County Economic Development Director, was the master of ceremonies. He said the Newtown community is key to the successful future of Dillon County, which he called “red hot” due to the expansion of Harbor Freight, the announcement of Wyman Gordon, the opening of Taco Bell, etc. He said today was the beginning of fulfilling a dream.
After McNeil’s opening comments, April Rivers performed a beautiful rendition of the Star Spangled Banner followed by prayer by Pastor Rodney McCorkle from Manning Baptist Church.
Mayor Todd Davis made remarks. He said parks revitalize the community and there was no sweeter sound than a child playing in a park. He said the city will support county council in their efforts here. He said parks are important part of quality of life. He said it will take money, work, and the vision of the community to make the park a success.
Dillon County Council Chairman T.F. “Buzzy” Finklea, Jr., called the park dedication a historic day and an accomplishment among many that had been made in recent years by county council. He thanked the Citizens of Newtown committee, the Community Recreation Organization, those who volunteered their time to build the sign, Councilman Randy Goings for his hard work, and all who played a part. He said the park will create many happy memories that will last a lifetime.
Bishop Michael Goings gave a history of Newtown and Gordon School. He said Gordon School was named after Mrs. Mary Ellen Gordon, who spent 47 years as an educator. He recalled many people in the area.
Several plaques were then presented to the following people in recognition of their efforts or the family of those who have passed away: County Councilman Macio Williamson, Famon Whitfield Jr., Lodie Smiling, Jason Gunter, Linzy Boatwright, Joe Brown, Marshall Campbell , Lee Lee Cousar, Larry Dunham, Andrew Graves, Fitzgerald Lytch, Benjamin McTeer, Douglas Pernell (who is the only player and coach), Dan McNeil, Milton Quick, Clarence Thomas, Tyrone Thomas, and John C. Williamson.
Councilman Randy Goings gave special thanks to his fellow councilmen, Mayor Todd Davis, the ministers in attendance, etc. He said, “we’re finally here.” He said Dillon County is no longer “quietly progressing” and that they are “Alive On 95” as their new slogan says.
He said it was a great day to be in Dillon County. He said the park had the unanimous vote of two councils.
He said he had a dream that this could be done and he is still dreaming about what can happen at the park. He asked those in attendance to dream with him.
After Goings remarks, the sign was dedicated and unveiled. Margaret Williamson, wife of the late Macio Williamson, cut the ribbon.
After the sign unveiling, a chicken bog lunch was served.
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