On Saturday, November 7, 2015, at 6:00 p.m. the Criterion Club of Dillon, South Carolina, founded November 28, 1945, celebrated seventy years of service to Dillon County and the surrounding areas. The Criterion Club, located at 501 West Roosevelt Street, Dillon, is a non-profit organization that operates a recreational center whose purpose is to provide wholesome recreation and community activities.
The Platinum celebration’s theme was women contributing our own gifts for the good of our families, our communities, and our country.
Sister Marilyn Ford served as Mistress of Ceremony. They were led to the sacred Throne of Grace by Sister Mary Alice Townsend.
The Necrology Tribute to our transitioned Sisters was done by Sister Jane Crawford. We remember, celebrate and honor our deceased sisters: “I will turn their mourning into gladness: I will give them comfort and joy instead of sorrow” —Jeremiah 31:13. Memorial candles were lit by newly elected Vice-President Sister Jackie Thomas and Sister Towanda Wright.
Greetings and welcome to our many distinguished guests were warmly and graciously extended by former President Sister Claretha Whitfield.
The Criterion Sisters were introduced by Sister Jackie Thomas. The processional of Criterion Ladies elegantly attired in formal hunter green gowns, silver shoes and pearl accessories proceeded gracefully to the stage and sang the beautiful original Criterion Club song. The purposeful charge was eloquently given by our newly elected President Sister Jackie Yates Leach. The historical occasion was stated emphatically by Sister LaMescia Bethea. A synopsis of our impressive history was given dramatically by former President Sister Brenda Arnette. Sister Dorothy Alford Bethea and Sister Ann Mallette recollected the Platinum Memories of days gone by in serious and humorous overviews.
Reverend Kevin Thomas blessed the food. A sumptuous dinner was served. For our listening pleasure while dining we enjoyed varied Instrumental selections by the gifted and talented young saxophonist, Mr. Cequordric Page.
Using the element of surprise, Sister Regina McRae – Bradley, Sister Jackie Thomas and Sister Jackie Yates Leach spearheaded the Platinum Anniversary recognitions. The tributes were the dedication of the anniversary journal to Criterion sisters who have faithfully given their service to the organization for over twenty years. Those Club sisters are: Brenda Arnette, Dorothy Alford Bethea, Marilyn Ford, Dr. Beverly Gurley, Ann Mallett, Kathleen W. McBryde, Deloris McRae- Augustus, Marie Paige, Pensacola A. Smith (founding member), Claretha McRae Whitfield and Luvenia Wright. These sisters also received the Criterion Club Legacy Award; they were crowned with dazzling tiaras and given a resounding applause for this significant achievement.
Ms. JaNovice Greene-Richardson gave an outstanding classical rendition of “The Impossible Dream.” This song was significant to her because she sang it as her talent selection the night she was crowned “Miss Debutante” several years ago during this annual event.
Mrs. Connie Manning, Mayor Pro-tem presented the proclamation and resolutions from J. Todd Davis, Mayor, city of Dillon, South Carolina. November 28, 2015 has been designated as Criterion Club Day in Dillon, South Carolina.
President Jackie Yates Leach in closing thanked the audience for their attendance for this memorable occasion. Thank you Criterion sisters for your dedication in bringing this celebration to fruition. “We are continuing to enhance our program and make worthwhile contributions to our coverage area.” The benediction was given by Elder Kevin Thomas.
The striking newly refurbished auditorium was skillfully decorated in the club colors of green and white, showcased white table linens, silver chargers, silver flatware, white chair covers with sheer forest green sashes gathered in the back with crystal rings, and elegant crystal table centerpieces filled with white gladiolus and greenery, with varied accents. Large framed founders and anniversary photographs of Criterion Sisters, Past and Present, done by Dr. Miranda Manning were strategically placed around the auditorium. Decorations befitting the glorious Platinum Celebration were completed by Sister Shelawn Curry, Program Coordinator and Committee Members: Sister Kadra M. Wright, Sister Linda Manning Langley, Sister LaMecia Bethea and Sister Jackie Yates Leach.
The impressive Platinum Celebration Anniversary Journal was chaired and edited by Dr. Miranda Manning. The dynamic musician for the evening was Mr. Tyrone Hallman.
The efficient photographers were by Mrs. Helen Lane Wiggins and Dr. Miranda Manning
The Criterions would like to thank all of you for your support and participation in all of our programs. We stand by our Motto “Let Every Woman Do Her Duty.”
