The Dillon-Marion County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated hosted a luncheon on Saturday, February 28, 2015 at 1:00 P.M. at the A.C. Robinson Family Resource Center in Marion, S.C. Approximately 100 people were in attendance. The Delta Luncheon chairpersons were Ms. Daisy Crawford and Dr. Deborah Swinney. Ms. Daisy Crawford presided over the Luncheon program. The theme, “Reaching Beyond Boundaries in Love,” was echoed throughout the afternoon.
The events began with a processional of the platform guests.
Dr. Deborah Swinney delivered the welcome. First Vice-President Johnnie Holmes gave the invocation, after which the selection, “Lift Every Voice and Sing” was sung. Greetings from the public officials began with South Carolina Senator Kent Williams, City Councilwoman Odessa Gregg (due to the absence of Marion City Mayor Bobby L. Davis), Chairperson of the Marion County School Board, Mrs. Cynthia H Legette, and Director of RISE Mentoring School & County Council Vice Chairperson of District #7, Mrs. Elista H. Smith. The poem, “If” by Rudyard Kipling was read by Ms. Anderia Lewis, Miss Jabberwock 2014. The Luncheon program was continued with the Delta Choir, under the direction of Ms. Daisy Crawford and musician Mr. Martin Dentley. They provided music for the occasion which gave a spiritual uplift. The blessing of the food was given by Rev. Dr. Mack T. Hines.
There was music interlude while lunch was served. Then Mrs. Carrie Bethea, chapter president, introduced the speaker. The keynote speaker, Elder Shawn Bell Weeks, expounded on the theme, “Reaching Beyond Boundaries in Love,” and based her words of inspiration on Luke 10:25-37. We must first realize who our neighbor is and who counts. She reminded us of the parable of the Good Samaritan, and how he was moved with compassion. The Samaritan reached beyond boundaries of love.
She challenged the sorority to sponsor a program which would educate and improve the relationship among young men and police officers. Elder Weeks was warmly received by applauses and standing ovations. Other participants included Ms. Brandy Brockington, Mrs. Queen McRae, Mrs. Yasmine Gillespie, and Ms. Melissa Williams who made presentations to special guests and recognized visitors. The event ended with closing remarks by chapter president Mrs. Carrie Bethea, who thanked everyone for their support and attendance, and the recessional of platform guests.
Dillon-Marion County Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Incorporated promotes programs and activities which serve the communities focusing on: Educational Development, Economic Development, Physical and Mental Health, Political Awareness and Involvement, and International Awareness and Involvement.
