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Tag: Black History Month

  • Blythewood to celebrate Black History Month Feb. 26 & 27

    BLYTHEWOOD – Blythewood will celebrate Black History Month on Feb. 26 & 27, beginning in the historic gymnasium at Bethel-Hanberry Elementary school and culminating with a community program at Doko Meadows.

    Sponsored by the Blythewood Historical Society, this year’s theme will be ‘Honoring the Legacy & Heritage of Bethel-Hanberry High School 1946-1970 & Beyond’

    The community, especially former students, faculty and a employees who were a part of Bethel-Hanberry school during the years from 1946 to 1970 (and beyond), are invited to join in  commemorating the iconic school for black students in Blythewood.

    Registration for the program is required by Feb. 20. To register, call 803-333-8133 or go to blythewoodhistoricalsociety.org or register in person at 100 McNulty Street (Langford Nord House) in Blythewood.

  • Blythewood Celebrates 3rd Annual Black History Event

    Dressed for the occasion, Sheila Butler, Maxine Goodwin, Alberta Lewis and Luvenia Gordon-Dukes arrived at the Blythewood Black History program ready to celebrate. | Barbara Ball

    BLYTHEWOOD – The Blythewood Community celebrated Black History Month with music, dance and refreshments on Saturday at The Manor.

    The afternoon of entertainment and remembrance included performances by members of the Blythewood Churches Community Choir, the Pine Grove Church Youth Choir and a dance team from Westwood High School.

    Jo Ann of Na J Fashions

    Jason Lloyd opened the program singing the National Anthem before Guest Speaker Dr. Joe Kelly was introduced. Viola Sanders entertained with an exhibit of inventions through the years by African-Americans.

    Church awards were presented to local church elders as well as the most senior church elder. Ms. Daisy Mae Belton, now in her 80’s, was honored as a member of the Community Choir since she was eight years old.

    A highlight of the program was the recitation of Martin Luther King’s “I Have a Dream” speech by Ky-Brian Alexander of Blair in Fairfield County. It was followed by the Black National Anthem led by Alexander and Lloyd.

    Following the program, refreshments were served, and attendees were invited to sign their names to quilt pieces to be turned into a remembrance quilt.

  • Blythewood readies to celebrate black history

    BLYTHEWOOD – The Town’s annual Black History celebration is almost ready for its close-up on Feb. 23 at Doko Manor.

    The program includes guest speaker Dr. Joe Kelly, performances by singer-songwriter EboniRamm, dance, choral and dramatic performances and a special display of African-American accomplishments.

    Bobby Cunningham will emcee the event.

    This year’s celebration will also feature several displays by vendors in the foyer.

    In addition, the contributions of local churches to the Blythewood community will be recognized, and several presentations will be made to long-serving, senior members.

    How it all started

    In 1915, while attending a national celebration marking the 50th anniversary of emancipation, Carter G. Woodson realized that African American history and heritage were being lost. He began what became his life’s work – promoting the teaching of black history in the nation’s schools and communities. The first Black History Week took place in 1924, and President Gerald Ford declared the nation’s first Black History Month in 1975. It has been celebrated during February ever since.

    The event is free and refreshments will be provided at the close of the ceremony. Organizers include Margaret Kelly, Lyn King, Doris Coleman, EboniRamm, Vii Sanders, Larry Griffin and Malcolm Gordge.

    The event will be held at 1:30 p.m., Saturday, Feb. 23 at Doko Manor.

  • Town Preps for Black History Month

    BLYTHEWOOD – As part of the Town’s Cultural Arts program, residents of the Blythewood community are invited to attend a Black History Committee planning meeting Thursday, Nov. 6 at 6:30 p.m. at Blythewood Town Hall.

    The purpose of the meeting is to gather input from the community for a special Black History Month celebration in February.

    “Celebrating Blythewood African Americans through Honor and the Arts” will include a number of events throughout the month including a theater production of a play written by a local African American, a ceremony honoring African-American residents who have demonstrated leadership in the community and excellence in their respective career fields, as well as a gospel concert featuring the Blythewood Community Choir and a Worship Dance Team.

    The Town will be partnering with community organizations and churches to sponsor the month-long series of events.

    Nominations are also being accepted for honorees for the Blythewood 2015 African American Awards of Excellence until Dec. 3.

    For more information about nominations, please contact Booth Chilcutt by email at chilcuttb@townofblythewoodsc.gov.