The Norfolk Branch of the NAACP held its 50th Annual Life Membership and Freedom Fund Banquet on Saturday evening. The event was held at The Murray Center, a fine facility adjacent to First Baptist Church, Bute Street. This is the major event of the Norfolk Branch, drawing attendees from throughout the region. I arrived around 5pm, and our candidate in the 6th Senate district, Ralph Northam, was already there, working the room. Virginia Beach candidates Joe Bouchard (83rd) and Bobby Mathieson (21st) arrived soon afterward. All had the opportunity to meet and talk with voters from their districts. Unlike last year, all of the candidates stayed for the entire event. Also unlike last year, we were graced with the presence of a Norfolk Council member. Ward 4 representative Paul Riddick was there. Sheriff Bob McCabe, Commonwealth’s attorney Jack Doyle and Police Chief Bruce Marquis were also in attendance. The recipients of the Presidential Awards, Del. Kenny Alexander and Commissioner of the Revenue Sharon McDonald, were also there.
This year’s theme was “Standing on the Promise” and keynote speaker Congressman Bobby Scott did a wonderful job of reminding us of the history of the NAACP and its efforts on behalf of racial equality. Scott’s remarks were frequently interrupted with applause. Scott was very careful not to endorse any candidate, but noted who was present – as opposed to who was not. Of course, the Congressman was given a standing ovation at the end.
Besides the fact that I get the opportunity to see a lot of folks at this event that I don’t see regularly (a big shout out to the three tables from Antioch Missionary Baptist Church), I also look forward to hearing Mrs. Ann B. McInnis sing. I’m telling y’all – it’s worth the price of admission by itself. This woman has a wonderful voice and is a fixture at this event.
A great time was had by all. Go ahead and put next year’s event on your calendar: first Saturday in October, 5pm 😉
VIVIAN J. PAIGE | All Politics is Local 