The Community Times Dispatch

“We’ve Come this far by Faith” Many members of the surrounding communities came out for the IDO dedication ceremony on Saturday, November 7, 2009 formerly the Jonesville Elementary School located in the Jonesville community under the current guidance of President Edward Williams. The ceremony began with the cutting of the ribbon on the newly constructed basketball court.

The theme, “We’ve come this far by faith” was echoed throughout the ceremony, which the Rev. Freddie Hamilton presided. The Rev. Thomas Williams read the Scripture, followed by Minister Vera M. Bodison, director of Bright Future Learning delivered the invocation. Board member, Deacon Johnson Williams welcome the community, followed by the Rev. Joseph Williams, Jr. of Mt. Nebo Baptist Church, rendered the Litany of Dedication and prayer.

President Williams addressed the crowd of the Honorable Senator Clemente Pinckney absence and forwarded his regards. Sen. Pinckney was scheduled to be the keynote speaker. However, in his absence, the Honorable Councilman, Floyd Bucker spoke to the crowd. He was introduced by President Williams, he stated that “it is always good to have a ram in the bush”, as County Councilman Buckner went on with his speech stating he feels like he may be the “goat”, not knowing that he would be the chosen speaker. County Councilman went on to say, “Preservation of a community stands on the shoulder of our ancestors”. In the past, it took an entire community to raise children, stated Councilman Bucker. He further stated, we as a community that today community have to get back involved with our youths”. Buckner said that the Jonesville community has always been very political and proactive and must remain that way. Senator Pinckney and Buckner assisted with grant matching which aide in getting the needed funds for the basketball court and with the up keeping of the IDO center. The center provides tutoring and extra-curricular activities for children from the surrounding areas such as Jonesville, Roadside, Robinson, White Hall, Blue House, Catholic Hill, and Hendersonville. Bucker concluded his speech with now, “I feel like I was the ram in the bush.”

Remarks were led by our School Board Representative, Wayne Schider. Schider expressed his congratulations and brought greetings from Chairman Hayes and Superintendent Williams. Schider went on to say, “If you don’t care about the community, then no one will”. He commended the site and the tremendous efforts that have been put into this by President Williams and the community. He applauded the community for what they’re doing, and offer the board assistance.

Sheriff Malone provided the crowd with his congratulations to the site and the basketball court. Sheriff Malone stated that he has been in law enforcement for almost 41 years and has spent many time in the community, however, this facility could help the community.” The Sheriff revealed that he has been working with Congressman Clyburn on a technology grant and finally they were awarded a grant that enable them to purchase new computers for his department. In lieu of the grant, he will present the IDO Learning Center with 3 of their used computers.

Final remarks were made by board member, Delores Williams. Mrs. Williams announced that Representative Hodges sends his greeting, donations and regrets for his absence.

President Williams began his acknowledgement with the unveiling of the PARD (Park and Recreation Development) sign in honor of the County Legislative Delegation and leadership of Senator Pinckney. Williams stated that he along with former President James A. Williams went to the school board more than 10 years ago to get the building. They received a 40 years lease on the building. He reiterates the theme, “We’ve come this far by faith”. Pres. Williams thank each and everyone for coming out and lending a hand and support. His prayer is that when he’s gone, that the generation to come continue to carry on the legacy. IDO Learning Center has partner with the Bright Future Learning, under the direct leadership of Min. Vera M. Bodison.

The dedication service was concluded with the Benediction by Minister Leo Brown followed by a march through the learning center, singing, “We are marching up to Zion”.

Written By Josie F-Anderson