Local
NAACP Freedom Fund Banquet Looks to Move “Forward Together, Backwards Never”
Keynote speaker, Mrs. Mary D. Williams is an educator who uses her unique talent of blending history, song, and knowledge of current events to engage audiences across generations.
The Warren County branch of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) will hold its annual Freedom Fund Banquet at 6:30 p.m., Saturday, October 5, 2024, at the Warren County Armory and Civic Center, located at 501 US HWY 158 Business East, Warrenton, NC.
This year’s theme, “Forward Together, Backwards Never,” honors our past, celebrates our accomplishments, and motivates us to move forward together in solidarity. The Freedom Fund Banquet is the Branch’s primary fundraising effort that supports activism, outreach, and scholarship opportunities for students.
Keynote speaker, Mrs. Mary D. Williams, is an educator who uses her unique talent of blending history, song, and knowledge of current events to engage audiences across generations. As an educator, Mrs. Williams facilitates graduate level seminars throughout the state and region. As a powerhouse gospel singer and historian, reminiscent of Mahalia Jackson, Williams’ stage presence commands attention as she melds power with perseverance through her unique delivery.
Tickets are available for purchase for $50. Color ad spaces are available for purchase, ranging in price from $25 to $200. Sponsorship opportunities are available and contributions of any amount are greatly appreciated. We ask that all contributions be sent to Warren County NAACP, PO Box 604, Warrenton, NC 27589 by September 5, 2024.
For more information, please contact LaTonya Andrews-Hunter, (910) 546-1643, lrandrewshunter@gmail.com or Dr. Cosmos George, (252) 213-2310, cng50_secut@yahoo.com.
Local
PHOTOS: Ride De Vine 2025
In its fifth year, 150 riders took the scenic route around Warren County for a good cause.
Under blue skies and near-perfect weather, 150 cyclists hit the road last Saturday (May 3) for the fifth annual Ride de Vine, taking in the scenic beauty of Warren County— all for a great cause.
The ride began bright and early at 8am on the Warren County Courthouse Square in downtown Warrenton. Participants—from local riders to cycling enthusiasts as far away as New York—chose from three thoughtfully designed routes: 20k, 50k, or 100k. Each offered a peaceful journey through Warren County’s winding backroads and picture-perfect scenery.
When we caught up with riders at the finish line, the reviews were glowing. Many raved about the “well mapped-out routes” and couldn’t get enough of the views. One sentiment was shared across the board: they’re already looking forward to coming back (yes, even with the hills).
We also checked in with event organizer Joshua Hughey to see if Ride de Vine would be a go for 2026.
His response? “We love Warren County,” he said. “We have no plans to move elsewhere at this time.”
Sounds like it’s time to dust off your bike and start training for next spring.
Upon their return to home base, riders enjoyed a fully-loaded protein and carb-filled meal catered by JMS Catering and shopped with local vendors, all while enjoying a fast-paced DJ set. Boots On the Ground, anyone?
Ride de Vine is a fully supported, non-competitive ride benefiting the Jack & Jill of America Foundation, blending wellness and philanthropy with a side of breathtaking views. For more information, visit their website at https://ridedevine.com/.
Sponsored locally by Warren Ministries United, National Day of Prayer is an annual day of observance designated by the United States Congress and held on the first Thursday of May, when people are asked “to turn to God in prayer and meditation.”
Culture
PHOTOS: Eastern Bluebird Festival 2025
Hundreds flocked to the heart of downtown Warrenton for the second annual Eastern Bluebird Festival.
Hundreds flocked to the heart of downtown Warrenton for the second annual Eastern Bluebird Festival and was treated to live entertainment, great food, vendors, a mural ribbon-cutting ceremony and so much more! (April 26, 2025)
See Also: Eastern Bluebird Mural Celebrated with Ribbon-Cutting Ceremony
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