If you were anywhere near downtown Warrenton on Saturday, August 30, you probably heard the music, smelled the food, or saw South Bragg Street glowing with string lights and conversation. That’s because more than 80 guests gathered for the 4th annual Dinner Off Main hosted by BriCie Events owner, Patricia Jones Crosson.

But, this was no ordinary dinner.

Picture this: a perfect summer evening, round tables with exquisite placements stretching across the street, family and friends sharing stories and laughs. Guests even came in from as far as the DMV, Charlotte, and Raleigh to join in on the celebration.

DJ TKO from Wake County dropped a playlist that kept attendees pulling out their line dance moves all night. A new addition to the party was the Dinner Off Main Lounge, a chill spot for guests to enjoy cigars and hookah.

The event caterer, Pleasurable Plates served up a tantalizing menu featuring baked chicken, meatballs, spinach dip, and more, that left guests with the full package: good vibes, full plates, and even fuller hearts.

The real centerpiece of the evening, though, wasn’t the food or the music.

It was the moment three local students were awarded the Virginia Levister Educational Scholarship, honoring the late John Graham High employee’s commitment to education and opportunity.

Honorees Tranique Kearney has made her presence known at UNC-Charlotte and Raleigh Pierce has began his educational journey at Campbell University. Demontay Hawkins was unable to attend, but his proud parents accepted the award on behalf of the Keystone College freshman.

As their names were called, applause echoed through Bragg Street, proof that the community will lift each other higher, especially for our youth.

When the scholars initially applied for the scholarship, they were told the potential award would be $750. Because of the overwhelming generosity from those who understand the strain of college tuition and expenses, the amount was increased to $800 for each student.

The evening came to an end in its traditional form. The event volunteers handed out sparklers to light up the night sky. This year, they added white hankerchiefs, turning Bragg Street into New Orleans.

And none of this magic would’ve been possible without the sponsors who had the community’s back: BriCie Events, URBAN 360, Bythe & Company, WRTN, and Bragging Rooster, which kept the party festive with fruity cocktails as the drink sponsor.

Now in its fourth year, Dinner Off Main has grown into Warrenton’s can’t-miss summer experience, one overflowing with elegance, togetherness, and a reason to raise a glass to our community’s future.

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Two scholars are starting their next chapter with a little extra support, thanks to the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. – Rho Tau Omega Chapter.

Tranique Kearney and Raleigh Pierce were named this year’s recipients of the chapter’s annual scholarship, which honors the legacy of the Honorable Eva M. Clayton, a beloved soror and the first African American woman to represent North Carolina in Congress.

Kearney will be majoring in pre-nursing at UNC-Charlotte, which Pierce has set his sights on Campbell University, where he will major in mechanical engineering.

Each student received $1,000 to help further their education.

The scholarship is one of several service projects made possible through the chapter’s foundation, Scholarships and Service Projects, led by president Margaret Bullock.

Clayton, Bullock, and Rho Tau Omega chapter president Magnolia Clanton were present to congratulate the recipients and offer words of encouragement.

Photo Credit: Crystal Myrick/Warrenist

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Two local students are starting their college journeys with an extra boost, thanks to the Quincy Markel Mills Scholarship. After reviewing applications from 14 eligible students, the scholarship committee selected Shamira Cherry and Raleigh Pierce as this year’s recipients.

Established to honor the life and legacy of Quincy Markel Mills, now in its second year, the scholarship has grown from offering a single award to two $750 scholarships.

2025 QUINCY MARKEL MILLS SCHOLARSHIP RECIPIENTS

Shamira Cherry, a graduate of Nash Central High School, built an impressive record of involvement during her time in school. She was an active member of the Student Government Association, the Communities in Schools program, the National Honor Society, and also cheered on the sidelines as a member of the cheerleading team.

This fall, Shamira will attend East Carolina University, where she plans to pursue her dream of becoming a pediatrician. She said she chose ECU after feeling an instant connection to the campus community during a campus tour. To rising seniors, she offers this advice: “Make sure you stay motivated. Invest in your future.”

Raleigh Pierce, a graduate of Warren Early College High School, has already spent years giving back to his community as a volunteer firefighter since the age of 16. This fall, he will head to Campbell University to major in Mechanical Engineering.

Raleigh said he was drawn to Campbell because of its architecture, atmosphere, and smaller class sizes, which made him feel at home right away. Looking ahead, he aspires to one day own his own business while continuing to serve his Warren County community. His advice for younger students is heartfelt and practical: “Don’t be afraid to branch out, be yourself, and put yourself out there,” and “If you have questions, don’t be afraid to ask.”

Scholarship committee members noted that both students embodied “a strong commitment to their community and a desire to give back,” qualities that reflect Quincy Mills’ enduring legacy.

The scholarship is named in honor of Quincy Mills, a 19-year-old whose life was tragically cut short in 2023. His father, Walter Mills described his son as “a good kid with a big, bright smile and everybody loved him.” At this time, the case is still ongoing.

Eric Copeland, a friend of the family initiated the idea to start a scholarship in Mills’s name, and received the approval from Walter. With the help of Eric’s wife, Jackie, they were able to implement it.

Copeland stated the scholarship was established to keep his memory alive and support students in their pursuit of higher education.

The scholarship is open to all high school seniors in Warren, Nash, and Halifax counties.

This year’s committee consist of Larry Jones, Jr., Marcus Kearsey, and Shrounda Douglas-Riddick.

As the scholarship grows, the organizers hope to continue investing in our youth by helping them chase their dreams.

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Tranique C. Kearney, Raleigh Pierce, and Demontay Hawkins have been named recipients of the Virginia Levister Educational Scholarship and will be honored during the 4th Annual Dinner Off Main this Saturday, August 30, on Bragg Street in Warrenton.

Hosted by BriCie Events, the celebration begins at 5 pm and promises an evening of food, fellowship, and recognition of young scholars making strides toward their future. Tickets are currently on sale at Bragging Rooster.

The Virginia Levister Educational Scholarship, created to support local students in their pursuit of higher education, continues to uplift young leaders from Warren County. This year’s honorees represent dedication, perseverance, and a commitment to excellence.

Patricia Jones Crosson, owner of BriCie Events, shared her excitement about celebrating the scholarship recipients:

“Your hard work and determination have earned you this well-deserved recognition. We are honored to support your journey and can’t wait to see what the future holds for each of you!”

In recent years, Dinner Off Main has become a beloved community tradition, not only as a gathering of neighbors and supporters but also as a platform to spotlight the bright futures of local students. Attendees can look forward to enjoying a night of food, community spirit, and celebration of educational achievement.

For additional event information: 4th Annual Dinner Off Main.

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