NAACP banquet tickets on sale

Published 9:56 pm Wednesday, February 13, 2013

The Suffolk-Nansemond chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People will its 47th annual Freedom Fund Banquet this weekend.

The theme is “Life. Leadership. Legacy. Moving to Achieve Destiny!” The event will include musical performances and a comedian.

“We want to encourage those who can to come out and support us,” said organization President Costellar Ledbetter. “We’re definitely trying to make a difference. Come and get involved.”

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The event will be held at Temple Beth El, 3927 Bridge Road, on Feb. 16. The doors open at 7 p.m., and the program begins at 7:30 p.m.

Money raised from ticket sales funds the organization’s activities and scholarships it awards, Ledbetter said. In past years, it has been the only fundraiser for the organization, but Ledbetter said she is planning others to be held during her administration.

The event will feature entertainment by the Sunset Drummers and the Boston teen band “So Amazing.”

Ledbetter said the event also helps bring attention to the NAACP.

“There are so many people in town who don’t even realize there is a branch in Suffolk,” Ledbetter said. “We want to change that, and we want our image to change. This organization is not just about black people. We want to make sure we help protect people’s equities, that they are treated fairly, that they have justice and just help people who are in need of things.”

Earlier this week, the NAACP marked its 104th birthday. It is the oldest civil rights organization in the country.

“Come and get involved,” Ledbetter said. “Help do something. Make some action.”

Tickets for the banquet are $45, and dress is formal or semi-formal. To purchase tickets, call 537-2307, 934-1055 or 802-0555.