Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation Hosts Holiday Luncheon

By Randy Singleton
Community Affairs Correspondent
New Journal and Guide

CHESAPEAKE

New Journal and Guide Publisher Brenda H. Andrews gave an insightful historical overview of the significance of the Juneteenth holiday during her keynote address at the Fourth Annual Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation Luncheon on Saturday (June 15) at the Greenbrier Country Club.

Andrews’ speech, entitled: “Festival, Family and Freedom” centered around the luncheon’s theme of “Where History Reveals Truth.” She used poignant, concrete examples of America’s historical unequal and unjust treatment of minorities and women, and she challenged the nation to improve both morally and legislatively as she called for more inclusivity for marginalized groups and communities of color.

The event’s host Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation Chairman Ernest Lowery received a declaration of commendation from the 91st district and its elected representative Delegate Cliff Hayes. Lowery also received a letter of recognition from Chesapeake Mayor Rick West read by Councilwoman Debbie Ritter.

Making an appearance for the program was world renowned opera singer Amber Garett, whose rendition of “My Soul’s Been Anchored in The Lord” brought the attendees to their feet.

Also Miss Juneteenth VA, Legacy Pageant, Miss Sunshine Huggins, USA 2023-2024, brought greetings.

During the luncheon, scholarships for seven local students were announced from several groups, to include The Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation (1);  the  Virginia African-American Cultural Center, founded by Dr. Amelia Ross-Hammond (2); the Kings Point Enterrprises, represented by Dr. Deloatch (3); and a memorial scholarship  by Mrs. Ravette Blackstock (1) , honoring the memory of her late husband Mr. Dexter Blackstock, a past Vice President of the Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation.

Others on the program were Board officers Dr. George Reed, Mrs. Mary Combs, Minister Keith Crowe, and Mr. Rashad Lowery. Rev. Dr. Glenda Murray Kelly served as the Mistress of Ceremonies.

The New Journal and Guide was one of the principal sponsors of the Chesapeake Juneteenth Foundation Luncheon, along with Studios & Suites/4 For Less, Chesapeake Regional Medical Center, King’s Point Enterprises, VAACC, and BlackWallStreet.net.