NAACP's Freedom Fund Banquet Recognized History and Stamina

By FRAN FARRER

STATESVILLE, NC – Last week we shared the arousing message delivered by Rev. Michael Allen McClain at the Statesville Branch NAACP’s 85th Annual Freedom Fund & Awards Banquet, as well as the scholarships presented to four worthy candidates. What we didn’t delve into was the overall substance of how the event portrayed the theme, “We Can’t Rest Now; The Stakes Are Too High.”

Over the years the works of the NAACP (National Association for the Advancement of Colored People) have led to more opportunities for home ownership, and or rental properties, better schools, jobs, banking and business relationships as well.

Two history makers were recognized during the banquet that says much to the growth of Statesville and Iredell County.

Police Chief David Addison, who began his duties in Statesville February 11, 2019, was recognized as the first African-American to ever hold that position in the City of Statesville. While he comes well prepared, many thought that would never happen.

Prior to coming to Statesville, Chief Addison spent 22 years with the Durham Police Department serving as the captain of DPD’s Special Services Division, managing a staff of approximately 70 that includes the Patrol Squads, Motorcycle Unit, Bicycle Unit, Canine Unit, Traffic Enforcement Unit and Investigative Unit.

Chief Addison shared that he likes being out in the community sharing information and addressing issues, but more importantly, solving problems.

Away from the department, Addison still enjoys civic engagement. He previously volunteered as an attorney for Legal Aid of North Carolina, served as chairperson and vice-chairperson to the Durham County Juvenile Crime Prevention council, president of the Durham County Police Benevolence Association, all of which have earned him prestigious community awards and employee recognition honors.

A native of Pennsylvania, Addison earned his Associate Degree in Engineering Science from the Community College of Philadelphia, his bachelor’s degree in Information Technology from the University of Phoenix, a law degree in 2016 from North Carolina Central University, and was admitted to the N.C. Bar the same year as well. In addition to serving as Chief of Police, he is an adjunct professor for St. Augustine’s University, where he teaches criminal justice and police science courses.

Chief Addison told the NAACP officers, I’m very excited to be named Statesville’s Chief, adding, “I did my research on this community and there are a lot of great thing going on here.”

Doris Ann Allison, the first African American female member of the Statesville City Council, serving Ward 3, was also recognized. Known as a person with a compassionate heart, she fight for what she believes will help better the lives of all citizens of Statesville.

The root of her activism which began in the late 1990’s was enhanced by losing two brothers, Willie and James Allison to gun violence, and since that time she’s worked to assist families work on unsolved homicide cases. In 2000, she founded the PUT organization which united fellow pastors to revitalize South Statesville, brought various resources to her community to include IC Partnership for Children, Teen Health, the Weed and Seed Program to help decrease the crime rate and beautify the community, and the SHAKE program which offers tutoring to students after school.

Currently, she serves on the I-CARE Board and the Iredell County Social Service Community Committee, and belongs to the Statesville Citizens Union, which advocates for citizens struggling to pay high utility bills.

A native of Statesville, Allison is one of seven children born to Henderson and Lois Crosby. A 1977 graduate of Statesville Senior High School, her employment careen includes 25 years with Hunt Manufacturing Company, and after enrolling in CVCC, she pursued a career in phlebotomy, worked at the Iredell County sheriff department from 2010-2013.

Two prominent awards are given annually to persons in the community who work tirelessly for the good of others without ceasing, they are: The Woody Woodard “Stick and Stay” award, and the Wilson W. Lee “You Can Make a Difference Award, which were presented to Lee Woods and Kathy Walker respectively.

Guests of the event were introduced to the Mole Family; a music ministry founded in 2013 led by father and mother, Timothy and LaDonna, and sons, Timothy and Ethan Mole. Combining the vocals of LaDonna, with the keyboard and instrument of father and sons, they produce a music ministry with a total spiritual focus.

What better way to end and exciting and uplifting even than to gift guests; Area manager for Underwriter, Food Lion, had the answer; she gifted more than 10 people (those with the lucky ticket numbers) with a plethora of $25, $50, and $100.00 gift cards. What a way to end an evening.