This weekend I had the honor of serving as the guest speaker at the second annual Scholarship Banquet Fundraiser presented by LoveNeverFails. Thank you to Trista Davis and her team for the invitation and for the work they’re doing to support students in our community.

The event was held at the Old National Guard Building at Fortune Springs. I’m excited to see what the park will look like once the renovations are complete, because if the banquet was any indication, the future of that space is bright.

What made the evening special wasn’t just the decor or the program. It was seeing different parts of our community come together to support students doing great things but who may not have all the resources they need. Sometimes all it takes is encouragement. Sometimes it’s opportunity. And sometimes it’s an extra $500 toward education. And let’s be honest … who couldn’t use an extra $500 right now? I know I could.

The event itself was spectacular. The DJ kept things lively; the Fairfield Central High School Orchestra was outstanding. Let me tell you, that orchestra sounds amazing. I went to a performing arts college, and people would pay good money to hear a group that polished.

Fairfield County has some serious talent.

It was also great seeing so many familiar faces with what felt like the entire “Who’s Who” of Fairfield County. Everyone came dressed sharp and ready to support a great cause. I love seeing moments like that.

Then on Sunday, the unity continued.

Three counties and four high schools came together at Ridge View High School for an alumni basketball showcase presented by Unity on the Hardwood and the Unity League Network.

Alumni from Chester, Great Falls and Fairfield Central laced up their sneakers once again.

Rivalries were revisited, this time with a little more wisdom … and a few more knee braces.

The Chester Lady Cyclones and Fairfield Central Lady Griffins kicked things off, and the women came ready to play. Then it was time for the guys. Great Falls versus Fairfield Central. A rivalry renewed.

I know it was intense because I played in it. I thought I signed up to play Great Falls alumni.

Turns out, I signed up to play the 1989 Detroit Pistons. This was one of the most physical games I’ve played in a while, and I loved every minute of it. It also reminded me why Great Falls has one of the winningest basketball traditions in South Carolina. Legendary Coach John Smith taught them well.

Both Fairfield teams came up short, but the real win was the atmosphere. The gym was packed with love, laughter, and community pride.

We also honored pillars we’ve lost: Nikki Boyd, Dexter Craig and Sonya “Cookie” Kennedy.

Their families were recognized, and Dexter Craig’s son will receive a future scholarship.

Moments like that remind you this is about more than basketball. It’s about community.

Thank you to Richland School District 2 for hosting. The event was originally planned for Fairfield County, but when that didn’t work out, the community still showed up and made it special.

Hopefully next time we can host it in Fairfield County. No, we need to host it in Fairfield County next time. Let’s make it happen.

Kenny Robertson, an educator and comedian, is a native of Ridgeway.