The Grand Strand Freedom Week celebrations continued with the Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Awards and breakfast held on Monday.
This year marked a significant milestone for the Carolina African American Heritage Foundation, as they celebrated 20 years of honoring the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr.
Grand Strand Freedom Week spans the days surrounding MLK Day, encompassing both the lead-up and aftermath of the national holiday.
The Martin Luther King Jr. Drum Major Awards gathered dozens of people to celebrate Dr. King’s life and enduring impact.
“MLK Day represents freedom,” said Shemika Harriett, an attendee of the awards. “It’s a time to reflect on how far we’ve come as nations and as people. It’s a time for unity and peace.”
In 2008, the City of Myrtle Beach officially recognized the observance of MLK Day, thanks to the efforts of the late Bennie Swans. His wife, Marcella, now carries on this tradition.
The Drum Major Awards recognize three local leaders with the Humanitarian Award and the Community Service Award, both inspired by Dr. King’s “Drum-Major Instinct Sermon.”
Myrtle Beach Mayor Brenda Bethune was honored with the 2025 Bennie Swans Humanitarian Award.
“I’m just happy and honored to serve this community, and I do it with my heart and passion,” said Bethune. “I remember my parents, especially my mother, who instilled in me a heart for service. I watched her serve our community for as long as I can remember, and that’s all I ever knew. It means a lot to walk in her footsteps.”
Terrance Butler, the owner of ESA Fitness and Co-Founder of the ESA Dream Foundation, received the 2025 Bennie Swans Community Service Award. Butler is renowned for his training and positive impact on athletes statewide.
“It’s hard to put into words because most of my awards have been for athletic achievements,” said Butler. “But this one, I can honestly say, is my favorite because it measures the heart.”
Kim Rodgers-Clora, founder of the Jacqueline Rodgers Foundation, has attended the awards for many years, and this year, she was also honored with a community service award.
Mayor Bethune echoed sentiments shared throughout the Grand Strand Freedom Week, highlighting its universal message.
“This is a reminder that we need to love each other, strive for peace, and understand that we can make a difference,” said Bethune.
Freedom Week festivities will continue on Tuesday with the Martin Luther King Jr. Day of Service Food Drive, running from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Non-perishable food donations can be dropped off at City Hall or the Myrtle Beach Area Chamber of Commerce.
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