The Huntington chapter of the NAACP is swearing in a new president tonight. East Northport resident Darryl Dodson, above, is taking over the reins from Delores Thompson, who held the post 16 years.

Dodson will take the oath of office at 7 p.m. Thursday at the South Huntington Library, 145 Pigeon Hill Rd., Huntington Station. His two-year term begins Jan. 1.

“I’m ready,” Dodson said. “I am looking forward to the challenge.”

Dodson, 46, a married father of two and an insurance agent, said he plans to aim first to improve communication, via a Facebook page and a comprehensive e-mail list among members and potential members, while also focusing on education.

“I want to make sure everyone knows what resources are available to get a quality education,” Dodson said. “We don’t want anyone to be short-changed; education is the new currency. Before it was, ‘Can we go in the same restaurant? Can we go to the same movie theater?’ Now it’s, ‘Are you getting a quality education?’ ”

Thompson, a longtime community activist, said it was time to move on. “I have served long enough and accomplished a lot,” Thompson said.

“Darryl is smart and energetic. I feel comfortable leaving, knowing the person taking over is someone who wants the job, someone who is not being forced to carry the torch that I have lit.”

Errick Allen not guilty … Water rates rise … Woman boxer back in the ring Credit: Newsday

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Errick Allen not guilty … Water rates rise … Woman boxer back in the ring Credit: Newsday

NYPD officer's wake today ... Mets' home opener today ... Yanks win opener ... Feed Me: Wood-fired pizza

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