Ccc news summer 2017

SUMMER 2017

CROSS COUNTRY C U R R E N T S

Circle-Lets, Inc. A Message From Our National President!

Greetings Circle-Lets!

The main focus of the 2015-17 Executive Committee and Committee Chairs has been “Membership Enhancement.” We have endeavored to enhance our organization during this Administration. Our ultimate goal has been to assist in the overall growth and sustainability of our organization. We provided a Membership Enhancement Survey that was completed by all 21 chapters and recommendations were submitted and approved at the 2016 Business Meeting as follows: • Concerning Conclave guests, we changed male guest to spouse/ significant other (gender neutral).

• Caregivers may attend at specified Conclave events with CLs who require the assistance of a caregiver.

• ACL may invite her non-Circle-Let daughter and her spouse/significant other to one Conclave.

• Eliminated the one year wait period before CLs can petition their chapter for reinstatement due to their absence from Conclave for the 5th consecutive year.

• Increased maximum number of active members allowed per chapter from twenty (20) to twenty-five (25).

• Seven (7) revisions to align the Constitution and By-Laws with current responsibilities/procedures of the National Officers/Committee Chairs. *See the revised Constitution and By-Laws for details on each revision.

In addition, we have endeavored to enhance communications within our Circle, by utilizing our technology to periodically correspond with all Circle-Lets as we share information within our Circle. And, of course, our online Conclave registration is a big success and we will continue to enhance our website capabilities.

All of our efforts have been designed with Membership Enhancement in mind!

Speaking of “Membership Enhancement,” I look forward to seeing everyone at the 2017 Conclave in Roanoke, as we rekindle, refresh, and “enhance” friendships within our Circle!

Yours in the Circle, Yours in the Circle,

Greetings Circle-Lets from Wilhelmina, Cross Country Currents, Editor In this issue read exciting news: • National President’s Letter • Chapters’ News • Future Conclave Hosting Chapters/Dates

• San Francisco Bay Area Celebrates 50 Years • In Memorium • Tribute to President Kim Watts

Cross Country Currents Chapter Representatives, Please send your articles and pictures to: Circle-Let Wilhelmina Jackson (Philadelphia Chapter) WILHEL4@aol.com Deadline for the Winter Conclave issue is January 8, 2018

Co-Founders: Doris Bell-Bass Daniels Detroit

CHAPTER NEWS

Vivenne Malone Mayes, Dallas EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE Kimberly Watts President Nashville Stephanie Browne Vice President Boston

Atlanta Telling You All the Scoop from Hot‘lanta

Linda Mack Treasurer Roanoke

By Circle-Let Sylvia Aggrey Bill Lucas Conference Room/Bill Lucas Way/Bill Lucas Apprenticeship Program The Atlanta Braves’ new Sun Trust Park houses a conference room named for Bill Lucas. Our own Circle-Let Rubye Lucas was the wife of Bill Lucas. Bill served as the first African-American to run the player-personnel department of a Major League Baseball club. The street, off Circle 75 Parkway, on which Braves players and executives will enter the stadium will be named Bill Lucas Way. And the Bill Lucas Apprenticeship program will be created to offer year-long apprentice positions in baseball operations to candidates of diverse backgrounds. Lucas spent more than 20 years in the Braves’ organization in a variety of roles, starting as a minor-league player in 1956, continuing as a member of the transition team that oversaw the franchise’s move from Milwaukee to Atlanta in 1966 and culminating with his appointment as vice president of player personnel effectively general manager in 1976. What an honor!

Diversity and Inclusion Stand Out On April 30, 2017, the Northwest Georgia Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women presented Circle-Let Audrey Hines with the 2017 Woman of Impact Award in Education. She was in recognized for her incredible Diversity and Inclusion education and training initiatives. Kudos Audrey!

Michael & Pat Here – There and Everywhere As usual, Circle-Let Pat and her wonderful Circle-Mate Michael have been on the road again. December found them visiting Washington to experience the National Museum of African American History and Culture and spending time in New Haven Connecticut with family.

They celebrated Valentine’s Day in Las Vegas. It is always an exciting time in Sin City and we had time to visit friends who reside there. We continued our travels with short trips to New York and Connecticut to visit family again. In May, they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on a Baltic Sea Cruise on Royal Caribbean. They sailed out of Copenhagen and made stops in Stockholm, Tallin Estonia, St. Petersburg, Russia, and Helsinki Finland. This cruise was wonderful and relaxing! Michael and Pat took the time to love and appreciate each other. Later this summer they are attending more family reunions, visiting family in the Bahamas, attending the Delta Convention in Las Vegas Pat and Mike on the and more fun in Florida.

Baltic Cruise. continued on page 3

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Anita Bunkley Recording Secretary Houston-Galveston Gia Ramos Corresponding Secretary Los Angeles Valley Lori Duke Financial Secretary Washington, D.C Janice White Parliamentarian San Francisco Bay STANDING COMMITTEES Arnetta Hamilton Budget, Nashville Patsy Wheeler Historian & Archivist Dallas Yvonne Metoyer Robinson Constitution & By-Laws Website, Dallas Sheri Bradshaw Internal Revenue, Chicago Wilhelmina M. Jackson Cross Country Currents Philadelphia Yolanda Mason Henderson Website Chair, Nashville Greta Russell Nominating Chair, Columbus Jean Player Protocol Chair, St. Louis Jakki Allen Jewelry & Vendors, Columbus

Boston

When a Child is Born – So Then is a Grandparent Master Walker Cory Hamilton was born on January 16, 2017.

His proud parents of Tyler, Texas are Simone and Damon Hamilton. Baby Walker weighted six pounds and eight ounces and was 20 inches long! Grandmother, Fern Stallings is beaming with pride!

Little Miss Makayal Harmony Kemp is the newest granddaughter of Circle-Let Teresa and Circle – Mate Enoch Peters. Makayla is their third grandchild. Born on May 26, 2017, weighing 5lbs. 11.7 ounces and 19 inches. Parents Deirdre and Gamal Kemp are blessed and ecstatic about the birth of their first child!

More Honors for our Supplier Diversity Expert On February 20, 2017, Circle-Let Johnnie Booker was an award recipient at the 30th annual at Fort Valley State University’s scholarship luncheon. A Fort Valley native, Johnnie serves on the university’s Foundation board and received award for her loyal, devoted service and philanthropy and other contributions to the University.

Additionally, she was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Minority Business Hall of Fame and Museum ceremony held at Morgan State University on April 25, 2017. This prestigious honor was presented for her distinguished contributions to minority businesses development throughout her professional career as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity, Federal Home Loan Bank Board, Urban League, Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Director of the Office of Equal Opportunity, Vice President of the Resolution Trust Corporation, as well as her role as Global Director of Supplier Diversity Program at The Coca Cola Company. The Hall of Fame and Museum is located at the University of Washington, Seattle, WA and this was the first time that the ceremony was held at an HBCU. What amazing honors for an incredibly gifted executive!

Summer in Italy Jordyn Walston, the daughter of Circle-Let Sonya and Circle-Mate Gery Walston was one of 17 students selected to represent Spelman College in a Study Abroad program in Ferrara, Italy with CIEE (Council on International Educational Exchange). The CIEE study abroad program affords students the opportunity to earn college credit for their summer of academics and cultural immersion.

Over the course of Jordyn’s stay in Italy, she will take classes to learn the Italian language, explore the culture and history, and lastly, travel and discover the landscapes and architecture in Laspezia Beach, Venice, Florence and Rome. We are anxious to hear about Jordyn’s adventures!

By Circle-Let Lynn Bowman Stephanie Browne, Circle-Lets National Vice President and member of the Boston Chapter, was promoted to Vice President, Chief Diversity Officer for Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Massachusetts. Her responsibility includes all recruiting for the company and all diversity and inclusion programs.

Circle Let Gloria Respress-Churchwell and her family celebrated two graduations this year: Alexandria Churchwell graduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a major in Theatre and a minor in Economics. She works for Disney Imagineering with Live Entertainment as a production intern in Anaheim, California.

John Churchwell graduated from St. John’s Prep in Danvers, Ma and looks forward to attending Colorado College in the fall.

Circle Let Kim Ridley’s daughter Kali graduated from Brown and will be moving to San Francisco to work for Google.

Alison Bolden, the daughter of Circle-Let Tracey West and grand-daughter of Circle Let Judy West graduated from Emma Willard School and will be attending Loyola in Baltimore in the fall.

We are so proud of all of our graduates!

Finally, The Boston Chapter welcomed new member Donna Cramer. She serves as Managing Associate for Isaccson, Miller an executive search firm known for recruiting exceptional leaders for mission-driven organizations. Donna is also a devoted wife and mother, actively involved in the greater Boston community.

Conclave Dates for the Next 10 Years 2018 2019 2020 2021 2022 2023 2024 2025 2026 2027

Jordyn Walston, great granddaughter of the Late Dorothy Coleman

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New York Saint Louis Los Angeles Valley New Orleans Philadelphia Baton Rouge Columbus Hilton Head West Los Angeles Sarasota

Dallas

by Circle-Let Barbara Lord Watkins Dallas Continues to Share Love, Friendship and Fun Kudos to the Social Committee for planning and executing a wonderful year- end event for members and guests at the home of CL Yvonne and CM Marvin Robinson. The picnic was attended by many friends, new comers to Dallas and several very young children. Beginning at 3:00 PM, the gathering continued until much later as all were enjoying the food, company and the opportunity to have fun with each other. Members of the committee are: Circle-Lets Jennifer Clark, Chair; Sharon Clark, Joyce Dennis, Susan McElroy and Yvonne Robinson.

Our hats are off to these wonderful Circle-Lets.

Here are a few of the pictures that were taken at the event.

Circle-Mates and young grandson enjoying games and togetherness.

CHAPTER INSTALLS OFFICERS FOR 2017 The Dallas Chapter installed at its May meeting the officers for the next year. Our congratulations to all. We look forward to a fantastic year as the chapter has decided that our meetings will be very different moving forward. Do contact our president, CL Eddie Bernice Johnson, if you want to know how different.

Members: L to R seated: Circle Lets Patsy Anne Wheeler, Eleanor Conrad, Marguerite Williams. L to R standing: Circle-Lets Martha Bedford, Susan McElroy, Jimmie Prince, Barbara Watkins, Eddie Bernice Johnson, Jennifer Clark, Stephalene Hunter, Sharon Clark, Yvonne Robinson.

Not pictured: Circle-Lets Jennifer Basped, Denise Bunkley, Joyce Dennis, Traci Evans, Deborah Farris, and Helene Jones.

OFFICERS: L to R: CL Barbara Watkins, Corresponding Secretary; CL Sharon Clark, Treasurer; CL Eddie Bernice Johnson, President; CL Yvonne Robinson, Secretary; CL Jennifer Clark, Financial Secretary.

Not pictured: CL Deborah Farris Vice President.

Circle Let Patsy Anne Wheeler, Circle-Let Helene and Circle Mate Phil Jones.

THREE CIRCLE-LETS AND CIRCLE-MATES CELEBRATE 60 PLUS YEARS TOGETHER. Can you believe it! We have three Circle-Lets and CircleMates who have celebrated 60 or more years together. CL Marguerite and CM Bernard will celebrate 65 years in December; CL Jimmie and CM Robert celebrated 60 years together in January; and CL Barbara and CM Myron celebrated their 60th anniversary in June. Time passes quickly when you are having fun.

Until the next time —-peace and love, CL Barbara Lord Watkins

Circle- Lets Joyce Dennis and Susan McElroy.

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Los Angeles Valley

Congresswoman Johnson received the 2017 Legislator Award for mental health reform Circle-Let Congresswoman Johnson (Dallas) received the 2017 Legislator Award from Mental Health America for the work she performed in fighting for fair solutions and resources to help those with mental illness.

By Circle-Lets Cosetta Moore and Gia Ramos Los Angeles Valley Member Profile Vivian Arterbery Birthday: June 21 Birth city: Houston, Texas Colleges: Howard University and USC Children: V. Elayne Arterbery, MD Circle-Let induction: 2001 E-mail: Vivian.arterbery@gmail.com Vocation / Retired: Rand Corporation (retired) Circle-Let Vivian attended Howard University for her Bachelor’s Degree and attended USC for her Masters in Library Science. She worked as a corporate secretary at the Rand Corporation before she retired and now spends her time enjoying herself in beautiful Brentwood, CA. In addition to Circle-Lets and other organizations, she is also involved in the oldest women’s club in Los Angeles, The Ebell Club, which was founded in 1894. Vivian works with the archives for the club and its historically landmarked buildings.

Vivian is very proud of her daughter, V. Elayne Arterbery, MD, one of the few African American radiation oncologists.

She practices in Detroit, Michigan and often travels to rural areas in the state to care for her patients. Her daughter also has an anti-aging skincare line at https://www.elaynearterbery.com/.

Los Angeles Valley Chapter News!

Circle-Let Harriet Rose is looking forward to representing the L.A. Valley chapter as our delegate at the 2017 Conclave in Roanoke, Virginia.

Evan Bowman, daughter of Circle-Let Chrystal Evans Bowman and granddaughter of Circle-Lets Dodye Evans and Carol Bowman and Circle Mate Bob Bowman, celebrated her very special 13th birthday with a tea party at the historic Culver hotel in Culver City, California.

Circle-Let Annette Williams spends her retirement time between her two homes in beautiful Encino, California and Ochorios, Jamaica.

Circle-Let Annice Wooden and her entire family went to Paris, France for her daughter’s graduation from American University. Gabrielle Wooden graduated with a Master’s of Arts degree in global communication.

As a tribute to her father, Gene Ramos, Circle-Let Gia Ramos along with her brother, sister-in-law, niece and nephew traveled to Washington, D.C. and New York city.

Gene was planning this trip for the family at the time of his passing. Their first stop was visiting the amazing National Museum of African American History and Culture in D.C. In New York, they saw the Broadway musical “Wicked” and visited Times Square Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola in New York and had Easter Brunch at Tavern on the Green in Central Park.

Houston

By Circle-Let Carmen Collins OLYMPIC FUN Circle-Let Carmen Collins was excited to meet Jackie Joyner-Kersee (pictured) and many U.S. and world athletes participating the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro, Brazil including Venus and Serena Williams, Michelle Carter-U.S. Gold Shot Put, David Boudia-U.S. Bronze Diver and Kerry Walsh Jennings-U.S. Bronze Beach Volleyball and Bela Karolyi-U.S. gymnastics coach.

Circle-Let Carmen with Jackie Joyner-Kersee

NEW ZEALAND BOUND In February Circle-Let Carmen Collins and Circle-Mate Jewel Hamrick traveled to Wellington, New Zealand where they celebrated Jewel’s birthday, golfed at Paraparaumu Golf Club and enjoyed New Zealand’s sights and beautiful scenery.

SAIL AWAY Royal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, the world’s largest ship, was a pleasurable September vacation for Circle-Let Carmen Collins, Circle-Mate Jewel Hamrick and her parents Clyde and Denise Hemphill.

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Metropolitan Hilton Head

ity Campaign” for Black History Month. One of the basketball team player’s wore Ed Martin’s name on the back of his game jersey.

By Circle-Let Bonnie Hawkins Greetings from the Metro Hilton Head Circle-Let chapter.

With our 2025 conclave always on our minds, the chapter is continuing to bring in members whose contributions will help us host the best event possible. The previous member installation last September (photo 1) brought four dynamic ladies into our group: Dr. Marcia Lewie-Thompson, Rosalind Hollis, Pamela Potts, and Jeannette Jones. The elegant installation luncheon ceremony, attended by the majority of members, was held at the Hampton Hall clubhouse in Bluffton. (Photo 2) The group photo of those attending the installation ceremony gives a glimpse of how lovely everyone looked in their Circle-Let colors.

Circle-Let Arnetta Hamilton and CircleMate Eddie Hamilton in Playa Del Carmen.

A family Celebration for their cousin Mookie Betts in January.

Circle-Let Arnetta and Family Enjoy a Boston Red Sox’s Game.

Left to right: Dr. Marcia Thompson, Rosalind Hollis, Pamela Potts, and Jeanette Jones.

Circle-Let Arnetta Hamilton and Circle-Mate Hamilton celebrating their youngest son’s high school graduation in Nashville, TN. He will be attending Howard University in August.

2016 Intallation of new members.

Nashville

By Circle-Let Kimberly Watts In February, Circle-Let Ruth Martin participated in the celebration honoring her deceased husband, Coach Ed Martin of Vanderbilt University at the University Club in Nashville, Tennessee. He was named as one of the Legendary Figures as part of Nike’s “EqualCircle-Let Ruth Martin

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New York

Philadelphia

By Circle-Let Beverly Granger

By Circle-Lets Deborah M. James and Nancy Jean Sewell

The arrival of Summer has lifted everyone’s spirits after a cold and rainy Spring.

We are enjoying hearing about the activities and accomplishments of our family: Margaret and David Miles were thrilled to travel to California with extended family members to attend daughter Ashley’s graduation on June 17th from the Stanford University Graduate School of Business with her M.B.A. She will be working at The Clorox Company as an Associate Marketing Manager and will continue to pursue her ultimate goal of starting her own makeup and skincare company.

Denise and Dennis Walcott have welcomed a new grandchild to the family. Ella Lewis was born on Friday, June 16 and the whole family is thrilled.

Racquel and Walter Oden threw a fabulous Sweet Sixteen Party for daughter Ashley at Last Rites Gallery in NewYork City. Walter was a proud papa with a huge smile as he shared a dance with her. Ashley is going into her junior year at Lawrenceville Academy and has been chosen to participate in a writing program at Brown University this summer. Prior to going to Brown, she is traveling to Paris for a French Immersion program where she will be living with a French family and attending classes daily.

Gay Bullock was excited to be at Circle-mate Mel Douglass’ graduation from Harvard University where he was awarded a Ph.D. in Anthropology and Archaeology. His thesis, a study of his family history from 1647-2017 was nominated for a best thesis prize. This is his 7th advanced degree.

Greetings to our Cicle-Let sisters near and far.

News from proud grandmothers about their grandchildren!!

Trichelle Gatlin, granddaughter of Circle-Let Regina Meacham-Devero made the Dean’s list in her first year at Johnson & Wales University. Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh has three grandchildren to acknowledge. Granddaughter Julianna, won first prize in physics at the Pennsylvania State Junior Science Fair. Granddaughter Sierra, spent her 10th grade in immersion year in China. Grandson Will, a classical vocalist, is gathering experience in the world of opera while living in Berlin.

To Circle-Let Regina Meacham-Devero, we extend heartfelt condolences on the passing of her mother, Sylvia Jean Meacham.

Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh, a member of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society and highly awarded exhibiter at the Philadelphia Flower Show, is exhibiting this year in the World Association of Floral Arrangers (WAFA) in Barbados.

Kudos to Circle-Lets Leslie Cousin-Mond and Deborah James on arranging a relaxing event at The Inn at Mendenhall for our annual Spring members’ luncheon. The event marked a meeting hiatus until the fall and provided a platform for us to toast summer plans while we conversed over great food.

In the last issue of Cross Country Currents, we shared service highlights and spoke of the love we have for Circle-Let Mary “Bunny” Hughes. We’ve since found out that Bunny’s plans to move from our area are solidifying. She’s fortunate to have two daughters anxious to have her live with them. She just has to choose between East Coast or West Coast! But in that, she will leave our chapter. We can but say, our hearts are heavy. During our May meeting, graciously hosted by Circle-Let Phoebe Haddon, we honored Bunny by sharing memories, well wishes and prayers for her journey and the changes it brings. Circle-Let Willadine Bain shared memories of Bunny extending back to their days together at Camp Atwater. Bunny told us of hearing about Circle-Lets through friends that were already members. She quietly coveted an invitation to join. It’s said blessings come when most needed. This, she said, was true of the chapter’s offer of membership to her. It came at a challenging time in her life and she welcomed and used it as a lifeline. Her gentility, strength, devotion, experience, wisdom and grace will truly be missed. Prayerfully she will be close enough to another chapter to join with them. Bunny carries knowledge from a chapter that is over a half century old! To wish her well, we presented her with a photobook of Philadelphia Circle-Let memories and a throw pillow imprinted with a chapter group picture, all of us smiling together. Bunny, although distance will take you from Philadelphia, we celebrate you and all that you’ve meant to us!!!

Circle-Lets on the move: Kerri Willoughby Jackson and Racquel Oden just returned from a Boule event in London with mates Bernie and Walter. Kerri and Bernie spent time on Paris prior to arriving in London.

Denise and Dennis Walcott are celebrating their 40th Anniversary with a trip to Paris and London in the fall. Denise is also going on a pilgrimage to Scotland and Northern England with her church, St. Albans the Martyr Episcopal Church in June.

Betty and Bryan Pearsall are heading to Los Angeles to catch a flight to Tahiti where they will board the Paul Gaugin cruise ship for a 10 day journey to Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Moorea, and Papeete. accompanied by their 12 year old granddaughter Gwen.

After the cruise, they will spend a few days in Los Angeles before taking Gwen home to Seattle. In May, Betty went to Phoenix for her grandson Milo’s 8th birthday party. The grandchildren keep her very busy.

Circle-Mate Hamil Willoughby is once again heading to Madagascar with a group of students to provide dental care.

Beverly Granger was in Henderson, Nevada for a Guardsman weekend. Boston CircleLet Lynn and Kevin Bowman were wonderful hosts. From there, it was off to Philadelphia for a family for a family reunion.

All of the chapter members are busy planning an exciting Conclave for 2018. We hope to see you here in New York.

Circle Sisters!!! Next stop, the Roanoke Conclave!!!

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Pittsburgh

Netherlands with a group organized by the Metropolitan Museum of Art. The Pittsburgh Chapter is mourning the loss of one of our charter members, Circle-Let Jane Elizabeth Young Freeland, who was born in Athens, Georgia on July 25, 1925 and departed this life March 28, 2017.

Jane graduated from high school when she was only 13 and left Athens to attend Wilberforce University. In 1943, she graduated at age 17 with a Circle-Let Jane Young Freeland Bachelor of Science in commerce. Two years later, she moved to Baltimore, Maryland and went to work for the Afro American newspaper. It was in Baltimore in 1945 that she met the love of her life, Wendell Grimkie Freeland, whom she married on Christmas Eve in 1946. Jane and Wendell shared 67 years of marriage before his passing in 2014. Jane worked as a controller for the Mike Feinberg Company for 50 years. She served as the corporation’s secretary/treasurer and helped the company grow into a Pittsburgh legend. Jane loved to swim, play bridge and spend time gardening and grilling. She leaves to mourn and cherish her memory, two loving children, Michael Wendell and Lisa Badger; beloved grandchildren, Kristen and Michael; great-grandson, Michael; and a host of others whose lives she touched; especially included among them, her sisters in the Circle-Lets.

By Circle-Let Gloria M. Walton The Springers, former National President Circle-Let Cecile and Mate Eric, have much great news to share. Right after Thanksgiving in 2016, they were presented with a healthy great-grand-daughter, Kristen. She is gorgeous, feisty and growing fast. Grandchildren, Nia and James Norris, are the proud parents. They are all so thankful!!

Eric’s mother, Maida Springer Kemp, was an American labor organizer who worked extensively in Africa for the AFL-CIO. According to the Labor’s International website, she was the first African-American woman to represent the United States labor movement abroad. She came to be known as “Mama Maida” during the 1950s when she achieved recognition by serving as a liaison between U.S. labor and the labor movement in Africa. Springer-Kemp served from 1960 to 1966 as an international representative for the AFL-CIO’s International Affairs Department. In this position she provided technical assistance, advised emerging labor movements, and helped to set up training centers for garment workers in Kenya and motor drivers in Nigeria.

She brought health and educational support to these and other developing African nations. Mrs. Springer Kemp passed in 2005. Eric was present on May 18, 2017 at the United Auto Workers GM Center for Human Resources in Detroit to witness her induction into Labor’s International Hall of Fame.

The University of Pittsburgh African American Alumni Council of the Pitt Alumni Association is recognizing CircleLet Cecile Springer as one of the Distinguished Alumna during an Induction Ceremony on June 17, 2017. This is a welldeserved accolade for Cecile.

Circle-Let Della Hale flew to Dallas, Texas in May to attend Maida Springer Kemp the graduation ceremony of her granddaughter, Danielle Miller, at Texas Woman’s University. While in Dallas, Della was treated to a Mother’s Day Celebration as well. Her family members, including daughter Maria Miller of Miami Beach, Florida treated Della royally!!

Circle-Let Karen Farmer White and twelve family members traveled to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. They reminisced about previous gatherings in various locations as they relaxed in the sun, learned historical information about the area while sightseeing and dined on local cuisine.

Other exciting news from Karen is that her internationally acclaimed jazz musician son-in-law, Sean Jones, will be conducting a four week youth program in jazz appreciation at Carnegie Music Hall in New York this summer. He continually promotes jazz excellence in youth.

Circle-Let Nancy Washington continued to expand her extensive interest in art as she toured both Holland and the

Sarasota-Bradenton

By Circle-Let Shirley Miller

Circle-Let Shirley Miller and husband Circle-Mate Dr. Lawrence Miller’s oldest daughter, Dr. Amena Anderson, received her doctorate degree in Education from West Virginia University.

Circle-Let Chapter President, Dr. M. Vicki Wacksman and husband Circle-Mate Dr. Shelly Wacksman welcomed their first great granddaughter . . .

Princess Sophia Puryear!

Proud parents are Mr & Mrs Bretty and Brieana Puryear!

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San Francisco Bay Area 50 Fabulous Years & Counting didn’t stop us partying to wee hours of the morning. Our chapter has 3 charter members daughters, Dawn Neblett Cross (Treasurer), Kim Lucas Benton (President), Courtney Parker Jones. We also have the daughter-in-law of Kathy Saddler, Christina Saddler.

We are very proud of the fact that over the past fifty years our chapter has had two national presidents: Kathy Saddler and Jan White. We have hosted three national conclaves 1976, 1994, 2013. Over the years, we have shared much loss, sadness and joy. Also, we have had the support of our Circle-Mates, who enjoy our social events and conclaves as much as we do.

As a chapter, we treasure the journey shared over the past half century and feel confident that our future promises more years of fellowship, friendship and camaraderie.

Submitted by Circle-Let Valarie Kelly The San Francisco Bay Area Chapter celebrated 50 years of special and loving friendships. It was started by invitation of Mabel Wilkes to 15 young ladies to form an interest group in San Francisco. The group included: Carol Bowman, Marquenta Neblett, Cerella Lucas, Miriam Parker, Odetta Broussard, Mattie Geathers, Mary Alice Handy, Annetta Darke, Kathy Saddler, Mabel Wilkes, Betty Brandon.

On April 1, 1967, the group was inducted into the national chapter of Circle-Lets under the sponsorship of the Los Angles Valley chapter. Also, present at the induction was one of the Circle-Let founders, Vivienne Malone Mayes from Dallas, Texas. Circle-Lets is based on camaraderie and friendships. Most of the charter members had young children so many of our activities were family oriented but that

Circle-Lets’ Sisters from across the country say, Congratulations, to the San Francisco Bay Area Circle-Lets on 50 Years in the Circle.

San Francisco Bay was the 15th chapter to join the Circle.

Circle-Lets and Circle Mates

SF Bay 50th Anniversary Cake

San Francisco 50 9

San Francisco Bay Area

In April, the chapter celebrated the lives and music of Prince and David Bowie at an event called Evolutionaries.

ShadowboxLive was transformed into a live concert hall where Prince and David Bowie once again took to the stage. All of their hits were interwoven with dance and visual art. For the occasion the Columbus chapter commissioned Circle-Mate John Stephens, owner/designer of PopzTopz, to create a special chapeau (in Circle-Let Flame of course) to wear for the evening. Needless to say, we looked fabulous while we dined, sang, danced and fellowshipped as only Circle-lets can.

Circle-Let Ingrid and CircleMate Harvey Brownlee started the transition to move their primary residence to Orlando, Florida. They will, however, keep a residence in Columbus.

This year they spent their second winter in Orlando as snow birds.

Circle-Let Felicia and CircleMate Marvin Clayton celebrated the graduation of their daughter, Ari, from The Ohio State University with a B.S in Education. She will start her teaching career as a K-1 teacher at KIPP Columbus.

Circle-Let Jakki and CircleMate Jerry Allen are true empty nesters now. Their son, Joa, moved back to New York City to continue his career in Marketing Research.

Circle-Let Kelley and CircleMate Eric Gray celebrated the graduation of their daughter, Erica, from Capital University with a B.A. in Mathematics on May 6th.

Circle-Let Kelley Gray lost her beloved father, George Milton Neal, on December 1, 2016. Mr. Neal was an American Hero having joined the Navy at age 17, where he served 5 1/2 years and was a POW 2 years in the Korean War. Among other honors George received, He was awarded The Navy Cross for risking his life to save Captain Wilkins.

After returning from the military, George graduated from Springfield South High School.

By Circle-Lets Valarie Kelly Spot Light on Circle-Let Joan Neblett For Circle-Let Joan Neblett, these are indeed exciting times! After spending her September birthday in Venice, she then spent Christmas and New Years cruising the beautiful waters New Zealand and Australia. There is nothing as magical as being in Sydney Harbor amid the fantastic fireworks welcoming 2017.

More recently, Joan’s granddaughter, Erin Eckstein received her Master’s Degree in Education from Stanford University. Erin will be teaching in Brooklyn, New York.

Truly a proud moment for their entire family.

Take a peek at what fun looks like!

Venice September 2016

Pompeii September 2016

Sydney Harbor December 2016

Dubrovnik September 2016

Circle-Lets at Evolutionaries with our “PopzTopz” on.

Stanford Graduation 2017

Columbus

By Circle-Let Felicia Clayton The Columbus chapter has been living the Circle-Let life to its fullest. In September the chapter inducted two new members, Aisha Allen and Ellen Johnson. Their sponsors were Circle-let Shelly Lawler (Aisha) and Circle-Let Kelley Gray. Both ladies have fully embraced their membership and we have enjoyed having them as our new friends.

In February, Circle-Let Kelley Gray retired from LBrands after 27 years.

New Circle-Let members Aisha and Ellen (in the middle) with sponsors (l-r) Kelly Gray, Shelly Lawler, Charlowe Tyree.

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George leaves to cherish in his memory his devoted and loving wife Rosemary, brother-in-law Dr. James Mendola, son Van Neal, daughter Kelley (Eric) Gray, step sons Rich (Vicki) Egan, and Danny (Jamie) Egan.

Grandchildren Monty, Neal, Erica, Kierra, Sierra, Keenan and McKenna. As well as many devoted nephews, nieces, family and friends.

On June 13, 2017, George Milton Neal was laid to rest in full military honor at Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, VA. As with life itself, there have been ups and downs with individual members but overall we have been blessed to call this year a good one.

IN MEMORIAM

New Jersey

By Circle-Let Bea Jones

We remember the following Circle-Lets Sister and Circle-Lets Mates with love:

Greetings from the New Jersey Chapter The New Jersey Circle-Lets have experienced a year filled with celebration, achievement and friendship.

Circle-Let Karen Andrade-Mims is Executive Director of UIH Family Partners, formerly Union Industrial Home for Children, New Jersey’s oldest organization dedicated to serving children and families. Established in 1859 in Trenton, NJ, UIH Family Partners has honored fathers for the past twelve (12) years on Father’s Day weekend at their annual event called Platinum Dads. NJ Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman was on hand to celebrate the 2017 Platinum Dads Honorees.

Circle-Let Sister Janet Elizabeth Freeland (Pittsburgh) March 28, 2017 Circle-Let Sister Mildred Lim Riley (Boston) April 13, 2017 Circle-Let Sister Jimmie Henderson Tucker (Dallas) November 19, 2016 Circle-Mate Noble Rollie Nolcox (Los Angeles Valley) May 23, 2017 Husband to Circle-Let Patricia Stephens Nolcox Circle-Mate Walter J. Barial (New Orleans) April 5, 2017 Husband to Circle-Let Sylvia F. Barial Father to Circle-Lets Lauren Barial and Monique Barial-Carey Circle-Mate Gene Ramos (Los Angeles Valley) February 7, 2017 Husband to the late Circle-Let Jackie Ramos and Father to Circle-Let Gia Ramos

NJ Congresswoman Bonnie Watson Coleman and Circle-Let Karen Andrade-Mims standing with Platinum Dads.

On Sunday, June 4, 2017 New Jersey Circe-Lets gathered for a delightful brunch at Metro North in Princeton, enjoying both an excellent dining experience and delightful conversation. Circle-Lets later attended an outstanding performance of “Intimate Apparel” at the McCarter Theater in Princeton. This unique production is an exquisitely-written historical romance from Pulitzer Prize winning playwright Lynn Nottage. The show is a deeply moving tale of one woman’s discovery of her own empowerment. All in attendance enjoyed the performance immensely.

Circle-Mate Francis “Frank” Minutello (New Jersey) October 26, 2016 Husband to Circle-Let Alice Chapman Minutello Our prayers and thoughts are with these Circle-Lets families and friends.

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Thanks to 48 Circle-Let President, Kimberly Watts, for her years of Circle-Lets Service C

ircle-Let Kim joined the Circle over 23 years ago, at the invitation of her friend Circle-Let Arnetta Hamilton (current National Budget Chair and Nashville Chapter, President). Arnetta is the daughter of Past National President, Ruth Martin (Nashville).

Since becoming a Circle-Let Kim has served in many roles such as Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Financial Secretary, Parliamentarian and Cross Country Currents Editor. Also, she has held leadership roles in her Nashville Chapter such as President during Nashville’s 2007 Conclave, Recording Secretary and currently she is the CCC Representative and Chapter Vice-President.

These years of dedication to Circle-Lets reflect what Kim says, “I love Circle-Lets.”

Kim served as National Vice-President under Circle-Let Greta Russell (47th Circle-Let President).

Greta says the following: “A passionate love for Circle-Lets has guided every decision, position, and task Kim has undertaken locally and nationally since she became a member. She has the compassion to drive our mission “to have friendship as its common denominator” while providing the strong leadership necessary to ensure the policies, procedures and protocol to facilitate a well structured and efficient organization. It has truly been my pleasure to work with such a dedicated leader”.

Current National Vice-President, Stephanie Browne says, “I have had the pleasure of working with Kim for four years. As her Vice President for two of those years I have watched her lead our organization with integrity, empathy and vision. Her 20 years of membership allows her to draw upon tenured knowledge to make and recommend sound decisions. I have been extremely lucky to learn from her during her presidency”.

Kim always has a warm smile and friendly manner.

Congratulations, Circle-Let Kim as you become a member of the amazing former Circle-Let Presidents.

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