Holidays Dayletter 2023

The Holidays, Incorporated

A National Treasure

D A Y L E T T E R Serving the Community and Promoting the Game of Bridge

nd Annual Holidays Concourse The Homecoming

WINSTON-SALEM MARRIOTT

425 North Cherry Street | Winston-Salem, NC August 29 - September 1, 2023

The Holidays, Incorporated

Winston Salem Chapter

Welcome to The City of Arts and Innovation 2

The Holidays, Incorporated The State of North Carolina, June 23, 1965

August 31, 2023 Dear Holidays and Guests:

Margaret Nixon McCrary National President Patrice Hinnant National Vice President Deborah Knight-Kerr National Recording Secretary Cheryl Lott Sledge National Corresponding Secretary Cheryl Hogg Seay National Treasurer Ruby Brooks National Financial Secretary Lydia L. Alexander National Historian Rosa H. Edwards National Parliamentarian Rene Beal National Sergeant at Arms Velma Watts Keeper of the Charm

On behalf of The Holidays, Incorporated, I welcome you to The Homecoming Concourse in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, the City of Arts and Innovation. You will enjoy the vibrant visual and performing arts community, where there are many things to do and places to explore. It is the home of countless performing arts venues and significant events, including the Stevens Center, where UNCSA students perform, along with the Winston-Salem Symphony and Piedmont Opera. Other attractions are the Ramkat, River Run International Film Festival, National Black Theatre Festival, Gear & Guitars Fest, a tour of Old Salem, shopping in the Arts District, and more.

We are especially elated to celebrate the 52nd Annual Concourse with our founding chapter, Winston-Salem, where four friends founded this one-of-a-kind bridge organization. In 1961 Bessie Allen, Florence Creque, Demerice Erwin, and Bernice Murrell founded The Holidays Bridge Club to promote the playing of bridge, strengthen family ties through recreational activities for members and their families, and promote programs of a civic, social, and cultural nature. While the United Negro College Fund is our major charity, we commend chapters for providing additional service in their community.

On June 23, 1965, in North Carolina, the Holidays Bridge Club became a legal corporation with the addition of the Charlotte Chapter and was named The Holidays, Incorporated. In 1967, the Greensboro Chapter joined the group, and the first Concourse was held at the suggestion of Holiday Marion Williams. We honor Holidays Marion Williams and Ruth Oliver, charter members of the founding chapter, Winston-Salem, for paving the way for the inception and viability of The Holidays, Incorporated. We commend Concourse Co-Chairs Toy Beaty and Janet Wheeler, Chapter President Renita Linville, and the entire Winston-Salem Chapter for their diligence and commitment as The Homecoming hosts.

Finally, we are elated that the History of The Holidays, Incorporated, will be unveiled at the UNCF Luncheon. We thank the History Book Committee members for their hard work and dedication in making this possible. A copy of the book will be placed in the National Archives for Black Women’s History a few miles from Washington, DC, in Landover, Maryland, with the other treasured holdings of our beloved organization.

We look forward to seeing you at The Homecoming. May God bless you and your families.

With warm regards,

Holiday Margaret Nixon McCrary National President The Holidays, Incorporated

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Holiday Chapter Highlights Welcome from the National President.................................................................p.3 Atlanta, GA …………………….……...........................................................….p. 5 Baltimore, MD …………………….........................................................……..p. 6 Baltimore County, MD...........................................................................................p. 8 Birmingham, AL ……................……..............................................……………p. 10 Boston, MA …………………...............................................…………………..p. 13 Charlotte, NC …………………………......................................................….p.15 Chesapeake,VA.....................................................................................................p.17 Dallas, TX ……………………………...................................................………p. 20 East Cobb County, GA...........................................................................................p.23 Fayetteville, NC ………………………..........................................................….p.24 Greensboro, NC…………………………......................................................…p. 26 Metro Nashville, TN……………………............................................................p. 29 Miami, FL…………………………………...................................................….p. 30 Montgomery County, MD…………............................................................…..p. 33 New Orleans, LA…………………………….....................................................p. 36 Raleigh, NC………………………………….....................................................p. 38 Sarasota, FL ………………………………….....................................................p. 40 Tidewater, VA………………………………......................................................p. 42 Virginia Beach, VA ………………………..........................................................p. 44 Winston-Salem, NC ……………………............................................................p. 46 Top Scorers (list by chapter)……….......................................................................p. 44 History....................................................................................................................p. 45 Concourse Schedule .......….………....................................................................p. 46 Credits....................................................................................................................p. 47 2023 Host Hotel….………..........................................................Inside Front Cover Save The Date ..........................................................................................Back Cover

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ATLANTA CHAPTER

Atlanta Chapter

Holiday Carol Phelps is happy to announce that Everyday Aminah Phelps, MD, completed residency at Louisiana State University in June 2023 and is now Board Certified- Family Medicine. Aminah plans to join a practice in Georgia.

Holiday Sandra El-Amin shares that Someday Sultan Ziyad has completed his freshman year at Georgia State University and is majoring in Civil Engineering. Everyday Sultan was selected and participated in a 4-week experience in South Africa and Namibia.

Holiday Margaret Jacobs reports that her 2022 birthday celebration was one of the happiest days of her life. She celebrated “One Hundred Revolutions Around the Sun” with family and friends from the many segments of her life, including, family who came from far away cities; her Radcliff Presbyterian Church groups (Volunteer Service Guild, Stewardship Committee, and The Virgo Group); and colleagues from her career as a teacher and school principal. This year Margaret looks forward to celebrating her 101st birthday in August.

Labor Day R. Gary Spencer last year closed his law practice after 25 years to take a position as Senior Counsel with the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People Legal and Educational Defense Fund (LDF).

Atlanta Chapter President Holiday Betty Neal in 2011 was one of three founders of Reaching Our Sisters Everywhere (ROSE)™, which promotes and supports breastfeeding mothers and babies. ROSE ecstatically hosted its 12th annual breastfeeding and equity summit this year in Tulsa, OK, on Juneteenth weekend. The event was successful with great speakers and attendance.

Holiday Leah Creque Ph.D., Associate Provost at Morehouse College with Candle in the Dark Gala Presenters whom she mentored and coached to perfection.

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BALTIMORE CHAPTER

54th Annual Charter Day Celebration, March 5 The Baltimore Holidays celebrated their Annual Charter Day at the Forum in Baltimore Md. Over eighty friends and family came to join in the festive activities. The day began with church worship at Pleasant Hill United Methodist Church in Owings Mills. The evening ended with a delicious meal and dancing.

Seated, Brenda Baker, Angela Matthews, Zenobia Thomas, Jean Dennis. Back row, Cynthia Jefferson, Deborah Knight-Kerr, Sharon Wiggs, Maxine Turnipseed, Deborah Bailey-Taylor; Missing, Mary Radcliffe.

Induction

We are delighted to report that the highlight of our season is the induction of two new members, Cynthia Jefferson and Mary Radcliffe.

Pictured Left:(Inductees in white) Cynthia Jefferson and Mary Radcliffe; (Sponsors in black) Deborah Knight-Kerr and Zenobia Thomas.

Induction Ceremony February 2023

Holiday Cynthia Jefferson is a 24-year retiree of Baltimore City Mayor's Office of Employment Development. She also served 20 years in administration at Westinghouse Electric where she met and married her late husband, Ronald Jefferson.

Since retirement, she opened a travel business, (C&J Travel). Cynthia enjoys singing, bowling and her newest hobby, learning the game of bridge.

Holiday Mary Radcliffe is retired after thirty-eight years as an educator in the Baltimore City Public Schools System. She is a widow with one son and two grandsons. She is an avid reader, a lifetime learner, and a collector of "tea pots". She currently serves on the Board of Directors of the Alumni Association of Frederick Douglass High School and is the President of the Julian Branch of ASALH (The Association for the Study of African American Life and History). She enjoys music of all genres and theater. The matriarch of her extended family, she believes that her role is that of "torch bearer", keeping the family legacies and traditions alive.

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Reflections from Holiday Angela Matthews

Angela Matthews 2022 Inductee

It is hard to believe that one year has passed since I was inducted into the Baltimore Holidays. It seems that I have known these lovely ladies for much longer than I have. When I was asked if I would like to join, I hardly knew anything about bridge or any other card game. I persevered and with the help of all the members, I learned and am still learning the art of bridge playing.

Since last year, I have experienced births, illness and the loss of family and friends dear to me. I also attended my first conclave and am looking forward to the second this summer. I have hosted several meetings, served on several committees, including a very successful dinner dance. I am overjoyed to be a member of this organization and look forward to many years of involvement with the Baltimore Holidays.

High Scorer Baltimore Holidays is pleased to announce that Holiday Deborah Knight-Kerr is our 2022 high scorer!

In Loving Memory

Goldie Queen Wood

When the Baltimore Holidays loses one of our bridge players, it is a big loss. When we lose one who has been part of the community for over half a century...People wish to express their remembrances. The Baltimore Holidays pays tribute to Goldie Queen Wood, a member since 1966, who departed this life November 22, 2022. Goldie was a brilliant bridge player who never missed a teachable moment. She was kind, encouraging and instructive to newer members. Goldie was always recognized as a positive leader and productive organizer. She held every office in the chapter and at the time of her passing, served as treasurer. We will truly miss her.

Promotion Everyday, Erica J. Bailey, J.D. has been named Chief Hearings Officer for the Maryland Insurance Administration. Erica is daughter-in-law to Holiday Deborah Bailey-Taylor.

Erica J.Bailey, J.D.

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BALTIMORE COUNTY CHAPTER

On February 15, 2022, we received our official letter of acceptance as a prospective chapter of the Holidays, Incorporated. At the 51st Concourse we officially became a Chapter of the Holidays, Incorporated.

Our first social activity (above), we hosted a card party get acquainted party for our sponsors, the Baltimore City Holidays.

On May 22, 2023, Drifter Rosemary "Duchess" Atkinson departed from Dulles Airport on Emirates Airlines for a 14-hour flight to Dubai. Duchess explained, “This was my ‘Sex in the City 2’ dream trip. I did all the tourist things, as well as some things with friends who live in Dubai.” Dubai is a city with lots to see. The hotel was next to the world’s largest mall (1,250 stores), the largest mosque, aquarium, and the world’s tallest building. And yes, Duchess rode on a camel and drove an ATV across the sand dunes. Duchess, and her friend, Lydia, had great fun shopping at the 11 Souks (an Arab market-place).

“We didn’t buy much because gold is very expensive there, but oh, what fun we had visiting the different shops,” Duchess exclaimed. “For six glorious days, I truly enjoyed myself!” Duchess plans to go back to Dubai in January 2024.

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Holiday Aldonna Wylie was the Mother's Day Breakfast keynote speaker at the Timothy Baptist Church in Baltimore. She highlighted several mothers in the Bible who endured hardships but were able to raise children who performed great deeds. She emphasized the power of a mother, and that God created every child with the divine potential to prosper in life. Her Everyday & Someday spent Father's Day in Jamaica.

Holiday Gail Leach became the President of the Ditto bridge club in Baltimore County. Her neice moved from Philadelphia to Baltimore. She secured a position as a dental surgeon and purchased ther first home in Towson, Maryland. We are very proud of her.

Holiday Vivian Harper her Everyday son became engaged to a lovely young lady. She joined the board of the Ditto bridge club in Randalstown.

Holiday Deborah Hawkins is the Director of St. James Academy Summer Program for the 5th year. The program gives inner city students a free fun filled summer which includes reinforcing academics, field trips, arts& crafts and on-site entertainment.

Her Someday grandson, honor roll student Dillion Hawkins received the "Avid Reader Award". Also, he was recognized for reading to the kindergarten class during their story time.

Holiday Deborah Courtney says her church family requests her participation in the vestry community, she will be connecting to locate business, community groups, and churches to bring resources to the community. Her Everyday son retired from the Florida Atlantic University police department.

Holiday Stephanie Stevenson This year has been exciting and joyful. I committed to water aerobics 5 times a week and it's my happy place. I also got to attend 2 plays on Broadway and live concerts, which are 2 of my favorite pastimes. I thank God for allowing me to share wonderful moments celebrating special events such as graduations, birthdays and the birth of a new baby girl with family and friends.

Holiday Yvonne West is our newest member. She was inducted in 2022. Proud Grandma to Someday Brooke Milligan (granddaughter) who graduated from Temple University. Yvonne also had a fun year of traveling to Aruba, Alaska, Puerto Rico, Nassau, Punta Cana, Italy, C Rico, Nassau, Punta Cana, Italy, Charleton, and Curacao.

Holiday Sara Smalley (Right) The Baltimore County Holidays celebrated Juneteenth on Monday, June 19th with the Baltimore City Holidays family and friends.

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BIRMINGHAM CHAPTER Holiday Lydia Alexander is especially proud of her Somedays!

Holiday Lydia Alexander is proud of her granddaughter, Ashlee, a practicing attorney in Mobile, who has purchased a house. Her grandson, Judson (Theo), is an employee at Redstone Arsenal in Huntsville. He has purchased a house in the City of Athens, near Huntsville where they grew up. Neither is married and Holiday Lydia is not rushing them.

Holiday Lydia is enjoying playing bridge with the Holidays, ABA, and ACBL.

Holiday Margaret Gadd's Precious Arrival: Introducing Ryen Amelia, My beloved Great Granddaughter In a heartwarming event that will forever be cherished by my family and me, the world welcomed the arrival of my precious great granddaughter, Ryen Amelia, on February 28, 2023. With her entrance into our lives, a new chapter unfolded, filled with love, hope, and infinite possibilities. Proud parents Somedays Sydney and Kevin and grandparents Everydays Terry and Janell are overjoyed and grateful for this precious blessing. I am truly blessed to know Ryen and for her to know me.

Starting a new chapter...

Holiday Agnes Chappell retires! ◀After 46 years of service to our community, Holiday Agnes Chappell retired from the legal profession and as Circuit Court Judge for the Tenth Judicial Circuit of the State of Alabama on January 16, 2023. Members of the Birmingham Chapter of the Holidays, Incorporated attended her retirement party in support of this lifetime achievement. She was honored with resolutions from the City of Birmingham Office of the Mayor, City of Birmingham Office of City Council, Office of the Jefferson County Commission and the State of Alabama Legislature for her contributions to the community and to the legal profession. She was also inducted into the Alabama Lawyers Association Hall of Fame.

Everyday Rev. Dr. Thomas Beavers and The Star Church blessed the people of the City of Birmingham with a city-wide Easter Service and fair at the Birmingham CrossPlex where there were almost 4,000 persons in attendance. It was the first of its kind in our city.

Happy Holidays--Ship Ahoy! ◀Holidays Katrina Ross McClendon and Denise Blue Poe, along with Labor Days Gary McClendon and Michael Poe spent seven days on the high seas during the Christmas holidays. It was only the second time the amazing Norwegian Prima had sailed. Leaving Port Canaveral December 23, 2023, they sailed to Cozumel, Mexico; Georgetown, Cayman Islands; Ocho Rios, Jamaica and Great Stirrup Cay, Bahamas.

There was plenty of fun to be had by all!

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Soul Sisters' Annual Trip

◀Holidays Agnes Chappell, Denise Blue Poe and Katrina Ross McClendon traveled to Cancun, Mexico, August 21-24, 2022, along with Patricia Young and Rosemary Ashford to celebrate friendship! The annual event did not disappoint. They weathered the exceptionally hot climate.

Laughter, eating, relaxing and enjoying each other was the menu of the day. They can hardly wait until August 2023! Can you say "road trip?"

A star is born.... ◀Holiday Carys Queen is a rising senior at Ramsay IB High School in Birmingham, AL. For the past three track seasons, she has finished in the Top three for the 100 meter hurdles in the 5A division. This was an exceptional year, due to an ankle injury, Carys had given up on the State meet and was talking about next year. But GOD! She recovered from her injury, qualified at sectionals for the prelims, qualified in prelims for the finals. She finished in third place in the100 meter hurdles. Way to go Someday Carys!

Serving the Community....

◀Holiday Margie Curry vounteers with AARP Alabama. She provides useful information to seniors.

She also host a biweekly yoga program encouraging Mindful Movement opportunities for people to stay engaged from their homes. She was recently highlighted for her volunteerism.

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◀Holiday Margie Curry has spent time hosting her family, including her infant great great niece. Her greatest joy is being with her great great niece, Miss Alyvia Kamille and seeing her grow.

Holiday Katrina Ross McClendon--How Time Flies...

Holiday Katrina Ross McClendon celebrated being a Soror of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority for forty-two years with her line sisters,("THE INCOMPARABLE 18") at Fisk University's homecoming during the month of November. There is no other, like our sisterhood, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority. Holiday Katrina's mother is also a Soror, so the legacy continues!

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BOSTON CHAPTER

The Boston Chapter had a banner year this time around and we proudly introduce three new members:

Standing L to R: Anna Whilby, Ellen Pinderhughes, Dorothy Phillips, Addie Collins Johnson Seated L to R: Bessie Lyman, Judy West

L to R (rear) Donna Levy Wray, Lara Jordan James, guest - Carmen Fields Seated L to R: Addie Johnson, Carolyne Jordan, Dorothy Phillips, Bessie Lyman

New Holiday Dorothy Phillips recently completed 8 years of service on the Board of the American Chemical Society (ACS) and was selected by the Council of the ACS as one of two candidates to run for president-elect in 2024. . Her campaign will run through October 2023. In 2015, her alma mater, Vanderbilt University endowed the Dorothy J. Wingfield Phillips Chair in Chemistry, in her honor. This past April, she and Everyday Chrystal celebrated the latter’s 50th birthday in Paris.

New Holiday Anna Whilby recently retired from her position as senior account manager with a biotechnology company. There she consistently led her team to the annual awards stage. In addition to bridge, Holiday Anna loves to read, travel, do Zumba and continues to be active in her church. This year she has cruised through the Caribbean and visited Detroit and Las Vegas attending conferences with civic organizations. She has one son, Everyday Michael.

New Holiday Ellen Pinderhughes, is the Everyday of former Holiday Elaine Pinderhughes. Holiday Ellen currently serves as Professor, in the Department of Child Study and Human Development, Tufts University, Boston, MA. She is looking forward very much to transferring her bid whist skills into bridge skills.

Holiday Bessie Lyman’s eldest Someday, Darnell Lyman, recently retired from the Marines and relocated his family (wife and 4 kids) to Panama. They are loving it there having previously lived in Hawaii. Holiday Bessie loves to visit them and hopes to get to Panama soon. Her second Someday Maxx lives in North Dakota where his wife was born. They are both graduates of the Culinary Institute of America and Someday Maxx is an executive chef at local hotel. Everyday Andrea, a talented singer and actress, has been very busy this year working with the founder and director of the Roxbury International Film Festival, which honors the works of emerging and established filmmakers of color. Now in its 25th year, it is the largest festival in New England dedicated to this genre.

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Holiday Addie Collins Johnson traveled to Barbados for a week with friends. This trip was delayed for 3 years due to the Covid outbreak. Later she spent a week in Hawaii with Everyday Parker and Someday Quincy Ann and family. The family lives in Vancouver and Someday Quincy Ann just finished her first year at York University, Toronto. She completed the year with honors, received another academic scholarship and at 6’1”, she plays on the university’s Volley Ball Team.

Holiday Donna Levy Wray’s Somedays all had spectacular years. Someday April graduated with honors from high school and is off to Colby College in Maine. Someday Juliet graduated from 8th grade and will begin Arlington High School in the fall. Someday Kyla (rising high school junior) received the PRIDE Award from her high school. This award is based on attitude, achievement and academics as well as individual qualities and relationships built with other students and faculty. Someday Torin got his driver’s license, a hand-me-down car and has promised to be my chauffeur regardless of where I need to go. All Somedays, except Juliet (age 13) are fully employed for the summer.

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CHARLOTTE CHAPTER

Charlotte Chapter New Members

The Charlotte Chapter welcomed new members in 2023. New members Holidays' Monica Bullock, Arielle Owens, and Sheryl Tate were inducted in January 2023, and Victoria Johnson, in May, 2023. Holiday Monica Bullock is a 6th grade teacher at Charlotte Latin School. She enjoys traveling, reading, playing cards, and public speaking. Holiday Victoria Johnson is an administrator with American Airlines. She enjoys traveling, playing cards, and hosting with friends. Holiday Arielle Owens is a Senior Project Manager with BRK Marketing. She enjoys volunteering, graphic design, planning, and organizing. Holiday Sheryl Tate is a retired engineer. She enjoys reading, traveling, and lunching with friends. The induction celebration included lunch, bridge, and festivities.

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◀Birthday Celebration!

Charlotte Holiday Brenda Funny and her mother, Margaret Grant, celebrated the 82nd birthday of former Raleigh Chapter Holiday Shirley Rush. Other family and friends included Raleigh Chapter Holidays Ruth Payton and Melvadeen Battle.

Memorial Day Weekend in San Diego▶ Holiday Mary and Labor Day Tennyson Johnson attended the annual Girl Friends Conclave in San Diego, CA. They enjoyed spending time with friends and family from around the country!

◀Travel Highlights Holiday Sheryl Tate enjoyed a five-country trip to Southeast Asia in February. The countries visited were Indonesia, Singapore, Thailand, Cambodia, and Vietnam. A highlight was a visit to the temple of Angkor Wat in Siem Reap, Cambodia.

A Day At The Races▶ This past April, Holiday Cheryl and Labor Day George Sledge were invited to enjoy “A Day at the Races” sponsored by the Louisville Links. Their winnings were minimum, but their fun was maximum.

Not only did they make new friends, but LD George was able to reconnect with a fellow former military pilot whom he had not seen since the Vietnam War. What a great way to spend a weekend!

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CHESAPEAKE CHAPTER On January 2, 2023 – January 12, 2023, Holidays Lorraine Corry-Moore, Perdethia Lowery, Wanza Dodson and Pamela Shearin cruised from Fort Lauderdale, Fl to the Caribbean Island.

What an amazing way to start the New Year. They also sailed on the Yellow Submarine on the Island of St. John. The cruise was a retirement celebration for Holiday Pamela Shearin, who retired from the Virginia Beach School System after teaching for 44 years.

◀Holiday Lorraine Corry-Moore is the President of the Chesapeake Holidays.

She has served as President of Omicron Pi Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha in Chesapeake, VA. Currently serves as Chairman of the Risk Management Committee for her chapter. Holiday Corry-Moore also serves as the National Membership Chair for the Pinochle Bugs Socials and Civic Club. She is also the CEO of CorMor Logistics, LLC in Suffolk, VA.

◀Everyday, Anthony Hyman Jr is currently a middle school Math teacher at Gunston idle School in Arlington, VA and pursuing his PhD in Education-P-20 at Walden University, MN.

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◀ Holiday Perdethia, a realtor with Century 21 Top Producers, was honored by the Hampton Roads Realtors association as an outstanding realtor on the silver level. In her office she is one of the top realtors. She also works as a property manager and manages approximately 25 to 30 properties..

◀Everyday Joseph Lowery, Jr. who is retired from the FBI as a Special Agent, recently started a new career. He purchased a Pillar to Post Home Inspection Franchise. You can view his ads on Tik Tok. He finishes each with "I will inspect your home as if my mother is going to live there." Of course his mother is Holiday Perdethia Lowery. Someday Christopher Lowery is working with New York Life Insurance Company in the Commercial Real Estate Division as an intern in New York City. For those individuals who have stock in New York life, these divisions help your investment grow. Someday Attorney Amber Lowery has spent the last year serving as a clerk for a federal judge. She will be continuing her employment at Covington and Burling Law Firm in Washington, DC.

◀ Holiday Wanza Dodson continues to be super spoiled by her two handsome sons. Her pride abounds because they are both still dedicated husbands and fathers. Her daughters-in-law persist remaining more like daughters to her. Of course her greatest blessings are Ashley and Kevin II. The title of “GRANDMA-MA” remains her crowning achievement. Each of them excelled, as honor students, throughout their educational years. They are pursuing college degrees. “TO GOD BE THE GLORY”.

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◀Holiday Bertha Escoffery was appointed by the Regional Director of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority to the Mid-Atlantic Regional Scholarship Committee. Also, she served as her Chapter's (Iota Omega/Norfolk, VA) Educational Advancement Foundation Captain and received the "Diamond Award" for $3,000 contribution given by her Chapter.

◀Additionally, Holiday Bertha attended Area 11 Conference of Top Ladies of Distinction, along with Someday Paris Cooper who was elected Recording Secretary of Top Teens for Area 11.

◀Holiday Carmelita Williams recently attended her Golden Reunion at Buffalo University. She received her doctorate degree there in 1973. Someday Lakneeca Williams received her certification to be an Emergency Medical Transportation driver. Her son just graduated from Day Care and is now enrolled in kindergarten.

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DALLAS CHAPTER ◀Members of Dallas Holidays Seated: Rosalind Perry and Barbara Watkins 1st Row: Veronica Frazier, Alma Coleman, Celia Saylor, Van Childs and Janice Howard 2nd Row: Gail Williams, Shirley Ware, Bettie Scott, Carole Brown and Ann Williams

"Newbies" learning Bridge at the home of Holiday Bettie Scott

Dallas Holidays Coach New Players Sharing the fun and challenge of the game of Bridge with new players is a passion for members of Dallas Holidays.

At the end of the 22-23 playing season, Holidays Shirley Ware, Rosalind Perry, Van Childs and Bettie Scott hosted a group of five players, two of whom had never played Bridge before.

The session began with an overview of the game, point counting and rules of play. The "Newbies" also played a few rounds of Bridge as Holidays coached. A good time was had by all, and a spark was lit among the guests to continue to learn the game.

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Holiday Shirley's Someday Jaylee, on the way to becoming "Miss America" Holidays Van Childs, Rosalind , Shirley Vacationing Holiday Bettie Scott Celebrating with Someday Ro

Holiday Shirley Ware and her family had a busy year traveling around Texas to proudly support her beautiful Someday, Jaylee Astrid during her participation in statewide beauty pageants. Jaylee was a 2022 Lone Star Princess in the Miss Texas Pageant. She was also the first runner up in the 2022 Tiny Miss Mount Vernon Pageant, and was voted Miss Photogenic.

Holiday Shirley was very blessed to share a milestone birthday celebration at the Gaylord Texan Resort. Her sons, granddaughter and family from out of state all came to join in the fun

◀Holiday Ann Williams Holiday Ann was invited to the White House on March 21, 2023 as part of the festivities when President of the United States presented the National Medal of Arts Award to the International Association of Blacks in Dance. Ann is one of five founding members of the IABD, and is the founder of Dallas Black Dance Theatre.

Following in her mother's footsteps, Everyday Angelia Williams received Florida A&M University's Distinguished Alumni Award. Angelia is a 1992 Business Graduate of FAMU and serves as the treasurer of the FAMU National Alumni Association.

Holiday Ann Accepted the IABD Award at the White House - Holiday Ann with Someday Angelia Who Received the Distinguished Alumni Award at FAMU

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Holidays Travel Together Holidays Van Childs, Rosalind Perry and Sherry Ware vacationed together in Martha's Vineyard. Life can have so many wonderful, unexpected connections. The trip was organized by a mutual friend whom the Holidays did not realize they had in common. The group of vacationers consisted of ten women- some have been friends for decades, others were meeting for the very first time - all spent a week together in the same house. A lovely and great adventure! ◀Holiday Bettie Scott Holiday Bettie celebrated high school graduation with Ross Texada, the youngest of her three Somedays. Ross is an academic scholarship recipient, who will join his older brother, Rylan at the University of Oklahoma in the fall of 2023. Rylan, also a scholarship student, is a senior at OU. The oldest of the Somedays, Niels Lane, a scholarship athlete, will complete his college degree and play basketball after transferring to the University of Delaware.

Holiday Bettie has added Pickleball to her list of passions, fourth in line from her Faith, Family and Bridge. Look for her on the Pickleball Circuit. Just kidding!!! ◀Holiday Gail and Labor Day Joe are blessed and grateful that they, along with their Everydays and Somedays, are all healthy.

In June 2022, they took an extended family vacation to Las Vegas and the Grand Canyon.

Gail fulfilled her dream of walking on the skywalk which overlooks the Grand Canyon.

The Williams' annual family Mardi Gras celebration was held in Dallas. Everyone consumed meals of gumbo, King Cake, and other New Orleans culinary delights.

Holiday Gail Enjoying Family Vacation

Holiday Caole Brown Holiday Carole traveled to Cane River in Natchitoches, LA for a family get together with the Chevalier cousins. Activities included hosting a Saturday brunch on property willed to the family matriarch, Hazel B. Howard. Guests heard stories of lineage traced back to the 1800s, when an enslaved relative and her French owner had 10 children and lived in the area.

Time was spent shopping, touring the Melrose Plantation, going on a river boat tour, watching youth activities, consuming Louisiana cusine, and doning T0shirts labled "The River is My Happy Place:!

Someday Quevon Kinlow, and wife Cierra introduced the first great grandchild, Azalea Rea, who was born in December 2022.

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Holiday Janice Howard Holiday Janice is devoted to Bridge business on Wednesdays and Thursdays. The remainder of her time is spent attending activities of Somedays Gabrielle, Ayden and Isabella. She also volunteers on two school boards, and her service on several ministries at St. Paul Catholic Church keep her calendar full.

She accompanied Gabrielle on a 7-day girl's trip to France sightseeing at the Effel Tower, Arc de Triomphe, Versallies, the Louvre and Musse D'Orsay among other sites.

Janice traveled to Pennsylvania to attend Ayden's football game at Villanova University when they played Hampton Institute.

Isabella's volleyball team played games in several states in addition to Texas including: Kansas City, Missouri; Las Vegas, Nevada, and Spokane Washington. The team vied for the National Volleyball Association's tournament competitions in Chicago, Illinois.

EAST COBB COUNTY CHAPTER Since induction, The East Cobb County Chapter has been meeting twice a month. Members enjoy playing bridge and the camaraderie of the group. Candid photos show members playing bridge and a group photo of members attending a meeting.

To celebrate the holiday season, the chapter had a Christmas party at the home of Holiday Henrie Treadwell. Good food, good friends, and of course good bridge playing. Fun was had by all.

In February, 2023, the chapter inducted six women who were excited and enthusiastic about becoming members of the East Cobb County Chapter of the Holidays, Incorporated.

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FAYETTEVILLE CHAPTER

In September, 2022 the Fayetteville Holidays returned to Smith Recreation Center for a delightful season of bridge. We enthusiastically welcomed back two of our awesome members, Holiday Dr. Sophia B. Pierce and Holiday Doris Ann Shipman who recovered from illnesses during the previous year. With their return we like to believe we enjoyed a “Triple A Season of Bridge - Active, Awesome and Amazing”.

Holiday Ann-Marie Carrington proudly announced the engagement of her son Everyday Julian James Carrington with marriage to take place in November 2023.

Holiday Luverta Barnes expressed joy that her Someday Robert Barnes III graduated from Illinois State University and parents and grandparents are thankful he is now gainfully employed.

Holiday Andrea Hardiman is a proud grandmother. Her Someday Harper Virginia Hardiman was born March 2020 – the beginning of Covid. To God be the glory.

Holiday Winona Humphrey’s son, Everyday Tim Humphrey has received several recognitions as North Carolina’s Senior State Executive IBM – Research Triangle Park, Raleigh NC. Most notable was having been voted NC Tech Executive of the Year 2020 and selected for the Business NC’s Power List 2023: Information Technology.

When it comes to staying busy Holiday Lucille McManus certainly qualifies as she manages her real estate holdings yet still has time to make every chapter meeting and enjoy playing bridge. She is very active in the community and keeps members abreast of community events, times and dates – especially those affecting the lives of seniors.

Holiday Sophia Pierce reveled in her travel to Portugal where she relaxed and enjoyed the historicity of the country and an entertaining Jazz Festival. She was also given a Great Grandmother Shower celebrating the announcement of the pending birth of her first great grandchild.

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Holiday Doris Ann Shipman was honored by members and friends of the Fayetteville Branch of NAACP with an elegant surprise 85th birthday party.

Excitement flares as Holiday Clara Wilson tells about winning all seven tricks in a four spade bid while playing Duplicate Bridge. She said it’s the closest she has ever come to a grand slam. She also spent a hot week in San Antonio, Texas celebrating her son’s 70th birthday. She eagerly looks forward to the Concourse next month.

The family of Holiday Ira Wolfe had two Grand celebrations during the Spring of 2023. Firstly, on May 12-14 the family gathered at the Pyramid on the Banks of the Mississippi River in Memphis, Tennessee to celebrate Labor Day William Wolfe’s 75th birthday. The weekend began with a bowling and pizza outing. On Saturday evening, family and friends assembled for the Grand Party in the Ballroom and Patio of the Big Cypress Lodge. It began with Labor Day Wolfe’s three sons paying tribute to him and Holiday Ira Wolfe, sisters in law and Everyday Carrie Wolfe singing a soul-stirring rendition of “I Don’t Feel Noways Tired.”

On June 9, the family gathered in Washington, DC for the promotion of Everyday Carrie A. S. Wolfe, US Coast Guard, who was promoted from Commander to Captain. Captain Wolfe is the seventh African-American female to achieve this rank in the US Coast Guard. “To God Be the Glory for the Things He has Done.”

Holiday Linda Zachary enjoyed many traveling experiences, especially her trip to Hawaii and touring the Pearl Harbor National Memorial. She and her husband, Labor Day Jerry Zachary celebrated their 48th Anniversary in NYC. Orchids to Holiday Dr. Marye Jeffries who is our chapter’s first Life Member. We miss her gracious, elegant manner and her knowledge and skilled proficiency when playing bridge.

Each year our chapter makes a monetary donation to a nonprofit or charitable organization and for the past three years the Fayetteville/Cumberland Department of Parks and Recreation/ Smith Center’s Children’s Program has been the recipient.

With Active participation, Awesome ladies and Amazing bridge our chapter enjoyed a “Triple A (AAA) Season of Bridge!”

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GREENSBORO CHAPTER LEARNING TO PLAY THE GAME

Left: Holidays Barbara Gore Washington (standing) Holidays Constance Epps, Michelle Matthews, Patricia Chapter Bridge Buff Davis Thompson, Pamela Harrigan Young, Barbara GoreWashington, Sharon Veale (seated) Patricia Davis Thompson, Sharon Veale,Pamela Harrigan Young and Constance Epps

The new members of the Greensboro Chapter met at the bridge table to enjoy several hands of bridge. A tutorial session was conducted and members heard “not spades or bid whist but bridge”! LOL The ‘players’ learned the verbal cues and rules of play from the chapter ‘Bridge Buff ’; on the table top is an instructional guide used by Holiday Barbara that dates back decades for committed students in tutorial mode.

We welcome our new Holidays!

Josh Billings 26

BREAD FOR THE WORLD ADVOCACY SUMMIT with United States Congressman Everyday Don Davis (right center) and Holiday Vanessa Haygood, M.D. (left center) and other attendees

Bread for the World is a Christian advocacy organization

urging U.S. decision makers to do all they can to pursue a world without hunger. Their mission is to educate and equip people to advocate for policies and programs that can help end hunger in the U.S. and around the world.

The vision is to bring to life what a world without hunger looks like. There is enough food on the planet to feed everyone; what is needed is to get the right food to the people who need it. The world would be more of a place where everyone thrives, in their families and in their communities, without worrying about where their next meal will come from.

Everyday Don Davis – talks about ending hunger in our lifetime

The bipartisan network of thousands of individual members, churches, and denominations is active in every congressional district in the country. Since its founding in 1974, the policies and programs Bread fights for have impacted 320 million Americans and more than 7 billion people around the world.

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Transition of Holiday Dr. Aurelia Chaney Mazyck Dr. Aurelia Chaney Mazyck, 92, passed away December 15, 2022, in Greensboro. She was born November 7, 1930 in Danville, VA, to the late Noten and Gyrlie Crews Chaney. She was a loving mother who enjoyed taking art classes, shopping and the game of bridge. She was a member of the Greensboro Chapter until her health prevented her full participation.

Her wit in conversation and skill at the table are fondly missed.

In addition to her parents, she was preceded in death by her husband Dr. Harold E. Mazyck Jr., Professor Emeritus NC A&T State University.

She attended Howard University in Washington, DC, graduating in 1950 with a degree in Psychology. Dr. Mazyck continued her graduate studies at New York University, completing a Masters in Educational Psychology in 1952, and received a Ph.D. in Child Development from the University of North Carolina at Greensboro in 1974. She retired in 2002 from NC A&T State University as an Associate Professor in the School of Education.

While pursuing her doctorate at UNC-G, she was the Project Director of the North Carolina Infant Training Center and the Director of the Demonstration Nursery Center and Infant Care Project (later the North Carolina Center for Infant-Toddler Care). The Infant-Toddler Care Project was a new model for the care of infants and toddlers in a group setting.

She is survived by her daughter, Carla Mazyck of Crofton, MD, and her son Harold E. Mazyck III of Matthews, NC. A Celebration of Life service was held January 07, 2023 in Greensboro, NC. The family requests that in lieu of flowers memorials be made to Alzheimer's Association.

Chapter Public Service Project for Christmas 2022 The chapter donated the gift of a twin mattress to African Services Coalition, an IRS recognized 501(c) (3) nonprofit organization that provides services to refugees, asylees, and victims of human trafficking who settle in Greensboro, NC. And have been in the U.S. fewer than five years. Originally founded in 1997 as a community support organization for Greensboro’s African community, NCASC has since become a full-fledged refugee resettlement agency through grants with the NC Office of Refugee Resettlement and Ethiopian Community Development Council (ECDC). These people come from a variety of countries and ethnic backgrounds. Included among Guilford County’s recent arrivals are groups from Somalia, Myanmar (formerly Burma), Sudan, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Vietnam, Cuba, Bhutan and Nepal, Burundi, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Rwanda, Iraq, and Afghanistan, among others. These are people strive to achieve stability, a fresh start and a chance for a brighter future for their families in the U.S.

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METRO NASHVILLE CHAPTER

The Metro Nashville Chapter was happy to induct two new members into the organization this year: Holiday Sandra Smith – Holiday Sandra retired from the Tennessee Commission on Aging and Disability as the Supervisor of Community Service in 2005. The Chapter also welcomes Labor Day James Smith. Holiday Sandra has three children, eleven grandchildren and one great-grandchild. She is also a member of the Chapter 8 Book Club, Des Amies Bridge Club and plays pinochle with The Group (Pinochle Club).

Holiday Kathleen Jordan – Holiday Kathleen retired from the Aladdin Industries over 20 years ago. Holiday Kathleen has two children, one grandchild and two great-grandchildren. In addition to playing party bridge, she enjoys playing duplicate bridge at one of Nashville’s regional community centers.

The Chapter Officers for 2023 are Holidays Patricia “Patty” Turner – President, Loretta Brown – Vice President, Carolyn Piphus - Recording & Corresponding Secretary, Sarah Rucker – Financial Secretary and Cheryl Seay – Treasurer. Holiday Cheryl is also currently serving as the National Treasurer for the Holidays, Incorporated, elected at last year’s Dutch Treat Concourse held in Alexandria, Virginia.

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MIAMI CHAPTER Holiday Jacqui’s 75th birthday brunch on April 30, 2023 at The Setai, Miami Beach, FL

Holiday Jacqui

Holiday Jacqui (middle)

Cheers!

Holiday Jacqui on right

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Holiday Robbie & Richard

Richard

Richard & Holiday Robbie

Miami Holiday Robbie Bell and her “Mr. Boo” (aka Richard Adderley of Nassau, Bahamas), traveled to Ghana this past February celebrating "Mr. Boo’s" 75th Birthday. They traveled to Accra and Kumasi, visiting Cape Coast and the Cape Coast Castle that housed thousands of our ancestors; a very moving experience. The highlight of the trip for both Holiday Robbie and “Mr. Boo” was the naming ceremony in which they each were given their Ghanian names. Of course, the food and shopping for fabric rounded out the trip Holiday Robbie manages to travel the world while she maintains her Miami real estate business. Once again, she made Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices EWM Realty’s Chairman’s Club for 2022 (number 27 out of 700) and nationwide (for BHHS) she is in the top 6% of the entire sales team of 50,000 agents.

Cape Coast Castle that housed thousands of our ancestors 31

Holiday Donna Ginn: My greatest joy this year was attending the University graduation of my grandson, Malcolm Alexander Ginn. He received his BA from Drew University located in Madison New Jersey.

University graduation of my grandson, Malcolm Alexander Ginn, located in Madison N.J.

My out of country travels since last August were to Germany and Spain. While in Germany I had the absolute pleasure of sharing the spa with Viola Davis. We spoke for 2 hours about her daughter, her role in the Woman King, her upcoming role in The Hunger Games, her book, her work in promoting Back Woman in Hollywood, and life in general. She truly is a warm and amazing human being.

Last year we celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Miami University of Ohio Class of 1970. Our numbers were small, but we were mighty. During our last year, many students, including myself and 8 other Black students, took over the ROTC building in protest of the low number of Black students and professors and the Viet Nam war. This occurred right after the massacre of 4 Kent State students. We were threatened and fortunately no guns fired, only the severe beating of white students.

We were all arrested and dismissed from the university until we sat before a tribunal to account for our actions. During the reunion a documentary was presented and featured those of us who sat in the ROTC and the actions leading up to the event.

Travel to Germany

Lastly, I ended my 6- year term as AARP State Volunteer President. Serving in that role was one of the highlights of my long-term volunteer experiences. It is stellar organization led by JoAnn Jenkins, an African American woman. I learned a great deal about how AARP supports the 55+ community through legislative action regarding for example, Social Security and Care Giving. During the time of my tenure AARP launched programs that targeted African American men and women and initiated diversity, equity and inclusion labs for volunteers across the US. So, here is a shameless plug. I know many of you are members, however, if you are not, please join and take advantage of the many programs and benefits.

Travel to Spain

◀Celebrated the 50th Anniversary of the Miami University of Ohio Class of 1970

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MONTGOMERY COUNTY CHAPTER This has been an extraordinary year for the Montgomery County Chapter who began the year with a threeday retreat July 31-August 3, 2022, at the Club Wyndham Hotel & Resorts at National Harbor, Maryland.

President Patricia Cunningham and Hostess Betty McClendon executed a thoughtful bridge based, long range planning and friendship strengthening opportunity. The bonding at the “bridge table” was well executed by the master teacher/facilitator and member, Dr. Wilma Bonner. President and Chef Pat, honed in on her culinary skills producing delectable treats and all members present contributed to preparing a group meal that was as delightful as the company.

Following this event, on September 1-4, 2022, the group served as hostess for the Dutch-Treat 51st Annual Holidays, Incorporated Concourse in Alexandria, VA. Chapter members Patricia Cunningham, Ruby Brooks and Shirley Watkins Bowden played pivotal roles in the success of this annual event. The over 110 members enjoyed an after COVID 19 celebration to renew friendships, bonding, and bridge This. What a joyous celebration!

We turned our focus to Bright Beginnings, Inc. for our service project for the year. An early childhood center for homeless and low-income children ages one month to 5 years old in SE Washington, DC. A diaper project was sorely needed for the center. Members donated and collected diapers for 3 months meeting the needs of the BBI, Inc. The Health Services manager was overwhelmed with relief for the diaper contribution. Holidays Elaine and Shirley, chairs of the project, made the delivery to BB Inc. The culminating activity for the 2022-2023 bridge year was an elegant afternoon for lunch at the Waldorf Astoria, June 24, 2023 in Washington, D.C. The members enjoyed the exquisite hotel’s Spring decorations, the delectable food and the delightful harpist who serenaded the group for over 2 hours.

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SEATED: Ruby, Elaine, Pat, Bettye

STANDING: LaVera, Wilma, Cemora, Beverly A., Shirley, Erma

MEMBERS AT A GLANCE Holiday Elaine Conway Charter Member is also a member of the American Bridge Association(ABA) and was among the winners of the 2022 Friend master point races. She ranked among the Top Ten Players overall by category (Silver Diamond) and top player by section, (Mid Atlantic Section) She was among the winners of the 2022 ABA ON BBO (Bridge Base Online) master point Races by Section and Category. Holiday Elaine attended the ABA Spring National in Indiana and received recognition for reaching the new level of Gold Diamond.

Holiday Betty McClendon recently joined the American Bridge Association and played in the June 2023 National Game and won 3rd Place overall in the 0-200 strata. She too is a Charter Member of the Montgomery County Chapter.

Holiday Beverly Brooks Anderson has transitioned from Trustee- in-training to Trustee at the Peoples Community Baptist Church, Silver Spring, Md. She was also elected Chairperson of the 85/25 fundraising and celebratory event for the Washington Bridge Unit (WBU), American Bridge Association. The WBU celebrates its 85th anniversary and the 25-year ownership of its clubhouse, “The Hut.” In June she visited Seattle, Washington where she saw the Chihuly glass exhibit and enjoyed the David Sanborn’s performance at Jazz Alley. Following this, she cruised to Alaska and Victoria, British Columbia, Canada.

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Holiday Erma Withers, a relatively new member, has taken on the daunting task of learning to play bridge as a senior. She is welcoming the challenge and thoroughly enjoying the camaraderie with the members, all of whom are most supportive. In addition to bridge, Holiday Erma enjoys playing golf and both river and ocean cruising around the globe.

Montgomery County Holidays Beverly Brooks Anderson, Wilma Bonner, Elaine Conway, Patricia Cunningham, Betty McClendon, and Beverly Wallace are busy planning to celebrate the 85th anniversary of the Washington Bridge Unit (WBU). Rising from the ashes of segregation, the WBU was established in1938 and is proclaimed as one of the top predominately African American duplicate bridge organizations in the country. It is a member of the American Bridge Association (ABA) which was founded in 1932 to unite Black bridge enthusiasts across the nation through common standards, rules, and regular nationwide tournaments.

This year, more than touting an eighty-five-year history, the WBU is also celebrating twenty-five years of owning its own home. For the first sixty years, members played in various venues throughout the District of Columbia, Maryland, and Virginia. But on June 1, 1998, visionary “WBUers” signed ownership papers to an iconic Quonset Hut located in Mt. Rainier Maryland, which is known as The Hut. At this time, which WBU has named 85/25 time, the Unit has committed itself to improving its physical plant and extending its outreach. To meet this challenge, President (Wilma Bonner), 85/25 Committee Chairperson (Beverly Brooks Anderson) and 85/25/Fundraising Chairperson (Pat Cunningham) are working hard to lead major fundraising efforts which will culminate in a novel 85/25 Reception of the Washington Bridge Unit (WBU) in the fall.

Presented: June 2023

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NEW ORLEANS CHAPTER

From left to right: Labor Day Alden J. McDonald, Jr., Chief Executive Officer; Dr. Norman C. Francis, Chairman of the Board; and EverydayTodd O. McDonald, President at the 50th Anniversary press conference where Todd was announced as the new President of Liberty Bank.

In 2022, Liberty Bank and Trust celebrated its 50th anniversary. Alden J. McDonald, Jr. and his son Todd reflect on the institution's legacy as the largest Blackowned bank in the United States. With Alden at the helm since 1972, Liberty Bank has grown substantially, now boasting over $1 billion in assets. Todd, who recently succeeded his father as president, led the charge to raise $30 million in capital through national partnerships and investment from major banks.

Founded in response to economic inequities faced by the Black community, Liberty Bank has empowered under-served populations across the country by providing access to financial services.

With branches in 11 states and nationwide cyber capabilities, Liberty Bank is a testament to the

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McDonalds' vision for financial inclusion. The bank's 50year anniversary event, titled "The Liberty Bank Golden Jubilee" highlighted its story of resilience, profitability, and empowerment in closing America's wealth gap.

As they celebrate this milestone, Liberty Bank remains committed to helping individuals achieve financial goals and freedom through its continued growth and impact. ◀Alden J. McDonald, Jr. and wife, Holiday Rhesa Ortique McDonald at Liberty's 50th Anniversary Celebration

LOUISIANA RIVER PARISHES TOUR I was invited on a Day Tour given by the MidSouth Gulf & Tourism Group. My friend, Darlene Thomas, is a member. I was her guest. We had a fabulous time doing the following activities.

SWAMP TOUR - - Manchac Swamp; Frenier, Louisiana: See me holding a baby alligator! Yikes!

We also went to: - Destrehan Plantation - “Unheard Of Voices of the German Coast Tour”. (Dianne Honore, The lady in red, gave the tour.). It was excellent!

- Spuddy’s Cajun Cooking Experience - For an Authentic Cajun lunch - Delicious!

- Great River Steamboat Museum - Houma House Estate & Gardens ( plus surprise refreshments!) - Stunning Estate & Gardens!

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RALEIGH CHAPTER The Raleigh Chapter of The Holidays enjoyed a full year of monthly in-person meetings for the first time since the pandemic. We were all excited to play bridge on a regular basis again.

Front: Adessa Lewis, Stellyne Curtis, Joyce Scott Back: Jewel Almond, Delores Revis, JoAnn Drane, Ruth Payton, Marguerite Scott.

Lucille Webb

We had a wonderful Christmas meeting. Several guests were able to join us.

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◀Congratulations to Holiday Lucille Webb who was honored with an Honorary Doctorate from The University of Chapel Hill for her exemplary service to her community. We are so proud of her for this deserving honor.

◀Florence Irving Francis January 17, 1925- January 13, 2023 Holiday Florence was a native of Raleigh, North Carolina. She was married to the late Knella Geoffrey Elijah Francis. She is survived by her two sons, Charles and Garrick.

Holiday Francis is an alumna of Spelman College. She received her MBA at the University of Chicago. She worked in her family’s business, Irving’s Printing Company. She was very active in the community, including serving on the Board of Directors for Wake County Habitat and with the Wake County Democratic Women.

Additionally, Holiday Florence was a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority.

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SARASOTA CHAPTER

Sarasota Holidays visit Ghana Holidays Jacqueline Jones and Constance Anderson enjoyed a Sankofa Journey to Ghana , September 8-21, 2022.

The journey was both fun and educational and included, Accra, Akropong, Kumasi, and Cape Coast. It afforded participants opportunities to see the beauty of Ghana, participate and donate to community partners promoting literacy, economic empowerment, health, wellness and social inclusion. In addition, we visited Cape Coast Castle which marked the beginning of slaves dangerous journey. Pictured is the Ghanaian cooking class that Holidays, Jacqueline and Constance enjoyed as one of the many optional activities.

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◀Sarasota Holidays Bridge Class

Sarasota Holidays Sponsor Bridge Class Sarasota Chapter focused on increasing our membership during 2023 as we lost several members during the last two years for various reasons. Our former president, Edwina Stanley, now lives in Humble, Texas and Margaret Miller moved to Atlanta, Georgia. Sadly, Joan Byrd passed away on September 22,2022 and Delores Penn is recuperating from recent surgery. To find replacements is not easy as fewer Bridge players live in the Sarasota and Bradenton area. .In order to remedy the situation, our chapter members decided to sponsor free Bridge lessons at the Betty J. Johnson North Sarasota Library.

The library publicized our sponsorship of free Bridge lessons to be held at the library on Mondays from 10:00 AM to 12. Our chapter paid a bridge instructor to teach introductory Bridge lessons over a four-month period. Several people joined the bridge class. However, a few people dropped out, but others remained.

As a result of this effort, we presently have three ladies who showed interest in joining our chapter. We hope to formally invite and induct them later this year.

Several of our members will be going to Winston-Salem this August for our Seventy-fifth Anniversary. See you there!

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TIDEWATER CHAPTER ◀Greetings From The Tidewater Chapter!

Standing: Jacqueline Bontemps, Marlene Little, Yvonne Gregory, Rose DuBose and Therese Addison. Seated: Melesande Womack-Smith Not shown: Jewel Long and Tonya Ayers

We are enjoying playing “post-pandemic bridge” at least monthly, at a community center. Several local players are happy to join in the fun and instruction.

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More "post pandemic bridge."

Holidays Therese Addison, Marlene Little and Melisande have been busy taking bridge refresher classes at the local ACBL Center and hosting our sessions at our local Senior Center.

Holiday Jewel Long is still adjusting to retirement and from being on call 24/7. This year, she has been able to enjoy the sights In New Orleans, Charlston and the Dominican Republic. She is looking forward to spending more time playing bridge and traveling outside of the United States.

Holiday Yvonne Gregory continues to play with several groups and to enjoy the company of her children. She is proud of her grandson who finished college this year, and her granddaughter who recently graduated from high school.

Holiday Tonya Ayers has been road tripping around the country with her husband enjoying the sights in California, Tennessee, Alabama and Florida.

◀Holiday Melisande WomackSmith celebrated her 90th birthday November 22. Friends and family from CA, MI, NY, FL and VA were in attendance.

She maintains her schedule of meetings, bridge with the Holidays, ACBL and Saturday Afternoon Bridge groups, The celebration goes on!

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VIRGINIA BEACH CHAPTER

(Back L-R) Holidays Lyn Simmons Jones, Beverly Combo, Michelle Woodhouse, Kitty Hill, Paulette Ellis, Kristy Tatum, Melinda Gainer, Dana Gray. (Seated L-R) Holidays Bessie Totem, Kim McCallum, Wivona Ward, Angela Spruill, Anne Wallace, and Pat Wise Green.

Hear yea, Hear yea! The Virginia Beach Chapter of the Holidays, Incorporated is alive and well. We have made a wonderful comeback after being shut down because of Covid. We did not meet for almost two years and members were a bit apprehensive that we would be able to regroup. Not only have we regrouped, but we have also become bigger and better. In this time when some social and civic organizations have been concerned about losing members, we have reclaimed 2 previous members and hopefully we will induct 2 new and younger members in September. Let’s see what our other Holiday members are doing.

Holiday Beverly Cumbo is an educator. This summer she has been preparing for a LEAP Program at work and she has also been monitoring the Standards of Learning with her students.

Holiday Paulette Ellis volunteers at various agencies. She works at the Food Bank every Tuesday and Girl Scouts twice a month. She also helps a 102-year-old senior a couple of days a week. Paulette is an angel.

She transports some of our members who are not able to drive to our meetings. Holiday Melinda Gainer has spent most of the year growing her new PR firm. One exciting project her company did was create and install a historical exhibit at the John F. Kennedy Center for the Performing Arts in Washington, DC. Although Melinda had an emergency surgery a few weeks before the exhibit was installed, she was able to make it with her team to complete the work. The exhibit was such a hit that Carolina Opera is hoping to open the exhibit in 2024 and The Metropolitan Opera will house it in 2025.

Holiday Harriett Goodrich, our Life Member who is 93 years young has had some difficulty getting around but her love for bridge, keeps her ready, willing and able to attend Holiday meetings when possible.

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Holiday Dana Gray has had a difficult year with her health but has come through it well. Dana is always smiling no matter the situation and is so thankful for the support, thoughts, and prayers from her Holiday sisters. Labor Day Jimmy won reelection to the Hampton City Council and continues to serve as Vice Mayor.

The Grays spend most of their free time (and spare money) on their three granddaughter’s travelling to volleyball tournaments and soccer games.

Holiday Pat Wise Green is still trying to recuperate from the loss of Labor Day Bernard who passed last June. He is remembered by First Baptist Church in Norfolk where he was chef for the Ready Academy and catered for their Banquet facilities. Recently a Banquet room was named after Labor Day Bernard and a scholarship has been created in his name. Although mourning, Holiday Pat competes with the Good Year Bunny. She’s everywhere. We think she owns stock in the Dollar Tree because she visits them every day.

Holiday Kitty Hill and Labor Day Carl are still enjoying retirement. They have both changed paying jobs for volunteer work. Kitty is on the church Altar Guild, and she was recently elected to the Vestry. Labor Day Carl Hill is still president of the men’s club.

Holiday Lyn Simmons Jones has acquired a new job. She is still on the bench but spends a lot of time on the floor playing with her one-year-old grandson. Charles Edward Jerrauld Jones, is the star of the Jones family. He is cute, alert, fun and a bit inquisitive (like his grandmother). Everyday Jay and Mavis have given Labor Day Jerrauld and Holiday Lyn the greatest gift of all.

Holiday Kim McCullum has retired and is truly enjoying retirement. Her life has really changed. She has joined a new posse and they stay on the go. They travel frequently and are learning to play bridge. Go Kim, GO! Holiday Angela Spruill, our chapter president, was instrumental in keeping us together during the time that we were shut down. She called members and kept us informed on what was happening nationally as well as what other chapters were doing. When it became safe to regather, she held the first two meetings at her home. Hooray for Angela!

Holiday Angela and Labor Day John have 2 Great Nephews who have graduated from High School this year. John and Angela attended both graduations and both young men received full scholarships.

Holiday Bessie Tatem, past President, assisted Angela in the transition to president. In her spare time, she serves on the Board of Literacy Academy in Portsmouth, Virginia at Zion Baptist Church where she attended pre-school. She is also concentrating on visiting family and friends.

One of our newest members, Holiday Kristy Tatum is a would-be chef. She is always trying new recipes. If you are hungry for something different, call Kristy.

Holiday Anne Wallace has been a chapter member for a long period of time. Recently she has been visited by arthritis due to weather conditions and health problems. She has decided to sit back and “rest her bones”. Anne says that she is so thankful and blessed to have such wonderful friends.

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◀ (L-R) Dr. Lisa Cook, Holiday Ward, Nancy Pelos

Holiday Wivona Ward has been traveling around the country and even has been hugged by President Biden. She was the guest of her niece, Dr. Lisa Cook, the first Black woman on the board of Governor’s for the Federal Reserve. Dr. Lisa Cook was honored at MSU, Tuskegee and the University of California at Berkley where she was the graduate speaker. All of us are proud of her!

(L-R) Dr. Biden, Holiday Ward, President Biden, Dr. Cook, Vice President Harris and Second Gentleman Mr. Emhoff

Our chapter’s doctor, Holiday Michelle Woodhouse is Vice President of Tidewater Community College.

She is cool and quiet. She never praises herself, but she is very proud of her daughter, Skylar Woodhouse who just received the New Jersey Society of Professional Award. She is a reporter for Bloomberg News covering Municipal Finance and Transportation.

Despite all our good times, we have not forgotten our volunteer work. We recently donated toiletries and essentials to The Children’s Hospital.

Holidays Paulette, Angela Andi (CHKD rep),and Pat

Holidays Paulette, Angela Dana and Pat

WINSTON-SALEM CHAPTER

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BY CHAPTER Atlanta ◆ Debra J. Hinds

Raleigh ◆ Addessa Lewis

Baltimore ◆ Brenda G. Baker

Metro Nashville ◆ Loretta Brown

Baltimore County ◆ Aldonna R. Wylie

Miami ◆ Rene Beal

Birmingham ◆ Helen D. Pope

Montgomery County ◆ Elaine Conway

Boston ◆ Addie C. Johnson

New Orleans ◆ Patricia R. Brooks

Charlotte ◆ Brenda G. Funny

Raleigh ◆ Ruth H. Payton

Chesapeake ◆ Wilma Horne

Sarasota ◆ Jacqueline Jones

Dallas ◆ Rosalind Perry

Tidewater ◆ Therese Addison

East Cobb County ◆ Gail Jordan

Virginia Beach ◆ Angela Spruill

Fayetteville ◆ Andrea Hardiman

Winston Salem ◆ Brenda Hodge

Greensboro ◆ Barbara G. Washington

credits Dayletter Editor: Holiday Patrice A. Hinnant, Greensboro, NC Assistant Editor: Holiday Therese J. Addison, Hampton, VA Theme: Holiday Margaret McCrary, Miami, FL Graphic Design: Millicent Graphic Design, Greensboro, NC

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A Brief History The first chapter of The Holidays was organized in Winston-Salem, North Carolina in 1961.

The primary purpose of The Holidays was to form a compatible group of women to promote the playing of bridge as well as getting involved in civic, social, and cultural activities. In 1963 Winston-Salem hosted a group from Charlotte, NC, who had organized a similar mission.

Charlotte became the second chapter of The Holidays and Greensboro, followed as the third chapter. In 1965 The Holidays received its charter from the state of North Carolina, and became The Holidays, Incorporated. The first Holidays Concourse was held in November 1967 in Charlotte, NC. The Holidays, Incorporated, experienced a rapid surge of growth in the 1970’s and now consists of twenty chapters, geographically extending north to Boston, southwest to Dallas through New Orleans, and south to Miami. The Holidays, Inc. will be celebrating 58 years of incorporation at the 52nd Annual Concourse in Winston Salem, North Carolina August 31 to September 3, 2023. The Concourse did not meet in person from 2020-2022 due a pause in activities caused by the COVID-19 outbreak across the world which shutdown much of the United States of America. Members were delighted to return to the in person gathering at the ‘No Host’ Concourse in Alexandria Virginia in 2022.

Purpose and Aims To promote social and recreational activities for the member and their families To participate in and promote civic activities and to encourage civic responsibility among members thereof To aid in charitable causes To promote the playing of bridge To create a better understanding and appreciation for the game of bridge Colors Emblem Motto

Rainbow – green, lavender, pink, yellow and blue Small sterling charm of cards Sincerity, truth, faithfulness, come into the very essence of friendship To do a little good is more than to accomplish great conquests

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The Holidays, Inc.

2024 Charlotte

2025 Greensboro

2026 Birmingham

2027 Dallas

2028 Atlanta

2029 Baltimore

2030 Raleigh

2031 Tidewater

2032 Virginia Beach

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