Special Holiday Edition of Link-Up 2014 E-Mag

Transcription

A publication of The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated
Link-Up!
e–magazine
September 2014
Volume 6, Issue 3
2014 Central Area Summit Comes To South Shore
Empowering 21st Century Change Agents: Phase II
Welcome!
The Northern Indiana (IN) and South Bend Area (IN) Chapters, our host
chapters, along with members from the Central Area Planning Team, look
forward to welcoming you to the Heart of Linkdom in Merrillville, IN for the
2014 Central Area Summit, Empowering 21st Century Change Agents: Phase II.
Seated (L-R) Cokie Diggs, Area Conference Chair; Marianita Porterfield, President,
Northern Indiana (IN); Glenda Masingale Manson, Area Vice Director; Alice Strong
Simmons, Area Director; Janice Hall, President, South Bend (IN); and Jackie Morson,
Area Treasurer
Standing Row 1 (L-R): Tracy Williams, Gladys Hankins, Area OE Chair; Otha Reese,
Angela McFadden, Monica Allen, Imogene Harris, Virginia Chism, Rosamond
Byrd, Myrtle Wilson, Consuela Wilson, Delta Jones Walker, Francene Gilmer, Area
Transportation Chair and Vanessa Latimer, Area Protocol, Co-Chair.
Standing Row 2 (L-R): Virginia Calvin, Ida Watson, Myrtle Campbell, Lesley Wesley,
Debra Carrington, Kathryn Brantley, Gwen Taylor, Angela Nelson Deuitch, Tina Patton
and Shirley Thomas
2014 Central Area
Summit is One Click Away
2014 CENTRAL AREA SUMMIT
REGISTRATION
RADISSON HOTEL AT STAR
PLAZA RESERVATION
Registration Closes Tuesday,
September 30, 2014
2014 Central Area Summit Sponsors
Our deepest apprecition to our partners and sponsors of the 2014 Central Area Summit.
page 2 | Central Area of The Links, Incorporated | Linked Up!
Table of Contents
Letter from the Central Area Director................................................................4
Choosing Your Links Legacy...........................................................................5
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated partners with Mayo Clinic
and Michigan State University..........................................................................7
Program Pearls Conference Calls Success Continues..............................................8
The Central Area ‘From The Heart’ HBCU Scholarship Endowment Campaign...........9
Closing the Achievement Gap: Literacy and Math Initiative................................... 10
Young Women’s Empowerment Institute............................................................12
National Award-Winning Chapter Programs ......................................................13
Central Area Anniversaries........................................................................... 14
Central Area Revive Boutique........................................................................ 18
Chapter News............................................................................................ 19
Central Area Hot Links................................................................................ 48
In The Links Light!..................................................................................... 49
Upcoming Events....................................................................................... 53
The Central Area Communications Committee keeps you ‘linked-up’ in the Heart of Linkdom through print, electronic, social,
on-line communications, just one click away. Questions, Information or Suggestions contact us at centralareacpr@yahoo.
com. The committee, above, left to right:
Link Kathy Wade, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Chair: IN, KY, WV Liaison
Link Regina Daily, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Vice-Chair: OH Liaison
Link Ivie Clay, St. Louis (MO) Chapter: MO, OK Liaison
Link Bonita Cornute, Archway (MO) Chapter: MI Liaison
Link Michelle Fifer, Shelby County (TN) Chapter: TN Liaison
Link Tasha Ransom, Hoffman Estates (IL) Chapter: IL Liaison
Link Donna Terrell, Little Rock (AR) Chapter: AR, IA, KS Liaison
Link Felicia Thomas-Lynn, Cream City (WI) Chapter: MN, NE, WI Liaison
Central Area of The Links, Incorporated | Linked Up! | page 3
Greetings My Dear Sister Links,
Welcome to the 2014 Fall issue of the Central Area Linked-Up! E-Mag! As we begin our work in earnest
this year, I invite you to take a quiet moment in your busy day to catch-up on the news from the Heart of
Linkdom. You will find articles showcasing our transformational work, highlights from the Young Women’s
Empowerment Institute and Central Area Revive Boutique, gather program pearls, celebrate Central Area
national award-winning programs, bask in chapter anniversaries, member
accomplishments and reconfirming our commitment to friendship and service.
I warmly extend our invitation for each of you to join us in Northern Indiana
at the Radisson Hotel at Star Plaza, Merrillville, IN for the 2014 Central
Area Summit, Empowering 21st Century Change Agents: Phase II. For your
convenience, you can easily access everything from your Summit registration to
hotel reservations located on the Central Area Summit One Click Away page,
The 2014 Summit is designed for you to stretch your imagination, capture inventive program initiatives,
share best practices and pearls through robust discussions in the round with shared learning opportunities.
Summit attendees will leave with tools, topics to continue the work of providing our communities with
transformational programs and services with Excellence, Elegance and Ethics.
Thank you to the tremendous work of our Central Area Communications Committee and Team 68 Chapter
representatives whose alignment to the Links Brand has generated this record number of articles keeping
us ‘linked up’ in the Heart of Linkdom. There is so much extraordinary work being delivered by chapters
in our respective communities generating media attention. Our Central Area Communications Committee
developed our newest feature, ‘Hot Links’ which enables you to click links to Central Area chapter stories
found across all digital platforms.
As I begin the last year of my administration, please accept my heartfelt gratitude for your support, love and
encouragement from my Sisters in the Central Area. I look forward to continuing to serve and assist each
of you as we pursue with work with Excellence, Elegance and Ethics as we remain Linked in Friendship,
Connected in Service.
Sisterly,
Link Alice
Choosing Your Links Legacy
Link Glenda Masingale Manson, Central Area Vice Director
This past June, I was invited to participate in the Induction Ceremony of the Lake Shore (IL) Chapter of
The Links, Incorporated. Upon receiving the invitation, I began to ponder what could I say to new Links
that they would carry with them as they embark upon this wonderful journey. While at the same time, what
thoughts and feelings could I share that experienced Links would reflect. After a
lot of thought and I must admit turmoil, it came to me like a flash, the concept
of choice.
As children, young girls, teenagers and coeds many of the activities and
organizations that we participated in were decided for us. Perhaps it was a dance
class, charm school or Girl Scouts. The reality is you really did not have a choice
because someone else was making it for you. During your college years, guilt
may have overwhelmed you thinking about previous conversations with a mother, aunt, favorite teacher
or best friend. When the invitation comes to become a member of The Links, Incorporated, while there
may have been some influence in the beginning, every year thereafter becomes a personal choice. When
you are inducted into The Links, Incorporated, you make the decision to dedicate your time and energy
in service to your community and your chapter. Each year when you submit your 48 hours or more, pay
your dues and assessments, participate in facet and committee work, sell tickets to your fundraisers, you are
re - committing yourself to the goals and objectives of The Links, Incorporated, based on Friendship and
Service.
With other organizations, after your initiation you are a member for life. Whether you are active or not.
This is not the case with the Links. Your footprints are your decisions and choices as your legacy of Service
and Friendship.
Welcome to those of you who have recently been inducted. Now is the time to begin making your choices.
And to my sister Links who have travelled this road for a longer period of time, “what choices will be a part
of your Legacy”.
Glenda Masingale Manson
Central Area Vice Director
My Dear Central Area Sisters,
Thank you my dear sisters of the Central
Area for your generosity and gracious spirit.
I am so grateful for the wonderful gift that
you gave to me during the 39th National Assembly. Always know
that you will forever be dear and close to my heart.
I look forward to seeing many of you next year in Cincinnati as we
once again convene in the ‘Heart of Linkdom’.
Love and Affection,
Margo
Link Margot
Link Margot James Copeland
15th National President
The Links, Incorporated
BREAKING NEWS ~ BREAKING NEWS ~ BREAKING NEWS ~ BREAKING
Central Area of The Links, Incorporated, Mayo Clinic and
Michigan State University Partnership Receives $275,000
National Institute of Health Research Grant
By Link Kathy Wade, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Chair, Communications
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated in partnership with Mayo Clinic and Michigan State
University have been awarded a research grant for $275,000 to work with our Health and Human
Services Facet. After our third grant proposal submission of the grant proposal, the Central Area Links
will participate in research to discover why African-American women have low participation in various
clinical trials and studies. As a result, a web-based “education-to-action” program will be designed
and implemented to increase the representation of women of color as research volunteers.
The work and proposal was spearheaded by Central Area Health and Human Services Chair, Link
Karen Patricia Williams, PhD, Lansing/East Lansing (MI) Chapter, Associate Professor, Michigan State
University, lead to the success of receiving this vital grant.
“This research will elucidate ethical concerns among African American
women that underlie disparities in participation in clinical trials,
genetic studies, and research involving medical record review and test
the feasibility of a novel, empirically-derived, culturally-tailored webbased “education-to-action” program.” said Link Karen Patricia. She
continued, “Developing a program designed to instill trust, increase the
perceived value of a variety of types of research studies, and increase
the representation of African American women as research volunteers
has important implications for improving the integrity of science and
addressing the ethical principle of justice.”
Link Karen Patricia Williams
Lansing/East Lansing (MI)
Chapter
Chair, Central Area Health and
Human Services
The study will begin at the 2015 Central Area Conference and continue
over a two year period. The hope is that the research grant will be
extended to provide the research model across Linkdom. On behalf of the
Central Area of The Links, Incorporated, we extend our deep appreciation
to Link Karen Patricia and her team for continuing to expand our reach
through our Health and Human Services Facet.
Program Pearls Conference Calls Success Continues
By Link Monica Allen, Windy City (IL) Chapter and Link Vicki Hill Brooks, Lake Shore (IL) Chapter,
Central Area Program Co-Coordinators
After the first call several members of the Central Area Program Team remained on the line speaking
excitedly about what had just taken place, When this was followed by emails and calls from a number
of chapters expressing their excitement and appreciation, it’s creators knew they’d struck a nerve.
Currently 70% of chapters are participating in the calls which average 108 participants each month.
The Program Pearls Conference Calls were created by the Central Area Program Co-Coordinators, Links
Monica Allen and Vicki Hill Brooks, to provide ongoing support to Central Area chapters. The monthly
calls, dedicated to everything related to Programming, provide information, tips, best practices,
programming strategies, as well as facet specific updates on National and Area Program Initiatives.
Chapter Program and Facet Chairs, especially from small chapters, have found the Program Pearls calls
to be an excellent resource for the help they need to develop, implement, and sustain transformational
programming.
The calls are held on the third Tuesday of every month. The first one was designed to provide new
Program and Facet Chairs the information they needed to lead their committees, Subsequent calls
have been dedicated to each of our five facets, with presentations and handouts provided by the Area
Facet Chairs, Link Anne Johnson, The Arts, Link Anne Williams, International Trends, Links Helen
Jones-Kelley & Everlyn Williams, Closing the Achievement Gap: Literacy & Math Initiative, Link Karen
Patricia Williams, Health & Human Services, Link Teresa Bingman, National Trends and Link Delta
Jones Walker, Services to Youth. Special presentations were provided by Link Patricia Larkins-Hicks,
immediate past National Organizational Effectiveness Co-Chair and Link Alma Dodd, National Director,
Strategic Partnerships.
Each call also includes a short Tips and Tools segment that covers program operations topics of
interest. Topics have included Activities vs. Programs, Preparing A Program Budget, Writing a Winning
Program Report, and Engaging Members In Programming. In addition, entire calls have been dedicated
to hot topics such as how to effectively complete a program report. Each call includes a Q&A segment
so that members can get the answers that are most significant to them.
All Chapter Presidents, Program, and Facet Chairs receive monthly reminders about the calls with call
in information. For additional information, please email Link Monica Allen at monicaballen@ameritech.
net, or Link Vicki Hill Brooks at [email protected].
Your Central Area Program Co-Coordinators welcome your ideas for future topics and look forward to
your continued and new participation.
The Central Area ‘From The Heart’ HBCU Scholarship
Endowment Campaign Needs Your Support!
By Link S. Marie McCarther, Jackson County (MO) Chapter, Chair, Central Area HBCU Initiative
During the 38th National Assembly Link Alice Strong Simmons launched
the Central Area ‘From The Heart’ Scholarship Endowment Campaign to fully
endow the 17 Central Area Historically Black Colleges and Universities. While
we are well on our way, we need each of you to help us reach the goal of
completing $25,000 endowments at each of the 17 institutions by May 2015.
As African American women, it is important that we recognize the historical
roles these magnificent schools have played throughout our history. We want
to ensure they remain vital and viable educational options for our children, both
now and into the future. A named endowment provides the Central Area Links an opportunity to create
an enduring and recognizable legacy at each of the 17 HBCUs.
The $25,000 minimum endowment goal has been met at 5 of the 17 institutions. With your help, we
can reach our goal at all 17 — if you will give from the heart. Chapter Presidents are asked to make the
request for chapter and individual contributions at upcoming chapter meetings and are encouraged to
bring those contributions to the Central Area Summit in October. Watch for the new campaign video
highlighting the need and how these endowed scholarships will make a difference for students who
need that last bit of supplemental assistance to get them across the stage at graduation.
Each year many bright and worthy students find the doors of higher education closed to them because
of lack of tuition and resources. We must not let our children or our future down. We can make our
goal if each chapter donates $1,000 and each Central Area Link donates $75-$100 individually to the
campaign. Please support the students with your generous support to the Central Area ‘From The Heart’
HBCU Scholarship Endowment Campaign.
Make check or money order payable to:
The Links Foundation, Incorporated
Memo Line: CA From The Heart HBCU Endowment Campaign
Mail to: Ms. Jacqueline Shoats Morson
Central Area Treasurer
10686 Evergreen Point
Fishers, IN 46034
[email protected]
Or visit the Central Area Website: www.centralarealinks.org
For more information, contact Link S. Marie McCarther, Chair, Central Area HBCU Initiative,
[email protected]
Closing the Achievement Gap: Literacy and Math Initiative
By Link Sadie Winlock, Cleveland (OH) Chapter, CTAG Team
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated engaged the Kettering Foundation in a partnership to pilot
a program that addresses “Closing the Achievement Gap.” The Foundation provides training utilizing a
model of conducting public forums that has proven to be appropriate for addressing various topics that
may impact a community. The forums’ intent is to create an environment in which people who have an
interest in ensuring the stability of the community, will speak frankly about their position on a topic, what
they might want to do about it and increase their desire to take on a specific task to make a difference.
The topic of interest to the Central Area of The Links, Incorporated is improving the ability of children
from Pre-K to 3rd grade to read at or above state proficiency level, and to be able to demonstrate
grade appropriate math skills. With the support and training of the Foundation, several chapters were
introduced, trained and conducted community or public forums to discuss the issue of educating our
children for the future. Those chapters are at different levels in the process, but all have identified a
high interest level from the public about this topic as well as an interest in understanding and receiving
guidance on next steps.
As of the 2013-2014 school years at least fourteen states have instituted a policy called “3rd Grade
Guarantee,” that gives the school and the educator the authority to retain a child if s/he does not pass the
3rd grade reading proficiency exam. Laws differ across the country, but all have the option of retention or
intervention, with some having requirements of the parents or the child will be retained. The law suggests
in some states, a child can be retained up to 3 times for failing the test, before s/he is promoted.
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated is concerned about this issue and the current and
future generational impacts it will have on society and especially people of color. Our mission is to
strategically approach this topic, encouraging the participation of more chapters to begin community
conversations, using the “public forum model,” with the objective of modifying current programming
continued next page
continued from page 10
to include a reading and or math component, utilize The Links Signature Programs to organize and
implement specific and consistent focus on improving or, have chapters “start” reading and math
programs focused on children in Pre-K through 3rd grade.
The Central Area of
The Links, Incorporated
is concerned about this
issue and the current
and future generational
impacts it will have on
society and especially
people of color.
To address this growing achievement disparity, the Central
Area continues the engagement of chapters with Closing the
Achievement Gap: Literacy and Math Initiative (CTAG). Link
Alice Strong Simmons and the CTAG Team have made visits with
chapters and clusters to roll out this next phase of creating or
utilizing existing programs to equip chapters to address this issue.
The results of the cumulative work will be compiled with results
from work shared with the Central Area.
As we begin this year in earnest, we encourage chapters to take
advantage of the CTAG brochure, video and Kettering Foundation
who continue to train Central Area chapters to present their community forums.
Please visit www.centralarealinks.org to view the CTAG materials. If your chapter has questions or
needs more information on Closing the Achievement Gap: Math and Literacy Initiative, please contact
Link Everlyn Williams, Chair, Literacy and Mathematics Initiative at [email protected].
Pre-K Students display diorama creeks from Books Alive! For Kids® The Little Creek Book Box at Academy of Multicultural Immersion Studies, Cincinnati OH
Central Area of The Links, Incorporated and Langston University
Partner to Pilot Young Women’s Empowerment Institute
By Link Kathy Wade, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Chair, Central Area Communications
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated and Langston University partnered to present the pilot for
the Young Women’s Empowerment Institute (YWEI) program on the campus of Langston University.
YWEI focuses on the Central Area’s commitment to address retention and success of young AfricanAmerican women at the 16 Historically Black Colleges and University campuses in the Central Area of
The Links, Incorporated. Link Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area Director, retired Langston University
faculty and Oklahoma City, OK resident along with
Langston University’s First Lady, Tiffany Hill-Smith,
convened the in augural all-day kick-off session with
25 freshmen female students at Langston.
The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated Young
Women’s Empowerment Institute is a one year
program that provides young women between
17-21 years of age, who are first-time, fulltime,
entering freshmen at HBCUs with transformational
opportunities which improve their self-esteem and
(First Row, third from L-R) YWEI participants celebrate
pilot program with Link Alice Strong Simmons, Central
equip them with a Life Plan. Follow up and monitoring
Area Director; guest speaker Attorney Sophia Nelson and
of progress of participants’ life plans continues through
Langston University First Lady Tiffany Hill-Smith.
graduation and two years post-graduation. Link Strong
Simmons said, “The Central Area of The Links, Incorporated envisions that young women, who are
first time, full-time, entering freshmen at HBCUs will be successful in various aspects of college life,
graduate and lead a productive life.” She continued, “The Institute’s goals will leave each participant
engaged, empowered and equipped to successfully handle life’s post college challenges and choices.”
The YWEI Planning Committee has developed the Empowerment Institute Model with program
components that include Mentoring, Professional Development, Social Development, Life Planning,
Health and Wellness. The Institute engages participants through a series of meetings, social media
platforms, including the YWEI App and conferences. The YWEI keynote speaker was attorney Sophia
Nelson, a much sought after award-winning author and journalist, motivational speaker, life-style expert
and leadership trainer in the Fortune 500, industry and universities. She has contributed to USA Today,
Essence Magazine, The Wall Street Journal, The New York Times and The Washington Post.
The full Young Women’s Empowerment Institute will commence this Fall on the campus of Langston
University. “We are extremely fortunate and thrilled to work with the Central Area of The Links,
Incorporated in bringing this sorely needed Institute on-line and look towards its success in preparing
Langston’s young Freshmen women with the tools and skills to succeed while part of the Langston
family and after graduation.” stated Tiffany Hill-Smith, First Lady of Langston University.
Central Area of The Links, Incorporated Celebrates National
Award-Winning Chapter Programs
Congratulations to the wining Central Area Chapters for their program recognition at the 39th
National Assembly in National Harbor, MD. The transformational work from our chapters in the Heart
of Linkdom continues to impact communities with Excellence, Elegance and Ethics while Linked in
Friendship, Connected in Service.
Program Awards
Services To Youth
1st Place: South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter
3rd Place: Shelby County (TN) Chapter
Students work at South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter’s STEM
Education program developed by the Services to Youth Facet.
The program received 1st Place in Services to Youth at the 39th
National Assembly at National Harbor, MD.
The Arts
2nd Place: South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter
National Trends and Services
3rd Place: Shelby County (TN) Chapter
International Trends and Services
2nd Place: Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter
Legacy: Windy City (IL) Chapter
Umbrella
2nd Place: Louisville (KY) Chapter
Best Practices Recognition
Services To Youth
Shelby County (TN) Chapter
South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter
The Arts
Lake Shore (IL) Chapter
Queen City (OH) Chapter
Renaissance (MI) Chapter
South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chicago
National Trends and Services
Music City (TN) Chapter
Shelby County (TN) Chapter
International Trends and Services
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter
Windy City (IL) Chapter
Umbrella
Central Illinois (IL) Chapter
Louisville (KY) Chapter
Renaissance (MI) Chapter
Integrated
Chapter Exhibits
1st Place: South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter
Poster Art
Category I: Feet First
Keith Brooks, Central Area Winner
Louisville (KY) Chapter
Category II: I’m Walking
Collin Shaw, National Winner
Fort Wayne (IN) Chapter
Collin Shaw, Central Area Winner
Fort Wayne (IN) Chapter
Category III: Walk The Walk
Montrevia Hinton, Central Area Winner
Category IV: Feet Do Your Stuff
Jasmine Allen, Central Area Winner
Northern Indiana (IN) Chapter
THE CENTRAL AREA:
Anniversaries
Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Celebrates
35th Anniversary
By Link Donica Thomas Varner, Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter, Public Relations Chair, Team 68
The Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated celebrated its 35th Anniversary with “An
Afternoon of Roses and Wines” held at Vinology, a family-owned Ann Arbor wine bar and restaurant.
Over fifty attendees enjoyed a strolling dinner while learning the history of the Ann Arbor (MI)
Chapter’s service to Washtenaw County, Michigan and the art of enjoying wine.
The afternoon featured reflections by charter member Link Bettye McDonald and an informative and
entertaining wine tasting presentation by Mr. Jon Jonna, founding partner of The Merchant of Vino,
founder of Merchant’s Fine Wine, and noted sommelier. Tables were decorated with wine corks, white
candles, and white roses creating a sophisticated décor within Vinology’s “Bubble Room”. The intimate
atmosphere allowed Links members to enjoy the warm fellowship with each other and guests. Alumna
members were presented with a framed chapter photograph in honor of their long-term service as
Links.
The Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter was organized by Link Virginia Ellis who invited several women to her
home on June 16, 1978 to develop an interest group. The chapter was officially established on March
10, 1979 with thirty-two charter members at Weber’s Inn in Ann Arbor. The installing officer was Link
Julia Purnell, 7th National President of The Links, Incorporated who was also the sister of chapter
charter members Sadie Blackwell and Christine Gilchrist. The official sponsor of the chapter was Link
Allene Rayford of Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Link Ann Johnson Julian served as the chapter’s unofficial
sponsor. Link Ellis served as the chapter’s first President.
Front Row (L-R): Links Tracy White, Bettye
McDonald, Bella Parker, Barbara Meadows,
Virginia Bailey, Lola Jones, Vicky Hawkins, and
Joyce Hunter.
Back Row (L-T): Links Mary Johnson, Deborah
Meadows, Donica Varner, Cleopatra Caldwell
(President), Henri Parker, Maria Thomson,
Patricia Williams, Gloria Thomas, Linda King,
Chanel DeGuzman, Mary Gibson, Patricia
Manley, Laurita Thomas, Nora Martin, Lynn
Wooten, Jann Joseph, and Sandra Harris.
THE CENTRAL AREA:
Anniversaries
The Chattanooga (TN) Chapter Celebrates 35th Anniversary
The Chattanooga Chapter of The Links, Incorporated celebrated its 35th Anniversary with a
celebration with a visit from the Central Area Director, Link Alice Strong Simmons, Oklahoma (OK)
Chapter and the Closing the Achievement Gap
presentation. Weekend activities included
special tribute to honor five of the Chapter’s
Charter members; “Parade of Hats” by Links
members, private dining at Ruth Chris Steak
House, and presentation of resolution from city
and county officials. A proclamation was issued
from the Mayor’s office decreeing March 1st,
2014 as “Closing the Achievement Gap Day” in
Chattanooga.
Link members from the Knoxville (TN), Nashville
(TN) and Hendersonville (TN) Chapters traveled
to Chattanooga to share in the celebration. Link
Sharon Loving, Chapter President said, “The
weekend was splendid! It was great for our Chapter to stop and reflect on our thirty-five year history, to
honor those who paved the way for us, and to look forward with renewed a commitment to continuing
our great legacy in Chattanooga”.
(L-R): Hamilton County Commissioner Greg Beck, Link Alice
Strong-Simmons, Central Area Director, Chattanooga City
Councilman Yusuf Hakeem and Link Sharon Loving, Chattanooga
(TN) Chapter President.
Central Area Director Alice Strong-Simmons, seated center, surrounded by Chattanooga, Knoxville, Nashville, Music City and
Parthenon Links.
THE CENTRAL AREA:
Anniversaries
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter Celebrates 25th Anniversary
By Link Traci Bell-Thomas, Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter, Team 68
The Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated celebrated 25 years of friendship and service
with Celebrating 25 Years of Service and Honoring Our Living Legends gala for over 300 guests. Twin Rivers
(OH) Chapter Immediate Past President Link Melanie Cates, along with event Co-chairs Link Mattie
B. James and Link Brenda Rivers envisioned an evening that would recognize and honor the chapter’s
deserving charter members. The committee took a page from Oprah Winfrey’s ‘playbook’ and
replicated her Legends Ball. Pearl Cleage’s poem, “We Speak Your Names,” was adapted to celebrate
the charter members’ work in the Columbus community.
Although the Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter became an official entity in 1988, the chapter had its origins
in 1986 when 24 women established a local interest group to serve the community. The chapter’s
members endeavored to pay tribute to their organizers Link Jeanne Lear Bowen and Link Eleanor
Deloache Brown, for their long glorious tradition of being role models and mentors for so many
individuals.
The evening’s honorees included the remaining charter members: Links Dorothy Bell, Mildred Chavous,
Ann Wagner Hill, Cleopatra Huggard, Janet Jackson, Kay Bell Mason, Billie Roland, Genieve Smoot,
Gertrude Tyree, Harriett White and Janice White.
Event decorations featured white roses with a video playing throughout the evening showcasing the
members’ 25 years of service. Honorees received a hard copy of a specially-created booklet, “We
Speak Your Names,” designed specifically for them, including each charter member’s photograph and
biography. The women received proclamations from Governor John Kasich (OH), Columbus Mayor
Michael Coleman, Link Joyce Beatty, Columbus (OH) Chapter and U.S. Congresswoman and remarks
from Link Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area Director.
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter celebrates 25 years and honors their charter members. Seated (L-R): Links Lauren Rivers, Christine Sowell,
Gertrude Tyree, Jan Jennings, Ann Wagner-Hill, Martha Bester, Melanie Cates, Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area Director, Sherry
Keys-Hebron, President, Brenda Rivers, Janet Kearney-Gissendaner, Cleopatra Huggard and Dorothy Cage-Evans
Standing(L-R): Links Diane Travick, Billie Jean Roland, Simone Williams, Carolyn Francis, Deborah Lipscomb, Judy Wright, Tracy Davis,
Traci Bell-Thomas, Rhea Carter, Mattie B. James, Felicia Clayton, Janice White, Beryl Anderson, Canise Bean, Micah Cook, Sharon
Bowen, Mariette Polite, Lynne LaCour, Jennette Bradley, Joan Woodard, Keisha Fletcher- Bates, Denise Hayes, Kelley Gray, Genevieve
Smoot, Kay Mason and Dorothy Bell.
THE CENTRAL AREA:
Anniversaries
Parthenon (TN) Chapter Celebrates 25 Years with White Rose Ball
By Link Jan-Néé Mathis, Parthenon (TN) Chapter
The Parthenon (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, celebrated its 25th year by hosting their
White Rose Ball at the Loews Vanderbilt Hotel in Nashville, Tennessee. The Ball was sponsored by the
Ridley Temple Foundation, the philanthropic arm of the Parthenon (TN) Chapter that supports chapter
initiatives, hands-on programming to reduce health disparities, advance arts education and prepare
students for college readiness in the Middle Tennessee communities.
Five individuals were recognized for their proactive response to the needs of the area communities and
their efforts, aligned to the programming facets of The Links, Incorporated. Additionally the Charlie B.
Temple Trailblazer Award was awarded. The Parthenon (TN) Chapter continued to impact the quality
of life in the community with a donation of $5,000 to the Matthew Walker Health Center. Event
proceeds benefit the chapter’s programming initiatives.
Left to right seated: Veonie McKinnie, LoLita Toney, Patricia Clayton Bailey, JoAnn Davis Davis, Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area
Director, Linda Spears, Margot James Copeland, 15th National President, Carolyn Qualls, Cathy Bender, Simone Sheats, Paulette
Coleman.
Left to right standing second row: Gwen Harris, Barbara Jones-Bah, Christie Sheats, Karen Shaw, Charlotte Mann, Marquetta Faulkner,
Carolyn Piphus, Debra Tillery, Kim Smiley, Sharon Carter, Judy Presley.
Left to right standing third row: Jan-Néé Sheats-Mathis, Cheryl Adams, Stephanie Bellard Chase, Sheila Peters, Virginia McClain,
Rhonda Dunn, Ann Haynes, Louise Jones, Patricia Mitchell, Peggy Cockerham, Wendy Hellum, Christina Coleman and Jylana Sheats
Central Area Revive Boutique
Pop-up Resale Proceeds Benefit Links Chapters Community Programs
and Central Area HBCU Endowed Scholarship Initiative
Link Kathy Wade, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Chair, Central Area
Communications
The Central Area Links Revive Boutique, a pop-up, high-end resale store,
is now open as a fundraising opportunity for Central Area chapters. The
boutique debuted with the Frankfort/Lexington (KY) Chapter and continued
to roll into the Detroit (MI) Area chapters
generating almost $25K from sales. The net
proceeds help support local chapters’ community
outreach activities and the Central Area “From The Heart” Historically Black
Colleges and Universities endowed scholarship initiative.
Judge Pam R. Goodwine and
Link Stefania M. Greene
“Members of The Links, Incorporated are creative, collaborative and caring when
developing fundraising initiatives that enable them to continue transformational
programs in the communities we serve. So requesting and receiving a multitude of
gently used designer, casual chic, professional or formal wear clothing provides a
fun outlet for high end apparel to wardrobe an entire family.” said Desma ReidColeman, a member of the Renaissance (MI) Chapter and the Central Area
Chair of this fundraising program.
“The boutique features clothing, shoes and accessories for the entire family which
have been donated by Links members, relatives and friends. Hundreds of gently
used items, many bearing designer labels, are priced to sell for savvy shoppers at
the Central Area Links Revive Boutique.”, continued Ms. Reid-Coleman.
The chapters have hosted opening receptions to preview the boutique for early shoppers. Revive
Boutique Rewards were created to provide purchase coupons for families in need. For more information
about presenting the Central Area Revive Boutique in your city and/or cluster, please contact Link
Desma Reid-Coleman via e-mail at [email protected].
Front Row (L-R): Links Tamea Evans,
Virginia Cofield, Myra Lyons, Alumnae
Viola Clements, Stefania Green, Courtney
Carter, Nancy Marshall, Ava Henry,
Sharon Childs, Sarah Rivers, Alumnae
Carolyn Clark,
Middle Row (L-R): Links Myra Lyons,
Lillian Graham, Mary Murray, Alumnae
Sandra Roach, Renee Shaw, Michaelene
James, Mary Sias
Back Row (L-R): Links Vernell Antoinette
Bennett, Mary Fields, Ramona Griffin,
Barbara Buck, Francene Gilmer
CHAPTER NEWS
Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter Hosts Annual Arts Poster Competition
By Link Donica Thomas Varner, Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter, Public Relations Chair, Team 68
The Arts Facet Committee of the Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter hosted its annual Arts Poster Competition
at the Parkridge Community Center in Ypsilanti, MI. This year’s theme was “Get Smart, Get Healthy –
Make Health a Habit.” Leading up to the awards program, Links members worked with fifteen students
in grades 6-11 over a four month period. Monthly
workshops included presentations from medical
professionals on health topics and art educators.
A panel of three judges consisting of a Links member,
a local artist, and a college professor selected three
winners in various age groups. Each winner received a
monetary award and trophy. The winning posters were
submitted to the Central Area for consideration in the
regional area contest.
One mother of a first place winner shared that “we are
so excited for all of the children. Please keep us posted
on the results of the Area contest and anything else
involving the Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter.” All participants
received a certificate of participation. In addition to the poster competition, college dance educator and
heir-o-link Gail Martin and her daughter led the group in dance instruction while caricature drawings
were provided by local artist Walt Griggs.
Links Patricia Manley and Mary Johnson encourage
developing healthy habits through dance along with
students at Parkridge Community Center in Ypsilanti,
Michigan.
Link Mary Gibson carefully evaluates poster submissions.
A proud first place winner!
Women Feel Better When They Look Better
By Link Lauren Ming and Link Bonita Cornute, Archway (MO) Chapter, Communications Committee,
Team 68
“Awesome, beautiful, impressive, perfect”, these are just some of the adjectives used to describe the
newly renovated Boutique at The Women’s Safe House. One staff member says it feels like a luxurious
walk in closet. The Archway (MO) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated led the transformation through
a community partnership with local businesses. Thermal Concepts, Broadway Home Improvement,
painting contractor Mellve Shahid, and Kohl’s Department Store transformed a corner of the basement
at the Safe House. A space once used as a storage room is now a lovely and organized boutique. The
renovation included fresh paint, new carpeting, window treatments, shelving, hanging units, chairs, and
decorations. The Archway (MO) Chapter hosted a Grand Opening Celebration to commemorate the
stylish transformational renovations.
The Boutique meets a critical need. In many cases, women and children rush away from a violent
situation with only the clothes on their backs. The boutique serves women fleeing domestic abuse by
providing a source of new and gently used clothing for their use. Our hope is that when they visit the
boutique, they begin to see their lives changing for the better.
The Women’s Safe House provides refuge for victims of domestic and sexual violence and their
children. They are open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year and serve over 500 women and children
annually. The Archway (MO) Chapter has partnered with The Women’s Safe House to provide projects
and programs that support women and their families for the past three years.
Grand Opening Photo top left: (L-T) TWSH Housing
Coordinator Denise Burns, with Archway (MO) members
Links Anita White, Cheryl Young, Susan Buford, Shelia
Williams, Lauren Ming, Bonita Cornute, Gwen Mizell and
Ingrid Taylor Trasada celebrate the grand opening.
Grand Opening Photo top
right: Boutique Renovations
Organizers Link Bonita
Cornute, Co-Chair, with TWSH
Executive Director Sylvia
Jackson, Links Gwen Mizell,
and Shelia Williams celebrate
the grand opening.
Bottom two photos left to
right, Boutique before and
Boutique after
Central Illinois (IL) Chapter Presents PETALS —
Providing Education and Training to Achieve
Lasting Results
By Link Wilma Bates, Central Illinois (IL) Chapter, Team 68
The Central Illinois (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated members are
helping to bridge the educational gap for disadvantaged young women
in Bloomington-Normal and Peoria, Illinois through their new signature
program, PETALS, Providing Education and Training to Achieve Lasting
Results. Two PETALS chapters in the Central Illinois (IL) Chapter’s service
area of Bloomington/Normal and Peoria provides approximately 77 young
women, 14 -18 years old provides one hour of character development
activities and one hour of individual mentoring.
The curriculum focuses on increased self-esteem, literacy skills, leadership
development, financial literacy, dental health, Black history trivia, exposure to
STEM and secondary education opportunities. Additionally, many of the girls
worked on submissions for the national poster contest. Central Illinois (IL) Chapter members serve
as mentors and partner with other dedicated, caring, strong African American women from the local
communities to make PETALS a success.
Link Dawn Jefferies, Central
Illinois (IL) Chapter leading a
recent PETALS session.
Part of this past year’s activities included a special program focusing on Kwanzaa to reinforce positive
thinking, self-sufficiency and independence. The overriding theme for all PETALS activities is the
foundation of our organization, “Friendship through Service.” By reaching out to these young women,
we are honoring our mission by performing transformational programs to impact our communities.
First Row (L-R): Links ..., Celeste Allen, Crystal Young, Renee Thompson-Fletcher, Wanda
Halloway, Chapter President Juanita Smith, Angela Blair, and Johnene Adams.
Second Row (L-R): Links Pam Starks, Alicia Lenard,Carletta Peacock, Cheryl Fluker, Central
Area Vice Director Glenda Masingale Manson, Beverly Reid, Cynthia Ashby and Angela
Davenport.
Link Celeste Allen of Central Illinois (IL)
Chapter leading Kwanzaa activities with
participants of PETALS program.
The Cincinnati (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
Presents 5-2-1-0 Healthy Countdown Health Fair
By Link Patrice Baughman Borders, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter, Health and Human Services Co-Chair
The Cincinnati (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated presented their 5-2-1-0 Healthy Countdown
Health Fair which marked the culmination of year-long engagement with staff and students of Bond
Hill Academy. As childhood obesity rates are still at epidemic levels, the introduction of healthy habits
remains the focus of the highly anticipated school year-end event.
The gymnasium and adjacent courtyard and basketball court were transformed into over 25 interactive
booths and activities for nearly 300 attendees. Students, their families, the staff and local community
were invited to get free health screening, consult with volunteer physicians and dentists on setting
health and fitness goals, test taste healthy snacks and participate in a First Lady Michelle Obama “Let’s
Move” Zone featuring Zumba and line dancing.
The 5-2-1-0 theme is based on the official messaging of the American Academy of Pediatrics for daily
suggested food and activity choices.
5 – Eat 5 fruits and vegetables
2 – Reduce TV and computer screen time to 2 hours or less
1 – Participate in at least 1 hour of moderate physical activity
0 – Zero sugary drinks
Health and Human Services Facet Co-chairs Link Patrice Baughman Borders and Link Monica Newby
worked with the school’s health task force to achieve the objectives of creating a venue where healthy
habits can be tested and practiced.
The Nutrition Council of Cincinnati has identified the health
fair as a best practice model for partnership and content.
Row #1(L-R): Links Ruby Bond, Patrice Baughman Borders, Health and Human
Services Co-Chair, Winona McNeil, Chapter President, Monica Newby, Health
and Human Services Co-Chair, Doris Clement Burton; Row #2 (L-R): Camille
Jones, Sherry Hughes, Edna Keown, Marchelle Owens, Grace Daniels, Kristi
Clement Williams, Stephanie Byrd, Shelley Jefferson Hamler.
Lauren Niemes, Executive Director, The Nutrition Council – making smoothies
in a blender powered by leg power on the smoothie bike.
Circle City (IN) and Indianapolis (IN) Collaborate
on March Forward to Heart Health
By Link LaQuia Walker, Circle City (IN) Chapter, Team 68
missing group shot
The Circle City (IN) Chapter and Indianapolis (IN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated collaborated on the presentation March Forward
to Heart Health at the Julia Carson Center in Indianapolis. The program featured 6 dynamic speakers providing vital information on the
importance of exercising, getting enough rest, and proper nutrition.
Below: Circle City (IN) Chapter members Link Myrna Williams and Link Marcha Bennett register a participant for the program.
Cream City (WI) Chapter Warms Hearts, Hands and Heads
By Lura Anyanwu, Cream City (WI) Chapter, Public Relations Committee member
“They warmed our hearts, we warmed their heads and hands,” Cream City (WI) Chapter
The Cream City (WI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, set up shop like busy elves on the first floor
Siefert Elementary School for grades K- 5, the chapter’s adopted school. Their mission was to meet
all the students, parents and staff to give the gift of warmth for the 311 students. “The staff, students
and parents were grateful as we embarked on our first 3-H Event at Seifert. The children warmed our
hearts, as we warmed their heads and hands with
beautiful knitted caps, matching gloves and scarves.”
said Link Julietta Henry. All gifts were wrapped tightly
with care and distributed to the students as they
assembled in the hallways.
The Cream City (WI) Chapter partnered with the
Salvation Army who donated 100 books that were
distributed to the classrooms. The children greeted
them with thank you cards, parents and faculty greeted
Students, staff and Cream City (WI) Chapter Members
them with gratitude. An additional 60 sets of extra
winter accessories were left at the school, and came in handy throughout the rest of the winter, as
children arrived at school without the proper clothing for their hands and heads.
The event culminated with an after school program presented by the chapter for the parents sharing
valuable information on the Affordable Health Care Act. The collaborative efforts of the Services to
Youth and Health and Human Committee Members and the Health Care Committee allowed this
collaboration to be a success.
Pictured from left to right - Links Julietta Henry, Jenice Burrell, Pauli Taylorboyd,
Vivian Mays, Seifert’s staff member, Link Florence Dukes, Seifert’s staff member.
Flint (MI) Chapter Expands Its Global Platform
of Service to Jamaica
By Link Linda Morris Belford, Flint (MI) Chapter, International Trends and Services Chair
The Flint (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, recently traveled to Jamaica as a part of their
International Trends programming. In 2011, the chapter adopted the Mission of Hope, a faith based
institution for youth transformation and change, located in St. Anne’s Bay, Jamaica. In supporting this
institution, the Flint (MI) Chapter has sustained contact with the mission, via Skype, and with regular
“Care Packages to the Caribbean,” that included first aid supplies, musical instruments, healthy snacks,
e-books, kitchen items, and a CPR mannequin.
Link Linda Morris Belford, the International Trends and Services Chair, states, “Through programs such
as this, we continue to expand the global platform for programs that service the educational health and
cultural needs of people of African descent throughout the world.”
The Flint (MI) Chapter presented the mission with a refrigerator; laptop computers donated by Dr.
Artie Vann, an audiometer donated by Gordon Stowe & Associates Medical Suppliers, and were able
to conduct audiometric screenings on the children. They conducted interactive workshops on selfesteem, creative express, and bullying with 3 – 16 year old children.
Link Linda Morris Belford speaks with students at the Mission of Hope, St. Ann’s, Jamaica.
Flint (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Donate Purses
and Personal Items
By Flint (MI) Chapter Communications Committee
The Flint (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated hosted their Friendship Luncheon at the Flint Golf
Club for members and their guests who fulfilled the request to donate gently used purses and personal
items. The drive resulted in the collection seventy-six purses, nine cosmetic bags and fifty-six pounds
of personal items. The items, including lotion, shampoo, conditioner, Kleenex, perfume samples, hand
sanitizer, etc. were donated to the Holy Angels Community Closet, Personal Needs and Linen Closet to
supplement supplies for the homeless and low-income residents.
Link Beverly Jones, Chair stated, “We are happy to be able to provide these items to our community.
We were overwhelmed by the generosity and support of our members and friends.” Christina Cooper,
Development Specialist, Catholic Charities of Genesee Counties said, “We are so grateful for your
donation. It is not very often that people think about the extra little things that help women feel good
about themselves.”
Featured in the Pic: (L-R) Links Wanda Harden, Terrye Branch, Beverly Jones, Nelda Hebert
The Gateway (IL) Chapter Receives A Benevolent
Gift Donation
Link Shevon L. Harris, Gateway (IL) Chapter, Team 68
The Gateway (IL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated received an anonymous benevolent gift donation
of $2,000.00 in recognition of their commitment to providing college scholarships to graduating area
high school graduates. Link Jo Anne Hamilton Parks, Chapter President, was contacted by Attorney
Wayne C. Harvey of Wayne C. Harvey & Associates, LLC, informing them a client wished to make a
benevolent gift donation to the Gateway (IL) Chapter. Attorney Harvey advised President Link Jo Anne Hamilton-Parks that the client was familiar with
the Gateway (IL) Chapter’s Lillian Adams Parks, Ph. D. Scholarship Program, and its commitment to
supporting high school seniors in the St. Louis and East Saint Louis Metropolitan area further their
education. Attorney Harvey stated that his client commended the chapter for their dedication and
desired to contribute to the Gateway (IL) Chapter’s mission of providing financial assistance to the bistate high school seniors with a monetary donation. The Gateway (IL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated is extremely grateful for the anonymous donor’s
generosity and recognition.
(L-R) Links Rose M. Coleman, Stacy Edwards, Karen Douglas, Yvonne Jordan, Andrea Johnson-Lee, Attorney Wayne C. Harvey, Jo
Anne Hamilton Parks, Chapter President, Lillian A. Parks, Chapter Organizer, Lauren Parks, Audrey Jones, and Patricia Wharton.
Gateway (IL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated Host First
Annual Health Fair
Link Shevon Harris, Gateway (IL) Chapter, Team 68
The Gateway (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated partnered with Central Baptist Church Health
Ministry, Saint Alexius Hospital, and Betty Jean Kerr People’s Health Centers to sponsor the first
annual Health Fair at the
Central Baptist Church in St.
Louis, Missouri. Over two
hundred local community
residents had the opportunity
to discuss health concerns
with local medical and dental
professionals.
Each attendee was personally
greeted by Gateway (IL)
Chapter members, provided
gift bags with health literature,
healthy snacks and water.
Throughout the fair, information
was provided from a cross
section of health professionals
including Beauvais Manor
Nursing Home, Knollwood
Retirement Center, Mederi
Caretenders, Scott and
First Annual Health Fair at the Central Baptist Church in St. Louis, Missouri presented by
the Gateway (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
Williams Medical Group, SSM
DePaul Hospital, Mary Kay
(L-R) Links Valerie Bell, Virginia Jordan, Patrice Colbert and Shevon Harris, Gateway (IL)
Chapter are ready to greet the Health Fair attendees with gifts bags containing healthy
Cosmetics, Bell Life Insurance
snacks, health literature and bottled water.
Agency, physicians Dr. Clifton
Smith, Link Patrice Colbert, MD, Link Denise Hook-Anderson, MD, and Dr. Charles Quigless.
Walgreens provided free on site flu shots while Barnes Jewish Hospital and Washington University
School of Medicine provided a variety of free health screenings including COPD, diabetes and blood
pressure. The day’s activities included nutrition and diet sessions with Vegan samples.
The community shared their overwhelming gratitude and appreciation to the Gateway (IL) Chapter
members for organizing and providing free vital health information and screening services.
Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter Receives
Theater League Award’s Grant
By Link Tammy Edwards, President, Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter
An initiative to open the world of live theater to children that live in the urban core of the Kansas City
metropolitan area is growing in size and momentum. Inspired by the vision and mission of the chapter’s
Services to Youth Facet, members worked tirelessly with the targeted population of students to gain
access to opportunities that had not been a part of
their artistic experiences. Partnering with the Theater
League’s Theater ROcKs – Reach Out to Kids Program,
the Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated has observed an increase in attendance
at shows going from approximately 200 to over
2,000 students in just under four years.
Front Row (l-r): Mark Edelman, President, Theater League
and Link Tammy Edwards, President, Greater Kansas City
(MO) Chapter
In recognition of this on-going effort the Greater
Kansas City (MO) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
was delighted to receive a $9,000.00 grant,
presented by Mark Edelman, President of the Theater
League and League board member Gregory Glore,
to continue the Theatre RoCKs Program. Thanks to
the support of an expanding number of schools in
collaboration with The Greater Kansas City (MO)
Chapter, students have enjoyed performances
including The Wiz, Bud Not Buddy’ and Shrek, The
Musical.
The Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter understands
the importance of the arts in the development of
well-rounded children leading to building bridges
to a broader appreciation of the arts. To ensure the
fulfillment of the program’s goals, each performance event undergoes a post evaluation which includes
a school visit that accommodates discussions with students who attend the shows.
Back Row (-r): Link Rebecca McKeel, Gregory Glore, Theater
League Board member, Link Everlyn Williams and Link Leigh
Jackson
Greater Kansas City (MO) and Jackson County (MO) Chapters
Host Inaugural Cluster Founders’ Day and Friendship Weekend
By Link Sharon Turner Buie, Jackson County (MO) Chapter, Cluster Event Co-Chair
Responding to a National Initiative to embrace friendship and increase member satisfaction, the Jackson
County (MO) and Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapters collaborated to host the inaugural Central Area
Cluster Founders’ Day and Friendship Weekend in Kansas City, Missouri. The weekend celebrated and
honored our founders, Margaret Hawkins and Sarah Scott and promoted two of the main tenants of
Linkdom, friendship and service.
The host chapters welcomed 139 Links from 12 chapters to this momentous celebration including Archway
(MO), Des Moines (IA), Gateway (IL), Greater Kansas City (MO), Jackson County (MO), Oklahoma City
(OK), Omaha (NE), Topeka (KS), Tulsa (OK), St. Louis (MO), St. Paul (MN) and Wichita (KS).
The weekend began with a ‘Meet and Greet’ reception Friday evening, where Links rekindled old friendships
and formed new relationships with Link sisters from multiple chapters. The evening continued with Links
and Connecting Links playing cards, line dancing, visiting Kansas City’s Historic 18th & Vine District and
tempting fate at one of the local casinos. Many returned the following day to the famous 18th & Vine area to
enjoy the music and museums.
Link Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area Director and Everlyn Williams, Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter,
Central Area Chair, Literacy and Math Initiative and Cluster Event Co-Chair began Saturday’s festivities with
an excellent presentation on three major initiatives addressing the nation’s most critical areas of need in
education; 1) Closing the Achievement Gap: Math and Literacy Initiative; 2) Closing the Achievement Gap
(CTAG) Forums and 3) the Young Women’s Empowerment institute.
The Friendship Luncheon included a welcome by the Honorable Sylvester (Sly) James, Mayor, Kansas City,
MO, followed by remarks from Link Alice and Mamie Maye Bryan, President, Omaha (NE) Chapter. Link
Alice led the moving Founders’ Day ceremony. Chapter presidents performed the touching Friendship ritual
with Link Irene Watson, Jackson County (MO) Chapter, singing a beautiful rendition of Hold Close the Rose.
Platinum member, Link Everlyn Welton, Greater Kansas City (MO) Chapter, honored this first, seven-state
cluster celebration in Central Area history, with a champagne toast. The meeting closed with event co-chair
Link Sharon Turner Buie reminding participants about “the true meaning of the word friendship as embodied
in the name Links.”
Knoxville (TN) Chapter Works to Empower Local
Middle School Students
By Link Twuanna Ward, Knoxville (TN) Chapter, Team 68
The Knoxville (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, in partnership with Junior Achievement of East
Tennessee, launched a three-phase after-school enrichment program at The Community School. The
program is designed to encourage and inspire middle school students to achieve their dreams. During
the inaugural session, students
received an overview of the program
sessions including Branding, Career
Identification, Career Mapping,
aimed to assist students select
subjects to prepare for ideal careers;
High Growth Career Exploration and
How to Keep a Job.
Phase 1: ‘It’s Your Future’ - Assist
students with career exploration,
academics, goal-setting and
personal responsibility.
During the first session, My Brand,
students were asked to explore their
personal brand through interviews
Links Jonida Robinson, Chapter President; Vicki Hammock, Program Chair; Brenda
Thacker, National Trends and Services Chair; Jacqueline Bridgeman, International
and self-reflection. One of the goals
Trends and Services Chair, and Evelyne Davidson, MD, Health and Human Services
of My Brand is to remind students
Committee design a bulletin board announcing the details of the after-school
that the choices they make in
enrichment program.
middle school have a direct impact
on their future. The students discussed familiar brands, their logos, and how those logos carried their
own message to consumers. Students were encouraged to create their own logo and determine what
message they wanted others to think of when it came to them personally. With the final Phase 1
Session, How to Keep a Job, students received tips on how to speak, what to wear, importance of being
on time and trustworthy.
Phase 2: ‘Economics for Success’ - Reviewed Budgeting, the Proper Use of Credit, Credit Scores, How
to Set Financial Goals and the Role of Insurance.
Phase 3: ‘Career Enrichment Program’ in the Spring with exposure to professionals and their careers.
The program success and powerful impact resulted in school administrators requesting the Knoxville
(TN) Chapter consider presenting the program for a new group of students this Fall.
Lake Shore (IL) Chapter Cruise
Makes Travel History on 2014
Bahamas Mind, Body and Spirit
‘Friendship Cruise’
By Link Shon Peebles, Lake Shore (IL) Chapter, Team 68
and Link Lottie Powell Williams, Lake Shore (IL) Chapter,
MBS Chair and Group Leader
Friendship was the key ingredient as the Lake Shore (IL)
Chapter of The Links, Incorporated with member’s families
and friends for their history making Mind, Body and
Spirit (MSB) Friendship Cruise on the luxurious Celebrity
Constellation cruise ship. It was the perfect time to escape
the brutal record setting winter weather to Ft. Lauderdale,
FL and onward to 4 nights of sailing to Nassau and Key
West. This provided a great time to reflect and celebrate
the Chapter’s continuous work to set the bar high for their
transformational work.
While on board, Links wined and dined around the clock on
fantastic food from various cultures; lounge in bathing suits
and gather nightly in their personal hospitality area with
breathe taking ocean views. The impeccable service added
to rejuvenating their minds, bodies and spirits.
The 2014 MBS Friendship cruise was an overwhelmingly
successful and historic sisterhood event. Planning
began in earnest around the ship’s pool for 2015 MBS
Friendship Cruise with an eye to encourage more Alumni
members to join the fun and relaxation. Mind, Body and
Spirit Committee members cruising included Links Kimi
Ellen, Linda Murrain, Gale Foster Farley, Barbara Pinder,
Georgina Heard, Debbie Douglas, and Yvonne Calloway.
Chapter members joining the cruise included Lake Shore
(IL) Chapter President Link Regena Glenn-Caldwell, MBS
Chairperson and Charter Member Link Lottie Powell
Williams, National Chair, Strategic Partnerships Link Alma
Dodd; Link Sisters from other chapters and adult family
members. Mind, Body, and Spirit has successfully been
taken to another level in the Lake Shore (IL) Chapter.
Left to right: Bottom/1st Row - Links Georgina
Heard-Labonne; Rita Wilson; Barbara Pinder;
Regena Glenn-Caldwell; Lottie Powell Williams;
Kimi Ellen.
2nd Row: Links De Lois Mix; Shelli Hayes; Tawa
Mitchell; Linda Murrain; Gale Foster Farley.
3rd row: Links Donna Simpson Leak; Karen
Comer; Sondra Few; Deborah “Debby” Douglas.
4th Row/Top: Links June Lewis Mustiful –
Alumna Member; Gale Foster Farley; Carol
Sagers; Yvonne Calloway.
Georgina Heard-Labonne; Linda Murrain;
Barbara Pinder; Regena Glenn-Caldwell President; Lottie Powell Williams - Committee
Chair; Kimi Ellen; Gale Foster Farley.
Madison Metropolitan (WI) Chapter Host
Community Recognition Awards
Link Marilyn Ruffin, Madison Metropolitan (WI) Chapter, Team 68
The Madison Metropolitan (WI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated hosted its Fourth Annual
Community Recognition Jazz Brunch Fundraiser with perfect ambience of the smooth Latin jazz of
Tony Castanada’s Latin Jazz Ensemble. The chapter honored six individuals and an organization that
have made a difference in the Madison Area including Mary Burke, Carola Gaines, Dr. Gloria Hawkins,
former Mayor Frances Huntley-Cooper, former Chief Noble Wray and the Wisconsin Women of Color
Network. Tierra Smith, a former scholarship recipient, was the keynote speaker.
The Jazz Brunch benefits chapter scholarships to college-bound students. The 2014 African-American
Scholarship program presents several scholarships; book gift certificates to twelve middle school students;
and Certificates of Recognition to approximately one thousand K-12 students and adult school volunteers.
This past Spring the Madison Metropolitan (WI) Chapter presented “Yes I Can!” Conference for
8th Grade Girls in partnership with the Madison Metropolitan School District. This conference is a
public service of our organization to encourage girls to continue thinking about roads to personal and
academic success in high school and beyond. Presentations include topics on Healthy Relationships:
Making and Keeping Friends; Building Positive Self-Images; Pre-College Programs for Girls; Dressing for
Success and Preparing for the Future.
Madison Metropolitan (WI) Chapter Members at the Madison Links’ 4th Annual Community Recognition & Jazz Brunch Fundraiser
include sitting (L-R): Links Julia Holman, Jackie Rodman, Yvonne Bowen, Mary Muse, Chapter President and Velma Ritcherson.
Standing (L-R): Links Gloria Thomas, Roxanne Allison, Angela Arrington, Dawn Adams, Marilyn Ruffin, Gloria Ladson-Billings, Delisa
Scott, Viola Miller, Karen Moser, Gladys Blackmon-Crawford.
Not Pictured: Links Kisha Williams, Kesha Bozeman, Diane Crear, Deborah Garrett Thomas, Mary Rose, Shirley Stennis-Williams
Michigan Cluster Meets in Saginaw
Link Lisa Ingram, Tri-City (MI) Chapter, Team 68
Central Area Director, Link Alice Strong Simmons, shared Central Area’s partnership with the Kettering
Foundation, with the Michigan Cluster, to pilot a program that addresses Closing the Achievement Gap,
Phase II. The Tri-City (MI) Chapter hosted the event in Saginaw,
Michigan. Participating chapters included the Ann Arbor (MI)
Chapter, Detroit (MI) Chapter, Flint (MI) Chapter, Lansing/East
Lansing (MI) Chapter, Oakland County (MI) Chapter, Renaissance
(MI) Chapter and Tri-City (MI) Chapter.
Link Alice stated that the goal of the Central Area of The Links,
Incorporated is improving the ability of children from Pre-K to 3rd
grade to read at or above state proficiency level, and be able to demonstrate grade appropriate math
skills. She passionately stressed that chapters should increase involvement in literacy and math process
by integrating into current or new programming. The Ann Arbor (MI) Chapter previously hosted literacy
forums. The remaining chapters were encouraged to take the charge from Link Alice on ‘Closing the
Achievement Gap’..
Hosting Chapter Tri-City MI Chapter
Links: Front Row Seated (L-R) Margaret
Lashore, Casaundra Williams, Micele
Barkley, Lisa Ingram, Central Area
Director Link Alice Simmons, Lois
Wilkins, Algeria Morris-Sowah.
Back Row Standing (L-R) Links Janet
Ofori-Darko, Aladia Mazique, Iris
Haynes, Barbara Littles, Sandy Haughton,
Alumni; Tiffany Torain, Mamie Thorns,
Eleanor Taylor, Alumni; Margaret
Jackson, Alumni; Stacy Erwin-Oakes,
Lisa Jenkins, Felicia Peters, Freddie Jones,
Linda Holoman and Juanita Fox, Alumni.
Link Alice Strong Simmons, Central Area Director.
Oklahoma City (OK) Chapter Celebrates National
Minority Health Month with First “Hats Off to
Health Luncheon”
By Link Tonya Reese Ward, Oklahoma City (OK), Team 68 and Communications Chair
The Oklahoma City (OK) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated embarked on raising HIV/AIDS awareness
and enlightening the community to minority health disparities with an educational and entertaining
luncheon. Over 150 guests filled the sophisticatedly
designed Jim Thorpe Museum in Oklahoma City with
a welcome from Link Collette Hall Houchen and Link
Anita Jones, Chapter Health and Human Services
Chairs.
L to R, top to bottom:
Dr. Donna Hubbard
McCree, Centers for
Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC)
Associate Director for
Health Equity, Division
of HIV/AIDS Prevention,
National Center for HIV/AIDS, Viral Hepatitis, STD, and TB
Prevention and Link Carmelita Brazille.
Link Tara Bradley and Area Director Link Alice Strong Simmons
Introduction of speakers by Link Chalon Anderson and Link
Mary Carey.
Oklahoma City (OK) Chapter President Link Carolyn Kornegay
Welcome delivered by Link Collette Hall Houchen and Link
Anita Jones.
According to the Center for Disease Control and
Prevention (CDC), nationally, the African American
community is experiencing the most severe burden of
HIV and AIDS of any racial group. It is estimated that
blacks account for almost half of all new infections
in the United States each year, as well as almost
half of all people living with HIV. Keynote speaker,
Donna Hubbard McCree, Ph.D., MPH, RPH, Associate
Director for Health Equity and CDC behavioral
interventions expert presented a brief state of the
nation in regards to HIV/AIDS status, along with
methods being employed by the CDC to reduce
infection rates.
Mrs. Linda Thomas, M.Ed., Director of the Office of
Minority Health, Oklahoma State Department of
Health informed the group of services addressed by
her organization, which included maternal and child
health, immunization, chronic diseases, disease and
prevention services, WIC services, health equity and
resource opportunity, tobacco prevention, HIV/STD
services and training education and development.
The guests were commended on their desire to
learn more about health issues that are plaguing our community at this time. In addition to the
presentations, an elegant lunch was served with a light-hearted and wonderful Hat Fashion Show
including ‘how-to’ of hat selection by Mr. Bryon A. Dickens, owner of Covington Image Consulting
and Professional Development. The event concluded with awarding a continuing scholarship for an
academically gifted college student, Rachel Morgan, by Link Gloria Griffin.
Corporate sponsors for the luncheon included AARP, Alleve Hospice, Family Dentistry Children and
Adults and the Urban League of Greater Oklahoma City.
Omaha (NE) Chapter: Literacy Development at Home, School
and in the Community
Link Janice Garrett, Omaha (NE) Chapter
One of the most effective approaches to helping children from poverty develop literacy skills is having
a home environment that supports literacy. Research findings indicate that instructional environments
have a powerful impact on children’s growth in reading.
As first step to address reading in homes and closing the
achievement gap, the Omaha (NE) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated organized a week of literacy activities for
approximately 2200 students within six elementary schools
in the Omaha community. The purpose of this initiative was to
demonstrate that (1) reading is an important value for families
and (2) everyone in this community—no matter their age—
needs to read and to be proficient in reading.
Omaha (NE) Chapter members with the Principal
and Assistant Principal of Boyd Elementary
School (L-R): Link Sandra McGee, Link Emily
Miller, Scott Hilger, Elaine Adams, Link Mamie
Bryan, Link Arlana Phillips and Link Janice
Garnett.
What a power house week! The
Omaha (NE) Chapter members
served as celebrity readers
and organized presentations
by national African-American
author, Byron Garrett. Mr. Garrett led discussions with families and
students in five schools about the importance of reading, setting goals
and being successful. A literate home develops in young children a love
for reading and writing. As Rasinski and Fredericks put it, “A literate
home environment doesn’t teach children how to read; rather, it provides
children with opportunities to enjoy reading and discover the many ways
it can be used to enrich the experiences in their lives.”
Byron Garrett, author greeted
by Link Mamie Bryan, President,
Omaha (NE) Chapter.
Photos L to R:
Omaha (NE) Chapter members
with the Principal and Assistant
Principal of Boyd Elementary
School (L-R): Link Sandra McGee,
Link Emily Miller, Scott Hilger,
Elaine Adams, Link Mamie Bryan,
Link Arlana Phillips and Link
Janice Garnett.
Link Sandra McGee sharing
books with a student at Boyd
Elementary.
The Parthenon (TN) Chapter Delivers Nashville
Dress Project
By Link Jan-Néé Mathis, Parthenon (TN) Chapter
The Nashville Dress Project, founded by a member of the Parthenon (TN) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated, combines the vital services of two organizations that assist women. The Goodwill
Industries of Middle Tennessee assist individuals with work preparedness and employment
opportunities. Part of that preparation involves having workplace attire and access to low cost items
through the Goodwill stores.
The Renewal House provides services and shelter for women with drug addiction and co-occurring
mental illness and their families. They provide inpatient services, temporary and permanent housing in
an attempt to keep families together. The chapter wanted to help these families be comfortable during
the uncharacteristically cold winter.
The Parthenon (TN) Chapter found they could provide assistance for both organizations while making
an immediate impact on women and families served by both organizations through the Nashville Dress
Project. The chapter hosted the Gift of Shopping: Dress Donation Drive with guests providing donated
dresses collected by a Goodwill representative who provided receipts. The donated items were
converted into ‘Goodwill Cares’ gift cards, and delivered to the Renewal House, for eighteen residential
families. The families were then able to go to any Goodwill store and purchase the items that were
needed for winter to workplace.
Photos L to R:
(L-R) Laura
Berlind, Executive
Director, Renewal
House, Christina
Coleman and
Jennifer Wheeler,
Developmental
Director, Renewal
House
Gift Bag with
Goodwill Cares gift
cards
The Renaissance (MI) Chapter Celebrates American Heart
Health Month
By Link Dana Harvey, Renaissance (MI) Chapter, Communications Chair, Team 68
Given the association between love and the month of February, the American Heart Association’s
American Heart Month provided the Renaissance (MI) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated an
opportunity to share the importance of knowing the risks for heart disease with the community
through a Healthy Heart Cooking Class. To celebrate, the Renaissance (MI) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated hosted a free dinner party for the community to learn how to prepare common favorite
meals in a healthy way.
Guests were able to
indulge in all the healthy
and delicious dishes.
The American Heart
Association-based
overview was created to
discuss women’s health,
and what everyone can
do to keep their hearts
healthy.
“Learning about the risks
of heart disease is the
first step in positioning
ourselves for healthier
lives and cooking healthy
is a great way to take
an active role in that
process,” shared Health
and Human Services
(L-R) Link Stephanie Jones with representative from Healthy Heart Organizations and Link Janet
Burch.
Chapter Co-chair, Joya
Harris. “And what better
way to make that healthy heart message stick, is to enjoy a healthy cooking class and enjoy delicious
food prepared while you’re there!”
More than sixty women and a few supportive men attended the presentation on women and heart
disease at Detroit’s Northwest Activity Center. The discussion centered on stunning statistics on heart
disease, its impact on women versus other diseases; and how an emphasis on a whole health lifestyle,
including diet and exercise can reduce stress and combat heart disease.
Attendees were also treated to a cooking demo by a natural food chef who made vegetarian gumbo
and a salad dressing during her presentation. The dinner included bayou roasted chicken breast, veggie
gumbo, brown rice, baby greens with Italian dressing or chef prepared dressing, fresh brewed ice tea,
and sweet potato bread pudding, based on an adaptation of an AHA cookbook recipe.
The River City (TN) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated and Hattiloo Theatre present
The Black Theatre Museum
By Link April Thompson Larsha, River City (TN) Chapter, Publicity Co-Chair, Team 68
Black Theatre came to life during a four-day exhibit of The Black Theatre Museum presented by The
River City (TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and the Hattiloo Theatre. After a ribbon cutting
ceremony and a news conference, the four-day exhibit at LeMoyne Owen College’s Renaissance
Center opened to the public. This traveling
museum featured depictions and exhibits
from four eras of theatrical performances:
Reconstruction, Early 20th Century
Vaudeville, Civil Rights, and Afrocentrism.
Visitors had the opportunity to stroll through
and read about the history behind musicals
like Ain’t Misbehavin, Dream Girls and Eubie.
Local students from Hollis F. Price School
were able to experience the exhibit and Ms.
Carla Stotts Hills, President of The River City
Ribbon Cutting to open The Black Theatre Museum (L-R) Marsha
(TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, said,
Wells-Midsouth Food Bank, Ekundayo Bandele, Director, Hattiloo
“Student involvement has been the goal for
Theatre; Carla Stotts-Hills-President, The River City (TN) Chapter of
The Links since Links co-founder Margaret
The Links, Incorporated; Emma Jean Stotts, Co-Founder of The River
(TN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated; Dr. Johnnie B. WatsonRoselle Hawkins made The Arts a main focus
President, Lemoyne Owen College.
of programming. We decided to bring this to
South Memphis so we could get youth involved in seeing our culture and it being Black History month,
it couldn’t be a better time for us to present this theatre.”
Essence Davis, a 9th grader at Hollis Price, said, “The Black
Theatre Museum was a great experience. I don’t know a
lot about Blacks in the theatre, so I think this will be a good
experience for me to expand my knowledge about what’s going
on in the community, especially with the Hattiloo Theatre.”
Admission to the exhibit was a donation to the Midsouth
Food Bank. At the conclusion of the exhibit, The River City
(TN) Chapter donated eleven boxes of food to the Midsouth
Food Bank. Dr. Johnnie B. Watson, President of Lemoyne
Owen College, said he was proud to have the exhibit on the
HBCU college campus. “The River City (TN) Links, Hattiloo,
Midsouth Food Bank, and Lemoyne Owen College, this is a
winning combination,” said Watson.
Ekundayo Bandele, Director, Hattiloo Theatre, gives
students from Hollis F. Price School a guided tour of
The Black Theatre Museum, explaining how black
theatre played a role in the civil rights movement.
Photos by Angela Myers-”Artistry by Angela”
The South Bend Area (IN) Chapter Reaches a Milestone —
Signing a Deed of Gift with the Center for History
By Imogene Harris, South Bend Area (IN) Chapter, Team 68
The Archives and History Committee met in June 2011, to determine how to archive the Chapter’s
records. Research was done to find a location for the archives collection. The Links, Incorporated’s
Archives Manual, A Definitive Guide for Chapters was used as a guideline. Mission and Policy Statements
were written in congruent with our Chapter Bylaws. Cost was factored into our annual Budget for archive
quality materials. A meeting was set up with the Archives and History Committee and the Director of
the Center for History, to discuss the possibility of using their facility to house our records. The Director
readily agreed, an agreement was completed and the Center for History became the South Bend (IN)
Chapter’s Repository.
The Committee immediately began collecting documents and other items from members with numerous
hours spent organizing the large volume of materials at the home of Committee Chair, Link Virginia Calvin
In order to avoid confusion, it was determined that only the Archives and History Committee Chair would
deposit materials to the Center for History.
On March 29, 2012, the deed of gift (excluding the Charter) was signed by Link Tina Patton, President
of the South Bend Area (IN) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated in the Center for History’s Vincent
Bendix Reading Room. Links Virginia Calvin, Janice Hall, Imogene Harris, Otha Reese, and Myrtle Wilson
witnessed this significant event.
During 2013 and 2014, the Committee actively volunteered numerous service hours at the Center for
History to organize the Chapter’s collection. Randy Ray, Executive Director, Center for History said,
“A donation of this magnitude is extraordinary. Materials and photographs such as those included in
the Links’ donation are precisely what we rely upon to accurately interpret and teach history to future
generations. These documents will help tell the Links’ story for decades and decades to come. We are so
grateful to the South Bend Area (IN) Links members for entrusting their most important collection to us.”
Seated (L-R): Kristi Dunn, Center for History Registrar, and Tina
Patton, Immediate Past President
Standing (L-R): Links Virginia Calvin, and Imogene Harris
Seated (L-R): Kristi Dunn, Center for History Registrar and Link
Tina Patton, Immediate Past President
Standing (L-R): Links Janice Hall, President, Otha Reese, Myrtle
Wilson, Imogene Harris, and Virginia Calvin
South Bend Area (IN) Chapter Awards
Scholarships to IUSB Students
By Link Imogene Harris South Bend Area (IN) Chapter, Team 69 Representative
The South Bend Area
(IN) Chapter of The Links,
Incorporated recognized
three scholarship recipients
during their Annual Holiday
Brunch. Aimee Yarde, 2011
recipient, Cynthia Chijioke,
2012 recipient, and Alexis
Adams, 2013 recipient were
honored.
Proceeds from the Holiday
Brunch were used to increase
the Scholarship fund, which
was created to support the
educational aspirations of
Seated (L - R): Virginia Calvin, Tina Patton, Aimee Yarde, 2011 Scholarship Recipient and
African-American women
Cynthia Chijioke, 2012 Scholarship Recipient.
accepted to Indiana
Standing (L - R): Links Janice Hall, President and Imogene Harris
University South Bend.
The scholarship awards $1,000 for tuition and fees and is renewable for up to four years for full-time
undergraduate study. Students are able to apply directly to Indiana University South Bend.
South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter Celebrates Links History
During Women’s History Month
By Link Joyce Carter, South Suburban Chicago (IL), President
The South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter is pleased the University Park Library located in the Village
of University Park, Illinois is the selected site to display the chapter’s noteworthy archives. Since the
South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter was charted in University Park 38 years ago, June, 1976, the
Archives Committee determined the library was the best location.
The unveiling of the South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter Archives Display included participation by
Vivian Covington, Mayor; Library Board President and Director; Link Gwendolyn B. Lee, South Suburban
Chicago (IL), 14th National President of The Links, Incorporated, South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter
Executive Board, members and Connecting Links. The chapter takes great pride and honor contributing
this long awaited milestone to the South Suburban Chicago (IL) Chapter History book.
Young Women of Excellence RockET at the
University of Toledo
By Link Beverly Baker, Toledo (OH) Chapter, Program Chair
The Toledo (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated has helped support enriching and positive
extracurricular experiences for girls at several school sites over the years. The overall goal is to implement
a stimulating and comprehensive learning program through a variety of experiences and activities that help
prepare girls for success at school and in their surrounding communities.
The most recent Toledo (OH) Chapter collaboration with the Toledo Public
School District’s Young Women of Excellence (YWOE) program and Girl
Scouts of Western Ohio at the Samuel M. Jones School. Chapter members are
committed to raising expectations for youth, especially girls, and dedicated to
the betterment of their learning experiences. As a result of this relationship, the
Services to Youth Facet developed the “Sister Circles” program. Girls at Jones
School now have the opportunity to be involved with caring, female adults who
offer guidance, support and encouragement at Young Women of Excellence
afterschool sessions, as well as other enrichment activities. Collaborating with
community partners allows the chapter to extend its commitment to girls
beyond Jones School and plan events such as ‘Girls RockET: Full STEAMM
Ahead!’
About 120 members and advisors of Young Women of Excellence (YWOE)
participated in ‘Girls RockET: Full STEAMM Ahead!’ at the University of Toledo
Top to bottom:
(UT) this past Spring. The Services to Youth Facet organized the one day
YWOE members engineer
program that introduced the students from various YWOE chapters in the
origami rockets at ‘Girls RockET:
Toledo Public School district to positive female STEAMM (Science, Technology,
Full STEAMM Ahead!’
Engineering, Art, Medicine and Math) role models from across the UT campus.
Young Women of Excellence
YWOE members engaged in a variety of activities, experiments and creative
members decorate water bottles
and masks during ‘Girls RockET:
problem solving as they participated in interactive STEAMM workshops led by
Campus Overnight Experience’.
UT faculty, alumni, staff and students. While engaging in a fun and educational
environment on the university’s campus, YWOE members gained a better understanding of what it takes for
‘Girls to RockET’ as a University of Toledo STEAMM student and professional.
‘Girls RockET: Full STEAMM Ahead!’ was proceeded by ‘Girls RockET: Campus Overnight Experience’ an
exclusive opportunity provided for 20 Young Women of Excellence (YWOE) members and advisors to stay
overnight in a residence hall at the University of Toledo. Each participant received an overnight bag filled with
personal hygiene items donated by Toledo (OH) Chapter members. With the assistance of Link sisters and
University of Toledo, members from 4 African American Women (4AW), the students completed fleece
blanket crafts and participated in various fun activities including a photo shoot with UT mascot Rocksy, mask
painting, manicures, line dancing, rock climbing and inflatable games at the UT Recreation Center.
‘Girls RockET’ was presented under the direction of University of Toledo Project Manager and Services to
Youth Facet Chair, Link Erin Thomas with the support of University of Toledo’s Division of Students Affairs,
Office of Residence Life and members of Toledo (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporate ACT
Prep Course
By Link Traci Bell-Thomas, Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter, Team 68
The ACT Exam is a high stakes test that could be the difference between receiving or not receiving a
college scholarship. In 2010 The Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated discovered that
the average ACT score for African American students in the state of Ohio was 17.1 compared to 22.2
for Whites, and the average ACT score for Columbus City Schools was 17. As they were researching
this trend, the chapter also found that Columbus City Schools historically provided a Winter Institute in
which 11th and 12th grade
students could participate
in a six week online
preparation course for the
ACT. Due to budget cuts,
the Winter Institute is no
longer provided.
Recognizing a need for
test preparation, The
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter
created their ACT Prep
Course, a part of their
Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter members Link Beryl D. Anderson (left) and Link Angela LaFollette
umbrella program entitled
(far right) look on as Heir-O-Link Taylor LaFollette (center) facilitates an ACT Prep Course for
Closing the Achievement
Columbus City School students.
Gap by Expanding
Opportunities. The course was designed to help Columbus City School juniors and seniors prepare for
the ACT exam. Four years later, the program continues to thrive and assist students in improving their
test-taking skills.
Held at Eastmoor Academy and Walnut Ridge High School (class maximum per school: 40), a day’s
session includes a pre-test, four - 3 hour instructional sessions on Saturday mornings, 3 hours per week
of homework, and a post-assessment test in preparation for the Spring ACT exam.
The prep course low cost of $25 provides each student with a comprehensive analysis of their
performance on the exam and a customized study plan to fit their individual needs. Course instructors
are dedicated to helping each student reach their full potential; and by working as a team, chapter
members build students’ test taking skills, confidence and motivation to succeed, both on the exam
and in the future.
Since the ACT Prep Course’s inception, the Twin Rivers (OH) Chapter continues to graciously receive inkind services provided by Aramark Food Service and financial support from Honda R&D Americas, Inc.
West Towns Inspires with Signature Services To
Youth Program
By Link Angela J. Billings, West Towns (IL) Chapter, Team 68
The West Towns (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated has partnered with Washington Elementary
in Maywood, IL for almost 20 years providing books for the library, story time, uniforms and funds
to support special projects at the school. The chapter hosted their signature
Services to Youth program, Achieving The Dream at Washington with a
presentation from Heir-O-Link, Major Javin C. Peterson. Major Peterson, is the
pilot for AIR FORCE TWO, providing services for Vice President, Joe Biden, First
Lady of the United States, Michelle Obama and various members of President
Obama’s cabinet.
The presentation to 8th grade students at Washington Elementary discussed
the importance of perseverance and persistence in achieving their dreams.
Major Peterson invited students to list their dreams and ways that their dreams
Heir-O-Link Major Javin
may be achieved. The essence of the presentation was further designed to
C. Peterson
help these 8th graders define a positive direction as they prepare to enter high
school. Major Peterson shared his journey to achieve his lifelong dream through hard work to overcome
challenges to become a pilot.
West Towns (IL) Chapter Sponsors ‘Fun Run’ in Support of
National Let’s Move Initiative
By Link Angela J. Billings, West Towns (IL) Chapter,
Team 68
West Towns (IL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated
continues to support First Lady Michelle Obama’s
Let’s Move program and the goal of reducing
childhood obesity. Each month the Chapter sponsors
a ‘Fun Run’ encouraging participation from students,
Links, Heir-o-Links, teachers and staff. The runs are
held outdoors or indoors depending on the weather.
Washington Elementary School Students and Staff participate
in the West Towns Links Chapter Fun Run
In preparation for 40 minutes of walking or running,
participants engage in warm-up and cool down activities such as stretching, reaching and bending.
Each participant enjoys an apple and a bottle of water at the end of the walk run activity. Participating
students enter their name in raffle drawing for health related prizes with presentations held during
school by the principal and announced over the intercom. All monthly winners are eligible for the grand
prize, a new bicycle at the end of the school year. The West Towns (IL) Chapter’s Service to Youth Facet
chairs, which coordinate the ‘Fun Run’, includes Links Patty Davis, Gerri Gray and Willa Peterson.
Wilberforce (OH) Chapter Partners with Area Historically
Black Colleges and Universities
By Link Cheryl D. Marcus, Wilberforce (OH) Chapter, Team 68
The Wilberforce (OH) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated created programming through International
Trends and Services and Services to Youth Facets in partnership with with Central State University
(CSU) and Wilberforce University (WU), two area Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The Wilberforce (OH) Chapter co-sponsored an International Tea with the Center for Global Education
at Central State Uuniversity in honor of International Education Week. The cultural immersion
program focused on the country of Tunisia and highlighted the vital role of tea in Tunisian culture. The
featured speaker, Mohammed Ben Chouikha, a Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistant at CSU,
discussed multilingualism, religion, business, foreign policy, the education system, and the United
States’ influence with Tunisia. The activity was designed to support the Wilberforce (OH) Chapter’s
Links International Business and Foreign Affairs Empowerment (LIFE) Program and to encourage more
minority students’ participation in study abroad experiences.
Photo 1: (L-R): Front Row--President Link Constance Kendall. Second Row--Link Denise Lennon, Speaker, Mohammed Ben Chouikha,
Link Jo-Ann Robinson, Director of the Center for Global Education Dr. Funwi Auyunanijam, Link Cheryl Marcus, Link Tracy Cain, Link
Ruby Andrews, and Link Joan Padgett.
continued next page
continued from page 46
The Wilberforce (OH) Chapter hosted The Women’s Closet in partnership with Wilberforce University
(WU) through the Services to Youth Facet. Held on the WU campus, The Women’s Closet is designed
to prepare students with the necessary tools to enter the workforce. Link Iris Childress provided an
informative presentation to 25 WU female students and 21 Wilberforce (OH) chapter members on the
power of knowing the different rules for dressing for different occasions in the workplace--business,
business casual, and casual.
The chapter members collected
donated gently used clothing
(suits, blouses, scarfs, hats, slacks,
jackets, coats, and shoes) to create
the Women’s Closet. Following
the workshop presentation, each
female student picked out an outfit,
modeled their selection, and was
able to keep the items so that they
could expand their closet through
the gifts of the Wilberforce (OH)
Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.
(L-R) Wilberforce University Students and Link Cheryl Marshall in background
listens during student introductions.
(L-R) Link Tracy Cain advises WU Student on selecting the right
outfit.
(L-R) WU Student, Link Joann Lewis, Wilberforce Student,
and Link Hazel Latson
Central Area ‘Hot Links’
Welcome to the Central Area of The Links, Incorporated ‘Hot Links’! This column
provides you with links to coverage about chapters, programs and members
around the ‘Heart of Linkdom’. Please share your ‘hot links’ for distribution in the
Linked Up! E-Mag to [email protected]. Enjoy!
Mayo Clinic’s Partnership with The Links, Incorporated and Progresso Soup
NewsOne: Soup and Conversations: How Mayo Clinic Is Saving Black Women’s Hearts
Link Lottie Shackelford, Little Rock (AR) Chapter
Politico.com: Link Lottie Shackelford Elected Democratic National Committee Women’s Caucus Chair
Circle City (IN) Chapter
RTV 6/ABC: Circle City Links: Women ‘linked’ through friendship, service
Local chapter making difference throughout Indy
Ft. Wayne (IN) Chapter
21 Alive/INC Now/ABC: Meet The Candidates Forum Held At ACPL (VIDEO) | Indiana’s NewsCenter:
News, Sports, Weather, Fort Wayne WPTA-TV, WISE-TV, and CW | Local
WFFT 55 FOX: Meet the Candidates Forum
In the
Links
Light!
Link Paula Allen-Meares, Ann
Arbor (MI) Chapter, received
the “Dr. King/President
Johnson Faith in Politics: Game
Changer Award” from PUSH
for Excellence. Dr Allen-Meares,
Chancellor and John Corbally Presidential
Professor of the University of Illinois at
Chicago, has made a positive
impact addressing the issues of
poverty, economic injustice and
educational inequality.
Link Stefani Carter, Ann Arbor
(MI) Chapter, was elected to the
Washtenaw Community College
Foundation Board of Directors for a
three year term. Link Carter is a semi-retired
attorney who is in private practice.
Link Nicole Colbert-Botchway, Archway (MO)
Chapter, just completed her term as
the 91st President of the Mound
City Bar Association, one of the
oldest black bar associations
west of the Mississippi River.
Link Colbert-Botchway works in
the Missouri Attorney General’s
Office as Child Support Unit Leader
for the Financial Services Division.
Link Chanel F. DeGuzman, Ann Arbor (MI)
Chapter, received the University
of Michigan Distinguished
Diversity Leadership Award. Dr.
DeGuzman, Program Manager
for the Student Counseling &
Programming Office, University
of Michigan School of Public
Health demonstrates extraordinary
commitment and dedication to diversity
at the University of Michigan.
Link Shauna Ryder Diggs, Detroit
(MI) Chapter, has been elected
to an eight-year statewide term
on the Board of Regents for The
University of Michigan. She serves
as Chair of the Blue Cross Blue
Shield of Michigan Foundation which
provides grants to clinical and basic science
researchers and community matching grants for
programs that improve healthcare in our state.
Link Karen Freeman-Wilson, Gary (IN)
Chapter, Mayor of Gary, IN has
been appointed Vice Chair of the
National League of Cities (NLC)
2014 Public Safety & Crime
Prevention Steering Committee.
This committee has the lead
responsibility for developing
NLC federal policy positions on
issues involving crime prevention, corrections,
substance abuse, municipal fire policy, juvenile
justice, disaster preparedness and relief,
homeland security, domestic terrorism, court
systems and gun control.
Link Yvonne Hovell, Tulsa
(OK) Chapter, hosted the
groundbreaking ceremony for the
Urban 8 Housing Development
in the East Village section of
downtown Tulsa. Link Yvonne was
inspired to begin development on Urban
8 due to the lack of downtown living spaces
and will construct eight three-story buildings.
Urban 8 is a joint venture between
Link Yvonne, West Construction,
the Holston Group and architect
James Boswell.
Link Anne Lambert Johnson,
Greater Kansas City (MO)
Chapter, was nominated for the
2014 Minority Dental Provider of the
Year in Kansas City, MO.
Link Danne Johnson, Oklahoma
City (OK) Chapter, presented
Associate Justice, U. S. Supreme
Court, Ruth Bader Ginsburg
with a lifetime achievement
award on behalf of the American
Association of Law Schools’ Section
on Women in the Law. Link Danne,
Professor at the Oklahoma City University
School of Law, lead a delegation of women law
professors to Justice Ginsburg’s chambers for the
presentation.
Link Jann Joseph, Ann Arbor
(MI) Chapter, has been named
Executive Vice Chancellor for
Academic Affairs at Indiana
University, South Bend, IN. Dr.
Joseph has more than 27 years
of experience in higher education
and most recently served as Dean of
the College of Education at Eastern Michigan
University in Ypsilanti, MI.
Link Bleuzette Marshall, Cincinnati
(OH) Chapter, has been named the
University of Cincinnati Chief
Diversity Officer serving on
President Santa J. Ono’s Cabinet
and Executive Committee.
Link Bleuzette, who holds three
degrees from UC, including a PhD
in educational studies, worked at UC
and the UC Foundation for nearly 21 years. Since
the inception of the position of Chief Diversity
Officer in 2007, she has assisted that office and
the President’s Diversity Council.
Link Vicki Miles-LaGrange, Oklahoma City (OK)
Chapter, was recently awarded Oklahoma’s
highest honor with her induction into the
86th Oklahoma Hall of Fame. Link Vicki, Chief
Judge, U.S. District Court, Western District of
Oklahoma, appointed by President Bill Clinton,
was Oklahoma’s first female U.S. Attorney;
first African-American judge on
the life-tenured federal bench in
the 10th Circuit; first AfricanAmerican female elected to the
Oklahoma State Senate defeating
a 22-year incumbent; served as
Chairman of the Senate Judiciary
Committee and the Oklahoma
Legislative Black Caucus.
Link Raye J. Montague, Little Rock (AR) Chapter,
was inducted into the Arkansas Black Hall
of Fame. Link Raye is an International
Registered Professional Engineer
(RPE), civilian retired from the
US Navy. She is credited with
creating the rough draft of the
first US Naval Ship design using
a computer, revolutionizing naval
ship design.
Link Bonita Neighbors, Ann Arbor (MI)
Chapter, received the annual Martin Luther King,
Jr. Award for Servant Leadership in Building a
Beloved and Just Community from the Church
of the Good Shepard. Dr. Neighbors,
Director of Dental Health, has
worked for 23 years to improve
the quality of dental care for
the Michigan Department
of Corrections and serves as
Director and Staff Dentist of
the University of Michigan Dental
School’s Community Dental Center in
Ann Arbor.
In the
Links
Light!
continued
Link Linda V. Parker, Detroit
(MI) Chapter, was appointed
on March 17, 2014 by President
Barack Obama to the United States
District Court for the Eastern District
of Michigan. This is a lifetime appointment
approved by the U S Senate.
Link Alesia Pritchett, Gary (IN)
Chapter, has been appointed to
the Board of the Gary-Chicago
International Airport Authority
by, Link Karen Freeman-Wilson,
Mayor, Gary, IN. Link Pritchett is
the Director of Business Services/Grant
Management for the School City of Hammond.
Link Tasha Ransom, Hoffman Estates
(IL) Chapter, received two Illinois
Associated Press Broadcast
Awards in the Metro TV Category
for Best Hard News Feature:
“Rowing to Recovery” and Best
Light Feature: “Babies Taught SelfRescue Water Survival.” Link Tasha
is a producer at WFLD/Fox 32 Chicago
and WPWR-TV/My 50 Chicago.
Link Pamela Richmond, Milwaukee (WI)
Chapter, is appointed the General Manager
Engines 2-5 MW platform,
Reciprocating Engines at General
Electric, Power & Water,
Distributed Power. Link Pamela
is responsible for all aspects
of the 2-5 MW platformas and
site leadership for the Waukesha
facility. Pamela has 20 years of
progressive leadership experience in
engineering, supply chain, marketing
and commercial roles at Hamilton
Standard Space Systems and Pratt
& Whitney.
Link Deirdre Waterman,
Oakland County (MI) Chapter, is
the first female Mayor of the City
of Pontiac, MI as her mother, Link
Dorothy Holloway proudly held the bible.
Link Cleota Wilbekin, Cincinnati (OH) Chapter,
was featured in Essence Magazine,
January 2014, Ageless Beauty.
Heir-O-Link Emil Wilbekin,
Contributor/Editor-at-Large,
Essence Magazine stopped in
during the photo shoot. Link
Cleota, an international fabric
artist, has work in the permanent
collection of the Smithsonian’s Anacostia
Community Museum.
CincyQ Welcomes You To
2015 Central Area Conference of
The Links, Incorporated,
Cincinnati, OH, June 17-20, 2015
We look forward to you joining us in Cincinnati for a ‘stompin’ good time’
at the 2015 Central Area Conference hosted by CincyQ, comprised of
members from the Cincinnati (OH) and Queen City (OH) Chapters of
The Links, Incorporated.
Seated (L-R): Marcia Anderson, Conference Co-Chair; Rose Pickrum, President, Queen City (OH) Chapter; Glenda Masingale
Manson, Area Vice Director; Alice Strong Simmons, Area Director; Jackie Schoats Morson, Area Treasurer; Winona McNeil, President,
Cincinnati (OH) Chapter; Shelley Jefferson Hamler, Conference Co-Chair.
Row 1 Standing (L-R): Links Reynell Frazier; Debra Merchant; Kathy Wade, Area Communications Chair; Veronica Chapman, Area
IT Chair; Roberta Cheatham Settles, Area Awards/Ritual/Recognitions Chair; Francine Gilmer, Area Transportation Chair; Rochelle
Calhoun, Area Protocol Chair; Gladys Hankins, Area Organizational Effectiveness Chair; Monica Allen, Area Program Co-Chair; Corelia
‘Cokie” Diggs, Area Assembly, Conference and Event Planning Chair and Crystal Kendrick, Vendors and Exhibits Chair.
Row 2 Standing (L-R) Links Gloria Riley; Ruby Bond; Karlyn Wade-Richardson; Carolyn Glosby; Pamela McClain, Edna Keown;
Guinette Kirk; Erica White; Lauren Kirk; Paulette Keys; Laura Ford-Harris, Nita Walker; Lillian Hawkins and Helen Buford.
Row 3 Standing (L-R): Links Jessica White Hall, Doris Hall; Megan McNeil Wallace; Debbye Williams; Kristi Clement Williams; Sherry
Hughes; Ruby Crawford-Hemphill; Agnes Godwin Hall; Gail King; Tysha Wilder; Monica Newby and Patrice Baughman Borders.
Link-Up! e-Mag
Deadline
Upcoming
Conferences
November 28, 2014
Mark your calendars for
upcoming Assemblies, Area
Conferences and Leadership
Summits.
National Assembly:
2016 Las Vegas, NV
2018 Nashville, TN
Central Area Conference:
June 17-20, 2015
Cincinnati, OH
Host Hotels: Westin Cincinnati,
Hilton Cincinnati Netherland
Plaza and Renaissance Hotel
2017 Minneapolis, Minnesota
2019 Indianapolis, Indiana
2021 Louisville, Kentucky
2023 Cleveland, Ohio
2025 Memphis, Tennessee
2027 Milwaukee, Wisconsin
Central Area Leadership
Summit:
2014
October 17-19 or 24-26, 2014
Gary, IN (Host Hotel Pending)
2016 Wichita, Kansas
2018 Dayton, Ohio
2020 Omaha, Nebraska
2022 Chattanooga, Tennessee
2024Central Illinois/
Bloomington, Illinois
2026 Tulsa, Oklahoma
2028Lansing-East Lansing,
Michigan (Flint and TriCity as Partners)
The Links, Incorporated, founded in 1946, is a women’s volunteer service organization
committed to enriching, sustaining and ensuring the cultural and economic survival of
African-Americans and other persons of African-American ancestry.
A premier international service organization with more than 12,000 members in 280
chapters located in 41 states, the District of Columbia, and the Commonwealth of the
Bahamas, continues its legacy of friends providing service that changes lives, established by
the original circle of nine friends in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.
http://www.centralarealinks.org
http://www.linksinc.org

Special Holiday Edition of Link-Up 2014 E-Mag

Transcription

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