SUMMER 2017 Circle-Lets, Inc.circleletsinc.org/resources/Documents/Cross Country Currents/CCC... · Circle-Lets, Inc. SUMMER 2017 ... they are attending more family reunions, visiting

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Circle-Lets, Inc.SUMMER 2017

A Message From Our National President!

Greetings Circle-Lets!

The main focus of the 2015-17 Executive Committee and CommitteeChairs has been “Membership Enhancement.” We have endeavored toenhance our organization during this Administration. Our ultimate goalhas been to assist in the overall growth and sustainability of our organi-zation. We provided a Membership Enhancement Survey that was com-pleted by all 21 chapters and recommendations were submitted andapproved at the 2016 Business Meeting as follows:

• Concerning Conclave guests, we changed male guest to spouse/significant other (gender neutral).

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

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

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

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

• Seven (7) revisions to align the Constitution and By-Laws with current responsibilities/procedures ofthe National Officers/Committee Chairs.

*See the revised Constitution and By-Laws for details on each revision.

In addition, we have endeavored to enhance communications within our Circle, by utilizing our technologyto periodically correspond with all Circle-Lets as we share information within our Circle. And, of course,our online Conclave registration is a big success and we will continue to enhance our website capabilities.All of our efforts have been designed with Membership Enhancement in mind!Speaking of “Membership Enhancement,” I look forward to seeing everyone at the 2017 Conclave inRoanoke, as we rekindle, refresh, and “enhance” friendships within our Circle!Yours in the Circle,

Yours in the Circle,

Greetings Circle-Lets from Wilhelmina, Cross Country Currents, Editor

In this issue read exciting news:• National President’s Letter• Chapters’ News• Future Conclave Hosting

Chapters/Dates

• San Francisco Bay Area Celebrates 50 Years

• In Memorium • Tribute to President Kim Watts

Cross Country Currents Chapter Representatives, Please send your articlesand pictures to: Circle-Let Wilhelmina Jackson (Philadelphia Chapter)

[email protected] for the Winter Conclave issue is January 8, 2018

Co-Founders:Doris Bell-Bass Daniels

Detroit

Vivenne Malone Mayes,Dallas

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEKimberly Watts

President Nashville

Stephanie BrowneVice President

Boston

Linda MackTreasurerRoanoke

Anita BunkleyRecording SecretaryHouston-Galveston

Gia RamosCorresponding Secretary

Los Angeles Valley

Lori DukeFinancial SecretaryWashington, D.C

Janice WhiteParliamentarian

San Francisco Bay

STANDING COMMITTEESArnetta HamiltonBudget, Nashville

Patsy WheelerHistorian & Archivist

Dallas

Yvonne Metoyer RobinsonConstitution & By-Laws

Website, Dallas

Sheri BradshawInternal Revenue, Chicago

Wilhelmina M. JacksonCross Country Currents

Philadelphia

Yolanda Mason HendersonWebsite Chair, Nashville

Greta RussellNominating Chair, Columbus

Jean PlayerProtocol Chair, St. Louis

Jakki AllenJewelry & Vendors, Columbus

CHAPTER NEWS

AtlantaTelling You All the Scoop from Hot‘lantaBy Circle-Let Sylvia AggreyBill Lucas Conference Room/Bill Lucas Way/Bill Lucas Apprenticeship Program

The Atlanta Braves’ new Sun Trust Park houses a conference room named for BillLucas. Our own Circle-Let Rubye Lucas was the wife of Bill Lucas. Bill served asthe first African-American to run the player-personnel department of a Major LeagueBaseball club. The street, off Circle 75 Parkway, on which Braves players and executiveswill enter the stadium will be named Bill Lucas Way. And the Bill Lucas Apprenticeshipprogram will be created to offer year-long apprentice positions in baseball operationsto candidates of diverse backgrounds. Lucas spent more than 20 years in the Braves’organization in a variety of roles, starting as a minor-league player in 1956, continuingas a member of the transition team that oversaw the franchise’s move from Milwaukeeto Atlanta in 1966 and culminating with his appointment as vice president of playerpersonnel effectively general manager in 1976. What an honor! Diversity and Inclusion Stand OutOn April 30, 2017, the Northwest Georgia Chapter of the National Coalition of 100Black Women presented Circle-Let Audrey Hines with the 2017 Woman of ImpactAward in Education. She was in recognized for her incredible Diversity and Inclusioneducation and training initiatives. Kudos Audrey! Michael & Pat Here – There and Everywhere As usual, Circle-Let Pat and her wonderful Circle-Mate Michael have been on theroad again. December found them visiting Washington to experience the NationalMuseum of African American History and Culture andspending time in New Haven Connecticut with family.They celebrated Valentine’s Day in Las Vegas. It is alwaysan exciting time in Sin City and we had time to visit friendswho reside there. We continued our travels with shorttrips to New York and Connecticut to visit family again. InMay, they celebrated their 30th wedding anniversary on aBaltic Sea Cruise on Royal Caribbean. They sailed out ofCopenhagen and made stops in Stockholm, Tallin Estonia,St. Petersburg, Russia, and Helsinki Finland. This cruisewas wonderful and relaxing! Michael and Pat took thetime to love and appreciate each other. Later this summerthey are attending more family reunions, visiting family inthe Bahamas, attending the Delta Convention in Las Vegasand more fun in Florida.

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Pat and Mike on theBaltic Cruise.

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When a Child is Born – So Then is a GrandparentMaster Walker Cory Hamilton was born on January 16, 2017.His proud parents of Tyler, Texas are Simone and DamonHamilton. Baby Walker weighted six pounds and eight ouncesand was 20 inches long! Grandmother, Fern Stallings isbeaming with pride! Little Miss Makayal Harmony Kemp is the newest grand-daughter of Circle-Let Teresa and Circle – Mate Enoch Pe-ters. Makayla is their third grandchild. Born on May 26, 2017,weighing 5lbs. 11.7 ounces and 19 inches. Parents Deirdre andGamal Kemp are blessed and ecstatic about the birth of theirfirst child!More Honors for our Supplier Diversity ExpertOn February 20, 2017, Circle-Let Johnnie Booker was anaward recipient at the 30th annual at Fort Valley State Univer-sity’s scholarship luncheon. A Fort Valley native, Johnnie serveson the university’s Foundation board and received award forher loyal, devoted service and philanthropy and other contri-butions to the University.Additionally, she was inducted into the Hall of Fame at the Mi-nority Business Hall of Fame and Museum ceremony held atMorgan State University on April 25, 2017. This prestigioushonor was presented for her distinguished contributions to mi-nority businesses development throughout her professionalcareer as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Fair Housing and EqualOpportunity, Federal Home Loan Bank Board, Urban League,Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, Director of the Officeof Equal Opportunity, Vice President of the Resolution TrustCorporation, as well as her role as Global Director of SupplierDiversity Program at The Coca Cola Company. The Hall ofFame and Museum is located at the University of Washington,Seattle, WA and this was the first time that the ceremony washeld at an HBCU. What amazing honors for an incrediblygifted executive! Summer in ItalyJordyn Walston, the daughter of Circle-Let Sonya and Cir-cle-Mate Gery Walston was one of 17 students selected torepresent Spelman College in a Study Abroad program in Fer-rara, Italy with CIEE (Council on International Educational Ex-change). The CIEE study abroad program affords students theopportunity to earn collegecredit for their summer of aca-demics and cultural immersion.Over the course of Jordyn’s stayin Italy, she will take classesto learn the Italian language, ex-plore the culture andhistory, and lastly, travel anddiscover the landscapes and ar-chitecture in Laspezia Beach,Venice, Florence and Rome. Weare anxious to hear about Jor-dyn’s adventures!

BostonBy Circle-Let Lynn BowmanStephanie Browne, Circle-Lets National Vice President andmember of the Boston Chapter, was promoted to Vice Pres-ident, Chief Diversity Officer for Blue Cross/Blue Shield ofMassachusetts. Her responsibility includes all recruiting forthe company and all diversity and inclusion programs.Circle Let Gloria Respress-Churchwell and her family cel-ebrated two graduations this year: Alexandria Churchwellgraduated from NYU’s Tisch School of the Arts with a majorin Theatre and a minor in Economics. She works for DisneyImagineering with Live Entertainment as a production in-tern in Anaheim, California.John Churchwell graduated from St. John’s Prep in Dan-vers, Ma and looks forward to attending Colorado Collegein the fall. Circle Let Kim Ridley’s daughter Kali graduated fromBrown and will be moving to San Francisco to work forGoogle.Alison Bolden, the daughter of Circle-Let Tracey West andgrand-daughter of Circle Let Judy West graduated fromEmma Willard School and will be attending Loyola in Bal-timore in the fall.We are so proud of all of our graduates! Finally, The Boston Chapter welcomed new member DonnaCramer. She serves as Managing Associate for Isaccson,Miller an executive search firm known for recruiting excep-tional leaders for mission-driven organizations. Donna isalso a devoted wife and mother, actively involved in thegreater Boston community.

Jordyn Walston, great granddaughter ofthe Late Dorothy Coleman

Conclave Datesfor the

Next 10 Years

2018 New York

2019 Saint Louis

2020 Los Angeles Valley

2021 New Orleans

2022 Philadelphia

2023 Baton Rouge

2024 Columbus

2025 Hilton Head

2026 West Los Angeles

2027 Sarasota

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Dallasby Circle-Let Barbara Lord WatkinsDallas Continues to Share Love, Friendship and Fun Kudos to the Social Committee for planning and executinga wonderful year- end event for members and guests at thehome of CL Yvonne and CM Marvin Robinson. The picnicwas attended by many friends, new comers to Dallas andseveral very young children. Beginning at 3:00 PM, thegathering continued until much later as all were enjoyingthe food, company and the opportunity to have fun witheach other. Members of the committee are: Circle-Lets Jen-nifer Clark, Chair; Sharon Clark, Joyce Dennis, Susan McEl-roy and Yvonne Robinson.Our hats are off to these wonderful Circle-Lets.Here are a few of the pictures that were taken at the event.

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

THREE CIRCLE-LETS AND CIRCLE-MATES CELEBRATE 60 PLUS YEARS TOGETHER.Can you believe it! We have three Circle-Lets and Circle-Mates who have celebrated 60 or more years together. CLMarguerite and CM Bernard will celebrate 65 years in De-cember; CL Jimmie and CM Robert celebrated 60 years to-gether in January; and CL Barbara and CM Myroncelebrated their 60th anniversary in June. Time passesquickly when you are having fun.Until the next time —-peace and love,CL Barbara Lord Watkins

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Members: L to R seated: Circle Lets Patsy Anne Wheeler, Eleanor Conrad,Marguerite Williams. L to R standing: Circle-Lets Martha Bedford,

Susan McElroy, Jimmie Prince, Barbara Watkins, Eddie Bernice Johnson,Jennifer Clark, Stephalene Hunter, Sharon Clark, Yvonne Robinson.

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

Circle-Mates and young grandson enjoying games and togetherness.

Circle Let Patsy AnneWheeler, Circle-Let Helene and Circle Mate Phil Jones.

Circle- Lets Joyce Dennisand Susan McElroy.

OFFICERS: L to R: CL Barbara Watkins, Corresponding Secretary; CL Sharon Clark, Treasurer; CL Eddie Bernice Johnson, President;

CL Yvonne Robinson, Secretary; CL Jennifer Clark, Financial Secretary. Not pictured: CL Deborah Farris Vice President.

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Congresswoman Johnson received the2017 Legislator Awardfor mental health reform Circle-Let Congress-woman Johnson (Dallas)received the 2017 Legisla-tor Award from MentalHealth America for thework she performed infighting for fair solutionsand resources to helpthose with mental illness.

HoustonBy Circle-Let Carmen CollinsOLYMPIC FUNCircle-Let Carmen Collins was excited to meet JackieJoyner-Kersee (pictured) and many U.S. and world athletesparticipating the 2016 Olympics in Rio De Janeiro, Brazilincluding Venus and Serena Williams, Michelle Carter-U.S.Gold Shot Put, David Boudia-U.S. Bronze Diver and KerryWalsh Jennings-U.S. Bronze Beach Volleyball and BelaKarolyi-U.S. gymnastics coach.

NEW ZEALAND BOUNDIn February Circle-Let Carmen Collins and Circle-MateJewel Hamrick traveled to Wellington, New Zealand wherethey celebrated Jewel’s birthday, golfed at ParaparaumuGolf Club and enjoyed New Zealand’s sights andbeautiful scenery.SAIL AWAYRoyal Caribbean’s Allure of the Seas, the world’s largestship, was a pleasurable September vacation for Circle-LetCarmen Collins, Circle-Mate Jewel Hamrick and herparents Clyde and Denise Hemphill.

Los Angeles ValleyBy Circle-Lets Cosetta Moore and Gia RamosLos Angeles Valley Member ProfileVivian ArterberyBirthday: June 21Birth city: Houston, TexasColleges: Howard University and USCChildren: V. Elayne Arterbery, MDCircle-Let induction: 2001E-mail: [email protected] / Retired: Rand Corporation (retired)

Circle-Let Vivian attended Howard University for her Bach-elor’s Degree and attended USC for her Masters in LibraryScience. She worked as a corporate secretary at the RandCorporation before she retired and now spends her timeenjoying herself in beautiful Brentwood, CA. In addition toCircle-Lets and other organizations, she is also involved inthe oldest women’s club in Los Angeles, The Ebell Club,which was founded in 1894. Vivian works with the archivesfor the club and its historically landmarked buildings.

Vivian is very proud of her daughter, V. Elayne Arterbery,MD, one of the few African American radiation oncologists.She practices in Detroit, Michigan and often travels to ruralareas in the state to care for her patients. Her daughter alsohas an anti-aging skincare line at https://www.elayneart-erbery.com/.

Los Angeles Valley Chapter News!Circle-Let Harriet Rose is looking forward to representingthe L.A. Valley chapter as our delegate at the 2017 Conclavein Roanoke, Virginia.

Evan Bowman, daughter of Circle-Let Chrystal Evans Bow-man and granddaughter of Circle-Lets Dodye Evans andCarol Bowman and Circle Mate Bob Bowman, celebratedher very special 13th birthday with a tea party at the historicCulver hotel in Culver City, California.

Circle-Let Annette Williams spends her retirement time be-tween her two homes in beautiful Encino, California andOchorios, Jamaica.

Circle-Let Annice Wooden and her entire family went toParis, France for her daughter’s graduation from AmericanUniversity. Gabrielle Wooden graduated with a Master’s ofArts degree in global communication.

As a tribute to her father, Gene Ramos, Circle-Let GiaRamos along with her brother, sister-in-law, niece andnephew traveled to Washington, D.C. and New York city.Gene was planning this trip for the family at the time of hispassing. Their first stop was visiting the amazing NationalMuseum of African American History and Culture in D.C. InNew York, they saw the Broadway musical “Wicked” and vis-ited Times Square Dizzy’s Club Coca Cola in New York andhad Easter Brunch at Tavern on the Green in Central Park.

Circle-Let Carmen withJackie Joyner-Kersee

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Metropolitan Hilton Head By Circle-Let Bonnie HawkinsGreetings from the Metro Hilton Head Circle-Let chapter.With our 2025 conclave always on our minds, the chapteris continuing to bring in members whose contributions willhelp us host the best event possible. The previous memberinstallation last September (photo 1) brought four dynamicladies into our group: Dr. Marcia Lewie-Thompson, Ros-alind Hollis, Pamela Potts, and Jeannette Jones. The elegantinstallation luncheon ceremony, attended by the majorityof members, was held at the Hampton Hall clubhouse inBluffton. (Photo 2) The group photo of those attending theinstallation ceremony gives a glimpse of how lovely every-one looked in their Circle-Let colors.

NashvilleBy Circle-Let Kimberly WattsIn February, Circle-Let Ruth Mar-tin participated in the celebrationhonoring her deceased husband,Coach Ed Martin of VanderbiltUniversity at the University Clubin Nashville, Tennessee. He wasnamed as one of the LegendaryFigures as part of Nike’s “Equal-

ity Campaign” for Black History Month. One of the bas-ketball team player’s wore Ed Martin’s name on the backof his game jersey.

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

2016 Intallation of new members.

Circle-Let Ruth Martin

Circle-Let Arnetta Hamilton and Circle-Mate Eddie Hamilton in Playa Del Carmen. A family Celebration for their cousin Mookie Betts in January.

Circle-Let Arnetta and Family Enjoy a

Boston Red Sox’s Game.

Circle-Let Arnetta Hamilton and Circle-Mate Hamilton celebrating their youngest son’s high school graduation in Nashville, TN.

He will be attending Howard University in August.

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New YorkBy Circle-Let Beverly GrangerThe arrival of Summer has lifted everyone’s spirits after a coldand rainy Spring. We are enjoying hearing about the activities and accomplish-ments of our family:Margaret and David Miles were thrilled to travel to Californiawith extended family members to attend daughter Ashley’sgraduation on June 17th from the Stanford University Grad-uate School of Business with her M.B.A. She will be workingat The Clorox Company as an Associate Marketing Managerand will continue to pursue her ultimate goal of starting herown makeup and skincare company.Denise and Dennis Walcott have welcomed a new grandchildto the family. Ella Lewis was born on Friday, June 16 and thewhole family is thrilled.Racquel and Walter Oden threw a fabulous Sweet Sixteen Partyfor daughter Ashley at Last Rites Gallery in New York City. Walterwas a proud papa with a huge smile as he shared a dance withher. Ashley is going into her junior year at Lawrenceville Acad-emy and has been chosen to participate in a writing program atBrown University this summer. Prior to going to Brown, she istraveling to Paris for a French Immersion program where she willbe living with a French family and attending classes daily.Gay Bullock was excited to be at Circle-mate Mel Douglass’graduation from Harvard University where he was awardeda Ph.D. in Anthropology and Archaeology. His thesis, a studyof his family history from 1647-2017 was nominated for a bestthesis prize. This is his 7th advanced degree.

Circle-Lets on the move:Kerri Willoughby Jackson and Racquel Oden just returned froma Boule event in London with mates Bernie and Walter. Kerriand Bernie spent time on Paris prior to arriving in London.Denise and Dennis Walcott are celebrating their 40th Anniver-sary with a trip to Paris and London in the fall. Denise is alsogoing on a pilgrimage to Scotland and Northern England withher church, St. Albans the Martyr Episcopal Church in June.Betty and Bryan Pearsall are heading to Los Angeles to catch aflight to Tahiti where they will board the Paul Gaugin cruise shipfor a 10 day journey to Bora Bora, Rangiroa, Moorea, and Pa-peete. accompanied by their 12 year old granddaughter Gwen.After the cruise, they will spend a few days in Los Angeles beforetaking Gwen home to Seattle. In May, Betty went to Phoenixfor her grandson Milo’s 8th birthday party. The grandchildrenkeep her very busy.Circle-Mate Hamil Willoughby is once again heading to Mada-gascar with a group of students to provide dental care.Beverly Granger was in Henderson, Nevada for a Guardsmanweekend. Boston CircleLet Lynn and Kevin Bowman werewonderful hosts. From there, it was off to Philadelphia for afamily for a family reunion.All of the chapter members are busy planning an exciting Con-clave for 2018. We hope to see you here in New York.

PhiladelphiaBy Circle-Lets Deborah M. James and Nancy Jean SewellGreetings to our Cicle-Let sisters near and far.News from proud grandmothers about their grandchildren!!Trichelle Gatlin, granddaughter of Circle-Let ReginaMeacham-Devero made the Dean’s list in her first year atJohnson & Wales University. Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh hasthree grandchildren to acknowledge. Granddaughter Ju-lianna, won first prize in physics at the Pennsylvania StateJunior Science Fair. Granddaughter Sierra, spent her 10thgrade in immersion year in China. Grandson Will, a clas-sical vocalist, is gathering experience in the world of operawhile living in Berlin.To Circle-Let Regina Meacham-Devero, we extend heartfelt con-dolences on the passing of her mother, Sylvia Jean Meacham.Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh, a member of the PennsylvaniaHorticultural Society and highly awarded exhibiter at thePhiladelphia Flower Show, is exhibiting this year in theWorld Association of Floral Arrangers (WAFA) in Barbados.Kudos to Circle-Lets Leslie Cousin-Mond and DeborahJames on arranging a relaxing event at The Inn at Menden-hall for our annual Spring members’ luncheon. The eventmarked a meeting hiatus until the fall and provided a plat-form for us to toast summer plans while we conversed overgreat food.In the last issue of Cross Country Currents, we shared servicehighlights and spoke of the love we have for Circle-Let Mary“Bunny” Hughes. We’ve since found out that Bunny’s plansto move from our area are solidifying. She’s fortunate to havetwo daughters anxious to have her live with them. She justhas to choose between East Coast or West Coast! But in that,she will leave our chapter. We can but say, our hearts areheavy. During our May meeting, graciously hosted by Cir-cle-Let Phoebe Haddon, we honored Bunny by sharingmemories, well wishes and prayers for her journey and thechanges it brings. Circle-Let Willadine Bain shared memo-ries of Bunny extending back to their days together at CampAtwater. Bunny told us of hearing about Circle-Lets throughfriends that were already members. She quietly coveted aninvitation to join. It’s said blessings come when mostneeded. This, she said, was true of the chapter’s offer ofmembership to her. It came at a challenging time in her lifeand she welcomed and used it as a lifeline. Her gentility,strength, devotion, experience, wisdom and grace will trulybe missed. Prayerfully she will be close enough to anotherchapter to join with them. Bunny carries knowledge from achapter that is over a half century old! To wish her well, wepresented her with a photobook of Philadelphia Circle-Letmemories and a throw pillow imprinted with a chaptergroup picture, all of us smiling together. Bunny, although dis-tance will take you from Philadelphia, we celebrate you andall that you’ve meant to us!!!

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

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PittsburghBy Circle-Let Gloria M. WaltonThe Springers, former National President Circle-Let Cecileand Mate Eric, have much great news to share. Right afterThanksgiving in 2016, they were presented with a healthygreat-grand-daughter, Kristen. She is gorgeous, feisty andgrowing fast. Grandchildren, Nia and James Norris, are theproud parents. They are all so thankful!! Eric’s mother, Maida Springer Kemp, was an Americanlabor organizer who worked extensively in Africa for theAFL-CIO. According to the Labor’s International website,she was the first African-American woman to represent theUnited States labor movement abroad. She came to beknown as “Mama Maida” during the 1950s when sheachieved recognition by serving as a liaison between U.S.labor and the labor movement in Africa. Springer-Kempserved from 1960 to 1966 as an international representativefor the AFL-CIO’s International Affairs Department. In thisposition she provided technical assistance, advised emerg-ing labor movements, and helped to set up training centersfor garment workers in Kenya and motor drivers in Nigeria.She brought health and educational support to these andother developing African nations. Mrs. Springer Kemppassed in 2005. Eric was present on May 18, 2017 at theUnited Auto Workers GM Center for Human Resources inDetroit to witness her induction into Labor’s InternationalHall of Fame.The University of PittsburghAfrican American AlumniCouncil of the Pitt Alumni As-sociation is recognizing Circle-Let Cecile Springer as one ofthe Distinguished Alumna dur-ing an Induction Ceremony onJune 17, 2017. This is a well-deserved accolade for Cecile.Circle-Let Della Hale flew toDallas, Texas in May to attendthe graduation ceremony ofher granddaughter, Danielle Miller, at Texas Woman’s Uni-versity. While in Dallas, Della was treated to a Mother’sDay Celebration as well. Her family members, includingdaughter Maria Miller of Miami Beach, Florida treated Dellaroyally!!Circle-Let Karen Farmer White and twelve family memberstraveled to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic. Theyreminisced about previous gatherings in various locationsas they relaxed in the sun, learned historical informationabout the area while sightseeing and dined on local cuisine.Other exciting news from Karen is that her internationallyacclaimed jazz musician son-in-law, Sean Jones, will beconducting a four week youth program in jazz appreciationat Carnegie Music Hall in New York this summer. He con-tinually promotes jazz excellence in youth.Circle-Let Nancy Washington continued to expand her ex-tensive interest in art as she toured both Holland and the

Netherlands with a group organized by the MetropolitanMuseum of Art.The Pittsburgh Chapter ismourning the loss of one of ourcharter members, Circle-LetJane Elizabeth Young Freeland,who was born in Athens, Geor-gia on July 25, 1925 and de-parted this life March 28, 2017.Jane graduated from highschool when she was only 13and left Athens to attendWilberforce University. In 1943,she graduated at age 17 with aBachelor of Science in com-merce. Two years later, she moved to Baltimore, Marylandand went to work for the Afro American newspaper. It wasin Baltimore in 1945 that she met the love of her life, Wen-dell Grimkie Freeland, whom she married on ChristmasEve in 1946. Jane and Wendell shared 67 years of marriagebefore his passing in 2014. Jane worked as a controller forthe Mike Feinberg Company for 50 years. She served asthe corporation’s secretary/treasurer and helped the com-pany grow into a Pittsburgh legend. Jane loved to swim,play bridge and spend time gardening and grilling. Sheleaves to mourn and cherish her memory, two loving chil-dren, Michael Wendell and Lisa Badger; beloved grandchil-dren, Kristen and Michael; great-grandson, Michael; and ahost of others whose lives she touched; especially includedamong them, her sisters in the Circle-Lets.

Sarasota-BradentonBy Circle-Let Shirley Miller

Maida Springer Kemp

Circle-Let Jane Young Freeland

Circle-Let Shirley Millerand husband Circle-Mate Dr. Lawrence Miller’s oldestdaughter, Dr. Amena Anderson,received her doctorate degree in Education from West VirginiaUniversity.

Circle-Let Chapter President, Dr. M. Vicki Wacksman

and husband Circle-Mate Dr. Shelly Wacksman

welcomed their first great granddaughter . . .

Princess Sophia Puryear!Proud parents are Mr & MrsBretty and Brieana Puryear!

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San Francisco Bay Area50 Fabulous Years & Counting

San Francisco 50SF Bay 50th Anniversary Cake

Submitted by Circle-Let Valarie KellyThe San Francisco Bay Area Chapter celebrated 50 years ofspecial and loving friendships. It was started by invitationof Mabel Wilkes to 15 young ladies to form an interestgroup in San Francisco. The group included: Carol Bow-man, Marquenta Neblett, Cerella Lucas, Miriam Parker,Odetta Broussard, Mattie Geathers, Mary Alice Handy, An-netta Darke, Kathy Saddler, Mabel Wilkes, Betty Brandon.On April 1, 1967, the group was inducted into the nationalchapter of Circle-Lets under the sponsorship of the LosAngles Valley chapter. Also, present at the induction wasone of the Circle-Let founders, Vivienne Malone Mayesfrom Dallas, Texas. Circle-Lets is based on camaraderie andfriendships. Most of the charter members had young chil-dren so many of our activities were family oriented but that

didn’t stop us partying to wee hours of the morning. Ourchapter has 3 charter members daughters, Dawn NeblettCross (Treasurer), Kim Lucas Benton (President), CourtneyParker Jones. We also have the daughter-in-law of KathySaddler, Christina Saddler.We are very proud of the fact that over the past fifty yearsour chapter has had two national presidents: Kathy Saddlerand Jan White. We have hosted three national conclaves1976, 1994, 2013. Over the years, we have shared muchloss, sadness and joy. Also, we have had the support of ourCircle-Mates, who enjoy our social events and conclaves asmuch as we do.As a chapter, we treasure the journey shared over the pasthalf century and feel confident that our future promisesmore years of fellowship, friendship and camaraderie.

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

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

Circle-Lets and Circle Mates

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San Francisco Bay AreaBy Circle-Lets Valarie Kelly

Spot Light on Circle-Let Joan NeblettFor Circle-Let Joan Neblett, these are indeed excitingtimes! After spending her September birthday in Venice,she then spent Christmas and New Years cruising thebeautiful waters New Zealand and Australia. There isnothing as magical as being in Sydney Harbor amid thefantastic fireworks welcoming 2017.

More recently, Joan’s granddaughter, Erin Eckstein re-ceived her Master’s Degree in Education from StanfordUniversity. Erin will be teaching in Brooklyn, New York.

Truly a proud moment for their entire family.

Take a peek at what fun looks like!

Venice September 2016 Pompeii September 2016 Sydney Harbor December 2016

Stanford Graduation 2017

Dubrovnik September 2016

ColumbusBy Circle-Let Felicia ClaytonThe Columbus chapter has been living the Circle-Let life toits fullest. In September the chapter inducted two newmembers, Aisha Allen and Ellen Johnson. Their sponsorswere Circle-let Shelly Lawler (Aisha) and Circle-Let KelleyGray. Both ladies have fully embraced their membershipand we have enjoyed having them as our new friends. In February, Circle-Let Kelley Gray retired from LBrandsafter 27 years.

In April, the chapter celebrated the lives and music ofPrince and David Bowie at an event called Evolutionaries.ShadowboxLive was transformed into a live concert hallwhere Prince and David Bowie once again took to thestage. All of their hits were interwoven with dance and vi-sual art. For the occasion the Columbus chapter commis-sioned Circle-Mate John Stephens, owner/designer ofPopzTopz, to create a special chapeau (in Circle-Let Flameof course) to wear for the evening. Needless to say, welooked fabulous while we dined, sang, danced and fellow-shipped as only Circle-lets can. Circle-Let Ingrid and CircleMate Harvey Brownlee startedthe transition to move their primary residence to Orlando,Florida. They will, however, keep a residence in Columbus.This year they spent their second winter in Orlando assnow birds. Circle-Let Felicia and CircleMate Marvin Clayton cele-brated the graduation of their daughter, Ari, from The OhioState University with a B.S in Education. She will start herteaching career as a K-1 teacher at KIPP Columbus.Circle-Let Jakki and CircleMate Jerry Allen are true emptynesters now. Their son, Joa, moved back to New York Cityto continue his career in Marketing Research. Circle-Let Kelley and CircleMate Eric Gray celebrated thegraduation of their daughter, Erica, from Capital Universitywith a B.A. in Mathematics on May 6th. Circle-Let Kelley Gray lost her beloved father, George Mil-ton Neal, on December 1, 2016. Mr. Neal was an AmericanHero having joined the Navy at age 17, where he served 51/2 years and was a POW 2 years in the Korean War.Among other honors George received, He was awardedThe Navy Cross for risking his life to save Captain Wilkins.After returning from the military, George graduated fromSpringfield South High School.

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

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

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IN MEMORIAM

We remember the following Circle-Lets Sister and

Circle-Lets Mates with love:

Circle-Let Sister Janet Elizabeth Freeland

(Pittsburgh)

March 28, 2017

Circle-Let Sister Mildred Lim Riley (Boston) April 13, 2017

Circle-Let Sister Jimmie Henderson Tucker (Dallas)

November 19, 2016

Circle-Mate Noble Rollie Nolcox (Los Angeles Valley)

May 23, 2017Husband to Circle-Let Patricia Stephens Nolcox

Circle-Mate Walter J. Barial (New Orleans) April 5, 2017

Husband to Circle-Let Sylvia F. BarialFather to Circle-Lets Lauren Barial

and Monique Barial-Carey

Circle-Mate Gene Ramos (Los Angeles Valley) February 7, 2017

Husband to the late Circle-Let Jackie Ramos and Father to Circle-Let Gia Ramos

Circle-Mate Francis “Frank” Minutello (New Jersey)

October 26, 2016Husband to Circle-Let Alice Chapman Minutello

Our prayers and thoughts are with these Circle-Lets families and friends.

George leaves to cherish in his memory his devoted and loving wife Rosemary, brother-in-law Dr. James Mendola, son Van Neal, daughter Kelley (Eric) Gray, stepsons Rich (Vicki) Egan, and Danny (Jamie) Egan. Grandchildren Monty, Neal, Erica, Kierra, Sierra, Keenanand McKenna. As well as many devoted nephews, nieces,family and friends. On June 13, 2017, George Milton Neal was laid to rest in full military honor at Arlington National Cemetery Arlington, VA. As with life itself, there have been ups and downs with individual members but overall we have been blessed to call this year a good one.

New JerseyBy Circle-Let Bea JonesGreetings from the New Jersey ChapterThe New Jersey Circle-Lets have experienced a year filledwith celebration, achievement and friendship.Circle-Let Karen Andrade-Mims is Executive Director of UIH Family Partners, formerly Union Industrial Homefor Children, New Jersey’s oldest organization dedicated to serving children and families. Established in 1859 in Trenton, NJ, UIH Family Partners has honored fathers forthe past twelve (12) years on Father’s Day weekend at their annual event called Platinum Dads. NJ Congress-woman Bonnie Watson Coleman was on hand to celebratethe 2017 Platinum Dads Honorees.

On Sunday, June 4, 2017 New Jersey Circe-Lets gatheredfor a delightful brunch at Metro North in Princeton, enjoying both an excellent dining experience and delightfulconversation. Circle-Lets later attended an outstandingperformance of “Intimate Apparel” at the McCarter Theaterin Princeton. This unique production is an exquisitely-writ-ten historical romance from Pulitzer Prize winning play-wright Lynn Nottage. The show is a deeply moving tale ofone woman’s discovery of her own empowerment. All inattendance enjoyed the performance immensely.

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

12

Circle-Let Kim joined the Circle over 23 years ago, at the invitation of her friend Circle-Let Arnetta Hamil-

ton (current National Budget Chair and Nashville Chap-ter, President). Arnetta is the daughter of Past NationalPresident, Ruth Martin (Nashville).

Since becoming a Circle-Let Kim has served in many rolessuch as Vice-President, Recording Secretary, Financial Sec-retary, Parliamentarian and Cross Country Currents Edi-tor. Also, she has held leadership roles in her NashvilleChapter such as President during Nashville’s 2007 Con-clave, Recording Secretary and currently she is the CCCRepresentative and Chapter Vice-President.

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

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

Greta says the following:

“A passionate love for Circle-Lets has guided every deci-sion, position, and task Kim has undertaken locally andnationally since she became a member. She has the com-passion to drive our mission “to have friendship as itscommon denominator” while providing the strong lead-ership necessary to ensure the policies, procedures andprotocol to facilitate a well structured and efficient organ-ization. It has truly been my pleasure to work with such adedicated leader”.

Current National Vice-President, Stephanie Browne says,“I have had the pleasure of working with Kim for fouryears. As her Vice President for two of those years I havewatched her lead our organization with integrity, empa-thy and vision. Her 20 years of membership allows her todraw upon tenured knowledge to make and recommendsound decisions. I have been extremely lucky to learnfrom her during her presidency”.

Kim always has a warm smile and friendly manner. Congratulations, Circle-Let Kim as you become a

member of the amazing former Circle-Let Presidents.

Thanks to 48th Circle-Let President,Kimberly Watts, for her years of

Circle-Lets Service