Advantage - Vol 3 Issue 10

Serving chapters in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Mississippi, South Carolina and The Bahamas

The Southern Area

ADVANTAGE

An E-Publication from the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated - Eneid A. Francis, Southern Area Director

n o i l l i M Dollar s e i b a B Volume 3

Isssue 10

Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service

Inside this Issue Succession Planning Page 2

Protocol Matters Page 3

Principles for Leadership Communication Page 4

Ethical Decisions that Affect Chapters Page 8

The Ins and Outs of Links Day at the Capitol Page 10

Charlotte (NC) Committee Focuses on Engaging Alumni Page 12

Cover Story Page 13

Southern Area Celebrates Friendship Page 12

Southern Area Programming Page 19

Executive Committee Roster Page 54

Submit to the Advantage Page 56

Shown on the front is the chartering photo of the Mississippi Delta Chapter of the Links, Incorporated

My Dear Link Sisters Happy New Year! I hope your holidays were wonderful and offered enriching moments for service, blessings and restoration.

Get ready because we have a very busy 2014 ahead of us. As we rise to meet the challenges our communities face, and embrace our annual opportunity for expanding our friendship chain, I know that our programming and the service we deliver will become even more crucial to our ongoing success. We have much ahead on the local, Area and National levels.

Many chapters are in the process of membership intake.

Links Day at the Capitol activities are being planned in all of our states. Our sisters are planning to be more effective in their work by attending our Leadership Conference in October. Let’s not forget the lives we touch through our work with students in STEM and arts integration mentoring as we improve the well being of those in our community and internationally.

Eneid A. Francis

Those who serve you as members of the Southern Area Executive Committee members are also hard at work making sure that your communications, programming, membership, finances and other services are delivered as efficiently as possible. Our webinar series is in place to ensure our chapters have the information to run smoothly and effectively. Finally, we are excitedly preparing for the upcoming National Assembly in Washington, DC. The Southern Area’s presence in the nation’s capital is sure to have a great impact on both the membership and the country.

Southern Area Director

Yes, 2014 has a full agenda. These are exciting times for women who are well equipped to make a difference. I appreciate all that you do for each other and for Linkdom. Let us finish the good work we have begun by continuing to Effect Change through the Power of Friendship and Service.

In the spirit,

_|Ç~ XÇx|w

Succession Planning Establishing Readiness for Building Leadership from Within ascertaining interests, skills, willingness to contribute, is a way to help build that leadership readiness,

By Karen M. Dyer, Ed. D. Chair, Leadership Development The future-focused practice of identifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform certain functions and then developing a plan to prepare multiple individuals to potentially perform those functions.

Succession planning is not just a task – it is a mindset. Even though we are a volunteer organization, it is still important to the success and viability of our Chapters to have given thought to succession – for officers, facet chairs, committee chairs, etc. As we take a critical look at our chapter membership it is important to begin planning for succession. Key to any succession planning effort is readiness – helping our Members to be ready to step into various roles.

It is not unusual for a Link Sister (much like what happens in other organizations) to be asked to step into a leadership role because a) No one else is willing. b) Everybody is supposed to have a turn and now it’s your time. c) A Member is stepping down midterm because of illness, work commitments, family commitments, or even Chapter politics, and someone needs to “step up”. Without some form of succession planning, the Link Sister is immediately charged to learn role responsibilities, often with little or no transition time. OJT (on the job training) is a powerful learning experience but it doesn’t always have to be the only way that Members learn to lead.

An opportunity to “shadow” a particular officer or chair is one strategy for building readiness. Establishing co-chairs, with an experienced Chapter Members working with someone who may be “tapped to lead” in the future can help position that person for a later date.

It will also help them to not only have a better knowledge of the role but a deepened understanding of what it means to be a leader in the Chapter.

Other strategies: • Encouraging members to take on a leadership/co-leadership role during a local chapter event or even an Area or National Conference/Assembly.

• Encourage Members to take advantage of the

The future-focused practice of identifying the knowledge, skills, and abilities to perform certain functions and then developing a plan to prepare multiple individuals to potentially perform those functions.

Establishing Readiness When asked if you would characterize oneself as a leader, often the answer is “no”. Sometimes people need to be “tapped” and encouraged to see themselves as leaders. However, timing is everything.

“Tapping” one to be a leader immediately prior to submitting their name to the nomination committee is not building capacity. Identifying Members for future roles/responsibilities by talking with them beforehand,

Scott-Hawkins Leadership program.

• Occasionally invite future leaders to attend/observe a Chapter Executive Committee meeting so that they can get a picture of the complete operations and cultural work of the Chapter.

• As you are thinking about bringing new members into the Chapter consider leadership as one of the skills needed to grow and strengthen your. Even though you want to provide ample time for a new member to learn about your chapter and our organization, they still can be “tapped” as a future leader with a focus on building readiness.

Succession planning/readiness is a process (not an event) that all chapters need to consider now, not when the vacancy arises. Best wishes Link Sisters!

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By Nona C. Jones Southern Area Protocol Chair Gainesville (FL) Chapter Greetings, Link Sisters! I am pleased to serve as your 2013-2015 Southern Area Protocol Chair. I have already received a number of great questions, so I have selected two of the questions that may be most relevant to you: Dear Link Nona, Q: Last year our chapter hosted a health fair where we provided attendees with lunch bags as a token of appreciation for their attendance. The lunch bags had the name of our chapter along with the Links logo printed on them. Some chapter members felt that it was inappropriate to distribute these bags to non-Links. It is time again for the Health Fair and the same bags have come up again for distribution to non-Link attendees. As the new chapter president, I want to make sure we follow proper protocol as it relates to the logo. Is it permissible for the chapter to dis-

tribute such items to non-Link members?

A: This is a very good question and is a question that is not currently answered in our National Protocol Manual. As it is a privilege to be a member of The Links, Incorporated and to be afforded the right to wear or carry Links branded items, I would advise to not distribute any Links branded items to non-members. A person carrying Links branded paraphernalia could be mistaken as a member. A way around this could be to simply denote, as an example, "Health Fair Sponsored by the Gainesville (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated.”

especially to those who labor on behalf of the organization at its highest levels.

Page 21 of our National Protocol Manual provides guidance for the case of a sitting National President’s visit to your area when speaking for another group.

I believe this guidance is similarly appropriate for a Past National President’s visit with a few tweaks: - The Chapter President or designee should first contact the host group for information on hotel accommodations, itinerary, arrival and departure times.

- Local Chapter(s) may send fruit, flowers or gifts to her room.

- If invited, Link members may be present when she speaks.

Dear Link Nona, - A Chapter President or designee Q: Our chapter recently became may want to send a note or telephone aware of a past national president’s the Past National President and adupcoming visit to our area to re- vise of availability to assist her. ceive an award from an organiza- If Links wish to entertain her, a retion headquartered here. How quest must be made to the host should we handle protocol for her? group and Past National President.

A: This is wonderful news. At its core, Link sisters, I hope you found this inforProtocol is about ensuring that the spirit of Sisterhood and Friendship is ex- mation useful. Please continue to contact tended at all times to our Link Sisters; me at ProtocolChair@salinksinc.org.

Tá~ aÉÇt

Ten Proven Principles for Improving Leadership Through Communication

by Sylvia Perry Chair, Communications Greetings Link sisters. Throughout our travels we often come across great advice. I am pleased to share with you ten principles that I have garnered along the way, through a communications perspective, that any leader would benefit from using.

1. Everything communicates. The way programs, policies, tools, and initiatives are designed and delivered communicates more strongly than the marketing and information about them. As a leader, how you act and what you do, communicates more clearly than the words coming out of your mouth.

2. Model the behavior you are looking for from others. Communicate with your members the way you would like to be communicated with — transparent, open, with respect and trust are great standards.

Do the things you believe matter. If you focus on everything that’s going wrong, so will everyone else.

3. Have a point of view. It's much easier to have consistent communication when you have a clear position and core values — whatever you want to call it. But whatever you call "it", you better have it. Just be sure it is clear, easy to remember, makes sense for the chapter, has an element of inspiration, differentiates you as an leader and will hold up when you’re gone.

4. What you hear is as important as what you say.

Communication is a two-way process. Have a number of upward channels and do something with what you hear — and tell people about it. Positivity is contagious while loose lips still sink ships!

5. You haven't communicated anything until you have been heard by your audiences. Understand your chapter. Take a lesson from marketers — know the demographics and psychographics of your various audiences and tailor communication messages, content, style, and channels to them.

6. They both end in "tion" but there's a big difference between "information" and "communication". Communication influences thoughts, feelings,

and actions. Information simply informs. How you communicate depends on what you are communicating. If you are trying to engage people, don't use email or text. Pick up the phone and do some old school networking.

7. Communicate courageously. If you communicate openly and honestly, you will make some mistakes, but those mistakes will be better than the bland, sanitized, and uninspiring communications you receive when people are just going through the motions. There will be times when you don't have the answer. Admit it. Your sisters will understand and will respect your courage and honesty. Both are in short supply in the era of ‘here and now’.

8. Remember you are competing for attention.

Most people receive hundreds of messages of different types every day. Your message competes with all of them. Each person selects what to pay attention to and what to ignore. Why should someone pay attention to messages from you? That question could be answered through your deeds and actions.

9. If it looks important, it must be important.

How you package the communication about your initiatives or programs has a big impact on the perceptions of the subject at hand. Match the packaging to the level of importance. And if you follow up, it must be even more important. Too many people think once they've communicated, they are done. They couldn't be more wrong. Redundancy matters.

10. Practice. Great communicators practice. Writers write and rewrite. Great orators like Martin Luther King, Jr. and more contemporary speakers like our very own Patricia Russell McLoud practice and rehearse. They are good at what they do because they work at it.

And if you do just one thing, do this: Choose future leaders for their communication skills as much as their achievements. Those on the front line have the greatest influence over a chapter’s engagement. Leaders who are good communicators get more mileage from their direct reports than busy bodies whose strong skills lie in ‘all talk’. Leaders who are good communicators are the insurance policy for keeping your Link sisters focused, engaged, and productive.

Links s Login s Learn 2014 Southern Area Webinar Series Your Southern Area is working for you!

Education Linkage

Legislative Linkage

January 21st

March 18th

International Trends and Services

Health and Human Service

February 4th

March 31st

Arts

Protocol and Rituals

February 18th

April TBA

Marketing Your Chapter for Fund Development

Ethics

February 20th

* * WEBINARS BEGIN AT 9 PM* * For questions regarding any webinar registration, contact Area Secretary Anne Herriott at secretary@salinksinc.org

National Trends March 6th

May TBA

Remembering Our Lost Roses The Bold City Chapter (FL) and Link Sister Emma Jean Aikens are within our hearts as they mourn the loss of Connecting Link Charles Aikens.

The Greater Mobile (AL) chapter is saddened by Link Demoris Orey Barial passing. May she rest in peace.

The Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter mourns the loss of HeirO-Link Nancy Denise Bernard, daughter of Link Bobbie Bernard. May Link Bernard rest in peace.

Our prayers and love are extended to members of the Wilmington (NC) Chapter as they mourn the loss of Chapter President, Link Yolanda Brewington Norwood.

She will be missed.

It is with deep sadness that the Montgomery (AL) Chapter mourns the loss of Connecting Link James Edward Carter, spouse of Sister Link Deloris Carter.

The Charlotte (NC) Chapter has our condolences in the loss of Connecting Link Julius L. Chambers, husband of the Late Alumna Link Vivian Chambers.

With sadness we mourn the loss of Platinum Member Link Mary Louise Copeland, Charter Member of the Spartanburg (SC) Chapter.

Alumna Link Doris Cummings of the Wilson-Ricky Mount-Tarboro (NC) chapter mourns the loss of Connecting Link Elmer Cummings.

Our prayers extend to the Charlotte (NC) Chapter as they mourn the loss of Link Bernice Dowdy. May she rest in peace.

We mourn with our Sister Links in the Greater Miami (FL) Chapter the passing of Platinum Alumna member Gwendolyn M. Heastie Welters, mother of Link Martha Welters. Link Gwendolyn and her commitment to service will be sorely missed.

Link Carolyn Jones Dandy, charter member of the Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter, has transitioned. The Southern Area mourns her loss with the members of the Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter.

Link Patricia Thomas Carter of the Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter is in our hearts as she mourns the loss of Connecting Link Mack King Carter.

Our prayers join the Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter as they mourn of the passing of Heir-O-Link Robert Jefferson, Jr., son of Link Zanobia Jefferson and brother of Link Lonis Jefferson Swoope.

With sadness we mourn the loss of Alumna Link Doretha Moss Barnes of the Shreveport (LA) Chapter.

Link Saundra Newby Shorter of the Fayetteville (NC) Chapter has transitioned. May she rest in peace.

It is with great sadness that the Birmingham (AL) Chapter reports the passing of Link Dorothy "Dottie" Porter.

Link Porter will be missed.

The Magnolia (GA) Chapter mourns the loss of Alumna Link Alma Russell. May Link Russell be of peace.

We will all grieve for Link Portia Alexandria Scott, of the Atlanta (GA) Chapter. Our prayers go out to Heir-o-Link Maryam (Demetrius) Jordan and their family.

Our hearts were touched upon learning of the passing of Heir-O-Link Yvonne Michelle Gripper, daughter of Link Dorthy Gene Bowden of Azalea City (GA) Chapter, and Connecting Link William Bowden.

We will all miss Platinum Link Mary Walker Solomon of the Columbia (CS) Chapter. Her family has our heartfelt condolences.

The Brevard County (FL) Chapter mourns the loss of Connecting Link Titus C. Hall, husband of Link Clarissa E. Hall of Brevard County (FL) Chapter and the father of Link Sandra H. Mays, Memphis (TN) Chapter.

It is with sadness that our Sister Link Sadie Burris Smith of the Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter mourns the loss of her husband Connecting Link Dr. Albert E. Smith. May Connecting Link Smith rest in peace.

The Pensacola (FL) Chapter has our condolences in the passing of Platinum Member Dr. Sarah W. Haynes, who was a charter member of the Pensacola (FL) Chapter.

We will all miss her charm and leadership.

Our love extends to the Raleigh (NC) Chapter as they announce the passing of Alumna Link Susan B. Smith.

Link Tracy Stewart of the Crescent City (LA) Chapter and her family are in our hearts as they mourn the loss of Heir-O-Link Byron (BJ) Joseph Stewart, Jr.

Consequences and Actions: Ethical Decisions That Effect Chapters By Selma Robinson-Ayers, Chair – Ethics and Standards Committee It is a scientific fact that for every action there is a reaction. In ethical terms we call this “action and consequence.” Ethics is all about choosing right actions (morally and legally) to maximize good consequences with the very best outcomes.

Effective decision-making is at the center of “right actions and good consequences.” Factors such as values and integrity; knowledge and expertise; personality and emotions; conflicting loyalties; and the tendency to rationalize situations – all influence how we make ethical decisions.

These factors often complicate matters and greatly enhance the chances of making bad decisions, thus diminishing the prospect of right actions and good consequences. Decisions often happen quickly, but consequences can last a lifetime.

Throughout Linkdom, ethical decisions are made each day that not only effect chapters, but have an impact upon the overall reputation and success of our organization. The Links Code of Ethics and Standards is built upon a set of core values that are deeply rooted within the organization’s history and philosophy. It’s a valuable resource that provides a set of clear principles and guidelines to assist chapters in effective decision-making.

Test your ethical decision-making skills in the chapter situation below! The actions and consequences could play out with relatively benign, or more serious – repercussions, depending largely on how chapters (and members) react and respond. What would you do?

Ethical Decision: Using “Restricted” Funds to Host Chapter’s Christmas Party During the October Meeting of the St. John Knitty (SJK) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, a contentious dis-

cussion transpired as to whether or not the chapter could afford to host its annual Christmas Party. It was noted by the Treasurer that there were insufficient funds in the “unrestricted” funds account to cover the expenses; she then suggested an assessment.

Several members adamantly expressed their unwillingness to be assessed, after which a motion was made and seconded by two charter members to use $3,000.00 that was “just sitting” in the “restricted” funds account. The Treasurer stated that the “restricted” funds were proceeds from the chapter’s public fundraiser and that using such monies that were designated for charitable contributions would clearly violate our policies.

Her concerns were downplayed, however – as numerous members (opposed to an assessment) sided with the charter members on the issue. After being assured of chapter support, one of the charter members abruptly “called for the question” to cease further discussion, stating that the situation did not pose a problem since the chapter could easily raise money to replace the funds; or (better yet) defer donations till next year; or

forego awarding the funds, altogether.

“After all, no one’s looking over our shoulders; we have supported the charity for over a decade; and what happens in Knitty stays in Knitty,” she proclaimed!

Notwithstanding her opposition, the President called for the vote. If the motion is passed, the St. John Knitty Chapter would use $3,000.00 of “restricted” funds to host its Christmas Party.

The composition of a Links chapter must be noted as the sum total of its members’ values and attributes – whether perfect or imperfect. It is, therefore, critical that a member recognizes the important role she plays (collectively and individually) in any chapter decision-making to ensure she is well-equipped to achieve excellence in all her actions, and in the consequences thereof.

Bottom-line: A chapter must always strive for excellence in all its decision-making activities. Remember, “…What happens in Knitty stays in Knitty” is likened to a famous cliché; however, THAT (action and consequence) only applies to Vegas!

HOW WOULD YOU VOTE ?

Actions:

Consequences:

Applicable Ethics and Standards Code Section(s)

Related Core Values: Related Governing Documents:

“Yes” Vote – Motion is passed by a majority vote; “restricted” funds used to host Christmas Party; chapter violates Code of Ethics and other governing documents • Disgruntled chapter member raises issue to Area • Area Ethics Complaint filed against chapter • Area Hearing convened with Area Executive Committee • Violations substantiated/Complaint upheld • Possible sanctions: Probation, Suspension, Expulsion • Other: “Restricted” funds must be replenished ($3K) Standard 2: Financial Operations A) Use of Public Funds – Monies collected from the public for service projects and other charitable activities shall be used for the stated purposes only.

C) Self-Dealing and Misappropriation of Funds – Members shall not use organizational funds for personal use, seek improper reimbursement or otherwise misappropriate funds of The Links Organization.

Honesty/Truth, Integrity, Responsibility and Accountability Constitution and Bylaws; Financial Handbook

Links Day at the Capitol Our Voices - Our Agenda

by Marguerite Archie-Hudson Southern Area Coordinator Links Day at the Capitol (LDAC) is an advocacy project of the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated. It is an annual one day meeting in each of the seven State Capitol cities during the spring legislative sessions.

Links Day at the Capitol presents a unique opportunity for members of our seventy-seven chapters, working through their LDAC State Chairs, to bring to the attention of state legislators and other public officials those issues of importance to our region, our state and our individual communities.

LDAC 2012 presents the opportunity for Southern Area Links to engage in dialogue with their legislative representatives about those critical issues that have major effect on the communities we serve – issues of health disparities, childhood obesity, S.T.E.M. education, Mentoring, closing the achievement gap and electoral participation, among others. Each chapter in our region has at least one of these issues on its agenda through its Facets, Umbrella and/or Signature programming or other chapter activities. During the Links Day at the Capitol visits chapter members present our policy agendas to our elected representatives and work with them to integrate our issues into the State’s Legislative priorities. As a former member of a State Legislature (California) I can personally attest to the power of dialogue and policy discussions with professional women who are so identified with effective change through dedicated public service.

Links Day at the Capitol also increases the visibility of the Southern Area Links in the political arena. It is exciting to note that in several of our State Capitols we have Link sisters who serve in our Legislatures and are delighted to work with us in facilitating the presentation of our legislative agenda, helping us to understand the legislative process and assisting us in building relationships with key members of the leadership, policy committees and in general making our visits extremely productive.

Members of the 78 chapters are strongly encouraged to attend Links Day at the Capitol. Our State Chairs and their committees are hard at work finalizing plans for the current legislative sessions. Several states have designed innovative strategies to make their visits most productive.

For example, the Florida Links Day at the Capitol, chaired

by Link Sylvia Perry (Bold City (FL)) and scheduled for Thursday, March 20, 2014 is being held in conjunction with the Annual Conference of Black State Legislators sponsored by the Florida Black Legislative Caucus. What a priceless opportunity for information, dialogue and forging productive policy agendas!

The Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol has previously utilized a “Tool Kit” as a training model for effective interaction with legislators and other public officials. The “Tool Kit” consisted of (a) the Advocacy Handbook that explains how members can use the Louisiana Legislative website to find information about bills, committees, their elected representatives, etc; (b) the Legislative Scorecard provides for an in depth review of proposed legislation in the upcoming session, analysis of those issues to support or oppose, discussion of these issues with chapters to solicit their views, and serves as a guide for tracking these activities during the remainder of the legislative session; (c) Ongoing advocacy educationprior to attending LDAC members learn through their chapters about current events that may have an impact on issues we care about and how to advocate for our positions; and (d) Fellowship- LDAC serves as a rare opportunity for Louisiana Link sisters to come together as a group resulting in increased networking, partnerships, fellowship , friendship and service.

In a future issue of the Advantage we will share the results of our LDAC visits including other innovative strategies employed by our very talented State groups to maximize these legislative meetings.

Please attend the 2014 Links Day at the Capitol in your state by joining your state’s delegation to the state Capitol. Feel free to reach out to me to contact your state chair at MJasper11@aol.com

2014 SOUTHERN AREA

LINKS DAY AT THE CAPITOL STATE COORDINATORS ALABAMA (9 Chapters) Chair, Susan Price - Montgomery (AL) email: sussafussa@aol.com (334) 221-7070 Alabama Links Day at the Capitol: February 5, 2014

FLORIDA (19 Chapters) Chair, Sylvia Perry - Bold City (FL) email: sylperry@aol.com (904) 412-3965 Florida Links Day at the Capitol: March 20, 2014

GEORGIA (15 Chapters) Chair, Gail Toussaint-Washngton - Buckhead Cascade (GA) email: gtwlinks@gmail.com (404)612-8501 (Office) Georgia Links Day at the Capitol: March 21, 2014

LOUISIANA (8 Chapters) Chair, Cheryl Gray Evans - New Orleans (LA) email: cartiseg@aol.com (504) 324-0098 Co-chair Robyn Merrick- La Capitale (LA) robyn_merrrick@sus.edu (225)278-1756 Louisiana Links Day at the Capitol: Wednesday, April 23, 2014

MISSISSIPPI (5 Chapters) Link Irene T. Jones - Jackson (MS) email: Chapterirenetjones@gmail.com (601)497-3609 Co-chair Dorothy Thompson - LeFluer’s Bluff (MS)

NORTH CAROLINA (14 Chapters) Link Kaye R. Webb Triangle Park (NC) email: kwebb@bellsouth.net (803) 705-4671

SOUTH CAROLINA (6 Chapters) Chair, Beverly Clyburn - Aiken (SC) email: repclyburn@aol.com TBA

Charlotte (NC) Creates Special Committee to Engage and Connect with Alumnae Lto R (seated) Links Daisy Stroud, Mary Harper, Cora McMillan, Ojetta Robinson, Rosalia Durante, Grace Chambers, Lois Barnhill (Standing) Links Annabelle Boykin, Bernice Rorie, Barbara Brown, Carol Scott, Gwen Davis, Glenda LaFlore, and Catherine Watkins

Link to Link Committee Members, Rhonda Johnson, Kathy Rideaux, Linda Comer and Ricky McCoy- Mitchell

The Charlotte *NC) Chapter has made a conscious effort to stay connected to their Alumnae members.

A special committee “Link to Link,” was created to find ways to be sure alumnae members stayed connected to the chapter. The committee began a Buddy System, where each alumnae member was assigned two buddies to inform themof all chapter activities, chapter meeting dates, retreat dates and special activities.

The Link to Link Committee’s Crowning Activity and Kick-

off was an Alumnae Tea attended by alumnae and active members. During the fall, the alumnae members were invited to High Tea, complete with an assortment of teas, sandwiches and sweets. The afternoon tea honoring alumnae with White Roses, also included musical selections, a prelude by Derwin Friday, 5th and York and a special operatic presentation by Miss Queen City, TyNia Brandon, Charlotte’s entry to the Miss North Carolina Pageant.

Shown above at the Mississippi Delta (MS) Chapter’s Anniversary Luncheon are (L-R) Left to rightJoyce McNair, Co-Chairman Services to Youth and co author of grant, Dr. Vanessa Rogers Long, President and co author of grant, Dennis Dupree, school Superintendent, Rosalyn Griffin, 1st Vice President and Dr. Wilma Wade, 2nd Vice President and co author of the grant.

Southern Area’s Newest Chapter Makes History with 900K+ Grant The Mississippi Delta (MS) Chapter was awarded a 21st Century Learning Communities Grant through the Mississippi Department of Education. The grant is in the amount of $904,977 spread over the next five years with $238,152 being awarded the first year. The announcement was made at the newly chartered chapter’s first Anniversary and Civic Luncheon.

The chapter collaborated with the Clarksdale Municipal School District which is located in the Second Congressional District to implement a comprehensive program for one hundred twenty (120) 7th and 8th grade girls over the next five years. The goals of the grant are to increase academic achievement, increase skills and interest related to science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM), promote the arts (with empasis on classical arts), foster physical, emotional and social well-being, and increase awareness of obesity.

The goals will be accomplished through

a myriad of activities including before and after school tutorial programs, mentoring programs, Saturday Academy, summer enrichment programs, health and physical activity camps, as well as activities that will foster relationships between the Links, school, home and community. This grant will enable the chapter to continue to transform the lives of young women in the MS Delta through the five facets to assist in the eradication of obesity, teen pregnancy, and poverty can be broken.

The grant will also afford the chapter the opportunity to expand its programming into the Mississippi counties of Bolivar, Coahoma, Humphreys, Sunflower, Panola, Tunica and Washington. These counties all have a high incidence of poverty, obesity, teen pregnancy, under performing schools and high dropout rates.

To help sustain and impact communities holistically, the Chapter has partnered with community and governmental agencies,

other non-profit agencies, civic and social entities, and institutions of higher learning to ensure their goals are systemic in nature and are deeply rooted within the communities.

This 21st Century Learning Communities Grant program, referred to as, Young Ladies in Training for Excellence and Service (Young LITES), will provide the services and motivation needed to impact and change the course of life for these young women through the development of values and skills that will lead to promising careers and lifelong success.

During the Anniversary / Civic Luncheon four civic leaders were honored: Donald Green (Clarksdale), Belinda Faye Morris (Batesville), Rev. Herron Wilson (Indianola) and Dr. Reginald Rodges (Cleveland) for their community service. Also fifteen community partners were recognized for their support of the chapter during their first year.

In Celebration of Friendship

Let Me Tell You About My Girlfriends Durham (NC) Chapter Visits Nasher Exhibit

Link sisters viewing the exhibit included Nellie Riley, Felicia Farrar,Paula Flood, and Dianne Pledger

Durham (NC) Links attended a private tour and screening of the exhibit and documentary film, "This is My Africa" of WangechiMutu: A Fantastic Journey. The exhibit presented more than 50 works from the mid-1990s to the present, including drawings, sculpture, installation and video.

The exhibit at the Nasher Museum at Duke University has organized WangechiMutu's first survey in the United States, the most comprehensive show yet for this internationally renowned, multidisciplinary activity.

Bold City (FL) Celebrates Friendship Month with Diverse Activities Offering Something for Everyone

Yes You Canvas The Bold City (FL) Chapter celebrated their organization's annual Friendship Month with a myriad if activities. Designed to pique the interest of the chapter's diverse membership, the Membership Committee held weekly events to accommodate busy schedules. Planned events included a group art class, Girls Night Out dinner and a movie and a worship service. Prizes we're given to the Link sister who attended all of the events and a each attendees name was entered into a raffle for a gift basket full of Link related goodies. Shown above are photos from the chapter's activities.

Yes You Canvas hosted the chapter's first Friendship Month activity on Thursday, November 7th.

The private art class allowed the novice students to learn basic fundamentals of art as they created their own painting. In between, they enjoyed camaraderie, snacks, cupcakes and light libations.

The second event of the month was held Friday, November 15th. During Girls Night Out, Link sisters enjoyed a family style dinner around a Japanese hibachi table and continued the evening with a viewing of the critically acclaimed 12 Years A Slave that left not a dry eye in the house. Following the movie, Links elaborated on the history they just witnessed and shared how grateful they were they made the cinematic journey together.

On November 24th, members attended church at Wayman Chapel AME graciously hosted by Link Cynthia Griffin and the church's pastor, Connectng Link Rev. Mark Griffin.

Dirls Night Out

Worship Service of Remembrance Chapter members were made welcome from the moment they entered the church with a special greeting from the Pastor to the logo being shown on the jumbotron. The Griffin's epitomized the mantra that Links do to take care of their own.

Chapter President Barbara Darby also hosted a President’s Dessert Reception in her home.

To encourage participation, the chapter’s membership committee raffled a basket to all Friendship Month activity participants.

Magic City (AL) Celebrates Two Decades During Friendship Month

On Saturday, November 2, 2013, members of the Magic City (AL) Chapter gathered on top of Red Mountain for a luncheon to celebrate twenty years of “friendship and service” and “friendship month”. The event was held at The Club, where the chapter was chartered in 1993 by then National President Marion Schultz Sutherland, Chapter Establishment Officer Marion Ridley Sweeney and Southern Area Director Katie Bell.

The Friendship Ceremony was led by chapter president, Charletta T. Sheehy who set a celebratory tone for the event, which was chaired by vice President Connie Sheppard Harris. Deidra Perry served as Mistress of Ceremonies, and members Connie S. Harris, Deborah B. Walker, and Margaret Z. Beard participated in the program as well. A photo presentation by Donna Lawson brought memories and laughter to the crowd.

Charter members in attendance included: Adriene Balton-Topping, Margaret Z. Beard, Diana T. Chambliss, Connie Sheppard Harris, Bettye Warren Mitchell, Charletta T. Sheehy, Sharon

Spencer, M.D., Juanita Jordan Vann and Deborah Byrd Walker and Michelle Williams-Bridgewater.

Joining in the celebration were members inducted from 2000 – 2012 Stacy Haynes-Nelson, M.D., Sandra Z. Harris, Gloria Jemison, Nichelle Gainey, Joyce P. French, Cheri Gardner, Terri Gardner, Merika Coleman-Evans, Adrienne Royster-Bell, Mary B. Williams, Melissa Howard Smoot, KeAndrea Stephens Jones, Donna R. Lawson, Lila E. Hackett, Belinda J. Hall, Karen Winston Fox, Barbara Regan, Marguerite Johnson, Nena Moorer, Cecilia Crenshaw, LaJuana Bradford, Deidra K. Perry and Brandi Rudolph Bolling, M.D. Alumni members were invited to attend and were honored with a white rose for their service to the chapter. Alumni members present were Willa R. McGlothan, Margaree Martin, Juanita J. Balton and Sara Myers.

Connecting Links Leonard Smoot, Cleophas Vann, Frederick Bolling, Clifford Hall and Reverend James Myers and guest Ms. Diane Rudolph also attended.

Vonda Jackson Colquitt, Chapter President; Chapter members attending the joint Founders and Selma Robinson-Ayers show their team Day celebration included (top to bottom): Selma spirit at a chapter meeting.

Robinson-Ayers, Odessa Banks, Yvonne Alsup, Faith Van, Tia Young, Joyce Thornton, Cynthia Jolliff-Johnson, Franca Sheehy, Patricia Stewart, Donna McRae and June Peterman.

St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter members serving their “Rosebuds” dinner designed to instill the principle of "serving others". The “Rosebuds” are the chapter's program project. Link Members on the right are shown front to back: Lori Taylor, Bonnie Davis, Kim Ladies of the St. Petersburg Chapter with the donated African American Dolls.

Jackson and Joyce Thornton.

St. Petersburg (FL) Innovatively Stays Connected in Friendship, United in Service The St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter of The Links Incorporated had a very busy Friendship Month during November 2013. They kicked off their celebration of service and friendship by contributing to seven local charities. In an effort to boost camaraderie, members were encouraged to show their team spirit with a Fan-natical meeting theme. During a program activity, the Link sisters graciously served dinner to

their signature project – the Rosebuds.

A joint Founder's Day Celebration was held between the Tampa (FL), host Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) and St. Petersburg (FL) Chapters in addition to a Church Fellowship and a Donor Sabbath/Linkages To Life Program at Pathways Christian Fellowship Church followed by a luncheon at The Lakewood Ranch Golf and Country Club in Lakewood Ranch, FL.

To culminate Friendship Month, a “Secret Sister” exchange took place.

For the month sisters were encouraged to send to their secret sister random acts of kindness. These acts included cards, flowers and many, many gifts all delivered anonimously.

In addition thechapter members donated African American Dolls for a local Christmas Toy Shop and donated can goods for a local church pantry .

The Most Dangerous Food for Black Women

by Chris Hoenig Doctors have long said that diet is a key in the fight against obesity, but a new study finds that one food is more dangerous for Black women than others: burgers.

Researchers at Boston University’s Slone Epidemiology Center followed nearly 20,000 Black women who signed up as part of the Black Women’s Health Study.

They tracked how often the women consumed eight specific not-so-healthy foods: fried fish, pizza, Chinese food, Mexican food, fried chicken, burgers, soft drinks and French fries.

The women who ate at least two burgers a week were at a 26 percent higher risk of becoming obese than those who didn’t.

Soft drinks were next on the list, with at least two drinks a day leading to a 10 percent greater risk of obesity in Black women. “The association with burgers was stronger than that with sugar-sweetened soft drinks,” study authors Deborah Boggs, Lynn Rosenberg, Patricia Coogan, Kepher Makambi, Lucile Adams-Campbell and Julie Palmer wrote.

Perhaps surprisingly, eating French fries with the burger did not appear to play a role, with no noticeable statistical difference between those who ate French fries and those who didn’t. But age and weight did appear to be factors that determined how the participants’ bodies would respond, with younger and healthier women actually in more danger. Risks increased for women who were under age 30 and had a normal weight at the start of the study in 1995.

“The identification of individual foods or bev-

erages that are associated with weight gain provides a basis for specific and straightforward recommendations to help prevent obesity,” the researchers wrote.

“Awareness needs to be raised that even young women who have healthy weights are at risk of becoming obese if they frequently consume these food items.”

All of the participants were between the ages of 21 and 39; were not classified as obese; and did not have a history of heart disease or cancer at the beginning of the study. They self-reported their weight every two years from 1995 to 2011 and filled out surveys about their diets in 1995 and 2001.

Nearly half of all Black Americans are obese, putting the Black population at an already increased risk for the health problems that go along with it. Half of Black women die from stroke or heart disease, two of the conditions linked with obesity, a rate that is twice that of whites.

Alabama

Carnetta and Norm Davis at the exhibit opening.

Birmingham (AL) Chapter Co Hosts Art Exhibit Opening of Carnetta and Norm Davis " UMOJA: The Spirit of Unity - Works from the Collection of Carnetta and Norm Davis" was on exhibit from August 26 until October 4 at the University of Alabama’s Paul R. Jones Gallery in the arts district of downtown Tuscaloosa, AL. The exhibition opened on August 28, 2013.

Earlier this year, fourteen selections from the couple’s collection were exhibited at the Hunter Museum of

American Art in Chattanooga, TN. Another show featuring some of their art works will take place in May of 2014 at Piedmont College in Demorest, GA. The Davis collection has more than 100 works of African American art spanning the 19th to 21st centuries and includes artists Henry Ossawa Tanner, Charles Ethan Porter, Allan Rohan Crite, Benny Andrews, Kevin Cole, and Radcliffe Bailey, among oth-

ers. The couple allowed the UA Department of Art and Art History the opportunity to select 41 works from their collection to exhibit.

T he couple, residents of Birmingham, AL, has been collecting for some ten years and seek works that help tell the continuing story of the evolution of African-American art.

Link Carnetta is a member of the Birmingham (AL) Chapter.

Florida

Treasure Coast (FL) Talks ‘Woman to Woman’

Link Jovita Williams; Link Myrna Bridges; Link Phyllis Gille- Link Wilhelmina Lewis explaining to the female parents and spie, Executive Director of the Gertrude Walden Childcare grandparents how to identify symptoms of metabolic synCenter, Thelma Washington; Link Wilhelmina Lewis, MD; drome.

Link Clare Nash: and Link Taunya Bryant.

On Tuesday, October 8, 2013, The Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter kicked off the third component of their Linking Together against Syndrome X program . This event entitled, Linking Together Woman to Woman was held at The Gertrude Walden Childcare Center (GWCCC) in Martin County, Fl. The Woman to Woman component is designed to provide information about Cardiovascular Health, Diabetes Prevention, Cholesterol Management and Dietary Health to the 4o women who have children who attend the center as well as the teachers and other essential staff . At the kick-off, the participants were informed about the potentially devastating effects of Syndrome X, their baseline health statistics were taken, and they received a monthly calendar of events that includes a presentation from a prominent dietician, healthy meal demonstrations by an executive chef, the development of tailored walking/exercise program and a special invitation to participate in our signature Link Phyllis Gillespie assisting a parent with questions on tri-county event, Linking Together against Syndrome X and for how she can bring the information regarding metabolic syn- Red Dress Heart Health on February 22, 2014. drome back to her community.

COMING SOON - COMING SOON - COMING SOON

The newly redesigned Southern Area Website featuring the Southern Area Boutique !

COMING SOON - COMING SOON - COMING SOON

Florida

Brevard (FL) Implements New STY Funded Programming The Brevard County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, was one of 36 chapters selected from 276 chapters to receive an AT&T grant via the Links Foundation, Incorporated, which is the philanthropic arm of the organization. During an interview with FLORIDA TODAY, the chapter president, Dr. Ethel Newman, was asked how the AT&T grant was utilized. “Our chapter’s Services to Youth (STY) Facet took on the responsibility of fulfilling the mission of the grant by creating a program to help our youth get involved in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).”

STY organizers, Dr. Barbara Moore and Mrs. Kim Kassis, used the opportunity to team up with Ronald McNair Magnet School in Rockledge, FL., and NASA educators from the Educators Resource Center (ERC) at Kennedy Space Center (KSC) to fulfil the grant’s STEM requirements.

This collaborative team effort led to the creation of the multi-phased program, Stem-U-Lation: Left Brain and Right Brain, the first program of its kind, for the participating organizations.

McNair Magnet School was selected to participate because it has an educational program, Advanced via Individual Determination

program, also known as lap top computers to write students received a personAVID, on its campus. This basic computer programs alized certificate and a college readiness system and participated in a series small gift for their wonderfor elementary through of simulated launch activi- ful behavior and awesome higher education is de- ties. On October 18, 2013, participation. Following a signed to increase school the students visited KSC to photo op with the local wide learning and perform- participate in a NASA class- media, the students, their ance. McNair’s AVID pro- room program called “Liv- family and friends, school gram, and the students ing in Space”, followed by a faculty and a very happy selected by their teachers tour of the new Atlantis ex- crowd of attendees from to participate in the Stem- hibit at the KSC Visitor Com- the local community celeU-Lation program, met the criteria outlined by the Links Foundation. McN a i r ’ s principal, Rosette Brown and the school’s A V I D teacher, Edith Miller, readily agreed to participate in this inaugural program Stem-U-Lation: Left Brain & Right Brain Closing Ceremony. L-R: Rosette Brown, Principal, as both want McNair Magnet Middle School, Dr. Ethel Newman, Chapter President, Destiny Price, AVID the very best for student, receiving a Certificate of Achievement and AVID teacher, Edith Miller. their students. plex and the real orbiter brated the successful comOn 19 September 2013, Atlantis. In November, the pletion of program with a NASA educators from KSC chapter hosted the third Closing Reception hosted brought a portion of the and final phase of the by the chapter. While this space program to the stu- Stem-U-Lation: Left Brain program may have been dents on their home turf in and Right Brain program the first of its kind, it is destheir own classroom. Dur- with a beautiful closing cer- tined to be a recurring proing this interactive first emony. This culminating gram for the 276 chapters phase of the program, the event showcased the stu- of The Links, Incorporated students learned some of dents’ learning experiences as the need for STEM eduthe software language for during the three month cation and engagement future space projects, used long program. Each of the continues to grow.

Florida

Treasure Coast (FL) Links Hands with Haiti

Shown is Longineu Parsons with Randy Corinthian

Fort Lauderdale (FL) Hosts Jazz Concert for Students The Fort Lauderdale (FL) Chapter Arts Facet Committee recently collaborated with the Old Dillard Foundation to host the Annual Cannonball Adderley Birthday Concert.

Julian Edwin "Cannonball" Adderley was a jazz alto saxophonist of the hard bop era of the 1950s and 1960s. He has been recognized and honored as one of the nation's most talented jazz musicians and is remembered for his 1966 hit single "Mercy, Mercy, Mercy" and for his work with trumpeter Miles Davis. Adderley taught at Dillard High School in Fort Lauderdale, Florida prior to taking advantage of the opportunity to perform and entertain globally.

The Old Dillard High School is a historical site acknowledged as the 1st school for African Americans in Fort Lauderdale, Florida. The school is on the National Registry and is now a celebrated museum. The Old Dillard School Museum houses a room that honors Adderley and annually recognizes his Birthday to celebrate his accomplishments and his connection and commitment to the students at Dillard High School and the local community.

During the concert the students were able to observe and learn from two jazz greats-- Longinue Parsons and Randy Corinthian. Longinue, plays the trumpet and performed with the world famous entertainer Cannonball Adderley during his illustrious career. Mr. Parsons has been hailed by critics internationally as being one of the world’s finest trumpet players. He is currently an associate professor at Florida A&M University.

The Arts Facet continues to seek opportunities to expand the Arts in the community and to encourage students to consider participating in the Arts in order to fully develop their academic capabilities.

Shown above are Rev. Thomas and Link Shirley Hines Atkins load toys bound for Haiti courtesy of the International Trends Facet of the Treasure Coast Chapter.

The International Trends and Services facet sponsored a successful "Linking Hands with our Friends in Haiti" showcase held on Sunday, November 10, 2013, in Fort Pierce, Florida at the New Destiny Family Worship Center.

The showcase program was a well-attended event featuring music from the First Haitian Baptist Church of Vero Beach, FL, praise dancing from the Haitian Youth Group and delicious Caribbean food.

The event was a great opportunity for Link sisters to view pictures and ask questions about the two missions we support in Haiti as well as celebrate friendship. International traveler Link Shirley Hines Atkins also chairs the International Trends facet. Link Atkins has travel the world in her role with the International Red Cross. She has witnessed and helped resolve emergency situations all over the globe. Thanks to her efforts within the chapter, members are just a phone call away from a first hand account in the area of International Trends.

Thanks to the generosity of Links Gloria Gary and Jovita Williams, ITS chair Shirley Hines Atkins delivered toys to Rev.Thomas on Saturday, December 28. Rev. Thomas and Mr. Cazeau (teacher at the school in Haiti) will divide them and deliver them to Haiti. Their plan is to have them delivered by 3 Kings Day,January 6.

Florida

Brevard County (FL) STY Facet Presents STEM-U-LATING Left Brain, Right

Brevard County (FL) Chapter and the students enrolled in the AVID program.

The Services to Youth (STY) Facet of the Brevard County (FL) Chapter developed a multi-phased Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) program using an AT&T grant. The chapter was selected for the grant by The Links Foundation, Incorporated. The focus of the grant is STEM-ULATING: Left Brain & Right Brain. The chapter’s STYFacet, partnered with the NASA Educator Resource Center (ERC) located at Kennedy Space Center, FL (KSC),and Ronald McNair Magnet School in Cocoa, FL to fulfill the mission of the grant. Forty students enrolled in the Advanced via Individual Determination (AVID) program atMcNairwere selected to participate in the STY program. AVID, is a college readiness system for elementary through higher education designed to increase school wide learning and performance.

The first phase of STEM-ULATING: Left Brain & Right Brain took place on Thursday, September 19, 2013 on the McNair Magnet School campus. NASA educators, Jen Hudgins and Samantha Thorstensen, from the ERC, engaged the AVID students in a basic programming activity using NXT Lego Mindstorm robots. The students learned the NXT basic programming language and programmed

rovers to follow a moon path. The ERC educators set up several mini stations with laptops and robots that provided the students a hands-on experience as well as the opportunity to participate in simulated launch activities.

The secondphase took place on Friday October 18, 2013 at KSC. The students participated in a classroomprogram called 'Living in Space' where NASA educator, Jen Hudgins, from the ERC, discussed the moon and Earth scales and distances. The students also learned aboutthe retirement of the Shuttle Program and NASA's new Space Launch System (SLS) design. The class ended with a Liquid Nitrogen demonstration and discussion of the use of cryogenic fuels on the Space Shuttle. Although the students were thrilled to be in the NASA classroom, they were mystified by thetour of the new Atlantis exhibit at the KSC Visitor Complex and the real orbiter Atlantis. The well behaved students were still chatting about their amazing experience as they loaded the bus enroute back to McNair where a pizza lunch hosted by STY awaited them.The final phase will showcase the students’ activities at a culminating event at McNair prior to 30 November 2013.

Florida

Shown above is Dr. Cynthia Clarke, Dade County (FL) Links President (seated center, left) and Dr. Roslyn ClarkArtis, FMU Interim President (seated center, right) pictured with mentors and FMU student mentees of the Lean Forward with Mentoring Program, a partnership between the Dade County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated and Florida Memorial University. G. Reed photo

Dade County (FL) Links and FMU Kick Off Year Three of Lean Forward With Mentoring The Dade County (FL) Chapter and Florida Memorial University (FMU) recently kicked off year three of a successful community/school partnership connecting volunteer mentors to student mentees.

Lean Forward with Mentoring is an innovative initiative designed to connect FMU students, specifically freshman students, to successful business and community mentors who will share their professional expertise and their corporate and civic engagement experiences with students. The program supports the university’s goal of retention and its promise to provide needed guidance to students.

Approximately 30 FMU students will be mentored over the course of the school year by professional Lean Forward Mentor Attorney James Rowan (left) men and women who have volunteered to serve as gives his mentee FMU student Ryan James advice mentors. Because of the popularity of social media about law schools. networks, such as Facebook and LinkedIn, one unique feature of the program is that communication between mentors and mentees through social media is highly encouraged. Mentors stress to mentees the importance of appropriate social media postings and the impact postings can eventually have on a student’s future career and postsecondary education plans.

Florida

Going Places Nona Jones Makes History in Florida Public Works (Tallahassee, FL) – Members of the Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) have elected Nona Jones, community and government relations director for Gainesville Regional Utilities (GRU), as secretary-treasurer of the organization’s board of directors.

FMEA represents the unified interests of 34 public power communities across the state, which provides electricity to nearly 3 million of Florida’s residential and business consumers.

“Board members participate in regular meetings held across the state and are charged with setting the overall direction of the organization,” said Barry Moline, FMEA’s executive director. “Nona has established herself as a strong leader on utility issues not only in Gainesville, but throughout the state of Florida. We’re honored to have her serve as our secretary-treasurer.”

“I am pleased to be chosen to serve as an elected member on FMEA’s board. This organization is helping our state’s electric industry stay at the forefront of the nation by keeping its members informed on legislative issues and providing safety, training and customer service resources,” said Jones.

She added, “Vince Lombardi once said, ‘The achievements of an organization are the results of the combined effort of each individual.’ Through FMEA, individual municipal utilities located across Florida are working together to assure that our priorities remain focused on the consumer.”

Jones is a graduate of Leadership Florida and Leadership Gainesville. She was honored as one of Gainesville’s “13 under 30” community leaders by Home Magazine and a “Woman Who Makes a Difference” by the Girl Scouts of Gateway Council. She holds both her bachelor’s and master’s degrees from the University of Florida.

Other officers elected to the FMEA board include President Barbara Quiñones of Homestead; President-Elect Link Nona Jones Bud Para of JEA; and Vice President Mike New of Alachua.

The Florida Municipal Electric Association (FMEA) represents the unified interests of 34 public power communities across the state, which provides electricity to more than 3 million of Florida’s residential and business consumers.

Link Nona is member of the Gainesville (FL) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., and Jack and Jill of America. She also serves as the Southern Area Protocol Chair.

Florida

Shown above are almumnae members (L-R) Johnnie Riley, Edith Francis, Yvonne Cooper, Betty Minton and Odessa Williams.

Brevard county (FL) Kicks Off Year With Friendship Ceremony The Brevard County (FL) Chapter opened their September chapter meeting with a warm and memorable Ceremony of Friendship. Many alumnae attended this meeting held at The Tides Club Heritage Room, Satellite Beach, FL. The alumnae received roses from the ceremonial vase at the end of the meeting. All members reflected on and embraced the beautiful ceremonial phrases. A Thomas Aquinas quote captured the spirit we felt: “There is nothing on this earth more to be prized than true friendship.�

The Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter Begins Phase 3 of Umbrella Program The Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter announced that they were ready to implement the Third (3rd) phase of their award-winning Umbrella Program: Linking Together against Syndrome X, Woman to Woman - A Monthly Health Series (October 2013 - February 2014).

Developed for The Gertrude Walden Childcare Center (GWCCC) and sponsored by The Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter., this project's main goal is to impart information to the

community that focuses on the medical condition commonly refer to as (metabolic syndrome) or Syndrome X. After the opening ceremonies took place, the participants were educated by a Nutritionist in the how's and why's of proper nutritional choices and presented with keepsake journals to track their progress. After a lively Q&A session, a wonderful fellowship ensued.

The Kick-off event took place at 6:00 p.m.

on Tuesday, October 8, 2013 at The Gertrude Walden Childcare Center located at 601 SE Lake St Stuart, FL 34994 (772) 283-6321 Many sister Links were available and came out as they joined their newest chapter inductees and began the implementation of their outstanding new program phase.

Link Phyllis Gillespie is Chair of the GWCCC board was the chapter's primary liaison.

Florida

Seated Chapter President Elizabeth Jackson, Guest Facilitator Faye Hargrove and Chapter Vice President Kathryn Wilson. Standing members of The Treasure Coast (FL) Chapter left to right are Arlene Shackelford, Clarece Nash, Stephanie Dunbar, Candace Stone, Tamara Williams, Theda Rucker, Wilhelmina Lewis, Marilyn Dawson, Cheryl Glenn, Carol Gipson, Shirley Hines Atkins, Tanisha Gary, Beverly Hinton, Lauren Gragg, Taunya Bryant and Phyllis Gillespie.

Treasure Coast (FL) Retreats With Area Organizational Effectiveness Chair to Increase Bonds of Friendship The Treasure Coast (Fl) Chapter enjoyed their 2013 Retreat at the Bennity at Tradition in Port St. Lucie, Florida.

Guest presenter and facilitator was Link Faye Hargrove of the Augusta (GA) Chapter. Link Faye serves as the Southern Area Organizational Efffectiveness Chair.

The theme and purpose of our retreat was to encompass learning how to develop our friendships within the chapter so that we can more effectively serve in friendship. Link Hargrove used Her book "BETTER CHOICES" to help us understand the concept, "When We Know Better We Do Better". Link Hargrove inspired us to work hard on our friendships within our chapter.

The outcome of the retreat resulted in the chapter now firmly believing that with positive friendships, they are armed to serve their community in a more enthusiastic and joyous manner.

Facilitator Link Faye Hargrove and Chapter Vice President Link Kathryn Wilson

Standing left to right: Jacqueline Hubbard, Faith Van, Joy Wallace, Tia Young, June Kicklighter-Peterman, Center back to front: Pat Stewart, Lisa Benson, Yvonne Alsup, Vonda Colquitt ( President -seated) Standing right to left: Lori Taylor, Donna McRae, Kimberly Jackson Odessa Banks and Franca Sheehy.

St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter Retreat Defines Chapter’s Sense of Purpose

by Joy Wallace collective sense of purpose.

The St. Petersburg (FL) held their As the decision is made to have a Summer Retreat resulting in very pro- chapter retreat, the realization kicks in ductive working sessions. More im- that for some members it will be a conflict with summer vacation plans NGREDIENTS FOR A and sadly to say, there will be those SUCCESSFUL RETREAT members who are - pounds of Respect just not interested - loads of laughter in attending. The - mounds of ideas encouraging part, - little food and good music however, in this is - tons of relaxation that, those who do Yields: at least (1 yr) of a fantastic choose to attend, roadmap of plans for your Links chapter whether by sacrifice or not, usually portantly, the chapter realized a come away with a great sense of sis-

I

terhood, appreciation and enlightenment. To foster sisterhood and friendships is a wonderful by-product of a retreat.

Another great purpose of a retreat is not only set your agenda for the upcoming program year and brain storm ideas for fundraising projects and umbrella and facet activities, but it can be a very useful avenue to reiterate and remind ourselves that every member is valuable and has something to offer. To see ourselves as The Almighty sees us, His creation, allows our minds to be opened and our creative juices to began flowing. When all these things line up--in love--, your retreat will be a successful event.

CALLING ALL FLORIDA LINKS - - - Save the Date - - Florida Links Day at the Capital 2014 Thursday, March 20, 2014

Join your sisters from throughout the state for a day of advocacy, networking and political education in Tallahassee, Fl 7 am - 4:30 pm Registration fee $40 includes breakfast, lunch, reception, registration gifts and onsite transportation.

Special Guest Southern Area Director

Eneid A. Francis Guest Speaker

Florida Supreme Court Justice Peggy Quince Host Hotel: Aloft Tallahassee $125 a night 200 North Monroe Street, Tallahassee, Fl 32301

Register TODAY!!! Ask for the Florida Black Caucus Rate (850) 513-0313 FOR MORE INFORMATION EMAIL FLLDAC@SALINKSINC.ORG

Florida

Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) Chapter Assists Single Mother in Dream for Home Ownership As a National Partnership Activity, The Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) Chapter’s National Trends & Services facet entered into a partnership with the Sarasota County Habitat for Humanity. Together, they assisted Ms. Dawn Alexander (a single mother of three) in securing a home from paper-

work filing to moving in. Ms. Alexander’s home dedication was on February 23, 2013. Under the leadership of Links Gwendolyn Atkins and Bernadine Rice the chapter provided sweat equity hours, gifts, furniture, appliances, and a photo album for Ms. Alexander’s new home.

The Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) Chapter Presents “The Role of U.S. Ambassadors in Today’s Global Crisis” The Bradenton/Sarasota (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated recently held an International Symposium in the Herald-Tribune Conference Roomin Sarasota, Florida.

The Symposium featured three prominent former ambassadors who currently reside in the Bradenton and Sarasota areas.

• Ambassador James D. McGee spent over 30 years in the Foreign Service. He served as Ambassador to the Kingdom of Swaziland 2002 2004, Madagascar and the Comoros Islands 2004 - 2007, and Zimbabwe 2007 – 2009.

• Ambassador Joseph M. Segars spent over 26 years in the Foreign Service. His service included assignments in South Africa, Jamaica, Nigeria and Tanzania. He was twice Chapter members are shown at the symposium: (L-R) Penny Jackson (Chair ITS Facet), Country Officer in the Department‘s Joyce Locklear, Ambassador Barry Wells, Ambassador Joseph Segars, Adrienne Ward Paramore (President), Shirley Miller, Ambassador James McGee, and Diana Smith.

Africa Bureau including Liberia, Sierra ing the early 1970s and the recent can Embassy in Benghazi.

Leone and Zimbabwe, Lesotho and progress that has been made.

The Ambassadors alsodescribed Swaziland. He was appointed AmbasEspecially riveting was their country what it takes to be a good Ambassasador to the Republic of Cape Verde specific experiences and the delica- dor, career opportunities and the from 1993 to 1996. cies in maintaining positive diplo- skills required to enter the Foreign • Ambassador Barry L. Wells joined matic relationships with the local Service. This was followed by a very the Foreign Service in 1988. He was governments while representing the enthusiastic and interactive Q&A from appointed Ambassador to The Reinterests of the United States.Another the audience. More than 70 people public of the Gambia by Secretary of hot topic area was the discussion attended the event and there was a State Condoleezza Rice on December around more recent events in Libya unanimous agreement that the pres10, 2007. Ambassador Wells was the and Kenya. Ambassador McGee entation should be extended to high first African American Civil Service Ofspecifically spoke about his personal school students to encourage them ficer to serve as a U.S. Ambassador. relationship with Ambassador to consider the Foreign Service as a The Ambassadors shared the issues Christopher Stevens as well as issues career opportunity. and challenges which faced African related to the security of the AmeriAmericans in the Foreign Service dur-

Florida

Link Cynthia Clarke, President (center) and Members of the Dade County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated at the Florida Memorial University 12th Annual Scholarship Gala. The chapter was recognized by the university with the Volunteer of the Year Award.

Florida Memorial Honors Dade County Links for Volunteer Service MIAMI – Florida Memorial University (FMU) held its 12th Annual Scholarship Gala raising $250,000 for scholarships to benefit students. Dwyane Wade Jr. of the World Champion Miami Heat was the gala’s special guest and the university honored individuals in the community, including the Dade County (FL) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated for exemplary volunteer service. The Dade County (FL) Chapter has partnered with FMU on many projects and initiatives, including Lean Forward with Mentoring, which is a mentoring initiative, designed to impact student retention and provide needed guidance to students. Photo Credit: Mark Hill

Miami Biscayne Bay (FL) Holds Donor Sabbath On Sunday, November 10, 2013, members of the Miami-Biscayne Bay Chapter, attended New Covenant Presbyterian Church. Link Lillian Cooper, who is a member there, participated on the program and recognized members and visitors as well as caregivers and veterans in recognition of Veteran’s Day. Members heard the sermon, ”Go and Build”, by the pastor,Rev. Dr. John C. Vaughn. Scripture lessons were from Hagai 1:3-15 and 1 Corinthians 3:5-17.

Chapter President, Link Rosa Simmons, spoke during the “Minute for Mission.” She spoke about organ donation and its benefits. She had polysytic kidney disease for over 20 years before going on dialysis for about 20 months. Her younger sister was her donor for a new kid-

ney. Link Rosa told her story and explained that only approximately 12 percent of African Americans are organ donors. Many patients of color, die due to lack of an organ donation. African Americans die of kidney failure more often than Caucasians. She revealed that one donor can help save 50 lives and shared that anyone with high blood pressure cannot be an organ donor, but can donate their skin for burn victims. Donors have the right to choose which organ(s) they would like to donate.and can be made by family members after death or as a living donor.

Link sisters in attendance were served a Sunday dinner in the church fellowship hall immediately following the service.

Georgia

Albany (GA) Chapter Celebrates 30th Anniversary The Albany (GA) Chapter celebrated its 30th anniversary during the week of May 13 -19, 2013. Since May of 1983, when the chapter received its charter, the organization has been recognized locally for outstanding services in the arts, services to youth, as well as services regarding national and international trends.

To celebrate this milestone, Mona Parker, served as chairperson for the celebration and Naomi Carroll coordinated the activities for the week. The week long celebration of activites included: • Monday, May 13, 2013 Make Radium Springs Middle School Beautiful (planted flowers) • Tuesday, May 14, 2013 Thanksgiving in May (Donated food baskets to two families at Turner Elementary School) • Wednesday, May 15, 2013 James H. Gray Senior Center (Volunteering at the center with the citizens) • May 13-16, 2013 Blood Drive with the American Red Cross • Sunday, May 19, 2013 The week ended with members attending church service as Bethel AME Church with an inspiring message from Rev. Ernest Davis, senior pastor.

The chapter culminated its 30th year with a benefit fundraiser in December coordinated by JoAnne Taylor and Link Sonya Acree. Several 30-year members of the organization are still active in the chapter. They include Mona Parker, Constance Adams, Naomi Carroll, Martha Craft, Joyce Griffin, Suzanne Gordon, Brenda Hodgs-Tiller, Freddie Sims and Particia Victor.

The Atlanta (GA) Chapter celebrated its 60th Anniversary with a Diamond Jubilee Gala held at the Ritz Carlton Buckhead in February. Members were resplendent in platinum and silver attire.

Georgia

Members of the Camellia Rose (GA) Chapter

Camellia Rose (GA) Kicks Off Youth Empowerment Program The Camellia Rose (GA) Chapter held their Youth Empowerment Program kickoff at Jean Childs Young Middle School in September. The Youth Empowerment Program is designed to help participating students increase their self-confidence and assist them in developing skill sets that will enable them to become change agents, and reach their full potential in their school and community. Additionally, the program provides information to educate the entire student body about important social issues so all students can become productive, responsible citizens.

More than 30 sixth, seventh, and eighth grade students selected to participate in the program attended the kickoff.

They listened attentively as Dr. Kelvin Griffin, school principal, talked about their responsibilities, and the importance of being positive role models and change agents in the school. Ms. Lola Pando, school counselor, reinforced Dr. Griffin’s remarks. The Camellia Rose Program Chair, Pam Elliott gave an overview of the program, and chapter president, Deborah Lott-Barnes gave closing remarks.

After the program, students participated in a smoothie tasting bonding activity. After tasting four different smoothies, students voted on their favorite, The Double Peach Cream. A fun time was had by all.

Georgia

Partnerships Expand Brunswick (GA) Programming

tional s a n r e Int ervice S & s Trend

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Link Beverly Lewis, Arts Facet Co-Chair, Aundria Dickerson, Founder and Director of The Rock and Link Margie Harris, Arts Facet Co-Chair.

The Brunswick (GA) Chapter launched its Arts Facet transformational program, Arts 101, with The Rock, a local after-school program. The Arts Facet will provide year-round support services that will engage youth (ages 6 - 16), integrating the arts through literature and the performance arts. Local youth will participate in guided lessons from southeast regional "artists in residence" at The Rock in the spoken word, drama, creative writing and dance.

Link V. Thomas, Chapter President, Larry Morris, MAP International Director of Transformational Programs and Link A. Lattany Reed, Chapter Vice President.

The Brunswick (GA) Chapter will partner with MAP International this year to carry out the service goals of the International Trends and Services Facet. The goals include sending a medical mission team to Liberia shipping 1,000 survival kits to women and girls in Haiti.

39th National Assembly July 2-6, 2014 Washington, DC

e v a S e t a D e h t

Southern Area Leadership Summit October 9-11, 2014 Greenville, SC 43rd Southern Area Conference May 13-17, 2015 Birmingham, AL

Georgia The Buckhead/Cascade City (GA) Chapter hosted its signature fundraiser “Linking Heart & Soul” Mardi Gras & Casino Night Celebration featuring casino games, New Orleans-style cuisine and live entertainment on Saturday, October 15 at the AmericasMart.

The organization raised $45,000 for non-profit partners: Living Water for Girls, a therapeutic residential program providing professional services and care for girls 12 to 18 years old who are victims of commercial sexual exploitation; Jerusalem House, Atlanta’s oldest and largest provider of permanent housing for Atlanta’s low-income and homeless individuals and families affected

by HIV/AIDS; and the Woolfolk Boys & Girls Club which provides developmental programs and services for youth.

Nearly 700 people including high profile executives and local politicians attended the gala and were entertained by multi-talented actor and comedian Jonathan Slocumb, second line band ATL Brass Connection and Sol Factor, one of Atlanta’s top R&B bands. The festive Mardi Gras themed celebration highlighted the traditions of New Orleans complete with creole-style food and decorations, music, casino games, silent auction and raffles prizes.

“This is an opportunity for us to raise significant funds for our partners in an effort to make a difference in the lives of youth and families throughout Metro Atlanta and have fun at the same time,” said chapter president, Link Gail Tusan Washington. “We have long-standing relationships with each of these organizations and we will continue to support them through our volunteer efforts.

Buckhead Cascade City (GA) Raises $45K at “Linking Heart and Soul” Mardi Gras Celebration

Nancy Hall White, Gala Co-Chair; Former Atlanta Mayor Shirley Franklin Gale Co-Chair; Lisa Williams, Living Water for Girls; Christopher and Brittney Williams, Woolfolk Boys and Girls Club, Tiffany Rivera, Jerusalem House; Carolyn Young Gala Co-Chair; Gail Tusan .Washington, Chapter President

Links members participate in the festive Second Line Dance

Shirley Franklin, Gail Tusan Washington and Carolyn Young dance and strut in the festive Second Line Dance

Louisiana

Link Jinx Broussard’s Book Gets Rave Reviews Link Jinx Coleman Broussard of the Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter recently released her newest book, African American Foreign Correspondents: A History.

The book has been receiving excellent reviews, and a book signing for her at Dillard University in New Orleans over the summer attests to the interest people have in it. The event drew almost 100 people - many of them Link Sisters.

African American Foreign Correspondents: A History, doesn’t read like hisLink Jinx Coleman Broussard is shown with her new book. tory, but more like a story about the intrepid black men and women who reported from overseas for almost a century and a half “to tell the truth,” or to “tell the real story,” or “to tell our story,” as they often said.

These correspondents have been invisible in media, black and American history; yet their personal and career stories were as fascinating as the stories they wrote from abroad.

They often had to fight for the right to go overseas to cover events, issues and individuals, which had an impact on African Americans at home and people of color worldwide. In doing so, they gave visibility to marginalized people and created meaning and understanding for those who shared a common linkage with blacks at home.

They continually related that other nations treated nonwhite others as equals, and they called on America to do the same. As one of the especially daring correspondents told Link Jinx, he wrote to change the status quo because he believed America could be a better nation if it upheld the democratic principles it espoused.

Pontchartrain Chapter Awarded Grant for Arts Facet Programs In its 20th year of service to the community, the Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter will be the recipient of a 2013-2014 community partnership grant from the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival and Foundation, Inc. Grant funds in the amount of $3,500 will benefit The Pontchartrain Chapter’s Arts Facet programs “Links Keep the Music Playing” and “Visual Arts Initiative,” which are administered at McDonogh #35 High School in New

Orleans.

Through the years, “Links Keep the Music Playing” has provided annual donations of musical instruments to New Orleans-area public school band programs and other communitybased music programs in the city.

Similarly, the Visual Arts Initiative provides funds for art supplies used in visual arts classes such as paint, brushes, canvas, stretchers, easels and cleaning solutions. Visual arts stu-

dents are alsoencouraged to participate in The Links, Incorporated's National Poster Art Contest.

The grant funds will be used to: 1.) increase resources available for instrument repair and purchase, 2.) enhance the amount and type of supplies available to art teachers and students, and 3.) purchase sheet music and supplies for vocal arts classes.

Louisiana

Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter Partnership with McDonogh Continues to Yield Positive Results Eighth grade girls at McDonogh #35 High School in New Orleans once again have an opportunity to participate in the Pontchartrain Chapter’s LINKS Reaching New Heights—Rising Stars Mentoring Program. In its second year, the first in a series of monthly mentoring sessions was held in September generating interest from approximately 20 girls and their parents.

The acronym LINKS in the mentoring program’s title stands for L-Leader; IIndependent Thinker; N-Naturally Beautiful; K-Kind; and S-Successful.

These are attributes that each girl should portray when finished with the nine-month program. This year, the chapter’s first mentoring session was held on Saturday, Sept. 28. The mentees along with at least 25 Links members worked in small groups to foster a love of personal growth and sisterhood.

Throughout the duration of the program, each mentee learned about the importance of being self-confident through one-on-one activities with a Links member. The mentees were also pinned after being sworn in to the program.

Josline Gosserand Frank, Services to Youth Facet chair, explained to the teenagers and their parents that they can expect phone calls from the Links members to randomly check on their progress.

“We want to keep an ongoing relationship during the program and continue this relationship afterwards,” Frank said. “I want to be the mom away from home to your daughters while they are at school.”

Part of McDonogh #35’s mission is to provide interactive programs that are supported by teachers, staff, stu-

dents, parents and the community, so the Pontchartrain Chapter’s program fits into the school’s strategic goals.

The session was filled with moments of laughter and personal stories from the Pontchartrain Chapter members about some of their personal struggles when they were teenagers, which created an environment of sharing. Chapter members said this is all done in an effort to be a true inspiration and show the beauty

and responsibilities that come along with growing into a positive woman.

Some of the planned activities that will be conducted as part of the mentoring program include collegepreparatory workshops, art lessons, health seminars, etiquette sessions, food drives and Christmas and Kwanzaa activities. The mentees will keep track of their experiences through journal writing.

Shreveport (LA) Chapter Joins Forces with River Bend Rotary to Build Community Garden The Shreveport (LA) Chapter and the River Bend Rotary Club partnered to build a community garden at Caddo Heights Math Science Elementary School on Saturday, August 3, 2013. The garden was financed by the River Bend Rotary Club and will be an extension of the "Healthy Lifestyles" program taught to third graders. Shown above behind the garden forms are members of the chapter of which Joyce Patton is President and Beverly Johnson is Vice President of Programs and the River Bend Rotary Club, of which Gerald Adams is President and Eric Hill, Principal of Caddo Heights.

Louisiana Crescent City (LA) Participates in Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure On October 26th, a members from the Crescent City Chapter of The Links, Incorporated took part in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure. Chapter members met early for a prewarm up to the walk and couldn't be missed in the sea of pink, as chapter members wore green and white bandanas with chapter t-shirts. Our festive 'second line' umbrellas topped off our outfits. Many members also participated in the race/walk that included a course outside of the famed City Park.This year, members walked and ran in honor of our Sister Links who are breast cancer survivors: Beverly Wright, Patrice Samms, Tracey Stewart, and JennetteDobard.

The event was chaired by Links Dottie Reese and Tyra Soroparu. Link Dottie Reese also serves as chairperson for the Susan G. Komen Foundation.

Sisters are you taking Advantage ?

Please plan to make you or your chapter a part of future issues and become eligible for the

SOUTHERN AREA’S

Newsmaker Award The winning chapter will receive recognition at the Area Conference and a new chapter camera

Eligibility for the NEWSMAKER AWARD will be based on an ongoing point based system. Points will be awarded for each item submittedand accepted to area and national publications beginning with the this issue.

2. Additional points will be given for local media publication including newspapers, radio, television and web. Chapters are responsible for collecting and documenting data for May 1st reporting.

Louisiana

Crescent City (LA) Links Honor Ten Outstanding Professionals in New Orleans

STANDING: Cheryl Alexander, Natalie Barnes, Joyce Wright, Tracie Boutte, Ramona Baudy, BeverlyMatheney, Janice Manuel, Janice Taylor and Edith Jones. FRONT: Dottie Reese, Margaret Montgomery, Cheryl Smith and Lynette Causey.

On September14th, The Crescent City (LA) Chapter hosted the Champions for Change fundraiser honoring ten people who have made a significant difference by serving as a catalyst for positive change. Individuals who were recognized include: artists Terrance Osborne and Anthony Bean of the Anthony Bean Theater, and champions for our youth, Lloyd Dennis of the Silverback Society and Bivian "Sonny" Lee, founder of the Son of a Saint foundation. Other recipients include: Dr. DeneseShervington - Institute of Women & Ethnic Studies; Dr. Eric Griggs– ResearchMD’s Family Practice; Beverly McKenna - The New Orleans Tribune & Le Musee', de f.p.c.; Tracie Washington- Louisiana Justice Institute; Keith Doley -Consul for South Africa and Marie-Jose' Poux - Hope for Haitian Children Foundation.Our mission was to raise money to provide scholarships to deserving children and sustain our successful local programs, like our award winning International Cultural Awareness Program, our commitment to preventing childhood obesity, mentoring young people and ensuring our collective champion for social issues.

More than 800 people participated in the celebration. Of special note was retired Lt. General Russel Honore’ who was onhand to pay tribute to the 2013 Champions for Change. Guests were also treated to a fashion show sponsored by Macy’s titled, Chapter members “Links in Minks. in addition to being entertained by several local artists. strut their stuff from All proceeds from the luncheon will be used to support our programs and provide their personal collections. college scholarships to high school students.

Louisiana

Shown above participants in the workshop. Shown left are event speakers Dr. Robert Newton, Dr. Nadine Mann, Dr. Yolanda Hill, Sen. Sharon Broome, Dr. Jonathan Taylor and Dr. Brenda Birkett.

Baton Rouge (LA) Presents Town Hall Meeting:

Combatting Childhood Obesity The members of the Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter recently presented a Town Hall Meeting: Combatting Childhood Obesity at the ExxonMobil YMCA in Baton Rouge. The event, funded by a $1,500 grant from The Links Foundation, was written by Baton Rouge Chapter President, Dr. Brenda Birkett, and made possible by The Links Foundation The objective of the grant was to explore and develop a plan of action to address the issue of childhood obesity in the Baton Rouge community.

Built upon the efforts that have already been undertaken by the Baton Rouge Chapter to address the childhood obesity issue, the Town Hall Meeting involved a panel presentation including moderator, Connecting Link Dr. Jonathan Taylor, a bariatric surgeon; Dr. Robert Newton, Jr., University Professor and Research Director; Dr. Nadine Mann, Public School Director of Child Nutrition; Louisiana State Senator Sharon Broom, who has sponsored relevant legislation; and Dr. Yolanda Hill, Occupational Health Specialist and member of the Links National Childhood Obesity Project Committee. Following the panel presentation, the presenters answered questions posed by the audi-

ence, which included health and wellness professionals, social service professionals, community advocacy groups, parents and local council/legislative members. Participants were then engaged in group discussions and completed a survey about their view on what contributes to and how to prevent childhood obesity. These sessions were facilitated and recorded by Links members.

The Baton Rouge Chapter in partnership with ExxonMobil YMCA, the Mayor’s Healthy City Initiative, Southern University’s Agricultural Center and School of Nursing, State Representative Dalton Honore, State Senator Sharon Broome, Louisiana Public Broadcasting and Mount Pilgrim Baptist Church Family Life Center, envisioned an event that would allow policy makers, key stakeholders, concerned citizens and parents to generate language that would lead to a plan of action. The chapter will use the data, from discussions and the survey,collected during the Town Hall Meeting to develop that plan. Future community meetings and child-centered activities will be hosted to address this threat to the health of children in the community.

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Mississippi

Jackson (MS) Hosts Founder’s Day Celebration with Chapters Throughout the State

Shown above with special guest, Southern Area Director Eneid Francis are members of the Jackson, Columbus-Lowndes, Natchez and Vicksburg, Mississippi chapters On Saturday, November 23, 2013, the Jackson(MS) Chapter observed its 54th Founders' Day in the storied Woodworth Chapel on the campus of Tougaloo College. Link Eneid Frances,18th Southern Area Director of The Links Incorporated, and Charter Member of the Ponchartrain (LA) Chapter of The Links Incorporated, provided a historical and contemporary explanation of "What it Means to be a Link Today." Starting with our visionary founders, Margaret Hawkins and Sarah Scott, Link Francis deftly illustrated how their goal to build an organization of women that would enrich, ensure,sustain economic survival and culture of African Americans 67 years ago, is probably more compelling today.

Her remarks were enthusiastically received by the audience.

The Jackson (MS) Chapter was graced with the presence of twenty-seven members from the Columbus-Lowndes (MS), Natchez (MS) and Vicksburg (MS) Chapters. Following the Founders' Day Ceremony, Link Beverly Wade Hogan, President of Tougaloo College, hosted a lovely reception for attendees. Despite the unpleasant weather, friendship and good cheer were in abundance.

The 18th Southern Area Administration welcomes you to utilize SOLACE

S O L A C E Support

of

Links

All

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Support of Links All Concern Encouraged The Southern Area’s new initiative, SOLACE, allows Links and their families who are experiencing a crisis due to death, catastrophic illnesses, sickness, or other life altering events, to receive meaningful and compassionate support from Links throughout the Area who can assist them.

Florida - Georgia Bahamas -North Carolina Louisiana - MississippiSouth Carolina - Alabama

Concern

Encouraged

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Visit the salinksinc.org and click on SOLACE

Technology Chair anonymously blasts your need to our sisters

You are connected with your voluntary donors

The way the program works is simple: 1. A Link will go to the Southern Area website, click on the SOLACE link to send a confidential communication discussing her need or the need of a chapter member.

2. The Southern Area Technology Chair, who is responsible for monitoring the communications, will then send a confidential e-blast across the Area requesting members for assistance.

3. The donor(s) will then be connected to the Link in need. Assistance can range from donating hotel points, airline miles, arranging appointments for medical treatment, donating blood, providing financial assistance to sending words of support or cards.

North Carolina

Durham (NC) Chapter Donates $50,000 to NCCU Durham (NC) Chapter President Link Faye Tate Williams and Link Debra Saunders-White

Shown left is Dwight Perry, Chairman NCCU Trustee Board, with Durham (NC)  chapter members Chapter President Faye Tate Williams, Chancellor of NCCU, Debra SaundersWhite, Nellie Riley, Endowed Scholarship Chair, June Michaux, Immediate Past President, and Kim Saunders, NCCU Trustee Board Member During a welcome reception held in her honor at the Washington Duke Inn this summer, Link Debra SaundersWhite accepted a check in the amount of $50,000 from the Durham (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. After the presentation, the newly hired chancellor was humbled as she remarked, "I so appreciate the Links joining me as we make student scholarships our number one fundraising priority."

The Durham (NC) chapter began this initiative in 2006 with an initial challenge to raise $10,000. When that challenge was met, subsequently the goals were increased to $25,000 and then, $50,000, which was reached in June,

2013. According to Scholarship Committee Chair Nellie Riley, the purpose of the Endowed Scholarship Fund is to "continue with the long tradition of African Americans' commitment to education and the provision of scholarships to deserving students. This Scholarship Endowment Fund at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is a legacy for the Durham (NC) Chapter of The Links, Incorporated. It embodies the Links' mission of leading, giving and serving to enrich, sustain and ensure the culture and economic survival of African Americans and other persons of African ancestry."

North Carolina

Triangle Park (NC) Chapter Hosts Welcome Reception for New NCCU Chancellor The Triangle Park (NC) Chapter (TPC) hosted a reception in honor of Dr. Debra Saunders-White who officially became the eleventh Chancellor of North Carolina Central University(NCCU) on June 1, 2013. Dr. Saunders-White, the first woman appointed to the permanent position of Chancellor in the University’s history, is also a member of The Links, Incorporated.

The chapter invited sister Links from the Raleigh and Durham chapters, family and friends to join in the formal welcome and celebration of the new Chancellor. The Saturday afternoon reception was an elegant affair, complete with waiters passing hors d’oeuvres and entertainment by Harpist Winifred Garrett.

During the program, the chapter presented Dr. Saunders-White with a commissioned pottery piece created by TPC member Cynthia Harrell.

Links at the reception (shown right) included Cynthia Harrell (artist), Debra Saunders-White, Marguerite Peebles and Kaye Webb.

Wilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) Candidates Educate Community on Financial Literacy ward D. Jones. Following Recent statistics suggest the workshop, particithat the net worth of Black pants engaged in an inhouseholds have deteractive panel discussion creased by 53 percent which included Ms. Purwhile rates of unsecured debt in the Black communell and Mr. Charles Moore, former Director of nity have increased by 27 Social Security Adminispercent. In response, the tration and Mr. Terry Jorcandidates for memberdan, Vice President of First ship of the Wilson-Rocky Citizens Bank. Mr. Moore Mount-Tarboro (NC) Chaphighlighted important aster planned and hosted its inaugural “Link-Up to Fipects of the retirement process including spousal nancial Success, Wealth, benefits and applying for and Health” in Greenville, Medicare. Mr. Jordan adNC. The project is the bevised participants on the ginning of a bi-annual efPictured from left to right following their induction are: Jenfort to provide financial nifer King Congleton, Vice-President/Membership Chair, best practices for bankeducation to youth, New members: Terrie Moody, Evelyn J. Johnson, Link Ber- ing, investments, and women, and families in nice Dawson, Link Eboni Baugh and President, Terri Lowe maintaining good credit.

Participants left with Wilson, Rocky Mount, Tar- Anderson. entitled “Me and My Money: Blame it goodie bags filled with financial eduboro, and their surrounding areas.

During the workshop, the enthusi- on My Brain” given by Ms. Jennifer cation materials to help them sustain astic participants enjoyed a session Purnell a financial advisor with Ed- the lessons learned that day.

North Carolina

Shown above at their induction are Monica Smith Aaron, Candice Wooten Brown, Shannon Meares McCain, Jacqueline Lewis Pettiford, and Sandra Miller Jones.

j|ÇáàÉÇ@ftÄxÅ ;aV< \Çwâvàá Y|äx The Winston-Salem (NC) Chapter recently extended the “circle of friendship” by welcoming five new women into Linkdom. Monica Smith Aaron, Candice Wooten Brown, Shannon Meares McCain, Jacqueline Lewis Pettiford, and Sandra Miller Jones were inducted into the chapter on Friday, May 17, 2013 during a ceremony held at the Piedmont Club in Winston-Salem.

As part of the membership process, the candidates designed a program recognizing the continued strength and tenacity of the women of the Hawley House, a residential women's substance abuse recovery facility for women ages 18 and older with addiction issues. This program featured a life skills workshop entitled “Navigating Life’s Obstacle Course – New Coping Skills for Difficult Times.”

Held at the Gateway YWCA in Winston-Salem, this event

brought together residents and alumnae of the Hawley House with other women in the community in order to encourage open discussion, build bridges, and learn from others, in order to meet and overcome the challenges faced by women in everyday life. The workshop was facilitated by Ms. Chiquita Tillman McAllister, Fiscal Officer with the Cooperative Extension Program at North Carolina A&T State University. Each Hawley House participant was given a small gift bag with scented soaps and lotions, along with other gifts to commemorate the event.

The Winston-Salem Chapter was honored to support the Hawley House as a part of this initiative, and looks forward to continuing to impact the lives of women and girls in Forsyth County.

North Carolina

Triangle Park (NC) Chapter White Rose Close to 400 people gathered to celebrate the Triangle Park (NC) Chapter’s (TPC) 20th Annual White Rose Luncheon this past June. The afternoon program focused on the chapter’s theme: Touching Lives in Our Communities. TPC presented monetary contributions to five community organizations in the three counties that it serves – Durham, Orange and Wake Counties.

The organizations were selected for their outstanding work with each of the five facets.

Link Angela Berry and Link Ruth Reid-Coleman distribute materials to students for the TPC Academy of Arts and Humanities.

THE ARTS The Arts Facet recently implemented a pilot program, TPC Academy for Arts and Humanities, to expose students to various forms of artistic expression. TPC partnered with Global Scholars Academy, a charter school in Durham, NC Link Dijuana McDougal, Link Mary Phillips and that does not offer music classes. More than 50 students Ms. Angela Lee (Grape Arbor Development Cor- in the third-fifth grades were given six weeks of music and poration) examine the equipment before students performance instruction. At the end of the school year, the students performed for over 100 family and commuarrive for the Computer Award Event. nity members, friends and TPC Links. Global Scholars SERVICES TO YOUTH Academy was presented with a monetary award for their There is still a digital divide in the Triangle area that the work with The Arts. TPC Academy for Arts and Humanities TPC is working to overcome through the Services to Youth will continue during the current school year as the chapFacet. Through a partnership with the nonprofit Kramden ter’s umbrella program.

Institute, an organization that refurbishes donated computers to award to low income students whose homes NATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES have no computer, the TPC identifies recipients in collab- This facet partnered with local schools, churches and comoration with local school districts, and organizes computer munity health centers to conduct numerous voter regisaward events. Students and their parents come to a cen- tration and education drive activities in Durham, Orange tral location to receive the computers and instruction on and Wake Counties. Through the efforts of TPC volunteers, how to use them. Over the past five years, TPC has more than 1,500 people were registered to vote in the awarded over 1,300 computers to students in our service three counties. At the White Rose Luncheon, a monetary area. Kramden Institute was the recipient of a monetary award was presented to the North Carolina Chapter of the award for their work with Services to Youth.

NAACP for leading the fight for voter rights, equality, jus-

North Carolina

Luncheon Highlights Community Service clothing. The International Trends facet went a step further and took the idea across the ocean. After learning that female students in developing countries often miss school because they do not have adequate supplies for their monthly cycles, TPC partnered with the missions arm of a local church to provide personal hygiene items to girls at the Kinyogori Primary School in a remote village of Kenya. The World Overcomers Christian Church was presented with a monetary award for their work with International Trends and Services.

HEALTH AND HUMAN SERVICES Each week during the school year, a group of TPC members meet at the local food bank to collect nutritious food Link Kaye Webb and Ms. Elaine Brown, Wake that is then bundled for distribution to elementary school Health Services, Inc., conduct voter registration students. The goal is to help eliminate food disparities in our community; and the backpacks of food that we proat a community health center.

NAACP for leading the fight for voter rights, equality, jus- vide are, in some cases, the only food that the children may get over the weekend. Through this facet, TPC filled tice and fairness. approximately 1,650 backpacks during the 2012-13 school year. A monetary award was presented to TPC INTERNATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES â&#x20AC;&#x153;Personal Bestâ&#x20AC;? was a TPC project that provided women partner, the Food Bank of Central and Eastern North Carat a Triangle area shelter with personal care items and olina, in recognition of their work with Health and Human Services

TPC Links deliver personal hygiene kits and clothing to a Durham shelter.

North Carolina

Dorothy Sheridan DeShields Receives Lifetime Achievement Link Dorothy Sheridan DeShields, Vice President of the Wilmington (NC) Chapter, was recently awarded the Lifetime Achievement Award sponsored by Wilmington’s daily paper, the StarNews. According to the StarNews, “The Lifetime Achievement Award is designed to honor outstanding individuals who have given substantially of themselves for the improvement of the communities of Wilmington and Southeastern North Carolina, particularly in the areas of economic development, education, charity, health, preservation, arts and the environment. They have used their talents and time with unselfish dedication in their pursuit to make our region a better place to live, work, and play.”

The Wilminton, NC native has spent 37 years working in and supporting schools in Southeastern North Carolina.

Her education career includes teacher, elementary and middle school principal, and central office administrator in New Hanover and Pender counties during her career.

In addition, she served two terms on the new Hanover School Board.

One of her top achievements came in 1993, when she was principal of Gregory Elementary School and worked to turn it into New Hanover County’s first magnet school: Gregory School of Science, Mathematics and Technology. She retired as New Hanover County Schools’ executive director for quality development in 2003.

She’s also a product of New Hanover County Schools, graduating from what was then Williston Senior High School. She completed two degrees in education: a bachelor’s degree from St. Augustine College and a master’s degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington.

Carol Malloy Receives Lifetime Achievement Award from National Council of Teachers of Mathematics Link Carol Malloy, of the Wilmington (NC) Chapter and a retired member of the School of Education faculty at the University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill, was honored recently with a Lifetime Achievement Award by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics for her service to the field of mathematics education.

She received the award for Distinguished Service to Mathematics Education during the NCTM’s annual conference in Denver, Colorado.

Link Malloy retired from the UNC CH School of Education in 2009 after a 15-year career at Carolina, teaching secondary mathematics methods courses in the Master of Arts in Teaching program, curriculum and foundations courses for graduate students and mathematics for middle and elementary pre-service students.

Excerpts from an article in Carolina Women in the News posted on September 25, 2013 include: “Following her retirement from the University of North Carolina–Chapel Hill, Malloy has continued to be actively involved in NCTM. She has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to mathematics education, and has extensive experience as a mathematics teacher at the middle school, high school, and university levels in urban school districts. Not only did she provide a strong foundation in mathematics education to her students, but she also emphasized the role of mathematics education for addressing inequities in education.”

Throughout her career, Dr. Malloy has worked to address the inequities that African American, Latino, and Native American students face in learning mathematics. Her vision is that every mathematics educator must provide African American students with full access to high-quality mathematics education for success in the classroom and society.

Her passion is deeply rooted in data and real-life evidence demonstrating that all students can learn rich, high-level mathematics if given opportunities to engage in worthwhile, rigorous mathematics tasks in a supportive environment.”

North Carolina

Newly Inducted Links Making Big Impact on Charlotte (NC) Chapter

Mary Alice Thatch Honored as Publisher of the Year Link Mary Alice Jervay Thatch, member of the Wilmington (NC) Chapter and Chair of the Communications and Public Relations Committee, was recently selected Publisher of the Year by the National Newspaper Publishers Association . Link Thatch is publisher of The Wilmington Journal, which has covered the African American community in Southeastern North Carolina for more than 86 years.

The NNPA represents more than 200 African American community newspapers nationally. Thatch won the award due, in part, to her leadership with the Wilmington Ten Pardon of Innocence Project, which successfully pushed for North Carolina’s former Governor Beverly Perdue to pardon the Wilmington 10.

Link Thatch’s grandfather started the Wilmington Journal in 1927. After a career in education, she returned to work in the family newspaper business. “It is a part of me,” she says.

On Saturday June 1, 2013 four outstanding women were inducted into The Charlotte Chapter of The Links, Incorporated, Carla Archie, Rosalyn Dixon, Rhonda Johnson, andYolanda Johnson.

Carla Archie is the daughter of Link Ruby Archie, Danville, Virginia Chapter.

She is Senior Counsel for Wells Fargo Bank. Carla is President –elect for the Mecklenburg County Bar Association, and a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha, Sorority.

Rosalyn Dixon is a native of Charlotte and from a long line of educators.

Rosalyn owns and operates3 daycare centers, “Dixon Academy” in Charlotte, Concord and Harrisburg, NC. She employs 60 people and services 250 children. Rosalyn is a graduate of University of North Carolina, Charlotte with a degree in Sociology.

She serves on the Board of Partnership for Children of Cabarrus County, Family Support Board of Charlotte and is a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Rhonda and Yolanda Rhonda Johnson, Rosalyn Dixon, Johnson are the daughYolanda Johnson and Carla Archer ters of Link Z. Sue Johnson of the Charlotte Chapter. Rhonda is a graduate of A&T State University with a degree in Engineering, and a MBA in Marketing from Clark -Atlanta University. Her volunteer work includes Project Lift, an education program to “lift”the educational level of poor performing schools, and the Lupus Foundation Board.

Yolanda is a graduate of North Carolina Central University with a degree in Business Finance. She received her law degree from Loyola University.

Yolanda serves on the Board of the Bruce Irons Foundation, a foundation that gives underprivileged children a chance to experience summer camp.

They own SB&J Enterprises a family business, where Rhonda is COO and Yolanda is CEO. All four of our new members have jumped into “Link Action”, serving actively on a facet, and on two committees. They have spearheaded a number of projects already including the Services to Youth STEM Grant, Alumnae Tea, Publicity Co-chair, and Girl Talk with National Trends.

For their candidate project, they documented and videotaped our Alumnae members as they recalled our chapter’s history.

South Carolina

Aiken (SC) Expands Its Reach The Aiken Chapter recently inducted Vina M. Abrams, Sheila example pictures, the proper way to set the table. She then Jennings Brown, Lavern Tobias Byrd, Kay M. Coleman, Brandy extended her lesson with “Good Manners to You!” After exByrd Gantt, and Anne Jones Gunby at Woodside Country plaining proper table manners and receiving positive feedClub in Aiken, SC. back from the students, Mrs. Coleman encouraged the True to their purpose, these newly inducted members used students to view the actual formal table setting of fine china longstanding,traditional values to educate and enrich the that was on display. lives of Newberry County youth and their families as their service project. Through their pledge to service, the ladies partnered with local church youth and the Newberry County Literacy Council to help children and their families learn about good table manners and etiquette.

The Newberry County Literacy Council works with children at Newberry Elementary School to implement Families and Schools Together (FAST), which is a research-based program founded by Dr. Lynn McDonald from Madison, Wisconsin.

In the absence of Mrs. Barbara Chapman, Executive DiPictured from left to right: Sheila Jennings Brown, Kay M. Coleman, Lavern rector of the Newberry Literacy Tobias Byrd, Vina M. Abrams, Brandy Byrd Gantt, and Anne Jones Gunby Council, Mrs. Sheila Brown kicked off the event by welcoming those in attendance, and Mrs. Brandy Gantt and Mrs. Sheila Brown addressed the then she allowed the participants and their families to intro- Do’s and Don’ts for dining by using satire to demonstrate duce themselves. Mrs. Vina Abrams, also extended greetings, what is or is not appropriate dining behavior. The students’ introduced the participants, and explained the purpose of interests heightened and the mood lightened when Mrs. the lesson.

Gantt and Mrs. Brown created “unrefined” scenarios and To gauge participants' existing knowledge, Mrs. Lavern mimicked examples of bad table manners.

Byrd read aloud 17 questions about table manners and had After the instruction ended, Mrs. Abrams recognized Mrs. the students signal the correct answers by raising a pencil Beverly Clyburn, Mrs. Virginia Samuels, and Mrs. Delores with either T or F printed on it. She provided immediate Steward, also members of the chapter who traveled from feedback by giving the correct answers and telling the stu- Aiken, SC to show their support for presenters, participants dents that each presenter would fully explain the pretest and their families. After thanking the students for their atquestions in her presentation. Mrs. Anne Gunby followed by tendance and exemplary behavior, Mrs. Abrams gave them leading a discussion about napkin etiquette. After giving the certificates of participation. students information on placing, unfolding, and using the To conclude the event, a student blessed the food, and napkin, she asked for two volunteers. Using cloth napkins, everyone enjoyed a delicious spaghetti meal catered by Mrs. the two students successfully demonstrated in front of the Lillie Bates. While dining with their peers and families, the whole class what they had learned about proper use of a students were able to put to practice all that they had napkin. These students amazed the other participants with learned about “Table Manners.” At the end of the event, each their delicate approach for folding a formal napkin. student left with a gift bag and a wealth of information to Mrs. Kay Coleman later explained to the students, using two share with others.

As a pledge for my administration, we will have an open door policy for all Links. The Executive Committee is here to discuss everything from membership issues and facet questions to grant writing and protocol.

If you have a question or concern for any member of the leadership Eneid team, feel free to contact us.

Southern Area Exec.

Committee Directory

Area Director: Eneid A. Francis Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter (H) 504.284.3660 (F) 877.284.3660 Southernareadirector@salinksinc.org

Vice Director

Chair, Programs

Tamara Y. Lee Tuskegee (AL) Chapter vicedirector@salinksinc.org

Cori Cooper Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter programschair@salinksinc.org

Secretary

Chair, National Trends & Services

Chair, Health & Human Services

Denise M. Cooper Savannah (GA) Chapter

Yolanda Hill Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter healthchair@salinksinc.org

Anne T. Herriott Miami (FL) Chapter secretary@salinksinc.org

Treasurer

nationaltrendschair@salinksinc.org

Janice R. Nelson Bold City (FL) Chapter treasurer@salinksinc.org

Chair, Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster Relief

Parliamentarian

Marguerite Archie-Hudson Charleston (SC) Chapter publicaffairschair@salinksinc.org

Sharon Reed Jackson (MS) Tallahassee (FL) Chapter parliamentarian@salinksinc.org

Selma Robinson-Ayers St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter ethicschair@salinksinc.org

Leadership Development Chair, Services to Youth Brenda T. Jamerson Orangeburg (SC) Chapter youthchair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Nominating Committee

Education Linkage

Kathy Jones Columbus-Lowndes (MS) Chapter nominatingchair@salinksinc.org

Kelley Bailey Tallahassee (FL) Chapter educationchair@salinksinc.org

The Links Foundation, Inc.

Chair, International Trends & Services

Bessie Isom Greater Mobile (AL) Chapter

Sharlyn Wilson Smith Nassau (Bahamas) Chapter

linksfoundationrep@salinksinc.org

internationaltrends@salinksinc.org

Southern Area Rep.

Chair, Ethics and Standards

Karen Dyer Greensboro (NC) kmdyer@triad.rr

Chair, Communications Sylvia Perry Bold City (FL) Chapter communicationschair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Conference & Event Planning Ruth H. Terrell Fayetteville (NC) Chapter conferencechair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Protocol Nona C. Jones Gainesville (FL) Chapter protocolchair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Rituals Chair, Organizational Effectiveness Faye Hargrove Augusta (GA) Chapter effectivenesschair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Archives Kimberly Sweet LeFleurâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Bluff (MS) Chapter archiveschair@salinksinc.org

Financial Secretary

Chair, The Arts

Chair, Awards and Recognition

Charlotte Henderson Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter financialsec@salinksinc.org

Beverly Norwood-Matheny Pensacola (FL) Chapter artschair@salinksinc.org

Maxine Smith Charleston (SC) Chapter awardschair@salinksinc.org

Juanda F. Maxwell Selma (AL) Chapter ritualschair@salinksinc.org

Chair, Vendors Natille E. Duncan Jackson (MS) Chapter vendorschair@salinksinc.org

How Communication Works in the Southern Area Chair

REGION 1

Special Projects

REGION 3

REGION 2

SYLVIA PERRY Bold City (FL)

Chair

JOY WALLACE St. Pete (FL) Florida and South Carolina region1com@salinksinc.org

KENYONN DEMPS Jacksonville (FL)

NATILLE DUNCAN

TAMMY REED

Jackson (MS)

Dade County (FL)

Mississippi, Louisiana Alabama and The Bahamas region2com@salinksinc.org

We are divided into three “regions” with each region having its own chair. The Area Director is our Executive Editor. Your area team is also available to proof documents for public dissemination and assist with your communications needs both internally and externally. All you have to do is ask! The Southern Area is the largest area in the Links Diaspora with 78 chapters and nearly 4,000 Links. Our three chairs ensure all of our chapters receive the personal attention they deserve with an appropriate channel of communication.

Features and Special Projects VIPCom@salinksinc.org

Georgia and North Carolina Region3Com@salinksinc.org Member at Large

Member at Large

EDITORS Maxine Smith Charleston (SC) Kimberly Sweet Jackson (MS)

Laurel Boyd KIM LaMOTTE La Capitale (LA)

Laurel Boyd Pensacola (FL)

Pensacola (FL)

VIPCom2@salinksinc.org

CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS We encourage you to submit your information when the CALL TO SUBMIT is received from your regional chair for inclusion in future issues. Information can be sent from chapter members as well as Chapter Communications Chairs to their regional chair shown above at any time preceding the CALL, but not after . Members of the Area Communications Team are in contact with their region’s chapter Communications Chairs with the chapter president ALWAYS ccd to ensure a channel of communication and accountability is maintained.

Be in the Advantage 1. Stories/articles on your various programs - Please submit QUALITY high resolution photographs in .jpeg or .bmp format and details surrounding your program. If there are less than five people

in the picture, please include names (L-R) for EVERYONE (including children) on the photo. “Cell phone” quality photos will not be published/accepted.

2. Upcoming dates. Is your chapter celebrating an anniversary, hosting a fundraiser or having a special event? Share the news with your sisters! You never know just who may come. Please be sure to include a contact number and email address for more information.

3. Post-event information. After your special events, please feel free to share your photos and details. No information will be accepted for an event occurring before the last Call for Submission 4. Going Places. Have you recently received a promotion? Celebrated a significant milestone? Getting married? Graduating? Expecting? Elected to public office? Retiring? We want to know! Share with your Area sisters as we join in celebrating your accomplishment.