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
Volume 1
Isssue 4
Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service
inside this issue
In Her Footsteps
Dear Link June
Lessons in Leadership from 9th National President Regina Jollivette Frazier
Proper Protocol the Links’ Way
Page 5
Number of Blacks in STEM Careers Still Falling
Have You Hugged Your Platinum or Alumni Member? Page 6
Healthy Linking for the Mind Body and Soul Page 7
Southern Area Strategic Plan Page 8
Writing that Grant What Appeals Most to Funders Page 9
Operations Spotlight: Maintaing Chapter Archives Page 14 2
Page 15
Page 17
Plan to Make Your Rituals a Success Page 20
Civic Engagement, Advocacy and Action: Promoting a Relevant Public Policy Page 21
Gant Writing for Success Page 22
Q&A with Southern Area Communications Page 27
* Cover photo: Buckhead-Cascade Chapter of the Links, Incorporated
Dear Link Sisters, Belated Happy New Year wished to each of you, as we have already began another year of friendship and service. 2011 was a year of transformation for the Southern Area. We shared a transition in leadership and also welcomed a new program focus. Our great organization celebrated 65 years of friendship and service and each chapter received the defining charge of creating a strategic plan. Thank you for working so hard on that endeavor as it was not an easy task. The Southern Area’s Strategic Plan is shared with you in this issue. With great sorrow, the Southern Area Executive Committee and much of the Links community joined together in mourning the loss of our Area Technology Chair, Debra Lazare. An immediate past chapter president, Debra also served the Southern Area as thechair of Education Linkage in the past administration. Link Debra had many plans for advancing the Area in technology that she did not have the opportunity to bring to fruition. We proudly dedicate our fourth issue of The Advantage to her memory and remain dedicated to keeping her visions for technological advancement a reality. Eneid A. Francis As we move into 2012, I encourage everyone to continue to Southern Area Director embrace our area theme of “Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service”. It is exciting to see and read about the many ways chapters are effecting their communities. Our collective strengths remain unparallel as we strive to continuously make a difference in our communities. As Links, we touch all walks of life from America’s youngest citizens and those striving for a better life, to those who have sacrificed the most such as our senior citizens and veterans. I am proud of the Southern Area and look forward to our exciting future as we delve deeper into transformational programming by integrating the arts into STEM education. We will soon outline details of an exciting new program all 77 chapters can incorporate. We also have several upcoming initiatives designed to bring our Links community closer together. Ladies, it is truly an exciting time to be a part of the Links, Incorporated and our beloved Southern Area! In the spirit,
_|Ç~ XÇx|w 3
This issue of The Advantage is dedicated to the late Southern Area Technology Chair
Debra Gloston Lazare 1955 - 2011 The Southern Area Executive Committee joins the 18th Southern Area Director, Eneid A. Francis, in regreftully dedicating this issue to one of its own, Southern Area Technology Chair, Debra Gloston Lazare. In 2004, Debra joined the Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter of the Links, Incorporated and her talents were immediately recognized. An immediate past Chapter Pesident, she also served the Southern Area as Education Linkage in the past administration. Debra also worked diligently for her sorority, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Professionally, she was Vice-President, Professional Services of METHODS, an IT company she co-founded with Debra Gloston Lazare her husband. She was well known throughout the Links community as being a hard working and dedicated sister and friend. She leaves to mourn her devoted husband Ben, son Erik Antoine Taylor, and a multitude of family and friends. 4
Lessons in Leadership by 9th National President
Regina Jollivette Frazier There is no secret leadership formula that yields success. It is your style, your vision, your empathy and your passion that guide your achievement. Tenacity will take you a long way. Stay positive and dream…dream…dream. As women of African descent, we have our leaders to speak for us, our organizations to work for us, and our clergy to pray for us. But unless we – each and every one of us – make the individual commitment to rise to our full potential, we cannot expect our organization and our communities to do the same. When you think of our organizational tagline, Linked in Friendship, Connected in Service, I hope you take those words literally. The yardstick by which we as Links are measured is global, so we must be radical. It would be radical to double or triple your 48 hour service requirement. It would be radical to support the Foundation above and beyond the mandated amounts. It would be radical to eschew minutiae and concentrate only on substance. It would be radical to always be open to new ideas, new concepts and new ways of doing things. Just because a given way is the way we have always done things, doesn’t mean it is the best, most efficient or caring way to achieve our goals. In the overall scheme of things, we have less than a nanosecond to justify our existence. And you have less than that to impact our legacy as Links. That job is not solely our President’s task. Everything that you do creates a legacy for you and our organization. Just look what the legacy, vision, leadership and hard work of Margaret Hawkins and Sarah Scott hath wrought. It is because of these two remarkable women that we stand more than 12,000 women strong, linked internationally as a not-for-profit, powerhouse of programming excellence. In 1986, when I was elected to the presidency, I chose as my theme: Enhancing the Legacy – Fulfilling the Dream. Legacy is our raison d’ etre as Links. Plan your legacy! Where do your strengths lie? What is your level of expertise? Only you can create your legacy! It consists of your goals, achieved in your unique creative way. Once you plan your work, the hard part really begins. You have to work that plan. Marian Anderson knew, “If
you have a purpose in which you can believe there’s no end to the amount of things you can accomplish”. You belong to a cadre of women, united under the banners of friendship, leadership and service. Our significant and vast support of the United Negro College Fund, the NAACP Legal Defense and Educational Fund, Inc. and the National Civil Rights Museum has placed us high in the firmament of national recognition. Your skill sets have been honed. Never forget that our organization demands that you earn your place on our membership roll each year. To insure your leadership success, I offer the following: 1. Set a leadership goal, programmatic or operational, and maintain the vision of attainment in your mind and heart. The cause must always predominate over self. Spiritual fortitude is also essential to success. 2. Get a mentor or be one. Not just anyone will do. I was truly blessed to be mentored by our 5th National President, the late Dr. Helen G. Edmonds. She taught me the significance of past as prologue in all of life’s endeavors. 3. Remember the global nature of our existence. We operate on the world stage with meaningful initiatives around the globe. It is a must to act locally, but think globally. 4. Do your homework so that you can be justifiably selfconfident in all that you do. But never lose the humility of spirit that will allow you to interact openly and effectively with your sister Links. 5. Volunteer— take the initiative. Don’t wait to be asked to help, just help. Work hard, network effectively and approach all tasks with enthusiasm. I dare you to be the change you want to see. Now go forth and lead!
In Her Footsteps
5
Healthy Linking
MIND
BODY
SPIRIT
Special Events are NOT Special Times to Blow Your Diet by Cori Brock Cooper activity will usually lead to regret. The Chair, Health and trick to avoiding splurging on big Human Services
The holidays have come and gone and many of us are left with the residue of being surrounded by our favorite foods. And personally, I’ve got a real sweet tooth. The average American Thanksgiving and Christmas meals exceed 3000 calories each - that’s two days worth of food! I bet there’s even more at the dinner table in New Orleans. In New Orleans, the holidays are particularly challenging because there are so many events. In a given week, there could be a Saints home game, Friday, a Saints away game, Monday - we have a holiday for no reason! So what’s a girl to do in highly tempting situations? Throw the diet to the wind and eat up? NOT!!! The key to surviving any situation with a potential to overeat is not to abandon your healthy eating habits. Often people use special occasions as an excuse to eat and drink in excess. While I am in favor of celebration and enjoying yourself, the aforementioned
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meals, is to still eat on schedule. Breakfast at 8 a.m., lunch at noon, and dinner at 5 p.m., for example. Eating on a schedule will help you to eat less per meal. Keeping to your exercise routine is also important. If you normally walk on Monday morning, you should still walk - even if Monday morning is Christmas. Also, incorporate special exercise into your life. Participating as an individual or as a chapter in walks - such as the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure or other walks for charity promote both friendship, service and exercise. While you should enjoy your special occasions and family meals, you shouldn’t abandon your new healthy lifestyle that many have pledged for the new year. Just eat as you normally would and even have dessert, after all it’s just another meal. Remember, special events are an opportunity to savor time with colleagues, friends and family - not food.
Link Cori
Make the Connection!
Have You Hugged Your Platinum or Alumna Member Today? Evelyn Rich Greater Huntsville (AL)
Nancy Andrews Azalea City (GA)
When Link Gwendolyn Lee (14th National President) developed the Platinum status of membership, she described our platinum members as “rare,” and “service to them is eternal”. A Platinum (the highest honor attained as a Link) or an Alumna member, has invested in The Links, Incorporated decades of friendship and service. As a Platinum member, a Link must be 80 years young and have served for 30 years. As an Alumna member, a Link must be 70 years young with ten years of service or served for 30 years in Linkdom. As Links, continuing a well established legacy, we owe our alumna and platinum members who have paved the way for our successful programming known for changing lives across the country. They believed in the mission of The Links, Incorporated. They believed in each other, and they believed in the service they provided to their communities. They believed in the cause. Many chapters may see an increase of alumna and platinum members as Americans are now living longer, healthier lives. As this change emerges, the newly formed Alumnae and Platinum Member Affairs Committee has created several directives to be considered in respect to these valuable members: 1. Her wisdom is empowering and eternal. 2. She has been where you want to go, even when you do not know where you are going. 3. She is first your sister, never your foe (thank goodness!). 4. She wants to be included (sometimes more than you realize). 5. She wants you to use her as a guide, a mentor, and a servant. 6. As we reach out to our alumna and platinum members in friendship and service, stay connected as this year’s Assembly plans the inaugural workshop - especially designed with our alumna and platinum members in mind. Now that a New Year is upon us, what better time to fellowship and reignite our love for our platinum and alumna members. Here are a few sisterly gestures: 1. Continue to invite her to chapter meetings and give her a big hug! 2. Make sure she is included her in the mailings and if she is email savvy, that’s even better. 3. Allow her to share and listen to her constructive feedback. 4. Include her by creating a special role. 5. Encourage her to be active and visible. Content for this article was provided by National Platinum and Alumna Member Chair Mary Currie and compiled by Kenyonn Demps. All photos were randomly submitted and selected.
Azalea City (GA) Chapter Platinum and Alumna members
Durham (NC) Chapter Platinum and Alumna members
Clinita A. Ford, Florazelle Teele and Bettye P. Stevens of the Tallahassee Chapter
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Southern Area
Strategic Plan 2011-2013 SERVING GEORGIA,THE THEBAHAMAS, BAHAMAS, ALABAMA, SERVINGCHAPTERS CHAPTERS IN IN FLORIDA, FLORIDA, GEORGIA, ALABAMA NORTH CAROLINA,LOUISIANA LOUISIANA AND MISSISSIPPI NORTHCAROLINA, CAROLINA, SOUTH SOUTH CAROLINA, AND MISSISSPPI
Submitted by: Eneid A. Francis, Southern Area Director Southern Area Executive Committee Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service
8
The 2011-2013 Southern Area Executive Committe “A� Team STANDING (L-R) Sharlyn Smith, Debra Lazare, Natille Duncan, Kimberly Sweet, Faye Hargrove, June Michaux, Maxine Smith, Lucinda Sullivan, Denise Cooper, Karyn Combs, Cori Brock, Brenda Jamerson, Selma Robinson-Ayers, Ruth Waters, Marguerite Archie-Hudson, Juanda Maxwell, Ruth Terrell and Sylvia Perry. SITTING (L-R) Rosalind Fuse-Hall, Charlotte Henderson,Bessie Isom, Anne Herriott, Tamara Lee, EneidA. Francis, Janice Nelson, Ophelia Nicholson, Daisy Walker and Mignon Breaux Early.
Southern Area Vision
We envision the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated to be an organization that provides global leadership and impactful service that empowers the communities we serve through a rich legacy of friendship and service.
Southern Area Mission To promote friendship and provide services that impact and transform the communities we serve. 9
Southern Area Goals and Objectives 1. Deliver and Sustain Transformational Programs Goal 1 - To decrease the existing disparities among the minority populations that we serve in the United States and abroad through a Southern Area program initiative that is transformational and sustainable and in alignment with the organization’s program initiatives by 2013. Objective 1: Develop and introduce the Southern Area program initiative, an umbrella program focusing on mentoring, which introduces STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) through an arts integration approach in Spring 2012 for implementation in the 20122013 fiscal year. - Strategy 1 - Develop an arts integrated program for introducing science, technology, engineering and math to youth, which also includes guidance for integrating STEM into the childhood obesity prevention program initiative. - Strategy 2 - Prepare a brochure discussing the Southern Area program initiative for release to the Area by e‑blast by early 2012. - Strategy 3 - Meet with the National Services to Youth committee to determine opportunities for partnership with NASA by January 2012. Objective 2: Develop a model for recruiting, training and monitoring mentors in Spring 2012 for implementation in the 2012-2013 fiscal year. Objective 3: Provide funding to chapters to implement a mentoring program by 2012. Strategy 1 Construct a rubric to evaluate the proposals submitted by chapters for funding by October 2011. - Strategy 2 - Disseminate a RFP to chapters in November 2011 for a $1000 seed grant. - Strategy 3 - Select five chapters to receive the $1000 seed grants by January 2012. Objective 4: Train chapters to effectively understand and use the Service Delivery Model. - Strategy 1 - Develop training modules. Objective 5: By 2013, support the development of health and wellness programs within the communities the chapters serve. - Strategy 1- Encourage chapters to use the childhood obesity curriculum in the development of health and wellness programs in their communities. Objective 6: Ensure access to education in Haiti by increasing resources in a pre-identified school by 25 percent by 2013. - Strategy 1 - Identify a partner based on pre-identified partners available through the National Strategic Partnerships Committee by January 2012. - Strategy 2 - Establish a relationship with the selected partners and identify the baseline resources currently available in the specific school within Haiti by March 2012. - Strategy 3 - Seek funding to implement resources within Haiti by May 2012. 10
2. Enhanced Member Services and Engagement Goal 1: To increase the tangible support to members of the Southern Area by 10 percent by 2013.
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Objective 1: Beginning Fall 2011, implement SOLACE (Support of Links - All Concern Encouraged), a program allowing Links and their families who are experiencing a crisis to receive meaningful and compassionate support from Links in the Southern Area who can assist them. - Strategy 1 Introduce SOLACE to the Area members in October 2011. - Strategy 2 Provide a mechanism for members to communicate their needs by placing a SOLACE link on the Southern Area website November 2011. Objective 2: Beginning in November 2011, publish periodic articles in the Southern Area e-zine, the “Advantage,” that discusses issues that are pertinent to the mind, body and spirit of African American women.
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Objective 3: Send a daily e-blast to the members of the Southern Area with a friendship quote during Friendship Month in November 2011. - Strategy 4 Continuously assess the needs of the members of the Southern Area to determine additional form of tangible support to be provided by the Southern Area.
Goal 2: To increase the number of chapter friendship activities by two additional activities in each fiscal year by 2013. Objective 1: Recognize Southern Area chapters at the National Assembly and Area Conference for increasing friendship activities. - Strategy 1 - Through various communication media, request that chapters submit a report of their Friendship Month activities to the Area Vice Director and National Vice President no later than January 1, 2012. - Strategy 2 - Encourage chapters to submit information on chapter friendship activities for publication in the “Advantage.” - Strategy 3 - Publish articles in the “Advantage” relating to chapter friendship activities.
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3. Fund Development and Fiscal Responsibility Goal 1: To increase fiscal support by $50,000 for the Southern Area’s expressed initiatives by January 2013.
$50,000
Objective 2: Seek partnerships with 10–15 foundations, corporations and individuals, with similar funding interests and goals as The Links, Incorporated, for individual grants of $1,000-$10,000, for a total allocation of approximately $50,000. - Strategy 1 - Identify approximately 50 foundations, corporations and individuals with similar funding interests and goals as the Links, Incorporated. - Strategy 2 - Solicit funding from the foundations, corporations and individuals identified to obtain the desired funding goal. Objective 3: Activate fund development liaisons in 25 percent of the Southern Area Chapters to collaborate with the Fund Development Chair Southern Area to generate funding. - Strategy 1- Encourage chapter presidents to designate a fund development liaison.
4: Organizational Assessment and Alignment Goal 1: To increase member satisfaction with the effectiveness of the Southern Area Executive Committee by 10 percent by March 2013. Objective 1: Ensure consistent member communications via various mediums. - Strategy 1 - Continue to use “The Advantage” as a vehicle for communicating Area information. - Strategy 2- Conduct the First Monday Exchange to promote a dialogue between the Southern Area leadership and chapter presidents with a focus on operational issues and member needs. Objective 2: Determine member satisfactions through surveys. - Strategy 1- Conduct a Southern Area membership satisfaction survey by April 2012. Objective 3: Implement recommendations obtained from the Area membership satisfaction survey. - Strategy 1 - Develop program plans to implement changes in services recommended by the membership via the membership satisfaction. 12
5.Leadership Development Goal 1: To increase effective chapter leadership by 2013 as evidenced by a 10 percent increase in member satisfaction with their chapter leadership. (A baseline will be established through member surveys.) Objective 1 - Prepare our members to assume leadership roles at the chapter, Area and National levels. Strategy 1 - Conduct a Leadership Summit focusing on leadership training in Fall 2012. Strategy 2 - Conduct follow-up leadership training and training on other relevant issues through webinars and other modalities. Strategy 3 - Assist chapters with succession planning by ensuring that the chapters receive timely information about the Scott Hawkins Leadership Institute and encourage chapters to nominate members age 45 and under with demonstrated leadership potential. Strategy 3 - Demonstrate through example by appointing members age 45 and under to the Southern Area Executive Committee. Objective 2 - Provide resources to the chapter leadership that will enable them to better serve their chapters. Strategy 1 - Conduct the First Monday Exchange to promote a dialogue between the Southern Area leadership and chapter presidents. Strategy 2 - Publish Ethics Advisory Opinions. Strategy 3 - Implement the Presidents’ Circle composed of seasoned past chapter presidents who will serve as mentors to new chapter presidents. Strategy 4 - Develop an Organizational Effectiveness Plan by April 2012. Strategy 5 - Provide prompt, substantive responses to questions received from chapter officers.
6.
Promote Links Brand
Goal 1: By 2013, the 77 chapters in the Southern Area will consistently use the Links brand in a manner that is 100 percent in alignment with the goals of the organization. Objective 1: Establish and maintain an effective flow of information to promote the Links brand both internally and externally Strategy 1- Publish the “Advantage,” the monthly Southern Area e zine newsletter. Strategy 2 - Redesign Southern Area website. Strategy 3 - Use e-blasts to release information Area-wide. Strategy 4 - Encourage chapters to use local media outlets to publicize Links service programs and events. Strategy 5 - Create a chapter communications toolkit to assist chapters in effectively communicating the Links brand to the public. Strategy 6 - Implement a review procedure to ensure that all communications from the Southern Area Executive Committee are consistent with the Links and Southern Area brands.
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C H A P T E R O P E R AT I O N S S P O T L I G H T: A R C H I V E S By Kimberly Sweet, Southern Area Archivist Happy New Year! May it bring many wonderful things to all of you, even if some of them are not new. We all know that at the top of many January agendas are last year’s pounds, last year’s bad habits and last year’s taxes. But not everything from the past is negative. In fact, without a good understanding of who you are and what you have or have not accomplished, future success could be highly unlikely. As the Southern Area Archivist, I began this year by looking back at all we have accomplished as individuals, chapters and an Area. We have an incredible story to tell. Our families, friends and communities are waiting to hear it. Chapter Archivists and Historians are primarily responsible for compiling the documents and details, but they cannot accomplish this task without everyone’s help. We must all take on the roles of collector, protector and storyteller. Archives are defined as non-current records preserved because of their continuing value. CharKimberly Sweet ters, photographs and awards, as well as final minutes and budgets from past administrations could fall into this category. These are not to be confused with active records which chapters need for current administrative, fiscal, legal or basic operational purposes. Each Chapter should have an Archivist, an Archives Committee and begin work establishing a collection, if they have not already done so. Those who have started should have a mission and policy statements which guide the purposes and parameters of the Committee’s archival efforts. Many chapters have selected and budgeted for a repository to house their records. They previiously determined the types of documents,
artifacts and records that should be included. Chapters are also using proper methods to ensure records will be preserved. Wherever your chapter might be in this process, everyone must have an updated chapter history and chapter profile. It is also imperative that Archivists make sure that documents are properly transferred from one administration to the next. Chapters should also have copies of both national and Area history books. The Southern Area of The Link’s Incorporated: Embracing Our Legacy, which documents our history, is available for those chapters and members without a copy. As I gathered information from our 77 chapters for that publication, I was impressed and empowered
by all that has been achieved in our area. We will do a much better job of promoting the Links, Incorporated brand through showcasing our legacy - if we know what that legacy is. I look forward to reading the updated versions of each Chapter’s history, and seeing charter and other significant photos as this information is gathered. Feel free to contact me at archiveschair@salinks.org if you have any questions or need my assistance. This “New Year” season is a great time to remember that the best of this year may be in the discovery of what we find in our past. Happy collecting, protecting and storytelling in 2012!
ARCHIVES
How chapters can properly preserve the history of the Southern Area 14
Dear Link June
by June Michaux Chair, Protocol It is indeed my pleasure to serve as the Southern Area Protocol Chair as we transform protocol to the national prospective. For the next two years, you will hear from me regarding changes at the National level - as well as to relay Protocol information, questions and answers and tips that I feel will be helpful to you as chapter presidents and protocol chairs and members. If you have a question you would like addressed in an upcoming issue, email protocolchair@salinksinc.org.
Defining Uninterrupted White When do we wear uninterrupted white? Uninterrupted white is worn at all induction ceremonies for new members, new chapters and honorary members. It is also worn at memorial services conducted at the National Assembly and Area Conferences, by chapters for Links, Connecting Links and Heir-OLinks, and at memorial services conducted for National Officers, current and past. Remember that proper attire is required to be admitted to the ceremonies/services as indicated above on the National, Area and Chapter levels.
would be: - White attire (pants/ pantsuits are optional) - White footwear - White headgear (if worn) - White jewelry (pearls) - White or flesh colored hosiery A white purse is preferred if not carrying the conference bag. Can eggshell or winter white be worn as uninterrupted attire? Yes, they are appropriate as uninterrupted white attire and can be worn. Email your questions for Dear Link June to protocolchair@salinksinc.org .
I hope that this information will be What is uninterrupted white? It has been defined as attire where helpful to you. I wish each of you a white is the only color introduced. Prop- Happy and Healthy New Year! Sisterly, Link June erly attired in uninterrupted white
Proper Protocol... The Links Way..... 15
The 18th Southern Area Administration welcomes you to utilize SOLACE
S O L A C E Support
of
Links
All
S
O
16
A
C
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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
L
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.
by J. Washington, Black America Web
African-Americans received 1 percent of deWith black unemployment reaching historic grees in science technologies, and 4 percent of degrees in math and statistics. Out of 5,048 levels, banks laying off tens of thousands PhDs awarded in the physical sciences, such and law school graduates waiting tables, why as chemistry and physics, 89 went to Africanaren't more African-Americans looking toward Americans — less than 2 percent. science, technology, engineering and math — Several factors are cited by scientists, educators and students. One is a self-defeating the still-hiring careers known as STEM? perception that STEM is too hard. Also menThe acronym, which carries national weight, is also tioned are a lack of role models and mentors, pressure a focus of the Southern Area. Programming emphato earn money quickly, and discouraging academic ensizes mentoring to our youth through arts integration. vironments. The answer to the absence of more African-AmeriThe impact reaches beyond the black community as cans entering the STEM arena turns out to be a comAmerica struggles to produce enough scientists to plex equation of self-doubt, stereotypes, prosper in a world ruled by technology. discouragement and economics — and sometimes "White men make up less than 50 percent of the U.S. just wrong perceptions of what math and science are population. We're drawing (future scientists) from less all about. than 50 percent of the talent we have available," says The percentage of African-Americans earning STEM Mae Jemison, the first black woman astronaut, who degrees has fallen during the last decade. It may seem has a medical degree and a bachelor's in chemical enfar-fetched for an undereducated black population to gineering. aspire to become chemists or computer scientists, but "The more people you have in STEM," she says, "the the door is wide open, colleges say, and the shortfall more innovations you'll get." has created opportunities for those who choose this
What’s the problem with
STEM?
Numbers of Blacks in STEM Careers Still Falling path. STEM barriers are not unique to black America. Our nation does not produce as high a proportion of white engineers, scientists and mathematicians as it used to. Women and Latinos also lag behind white men.Yet African-Americans remain in the very rear. Black people are 12 percent of the U.S. population and 11 percent of all students beyond high school. In 2009, they received just 7 percent of all STEM bachelor's degrees, 4 percent of master's degrees, and 2 percent of PhDs, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. From community college through PhD level, the percentage of STEM degrees received by blacks in 2009 was 7.5 percent, down from 8.1 percent in 2001. The numbers are striking in certain fields. In 2009,
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Growing up in Murfreesboro, Tenn., Christopher Smith used to tutor fellow black students at his high school. The students would often start solving a complicated math problem by doing everything right. "Then they would say, 'I don't know what I'm doing!'" recalls Smith, now pursuing a PhD in biomedical engineering at Johns Hopkins University. He thinks some African-Americans psych themselves out of STEM. "Today I talk to friends back home, and they say, 'I wouldn't be able to do good in college anyway.' A lot of it is just confidence," Smith says. "If people convince you that science and math is harder than everything else, and you already have low self-esteem, maybe that's one reason there are so few black scientists."
salary and stipend of about $25,000 per year. Like many black students, Smith comes from modest means. His mother was a homemaker with a high school diploma; his father earned a GED, became an electrician and eventually owned a business. "I get paid to go to school, so I don't want to complain," Smith says. But he's still several years away from completing his PhD, and he's tired of agonizing over a $37 bus ticket. Even after he gets that degree, he'll need to do a year of post-doctoral study. "If I stay here at Hopkins" for post-doc work, he says, "I'll make the same or less than a city sanitation worker." At each stage of science education, many black students feel pressure to stop studying and start earning real money. Smith, who has an undergraduate degree from MIT, says he could be making as much as $115,000 per year in a corporate job.
In 2009, they received just 7 percent of all STEM bachelor's degrees, 4 percent of master's degrees, and 2 percent of PhDs, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. "Few" is a generous term in Smith's field of biological and biom e d i c a l sciences, where 6,957 PhDs were awarded in 2009. Only 88 went to black men — that's 1 percent. (176 went to black women.)
Yet it's hard to advance far in science without at least a master's, if not a doctorate. Joseph Francisco, a black chemistry professor at Purdue and past president of the American Chemical Society, has a PhD from MIT. He says his undergrad students are always telling him, "I got to think about a job." "With first-generation college students, there is enormous pressure," Francisco says. "Without a mentor who can tell you about what to expect beyond undergrad, who can explain what are the opportunities after Money is another factor in the STEM disparity. It a postgraduate degree, they just stop at a bachelor's takes many years after college to get the advanced degree." degrees needed to become leaders in math and sciFrancisco mentions another source of pressure afence fields — university professors, directors of re- fecting black STEM students: isolation. search labs, heads of engineering departments — and It was different when he was growing up on the black some black students can't afford to wait that long. side of segregated Beaumont, Texas. He was raised Before one recent New Year's Eve, Smith, the Johns by his grandmother, who had a third-grade education, Hopkins student, was debating whether to purchase a and his grandfather, who laid concrete pipes. There bus ticket from Baltimore to New York City to hang out was a black pharmacist in his neighborhood, and with friends. It was a tough decision — the ticket cost Francisco worked part-time in the shop. There was a $37. black doctor, teachers, a college professor. Smith, 27, received a fellowship for black scientists That changed when he went to the University of this year from Merck and the United Negro College Texas and then MIT, where there were few black Fund. As he works toward his PhD, Smith lives on a faces.
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In a 2010 Bayer Corp. survey of 1,226 women and underrepresented minority chemists and chemical engineers, 40 percent said they were discouraged from pursuing a STEM career. Sixty percent said college was where most of the discouragement happened. Jemison, the astronaut, says that while at Stanford, "some professors were not that thrilled to see me in their classrooms." "Stereotypes impact the people who have an opportunity to influence your career," she says. "They don't see you as a peer." In the world of atoms and numbers, does the color of the person who studies them really matter? Many of America's technology giants say, yes. Merck has funded tens of millions of dollars in United Negro College Fund scholarships. Bayer has a special focus on recruiting and promoting minorities. Technology giants such as Boeing, General Electric and Xerox support organizations dedicated to raising black STEM participation. Their motivation is simple math. If bright and capable students' talents go undeveloped, "this represents a loss for both the individual and society," the National
Science Board said in a 2010 report. The report said that after the Soviet Union beat America into space with Sputnik, the U.S. was inspired to educate a new generation of innovators. This national urgency faded by the 1970s, the report said, and was replaced by complacency. Some 16 percent of all U.S. undergraduates major in natural science or engineering, compared with 25 percent in Europe, 38 percent in South Korea and 47 percent in China, the report said. To reverse this decline, the report said America must "cast a wide net to identify all types of talents and to nurture potential in all demographics of students." Jemison identifies another incentive. Even though scientists may use the same methodology, "what topics they choose to research, even the interpretation of facts or what they choose to look at is influenced by experience." "So many times it's the diversity of thought and perception and experience base that starts to make the difference in the problems you research and the solutions you consider," she says. "It's a much more robust reason for diversity that just the head count."
The Southern Area Program Iniative
Mentoring with a Twist: STEM introduced through Arts Integration The program emphasis in the Southern Area for the next two years focuses on our youth. By integrating several of our national program initiatives, chapters in the Southern Area will have the power to effect change in the lives of youth living in the communities we serve. The initiative is essentially a mentoring program with a twist. Chapters are asked to design a program integrating mentoring with STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math), which is in-
troduced using an arts integration approach. T he youth who participate in the program will be paired with mentors, who optimally, have careers in science, technology, engineering or math. In addition to being mentored, using arts integration, the chapters will develop a program that introduces STEM to the participants. Chapters can also present other principles such as childhood obesity prevention, anti bullying and good citizenship.
Examples of how art can be used to introduce STEM - Quilting as a means to - “Because It Flew� – A free innovative arts inteteaching geometry and gration educational program offered by NASA, the fractions. National Institute of Aerospace (NIA), and USA - Reading books to TODAY Education that introduces students grades preschoolers that teach 4-12 (ages 9-17) to the impact of the NASA Space number sense, patterns, Shuttle Program on our planet and people. size, shape and problem http://usatodayeducate.com/wordpress/index.php/b solving. ecause-it-flew-home/ - Exploring the relation- Using music to learn about the weather ship of planetary bodies in space through dance http://weather.about.com/od/educationalmaterials/s - Music to teach numbers to preschoolers. s/songlessonplan.htm. 19
cÄtÇ lÉâÜ e|àâtÄá yÉÜ fâvvxáá By Juanda Maxwell Chair, Rituals The Southern Area is rich in service and tradition and we are committed to enhancing our bonds of friendship through our ceremonies. As we strive to make our rituals a part of each chapter’s yearly program, the following should make make doing so, easier. Suggested items for each chapters’ Rituals toolkit are: 1. Five pronged candelabra and a one candle holder (silver or crystal) 2. Box of fourteen inch cathedral candles 3. Bible (white) 4. Three large links connected (Hardware store of silver or gold) 5. Box of six inch candles or pen lights (for the number of members in each chapter) 6. Candle sniffer 7. Candle lighter 8. Music for “The Candlelight Song” by Brahms, “Hold Close the Rose” by Leona Morris, “Ave Maria”
by Schubert, “The Lord’s Prayer” by Malotte and “The National Song of The Links, Incorporated” by Frances Atkinson 9. CD player or music sheets as needed 10. Copies of rituals as needed 11. White table cloth of linen and a white shirt 12. Crystal vases (one large and small) 13. Small paper dollies to catch the candle wax for the number of links in your chapter 14. Remember to order flowers and ferns as needed Having these items readily available for all ceremonies with the Ritual’s Chair as the caretaker, will help us to facilitate our ceremonies sucessfully. Friendships that are stroked by words of love, kindness and commitment are strengthened and linked forever. As we move throughout the year, we are reminded that our rituals, friendships and our good works unto the Lord are, “Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service”.
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 20
Eligibility for the NEWSMAKER AWARD will be based on an ongoing point based system. Points wil be awarded for each item submitted to area and national publications beginning with the October 1, 2011 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 April 1st reporting.
Civic Engagement, Advocacy and Action: Promoting a Relevant Public Policy by Marguerite Archie-Hudson, Chair, Southern Area Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster Relief Committee The primary goal of the Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster Relief Committee is to maximize opportunities for The Links, Incorporated to engage in and influence public policy on issues of concern to the communities we serve. This committee has evolved since its inception as we increase our civic engagement among the membership and expand our influence on public policy. The committee emerged in 2002 when 13th National President, Gladys Gary Vaughn, established the National Resolutions Committee as a component of the National Governance Team. In 2006 President Gwendolyn Lee combined the Public Affairs, Resolutions and External Relations Committees to ensure the alignment of philosophy and content between Resolutions, Programs and Public Affairs in addressing critical societal issues. In 2008, all three Committees were reorganized as the National Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster Relief Committee . Link Karen Jefferson Morrison currently serves as National Committee Chairperson. In the Spring of 2010, under the leadership of Link Johnese White Gilmette, the committee developed the “Legislative Issues and Public Affairs Handbook - A Pathway to Inspire, Influence and Impact Public Policy.” The goal of the handbook is to serve as a helpful, relevant and user-friendly guide for our organization as we engage in advocacy and action designed to promote progressive public policy. The handbook describes the mission and vision of the committee as follows: to identify and share critical information on societal public issues and matters affecting persons of African ancestry; to inspire collective action from our organization through strategic alignment with the goals of everyone from national officers to local chapters and individual members; and to impact our world through purposeful leadership that creates sustained positive change. This mission reflects our strategic priorities, shapes the nature of our public engagement and directs our collaborative relationships with elected officials, public and private institutions and individuals in the broader community who share the same goals. 2012 presents a number of daunting challenges for our nation and the communities we serve. Among them: guaranteeing the protection of our voting rights; combating childhood obesity; increasing educational achievement through S.T.E.M. inEducation; creasing voter
participation in the 2012 presidential election; seeking afParticipate in fordable health care; providing relief and disaster the Southern assistance to those who need our help. However, Area’s Links Day these challenges also represent major opportunities at the Capital for our organization to engage in public advocacy that promotes solutions that are truly transformational, susFlorida tainable and empower our communities. Thursday, Feb. 9th In anticipation of the 2012 elections, the committee Linking Arts, Mentoring has completed an initial draft of a Get Out The Vote and S.T.E.M. Education: and Voter Education Toolkit that chapters can share Empowering Students with their local HBCUs, community colleges and high to Achieve." schools. These tools will help increase voter education Chair: Thelecia Wilson. and participation in elections that will have such major thelecia@bellsouth.net. impact on our communities. The Tool Kit provides a (904) 705-5911 template for comprehensive election activities including: the basics of voter registration, voting eligibility reMississippi quirements, how to conduct candidates’ forums, the Thursday, March 1st basics of effective contacts with legislators and leg- 8:00 A.M. - 2:30 P.M. islative issues of critical importance to students. Chair: Irene T. Jones The Legislative Issues and Public Affairs Handbook irenetjones@gmail.com identifies a number of steps chapters can take to be(601) 497-3609 come powerful advocates for their communities. Focus: Advocacy for a Among them are the following: Childhood Obesity Com- Link the critical societal issues to chapter facet pro- mission and full-funding gramming – appoint a Chapter Legislative Issues and of Mississippi's Public Affairs Committee; create joint meetings be- Adequate Education tween this committee and the Facet Chairs to clearly Program (MAEP). align advocacy concern and facet programming. - Establish a Rapid Response Team for emerging or Georgia emergency local, national and international issues. Wednesday, March 14th The National Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Dis7:30 A.M. - 2 P.M. Theme: aster Relief Committee has developed a “Rapid ReUnderstanding Linkages sponse System” that serves as a guide for this activity. among Childhood Obe- Develop chapter information and expertise regardsity, S.T.E.M. Education ing the current political climate and design effective and Closing the strategies for communicating with legislative leaders, Achievement Gap. the membership, the media, the public and the comChair: Ruth munities we serve. Simmons-Herts rsimmon- Utilize Links Day At The Capitol to make an effecsherts@aol.com tive case for our issues with our State Legislators, Governors, State Superintendents of Public Instruction South Carolina and other executive agencies that have an impact on Thursday, March 1st State our communities. co-chairs: Tamara Curry Prepare our Chapters and membership to have an ekcurry@aol,com and effective voice in the critically important 2012 state and Link Virginia Weaver national elections. The GOTV and Voter Education vawdst@aol.com Tool Kit will be available to all chapters as we engage in this critical work. Watch for it on the national webLouisiana site! April 12th The Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster State co-chairs: Relief Committee’s major goal is to provide timely inCheryl Evans formation and support to our membership as we meet cartiseg@aol.com and our strategic national priorities. We look forward to a Robyn Merrick great new year where we will exert our considerable robynmerrick@cox.net influence in shaping public policy, benefitting the com(225)771-5361 munities we serve.
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Grant Reporting Doing What It Takes To Keep the Money Coming
by Mignon Early Chair, Programming Programming is alive and well in the Southern Area and time is rapidly approaching to report on how chapters have been transforming their communities. In some instances, this will also require reports to those who have provided funding for our programs. No matter what the project, if you have secured funding, you are going to have to complete some type of paperwork to show the funder where and how their money was spent. Many funders will provide specific details on their requested report’s content, and may even provide a template, while others will only provide a general statement that a report is expected. One consistent theme is that all reports should include information on the outcomes of the project or any predicted results. You should always ensure that you answer the question, “did you deliver on the promises outlined in your proposal?”. There are also instances where no report is requested. This should not be the end of your communication with your funder. It is strongly recommended that you prepare some type of report even when a report is not required. According to Susan Fox, CFRE (Certified Fund Raising Executive and author of Grant Proposal Makeover), a well crafted grant report can have a positive effect on the way organizations are viewed and greatly increases the chances for future funding. “It’s a way to build relationships and get more money from them in the future,” says Fox. While there is no one size fits all to grant reporting, there are some key elements that should be considered for inclusion: • Financial Statement – Tells the funding entity how you spent their money. • Results and Impact of the Project – Discuss whether or not you were able to meet your goal and provide an assessment as to why or why not. Additionally you will want to speak to the impact of the project specifically focusing on measurable positive outcomes. 22
• Lessons Learned – A grant report should also include discussion of the challenges encountered and explanations or action plans as to how the challenges can be addressed. If there is an opportunity for the project to be beneficial to other communities, that should be highlighted as well. • Sustainability Plans – If the program was a success, you will probably want to continue and will more than likely want to obtain additional funding, therefore outlining a plan to continue the program will help in obtaining a renewal of funds. Not enough can be said for the writing of the report. Below are some helpful tips for preparing the grant report • Organize the report using subheadings and bullet points. • Use charts and graphs to visualize findings. • Include stories about the people (populations) you have helped. • Strive for brevity. Write clearly, concisely and simply being careful not to oversimplify. • Meet your deadline. • Say thank you! These are just a few tips on how to make the most of reporting which can be used as a mechanism to build and sustain relationships with funders. Remember, the grant experts tell us that we should not look at grant reporting as a chore but as an opportunity to strengthen relationships with those who are providing funds. Strong relationships yield continuous and often additional funding. So in closing Happy New Year, Happy Programming and Happy Reporting!
“ It has been said that good writing won’t sell a bad program but bad writing can sink a good one.”
- Mignon Early
Congratulations to the following chapters:
* SAVE THE DATE *
Southern Area Leadership Summit
October 4-6, 2012
Columbia (SC) Tuscaloosa (AL) St. Petersburg (FL) Tampa (FL) Savannah (GA)
Recipients of the $1000 Southern Area Mentoring Grant
Savannah, Georgia 23
Communications by Sylvia Perry Chair, Communications Q: What happened to the Southern Area Newsletter The Focus? Will we get another one? A: The Southern Area Focus, which serviced the Southern Area's eight states for several years, has been transformed into the present internet centered e-zine, The Advantage. Due to budget constraints and the ability to give you "more" with less through technology, the Advantage (on a test run for the 2011-2012 program year) is currently the major communication forum for the Southern Area. To provide a printed version of the Advantage to its near 4,000 member roster would cost upwards of $10,000 per month. Q: What does "Advantage" mean? Where did the name one from? A: The 18th Southern Area administration has set the goal of maintaining an atmosphere of transparency, effectiveness and education. Our Area Director, Eneid Francis, sought an immediate resource to accomplish these tasks, resulting in The Advantage. Each month, we bring you a variety of information ranging from program and operational initiatives to feature stories and the much anticipated chapter activities. It is her goal that Southern Area Links "take Advantage" of this valuable resource. Q: What else does your committee do besides the Advantage? A: The Communications Committee operates under a number of hats. At our most basic function, we support the Southern Area Director, committees and facets in reaching Links in the Southern Area. This ranges from educating and informing members through the Advantage, enabling chapters to better publicize their good works in their respective communities to maintaining the consistency of all material being disseminated from the Southern Area. Any material printed, communicated or implied, travels through our tunnel.
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We are also tasked with monitoring Southern Area chapter websites to make sure all content is timely and in alignment with the national goals of the Links, Incorporated. Currently we are updating the Southern Area Communications Tool Kit to help chapter's keep their chapter's service known in the community. We try to maintain an error free quality consistency that our members can be proud of. Q: How do I submit to the Advantage? A: Submissions are done through regional chairs: Kimberly LaMotte (Louisiana and Georgia ), Natille Duncan (Mississippi and North Carolina) and Joy Wallace (Florida, South Carolina and The Bahamas). These three industrious Links reach out to each chapters public relations chairs and presidents monthly to inform them of deadlines and ease the transition of information for publication. Their email addresses are located on the back page. Q: Why are your deadlines so strict, my chapter did something last year I want to share with the Area? A: While we applaud your chapter's excellent event, old news is no news. We strive to present a timely publication but it works two fold. Not many people want to read about an Easter Parade in December. Old news also takes the space of more relevant articles. We pledge if you submit your information on time and meet publication guidelines - it will be published! The Advantage requires all submissions have occurred within the last 30 days. Q: My regional chair sent our photos back? Why were they not accepted? A: Hopefully, previous issues set the example for accepted quality photos. Pictures taken with cell phones and disposable cameras generally don't make good photos. One bad apple can spoil the whole bunch! Q: I would like to serve on the Communications Committee, how can I be involved? A: Due to our vast nature, we always have a little something going on. Contact your regional chair with your particular skill set and we will find the best fit for you within our team.
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Savannah’s Carolyn Bell Elected Alderman-At-Large SAVANNAH, GA - Link Carolyn Evelyn Hodges Bell, a member of the Savannah Chapter, was recently elected Alderman-At-Large Post 1 - Savannah City Council. The Inauguration was held on January 3, 2012. Her life of public service began in 1976 when she became the first African-American female administrator for the City of Savannah. She served in local government as Central Services Director for 38 years before retiring in 2011. Over the years, Link Bell has been comLink Carolyn Bell mitted to serving the Savannah community and the State of Georgia. In 1998, she became Chairman of the Board of the United Way of the Coastal Empire, a first for an African-
Congratulations to the 11 (out of 27) Southern Area Chapters receiving $2500 Childhood Obesity Grants Alexandria (LA) Baton Rouge (LA) Charlotte ( C) Columbia (SC) Crescent City (FL) Dogwood (GA) Durham ( C) Fort Valley (GA) Gainesville (FL) Jackson (MS) atchez (MS)
American in the Agency’s history. She also served on the Governor’s Children and Youth Coordinating Council for 12 years. In addition, she produces the local United Negro College Fund’s annual telethon and is a past president of Gamma Sigma Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. A native of Selma, NC, Link Bell is a 1967 graduate and Valedictorian of Richard B. Harrison High School in Selma, North Carolina. She received a Bachelor of Science in Mathematics from Shaw University in Raleigh, North Carolina and a Master of Public Administration from the University of Georgia in Athens, Georgia. She has completed postgraduate work at Harvard University's Kennedy School of Government and Georgetown University, earning certification as an Executive Leadership Coach. She has been an actve member of the Savannah Chapter since her induction in 2004 and has served as the chair of fund-raising, the Arts facet and currently as the archivist.
HeartLinks to Heart Health National Wear Red Day® February 3 The Red Dress is the national symbol for women and heart disease awareness, and the centerpiece of The Heart Truth® – a national awareness campaign that warns women about their risk of heart disease and inspires them to take action. Friday, February 3 is National Wear Red Day®, and chapters are encouraged to plan a simple activity for their February chapter meeting – i.e. all members wear a red pin or scarf – in support of The Heart Truth® campaign. Another idea is to integrate the heart health message into a chapter or community activity, such as a chapter fundraiser or church service. One of the HeartLinks To Heart Health signature program goals is to have every chapter plan an annual Wear Red event during the month of February, to raise awareness in our chapters and local communities about the seriousness of heart disease - the #1 killer of women. To learn more about Red Dress activities, visit The Heart Truth® website at www.hearttruth.gov. The Red Dress program is also listed in the HeartLinks e-toolkit. For more information on the HeartLinks to Heart Health signature program or National Wear Red Day®, please contact: Link Mary E. Clark Chair, HeartLinks to Heart Health Signature Program mary.e.clark@verizon.net. If your chapter elects to participate, please share your photo in The Advantage!
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Rep. Frederica Wilson Named One of Best Dressed Politicos by the Huffington Post
Rep. Frederica Wilson
At the top of the year, the Huffington Post named Rep. Frederica Wilson of the Greater Miami (FL) Chapter as one of its Best Dressed Politicos. She joins ten others on the list - including Sen. John Kerry and Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton. Dubbed ‘power dressing’ , the online news outlet describes it as “the kind that moves crowds and makes voters and congressional colleagues take a second look. This is a list of politicians who cultivate their power through their public image -and this being politics, it's always deliberate. Power dressing in politics is not just about what (or who) you are wearing -- it is also about how you communicate your message. Body language, charisma and the ability to carry oneself well factor heavily into the overall look. You have to own it. This list of politicians includes heavyweights with decades of experience in the public eye, as well as a healthy dose of newcomers -- all of whom have the political clout to move (and sway) people. According to the Huffington Post, “Frederica Wilson singlehandedly redefined what it means to "dress up for work" this year on Capitol Hill. When she arrived in January, members of Congress - sensitive to the optics of a recession - had all but forsaken costume jewelry and bright colors, to say nothing of big hats. Wilson challenged all of that, and the results are a ray of sartorial sunshine.”
Raleigh (NC) Program Year in Full Gear With Over 10 Service Projects Underway The Raleigh (NC) Chapter is an industrious chapter with a track record of service to be reconded with! They are using their time and talents in a very productive manner. While many of the members have full time jobs, they utilize their free time participating in service projects that benefit the community. The ladies are innovative and dedicated to serving others. Their service roster for this program year alone includes: • Assisting with the RexHealth Care Annual Prostate Cancer Screening event. • Helping to plan the 2012 Strengthening the Black Family Conference. • Promoting a Health Initiative Kick-off at Bugg Elementary. • Assisting with planting a Butterfly Garden at Bugg. • Tutoring fourth grade students at Bugg in reading. • Participating in “Dress For Success” clothing drive. • Forming a team and supporting the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.
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• Supporting the Organ Donation Drive. • Donating to National and International educational institutions. • Walking with students around the Walking Track at Bugg Elementary. Future plans include: • Continuous work with Bugg Elementary students. • Supporting a trip to Washington, DC for Bugg’s fifth graders. • Working with students to plant a vegetable garden. • Continuing to walk with students on the track (Let’s Move program). • Assisting with planning of an “International Day” event for fifth grade students. The members of The Raleigh Chapter pledge to continue to seek out additional projects where they are serving others. Albert Einstein once quoted, “Only a life lived in the service of others is a life worth living.” We believe that our lives are worth living.
Birmingham Links Spread Healthy Holiday Cheer to New Home Owners
Shown above are chapter members with the Patel Family: Front row: Left to right- Jermiah Patel, Tara Patel, Izahiah Patel, Jaydien Staffiney, Zachary Patel, Back row: Left to right- Links Carol K. McElderry, Kim Hitchens, Brenda Adams, Iris Wiilliams, Cathy Bradford, Diann Jackson and Vanessa Falls. Birmingham, AL - The Birmingham force the message regarding better Trends and Service Facet spearChapter provided five holiday cheer nutritional habits and fitness prac- headed the project. The baskets and healthy gift baskets to recent re- tices - with the aim of preventing and not only included recipe ingredients, cipients of homes from Habitat for reversing the childhood obesity but also kitchen towels, oven mitts, Humanity, in the Shiloh Creek subdi- trend. The cookbook was youth in- potholders - as well as seasonings vision in Calera, AL . The gift bas- spired with recipes provided by chap- that could be used for future dishes. kets included the Kiss the Cook - The ter members. Both the front and Each family was also given a decoLink to a Healthy Life cookbook, and back cover of the cookbook were de- rated Christmas wreath designed by all of the ingredients to prepare four signed by students from the Birming- Kim Hitchens to place on the front door of their new house. Members healthy dishes from the cookbook. ham Public School System. Habitat for Humanity is also a Na- who helped make this holiday cheer The cookbook was part of the chapter’s initiative to promote a healthy tional Partner of the Links, Incorpo- possible were: Vanessa Falls, Presilifestyle and to help bring awareness rated. The “Homes without Borders” dent, Carol Kirby McElderry, Chair of partnership allows chapters to strate- National Trends and Services, Kim to childhood obesity. Last year, the Birmingham Chapter gically respond to the long-term Hitchens, Co-Chair of National was chosen to participate in a Links’ housing needs of people living with- Trends and Services, Brenda national pilot program which imple- out decent and affordable housing Adams, Cathy Bradford, Diann Jackmented the Childhood Obesity Pre- shelter in the United States, Africa son, Demetruis Taylor and Iris Williams. vention Curriculum. The curriculum and the Caribbean. The members of the National was designed to introduce and rein-
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Annual Holiday Spectacular Educates and Enlightens South Florida
Greater Miami Chapter
Jennifer A. Grant, Yolanda Cash Jackson, Chapter President Renée S. Jones, Leatrice Damus, Martha A. Welters, Angela Robinson Bellamy and Donna L. Ginn holding the AARP/The Links Are You Ready? sign at the Holiday Spectacular reception.
Angela Bellamy (right) demonstrates the breast cancer self exam. Members of the Greater Miami Chapter were joined by hundreds of guests in December to usher in the season with its’ 6th Annual Overtown Holiday Spectacular. It was held at the Historic St. Agnes’ Episcopal Church in Miami’s Historic Overtown. The concert featured youth from the Coral Gables Congregational United Church of Christ’s Community Arts Program, Conservatory for the Arts
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Leona Swilley, Virla Barry & Kay Sullivan discussing AARP Are You Ready?
AARP/Links Are You Ready? display. Young Musicians’ Junior, Intermediate, and Advanced Orchestras and the ALL-STAR Jazz Ensemble. Guests enjoyed the sounds of Bach, Tchaikovsky and Ellington and actively participated in a holiday medley sing along. During the festive reception, vital information regarding breast cancer awareness and organ/ tissue donations was provided. As one of eight chapters selected to participate in the
“AARP/The Links Are You Ready?” initiative, attendees were provided free AARP memberships, as well as health and wellness information. Under the guidance of chapter president Renee Jones, the event was hosted by the Arts and the Health and Human Services committees chaired by Leatrice Damus and Angela Robinson Bellamy, respectively.
r e t a e r G r e t p a h C i m a i M
Shown above clockwise LETS Draw students at the exhibit opening; Arts Facet Chair Leatrice Damus and Artist/Author Kadir Nelson and students participating in Nelson's workshop on sketching.
Greater Miami Links Help Launch Art Exhibition to Inner City Youth Providing Cultural Passport to the Artwork of Kadir Nelson Thanks to the efforts of members of the Greater Miami Chapter, acclaimed artist/author, Kadir Nelson is among the great African American painters, who have now become a household name among youth in the South Florida community. A month of cultural activities began on November 3rd with a Grand Opening of Mr. Nelson’s art exhibition – We Are the Ship - The Story of Negro League Baseball, co-sponsored by MiamiDade College, the Florida Marlins and Greater Miami Chapter at the famed Freedom Tower. We Are the Ship is the first book that Mr. Nelson has both written and illustrated for children. The book brings the story of Negro League Baseball to life. During his Miami tour, Mr. Nelson also participated in a reading and signing of his latest book, Heart and Soul – The Story of America and African Americans during the 2011 Miami International Book Fair, a Friendship Month activity for Chapter members. In an effort to locally expand the exhibition’s reach, Arts Facet Chair Leatrice Damus incorporated an educational component for the youth of the chapter’s Links Educating Talented Youth to Draw (LETS DRAW). The arts program provided important insight about the role exhibitions can play in sharing African American history. As part of the schedule of events surrounding the exhibition,
the students received a tour of the exhibit, and participated in a workshop at the Gallery with Mr. Nelson, focused specifically on methods used in sketching. Students also paid homage to the Negro League Baseball's historical legacy at Dorsey Park, known locally as the "The Dust Bowl" and site of their games in the 1930s and 40s. Students also joined Mr.Nelson and received instruction on mural painting, before working with him on perfecting their thumbnail sketches for the murals which they painted, as a tribute to the Negro Leagues. As part of the ongoing events, students were able to apply what they learned, and were on hand at Dorsey Park, alongside the Miami Marlins, for the installation of large scale banners of Dizzy Dean and Satchel Paige. The students culminated their experience during Art Basel, launching the ‘Ship of Tolerance’ project, where they created paintings for the mast of the large ship at the Miami Children’s Museum. As a remarkable end to a fun-filled and educational experience dedicated to the arts, Mr. Nelson had the opportunity to see the impact the Chapter’s program is making first-hand. To his surprise, upon his departure he was met by a large scale painting created by the students titled “It’s Our World”, currently on display at the Miami International Airport.
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r e t a e r G Honors the Dream of r e t p a h C i m a i M Martin Luther King, Jr. Greater Miami and Dade County Links celebrated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., during 19th Annual 5000 Role Models Unity Scholarship Breakfast. The 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project is a dropout prevention program for at risk minority boys founded by Link Frederica S. Wilson in 1993. The keynote speaker was Isaih Lord Thomas, III, retired NBA Hall of Famer and current Men’s Head Basketball Coach at Florida International University. Actress Kerry Washington brought greetings on behalf of President Barack Obama. The Highwaymen, a group of 26 self-taught and self-mentoring landscape artists, who began painting in the 1950’s, were honored by Congresswoman Wilson. Connecting Link Albert E. L-R: seated – Kay Sullivan, Beverly Nixon, Sabrina Salomon and Robbie Dotson, Jr., Esq., Chairman – 100 Black Men of Bell. Standing – Marsha Saunders, Verne Croskey, Anne T. Herriott, Southern Area Secretary, Renée S. Jones, Greater Miami Chapter President, Margaret America, Inc. was honored for his dedication to mentoring. McCrary, Tammy Reed, Shirley LeFleur and Teresa Brown.
Brunswick (GA) Presents Gift Cards to New Homeowners The Brunswick (GA) Chapter’s National Trends and Services facet made the holidays a bit more festive for a few families by partnering with Habitat for Humanity in their local community. The chapter partnered with Habitat for Humanity of McIntosh County, Inc. by presenting their latest home recipient, Ms. Sonya Lotson, with a $100 Visa gift card. The committee members participated in the dedication of her new home, and provided refreshments to the guests in attendance. The Brunswick Chapter also partnered with Habitat for Humanity of Glynn County Georgia, Inc. and presented Ms. Felecia Woods with a $100 Visa gift card when she received her new home. Congratulations to the Brunswick Chapter for making a difference! 30
Brunswick (GA) Preparing for Men of Distinction The Brunswick Chapter (GA) will present Men of Distinction, their second annual Men of Distinction banquet on Saturday, February 18, 2012. The event will be held at the Grand Oaks Hall of the Jekyll Island Historic Meeting Campus at 7 PM. The chapter continues to recognize men of Camden, Glynn and McIntosh counties who are extraordinary in their commitment to community involvement and achievement. This year’s honorees are: Peter J. Baker and Craig Peebles (Camden County); Rev. Craig B. Campbell, Charles Duane Harris, Robert E. Griffin, Joseph L. Lanham, Jr., Floyd Phoenix and Mayor Bryan Thompson (Glynn County) and Nathan Gilbert, Commissioner Charles E. Jordan and Rev. Griffin Lotson from McIntosh County. Brunswick native, Dr. Jerry Hardee, Special Assistant to the President of Life University, will be the guest speaker for the event and State Representative Al Williams will serve as the master of ceremony. Tickets are available at a cost of $60.00 per person. For ticket information please contact Link Carrie Risher at 267-9558. Link Jacqueline W. Bryant and Link Marvara H. Green serve as co-captains of this year’s event.
Crescent City Hosts Holiday Reception in Honor of Area Director New Orleans, LA - Members of the Crescent City Chapter hosted a reception in December honoring Eneid Francis as the new Southern Area Director. The event was held at the Stella Jones Gallery. The honoree was presented with a framed photograph signed by Rosa Parks, who is shown entering the courthouse when she was on trial for sitting in the front section of the bus that was reserved for white people only. Members of the Crescent City Chapter (LA) and Presidents from both the New Orleans (LA) and Pontchartrain (LA) Chapters were in attendance.
Southern Area Director Eneid Francis is shown above flanked by Links from the Crescent City (LA), New Orleans (LA) and Poncharttrain (LA) Chapter.
Magic City Instills Pride in African Children Through Their “Brown Baby� Initiative by Karen Winston Fox Birmingham, AL - The Magic City (AL) chapter remains on the move with the Brown Baby Initiative, its most recent endeavor spear headed by the International Trends facet. The chapter members gathered brown baby dolls in an effort to instill personal pride, build self-esteem and promote confidence in orphaned children in Africa. The chapter members are acutely aware of the need for children to see positive images of themselves, particularly the opportunity to make beautiful dolls with shades of brown skin available to them. Inspired by that thought, the chapter began collecting dolls in the first of its endeavors to Shown (L-r) Lila Hackett, Chapter President Deborah Byrd-Walker, Nichelle Gainey, International Trends Facet Chair and Belinda Hall. deliver dolls to the children. the goal of the chapter as it children. The chapter has established a Celebrating the beauty that is reaches across the miles to partnership with an orphanage unique to people of color pro- touch the lives of these deservin Africa, with plans to provide vides a perfect opportunity to ing children. support and assistance to its present positive images. This is
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Columbia (SC) Participates in “First Nail” Ceremony to Provide Housing
Shown (L-R) are Mary Miller McClellan, Columbia Chapter, Katrina Shealy, Chair, Board of Friends of DJJ; Ruby James, Friend of DJJ; Gretta Jackson, Recipient of the Habitat Home; Stacey Atkinson, Director of the Community Behind the Fence; Lynne Rogers, Columbia Chapter, and Margaret Barber, Director of the SC Department of Juvenile Justice at the ceremony. A house being raised across the prison gates is in the inset. The Columbia Chapter of the Links, Inc. recently participated in "The First Nail Ceremony" at the South Carolina Department of Juvenile Justice (DJJ). The chapter has partnered with DJJ, Habitat for Humanity and the Friends of Juvenile Justice in the “House that DJJ Built” initiative. The project will enable the incarcerated youths at DJJ to participate in the construction of a house. At “The First Nail Ceremony,” the piers on which the house will be built and the construction lumber were in place at the site of the proposed house construction. 32
The students and partners of DJJ wore hard hats as they hammered the “First Nails” into the construction of the new house. The young residents will build the house behind the DJJ fence. Upon its completion, the house will be lifted over the fence by two, big cranes and transported to a residential site where a family will take residence. The family who will receive the home was also in attendance at the ceremony. The home building experience will be one of empowerment for the DJJ residents. The project is supported by many friends from
the construction trades who have committed their time and expertise. The benefits of this effort are multifaceted: - The construction skills that the youngsters will acquire will greatly reduce recidivism and serve as a rehabilitative tool that will equip them with employable skills for use when they return to their respective communities. -The receiving family will realize their dream of homeownership come true. - Volunteers will acquire a sense civic responsibility with tangible results.
Columbia (SC) Celebrates 40 Years of Service with Platinum Member Mary Solomon Members of the Columbia Chapter recently celebrated a milestone with their sister, Mary Solomon. Chapter President Brandolyn Thomas Pinkston delivered and presented to the 97 years young Link, an award from the Southern Area honoring 40 years of loyal, dedicated service to The Links, Incorporated.
Pictured seated: Dr. Joyce Solomon Moorman, Link Mary Solomon (honoree), Link Brandolyn Thomas Pinkston (President), Standing: Link Mary Miller McClellan, Link Olive J. Foster, Link Karen Johnson, Link Doris Leevy Johnson, Link Kim Devlin, Link Karen Rutherford, Link Breon Walker, and Link Gloria S. James.
Altamonte Springs (FL) Receives Seminole State College of Florida Heritage Award
The Altamonte Springs (FL) Chapter The members of Black Faculty/Staff and the African American Cultural Forum and Heritage Collegiate Choir at Seminole State College of Florida commemorated the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King by celebrating and honoring the achievements of local African American leaders. Among their honorees were the Altamonte Springs Chapter. The program was held on the college campus during the 2012 Heritage Jubilee under the theme ‘Branching out to a New Generation’. 33
North Broward (FL)
North Broward Chapter
Crowd pleasers Desorae and Christopher Smith by Sheri Brown The North Broward County (FL) Chapter is proud of the success of the Chapter’s first ever Denim, Diamonds, and Dancing for a Cause” friendraiser” held at the Hard Rock Hotel. The main attraction was the line-up of local celebrity dancers and judges that included: local politicians, business leaders, former NFL players, a former pageant winner and a Miami Heat dancer, to name a few. Dance contestants competed for first, second, and third place awards. They danced to a range of tunes and 34
genres, from Earth, Wind and Fire (I Like the Way You Move) to a medley of Michael Jackson tunes. According to contest judge Roy Campbell, celebrity event planner and former judge of America’s Top Model, “I plan and attend many high profile events, and this one by far was one of the most fun and exciting ones I have been apart of in a long time.” The couple that was the highlight of the dance contest and second place winners were Con-
necting Link Christopher Smith and wife Desorae. Smith’s old school break dance had the crowd on their feet. The winning couple, Lynda Nation and Leon Jenkins, won over the judges and the crowd with their smooth, urban ballroom number with captivating synergy. Chapter President, Linda Houston Jones, exclaimed “We were so excited to host this awesome event to raise awareness in the community and to raise
Dances for a Cause
North Broward Chapter President Linda Jones with First Place Winners Lynda Nation and Leon Jenkins.
funds to support programs that help our county’s youth and families in need.” Event sponsors, such as AutoNation and BJ Wholesale, were pleased to be associated with the event. The evening’s activities combined live jazz and R&B music with professional dance performances and a full course buffet. Local 10 news anchor Connecting Link Calvin Hughes, (Bacardi Jackson) kept the crowd laughing with his quick wit. The event was chaired by Joe Ann Fletcher and Chan Abney who exceeded their friendraising
goals. The proceeds will enable the chapter to advance its initiatives - including their new “Girls on the Move” program which teaches middle school girls how to make healthy lifestyle choices to combat obesity. Inspired by First Lady Michelle Obama’s national program, the chapter has established partnerships with Ramblewood Middle School, Crockett Foundation, Coventry Health Plan, and Huntington Learning Center to provide a comprehensive nutrition curriculum combined with academic tutoring. Moving into 2012, “Girls
Winning team Lynda Nation and Leon Jenkins on the Move” will host a series of workshops featuring local professionals and experts. Some of the topics include: anti-bullying, body image, karate and self defense instruction. This year’s program will conclude in May with a Mother/Daughter workshop and luncheon. “Girls on the Move” program chairs, Yvonne Jones and Tamashia Buckner are both pleased at the reception of the program in the community and the growing support it is receiving.
s
ond m a i D & Denim
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Monroe Grambling (LA) Enlightens Youth Through Etiquette and a ‘Royal’ Visit derwear and socks for the 3 and 4-year old students at the Headstart Center. Mildred Hill, Head Start Director, suggested the Center receive the donations since the center serves approximately 200 children in an area of great need. After the donations were accepted, a segment entitled, “Reading With Royalty” followed. Miss Grambling and her court enthralled the two groups with interesting reading and storytelling sessions. Each young lady read a book, or told a story that engaged and captivated the youngsters who sat attentively and awestruck throughout! Miss Grambling was a big hit when she culminated each of the storytelling sessions Above is Miss Grambling State University, Jamecia Leonard, and her with an interactive dance and sing-a-long. court entertaining the kids with quality reading time during National Director Hill had high praise for the reading and Headstart Month. She is also shown to the right. storytelling team of queens. She assured both the The Monroe-Grambling Chapter of The Links, Incorporated Links and the Queens that their donations and storytelling made enlisted the services of Miss Grambling State University, Jamecia an indelible impact on the youngsters. Both rendered an imporLeonard, and her Court to celebrate National Headstart Month. tant and desired service to the 200 boys and girls served by the Miss Senior, Colby Johnson, Miss Junior, Chuntell Thomas, Miss center. She was so pleased with the programming that she invited Sophomore, Ambra Brice, and Miss Freshman, La’Resha Taylor the Queens to conduct a repeat performance as their college ,helped perform acts of kindness and enjoyment at the Paul E. schedules would permit. Slaton Headstart Center in Ruston, Louisiana. This planned activity and donations were coordinated through The chapter members donated baskets of newly packaged un- Services to Youth Facet.
Hands on Classic Etiquette Seminar Held During the Holidays As the holidays approached, the Monroe-Grambling (LA) Chapter seized an excellent opportunity to stage an etiquette seminar. The hands-on seminar was conducted with youth residents of the Grambling Housing Complexes on December 17, 2011. Hazel Hunter, was assisted by her chapter sisters along with several members of the Grambling Housing Authority staff in presenting the seminar. At the outset, the boys and girls were instructed on the appropriateness of proper social behavior - chief among them was using good table manners. Each participant learned the importance of the ‘dos and don’ts’ of sitting and dining as they received instruction individually and in pairs. Following in-depth instruction and demonstrations, the youth were given an opportunity to put what they learned into action. Each child dined on a full course meal while
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demonstrating the appropriate techniques learned from the seminar. The participants expressed their amazement at how easy it was to transfer what they learned and put it into practice. Each table of diners was closely monitored by Mrs. Hunter to ensure that each child was on his and her “etiquette Ps & Qs”. The seminar helped to jumpstart the holidays with enhanced social behavior of the youth who participated in this hands-on instructional clinic. The program was made possible through the Monroe-Grambling Chapter’s Services to Youth Facet and the Grambling Housing Authority’s Residents Service Segment provided refreshments. Bridgette T. Tanner serves as the Executive Director of the Grambling Housing Authority; Mertrude A. Douglas serves as President of the chapter and the Services to Youth Facet is chaired by Shirley J. Jackson.
Buckhead Cascade (GA) Highlights Holiday Season with Arts Celebration and Annual Soiree The “Classics through the Ages” National Arts Facet program featured the melodic voices of Khalada Smith, a junior at Clark Atlanta University and Chani Maisonet, a junior at Kennesaw State University; a cello rendition by Cheyenne Boyce, a sophomore at Spelman College and a trumpet concerto by Anthony Scruse, a sophomore at Morehouse College. Candy Tate and Laura English Robinson co-chair the Arts Facet and worked closely with event co-chairs, Links Brenda Kennedy and Jessie Watson. The program’s goal is to celebrate the outstanding talents of students as they develop their artistic potential by providing them with a supportive audience that will encourage them to continue their pursuit of excellence in the arts. Students are awarded a scholarship incentive to assist them in their studies. Also featured on the program was a perform- Morehouse sophomore, Anthony Scruse, entertains the ance by guest artist, Jayme Allilaw, soprano. audience at the 10th Annual Musical Cascades.
Buckhead Cascade Chapter On Sunday, December 11, 2011, the Buckhead Cascade Chapter of The Links, Incorporated celebrated Christmas with a Holiday Glitz and Glam Day Party at the Georgian Terrace Hotel. Co-chaired by Elizabeth Espy and Rene Pennington, limited edition customized Christmas tree ornaments were given as gifts and the Links and their guests feasted on tasty food and jammed to the latest tunes. A great time was had by all. 37
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 Vice Director
Chair, Programs
Tamara Y. Lee Tuskegee (AL) Chapter vicedirector@salinksinc.org
Daisy R. Walker Charlotte (NC) Chapter programschair@salinksinc.org
Southernareadirector@salinksinc.org
Chair, The Arts
Chair, Communications Sylvia Perry Bold City (FL) Chapter
asstprogramschair@salinksinc.org
Karyn M. Combs Pensacola (FL) Chapter artschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, National Trends & Services
Chair, Health & Human Services
Chair, Conference & Event Planning
Janice R. Nelson Bold City (FL) Chapter treasurer@salinksinc.org
Denise M. Cooper Savannah (GA) Chapter
Cori M. Brock Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter healthchair@salinksinc.org
Ruth H. Terrell Fayetteville (NC) Chapter conferencechair@salinksinc.org
Parliamentarian
Chair, Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and Disaster Relief
Secretary Anne T. Herriott Miami (FL) Chapter secretary@salinksinc.org
Treasurer
Rosalind Fuse-Hall Tallahassee (FL) Chapter parliamentarian@salinksinc.org
Chair, Nominating Committee Ophelia Nicholson Shreveport (LA) Chapter nominatingchair@salinksinc.org
Southern Area Rep. The Links Foundation, Inc. Bessie Isom Greater Mobile (AL) Chapter linksfoundationrep@salinksinc.org
Financial Secretary Charlotte Henderson Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter financialsec@salinksinc.org
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Area Director: Eneid A. Francis Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter (H) 504.284.3660 (F) 877.284.3660
Assistant Chair, Programs Mignon Breaux Early Greenville (SC) Chapter
nationaltrendschair@salinksinc.org
Marguerite Archie-Hudson Charleston (SC) Chapter publicaffairschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Services to Youth Brenda T. Jamerson Orangeburg (SC) Chapter youthchair@salinksinc.org
Education Linkage Lucinda R. Sullivan Augusta (GA) Chapter educationchair@salinksinc.org
Chair, International Trends & Services Sharlyn Wilson Smith Nassau (Bahamas) Chapter internationaltrends@salinksinc.org
Chair, Ethics and Standards Selma Robinson-Ayers St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter ethicschair@salinksinc.org
communicationschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Fund Development Ruth Waters McKay Bold City (FL) Chapter fundchair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Protocol
Chair, Organizational Effectiveness
June W. Michaux Durham (NC) Chapter protocolchair@salinksinc.org
Faye Hargrove Augusta (GA) Chapter
Chair, Rituals
effectivenesschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Archives Kimberly Sweet LeFleur’s Bluff (MS) Chapter archiveschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Awards and Recognition Maxine Smith Charleston (SC) Chapter awardschair@salinksinc.org
Juanda F. Maxwell Selma (AL) Chapter ritualschair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Technology Debra G. Lazare Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter techchair@salinksinc.org
Chair, Vendors Natille E. Duncan Jackson (MS) Chapter vendorschair@salinksinc.org
Coming Soon... The Southern Area
Green Pages Bringing our community closer together one Link at a time
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Southern Area Communications Team REGION 1
JOY WALLACE St. Pete (FL)
Florida, South Carolina and the Bahamas Email: wallacejoy27@yahoo.com REGION 2
KIMBERLY LaMOTTE La Capitale (LA)
Louisiana and Georgia Email: LinkKimberlyLaMotte@yahoo.com REGION 3
NATILLE DUNCAN Jackson (MS)
Mississippi, North Carolina and Alabama Email: krossdun@yahoo.com EDITORS AT LARGE: Kimberly Sweet, Kenyonn Demps and Thelecia Wilson
I n s i d e AD VA N TA GE the
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONS We encourage you to submit your information by the 15th of the month for inclusion in future issues. Submitted events must have occurred within the past 30 days. Information can be sent from chapter members as well as Chapter Communications Chairs to their regional chair shown above. Members of the Area Communications Team are in contact with their region’s chapter Communications Chairs to ensure a channel of communication is maintained.
Be in the Advantage
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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. 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! Please share with your Area sisters as we join in celebrating your accomplishment.