Winter 2012

The Ebony

pearl

2012

THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF SWING PHI SWING SOCIAL FELLOWSHIP

In

Sisters across the nation

Chapter News | Starting on page 11

Also in Letter from the President…………………………….. ……..….4 Chapter News…………………………..…………….…...…….11 Editor’s Desk…………...……………………..……….…………5 Special Section……………………….………………………….13 National News…………………………...………...……..……….8 BackSwing.………….…….…………….…...…………………..14

2012 JOINT NATIONAL CONVENTION BALTIMORE, MARYLAND OCTOBER 10-14, 2012 BALTIMORE MARRIOTT HUNT VALLEY INN 245 Shawan Road | Hunt Valley, MD 21031

IN CELEBRATION OF GROOVE PHI GROOVE’S 50TH ANNIVERSARY

Reserve your room today!

Call (410) 785-7000 and request the Swing Phi Swing block

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A portion of the proceeds will fund the Baltimore Columbia Graduate Chapter’s Elija Rowe Scholarship Fund.

Send checks to the following: Groove Phi Groove SFI PO Box 66584 Baltimore, MD 21239

Contact: Al Wilson | 410-206-1760 Gene Dandy | 410-209-7791

7:30 AM Registration $125/Individual

Contact: Barry Hampton | 443-985-0828 Tyrone Seymore | 443-398-4995

Friday, October 12, 2012 Historic Mount Pleasant Golf Course 6001 Hillen Road | Baltimore, Maryland

8:30 AM Shotgun Start $450/Foursome

Scramble Format

HOLE-IN-ONE CONTEST

1st, 2nd, & 3rd Place Prizes  

Longest Drive on Holes 1 and 9 Closes to the Pin on all Par 3 Holes

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PUTTING CONTEST

Letter from the National President

On January 24th of this year, President Barack Obama delivered his third annual State of the Union address. During that 65 minute speech, I was struck by the similarities between Mr. Obama's presidency and my own. Certainly, the weight on his shoulders is infinitely greater than that on mine, nonetheless, I have benefited greatly from the example set by our Commander-in-Chief.

Referring to the bipartisan divisiveness in Congress and the Senate during that speech, Mr. Obama stated profoundly, “When we act together, there's nothing we cannot achieve. The converse is also true – divided, we achieve nothing.” I instantly thought, “Get outta my brain, Mr. President.”

The microcosm of SWING reflects many of the same symptoms that plague this nation – economic challenges in a strained financial climate, low morale, chronic finger-pointing and most of all, divisiveness. Yet, as I seek to provide a clear and concise summary of the current state of SWING PHI SWING, I am encouraged by the manner in which President Obama has handled himself in the face of adversity and the toughest of times, that are taking place on his watch.

The good news is that SWING PHI SWING is on the road to financial recovery, as is the United States. Our fiscal outlook is far brighter than it was a year ago. We have rebounded from the losses of 2009 and 2010. And, our bank balance exceeds that of end-of-year (EOY) 2009 and 2010. We continue to recognize growth in our membership numbers, chapters and regions.

In FY2011, five (5) new graduate chapters were chartered ~ two in NJ, one in DE, one in PA and one in CA. Several undergraduate chapters have been charWinter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

tered and/or reactivated as well. And, our membership total at year-end stood at 237, a slight increase over last year.

As the 2012 National Elections draw near, I am also pleased to report that the Board of Directors has revised our policy and the Executive Team has implemented process improvements pertaining to the election and terms of office for Regional Administrators (RA's). As a result, RA's will henceforth be elected in conjunction with Executive Officers during the Annual Meeting of the membership. Furthermore, a proposed constitutional amendment will be presented to the body during the Annual Meeting, which, if passed, will extend the RA's terms of office from two to three years. This change will serve to synchronize our mid-level management team and provide cohesion among national and regional officers.

In the coming months, several noteworthy events are scheduled to take place.

In March, we convened in Alexandria, VA for a Leadership Retreat with the Board of Directors, Executive Officers, Regional Administrators, Founders, SHE Foundation Board members and Past National Presidents. These entities will come together in an effort to strengthen our infrastructure and join forces to establish a unified movement toward future successes.

In April, as we commemorate our 43rd Anniversary, for the first time in SWING's history, eight chapters in the Mid-Atlantic and NorthEast regions will collaborate to host a Founder's Day Luncheon in Egg Harbor, NJ. Partial proceeds will benefit the SHE Foundation. Further details will be forthcoming.

And, in May, the Fund Development

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“We are as organizationally sound as ever, yet our progress will continue to be hindered if we continue to insist on finding fault rather than finding solutions.”

and Community Outreach Committee will host the Ebony Pearl Pageant in Raleigh, NC, which will spotlight the best and brightest of our protegés from chapter mentorship programs across the country.

And so, the state of the sisterhood is stronger and more vibrant than some might have you believe. Are there additional improvements that need to be made? By all means. Is there more work to be done? Without a doubt. We are as organizationally sound as ever, yet our progress will continue to be hindered if we continue to insist on finding fault rather than finding solutions.

I encourage each and every one of you to identify the issues that are most important to you and then, commit to actively participating in a resolution. Remember, in the words of President Obama, “when we act together, there's nothing we cannot achieve!” OLA!Φ In Sisterhood,

Sharon M. Chandler

The Editor’s Desk Sis. Melonee D. Griggs

Find me online Facebook.com/Melonee.griggs

@melohello @swingphiswing

National Media Affairs and Public Relations Officer

mediaaffairs@swingphiswing.org

Being an oh-so-serious Southern girl, I can always appreciate the freak ice or snow storm or a mild dusting of snow to make me feel like I can appreciate what my East Coast or “Up North” Swings endure when Winter rears it’s humbling presence. Winter is a reminder of why humans seek love and warmth in order to survive. Winter humbles us with blistering, icy winds, impedes our forward motion in the snow, and makes us shriek and shiver when we must endure the elements. No matter where we are in this world, we all seek comfort and protection from the brutal elements of Mother Nature.

Seemingly, our own human nature is much like the seasons we endure.

As always, I remain humble in this position. As an elected officer that represents the Sisters of Swing Phi Swing, I came into this job with the focus of doing the work that stands on the foundation of my Sister Founders and Sister Trailblazers – all Sisters who I deeply respect for the work they have done for Swing.

Working with the integrity of my oaths and my service to my Sisters who elected and supported me in my position, I hold dear my Sisterhood that is a growing force amongst my people.

Our continued existence is a reflection of the Black Power Movement that resonated with the people’s unrest of the 1960s and the 1970s. Rather than cry Facebook.com/swingphiswing |

out and remain the victim, a movement was created that was solutionoriented, fierce, and unapologetic in the forces that sought our destruction. The struggle AND the work continues.

I am not interested in destruction when we must build communities.

I cannot tolerate swords veiled with words that seek our demise The many seasons of The Ebony Pearl when we must develop viable partnerships. I will not judge another when we must estab- color will not change as each cover since lish personable and professional evalua- the Fall 2009 has been a reflection of sotions to build leadership within SWING. cial issues like Breast Cancer Awareness I will not embrace volatility and mis- Month or the seasons, like the blend of guided perceptions when we must re- summer heat and the autumn transition. main rational and organized to blaze As always, I will move forward and be our way into the future. particularly mindful about the integrity At times, I am overwhelmed by and evolution of our chief national pubthe task before me, and like all humans, lication. The Ebony Pearl is our beacon I make mistakes. For all the good we do for all to see our great works and we in our lives and within SWING, do we want all chapters and Sisters to be a part want our legacy characterized by the of our printed legacy. Never should we multitude of our mistakes or excellence? question a Sister’s commitment and loyMy position as the National Media Af- alty to our organization without looking fairs and Public Relations Officer has at the totality of her contributions in the been characterized by solutions that positive, progressive, and productive have been an aid in the growth and movement in all of our evolving seavalue of our Sisterhood. Once again, I sons. offer a solution; we must be characterI have always seen Swing Phi ized as a Sisterhood that is willing to Swing as a Sisterhood that is committed accept it. to our continued growth and is reDue to a graphic error, I humbly garded as the premiere Afro-Diasporic accept the responsibility in correcting a organization that embraces the multimistake. In this issue of The Ebony tude of ethnicities and cultures of our Pearl, I will provide 1 revised copy of Sisters regardless of her geographic lothe Summer/Fall 2011 cover that can be cation of origin. I still see us as a Sisterdetached and replace the previous cover hood that isn’t about looking like every with the desecrated shield. Our use of (Continued on page 6)

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(Continued from page 5)

The Editor’s Desk cont’d. body else.

If we are Sisters who proudly sport our White and Black, then the legacy we began in 1969 will never change. Even if we see a little red ladybug fluttering in the wake of spring, we all know what it means to us. We are a Sisterhood who perseveres forward and knows why we still exist. There is much work to be done, but if we allow condemnation and the minority of judgment to become a part of how we steer our course, then the bridge between the generations of our evolution will be broken by the winter of our discontent.

I remember driving home on the first full day of fall in 2004. My father had tragically died the day before and I had the undertaking of planning his funeral. Just as we hit the outskirts

of my Mississippi hometown, I turned the radio to a local station and like the grace and mercy of God, Bishop Paul S. Morton’s “Seasons Change” premiered on the radio. How I cried out listening to the lyrics when Bishop Morton and Aretha Franklin ministered to my spirit in one of the darkest times of my life: “Sometimes life is gray like winter,/ and the tears fall from your eyes/ Your heart is cold like December,/ you start to wonder why./ Where did my faith go?/ Why don't things ever go my way?/ ...Be encouraged 'cause seasons change.” My parents, particularly my father, taught me about humility, true activism, compassion, and standing my ground during any storm. His death left a void in my life for quite some time, but I am strong because of the strength and fierce determination he imparted in me. In eulogizing his life, he wasn’t remembered for his mistakes, but honored as a

man of great leadership, a friend, and a brother to many - in the good and bad times. In the spring after his death, I became a Sister of Swing Phi Swing. I am humbled in the presence of my Sisters, much like the final sentiments of “Seasons Change”: “It's good to know that You're with me in the passing of my seasons change…” It is good to know that I have Sisters who share my love for Swing and the belief that service to our people is the greatest path to freedom and justice for all.

I am always proud to see the work of my Sisters all across Swingland, so, please, let us continue to be vigilant in sending in our articles and pictures to ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org.

The pages of The Ebony Pearl will always be committed to the work of our Sisters. I look forward to a spring of change. We ALL are the Sisters of Swing Phi Swing! Φ

Pay your National Dues in order to exercise your vote in the National Elections to be held at the 2012 Convention in Baltimore

Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

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ANNOUNCEMENTS NATIONAL MEMBERSHIP DUES

The Ebony Pearl is the official national newsletter for Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.®

It’s not too late to pay your national dues!

Send your LETTERS TO THE EDITOR.

Undergraduate—$100 Lifetime—$100

We are always looking for content for the following sections: Swing Mommies Swing Phi Book Club Express Yourself - a creative space BackSwing Faith & Spirit Health & Fitness

Graduate—$150 Lifetime Enrollment—$1,000

Mail your dues to the following: NATIONAL TREASURER SWING PHI SWING S.F.I. POST OFFICE BOX 723 OLD BRIDGE, NEW JERSEY 08857

We are online!

National Website: swingphiswing.org Follow us on Twitter @swingphiswing Fan Us on Facebook

You can also pay your dues online.

Log onto swingphiswing.org for more information.

NEW AD RATES FOR THE EBONY PEARL The Ebony Pearl has established ad rates for all future issues. If your chapter or business would like to advertise in our national newsletter and e-bulletins, please make a note of the following rates and specifications:

   

5 line ad: $5 1/4 page or banner: $10 1/2 page: $20 Whole Page: $35

Graphics must be at least 300 dpi or higher and in jpeg format.

These ad rates are effective as of February 1, 2010.

Please contact Melonee Griggs at ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org for more information.

If you want to receive The Ebony Pearl via email, opt-in to our new service by sending your name and preferred email address to ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org with the subject line “Ebony Pearl E-service”.

FASTER. EASIER. DIGITAL.

What is the name of the outspoken woman who is credited in the organization of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC)?

Formed in 1960 on the campus of Shaw University in North Carolina, SNCC was the first Civil Rights organization open to the leadership of Black women, which had been principally a Black male lead movement. She was at the forefront of the movement and helped to organize students all across the South.

BE THE FIRST to send your response to ebonypearl@swingphiswingorg for your chance to win a fabulous and unique Swing T-shirt.

GOOD LUCK! *Answer to the 2011 Summer/Fall Black History Trivia: Dr. Allison Davis

Facebook.com/swingphiswing |

@SWINGPHISWING

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2012 Leadership Retreat – An Awesome Experience!

Special to The Ebony Pearl

Pictured: seated l-r - Ellen Tomlinson-Carter, Lorraine Watkins-Phillips, Beverly Dorn-Steele, Anita Chase-Watson; standing l-r - Tanya McKoy-Sutton, Michelle Muhammad, Candace Stowe, Rose Lockhart, Linda Smith, La Verne Wilson, Sharon Chandler, Anita Johnson-Horton, Brenda Noble, Aquadella Smith, Brenda Torrence, Rose Jackson Stowe. Not pictured: Marilyn Berry, Mary Johnson, Sheila Harrison, Vanessa Gibbs-Hilliard, Krystal Coston.

SWING PHI SWING Founders, Board members, Executive Officers, Regional Administrators, Past National Presidents and SHE Foundation Board members convened at the Washington Suites Hotel in Alexandria, VA for the first-ever inclusive Leadership Retreat on Friday, March 23, 2012. Twenty-one sisters in total, representing each of these entities, spent the weekend engaging in team-building, training, brainstorming, fellowshipping and strategic planning activities.

President Sharon Chandler planned and coordinated the retreat itinerary with the intent of establishing a framework for accomplishing key short term, long term and ongoing goals over the remainder of the current administration’s term of office and beyond.

As sisters arrived on Friday evening, they were met with enthusiastic OLA’s, and a scrumptious meal from Red, Hot & Blue.

After breaking bread together sisters had the opportunity to learn, recall and revisit a pivotal event of the Civil Rights Movement, by viewing the documentary ChilWinter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

dren’s March, which details the 1963 Children’s March in Birmingham, AL, which triggered the infamous bombing of the 16th Street Baptist Church that killed four young Black girls there.

On Saturday, the entire group first met collectively, then participated in one or more Breakout Sessions facilitated by Fellowship Board Chair, Linda Smith, SHE Foundation Board Chair, Marilyn Berry, Founder Ellen Tomlinson-Carter and National President Chandler. Vice President Brenda Noble relied on her extensive background in corporate training and education to direct a great team building activity which generated quite a bit of thought and discussion on the effectiveness of collaboration and ‘outside-the-box’ thinking. National Historian Brenda Torrence provided a wonderful Women’s History Month display and coordinated a photo shoot and many candid shots depicting every aspect of the retreat. Fl. Toomage Abza, on hand from Detroit, MI, was thrilled to lend his photography skills to capture the historical significance of the

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retreat. Although plans for a photo shoot at the new MLK Memorial in downtown DC were thwarted by gloomy, rainy weather, Fl. Abza was able to get dozens of great group pictures at the hotel. Sis. Torrence was also ecstatic that many sisters accepted her invitation to share their prized keepsakes during ‘Show ‘n Tell’, which she hopes to include in the Historical Exhibit planned for the 2012 Convention in Baltimore this October.

The weekend culminated Sunday with a gathering of area sisters for worship service at Alfred Street Baptist Church, followed by lunch at The Great American Steakhouse.

The Leadership Retreat was enjoyed and appreciated by all in attendance and considered a worthwhile effort that certainly should be repeated on an annual basis.

Sisters left Alexandria with gifts, information, plans, pictures and most of all great memories of an awesome SWING experience!Φ

National

SWING CALLS FOR JUSTICE for TRAYVON

First and foremost, I wish to offer my sincere condolences to the parents and loved ones of Trayvon Martin. There is nothing more painful than to bury ones child. Even more of a travesty is the fact that they have not been able to properly grieve for Trayvon because of the unfortunate circumstances surrounding his violent demise.

As the days go by, further information about Trayvon and his alleged murderer, George Zimmerman, continues to surface. Nonetheless, I can see no earthly reason why it took so long for Zimmerman to be arrested or even questioned by local law enforcement in connection with the incident that left an unarmed 17-year old dead on the streets of Sanford, FL. There are so many unanswered questions that it is no wonder why protesters all over the country are calling for ‘Justice for Trayvon’.

Sisters of Swing Phi Swing are joining and even coordinating protest events in support of this outcry for justice. Just as we did in 2007 when we marched in solidarity with tens of thousands in Jena, Louisiana when six Black teens were unjustly

accused of attempted murder following a racially charged incident at the high school there, the rallying cry has again erupted and SWING PHI SWING must again answer that call.

I am extremely proud of those sisters who have already stood on the front lines of this important and historic battle for justice and equality and I strongly encourage those who have yet to do so. March, rally, write to your political representatives, sign petitions, and let our young people know how important it is to let their voices be heard. Nothing will bring Trayvon back to his family, but it is imperative that we see that his tragic death not be made more painful by allowing his murderer to go FREE. Stay up to date on this case from The Root’s 24/7 coverage of the Trayvon Martin case. Visit TheRoot.com for daily and weekly updates.

In Sisterhood,

Sharon M. Chandler

Sisters, we’d like to hear about your take on your state’s STAND YOUR GROUND law or your experiences of a loved one being killed through gun violence. Send us a quick note of 100 words or less to ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org and your story could be featured in the next The Ebony Pearl.

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@SWINGPHISWING

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For more information, contact Sis. Marilyn Berry P.H.I. Scholarship Committee Chair mghberry@aol.com

Applicants must be 1. Locally and nationally active 2. Enrolled in a nationally accredited American institution of higher education 3. Complete a typed application (handwritten applications will not be accepted) 4. Submit a transcript for the current academic transcript with at least a 3.0 GPA on a 4.0 scale 5. Submit a professional resume 6. Submit a letter of recommendation from affiliated chapter executive officer verifying current good standing 7. Complete application essay questions

Completed application packets are due by July 5, 2012.

Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

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Mid-south grad continues to support reading works in south memphis

Chapter

By Sis. Melonee D. Griggs, Mid-South Graduate Chapter The Mid-South Graduate Chapter has now expanded it’s territory into Oxford, Mississippi, but the Sisters are ever more committed to maintain community service endeavors across the Mid-South area that includes Tennessee, Arkansas, Kentucky, Missouri, Alabama, and Mississippi. The Reading Works Community Library has been one of the most rewarding community service efforts for the chapter because of the unique placement of the library in a community that is a part of the South Memphis Redevelopment Project.

Rather than gentrify the entire neighbordhood with corporate chains and investors, the South Memphis Redevelopment Project collaborates with the community on how residents and community activists reimagine the neighborhood’s rebirth. The community boasts the location of Lemoyne-Owen College, the only HBCU in the city of Memphis, and Stax Museum of American Soul Music.

Reading Works Community Library is a part of St. Andrew African Methodist Church and housed in the church’s Community Life Center. Sis. Melonee Griggs sits on the founding board of the library. The Mid-South Grad Chapter has donated nearly 300 books to the library. During their March Chapter Service Day, Sisters reorganized and alphabetized all of the book shelves, tutored students in reading and comprehension, read to kids, played games, provided free art lessons, and laughed the day with the children from the local community.

Sis. Griggs states, “I grew up with a love for reading and being a part of the Reading Works Board of Advisors was a given. My co-pastor, Rev. Marilynn Sasportas Robinson, grew up in the Bronx and contributes her love for reading to her neighborhood library. Not only is she a Harvard Univ e r s i t y Graduate, but she is also Vice PresiSis. Melonee Griggs smiles on while Sis. Niketa Reed reads to a child at Reading Works Community Library.

Facebook.com/swingphiswing |

@SWINGPHISWING

dent of a local hospital and an influential leader in our great city. That speaks to the power of reading.”

Sisters of the chapter have committed to volunteering at the library throughout the year with meaningful arts & crafts projects, book give-a-ways, and health & fitness activities.

Look forward to ways in how you can help Mid-South Grad contribute to the library’s growing book collection. For more information on Mid-South Grad’s Black Book Project, contact Sis. Melonee Griggs, Community Relations Coordinator for MSG Chapter, at swingbigphi@yahoo.com.Φ

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DC Metro Grad Goes Full Force

By Sis. Brenda Torrence, DC Metro Graduate Chapter The Sisters of the DC Metro Graduate Chapter have been extremely busy over the past few months. These dedicated Sisters continue to set the bar in terms of service to the DC, Northern Virginia, and suburban Maryland communities they serve. In addition to their traditional 'Party with a Purpose', Holiday Scholarship Gala and their repeat participation in the 24th annual Help the Homeless Walk, DC Metro continues to partner with other area non-profits to benefit worthwhile initiatives through volunteering as well as charitable donations. These sisters put the 'M' in multi-tasking.

On October 8th, the chapter hosted approximately 25 teenage girls at the first annual 'Loving Yourself' Girl's Conference held at the Kenmore Middle School in Arlington, Virginia. This event brought motivation, inspiration and useful information to the group in the form of guest speakers and entertainment. Topics like 'The Perils of Social Networking', 'Bullying 2011', and Health & Nutrition were among the worthwhile presentations offered to the enthusiastic group.

As the Thanksgiving Holiday approached, DC Metro found themselves involved in several other beneficial activities. On November 12th, the chapter sponsored a Zumbathon at the Deerfield Community Center in Laurel, Maryland. This event successfully raised funds to Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

benefit the chapter's annual scholarship fund.

The following week, several chapter members gathered to represent SWING in the Help the Homeless Walk, which the chapter has participated in for over a decade. Their community partners Daughter for the Day (DFTD) and the LeadershipCares Foundation (LCF) were also grateful for the chapters dedication

and tenacity as they held a food drive to donate over 100 boxes of cornbread and over 60 containers of stuffing for the annual Thanksgiving Cares Program, while giving of their time and energy to deliver meals to DC area senior citizens on Thanksgiving day.

During the remainder of the Holiday Season, DC Metro hosted their annual Scholarship Gala on December 3rd, with an added sense of pride this year as they dedicated the Scholarship Fund in the memory 12

of their dearly departed chapter Sister, Arthelia Parker. This year they presented 3 -$1000 scholarships to NCA&T freshman, Ms. Danielle Hughes, and graduate students Sisters Keina Hodge and Tanya Sutton.

This year, the chapter partnered with the fellowmen of the Prince George's Graduate Chapter of Groove Phi Groove to co-host the gala at the Clarion Hotel in Oxon Hill, Maryland.

Later in December, several sisters volunteered their time and energy at the OurPlace DC Holiday Party, where dozens of children in the District of Columbia had the opportunity to experience the true spirit of Christmas.

As 2012 rang in, DC Metro's momentum was in no way hindered by the winter weather. The MLK holiday found over a dozen chapter members, along with friends and relatives among the group of over 50 volunteers at the Children's Guild in Hyattsville, Maryland (see page 10 for full article).

Look for even more great service activities in 2012 from this service-minded chapter. DC Metro Sisters are excited about launching their up-and-coming mentoring program ~ PEARLS (Promoting Ethical and Responsible Leadership Skills) ~ for middle-school-aged girls, continuing their affiliation with DFTD, LCF, the Forestville Teen Pregnancy Center and much more. Stay tuned for more wonderful reports from the “DC Divas”. Φ

Harambee Grad celebrates 40 years

Chapter

By Sis. Marilyn H. Berry, Harambee Graduate Chapter of Fayetteville, NC Baby, Wobble-Baby, WobbleBaby, Wobble!

After a wonderful time had by all, the weekend ended with Sunday brunch. Brothers, Sisters and friends filled their bellies before hugging good-bye and taking to the road to safely return home until next year.

Fayetteville State University’s homecomings are always a joyous occasion for Swings and Groove to get together. Our 40th anniversary made this year very special. The sisters from the Raleigh Graduate Chapter came to support us and lucky Kim CapersWilliams won the homecoming raffle - a gift basket loaded with The Harambee Graduate Chapter of Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.® celebrated the 40th Anniversary of our founding on the campus of Fayetteville State University on October 15, 2011.

We discussed many options on how to celebrate this milestone in our chapter’s history. After several suggestions it was decided we just wanted to have fun!

The weekend’s festivities started out with a Friday night fish fry. Sisters and Brothers traveling from out of town stopped by Fellowman Bardell and Sister Marilyn

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Berry’s home for a hot fish dinner with plenty of sides.

On Saturday, the chapter supported the brothers of Groove Phi Groove’s tailgate on campus.

After the game, the chapter hosted a day party at the Holiday Inn on I -95 in Fayetteville, NC. This was a “Do Drop In” affair! We also blocked off 10 rooms for sisters and brothers so we could all be together. Sisters from the original Harambee Undergraduate Chapter arrived from the DC area, Atlanta, Georgia, Richmond, Virginia, Charlotte, Durham and Raleigh, and North Carolina to help celebrate this momentous occasion.

With plenty of food and drink we capped of the celebration with our favorite DJ, Mark Morrison. We partied to music from the 70’s, 80’s 90’s and the Wobble-

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his and her goodies.

In recognition of our fortieth anniversary of Swing Phi Swing on the campus of Fayetteville State University, our chapter raised $500.00 to donate to the alumni association. This money will help keep students attending FSU without financial obstacles.

This is a commitment we intend to continue annually and hope to build a positive and lasting relationship with the university. Φ

Tried, Tested, and Triumphant: Twelve years of Scholarship Assistance

By Sis. Marilyn H. Berry, Harambee Graduate Chapter of Fayetteville, NC

The Harambee Graduate Chapter has been so blessed. After piloting the Ebony Pearl Mentoring and Scholarship Program in 2000, we are still persevering. We have constantly and consistently mentored girls in the Fayetteville and surrounding community by exposing them to guest speakers, providing field trips, hosting seminars and involving them in community service.

Over the years our Ebony Pearls have received words of wisdom from guest speakers such as, Reverend Janice Harris, Shelia O’Kelly (blind published author), Eva Smith, (storyteller and published author) founding sister, Ellen Tomlinson-Carter, DC Metro Graduate Chapter member, Jacqueline Gill-Harvey, Rubu Graduate Chapter member, Vanessa Diggs and many more. These awesome women provide information on making good choices, staying focused and keeping your eye on the prize, completing ones Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

education. school’s schedule coincides with Seminars have Wake County this year we would been provided in the love to join the Raleigh Graduate areas of teen dating, Chapter. They have an annual finances, personal tour and the Harambee Graduate care and goal setting. Chapter is invited every year to These seminars have join them. Maybe this year is our been facilitated by year to make the tour. Our girls Sisters Aressa Burton will love it! and Kwandra Jarman One of our most rewarding and F e l l o w m a n activities is sharing the importance Henry Berry to name of giving back to the community a few. Questions and we serve with our Ebony Pearls. answers sessions provided feed- Through the years we have back for the young ladies to know worked with the Falcon Home For to be proud of who they are, car- Children, donating gifts, books, ing for their personal self, under- clothes and cookies to orphans. stand their finances and knowing Along with the National Office of in a healthy relationship one feels Swing Phi Swing, we provided respected, cared for and safe. books for students in the CumberThe Ebony Pearls’ interests land County Schools System and are our main concern when plan- Tried, Tested, & ning our Ebony Pearl mentoring Triumphant cont’d. sessions. The Pearls wanted to attend a step show and we were able to make that happen.

We also traveled to the National Ebony Pearl Pageant in Philadelphia, PA. The Pearls are very interested in the seminars concerning personal care and dating.

We are deligently Sisters of the Harambee Graduate Chapter working on fulfilling their inter(Continued on page 16) est in a college tour. If our county 14

DC Metro divas paint the town for National Day of service

Chapter

By Sis. Melonee Griggs, Mid-South Grad; Photos submitted by Sis. Sonseeahray Adams, DC Metro Grad

The DC Graduate Chapter participated in the National Day of Service on Martin Luther King Jr. Day in our nation’s capital. As part of the HandsOn Greater DC Cares, they were a part of 35 throughout the National Capitol area. Sisters helped to repaint the The Children’s Guild Monarch Academy in Hyattsville, MD along with several other organizations including PEPCO, Ithaca

College DC Area Alumni, a service organization known as 'Highly Favored'.

The Children’ts Guild Monach Academy’s mission is “To teach children the values and life skills necessary for a successful life, one filled with caring, contribution and commitment, empowering each child with: The vision to see opportunity within adversity and the value of setting ideals to reach. The courage to try and the value of accepting obstacles as challenges to meet. The will to succeed and the value of making the commitment to persevere.”

The Children’s Guild Monarch Academy serves children and adolescents who have suffered trauma or live with au-

tism spectrum disorder or multiple disabilities.

Tanya Hutchins of the DC Volunteerism Examiner took notice of the DC Metro Sisters hard at work and featured them in her online column. Sis. Brenda Torrence enjoyed the day’s events and noted the high energy and fellowship amongst the Sisters.

She is noted as saying, “She took notice of our big group [and] hard workers.” Φ

Charlotte Grad establishes new health partnership

By Sis. Founder Beverly Dorn-Steele, Charlotte Graduate Chapter The Charlotte Graduate Chapter is currently partnering with Florence Crittenton Services of North Carolina. Founded in 1903, Florence Crittenton is a non-profit organization that helps single pregnant and at-risk girls by providing:  comprehensive medical and prenatal care  social, educational, adoption and parenting support services  substance abuse intervention, treatment and prevention

Members of Charlotte Grad pose with a recipient of the Florence Crittenton Services of NC. Facebook.com/swingphiswing |

@SWINGPHISWING

Florence Crittenton and Charlotte Grad are providing an opportunity for young girls to reach stability and self-sufficiency by making positive life choices. In addition to making quarterly donations providing baby goods and personal items for the moms, Charlotte Grad mentors the girls by providing self-esteem and self-respect workshops. Φ 15

United we stand: philly, NJ, & Delaware celebrate Kwanzaa in service

By Sis. Judy Ivory, Zuri Obinrin Graduate Chapter of New Jersey

The Philadelphia Graduate Chapter of Swing Phi Swing SFI had their annual Kwanzaa celebration on December 17, 2011. This was a very special celebration for all in attendance. The Philly Grad Sisters invited all Sisters in the area to come and fellowship. Sisters from the newly formed Delaware Okimma Graduate Chapter (Renee and Shanisa Joyner) and NJ Zuri Obinrin Graduate Chapter (Judy Ivory) were present to share in the festivities. Also, present were Sisters who recently got back

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into the SWING of things: Fontella Boone, Tonetta Fitzgerald, Cynthia Ulmer, Jasmin Benns and LaRona Paige.

Philly Grad gladly welcomed them back into the fold.

Sis. Phyllis ArnetteShuler was the hostess for the evening and arranged for the Sisters to meet and hear the stories of 3 women from RIPE (Recovery is Positive Effort), a Philadelphia recovery program. After hearing the compelling stories presented by the ladies of RIPE, all Sisters present decided they wanted to Support these Women In

Need of Growth. Philly Grad invited Delaware and Zuri to partner with them in giving these women support in areas where they are capable of making a difference. Sisters gladly shared their Kwanzaa meal and offered encouragement we to these ladies. Sisters promised that SWING PHI would help them in any way they could. Dr. King said “We can all be GREAT, if we are of SERVICE to others.”Φ

local on-going service is the col- State University, Elizabeth City

participated in the Southeast Re lecting and donating of canned State University, North Carolina gional Health Fair manning the goods to the Salvation Army.

A&T State University, East CaroThis year’s Ebony Pearls are five beautiful young ladies.

Among them is one graduating senior. We have a fabulous mentoring year planned, ending with Pearls in pursuit of the crown.

Our

chapter

has

voter’s registration table and over $13,000 in scholarship voter registration, locally. Our awards since 2000. These young ladies have attended Fayetteville 16

-Salem State University, Johnson & Wales Culinary School, Pembroke University and Sampson County Community College. We are so very proud of these young ladies and the sisters in this chap-

presented ter. Φ

graduating Ebony Pearls with

Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

lina University, Johnson, Winston

The Ebony 2011 Convention Issue

pearl

2011

THE OFFICIAL VOICE OF SWING PHI SWING SOCIAL FELLOWSHIP

In

2011 National Convention Highlights Begins on Page 4 | National News

Which Sister Founder made her debut at this year’s National Convention?

Sis. Raquel ROC Rouse gives us the details on her full circle SWING moment.

Page 10 Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

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Taken in 1973, the Fellowman at Tuskegee University represent the Sword and Spear with perfect Black power poise. photo courtesy of Fl. Patrick “Chic” Langston

During homecoming in November 2011, some of the original members of the Tuskegee University undergraduate chapter reunited and celebrated 40 years. Brothers and Sisters were joined by other Mighty PHI family from chapters such as Morehouse College, Philadelphia, and Memphis. photo courtesy of Sis. Melonee Griggs

Have back-in-the-day photos you’d like to share on BackSwing?

Take us down Swing Lane with your photo memories.

Email us at ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org!

is now on cafepress.com/swingphiswing

Customize. Find your size.

Swing Phi Swing’s Café Press shop will give you the latest designs and paraphrenalia to sport your Swing style. Part of the sales will go towards Swing’s national initiative, Supplies 4 Success.

Got an idea for a product? Email us at nationaloffice@swingphiswing.org.

Winter 2012 | SWINGPHISWING.ORG

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Congratulations to the Genesis line in celebrating 20 years in Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship. Their line marked a new generation of Sisterhood after the hiatus. Many OLAs to Genesis!

Pictured (l-r): #1 Dorothy Slaughter, #2 Lisa Hickmon, #3 La Verne Wilson, and #4 Pat Chalmers.

ABOVE: Sisters posing in living color on the campus of North Carolina Central University circa 1978.

LEFT: Sisters of the Mid-South Graduate Chapter take a page from the Swing Style pages for a contemporary pose circa 2006.

Pictured (l-r): April Foxx, Darlene Richardson, Torrie Moore, Leketha Collins, Lasandra Barksdale, Melonee Griggs, and Niketa ReedÎŚ

Facebook.com/swingphiswing |

@SWINGPHISWING

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T HE E BONY P EARL N EWSLETTER STAFF

Melonee Griggs Editor-In-Chief Chapter PR Officers Phyllis Arnette-Schuler Pat Chalmers Beverly DaRocha Renata Dukes Jazzlyn Farrell Niketa Reed Tena Hamilton Sheila Harrison Brenda Hubbard Deborah Hunter Shanisa Joyner Katina Mattocks Wilda McKham Stacy Pierre-Louis

The Ebony Pearl is published quarterly and serves as the official news publication for Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc.速. All articles will be subject to editing and revision, which may alter the length of a submitted article. The Ebony Pearl staff will retain the spirit of each article submitted but will uphold the integrity and quality of the newsletter.

All articles must be submitted by the following deadlines to mediaaffairs@swingphiswing.org in order to ensure publishing in the upcoming edition.

Issue

Article Deadline

Spring 2012

May 10, 2012

Summer 2012

June 12, 2012

Fall 2012

September 12, 2012

In the

The Ebony Pearl Living Legacy Part V: Anita Chase Watson

Send your story ideas and questions to ebonypearl@swingphiswing.org.

Check out the Ola Report in your email every month!

For more information about working with The Ebony Pearl, press releases, media kits, brochures, e-newsletters, and marketing related issues, please contact the National Media Affairs and Public Relations Officer, Sis. Melonee Griggs at mediaaffairs@swingphiswing.org.

Swing Phi Swing Social Fellowship, Inc. P.O. Box 50371 Washington, D.C. 20091-0371

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