CROSS COUNTRY

CU

RR

EN

TS

Circle-Lets, Inc.Summer 2015

Greeting Circle-Let Sisters,

Grateful - Webster’s dictionary defines it as thankful,

appreciative of benefits received, giving pleasure of

contentment, and welcoming.

Thank you for allowing me to serve as your president for thelast two years. In the words of Lionel Richie, thank you for

making my position”easy as Sunday morning”. We promised inour oath that we would work wholeheartedly for the good ofthe club and adhere to the principles of sisterly love for whichwe stand. Chapters have included me in their celebrations andtheir concerns. And when there were differences they were of-fered in sisterly love. No, we were not without some challenges,but we were founded on friendship-and our friendship is triedand true. You provided me with a team that was responsive andmembers who were caring. THANK YOU.

I received immeasurable benefits. I have been able to get to know sisters from across this county ina very personal way. You opened your homes and your hearts. I will never forget the hospitality andkindness shown to me in so many ways. I have three brothers, so the benefit of knowing that I haveover 400 sisters of all ages in 21 cities is awesome to me.

How did two years go so fast? I’m convinced that as you age, time goes by more quickly. I hadthree goals: review the Constitutions and Bylaw, launch a new website site and update our jewelrymold. We have reviewed the By-laws, and recommendations will be voted upon at the Boston Con-clave. You will receive a revised Constitutions and By-Laws this fall. A new website was launch in timefor you to register for the Conclave online, and we have arranged for several new jewelers to offeryou an array of jewelry designs and prices.

Although meeting these goals has been very satisfying to me. I would like to conclude my tenureby encouraging my sisters to look to the future of the Circle-Lets. It is my hope that we will be ableto attract and welcome younger women into our sisterhood. We each have received benefits from ourassociations with other women and have created bonds of friendship. Our organization has been inexistence for 61 years. We know what it takes for it to continue—new members. Don’t let your clubbe diminished because you won’t change. I remember my sons were at least eight years old before Itook the protective covering off the wall plugs. Now, my 3 year old grandson walks around with hisvideogame changer on his hip, plugging it into the wall, without fear, so his battery won’t go dead.Yes, my heart almost stopped when I first saw him do it-but I had to remember times have changed.Change we must if we want to attract new members.

To so live that my friends are made happier. I am truly grateful!Yours in the Circle,

Greta J. Russell

Greetings Circle-Lets from Wilhelmina, Cross Country Editor

In this issue read exciting news:

• Spotlight on Marie Issacs (Boston)

• Highlights from Executive Committee Meeting

• Chapters’ News

• Thanks to 27th Circle-LetPresident, Greta Russell

• Technology Update

• In Memorium

Co-Founders:Doris Bell-Bass Daniels

Detroit

Vivenne Malone Mayes,Dallas

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEEGreta J. RussellPresidentColumbus

Kimberly WattsVice PresidentNashville

LaRoyce Morgan ThompsonTreasurerAtlanta

Stephanie BrowneRecording Secretary

Boston

Darlene BritfordCorresponding Secretary

Columbus

Linda MackFinancial Secretary

Roanoke

Michele MinnixParliamentarianLos Angeles Valley

STANDING COMMITTEESArnetta HamiltonBudget, Nashville

Patsy WheelerHistorian & Archivist

Dallas

Yvonne Metoyer RobinsonConstitution & By-Laws

Website, Dallas

Greta J. RussellInternal RevenueColumbus

Wilhelmina M. JacksonCross Country Currents

Philadelphia

Gradie KnightNominating Chair

Nashville

Jean PlayerProtocol Chair, St. Louis

Jackki AllenJewelry & Vendors

Columbus

An organization sustains itself through members such as Circle-LetMarie, a Boston Charter member. Her involvement with the Circle-Lets

started in 1957. Marie recalls that the Circle-Lets began as a Bridge Club,then Gloria Pope was asked by Vivienne Mayes to form what is now theBoston Chapter of the Circle-Lets.

Originally from Cambridge, Massachusetts, Marie attended Howard Uni-versity. She later began a career in the medical technology field, specializingin hematology. In 1950 she married Oliver “Tut” Isaacs and they welcomedtheir first child Kenneth in 1954, and their second, Nanci in 1958.

Marie vividly remembers joining the club for the social aspects, a place to develop life-long friendships with not only fellow members of the BostonChapter, but members from across the country. That aspect was most appealing. In the beginning, and through her children’s teenage years, memories of conclaves included fun events for kids and activities for the husbands. Her children met children from other chapters and stayed in touchthroughout the years. Back then members structured their entire summervacations around conclave weekend. It was an annual summer affair thatwas highly anticipated not only by the Circle-Let members, but their spousesand children as well.

The building blocks of sisterhood and friendship is what stands out most inMarie’s mind on why she joined and has remained active in the Circle-Letsfor the past 58 years. Flooded with memories of so many conclaves, her favorite is the very first conclave the Boston Chapter hosted in 1963 onMartha’s Vineyard.

Marie remains active with the West Medford Community Center, taking local day trips and theatre trips to NYC. Occasionally you will find Marieproctoring at the Harvard Law School, when she’s not in Los Angeles visitingher granddaughters, Isabelle, 16 and Olivia, 14.

Thanks to Circle-Let Marie for sharing and reminding us of the special bondfrom Circle-Lets membership.

Congratulations, Marie on your 58 years in the Circle!!!

Circle-Let Marie Issacs

Shares Her Love

of Circle-Lets

Reported by Wilhelmina M. Jackson (Philadelphia)

Circle-Let Cecile Marie Issacs

(Boston)

3

Highlights: March2015 Executive Committee MeetingFrom Greta Russell, National President

The By-Laws provide that during the second year of a president’sterm the Executive Committee meeting may be held telephoni-

cally. However, this Executive Committee decided to hold its Marchmeeting in Atlanta. I would like to thank those members who wereable to attend in person and those members who participatedby phone. We viewed a demonstration of the new website and its functionalities; viewed and approved the new jewelry design; approvedthe 2015-2016 budget; discussed the submitted By-Law Changes;heard the report from the Nominating Committee; and set the agendafor the Conclave Executive Board Meeting.

After our work was completed, those present were invited to dinner at the exclusive Downtown Atlanta Club. Circle-Lets will always feelthe warmth of southern hospitality when in the presence of Azira Hill.We enjoyed get acquaintance games and the lively conversation thathappens when we get together. To make us feel really special, we werepresented with Sarowoski crystal pens. Many many thanks to PresidentEilene Murpin and the Atlanta Chapter for welcoming us in grand styleon such short notice.

CHAPTER

NEWS

continued on page 4

Telling you All the Scoop from HotLantaBy Nancy CookeAtlanta Chapter Entertains Executive BoardThe National Circle-Lets Executive Board Meeting was held inAtlanta March 21, 2015. Atlanta Chapter Circle-Lets extendedtheir hospitality by hosting a dinner in their honor that eveningat the Capital City Club downtown. After dinner and wine thecute young Atlanta Chapter Circle-Lets engaged members ina game of ‘Would You Rather’ (poses a dilemma in the form ofa question – you pick what you would rather do and then sharewhy). There were screams from the room when responseswere made but a great time had by all. Each executive boardmember was presented with a Swarovski pin compliments ofAtlanta members. Special thanks to Eilene Maupin and VyvyanDean for making it come together.

Wonya Lucas Named President/CEO Public BroadcastingAtlantaOur own, Wonya Lucas is new president/CEO of Public Broadcasting Atlanta. PBA which is owned by AtlantaPublic Schools has PBA/30 on TV and 90.1 WABF on the FM dial. Wonya has worked at senior levels of Turner Broad-casting, CNN, the Weather Channel, Discovery Communica-tions and TV One. She understands and is passionate aboutbranding media. By the way, she’s the daughter of Circle-LetRubye Lucas. Kudos Wonya!!

Atlanta Chapter Welcomed the National Executive Committee

4

NBMBAA – Scholarship Endow-ment Fund Named in Honor ofCircle Audrey HinesNational Black MBA Association(NBMBAA) Board of Directors re-cently voted to establish the AudreyDillard Hines Leaders of Tomorrow(LOT) Scholarship Endowment Fund.This endowment will go towardssupporting LOT students in perpe-tuity. Audrey served on the Board of Directors for the NBM-BAA from 2005-2014 and served as the Board Chair (January2013-December 2014). Mars Incorporated, her employer whenI retired, became the first corporate sponsor to endorse LOTin 1992. From 1992 until 2004, Audrey was the liaison betweenMars and NBMBAA/LOT program. The official announcementof the Audrey Dillard Hines LOT Scholarship EndowmentFund was made during the NBMBAA’s 45thAnniversary Celebra-tion on June 12, 2015 in Chicago. You make us proud, Audrey!

Gran Jan Trading Her White Coat for Burping ClothCircle-Let Janice Burnette has two new grandsons, her sonRobert and his wife gave birth to Robert, III on February 2,2015 and her daughter Candy also had a boy on May 21, 2015.Gran Jan now has a total of five grandchildren and is workingharder than ever. We now know why Jan is in Houston somuch. Congrats Gran Jan!!

2015 GraduatesOn Friday, May 22nd, at 10 am, Jordyn Walston, the daughter ofCircle-let Sonya and Mate, Gery Walston, graduated with honorsin the founding class of KIPP Atlanta Collegiate HighSchool. While attending KIPP Atlanta Collegiate, Jordyn partici-pated in a number of activities in her school and community todevelop her social, academic and leadership skills. A Spelhousebaby, Jordyn has decided to follow the tradition of her parents byaccepting a merit scholarship to attend Spelman College in the fallto pursue a degree in English and Philosophy. Their other child,Dean, also participated in the eighth grade bridging ceremony atKIPP Ways Academy Middle school. Dean excited to be matricu-lating to high school, will be attending Fulton Leadership Academyin the fall, an all-male high school with a focus on math and sci-ence. These children are the grandchildren of Circle-Let VyvyanDean and great grand’s of former National President DorothyColeman!

Lea and Steven Brooks proudly announce the graduation of theirdaughter Amira Brooks from KIPP Atlanta Collegiate HighSchool in Atlanta, GA as a part of the graduating class of 2015.Amira, who will be pursuing a Bachelor of Science in Biology atDillard University in New Orleans, LA, plans to become a veteri-narian. The Brooks family is also pleased that their youngest son,Joshua, will be enrolling at Church Farm School, a boarding schoollocated in Exton, Pennsylvania, beginning the Fall 2015 semester.Although they are becoming “empty nesters,” they are excitedabout their children’s future endeavors.

Baton Rouge By Vivian Broussard GuilloryWe Baton Rouge Chapter Circle-Lets welcomed the new clubyear and kicked off the Mardi Gras season in January at Porto-bello’s Restaurant and Grill. Mardi Gras decorations set thescene for Circle-Lets to show their fabulous favorite bling; furs,scarves, rings and fashion bling, bling! After great food, fun andfellowship, Hostess Carmen Jones gave each member a festiveMardi Gras magnet for posting notes that we each cherish!

On February 20th Circle Let Vivian Broussard Guillory and Cir-cle Mate JG Guillory celebrated the birth of their first grand-child, David Ryan Guillory, Jr. His parents are their son DavidRyan Guillory and Kodi Collins Guillory of Baton Rouge.

Our March meeting was “A Gathering of Talent” Paint andPinot party hosted by Circle Let Paula Kraft. As the photoshows, we had a great time, as usual! No Picasso’s here!

For our May meeting, hosted by Natalie Robinson, we met atCity Pork restaurant wearing our prettiest chapeau! The restau-ranteur was delighted to have us as their guests. What fun!

Wonya Lucas

Mardi Gras Celebration

Baton Rouge Circle-Lets Talented Artists

Baton Rouge Circle-Lets at May Meeting

Sending love and kisses to our Sisters in the Circle and hoping you all have a happy, healthy

and hot, hot summer! ***

Boston By Lynn Wells BowmanBoston is planning a Fantastic Voyage to commemorate our54th Circle-Let Conclave this summer. Circle-Lets andtheir mates are signing up and making plans to visit Bostonfrom July 16th to July 19th, 2015. The celebration will featureBoston’s long nautical heritage, our rich African Americanhistorical journey, a dine-around on Boston’s contemporarywaterfront and a Captain’s dinner that will make you thinkyou are sailing under the stars! Conclave 2015 WON’T besoon forgotten. WELCOME ABOARD!

While Boston Circle-Lets have been busy preparing for Con-clave and squeezing in a few hours of work here and there, ourchildren have been making moves in their respective fields. Weare so proud of them all!

Circle-Let Tracy West reports that her son, Nicholas was justpublished in Medicine Journal, regarding his lab’s AIDS re-search/findings. He is working at HHMI, in Maryland. Thissummer Nick will be in Switzerland, at a medical research labfocused on African Sleeping Disease. Tracy’s daughter Allysonjust finished her first year at Emma Willard and loved it. She islooking forward to visiting her brother in Switzerland and alsovisiting Italy, this summer. Allyson will return to school asPresident of EW Drama Club.

Circle-Let Gloria Respress-Churchwell and husband, Dr.Kevin Churchwell, are pleased to announce the graduationsof their children - Katherine Churchwell from Boston College(will pursue her Masters of Public Heath) and Arthur Church-well from St. John’s Prep High School (will attend Bates Col-lege majoring in Economics and minoring in Political Science).

Circle Let Lisa Simmons, President and Co-founder of TheColor of Film Collective announces the The 17th Annual Rox-bury International Film Festival (RIFF), New England’s largestfilm festival dedicated to celebrating people of color, pre-mieres Wednesday, June 17, 2015 and runs through SundayJune 28th. Presented by The Color of Film Collaborative, RIFFwill screen more than 45 films including features, shorts, doc-umentaries and youth-produced works over the course of 11days. We are so proud of her work in the film industry and inthe Boston community!

Looking forward to hosting everyone in Boston!

5

Columbus By Felicia ClaytonThe Passing of a Former National Circle-Let PresidentFormer National President of theCircle-Lets, Inc. Mildred LynnChavous, of Columbus Ohio pass-ed away on Saturday, February 14,2015 at age 90. Mildred loved beinga Circle-Let, hosting fun meetings and attending every con-clave with so much enthusiasm. She was a charter member ofColumbus chapter of Circle-Lets and over the years served inevery leadership roles.

Mildred was a Platinum Member of The Links Inc. and helpedto start the Twin Rivers Chapter as a charter member. Mildredserved many years as Director of Graduate Services for TheOhio State University, which honored her with the Distin-guished Service Award in 2009. Additionally, she served as amember of the League of Women Voters. Always, an avidreader, Mildred was an active member in several book clubs.

Her beloved husband Circle-Mate Jarret Chavous predeceasedMildred. He was an active Circle-Mate joining Mildred at con-claves far and near. Mildred was close friends with many Cir-cle-Lets across the country and will always be remembered.

GRADUATION ANNOUNCEMENT

Circle-Let Ingrid and Circle-Mate Harvey Brownlee announcethe high school graduation of their son, Jordan. Jordan will at-tend Hampton University in the Fall.

Houston-GalvestonBy Carmen CollinsCircle-Let Anita Bunkley was aguest lecturer at Arizona StateUniversity’s Desert NightsCreative Writing Conference,lecturing on Writing HistoricalFiction.

Circle-Let Diane Mayes andCircle-Mate James Mayes cel-ebrated the marriage of theirdaughter Ashley Nicole toJonathan Guice on May 2,2015. More than 350 guestswitnessed the beautiful wed-ding ceremony, followed by alavish, black tie reception atThe Hobby Center for Per-forming Arts.

Arthur Churwell Kathyrn Churwell

Circle-Let Mildred Lynn Chavous

6

Los AngelesBy Cosetta Moore and Gia M. RamosPresident Pamela Suzette Gray hosted our May meeting at the beautiful Peninsula Hotel in Beverly Hills. The table wasdecorated with gorgeous floral centerpieces and not only waseach course delicious, they were also stunningly presented, especially the desserts! Each member left the meeting with agift in hand - “The Joyous Gift of Friendship” filled with quotesabout friendship. In addition to being modest and soft-spoken,Pamela Suzette is extraordinarily thoughtful and we all treas-ure her, her friendship and her leadership.

Circle-Let Michelé Minnix and Circle-Mate Zelber went ontheir perennial vacation cruise this past February. Their cruise took them along the California coast stopping in SanFrancisco, Santa Barbara, San Diego and Ensenada, Mexico. A fun time was had by all.

Circle-Let Phyllis Fields thanks everyone for their concern,cards and well wishes during this stressful time on the passingof her mother, Bulah V. Mickens, who lived a long and glorious105 years.

Circle-Let Dr. Chrystal Evans Bowman is working with the Los Angeles County of Mental Health in a welfare-to-workprogram that has achieved a 43% success rate (and growing)!

Circle-Let Harriet Rose recently returned from Dubai, a coun-try she encourages everyone to visit. There is so much to learnabout the Middle East and their culture; and travel to that partof the world will certainly broaden anyone’s outlook. She andCircle-Mate Bob are currently planning a trip to Russia.

Circle-Lets Gia Ramos and Jocelyn Smith will represent WestL.A. as Delegate and Alternate, respectively, in Boston this sum-mer. They are looking forward to seeing the city sites, theAfrican-American museum, shopping and eating delicious food.

Los Angeles Circle-Lets SpotlightCircle-Let Pamela Suzette Gray

Joined Circle-Lets in 2001

Birthday: June 18

Birth City: Los Angeles

Education: Dorsey High School, UC Irvine

Vocation: Academic Counselor, University High

E-mail: butterfliesandribbons@yahoo.com

Spotlight: She loves to travel and shop and owns over a 100leather good items, including several pairs of kid gloves andhandbags. She hosts an annual “Pink Party” fundraiser forcancer awareness in honor of her mother, Doris, who passedaway from Breast Cancer. The last fundraiser was a grand affairheld at the elegant Mr. C Hotel in Beverly Hills.

Metropolitan Hilton HeadBy Bonnie HawkinsEarlier this year, Hilton Head Circle-Lets held a Girls Day Out!We visited the Gullah Art Exhibit which is an annual eventsponsored by the Art League of Hilton Head. There were Gul-lah-inspired paintings, jewelry and artifacts from a number ofwell-renowned artists on display and for sale. Our own, Circle-Let Marie Lewis, provided her artwork for display. The Art Ex-hibit is part of a month long celebration which showcases thecultural heritage of the Gullah people. Other Circle-Lets par-ticipated in the events by volunteering to help with the sale ofart work in the gallery. Rounding out the day of Girls Day Out,we enjoyed a lovely lunch at a local restaurant on the marina.

My! How we love our golf. We especially like to combine play-ing with visiting new and exciting places. Circle-Let BonnieHawkins and her golfing partner traveled to beautiful AmeliaIsland FL to participate in a Women’s League Golf Tourna-ment. The League is involved in raising money to benefit theHilton Head Hospital Nurses Scholarship program as well asproviding competitive golf for ladies in the area. Bonnie andher partner won first place in their flight after two consecutivedays of playing. In April, Circle-Lets Betty McMillion and Bonnie Hawkins with their Mates, Jeffery McMillion and RayHawkins, traveled to Palm Coast FL’s beautiful HammockBeach Resort to participate in a three day golf tournament.This tournament was just for “fun in the sun”. At the end ofthe event both couples won prizes. But, even more importantthan the prizes was the camaraderie with old and new friendsand the opportunity to experience the breathtaking views of nature and the Atlantic Ocean while playing.

Circle-Let Effie Moon and Circle-Mate Thurman Moon combined their love of adventure and travel with the excite-

Los Angeles Circle-Lets’ May Meeting

Circle-Let Pamela Suzette Gray

continued on page 7

7

ment of visiting with family. In May, they drove across countryfrom Bluffton SC to Phoenix AZ with some interesting stopsalong the way. The main reason for their trip was to see theirgrandson graduate high school and visit with family andfriends.

Circle-Let Janet Thomas and her niece traveled to San Diegoover the Memorial Day weekend to visit her nephew and hisfamily. Then they traveled on to Honolulu to visit anothernephew and his family for his daughter’s graduation fromhigh school. Both nephews are proudly serving in the military.

NashvilleSubmitted by Kimberly WattsNashville Circle-Lets keep the fun alive in their Circle by having fun parties such as the 1970’s theme party help atNashville chapter president Simone Sheats, lovely home.Members enjoyed a wonderful poolside evening full of 70’sdisco music, great food and the camaraderie of Circle-Lets andCircle-Mates. They sported their Afro wigs, dashikis, bell bottoms and memories of the 70s.

New Jersey By Circle-Let Bea JonesGreetings from the New Jersey Chapter! This has been extraordinary year filled with travel, awards, and family.

Circle-let, Siobhan A. Teare was a speaker on a panel entitled “Bail Reform” at the New Jersey State Bar Mid-YearConference which was held in Paris, France at the LeGrand,Intercontinental Hotel. Circle-let Teare is a Superior CourtJudge in Essex County New Jersey and currently sits in thecriminal division.

Before traveling to Paris, she visited Barcelona, Spain, whereshe took in great jazz, wonderful architecture, great food andsangria and fantastic shopping.

While in France Circle-let Teare took in the many sites and sounds ( more jazz! ) of the city. The highlight of the trip was going on the Black Paris Tour, where among otherthings see saw three statues erected that are dedicated to the Dumas family.

She also learned: The Grandson of General DuMas was a greatplaywright from which the opera LaTraviata was adopted.

Congratulations on a new addition to the family - Circle-Let Bahiyyah Abdullah will welcome her fifth grandchild in late October/early November. This will be thefirst child of her son Muhammad and his wife Lisa.

NEW ORLEANSBy Linda D. FrederickGreetings from the New Orleans Chapter ofCircle – Lets, Inc.Circle - Let Monique Barial Careywas elected Judge “DomesticCourt” Civil District Court of NewOrleans on December 6, 2014 and officially took the bench on December 22, 2014.

Circle - Let Beverly StantonMcKenna, Tribune founder andpublisher was honored on Sunday,May 17, at the 2015 Asante CrystalAwards. The Asante FoundationAwards and Festival is a celebra-tion of the pinnacles of the African descendant’s creativity. McKennaconsiders her greatest professionalachievement to be the guiding andoverseeing of McKenna Publish-

ing Company. Along with Dr. Dwight McKenna, BeverlyMcKenna founded McKenna Publishing Company 30 years

continued on page 8

Judge Monique Barial Carey

Beverly Stanton McKenna

“NashvilleCelebrates

the 70’s”

8

continued on page 9

ago and began publishing The New Orleans Tribune. Since 1985,the company has grown to include The New Orleans BlackBook,a directory of Black-owned businesses; Welcome magazine, aguide to New Orleans for Black tourists, an e-newsletter righton time!, as well as websites for its publication. For threedecades, The New Orleans Tribune has captured in print the veryessence of a people and has covered the achievements andcontributions of Black New Orleanians, articulated theirdreams and aspirations, and provided an alternative perspec-tive on the issues and policies that impact African Americansin New Orleans and around the country as well. Under BeverlyMcKenna’s guidance, The New Orleans Tribune has strived tobe the voice of integrity and advocacy for “our” community.Her most recent project has been the development of a historichouse museum, which commemorates the achievements, andcontributions of free people of African descent in New Orleansand the nation. Le Musee’ de f.p.c. is said to be the only at-traction dedicated exclusively to preserving the material of freepeople of color in the country. (Article written by A. Brown,Tribune)

Circle - Let Rhesa McDonald congratulates her Circle -mate, daughter, sons and daughter-in-law on their many ac-complishments.

Circle - Mate Alden McDonald, Jr. received an honorary degreefrom Dillard University

Daughter, Circle - Let Heidi McDonald Smith (Houston Chap-ter), was promoted to Executive Director of First Year Experi-ence at Lone Star College

Son, Dr. Alden J. Mc Donald, III is president elect of the Amer-ican Heart Association for the Bay area

Son, Todd Ortique McDonald and daughter-in-law Crystal arefounders of GoTo Interview, an on-line employment service,were awarded a startup investment for their company fromSteve Case, co-founder of AOL.com

Circle – Let Linda D. Frederickwishes to congratulate her sonBlair Frederick, who was recentlyawarded the “Most ValuablePitcher” and “Most ValuablePlayer” awards at the 2015Brother Martin Baseball convo-cation, which took place on May18, 2015. Blair was selected tothe All District and All Metroteams. He is a junior at BrotherMartin High School in New Or-leans, LA and is a left handedpitcher, centerfielder and has a batting average of .327. Blairalso verbally committed to theLouisiana State University (LSU)Baseball Program.

Circle – Let Julie F. Vaucressonshares the accomplishments of herdaughter Hilary Vaucresson, amember of the Uptown MusicTheater of New Orleans. Shecompeted in January, 2015 at theJunior Theater Festival in Atlanta,Georgia, where she was awardedthe All-star Cast designation forperforming the role of Jasminefrom Disney’s Aladdin. Hilary alsotraveled to New York City in Feb-ruary, 2015 to premiere a piece at the American Museum ofNatural History written and composed by Delfeayo Marsalisfor the museum’s Annual Black History Month Celebration.

Passing of Two New Orleans Circle – Let Sisters

Circle – Let Janet Alma Stanton Coleman passedaway on November 2, 2014 and Circle – Let DeborahAnne Pratt-Haynes passed on October 20, 2014.

Please keep your New Orleans sisters in your prayers.

New YorkBy Beverly GrangerThe New York CircleLets are happy to have installed four newmembers to our chapter. DeJeanne Abdur-Rahim, daughterof Denise Walcott, saw how much fun we had and decidedto join us. We are also happy to welcome Sheryl Taylor, Car-men Hughes, and Georgette Williams. We are all lookingforward to getting to know them and embracing them into thesisterhood.

Our intrepid travelers are still circling the globe. Denise andDennis Walcott have returned from their year long stay inBarbados. Denise attended our monthly meeting via Skypewhile they were gone. Circle Mate Hamil Willoughby is onceagain preparing for his journey to Madagascar with studentsfrom the dental school at SUNY StonyBrook where they pro-vide care to the children of the region. Gay Bullock and Cir-cleMate Mel Douglaswent to Brazil to visit Gay’s twin brotherand his family. They enjoyed the summer weather here whilewe all were in the horrible winter storms. New member De-Jeanne Abdur-Rahim has been to India, Morocco, and Bar-bados since getting married in June 2014. Carol DixonWoolfolk frequently goes to Panama where she and husbandMal plan to build a home. They are also planning a trip toCosta Rica. BrendaJena Prothro, Darri Willoughby, LisaHudgins, Carmen Hughes, Racquel Oden, Gay Bullock,and Beverly Granger enjoyed several days in Palm Springs ata Guardsmen Weekend. The poolside area looked almost likea mini CircleLets Conclave since there were members frommany chapters there enjoying the sunshine. Beverly Grangerand husband Al Cuyjet visited Seattle before heading to Palm

Blair Frederick

Hilary Vaucresson

9

continued on page 10

Springs. They were able to give travel tips to Margaret GriffithMiles and husband David who went to Seattle shortly aftertheir return. Margaret and David went from Seattle to Vancou-ver to explore that beautiful area.

Kerri Willoughby Jackson has accepted a position withCharles David shoes as a Senior Account Executive coveringthe East Coast to Midwest Territory. It’s not surprising to seethat she is always wearing fashionable shoes! BeverlyGranger has retired from her dental practice and is pursuingher interest in creating pottery. Her work is available at theLoaves and Fishes Cookshop, and she hopes to get a websiteup and running soon.

Our children continue to bring us pride and joy. Lisa Hudginsis thrilled that daughter Eva is finishing U Penn Medical Schooland will be pursuing a specialty in Dermatology at NorthShore LIJ Hospital here in New York. They have been busy withpreparations for son Randall’s wedding that was held at theirstunning waterfront home in Southampton. Margaret Grif-fith Miles’ daughter Ashley will be attending Stanford Grad-uate School of Business on a full scholarship. Chukym(Candy) Alexis-Johnson’s daughter will be attending KeukaCollege in the fall. Raquel Oden’s daughter Ashley has beenaccepted to Lawrenceville Academy.

We are looking forward to seeing our CircleLets sisters fromacross the country at the conclave in Boston!

PHILADELPHIABy Deborah Chew James and Nancy Jean SewellGreetings from the Philadelphia Chapter of Circle-Lets, Inc.

Each member leaves her own mark on a chapter. We’re remembering the spirit of former member ValerieRainey Wingate, who transitioned in late May this year.She was a lifelong friend of many of us, particularly the charter members and the daughters. She had an open smile, kind loving heart, was quick of wit and direct with her advice and comment. After spending her last years on the Vineyard, under the loving care of her daughter Robyn, she slipped off to party with

those that have gone before. Cheers Val!

Our Circle-Lets and their families are reaching milestones and doing great things.

Johanna Booth, daughter of Circle-Let Sandy Booth andCircle-Mate Christopher Booth, graduated from German-town Friends School. Tennis is her passion. Johanna had sev-eral offers from Division One programs but chose AmherstCollege (Division Three) as a better academic fit. She’ll addher talent to their varsity team while studying Media Arts.

Kathryn L. Nunes, daughter of Circle-Let and LindaWhite Nunes and Circle-Mate Frederick Nunes, gradu-ated from Germantown Academy. She’s headed to HarvardUniversity.

Christopher Stephens, son of Circle-Let Linda Stephensand Circle-Mate Darryl Stephens, graduated from AlbrightCollege having majored in Communications. He was startingcornerback on the Albright Lions Football Team for threeyears. His accolades include: Defensive Back of the Year, threetime Middle Atlantic Conference (MAC) Defensive Back and in senior year his teammates awarded him the title ofCaptain. In late summer Christopher begins a post-graduateinternship with the NFL NFC-East Philadelphia Eagles.

Sierra Smith, grand-daughter of Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh,advanced to upper school at Springside Chestnut Hill Academy.She’s spending the summer in China with a classmate.

Mary Nicole Miller, grand-daughter of Circle-Let Mary “Bunny” Hughes, graduated from Syracuse University having majored in psychology. She’ll beworking for Teach NYC.

William Baugh, senior at New York University (NYU) and grand-son of Circle-Let Wilfreta Baugh, is studyingclassical voice in France this summer.

Julianna Smith, grand-daughter of Circle-Let WilfretaBaugh, is an ambassador with People to People Internationaltraveling in Japan.

Circle-Let Renee Allen, retired from the School District of Philadelphia after 23 years. Renee is nationally board certified.

Circle-Let Nancy Jean Sewell is busy recording withthe lead ensemble of the St. Thomas Gospel Choir as theycomplete their fourth CD/ED soon to be released.

Circle-Let Bunny Hughes traveled again with her daughterBrenda & son-in-law Marcus Miller (bassist extraordinaire)on The Smooth Jazz Cruise.

Circle-Let Jo Ann Williams Bradley traveled to Nashville,TN meeting up with fellow Fisk University alumni tocelebrate their 60th Class Reunion. Amidst exhibits, concerts,special luncheons, cocktail parties and dinners they enjoyedcatching up with each other’s lives while reminiscing aboutgood times shared across the years. All were impressed to seethe progress Fisk has made.

Circle-Let Jo Ann and her son bumped into Circle-LetWilhelmina Jackson and Circle-Mate Jarrett Jackson atthe Montreal Jazz Festival. They not only heard great musicby talented artists but found time to meet for dinner andgood conversation.

Congratulations and kudos to them all. We wish them well!

10

Socializing outside the monthly meetings we gathered at“Painting With A Twist” to show off our painterly skills. Webrought snacks and cocktails to ensure a good result. Thesmiles in our pictures are proof the plan worked.

Philadelphia Circle-Lets Artists Lunching and Enjoying the Philadelphia Circle of Friends

Paris Bistro welcomed us with open arms for our annual springluncheon. We shared food and fun as we remembered the activities of the year and spoke about our plans for the next.

Everyone’s looking forward to Conclave in Boston and reconnecting with our wider “circle of sisters”. Can’t wait!!

PITTSBURGHBy Gloria M. WaltonCircle-Let Andrea Mahone and Circle-Mate Glencertainly had events to celebrate this spring. Their youngerson, Jon Mahone, has a band, Riders Against the Storm, andit has been named Top Band in Austin, TX for the secondyear. The band’s music has been featured on the televisionshow, The Good Wife, and in HGTV’s promo spots. In addi-tion to that, their daughter-in-law, Denise Mahone, receivedher Ph.D. in Clinical Psychology from Duquesne University,Pittsburgh, PA. Denise is currently a practicing psychologistat Allegheny General Hospital in Pittsburgh.

Circle-Let Karen White’s son-in-law, famed jazz musicianSean Jones, was named Chairman of the Brass Departmentat Berklee College of Music in Boston. Berklee is the largestindependent college of contemporary music in the world.Karen was quite relieved when daughter Stacey and Seansurvived the terrible Boston winter of 2014, which was theirfirst in the city.

Circle-Let Margaret Burley and Circle-Mate Thomas’daughter, Janis Burley Wilson, is busily organizing her 5thPittsburgh JazzLive International Festival scheduled for June19-21, 2015. Since the Festival’s inception, it has grown exponentially under her leadership. Janis says it has an “established reputation as a laid-back, intimate and invitingweekend of incredible live music, dancing in the street and a jazz ‘hang’ unrivaled among festivals of oursize.” Musicians and artists come from a variety of sites to

eagerly participate. The downtown area becomes a site ofcelebration! Janis B. Wilson serves as VP, Education/Com-munity Engagement - Director of Jazz Programs for thePittsburgh Cultural Trust.

On a final sad note, Circle-Let Rose Eleanor Jones Scott,a native of Pittsburgh, and longtime resident of Hot SpringsVillage, AR, passed away at her home on Monday, April 6,2015. She was a charter member of the Pittsburgh Chapter.While not physically present in Pittsburgh for a number ofyears, she remained committed to her Pittsburgh friendsand the chapter. Born August 5, 1928, Rose graduated fromPeabody High School in Pittsburgh where she was a mem-ber of the National Honor Society. She then graduated fromHoward University in Washington D.C. with a Bachelor ofScience degree in Psychology, and completed a Master ofScience degree in Education at the University of Pittsburgh.She was employed as an Assistant Manager for PittsburghPublic Housing for 10 years. She later worked at the Uni-versity of Pittsburgh, spending two years with the NationalScience Foundation to evaluate research training for medicalstudents, followed by eight years in the Office of the Chan-cellor, evaluating various educational programs at the university. Rose is survived by her husband of 62 years, Circle-Mate Donald E. Scott. They loved to travel together,visiting Spain, Canada, and Mexico. Circle-Mate Donaldrequested that memorial donations be made to the HolyTrinity Endowment Fund, 199 Barcelona Road, Hot SpringsVillage, AR 71909.

Roanoke By Linda M. MackCirclet-Let Sherrita Anthony Pennix , owner of Fusions Salon& Day Spa received 3 awards from the area newspaper. TheBronze award for Best Nail Salon, the Silver award for Best HairSalon, And Gold award for Best Place to be pampered.

On May 17, 2015, Circle-Let Sharon Lewis, received her Mas-ter’s in Professional Studies in Paralegal Studies, with a doubleminor in Litigation and Tort Law, from George Washington Uni-versity, in Washington DC. The University Commencement washeld on the National Mall where Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, wasthe commencement speaker.

Sarasota-BradentonBy M. Vicki WacksmanNUTURING THE CIRCLE The Sarasota-Bradenton Chapterstarted the year with a spiritually uplifting dinner-and programwhere members reflected upon strategies for nurturing the Cir-cle while moving forward in faith. The evening concluded withthe Circle-Lets and Mates attending a keynote address by Rev.Calvin Butts, Pastor of the Abyssinian Baptist Church (NY) andone of the nation’s most inspirational, intellectual and spiritualleaders. It was a great bonding experience for the members anda wonderful way to start the year.

DAUGHTERS IN THE LIMELIGHTS.

Congratulations to SHEMIN V. PROCTOR, daughter of Cir-cle-Let Joyce Locklear, who was recently named one of SavoyMagazine’s “2015 Most Influential Black Lawyers.” The Har-vard Law School Graduate is the Managing Partner of theWashington, DC office of Andrews Kurth and she divides hertime between the Washington and Houston offices. The U.S.Legal 500 hails her as “one of the leading energy regulatorylawyers in the United States and she was profiled on the cover-page of the fall 2014 edition of The Network Journal Magazineas being one of four “Attorneys at the Top” who have beatenwhat clearly are tremendous odds to make it to the top at lead-ing U.S. law firms. Hats off to Shemin and continued success.

11

A Circle-Lets’ Daughter Designs a Dress Worn byFirst Lady Michelle Obama

Only a privileged few will ever have the opportunity to go tothe White House and personally meet and greet the FirstLady. Hence, it is easy to understand why the occasion wasso extra special for Circle-Let Delores Berrien. Last October,First Lady Michelle Obama hosted top Fashion Designers inthe field, at the White House . Among the guests were De-signer Laura Smalls, and her mother (Circle-Let) DoloresBerrien. Laura Smalls has made several dresses for the FirstLady in the past two years.

The day included a workshop for High School students fromvarious states during the day and a cocktail reception forthe Designers in the early evening. The First Lady greetedeveryone personally and gave a speech at the close of thefestivities . The event was titled “Celebration of Design” ThePresident was away in California at that time. Delores saidshe was so very honored to meet the First Lady who was gra-cious beyond words. She was even more honored and proudof her daughter and her loving son-in-law who insisted thatshe share the honor with her daughter.

Shemin Proctor withMother, Circle-Let Joyce Locklear of Sarasota/Bradenton Chapter

Designer Laura Smallswith Mother, Circle-LetDelores Berrien of Sarasota/Bradenton

Chapter

12

West Los Angeles By Aurelia BrooksWest Los Angeles Chapter members have been relatively quiet these last few months other than going to meetings andsharing the latest local news.

We were saddened with the passing of Mitchell Perara, MD,husband of long time West Los Angeles Chapter member, JeanWolfe Perara. He was always ready with a joke, lots of fun tobe around and generally just a great man. He will be missedby all of us.

When Nikki DeBruhl Browder joinedCircle-lets a couple of years ago, she hadno idea that her classmate from FiskeUniversity was in the club. They had notseen each other in years and did notknow that each had ventured to the WestCoast. There was much exclaiming andcatching up after such a long time.Tweetye Carter, daughter of the late Bar-bara Carter, Boston Chapter, and Nikkiwere at Fiske in 1975. Just recently theybrought a photograph depicting the twoof them, looking rather like hippiesasthey were on their way to some campusevent. We are sharing that photo with theCircle in this issue. Today, slightly older,they are much more sophisticated in theirdress and are looking fantastic.

Joyce Gordon and her daughter, Kai,celebrated Kai’s appointment as Resource Specialist at the schoolwhere she has taught Special Education for many years. Joyce’slatest trip plans are on hold for themoment, but not for long. More onthat in the next issue.

Aurelia and Warren Brooks are quiteproud of two of their grandchildren,her daughter Lisa Washington’schildren, who graduated from highschool this June. They both receivedfull four year scholarships to college.Scotty will go to Wake Forest inNorth Carolina and Lena will go toHampton U. in Virginia. They are not only good students but are wellregarded athletes. Lena in Volley Balland Scotty in Football.

Lynn Truit is happy that her husband has deployed from theAir Force where he had been on assignment in Germany forfive months. She was able to visit him there and they had theopportunity to tour Prague and parts of Czechoslovakia. They

are planning a family trip to Roatan, Honduras, the Caribbeanside, this summer for a little swimming with the dolphins andsurfing.

We look forward to seeing you at the Boston Conclave.

Washington, DC By Leslie FieldsThe Duke Family of Circle-Lets Celebrate 2 Graduates

Congratulations to Malik Roberts, son of Circle-Let Lori Dukeand Circle-Mate Scott Roberts and Grandson of Circle-LetDolores Duke who graduated from Wilson High School inJune. He will study engineering at the University of Pittsburgh.His sister, Jasmine Roberts, graduated from Deal MiddleSchool and received the Scholar Athlete award for her achieve-ments in academics, basketball, and soccer.

The Duke family is looking for-ward to celebrating the 1stbirthday of their daughter, AnaVictoria, who is seen in thephoto with Circle-Let Ivy, herhusband Circle-Mate Robey,and son Ian.

Circle-Lets Nikki &Tweetye 1972 Fisk Univ.

Circle-Let Joyce and Kai

Graduate Malik Roberts Graduate Jasmine Roberts

13

Technology Update: Circle-lets website goes live!Stephanie Browne (Boston) - Technology Chair

Circle-Lets website has been launched!!! Go to: www. circleletsinc.org

A great resource for improving our efficiency and connecting with Circle-Lets. Thanks to the Technology Committee led by Stephanie Browne (Boston) for moving us forward in technology.

Updates:Profiles. Add a picture to your profile. Validate and keep your profile current

to ensure that you receive all pertinent mass mailed information.

Contact the mailbox if you have problems or questions about updating your profile. Info@circleletsinc.org

Annual membership database updates.When these reports are requested by our national financial secretary in November, they will be processed online. Handwritten documents will not be accepted when completing the chapter database reports. Our annual membership payments

will be handled the same as in past years by mailing in payments.

Conclave Registrations. The Boston Chapter reports great success with the online membership registration. Although, registrations could be mailed, many opted for registering and paying online.

For the Conclave hosting chapter, this resource’s availability enhances communication and planning.

Cross Country Currents. Info from the CCC will be posted in key sections of the website to highlight significant events and accomplishments.

The Circle-Lets Demographic/Sustainability Survey Results are in!!!

Thanks to chapters for your responses. Kimberly Watts, Committee Chair, will present the findings at the 2015 Conclave business meeting.

Also, the results will be posted online atwww.circleletsinc.org

14

Thanks Greta for Your Leadership and Friendship

Yours in the Circle, the Executive Committee

At the Boston conclave, we will continue our tradition of electing new officers after a two year term. The current executive officers would like to thank President, Greta Russell, 27th President, for her lead-

ership, dedication and friendship over the past two years. Greta leaves a strong legacy towards helping ourCircle of Friendship move forward and remain alive.

A few memories of the past 2 years as Greta becomes a member of the wonderful former Circle-Let Presidents.Please share your memories and thoughts with Greta, too.

How can we adequately say “thank you” to the Circle-Let who has been at the helm ofthis organization for the past two years, serving as the “conductor” of the Executive Com-mittee, helping us “play” our parts in this wonderful orchestra? Although these wordsare simple, they are very heartfelt . . . we love you and thank you for all you’ve done forthe betterment of Circle-Lets!! Kim (Vice President)

Greta, it has been a pleasure workingwith you. You have an eye of a hawk anda heart of gold. LaRoyce (Treasurer)

Greta has been a fabulous leader! She has been a trailblazer and attentive toall of the technology committee’s needs and instrumental in championingour move to a more digital organization. This is the legacy she leaves. Stephanie (Recording Secretary)

Thank you Circle-Let Greta for you vote ofconfidence and friendship by allowing meto serve as your National CorrespondingSecretary. It has been truly a pleasure toserve the members of Circle-Lets, Inc.during your administration.Darlene (Corresponding Secretary)

Greta has been an excellent National President. I have enjoyed working with you over the past 2 years. I wish you well! Well Done, Madam President! P.S. – thanks for letting me hang out with you in Columbus! Linda (National Financial Secretary)

Greta, thanks for all of your support andfriendship. You were truly a dedicated Circle-Let President. This was so clear to me whenyou would respond while on your vacationsoutside of the country to my emails.Wilhelmina (Cross Country Currents Editor)

First of all I would like to thank Greta for her outstanding dedication and commitmentto Circle-Lets. You have set the standard of leadership for the organizations membersand future presidents. We appreciate your ability to remain calm, cool, and collected.Greta, you are awesome! Michele (Parliamentarian)

It has been my pleasure toserve as the Budget Chair onthe Executive Board committeefor Circle-Let’s, Inc. during yourtenure as National President. Ithas been an honor to work soclosely with you. I wish you thebest of luck and look forward toour continuing friendship. Arnetta (Budget Committee)

My fondest memory of Greta was during the conclave in San Francisco and she hadnot been installed yet for National President. Greta had to explained the purposeof the Life Time Member. Her Famous quote “Either you are Circle-Let or not”.

I think everyone who left that business meeting new the difference. Jackki (Jewelry & Vendors)

President Greta, “Your leadership and sisterly support have been outstanding.”Yvonne (Website Committee)

15

A few memorable moments fromGreta’s Presidency in Pictures

Pittsburgh 50 Anniversary celebration

Greta Surrounded by her Columbus Circle-Let Sisters

Greta and Yvonne enjoying the Dallas Conclave luncheon

Enid and Greta at the Dallas ConclaveGreta with Past Circle-Let Presidents

16

IN MEMORIAMWe remember the following Circle-Lets Sisters and Circle-Mates with love:

Circle-MateDr. Lawrence Edward Paxton (Los Angeles Valley) September 14, 2014

Circle-LetDeborah Hayes (New Orleans) October 20, 2014

Circle-Let Janet Coleman (New Orleans) November 2, 2014

Circle-Mate Dr. Mitchell Perara (West Los Angeles) February 17, 2015

Circle-Let Ruth Fiuczynski (New Jersey) February 24, 2015

Circle-Mate John David Attaway (Washington, D.C.) April 1, 2015

Circle-Let Jewel Johnson (St. Louis) April 2, 2015

Circle-Let Rose Jones Scott (Pittsburgh) April 5, 2015

Circle-MateGerald (Jerry) Truehart (Sarasota/Bradenton) July 3, 2015

Cross Country Currents Chapter Representatives, Please send your articles and pictures to:

Circle-Let Wilhelmina Jackson (Philadelphia Chapter) Wilhel4@aol.com

Deadline for the Winter 2016 Conclave issue is January 6, 2016