advantage - vol 1 issue 2
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e-EditionTRANSCRIPT
Volume 1 Isssue 2
Serving chapters in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Mississippi, South Carolina and The Bahamas
An E-Publication from the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated - Eneid A. Francis, Southern Area Director
Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service
ADVANTAGEThe Southern AreaThe Southern Area
* Cover photo: Magic City Chapter President Link Deborah Byrd Walker (left) with actress Robin Givens at the chapter’s artistic acting project.
In Her FootstepsLessons in leadership from Link Julia Brogdon Purnell
Page 4
SOLACEThe new assistance network
of the Southern AreaPage 5
Breast Cancer at a GlancePage 6
Focus on FacetsPage 8
Executive Committee Meets to Strategize Southern Area Agenda
Page 15
AfricanAmericans Needed in Technology
Page 16
Southern Area Chapters Making a Difference
Starts on Page 17
In MemoriamRemembering those we’ve lost
Page 18
Links Enter National Black College Hall of Fame
Page 24
Bouquets and Best WishesPage 26
Resources and OpportunitiesPage 28
Committee DirectoryPage 29
Be in The Advantage!Page 30
inside this issueinside this issue
2
Dear Link Sisters,
On behalf of the Southern Area Executive Committee, we hope you enjoyed the firstissue of the Advantage. We received positive responses from across the Southern Area .As we embark on our second issue, I ask you to use it as a source of information.
Chapters have now begun implementing their program initiatives. The first Advan-tage issue unveiled the Southern Area’s program initiative, which in-
tegrates mentoring with STEM introduced through artsintegration. This month, we continue to showcase our focus
on programming. Looking at the subject of mentoring, traditionally we think
of children and adults. However, mentoring relationships encompass any relationship where one individual acts as anadvisor or consultant to another. Therefore, mentoringspans the scope of relationships regardless of age, class,gender and socio-economic status.Within our chapters, we often have the opportunity to
mentor each other. Perhaps its sisterly advice, or taking ayounger Link under our wing. Maybe an Alumna memberneeds help becoming technologically compliant, or a newlyinducted member could benefit from learning more about
the culture Linkdom. Whatever the scenario, mentoring begins at home.As we continue to impact the lives of our youth, let’s not forget to reach out to one
another. The same genuine attention generated through our mentoring relationshipscan be modeled first by the love we have for our Link sisters. Before we can sincerely
recruit and encourage others to inspire and mentor, we must first lead by example.I am always available to each member of the Southern Area. It is always a pleasure to
hear your ideas, suggestions and goals. Together, we will Effect Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service.
In the spirit of sisterhood,
_|Ç~ XÇx|w
Eneid A. FrancisSouthern Area Director
3
by Link Julia Brogdon Purnell 7th National President
7th Southern Area DirectorLeadership in The Links, Incorporated affords a wonderful opportunity to offer your talents
in service. I have had the distinct pleasure of serving this organization for two terms each
as Chapter President, Southern Area Director, and National President. I would like to en-
courage my Sister Links to pursue leadership positions in our great organization. The
Scott Hawkins Leadership Institute is a fabulous opportunity to prepare our younger
members for the experience.
Effective leadership requires strong guiding principles such as spirituality, love,
friendship, faith, and prayer. I always try to live by the Golden Rule – “do unto othersas you would have them do unto you”. I was very fortunate to have a very supportive
husband during my tenures and two sisters who were also Links that were available
to assist me in any way that I needed. So, I tell everyone that aspires to be placed in
a leadership position that they should have a strong supporting cast on a personal
level and on your leadership team. It is very important to also have a mentor who
can help guide them with sage advice and sound direction.
The Southern Area has been very good to me, support I am still grateful for to
this day. It helped sustain me as my administration set out to add structure and
formalize certain processes within the operations of The Links, Incorporated.
While in leadership, we developed more than 10 documents as guidelines and man-
uals and also revised the National Constitution and Rituals. We sought to “Im-
prove the Quality of Linkdom” through the organizing of information. On the
other hand, my most difficult issue as National President was the opposition that
new chapters had to face. One situation actually resulted in a lawsuit requiring me
to represent the organization in court. We won the case and went on to form two
chapters that are still very strong, productive chapters today.
As we approach our 65th anniversary celebration, I reflect on our founders, Link
Margaret Roselle Hawkins and Link Sarah Strickland Scott. I think they would be
very pleased and proud of the current state of The Links, Incorporated. The service
that is being performed is outstanding and the focus on health is vi-
sionary. I believe they would urge us to keep friendship at the fore-
front of our interactions with each other. We should remember that
during our membership intake process. There’s power in knowing
what type of friend a potential new member is before inviting her into
our organization.
My Sister Links should remain focused on “Linking Friendship To-
gether”. With friendship as our foundation, we can continue to enrich
and impact our communities for the next 65 years. The sky truly is the
limit!
Link Julia Brogdon Purnell
In Her Footsteps
Lessons in Leadership
4
The 18th Southern Area Administration proudly introduces SOLACE
S O L A C ES O L A C ESupport 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.
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 com-
munications, will then send a confidential e-blast across the Area requesting mem-bers for assistance.
3. The donor(s) will then be connected to the Link in need. Assistance can rangefrom donating hotel points, airline miles, arranging appointments for medical treat-ment, donating blood, providing financial assistance to sending words of support orcards.
S
ECALO
Visit the salinksinc.organd click on SOLACE
Technology Chair anonymouslyblasts your need to our sisters
You are connected withyour voluntary donors
Florida - Georgia Bahamas -North CarolinaLouisiana - Mississippi-
South Carolina - Alabama
Support
of
Encouraged
Concern
All
Links
5
What Is Breast Cancer ?Breast cancer is a malignant growth or tumor that frequently begins to man-
ifest in the milk ducts or lobules of either breast. Breast cancer can be divided into two groups: invasive and non-invasive can-
cers. Non-invasive breast cancers are also called “carcinoma in situ” and aregenerally confined to the duct areas without affecting surrounding tissue. Non-invasive breast cancers can be subcategorized as “ductal carcinoma in situ”(DCIS) and “lobular carcinoma in situ” (LCIS). LCIS is actually not considereda cancer, per se. Rather, it is seen as a warning sign that can potentially leadto invasive cancer when undetected. Invasive breast cancers may develop in the lobules or ducts but then spread
into surrounding breast tissue, and can often further metastasize to the lungs,brain, liver, bones, and other major organs. Approximately 80% of invasivebreast cancers fall into the category of invasive ductal carcinoma.
Stages of Breast Cancer• Stage 0:. breast cancer is known as carcinoma in situ, the most common being DCIS,
DCIS, as described above. • Stage 1: Breast cancer signifies early invasive cancer in which the tumor has not spread
beyond the breast tissue and is no more than ¾ of an inch in diameter. • Stage 2: Breast cancer involves a tumor between ¾ of an inch and 2 inches in diameter
with some involvement of the local lymph nodes under the arm. • Stage 3: Breast cancer can involve a combination of various factors, including larger
tumor mass, involvement of lymph nodes behind the breast bone, tumor spread into thechest wall or skin of the breast, or under or above the collar bone. Stage 3 also may manifestas inflammatory breast cancer, a rare form of breast cancer wherein the breast becomesred and swollen due to the blockage of lymph vessels in the breast tissue and skin. • Stage 4: Breast cancer involves the spreading of the disease to other parts of the body
and distant organs, a process often referred to as metastasis.
ScreeningBreast self-exam (BSE) is an important part of self-screening for women of all ages, al-
though studies show that the percentage of women who practice regular monthly BSE isrelatively low. Mammograms are a very crucial aspect of breast cancer screening, and is still considered
the best method of early detection. Starting at the age of 35, annual mammograms are rec-ommended for all women, as well as an annual clinical breast exam by a qualified medicalprofessional.
MRIs of the breast are also utilized for special magnification views, yet mammograms re-main the gold standard for early detection.
TreatmentBreast cancer is generally treated with a combination of chemotherapy, hormonal therapy,
radiation, and surgery. Chemotherapy and hormonal treatments are systemic therapies that target cancer cells thathave traveled to areas of the body beyond the breast. Surgery and radiation are localizedtreatments focusing specifically on the breast tissue itself.
Breast cancer surgeries may be “breast conserving”, wherein “lumpectomies” and otherlocalized surgeries endeavor to conserve as much viable non-cancerous breast tissue aspossible. Mastectomies can involve the removal of a portion of the breast tissue and locallymph nodes, as well as radical surgery that encompasses the entire breast and portions of
the chest wall, when necessary.
Breast Cancer at a glanceOctober is
National Breast Cancer AwarenessMonth, and whilebreast cancer deserves our attention year-round,a national month ofrecognition servesto remind all Americans thatbreast cancer is adisease that impactswomen (and men) ofall ages, back-grounds, ethnicitiesand nationalities.
Breast cancer isthe most commoncancer among American women, as well as amongAfrican Americanwomen. And although breast cancer is the mostcommon cancer, itremains the secondleading cause ofcancer-related deathamong women behind cancer of the lungs.Very disturbing
disparities exist between Black andwhite women when it comes to breast cancer screening, diagnosis and survival, and thesesignificant differ-ences will be outlined in thisarticle.
6
Breast Cancer and African American Women: D i s t u r b i n g S t a t i s t i c s
Although African American women have a lower incidence of breast cancerthan their white counterparts, they actually have a higher risk of death from breast cancer, a statistic that scientists are still endeavoring to fully understand. Some studies have indicated that breast cancers grow more
rapidly in African American women and are less responsiveto hormone-based therapies. Other studies have alsodemonstrated that African American women tend to be diagnosed at later stages of the disease than white women, and various factors have been considered to explain this racial difference in diagnosis, including the fact that African American women undergo fewer mammograms. According to an article on the website of the Black
Women’s Health Imperative (www.blackwomenshealth.org), both insured black women and uninsured white women waittwice as long to receive “a definitive breast cancer diagnosis” than white women who are insured, and black women “waited twice as long as white patients to begin treatment after breast cancer diagnosis”.
Additionally, a study by the American Journal of PublicHealth found that African American women are less likely toreceive appropriate cancer treatment, a conclusion that callsfor greater advocacy and racial parity in screening, diagnosisand treatment. This is underscored by the fact that the 5-year survival rate from breast cancer among African American women is 69%, whereas the 5-year survival rate for white women is 84%, another disturbing racial differential.
Breast Cancer: Action Is Still NeededBreast cancer is still a very serious public health issue for American women, and
racial disparities regarding screening, diagnosis and treatment of breast cancerhave a significant negative impact upon African American women, and are indeeda cause for alarm, action and advocacy.
Breast self-exam, annual mammograms, and annual clinical breast exams are all important aspects of early detection that all women should undertake and advocate for on their own behalf.
Black women continue toBlack women continue tostruggle with breast cancerstruggle with breast cancer
7
Ment
oring
with
a
Twist
Ment
oring
with
a
Twist
Focuson
Facets
8
by Sharlyn SmithChair, International Trends
Welcome to InternationalTrends and Services 2011-2013!
The goals of the National In-ternational Trends and Serv-ices Facet are to develop
programs for chapters that provide humanitarianoutreach related to education, health care andbasic human needs for people from developing na-tions who are of African descent; to provide advo-
cacy on behalf of people from developing nationsof African descent who are oppressed or victim-ized; and to promote global awareness among theyouth that we mentor.
In the Southern Area, for the next two years, wewill seek to realize these goals by focusing on theisland nation of Haiti. By integrating and augment-ing several of our national program initiatives,chapters in the Southern Area will have the powerto effect changes in the lives of Haitians.
The 2010 earthquake in the island nation exas-perated an already dire humanitarian situation.Women and girls were left without the personal ne-cessities for feminine hygiene. The “Links to Haiti”program is designed to deliver “Survival Kits” to
women and girls of Haiti. The Survival Kits providea means for Links to directly improve the overalllives of Haitian women and girls by meeting basichumanitarian needs and providing sustainable as-sistance.
Through this program, The Links, Incorporatedwill display its solidarity with the United Nationsand its call for gender equality and empowermentfor females in Haiti.
The program emphasis in the Southern Area fo-cuses on youth. We are also considering a pro-gram that will fill basic needs of Haitian youthwhich, if left unmet, may prohibit a child from ac-cessing education.
Our “Linking with the USA” program promotesawareness in our communities of global issuesand also highlights career opportunities. This cre-
ates an opportunity to raise awareness in ourcommunities of challenges faced by Haiti. The
International Trends and Services NationalPrograms that are based in our communi-ties are designed to engage minority highschool students to become aware ofglobal issues and international careerchoices, while advocating for social/civilresponsibility. As we mentor our children
with a twist, we can provide them with asmany enriching, educational, and rewarding
international experiences as possible. This
may be achieved through a Model United Program,the “LIFE” program or the United Nations WorldYouth Conferences. Chapters who choose one ofthese avenues may focus on Haiti and the issuesaffecting the Haitian people today.
I invite you to visit our area website,www.salinksinc.org, and our national website,www.linksinc.org, for further details on all the ex-citing programs designed to excite and engage ourchapters in programming for International Trendsand Services. Please do not hesitate to contact meshould you have any questions.
Have a wonderful year in programming as we ex-
pand the Links’ presence.
Link Sharlyn
facet
focus International Trends & Services
The 2010 earthquake devasted the island na-tion and brought further injury to a bad situation.Our tool kits help to improve the lives of the is-land nation’s women and girls.
9
by Brenda Thompson Jamerson
Chair, Services to Youth
Programming under the Serv-
ices to Youth (STY) facet is
aligned with delivering and sus-
taining transformational pro-
grams for youth in
kindergarten through
college. Through the 77 chapters comprising the
Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated, we will
design and conduct programs that are community-
relevant and have a positive, long-term and
measurable impact. We are
committed to engaging commu-
nity partners in the design,
implementation and delivery of
programs that close the
academic achievement gap and
prepare our African American
youth for the 21st century
workforce. We will
accomplish our efforts by
Leading with Excellence – Serving with Grace while
Effecting Change Through thePower of Friendship and Service.Today, our over-arching theme is
consistent with President Barack
Obama’s “cradle to career”
educational initiatives. These
initiatives map closely to those of Services
to Youth and Education Linkage regarding
preparation of our youth to complete their
education and succeed. The Southern Area will con-
tinue to implement multi-faceted programs that are
responsive to the academic, cultural, health, social
awareness, career development and mentoring needs
of our youth.
Services to Youth will continue to support the follow-
ing National initiatives and two Signature Programs de-
signed to elevate academic performance and career
readiness among African American youth:
• National Mentoring Initiative
• Young Achievers Initiative - 9th -12th Grade –
“Developing the Whole Child”
• S.T.E.M. Education and Career Readiness Initiative
• Historically Black Colleges and Universities Initiative
• Links to Success: Children Achieving Excellence Signature
Program
• Project L.E.A.D. – High Expectations Signature Program
As your Southern Area STY Chair, I look forward to
working collaboratively with you on initiatives that will
deliver and sustain transformational programs heeding
the words of Mary McLeod Bethune as stated below:
“The world around us really belongs to youth for youthwill take over its future management. Our children mustnever lose their zeal for building a better world. They mustnot be discouraged from aspiring toward greatness, forthey are to be the leaders of tomorrow.”
-Mary McLeod Bethune’s “My Last Will and Testament”
facet
focus
Services to Youth
The primary goals of this facet are to:• Promote early literacy
• Close the K-16 academic achievement gaps
• Increase high school and college graduation rates
• Implement local mentoring programs from
kindergarten through college
• Introduce and support S.T.E.M. education and
career readiness programs
• Implement college readiness programs
• Award college scholarships and endowments
• Promote and support Historically Black Colleges
Your Southern Area STY team is dedicated to ensure that we sup-port our chapters in their efforts to deliver and sustain relevant, ex-citing and strategic programs. As we strive to fully realize thedynamic vision of our Area Director, we will help guide your effortsto implement these programs by:• Developing a model for recruiting, training and monitoring community men-
tors to support chapter programs;
• Promoting strategies to leverage arts integration and S.T.E.M.-related com-
ponents with current programs such as those addressing childhood obesity pre-
vention;
• Providing a blueprint for adoption of the Rockin’ Readers program, a national
literacy initiative in partnership with Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.;
and
• Enhancing adherence to and effective use of the Service Delivery Model
through targeted chapter training initiatives.
10
by Cori Brock
Chair, Health and Human Services
At the 2011 Area Conferences, our Na-
tional President, Link Margot James
Copeland, addressed the disturbing reali-
ties across America within our communities and our families in her
State of the Organization, Facing our Future with Urgency and
Commitment. Within her presentation, Link Margot highlighted the
magnitude
of the chal-
lenges fac-
ing our
community,
particularly among our youth. We, as members of The Links, In-
corporated are well positioned to serve our communities and sub-
sequently facilitate change through our transformational
programming.
Programming in the Southern Area will aim at mentoring our
youth. Particularly in health, the likelihood of promoting lifelong
change begins with interventions in the early, formative years. It
is especially critical to intervene early because the health and well-
ness of our families and children are under duress. For example,
although white women have the highest incidence of cancer, black
women have a higher death rate from cancer. Among black men,
both the incidence and death rate from cancer are higher when
compared to their
white counterparts.
Another life changing
condition prevalent in
our community is dia-
betes. Diabetes is the
7th leading cause of
death in the United States. Almost 20% of all blacks 20 years of
age or older have diabetes compared to 10% of whites. In addi-
tion, diabetes is the leading cause of chronic kidney disease
(CKD). Yet again, African Americans are almost 4 times more likely
to develop end stage renal disease (ESRD) than whites following
a CKD diagnosis. And even more unfortunate, patients with CKD
are 16 to 40 times more likely to die than to reach ESRD. A signif-
icant contributor to diabetes is obesity. Approximately one-third of
adults are obese. Blacks have the highest rate of obesity at
44% and the region of the United States with the greatest
prevalence is the Southern United States. Among children,
17% are obese and once again our young black girls are sig-
nificantly more likely to be obese that young white girls the
same age. Even more startling, 1 out of 3 children are obese
or overweight before their 5th birthday. Obese children are
more likely to have high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and
type 2 diabetes; all are risk factors for cardiovascular dis-
ease.
We are at a crossroads. We must take an active role in ac-
tivating our programs to improve the health of our community.
Our African American families have systematically experi-
enced more significant social and economic obstacles to
health. The time is now for us to mobilize as an organization
to identify effective prevention strategies in both adults and chil-
dren.
The Health and Human Services Facet was founded as a re-
sponse to the health disparities that are adversely affecting our
communities as described above. The mission of the Facet is to
promote and facili-
tate programs that
support the mainte-
nance of good
health and the elim-
ination of chronic health disparities in communities of color through
education, health advocacy, and optimal utilization of health re-
sources. As a service-based organization, we can play a unique
role in educating our communities about the impact of health dis-
parities and how individuals can make a difference in their own
lives to serve the greater good.
The Links, Incorporated promotes the use of the Service Delivery
Model to ensure transformational programming to meet our organ-
ization goals and objectives. The Service Delivery Model is a use-
ful tool to plan and evaluate programs. The planning elements
include inputs, outputs, outcomes, external factors, and assump-
tions. Furthermore, the Service Delivery Model is a graphic tool
used to describe the relationship between the planning elements.
Using the Service Delivery Model allows chapters to connect ac-
tivities with impact, provide continuity, and continued improvement
of chapter programs.
Disease prevention is a collective responsibility
requiring individual, family, community, corporate
and governmental commitment. The multiplicity of de-
terminants and environmental influences provides a persuasive
foundation for community based efforts from a dedicated service
organization. My Link sisters, I know you readily accept the chal-
lenge and I look forward to working with you to ensure the utiliza-
tion of the Service Delivery Model to promote better health and
wellness by “Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship
and Service”.
Thank you and I can’t wait to hear from you,
Link Cori M. Brock
facet focusHealth and Human Services
Linkages to LifeHeart Links to Heart Health,
Walk for Healthy LivingChildhood ObesitySusan G. Komen
Our three Signature Programs and two National Initiatives
are targeted at eliminating health disparities
Among black men, both the incidence and death rate from cancer are higherwhen compared to their white counterparts
Almost 20% of all blacks 20 years of age or older have diabetes
compared to 10% of whites
Although white women have the highest incidence of cancer,
black women have a higher death rate from cancer
11
Karyn M. Combs Chair, The Arts
Greetings and welcome! Thankyou for your hard work and leader-ship as facet chairs and commit-tee members. During 2011-2013,the goal of The Arts facet is to“connect” arts initiatives and ac-
tivities that will include arts integration with Sci-ence, Technology, Engineering and Math(STEM). The objective is to expose, involve andmotivate elementary, middle and high schoolstudents to pursue careers in STEM.
We strongly believe that this can be accom-plished through increased partnerships with or-
ganizations and professionals in our chaptersand communities who can serve as mentors forthe bright minds of our youth. The purpose ofour mentors is to ensure students learn abouttheir own creative expressions, and that artbrings enrichment and joy and can be inte-
grated into STEM and further increases theirquality of learning and educational experiences.
Art is a fundamental part of the cultural her-itage of every student and will serve to connectthe imagination of these students so they canhave visions to dream of engineering, becomingscientists, and mathematicians to promoteglobal awareness in the 21st century. Further,art allows students to acquire the tools andknowledge necessary to create individual re-sponses to a variety of subject matters. Itbridges the gap between the past and present,the impossible becomes the possible and theunobtainable becomes the reality through thisimagery.
Additionally, the Arts vision isto ensure that our goals havesustainability and are measura-ble from year to year to deter-mine areas of strength andinterests, for us to collabora-tively identify areas that wewould like to revise based oninput and data from Art FacetChairs in the Southern Area.
Once again, thank you for yourcommitment to excellence in all you do to fulfillthe National Arts goal and to increase and ex-pand art activities and elevate our programsthrough arts integration, and effectively createan arts renaissance within our organization andprogrammatic efforts.
facet focus
g{x TÜàáAll chapters are requested to make a concerted effort to
enter the National Poster Art Competition during 2011-12. Thetheme is: “Healthy, Active and Wise-Make Health a Habit.” Participating chapters must submit the “Notification of ChapterParticipation Form” to K. Joy Peters, Chair, National Poster ArtCommittee, via e-mail ([email protected]) on or before Oc-tober 31, 2011. For further details about other opportunities for chapters to get involved in “The Arts” during 2011-2013, please visit ourNational website: www.linksinc.org.
12
facet
focus
The focus of the National Trends and Services facet is
to increase the awareness of issues that have significant
economic and social inequitable affect on the overall
quality of life of African Americans. National Trends
and Services specifically addresses issues in the areas of
education, income, health, employment, and other so-
cial indicators of well-being with racial and ethnic dis-
parities as the underlying leading factors driving our
programming.
It is our vision to develop programming and provide
services to eliminate these disparities by reducing the
barriers through advocacy, education, and service.
With a mission to empower chapters to effectively em-
power their own communities, we have
set goals increasing the number of sus-
tainable and measurable programs; in-
creasing collaborative partnerships; and
extending our existing initiatives to in-
clude communities with the greatest
need.
As National Trends and Services em-
barks on its second year of redevelop-
ment with its health related issues
shifting over to our 5th facet, Health
Human and Services, we are excited
through our two standing committees -
Legislative Issues, Public Affairs and
Disaster Relief Committee and Women’s
Issues and Economic Empowerment
Committee – to continue to focus our attention on na-
tional and current issues that are impacting our com-
munities.
Through these committees, the following pro-
grams, national partnerships and sponsorships
have been established: Wallet Wise Financial
Literacy Program (former SmartEdge),
AARP Are You Ready Program, and Habitat
for Humanity International “Homes without
Borders”.
We have hit the ground running with con-
tinuing to foster relationships and partner-
ships with other organizations such the
Congressional Black Caucus. The Links, Incor-
porated partnered with the Kettering Foundation
and the Congressional Black Caucus to facilitate an Is-
sues Forum on "Closing the Achievement Gap” at the
41st Congressional Black Caucus Annual Legislative
Conference in Washington, D.C.
Additionally, later this year an anti-bullying initia-
tive, Trash Talk: It is no joke!, will be launched to tackle
this growing issue in our communities. National
Trends and Services will provide a toolkit to assist chap-
ters with incorporating the initiative into their current
programming or establishing an anti-bullying program
in their local communities.
In the Southern Area, we will direct our programming
to ensure alignment with our National goals and initia-
tives through measurable and sustain-
able programming. Our members are
charged to look to the future of our
programming and its impact by incor-
porating STEM education. This is a
charge we take very seriously as we ac-
knowledge and recognize the need for
awareness and developed skill sets in
the various areas of STEM education.
We look forward to continuing our
legacy of service as we explore national
trends and provide services
that will impact our communities.
Link Denise M. Cooper
National Trends andServices specifically
addresses issues in theareas of education,
income, health, employment, and other
social indicators of well-being with racial and ethnic disparities
as the underlying leading factors driving
our programming
National Trends and Services
by Denise M. Cooper, Chair National Trends and Services
Education Linkage supports President BarackObama’s education initiative aimed at creating
partnerships and alliances to educate and prepare youth for the 21st century workforce
14
EEDDUUCCAATTIIOONN LLIINNKKAAGGEEby Lucinda Ross Sullivan, Chair, Education LinkageGreetings Sister Links! I am
Link Lucinda Ross Sullivan ofthe Augusta, Georgia Chapterand I serve as Education Link-age chair for these “awesomeseventy-seven” Southern Area
chapters (A-77!).Link Sisters, we are in a battle of epic proportions to
save our children, maintain a middle class as well asbuild personal success and a strong nation. Thus, ed-ucation stands as the preeminent force to combat theseconflicts and the Links, a preeminent organization ofprofessional women of talent, have a long and storiedhistory of unprecedented strength and dedication to ad-dress issues in the education arena. Consequently, asEducation Linkage chair, I will work diligently to supportand enhance your efforts to implement substantive andsustainable programs that lead to effective vehicles forpreventing and eradicating the dire challenges faced byyouth of African ancestry in the communities we serve.
Currently, Education Linkage is tasked with develop-ment and implementation of the Southern Area Mentor-ing Initiative focusing on programs which integrate thedisciplines of Science, Technology, Engineering andMathematics (STEM) with the Arts. Additionally, Edu-cation Linkage will ensure support and guidance for in-tegrating STEM into programs addressing theChildhood Obesity Prevention Initiative.
Education Linkage will work collaboratively within theServices to Youth Facet (STY) to give priority to ensur-ing effective utilization of the Service Delivery Model(SDM). Very importantly, as we implement the SDMwhich seeks to build a common language for accounta-bility and evaluation across the Links organization, wewill greatly enhance facilitation of sharing, replication,adaptation and dissemination of Models of Excellence,
Best Practices and other ongoing documented suc-cesses across the A-77!
Please understand that implementation of the SDMdoes not mean that we scrap or abandon plans, previ-ous efforts and/or attempts at various programming. Wemust not “throw the baby out with the bath water” butuse tweaking and tuning (TNT) to ensure alignment withelements of the SDM tool. Aligning all programs againstthe SDM exemplar will elucidate pathways for more ef-fective planning as well as implementing and evaluatingprograms for their long-term impact and relevance to ourlocal communities.
I am committed to providing ongoing research, mod-ules, programs and other finds that extend, intensify andtransform programming through frequent postings inThe Southern Area Advantage. Also, I see my role asproviding a conduit for the supply and exchange of cre-ative ideas from across the A-77! Additionally, we mustnever forget one of our greatest resources, the expertisebetween and among us, especially the invaluable insti-tutional knowledge many of you possess from servingLinkdom over time. Please share!
My current research has focused on ways to imple-ment our STEM initiative resulting in locating a numberof program models on “Quilt Making”, which incorporateMathematics and Art concepts. Additionally, these mod-els are highly adaptable for community relevance asthey can bring our youth together with senior citizensand other intergenerational groups in symbiotic relation-ships where all participants benefit. Moreover, as anyof the A-77 become successful in soliciting partnershipsto acquire funding, materials, supplies, etc., these re-sources could be disseminated to all who wish to imple-ment similar programs, thereby saving time and effortfor other important chapter tasks. Feel free to reach outto me at [email protected].
In the Spirit,
Link Lucinda Sullivan
The 2011-2013 Southern Area Executive Committe: 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 Hen-
derson, Bessie Isom, Anne Herriott, Tamara Lee, EneidA. Francis, Janice Nelson, Ophelia Nicholson, Daisy Walker and Mignon Breaux Early.
Southern Area Executive Committee Meets to Plan Agenda for 2011-2013
NEW ORLEANS, La - The 2011-2013
Southern Area Executive Committee held its in-
augural retreat October 13-16 to strategize the
Southern Area agenda. The packed three-day
meeting included a strategic planning session
led by National Strategic Planning Chair Gloria
Parker, a friendship bonding session and com-
mittee reports from each chair.
The meeting was organized by Area Event
Planning Chair Ruth Terrell who spared no de-
tail in coordinating the efficient meeting. The
retreat kicked off on Thursday, October 14th,
with an ice breaker and welcome by Area Di-
rector Eneid Francis. Committee members were
given the opportunity to get to know each other
better and discuss their ideas for their perspec-
tive roles. Members also learned of new plans
for the upcoming 2013 Area Conference in
Miami and the Leadership Conference in Octo-
ber 2012 which will focus solely on leadership
training.
Friday morning began with committee chairs
giving their reports, which included information
obtained from the August governance meeting
to ensure alignment across the Links organiza-
tion. Lunch ‘on your own’ gave each Link an
opportunity to taste New Orleans’ world famous
cuisine at their leisure. The afternoon session
welcomed National Strategic Planning Chair
Gloria Parker. Link Gloria worked with the
committee step by step as it developed the
strategic plan for the next two years. The inter-
active ses-
sion divided
the commit-
tee into three
groups who
were each
a s s i g n e d
two strategic
initiatives to
work on.
Fo l lowing
the breakout
session, the
groups came
together to
discuss their
results and create a shared vision.
Following the intense session, the committee
had an opportunity to relax in a friendship bond-
ing activity at Corks & Canvas, a local art cen-
tered instruction establishment. Everyone had
the opportunity to create their own painting with
an instructor providing step by step instructions
on painting an authentic New Orleans shotgun
house. The private venue, open for Links only,
provided a relaxed atmosphere complete with a
buffet dinner amidst the smooth sounds of R&B
classics. The evening concluded with everyone
proudly showing off her painting and inspired
to continue their mission of friendship and serv-
ice.
The final day of the meeting began early to
bring final touches to the Southern Area’s strate-
gic plan. All of the components, which had been
carefully logged and organized the previous ,
made it easy for the committee to bring its goals
and objectives in alignment with the national
focus of the Links, Incorporated. After the close
of the second strategic planning session, the Ex-
ecutive Committee finished its reports. The
Southern Area Executive Committee Meeting
was brought to a close with a “Peace Circle” and
a serenade of solidarity by the entire committee
led by Area Vice Director Tamara Lee to Area
Director Eneid Francis.
"I couldn't have asked for a better team," said
Link Eneid, "I have no doubts we WILL effect
change through the power of friendship and
service."
Left, Rosalind Fuse-Hall and Kimberly Sweet discuss art at the friendship activity.
Shown right is National Strategic Planning Chair Gloria Parker accepting a token of
appreciation for her hard work with the committee from Area Director Eneid Francis.
15
NNPA NewswireIf TechAmerica, technology’s largest advo-
cacy organization, would send a blanket invi-tation to all African-American CEOs of publictechnology companies, the International Busi-ness Times said, the response would be sosmall that the tech organization would cancelthe event.
There are several prominent Blacks rightbelow the CEO level who may be future CEOs,according to IBTimes, including Google'sDavid Drummond, EVP and general counsel;IBM's Rod Adkins, Senior VP for Systems andTechnology, and General Electric's Lloyd Trot-ter, president of GE Industrial Systems, butoverall the number is small.
“The important thing is not to be the CEO ofXerox,” eAccess founder John W. Templetontold IBTimes. “The important thing is to be theone who creates the next imaging device.”
Templeton said that the Black communitymust groom young engineers and scientistsin order to expand diversity in the technologysector, but admitted a lack of contracts, fi-nancing and access to venture capital hasbeen a challenge to turn dreams into reality.
The number of African Americans who hold
jobs in Silicon Valley, the southern part of theSan Francisco Bay region that holds theworld’s largest technology companies, hastremendously declined. In 2008, only 1.8African Americans were hired at the 15 largestcompanies including eBay, Cisco Systemsand Hewlett-Packard.
Templeton said “offshoring” in Latin Amer-ica and Asia has contributed to the decline ofdiversity.
The National Society of Black Engineers(NSBE) has a current membership of 35,800,most are college students who are studyingengineering and mathematics.
“The best way to interest young AfricanAmericans in technology is by setting a per-sonal example,” said NSBE Chairman CalvinPhelps.
At Cornell University, only six percent of theengineering faculty is minorities and onlythree percent are African Americans, the IB-Times reports.
A report by Georgetown University’s Centeron Education and the Workface found thatoverall, engineering majors of all disciplinesreported the highest median earnings at$75,000.
More African Americans CCrr ii tt ii cc aa ll llyy Needed in Technology
16
by Renee Jones
For two weeks, six students in the Greater
Miami Chapter’s Links Educating Talented
Students to Draw (LETS Draw) Program at-
tended the American Institute of Architects
(AIA) Architects in the Making (AIM) summer
camp. Sponsored by AIA Miami, the camp is
designed for children to learn about architec-
ture, careers in the field of architecture and to
be inspired to become tomorrow’s architects.
LETS Draw, a partnership with the Alonzo
Mourning Overtown Youth Center (OYC) was
developed and designed to educate minority
youth (grades 2-12) with exceptional artistic
ability in the visual arts; increase their knowl-
edge of the visual arts; build self confidence in
drawing skills; and provide career exposure in
the field of visual arts.
The LETS Draw students - Aaron Ashe,
Aesha Coleman, Charlotte Graham, Keyana
Joseph, Nathaniel Pedernera and Kyndal Royal
joined more than 60 children from throughout
Miami-Dade County at the University of
Miami’s School of Architecture for design
classes taught by practicing architects who are
members of AIA Miami. The classes focused
on an introduction to architecture, sketching
and designing, green building and sustainable
design and hands-on
CADD instruction on cre-
ating computer designs.
The students also enjoyed
several field trips including
a walking tour of down-
town Miami’s architecture
and historic landmarks,
tours of several architec-
tural firms, the Lowe Art
Museum and a day at
Hialeah’s Aquatic Center.
The summer camp culmi-
nated with an Open House
which allowed the students
to showcase what they
learned. The talented stu-
dents proudly designed and
displayed futuristic town-
homes to enhance the qual-
ity of life for all
communities.
Chapter President Link
Renée S. Jones and the members of Greater
Miami Chapter are extremely proud of being
able to provide this opportunity of a lifetime for
these talented students. Much to the delight of
Link Judy Carter, Greater Miami Chapter Arts
Co-chair, Architects in the Making success-
fully exposed students to professions where
they can utilize their artistic ability. Transform-
ing lives and minds, two students even ex-
pressed an interest in becoming tomorrow’s
architects.
Youth Attend Architect and Design Summer Camp
LETS Draw students at the University of Miami School ofArchitecture with Greater Miami Chapter Arts Facet Chair,Link Judy S. Carter ( L-R: Nathaniel Pedernera, KyndalRoyal, Keyana Joseph, Link Judy S. Carter, Aesha Cole-man, Charlotte Graham and Aaron Ashe).
In an effort to address childhood obesity among African American chil-
dren, the Greater Miami Chapter donated $15,000 in exercise equipment
to the Family Christian Association of America (FCAA) Inc., to support
health initiatives for children.
The ribbon cutting was held this
summer for the Greater Miami
Chapter Links Teen Fitness
Room. The state-of-the art fitness
room is equipped with treadmills,
elliptical machines, exercise
bikes, weights, literature and a
volunteer personal trainer. The
grand opening of the fitness room
represents the first phase of the
Greater Miami Chapter’s goal to
increase physical activity and pro-
mote healthy food choices among
children. Plans are underway to
install playground equipment and
to donate sports packs designed to
increase outdoor physical activity
to each of FCAA’s 13 After
School Programs.
In 2008, the Greater Miami
Chapter partnered with FCAA stu-
dent participants and developed the 365 Health Plan, a commitment to
lifestyle changes for future good health. Based on the success of the 365
Plan, the chapter was awarded a grant from the Kellogg Foundation and
implemented its latest childhood obesity initiative, All About Me ~
Healthy, Happy & Fit at
four program sites –
Linda Lentin K-8 Center,
Frank C. Martin K-8
Center, Arcola Lake Ele-
mentary School - Step-
pers and FCAA After
School Program.
The initiative resulted
in increased awareness
and the expansion of the
knowledge base of child-
hood obesity prevention
among African Ameri-
can youth at the sites and
the chapter is looking
forward to continuing
their childhood obesity
awareness and preven-
tion campaign.
L-R: Links René D. Beal, Beverly E. Nixon, Juanita Johnson, ChapterPresident Renée S. Jones, Florence G. Strachan and Martha A. Weltersstand in front of the building the fitness center is housed.
$15,000 Donated to Establish State-of-the-Art Teen Fitness Room
Greater Miami
17
In MemoriamLink Lynn Valeria Spearman Dickerson
Lynn Valeria Spearman Dickerson passed away Tuesday, Sept. 6, 2011, in Baton Rouge.She was born in Tallahassee, FL, on December 29, 1951, to Leonard and Valeria Spearman.She was married to William Dickerson of Baton Rouge, LA for 16 years.
A Howard University graduate, she served for many years as a Senior Administrator atSouthern University before her recent retirement.
Expressions can be sent to the Susan G. Komen for the Cure Foundation and to the Boysand Girls Clubs of Baton Rouge. Lynn was a proud member of The Links, Incorporated, AlphaKappa Alpha Sorority, the Baton Rouge Chamber of Commerce and served on the board of di-rectors of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Greater Baton Rouge. She will be missed by many who
loved her.
Link Anna SimkinsDr. Anna A. Simkins. of North Miami died on September 9, 2011 after a long illness. Dr. Simkins, orig-
inally from Charleston, SC, had been a Professor of Clothing and Textiles on the faculty of major uni-versities in North Carolina and Maryland before her move to Miami. Her expertise was in the areas ofAfrican-American and Caribbean dress and adornment. During her 15 year involvement with the mu-seum, Anna Simkins was a strong proponent of its education programs and was particularly enthusiasticwhen the museum launched a fashion design class for teens last fall. She is survived by her daughterJeanne Simkins Hollis and son, Chris Simkins. Miami’s Museum of Contemporary Art will establish achildren's program scholarship in her memory.
18
Link Frances Reeves JolivetteLink Frances Reeves Jollivette Cham-
bers, mother of National President Link
Regina Jollivette Frazier and grandmother
of Link Rozalynn Frazier passed away
October 3, 2011. Link Frances was a Plat-
inum member and a 50-Year Member of
The Links, Incorporated. She held the dis-
tinction of being a member of the first
group inducted by the Greater Miami
Chapter and she also served as Chapter
President during the years 1972 - 1974. In
lieu of flowers, contributions can be made to
the United Way of Miami-Dade County, Center for Excellence in Ed-
ucation in memory of Frances Reeves Jollivette Chambers ~ 3250
SW 3rd Avenue ~ Miami, Florida 33129.
Link Rose McCoyThe Jackson (MS) Chapter has lost a Charter and Alumna Mem-
ber, Link Rose E. McCoy. Dr. Rose McCoy passed in the evening
of October 4, 2011 in Norfolk, VA.
Link Lavalle C. HigginsThe Charleston, SC chapter mourns the loss of Link Lavalle C.
Higgins. Her Mass of Christian Burial was held September 28,
2011, at St. Patrick's Catholic Church. Final Commendation and
Farewell: Live Oak Memorial Cemetery, 3093 Ashley River Road,
Hwy 61, Charleston, SC, 29414.
Link Lucy McNeilThe Fayetteville, NC chapter is mourning the passing of Link Lucy
M. McNeill. Services were held on October 7, 2011.
by Joy Wallace
The Mid-Florida Cluster comprised of South-
ern Area Chapters from Gainesville to Brevard
County is busy churning up the “magic”. What
is this, you say? The eagerly anticipated 38th
National Convention will be held in the beau-
tiful city of “Dreams, Imagination and Fan-
tasies”—Orlando, Florida, June 27th - July 1st,
2012.
Conference attendees will be treated like
Royalty as they converge upon Orlando and
the magnificent plans the Mid-Florida Cluster
has in store. It will be “magical”, and as we
renew our friendships from across the miles
and give back to our communities far and
wide, the platinum standard will apply, “We
will take care of plenty of business and we will
have plenty of fun”. Start prepping those Con-
necting Links, Heir-o Links, and of course
yourselves, and be ready to spend some “mag-
ical” days in Orlando, Fl.
The Mid-Florida Cluster has been given the
“wish list” and they are about the business of
making dreams come true!!
Mid-Florida Cluster Ready to Turn Up the Magic for 2012 National Conference
Magic City Educates and Enlightens Artistic Talents
with Acting Workshop Taught by Robin GivensBirmingham’s Magic City Chapter presented actress Robin Givens for an Art of Living acting workshop for children and adults at
Miles College. Shown above Givens is responding to a question from a young actor. The acting class was held on Sunday, September
18, 2011, with 23 children and 24 adults participating. The photo originally appeared in the Birmingham News by photographer Bob Song.
* * * N O T I C E * * *The deadline to pay your building assessment is
November 30, 2011. Those not paying by the deadline
will forfeit their membership effective December 1, 2011.Please see your Chapter President for details.
Chapter PresidentsSAVE
THE DATEfor the
November First Monday
ExchangeNovember 8, 2011
9 p.m. ESTWatch your email box for the call in number!
19
LL
Heart Truth CampaignThe purpose of the Walk for Healthy Living Program is to expand the annual Links
Walk-A-Thon to incorporate walking as a way of life to promote health and well-
ness for The Links, their families and the communities they serve by participating
in other annual walk-a-thons, sponsored by associations and organizations, such
as the National Diabetes Association, the National Heart Association Walk, the
Susan G. Komen Walk for the Cure and other local and national walks.
Specific goals include:
- Engage all Links to improve their health and the health of their families by com-
mitting to regular walking or other aerobic exercise and making daily healthy nu-
trition choices.
- Educate our communities about the importance of physical activity and good
nutrition in improving health and wellness by conducting seminars and developing
and or distributing health promotion material.
- Provide financial support to organizations that promote good health or prevent
disease.
- Enhance the visibility of The Links, Incorporated through participating in major
events that attract media attention and publicity.
These goals can easily be integrated into other facets of The Links; supporting the
VISION of “eliminating disparities so as to reduce barriers to service through lead-
ership and friendship by exemplary programming.”
For more information, visit www.linksinc.org, and click on Programs, �ational Trends and Services
Are you enjoying our new expanded format ?
Please plan to make you or your
chapter a part of furture issues
and become eligible for the
Southern Area’s
NewsmakerNewsmakerAwardAward
Winners will receive recognition at theArea Conference and a new CHAPTER
CAMERA to keep up the good work
The Newsmaker Award eligibility
will be on an ongoing point based
system starting with this issue. - Points will be awarded for each Chapter
contribution to Area and National publications.
- Additional points will be given for local
media publication including newspapers,
radio, television and web. You are responsible
for collecting and documenting your data for
April 1st reporting.
Links can Walk for Healthy Living through friendship and service
20
Links Can Walk for Healthy Living Through Friendship and Service
Please plan to make you or your
chapter a part of future issues
and become eligible for the
Pictured (l-r): Rubye Adams, DoLores Washington, Dr. Cynthia Clarke, Dr. Adriene Wright, FMU Vice President for InstitutionalAdvancement, Dr. Barbara Edwards, Dade County (FL) Chapter President, Dr. Henry Lewis III, FMU President, Betty Ferguson,Dr. Geneva Woodard, Priscilla Dobbs, Janis Sanders, and Luvernice Croskey.
Dade County Links Support HBCU with $10,000 CheckMIAMI GARDENS – Members of the Dade County (FL) Chapter recently presented a $10,000 check to Florida Memorial University
(FMU) President Dr. Henry Lewis III, to support scholarships at the university. The national arm of The Links, Incorporated has under-taken the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Initiative to implement and support efforts that align with President BarackObama’s plan to increase the retention and graduation rates of students attending college by year 2020.
21
Shown are FRONT (L-R) Charlie Atkinson, Chapter President Vivian Hope, Stacy Short, Michelle Drew,
LaTosha French and Versie Thomas. (BACK) Rose Andrews and Caroline Everson.
Brunswick Chapter Speaks Out Against Bullying*** FACET ALIGNMENT IN ACTION - NATIONAL TRENDS AND SERVICES ***
October is NationalBullying PreventionMonth. On October 10,2011, members of theNational Trends andServices Facet alongwith other members ofthe Brunswick Chapter(GA), presented “Stu-dents Against Bullying”bookmarks to studentsat Altama ElementarySchool. Principal Michelle
Drew and GuidanceCounselor, Stacy Shortaccepted the gifts forthe students. A pledgeis featured on the book-mark encouraging stu-dents to “Be A KidAgainst Bullying.”
Jacksonville Links Donate $5,000 to River Region Human ServicesShown above at the presentation are (L-R) Patricia Bivins, Geraldine Smith, Anest McCarthy, Betty Cody, Betty Davis, Glorida Belton, Marietta
LeBlanc, Margaret Johnson, Jimminda Thompson and Kenyon Demps.
The Jacksonville Chapter celebrated the 39th anniversary of River RegionHuman Services with a generous donation to the social service organization. TheBalloon Fest is a part of River Region’s month long celebration of National Alcoholand Drug Addiction Recovery Month. Guests enjoyed delicious food, networking
with other community members, and the chance to buy balloons to show their sup-port. River Region Human Services provides treatment for HIV-AIDS, mentalhealth, and substance abuse to citizens in the northeast Florida community
Jacksonville area Linksin Pink for the cure
Jacksonville, FL - Members ofthe Jacksonville and Bold CityChapters (shown left) walked to-gether in the Jacksonville areaSusan. G. Komen Race for theCure. The health conscious Linksdonned their pink T-shirts for theannual event that brings thou-sands to downtown Jacksonvilleto raise funds for breast cancerresearch. The three-mile trek in-cluded cheerleaders along theroute and water. Chapter coordi-nators were Ann Gayle (Jack-sonville) and Sylvia Perry (BoldCity).
Shown above are membersof the Jacksonville and Bold City Chapter ofLinks at the Komen Race for the Cure. Jacksonville Chapter members areshown in the dark pink shirts.
22
ATLANTA - Members of the Camellia Rose Chapter recently attended a tribute honoring playwrightKenny Leon’s True Colors Theatre Company. Leon wrote and produced the Broadway play “TheMountaintop” about Martin Luther King, Jr.’s final days. Shown at the tribute are honoree KennyLeon, Link Glenda Walsh Hall, actor Samuel L. Jackson, and Link Sarita Catchcart-McLarin.
23
Camellia Rose Links (L-R)Miranda Mack Mckenzie,Marsha Edwards, SheilaTenney and Pat JonesYoung support CommunityPartners 100 Black Menof America Atlanta Football Classic Sept 24,2011 at the Georgia Dome.Highlights of the day included the half-timeshow between FAMU and Southern University.
Camellia Rose Links Continue toEmbrace the Atlanta Community
by Ruth Terrell
During a lovely and inspiring evening this September 21,
2011, our Link Sisters Johnnie B. Booker and Brenda Hill Cole,
both members of the Dogwood City Chapter (GA), joined a
prestigious group of HBCU Alumni as they were inducted into
the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame.
This event highlights and honors deserving graduates of
HBCUs by inducting them into the Hall of Fame for their dis-
tinguished service to their country, Alma Mater and excelling
in their professional field and/or contribution to community
and society. For the past 26 years, the Hall of Fame has recog-
nized and celebrated the accomplishments of these giants in the
fields of Arts & Entertainment, Athletics, Business & Industry,
Community Service, Education, Faith & Theology, Govern-
ment & Law, Medicine, Science and Lifetime Achievement, and
Civil Rights.
Link Johnnie B. Booker, a graduate of Hampton University,
was inducted in the Business/Industry category. Ms. Booker
joined the Coca-Cola Company in April 2001 as Director of
Supplier Diversity. Under her leadership the company has con-
sistently increased and exceeded its goals and its supplier di-
versity profile has continued to grow in dollars expended with
minority and women owned business, and in global recognition.
Link Johnnie has a distinguished career in executive positions
in diversity and equal opportunity, which include service as
Vice President of the Resolution Trust Corporation, Deputy As-
sistant Secretary of Fair Housing and Equal Opportunity with
the US Department of Housing and Urban Development, the
Federal Home Loan Bank and the National Urban League.
Link Johnnie is also a graduate of the Atlanta University School
of Social Work. Her son, S. Courtney Booker, III, her daugh-
ter-in-law Nissa, and two wonderful grandchildren, Dalyn and
Aiden, bring her special joy.
Link Brenda Hill Cole, a Spelman graduate, was inducted in
the Law category. Link Brenda earned a master’s degree in
Library science at Clark Atlanta University and the Juris doc-
torate degree from Emory University. Judge Cole was ap-
pointed Judge for the State Court of Fulton County in 1998 and
has been re-elected to three subsequent terms.
Active in her community and the recipient of numerous
awards including the Spelman College 2001 Alumnae Achieve-
ment Award in Business and Law, and Emory University dis-
tinguished Alumni Award, Link Brenda also has honorary
degrees from Wiley College and the Interdenominational The-
ological Center.
Link Brenda and Connecting Link Dr. Thomas R Cole, Jr,
President Emeritus of Clark Atlanta University, are parents of
Thomas III, and Kelly S. Graham, and grandparents of Ava
Margaret Graham.
Let us celebrate our two outstanding Link sisters!
Southern Area Links Inducted into the National Black College Alumni Hall of Fame
Link Johnnie B. Booker Link Brenda Cole
24
La Capitale Chapter presented “Wigs,Martinis, & Bow Ties,” a Cancer Serv-ices of Greater Baton Rouge benefit, onFriday, October 7, 2011, at the ManshipTheatre Gallery/Shaw Center for theArts. Guests were asked to bring a wigto donate to Cancer Services’ Wig Bou-tique, an important service offered totheir clients to try on wigs in a private
and comfortable atmosphere. Wigs, Martinis, and Bow Ties was the
idea of Link Lynn Dickerson, whoserved as La Capitale’s Program Chair.Sadly, Link Lynn was battling breastcancer and passed away one monthprior to the event. Under the directionof President Jacqui Vines and Vice-President/Fundraising Chair Paula
Clayton, the chapter was grieving, yetenergized and determined to ensure asuccessful affair to honor Link Lynn’smemory and vision. La Capitale sur-passed every expectation! ConnectingLink William Dickerson, and Link Lynn’sbrother, Leonard Spearman, attendedthe event and were touched at the out-pouring of love and support.
Dressed in all black, accented withthe 2011 “Warriors in Pink” scarf, mem-bers of La Capitale welcomed theirguests to an event that could only bedescribed as abundantly exceeded ourexpectations. Additionally, 100% of thenet proceeds from the sale of thescarves goes to Susan G. Komen forthe Cure, a national partner of TheLinks, Incorporated. Guests weretreated to “Lynn-tinis,” the signaturedrink of the night, as they enjoyed horsd’oeuvres and live music by TheThomas Brothers. The Arts facet coor-dinated decorations compliments ofstudents from Winbourne ElementarySchool, who displayed artful collars forthe wig forms throughout the room.Members of La Capitale would like tothank all the underwriters, donors, andguests who helped create a successfulevent.
La Capitale Dedicates Wigs, Martinis & Bowties to Event Founder Link Lynn Dickerson
La Capitale Chapter
Pictured from L to R: Link Paula Clayton, Courtney Britton (Librarian & Research CenterCoordinator, Cancer Services of Greater Baton Rouge), Connecting Link William Dicker-son and Link Jacqui Vines.
25
B I R M I N G -HAM, AL - LinkMarquita Fur-ness Davis ofthe BirminghamChapter was ap-pointed Directorof Alabama’s Fi-nance Depart-
ment by Governor Robert Bentley. Sheis the first female and second AfricanAmerican to hold this position in thestate. She previously held the position
in the Governor’s Cabinet as Commis-sioner of the Department of Children’sAffairs.
Link Davis was initiated into the Birm-ingham Chapter in 2010, and wasted notime in making a big impact. She hasworked on and chaired various commit-tees during her tenure in the organiza-tion. Link Marquita also serves onnumerous civic and community boardsand organizations including the Boardof Directors for the United Way of Cen-tral Alabama and the boards of Birming-
ham’s McWane Science Center, YWCAof Central Alabama and American Vil-lage.
She has over 20 years experience inhigher education, non-profit serviceand state government. Prior to her ap-pointment as Commissioner, Link Mar-quita also was Director of the Office ofSchool Readiness and Alabama’s vol-untary pre-K program.
Link Marquita Furness Davis is mar-ried to Connecting Link Michael A.Davis.
Bouquets and Best WishesMarquita Furness Davis Appointed
Finance Director for the State of Alabama
JACKSONVILLE, FL - While many in Jacksonville are stillcelebrating the election of Jacksonville’s first Black Mayor,ten year Elections Office veteran Tracie Collier, has been ap-pointed Deputy Supervisor of the Duval County ElectionsOffice.
A five year member of the Bold City Chapter, the appoint-ment expands her role from the former position of Directorof Education and Communications.
As the Deputy Supervisor, Link Tracie will be responsiblefor all duties and will act in the role of the Supervisor of Elec-tions in the absence of Supervisor of Elections. The ap-pointment makes her the highest ranking elections officialof color in the state. At the age of 40, the position also makesher the youngest.
In her position as Director of Education and Communica-
tions, she was instrumental in mak-ing the voting experience positiveand accessible to everyone. In hercapacity, she trained thousands ofelections representatives bringingstandards to a new level. Her re-sponsibilities also included the ed-ucation and awareness of severalhundred thousand voters in DuvalCounty.
If history proves to be a factor, the appointment positionsLink Tracie for another trailblazing move. Prior to the specialelection of the current Supervisor of Elections to replace adeceased supervisor, for over two decades, the Supervisorof Elections Office has been won by former Deputies.
Tracie Collier Appointed Deputy Supervisorof Elections for Florida’s Largest County
26
FACTS FROM THE SOUTHERN AREA
The Southern Area is home to seven National Presidents
5th) Helen Gray Edmonds 1970-19747th) Julia Brogdon-Purnell 1978-19828th) Dolly Deselle Adams 1982-1986
9th) Regina Jollivette-Frazier 1986-199011th) Patricia Russell-McCloud 1994-1998 12th) Barbara Dixon Simpkins 1998-2002
13th) Gladys Gary Vaughn 2002-2006
The first International Chapter is in Southern Area. It is in the Nassau, Bahamas and was chartered on May 20, 1989
The first chapter chartered in the Southern Area wasWilson-Rocky Mount-Tarboro (NC) on April 19, 1948
The Area’s newest Chapter is Miami Biscayne Bay (FL) chartered on June 30, 2010
There are presently 77 chapters in the Southern Area.
Save the Date
sisterly excursions
The Pensacola Chapter of the Links invites their sisters in the Southern Area to the
2nd Annual Wine Tasting SoireeCelebrate the holidays at the 2nd Annual Wine Tasting Soiree and Silent Auction,
Saturday, December 3, 2011 at the Emerald Grande Hotel and Resort, Harbor ViewRoom, 10 Harbor Road, Destin, FL starting at 6 p.m. Ladies are asked to get intothe holiday spirit by wearing their little green, red, or classic black dress. Linkmembers are "going green" in honor of their organization's colors, the holidaysand a renewed interest in environmental and health issues affecting our nation.The evening will include a wine tasting, jazz, silent auction and entertainment.
Saturday, December 3, 2011Harbor View Room - The Emerald Grande Hotel at Harbor Walk Village
10 Harbor Road, Destin, FL 32514 Attire: Little Green DressDonation: $ 45.00 pp Time: 6 - 9 p.m.
Tickets: Linda Scott (850) 455-1079 Karyn Combs (850) 685-207 or D. Thomas (850) 478-0176Proceeds from the Wine Tasting Soiree will benefit the Chapter's scholarship fund,
Health/Wellness initiative and general programming.
38th
National AssemblyJune 27 - July 1, 2012
Orlando, Florida
65th Anniversary Celebration
Washington, D.C. November 11-13
Join your Link sisters from around the country for three full days of Linkdom
including the grand opening of the NationalHeadquarters, re-dedication services and the
official gala starring Will Downing!
Celebrating 65 years of being linkedin friendship, connected in service
For more information, visit www.linksinc.org
27
Resources &&OpportunitiesFree College for future Black Male Teachers
Black Male Teachers are desperately needed. Do you knowany Black Males who are seniors in high school who wantto go to college out of state for FREE? The CALL ME MISTERprogram offered by 4 historical black colleges in South Car-olina: Benedict College, Chaflin University, Morris Collegeand South Carolina State University. Visit thewww.callmemister.clemson.edu/index.htl for details and theonline application or call 1-800-640- 2657.
Harvard offering tuition for low income families
Harvard University is offering free tuition to families ofHONOR STUDENTS with a family income less than $125,000per year. The Harvard Financial Aid Initiative is for low andmoderate income students and families are not expected tocontribute to college costs. Home equity or retirement ac-counts are not considered a family contribution, and aidpackages do not include any loans. A typical student mayreceive over $150,000 in Harvard scholarship assistanceover four years and the majority of students receiving schol-arship are able to graduate debt-free. The program contin-ues to be generous for students across the economicspectrum, with more than two thirds of those receivingscholarships coming from families with incomes greaterthan $60,000.
Visit http://www.fao.fas.harvard.edu/icb/icb.do or call 617-495-1581.
Minority students can get their MBA for free
Wake Forest University has an opportunity for minority stu-dents to attend its MBA program for FREE, and so far, theresponse has been very poor. This is a tremendous oppor-tunity to attend a top graduate school.
Contact Dr. Derrick S. Boone, Associate Professor of Mar-keting, Rm. 3139 Worrell Professional Center, Babcock Grad-uate School of Management - Wake Forest University,Winston-Salem, NC 27109-8738. Email:[email protected] or visit www.wfu.edu or call (866)925-3622.
Free Women’s Health CalendarThe U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services' Office on
Women's Health has created a free
Women’s Health Calendar for
2012.
The publication offers information
about common health concerns for
women, risk factors for disease,
and ways to take charge of your
health. It will help you stay organ-
ized and healthy. With so many
ways to help you prioritize your health, you'll want to
keep this handy, portable calendar with you all year
round.
Order this free publication online or call 800-994-9662
to order. Availability and quantities are subject to change.
Their website states that orders are expected to begin
shipping in December 2011 (subject to change). You can
also order by visiting http://www.womenshealth.gov/pub-
lications/our-publications/calendar/order.cfm. Allow 4-6
weeks for delivery.
Free Healthy Soul Food CookbookHeart Healthy Home Cooking African
American Style - is a free cookbook offered
by the National Heart Lung and Blood In-
stitute. Prepare your favorite African
American dishes in ways that protect you
and your family from heart disease and
stroke. This cookbook provides recipes
for 26 tested and tasty favorite African
American dishes. Recipes give nutrient analyses
that include carbohydrates and protein. Also covers heart
healthy food substitutions and food safety. To order, visit
www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/public/heart/other/chdblack/co
oking.htm. or call 301-592-8573. Limit 10 per call.
28
Vice DirectorTamara Y. Lee
Tuskegee (AL) Chapter
SecretaryAnne T. Herriott
Miami (FL) Chapter
TreasurerJanice R. Nelson
Bold City (FL) Chapter
ParliamentarianRosalind Fuse- Hall
Tallahassee (FL) Chapter
Chair, Nominating
CommitteeOphelia Nicholson
Shreveport (LA) Chapter
Southern Area Rep.
The Links Foundation, Inc.
Bessie Isom
Greater Mobile (AL) Chapter
Financial SecretaryCharlotte Henderson
Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter
Chair, ProgramsDaisy R. Walker
Charlotte (NC) Chapter
Assistant Chair, ProgramsMignon Breaux Early
Greenville (SC) Chapter
Chair, National Trends
& ServicesDenise M. Cooper
Savannah (GA) Chapter
Chair, Legislative Issues,
Public Affairs and Disas-
ter ReliefMarguerite Archie- Hudson
Charleston (SC) Chapter
Chair, Services to YouthBrenda T. Jamerson
Orangeburg (SC) Chapter
Education LinkageLucinda R. Sullivan
Augusta (GA) Chapter
Chair, International
Trends & ServicesSharlyn Wilson Smith
Nassau (Bahamas) Chapter
Chair, The ArtsKaryn M. Combs
Pensacola (FL) Chapter
Chair, Health
& Human ServicesCori M. Brock
Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter
Chair, Ethics and
StandardsSelma Robinson-Ayers
St. Petersburg (FL) Chapter
Chair, Organizational
EffectivenessFaye Hargrove
Augusta (GA) Chapter
Chair, ArchivesKimberly Sweet
LeFleur’s Bluff (MS) Chapter
Chair, Awards and
RecognitionMaxine Smith
Charleston (SC) Chapter
Chair, CommunicationsSylvia Perry
Bold City (FL) Chapter
Chair, Conference
& Event PlanningRuth H. Terrell
Fayetteville (NC) Chapter
Chair, Fund Development
Ruth Waters McKayBold City (FL) Chapter
Chair, ProtocolJune W. Michaux
Durham (NC) Chapter
Chair, RitualsJuanda F. Maxwell
Selma (AL) Chapter
Chair, TechnologyDebra G. Lazare
Baton Rouge (LA) Chapter
Chair, VendorsNatille E. Duncan
Jackson (MS) Chapter
As a pledge for my administration, we will have an open door policyfor all Links. The Executive Committee is here to discuss everythingfrom membership issues and facet questions to grant writing and protocol.
If you have a question or concern for any of member of the leader-ship team, feel free to contact us. Eneid
Southern Area Exec.Committee Directory
Area Director:Area Director: Eneid A. Francis
Pontchartrain (LA) Chapter
(H) 504.284.3660 (F) 877.284.3660 [email protected]
29
Sisters of the Southern Area, thank you so muchfor your overwhelmingly positive response to thefirst issue of the Southern Area Advantage. We havereceived and heard your e-mails and phone callsand graciously accept your support.
The completed presentation culminates a monthof teamwork. Sisters on the Area Communicationsteam worked hard within stringent deadlines andguidelines to showcase the best of Linkdom. Thatis a little of what we do within our chapters everymonth. Though we all have different ideas and lives with personal responsi-bilities, we work together for a common goal and we get it done!Each month we will strive to have something for everyone in The Advantage!And, as always, we welcome your suggestions and submissions.
Our second issue focuses more on the inner workings of our chapters andprogramming. Sisters in the Southern Area are making their mark in theworld by impacting lives individually, financially and creatively. Our goal isto motivate, enlighten and celebrate these accomplishments.
Please encourage your sisters to take a look as we continue to make a dif-ference in the Southern Area. ‘Til next month, Sylvia Perry
ADVANTAGEII nn ss ii dd ee the
Southern Area Communications Team
CALL FOR SUBMISSIONSWe encourage you to submit your information by the 20th of the month
for inclusion in future issues. Information can be sent from chapter mem-bers as well as Chapter Communications Chairs to their regional chairshown left. Members of the Area Communications Team are in contactwith their various region’s chapter Communications Chairs to be sure achannel of communication is in place.
Be in the Advantage1. Stories/articles on your various programs. Please submit QUALITY
high resolution photographs in .jpeg or .bmp format and details sur-rounding your program. If there are less than five people in the picture,please include names (L-R) for EVERYONE (including children) on thephoto. “Cell phone” quality photos will not be published/accepted.
2. Upcoming dates. Is your chapter celebrating an anniversary, hostinga 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 contactnumber and email address for more information.
3. Post-event information. After your special events, please feel free toshare your photos and details.
4. Going Places. Have you recently received a promotion? Celebrateda significant milestone? Getting married? Graduating? Expecting?Elected to public office? Retiring? We want to know! Please share withyour Area sisters as we join in celebrating your accomplishment.
EDITOR’S NOTE
Did you miss our first issue? Check it out on theSouthern Area web-
site at salinksinc.org.
REGION 1
REGION 2
REGION 3
KIM LaMOTTELa Capitale (LA)
Louisiana, Georgiaand S. Carolina
JOY WALLACESt. Pete (FL)
Florida, N. Carolinaand the Bahamas
NATILLE DUNCANJackson (MS)Mississippi & Alabama
30
Volume 1 Isssue 1
ADVANTAGEThe Southern AreaThe Southern Area
Serving chapters in Florida, Georgia, Alabama, Louisiana, North Carolina, Mississippi, South Carolina and the Bahamas
An E-Publication from the Southern Area of The Links, Incorporated - Eneid A. Francis, Southern Area Director
Effecting Change Through the Power of Friendship and Service
Debra Lazare and Kimberly Sweet