One of the true joys of my life is being a mother and grandmother.

So, when I learned about Grands As Parents I was especially moved by the mission of this organization. I understand the love, energy and dedication that the group’s members share in raising their grandchildren. Even though I don’t have the primary responsibility of raising my grandchildren, I know it takes a village to do so, and I salute them!

On Sunday, Grands As Parents celebrated Grandparents Day and 15 years of service at their 15th Annual Anniversary Luncheon. The event was held at Temple University’s Diamond Club in North Philadelphia.

Each year, Grands As Parents honors individuals who have made meaningful contributions to the organization’s growth and development. Among this year’s “HELP A CHILD, KEEP A SMILE” honorees was Philadelphia City Councilman Darrell L. Clarke, who is City Council’s Majority Whip and represents the Fifth Council District. “As an elected official I recognize that it is important that we in government try to provide whatever resources that are available because Grands As Parents is a stabilizing force in our community,” Councilman Clarke remarked.

Other individuals recognized at the event were state Rep. Michelle S. Brownlee who represents the 195th Legislative District; Aissia L. Richardson, president of the African American United Fund; and Shariff Street, who is a member of the Philadelphia Bar Association.

Grands As Parents President Eileen Brown said, “Our honorees this year helped us make our move from the Church of the Advocate a smooth transition into new opportunities for the organization. Our annual luncheon is a celebration of the continuity of our services and advocacy and recognizes the assistance each honoree provided to us as we maintain the programs our constituents need and develop new partnerships and alliances to fulfill our mission.”

President of the African American United Fund (AAUF) Michelle Aissia Richardson noted, “Grands As Parents is an important North Philadelphia institution with committed leaders and strong constituent support. I am honored to be recognized for the role AAUF has played this year in assisting the organization to achieve program goals. As AAUF celebrates its 30th Anniversary, our mission to provide technical assistance to nonprofits remains as firm as it did when we were founded during the 1982 recession. Now that we are in another economic crisis, it’s more important than ever for organizations to pull together to improve our community.”

Grands As Parents was founded in 1996 to assist, support and advocate for the rights of grandparents. This advocacy focuses on creating changes in our society to ensure that children grow fruitfully into adulthood. The name of the organization was chosen to signify the way grandparents replace the gaps of parenthood in grandchildren’s lives.

State Rep. W. Curtis Thomas made heartfelt remarks about the work of Grands As Parents. Also, a few of those “Out & About” for the well attended event were Lillian Hentz, Darlene Marcus, Charis Parker, Shelly Day and Wanda Johnson.

Sharif Street was joined by his son, Sharif Street Jr., daughter, Sheyla Street and stepchildren Maliya Ennels and Sunai Kinight. State Rep. Michelle Brownlee’s lovely granddaughter, Blake Jeune, accompanied her grandmother. Aissia Richardson was joined by her lovely mother, Linda Richardson, and her daughter, Yasmine Richardson. State Rep. Vanessa Brown also attended the event.

Congratulations and continued success are extended to all!

For more information or to support Grands As Parents programs, please contact Jean Hackney, vice president of the organization, at (215) 236-5848.

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” in Philadelphia, everyone!

I had a great time at the “First Annual Black Professionals Holiday Party” on Saturday evening. The party took place at The African American Museum in Philadelphia (AAMP) in Center City. Earl Harvey, publisher of The Black Professionals News, hosted the hugely successful and enjoyable affair.

“I am overwhelmed by the love and support my guests have shown me tonight. When I started planning the party, so many people told me inviting Black professional organizations to gather together to support each other for business and social networking was a great idea. The turnout tonight proved them right and we have already started planning for next year,” Harvey remarked.

The party was sponsored jointly by The Philadelphia Association of Black Journalists — whose current president Sarah J. Glover was in the house — the Philadelphia Black Public Relations Society, Shaw University Alumni Association and Anna Bostic, owner of The Body Sanctuary Day Spa.

More than 300 guests enjoyed the ambiance of the museum as they mixed and mingled in the multi-tiered venue. Many of my fellow members of PABJ enjoying the evening included president Shalimar Blakely, Germaine Edwards, Denise Clay, Attiyah Blair, Reese Blair, Ken Scott and Chris Murray.

Guests danced the night away to the sounds of the Tony Day Jazz Band and an incredible performance by Ms. Ella Gahnt. There was also “get up on your feet” music by DJ Stevie D and Damon. The party also featured libations and delicious buffet stations with dishes prepared by Eatible Delights, whose proprietor, David Simms, just catered another amazing holiday party at WURD-AM on Friday, Diane Floyd of Meal Makers, Chef Bernard, Tea Country, Philly’s Platinum Grille and Victoria’s Kitchen.

One of the surprise highlights of the evening was a special tribute to “MJ” Michael Jackson, coordinated by David D. Birts and performed by artist Montray Cherry, wowed the audience with his incredible dance moves and striking resemblance to the King of Pop.

Among those “Out & About” enjoying the festivities were: Rick and Gloria Hawkins, G. Kalomgi Foreman, Dr. Beverly Richards, Twila Slaughter, Judge Doris Smith-Ribner, William Tucker, Mr. and Mrs. Garry Cobb, Sly Barnes and Allegra F. McCullough from Washington D.C., Chef Carl Redding from Atlantic City, N.J., Drew Barrett from New York City, Chuck and Nancy Farthing, Everette Staten, Billy Blue, Jerry Mondesire, Catherine Hicks, Ducky Birts, Blanche Burton Lyles, Phyllis Sims, Kim Boddy, Rob Bell, Michele Lawrence, Roger and Shawn Graham, Gus Lacy, Carl Helm, Doug Henderson, DJ Gary O, Denise Berry, Ellen Conway, Wanda Davis, Michelle Mitchell Day, Eric Norris, Dr. Martin Weaver, Dr. Derrick Graves, Donna Whitehead, Dr. Lenny Lomax, Alfred and Natalie Turner, Rick and Sheila Moses, Arthur J. “Maxamillion” Wells III, Thomas Bacon, Jay Bagley, Cheryl Lee, Wayne Taylor and Shari Williams. Shari, the charming wife of state Sen. Anthony Hardy Williams, displayed some of the awesome items from her luscious new line of beauty products, “Sha Sha Glam.”

It was a fantastic evening and a wonderful way to celebrate the Holiday Season. Congratulations to Earl and all involved.

Merry Christmas to all, from me to you!

Erlene Nelson is a very meticulous lady who does everything with flair and grace. When she hosted The Birthday Girls on Sunday in East Falls, Nelson pulled out all the stops! The theme of the luncheon, “Rhapsody in Blues,” was carried out in seamless detail. “Due to the size of the venue, I had to limit my guests list to 20 ladies and there were so many more I wanted to invite,” she explained.

Her beautiful granddaughters, Dr. Melissa Nelson-Perron and Dr. Kibibi Gaughn, with Joy Tate, were hostesses and helped to carry out the program with gracious precision. Each guest received a warm welcome when they arrived and gathered outside the “pagoda.” We were escorted into the dimly lit room to feast our eyes upon elaborate centerpieces with blue accent lights and white gardenias, as George Gershwin’s “Rhapsody in Blue” played. Nelson, wearing an elegant blue suit with covered buttons, sapphire blue stilettos, and sapphire and diamond jewelry, gave us an enthusiastic welcome! Her vignettes about guests and members throughout the afternoon kept us thoroughly entertained!

In 1978, three friends with similar interests in the arts, theatre, travel and fashion — and who all celebrated birthdays together — decided to form a club called “The Birthday Girls.”  The originators of the group were Elaine Coston, Bettie Lawson and the late Bernice Kemp Bell. Other current members are Juanita Amonitti, Bert Asbury, Norvella Benning, Barbara Braxton, Anne Frazier, Carole Williams-Green, Lorraine Brown-Long, Alicia Perkins and Rosemary Valentine.

Guests “Out & About” for a truly memorable afternoon included Nelson’s childhood friend from St. Louis, Mo., Edith Perkins, Sharon Parks, the Rev. Dr. Sadie Mitchell of The African Episcopal Church of St. Thomas, Deborah Johnson, Audrey Lipscomb and Nathania Johnson, who is an administrator with the Philadelphia School District.

True to their mission and passion, the ladies have enjoyed many trips nationally and internationally to enjoy theatre, museums, spas, fashion exhibits and art openings, with each ending with a luncheon or dinner at a special restaurant. The have visited such places as Mexico, the Bahamas, Vienna, Germany, Amsterdam, Belgium, Paris and many cities in the United States.

The theme was derived from the fact the event’s china, crystal and linens were all in shades of blue. The centerpieces were a creative work of art of blue and white flowers, pearls and miniature stilettos, which are the trademark of the hostess. The hostess coordinated each luncheon course with food relating to the name or color blue. The unbelievably beautiful music was painstakingly selected as “blues and jazz” and related to each food course. The colossal lump blue crab appetizer was an introduction to the blues. The salad, featuring star fruit, was a symbol of the midnight dark blue sky. The entrée was a symbol of the ocean, and even the blue mouse dessert was in remembrance of the first lady of the blues, Billie Holiday. Each lady was presented with a beautiful gardenia wristlet to wear while enjoying the final course and listening to blues and jazz classics such as “Blue Gardenia” by Nat King Cole.

I loved the interactive part of the luncheon. Before each course was served, each lady at individual tables received a card bordered in blue with a question she would respond to in a light hearted, humorous manner. After her response, she was presented with a small blue gift bag containing several treats, all in the color blue.

Following each course, members and guests enjoyed a wonderful display with 60 photographs of The Birthday Girls at different activities throughout the years. After the luncheon each lady selected several of the photographs as keepsakes. Finally, everyone joined hands and sang “Happy Birthday.”

Everyone also received a lovely parting gift — a blue organza bag holding a gorgeous blue and gold birthday card together with a DVD of the Diana Ross-starring movie “Lady Sings the Blues,” a separate CD of all three movements of “Rhapsody in Blue,” and other small treats.

Everyone enjoyed this most creative, unusual and delightful luncheon — a breathtakingly beautiful treat with the most delicious and creatively prepared food. The amazing center pieces and wrist corsages were lovingly created by Erlene.

The white gloved servers were David Lipscomb and Rashaan Fuche, nephews of the hostess. Additionally, photographer Jesus Rincon provided some of the beautiful photographs of the luncheon.

The gorgeous personalized invitations, beautiful place settings, stunning centerpieces and each and every element of Erlene Nelson’s style and attention to detail made for a truly incredible experience.

Audrey R. Johnson-Thornton, president and founder of the American Women’s Heritage Society, (AWHS) is a passionate and dedicated leader. “Twenty-five years ago, a group of African-American women forged an alliance to protect and preserve the Belmont Mansion, a site with significant relevance to the history of Philadelphia and its African-American legacy. This has been a journey of love and discovery, as we learned more about the Mansion, its role in American history and as a Freedom Station on the Underground Railroad leading American slaves to freedom,” the fashionable and energetic Johnson-Thornton said.

The gala honored the Society’s work to restore and preserve Fairmount Park’s historic Belmont Mansion and the many people who have supported those efforts. The anniversary celebration kicked off a $2.5 million capital campaign to create an endowment that will assure continued maintenance and improvements to the Belmont Mansion for decades to come. The American Women’s Heritage Society, founded in 1986, is leading efforts to restore and maintain Belmont Mansion, one of the most historic buildings in Philadelphia’s Fairmount Park.

Despite the drenching rain, hundreds of supporters came out to celebrate The American Women’s Heritage Society (AWHS) 25th Anniversary gala at the Historic Belmont Mansion on Friday evening. Former Governor Ed Rendell, former Mayor John F. Street, former Mayor the Rev. Dr. W. Wilson Goode Sr., Mayor Michael Nutter and state Sen. LeAnna Washington were honorary co-chairs of the event and were recognized. Dignitaries spotted at the gala were U.S. Rep. Robert A. Brady and state Sen. Vanessa Brown.

The Rev. Dr. Goode, senior fellow and national director of Amachi said, “This event was a tribute to a group of Black women led by by Audrey Johnson-Thornton who dared to dream that a broken down building could become a museum that honored those who aided slaves in their flight to freedom. It also underscores that nothing great was ever achieved without a struggle.” He accompanied his wife and former first lady of the City of Philadelphia Velma Goode.

Dyana Williams of WRNB Radio and Lori Williams of NBC 10 did a great job as the evening’s mistresses of ceremony and co-hosts. Poet, scholar and activist Sonia Sanchez and Tanya Hall, executive director of the Multicultural Affairs Congress, were recipients of special awards. Toni Nash presented the award to Tanya Hall and both awardees made gracious remarks and expressed their gratitude.

There were many special touches that made this a memorable and enjoyable evening. Guests were welcomed by the rhythmic West African drum beat of Diabate Cultural and Performing Arts. Acting as hostesses, students from The Docent Training Program were dressed in period costume in keeping with the historical element of the evening. Miss Black Pennsylvania 2011, Jillian Patricia Pritle, performed an inspirational solo, and guests were also entertained by Warren Oree-Appreggio Jazz Ensemble, Musical Legacy.

The food was delicious and I asked Jewel Mann-Lassiter, president of Tuxedo Catering, about her involvement in helping to make the evening a success. “Audrey asked if I would chair the dinner committee and planning events is a big part of what I’ve done for years. She knew that the menu and dinner would play a major role in this event. My responsibilities included meeting with all caterers and planning a classic menu. Her plan was for me to contact a list of local caterers she recommended to donate their time, services and menu selections for the anniversary event. Each of seven caterers prepared one dish from the menu. Tuxedo prepared butlered hors d’oeuvres for the VIP reception and an entrée for the dinner menu.  All of the participants did an incredible job. I was honored to work with all of them,” Mann-Lassiter said. Congratulations, best wishes and continued success are wished to Audrey Johnson-Thorton and all involved!

The Belmont Mansion is located at 2000 Belmont Mansion Drive. To participate in the celebration and for more information about Belmont Mansion and AWHS restoration efforts, please visit www.belmontmansion.org, call (215) 878-8844 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” in Philadelphia, everyone!

Congratulations to The Philadelphia Chapter of the Links Inc. for hosting a hugely successful fundraising event. It took place at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on Sept. 25. Chapter president Sherilynn Johnson Kimble said in her message, “As the founding chapter of the Links Inc., the Philadelphia Chapter is very proud of our ongoing commitment to community service which centers on promoting and engaging in educational, civic and inter-cultural activities in order to enrich the lives of members of our community.” Funds raised by the event will support a broad range of programs which enhance the quality of life in our community.

Special acknowledgement was given to corporate sponsors, The Lomax Family Foundation and Pennsylvania’s only African American-owned radio station, WURD 900-AM and PECO Exelon Company.   

The selection of the 2011 honorees was focused on the arts. The honorees were  Jeri Lynne Johnson, founder and musical director of The Black Pearl Music Chamber Orchestra; Faith Ringgold, internationally renowned artist and author and Jill Scott, Grammy Award-winning singer, composer and actress.

All of the accomplished awardees, who were presented with beautiful sculptures,    expressed their gratitude for being recognized by the organization. Jill Scott, who is on tour in Europe, was represented by her mother, Joyce Scott. In accepting her daughter’s award she shared that she exposed Jill to arts and culture at a very young age. Scott also noted her daughter’s tireless work on the Blues Babe Foundation, which Jill established in Philadelphia to assist financially struggling, but motivated students. Joyce Scott’s parting words, “Black can grow out of concrete,” left a lasting impression from a proud and loving mother.

The audience was treated to a wonderful performance on the viola by Christine Taylor, a student from The Philadelphia High School for Creative and Performing Arts. Six-year-old Alphonso “A.J.” Evans Jr. read a passage from Faith Ringgold’s upcoming book about renowned artist Henry O. Tanner, “His Boyhood Dream Come True.” Alphonso, who dreams of being the world’s greatest singer, attends Gesu School. The Urban Guerilla Band rocked the crowd with an amazing rendition of Jill Scott’s chart topping “Golden.”

Links who presented awards were Renetta Ethridge Holloway, Carol Clark Lawrence, Brenda Johnson Best, Margaret A. Wright, Zakiya T. Black and Rosalyn J. McPherson.

“I am thrilled that our chapter chose to honor three incredible women who are celebrated internationally and identified in Philadelphia as cultural pioneers and legends and continue to contribute to our vibrant art and music landscape,” chapter immediate past president Carol Clark Lawrence said.

Other officers of the Philadelphia Chapter are: Stephanie Watkins, Brenda Johnson Best, Mahlene Duckett Lee, Catherine F. Broach, Deidre L. Patterson and Margaret A. Wright. Mahlene Duckett Lee and Margaret A. Wright also did an incredible job as this year’s event as chairwoman and co-chairwoman respectively. The meticulous planning and hard work that went into this signature event was apparent.

More than 800 guests and Links from as far south as Georgia and all along the East Coast gathered for dinner and dancing to the fantastic music of the Urban Guerrilla Orchestra. The support of other Links Inc. chapters was phenomenal!  

Founded in 1946 by two prominent Philadelphians, Margaret R. Hawkins and Sarah S. Scott, The Links Inc. is an international non-profit corporation which currently has a membership of 12,000 professional women of color in 274 chapters located in 42 states, The District of Columbia and the Commonwealth of the Bahamas. The vision of these two women to recognize and exercise community service and outreach has grown and flourished throughout the years.

Links Inc. founder Margaret R. Hawkins was well represented by her family at the event.  Family members in attendance included her son, Dr. Frederick C. Hawkins Jr., and his wife, Sharon Hawkins, son Bruce R. Hawkins, and Philadelphia chapter member Lisa Hawkins, granddaughter Melanie Hawkins Tudos and husband Redmond Tudos.

Congratulations to “Smooth Sounds in the Afternoon” committee members: Catherine Manning Adams, Zakiya T. Black, Mariska K. Bogle, Stephanie Mays Boyd, Julie Cocker, Kelly D. Davis, Renetta Ethridge Holloway, Mellanie Kai Lassiter, Gina Golson Nunnery, Donna Roderick and Betty Jane Shelton and Frances Jones. I extend special thanks to Frances Jones for her public relations assistance in addition to Betty Shelton and Mariska Bogle. Sheinelle Ojeh also did a great job as the evening’s auctioneer. Best wishes to all members of the Philadelphia Links, Inc. for hosting this stellar event and contributing so much to our community!     

Members of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. and Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania gathered together in the City of Brotherly Love to jointly celebrate their founding during the first month of 2012. The theme of the weekend-long event, “Strengthening the Bond Between Brotherhood and Sisterhood,” was a celebratory inspiration for the organization to begin the new year.

"I am so proud to be a member of this illustrious organization,” said Shante C. Dash, basileus, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Beta Delta Zeta chapter. “Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. share a bond like no other Greek lettered organization in that we are the only to be constitutionally bound sisters and brothers. It only seemed befitting that the first Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Joint Founders' Day Celebration take place in Philadelphia, our city of brotherly love and sisterly affection! It was great to celebrate a weekend observance by providing community outreach, celebrating with a brunch and to pay our respect to our honorable founder Arizona C. Stemons, a long time resident of this city,"

The celebration began with an event, which represented their founding principle of community service. The organizations joined together on the first evening in partnership with Chosen 300 Ministries and unselfishly served nutritious meals to local Philadelphia residents. This took place in the city’s Spring Garden neighborhood.

The next day featured a brunch at the Embassy Suites Hotel in South Philadelphia. “The program highlighted the talent within the organizations and thanked all members for their time and commitment that they give to ensure that the organizations remain at the forefront in combating the social ills which plague our community,” said Derek Bowmer, state director of Phi Beta Sigma. Special recognition was given to Geraldine Kinney for 63 years of service to Zeta Phi Beta. and Terrance Sistrunk for his dedication and commitment to Phi Beta Sigma. The highlight of the brunch was a special ceremony where the organizations recommitted themselves to their special bond of being the only constitutionally bound brother and sister organization.

The weekend culminated in Philadelphia with a memorial service at the gravesite of Arizona Cleaver Stemons, one of the founders of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. and a former resident of the Philadelphia area. Congratulations to Derek Bowmer, Pennsylvania state director of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. and Siéta Achampong, Pennsylvania state director of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority on this momentous occasion.

Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. was founded on the campus of Howard University on Jan. 9, 1914, by A. Langston Taylor, Leonard F. Morse and Charles I. Brown. The men of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, under the leadership of its state director Derek Bowmer, have graduate and undergraduate chapters that service the Pittsburgh, Harrisburg and Philadelphia communities.

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. was founded on the campus of Howard University on Jan. 16, 1920, by Arizona Cleaver Stemons, Myrtle Tyler Faithful, Viola Tyler Goings, Fannie Pettie Watts and Pearl A. Neal as the sister organization to Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc. The ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., under the leadership of their state director Siéta Achampong, have graduate and undergraduate chapters, which serve communities in Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Harrisburg, Norristown, and Delaware, Chester and Montgomerycounties.

Congratulations and best wishes to members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. I extend special thanks to Dana M. Moore first vice president, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Philadelphia Graduate Chapter for her assistance.

Thanks to Michael LeVere, vice president and program director of Ye Olde Philadelphia Club (OPC), and his beautiful wife, Hortense, I saw a lot of great friends, danced to fabulous live music by Sandstorm, dined on delicious food and more at one of the club’s most enjoyable annual holiday parties ever. The affair, held at The Springfield Country Club on Dec. 30, was a blast!

View Out and About Photo Gallery of this Event

Members of the entertainment committee, co-chairs James Potts and Thomas Garrett and members Louis DeVaughn, Charles Bush, Rob Gorgas, Artis Ray and Charles Manns should be praised for doing such a fantastic job and ensuring that these gatherings just get better with time!

Current OPC officers are Preston Taylor, president; Michael LeVere, vice president; Robert Chapman, secretary; Byron Golson, assistant secretary; and William Burke Jr., treasurer.

An invocation by past president Judge John Braxton was given before a delicious sit down dinner. He reminded us of the intergenerational makeup of one of Philadelphia’s oldest existing organizations, which began in 1926.

Radio broadcast journalist E. Stephen Collins, accompanied by his eternally youthful wife, Lisa Duhart-Collins, received a special award from OPC for his continued achievements in his field. Upon his acceptance he pointed out how much he owed to his predecessors. His message to the attendees included encouraging everyone present and everyone they came in contact with to support President Barack Obama.

The membership recognized immediate past president Eugene “Gene” Golson, there with his wife, Marie, and Everett Gillison, chief of staff to City of Philadelphia Mayor Michael A. Nutter. Gillison was accompanied by his wife Elaine. David Donaldson, there with his wife, Chiquita, was also recognized for diligently serving as the club’s awards committee chair. All individuals were recognized for their outstanding service to Ye Olde Philadelphia Club.

Among the former “first ladies” (wives of past club presidents) included: Josephine Poindexter, Gail Hawkins Bush, Barbara Gorgas, Linda Braxton, Marie Golson and Linda Meade.

Among those “Out & About” enjoying an incredible evening were: Councilwoman Janie Blackwell, her brother and club member Glen Brooks; president/CEO of The American Red Cross Philadelphia Chapter Judge Renee Hughes; Dr. Walter and Patricia Bantom; Betty and Ballard Shelton; Bruce and Lisa Hawkins; Marie and Eugene Golson; Bill and April Rawlings; Linda and Darrel Stephens; Tina and Eric Coombs; (member) broadcast journalist Monique Braxton; and Dr. Reginald Royster; Philadelphia Tribune CFO John Holmes (member) and his wife, Tanya; Margaret Livingston; former City of Philadelphia Fire Commissioner Harold Hairston and his wife, Ann ( Ann, I love your sleek new hairstyle); Dr. Walter P. Harris (member), the ophthalmic surgeon that I entrust with the care of my eyes and his lovely wife, Nicole; David Livingston; Dorothy Sumners Rush; Jewel Mann-Lassiter and Bob Kersey; Frank LeVere; Wanda Poole; John and Marie Connelly; Gus Lacy; Audrey Johnson-Thornton, Rose Chapman, wife of club secretary Robert Chapman; and Joseph Meade who is a past president of the club.

Exquisitely dressed ladies and gentlemen in black tie enjoyed cocktails and butlered hors d’oeuvres, which could have substituted for dinner, were served to guests as they entered the reception room overlooking the brightly decorated landscape of the county club.

The main dining room glistened with the glow of several Christmas trees. Our delicious entre of filet of chicken breast and fresh seasonal vegetables topped off with a raspberry laced cheese cake desert was excellent. It’s a good thing that the Sandstorm Orchestra created a mood that inspired most attendees to their feet to burn off those calories. Many familiar songs were played but, as usual, the line dances encouraged the majority to move to the dance floor. I’m signing up for “Wobble” lessons ASAP.

Thanks to Ye Olde Philadelphia Club for another memorable, enjoyable celebration.

Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc. Quaker City Alumnae Chapter of Philadelphia celebrated its 35th anniversary at a luncheon this month. More than 300 members, family and friends gathered at Drexelbrook Catering and Banquet Facility in Drexel Hill to congratulate the chapter, which was chartered on Oct. 17, 1976. On that date 28 phenomenal young women realized their vision for a second alumnae chapter in Philadelphia County. On the campus of LaSalle University, under the national leadership of the 16th national president, Thelma M. Daley, Quaker City Alumnae Chapter was chartered.

Quaker City chapter president Patricia Evans said, “Since our beginning 35 years ago, we are still strong with enthusiasm and energy. We continue to serve the community through our public service programs and empower the Black community by continuing to make an impact in the lives of our children."

The event honored chapter charter members, many of whom were in attendance. It was a celebration of more than a quarter of a century of sisterhood, scholarship and service to the Philadelphia community.

Charter chapter members enjoying the occasion included: Edna Lee Funderburk, Yvonne W. Browne, Donnamaria Kirby Parker, Merrill Jean Bailey, Joyce G. Beckett, Deborah Turner, Diane Golson Simon, Wilhelmena Johnson Calland, Evelyn Jackson Laster, Constance Keaton, Anita Flournoy Nicholson, Florence Oliver, Patricia Robinson, Jacquelyn Johnson Leake, Patricia Stephens, Patricia Alford and Sharon Coleman.

Other charter members are: Alice Clark, Joanne M. Green, Anne Smith Hart, Marilynn Holmes, Heather Leath, Paulette Forte Smith, Diane Thompson and the late Janice Peters Chapman, Kay Dennis, Phyllis Stephens Tatem and Bessie Williams.

The chairperson for this festive occasion was Florence Oliver, who is also a charter member of the chapter. Catana Montague was the 2011 co-chair.

The program was filled with exciting entertainment, historic remembrance and uplifting words to the community.  Pamela Singleton served as the afternoon’s delightful mistress of ceremonies.

Joyce Evans, local television anchor/reporter and member of the sorority, was the featured guest speaker. During her remarks, she reminded the audience of the urgency of the times and urged Deltas, “To continue to use their influence to empower the Black community of Philadelphia.”   

Kathryn Gaffney-Golden’s words of encouragement evoked God’s blessing on the chapter and the day’s activities. A poem was authored and read by Gloria Nichols in which she challenged the chapter to continue to “grow in grace.” 

 Carli Jones Farris, founder/co-owner and artistic director of the Dance Institute of Philadelphia showcased six members from her performing company in a praise dance to Fred Hammond’s “Pages of Life: Your Steps Are Ordered.” There was also wonderful musical prelude performed by Developing Excellence Inc., a local jazz quartet. 

The featured musical ensemble included Christopher Burton, pianist and Lincoln University student; Charles Beasley, bassist and community supporter; Howard Burton, drummer and sound technician, and Princess Ameenah, vocalist, author, community activist.

While dining on a delicious lunch, attendees enjoyed a video presentation highlighting Quaker City Alumnae Chapter milestones throughout the years. It was compiled by chapter historian Thomasina Thompson and immediate past president Tracey Carter. 

During the past 35 years, Quaker City Alumnae Chapter has provided community service to Philadelphia in support of its citizens. The chapter has several programs that focus on children, including the Toy Library, which supports grandparents who are serving in the role of parents for their grandchildren. Mentoring programs include The Betty Shabazz Delta Academy, The Jeanne L. Noble Delta GEMS and Empowering Males to Build Opportunities for Developing Independence. (EMBODI) The chapter also provides information for concerned citizens during their Annual Dessert Hour, a panel discussion focusing on important topics affecting the community. Other activities include voter registration, health seminars, college and career fairs and economic forums.

Upcoming Quaker City Alumnae events include a “College Preparation Program” on Nov. 20, “Annual Dessert Hour” on Dec. 8, and a “Holiday Cabaret” on Dec. 17. 

Congratulations and best wishes to Delta Sigma Theta Sorority Inc., Quaker City Alumnae Chapter of Philadelphia on their 35th anniversary.

For more information regarding Quaker City Alumnae Chapter, please contact Patricia Evans, chapter president, at This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” in Philadelphia!

October snowstorms, such as the one on Saturday, are rare and so are lasting friendships. That’s an incredible part of what high school reunions are about.

Congratulations to all of the spirited alumni who celebrated their “45th Reunion … Come and Get These Memories,” on Saturday. Nearly 200 Overbrook High School graduates celebrated the occasion at The Renaissance Hotel despite the uncharacteristic wintry weather, complete with snow!

The class of ’66 combined with classes of ’65, ’67 and ’71 for a fantastic blend of good times, past and present. There was a memento photographer on site to capture the smiles of Overbrook graduates, many who hadn’t seen each other since the last reunion, five years ago.

Kudos to the reunion planning committee: Gloria Fossie-Hawkins, Teddi Ashby, Jean Waites-Howard, Diane Branch-Jones, Wilhelmena Johnson-Calland, Ronald Johnson, Bill Loy, Leona Edward-Moss, Linda Grimes-Murray, Beverly McCaskill, Lillian Farrell-McKethan, Fred Novin and Cornella Simpson-Nixon. As you would suspect, it took a full year of diligent work and planning for the committee to bring this event to fruition.

Overbrook High School is a public secondary school located in the Overbrook section of West Philadelphia. Often referred to as, “The Big O,” with official school colors of black and orange, Overbrook boasts a number of famous alumni including Wilt Chamberlain and Will Smith. At least 11 Overbrook alumni have played in the NBA and the school is ranked sixth in that area.

As Gloria Fossi-Hawkins, there with her husband, Rick Hawkins, reminded me that “Overbrook High School has the most recent accomplishment of being removed from the most dangerous schools lists in our city. This is truly a sign of the times.”

Overbrook Water Ice Stand was the place to meet after classes.

Larry’s Steaks and Hoagies, “Home of the Belly Filler,” was the best on the planet! Celebrities and famous people, when visiting our city, would stop by just to pick up a sandwich and do a photo op.

The evening began with cocktails and warm welcomes by Fred Novin, class of ’66, Wilhemena Johnson-Calland, class of ’66 and Teddi Ashby, class of ’66. The invocation by evangelist Jean Waites-Howard, also class of ’66, asked others to join her in a moment of silence in remembrance of those departed classmates.

As Fossi-Hawkins said, “Many were moved many to tears when Waites asked all veterans to stand and nearly half the attendees rose. The remaining attendees stood … to give them a warm and sincere round of applause.”

The evening continued with a delicious dinner and so much catching up to do. Good conversation, dancing and fond memories were sprinkled throughout the enjoyable event. It was clear that the Overbrook Alumni remembered those moves of the sixties as they danced the bop, cha-cha, slow drag and strand to the music of D.J. Royce Howard.

Martha and the Vandellas, Smokey Robinson, The Temptations, James Brown, Stevie Wonder, Marvin Gaye and other artists heard on transistor radios and 45 black vinyl records  brought back sweet memories of dances, parties, sweet sixteens and many special times.

“To the Class Reunion Committee, Awesome job. Folks showed up in a snow storm in their finest. People came from Hawaii, Israel, California, Georgia, Chicago, Pittsburgh just to name a few places. We had a good time. Good job, you gave your time and your talents to make this memorable. Giving does not mean money all the time, it means giving something back to others by volunteering to make things happen. Everyone brought their gifts to the table. It was good seeing classmates, that I went to Junior High and High school with, imagine that, we are still standing,” said Lee Moss.

Special thanks to Gloria Fossi-Hawkins for her public relations assistance.

The Class of 1966 was among one of the greatest and most successful classes. Best wishes for continued success, health and happiness.

More than 300 friends and supporters recently gathered for the 12th “Annual Party for the People” hosted by the Honorable Marian B. Tasco, 9th District Councilwoman and Majority Leader of the City of Philadelphia. The much anticipated fall event was held at H&H Banquet Hall in Germantown. “We get together to party and boogie for old time’s sake. Twelve years later and it is still a great party. It provides an opportunity for people from all over the City to become better acquainted with candidates running for the various offices in the upcoming election as well our distinguished elected officials. People look forward to the event and tell me often they can’t wait until the next one,” Tasco said.

Councilwoman Tasco has earned a reputation as one of Philadelphia's most respected, influential and effective elected officials. She is also well known for maintaining a sense of humility and being accessible to her constituents. Elected to serve her sixth term as City Council Representative for the 9th District in November 2007, she represents more than 150,000 residents in Philadelphia’s Northeast and Northwest sections.

Historically, Councilwoman Tasco is distinguished as the first African American elected Philadelphia City Commissioner, serving from 1983 to 1987. In addition to serving as Councilperson, she is the current ward leader for the renowned 50th Ward, and was unanimously elected by the Pennsylvania Democratic State Committee to represent Pennsylvania on the Democratic National Committee. In January 2008 she was unanimously elected Majority Leader by her colleagues.

Tasco’s Council colleagues on board who lent their support at the upbeat affair included: Councilwoman-at-Large Blondell Reynolds Brown, Councilman-at Large Bill Green and Councilwoman Maria D. Quiñones-Sanchez. Congressman Robert Brady, Judge Jimmie Moore, state Representative Cherelle L. Parker, Judge James DeLeon and City Commissioner Anthony Clark.

Robert L. Archie Jr., partner at Duane Morris LLP; John F. White Jr., president and CEO of The Consortium, Inc.; Ahmeenah Young, president and CEO of The Pennsylvania Convention Center Authority; Michael Days, The Philadelphia Inquirer managing editor; Sid Booker, well known local businessman and entrepreneur; Sam Staten Jr., business manager of Laborers’ Union Local 332 and Donald “Ducky” Birts of Congressman Brady’s office were also spotted in the crowd. A number of candidates in the upcoming November 2011 Election attended. Those individuals included: Cindy Bass, candidate for the 8th council district seat; candidates for judicial seats: Vincent Johnson, Diana Anhalt, Charles Ehrlich and City Council- at-Large candidate David Oh. Ward leaders Pat Parkinson, Sharon Losier, Bob Dellavella, Bill Dolbow and Elaine Tomlin were also “Out & About.”

Other community leaders and non-profit heads recognized by Councilwoman Tasco were Dr. Yu of the Korean Community Development Center and Jeff Hackett, president of the Sturgis Advisory Council.

Just a few others enjoying music and great food, catered by Diane Hughes, were: Michele Stevenson, Kellan White, Reggie Ellis, Lenora James and Derek and Cynthia Green.

Congratulations to Councilwoman Tasco for her extraordinary leadership and dedication to her constituents and the entire City of Philadelphia!

Have a great week “Out & About” in Philadelphia, everyone!