Social and Civic Whirl: Norfolk Chapter of the LINKS, Inc. Hosted Annual Jazz Brunch

Saturday, June 6, 2015 was the date of The Norfolk (VA) Links 3rd Annual Power to End Stroke Jazz Brunch and Wellness Fair held in The Murray Center’s/Taste N’ See. The brunch was co-sponsored with the American Heart Association, Bon Secours Neuroscience Center, Sentara Health Systems and News WTKR.  Co-chairs for this very informative Wellness Fair and Jazz Brunch were Link members Patricia King, MD/King and Associates Psychological Services and Beverly Roberts-Atwater, MD/Director of Residency Fellowship at EVMS School of Rehabilitation and Physical Medicine.  Ms. Jessica Larche, WTKR-TV News Anchor, gave the opening remarks which included her personal weight loss journey.  Dr. Armistead Williams, a certified American Board of Psychology and Neurology physician and Stroke Director at Bon Secours/DePaul Hospital was the featured speaker for the Jazz Brunch.  Music for the occasion was provided by Elements Band.

During the breakout sessions, attendees participated in several informational groups on the on the topics of “Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation of a Stroke Patient” presented by Dr. Beverly Roberts-Atwater; “Psychology of a Stroke Patient and Their Caregiver” discussion was led by Dr.  Patricia King; Chef Debra Blount, lead chef for the American Heart Association’s Mobile Kitchen discussed “Simple Cooking with Heart Demonstration;” and Bryant Ramirez MD presented very significant information, for African-Americans and other minorities, regarding “Minorities and Stroke.” Throughout the program, audience members were able to have their blood pressure screened. Following a delicious lunch prepared by the Taste N’ See staff, Tyree Russell, a stroke survivor, held the audience’s attention with his personal testimony.

Junelle L. Banks is President of the Norfolk (VA) Chapter of Links which provided logistical and financial support, for the Jazz Brunch, and members of the chapter facilitated workshops and registered attendees.  Gift bags, for each participant included tips on identifying the signs and symptoms of a stroke, a recipe book containing heart healthy meal ideas, and tips for improving cardiovascular health, were provided by the American Heart Association which is a National Partner of Links, Incorporated and who had a National Officer in attendance at this worthwhile community event.