On Saturday, January 20, 1018, The Tidewater Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women, Inc. held its 17th Annual Jazz Luncheon. The mission of this wonderful organization, of progressive visionary women of African descent, “advocates on behalf of women of color through its national and international agendas on leadership development and on gender equity in health, education and economic development.”
Sheila W. Williams, President of The Coalition, Welcomed the guests to the Scholarship Jazz Luncheon. Prayer/Invocation and the Blessing of the food was done by Pastor Yvonne Wright-Dunn who is Chaplain of the Tidewater Chapter. A delicious lunch was served by the culinary staff of the Holiday Inn at 5655 Greenwich Road in Virginia Beach. Following lunch, Adriana Walden introduced members of The Tidewater Chapter of the National Coalition of 100 Black Women. The Organizer/Charter Member Vivian West and Charter member June S. Banks were recognized along with former Chapter Presidents who were in attendance. During the lunch and throughout the afternoon, FORTE Jazz Band provided beautiful musical sounds which included the melodious voice of the group’s songstress. Artist D J Strawberry performed incredible artistic work to the music being played by the FORTE.
One purpose of the Jazz Luncheon is to raise funds for their annual scholarships. In addition the organization recognizes women chosen, by the Coalition, as Outstanding Women in the Community. Joanette Ragsdale recognized the 2017 Scholarship Recipients. The young women who received the coveted scholarships were De’Andre Darby, A’Zure Latimer, Shanice Morgan, Catera Ruth. Imani Sanders and Rebekah Williams. President Sheila W. Williams introduced the five women, who received beautiful plaques, for their outstanding community service. They were Katina W. Barnes, Rev. Dr. Yvonne V. Delk, Mary Hazward Fernandez, Dr. Julia James and Ola A. Goss.
The Jazz Luncheon Committee, which did a spectacular job, consisted of Chairperson/Adriana Walden; Co-Chairperson, LaTonya Durr; and committee members Cynthia Cheatham, Patsy Cherry, Judy Davis, Charlotte Maull and Cassandra Morgan. All in attendance thoroughly enjoyed the afternoon of fellowship.
There were vendors, on site, showcasing their wares of beautiful fashions and jewelry. D J Strawberry auctioned his beautiful art work that was done during the luncheon.
For information on membership contact Patsy Cherry at Patsycherry452@cox.net or mail inquiries to P O Box 22, Norfolk, Virginia 23501. You may also visit website www.ncbwtidewater.org.
