Congratulations and very best wishes to Otho Poulson and his beautiful wife, Matilda Poulson , who are blessed to celebrate seven decades of marriage. The couple celebrated their 70th anniversary on March 22.

Matilda, 90, was born in Gloucester, Va. and moved to Philadelphia many years ago as a teenager. The beloved family matriarch is affectionately known as “Tilly.” She recalls her year’s at Overbrook High School and how much she enjoyed being an amateur track star. In addition to being a dedicated mother and homemaker, she was the proprietor of her own business.

The couple met in the early ’40s when Otho was employed at a peanut product factory in South Philadelphia. Matilda’s cousin, Eugene Gayle, who worked at the same factory, introduced the couple. As with most enduring, loving relationships, a solid friendship and dating evolved into an incredible love story and marriage on March 22, 1943.

Otho, 93, is a affectionately known as “Buddy.” He is a Philadelphia native and graduated from Overbrook High School in 1939. He is a retiree from the U.S. Postal Service and a World War II U.S. Army veteran. He served in the Philippines from 1942-1945. He was deployed to the Philippines following the birth of the couple’s first child, Lola Poulson Bailey.

After he returned to Philadelphia in 1945, the couple settled into their first home and their family continued to grow and flourish. They were blessed with two more children, sons Willis Poulson and Bruce Poulson. They have five grandchildren, Troy, Monika, Jamal “Will”, Andre and Elliott. They also have three beautiful great-grandchildren

For more than five decades, their home in West Philadelphia has been the venue for countless family gatherings. Family members travel from as far away as Tacoma, Wash. for a traditional Thanksgiving holiday with the Poulsons.

The Poulsons are proud to have participated in this county’s Civil Rights Movement. One of their most vivid memories is attending the March on Washington in 1963. The couple has been members of Mt. Carmel Baptist Church in West Philadelphia.

The love and respect for this wonderful couple was evident when I spoke with their grandson Elliot about them. May God continue to bless this family.

St. Martin de Porres(SMdP) is a beautiful jewel in North Philadelphia where our children shine brilliantly. Hundreds of supporters came out for the African-American Catholic School at its fourth annual Spring Gala at the Hilton Philadelphia Hotel. The theme, “Bright Minds Under Construction,” is perfectly matched to the students who were front and center during the school’s signature event. The gala supports SMdP’s mission to educate and enrich the lives of students from the economically strained North Philadelphia neighborhood.

Last year’s event raised more than $94,000. This year’s gala exceeded that amount and raised $214,000. There were 92 sponsors. The live auction was a major hit and featured a vacation in Nantucket, fine dining, lunch with the honoree, Brian P. Tierney and his wife, Maud, and a luxurious Caribbean Getaway. The silent auction was also a success.

I was delighted to be the guest of one of the school’s newest board members, James E. Andrews, attending the gala with his wife, Dee Andrews. Andrews approaches everything, whether serving as Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Inc. past polemarch, past president of the Cheyney Foundation and St. Martin de Porres with tremendous enthusiasm.

“I am thrilled to be involved to be a part of this very necessary and worthwhile event for this great school in the Kingdom of North Philadelphia,” Andrews said.

At the cocktail reception I had a chance to learn from a bright seventh grader, Chad Williams, about the beautiful art displayed by his fellow classmates. He was confidant and proud. There were other wonderful displays by talented students focused on math, science and other disciplines.

The dinner program began with an enjoyable dance presentation and readings of African American poetry by the students. I was moved when former SMdP student Megan Green spoke. She is a shining example of what education and nurturing can achieve. Megan shared the ups and downs of her young life and how she, with the help and support of SMdp, has been awarded a full scholarship to Villanova University. She is the first student to have the Connelly scholarship reinstated following a few bumps in the road and has travelled abroad extensively.

Award winning NBC-10 anchor Renee Chenault-Fattah was the evening’s emcee. She and her husband, Congressman Chaka Fatah, have been very instrumental and hands on in supporting the school, as has Brian P. Tierney, CEO of Brian Communications and Realtime Media.

Chenault-Fattah acknowledged how uplifting it was to be at such a positive event in view of her reporting so many negative news items. She introduced Tierney as a champion of the school. Tierney was presented with the first ever St. Martin de Porres Medal in honor of his leadership, support and advocacy of the school by Father Edward Hallinan who served as pastor of Saint Martin de Porres Church for 14 years and president of St. Martin de Porres School. He now serves as pastor of St. John Chrysostom in Wallingford, Pa and was this year’s honorary chairman.

The Rev. Stephen Thorne, former executive director, Office for Black Catholics, is currently pastor of Saint Martin de Porres Church.

Tierney has provided resources and financial support to SMdP since 2005. His remarks reflected a tremendous sense of caring and humility. He thanked all supporters including Congressman Fatah and Rene Chenault Fatah, his wife Maud; son Billy, brother Michael , Jack Donnelly, SMdP board chair and president/CEO, L. F. Driscoll Co. and colleagues from Brian Communications and Realtime Media for their support.

“I am always amazed at the transformations that take place within the walls of SMdP, watching youthful students mature into future visionaries of Philadelphia. Their vibrant spirits mean great things for our city, all thanks to the dedication of the teachers and community at large,” said Tierney. “It is such an incredible honor to be awarded the first St. Martin de Porres Medal. I feel blessed to have met many of the students and their families, as they give me the gift of continuous inspiration through their inexhaustible work ethic and love for this school. They’ve touched my heart and I’m grateful to the teachers, faculty, community and other supporters for sharing my passion and helping to keep the St. Martin de Porres spirit alive and thriving.”

Among those “Out & About” enjoying the gala were Cheyney Foundation President Irving D. Bailey; Ronald G. and Netta Johnson; AMERIHEALTH Mercy Foundation President, Maria Pajil Battle; Jerome M. Dean, Jerry J Martin, Jacqueline Sharkley Lewis, Sister Nancy Fitzgerald; Principal of Saint Martin de Porres and member of SMdP Parish Council, Melody Cooper, Monique Wright, Kevin Gray, Kimberly Coleman, Terrance Landham and Sister Lynn Marie Ralph, Director of Religious Education.

Congratulations, best wishes to all who supported this event. The event committee: Susan and Stephan Costalas, Geradine and James Heldring, Jant and Bruce Peacock, Betsy and Charles Minnich and Katie and John Cinter did an incredible job.

For more information about Saint Martin de Porres School, please visit: www.smdpschool.org.

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

The hats were fabulous and the attitudes were fantastic at the Drifters Inc. of Southeastern Pa. 10th Annual “Hattitude for Education.” This year’s lively hat auction and luncheon was held at the Desmond Hotel and Convention Center in Malvern, PA. Chapter President Donna Rodericksaid, “This is our signature fundraising event that supports our scholarship fund. More than 200 people came out for a great cause while having a wonderful time fellowshipping with friends and family. We are so appreciative of our every one of our guests, and patrons who participated by buying a ticket or making a donation to this event so that we can assist deserving minority students in our area.”

Other Drifter, Inc. officers are vice president Drifter Leah Williams, treasurer Sydney Howe-Barksdale, financial secretary Tomika Bryant and recording secretary Priscilla Jackson. They, along with fellow members Debbie Dickinson, Iva Ferrell, Sydney Howe-Barksdale, Chalena McIlwan, Sheila Mitchell, Rosalind Realer, Kim Reed, Jaynee Reeves-Baptiste, Judith Thomas, Brenda Williams and Debbie Wood pulled out the stops to entertain their guests in grand style.

Hattitude Fundraising Chair Debbie Dickinson, and her committee Tomika Bryant, Rosalind Realer, Debra Wood, along with assistance from Leah Williams are all very well versed at putting this elegant affair together after serving on committee over the last couple of years but this year they took it to the next level by using CarbonSquare.com services and leveraging social media with a website http://www.sepahattitude.org/ that included PayPal services to purchase event tickets and make scholarship fund donations. The day of the fundraiser was even smoother with guests having the ability to use credit cards to buy their hats, silent auctions baskets and purchase additional tickets, a Tech first for this chapter!

Drifters from sister chapters in Montclair, N.J. and Mitchellville, Md., came to support SEPA Drifters along with Madam National President Lisa Johnson Tonkins from Greensboro, N.C. She looked stunning in her chapeau bought at auction and stated, “This is the best affair! I enjoyed it thoroughly! I was especially impressed with mistress of ceremonies Drifter Leah’s ability to keep the hat auction portion of event upbeat, lively and moving seamlessly. Best of all national vice president Roderick modeled a hat auctioned at $300. That was the highest bid of the afternoon!” Drifter Roderick also showcased several of her fabulous brims from her personal collection bought at previous Hattitude fundraisers.

Driftwoods (spouses of Drifters) consistently support their dynamic ladies and are Tim Roderick, Rougon Baptiste, Greg Barksdale, Saeed Bryant, Marke Dickinson, Darrin Ferrell, John Jackson, Rodney McIlwan, Norman Mitchell, Walter Realer, and Chistopher Rippie. Several of the Kindling (children) and splinters (grandchildren) were also in attendance assisting with raffles, auction bidding, hosting guests and supporting the chapter.

Among those “Out & About” having a great time for a great cause were Barbara Gee, Tracey Benson, Shelly Pullian, Cecilia Robinson, Sheila Bruce, Joy Hamer, Lillian DeBaptiste and Stephanie Humphrey.

The mission of the Drifters Inc. is to. “Strengthen Our Families to Build Better Communities: Save our children, assist our seniors.” They are known as a group of dynamic women with charitable, civic, educational and social interests who have dedicated their talents to the enhancement of their chosen communities and the universal image of womanhood.

In accordance with their mission the Drifters Inc. provided scholarships for many deserving students. The outstanding young men and women who were awarded scholarships in 2011-2012 were: Lauren Duckett attending Liberty University; Kyra McFadden, attending Gettysburg University; Christeva Smith, attending Spelman College; Joy Hamer, also attending Spelman College; Amisa Harrell, attending Moore College of Art and Design; Shantell Crawford, attending Urnisus College; Joseph Gray III, attending Pennsylvania State University and Kevin Smith attending Youngstown State University. Scholarship winner Shantell Crawford expressed her gratitude to Hattitude guests for being one of last’s year’s scholarship winners.

Congratulations to the hat auction and luncheon committee chaired by Drifter Debra Wood and co-chaired by Drifter Debra Wood and committee members Drifters Tomika Bryant and Rosalind Realer who did a fantastic job!

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” Everyone!

Linda J. Miller celebrated her Spring retirement following 3 decades of outstanding service with the Philadelphia Parking Authority (PPA).

The lady of the hour was joined by a host of family and friends, including more than 120 PPA employees at the Taste Ballroom by Anthony Caterers.

“Thirty years of public service gave me the opportunity to help many people and by doing so I made a positive difference in their lives. I found that rewarding and fulfilling,” Miller said.

Her family, husband William R. Miller IV, children Darisha Miller and William R. Miller V, grandchildren William R. Miller VI , Morgan Alexis Miller and nephew Garrett Hill and his wife Mia shared the occasion. They prepared a special presentation with personal reflections of her career at the PPA.

Resolutions were presented by State Senator Leanna Washington, Councilwoman Marian Tasco and PPA Executive Director Vincent Fenerty. A special presentation was given by PPA Directors Denise Green and Rocco Morrotto. Tributes were also given by other PPA leadership and staff.

Other highlights of the event included a beautiful solo by Serena Blanco and an enjoyable video presentation of Miller’s life at the Parking Authority, produced and presented by Dewain Johnson. Richard Dickson did a terrific job as master of ceremonies as did event production coordinator, William Raymond.

Miller earned a B.S. degree in Marketing from La Salle University. She is experienced in parking management and communications. Her career includes positions as meter analyst, manager of community relations, spokesperson for the PPA and director of operations/spokesperson for the agency. She retires as the organization’s deputy executive director. Miller is also the CFO of Ross Associates Inc., a strategic communications consulting firm.

Miller has a proven record of telling the Parking Authority story to citizens through various media channels. Over the years the Parking Authority has received much media attention including television, radio and print media that provided a different view of the Authority. The most notable television series was “Parking Wars” produced by A& E TV seen nationwide for more than 4 years.

Among those “Out & About” enjoying the festivities were: St. Rep Dwight Evans, Councilman Mark Squilla , Judge Margaret Murphy , PPA Board Chairman Joseph Ashdale and his wife Arlene, Ahmeenah Young, Donna Miller and Kenny Miller, Joanna Bell, Herbert and Yosette Johnson from New York City, Dexter and Denise Green, Jerry Mondesire and Kathy Hicks, Jim Davis and Valencia Brooks, Sandra Montique and Sherry Lewis, Anthony Turner and Sharmain Matlock –Turner, Steven and Linda Bradley, Marian Johnson, Kim Nesmith and Christopher Lewis, Tummona Fisher, Donna Powell and Herman and Cookie Wooden and Jacquelyn and Bernard Smalley.

Miller is a board member of the Ogontz Avenue Revitalization Corporation (OARC) numerous parking industry professional organizations. Other memberships include the Coalition of 100 Black Women, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and advisory board member of Legacy of Love Foundation. She worships at Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church.

The celebration committee; Denise Green, Rocco Morrotto, William Raymond, Serena Blanco, Linda Bradley and Carrie Harris did a fantastic job pulling this event together.

Congratulations and very best wishes are extended to Linda J. Miller for many more happy, productive years ahead.

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Bucks County Chapter of the Links, Inc.

The Bucks County Chapter of The Links, Inc. sponsored its 8th Annual “Keepin’ It Real – Teens Talk” Youth Leadership Institute at General Electric Water & Process Technologies in Trevose, on Saturday.

Link Annette Kelton, Dorian Arthur, Alexander Smith, Ronald Walker, Lexy Whyte, Seraphina Parker, Link Pam Coles.

Eathyn Edwards, Alexander Jordan, Link Patty Louison (Youth Leadership Institute Co-Chair), Link Rosalind Williford (Youth Leadership Institute Co-Chair), Link Deborah Camp Frye (Chapter President).

•••

I was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Earlene Nelson. She was a one of a kind lady of elegance and a dedicated educator. It was a pleasure to attend and write about her 80th birthday celebration where she dressed fabulously in purple with her trademark stiletto heels. Her theme parties were meticulously unique. I will always remember Earlene Nelson with a smile.

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” everyone!

The Philadelphia Chapter of Chums Inc. presented “All that Jazz & Eggnog XXI” on Palm Sunday at Drexelbrook Catering and Banquet Hall in Delaware Co. The event draws hundreds and is a tradition that guests have enjoyed for more than two decades.

Newly elected Chum President Margaret Livingston said, “If you like dining with beautiful people and dancing to live music, you would have enjoyed our signature, annual scholarship fundraiser.” She emphasized that the Chums mentor and support two beneficiaries throughout their entire higher education experience.

Scholarship chairperson Gisela Johnson-Smith brought us up to date regarding the recipients. Jasmine Highsmith will graduated from Temple University this May with a bachelor’s in sociology and health. She has been accepted to New York University where she will pursue a master’s degree in sociology and psychology. Amber Anderson, a senior at East Stroudsburg University, is majoring in biology and will graduate in December 2013.

The Philadelphia Chapter of Chums Inc is accepting applications from young women and men who will be graduating from high school in the Philadelphia region and are planning to enter a college, university or accredited two year program in the fall of 2013. Applications may be obtained by e-mailing requests to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. . The deadline is April 30.

There was also a lively 50-50 raffle to raise funds for book stipends. Winners flashed broad smiles for the win-win outcome.

Other officers serving with Margaret Livingston are: Francene Perry-Brown, Sonya Toxey Stackpole, Iris Pointer-Carr-financial, Millicent Hartsfield, Dorothy Cousins, Vivian Ray, Gloria Toxey Jones and Victoria Green.

Other ladies who are club members are: Annabelle Booth, Pamela Bennett-Bryant, Bettye Hill-Dixon, Jacquelyn Jackson, Kathleen Lee, Nancy Lee, Roberta Muse and Mattie Wesley. Hums (spouse or significant other) enjoying the afternoon were: David Jamison, Donald Smith, Glen Brown, Kent Pipes, Artis Ray, Everett Jones, Robert Dixon, Bernard Lee and James Muse.

Margaret Livingston’s guests included her lovely mother, Marjorie Livingston, Jean Perry, Mary Livingston, Walter Livingston III and Morris Bracey.

I was delighted to be the guest of Immediate Past National President Gloria Toxey Jones and her Hum Everett Jones. They graciously entertained Councilwoman Marion B. Tasco and Ishaq Samai, Judge John and Linda Braxton, Ann and Ronald Hillard from Columbia, Md., Theresa and Dwight Ott from Voorhees, N.J., Linda and Gary Moore, Lawrence and Barbara Stallworth, Constance Bulls, Barbara White, Gus Lacy, John and Darlene Adams, Louise Moss, Kathleen Williams, Dolores Weddington, Lynette and David Knox III, Dorothy and Harvey Bryant, Donna and Derick Edwards, Audrey and Preston Taylor and Davis and Marian Martin.

Others “Out & About” were: Margaret Lloyd, Gertrude Baker, Mark Hartsfield, Eric and Karen Hartsfield, Delores and Col. Chappelle, Marsha and Jim Potts, Patricia and Norman Clark, Toby Bryant, Cynthia Bluford, Darlena Ward, Kelly Chapman, Louis Kingsboro, Elsie and Eddie Williams, Yvette Williams, Julia Hill, Theda Lee, Ken and Sandy Brown, Florence Lawrence, Regina Lawrence, Tiffany McElveen, Wendy Stewart, Juliann Williams, Keith Irvin and Rosetta Green.

The Rev. Canon H. Gregory Smith of St. Luke’s Episcopal Church of Germantown blessed the food before a delicious sit down dinner was served. The traditional eggnog sip is always a welcomed highlight along with mixing and mingling and dancing to music by a great band, The Renaissance Orchestra. The line dancers were looking fabulous.

Congratulations to the event committee, Bettye Hill-Dixon, chairperson; Iris Pointer-Carr, co-chairperson; Gisela Johnson-Smith and Vivian Ray who made this another fun affair for a great cause!

Have a fantastic week “Out & About” everyone!