no. 116

CLASS NEWS

Here We Go 2011!

Hi All, This will be the final newsletter of 2010 and there really isn't much news to report! Let us just be thankful, however, that we made it this far because as you know, some of us didn't. In reflection, let us remember the good times we had at our 30th reunion in May and at Homecoming 2010 this past fall. Let us share our good memories of all of our classmates who have gone home and most important, let's just celebrate our spirit. It's been said many times that there's no love like Ubiquity love and I'm so proud of the way we stay connected and reach out to those in need--whether it be an expression of sympathy, a virtual Hampton Hug or bus fare! :-) We do what we do and we do it well. As we come into the new year the reunion committee will be looking at new ways to raise funds and we've already secured a place for next year's old school jam in an effort to avoid the last-minute scuffle that took place this year. And, as always, we'd appreciate your collective feedback and suggestions. This is an Obama-like administration and we need and appreciate you all. Thanks for all that you do to support our team. So, here's hoping that you've had a blessed holiday season and will have a happy and prosperous new year. Cheers, mik

Birthdays

Tom “TJ” Jones, Jan. 2

Debbie Patterson Ashton, Jan. 2

Miki Turner, Jan. 3

Doreen Mills, Jan. 5

Michelle Hurd, Jan. 10

Evadney “Peaches” Rogers Key, Jan. 14

Kent White, Jan. 15

Paula Stewart Dickerson, Jan. 15

Al Green, Jan. 16

Rodney Dawson, Jan. 19

Marilyn Cain Gordon, Jan. 22

February

Bonita Layson, Feb. 1

Trudy Perry, Feb. 2

Janice Phillips, Feb. 2

Jan Johnson-Johnson, Feb. 6

Michael Byrd, Feb. 8

Tony Perry, Feb. 12

Sharon Ford-Bell, Feb. 13

Dennie Lathan, Feb. 17

Hamlet Herring, Feb. 18

Sandra Mugomba, Feb. 20

Dot Lee-Murray, Feb. 25

END NOTES

And lastly, here's a little something you can take into the New Year with you courtesy of Cindy Woods Pearson. Enjoy!

http://thedailystride.wordpress.com/2010/11/11/why-i-love-my-home-by-the-sea/

You might enjoy this, too! Deja vu baby!

http://www.myjet247.com/JETInsider/Perspective/Content.aspx?topic=Remembering_Lady_T

Check out the next JET!

HOMECOMING REPORT

We Represented--Again!

Here's hoping that everyone has arrived home safely after a horrifically cold but fabulously good time at Our Home By the River (let's just call it what it is, OK? LOL)

Anyway, it was a good weekend. Among those who fellowshipped and partied were: Miki Turner, Andre DeBose, Les Arthur, Charlene Alexander-Taylor, Billy Taylor, Carl Coleman, Lauren Jones, Marilyn Cain, Cheryl Dunn Badger, Baron McKeithan, Tony Chetham, Bert Allen, Micheal Robinson, Krista Carter Skinnner, Rhonda Carter, Marcia Fields Milton, Michael Byrd, Chuck Dortch, Vincent Bayyan, Rhonda Rhea Byrd, Cindy Woods Pearson, Mary Radden Hicks, Wiletta Monroe Sawyer, Altamarie Burroughs, Gail Chapman, Brett Pulley, Sylvia Hazel Hunter, Ricky Harris, Rodney Dawson, Ron Simmons, Russell Minus, Dyanne Boone Baldwin, Eddie Keller, Carolyn Harris Brown, Christa Hill, Darryl Jones, Bubby Johnson, Wynton Ivey Norvel-Dillard, Bill Young, Leah Crocker, Daphne Henderson and some other folks I may have missed.

We all got together Friday night in the shared 80-81 hospitality suite. On Saturday a few of us braved the chilly temperatures to watch Wynton participate in the parade with 14 other past Miss Hamptons; as well as Bert on the NHAA float. Then there was the game. The Pirates were underdogs going in but fought the good fight before falling to Bethune-Cookman. After the game and the tailgating and the impromptu step shows and serenading, most folks went back to the hotel and chilled before hitting the party at the Crowne Plaza or hanging in the Board Room Suite to sample some of Andre's "specials."

There were a few last minute wrinkles with the Old School Jam but cooler heads prevailed and it was a success. We took a moment at 11 p.m. to remember Debbie Maxie Cowling and REO's son. Thanks again to Wynton for providing us all with the purple ribbons (pancreatic cancer awareness) and I encourage everyone who hasn't donated their $5 or more to the National Pancreatic Cancer Foundation in Debbie's name, please do so ASAP. It's so simple. All you do is go to the site, www.pancreaticcancerfoundation.com, click donate, fill out the payment option page and then when you get to the final page, click the link that says "special instructions" and type "In Memory of Deborah Maxie Cowling," your name and HU Class of 80.

Who Dey? Some Peeps You Might Know!

We had a good 'ol time!

No. 115

HOMECOMING

There will certainly be plenty to do this weekend as some of us return to our Home by the Sea for good times and fellowship. Friday night's hospitality suite will be co-hosted by the classes of '80 and '81, there will be a step show on campus for all of you old heads wanting to relive your former glory and the Kappas (Spring '80 line) will also be celebrating their 30th anniversary with a Friday night party.

Saturday, there will be a host of tailgate parties, the game against top-ranked Bethune-Cookman and our annual Saturday Night Jam at the Crowne Plaza's Dockside room.

Marcia Fields Milton and Bert Allen will also be manning a table on Saturday outside of Armstrong Field for their alumni giving campaign that we should all support.

Cheryl Dunn Badger will also have photos from our 30th reunion in May for sale. Please see her for details.

If anyone is still looking for a room let me know and we'll see what we can do. Travel safe and I look forward to seeing you this weekend!

Room Available!

Lauren Jones has a king room with refrigerator and microwave available at the LaQuinta Inn for the AARP discounted rate of $61 a night. Hit her up at lawn819@yahoo.com if you are interested.

Tia Johnson also has a room available at the Crowne Plaza. If interested, please contact her at:
tia.johnson@us.army.mil


CLASS NEWS

Thanks to Paula Stewart Hawkins for sharing some details of the homegoing service for the son of Rhonda Owen Smith and her husband Zed.

Zachary Smith's funeral was held on Saturday, Oct. 30 in Pikesville, MD and this is what Paula had to say:

Class of Ubiquity:

Saturday was an incredible experience, A group of us attended the homegoing services of Zachary, the 19 year old son of Rhonda Owens Smith and her husband Zed. The services were a wonderful expression of the love, joy, and the pain of losing a beloved child. I was reminded of the great benefit it is to belong to the Body of Christ. How wonderful it was to share and support the Smith Family. It was also a special honor to sit with fellow Ubiquity classmates and represent our class. We blessed Rhonda and her family yesterday and in doing so, we were blessed, I won't be at Homecoming next week, but yesterday is among the special moments I will remember, as a Hampton Joy.

Among the Ubiquity classmates in attendance were: Donna and Todd Givens, Patricia Hundley Williams, Cindy Woods, Ron Johnson, Tony Cheatham, Lori Young West, Dyanne Boone Baldwin, Joyce Wilson, Larry Butler, Rhonda Byrd and Kym Wilson.

Birthdays

Carleton Badger, Nov. 1

Phyllis Ingram Luciano, Nov. 2

Angela Goode, Nov. 2

Chauncey Douglas, No.v 10

Adriana “Peaches” Bethel-Hibbler, Nov. 18

T’Leen Moody Campbell, Nov. 18

Anita Lester, Nov. 18

Joyce Cole, Nov. 20

Alphonso Holloman, Nov. 23

Andre DeBose, Nov. 26

Julie Loftin McKay, Nov. 27

Carl Coleman, Nov. 28

Darlene Fuller Parham, Nov. 28

Leah Crocker, Nov. 29

December

Debora Durant Meador, Dec. 1

Kenny Malloy, Dec. 2

Jan Christopher, Dec. 3

Lenora DeLyons-Williams, Dec. 3

Tony Cheatham, Dec. 4

Darcea Scott West, Dec. 7

Mary Radden Hicks, Dec. 11

Deborah Maxie Cowling, Dec. 12

Rhonda Owen Smith, Dec. 17

Chico Sullivan, Dec. 18

Daphne Lockett Henderson, Dec. 19

Wynton Ivey Norvel-Dillard, Dec. 22

Stephanie Allen Gowin, Dec. 26

Patricia Hundley Williams, Dec. 26

Carlos Turner, Dec. 27

Peggy Witt James, Dec. 30

no. 114

HOMECOMING

Volunteers Needed

The rooms are all booked, the menu is set and the party is waiting to happen. All we need now is folks to volunteer to watch the door at the American Legion in one-hour shifts. This time you won't have to collect any money, just tickets.

As I have mentioned in previous emails, the collective class leadership have devised a system of pre-selling admission tickets and drink vouchers in accordance with the no-cash exchange policy of the venue. It's not an ideal situation, but neither is this recession. You just do what you have to do.

Tickets will be sold Friday at the hospitality suite, at the class of '81 tailgate spot on Saturday and various other locations (just look for the signs). Also, someone from the class of '81 will be at a specified location on Saturday night until 10 p.m.

CLASS NOTES

Michael Byrd Gets New Gig!

ATLANTA--Effective September 12, 2010, Michael Andrew Byrd has joined the Southeast Regional Office as Regional Comptroller. He serves as the principal financial advisor for all parks, programs, and offices administered by the Region, which stretches from the U.S. Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico to Kentucky and North Carolina. Michael develops, coordinates, and maintains an integrated system of financial services, including budgeting, accounting, auditing, and general fiscal management, with a goal of efficient use of both appropriated and non-appropriated sources.

Congrats Michael!

Lauren's New Editon!

Lauren Jones has announced the launch of the third edition of Reasonable Joy, now with a new look and feel -- and at lower prices! The book is now $17, and the e-book is now $6!

Please click this link -- www.lulu.com/reasonablejoy -- to take a look at the new edition. If you decide to purchase a copy, please do so from Lauren's storefront!

WRITING UPDATES:

After The Interruption, A Novel Aftermath to Reasonable Joy: content is more than half complete! Stay tuned for updates soon.

Defying the Mortal Coil: this novel is actually Book One of the Cyper Chronicles. It is a look at life through the eyes of a woman who was born in 1831, and who lives life as a 40-year-old with her husband, who was born in 1746. In this first book of the series, Victoria Brewer explains her life as an eternal, and reveals her secret skill: the ability to hunt and "disarm" murderers. Stay tuned for excerpts very soon!

Arrangements for Marilyn Cain Gordon's Grandmother

Funeral services for Marilyn Gordon's grandmother is Tuesday, Oct. 12. Viewing is 11 a.m., service starts at 12 noon at the Maguire Funeral Home. The address is: 7400 Georgia Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20012.

If you wish to send condolences, they can go to: Marion C. Hayden, 2901 S. Leisure World Boulevard, Apt. 332, Silver Springs, MD 20906 or Marilyn Cain Gordon, 515 E. Indian Spring, Silver Spring, MD 20901.

Wedded Bliss

Congratulations to Dr. Mary Morrow who became the wife of Fred Sutton on Saturday, Oct. 9, and to Phyllis Ingram Ford, who married Glenn Ford last month. Let's toast to all the newlyweds!

New North Atlantic Region Officers

Kudos to Dyanne Boone-Baldwin for being elected president of the North Atlantic Chapter of the NHAA! Way to go! She will serve from 2010-12. And to Janice Tyson, who will serve as corresponding secretary!

Birthdays

Donna Thomas Keating, Oct. 13

Karen Collins Avery, Oct. 20

Carleton Badger, Nov. 1

Phyllis Ingram Ford, Nov. 2

Angela Goode, Nov. 2

Chauncey Douglas, No.v 10

Adriana “Peaches” Bethel-Hibbler, Nov. 18

T’Leen Moody Campbell, Nov. 18

Joyce Cole, Nov. 20

Alphonso Holloman, Nov. 23

Andre DeBose, Nov. 26

Julie Loftin McKay, Nov. 27

Carl Coleman, Nov. 28

Darlene Fuller Parham, Nov. 28

no. 113

HOMECOMING NEWS

Crowne Plaza Fully Booked

As of Sept. 8, our room block at the Crowne Plaza Hotel has been fully booked. There is a glitch, however. Some of the rooms have been booked by folks who are not in our class. The class leadership is currently working with the CP management to alleviate this issue. It has been decided that in the future we will use an additional private code to eliminate this problem. I'm told that other classes already have this strategy in place.

That said, if anyone who has reserved multiple rooms isn't going to use them all, please let me know as we do have a small waiting list of people who would like to book them. Right now we have seven rooms that have been booked by outsiders. If we are not able to resolve this issue before homecoming, there are still rooms at the Holiday Inn Coliseum, starting at $76 per night.

Marcia Fields Milton is looking for an additional room at the Crowne Plaza in case anyone is relinquishing one now.

Party Update

Right now Ed Estes is updating our flyer and by next week we should have ironed out all of the details concerning the Saturday night jam at the American Legion Hall in Phoebus. Altamarie Burroughs suggested that we might be able to work around the no cash exchange on the premises issue by using a credit card machine. I think that there's even an AP for that on my iPhone! At any rate, if any classmates have access to a portable credit card reader, please let me know ASAP. If not, Ed had another viable suggestion about using tokens to purchase drinks. These tokens, however, would still have to be pre-paid.

If given a choice between pre-paying for the party by credit card (pay-pal), check or purchasing on campus Friday or Saturday, which option would you prefer?

CLASS NEWS

Leah Crocker, who is in better shape than most 20-year-olds, is once again participating in the Walk to Cure Lupus on Oct. 23 in Atlanta. Please click on: http://walk.lupusresearch.org/site/TR?pg=personal&fr_id=2550&px=1013215 to make a tax-deductible donation on her behalf, and include her ID number: GAA-520045.

Leah's good friend and soror Lauren Jones will also be walking with Leah and is seeking contributions on her home page: http://walk.lupusresearch.org/site/TR?px=1993419&pg=personal&fr_id=2550&et=3lzYdZXqeJ9-8o_6StKp7A..&s_tafId=24091

Please support them both!

Johnson Family Champ

Kelvin and Pam Jones Johnson are the proud parents of a champion! Check out Kelvin Jr.'s story below!
http://www.phillytrib.com/tribune/sports/96-lockerroom/13896-champ-last-year-johnson-looks-to-new-season.html

No. 113

REUNION UPDATE

Hello classmates. It's been a while since the last UNews so let me try and catch you up with what's been going on in regard to Homecoming 2010.

First, as you know, we have secured a block of rooms at the Crowne Plaza. At present, 38 of our 50 room nights have been filled. It is not imperative that we book all the nights to guarantee a free hospitality suite since we will be sharing one with the Class of '81, but it sure would be nice to see you all. The room rates are $149 per night. Light fare will be available in the suite on Friday night.

Also, we will be co-hosting the Saturday night party again. As you know, our beloved Strawberry Banks is no longer available, but thanks in part to the efforts of Sylvia Hazel Hunter and Christa Hill, we'll be creating new memories at the American Legion Hall in Phoebus. The cost of the party will be $25. Admission tickets, as well as drink vouchers must be pre-paid because we are not allowed to have any cash sales on the premises. The committee is still discussing payment options with the other class leadership. As soon as a decision has been made, we will let you know.

Lastly, I would like to announce that Bonita Layson will serve as co-class leader for the 2015 Reunion. She is currently our point person for the hotel and has done a fabulous job negotiating with the CP management. Also, Alphonso Holloman has graciously accepted the position of business affairs chair. He'll be responsible for negotiating contracts and has been tremendously helpful in that capacity already.

CLASS NEWS

Here Come The Brides

Congratulations to Mary Morrow, who will marry her fiancee Fred on Oct. 9 in Atlanta, GA. Several of our classmates will be in the wedding including maid of honor Altamarie Burroughs and bridesmaids Donna Wilds and Phyllis Ingram-Luciano. Phyllis, by the way, recently became engaged to Glenn Ford.

California Dreaming

I recently enjoyed a visit from the Wests of South Orange. Darcea Scott West and her family vacationed in Las Vegas and Los Angeles and we were able to hang out and do dinner, lunch and the beach with some side trips to Sprinkles Cupcakes and The Tonight Show. It was great having them here.

Also in the mix this month is Kim Williams Bullock and her family. I didn't get the chance to see Kim, she was too busy shopping on Rodeo, but we did get a chance to chat briefly. The Bullock clan was out in full force escorting Kim's son Kelly to college. He'll be a freshman communications major at Chapman University behind the Orange Curtain.

Reunion Goodies

For those of you who didn't make the 30th in May, there are still a few polo shirts left. Dyanne Boone Baldwin has five medium, one XL and four XXL. They're hot!

Grandma Lauren Hits The ATL

In honor of new granny Lauren Jones' visit to Atlanta, the ATL crew hosted a brunch for her at Pappadeaux's recently. Joining Lauren were: Michael Byrd, Wanda James, Leah Crocker and Steve Blair. It looks like a good time was had by all!

Birthdays

Valerie Millsap Harrison, Sept. 2

Kelvin “Stone” Johnson, Sept. 17

Altamarie Burroughs, Sept. 18

Mary Morrow, Sept. 18

Andre Rush, Sept. 22

Danita Locks Smith, Sept. 23

Gayle Burnett Heyer, Sept. 25

Karla Morris Holmes, Sept. 26

Renee Allen, Sept. 27

Vincent Bayyan, Sept. 27

Rosalind Murray-Port, Sept. 29

October

Donna Thomas Keating, Oct. 13

A Plea For Our Magazines

As most of you know I work for JET magazine, a publication that has been part of our collective formative years. JET and Ebony, like a plethora of other publications, have really been suffering through this recession. Ad revenue is way down. Essence is faring a little better, but Black Enterprise is struggling, too. Please help us help us by subscribing to these magazines, or simply buying them off the stands before it's too late. A JET subscription is only $25 per year or $35 for two years. That's what some people--present company included-- spend on lunch!

Homecoming Updates

Hello All.

On Sunday night our events committee, local liasons, Bonita Layson and myself had a conference call with Eminence class leader Ron Hayden and a member of his committee to finalize the location of the 2010 homecoming old school jam party.

It was unanimously agreed that we should go with the American Legion Hall in Phoebus, a location that had been scouted by Christa Hill and Sylvia Hazel Hunter. The Hall is not far from the Crowne Plaza, has ample parking and will allow us to party until 1 a.m., an hour longer than they normally do.

First, thanks to Christa and Sylvia for a bang-on job. We had been searching for a venue to replace our beloved Strawberry Banks for just over a month. We will have to pay more for it but Christa and Sylvia have assured me that the Hall is a "really nice" spot, so we hope to establish a long relationship with the ownership.

Also, thanks to Baron McKeithan for securing a backup spot, McGrew Towers. While it was less expensive, some committee members and various classmates communicated to me that they weren't feeling it. And, thanks to Rhonda Rhea Byrd for her suggestions as well. Trust me when I say that we looked high and low, far and wide for the perfect venue to meet our needs and nothing came close to the Hall.

We're happy and we know you will be, too, when you return to Hampton to get your groove on.

Now, here's the catch. The American Legion Hall will not allow us to collect money on the property so we are currently working with the classes of '81 and '79 to devise a system where admission and drink tickets would be sold prior to the event. As soon as we come to a mutual agreement, I will share that news with you.

That's it for now. We'll be in contact with the other class leadership in the coming weeks and hopefully will resolve all of our collective issues in the next few weeks.

Also, please be on the lookout for another survey from Lauren Jones tomorrow regarding some issues regarding the Friday night hospitality suite. Please, please, please fill this out ASAP as this is something pressing that we need to resolve yesterday.

Thank you for your time, patience and prayers.

Onward. Upward.

Here's To You Mrs. Robinson

Our condolences to Mike Robinson who lost his mother recently. Mrs. Robinson had been living with her son since her retirement in 1992 and Mike described her as his "dawg"--someone he could talk to about anything.

Please continue to keep Mike and his family in your prayers.

Next Stop South Beach

If anyone is going to be in the Miami Beach area this week please holla. I'll be heading down to cover the American Black Film Festival and Bonita Layson has graciously offered to come help me out. So, if you're going to be around please hit us up!

Birthdays

Remainder of June

Terri Lawrence, June 25
Larry Butler, June 26
Willeta Monroe Sawyer, June 27
Brett Pulley, June 28
Sheila McNeill-Lee, June 30


July

Donna Wilds, July 2
Marcia Fields Milton, July 6
Donna Yancy Blanks, July 6
Joyce Wilson, July 6
Valerie Whittlessey, July 8
Chan Phillips, July 10
Charlene Alexander-Taylor, July 10
Margaret Colden-Stanfield, July 10
Rhonda Bush, July 10
Wanda James, July 16
Chuck Dortch, July 18
Kenny Boone, July 24

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY

Book That Room

For those of you planning to attend homecoming this fall we have a block of 25 rooms at the Crowne Plaza on Friday and Saturday night that are ready to book. Please tell the reservation agent (757-727-9700) that you are with the Hampton University Class of 1980 to receive the discounted rate of $149 per night. If you have any questions about accommodations, please contact our hotel coordinator Bonita Layson at beejaylay22@aol.com. Homecoming is Nov. 5-7, with the Pirates hosting Bethune-Cookman on Saturday while most of you will be tailgating.

We are also close to securing a new spot for the old school jam and will once again be collaborating with the classes of '81 and '79 on that effort. Additionally, we will share the hospitality suite with '81 on Friday night, splitting the costs of food and libations.

D.C. Partay Boat

This is just a reminder that the 5th Annual Hampton Alumni Blue & White Marina party will go down this Friday, June 11, from 6 p.m. until at the James Creek Marina on 200 V St., SW. Please go out and support this event and our class!

Roz Advances

Congratulations to Rosalind Murray-Port who received her master's degree in economic development at Southern New Hampshire University. Make that money girl!

Ubiquity Survey

The reunion committee is in the process of planning the homecoming activities and would appreciate it if you would take a few seconds to fill out this four-question survey to help us better determine attendance and your wants and needs. Please help us help you. Many thanks!

http://www.surveymonkey.com/s/XYX35TN

The password is ubiquity. Thanks to Lauren Jones for posting this.

The Partay Is On!

Kudos to Cindy Woods Pearson, Andre DeBose and the DC crew for jumpstarting the 2015 fundraising efforts just a month after our 30th reunion. The annual Blue & White Marina party will kick off on June 11 at 6 p.m. at the James Creek Marina.

Please support this effort that supports us and have a great time!

Homecoming Party Update

The 35th reunion events committee is working hard to secure a space for us to have our annual homecoming old school jam. Last week we had a transition conference call to discuss the possibilities and we are considering branding this party to make even bigger profits. I'd like to hear your thoughts. You can either drop me an email at dmiki@aol.com, or leave a comment on the blog, which is preferable.

Reunion Photos

There are at least 1,200 photos from our 30th reunion out there in cyberspace. You can view those taken by Cheryl Dunn Badger on her Facebook account, and you can peep mine at www.mikiphoto.smugmug.com. The photos are in a protected gallery called Ubiquity at 30. The password is ubiquity.

Birthdays

June

Carolyn Harris Brown, June 2
Cindy Woods Ward Pearson, June 10
Michael Prewitt, June 17
Terri Lawrence, June 25
Larry Butler, June 26
Willeta Monroe Sawyer, June 27
Brett Pulley, June 28
Sheila McNeill-Lee, June 30

July

Marcia Fields Milton, July 6
Joyce Wilson, July 6
Chan Phillips, July 10
Charlene Alexander-Taylor, July 10
Margaret Colden-Stanfield, July 10
Rhonda Hoskins Bush, July 10
Chuck Dortch, July 18
Kenny Boone, July 24

Today is the one-year anniversary of the blog!

For Sale!

The reunion committee has several leftover gift bag items for sale. Proceeds will benefit our class as we begin to planning future events.

First, thanks to Dyanne Boone Baldwin and her committee for putting together the best goodie bag ever. Also, to Rhonda Rhea Byrd for designing such a powerful Obama poster, which was included in the bag.

Here's what we have left:

15 Ubiquity polo shirts. There are 8 2xls, 6 mediums and 1 large for $20, plus $10 S/H.

1 Ubiquity knapsack $20, plus $12 S/H.

Several pairs of sunglasses with cases for $10, plus $5 S/H.

Please contact Dyanne Boone Baldwin or Andre DeBose if you are interested in any of these items. DBB is at baldwin@bigplanet.com or AD at adebose@deloitte.com.

As previously published, the Obama-Ubiquity posters are also available for sale. Please refer to the last posting and contact Rhonda if you are interested in purchasing one of those at justsisters@hotmail.com.

The Old School Mix CDs donated by Twin, will be available for free including S/H. You can obtain those by contacting Kent White at kew1958@aol.com.

Another Legacy Grad!

Congratulations to Rhonda Carter Lawrence, whose daughter Felisha graduated Sunday with honors in electrical engineering.

Boat Party

Cindy Woods Pearson and her marina crew are gearing up for another Ubiquity fundraiser this summer in D.C. on June 11. Stay tuned for more information, but please ink this date on your calendars.

No. 112

New class leader Miki Turner with committee members Wynton Dillard & Cheryl Dunn Badger

Transitions

Now that we're all back in our respective spaces, I hope you all have had time to reflect on yet another great reunion at our Home by the Sea.

It just never gets old.

Our 30th reunion was everything the committee hoped it would be--the three Fs: Fun, Fellowship and Funds. Our class raised more than $128,000 and all of us who attended the alumni banquet in Saturday night cheered wildly as Andre DeBose, Michael Byrd, Wynton Ivey Norvel-Dillard and Cheryl Dunn Badger presented our class gift to the university.

Additionally, we elected new leadership. I will now serve as your class leader, a job I humbly accepted when nominated and I look forward to continuing the legacy of fine work performed by my wonderfully committed predecessors. Joining me in this effort will be:

Bonita Layson as executive administrative chair
Chuck Dortch as treasurer
Wynton Ivey Norvel-Dillard/Cheryl Dunn Badger as Fundraising/PR chairs
Carl Coleman as registration chair
Todd Givens/Rhonda Rhea Byrd as coordinating producers for special programs
Baron McKeithan and Sylvia Hazel Hunter as local liasons
Bill Young/Alfonso Holloman/Billy Taylor as event producers
Lauren Jones as publications chair
Dyanne Boone Baldwin as sponsorship/gifts chair
Charlene Alexander-Taylor/Mary Radden Hicks as co-on site hospitality chairs
Adriana Bethel-Hibbler as necrology chair
Rick Montgomery as senior producer/designer
Donna Lewis Givens as class Chaplin

If anyone has any interest in working on one of these committees or using your skills to benefit the team as a whole, please let me know. Also, I'm hoping that some of the previous class leaders will agree to be on a special advisory board to help our team through the transition.

There will be some adjustments to some of these committees as we go on, but I believe that we've got a great core group and that collectively with your help that we can continue to make the Ubiquity reunions social and financial successes.

We already have some great ideas and concepts that include fundraising wine tasting parties, homecoming events and Ubiquity specialty item sales that will benefit our class. Once we get these ideas fully developed we'll let you know.

The bar has been set high by the previous administrations headed by Bert Allen, Kenny Boone, Andre DeBose and Michael Byrd. The members of the 35th reunion know what we must do to ensure that level of continued success. We might be driving the bus but this has to be a collective effort.

On behalf of the committee thank you for your support, your feedback, your suggestions, your ideas and your prayers as we move forward. Let's all look forward to the possibilities.

Best regards,
Miki Turner
2015 Ubiquity Class Leader

A Special Gift

We closed Strawberry Banks down on Saturday night with a special announcement from two DC homegirls.

Just after the class toast, Carolyn Harris Brown announced that Cheryl Dunn Badger had graciously offered to donate one of her kidneys to Carolyn, who has been on dialysis for 15 years. Cheryl has one more test to go through and if all goes well, Carolyn could have her new kidney by the end of the summer.

This is how Ubiquity rolls. This is why we are so special, so bonded.

Who Else Was There?

You've all seen the list of people who were expected to come but there were quite a few surprises, too.

They include Cynthia Thompson, Sheila Tucker, Eddie Keller, Cheyenne Jackson, Venena Preston, Alotha Willis, Stacey Davis, Sheila Antrum, Peggy Witt James, Donna Yancy Blanks, Kym Wilson, Michelle Hurd, Myra Smith, David Jett, Kim Bullah and Rhonda Carter to mention a few.

Collector's Item!

One of the mot sought after items other than the Hampton Institute T-shirts was the Barack Obama poster designed by our own Dr. Rhonda Rhea Byrd. These posters were included in the fabulous Ubiquity gift bag coordinated by Dyanne Boone Baldwin. If you want one, Rhonda will be selling these for $30 a pop plus shipping and handling. If you want one, you can pay her through paypal. Please email her at justsisters@hotmail.com for the link. Proceeds will benefit the Hampton endowed scholarship fund. If you act between now and June 30, the money will go toward our 2010 class contribution.

These coveted items are going quickly, so jump on it!

Barack Rocked!

Those of you who had the opportunity to attend commencement at Armstrong Stadium not only had the privilege to witness a historic event, but to be entertained by President Barack Obama. He had obviously been briefed about Hampton folklore and tradition!

Here's my story on his visit, but if you want to see and hear the speech, click on the link below.

http://www.myjet247.com/News/Content.aspx?topic=Obama_returns_to_Hampton_U_gives_commencement_address

Fundraising Event for Montgomery County

For those of you in the DC-VA-MD metro area, here's a chance to have some fun and raise some funds.


RIP Lena Horne, Benjamin Hooks & Dorothy Height. The meaning of your lives are still unfolding in all of us.

HELP!

Marilyn Cain Gordon has four rooms for two nights at the Embassy Suites that she needs to unload ASAP. If you know anyone needing accommodations this weekend, please reach out to her at: 202.723.8600.

New Info On Commencement Tickets!

According to new information received this morning by class leader Andre DeBose, commencement tickets will be distributed according to class on Saturday morning. This means you need to get up early and stand in the appropriate line in order to receive your tickets at the Emancipation Oak. Be sure to have your photo ID.

Room Available!

Cindy Pearson has a room available at the Crowne Plaza for the group rate of $149. Cindy will arrive in Hampton Friday around 1 p.m. and can be reached at: 202-251-9424. Also, Adrianna Bethel-Hibler has a room available. Her room can be obtained by contacting Andre DeBose at adebose@deloitte.com.

Congrats Mamas!

Cheers to Marilyn Cain Gordon, whose daughter Brittany is graduating on Sunday, and also to Joyce Wilson, whose son Alexander is walking as well as Michele Cheek's daughter Jessica.

Sorry Brothers!

Well, the new tallies are in for the Battle of the Sexes! While it looked as though the brothers were edging closer last week, they got close but no they have yet to mount a serious threat to all the sisters who sacrificed those new shoes to help the cause!

Proud Parents!

Congrats to Heywood and Valerie Milsap Harrison whose daugther Melody has been accepted to Marymount Manhattan College and will major in studio art/costume design and minor in French. Melody has always been awarded $10,000 in scholarships from the college!

There's Still Time!

Our list of registered classmates keeps growing and you know it's gonna be a good 'ol time! So, if you're still on the fence about attending this weekend's reunion, please get the heck off and come on down to your home by the sea! If you need more info, please check previous posts or reach out to someone on the reunion committee.

Just be there.

Babysitting Options

Barbara McWilliams' daughter, Teylor, will be available for childcare during reunion
weekend. If you have those needs, please contact Teylor at (773)810-9394 and email
is hupiratetay@yahoo.com.  She can be available as early
as Thursday evening.

The Ladies Are Still Leading But The Brothers Are Gaining!

There's no cause for alarm yet, but Ladies we may need to step it up a bit. Remember, the winner gets free drinks all weekend from the man of your choice! Hey Brother X, I love Pinotage!

Tee-ing Up!

Hey golfers you only have a few more days to register for the Hampton University Reunion Weekend Golf Classic on Friday, May 7. Tee time is 1 p.m. and the $50 green fee can be paid at the Hampton Roads Golf Course at 320 Butler Farm Rd., Hampton, VA. course. Registration closes Sunday, May 2. For more information please contact Cheryl Dunn Badger at redtees1@gmail.com or call 609-937-4650.

Looky Who's Coming, II!

Alfreda Adjahoe-Brockman, Bert Allen, Charlene & Billy Taylor, Howard Atkinson, Sheila Antrum, Cheryl Dunn Badger, Adriana Bethel-Hibbler, Dyanne Boone Baldwin, Brenda Barnett-Torrence, Carolyn Harris Brown, Karen Brown, Kathryn Brown-Naming'Ona, Kim Bullock, Altamarie Burroughs, Michael Byrd, Rhonda Carter-Lawrence, Tony Cheatham, Micele Cheek, Leonard Chester, Margaret Colden, Carl Coleman, David Cooper, Valerie Cradle-Cuffie, Jan Christopher, Leah Crocker, Elizabeth Curtis, Andre DeBose, Lenora Delyons-Williams, Charles Dortch, Russell Easter, Marcia Fields Milton, Darrell Fitzgerald, Janet Flucker-Haywood, Sharon Ford-Bell, Sandy Gibson, Todd & Donna Givens, Gail Goodrich-Hunt, Marilyn Gordon, Ricky Harris, Paula Hawkins, Gayle Burnett Heyer, Elveeda Howell-Dixon, Patricia Hundley-Williams, Wanda James, Michele Jenkins, Jan Johnson, Kelvin & Pam Johnson, Ronald Johnson, Tia Johnon, Cynthia Johnson-Reid, Bonita Layson, Terri Lawrence, Dot Lee-Murray, Erica Lightfoot, Winifred Little-Green, Julie Loftin-McKay, Baron McKeithan, Sheila McNeil-Lee, Barbara McWilliams-Rhem, Valerie Millsap-Harrison, Percy Mitchell, Mary Morrow, Wynton Norvel-Dillard, Rhonda Owen-Smith, Kim Perkins-Holloway, Brett Pulley, Mary Radden Hicks, Sylvia Roberts-Martin, Kim Robinson, Evadney Rogers Key, Robert Rush, Krista Carter Skinner, Sheila Tucker, Miki Turner, Janice Tyson, Wendell Walker, Darcea Scott West, Herb Gray, Al Green, Renee Allen, Darlene Fuller Parham, Ernest Wilson, Cindy Woods-Pearson, Donna Yancy-Blanks and George White.

Joy's In A League Of Her Own Now

Congrats to Michele Cheek's daughter Joy who was drafted in the third round of the WNBA draft to the Indiana Fever!

Commencement Tickets

I'm not sure how many folks were able to get through the mad rush to reserve commencement tickets this morning, but there are some classmates who didn't and need extra tickets.

Altamarie Burroughs needs one for her mom, who will be accompanying her daughter to our reunion. If you have any extras that you're not planning to use, please contact her at alburrough@hotmail.com.

Volunteers Needed To Help Close Down The Banks!

Evidence

Please gather all of your new and vintage, tasteful and distasteful photos for inclusion in Rick Montgomery's reunion slide show. Please put your shots on a flash drive or CD and bring them with you to the reunion. For the technically-challenged, Rick can be reached at Richard@rixstarstudios.com.

HOT SHOTS

got some miscellaneous photos for the UNews? Send them on!

Claudia and Andre DeBose in New York City

Miki N' Mo Flashin'

No. 111

REUNION NEWS

Deadline Extended!

Good news for those of you still on the fence about attending our 30th year reunion May 7-9. The registration deadline has been extended to April 26. After that you can register on-site, but if you do that you might risk not getting a goodie bag. So, please send your checks to Michael Byrd at the address below ASAP.

Individual Registration Fee

$235

Couples Registration Fee

$325

All checks should be made payable to “1980 Reunion 2010 Registration”.

Please send your registration fees to:

Mr. Michael Byrd, 1908 Barrington Drive, Jonesboro, GA 30236

Commencement Tickets

As you all probably know by now the university has announced its distribution plans for commencement tickets.

Beginning Monday, April 19, at 8 a.m. EST, you can try and get one of the 1,000 tickets that will be available for the general public at commencement.hamptonu.edu on a first-come, first-serve basis. The next opportunity will be for alumni only on May 8 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. EST at the Emancipation Oak on campus. The reunion committee is checking to see whether the alumni allotment is for all alums, or just those who are registered with the reunion year classes.

That's the game-plan for now, but all of this could change. It's Hampton, y'all.

What's Happening And When

Our weekend schedule is still pretty much the same. There will be a confirmed list of activities in your registration packets.

Hotel

Our hotel block is full but if any of you with reserved rooms won't be attending please let either Andre DeBose or Michael Byrd know. Adebose@deloitte.com, Michael_Byrd@bellsouth.net.

Women Holding On!

The ladies still lead the Battle of the Sexes! It might be time for the brothers to bring in some ringers from '85! Thanks to Cheryl Dunn Badger for organizing such a successful campaign!

CLASS NEWS

Birthdays

Tia Johnson, May 5
Cheryl Dunn Badger, May 10
Brenda Barnett Torrence, May 13
Vanessa Brown Jones, May 15
Lorri Young West, May 18
Myra Smith, May 22
Kenny Vereen, May 23
Welton B. Doby, May 23
Bill Young, May 28
Steve Blair, May 30

JUNE

Carolyn Harris Brown, June 2
Cindy Woods Pearson, June 10
Terri Lawrence, June 25
Larry Butler, June 26
Willeta Monroe Sawyer, June 27
Brett Pulley, June 28
Sheila McNeill-Lee, June 30