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40 FOUR SEASONS BREEZE | OCTOBER 2022 The African American Cultural Club celebrated their 10th anniversary by Steppin' Out in White on Aug. 13. From one end of The Courts patio to the other, a beautiful sea of white was on display: white tablecloths, white decorations, and white chairs and umbrellas. Fashion was runway comparable, as the snow-white outfits of 150 attendees were beautifully paired with sneakers to stilletos. Vice President Shairon Nevills welcomed everyone. Member Jan White provided a brief history of the AACC. She shared that one day while walking, Bettyann James, along with Cookie and Ralph Bonner developed the idea of an AACC. Ralph said it would be nice to exchange thoughts and opinions with other African Americans in the community; and with that in mind, Bettyann invited Black residents to a meeting at The Lodge to discuss the idea. Around 50 people attended and the AACC was formally launched. Black residents gathered for games, genealogy, cultural activities, movies and festivals. They also sent cards and/or flowers to the sick and bereaved. We applauded Bettyann James for being the first AACC president and leading the club for six years. Our second president, Joyce Allen, and third, Regina Thomas, were also recognized for their outstanding work and contributions to AACC. Our current president, Wanda Valentine, is leading with the goal of increasing AACC visibility and community involvement. Entertainment was provided by Remembrance, a group of four very talented male singers. Remembrance's exemplary performance included popular songs of Motown and other Black music genres. Taking the stage three times, they remained true to the tunes and music of years past and surprised us with a memorable finale while dressed in white tuxedos. Thank you to the anniversary planning committee members: Shairon Nevills, Connie Bowen, Johnetta Driscol, Roxie Elliott, Wanda Valentine, Shirley Caldwell, Effedena Jordan and Minnie Lathrop. We also extend gratitude to the many others who made this wonderful event possible. The African American Cultural Club is excited about our future plans. Upcoming events are listed below. Please mark your calendars, check future Breeze articles, and see the Daily Report for additional information. • Jazz Under the Stars on Saturday, Oct. 1 • AACC Christmas Gala on Friday, Dec. 16 The African American Cultural Club meets on the first Monday of the month at 6 pm in The Lodge Game Room. All are invited to attend and learn more about African American culture. Our next meeting is Monday, Oct. 3. If you have any questions, please contact AACC President, Wanda Valentine, at (951) 544-1606. ~ Jane Gentry African American Cultural Club Remembrance gave an excellent performance The Ladies Steppin' out: Minnie Lathrop, Connie Bowen, Wanda Valentine, Johnetts Driscoll, Grace Hollis, Shairon Nevills, Shirley Caldwell, Efferdena Jordan, Elaine Brown, and Bettyann James These men look quite dapper in their white!