“Family Affair” Issue: August 2024

Featured ~ Douette O. 'Doc' Cunningham ~ Leave a comment

Click Start: Editor’s Preview

In this issue we’ve got stories from some of our main families. We also give props to the Miller Family from Maryland. They’ve been ride-or-die friends for 30+ years and are among our MVPs (Many Valuable Peeps). Then, there’s another story that we didn’t see coming. It can only be described as a ‘divinely ordered’ moment for the Family Line Portal.

Checkout the ‘Good Stuff’ for more on a member of the Mitchell family from Delaware being named Entrepreneur of the Year. Also, you’ll find the ‘Family Feature’ and ‘Milestone Spotlight’ where members of the Salami family from Togo Africa, are in the mix. As a reminder, you can click the About page to learn more on how this portal came to be.

If you’d like to be among the families covered each month, then link-up by dropping your email below. Hope you’ll enjoy the stories and feel free to leave your comments. Thank You!

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Lead Story: A Bigtime Celebration

Folks traveled from near and far to celebrate the birthday of a matriarch in the Steele family. When our Aunt Cynthia arrived at the scene, she might have thought it was just another party among family. Now, she was the honoree at this all-white event. In turning 94, she’s our oldest surviving family member. But don’t tell her that, because she still wants to dance with diva-like moves.

The planning that went into the event took a long time coming. Maybe as early as the beginning of the year her sons Dennis Jr and Dave were thinking about doing something special. Then her nephews Andrew and Paul jumped in, along with a few other guys in the fam, who started to plan for a bigtime celebration. And boy was it a good time across multiple generations.

Folks showed up and showed-out, some maybe reminiscing on old times, others making plans for future times. Those ‘next gen’ in the fam seemed to have a sense of anticipation and new appreciation for family ties. Plus, there was a special picture montage and video tribute by R&B artist Tyrese to Aunt Cynthia.

It was a casino-inspired theme as one of her fav spots is Atlantic City. The planning team even got a DJ from the south, taking a break from his role as an urban radio producer and ‘shot caller’. In a way it felt like a trial-run for a future family reunion. Our dear Aunt was surrounded by love since many of our immigrant roads crossed paths through hers, as one of the first in the fam to land on these shores.

Frontpage Column: Douette Meet Douette…A Real Namesake

Written by: Douette Pryce

My name Douette, I always thought was different and wondered if I was named after an ancestor and/or an original. True to Jamaican tradition, a folklore of sorts, every Jamaican though they will have a formal name, is always called by a nickname. My birth certificate says Douette, but among family and anyone who knows me in Jamaica I’ve always been called Shaun. One can always tell who is addressing me whether they say Douette or Shaun. If they say Douette that means they are not family. If they say Shaun, I know they are family.

Now let’s go to the summer of 2022 in Orlando, Florida. I was invited to be a conference speaker by a close college friend, Britta Eriksson. As I entered the event Britta spoke to me about meeting one of her colleagues that was running the show. When I met the colleague, Nadine Cunningham, she asked me where the name Douette may have come from and whether I was Jamaican. When I mentioned that “yes I was”, she stated that her brother was also named Douette and she has never met anyone else that had the name, spelt the same as his.

That night I called my mom and told her the story of this young lady I met who was from Jamaica and had a brother named Douette. Mom got very excited and asked if their last name was Cunningham and whether they had lived next to an elementary school when growing up in Jamaica. Told her I would ask the next day. I searched for Nadine and upon finding her, asked the question and her response came with a twinkle in her eye, a huge smile and an affirmative “yes.”

It was then I relayed to her the story I had learned the night before that my mom (a teacher at the time) had a young boy in her class at two years old, who she thought was one of the most well-behaved students with a unique name. Fast forward a few years, when mom had her first child she named him after that same little boy. I stated flatly to Nadine “well it seems the reason my name is spelt the same as your brother’s is because I was named after him.” I had goose bumps as I came to realize the connection being made.

Two years later, I am still amazed of that chance meeting with Nadine and still marvel at the circumstances by which we were brought together 50+ years later.

Family Feature: Dream Africa Rollout

Dream Africa is back on the block, or better yet the continent. The concept is the brainchild of Yasmine from the Salami family. It’s based in Togo Africa and was inspired by her wanting to connect kids of African descent living in the U.S., with family and residents in the Motherland.

After debuting the project last year, the feedback received pointed to parents wanting to have a similar experience. So they added an adult component to expand the programs. Across a 2-3 week stretch, there’re educational, social and development programs for the young’uns. There’s also the cultural aspect where attendees get to experience the music, food, dress and culture in an up-close and personal way.

**Yasmine (right) with Dream Africa Team**

At the end of the program, certificates were handed out in various categories of recognition. It was also a chance for them to feel like ‘I was there’ in a memento. As Yasmine returns to the U.S., she’s gonna reset things around a vision that invites more partners. They’ve already had some initial discussion with the Mitchell family, based on their interest and contacts. For more info visit www.DreamAfrica.Africa.

Star Sightings: Hanging with the Who’s Who

It seems the Paris Olympics was a let-down for Jamaica. Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce scratched from the women’s 100-meter semis because she wasn’t allowed into the warm-up area. Kishane Thompson got out-leaned by Noah Lyles in the men’s 100-meter final. And for the first time in 20 years, the men’s team didn’t make the finals of the 4×100 sprint relay.

It’s not all ‘down in the dumps’ though as there were surprises for Jamaica in field events. We did much better there, even winning gold in men’s discus. Well, Deja wasn’t at the games, but she had a chance to take pics with some of the players at a previous indoor track meet.

**Deja with Ato Boldon, NBC Olympics Announcer**

On the social and political front, there’s a new burst of joy and energy. VP Kamala Harris joined the presidential race; Newark Mayor the Honorable Ras Baraka is in the NJ Governor’s race; Princeton University Professor Dr. Eddie Glaude Jr. is doing his thing as a MSNBC commentator. Had a chance to catch up with them recently at their events. You’ve heard of OG in pop culture. Well, Mayor Baraka is like the OC (Original Champ) as he ran for City Council over a dozen times before finally winning a seat, and later becoming Mayor.

Turn Up Tips: Notes on Trusting the Process

“Don’t be impressed by money, power, degrees and looks. Be impressed by generosity, integrity, humility and kindness.” – (Store sign from a biz on Linkedin).

“Sometimes there’s ‘family fog’ that blocks our view on things. But when light and love shine through, it will help clear the fog so folks can fly higher.”

Milestone Spotlight: From 0 to 50 in a Flash!

It’s August already, where did the time go? As a child, folks would often say “enjoy your youth because when you’re older, time just flies”. That expression makes lots of sense now for many of us. It was a year ago that we did a family trip to Togo Africa and were treated like royalty by the Salami family. That was a life-changing experience and a milestone moment.

Well, this year, with the Salami family headed back to Togo for their Dream Africa Project, it was time for Farida to celebrate her 50^th. She’s the ‘baby’ of the bunch and as a nurse her role works well with making sure health & well-being are handled like you’d get from medical professionals.

Speaking of medics, it felt like yesterday when Damara was born as we’d hangout at her house with her parents and siblings. Fast-forward 30 years and she’s celebrating a milestone too. We also get to call her Doctor Miller. She’s about done with residency and is looking to shift towards her fellowship work in a specialty area. Happy birthday ladies!

**Farida on left, Yasmine on right, with student**

Good Stuff: Entrepreneur of the Year

It was one of those black-tie affairs. Folks came together to celebrate the www.StartUpAfrica.org efforts to support young adults in the building of business skills that foster financial independence, create jobs and grow economies. As The Family Line would have it, our own Samantha Mitchell was recognized as Entrepreneur of the Year.

The organization is dedicated to nurturing the entrepreneurial spirit and innovation prowess of African youth. Their programs empower young minds with the skills and mindset to transform their communities for a brighter tomorrow. StartUpAfrica founder/CEO Erastus Mong’are was on hand to honor Samantha for her work as founder/CEO of Black Women in Aviation. The Mitchell’s had their daughter Naomi there to cheer on mom.

The group’s Board of Directors is a distinguished set of biz leaders, some with African roots, but collectively with African hopes & dreams. It was a proud occasion for our Devon Mitchell, owner of Anytime Fitness in Delaware, not just for his passion in this area, but also for his co-partner in biz and life. They’re an inspiration to The Family Line and a resource in ways that make working together electric.

Other Mentions: Added Touch Like Gravy

So, the Mitchell family is off to their family reunion and Africa trip. But there’re more happenings that folks might not know about. In the ‘Line Jams’ feature below, checkout the music video by Mickey Guyton, which celebrates Black Women in Aviation. If you look closely, you’ll see Samantha Mitchell in the video. You go girl!

Then, there’s Gary from the Steele family who took a trip to Arizona with his crew. The ‘hostess with the mostess’ was our Aunt Sheila, who relocated there a few years ago after a long stay in Maryland. Think there’s a cavalry coming to Phoenix if she keeps this up.

Smile Emoji

Even kids know when math ain’t ‘mathing’ (sent by Nadine)
https://www.instagram.com/reel/C6sG0Q7uvLH/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link

Beach tanning and surf-watching (shared on FB by Serge Dupoux)

Life & Times Flava (“Chill Sauce for the Grind”): “Bahama Mamas and Cajun Brothas”

Friends & family moments can bring some inspiring ‘life & times.’ It’s not always about what we do to make that money but also what we do to make it more meaningful. One way we get that from the creation story is in these words: “Let there be light.” It’s the first meaningful shift in awareness from bringing light.

Well, the ‘Bahama Mamas and Cajun Brothas’ got a chance to experience some of that on their recent trip. When on vacation, it just seems like the ‘light of day’ has a different sparkle. Plus, the convo was enlightening. If it seems like we were having too much fun, blame it on the pina coladas by day and ‘gin & juice’ margaritas by night. At the end of the trip, we were already thinking about the next time.

Thankfully, tropical storm Debbie didn’t mess things up. Now it’s back to the grind, the political headlines and a chance to “Turn. Up. Big.” in roots & culture. As November draws closer, make sure to check your voter registration and polling location before the NFL season gets going. We owe it to our ancestors. (For a deeper dive into the issues, checkout http://www.SeeAmericaInColor.com).

Line Jams

Mickey Guyton – Woman – https://youtu.be/s3Gv_IOjm6A?si=SMlqCL5NHJ5eIk2O

Mary J. Blige – Family Affair – https://youtu.be/ELwqGtdbgaw?si=Hw4brdCJ4a_8rd2G

The Family Line Motto: “Open Door to Good Cheer.”

“School’s Out, Cookout’s In” Issue: July 2024

Featured ~ Douette O. 'Doc' Cunningham ~ Leave a comment

Click Start: Editor’s Preview

The feedback has been fresh and heartfelt. Thanks for sharing the love that means the world when it comes from family, whether by blood, water or ties-in-law. As you know from our debut issue, the blog/portal is made possible by four main families:

Steele Family of Jamaican roots, now extends from New York to Florida to California.
Salami family of Togo Africa roots is Maryland & West Virginia based.
Jackson family having African American roots, is South Carolina & New Jersey based.
Mitchell family having Guyanese roots, is Delaware & New York based.

As things grow, expect to see stories and upbeat tips that have been inspired by other families we call MVPs (Many Valuable Parents/Players) and VIPs (Very Important Peeps). These are folks who have a direct connection or indirect link to the main families. So, checkout two new features: ‘Life & Times Flava’ and ‘Did You Know?’. Also, shoutout to the Harper family in the Milestone Spotlight.

If you’d like to be among the families covered each month, then link-up by dropping your email below. Hope you’ll enjoy the stories and feel free to leave a comment using link in header. Thank You!

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Lead Story: Babies Who Became Doctors

(Story production assistance: Nadine & Pat)

We’ve seen school yearbooks try to predict a student’s career track and what they’re gonna be. Those can be funny and spot on in some cases. Parents might even try to do the same thing with an infant child. Hoping and praying that they become doctor or lawyer or for some, professional athlete.

In our last issue you met Steele family member, our cousin Patricia who is an Educator and Entrepreneur. When she first opened her school in Brooklyn, one of the early staff members was our grandmother Mildred Steele-Wilson. Grandma Wilson ‘raised’ quite a few babies in her time (seen below with a great-grandson, many years ago).

**Grandma with Sheldon**
(pic by Aunt Cynthia and Junior Wynter)

Well, fast forward a few decades and two of those babies have now become Doctors. It was a celebration when Jillian Ryan recently earned her Doctorate in Education (Ed.D.) and Deborah Watson earned her Ph.D. a few years before. They know something about being ‘breakout students’ who began to see what was possible and went for it.

Our Aunt Sheila was a reminder that grandma’s birthday would have been July 11^th. Plus, Pat knows how much grandma was a great cheerleader for her babies. As Trudy Parris, another early staff member said of Dr. Ryan, “Thirty years ago I presented her Kindergarten Diploma, and today I was honored to be there for her Doctorate in Higher Education Administration.”

**Dr. Jillian Ryan**
(pic by Trudy Parris)

Did You Know? Family Archive Tidbits

(Story contributors: Carol & Aunt Cynthia)

Something we learned from the Salami family during our trip last year to Togo Africa, gives a new way for the generations to feel connected. They went back in their ancestry to a patriarch seen as an anchor point, which they call Generation Babana (GB). From there, each generation forward becomes GB1, GB2, GB3, etc. That was a major takeaway from our trip.

The concept makes sense and when applied in the Steele Family, takes us back to Mildred Steele-Wilson and her sister Lena, that we call Generation Steele (GS) based on their father’s name Alexander Steele. So, after the Steele sisters we have GS1, GS2, GS3, and so on. It made sense to many of us who’re GS2 fam members on both Mildred and Lena sides.

Adding to the fascination of family archive tidbits, cousin Carol (a GS2) who travelled with Grandma Mildred back in the day, remembers meeting grandma’s sister-in-law Isabel in Antigua. Isabel and her fam had left Jamaica for England in their early life but moved to Antigua in later years. We even think a generation or two after that, one of them became a flight attendant. Did you know Maxine?

Turn Up Tips: Notes on Trusting the Process

“Family history helps us with current times in how we see one another, love/care for one another and live our best life.”

“When we live life forward but understand it backward, we can find alignment with our assignment.”

Family Feature: Hot Crown Summer!

“Time for your 7-day forecast…just call it 3Hs – hazy hot and humid.” Sounds like your weather, right? We’re in the heart of what’s often called the “dog days of summer”. It’s where school’s out, cookout is in, and hot girl summer is a hit (not just with boyz in the ‘hood). Let your hair down girl!

Speaking of hair, the talk in culture and on the block is the growing move towards natural hair. Over the years women have been embracing the shift from perms to twists, and guys from fade to plaits/locs. It’s such a trend that barber shops and hair salons now have special stylists just for those natural looks.

But in some circles, it’s become a hassle where folks are told they ‘gotta cut it off’ or change their look in order to fit-in with the place. Some public officials took issue with that and hence the need for legislation called the ‘Crown Act’. It’s about protecting folks from bias and discrimination by respecting diversity in hairstyle choices. Learn more at http://www.TheCrownAct.com.

The Jackson family knows a little something about that as they represent, when it comes to the modern look. Plus, it’s not just about styling the hair on your head, it’s also the stuff inside your head. All these ladies (and our guy Walter) are doing-it-up in hair and hometown effect. Folks, it’s gonna be a ‘Hot Crown Summer’!

Milestone Spotlight: Let’s Go Clubbing!

What time is it? That’s the question we ask before hitting the town. Some might say they gotta take a nap before changing into that sleeveless top and legs-out bottom. Others might say, “Let’s go clubbing!” Well, what happens next depends on who you rollin’ with and where they wanna go. For some those words take on new meaning over the years.

If you’re in the 50+ marriage club like Junior and Gerry Price, those words might mean attending a show or just a quiet evening listening to some jazz or gospel. Since their golden wedding anniversary a few years ago in September, they’ve been married 50+ years and still feel like they’re young at heart. Then there’s Andrew and Mildred Harper-Wilson, married for 30+ years, celebrating recently in Antigua. After the trip Drew says he’s ready to step things up towards a family reunion next time. OKaaay…we see you, making it do what it do!

**The 50+ Club (left); The 30+ Club (right)**

For those who might still have a little ‘clubbing’ left in dem legs whether in dating or marriage, gotta keep love alive. As the saying goes, “behind every strong man is a virtuous woman.” But at The Family Line, we like to say, “behind every strong man is a no-nonsense woman.” Happy Honey-boo-versary y’all!

Smile Emoji

Getting ready for next Olympics in Los Angeles? (courtesy of Coach-Q)

In Jamaica, hurricane or not, we jam and catch a flight! (sent by Donnice)

Montego Bay airport pic.twitter.com/jfAd6AafHI
— No One Above the Law (@jenicejam) July 7, 2024

Montego Bay Airport, Jamaica

Life & Times Flava: “Chill Sauce for the Grind”

Where y’all headed this summer, somewhere with clear waters and blues skies? It might be a road trip, island destination, group convention or just laying low on a staycation. In the season of family reunions, maybe you’re trying to roll out some new ideas just to bring and keep the fam together. That’s cool, but if politics comes up, what’s gonna be the hot-button issue on folks’ minds?

While the upcoming presidential elections got us on edge, it’s a reminder that if a country (or family) becomes its own worst enemy it can end up in self-sabotage or even self-destruction. So, we gotta turn things around and ‘Turn. Up. Big.” by channeling our energies towards a new vibe, swag and bag. Maybe that’ll get us headed to clear waters and blue skies in America. Wheels up!

(For a deeper dive into the issues, visit http://www.SeeAmericaInColor.com).

Line Jams

Alicia Keys – Like Water – https://youtu.be/wSLtwTzlMGs?si=JmWSzg9fWWALx7fD

Emile Sandé – Brighter Days – https://youtu.be/XuiGHneBKuE?si=exn8fOqvdjkzROH_

‘The Family Line’ Motto: “Open Door to Good Cheer.”

Debut Issue – June 2024

Featured ~ Douette O. 'Doc' Cunningham ~ Leave a comment

Click Start: Editor’s Preview

We’re off and running! The Family Line Blog/Portal has been in the works for a few years. Things began after major news events and family moments seemed to cry out for a response beyond headlines & hugs, thoughts & prayers. From the combination of zoom/WhatsApp calls, email/text messages and one-on-one chats, the concept later took shape. It’s all tied to a dream for country and family that fuels our passion. You’ll meet and appreciate families through their journeys. The four families here are:

Steele Family of Jamaican roots, now extends from New York to Florida to California.
Salami family of Togo Africa roots is Maryland & West Virginia based.
Jackson family having African American roots, is South Carolina & New Jersey based.
Mitchell family having Guyanese roots, is Delaware & New York based.

Across the U.S. & Canada we’re living in the east, west, north and south. Then add-in multiple countries in Africa, the Caribbean and Europe. There’ll be times to learn, dance, laugh and debate like families do. Beyond ancestry info of Family Tree links, etc, you’ll sense that we’re building legacies, forging synergies and lifting energies. For more on the summer season lineup, drop your email below. Feel free to leave your comments at end of blog. Thank You!

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Lead Story: An Act of Love

It was nine years ago this June 17^th when a Charleston South Carolina family was rocked to the core. Their beloved grandmother Ms. Susie Jackson was taken from them in a tragic shooting at the Mother Emanuel AME Church. The breaking news story was tough to deal with because of the hateful motive.

**Walter Reflecting on his Grandmother**

A year ago, Charleston city officials were joined by local leaders and family members to dedicate the Susie Jackson Freedom Memorial Garden in her honor. Moreover, it was an act of love by naming a street in her memory. Ms. Jackson’s grandson Walter Bernie Jackson, a trusted advisor and supporter here at The Family Line, shared some reflections about grandma Susie (there’s more on his FB page).

The family turned tragedy into triumph that inspires the heart and fills the soul. Walter, his wife Rev. Dr. Catina Jackson and three daughters (together aka the ‘Jackson 5’), continue the legacy to “light up the world” even with the emotional pain endured. Just like the original ‘Jackson 5’ who had an Indiana street named for them, our ‘Jackson 5’ can take some comfort when they stroll down ‘Susie Jackson Way’ in Charleston.

Family Feature: “Gots to Make It”!

It might seem unusual to host a party for a loved-one who’s no longer with us. But sometimes to fill the void it helps to transform the loss and pain into purpose. That’s what members of the Steele family did on June 8^th, in support of our cousin Patricia, who lost her grandson a few years ago in a tragic accident. By bringing family and friends together, Pat has poured herself into honoring his life to boost potential in others.

**Polynesian Dancers (Daylan’s pic in background)**

The Hawaiian theme event was a fun time under the circumstances. It also creates support for scholarship awards to students. It’s what Pat as an Educator and Entrepreneur does to pay it forward. This year she presented one thousand dollars each to two students who were the valedictorian and salutatorian respectively. The annual award has been approved by the School Board as part of the Daylan Anthony Robertson Scholarship Award at his Alma Mater, in memory of his creativity and striving for excellence.

The cocktail hour, dining, dancing and timely remarks made for an inspiring evening. The band and DJ were complemented by a surprise Polynesian dance and guest reggae artist. The evening felt like a flashback to good old times with folks who’re no longer with us. We know Pat was close to her late grandmother Mildred Steele-Wilson whose favorite line was “Gots to Make It”. Words that give Pat and our fam strength and focus.

**Family Pictures provided by Paul & Shaun**

Milestone Spotlight: She Good & Ready!

Family and friends traveled to Frederick Maryland to celebrate the graduation of their own dear Anouchka. The Salami family, having ancestral homebase in Togo West Africa, were there in full effect. Nothing would get in the way of making this event happen, not even dark clouds forming. Folks traveled from all corners since “kin ties run deep”.

It wasn’t an easy road for Anouchka as she earned her bachelor’s degree in communications. So now she makes the shift from student to professional, with more things to do, people to meet, places to go and coins to bag. Plus, with the Togo winds at her back and the American Dream in front, “she good and ready” to level-up.

Congrats to Anouchka (in the middle), and shoutout to her mother Yasmine (wearing cap), sister Amaris and the entire ‘Generation Babana’ crew. Watch for more on the Dream Africa Project run by Yasmine at http://www.DreamAfrica.Africa.

Good Stuff: Saving Grace

It happened in the blink of an eye. A gym member went into cardiac arrest during an Ironman competition. No one knew where this was going, but with quick thinking he was brought back from the brink. The multiple rounds of life-saving measures worked in the nick of time, because of his fitness.

That gym member credits CEO/Owner/Coach Devon Mitchell and his wife Samantha for making this possible. They’ve been working with him on his health before the incident and even since. Devon and his team at Anytime Fitness in Newark Delaware, helped his customer get through a touch-and-go moment.

This example of leadership is how the Mitchells as a couple view community service. Their Guyanese/Jamaican upbringing and biz background helps them model the idea that your impact in life is more than just dollars and cents. Plus, he’s big on forging collabs across the diaspora, serving as co-visionary on related projects. Not surprisingly, the family-wide Mitchell motto says, “All Ah We Ah One”.

**At the Finish Line (provided by Anytime Fitness)**

Devon took things even further with a campaign in support of the American Heart Association. He ended up generating the highest level of donations and was 2023 National Impact Leader winner. So, the next time you feel like you gotta pick up the pieces of some setback, remember this moment of saving grace. We give the Mitchells much props!

Turn Up Tips: Notes on Trusting the Process

“What God does for us is utmost. What God does through us is foremost. What we do best among others is love most.”

“You can’t lead where you don’t go. You can’t show what you don’t know. You can’t ‘turn-up’ where you don’t grow.”

Smile Emoji

Line Jams

Beyoncé – TEXAS HOLD ‘EM (Dance Video) – https://youtu.be/hKUD0HLhFxA?si=G2Id34of-NjrMFxL

Bob Marley – Lively Up Yourself – https://youtu.be/bDnNqsy7rYE?si=VHkguFf5dnc4IknE

Family Line Motto: “Open Door to Good Cheer.”

Hello Famville!

Featured ~ Douette O. 'Doc' Cunningham ~ Leave a comment

Welcome to the spot where good times and good life come together like two sides of a coin. Sometimes what we achieve is about market value in what we do, and other times about legacy value in the mark we leave. As the cultural expression goes, “it takes a village” to raise a generation. So we party with a purpose, live with a higher purpose and honor the family line.

We’ll feature stories of triumph, turnaround and tips on trusting the process. Families here bring a diverse set of experiences in career, culture, celebrity and community service. Whether as elders, senior members, next gen or teens/tweens/toddlers, we’ll do our part in paving the way, moving the needle and maxing the rush of joy and happiness as a family collective.

The Family Line Motto: “Open Door to Good Cheer”!