DISCOVER THE SECRET PATH TO A PIONEER PAST:
Sunday, March 14, 2004
Women ‘beacons’ symbolize best in community service
By MARY S. HARRELL
NEWS-JOURNAL STAFF WRITER
Since March is National Women’s History Month, this week’s “Tap Root” section is dedicated to two very special women in our own community.
The first is Maggie Lovelace, who was born in 1901 in an old farmhouse in Manson, N.C.
In those days, education was not readily available for black people and she considered it a blessing to have been allowed to get to fourth grade.
Over the years, Maggie had many types of jobs. She also had a home laundry business for a time to supplement the family’s income. One of her most cherished jobs was her employment with the Redemption of Fathers mission. She stayed there for 59 years.
Her family became pioneers of the former St. Rita’s mission, which was open to Catholic blacks, and she has been a beacon in this community ever since.
“Mama Maggie,” as she is affectionately known around town, will celebrate her 103rd birthday in June. She is a bit weak now but still a friend and inspiration to others.
Our second “Tap Root” this week is former New Smyrna Beach City Commissioner Oretha W. Bell. For 15 years, she was always there to serve the city — not just one zone, but everybody. I often have heard her say, “I have only one vote but I will use it the best way I can.”
Oretha is a native of New Smyrna Beach and attended local schools, graduating from Chisholm School when it was on Washington Street.
She also is a graduate of Bethune-Cookman College and Syracuse University.
Her teaching career began and ended at her old alma mater, Chishom High, where she also served as a media specialist.
Even though she has retired, Oretha still serves on several committees. I am not aware of all of them but I recently read she is serving as vice president of the Boys & Girls Club of Flagler and Volusia Counties.
Appreciation is extended to these two fine ladies and all the women who make a positive difference in the lives of others every day.
