In the midst of Cincinnati's racial turmoil, an interesting bit of history is beginning to unfold in Walnut Hills.

        The Cincinnati Federation of Colored Women's Clubs, Inc., which is renovating one of the historic buildings designed by 19th-century architect Samuel Hannaford, is planning a black tie fund-raiser at the building, 1010 Chapel Ave., 6-9 p.m., May 6.

        The last time a black tie function was held in this area was almost half a century ago when the Manse Hotel, next door to the clubhouse, was in its heyday.

        Such functions were common at the Manse, which was rated among the top hotels in the country owned by blacks in the 1930s, '40s and '50s.

        The hotel became less of a place of social gathering in the late 1960s when many black clubs, fraternities and social organizations began to hold their affairs in white hotels downtown.

        “This is resurrecting a piece of history,” said Yvonne Green, chairman of the renovation committee. “We are also preserving a historic building.”

        The 113-year-old clubhouse building sits next door to the old Manse Hotel, which is now an apartment complex.

        Mrs. Green said the black tie function will raise funds to help renovate the building. Channel 5 anchor Courtis Fuller will be the main speaker. Singer P. Ann Everson-Price of College Hill will provide entertainment.

        Mrs. Green said the committee is halfway through renovating the building, which started a year ago. The first floor has been refurbished. She said $250,000 is needed to complete the renovation, which will include the second floor, basement and a parking lot.

        The group received $230,000 from the city of Cincinnati. Mrs. Green said the rest will come from donations and fund drives.

        “Our goal is to develop a recreation area and computer lab in the lower level and women helping women facility in the upper area,” Mrs. Green said.

        For information, call Mrs. Green at 242-0924 or 559-0011.

        Choirs from Kenwood Baptist Church, Calvary United Methodist and St Andrew's Episcopal will sing at a gospel fest 4-6 p.m. May 6 at St. Andrew's, 1809 Rutland Ave., Evanston.

        The group Exalted of Cincinnati and Naima Johnson of Dayton will also perform.

        Proceeds will benefit Positive Beginnings Teen Services Inc., a self-help program serving at-risk teens and their babies.

        For information, call 631-8552.

        Christ Emanuel Church, 2323 May St., Walnut Hills, will host “A Season of Consecration,” April 24-29.

        Bishop Michael Dantley, pastor, said the consecration is designed to enhance the spiritual life of the church by spending a week focusing on spiritual growth and power.

        For information, call Timothy Marshall, 242-5200, ext. 149.

        LOVELAND - The Tony Yates Caring For Kids and Emanuel Community Center golf outing is 8 a.m.-1:45 p.m. June 11 at the Oasis Golf Course, 902 Loveland Miamiville Road.

        Proceeds will go to the Tony Yates Caring For Kids Foundation. For information, call Mr. Yates at 984-6799 or Larry Mayfield at 241-2563.

       Allen Howard's column runs on Saturdays. Call: 768-8362. Mail: The Cincinnati Enquirer, 312 Elm St., Cincinnati, OH 45202.

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