By JoAnn Fields
San Diego, CA: Sunday, May 7, 2017 the City of San Diego renamed Welling Way and Madrone Ave. in honor of longtime community activist Ms. Kathleen Harmon. Despite the rainy weather that could not stop the celebration among community leaders, family, friends and supporters. Among the many guests Ms. Harmon was joined by City of San Diego Council President Myrtle Cole who unveiled the honorary street sign. This is the first designation in the City of San Diego after Council President Cole’s policy proposal to create a streamline for honorary street names that was approved on December 13, 2016. Also in attendance was California State Assemblymember 79th District Dr. Shirley Weber, Senior Pastor Dr. Emanuel Whipple Sr., Calvary Baptist Church, Reginald Jones, President & CEO, Jacobs Center for Neighborhood Innovation and family members from as far as Kansas City, Las Vegas, Atlanta, Houston and Arizona. Following the ceremony Reginald Jones hosted a lavish reception for all in attendance with a buffet catered by Kitchens for Good and was graced with live entertainment by Carleton Overstreet’s C.E.O.’s Rhythm Section.
“I cannot think of any other person more deserving to receive this designation than Kathleen Harmon. For over 40 years, she has devoted her life to making a difference in the 4th Council District and San Diego,” said Council President Myrtle Cole.
Karen Cole-Henderson, daughter of Ms. Harmon shared “What a blessing it was to witness the unveiling street sign for my beautiful African Queen. My mother has received numerous awards and trophies over the years. However, to have a street named after her is amazing! My mom is my inspiration. Being an educated black woman who worked as a Social Worker for the County of San Diego, she has helped so many families on and off the job, with her love, caring, sharing and especially giving spirits. This woman is a true worshipper and she loves the Lord unconditionally. I am so proud of my mother and all that she has endured in her 85 years of life. On behalf of my family, I want to publicly thank the City of San Diego, Council President Myrtle Cole, Pastor Emmanuel Whipple, all guest speakers, Bonita Jemison, Carolyn Cherry, Reggie Jones, Carlton Overstreet Jr, Tekara Gainey and the San Diego Voice and Viewpoint for all that you have done in celebration of my mother Kathleen Harmon.”
Community activist, Eddie Price shared “It was an honor to participate in the honoring of a truly amazing and powerful Black Woman who has done more for the community than anyone will ever realize, including her. On behalf of strong Black Men that appreciate strong Black Women, THANK YOU Ms. Kathleen Harmon.”
