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[[caption]] Master of ceremonies Rod McGrew and mistress of ceremonies Felicia Jeter look on at "Queen of the Nile" and her escort. [[/caption]]

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[[caption]] DREAM AUXILIARY — Beaux Arts Ball 1980 involved some 200 persons from around the city who came costumed as famous international figures. Responsibility for the Ball's success must go to the Charles Drew Medical Society Auxiliary which sponsored the affair. Members seen above from left are Carol Coffey, Phyllis Hull, Frances Williams, Esmay Fraser, Alyene Moore, Vera Ricketts, Beverly Pyne, Lynn Guess, and Florestine Biggers (not pictured) [[/caption]]

HISTORY OF THE CHARLES R. DREW MEDICAL AUXILIARY
Los Angeles, California

In 1949, a group of physician's wives, all newcomers to Los Angeles, met at the home of Dr. and Mrs. J. Phyromn Taylor to discuss organizing a physicians' wives' club as a means of becoming better acquainted with each other and also to help alleviate the feeling of estrangement in a fast growing city.

Mrs. Reatha Beck, wife of Dr. William Beck, Sr., was elected the club's first president in 1950. This post was held by her for almost 3 years. During her tenure, and with the encouragement of the women, the doctors organized the Charles R. Drew Medical Society. The name of the wives club was changed to the Charles R. Drew Medical Society Auxiliary. As the city grew, our goals were expanded reflect a sensitivity to the needs of our community. Black faces showed up as participants in almost all of the social programs and volunteer agencies of the megatropolis. Many of our involvements were firsts — among which are The presenting of scholarships to nursing students at Los Angeles County General Hospital and to medical students.

Continued involvement in the community led to the establishment of the Charles R. Drew Scholarship Loan Fund, Inc., a pioneer endeavor for Blacks which involves the physicians, the wives, and the community. This corporation has generated funds in excess of $55,000 to provide loans for needy medical students from California.

Two of the local auxiliary members have been elected President of the Auxiliary to the National Medical Association, namely, Mrs. Marcus O. Tucker and Mrs. Ralph Bledsoe. Other auxiliary members have served in various elected and appointed offices in the National Organization.

In 26 years, the auxiliary has grown from the initial group of 62 women to approximately 200. The potential for growth of this auxiliary is great because of the outstanding calibre of its members.

The Auxiliary recognizes that the number of female physicians is on the increase, consequently their spouses are eligible for membership and are encouraged to participate.

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