Summer 2014 Edition
Omega Phi Beta’s National Sorority Magazine
table
of
contents 6 Beta Cooking: Scalloped chicken and potato cassarole
7 one chance 8 Foods to Help You Beat the Heat 14 Celebrating 25 Years reflffl fllection 16 DefiFing sexual assault In two years
E l G ir a sol
Omega Phi Beta’s National Sorority Magazine
8
E ditor I n C hief
Selina Hernandez, Alpha Beta, Fal11999
C opy E ditor Marielys Garcia, Alpha Gamma, Spring 2007
6
D esign E ditor Desiree Henry, Theta, Fal12000
C on t r ibu ting W r iter s
Yvette Lopez Colgan, Theta, Spring 1998 Doris Corporan, Theta, Fal1 2000 Isabel Diaz, Zeta Chapter, Spring 2009 Maria Rosa, Eta, Spring 2008 Chear Treacy, Delta, Spring 1992 Rebecca Roberts, Alpha, Spring 1998 Jane Vega, Founder
Feature Articles 2 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
C on tact U s ! ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org S u b S cr ibe to E l G ir a sol ht t p://issuu.com/OPBSI_ElGirasol
In
Every ISSUe
4 Letter from the Editor
Alumnae Association Mission Statement Omega Phi Beta’s Alumnae Association serves as the representing body of all nonaffiliated alumnae of the sorority. Our mission is to engage our alumnae in the mission, vision, and goals of the sorority, create a sense of community, and support our alumnae in all areas of their lives.
5 Staying Connected 19 Sunshine Corner 20 Beta Mommies 22 Personal/Professional Accomplishments 23 Domestic Violence Resources 24 Beta Yellow Pages 25 Chapters and collectives
Omega Phi Beta Sorority, Incorporated, a NALFO organization member, is a Latina-oriented sorority founded on March 15, 1989, at the University at Albany, State University of New York. Seventeen women of various ethnic and cultural backgrounds came together to defy the injustices suffered by women, particularly women of color, in the academic, professional and political arenas.
reflffl fllecting on 25 years.... 13
The purpose of OPBSI is to serve and educate people of diverse backgrounds through sisterhood, leadership, and guidance. As positive role models, we promote unity of all cultures, focus on the empowerment of our gender and raise the standards of excellence in our academic, social, and personal endeavors.
For further information visit: www.OmegaPhiBeta.org Summer 2014*El Girasol * 3
Letter
from the
Editor
Selina Hernandez, Ascendera
It can be so easy stay comfortable. Have a daily routine a job that you may not love but pays the bills and therefore keeps a roof over your head. Sometimes though, being comfortable leaves you stuck. You stay in whatever circumstance that you are in which can be positive or negative. You may love where you are and if so no need to push further but if you don’t keep reading. I had a dream board that I put together with 2 other friends. It included things I wanted to do, places I wanted to go, accomplishments I wanted to achieve in 2012/2013 and they each did the same. I was amazed when I looked back at it by how many things I actually did. I wanted to become a part of a theatre company and I did. I wanted to see Europe-did that too! Did the board help? Who knows? Sometimes putting your desires out in the universe by writing them out or speaking about them out loud, makes them more tangible and brings them out to the forefront so that its harder to ignore them. If you feel empty or have a dream forgotten or a goal you wanted to fulfill, I urge you to re-tap those thoughts that you had before you got comfortable. Is this a judgment or accusation--no absolutely not. You may have everything you need and be perfectly content with where you are and what you have achieved thus far in life. However if you have put things on hold for work, marriage, family you know--life; I urge you to do a self assessment. Do you come home and feel like there could be something more or somehow feel like you have potential that has remained untapped--think of how to use them. I’m not suggesting to change your life around perhaps you can start with taking the cooking class you always wanted, learning that dance you wanted to learn,applying for that job that you know you would be great at but fear has allowed you to stand in your own way. I encourage you today or this summer to be bold and courageous! You’d be surprised how just making one little move can cause a change of events you never expected. By a groupon for an acting class or whatever it is. Start small. Life moves so quickly, you can flow with it and keep it easy breezy or you can challenge yourself and tap that inner flame in you that you have been gifted. We are all born with talents and gifts and it is our duty to use them, not only for ourselves but to also share them with the world. You never know how your fulfillment of your goals can impact others. BE BOLD! Good luck and congratulations on your journey!
4 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Get Connected Once you become an alumna, you are removed from your chapter’s alias and only receive OPBSI emails if you elect to sign up for any of the following communication tools.
Do you Tweet? Follow us, @OPBSI_Alumnae, for the latest updates on AA activities!
Share Photos on Instagram? Follow us @OPBSI_Alumnae, for the latest updates on AA activities! Tag us in your photos too.
AA Newsletter The Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list. Find out about activities for alumnae.
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI!
@
Job postings, virtual networking, and professional development opportunities. Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today! This is a closed group for sorors only.
Find us on Facebook
There is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups. Stay connected, share ideas, articles and jobs. These are closed group for sorors only.
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 5
Beta Cookin’g Scalloped Chicken & Potato Casserole By Jane Vega
This semi-homemade casserole is delicious, easy and freezes without any issue. I hope you enjoy. 1 box S calloped Potatoes 1½Tbs Italian Seasoned (Any Brand – I use Betty Bread Crumbs Crocker) + Ingredients 2 pcs Bay leaves listed on package. 9x11 baking pan 8oz Grape or cherry
tomatoes halved
8oz Broccoli – small chop
Cookie sheet Non Stick Spray
1.5lbs Boneless chicken breast 8-10 cups of hot water and/or thigh – small rough chop Pre Heat oven as directed on package. Salt and pepper the grape tomatoes and set aside. Combine chicken, broccoli, tomatoes and potatoes from package in a bowl, set aside. Use non-stick spray on bottom of 9X11 pan (glass or metal – I use glass). Place baking pan on cookie sheet. Place chicken mixture in baking pan. Mix sauce from package as directed. Pour heated sauce over mixture in baking pan. Add 2 bay leaves. Sprinkle with bread crumbs. Cover with foil. Bake in oven 30 minutes. Remove foil. Bake approximately another 15-20 minutes. Top will be golden brown. Let sit for 8-10 minutes before serving, it will be extremely hot. This soup freezes amazingly well. Pop some single serving sized portions in the freezer to take with you for lunch. You’ll be the envy of the office. ;-P 6 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Jane Vega, Founder
Nieve
One Chance The choices we make are the paths we walk. Whether accompanied, or not. It won’t stop what is coming … I’ve got but one chance, one life I’ve got this moment in time Do I stay straight or step out of line? What do I do with this…? Like veins or roots from tree Exploring what is never seen Regardless, of what I believe … You see… The plans, they come and go & People They tend to show you all the things you need to know & this life Whether soft or hard; whether quiet or loud It will eventually make you thankful. Thankful for the life you lived The air you took in The love you were lucky to feel The struggle that made things clear Thankful for every moment that is left Thankful for every memory and every test Being bold and courageous is simply this To live the life That you were born to live. ©7/11/14 Jane Vega
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 7
Foods To Help You
Beat the Heat
Fresh, fabulous tasting and sure to help take the sweat out of summer eating, these summer chllers are good for you too!
COOL FRUITS
Fruits that have a high water content, and are loaded with essential nutrients and antioxidants, are your best bet for staying cool this summer. These include grapes, apples, pears, peaches, berries, dragon fruit and star fruit, but especially watermelon, cantaloupe and honeydew melon as well as citrus fruits like oranges.
WATERMELON
Watermelon is made up of 90 percent water, which assists in keeping you well-hydrated in the heat. In addition, watermelon contains loads of vitamins A and C, has no fat and is packed with lycopene, an antioxidant which may aid in the prevention of cancer and cardiovascular disease. Try it: Toss cubes of watermelon with crumbled feta, a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic vinegar and a sprinkle of fresh basil leaves for a grown up and heatblasting salad.
8 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
CANTALOUPE AND HONEYDEW MELON Other melons also bring with them a large amount of water, helping us stay hydrated in the high temperatures. Cantaloupe and honeydew melons are both very low in calories and high in potassium. Although not a rich source of other nutrients, their low protein, fat and carbohydrates ratio makes them ideal for weight loss, diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disorders. Melons are also considered to be a diuretic, which may help rid our bodies of unwanted toxins. Try it: PurÊe cantaloupe or honeydew melon to make a chilled summer soup. Garnish with a dollop of crème fraiche and some torn mint leaves for an optimum cooling effect.
CITRUS FRUITS
Citrus fruits, including oranges, grapefruit, lemons and limes, are among the most cooling of all fruits. Aside from their delicious taste, citrus fruits can keep you healthy and looking younger. Citrus is considered a superfood for healthy skin due to its wide array of phytonutrients that function as antioxidants, including flavanones, anthocyanins, polyphenols and vitamin C. Citrus is also considered to be especially important in digestion as it helps aid in the breakdown of rich and fatty foods. Try it: Start every day with a tall glass of chilled lemon water. This slightly acidic drink helps to cleanse your system and energize your body.
CHILLED OUT VEGGIES There is an abundant supply of vegetables that can help lower body temperature when the heat soars. The best examples are cucumber, radishes, lettuce and leafy greens such as spinach and arugula, and fresh herbs
such as mint. They all contain a significant amount of water and can actually thin the blood and assist your body in releasing heat, which has a cooling effect.
RADISHES CUCUMBER
Cucumber’s especially high water content, coupled with its fresh and crunchy taste, make it a perfect summer veggie. Cucumber has long been praised for its medicinal properties. It has a diuretic property (especially helpful in the dry summer months), which acts to flush toxins out of the body and maintain healthy tissue and skin. Cucumber is extremely low in calories and has minimal amounts of sugar, carbohydrates and fats. It contains significant amounts of vitamin B, phosphorus, calcium, zinc and other minerals.
With their beautiful reddish-purple skin and white, crispy and tasty interior, these little summer gems certainly don’t get enough credit! Radishes have a very high water content and are a great source of vitamin C, which has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. They are also a rich source of potassium, which can help lower your risk of kidney stones and stroke and minerals like sulphur, iron and iodine. Try it: Slice thinly and toss into a leafy green or cold pasta salad.
Try it: Use sliced cucumber as a sandwich or burger topper or whip into a fast and delicious spread with yogurt, lemon and mint. Summer 2014*El Girasol * 9
MINT Both mint and peppermint have amazing cooling and relaxing properties, and their brisk aroma has the ability to chase away sluggishness when the heat soars. They have long been used by herbalists to create herbal teas, balms, ointments and other products, which can soothe your mind and body. Additionally, mint helps relieve both indigestion and inflammation, which can plague us during the hot summer months. Try it: Make your own peppermint iced tea by steeping green tea bags in boiling water, then chilling. Add sugar, slices of lemon, and a bunch of peppermint for a cool treat.
MORE SIMPLE TIPS TO HELP YOU COOL DOWN THIS SUMMER: EAT RAW When the heat turns up, who wants to be in the kitchen? Luckily for us, raw fruits and veggies are the perfect summer-time food and absolutely delicious with little or no preparation.
SPICE IT UP It’s not a coincidence that many people in hotter regions of the world eat spicy food. A moderate amount of spicy flavours, such as fresh ginger, red chili, cayenne and black pepper, initially warm you up, but actually help cool you down. Try adding a pinch of red chili flakes to your grilled fish or chicken marinade or create a cooling vinaigrette with grated fresh ginger, sesame oil, soy and rice wine vinegar.
CHOOSE YOUR LIQUIDS WISELY Keeping fully hydrated by drinking plenty of water is paramount importance the hot summer months. Many symptoms of excess summer heat (dizziness, fatigue, lack of concentration) are attributable to chronic dehydration. Source: Author Lindsay Evans h t t p : // w w w . g r e e n l i v i n g o n l i n e . c o m / article/7-foods-help-you-beat-heat
10 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Booking inquiries: 914.837.6851 UniversalMCDJ@yahoo.com
The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests!
Need music or food? We got you covered!
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 11
th
Happy 20 Anniversary to Alpha Beta Chapter 1994 - 2014
These are just some of the women who have dedicated their time, energy and love into helping Alpha Beta Chapter grow: (From left to right) Liza Gutierrez, Selina Hernandez-Keitt, Rebecca Roberts, Cynthia Lopez, Maholy Vasquez, Karla Quervalu, Johanna Torres, Mabel Vasquez, Yolanda Rodriquez, Valerie Polanco, Yadira Suazo
Save the Date: Alpha Beta’s 5th Annual ENCANTO Educando Nuestra Comunidad: A Night of Teaching and Overcoming
Saturday, October 18, 2014 12 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Happy 10th Anniversary to
Alpha GAMMA Chapter 2004 - 2014
MARKETING. These are some of theBRANDING. awards Alpha Gamma has received over the last 10 years:
COMMERICAL. DESIGN.
2004
Debora Freitas-Lopez awarded Jessica P. Roman Award for Dedication and OPBSI’s Image Award for Outstanding Service to NBOD 2009
Alpha Gamma Chapter awarded NAFLO’s Philanthropic Alumnae Chapter of the Year 2011
Amanda Crane awarded OPBSI’s Alumna of the Year 2013
Alpha Gamma awarded the Vagina Warrior Award by Jubilee Housing
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 13
Celebrating
25
Years
By Sandy O’Connor Menjivar and Jenny Blanco-Doe
The anticipation of attending our sorority’s 25th anniversary convention weekend was building for quite a few weeks prior to the event. The celebratory weekend was held on March 13th through March 15th at the Hyatt Regency Hotel in Miami, FL. Neither of us initially intended on going, but thanks to one of our Deans, Lupe Flores (Spring 95, A Chapter), we were in! Lupe had called several of us “90 Betas” and sparked a domino effect among us. And how could we possibly say no to our Dean?! As we walked into the hotel lobby, a professionally made banner welcomed sisters to the fun filled weekend. “Gone are the days of felt made banners!” we giggled to each other. The welcoming table at registration was filled with everything OPB--OPB water bottle, OPB tote, OPB 25th anniversary pin, OPB lanyards. The sorors behind the table worked feverishly to make sure everything was in its place while they genuinely greeted us with open arms. As the first night progressed, we met a number of sisters for the first time. Many of them were fairly new to the sorority and the energy and excitement that surrounded them made us both proud and nostalgic. Throughout the weekend, we reconnected with the more seasoned sisters, many of whom we had not seen or spoken to in years. Being in the presence of these women was incredible! The bonds that held us together so many years ago were still evident. We welcomed each other with hugs, kisses and pictures 14 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
of our husbands, boyfriends, kids, etc. We laughed, drank, danced, relaxed, reminisced about our past experiences and got caught up on our current lives-all things best done with your sisters. The entire weekend was full of events that catered to our sorors as well as our family and friends. We attended meetings, educational and interactive workshops, a boat ride around the city of Miami and our Gala. The Gala, in particular, showcased our accomplishments as a national organization. The photo presentation was particularly touching and brought tears to our eyes, as we relived some poignant moments in our history. While we celebrated our anniversary, we honored our brave sister, Marcy Lopez, who is fiercely battling ovarian cancer. All throughout the night, we basked in the presence of our sorors--beautiful, strong women of various ethnic backgrounds, some who are still students, some who are starting out as professional women and others who are well established within their careers and are doing amazing things. It is impossible, in this medium, to mention EVERY sister who made our weekend unforgettable. However, we have to acknowledge a group of women who spent the majority of the weekend with us. We were incredibly lucky to share quality time with one of our founders (Bunilda Cruz), our Deans (Carmen Negron-Santiago and Lupe Flores), and two of our babies from the Chartering line of Kappa Chapter (Dana (Lopez)
Torres and Cynthia Lopez). Thank you ladies for making our time in Miami a memorable one! As sisters who have not been active within the sorority in years, we were proud to see how much OPBSI has grown, in both size and quality, as well as how much our organization has accomplished throughout the years. We pledged OPB in the summer of 1996, AB chapter. We joined a young organization barely 7 years old at the time. We were drawn to the history of OPB, the sisterhood, and the strong mission and vision set forth by our 17 founders. We have always believed OPB would flourish into something bold and beautiful. Fast forward 18 years later, we are
impressed with the current state of our sorority. We are proud of the women who created and shaped the organization along the way. We are grateful to our founders and humbled that we could celebrate with them, along with an extraordinary caliber of women we so fondly call our sisters. We look forward to celebrating many anniversaries to come with all of you. Soleil!
Las Dos Determinadas Summer 96, AB Chapter Kweli #1, Sandy (O’Connor) Menjivar Mirabal #2, Jenny Blanco-Doe
AB Founders Day Brunch 2014 Left to Right: Darislyna Villar (Sigma), Cara Quiñonez (Alpha Beta), Aliza Ureña (Alpha Eta), Stephanie Santiago (Alpha Gamma) and Selina Hernandez (Alpha Beta).
Left to Right: Darislyna Villar (Sigma) and Aliza Ureña (Alpha Eta).
Left to Right: Stephanie Santiago (Alpha Gamma), Darislyna Villar (Sigma), Cara Quiñonez (Alpha Beta), Selina Hernandez (Alpha Beta), Indrina (Alpha Beta) and Aliza Ureña (Alpha Eta). Summer 2014*El Girasol * 15
Defining Sexual Assault In Two Years By Rita Phetmixay
Summer 2011 to 2013. Now, I’m not the type of person to talk about my feelings or enter a state of vulnerability, but I do value the power in sharing one’s story (and even if I was the type of person to be seen as “vulnerable,” I cer tainly do not think it should necessarily be associated with weakness). So, a lot of people know me for being a bit silly, happy, bubbly, and extremely out of the ordinary--yet I questioned if people could really read the pain, weakness, and loneliness I felt during these two years. We were planning on seeing a movie together and where the location was going to be was not clearly communicated to me. So, that evening, he came to pick me up and I honestly did not know where we were going (probably assuming too much and thought that it was going to be at the movie theaters). However, we ended up going to his apar tment. He set his laptop on the edge of his bed where we’d be able to view it laying on our stomachs beside each other. The movie star ts and within the next few minutes, I realize that the guy star ted kissing my neck. Star tled, as I never experienced being in an intimate space with anyone (much less, I never had a first kiss), I was beginning to feel a bit nervous thinking about how the night would end. In reacting to a state of shock, I just giggled and played it off--but things just got worse. The next thing I know, his hands began touching me in places that made me super uncomfor table. But because I was not the confrontational person then, my body reacted in a way that tried to resist his effor ts such as pushing him away with my hands, but
16 *El Girasol * Spring 2014
at the same time...my mouth was speechless as I just couldn’t muster up any verbal defense for myself, having never experienced such violation of my own private spaces as extreme as this one. One thing led to another and eventually my bra was off, then came my shir t, and eventually my underwear was pulled all the way down to my feet--exactly where my pants were too. Then, he star ted giving me oral and at that point, I was tired of fighting him off so I just let it happen. At this moment, I just felt numb and in complete disbelief at what was happening. I just asked myself over and over: was this really happening to me? I guess there was a point where it clicked in his head that I wasn’t as “experienced” as he was, and he eventually asked if he could ask me a question. At first he hesitated, (probably because he did not want to hear the answer I was going to say) but I demanded that he ask whatever question he had. The question ended up being: “Are you a virgin?” (as if me lying there in limp was enough to illustrate what a “virgin” was). If you think that was bad enough, the next question was more rhetorical and still rings in my head today: “Why did you let me take advantage of you?” Such a smar t way to frame a question in order to dodge any type of blame associated with the invasion of someone’s intimate and private spaces, right? For the longest time, I accepted the way he asked this question and sympathized with him, because I had thought that he at least “admitted to taking advantage of me.” What I didn’t realize was how I refocused the blame on me for “not letting him know about my sex life”--was me internalizing self-blame for something I didn’t do.
And you would think he would have just quit after hearing my answer being “yes, I am a virgin,” however, it only propelled him to take advantage of my vulnerability even fur ther. He didn’t stop…nor did I sense any change of action from him. Instead, he continued to violate the private spaces of my body. At one point of that night, he took my bra and shir t with him to the bathroom so I wouldn’t be able to put them back on, as if he wasn’t “done” using me for whatever disgusting purpose he had. Yeah you may ask me---why didn’t I just leave? Why didn’t I call/text a friend to come get me? Why didn’t I fight back? These are the questions that always come to mind, but questions like these are always easier to ask than to find answers to. And for me, maybe I will never be able to answer these questions--and rather than answer these questions, I should ask how these questions essentially set up hostile environments to blame the victim, and not the perpetrator. What was supposed to be a fun “movie night” ended up with me just feeling used, dir ty, confused …and a lost of trust for all men. As it was my first “sexual encounter,” it completely ruined how I would approach relationships in the future, and it also made me shy away from spending any “alone time” with any other guy I would be interested in pursuing. I will explain this once and I will explain it again (if necessary). No, sexual assault doesn’t have to be physically violent (as pictured with a weapon) and no, the person who commits sexual assault does not have to be a complete stranger to you. In my own experiences of defining sexual assault within those two years, I realized that spaces so private to me were invaded by someone I apparently knew—and never did I once give him the “ok” as he stripped me from my clothes. And for the longest time, I didn’t want to admit how horrible of a “first-kiss” experience I had, much less that it happened in a manipulative manner. Honestly, I have repressed these unwanted memories for so long that even writing this triggers pain from what had happened that night, and the loneliness I had felt afterwards. Defining sexual assault within those two years
and realizing that I had been a survivor of it was one of the hardest realizations I have come to understand. I never wanted to become a victim of sexual assault and so I denied all the wrong things that happened that night for 2 years. Yes, a par t of me still wants to forget those dreadful moments and pretend that they never happened…that sexual assault could never happen to any college-educated womxn like myself. But then again, I come to realize that these experiences happen to girls and womxn every single day--no matter what background they have. Knowing this fact empowers me even more to share my story and to let these womxn know that they are not alone, and in a way, this space also breeds a pathway towards spiritual healing. https://issuu.com/uncsiren/docs/onlinesiren_ spring2014/1?e=0
BIOGRAPHY: Rita Phetmixay just finished her first-year as an M.A. student in Asian American Studies and will now be continuing her graduate education in the Master’s of Social Welfare Program at UCLA. Rita identifies as a Lao/Thai-Issan American womxn and is a recent 2013 BA graduate from the University of Nor th Carolina-Chapel Hill. Above all, Rita finds passion in learning more about her Lao American community, leading her to currently conduct research on transgenerational memory passing from first- to second-generation Lao in the United States. She hopes to one day be able to uplift this community in ways that will help them achieve higher education, better socioeconomic statuses, and healthier living spaces. Rita’s other interests include spending time with friends, traveling, drinking boba (new addiction), and learning how to be a better spokesperson for girls, womxn, and Lao Americans across the nation.
Spring 2014*El Girasol * 17
18 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Sunshine Corner Desiree Henry
Almazi
One problem with gazing too frequently into the past is that we may turn around to find the future has run out on us. MICHAEL CIBENKO We seem to be going through a period of nostalgia, and everyone seems to think yesterday was better than today. I don’t think it was, and I would advise you not to wait ten years before admitting today was great. If you’re hung up on nostalgia, pretend today is yesterday and just go out and have one hell of a time. ART BUCHWALD Don’t ask yourself what the world needs; ask yourself what makes you come alive. And then go and do that. Because what the world needs is people who have come alive. HOWARD THURMAN It took me a long time not to judge myself through someone else’s eyes. SALLY FIELD If you don’t get lost, there’s a chance you may never be found. AUTHOR UNKNOWN The best way to gain self-confidence is to do what you are afraid to do. AUTHOR UNKNOWN The way you treat yourself sets the standard for others. SONYA FRIEDMAN
How many times have you had to make accomodations or change your plans because they don’t suit someone else’s plans? How many times have you been disappointed because you, once again, put someone else’s needs ahead of your own? Although there may be times when this is necessary, it shouldn’t be the norm. As mothers, as wives, partners, and women, we are constantly faced with the task of taking care of others but we have to remind ourselves to not do so at the expense of our own well being. We have to be able to take a moment each day to think about our needs, wants, desires and goals for ourselves. We each desrve a moment a day to focus on what will drive us through our days. By getting into the habit of making time for yourself, time to gather your thoughts, you will begin to allow yourself the space and time you need to sort through challenges, explore new opportunities and set yourself on a path for happiness and success. There come a few times in our lives where we are challenged to face either our biggest fears or make a decision regarding a big opportunity. Unlike a movie you plan to see or a trip you save up for, these challenges arents something you usually look for or are generally prepared for. Yet these are the very moments that define our worlds, that help shape the lives we choose for ourselves. When things get hectic in our worlds and we neglect ourselves, everyone suffers. Learn to say no when you are overwhlemed, don’t over compromise yourself, allow yourself 15 minutes a day to meditate, relax or just decompress and if you can, start to write down your thoughts, goals and desires. Its only when we are sure to take care of our needs in the process will we be better wives, mothers, employees, friends and partners. What I love about the Fall is that it reminds me of new beginnings, new school year and another great time to make goals through the end of the year. Take a moment to revaluate what you would like to accomplish by the end of the week, month and year. You deserve it! Spend some time enjoying the last few weeks of summer and remember that when you are happy, everyone around you will reap the benefits.
Soleil
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 19
Beta Mommies Welcome to our
Beta babies and congratulations to our expecting Mommies !!
CARISSA BERLINGER (Epsilon, Fall 2001) welcomes daughter Liliana January 2014.
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha, Fall 2000) welcomed is expecting her first daughter this Fall. MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha, Fall 2000) is expecting a boy this Fall.
20 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
new
ERICA DIAZ (Upsilon, Spring 2002) welcomed son Zhamyr Aiden May 2014.
NATALIE HERNADEZ- GREEN (Theta, Spring 1998) welcomed son Kaiden in April 2014.
JENNY ORTIZ -WILLIAMS (Delta, Spring 2000) welcomed son Zachary Tyler in June 2014 joining big sister Zoey Camille.
DOROTHY SANABRIA (Nu, Spring 1999) welcomed her first daughter Elenaor July 2014.
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA
BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez Colgan My mission is to support, educate and empower women to create their most ‘natural’ birthing experience; without judgment or regret. To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence. I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect.
If you are expecting, contact me at ylopez333@hotmail.com or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available Summer 2014*El Girasol * 21
professional and personal highlights Congratulations to all our sorors who have achieved professional and personal success. We wish you the best on all your endevours!
Congratulations to Betty Diaz (Zeta, Spring 1998) who was promoted to Associate Research Director of Digital Distribution within the Content Distribution Research Team at NBC Universal!
Congratulations to Denisse Garcia (Eta, Spring 2013) and to Angela Rojas (Eta, Fall2013)!
Denisse Garcia (left) graduated from the Rochester Institute of Technology in Menchanical Engineering Technology and Angela Rojas (right) graduated from the University of Rochester in Biology!
BETA BRIDES Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples!
SUJEY BATISTA (Theta, Fall 2005) is recently engaged to Cristian Ramos. 22 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
MARCY LOPEZ (Nu, Spring 1999) was recently engaged to Raymond Gonzalez.
Important Anti-Violence Resources
National Hotlines and Organizations
V-Day
A Global Movement to End Violence against Women and Girls www.VDay.org
Hotline Phone Numbers Domestic Violence Hotline 800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline 866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape & Sexual Assault Hotline 212-227-3000
U.S. National Domestic Violence Hotline
Boston
www.c2home.org http:,,feminist.org www.mahomless.org
Los Angeles
www.agapefdnadv.org http:,,dvcouncil.lacounty.gov
Los Angeles County Hotline (24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City New York City’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline (800) 621–HOPE (4673)
1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224 www.nnedv.org
Sanctuary for Families
Washington, DC
• • • •
Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network The Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nation’s largest anti-sexual assault organization. Among its programs, RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1.800.656.HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainn.org . This nationwide partnership of more than 1,100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free, confidential services, 24 hours per day, 7 days per week. These hotlines have helped over 1.3 million people since RAINN’s founding in 1994.
(212) 349–6009 •
•
Press 0 for general information and for information about shelter Press 1 for Clinical Program Press 2 for Legal Center Press 3 for Children’s Program Press 8 if office is closed and on weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday, and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays. Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE 121 West 27th Street, # 301 New York, NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444 Fax: (212) 675-3704 Volunteers volunteers@madre.org
http:,,nyscadv.org,directory.htm Additional Help in your area: www.thehotline.org
Florida Florida Coalition Against Domestic Violence www.fcadv.org,centers Florida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central Florida If you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse, PLEASE CALL US at 407-886-2856. Administration Office: P.O. Box 680748 Orlando, FL 32868 admin@harborhousefl.com GET HELP: 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL) 407-886-2244 (main office) Safehouse of Seminole 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407)-330-3933 (TTY,TDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago 1-877-To-END-DV Domestic Violence Agencies by City www.dhs.state.il.us
Safe Horizon
www.safehorizon.org 1-800-656-HOPE Washington DC www.dccadv.org www.houseofruth.org
NY State Resources
In New York State:
New York State’s 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline: (800) 942-6906 (English) (800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
If you know of any resources in your local city, please share it with the membership. Email: ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org
Summer 2014*El Girasol * 23
B eta “Yellow” Pages C reative
and
B e au t y S e rv ic es
Jessica Ayari Toro Ayari Make Overs www.AyariMakeOvers.com www.TheGlossyParty.com Karla Ayala-Quervalu Karla Samantha Photography www.KarlaSamantha.com Elsa Batista-Yzaguirre Stoles By Elsa StolesbyElsa@Yahoo.com Stephanie Camacho & Rebecca Slivka The Sunflower Collection www.thesunflowercollection.com www.facebook.com/thesunflowercollections Elizabeth Cano Sweet Craft Cakes http://www.sweetcraftcakes.com
Erica Diaz/ Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica Medina Your Best Event www.YourBestEvent.com www.facebook.com/YourBestEventInc Erica@YourBestEvent.com
F o o d S e rv i ce s Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytime@gmail.com (917) 457-8650
Desiree Henry Sweet Arts Photo Booth Rentals/Design www.SweetArtsNYC.com
Selina Hernandez My Sister’s Creations www.mysisterscreations.com mysisterscreations@yahoo.com (917) 348-8556
Lydia Jimenez Stampin’ with Lydia www.stampinwithlydia.blogspot.com
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYC IvySweetsNYC@gmail.com
C l o th i n g
H e a l th , H o m e S ervi ce s
Claudia M. Echeverri Miletic Jason & Juliana, LLC http://www.jasonandjuliana.com
Maria Jaramillo Birth Doula nediva.89@gmail.com Elbanery Lora Diana’s Cleaning Services diana_cleaningservices@hotmail.com (347) 564-6491
P ro f essi o na l S ervi ce s Doris Duran Corporan, M.A., M.S.Ed, Mental Health Counselor Help to Adjust Counseling & Anger Management (516) 445-0143 Jocelyn Tejada The Society of Professional Women of Color http://spwc.org/
The Beta Yellow Pages is a free service designated to highlight businesses that are operated by OPBSI Sisters. If you would like to list your business information, please submit it to ElGirasol@OmegaPhiBeta.org
24 *El Girasol * Summer 2014
Omega Phi Beta Sorority, inc. Chapters and Collectives
Collegiate Chapters
Collective at Pace University Est. 2011
Alpha Chapter University at Albany, SUNY Est. 1989
Xi Chapter Syracuse University & LeMoyne College Est. 1999
Beta Epsilon Chapter SUNY Old Westbury Est. 2008
Collective at Columbia University Est. 2011
Beta Chapter SUNY New Paltz & Marist College Est. 1991
Omicron Chapter Duke University Est. 2000
Beta Zeta Chapter Florida State University Est. 2010
Collective at Purdue University Est. 2011
Gamma Chapter Union College Est. 1991
Pi Chapter Boston, MA Est. 2002
Eta Chapter College at Brockport, University of Rochester & Rochester Institute of Technology Est. 1994
Rho Chapter Michigan State University Est. 2002 Sigma Chapter Plattsburgh University, SUNY Est. 2001 Tau Chapter Utica College & Hamilton College Est. 2003 Upsilon Chapter Rutgers University, New Brunswick Est. 2003 Phi Chapter University of Southern California Est. 2003
Theta Chapter Stony Brook University Est. 1998
Chi Chapter Seton Hall University Est. 2003
Iota Chapter University of Virginia Est. 1998
Psi Chapter DePauw University Est. 2006
Kappa Chapter Hofstra University Est. 1998
Beta Alpha Chapter St. John’s University Est. 2002
Lambda Chapter Brooklyn College and Manhattan Metro Est. 1998
Beta Beta Chapter University of Illinois, UrbanaChampaign Est. 2006
Mu Chapter University of Buffalo, Buffalo State College & D’Youville College Est. 1999
Beta Gamma Chapter New York University Est. 2007
Delta Chapter Binghamton University, SUNY Est. 1992 Epsilon Chapter Long Island University, C.W. Post Est. 1993 Zeta Chapter SUNY, Oswego Est. 1993
Nu Chapter Cornell University Est. 1999
Beta Delta Chapter Pace University, Pleasantville Campus Est. 2008
Collective at Yale University Est. 2014
Beta Eta Chapter University of South Florida Est. 2010 Beta Theta Chapter SUNY Cortland Est. 2009
Alumnae Chapters
Beta Iota Chapter Northeastern Illinois University Est. 2010 Beta Kappa Chapter University of New Haven Est. 2010
Alpha Beta Chapter New York City Alumnae Chapter Est. 1994 Alpha Gamma Chapter Washington D.C. Alumnae Chapter Est. 2004
Beta Lambda Chapter University of North Carolina Chapel Hill Est. 2011
Alpha Delta Chapter Rochester Alumnae Chapter Est. 2004
Beta Mu Chapter University of California Berkley Est. 2011
Alpha Epsilon Chapter Boston Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007
Beta Nu Chapter Johnson & Wales University Est. 2012
Alpha Zeta Chapter New Jersey Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007
COLLECTIVES
Alpha Eta Chapter Buffalo Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007
Collective at University of Maryland, Baltimore County Est. 2003
Alpha Theta Chapter Florida Alumnae Chapter Est. 2007
Collective at Rhode Island College Est. 2003
Los Angeles Alumnae Collective Est. 2011
Collective at Charleston Southern University Est. 2008
Chicago Alumnae Collective Est. 2012
Collective at St. Thomas Aquinas Est. 2010
Alpha Alpha Chapter Honorary Sisters
Collective at Ramapo College Est. 2010
Omega Chapter Eternal Sisters
Est. 1989
www .O mega P hi B eta . org
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