Sigma Phi Zeta Expoze - Fall 2012

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The Service Issue

In This Issue A Season of Service Reflections:10 Years of Finer Womanhood Playing Hard & Working Harder The 46th Annual Illinois State Conference And Much, Much More...

Volume 1: Issue 3 Fall/Winter 2012-2013

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated

Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter SPZ Snapshot

Living The Dream of Dr. King

Serving Our World & Community Sigma Phi Zeta is comprised of an array of talented, thoughtful, and professional women ranging in age, interests and experiences.

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We are the current home of 24 engaging and exciting women!

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We are the advising chapter of the Nu Sigma Chapter on the campus of Northwestern University.

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We serve a broad community range in Lake County that includes Waukegan, North Chicago, Zion, and beyond!

By April Clincy, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter President On January 16, 1920, the greatest sisterhood, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. was birthed! And on January 15, 1929, one of the world's greatest humanitarians, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born. What better way to recognize these occasions than to highlight one of the most important tenets of our sorority, Service.

Service is the act of committing one's time, talents and/or resources to meet the needs of others. And oftentimes, it requires us to put those needs ahead of our own. Dr. King realized this and sacrificed his time, energy and talent to change the conscience of our nation. During our 10 years on the North shore, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter has demonstrated its commitment to this idea of service and is working to change the face on our community. We have raised much needed funds for worthwhile organizations such as the March of Dimes, the American Cancer Society, the Boys and Girls Club and our own Royal Blue Dove Foundation. We have committed countless hours volunteering at organizations such as Habitat for Humanity, local PADS shelters, the Northern Illinois Food bank, Trinity Fest and Vista Rehabilitation Center. We have donated meals, coats, toiletries, shoes, baby items, clothing and other necessities to ensure those less fortunate might have some of the items they need.

And despite Zeta's efforts, the need of our communities continues to be great. There are many people still living without the basic necessities. There are organizations still looking for a helping hand to complete that final project. There are graduating students still seeking scholarships so that they might further their education.

Dr. King said, "“Everybody can be great...because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love.” So, in recognition of our sorority's anniversary and in celebration of Dr. King's birthday, I challenge you to show your heart of grace and soul of love -- give a little of yourself to help make someone else's life a little brighter!

46th Annual Illinois State Leadership Conference

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Building on the Principles of Zeta While Blazing New Paths The newly remodeled Tinley Park Convention Center was the location for Zeta Phi Beta’s 46th State Leadership Conference November 9-10th. At the annual conference, members of Zeta Phi Beta from throughout the great state of Illinois come together to handle the business of our organization beyond the scope of our individual communities.

Members enjoyed riveting and inspiring remarks from Great Lakes Regional Director Michelle Porter-Norman and Illinois State Director Connie V. Pugh. The outstanding day of business and professional development sessions was also attended by over 75 members of the Zeta youth auxiliaries.

Ever loyal to service, the Illinois members of Zeta Phi Beta also used this opportunity to collect over 400 items for the Victory Centre of South Chicago Assisted Living Program.

During the awards luncheon, Sigma Phi Zeta was honored for outstanding service and contributions to the State of Illinois Z-HOPE programming. Also during the luncheon, Nu Sigma Undergraduate Soror Amanda Anumba was the recipient of the Alice Quinn Scholarship. Closing out lunch with a lively conference bag competition, Soror Karyn Quick walked away victorious and with her entire registration for next year’s conference paid for!

The “State” of Sigma Phi Zeta Serving the Sisterhood Sigma Phi Zeta is a chapter of leaders, so it would only make sense that we be represented at the 2012 Illinois State Leadership Conference. We were extremely proud of those who were tapped to showcase the best of our chapter to our state organization. At every level, we are striving to serve our sisterhood.

Soror Regina Townsend has been appointed chair of the Illinois State PR & Marketing committee. Her first task of this office was to steer the development of the marketing materials for the conference itself. The designs for the state banners, souvenir guides, and slideshow were created by Soror Townsend, and Nu Sigma Soror Amanda Anumba.

Soror Betty Peeples has been appointed chair of the state Leadership Academy. During sessions, Soror Peeples delivered a Protocol Please workshop that was a well-received refresher for many on how to properly follow the protocol of the sisterhood. Her first Leadership Academy will take place on February 9, 2013.

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Sigma Phi Zeta Fall Informational Introducing Outstanding Women of Lake County to Zeta Saturday, October 28th, was a great day for Sigma Phi Zeta as we hosted our first informational meeting of the season at the Waukegan Public Library. Exemplary women from various walks of life were invited to join us for an afternoon of laughter and icebreakers while learning more about Zeta Phi Beta Sorority’s principles, programs, and sisterhood. We look forward to getting to know each of them better.

Expanding Our Reach Taping Our First Public Access Show & Podcast Watch out Lake County, because Sigma Phi Zeta is about to hit the airwaves!

Each month, residents of Lake County can look forward to learning about the events, programs and initiatives of Zeta Phi Beta right from their living rooms as we will be hosting an hour-long broadcast on the Comcast Local Access Channel 17. Through this unique outlet, members of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, along with invited guests, will discuss timely topics such as prematurity and breast cancer awareness, community service and other issues.

Produced by our very own Public Relations Chair Kim Woods, and directed by Soror Tiera Gray, we are convinced that once it launches, this project is sure to become a permanent community fixture.

While waiting patiently to see us on the small screen, you can hear us right now on our website, www.sigmaphizeta1920.org where our podcasts can be found!

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Service With A Smile

Soror Ciera McNeal on launching her D.I.V.A.S. mentoring program

Submitted by Soror Ciera McNeal

D.I.V.A.S. (Developing Intelligent Virtuous Academic Scholars) is a nonprofit mentoring group for young girls in Lake County, where girls ages 518 are shown self-esteem tools, anti-bullying methods, taught to perform community service, and college preparedness skills. I founded this organization in December of 2010 to give back to the youth in my community.

Each year, we as an organization adopt a family for the holidays. This year we were overjoyed to have such a great turnout from the Lake County community, and I was extremely grateful that Sigma Phi Zeta chapter supported the D.I.V.A.S. at their annual Holiday Give-Back Program. My sorority sisters came in great numbers to help pass out gifts, our Zeta Youth caroled, and everyone was able to fellowship with those who live in the community in which we serve. Thank you Sorors for your love and support of me and my DIVA Girls!

Sigma Phi Zeta Soror Ciera McNeal with her D.I.V.A.S at their 3rd Annual Holiday Give-Back Program

North Chicago Community Days 2012 A Parade of Hope

Each year, the city of North Chicago treats its residents to a celebration of community that features great food, amazing entertainment, and pertinent information. Zeta Phi Beta looks forward to this event as an opportunity to connect with the public while also providing valuable resources and information. At the 2012 Community Days, we participated in honor of Soror Michelle Rheaves, and welcomed the Gift of Hope Foundation to our table. After a fun-filled trip down the parade route with our members and youth, we took to our table to raise awareness for organ and tissue donation.

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Service Through Patronage

Tell Them The Zetas Sent You!

Sigma Phi Zeta On The Move

When most think of the service of Zeta, it’s easy to think of coat drives, health initiatives, and community outreach. While these are all true, we also believe that to truly serve our community, it is important to show our appreciation by taking part in it socially as well. To take steps in this direction, Sigma Phi Zeta has made a commitment to patronizing the local businesses of our community each month. Look for us at your favorite places!

A staple along Waukegan’s popular Genesee street is Big Ed’s Bar & Grill. Known for their award-winning pulled pork, and Sigma Phi Zeta President April Clincy calls to order the 2012mouth-watering barbecue, the 2013 Sorority Year Planning Meeting. SPZ members converged service is also a treat. We on the campus of Northwestern University for a full day of advise you to get there early, because they do sell out. After event and service strategizing for the upcoming year. lunch, Sigma Phi Zeta enjoyed having our photo taken with Big Ed for “The Wall of Fame”!

Service and...STRATEGY!

Big Ed’s Bar & Grill is located at 30 N. Genesee St Waukegan, IL 60085 http://www.bigedsllc.com

A brand new treat for Waukegan residents with a sweet tooth is The Original Parlor. Sigma Phi Zeta happened to stop by on the parlor’s Grand Opening Day and enjoyed Blue Bell Ice Cream and laughter with the owners Will Monk Jr. and Jason George.

The Original Parlor is located at 32 N. Genesee St., Waukegan, Illinois 60085 http://www.facebook.com/ theoriginalparlor

If you have a Lake County business you’d like the Ladies of Zeta Phi Beta to visit, please email us at zetapublicrelations@gmail.com Or call 224-698-ZETA (9382) !

Service and...SISTERHOOD! Soror Ciera with Cynthia Alexander of the Lambda Nu Omega chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. at their annual AKA Bowl. Each year, Lake County Greeks and the Community are invited to join the ladies of AKA for “Cosmic Bowling” to raise money for scholarships. Zeta Phi Beta is proud to support the efforts of our Sister Greeks whenever possible and appreciate their reciprocation.

Dance In The Name of Sigma SPZ supports our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma The Nu Lambda Sigma chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity kicked off it’s fall programming with a fun mixer at The Full Slab in Grayslake. This casual affair was a great way to fellowship with our brothers, as well as members of other Lake County organizations.

Dancing the night away to tunes spun by Brother Monte McDowell, also known as DJ Old School, everyone involved was able to get a glimpse of the un-shakable bond shared by the Blue & White Family! We play hard, because we work even harder.

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Service Through Activism Zeta Phi Beta’s National Anti-Hazing Campaign On August 11, 2012, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, along with the National Action Network, led by Sigma Brother Reverend Al Sharpton, held a town hall meeting to discuss the deplorable affects of hazing in the collegiate community. Aside from the tremendous stain hazing has placed on the legacy of fraternities and sororities, it is a violent and sometimes fatal practice that must be brought to an end.

Under the leadership of National President Mary Breaux Wright and National 1st Vice President Scarlet H. Black, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated has taken a stand alongside our brothers to eliminate the culture of hazing. Each month, members worldwide will dedicate information and resources to bringing awareness to this practice.

Sigma Phi Zeta is proud to take part in our national movement.

If you would like to show your support, please contact us to purchase a “Finer Women Don’t Haze” support bracelet for $2.

Service & Celebration!

Coats, Toys, and Game Night!

Service and Sisterhood go hand in hand with Zeta, and we look forward to experiencing both at our annual chapter game night. This December, at the home of Soror Karyn Quick, Sorors and Amicae broke out our best potluck dishes and even our dancing shoes as we played games and learned line dances. Later, we exchanged holiday gifts and laughs while enjoying dessert.

By the end of the night, we’d collected two large boxes of toys, over 60 coats, and over $300 for our Stork’s Nest! Our evening of cheer, helped us bring Christmas joy to local families in need. When service is who you are, it isn’t very hard to make it a part of everything you do, and to enjoy your time doing it.

NU SIGMA’S NEWEST SOROR On December 2, 2012 our undergraduate chapter Nu Sigma welcomed its newest member into our beloved sisterhood.

Soror Darlene Reyes, a sophomore International Studies major, was the solo initiate of the Fall 2012 intake which is a testament to her diligence, devotion, and tenacity!

Welcome Soror!

Zeta Amicae Informational

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Serving Alongside Friends

On Sunday, December 9th, the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan invited Zetas and other great community women to their Fall Informational. While enjoying the ambiance of The England Manor, guests were invited to learn more about the Amicae auxiliary of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority.

The Zeta Amicae auxiliary is open to women who believe in the ideals of Zeta but who, for various reasons, do not posess college degrees. The Amicae assist Zeta in our civic, service and social ventures, while also hosting events of their own. Under the leadership of President Roslyn Greene and Vice President Lateashia Crite, the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan are known for their amazing energy and dedication For more information on the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan, contact President Roslyn Greene: amicaeros@gmail.com—224-381-8162

Never Too Young To Serve Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Spread Comfort & Cheer

Submitted by Soror Valerie Harmon Youth Auxiliary Chair 2011-2012

Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Auxiliaries have learned at an early age to give back to their communities. August 11, 2012 was a very busy day for Sigma Phi Zeta chapter. Members of the Sorority had assisted with packing back packs full of school supplies on Wednesday, August 8, 2012, for the upcoming Trinity Care Fest. However, members of the Sorority were unable to commit to supervising games and distribution of the back packs. Our Youth stepped in and stepped up to assist with the event. Along with Soror Valerie Harmon and Soror Elouise Jones, the youth supervised three games, the moon bounce, the basketball and sack toss.

With the help of Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Auxiliary, Zeta was able to have a presence at an event that gives school supplies to the less fortunate.

The Youth also Christmas caroled on December 15, 2012 at the Vista Rehab Center. Patients in the rehab facility were unable to ambulate so their holiday season was spent in the confines of the hospital. The Youth Auxiliary came out and sang with the Zetas, Amicae and Aspirants. One patient was so overjoyed that she sang along then began to cry. She was so happy she had not been forgotten during the holiday season.

Continuing to spread holiday cheer, the Youth then traveled to the D.I.V.A.S Give Back holiday event. The Youth caroled for the friends and families of the D.I.V.A.S group. The D.I.V.A.S along with Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., donated toys to two very deserving families who without our assistance would not have received gifts.

On January 19, 2013, the Youth Amicettes and Archonettes will be volunteering at the Northern Illinois Food Bank. The Youth will sort, re-label, and box frozen meats for distribution.

Our Youth are our future and they are stepping up and ready to lead the way!

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The Evolution of Finer Womanhood Celebrating A Decade of Service The Evolution of Finer Womanhood‌An Evening of Reflection The Ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter celebrated 10 years of Service, Sisterly Love and Finer Womanhood on November 3, 2012 at the Holiday Inn Convention Center in Gurnee, Illinois.

This illustrious chapter was founded on November 2, 2002 by eight Trailblazers ready to bring forth change in the Lake County communities.

Our eight founding members are as follows: Betty Peeples (President), Kimbrella Warfield(Vice President), Elouise Jones (2nd Vice President) , Valencia Samuel (3rd Vice President), Linda Chamblee (Historian), Donna Clark (Treasurer), Tricia Mills (Sgt At Arms) and Joyce Thomas-Williams (Phylacter).

These charter members were recognized for their vision and commitment to developing this chapter into the powerhouse organization that it is today.

Over the last ten years, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter is proud to have accomplished the following milestones: chartered an undergraduate chapter at Northwestern University, chartered an adult auxiliary and three youth auxiliaries for girls ages 4-18, provided scholarships to deserving students pursuing higher education and presenting ground-breaking programs to the Lake county communities.

As we continue to blaze the trails in years to come, it’s important that we continue to reflect on where we started because our past will springboard us into our future. Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter will continue to move forward with one goal in mind; to impact the lives of those within our communities.

Soror Karyn Quick 1st Vice President Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter

Above: Sigma Phi Zeta charter members with then Illinois State Director Michelle Porter-Norman in 2002 Right: Sigma Phi Zeta charter members with current Great Lakes Regional Director Michelle Porter-Norman in 2012

An Evening of Reflection

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SETTING THE STANDARD SOROR BETTY PEEPLES As the first president of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, Soror Betty Peeples has stood at the helm from the very beginning. During the anniversary dinner, Soror Peeples shared a passionate and engaging look back on behalf of herself and the original charter members. As the current chapter treasurer, she continues to serve us selflessly and we are eternally grateful.

<<<Spotlights of Sisterhood 1.

Chapter President April Clincy greets guests at The Evolution of Finer Womanhood Anniversary Dinner.

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Gifts honoring special guests and charter members.

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Sorors Ciera McNeal and Juda Haley welcome guests to the dinner.

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Soror Kim Woods at the informational table during the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Denim & Dovesâ&#x20AC;? After-Party.

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Celebrating a Season of Service Sigma Phi Zeta’s Week-Long Anniversary Celebration In celebration of a decade of uninterrupted service to our community, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter engaged in a week-long anniversary celebration of service and sisterhood that was loads of fun, and also a creative way for us to continue serving.

We kicked off the week with an informational session at the Waukegan Public Library. Informational meetings are wonderful ways to connect to community women seeking to learn about our organization, and they provide members an opportunity to reflect on the things we hold dear. We found it to be a great intro to our celebration.

Kudos to the anniversary planning committee, who worked hard to ensure that our week was balanced with a pleasant array of social and service events.

Monday: Blue Monday @ Buffalo Wild Wings - A portion of our bill was donated to the District 187 Music Department.

Tuesday: Get Fit With The Zetas @Family First Center—Zetas came together for a night of laughter and Zumba.

Thursday: Zetas Shopping For The Stork @ Wal-Mart - Sigma Phi Zeta members encouraged Wal-Mart shoppers in Zion, Illinois to donate baby items while shopping!

Saturday: The Evolution of Finer: An Evening of Reflection Dinner Sunday: Church Service @ Turning Point Life Church—Zetas came together for worship. We were also honored with a plaque celebrating our accomplishment!

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SHOPPING FOR SUPPORT CARSONâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COMMUNITY DAYS Carson Pirie Scott customers were pleasantly surprised to find members of Zeta Phi Beta on hand offering savings!

Through the sale of Carsonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Community Day coupon booklets, community organizations such as Zeta are able to raise funds for our activities while providing over $400 worth of savings. Who could pass up a deal like that?

<<<Candid Camaraderie 1.

Three of our four neophyte members kidding around at game night.

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Serving meals at the Annual Habitat for Humanity Dinner.

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Members of Sigma Phi Zeta at a Habitat for Humanity Home Dedication.

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Habitat for Humanity Families and Community Members.

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Celebrating our anniversary with Mayor Leon Rockingham at Buffalo Wild Wings, where we raised funds for The District 187 Music Department.

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The Women of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter are excited to announce our upcoming Scholarship fundraiser, the 8th Annual Old School Prom,

“Blue Allure: A Night of Majesty and Mystery”.

For eight years, funds collected from this event have allowed Sigma Phi Zeta chapter to provide scholarships to exemplary young ladies in the communities of Lake County . On Saturday, April 20, 2013, we will host this year’s affair at the breathtaking Midlane Golf Resort in Wadsworth, Illinois. This elegant venue, combined with enchanting entertainment will provide a unique and enjoyable experience where individuals and organizations can network and socialize while celebrating our mutual interests in the education of tomorrow’s youth. We invite you to join us as we continue to change lives through scholarship.

For tickets please visit: sigmaphizeta.eventbrite.com or call us at 224-698-ZETA (9382)

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finalthoughts...

Notes from the Editor

Greetings! We hope that you have enjoyed this issue of the ExpoZé. The theme of this edition was Service, and my hope is that it not only provides you with a glimpse into what we do, but also into the joy we feel from doing it.

This fall, the opportunity to serve was ever-present, and Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter excitedly took to action. Through our example, our youth also found greater ways to reach out and give back. From summer volunteering, to caroling this winter, and even their upcoming trip to the Food Depository, we are extremely proud to pass the torch.

The close of 2012 was an important time in our chapter as we celebrated a decade of dedication to Lake County. It was our honor to welcome Great Lakes Regional Director Michelle Porter Norman, as well as Illinois State Director Connie V. Pugh to celebrate with us on this momentous occasion. Sigma Phi Zeta celebrated the accomplishments of our past while looking boldly towards our future.

“A Community Conscious, Action-Oriented Organization” This is how members of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority face life. We jump in feet first, always ready to mobilize, activate, and give. Service is not simply a thing we do, it is who we are.

It is an absolute privilege to serve my chapter and sisterhood by sharing our work with you. The preceding pages could only highlight the many ways we reach out, so we encourage you to visit our website and social media outlets to keep abreast of our upcoming events and programs.

As always, we appreciate you, and the generous gift of your support.

In Sisterly Love & Blessings,

Sigma Phi Zeta ExpoZé Editor– In-Chief

In The Next Issue 

Blue Allure - The 2013 Old School Prom

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Sigma Phi Zeta Fitness Challenge

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2013 Scholarship Luncheon

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79th Annual Great Lakes Regional Conference

And Much, Much More!

Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter P.O. Box 9028 Waukegan, IL 60079

224-698-ZETA (9382) www.sigmaphizeta1920.org www.facebook.com/4Zeta www.twitter.com/LakeCountyZetas

Community Partners Sigma Phi Zeta Serves The College of Lake County’s Giving Tree “Adopt A Family” Event The Giving Tree program of The College of Lake County is co-sponsored by The American Association of Women in Community Colleges (AAWCC) and the Women’s Center as a program for students and their families who are in need of assistance beyond what financial aid and local organizations can provide. Each year, the program adopts a family for the holidays, and this year, Zeta Phi Beta was pleased to assist in collecting items for the families and to serve holiday dinner. We look forward to a continued partnership with the College of Lake County.