The Community-Conscious & Action Oriented Issue
THE SIGMA PHI ZETA Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter Waukegan, IL
Volume 2: Issue 1 Summer/Fall 2013
Community-Conscious & Action-Oriented Powerful Women of the North Shore
By April Clincy, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter President
Sigma Phi Zeta is comprised of an array of talented, thoughtful, and professional women ranging in age, interests and experiences. We are the current home of 27 engaging and exciting women! We are the advising chapter of the Nu Sigma Chapter on the campus of Northwestern University. We serve a broad community range in Lake County that includes Waukegan, North Chicago, Zion, and beyond!
Well Lake County, a new year is upon us! And that means another year of giving, another year of sharing and another year of doing for the women of Zeta Phi Beta – Sigma Phi Zeta chapter! For as long as I’ve been a member of Zeta (27 years and counting), we have used the tagline “community conscious, action oriented”. Community-conscious means that we have a keen knowledge and awareness of the issues affecting our communities. Whether it’s local issues such as homelessness, women’s health, gun and domestic violence, and women’s empowerment or those on a national level such as health care reform; support of our military, prematurity and breast cancer awareness, Zetas stay informed on those matters that are or can have a negative impact on our communities. As our International President, Mary Breaux Wright, regularly reminds us, “A good Zeta is a well-informed Zeta!” So it is important that we are informed on the issues affecting us. Action-oriented means that we don’t just talk about the issues but we actually do something about them. Sigma Phi Zeta continues to be responsive to the needs of our neighbors on the North Shore – especially in the communities of Waukegan, Zion, and North Chicago. During the last sorority year, listed below is a sample of the service we provided and where action-oriented came to life:
Habitat for Humanity Stand Up for Something – DIVAS Giveback Program A Safe Place Domestic Violence Shelter PADS of Lake County, IL Bernie’s Book Bank Community Baby Shower for Prematurity Awareness March of Dimes Walk for Babies Holiday Giving Tree Project and Holiday Party with College of Lake County Bingo Night at Kukla Towers Senior Center with the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan Women’s Empowerment Seminar with the College of Lake County and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
There is still much work to do because the harvest is plenty but the laborers are few. As we embark upon a new year in Zeta, we invite you to join us in being “community-conscious, action-oriented”. Membership not required! 1
Awards & Celebrations of SPZ Sorors Sigma Phi Zeta’s Chapter Retreat!
Building on the Principle of Sisterhood was the our definition of Sisterhood. Using old theme of Sigma Phi Zeta’s 2013 Chapter magazines and poster boards, and Retreat. To begin our new listening to upbeat tunes, the sorority year, members were small groups took time to bond invited to a full day experience and engage while learning that of bonding and planning. each person’s contribution adds Held at the University of Illinois to the greater goal. President - April Clincy Extension in Grayslake, this fun 1st Vice President - Karyn Quick and enlightening day served Another inspirational sisterhood 2nd Vice President - Valerie Harmon to set the tone for the year we activity was the White Board 3rd Vice President plan to execute. "What I Love About You" project. Regina Townsend Our newest members stood with Committees and Executive Treasurer - Betty Peeples their backs to the white board Board members were able to Recording Treasurer as chapter members took turns present highlights of proposed writing what we love about Juli Burrows-Jackson programs and upcoming each of them. After everyone Secretary - Latwinda Jackson events while allowing Sorors to had a chance to write their Chaplain - Lorraine McDowell offer their feedback and positive notes, there were Public Relations - Kim Woods suggestions. This collaborative gracious and touched faces as Historian - Elouise Jones brainstorming has already Sorors turned to see what their served to create some of our sisters had said about them. most exciting potential programs to date! Lastly, we swore in new chapter officers, Beyond the business of service, our other had a great lunch, and chapter President focus was bonding. In groups, we worked Soror April Clincy presented special together to create vision board collages of awards to chapter members.
Tune In!
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Baby Love For Soror Ashleigh & Family! Congratulations to Soror Ashleigh Weathers and her husband Walter Weathers on the announcement of their new arrival due in April. We wish you a joyful and peaceful pregnancy! Prince or Princess, we’re wishing you lots of ROYAL BLUE!!
Wedding Bells for Soror Liner
This August, Soror Tiffany Woods celebrated what would have been her mother’s 49th birthday with a beautiful new celebration; she got married! Soror Woods became Soror Tiffany Liner when she married Markus Liner in an intimate ceremony on August 10th, 2013. The date was a special choice for Soror Tiffany, as she lost her mother to breast cancer in July of 2002. Congratulations Soror!
Sorors On The Move! Soror Kimberly Starks began a new position as Career Placement Specialist / Medical Assistant Instructor at State Career College. Soror Tiffany Liner became a Fellow with the Chicago Federal Executive Board. Soror April Clincy was appointed to the role of HR Business Leader for the RD&Q (Research, Development and Quality) organization of Kraft Foods. Soror Karyn Quick was promoted to the position of Senior IT Project Manager with Abbott Laboratories. Soror Kimbrella Warfield was accepted into Northeastern University’s College of Professional Studies, where she will began work towards a doctorate in January. Soror Ciera McNeal was named to the board of the Zion Exchange Club. Soror Kim Woods was named District Director and State PR Chair for Exchange Club. Soror Valencia Samuel is now teaching in the School District of Gurnee.
Congratulations Sorors!!
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New Sorors and New Faces Sigma Phi Zeta’s Newest Member Cinco De Mayo was a great day for Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter as we welcomed our newest member into the sisterhood. Soror Kimberly Starks may be new to the membership, but she is no new face around Sigma Phi Zeta! For the past three years, Soror Starks has been a proud supporter of our youth groups and her daughter, Amicette Jocelyn has grown from a Pearlette to an Amicette under our care. Soror Starks, lovingly referred to as One Mic, for her outspokenness and beautiful singing voice, brings a wealth of knowledge and zeal to our chapter youth committee, and has jumped right into stride. We are so very proud to have her. Welcome and congratulations Soror!
Learning About Zeta Informationals are open house events held by chapters of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority. All professional, service-driven and community-minded women are invited to learn more about our phenomenal sorority and this outstanding chapter which serves Chicago's North Shore. Sorors seeking a new chapter home are also welcome! Sigma Phi Zeta holds two informational a year, once in the Spring and again in the Fall. This year’s Fall Informational was held at Harbor Place in Waukegan. We look forward to continuing to build our new relationships with the wonderful women who attended.
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The Nu Sigma Undergraduate Chapter Congrats Grads! This June, we were proud and honored to witness the graduation of Sorors Jessica Holden and Brittany Jones from Northwestern University. Under their immaculate care, Nu Sigma chapter flourished and grew from two members to eleven in a few short years. We would love to say that we know they will be successful, but the truth of the matter is that they already are.
Service to the Larger Sisterhood
Soror Holden has since assimilated to Sigma Phi Zeta chapter and is currently taking graduate courses at Loyola University’s prestigious Quinlan School of Business. Soror Jones is awaiting the start of her own graduate coursework in the field of Library and Information Science.
Congratulations to Soror Angie Ross(3rd from right) of our undergraduate chapter Nu Sigma on being appointed to the first ever National Undergraduate Committee of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Check out this great photo of her and the other appointees at the 2013 Zeta Organizational Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, IN. We're so proud of you Angie, but we've come to expect nothing less from those Sweet Nu Sigma Zetas!
Go Nu Sigma!
Northwestern University Zetas were present and accounted for at the Wildcat Excellence Awards! The Nu Sigma Chapter was presented with the 2013 Order of Omega Chapter of the Year Award for NPHC. Soror Amanda Anumba is pictured with winners from all councils. In all, Nu Sigma were the winners of nine other Omega Awards including, Highest Quarterly GPA Spring 2012, Outstanding Chapter Management, Outstanding Membership Development, Most Improved Quarterly GPA Spring 2012, Outstanding Philanthropic Efforts and Initiatives, Outstanding Recruitment & Intake, Community Spirit Award, NPHC Outstanding Neophyte, and the Order of Omega Senior Honor Roll. 5
The 2013 Annual Old School Prom
On Saturday, April 20th, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter hosted its Annual Old School Prom at the Midlane Golf Resort in Wadsworth, Illinois. Guests were treated to live music provided by vocalist Tiki Hayes, an alluring masquerade theme, and the presentation of our Spring Initiates. Tagged the “Old School Prom”, to replicate the anticipation and desire of that beloved high school dance, Sigma Phi Zeta’s annual formal is one of the top fundraising events of the Spring. Using Lake County vendors, venues, and performers, the event is also an opportunity for us to purpose even our social events to give back to the community we love so much. Funds collected through the ticket sales of this event serve to fund our Royal Blue Dove Foundation, the 501(c)3 charitable entity of our chapter. Annually, the Royal Blue Dove Foundation provides scholarships and educational gifts to deserving young women in Lake County. The 2013 prom allowed us to award three such scholarships.
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You can help send a deserving young woman to college!
and have a great time in the process...
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Sigma Phi Zeta travels to Indianapolis and Fairview Heights Aside from our local activities, members of Zeta Phi Beta enjoy numerous opportunities for professional and member development. This year, members of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter were able to travel to the Zeta Organizational Leadership Conference in Indianapolis, the Great Lakes Regional Conference also in Indianapolis, and the 47th Annual Illinois Leadership Conference in Fairview Heights, Illinois.
State Banner Designed by Nu Sigma Soror Amanda.
An exciting treat for those attending this year’s state and regional conferences, was the presence of Zeta Phi Beta’s International President, Soror Mary Breaux Wright! All three conferences included activities and workshops for Zetas, Zeta Amicae, and youth auxiliaries that focused on enriching our skills and passion for service. Attendees of the Zeta Organizational Leadership Conference were also added to national cohorts to continue their leadership training well beyond the conference!
Soror Townsend presenting at State conference
SPZ and International President Mary Breaux Wright! 8
Sisters Rosalyn and Valencia at State Conference.
Strengthening the Bonds of Our Sisterhood Both Sigma Phi Zeta and our undergraduate chapter Nu Sigma were well represented in both attendance and participation at State Conference! Soror Regina Townsend of Sigma Phi Zeta, and Soror Amanda Anumba of Nu Sigma created the conference banners and guide, while Sorors Betty Peeples, Regina Townsend and Valerie Harmon served as workshop presenters. We were also the recipients of numerous sorority awards. Aside from the great workshops and talks, another benefit of attending conferences on a larger level is always the opportunity to bond and relax in a new place. Sigma Phi Zeta chapter members spent time hanging out in one another’s hotel rooms for slumber party-like chats, and visiting local establishments, such as the famous Sweetie Pie’s Soul Food restaurants in St. Louis. Sigma Phi Zeta congratulates the ZOL Steering Committee, Regional Director Michelle Porter Norman, and Illinois State Director Soror Connie V. Pugh, on an outstanding conference summer.
SPZ’s Regional Conference Award Winning Chapter Scrapbook
Hotel Room Slumber Parties!
SPZ with “Sweetie Pie” herself, Miss Robbie
The City of Indianapolis welcomes Zeta Phi Beta! 9
The Zeta Amicae of Waukegan The Zeta Amicae of Waukegan are heating things up once again! Sigma Phi Zeta increased its Amicae Auxiliary Group with the induction of 2 new members (Friends). These new Friends are: Olivia Presley and Charrie Pierce. Sigma Phi Zeta was proud to continue our history of keeping things family-focused as we welcomed Friend Presley into the Amicae. Friend Presley is the mom of Sigma Phi Zeta Soror Yoshika Pough, and aunt to Soror Tiera Gray! As of 1940, Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated was the first organization to recognize and celebrate the importance of the good will, prestige, and cooperation of professional women who for numerous reasons were not part of any-Greek Letter organization. The Zeta Amicae assist Zeta in our civic, service and social ventures, while also hosting events of their own. Under the leadership of President Olivia Presley and Zeta Advisors Elouise Jones and Kim Woods, the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan are known for their amazing energy, thoughtful programming, and dedication. For more information on the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan, contact President Olivia Presley: waukeganamicae@gmail.com
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Zetas and Zeta Amicae attend Ceasefire Block Party
The year of 2013 has had its fair share of trials and tragedies for both the ladies of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, as well as the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan. Acts of senseless violence claimed the lives of close family and friends of both groups as the summer began. In spite of our grief, the Sorors and Friends made a conscious decision to stand up against hopelessness and despair by joining over 1,500 others at the 5th Annual Lake County Ceasefire Block Party. The Lake County Ceasefire Block Party is held annually by the Ceasefire-North Chicago AntiViolence Program in partnership with other community activist groups in the Lake County area such as Community Action, the Family First Center, and others.
Bingo & BBQ! Every fourth Tuesday of the month, the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan visits with a group of vibrant and fun-loving Seniors at the Kukla Towers in North Chicago. Seniors are able to enjoy a fun game of Bingo and a chance to win great prizes. This summer, in celebration of the growing relationship between the Zeta Amicae and the residents, the Zeta Amicae also hosted a barbecue. Members of Sigma Phi Zeta were on hand to lend support and fellowship.
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The Youth Auxiliaries of Sigma Phi Zeta Submitted by Soror Valerie Harmon - Youth Advisor
Sigma Phi Zeta Youth on the Move The Pearlette, Amicette and Archonette Clubs of Zeta Phi Beta, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter started their 2013-2014 year off with a bang. Hosting an Informational at Zion Public Library on October 26, 2013, returning Amicette Jasmine Brown greeted guests and explained why she loves being a part of the Blue and White family. Next, an ice breaker of Zeta “Zingo” was in order and the girls and parents got to know one another while looking for someone wearing earrings, someone whose mother was a Zeta, someone who was a cheerleader, and someone wearing blue and white. Returning Amicette, Kayla Stephens was the first person to find someone in the room to match the descriptions on her “Zingo” card securing her a prize. The informational was a success and secured six new members! The following week, the Youth participated in their first community service project of the year, at Bernie’s Book Bank. The Pearlettes placed stickers on all the books while the Amicettes, Archonettes, Amicae and Zetas bagged and boxed the books for delivery. Our Youth worked so efficiently, that they were asked to slow down so the next group would have some work to do! Bernie’s Book Bank donates books to low income schools and to the health department to distribute to kids who are sick or just received their shots. To date, they have delivered 1.8 million books. There are only seven employees that pick up and drop off books, so all sorting, stamping, bagging and boxing is done by volunteers such as Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Youth. The Youth will be volunteering at Kukla Towers Senior Building as well as the Food Pantry later this year. Next on their list is a visit to Northwestern for workshops with the Zetas of Nu Sigma chapter.
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The 2013 Royal Blue Dove Scholarship Recipient The Royal Blue Dove Scholarship promotes educational excellence by awarding scholarships to graduating seniors from local high schools in the Lake County area. We recognize those young women who have maintained an excellent scholastic record while demonstrating concern for others by participating in community service related activities. To earn the Elsye Williams Exchange Club of North Chicago Gift at the end of their senior year, they must maintain a 3.0 GPA; maintain residency in the city of North Chicago, and demonstrate outstanding community service in the city of North Chicago. This year, North Chicago Community High School student Shadezja Garrett, was the recipient of both! Shadezja, who finished her high school education with a 3.8 GPA, has settled in at Eastern Illinois University and is enjoying college life. She plans to major in Music with an emphasis on Teacher Certification. Miss Garrett plans to become a music teacher.
2013 Youth Awards The Youth of Sigma Phi Zeta ended their 20122013 year with a Scholarship and Awards Breakfast at InLaws Restaurant where youth received awards for their outstanding participation. Two members were also recognized and awarded financial gifts. Justice Moore, also a graduate of North Chicago High School, received a partial scholarship to play basketball at Kankakee Community College. Standing at 6’1”, Justice plays the center position with the Kankakee Cavaliers. She is grateful for her financial gift as it has helped with her living expenses. Amira Williams was also awarded a financial gift. Amira is a graduate of Zion Township High School and is currently attending Southern Illinois University in Carbondale. Having two other siblings in college, Amira was especially happy to receive her scholarship. Her mother, Leslie Williams, said, “having three children in college is a challenge but she is glad they are seeking higher education”. She is also thankful for the support given by Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Both her daughters have been recipients of scholarships from The Royal Blue Dove Foundation. If you would like to help Sigma Phi Zeta continue to award local youth with our Royal Blue Dove scholarship, please contact us! 13
The National Pan-Hellenic Council of Lake County The 2013 Lake County Pan-Hel Picnic
The Van Patten Woods in Wadsworth, Illinois was the location of the 2013 Lake County PanHellenic Council Picnic. This annual celebration of the bonds between the lake county chapters of the nine historically black Greek-letter organizations is held to mark the end of the fraternal service calendar for the year, and enjoy one another. Members of all nine organizations, Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc., Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc., Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc., Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc., Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc., and Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc., bring their families and have a great time playing games and engaging in friendly competitions. Sigma Phi Zeta chapter is proud to serve the residents of Lake County alongside these amazing organizations.
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Zetas attend Phi Beta Sigma’s 2nd Annual Summer Madness Fundraiser Scholarship is deep in the hearts of the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, and it is equally as important to our brothers of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity. Locally, the men of Nu Lambda Sigma chapter work hard to create scholarship opportunities for deserving Lake County youth by hosting their annual all-white party; Sigma Summer Madness. This year’s Summer Madness party was held at the Round Lake Beach Civic and Cultural Center in Round Lake Beach, Illinois. Guests were invited to try their hand, no pun intended, at winning great prizes, while enjoying the music of Aniba Hotep and the Sol Collective.
Mobilizing for Change Soror Ciera McNeal, standing next to her 9-year-old daughter Chaiya, speaks to a crowd of more than 200 people in Zion, Illinois. Soror McNeal organized this prayer vigil Saturday, Aug. 24, in honor of 5month-old Joshua Summeries who was missing in August. Soror McNeal’s vigil helped to soothe some of the hurt community members were feeling in the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy. In a statement to the press, Soror McNeal remarked, “We may not be a big city like Chicago, and in the news all the time, but we will show America that we as Zion stand together”.
Visible Partners Speaking to our commitment to show ourselves as visible partners with our communities in a social as well as a service setting, the National PanHellenic Council of Lake County has begun to host social gatherings in local Lake County businesses. The first of this season’s social events was a trip to Sharky’s in Round Lake Beach for a Game Night! Members of the “Divine 9” were present to watch the rivalry game between the Chicago Bears and the Green Bay Packers. 15
SPZ In Your Community The 2013 March of Dimes March For Babies
The 2013 Walk To End Lupus
The 2013 Strides Against Breast Cancer Walk
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The Lake County Fair in Partnership with Vista Health Center
The Foss Park Halloween Party for Children
Habitat For Humanity
Want to see more photos of Sigma Phi Zeta in action? Check out our Facebook page! Facebook.com/ LakeCountyZetas 17
finalthoughts... There is a longstanding joke among members of our sorority that I don't think they'll mind me sharing with you. Are you listening? Here it is: "We go on vacation in the summer." Taking a look back at the pages of this edition of the ExpoZé, it's very clear to see that the ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority don't seem to ever take a vacation. We couldn’t even list everything! You see, when you are conscious of the community around you, and its needs, and have the passion and drive to be actionoriented and accountable about it, you will always have something to do. There will always be a cause to fight for and a banner to hold. Both nationally and locally, the women of Zeta Phi Beta use every month as an opportunity to change the world. We hope that this issue of our newsletter has shown you just that. We are proud to serve, and will continue to do so every chance we get. It is an absolute privilege and honor to serve my chapter and sisterhood by sharing our work with you. We encourage you to also 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
P.O. Box 9028 Waukegan, IL 60079 224-698-ZETA (9382) www.sigmaphizeta1920.org
@LakeCountyZetas @LakeCountyZetas
with Soror Ciera McNeal Top Choice salon is owned by Tony Johnson, a native of North Chicago. The welcoming atmosphere in this full service, unisex salon has been the vital component in his retention of clients such as myself and my family. He has done wonders with my coif for years! Not only is Tony one of the best stylists, (take it from me), but he employs some of the best barbers and braiders in Lake County. Top Choice also participates in Free Hair Cuts for Low Income Families, which is a great community event. So stop by Top Choice salon for your new hair style or book your appointment now for our 2014 Old School Prom. Top Choice is located at 2528 Sheridan Road in Zion or call 847-2463457 ask for Tony and tell him Ciera sent you !!
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Do you have a local business you’d like me to cover? Send us a message! zetapublicrelations@gmail.com