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The Finer Womanhood Issue
In This Issue 2013 Joint Founders’ Day Celebration Spring Stork’s Nest Baby Shower Zeta Phi Beta Illinois Leadership Academy 2013 New Members! And More!
Volume 1: Issue 4 Winter/Spring 2013
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter Waukegan, IL SPZ Snapshot
The Epitome of Finer Womanhood Women of Substance and Virtue
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 25 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!
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Family DeFINEd 93 Years of Sisterhood, Brotherhood, and Service
On January 9th, 1914, Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity was founded on the campus of Howard University by A. Langston Taylor, Charles I. Brown, and Leonard F. Morse. Six years and two days later, with encouragement from Sigma brothers A. Langston Taylor and Charles R. Taylor, a sister organization Zeta Phi Beta Sorority was founded by Arizona Cleaver, Fannie Pettie, Viola Tyler, Myrtle Tyler, and Pearl Neal. In celebration of our 99th and 93rd anniversaries, the Nu Lambda Sigma Chapter of Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity Inc., and Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., joined together for a Founders’ Day dinner at Saddle Ridge Restaurant in Waukegan, IL.. The theme for the occasion was “Celebrating the Birth of Excellence". Through this joint observance of Founders’ Day, we continued to demonstrate the sisterly and brotherly love that embrace a genuine and deep regard for the well-being and success of others.
Fit & Finer The ladies of Zeta Phi Beta celebrate Fitness and Friendship This Spring, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter joined in a friendly competition with Gamma Zeta Zeta chapter of Columbus, Ohio, to encourage fitness among ourselves, our sisters, and our communities. From January until April the Sorors of each chapter worked to not only shape up but to share what we were learning with our community. Using the hashtag #ZetaFitTip, Sigma Phi Zeta was able to engage the community with a social media campaign. As a chapter we were also able to come together once a week for Zumba! Win or lose, we had a great time, and are sure that our Sorors in Ohio did as well.
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Social FINEsse
Awards & Celebrations of SPZ Sorors Soror Townsend in Essence Magazine The March 2013 edition of Essence Magazine featured a story on Black Couples facing infertility. Soror Regina Townsend and her blog were listed as a resource for couples and individuals facing this disease.
Soror Samuel Receives 4H Award
Soror Clark Recieves NAUW Award Soror Donna Clark (pictured left) was honored at a Founders' Day Program for the National Association of University Women—North Shore Illinois Branch for continued service to the chapter since 1989. Soror Clark is a charter member of the NAUW– North Shore Branch.
The University of Extension Hall of Fame for Community Service honored Soror Valencia Samuel for her excellence in service to the University of Illinois Extension 4H.
Community Conscious & Action-Oriented Congratulations to Soror Ciera McNeal on a successful community forum to combat violence in Lake County. The “Taking Back the Streets” townhall meeting was attended by local Aldermen, the Sheriffs’ office, the Zion Police Department, Committeemen, community members and Sorors and Amicae of Zeta Phi Beta.
The Royal Blue Connection Zeta Phi Beta on Your Television Thursdays may be “Scandal”-ous but Wednesdays are Finer. The Royal Blue Connection is the weekly public access television show of Zeta Phi Beta—Sigma Phi Zeta chapter! Each week at 7pm we can be seen on Comcast local channel 17 discussing pertinent health or service information, while also providing some insight into who we are as an organization. Often, our youth and Amice can also be seen. Check us out!
Leading By Example This March as Sigma Phi Zeta chapter welcomed our newest members, there were tears of joy as we welcomed a legacy into the fold. Soror Jasmine Simmons, is a former member of the Sigma Phi Zeta Youth groups, and her aunt, Linda Chamblee is a member of Sigma Phi Zeta as well. Congratulations Soror Jasmine! We are proud to see the Finer Woman you have become.
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Social Media ReFINEment
ZetaYouth Tackle Cyber-Bullying And Cyber Responsibility. Bullying, cyber-bullying, and sexual exploitation online are increasingly important social issues. To help combat this important topic, Soror Kim Woods, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter PR chair, put together a workshop for parents, students, and other youth advocates. On March 16th, at the College of Lake County, all were invited for a fun and educational afternoon of learning to use Social Media more effectively and responsibly. Aside from the topics of bullying, there was also an important discussion about texting while driving.
A Fine Time at Bernie’s Book Bank! Encouraging Literacy and Learning
Bernie's Book Bank, located in Lake Forest, facilitates the collection, processing and redistribution of new and gently used children's books to increase BOOK OWNERSHIP among at-risk infants, toddlers and school-age children throughout Chicagoland. On March 9th, the ladies of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter volunteered an afternoon to help sort and package books for this great organization. We had an outstanding time, and felt great taking part in encouraging literacy in children.
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Finer Women In Training Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Serve At Northern Food Bank On January 19th, the Zeta Pearlettes and Archonettes of Lake County helped at the Northern Illinois Food Bank in Park City, IL. Along with Zetas, Zeta Amicae and other volunteer groups, our young ladies sorted, re-labeled and boxed frozen meats for distribution. The Northern Illinois Food Bank’s vision is to combat hunger in Northern Illinois by providing nutritious meals to those in need through innovative programs and partnerships. The bank serves 13 counties and has centers in Geneva, Lake County, Loves Park, and Joliet.
A Glimpse Into A Finer Future Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Visit Northwestern University A large reason for the inception of Zeta’s Youth auxiliaries is to show young ladies our principles in action. By taking our girls to visit the undergraduate Sorors of Northwestern University, we are able to build upon the principle of scholarship by exposing them to college life. Our Sorors of Nu Sigma are always gracious and entertaining hosts who jump right in to work with them. On February 23rd, Nu Sigma Sorors colored with our Pearlettes (ages 4-8), played with our Amicettes (ages 9-13), and talked candidly with our Archonettes (ages 14-18). They also took the time to give the girls a tour of the campus. The day closed with lunch and a lot of hugs between our youth, our undergrads and Sorors of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter. After the visit, Amicette Jocelyn, a third year member of our youth groups told her mother Kimberly Starks, “I’m going to go to that school and be a Zeta too!” We believe her.
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Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter Welcomes B.L.U.E. Dynasty Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter’s Newest Members Submitted by Soror Shannell Bullocks
On October 28, 2012, four women were a part of the fall informational of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority to learn about the greatest sorority in the land. Together they worked hard and showed dedication by going into the community to share their time and service. Five months later they were calling themselves sisters for life. They answered the Zeta call and on March 10th, under the loving direction of Intake Coordinator Karyn Quick B.L.U.E. Dynasty was born. The members of Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter would like to welcome…. Jasmine “Baby fACE” Simmons* Martica “Z-SoPHIsticated”Davis Shannell “The Voice” Bullocks Yoshika “B.L.U.E. Rez-Salute”Pough Continue to let your Zeta Light shine Sorors for the whole world to see. *Soror Simmons is a former member of the Sigma Phi Zeta Youth Groups and a Zeta Legacy.
Nu Sigma Chapter Welcomes Z.S. EDEN Nu Sigma Chapter’s Newest Members On Sunday, March 17th, the Northwestern University Community in Evanston, IL. was formally introduced to Z.S. Eden, the newest intake line for Nu Sigma Undergraduate chapter. The phenomenal four young women entertained and educated their audience with a riveting performance and celebration. Members of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, as well as other local Illinois chapters were on hand to offer our support and encouragement. A welcome to Sorors Nesa “Amardos” Mangal, Angie “Araxes” Ross, Kenya “Euphrates” Hall, and Erica “Tigris” Minor. These scholarly and serviceminded young women are already taking Northwestern by storm, and we expect them to do the same with the community at large. Congratulations Sorors!
CONGRATULATIONS SORORS! Congratulations to our undergraduate Sorors of Nu Sigma! Soror Rebecca Abara - elected president of African Students Association. Soror Darlene Reyes—elected copresident of Alianza Sorors Dawn Scotland, Kara Craig & Darlene Reyes— accepted into Germany, Czech Republic, and Brazil study abroad programs respectively. Soror Jessica Holden - accepted into graduate school for business Sorors Brittany S. Jones and Rebecca Abara— inducted into Rho Lambda Honor Society.
New Friends In Lake County
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The Zeta Amicae of Waukegan Gains 2 Sisters The ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter are full of excitement! This January, we expanded our family by two members as we welcomed Kenya Walls and Leslie Martin into our Zeta Amicae Auxiliary. The Zeta Amicae of Waukegan are refueled and ready to continue serving the community. In the early part of 1940, graduate chapters of Zeta Phi Beta realized the importance of the good will, prestige, and cooperation of women who for numerous reasons were not part of any-Greek Letter organization. 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
Finer Friendships Celebrating the 2nd Anniversary of the Zeta Amicae Waukegan On February 24th, the Zeta Amicae enjoyed a celebration of pride as they marked their 2nd anniversary at Flannagan’s Restaurant in North Chicago. Guests included Sorors of Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, Zeta Amicae from Alsip and State President of the Zeta Amicae, Friend LaVorgis Sturkey. Hugs, congratulations and even tears marked the joyous occasion. The Zeta Amicae of Waukegan are a vital part of the Blue and White family. It is rare to attend a Zeta event and not see our lovely ladies in sky blue on hand for support and partnership. We are truly blessed to have such dedicated and dynamic women among us.
Making Friends
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Zeta Amicae hosts Elder Game Night Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated has recently instituted a National Elder Care Initiative. This new sorority-wide focus seeks to bring light to the financial, emotional, and educational needs of senior citizens as well as their families and caregivers. While a major directive of this new thrust is to pinpoint elder care and even abuse prevention, another vital portion is the concern and respect for those who are aging. This February, the Zeta Amicae set out to make an impact in the lives of elders by launching a Bingo night at the Kukla Towers of North Chicago. Residents were invited to join the Amicae for snacks, games, and laughter. Sorors of Zeta Phi Beta were present to lend our support and take part in the fun! Bingo Night is held monthly, and participating seniors win cash prizes. Taking the time to have fun and show our care through entertainment and a friendly face, is one way Sigma Phi Zeta and the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan have already begun the work of serving our seniors.
Together in Service The Legacy of Dr. King Remembered Members of the National Pan-Hellenic Council joined together to show pride in our organizations while celebrating a visionary at the 2013 Northshore Minister’s Alliance MLK Reception. Dr. King was a member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated. It is always a pleasure to mingle with our brothers and sisters in Greekdom.
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NPHC Support
Lake County Pan Hel Serves at PADS Frequently, the members of the Lake County Pan-Hellenic council take time to serve at the PADS community shelter in North Chicago, Illinois. It is a humbling experience when we can make others gain a feeling of empowerment and respect. PADS Lake County serves a large number of homeless men, women, and children as they work to regain their stability.
Celebrating Delta Sigma Theta’s Centennial On Saturday, February 2nd, the Waukegan Alumnae chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority hosted its Red, Black, and Green 100th Year Celebration. Zeta Phi Beta Sorors and Amicae were honored to take part in the monumental occasion. Delta Sigma Theta was founded on January 13th, 1913 on the campus of Howard University. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority extends congratulations to them on 100 years of service!
United to Empower Women Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.—Sigma Phi Zeta chapter, along with the Zeta Amicae of Waukegan were proud co-sponsors of the “Empowering The Woman in You Symposium” this March at the College of Lake County. Chapter president, Soror April Clincy was a presenter. The symposium provided powerful workshops as well as a Success Starter boutique which allowed participants to select an outfit for future interviews. Other sponsors included Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., Lambda Nu Omega chapter, Sister 2 Sister of CLC and the Womens's Center of CLC.
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Showers of Love 2013 Stork’s Nest Community Baby Shower Each year, Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter holds a Baby Shower for babies born prematurely. Many don’t realize that when moms have babies earlier than expected, they often never receive a baby shower and so we shower these amazing babies and their families with gifts and love. Along with fun shower games and activities, we also provide support information relative to the March of Dimes campaigns for prenatal care and prematurity resources. We are a small but mighty group of women seeking to serve our community in the most meaningful ways possible. As such, we know that ensuring the good health of an expectant mother is instrumental to increasing the likelihood of her giving birth to a healthy baby. “These are children who were born against the odds and they beat the odds and they are able to enjoy their own baby shower. These are kids who under any other circumstances, were not given a license to survive. They have the opportunity not only to be there at their shower but to enjoy it. To me, that makes it even more special.” - Soror Kim Woods This year, we were able to serve four babies and their families. If you would like to donate items for our evergrowing Stork’s Nest, please contact us at zetapublicrelations@gmail.com, ATTN: Stork’s Nest Chair.
Champions for Babies! You can help us continue to shower the lives of families touched by prematurity. Zeta Phi Beta is a proud participant in the March of Dimes—March for Babies each April. On Sunday, April 28th, we will join hundreds of others as we walk to raise funds for the March of Dimes. Monies collected will go towards the care and advocacy of premature infants, prenatal care, and resources for families. To support our efforts, even after the march, visit: http://tinyurl.com/SPZMarch4Babies
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Finer Women of Scholarship The 2nd Annual Epiphany Scholarship Luncheon Named after the charter line of Nu Sigma, the Epiphany Scholarship was created in 2012 to carry on their desire to promote Scholarship, Service, Sisterly Love, and Finer Womanhood throughout the Evanston and Chicago areas by offering scholarships to local youth and Northwestern students. Sigma Phi Zeta, as sponsoring graduate chapter of the phenomenal Nu Sigma chapter was proud to stand with our Sorors as they awarded one high school and one collegiate scholarship to two deserving young ladies. Lunch was provided by Hecky's BBQ of Evanston and an elegant reception followed immediately after the program. A heavily attended event, the Sorors of Nu Sigma host the Epiphany luncheon each February. Sorors from Evanston, Chicago, Alsip, and Waukegan chapters were all present to show our support and love. Soror April Clincy, Signa Phi Zeta President was awarded the Epiphany Award for her unending commitment to our undergraduates. The Nu Sigma Epiphany scholarship is open to any female high school senior in the Chicago or Evanston area or a female Northwestern University student unaffiliated with a Greek organization. Funds for the scholarships are raised throughout the year by various fundraisers held by the chapter including a silent auction, bake sales, and other events. For more information, or to receive information for next year’s scholarship, please contact Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc.— Nu Sigma Chapter at SweetNuSigma@gmail.com.
Finer Women Throughout Illinois
Supporting Finer Women in Evanston
Sigma Phi Zeta chapter Soror Betty Peeples serves as this year’s Leadership Academy chair for Zeta Phi Beta Sorority—State of Illinois. On February 10th, Soror Peeples and her committee held the Illinois Leadership Academy Winter Session on the campus of The University of Illinois at Urbana–Champaign . Three members of SPZ were also presenters.; Sorors Kim Woods, Karyn Quick, and Regina Townsend.
Along with the undergraduates of Nu Sigma, there are now even more Finer Women on the move in Evanston. This February, Soror April Clincy was the guest of the newly chartered Omega Pi Zeta chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority at their chartering reception. Sorors from throughout the surrounding areas, including Zeta Phi Beta Great Lakes Regional Director Michelle Porter Norman were happy to celebrate the occasion with our sisters.
Finer Women In Action
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WORSHIPING TOGETHER WAUKEGAN COMMUNITY CHURCH Thanks to Pastor Fred Obleton and Michelle Obleton for your spirit of Hospitality. The ladies of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc., Sigma Phi Zeta Chapter look forward to serving in the community with you.
1. Sorors Attend a screening and discussion of Women Hold Up The Sky. 2. Sorors and Amicae wear Red for Women’s Heart Disease Awareness. 3. Amica Kenya and Soror Ciera attend a Habitat for Humanity Home Dedication.
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CELEBRATING WISDOM SEASONED SOROR LUNCHEON I'm grateful for all of my chapter members, but especially my Seasoned Sorors. Women of such elegance, grace and beauty....these ladies are truly Finer Women! Soror April Clincy
1. Sorors and Frat of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority and Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity at our Founders’ Day After-Party. 2. Sorors and Zeta Amicae supporting the Zeta Fierce Step Team at the Lake County Stomp Fest. 3. Sigma Phi Zeta chapter takes part in the 2nd Annual Lake County Stompfest with the Zeta Fierce Step Team.
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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 Finer Womanhood, the principle that makes Zeta Phi Beta Sorority a unique and stellar part of the Greek community. For 2013 to only have four months under its belt, our sorority year has continued to be jam-packed. I was tired just going back through it all to document it here for you! Our youth have made strides to increase their activism by launching a Facebook page of their own, engaging their community through photos and video, and also by looking ahead at college and careers they may enjoy. Our Zeta Amicae has grown by two members and has continued to be a force of absolute love and dedication; taking on the much needed focus of our elders.
“Building on the Principles of Zeta, While Blazing New Paths” The current national theme of Zeta Phi Beta is one that we seek to showcase in every thing we do. Our principles are what make us stand out, what define, and what motivate us to continue reaching higher and farther. As Finer Women, Sigma Phi Zeta chapter is concerned and active about our families, our communities, and our sisterhood. This is absolutely evident throughout the preceding pages where we served tirelessly, welcomed new members, and enjoyed the company of one another. It is an absolute privilege 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 The Next Issue
The Sigma Phi Zeta Annual Old School Prom
Leaders of SPZ
Scholarship Recipients
79th Annual Great Lakes Regional Conference
2013 March For Babies
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
In Sisterly Love & Blessings,
www.facebook.com/4Zeta
Sigma Phi Zeta ExpoZé Editor– In-Chief
www.twitter.com/LakeCountyZetas
Sisterhood Travels Sigma Phi Zeta Welcomes Visiting Soror Early in the year, we received a message to our Facebook page that Soror Cierra Campbell of Texas would be visiting Chicago and would love to meet Sorors in the area. Sigma Phi Zeta chapter jumped at the opportunity to welcome our sister and put out the call. Soror Donna Clark was able to meet with Soror Campbell for lunch at Hash House A Go-Go in Chicago and Soror Kim and her sister Lenora spent a full day with Soror Campbell sightseeing, sampling Chicago's restaurants, and shopping. “Whoever says all the hospitality is in the South must not know what's it like to be a part of an organization like ours! For my very first trip to Chicago it was just great! My family was put at ease and I was surrounded by sisterly support! “ Soror Cierra Campbell—Omicron Theta Chapter