Many times as Alpha

2-3 •ASCEND

4

•2015 Leadership Seminar

5 •Reminders

6 •Spotlight

7-8 •Health Corner

9-10 •Upcoming Events

11 •Agenda

Reflections

Alpha Kappa Alpha

Sorority, Incorporated

Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter

4222 Fayetteville Road

Durham, NC 27713

www.aka1908.org

www.midatlanticaka.org

www.alphazetaomega.org

Soror Yolanda Stith

BASILEUS

2014-2016

Soror Yolanda

Stith, Basileus

Looking Ahead

Between The Vines Connecting Sisterhood and Service

Dear Sorors,

“We’re on the Move….Together Toward Tomorrow”…. The 62nd Mid

Atlantic Regional Conference was held last week. If you were there you

witnessed and participated in some very dynamic workshops, had the

opportunity to hear Soror Dorothy Buckhanan Wilson, International

President discuss the state of the Sorority. Our very own Mid Atlantic

Regional Director, Soror Joyce Henderson handled the business of the

MAR, providing leadership throughout the entire leadership conference. It

is simply impossible for me to relay all the wonderful things that took place during the MARC. Like most things you simply had to witness it yourself! We received updates on

an international and regional level, sisterly bonding, and the opportunity to meet and bond with

sorors from other chapters within the MAR. The 62nd MARC was absolutely MARRRRVELOUS!! As I

heard over and over again “We’re on the Move…Together Toward Tomorrow”, I was reminded of

the things we have before us as we press towards the mark to ensure the overall goals of our dear

sisterhood come to fruition. I am confident we will continue to make a mark in our community as we

provide service to all mankind. Alpha Zeta Omega is definitely on the move together toward

tomorrow. Alpha Zeta Omega took 98 backpacks filled with supplies to the 62nd MARC. We have

met the requirement for our chapter this year! I would say we are definitely on the move towards

assisting our great sisterhood meet the 1,000,000 backpack goal set by our International President.

Many thanks to the Sorors who made a contribution to ensure we were successful in meeting this

goal. I would like to personally thank Soror Rene’ Johnson for making calls, collecting money,

purchasing supplies and backpacks, stuffing backpacks, loading and transporting the backpacks to

VA. Finally, loading and unloading them in the rain once she arrived at the Greater Richmond

Convention Center. Please thank Soror Rene’ when you have an opportunity for the dedication

shown to ensure we met our backpack goal.

Sisterly,

Soror Yolanda

April 2015 The Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter Newsletter Volume 2, Issue 4

ALPHA ZETA OMEGA SPONSORS EMERGING YOUNG LEADERS PROGRAM AT

DURHAM’S LOWES GROVE MIDDLE SCHOOL

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Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated Launches Its Inaugural Cycle of Youth Enrichment Program (ASCEND℠) to

Enhance Student Achievement! The Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated launched Achievement Self Awareness Communication Engagement Networking Development ASCEND skills--its signature youth enrichment program designed to motivate, engage, and assist high school students in reaching their maximum potential in their journey to college or vocational employment. Alpha Zeta Omega kicked off its inaugural cycle of the program in January with 24 students. The curriculum will expose the students to career exploration, including key lessons such as resume building, the application process, interview skills, and a view into several different career possibilities. The ASCEND℠ program also provides

college exploration such as standardized test-taking skills and scholarship and essay application writing. The students will also be informed of a variety of secondary educational opportunities including vocational training, technical colleges, traditional universities, and Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

(cont. next page)

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ALPHA ZETA OMEGA SPONSORS the ASCEND Program!

Alpha Zeta Omega’s

ASCEND Program

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The students will engage in workshops on important life skills such as public speaking, creating a budget, time management, and dressing for success. Moreover, the students will benefit from Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority’s partnership with the United Nations Association of the United States of America (UN-USA) by exploring current world issues through interactive simulations via Global Classrooms Model UN. The students will role-play as ambassadors debating topics such as Gender & Science, Globalization, and Climate Change.

ASCEND Program Update

The first working session of ASCEND was held on February 5, 2015 at the ICC. The ASCEND Scholars begin with "SMART Camp" which is being led by Soror Angie Jones. The Scholars formed small teams and worked together to learn computer programming. During the cycle, the teams will develop their own computer game to be presented at their graduation. After completing their "SMART Camp" session, Mrs. Sheba Lowe Brown, from A+ Test Prep, gave them beneficial information about the differences between the SAT & ACT and tips on how to take each test. The Scholars were quizzed on sample test questions. The Scholars also received ASCEND t-shirts that they will wear on cultural outings and community service.

On Saturday, February 7th, the Scholars participated in our first cultural outing. They attended Hillside's production of "The Story: African Americans Who Made a Difference". The play was very entertaining and informative. One of our Scholars, Brianna Harris, was an actress in the play. Sorors and Scholars tremendously enjoyed the production.

The second working session of ASCEND was held on February 15, 2015 at the ICC. The Scholars selected their Community Service Project for the cycle. The Community Service Project for the ASCEND Scholars is: The Ronald McDonald House-Durham. The ways they are participating are: 1-Great Human Race 5K: March 28, 2015 (Soror Angela Pittman) 2-Collect Pop tabs (off of soda cans) (Soror Vivian Lewis) 3-Collect necessities like toothbrushes, travel-size shampoo and soap and assemble Welcome Baskets to help new house guests get settled when they arrive at the house. (Soror La Harve) 4-Host a Family Night (read to children, play games, serve ice cream, etc.) The Undergraduate Sorors of Alpha Chi and Soror Sharon S. led the Scholars in the Model UN Modules on Gender and Equity. The Scholars had engaging dialogue about their perspectives of gender and equity in the United States and in other countries. After the Model UN module, Ms. Arlena Nwosu, gave the Scholars a mindset assessment profile to help them discover their strengths as well as presenting a session on "How To Walk Through Job Applications" in which she shared with them interview tips. Our own, Soror Rosalind Garmon, then gave an overview of the 16 Career Clusters and colleges and universities that offer the preparation for those careers.

Our 2nd Cultural outing, "Confronting Change: A Civil Rights Exhibit", has been postponed due to weather. Soror Claudine, who will be our personal tour guide, is working to reschedule with the Carolina Theatre for March.

The month of March will include two more ASCEND working sessions. The first will be held on Thursday, March 5th at 6 pm at the ICC and will the 2nd module of the Model UN on Globalization, planning for their Community Service project, and separate Dress for Success sessions with specific tips for males & females. The next session is Sunday, March 15th at 2 pm. In this session, the Scholars will do more computer programming in the “SMART Camp” and begin to brainstorm ideas for the game they will create. They will also hear presentations on Scholarship Application Tips, as well as How to Write Resumes and Cover Letters. The Scholars will also participate in the Model UN Conference being held by the Sorors of Iota Mu on Sunday, March 29th on the Duke University campus. As you can see, our Scholars and Sorors will be busy! Please join us whenever you can!

Soror Julia Fairley has submitted an article on our ASCEND program to the local newspapers and we should expect to see

coverage soon.

Go to this link for a video featuring our program https://vimeo.com/117172831

~Soror Euba McKoy

Science, Mathematics, and Related Technologies (SMART) is also a key initiative of the ASCEND℠ program. The students obtain teambuilding experience by working in small groups on a computer-programming project. The end result will be a game, designed and created completely by the students. To ensure well-rounded students, the ASCEND℠ program will also expose

the students to cultural field trips as well as community service projects.

The first cycle of Alpha Zeta Omega’s ASCEND℠ program runs

from January – June, 2015. The next cycle begins in September 2015 and continues for nine months. With plunging State test results in many of the schools in our community, the Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority is committed to making a positive difference. ~Soror Julia Fairley~

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Sorors,

Plans are being made for our arrival to “The Windy City”! You are invited to join over 4,000 members of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. for 6 days of learning, sharing, and collaboration at 2015 Leadership Seminar. All the certifications classes, workshops, forums and networking events offer the opportunity to develop personal and sorority skills, so that you can more efficiently and strategically advance the goals and mission of the sorority, your chapter, and your own. Workshop offerings have been planned to enhance your individual ability to lead, and to help our sorority in Launching New Dimensions of Leadership. It will be an amazing learning and sharing opportunity.

In addition to inspirational speakers, educational sessions aimed at every facet of AKA life, and different levels of experience, you’ll have time to explore the great city of Chicago and even tour the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Corporate Office.

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Reminders

AKA Impact Day - Mental Health Awareness

Alpha Zeta Omega and the Durham First Responders

are hosting "Basketball & BBQ", a fundraiser to

support our corporate partner, National Alliance on

Mental Illness (NAMI). Sorors are needed to

volunteer and/or patronize the event.

ICC 20th Anniversary Weekend Celebration!! Ivy Community Center Corporation celebrates its 20th Anniversary! For this

milestone, we have a full weekend of events planned for June 26-28. Friday,

June 26th kicks the weekend off with a Cocktail Party. Our service activity

(HBCU Fair and College Prep workshop) will be held Saturday, June 27th. The

weekend will end with a closing reception on Sunday, June 28th.

RSVP for all events at http://www.alphazetaomega.org/icc20

Alpha Zeta Omega Sorors are given an 'Early Bird' opportunity to purchase

tickets to the Friday night Cocktail Party (for you and your guests)! You can

purchase as many tickets as you'd like here:

http://www.alphazetaomega.org/cocktailparty. The password is icctwenty

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Soror of the Month Soror Lisa Hampton

Date of Initiation: December 18, 2011 Initiation Chapter: Alpha Zeta Omega Alma Mater: North Carolina Central University Profession: Pharmaceutical Regulation Hobbies and Interests: Lisa loves collecting coffee mugs just as much as she loves her coffee. Chapter Involvement: Soror Lisa serves as Co-Chairman of the Health Committee. Reason for Nomination: Soror Lisa led two very successful events during the month of February. Both of those events ensured Alpha Zeta Omega was successful in meeting the guidelines for our AKA Impact Day: Pink Goes Red. Soror Lisa was very committed to seeing these programs come to fruition! Alpha Zeta Omega served our community and was very visible in our community for these programs. **Nominate a deserving soror for her dedication to Alpha Zeta Omega, by submitting a Soror of the Month form (found on Yahoo Groups) to Soror Angela Teal or Soror Wadeeah Beyah at alphazetaomega@alphazetaomega.org.

Extending Sisterly Congratulations

Wedding Anniversaries Rosa Anderson April 7th

Elfreda Woods April 16th

Tammeka Evans April 19th

Sandra Walden April 23rd

Jackie Jeffrey April 28th

Did we miss your anniversary? Kindly email Soror Yolanda Banks Deaver if your birthday has been omitted!

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Happy Birthday Sorors!

Claudette Howell April 3rd Del Mattioli April 3rd Deborah Sowell April 4th Queen Lawrence April 5th Toni M. Terry April 7th Iyanna Henry April 9th Willia R. George April 11th Kecha F. Hill April 11th Queen Scarborough April 11th Avera T. White April 12th Laticia Beatty April 15th

Cheryl W. Hudson April 15th Valita Holmes April 16th Sabrina Speller April 17th Jessie Streeter April 18th Tammeka Evans April 19th La-Toyer Hargrave April 19th Nicole Smith April 19th Diana G. Haywood April 23rd Rosa Anderson April 25th Betty Brown April 28th Gale Crews April 28th

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Music Therapy for Alzheimer's Patients Music

Music has power—especially for individuals with Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. And it can spark

compelling outcomes even in the very late stages of the disease.

When used appropriately, music can shift mood, manage stress-induced agitation, stimulate positive

interactions, facilitate cognitive function, and coordinate motor movements.

This happens because rhythmic and other well-rehearsed responses require little to no cognitive or mental

processing. They are influenced by the motor center of the brain that responds directly to auditory rhythmic

cues. A person’s ability to engage in music, particularly rhythm playing and singing, remains intact late into the

disease process because, again, these activities do not mandate cognitive functioning for success.

Music Associations. Most people associate music with important events and a wide array of emotions. The

connection can be so strong that hearing a tune long after the occurrence evokes a memory of it.

Prior experience with the piece is the greatest indicator of an individual’s likely response. A melody that is

soothing for one person may remind another of the loss of a loved one and be tragically sad.

If the links with the music are unknown, it is difficult to predict an individual’s response. Therefore, observe a

person’s reaction to a particular arrangement and discontinue it if it evokes distress, such as agitation, facial

grimaces or increasing muscular tension.

Top Ten Picks. Selections from the individual’s young adult years - ages 18 to 25 - are most likely to have the

strongest responses and the most potential for engagement. Unfamiliar music can also be beneficial because it

carries no memories or emotions. This may be the best choice when developing new responses, such as

physical relaxation designed to manage stress or enhance sleep. As individuals progress into late-stage

dementia, music from their childhood, such as folk songs, work well. Singing these songs in the language in

which they were learned sparks the greatest involvement.

Sound of Music. Typically, “stimulative music” activates, while “sedative music” quiets. Stimulative music, with

percussive sounds and fairly quick tempos, tends to naturally promote movement, such as toe taps. Look to

dance tunes of any era for examples. Slightly stimulative music can assist with activities of daily living: for

example, at mealtime to rouse individuals who tend to fall asleep at the table or during bathing to facilitate

movement from one room to another. On the other hand, the characteristics of sedative music—ballads and

lullabies—include unaccented beats, no syncopation, slow tempos, and little percussive sound. This is the best

choice when preparing for bed or any change in routine that might cause agitation. Responses that are opposite

of those expected can occur and are likely due to a person’s specific associations with the piece or style of

music.

Agitation Management. Non-verbal individuals in late dementia often become agitated out of frustration and

sensory overload from the inability to process environmental stimuli. Engaging them in singing, rhythm playing,

dancing, physical exercise, and other structured music activities can diffuse this behavior and redirect their

attention. For best outcomes, carefully observe an individual’s patterns in order to use music therapies just prior

to the time of day when disruptive behaviors usually occur.

Alzheimer’s Awareness - Please read this message brought to you by

our Health Committee!

Between The Vines ~ April 2015

Emotional Closeness. As dementia progresses, individuals typically lose the ability to share thoughts and gestures of

affection with their loved ones. However, they retain their ability to move with the beat until very late in the disease process.

Ambulatory individuals can be easily directed to couple dance, which may evoke hugs, kisses or caresses; those who are no

longer walking can follow cues to rhythmically swing their arms. They often allow gentle rocking or patting in beat to the

music and may reciprocate with affection. An alternative to moving or touching is singing, which is associated with safety and

security from early life. Any reciprocal engagement provides an opportunity for caregivers and care receivers to connect with

one another, even when the disease has deprived them of traditional forms of closeness.

How can music help people who have Alzheimer's disease?

Limited research suggests that listening to music can benefit people who have Alzheimer's disease in various ways. For example, music can:

Relieve stress

Reduce anxiety and depression

Reduce agitation Music can also benefit caregivers by reducing anxiety, lightening the mood and providing a way to connect with loved ones who have Alzheimer's disease — especially those who have difficulty communicating. If you'd like to use music to help a loved one who has Alzheimer's disease, consider these tips:

Think about your loved one's preferences. What kind of music does your loved one enjoy? What music evokes memories of happy times in his or her life? Involve family and friends by asking them to suggest songs or make playlists.

Set the mood. To calm your loved one during mealtime or a morning hygiene routine, play music or sing a song that's soothing. When you'd like to boost your loved one's mood, use faster paced music.

Avoid overstimulation. When playing music, eliminate competing noises. Turn off the TV. Shut the door. Set the volume based on your loved one's hearing ability. Opt for music that isn't interrupted by commercials, which can cause confusion.

Encourage movement. Help your loved one to clap along or tap his or her feet to the beat. If possible, dance with your loved one.

Pay attention to your loved one's response. If your loved one seems to enjoy particular songs, play them often. If your loved one reacts negatively to a particular song or type of music, choose something else.

Keep in mind that music might not affect your loved one's behavior or quality of life and that further research on music and Alzheimer's disease is needed. If you would like additional information about this disease, visit the Alzheimer’s Association website.

Alzheimer’s Awareness (cont.)

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March Programs:

Our ASCEND scholars have elected to support the Ronald McDonald House of Durham (RMHD) for their

community service project. RMHD offers a "home-away-from home" and a community of support for seriously

ill children and their families. RMHD operates two programs to support families in their time of need. A housing

program for families who must travel long distances for their children to receive medical treatment, and Family

Room Programs in Duke Medical Center to provide in-hospital support for families near their child's hospital

bedside.

Here are the three ways our ASCEND scholars will give back:

***Activity #1: THE GREAT HUMAN RACE....Fundraising goal: $500.00***

WHAT: 5k Race Walk 3 miles

WHEN: Saturday, March 28, 2015

WHERE: Sears at Northgate Mall (Park near theater)

TIME: 7:30 Arrival.(Registration) Race/Walk Time 8:10

Coordinator: Soror Vivian Patterson

DONATE AT:

https://thevolunteercenter.givebig.org/c/TBR/a/RMHDurham/p/AKAASCENDPROGRAM

ASCEND Scholars: Wear ASCEND Shirts

Sorors: Wear AKA Paraphernalia and walk behind ASCEND Scholars for support

***Activity #2: POP TAB COLLECTION***

Sorors are asked to assist ASCEND Scholars in collecting the little tabs you pull to open soda, soup or other

aluminum cans. The funds generated from recycling these pop tabs help off set RMHD's expenses. Scholars will

deliver Pop Tabs in June during a Family Night Activity.

Collection Time: March-May 2015

SITE: ICC

Coordinator: Soror Vivian Lewis

***Activity #3: TOILETRIES COLLECTION***

Sorors are asked to assist ASCEND Scholars in collecting sample size:

shampoo, mouth wash, lotion, toothpaste, deodorant, etc. These items are needed for the families that are

living at RMHD to offset the cost for these items to the families. Items from hotel stays are ideal. Sorors who are

going to the MARC, please bring these items back.

Scholars will bag and deliver to residents during a Family Night in June at RMHD

Collection Time: March-May. 2015

SITE: ICC

Coordinator: Soror La Harve Johnson

Sorors

Your

Assistance

In

Needed!

Please

Read

How You

Can Assist

The

ASCEND

Scholars!!!!

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Thanks Sorors Angela

Pittman, Desdemona Faison,

Charminique Branson and La

Harve Johnson and ASEND

Scholar Reggie Wiggins & Ms.

Wiggins! They raised $280.00

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Your food donations will help support the Two Fish\/Five Loaves

food pantry, which falls under the umbrella of Mt. Level

Community Haven (MLCH) 50l(c) 3:

The Chapter Anniversary Committee has been hard at work planning the events of our 87th Chapter Anniversary. We will be attending Mt. Level Missionary Baptist Church on Sunday, April 19, 2015. http://www.mtlevelmbc.org/

The church is located at 316 Hebron Rd, Durham, NC 27704 - (919) 477-3893. The service begins at 10:45 am. Please arrive no later than 10:20 am.

Sorors will assemble at the ICC after church for the Chapter Anniversary program. The schedule is as follows: 2:15 to 2:45 – Food will be served 2:45 to 3:30 – Chapter Anniversary Program 3:30 - Chapter meeting I look forward to seeing you Sunday as we celebrate 87 years of providing service to all mankind in our community!

It’s time to register for our annual NC Legislative Day, which will be held Wednesday, May 6, 2015, from 7:30 a.m. Until 4:00 p.m. Please visit our website and register now: http://midatlanticaka.org/events.html.

The cost of the event is $45 Graduate Sorors/Guests and $35 Undergraduate Sorors. We are encouraging Graduate Sorors to assist our undergraduate Sorors by partially or fully subsidizing the registration fee for this important event.

The attire for this event is pink and green, business casual. All sorors are encouraged to show up in record number to support our annual AKA Legislative Day event!!

Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.

Alpha Zeta Omega Chapter Meeting

April 19, 2015

AGENDA

Call to Order – Soror Yolanda Stith

Meditation – Soror Alice Hughley

Review and Approval of Meeting Agenda

Introduction of Visiting Sorors/Hodegos Report – Soror Venisha Hoskins

Soror of the Month – Soror Angie Jones

Correspondence – Soror Yolanda Banks Deaver

Rules for Discussion/Quorum Check – Soror Charminique Branson

Disposition of March 2015 Minutes - Soror Charminique Branson

Executive Committee Meeting Report/Disposition of Action Items

Soror Charminique Branson

Officer Reports

Pecunious Grammateus – Soror Rosalind Garmon

Tamiouchos – Soror Vivian Leeper-Ford

Anti-Pecunious Grammateus – Soror Scottie Dowdy

Anti-Tamiouchos – Soror Kecha Hill

Graduate Advisors – Alpha Chi – Soror LaTonya Everett; Iota Mu- Soror Toni Terry

Committee Reports

Bylaws Committee – Soror Charminique Branson

Cotillion Committee – Soror Constance Scott

Handbook Committee – Soror Rene’ Johnson

Membership Committee – Soror Elfreda Woods

Program Committee – Soror Ashley Ascott

Standards Committee – Soror Pat McGhee

Unfinished Business

New Business

Leadership Seminar July 15 – 19, 2015 Chicago, IL

NC AKA Day at The Capitol – May 6, 2015

Announcements

ICC 20th

Anniversary June 26 – 28, 2015

International Hymn & Pledge

Next Chapter Meeting – May 17, 2015