el girasol - fall 2013 edition

Fall 2013 El Girasol 1

Volume XIII Issue VI Fall 2013

Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine

2 El Girasol Fall 2013

In EvEry IssuELetter from the Editor 3Meet the Contributors 4

Letter from the AA President 6

Staying Connected to AA 7

Beta Cookinrsquo Autumn Flavors 18

Sunshine Corner 22

Beta Celebrations 28

Beta Mommies Updates 30

Beta Brides 30

Table of Contents

Welcome Neophyte 9

Chapter Highlight Alpha Beta Chapter 10

Taking Awareness to the Next Level 12

How Did I Get Here 14New Beta Business 24AMA Awards Multicultural Scholarships 29

Important Anti-Violence Resources 31Beta Yellow Pages 32Chapters and Collectives 33

Fall Fashion 8Discovering My Passion for Compassion 16A Motherrsquos Love 20Reclaiming My Body 26

FEaturE artIclEs

BEta rEsourcEs

sororIty HIgHlIgHts

Contact us We love to hear your feedback tell us your thoughts comments

concerns kudos shoutouts or submit an article

EmailElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg

SubScribe to El GirasolhttpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol

Once you choose hope

anythingrsquos

possible

Christopher Reeve


Letter from the Editor

Selina HernandezAlpha Beta Fall 1999

Alpha Beta Chapter President

Selina

Love and compassion although at times itrsquos hard to actually define what love is we know we feel it love for our friends family God pets a partner our ethnicity an organization or even food and things Compassion empathy concern kindheartedness consideration and benevolence is a main part of what Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc is all about

Through our dedication and commitment to womanhood our culture our philanthropic efforts and service to our communities we exemplify compassion

October is a month where many of our chapters and national leadership highlight part of the reason we joined this organization Our stance on spreading awareness about violence against women is also showcased through events like The Ray of Hope Walk the annual fundraiser cocktail event ENCANTO Educando Nuestra Comunidad a night of teaching and overcoming and Ujima Betas Give Back project to name a few

The theme for this issue is love and compassion and will highlight the many things that our writers and our organization care about As we transition into fall I encourage you to drop the layers that people tend to put up and encourage you to show what you love and are compassionate about A life with love and compassion is a fuller lifemdasheven when itrsquos tested

Enjoy and thank you for reading El Girasol


Editor in ChiefSelina Hernandez

Managing EditorAmanda Crane

Copy EditorMarielys Garcia

Design EditorDesiree Henry

Fall2013

Meet Some of our Contributing Writers

Sujey Batista Theta Chapter Fall 2005

EducationBA Stony Brook UniversityMA Stony Brook University

Current OccupationWriting Center Coordinator

Manhattan College

Currently Reading1493 Uncovering the New World

Columbus Created

Favorite MovieComing to America

Fun FactI was an extra in the movie Die Hard with a Vengence

Yvette Lopez-ColganTheta Chapter Spring 1998

EducationBA Political ScienceEnglish

Stony Brook UniversityJD Cornell Law School

Notable AccomplishmentsMother of two with a bonus child

Passing the NY Bar Exam

Currently ReadingLots of Parenting Magazines

The Strangler

Biggest RiskQuitting my job and deciding to stay

home full time with the kids

Fun FactI have been swimming with sharks and white water rafted down the Nile River

Maria RosaEta Chapter Spring 2008

EducationBA Health and Society University of

Rochester

Degree In ProgressMS Integrated Marketing New York

University

Current OccupationAdministrative Assistant NYU School of Medicine

Notable AccomplishmentsLed planning for the First Ray of Hope Walk Co-Led NST to two

Championships

Currently ReadingAnd the Mountains Echoed

Favorite MovieThe Green Mile

Biggest RiskMaking a career-switch from Public

Health to Marketing




Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated a NALFO organization member is a Latina-oriented sorority founded on

March 15 1989 at the University at Albany State University of New York Seventeen women of various

ethnic and cultural backgrounds came together to defy the injustices suffered

by women particularly women of color in the academic professional

and political arenas

The purpose of OPBSI is to serve and educate people of diverse

backgrounds through sisterhood leadership and guidance As positive role models we promote unity of all cultures focus on the empowerment of our gender and raise the standards of excellence in our academic social

and personal endeavors

For further information visit wwwOmegaPhiBetaorg

Alumnae Association Mission Statement

Omega Phi Betarsquos Alumnae

Association serves as the representing

body of all non-affiliated alumnae of

the sorority Our mission is to engage

our alumnae in the mission vision

and goals of the sorority create a

sense of community and support our

alumnae in all areas of their lives

Want to CONTRIBUTE TO El Girasol

El Girasol staff is always looking for Writers and Designers Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out

how you can become a part of the Girsol team

Ana VerdejoAlpha Chapter Spring 1993

EducationBachelor in Arts SUNY Albany

Current OccupationSenior Accountant

Volunteer ActivitiesSchool AdvisorCommittee for High

School Meals on Wheels Volley Team Mom

Notable Accomplishments2013 Jessica P Roman Dedication Award2012 Employee Recognition Award of the

Quarter

Favorite Show on TVScandal

What is your inspirationMy kidseveryday I want to do better

to provide them a good life

A leader has the vision and conviction that a dream can be achieved

He inspires the power and

energy to get it done

~Ralph Nader~

Life is like a mirror we get the best results when we

smile at it ~Author Unknown~


Letter from the Alumnae Association

Amanda CraneIota Spring 2000

Alumnae Association President

Amanda

ldquoBefore you can truly love anyone else you must learn to love yourselfrdquo

Those are words that I have heard and been told repeatedly in fact I would tell myself this over and over At times Irsquoll be honest Irsquove also used it as an excuse as to why I chose to be closed off building my personal walls higher than the ldquotower Excaliburrdquo because I have not yet made amends with myself over my past

Irsquom a person who considers herself one step below a perfectionist- I expect myself to master something the first time I do it I expect myself to be able to juggle the multiple responsibilities and roles that I have in life with ease and I expect myself to not exhibit poor judgment and make big mistakes This mindset is one that has put undue stress on myself and enabled me to unfortunately alienate people The one area where this did not quite apply was Omega Phi Beta Maybe itrsquos because many of my sisters share a similar mindset we are all driven women or maybe itrsquos because we are a support network for one another- the reason doesnrsquot matter what matters is I feel comfortable being my true self around these ladies

As the years went by I came to realize that what I was doing to myself was counterproductive and that it was time to pick myself up from my bootstraps and get on with actually living life I may be my true self and love what I do with the sorority but that was just one part of many of my life Sure I would go out and do things but I was missing a spark that I once had my ldquolil Salvajerdquo With a new drive I recently began to slowly change the way I behaved thought and treated myself I began going to the gym to lose the weight I held on to my second line of defense and everything else has slowly started to shift into place Itrsquos only the beginning but I look forward to living life to the fullest and being my true self around everyone Beta or not If yoursquore feeling stuck or like I was I recommend that you begin with baby steps so that you can eventually jump in body and soul Try to regain that sense of joy or camaraderie you had shied away from because I can assure you- once you begin to love yourself amazing things will happen


Staying ConneCted to aaOnce you become an alumna you are removed from your chapterrsquos alias and only receive OPBSI emails if you elect to sign up for any of the following communication tools

Do you TweeT Follow us OPBSI_Alumnae for the latest updates on AA activities

Share PhoToS on InSTagram Follow us OPBSI_Alumnae for the latest updates on AA activities

aa newSleTTer

AA collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list

geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only

monThly Buzz

Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz

BeTa hummer

The Beta Hummer is a biweekly events newsletter that is published electronically on the 15th and 30th of each month Itrsquos main purpose is to keep the sisterhood informed of National and Local Events The publication will also include links to our LinkedIn group for job postings and any announcements sent by individual sisters such as apartment hunt inquiries

Sorors spending time together at the Alumni Affair at Jupiter Lounge in Berkeley California at Fall National Conference 2013


Fall Fashion By Sujey Batista Theta Fall 2005

I have a love-hate affair with the end of summer Irsquom really going to miss having seconds thirds (or fourths) at cook-outs tan lines frozen drinks and BYOB movies in the park Itrsquoll soon be time to welcome the changing foliage venti pumpkin spice lattes and my favorite do-it-all black leggings Good-bye summer itrsquos been real

Alas Itrsquos not all a sob story - just around the corner to settle my woes are the absolutely fabulous anxiously awaited for and credit-card busting fall 2013 fashions

What does this fallrsquos trends have in store for us

Denim Versatile and forever in style denim is an always welcomed favorite of fall trends Denim jeans jackets and shirts in all washes are wardrobe staples Rock a boyfriend jean with your favorite heels or boots for colder temps

Sweaters Warmer layers seem like a no-brainer with chillier weather but fashion forecasts predict an eclectic variety of sweaters to hit stores this fall They pair well with a diverse range of bottoms to suit any style and occasion Look out for chunky knits quilted patterns and animal prints

Leather Synonymous with fall leather trends make a much anticipated appearance this fall in accessories shoes outerwear and in the cool and iconic motorcycle jacket Try a vibrant color or intricate zippers for a modern feel or pair it with denim and statement jewelry for a feminine touch with an edge

Eyewear Eyewear should change along with the seasons Invest in a quality pair that will stand up to any busy routine The right eyewear can give any outfit the perfect pop For fall look for pairs with earthy tones in orange brown green and indigo

Confidence Just as important as what you wear is how you wear it Confidence in yourself and your sense of style transform any look into a runway worthy show-stopper Whether your into feminine glam or boho chic your Beta swag is really what makes the outfit

Photo Credits Val Garcia Delta Fall 2004 and Evelyn M Felix Theta Fall 2004



WelCome neophyte We Want to Warmly Welcome the neWest sunfloWer to cross into our radiant organization during summer 2013

If you judge people you have no time to love them Mother Teresa

alpha eta

aliza urentildea


Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000

Alpha Beta Chapter located in the heart of New York City has been working hard this year to get out into the community doing service supporting sisters from other chapters and

fostering relationships These are just a few of the photos of their recent activities Great job sorors

Chapter highlight AlphaBetaChapter

Community Service Itrsquos My Park Community Service

Supporting Beta Delta Chapter Banquet Alpha Betarsquos All White Affair


Cocktails for a Cause


raising awareness

TotheNextLevelBy The Ray of Hope Committee

ldquoYoursquore so stupidrdquo ldquoStop acting like such a whore

Who are you trying to impressrdquo ldquoNo one is ever

going to love you but merdquo ldquoCanrsquot you take a joke

Yoursquore making such a big deal out of nothingrdquo ldquoDonrsquot

leave me No one else will love you as much as merdquo

Violence against women is a multifaceted issue Being committed to raising awareness is of the utmost importance when this issue impacts so many of us and so many of the women and men that we care about

Why doesnrsquot she just leave

Itrsquos the first question people ask She stays because she hopes it will get better Maybe they can get help Maybe she will make him happy again Maybe it will stop She stays because she is ashamed that they have come to this that she has allowed him to treat her this way that she has taken him back so many times before She stays because she doesnrsquot have enough money to start all over again

She hasnrsquot held a job before or she doesnrsquot earn enough to support herself and the kids Shersquos scared to try to make it alone She stays because she is afraid He has told her that she had better never try to leave him He says that he will find her no matter where she goes He says that hersquoll take the kids and run He says he will track her down and kill her She knows that he means it

One in every four women will experience domestic

violence in her lifetime

Thatrsquos 54 million incidents of intimate partner violence that are reported each year in the United States 1300 domestic violence deaths annuallymdash more than 3 deaths every day Women who are 20-24 years of age are at the greatest risk of nonfatal intimate partner violence Chances are we all know women who have experienced and are experiencing violence We know the statistics and we are committed to the fight

Now whatTake it to the next level by being proactive instead of reactive Helping someone make the move from being a victim of verbal emotional or physical intimate partner violence to seeing themselves as a survivor is a journey in which you can be a part Become a support system to a survivor

Remember that Domestic Violence is something that can happen to anyone at any time While October is the month during which we raise awareness of this issue remember to stay educated remain conscious and always be an advocate of womenrsquos rights

JOIN US for the Ray of Hope Walk

this year on October 26 2013 We come together once again this year to raise money for an organization that advocates for

women all over the world

wwwRayofHopeWalkorg

Ways to support survivors

Allow them to tell their story

Respect their truths

Let them know you believe them and want to hear about their experiences

Let them know you care about them and are concerned about their

immediate safety

Support their right to feel a range of emotions (and donrsquot let your emotions

overshadow the situation)

Donrsquot deny any of their feelings

Respect the cultural values and beliefs that affect their reactions to the

violence

Know that survivors do not need rescuing their personal empowerment

and freedom to leave is what truly matters

Help assess resources and support systems

Maintain contact Physical and psychological isolation are powerful

control tactics used by batterers Repeat clear statements about their

rights such as ldquoYou donrsquot deserve to be treated that wayrdquo ldquoYou are enoughrdquo

Stay away from ldquoyourdquo statements such as ldquoyou shouldrdquo Instead use ldquoIrdquo

statements such as ldquoIrsquom concernedrdquo or ldquoI care about yourdquo

Let the survivor know they do not have to endure it alone and they

are deserving of love and support regardless of the decisions they choose

to make

Offer the survivor the telephone numbers of local resources Call the SafePlace 24 hour Hotline (512-267-

SAFE) for information on their services and other local resources



Shersquos been living this way so long she thinks she is to blameLike a shadow of herself bit by bit wasting a way

Gets her kids ready for school doesnrsquot want them to be lateRuns her errands as fast as she can so shersquoll be back to fix his plate

In all her life all her dreams never thought shersquod be like thisMade empty promises he didnrsquot keep but she thinks she deserves it and she says

How did I get here how did it all go so wrongYou said yoursquod make me happy my whole life longYou said things would get better but things just keep getting worseYou said yoursquod love me forever but is love supposed to hurt

Just got home from getting the kids and one of the shouts and laughsHe wakes up angrily and reaches for one of them to smack

Hersquos had a bad day so he yells ldquohow dare you wake me uprdquoShe defends them and he slaps her for it saying ldquoyou are so dumbrdquo

She blacks out for a moment but when she wakes its so clearShe must leave him soon or her end may soon be near

How did I get here how did it all go so wrongYou said yoursquod make me happy my whole life longYou said things would get better but things just keep getting worse

You said yoursquod love me forever but is love supposed to hurt

Shersquos been up all night tossing and turning but feeling courage cause she knowsAs soon as he walks out the door shersquoll take the kids and go

Shersquos feeling stronger now because shersquos made up her mindYesterday was the past but today she starts a new life

Fast forward been a year and now hersquos in jailShe volunteers at an agency helping other women prevail

She canrsquot believe she waited so long but she wants you to knowIf you struggle like she struggled open the door and go


You said yoursquod love me forever but is love supposed to hurt NO

How Did I Get HereBy Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999


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How Did I Get Here


DisCovering my passion

forCompassion By Yvette Lopez Colgan Theta Spring 1998

I recently celebrated my 35th birthday and it inspired me to do some serious soul searching I looked back on all that I had accomplished both professionally and personally and I felt content I was the first in my family to go to college and receive a degree and then I continued on to Cornell Law School I got a great job at the Bronx DArsquos office as a prosecutor out of law school doing what I thought I would love

It turned out that although fighting crime sounds glamorous the reality is that your life revolves around the worst examples of humanity you can think of From wife beaters to child molesters I felt consumed and overwhelmed by the negativity and the pressure to ldquoobtain justicerdquo After 3 frac12 years there I was burnt out and miserable so I moved on to another job I thought I would love but alas that wasnrsquot lsquothe onersquo either

I was starting to realize that I may just have taken a wrong turn down the path of life I thought law was the right profession for me but I was realizing quickly that my bleeding heart liberal do-gooder honest creative self just didnrsquot really fit in I felt like a fraud

The one good thing that did come out of my time at the DArsquos office though is it is where I found my husband Marrying him is what lead me down the path to finding my true passion personally With him I

created my two beautiful children and with them I have stumbled upon my true passion professionally

I made a choice to stay at home with my children (which has unfortunately become a luxury in our culture) and because of this choice I learned so much about myself My children taught me immeasurable patience the miracles of the universe delayed gratification conflict resolution multi-tasking humility and so much confidencehellipand that was all in one day It is the best job I have ever had but alas it wonrsquot last forever (and doesnrsquot pay) They will grow and go off to school and what will I do While I was overjoyed to take on the role of stay at home mom

I am not thrilled about the life of a Household Operational Officer Irsquom not knocking the choice but what drove me to stay home was teaching my children and nurturing them to grow When they arenrsquot around it will just be me and the house Thatrsquos not my cup of tea

Anyone who knows me will tell you that when I start on the topic of childbirth and breastfeeding I just canrsquot be stopped I am proud to say that I have helped many a soror and friend down the road to successful breastfeeding and helped many others off the ledge when they just couldnrsquot seem to get it right After having children of my own I have realized the true value in simple more natural living

Whether it be what we eat or how much we consume (and waste) our culture has gone far astray from what we were biologically and spiritually created to do Unfortunately we are beginning to reap the consequences of our misdeeds as species of animals are dying natural resources are depleting and many more of us are dying of cancer and disease

My sister who is a do-gooder herself (and is traipsing around the world as I write this) sent me an email about a doula (pronounced Doo-lah) certification course She forwarded it to me because I always joked that I missed my calling as a lactation consultant (LC) because of my rants about the benefits of breastfeeding

To be a certified LC you have to have extensive medical training so they are mostly registered nurses or midwives so it wasnrsquot an option for me However being a doula just might be

If you are like me the first question is ldquowhat the heck is a doula anywayrdquo You may have heard the term but the actual definition is very wide and all-encompassing According to Wikipedia the definition of a doula is ldquoa nonmedical person who assists a woman before during or after childbirth as well as her partner andor family by providing information physical assistance and emotional support The provision of continuous support


during labor by doulas (as well as nurses family or friends) is associated with improved maternal and fetal health and a variety of other benefitsrdquo

So in laymanrsquos terms I was already acting like a doula to everyone who would listen I was so excited but since I am still paying off my law school loans and donrsquot have a paying job I just couldnrsquot afford a second carrier Luckily this course offered full and partial scholarships for their very intensive course

I started writing and luck will have it I got a scholarship The woman who founded the program (wwwmomdoularycom) was eager to help me realize my goals and it felt like the universe was finally pointing me in the right direction It is a 20 week course mostly online and you become trained as a birth doula a post-partum doula anti-partum doula Parenting preparation and lifestyle coach In home childbirth

educator and Family Lifestyle Professional organizer Itrsquos 6 certifications in 1

From the start I knew it was for me The entire goal of the program is to empower women to make the right choices for herself and her family We are told to check our opinions and judgments at the door and to support women to make educated decisions that are healthy for her and her family

We are raging against this ldquomommy warsrdquo notion and becoming champions of inclusiveness and positive support I am so astounded by how many people there are out there who believe in slower more natural living I am learning so much more about the miracles of birth and breastfeeding and am amazed at how a womanrsquos body was created and what it can do We are learning not only about birth and child rearing but about positive body image and loving ourselves before

during and after pregnancybirth without judgment

The one big takeaway from my studies is the realization that motherhood is the great equalizer Black white yellow young old rich or poor when you have a child we are all on the same level as humans

We may choose different paths thereafter but it is an experience that will humble you and bring you back to your true purpose as a woman Although I wonrsquot be hanging up my legal talons just yet I am blessed to have this new opportunity in my life and I am ready to ride that wave wherever it might take me

Ultimately I hope we can all go on to accept and love each other for the beautiful powerful creatures that we are and leave all the judgment and negativity at the door

Namaste

Too often we underestimate the power of a touch a smile a kind word a listening ear an honest compliment or the smalles act of caring all of which have the potential to turn a life around

Leo Buscaglia


Beta Cookinrsquo Autumn Flavors

PumpkinQuesadillaMakes 4 servings

Ingredients2 cups canned pure pumpkin puree1 teaspoon ground cumin8 8 inches flour tortillas4 ounces goat cheese crumbled12 cup chopped walnuts toasted14 cup vegetable oil

DirectionsIn bowl stir pumpkin and cumin season Spread over 4 tortillas Sprinkle with cheese and nuts Top with remaining tortillas In large skillet heat 1 tbsp oil over medium-low Cook quesadillas 1 at a time turning once and adding more oil between batches until browned 3 minutes Cut into wedges

Here are some great recipes that are ripe just in time for the fall full of flavor and fun Remember you can always swap out some ingredients and give it your own fall twist

Be Creative Try them out and let us know your thoughts Send your comments to elgirasolomegaphibetaorg

TheTipsyGrapeMakes 1 serving

Ingredients9 large mint leaves3 ounces bourbon2 ounces concord grape juice1 ounce fresh lemon juice plus 1 strip zest4 teaspoons pure maple syrupIce

DirectionsMuddle 8 mint leaves in cocktail shaker add bourbon grape juice lemon juice and maple syrup Fill shaker with ice shake vigorously for 20 seconds Strain into chilled glass garnish with lemon zest and remaining mint leaf

Source wwwRachelRayMagcom


Whether you donrsquot feel like cooking or you want to bring something fabulous to a dinner party

we have something for you

Coquito $20Start the holiday off right with some delicious coquito

SidesCreamy Baked Macaroni amp Cheese with seasoned crumb topping $35

Brown Sugar amp Rum Glazed Sweet Potatoes wpecans $30Sisterrsquos Slamminrsquo Stuffing ndashwith seasoned ground turkey $35

Honey Glazed Cornbread (made with real corn) $20

Pastelon $25Sweet Plantain amp sofrito ground turkey quiche

Additional items available upon request Prices are pickup only

DessertsCupcakes $24 per dozen

Red Velvet Chocolate Velvet Carrot Cake

Caramel Stuffed Brownies

Coconut Macaroons $20

Sweet Potato Pie $17

Cream Cheese Flan $17 Vanilla Flan $17 (Or 2 for $30)

Pick up in The Bronx- or Manhattan Can be arranged for Thanksgiving Eve or Thanksgiving

9173488556SisterYouCanCookyahoocom


A Motherrsquos LoveBy Ana Verdejo Alpha Chapter Fall 1993

On May 24 1995 I became a mother to a 7lb 1oz baby boy Rae A Diaz I was a junior in college young and ignorant I did not realize how the birth of my son changed my life forever

The loss of my mother a year before the birth of my son made me appreciate the relationship of a mother and child more than I had imagined I immediately became this overly protective mama bear My goal as a parent was to provide my family with what my parents had provided me and more Although my parents got divorced when I was 13 both my parents were very active in my upbringing Unfortunately this was not the same case for my kids

Five years later I had added two beautiful daughters to the family and made the difficult decision to become a single mother It took me a long time to figure out that I had been in a toxic and abusive relationship The idea of maintaining a strong and healthy core base for my family was tarnished by infidelity lies and verbal abuse It took some time and mental preparation for me to get the courage to become a single parent of three This was by far one of the most difficult decisions that I had to make as an adult It has been a hard road but very rewarding at the same time

One of my biggest challenges as a single mother was to raise my son Rae was very active and outgoing My favorite expression during Raersquos childhood was ldquohe couldnrsquot be more of a boyrdquo Anything and everything that a little boy can get himself into Rae did

Raising him was a challenge because of many factors but the biggest one was his dad not being close to him I knew that I didnrsquot come close to being his dad or that I could provide him with the male perspective but the option of him living with his dad never existed in my


book My goal was to raise a respectable young man that knew how to respect women

Raersquos school experience was rough Things started to become progressively worse during his last year of middle school His attention span in school was very short For many years I believed that his struggle in school was because he was purposely acting out or that it had something to do with him not having his dad around It wasnrsquot until his junior year in high school that I realized my son might have a learning disability I was so focused on the negativity that I couldnrsquot think outside the box for another alternative

By the time I saw lsquothe lightrsquo and eliminated the negativity from my life it was difficult to convince the school that my son was struggling with grasping the material in school His acting out in school wasnrsquot because he was purposely being disrespectful but because he was frustrated and he could not properly express himself The pushback from school prompted me to get Rae someone to speak to about his issue This definitely helped him but didnrsquot resolve nor explain his struggle in school

I have to say that it has been a long hard and frustrating school experience especially his high school years I was afraid that he was not going to graduate on time because

his grades had suffered Needless to say during his senior year he saw a lsquolightrsquo and worked hard to stay focused and on task This gave me a sense of relief The pressure of being on top of him to do schoolwork andor homework was not needed

On June 1st2013 Rae graduated from high school This was one of my proudest moments as a parent It was a surreal moment There I was watching my 18 year old son walk across the stage to pick up his diploma I felt like he had become this young man in the blink of an eye

This milestone came and went so fast that I thought to myself ldquoWhere did time gordquo I am very proud of Rae for everything that he has accomplished thus far In September he will be entering the National Aviation Academy to become an Avionics Professional

Through this process I learned something very important I learned that not everyone is the same As simple as this sounds it took me time to learn and accept this concept especially when it dealt with my son This helped me not to be so judgmental and think outside the box fo the sake of Raersquos future

There is overwhelming evidence that the higher the level of self-esteem the more likely one will be to treat others with respect kindness and generosity

Nathaniel Branden


SunShine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000

Love is above all the gift of oneself ~Jean Anouilh~

There is no love without forgiveness and there is no forgiveness

without love~Bryant H McGill~

When we feel love and kindness towards others it not only makes others feel loved

and cared for but it helps us also to develop inner happiness and peace

~The Dalai Lama~

You will find as you look back on your life that the moments when you have truly lived are the moments when you have

done things in the spirit of love~Henry Drummond~

Love yourself first and everything else falls into line You really have to love yourself to

anything done in this world~Lucille Ball~

Although the world is full of suffering it is also full of the overcoming of it

~Helen Keller~

To know that even one life has breathed easier because you have lived that is to

have succeeded~Ralph Waldo Emerson~

People often say that motivation doesnrsquot last Well neither does bathing - thatrsquos why

we recommend it daily ~Zig Ziglar~

Let perserverance be your engine and hope your fuel

~H Jackson Brown Jr~

Love hope compassionthese are words that can have such a powerful effect on our lives if we allow them to Irsquoll admit that there has been more than one occassion especially over the last year where a part of me gave up A part of me couldnrsquot find the hope I needed deep inside or the love I craved because I was so stuck on what wasnrsquot working for me that I failed to see what was Irsquoll tell you this much it sucked I didnrsquot like the feeling of thinking negatively I didnrsquot like always thinking of what could go wrong instead of what could go right

I know Irsquom not the only one to go through this but since I have always considered myself a positive person I felt like I was fighting myself Fighting to get rid of a thought process that wasnrsquot getting me any closer to where I needed or wanted to be I felt like I had given up but at some point I had to stop being so hard on myself So many times I have told others to look at the bright side remember that things will get better and to just keep having hope Hope that tomorrow will be a better day compassion for your own hardships and struggles and ultimately remembering to love yourself

We all share the love in our lives with others but sometimes we forget to give a little bit of that love back to the person needs it mostourselves I knew that I was giving too much and not making enough time for me and that was creating a whole movement in the wrong direction Itrsquos still a work in progress but if I can make a little time everyday to dedicate to just mewhether it be reading a book catching up on the show I never get to see going for a run or even meditatingevery little bit helps

If you are going through a rough patch I challenge you to love yourself a little more be compassionate for yourself and above all keep the hope alive that no matter what is going on in your world it will get better Put yourself in the moment think about the now and donrsquot try to fix everything all at once With love hope and compassionremind yoursef that it will get better and tomorrow is another day to get it right

Soleil Follow my bloghttpwwwweinspireuswordpresscom


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jasonandjul ianacom

Showroom by appointment Malverne NY 516 6123494

neW Beta BuSineSSSoror Claudia Militec (Epsilon Spring 1994) recently started her own childrenrsquos clothing line Here is are excerpts from the article posted on Patchcom

With 35+ years of childrenrsquos clothing manufacturing in her family it was only natural for Claudia Miletic to start her own line Jason and Juliana (named for Claudiarsquos two children) is a high-end clothing line made of Pima cotton from Peru With her newly-started line gaining traction in New York boutiques and buzz among her network Claudia discusses the many lessons on entrepreneurship and balancing family with business shersquos learned in this exclusive interview

What inspired you to start your own line of childrenrsquos clothing

My grandmother was a seamstress [in Peru] and made dresses for little girls she then opened a store to sell her dresses and make them available to a larger market Years later my dad and my aunt opened a store in Peru where they sold a variety of things dresses cloth diapers blankets bibs and childrenrsquos shoes ndash it was basically a childrenrsquos boutique In 1984 my parents sold their share of the store and left it in the hands of my aunt and uncle Through their hard work and determination the small boutique flourished into a manufacturing enterprise There was high demand for their products and soon they began the business of exporting to the US under different brands which can be found in stores such as Bloomingdales Neiman Marcus Nordstrom Saks Fifth Avenue and various other private labels

When I had my son Jason in 2008 and my daughter Juliana in 2011 I often felt torn between working full-time and the desire to spend more time with my children I enjoyed working I enjoyed putting my years of education and knowledge to work Yet that constant pull between being a mom and a working professional was a struggle and I wanted more time with my children In 2012 when I lost my job I had to make a choice ndash I either get another job or I dedicate my time to my children I called my aunt in Peru and asked for her advice and guidance I had her full support and we began brainstorming about the possibilities


I wanted to be prepared and have a better understanding of what would come in the monthsyears ahead I heard about a course at Hofstra University the Entrepreneur Assistance Program (EAP) and that gave me the foundation to put a business plan together In January of 2013 I was able to travel to Peru and discuss the details of the line with my aunt and work on the other logistics

What goes into finding the right retailer for your product

The products are exquisitely made with high quality cotton Pima therefore it is something that I have to tread through carefully The boutiques Irsquom targeting carry unique trendy cozy clothing for babieschildren as well as some trendy boutiques that have a variety of gifts for all occasions I want my products to be available to a larger audience Irsquom keeping my prices comfortable and reasonable so that anyone can own some Jason amp Juliana pieces

Whatrsquos been your best step so far in developing your business

The EAP course at Hofstra and the research necessary for that course gave me a clear idea of the components of starting a business It sets the foundation of your journey and helps you see the path ahead You have a choice to make either

take one road where you decide that yoursquore moving forward with your business plan or you take the other road back There are several pieces to owning and running your own business Right now Irsquom the bookkeeper the marketer the salesperson the publicist the web designer I have to do it all It is time-consuming but itrsquos also rewarding because itrsquos a project Irsquom working on for me and my family I also feel a sense of pride because itrsquos in my family my family believes in me and they are guiding and supporting me

Has anything been unexpected so farThe term WAHM (work-at-home-mom) is an understatement The kids are home with me every day and I love it However I have to carve out at least one hour each day to make calls or take calls because everyone else is working a 9-5 kind of job On most days Irsquoll put them to bed and thatrsquos when I organize myself and do all my bookkeeping social networking and research

close to me and shersquos able to help me with Jason amp Juliana

I am juggling things now more than ever I want to be a mom who is present I want to enjoy the kids and the moments I have with them Their needs come first and the reason this whole business started is for them I am thankful that I have my mom

What would your advice be for someone who wants to start or run their own business

It definitely is time-consuming Use your resources reach out to people in the industry someone who can give you a different perspective Be aware of your strengths and your weaknesses I am not alone in this I have been fortunate enough to be surrounded by wonderful people who keep me going my friend Monica Miranda who proofreads my web content and all text my cousin Brian Echeverri who is a talented Graphic Designer and has done all of the Jason amp Juliana graphics Melissa Lennon who always thinks of me and promotes my line Colleen DeNoto who has taken wonderful pictures the instructors and director at Hofstrarsquos EAP Mitch Tobol Deb Miraglia and Judith Tyne and last but not least my amazing husband Jason Miletic whom I turn to every day that goes by As you can see I truly am surrounded by the most supportive and amazing people

You can view the complete Jason and Juliana collection at wwwjasonandjulianacom

You can also follow Jason and Juliana on Facebook

Daniel Corporan son of Doris Corporan (Theta Fall 2000)

Jaxton Colgan son of Yvette Lopez-Colgan (Theta Spring 1998)

Sela Dedona daughter of Amaris Dedona (Epsilon Spring 1994)


I have honestly gone back and forth many times about writing this piece Irsquom even handing it in late because I procrastinated to start it because of what writing this means to me Last night I finally came full circle on a thought that I had often told others

Often times when giving advice unless we have experienced it firsthand we donrsquot ever apply it to ourselves

Even if we have experienced it there are no two personal journeys and situations that are exactly alike So I told myself exactly what I have told other women who have confided in me before- speak up Even as I write this I am full of doubt but this is the exact problem- that no one ever says anything that the cycle doesnrsquot end that our stories are only spoken behind the comfort of closed doors a space comfortable enough to let the words be released but private enough to be missed by the daunting reactions of society

I decided that no matter how uncomfortable I felt I would tell my story and my journey I would not let fear control me

I feel like for my whole life the world has been trying to take my body and this year I decided to end it

A few months back and in the midst of an important period of personal growth in my life I thought ldquoWTF Society has literally had no respect for me or my body since I was a young girlrdquo

The way that I dealt with what happened to me was by suppressing ALL of these memories One day during my final and most emotionally trying semester of college it all came back to me I remember sitting in my room on my chair by my desk It was a warm and sunny afternoon The sun was shining into my 9th floor room which was still bright despite the shade being down I was sitting there staring at the window distraught about graduating personal relationships finances and my future I swear that last semester was testing my resilience and perseverance

So I am sitting there thinking and all of a sudden one thought came into my head and then another and then another That was the beginning of my journey with reclaiming my body

When I was in 3rd grade a close family member of mine abused me for a few months I knew it was wrong that I did not like what was happening and told the person to stop and they did A lifelong effect

of this on me was that I had become very guarded when it came to bodily contact I even sometimes fear touching people in casual ways because I associate touch with trust While my mind knows who I can trust my body does not I would say I used to even live in fear of being touched because for me touch meant abuse

When I was in 5th grade a man showed me his private parts from afar TWICE in a park As a young girl I did nothing I was in shock The first time I looked away and continued playing with my friends The second time I did the same I know I saw the man a few times after that There is something about looking into the eyes of that stranger that I knew meant harm that silenced me

Why I didnrsquot tell my mom I donrsquot know As a young girl though (and thinking back on this I question if my mother went through abuse) my mother instilled the fear of men in me She would say ldquoDonrsquot play with boysrdquo or ldquoLittle girls donrsquot hang around menrdquo

When I was in high school I was at a party dancing with a guy who felt it was okay to touch my vagina I remember quickly removing his hand finishing dancing the song with him but all in state of surprise and again shock at what

Reclaiming My BodyBy Maria Rosa Eta Chapter Spring 2008


happened I know I spoke up about it to my close friends but with such a sense of normalcy that looking back on it is scary

Whatever gave this guy the notion that it was okay to touch me without my permission

I never confronted him afterwards I went about my life as if nothing happened

Earlier this summer I was at a happy hour with friends I ran into a guy I knew from college and during our embrace he felt it was okay to touch my vagina because we had intimate encounters in our past I was outraged and pushed him away I know he feels ashamed I made it very clear to him that what he did was not okay

Yet still what does making him feel like crap do for me when the damage has already been done

I am the one who feels violated and always will at the thought of this situation It honestly doesnrsquot make me feel any better With the exception of the last incident I had already spoken to a therapist about these events In 2012 I had reached a point in my life that writing down my feelings and talking to

friends just wasnrsquot cutting it

Therapy helped but didnrsquot get me to a place where I felt empowered and not scared to touch people I know how amazing it is to be fully embraced in a hug to share in intimacy with people you care about

The difference for me is that I sometimes hesitate unknowingly or think about it before I do so The final step for me has been learning about other women who fight for me so that I may live in a safer world and in a world that knows that my body is mine So I write today so that other women can find it in themselves to heal reclaim their bodies and speak up to those who disrespect us and our gender

I stand up for womenrsquos rights so that young girls and women do not have to experience what I did so that my story can inspire you to seek help start to heal and become a better you

I will speak up forever on these issues because I refuse to live in a world that even tries to take ownership of the one thing that is completely mine -- my body

Hope is putting faith to work when doubting would be easier

Author Unknown


Beta SmartS CeleBrationS and ProfeSSional aChievementS

Jessica ldquoAyarirdquo Toro (Xi Spring 2002) and Erica Diaz (Upsilon Spring 2002) did Daiana Hidalgorsquos (Epislon Spring 2002) make and hair for her wedding and were published in HAIRrsquos HOW Magazine (Russiarsquos version March 2013 issue) Their vehicle which specialized in hair and make up services for weddings was featured Click here to view feature page 172

We will terribly miss Sabrina Goris (Eta Spring 2005) and her fiance Joel as they have relocated to New York City Your chapter hopes to bring some Cali Radiance to your new home

Congratulations to Jeanette Corona (middle) (Beta Mu Spring 2012) on completing the Public Policy and International Affairs (PPIA) Program at UC Berkley She woule love to mentory any upcoming Juniors who are interested in applying Please contact her at jeannettecoronaberkelyedu

Region 7 woud like to welcome Ariel Eure (right) (Beta Lambda Spring 2011) and Rita Phetmixay (left) (Beta Lambda Spring 2011) to Oakland and Los Angeles respectively this upcoming Fall

Congratulations to Isabeth Mendoza (left) (Beta Mu Spring 2011) for completing her summer internship at the Childrenrsquos Hospital Oakland Research Institute (CHORI) She was elected to do an oralvisual presentation on her topic which consisted of using fingernails as a method to measure Zinc contact in the body

Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu Spring 2012) is the first Latina in 10 years to be elected as the Academic Affairs Vice President of UC Berkeley She will be in this position for the entire academic Year and her chapter Beta Mu is extrremely proud of her for winnng the student body vote as she effortlessly touched the hearts of each person she met during her campaign

Kenda Nunez (Beta Spring 1997) just got a new job in the Admissions department at Monroe College

Elsa Batista-Yzaguirre (Beta Spring 1998) received a promotion at her job

Johanina Soto (Beta Fall 2000) was promoted at the US Department of Veterans Affairs as a licensed permanet social worker in the NY Harbor Healthcare System-Harlem outpatient clinic



Stay academically inclined while saving up to 80 on book rentals Rent your textbooks for school or start a book club with this great offer Spread the word to

friends family co-workers classmates and teachers Anyone is able to take advantage of this great deal

Rent your favorite books while helping your organization raise money

For more information visit httpopbsibookrenterstorecom

Be a BeTa Be a Scholar - The oPBSI Book renTal

The American Heart Association and Macyrsquos have awarded 16 scholarships of $2500 each to increase culturally-sensitive patient-centered care through The Go Redtrade Multicultural Scholarship Initiative The scholarship is in its third year and champions greater inclusion of multicultural women in medical nursing and allied health studies to meet the need that racial minorities have of health care providers who understand important aspects of various cultures The scholarship is designed to drive diversity in medicine and directly address important gaps in treatment that can lead to heart health disparities Click here for more informationand the list of recipients The on-line application process for 2013-2014 is now open and available through Dec 31 2013 Candidates must complete an application personal essay and submit two letters of recommendation The scholarship fund is part of Macyrsquos Multicultural Fund ndash which was created in 2009 to focus on increasing diversity in the medical field Applications and scholarship requirements for the Go Redtrade Multicultural Scholarship are available on-line at GoRedForWomenorggoredscholarship

American Heart Association

Awards Multicultural Scholarships

Check the qualificationsApplicants must

bull Be a female of Hispanic African-American or other minority origin

bull Be a US citizenpermanent resident of the United States

bull Be currently enrolled in an accredited college university health care institution or program in the US

bull Have a minimum 30 cumulative GPA

Application DeadlineDec 31 2013


Congratulations to Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) who is engaged to Luis Moya

Congratulations to Erica Miranda (Theta Spring 2009) who is engaged to David Gomez

Congratulations to Nathalie De La Mota (Beta Spring 2004) on her marriage

Congratulations to Marilyn Guzman (Beta Fall 1999)on her engagement

Beta BrideS

Congratulations to Crystal Moreno-Zaragoza (Beta Mu Spring 2011) on her marriage to Juan

Zaragoza Enjoy your honeymoon in Europe

Beta Mommies

Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to our expecting mommies

Johanna Fernandez (ZetaFall 2001) gave birth to Jael Emilio on July 25 2013

ana Saravia (BetaSpring 2004) recently welcomed a new baby

Carolina Perez-Gonzalez (BetaFall 2001) gave birth to her baby boy Isaiah in June 2013

daiana hidalGo-ravelo (EpsilonSpring 2002) gave birth to her baby girl Zoe in September 2013

veroniCa vizCaino (BetaSpring 2005) recently welcomed a baby girl

Yade GarCia (BetaFall 2006) recently welcomed a baby boy

Claudia oviedo (BetaSpring 2006) recently welcomed a baby boy

JaCqueline Camilo (BetaSpring 2003) is expecting a new baby any day now

Congratulations to Nicole Baker (Beta Fall 2002) on her engagement to Mauricio

Benavides


V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg

Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)

Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)

Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000

US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg

Washington DC

Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994

1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg

Bostonwwwc2homeorghttpfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg

Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov

Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)

(800) 978-3600

New York City

New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)

Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for

information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on

weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays

bull Press 9 for Spanish

MADRE121 West 27th Street 301

New York NY 10001 USA

(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg

Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg

In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)

NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm

Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg

Florida

Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119

Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom

GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole

24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free

Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus

important anti-ViolenCe resourCes

national Hotlines and organizations

If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership

Email OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom and put ldquoDV Resourcesrdquo in the Subject heading


UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS

National Convention 2014Happy 25th OPBSI

March 13-16 2014Miami FL

For more informationEventsOmegaPhiBetaorg

Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreatiVe and Beauty serViCes

Jessica Ayari ToroAyari Make OverswwwAyariMakeOverscomwwwTheGlossyPartycom

Karla Ayala-Quervalu Karla Samantha Photography wwwKarlaSamanthacom

Elsa Batista-YzaguirreStoles By ElsaStolesbyElsaYahoocom

Stephanie Camacho amp Rebecca SlivkaThe Sunflower Collectionwwwthesunflowercollectioncomwwwfacebookcomthesunflowercollections

Elizabeth Cano Sweet Craft Cakeshttpwwwsweetcraftcakescom

Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom

Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491

The Beta Yellow Pages is a free service designated to highlight businesses that

are operated by OPBSI Sisters

If you would like to list your business information please submit it to

OPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg

Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650

Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556

Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom

Food serViCes

HealtH Home serViCesproFessional serViCes

ClotHing

Jocelyn TejadaThe Society of Professional Women of Colorhttpspwcorg

Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom

Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom

Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecom

Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom


Collegiate ChaptersAlpha ChapterUniversity at Albany SUNY Est 1989

Beta ChapterSUNY New Paltz amp Marist College Est 1991

Gamma ChapterUnion CollegeEst 1991

Delta ChapterBinghamton University SUNY Est 1992

Epsilon ChapterLong Island University CW Post Est 1993

Zeta ChapterSUNY Oswego Est 1993

Eta ChapterCollege at Brockport University of Rochester amp Rochester Institute of Technology Est 1994

Theta ChapterStony Brook University Est 1998

Iota ChapterUniversity of Virginia Est 1998

Kappa ChapterHofstra University Est 1998

Lambda ChapterBrooklyn College and Manhattan MetroEst 1998

Mu ChapterUniversity of Buffalo Buffalo State College amp DrsquoYouville College Est 1999

Nu ChapterCornell University Est 1999

Xi ChapterSyracuse University amp LeMoyne College Est 1999

Omicron ChapterDuke University Est 2000

Pi ChapterBoston MA Est 2002

Rho ChapterMichigan State University Est 2002

Sigma ChapterPlattsburgh University SUNY Est 2001

Tau ChapterUtica College amp Hamilton College Est 2003

Upsilon ChapterRutgers University New Brunswick Est 2003

Phi ChapterUniversity of Southern California Est 2003

Chi ChapterSeton Hall University Est 2003

Psi ChapterDePauw University Est 2006

Beta Alpha ChapterSt Johnrsquos University Est 2002

Beta Beta ChapterUniversity of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Est 2006

Beta Gamma ChapterNew York University Est 2007

Beta Delta ChapterPace University Pleasantville Campus Est 2008

Beta Epsilon ChapterSUNY Old WestburyEst 2008

Beta Zeta ChapterFlorida State UniversityEst 2010

Beta Eta Chapter University of South FloridaEst 2010

Beta Theta ChapterSUNY Cortland Est 2009

Beta Iota Chapter Northeastern Illinois UniversityEst 2010

Beta Kappa ChapterUniversity of New HavenEst 2010

Beta Lambda ChapterUniversity of North Carolina Chapel HillEst 2011

Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California BerkleyEst 2011

Beta Nu ChapterJohnson amp Wales UniversityEst 2012

Colony at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003

Colony at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003

Colony at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008

Colony at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010

Colony at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010

Colony at Pace UniversityEst 2011

Colony at Columbia UniversityEst 2011

Colony at Purdue UniversityEst 2011

Alpha Beta ChapterNew York City Alumnae Chapter Est 1994

Alpha Gamma ChapterWashington DC Alumnae Chapter Est 2004

Alpha Delta ChapterRochester Alumnae Chapter Est 2004

Alpha Epsilon ChapterBoston Alumnae Chapter Est 2007

Alpha Zeta ChapterNew Jersey Alumnae Chapter Est 2007

Alpha Eta ChapterBuffalo Alumnae Chapter Est 2007

Alpha Theta ChapterFlorida Alumnae ChapterEst 2007

Los Angeles Alumnae ColonyEst 2011

Chicago Alumnae ColonyEst 2012

Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters

Omega ChapterEternal Sisters

Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOlOnieS

Colonies

Alumnae Chapters

eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg


In EvEry IssuELetter from the Editor 3Meet the Contributors 4

Letter from the AA President 6

Staying Connected to AA 7

Beta Cookinrsquo Autumn Flavors 18

Sunshine Corner 22

Beta Celebrations 28

Beta Mommies Updates 30

Beta Brides 30

Table of Contents

Welcome Neophyte 9

Chapter Highlight Alpha Beta Chapter 10

Taking Awareness to the Next Level 12

How Did I Get Here 14New Beta Business 24AMA Awards Multicultural Scholarships 29

Important Anti-Violence Resources 31Beta Yellow Pages 32Chapters and Collectives 33

Fall Fashion 8Discovering My Passion for Compassion 16A Motherrsquos Love 20Reclaiming My Body 26

FEaturE artIclEs

BEta rEsourcEs

sororIty HIgHlIgHts

Contact us We love to hear your feedback tell us your thoughts comments

concerns kudos shoutouts or submit an article

EmailElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg

SubScribe to El GirasolhttpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol

Once you choose hope

anythingrsquos

possible

Christopher Reeve





Selina











Fall2013





Manhattan College


Columbus Created









The Strangler






Rochester


University



Championships




Health to Marketing































Quarter







~Ralph Nader~







Amanda









aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters






Selina











Fall2013





Manhattan College


Columbus Created









The Strangler






Rochester


University



Championships




Health to Marketing































Quarter







~Ralph Nader~







Amanda









aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters







Fall2013





Manhattan College


Columbus Created









The Strangler






Rochester


University



Championships




Health to Marketing































Quarter







~Ralph Nader~







Amanda









aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters
































Quarter







~Ralph Nader~







Amanda









aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters






Amanda









aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters






aa newSleTTer



monThly Buzz


BeTa hummer


















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters

















alpha eta

aliza urentildea











raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters












raising awareness



















wwwRayofHopeWalkorg






immediate safety





violence











to make






























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters





























How Did I Get Here



























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters




























Namaste


Leo Buscaglia














































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters















































Nathaniel Branden








~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters









~The Dalai Lama~






~Helen Keller~

















jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters







jasonandjul ianacom




















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters















































Author Unknown

































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters


































Beta BrideS



Beta Mommies











Benavides







Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters








Washington DC






(800) 978-3600

New York City













Florida






























Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters






















Food serViCes


ClotHing































































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters



























































Colonies

Alumnae Chapters


el girasol - fall 2013 edition

Documents

beta celebrations

beta brides

beta cookin

fall fashion

new beta business

beta mommies updates

beta yellow pages

omega phi beta sorority