Economic Security Initiative

Presenter Lawrence Hodges

Nurturing Our Ivy Page 3

Program Activities Page 4

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Calendar of Events Page 5

June 2012 Volume 4 Number 6

High School Leadership Development—Global

Day of Service

In This Edition:

Monthly Newsletter

Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter

Emerging Young Leaders 8th Grade Graduation

June 2012 2011 South Central Region Chapter Of The Year

2 In Loving Memory of Soror Jewel McFarlin Thomas

MESSAGE FROM THE BASILEUS

Soror Tamara Cubit

2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE2012 EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE

BASILEUSBASILEUS Tamara J. CubitTamara J. Cubit

ANTI BASILEUSANTI BASILEUS Marianne WalkerMarianne Walker

GRAMMATEUSGRAMMATEUS Karen Y. GraysKaren Y. Grays

ANTI GRAMMATEUSANTI GRAMMATEUS Karen AubreyKaren Aubrey

EPISTOLEUSEPISTOLEUS LaDonna H. HarrisLaDonna H. Harris

TAMIOUCHOSTAMIOUCHOS Paulette FrederickPaulette Frederick

PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUSPECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUS Lisa BrooksLisa Brooks

ANTI PECUNIOUS ANTI PECUNIOUS GRAMMATEUSGRAMMATEUS Sandra CampbellSandra Campbell

PHILACTERPHILACTER Christina AllenChristina Allen--CrowderCrowder

HODEGOSHODEGOS Cheryl MitchellCheryl Mitchell

IVY LEAF REPORTERIVY LEAF REPORTER Jeania MitchellJeania Mitchell

HISTORIANHISTORIAN Nkenge BerryNkenge Berry--OwensOwens

GRADUATE ADVISORS:GRADUATE ADVISORS: JoCarolyn GoodeJoCarolyn Goode Gamma Psi, TSUGamma Psi, TSU Pamela Lazard Pamela Lazard

Omicron Gamma, UHDOmicron Gamma, UHD

PARLIAMENTARIANPARLIAMENTARIAN Rita RobertsRita Roberts

CHAPLAINCHAPLAIN Margie TaylorMargie Taylor

MEMBERSMEMBERS--ATAT--LARGELARGE Helen Houston, Edwina JohnsonHelen Houston, Edwina Johnson

Demetria WilliamsDemetria Williams

Dear Sorors, Thank you for your support and involvement thus far. Each of you play an important part in making this chapter great. Together, we can do so much. I wish you and your families a wonderful summer vacation which begins for us after our June sorority meeting. Enjoy some family time, read a good book and do something you have never done before. Sorors, we received The Mayor’s Volunteer Houston Certificate of Appreciation for 2012. This certificate is from Mayor Annise Parker, the City of Houston and Volunteer Houston. It was given to our chapter for outstanding volunteer service in the community. Kudos to the entire chapter for receiving yet another award because of our hard work and dedication of “service to all mankind.” “The Best Is Within You…For Timeless Leadership” is the 2012 theme for the chapter retreat. The retreat will be held on Saturday, August 4, 2012, at the Houston Community College, Central Campus from 8:30 AM - 4:00 PM. The cost is $50.00 which includes a continental breakfast and lunch. Plan to join us for an exciting learning experience. Mark your calendar for the Southeast Texas Cluster Retreat on Saturday, October 27, 2012. Alpha Kappa Omega is the host chapter and more information is forthcoming. The chapter passport is still available and on sale at a cost of $3.00. It will be available at this month’s sorority meeting, or you can contact Soror Lisa Brooks at 281.835.3153 or email her at ltbrooks@peoplepc.com. Purchase your passport today without delay. Please continue to RSVP if you plan to attend sorority meeting. An accurate count is necessary for an appropriately organized and successful meeting. I look forward to seeing you on Saturday, June 16, 2012 at sorority meeting, and those sorors who are participating in the legacy parade. May God continue to richly bless each of you and all of the members of our great sisterhood.

Sisterly, Soror Tamara

June 2012 2011 South Central Region Chapter Of The Year

JUNE HOSTESS SERVICE COMMITTEE The June Hostess Service members have partnered for the second time with the Social Justice Initiative Committee and are asking sorors to bring the following school supplies: backpacks, markers, highlighters, pencils, pens, colored pencils, and notebook paper to sorority meeting. These donated items will be given to children of incarcerated parents in August.

CONDOLENCES FOR….. Soror Karen Demaris whose mother passed. She is also the grandmother of Sorors Karrah, Le’Andra and Michalyn Demaris. Soror Mary Smith Johnson whose grandfather passed. PRAYERS FOR….. Soror Annie Brew who was hospitalized but is resting at home.

Soror Delores Clark who was hospitalized but is resting at home. Soror Charlene James who was hospitalized but is resting at home. Soror Glorena Moody who was hospitalized but is resting at home. Soror Beverly Maddox who has been moved to TIRR Memorial Hermann, 1333 Moursund Street, 77030, 4th Floor, Room 408B. Keep the following sorors in your thoughts and prayers: Sorors Marva Adams, Shirley Brewster, Maurie Carpenter, Lillian Cook, Mary Collins, Aleice Conley, Franceta Lane, Ruby Mosley, Ora L. Piper, and Ritchie Routt. A Sisterly “Thank You” From... Soror Lillie Allen Soror Gervaisa Anglin Soror Gwendolyn Brinkley, South Central Regional Director Soror Susan Bynam Soror Maurie Carpenter Soror Melba Henry Soror Clarice Lowe Soror Yvonne McCree

Nurturing Our Ivy

Please inform Soror Cheryl Mitchell or the Basileus as you become aware of those who are ill or otherwise challenged.

Chapter Website http://www.alphakappaomega.com 3

SEPTEMBER HOSTESS SERVICE COMMITTEE Chairman: Michalyn Demaris Co-Chairman: Helen Eagleton

Co-Chairman: Barbara Fields Committee: Cook - Floyd

May Service Hostess Committee with Soror Pamela Branch serving as chairman and Soror Lucille August serving as co-chairman. Sorors Renee Bourgeois, Lillian Bourgeois, Sheri Cole, Charvela Fearon, Deneen Ford, Veronica Johnson who served as the parliamentarian, Allonie Moncriffe, the Nominating

Committee and the Philacter Team. The following proof reading team: Sorors Jackie Columbus, Kim Harris, Helen Houston, Yvonne McCree and Bettye White.

SAVE THE DATES!!! CHAPTER RETREAT “The Best Is Within You…For Timeless Leadership” DATE: Saturday, August 4, 2012 COST: $50.00 LOCATION: Houston Community College Central Campus 1300 Holman TIME: 8:30 AM – 4:00 PM

UNDERGRADUATE ROUND-UP “Raising Expectations Through Timeless Service: Expressing Our Creativity.” DATE: August 24-26, 2012 COST: $100.00 by July 27, 2012 ($10 extra is due by August 8, 2012) LOCATION: Shreveport, Louisiana Hilton Shreveport Hotel/ Shreveport Convention Center HOTEL REGISTRATION INFORMATION Hotel Special Room Rate is $90 per night + 13% tax (regular room rate $135 + tax). To take advantage of this rate reservations must be made by July 27, 2012.

SOUTHEAST TEXAS CLUSTER RETREAT Saturday, October 27, 2012

65th BOULE

GATEWAY TO GLOBAL LEADERSHIP THROUGH TIMELESS SERVICE

July 21 – 27, 2012 San Francisco, California

Sisterly Reminders… Dues for 2012 are $300.00 ($210.00 for Life Members). Dues can be

paid online at the chapter website. Dues received after January 21, 2012 are assessed a $9.00 late fee. This late fee does not apply to Life Members. Also, the $150.00 chapter assessment for the 2012 regional conference was due September 30, 2011. You can still pay and there is no late fee.

SPECIAL OFFER AKA SPECIALTY LICENSE All sorors who purchase any series or term of the

Texas AKA Specialty License Plates using the promotional code "GET1" will receive a $55 free plate card. This plate card can be used towards a future plate purchase and will be mailed out by My Plates office. The promotion expires June 30, 2012 and the website is http://www.myplate.com/designseries/PLPD129

Sorors, please update your personal information on the chapter’s website at www.alphakappaomega.com.

Condolences and Prayers…….

CONGRATULATIONS

Soror Christina Allen-Crowder is a graduate from Class XXXI of the United Way of Greater Houston's Project Blueprint. Project Blueprint provides intensive, comprehensive training in nonprofit management and governance for the next generation of ethnically diverse leaders in Houston's community. Soror Lucy Bremond was honored by the City of Houston on Tuesday, May 1, 2012, as an outstanding volunteer by Mayor Annise Parker. Soror Amber Higgs who graduated with a Doctor of Medicine from the University of Texas Medical Branch on June 2, 2012. Soror Michalyn Demaris was married to David Glenn Porter on Saturday, June 9, 2012.

June 2012 2011 South Central Region Chapter Of The Year

4 In Loving Memory of Soror Jewel McFarlin Thomas

EMERGING YOUNG LEADERS EIGHTH GRADE GRADUATION

Thursday, May 30, 2012, was graduation for the second class of young ladies who have participated in the Emerging Young Leaders (EYL) program at Crispus Attucks Middle School. It was a beautiful day as 24 young ladies participated in a fantastic promotional ceremony and reception. The ceremony took place in the school auditorium where the teachers, parents,

family members and friends applauded as the Class of 2012 walked proudly down the aisle. We presented the young ladies with a certificate of participation and a pink graduation sash. After the ceremony, the parents and families were invited to the pink and green room for a reception. During the reception, all participants received a lovely pink rose and a pearl bracelet. After receiving their gifts, the young ladies recited a poem for their mothers and presented them with a flower float. Soror Margie Taylor, chairman; Soror Danielle Phillips, coordinator and the seven sorors did a terrific job in leading this activity MARCH OF DIMES 5K WALK The March for Babies season was here again, and we were thrilled to have another opportunity to walk and ensure that all

babies will one day be born healthy. The mission of the March of Dimes is to improve the health of babies by preventing birth defects, premature birth and infant mortality. Seventeen sorors and family members participated in the event held on Sunday, April 29, 2012, on the campus of the University of Houston, Central Campus. Our chapter met the goal

of raising $1,541.00, to support lifesaving research and community programs that help mothers have healthy, full-term pregnancies. I would like to thank Soror Cheryl Mitchell who served as the team captain. ECONOMIC SECURITY INITIATIVE COMMITTEE HOSTS FINANCIAL SEMINAR

On Saturday, May 19, 2012, the committee hosted a seminar entitled “Know Your Worth,” under the leadership of Soror Erica Moore committee chairman. Approximately 38 sorors were in attendance as guest presenter, Mr. Lawrence Hodges, with JP Morgan Chase, conducted the

seminar. Mr. Hodges provided helpful tips on a variety of topics including: life insurance policies, savings, mortgages, 401(K)s and a variety of other money related topics. Sorors were eager to ask questions about other money matters and share their own experiences. Congratulations to Soror Beverly Dancer and Soror DiAnn Robinson for winning door prizes.

JOINT CHAPTER MEETING

The Spring Joint Chapter meeting was held at the Third Ward Multi-Purpose Center on Saturday, May 5, 2012, and 75 sorors attended. Soror Latricia London and Soror Whitney Walker, undergraduate basilei, presided over the meeting. Each chapter participated in a lively chapter roll call and Soror Gwendolyn J. Brinkley, South Central Regional Director, opened with greetings. Sorors of Gamma Psi and Omicron Gamma chapters provided two exciting sisterly relations activities. Soror Deneen Ford and Soror Darlene Johnson, who both work in law enforcement, provided a presentation on how alcohol and drugs can impair your judgment. In addition, Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter led a discussion on graduate and undergraduate relations. Sorors were asked to bring new or slightly worn shoes (for women, men, boys and girls) as the service project. Approximately 200 pairs were collected and donated to SEARCH Homeless Shelter. Soror Jo-Carolyn Goode and Soror Pamela Lazard, graduate advisors, did an awesome job in leading the way with the undergraduate sorors in planning this meeting. Graduate sorors enjoyed the fellowship with the undergraduate sorors and are looking forward to the fall Joint Chapter meeting. HIGH SCHOOL LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE HOST TWO ACTIVITIES Global Day of Service Project (HSLD) On Saturday, May 12, 2012, students braved the stormy weather and conducted a Day of Service Project to benefit the clients and staff of the Bread of Life Homeless Shelter. Sorors and students volunteered in a variety of activities including: serving breakfast, organizing the clothing donations and cleaning the storage area as well as collecting and bagging donated toiletries to be distributed to the clients. Students were so excited about the opportunity to serve, that they plan to come once a month and serve on their own. Soror Kim Topps, chairman, and Soror Martina Judge, co-chairman did a fantastic job in coordinating this activity. Kudos to all the sorors, students and parents who served and donated toiletries! We documented 13.2 hours of service and finished all of our tasks in 3.5 hours.

Pamper Me Pink Program Sunday, May 20, 2012, the HSLD Committee held its Pamper Me Pink Program. The goal of the program was to spend time with high school young ladies that have experienced physical, sexual or mental abuse. This activity allowed them to be pampered, encouraged and inspired to excel regardless of their circumstances. The

Root of You Day Spa and Salon provided their facility for the three high school young ladies who participated. These young ladies were pampered and received the total spa treatment including a wash/style for their hair, facials and manicures. They had the opportunity to meet and bond with women who have journeyed and overcome similar life experiences. Everyone in attendance received a pretty pink journal and pens for their own personal journaling. We fellowshipped, mentored and bonded with the young ladies while enjoying delicious snacks. Special thanks to Anita Carmen and the Inspire Ministry for funding this activity, and selecting our program to receive the grant. I would like to thank Soror Deanna Protho and her glam team at the Root of You, Yolanda Green of XpoZher Accessories, Rae Garr, a professional Christian Counselor of Guided Restoration, the panelist and volunteers their participation CONNECTION COMMITTEE 2012 GOAL FOR VOTER REGISTRATION GOAL TO REGISTER: 500 YEAR-TO-DATE: 208 NEEDED: 292

June 2012 2011 South Central Region Chapter Of The Year

Chapter Website http://www.alphakappaomega.com 5

Katharine Brown    A‐Bo  713‐729‐7363 Nekeidra Brown  Br‐By  832‐236‐0966 Lena Gilmore  C‐E  713‐528‐3164 Rhonda Haralson  F‐G  713‐413‐9226  Demetria Williams               H‐I  713‐748‐1631 Melba Henry         J  713‐522‐3004 Lillie Jones  K‐L  281‐442‐4759 Gloria Melton  M‐P  713‐633‐4803 Sydna Paul  R‐S  713‐521‐0646 Cheryl Mitchell  T‐V  281‐488‐5204 Yavaunda White  W‐Z  713‐988‐2321 

       

Reserva ons for Sorority Mee ng:  Sorors, we are s ll reques ng that you call or respond to your eVite to make reserva ons 

for all sorority mee ngs. Please refer to the informa on below and call your representa ve, according to your last name, no later than: Monday, June 11, 2012 

JUNE 2012

CALENDAR of EVENTSCALENDAR of EVENTSCALENDAR of EVENTS

4-Mon 8-Fri

Life-Long Learning Committee Summer Program; 8:30 AM-Noon; Blue Triangle Community Center, 3005 McGowen; Contact: Margie Taylor

6-Wed Health Initiative Committee meeting; 6:00 PM; Café Express, 201 Meyerland Plaza; Contact: Pat Sibley Global Poverty Initiative Committee meeting; 7:00 PM; Café Express, 201 Meyerland Plaza; Contact: Clara Cooper

11-Mon National Pan-Hellenic-Houston Chapter Council Annual Meeting; 6:30 PM; Blue Triangle Community Center, 3005 McGowen; Tickets: $15.00; Contact: Darlene Johnson

13-Wed Executive Committee meeting; 6:30 PM; Power Center; Contact: Tamara Cubit

16-Sat Sorority meeting; 11:00 AM; Power Center; Contact: Tamara Cubit; Business Attire

18-Mon Economic Security Committee meeting; 6:30 PM; Power Center; Contact: Erica Moore Connection Committee meeting; 7:00 PM; Power Center; Contact: Faye Phillips Social Justice and Human Rights Committee meeting; 7:45 PM; Power Center; Contact: Sahira Abdool

23-Sat High School Leadership Development (HSLD) Activity; Time: TBA; Location: TBA; Contact: Kim Topps

27-Wed Connection Committee Voter’s Registration Drive Activity; 8:30 AM; M O Campbell Education Center, 1865 Aldine Bender Road; Contact: Faye Phillips

2-Sat Social Justice and Human Rights Initiative Committee, Scrapbooking Activity; 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM; Change Happens, 3335 Elgin; Contact: Nicole Montgomery

N E W S F L A S H

STAYING CONNECTEDSTAYING CONNECTEDSTAYING CONNECTED

Chapter Programs & Committees: Soror Marianne Walker Anti-Basileus marianne-walker@att.net 713.523.9120

Dues, Reactivation, Transfers, Golden/Silver Star/Life Members: Soror Lisa Brooks Pecunious Grammateus 1231 River Rock Missouri City, Texas 77489 ltbrooks@peoplepc.com 281.835.3153

Courtesies: Soror Cheryl Mitchell Hodegos cherylk.mitchell@gmail.com 281.488.5204

Information to be published in “The Jewel”: Soror Tamara Cubit, Basileus akomegapresident@yahoo.com 713.942.2087 Change of Address, eMail or not Receiving “The Jewel”: Soror LaDonna Harris Epistoleus lmharris@swbell.net 281.633.9633

Minutes of Chapter Meetings: Soror Karen Grays Grammateus kyg08@aol.com 713.556.7620 Tickets/Invitations to Chapter Events: Soror Kim Harris Ticketron Committee Chairman kharris627@att.net 713.734.2141 Constitution, Manual of Standard Procedures and Chapter Bylaws: Soror Rita Roberts, Parliamentarian robertsrita@hotmail.com 832.736.9951 Death of a Soror or someone in a Soror’s immediate family: Soror Tamara Cubit, Basileus akomegapresident@yahoo.com 713.942.2087 Ivy Educational and Charitable Foundation of Houston, Inc.: Mrs. Staci Taylor –Fullmighter President, Board of Directors staci_fullmighter@yahoo.com 713.471.4706

ANNOUNCEMENTS

EMERGING YOUNG LEADERS (EYL) Mentors and tutors are needed for our EYL students. If you are interested contact Soror Margie Taylor.

Attention all high school teachers, counselors or administrators; we are in need of your help and support of the High School Leadership Development Program. Please contact Soror Kim Topps at KTopps@yahoo.com for additional information.

CHAPTER BY-LAW TIP An active member is a soror who meets all financial obligations for the current year of both Alpha Kappa Omega Chapter and the international body, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. Every active member

is a member of the international body. A. A soror who desires to serve as the sponsor of a prospective

candidate is required to have had at least two (2) consecutive years (24 months) of active membership in Alpha Kappa Omega immediately prior to being a sponsor.

B. An active member in order to participate in membership intake must attend at least 10 of the 20 chapter meetings immediately preceding the nomination of a prospective candidate and participate in at least two (2) of the following: Founders’ Day, Regional Conference, Cluster Retreat, Chapter Retreat, Leadership and/or Boule.

C. To participate in membership intake a soror must serve on at least two (2) committees and support chapter activities. ARTICLE VIII SECTION 2. ACTIVE MEMBER

PROTOCOL TIP Wear comfortable shoes to business meetings. Flip-flops, house shoes, and sneakers are never appropriate unless designated by a physician for medical reasons

High School Leadership Development—Pamper Me Pink Program

Joint Chapter Meeting