el girasol ~ spring 2013 edition
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Spring 2013 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue IV Spring 2013
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
2 El Girasol Spring 2013
In EvEry IssuELetter from the Editor 3Meet the Contributors 4
Letter from the AA President 6
Staying Connected to AA 7
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken Breast 19
Sunshine Corner 24
Beta Mommies Updates 25
Beta Brides 25
Beta Celebrations 26
Table of Contents
Founderrsquos Message 8
Sorority Milestones 9
Convention Highlight Beta Lambda Chapter 10
Radiant Takeover from East to West 12
OPBSI Launches Charitable Foundation 16
Important Anti-Violence Resources 27Beta Yellow Pages 28Chapters and Colonies 29
Our Vision Our Stories 14Whorsquos Appreciating Whom 15Fitness and Self-Appreciation 18Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives 20The Toughest Job You Will Ever Love 21
FEaturE artIclEs
BEta rEsourcEs
As we express
our gratitude we
must never forget
that the highest
appreciation is not
to utter words but
to live by them
John F Kennedy
sororIty HIgHlIgHts
Spring 2013 El Girasol 3
Letter from the EditorSelina Hernandez
Alpha Beta Fall 1999Alpha Beta Chapter President
Contact us We love to hear your feedback tell us your thoughts comments
concerns kudos shoutouts or submit an article
EmailOPBSIElGirasolGmailcom
SubScribe to El GirasolhttpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol
Unexpected events in my life of late have shifted my goals and my priorities They have opened my eyes to truths that I in the past wasnrsquot privy to I have begun to consolidate and edit my life in addition to a new job I am focusing more on old friends and the people in my life that are genuine Itrsquos important to realize the goals in your life while also keeping balance Failing to appreciate things like yourself the body you have right now rather than what you wish you had others life and things in it even those annoying lessons we learn along the way
Itrsquos also important to know that sometimes people are in your life only for a season and that sometimes ties must be cut People can grow apart--that holds true for friendships boyfriends and girlfriends When you hold on to a relationship that is no longer working itrsquos harder when itrsquos all said and done to appreciate the good things gained from that relationship I donrsquot mean the friends you havenrsquot called because you are too busy with your own life I mean the friends that you no longer feel connected to when you see them because something in your lives have shifted and it is no longer the same
There are friends I wonrsquot see for months or years and somehow we can pick right back up again and then there are those that I cannot If you are in a relationship with a man or a woman and you have tried everything you could but you know itrsquos time break up do it
Fears holds us back but holding on to a relationship that is not working is like an anchor on a ship You cannot go forward or progress Appreciate the things you have in your life and appreciate when itrsquos time to walk away from other things Time once wasted can never be regained
Selina
4 El Girasol Spring 2013
Editor in ChiefSelina Hernandez
Managing EditorAmanda Crane
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
Spring2013
Meet the Contributing Writers
Desiree Lopez Natasha Torres Jane VegaAlpha Eta Chapter Fall 2010
EducationMasters in Secondary
Science Education
Current OccupationScience Teacher
Will be writing aboutWeight Loss
Favorite Show on TVNew Girl
What makes her feel empoweredWorking and collaborating
with others
Interesting FactShe was named after
a Russian actress
Theta Chapter Fall 2003
EducationBachelors of Science
Healthcare Management
Current OccupationAmeriCorps-Community HealthCorps
Navigator Health Educator
Volunteer ActivitiesPeace Corps 2009-2011AmeriCorps 2012-2013
Hurricane Sandy Clean up LES
Best Advice she ever receivedIf you canrsquot stop looking back at the
past you can never see in front of you to where you are going
Favorite QuoteDream Live Carpe Diem
BOT Founder Advisor 1989
Current OccupationFurniture Specialist and Buyer
Will be writing aboutRecipe Corner Poetry and Insight
Volunteer ActivitiesOne Love Festival in conjunction
with International Peace Day and the Drummerrsquos Circle
BOT Founder Advisor
Best Advice she has ever receivedPeople donrsquot need to tell you who
they are - they SHOW you everyday - PAY ATTENTION
Interesting FactShe sings writes songs
and writes poetry
Spring 2013 El Girasol 5
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
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
Do you have a topic you want to write aboutDo you want to share your expertise or experience
Do you want to Develop your writing skillsDo you want to share your creativity
El Griasol staff is always looking for Contributing Writers and Designers for our 2013 Season
Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out how you can become a part of the Girsol team
CheCk out our Past editions
October 2012 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue III Fall 2012
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
Winter 2012 Edition
Fall 2012 Edition
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
2 El Girasol Spring 2013
In EvEry IssuELetter from the Editor 3Meet the Contributors 4
Letter from the AA President 6
Staying Connected to AA 7
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken Breast 19
Sunshine Corner 24
Beta Mommies Updates 25
Beta Brides 25
Beta Celebrations 26
Table of Contents
Founderrsquos Message 8
Sorority Milestones 9
Convention Highlight Beta Lambda Chapter 10
Radiant Takeover from East to West 12
OPBSI Launches Charitable Foundation 16
Important Anti-Violence Resources 27Beta Yellow Pages 28Chapters and Colonies 29
Our Vision Our Stories 14Whorsquos Appreciating Whom 15Fitness and Self-Appreciation 18Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives 20The Toughest Job You Will Ever Love 21
FEaturE artIclEs
BEta rEsourcEs
As we express
our gratitude we
must never forget
that the highest
appreciation is not
to utter words but
to live by them
John F Kennedy
sororIty HIgHlIgHts
Spring 2013 El Girasol 3
Letter from the EditorSelina Hernandez
Alpha Beta Fall 1999Alpha Beta Chapter President
Contact us We love to hear your feedback tell us your thoughts comments
concerns kudos shoutouts or submit an article
EmailOPBSIElGirasolGmailcom
SubScribe to El GirasolhttpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol
Unexpected events in my life of late have shifted my goals and my priorities They have opened my eyes to truths that I in the past wasnrsquot privy to I have begun to consolidate and edit my life in addition to a new job I am focusing more on old friends and the people in my life that are genuine Itrsquos important to realize the goals in your life while also keeping balance Failing to appreciate things like yourself the body you have right now rather than what you wish you had others life and things in it even those annoying lessons we learn along the way
Itrsquos also important to know that sometimes people are in your life only for a season and that sometimes ties must be cut People can grow apart--that holds true for friendships boyfriends and girlfriends When you hold on to a relationship that is no longer working itrsquos harder when itrsquos all said and done to appreciate the good things gained from that relationship I donrsquot mean the friends you havenrsquot called because you are too busy with your own life I mean the friends that you no longer feel connected to when you see them because something in your lives have shifted and it is no longer the same
There are friends I wonrsquot see for months or years and somehow we can pick right back up again and then there are those that I cannot If you are in a relationship with a man or a woman and you have tried everything you could but you know itrsquos time break up do it
Fears holds us back but holding on to a relationship that is not working is like an anchor on a ship You cannot go forward or progress Appreciate the things you have in your life and appreciate when itrsquos time to walk away from other things Time once wasted can never be regained
Selina
4 El Girasol Spring 2013
Editor in ChiefSelina Hernandez
Managing EditorAmanda Crane
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
Spring2013
Meet the Contributing Writers
Desiree Lopez Natasha Torres Jane VegaAlpha Eta Chapter Fall 2010
EducationMasters in Secondary
Science Education
Current OccupationScience Teacher
Will be writing aboutWeight Loss
Favorite Show on TVNew Girl
What makes her feel empoweredWorking and collaborating
with others
Interesting FactShe was named after
a Russian actress
Theta Chapter Fall 2003
EducationBachelors of Science
Healthcare Management
Current OccupationAmeriCorps-Community HealthCorps
Navigator Health Educator
Volunteer ActivitiesPeace Corps 2009-2011AmeriCorps 2012-2013
Hurricane Sandy Clean up LES
Best Advice she ever receivedIf you canrsquot stop looking back at the
past you can never see in front of you to where you are going
Favorite QuoteDream Live Carpe Diem
BOT Founder Advisor 1989
Current OccupationFurniture Specialist and Buyer
Will be writing aboutRecipe Corner Poetry and Insight
Volunteer ActivitiesOne Love Festival in conjunction
with International Peace Day and the Drummerrsquos Circle
BOT Founder Advisor
Best Advice she has ever receivedPeople donrsquot need to tell you who
they are - they SHOW you everyday - PAY ATTENTION
Interesting FactShe sings writes songs
and writes poetry
Spring 2013 El Girasol 5
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
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
Do you have a topic you want to write aboutDo you want to share your expertise or experience
Do you want to Develop your writing skillsDo you want to share your creativity
El Griasol staff is always looking for Contributing Writers and Designers for our 2013 Season
Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out how you can become a part of the Girsol team
CheCk out our Past editions
October 2012 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue III Fall 2012
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
Winter 2012 Edition
Fall 2012 Edition
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 3
Letter from the EditorSelina Hernandez
Alpha Beta Fall 1999Alpha Beta Chapter President
Contact us We love to hear your feedback tell us your thoughts comments
concerns kudos shoutouts or submit an article
EmailOPBSIElGirasolGmailcom
SubScribe to El GirasolhttpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol
Unexpected events in my life of late have shifted my goals and my priorities They have opened my eyes to truths that I in the past wasnrsquot privy to I have begun to consolidate and edit my life in addition to a new job I am focusing more on old friends and the people in my life that are genuine Itrsquos important to realize the goals in your life while also keeping balance Failing to appreciate things like yourself the body you have right now rather than what you wish you had others life and things in it even those annoying lessons we learn along the way
Itrsquos also important to know that sometimes people are in your life only for a season and that sometimes ties must be cut People can grow apart--that holds true for friendships boyfriends and girlfriends When you hold on to a relationship that is no longer working itrsquos harder when itrsquos all said and done to appreciate the good things gained from that relationship I donrsquot mean the friends you havenrsquot called because you are too busy with your own life I mean the friends that you no longer feel connected to when you see them because something in your lives have shifted and it is no longer the same
There are friends I wonrsquot see for months or years and somehow we can pick right back up again and then there are those that I cannot If you are in a relationship with a man or a woman and you have tried everything you could but you know itrsquos time break up do it
Fears holds us back but holding on to a relationship that is not working is like an anchor on a ship You cannot go forward or progress Appreciate the things you have in your life and appreciate when itrsquos time to walk away from other things Time once wasted can never be regained
Selina
4 El Girasol Spring 2013
Editor in ChiefSelina Hernandez
Managing EditorAmanda Crane
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
Spring2013
Meet the Contributing Writers
Desiree Lopez Natasha Torres Jane VegaAlpha Eta Chapter Fall 2010
EducationMasters in Secondary
Science Education
Current OccupationScience Teacher
Will be writing aboutWeight Loss
Favorite Show on TVNew Girl
What makes her feel empoweredWorking and collaborating
with others
Interesting FactShe was named after
a Russian actress
Theta Chapter Fall 2003
EducationBachelors of Science
Healthcare Management
Current OccupationAmeriCorps-Community HealthCorps
Navigator Health Educator
Volunteer ActivitiesPeace Corps 2009-2011AmeriCorps 2012-2013
Hurricane Sandy Clean up LES
Best Advice she ever receivedIf you canrsquot stop looking back at the
past you can never see in front of you to where you are going
Favorite QuoteDream Live Carpe Diem
BOT Founder Advisor 1989
Current OccupationFurniture Specialist and Buyer
Will be writing aboutRecipe Corner Poetry and Insight
Volunteer ActivitiesOne Love Festival in conjunction
with International Peace Day and the Drummerrsquos Circle
BOT Founder Advisor
Best Advice she has ever receivedPeople donrsquot need to tell you who
they are - they SHOW you everyday - PAY ATTENTION
Interesting FactShe sings writes songs
and writes poetry
Spring 2013 El Girasol 5
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
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
Do you have a topic you want to write aboutDo you want to share your expertise or experience
Do you want to Develop your writing skillsDo you want to share your creativity
El Griasol staff is always looking for Contributing Writers and Designers for our 2013 Season
Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out how you can become a part of the Girsol team
CheCk out our Past editions
October 2012 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue III Fall 2012
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
Winter 2012 Edition
Fall 2012 Edition
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
4 El Girasol Spring 2013
Editor in ChiefSelina Hernandez
Managing EditorAmanda Crane
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
Spring2013
Meet the Contributing Writers
Desiree Lopez Natasha Torres Jane VegaAlpha Eta Chapter Fall 2010
EducationMasters in Secondary
Science Education
Current OccupationScience Teacher
Will be writing aboutWeight Loss
Favorite Show on TVNew Girl
What makes her feel empoweredWorking and collaborating
with others
Interesting FactShe was named after
a Russian actress
Theta Chapter Fall 2003
EducationBachelors of Science
Healthcare Management
Current OccupationAmeriCorps-Community HealthCorps
Navigator Health Educator
Volunteer ActivitiesPeace Corps 2009-2011AmeriCorps 2012-2013
Hurricane Sandy Clean up LES
Best Advice she ever receivedIf you canrsquot stop looking back at the
past you can never see in front of you to where you are going
Favorite QuoteDream Live Carpe Diem
BOT Founder Advisor 1989
Current OccupationFurniture Specialist and Buyer
Will be writing aboutRecipe Corner Poetry and Insight
Volunteer ActivitiesOne Love Festival in conjunction
with International Peace Day and the Drummerrsquos Circle
BOT Founder Advisor
Best Advice she has ever receivedPeople donrsquot need to tell you who
they are - they SHOW you everyday - PAY ATTENTION
Interesting FactShe sings writes songs
and writes poetry
Spring 2013 El Girasol 5
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
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
Do you have a topic you want to write aboutDo you want to share your expertise or experience
Do you want to Develop your writing skillsDo you want to share your creativity
El Griasol staff is always looking for Contributing Writers and Designers for our 2013 Season
Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out how you can become a part of the Girsol team
CheCk out our Past editions
October 2012 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue III Fall 2012
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
Winter 2012 Edition
Fall 2012 Edition
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 5
Copy EditorMarielys Garcia
Design Editor
Desiree Henry
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
Do you have a topic you want to write aboutDo you want to share your expertise or experience
Do you want to Develop your writing skillsDo you want to share your creativity
El Griasol staff is always looking for Contributing Writers and Designers for our 2013 Season
Email us at OPBSIElGirasolgmailcom to find out how you can become a part of the Girsol team
CheCk out our Past editions
October 2012 El Girasol 1
Volume XIII Issue III Fall 2012
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
Winter 2012 Edition
Fall 2012 Edition
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
6 El Girasol Spring 2013
Letter from the Alumnae Association President
Amanda Crane Iota Spring 2000
Alumnae Association President
OPBSI Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
This March join all the sisters who participated in the Founderrsquos Day Countdown Photo Challenge
Whether you have Instagram Facebook Twitter or other social media you can join the challenege Use the photo to the left as a guide and make sure to mark the photos with OPBSIPhotoChallegne
Check out the all the radiant photos
Soleil
Appreciation (noun) an expression of admiration approval or gratitude
Appreciation is one of the best words to describe how I feel about my life Omega Phi Beta and equally as important our Alumnae Association
Another year has gone by and after having made my New Year resolutions I look back at the last three months and canrsquot help but be appreciative of where I was where I am and where I see myself going I may have broken a number of my resolutions BUT I persevere because I refuse to quit and because I have friends mainly sorors and family who keep me accountable
This accountability has helped me as I work to further advance in my career and as I work towards a healthier me I never thought Irsquod say this but I have also found a new appreciation for my faith The ldquorediscoveryrdquo of my faith has awakened something new in me which has helped me receive the balance I had been missing for some time Irsquom very fortunate because I have been able to share this
experience with some of my sorority sisters many with a similar story
In Omega Phi Betarsquos 24 years of existence I am truly amazed at its growth but more importantly the dedication that hundreds of women have made to the growth and success of the organization When I look at the members of the organization I beam with pride as I have seen and continue to see many young women blossoming into confident successful professional women
Although I have only been a member of Omega Phi Beta for 13yrs I can honestly say that I am appreciative of all that this organization has given to me I have made some close friends honed skills that I can use in my current profession and successfully built my network in a way that has been mutually beneficial for both parties
When I compare where I was last year to where I am today I can honestly say Irsquom proud of what I have accomplished what OPB has accomplished and Irsquom eager to see what this new year will bring
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 7
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 If you are not on the list or know an alumna who would like to be added contact us at AlumnaeOmegaPhiBetaorg
geT lInkeDIn wITh oPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today
monThly Buzz
Stay connected with OPBSI National updates via the Monthly Buzz To subscribe to the BUZZ mailing list email ExecVPOmegaPhiBetaorg
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 Contact VP of Programming at ProgrammingOmegaPhiBetaorg to get added
Alumnae Association 10 year Anniversary Celebration at Highland Park
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
8 El Girasol Spring 2013
24 Years of Radiance Happy Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
Congratulations to the sisters and all the radiant Founders that paved the way
We love and appreciate you all
SoleIl
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 9
Sorority Milestones
Jessinia AtilanoJenice Diaz
Sandra Mercedes FernandezAuris Gonzalez
Jacqueline GonzalezIleana LegaresMelissa LirianoDeonys Lopez
Taina Marie Lopez
Jacqueline PenaEbony Powell
Pauline RestrepoJessica Rodriguez
As OPBSI continues to grow in numbers the one thing that keeps us all connected is our sisterhood Once a BETA woman always a BETA womanSoleil Congratulations to all the sisters celebrating their milestone years
Newja AliLuz Barcenas
Karina CamerenaElianny Camilo
Elizabeth CanelaVerenice ChavezStephanie Checo
Alison ClarkeKrystal ColemanBriseida Cortez
Debra CruzCandida DiazStacy Dubois
Kenia EncarnacionNelia Escobar
Yohansa FernandezMichelle GarciaNicole Gonzalez
Geraldine GutierrezVanessa JacksonCaprice Johnson
Brittany JonesKeiko Katsuragawa
Sherice KingKimberly Lopez
Kathy LugoRatha Ly
Karen MarinMichelle McCreeMelody Mercedes
Desiree MilletAline Murta
Claribel NunezIsabel OlanKarla Perez
Zuliema PerezCarol Yanisa Pimental
Katherine RamirezNorma RamosCristina ResekDarlenys Rosa
Maria RosaOdeiry RosarioChloe SanchezMonica Saenz
Celeste SalazarMaritza SanchezYanelly SantosLaura Scotland
Shaneaqua SerranoKimberly Suarez
Shayna VegaStephanie Velez
Karina VelezJennifer VerasDarislyna Villa
Stacey Villanueva
5 Years - Spring 2008
20 Years - Spring 1993
15 Years - Spring 1998
10 Years - Spring 2003
Monica AvellanedaSarah Betancohurt
Sandra Galli
Guarinelly HernandezSonia Mongual
Amaris Elisa Ramos
Inez RodriguezAbby Seda
Maria Tsiadis
Jeanne AlcivarCindy BatistaElsa BatistaChrissy Diaz
Deyadira Diaz
Monica EstradaChristina Figueroa
Evelyn GalarzaBianca GremingerRosslyn Grijalva
Natalie HernandezYvette LopezElbanery LoraLydia Jimenez
Ramona Peralta
Elsys PuelloRebecca Roberts
Serenity RodriguezYahira SanchezJennifer Triana
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
10 El Girasol Spring 2013
Convention Highlight Beta LamBda ChaPter universit y of north CaroLina ChaPeL hiLL
The Colony at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill was established on April 23rd 2011 by four unconquerable womyn determined to bring Omega Phi Beta to campus Despite initial resistance from the campus community the Alpha line made it their mission to shine a radiant light on UNCrsquos campus
Within one year the Colony was recognized for having the highest grade point average nationally for Spring 2011 and Fall 2012 received the Outstanding Academic Programming and Greek Alliance Council Progress awards and welcomed five new Sisters into the organization In October of 2012 the Colony was granted Charter status and became the Beta Lambda Chapter of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Making a true and recognizable impact on campus has been our greatest accomplishment thus far Our Chapter boasts a sisterhood of over ten ethnicities and a diversity of experience challenging the cultural segregation we saw within campus Greek culture Our Chapter has
dedicated itself to social justice advocacy promoting an inclusive environment and creating a safe space in which each individual can share their story We are committed to educating ourselves and make it a priority to bring issues of gender race and oppression and privilege to light
We have dedicated ourselves to a vision of a brighter and better UNC through programs and events focused on tackling gender issues discrimination and promoting inclusive language while working with a number of campus organizations As a result of our dedication
to diverse informative and effective programing we have been able to not only further educate ourselves on the issues affecting various communities but also enlighten the UNC campus and greater Chapel Hill community
We hope to continue encouraging others to reject the labels and limits placed on them by other individuals and instead empower themselves to serve their community in a variety of ways With seven active womyn on campus our Chapter continues to promote academic excellence professionalism thought-provoking programming
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 11
and sisterhood This spring our Chapter is excited to be hosting two weeks of events The first in collaboration with VDAY Carolina part of the global activist movement to end violence against womyn and girls is our V-Week taking place at the end of February
For V-Week we will be hosting the Vagina Monologues a resource fair the ldquoThese Hands Words and Hearts Donrsquot Hurtrdquo Campaign and bringing in the Executive Director of the North Carolina Coalition Against Sexual Assault as a speaker
In April our Chapter will be hosting our second annual Week of Illumination which will include a health fair a film screening an event on hate crimes against various communities a fishbowl
dialogue on mental health and a walk to empower survivors of sexual assault and interpersonal violence
Our Chapter is honored to be hosting National Convention 2013 as we truly hope to treat our Sisters to an inspiring and empowering weekend We welcome the opportunity to connect and reconnect with our Sisters from across the nation
This yearrsquos theme is ldquoRadiant Empowerment A Vision So Brightrdquo Throughout Convention Weekend we will be focusing on various forms of empowerment such as through self-awareness meaningful relationships professionalism community building and self-care There is no single road to empowerment however we hope Convention
will illuminate new pathways for personal growth and self-awareness
Last fall we Remembered Our Roots this spring we encourage Sisters to focus on growth Our Chapter hopes Sisters leave feeling uplifted with a strengthened sense of self and a revitalized passion for Omega Phi Beta 2013 National Convention will provide a beautiful opportunity for connection inspiration and empowerment
We encourage you to travel to the Southern Side of Heaven and look forward to what will be an unforgettable and inspirational weekend
Day Tax ServicesQuick affordable and an email away
Special Pricing for OPBSI Sisters
DayTaxesgmailcom
April 15th is one month awaydonrsquot delay
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
12 El Girasol Spring 2013
As many of you know your National Step Stroll Team have been working diligently to expand our division In efforts to do so we went to Florida last year in order to train the ladies of FSU to step in a local yardshow exhibition
They truly succeeded and managed to impress the Sunshine State as we knew they would Following this endeavor we knew that we wanted to explore this idea a bit more Last year we came to the decision that we no longer wanted Regional teams that serve one purpose but rather we wanted teams that could do it all In an effort to align our brand we explored the idea of Regional Step and Stroll teams We thought about it and knew that it was going to be a difficult
radiant take over from east to WestBy Christine Cortes President National StepStroll Team Advisory Cabinet
task but we were up for the challenge During the process of developing the program a ray of light came in our direction Jessica Guevera Phi chapter Spring 2011 approached us at our amazing convention last year She wanted to talk about the West Coast and its need for both stepping and strolling Now this was a perfect opportunity In January of 2013 the ladies from UC Berkeley Jeanette Corona and Giselle Beltran participated in our Step and Stroll Clinic that took place in New York City We discussed with them a plan we had in store for the West Coast
They were extremely excited eager and motivated to begin this new journey which in turn inspired us to make sure it happened
On January 24th the Step and Stroll Mistress Christine Cortes and Josmery Brito went to Los Angeles California for the West Coast Regional Retreat Even though we would be traveling for most of our time in California we knew we wanted to do this for the West Coast
It was their time While being there we hosted the very FIRST Step and Stroll Clinic in the West Coast Although many of the ladies were experiencing a clinic for the first time the dedication and eagerness to learn was apparent The clinic was a HUGE success and the ladies definitely felt better prepared and motivated to take on this Regional Step and Stroll Team endeavor head on
We are now proud to formally announce our FIRST REGIONAL STEP amp STROLL TEAM ndash REGION
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 13
7 StepStroll Team We are so excited to have them on board
The team is comprised of Jeanette Corona (Beta Mu) Giselle Beltran (Beta Mu) Claudia Moreno (Beta Mu) Isabeth Mendoza (Beta Mu) Cynthia Espinoza (Beta
Mu) Valerie Jameson (Beta Mu) Gracie Esparza (Beta Mu) Jessica Guevera (Phi) Rosemary Sandoval (Phi) Erika Gonzalez (Phi)
Look out for them at RISC West RadiantTakeOver East2WestIf you are interested starting a
Regional Step and Stroll Team in your area please email the National Step Stroll Team at nstcabinetopbsinstorg The hopes are to have teams in every region Now THAT would be a RADIANT TAKEOVER
soLeiL
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
14 El Girasol Spring 2013
We believe that in order to create change in our communities we must begin with ourselves By analyzing our identities we are tasked with understanding how those identities influence and are influenced by the world Embracing our motto of ldquoserving and educating through our diversityrdquo our differences have in essence brought us together for a unifying cause
That unifying cause is our sisterhood Each of us has our own unique story to tell and something beautiful to contribute As we move forward it is important to remember our commitment to diversity and as such to creating community in our difference This is the vision that our Founders imagined and established for us nearly twenty-four years ago
Our multiple identities are complex and multifaceted We all work through the world with hyphenated identities ndash womyn atheist queer middle-class cisgender college graduate The list goes on and on This concoction of our many identities influences our lived experiences and is what in essence makes us each different By acknowledging recognizing and embracing these differences we inspire a stronger sense of self Our stories are constantly in motion While our stories are in motion so is our collective story as Sisters of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
To honor this vision 2013 National Convention will feature a workshop that encourages us to become more aware of our many identities create collective consciousness and work toward strengthening our bonds of sisterhood The workshop Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in Our Difference
will provide a space in which we can explore our identities through the lens of gender ethnicity ability and more while encouraging participants to think critically about how our own identities influence our lived experiences
As Sisters and as people we are constantly colliding in different ways--supporting causes because they are important to our Sisters serving as
resources in areas on our expertise and putting our Sistersrsquo needs above our own at times What it means to be a Sister is tied to who we are and how our identities have shaped us
As Audre Lorde a fierce activist who lived very much at the intersections
of her identities once said ldquoRefusing to recognize difference makes it impossible to see the different problems and pitfalls facing us as womynrdquo We are Sisters we are womyn but that does not make us the same By understanding our many selves and our position in the world we can better come together to represent our different identities and communities and grow as one Within these differences lies power
During this workshop we will discuss how specific identities affect our sense of self our interactions with others and our experiences with oppression and
privilege We will work toward creating stronger coalitions of support for one another our struggles and our dreams We invite you to join us at 2013 National Convention to build a more intentional and collective sense of sisterhood and solidarity
With love light and excitement
Michelina and Ariel
Our Vision Our Stories Creating Community in our Differences
ldquoAwareness of our situation must come before inner changes which in turn come before changes in our society Nothing happens in the lsquorealrsquo world unless it first happens in the images in our headsrdquo --Gloria Anzalduacutea
By Michelina Ferrara Psi Chapter Fall 2009 and Ariel Eure Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2011
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 15
There are times when I definitely feel overlooked Sometimes I revel in those moments when no one at all is paying any attention to me under the worldrsquos radar so to speak But there are other times when a little appreciation goes a long way and I yearn to hear from anyone that I am doing a good job or that my skills were exactly what were needed or that I was the key that opened that lock Irsquove been struggling with this these days
Feeling like there arenrsquot enough hours in the day Feeling like all I do is give give give and no one is really paying attention to anything except what they are receiving Contildeo I know Irsquom not unique in this feeling Millions of people all over the world feel exactly the way I do Like nothing you do really makes any difference to anyone So what do you do when you need a bit of appreciation but you just donrsquot want to feel you should have to toot your own horn
Being free with your appreciation of others leaves you open to receive this appreciation back When I am feeling the most bogged down not liked underappreciated frustrated ndash although it may take a day to recognize ndash I do a little yoga take a super power walk write like
the future of the world depends on it read or watch an oldie but a goodie of a movie This usually brings me to that happy place where I can see my frustrations have less to do with me and more to do with how unhappy other people feel about themselves their children their employment When you are able to determine what you do have and what you donrsquot have control over itrsquos a little easier to put those burdens down Itrsquos a little easier to contemplate a different perspective Once the burdens are down your overall appreciation for the world around you is allowed to bubble up and fill you with understanding and compassion
Tell people you appreciate them genuinely No sugar coating or overly grandiose accounts needed Recognize how the people around you improve your life and acknowledge them How your job improves your skills your children improve your patience (lol) etc There is always something to appreciate always something to acknowledge When you are able to appreciate the things around you without the thoughts of being appreciated it allows a light that wasnrsquot there before to shine When other people feel appreciated they show their appreciation for others too
Whorsquos aPPreCiating WhomBy Jane Vega Founder
Photo by Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
Humility does not mean thinking less of yourself than of other people nor does it mean having a low opinion of your own gifts It means freedom from thinking about yourself at all
~William Temple
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
16 El Girasol Spring 2013
Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated Launches
First Charitable Foundation
On behalf of the Board of Trustees of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc we are proud to announce the launch of our first not for profit organization Omega Phi Beta Foundation (OPBF)
Established on January 23 2013 in the State of New York OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
The Board of Trustees took the leadership of creating and incorporating the not for profit organization which will function as a separate corporation of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc and operate exclusively for charitable and educational purposes within the scope of Section 501 (c)(3) of the US Internal Revenue Code
Understanding the role that the Board of Trustees (BOT) undertakes our goal was to look at long-term initiatives promoting continual commitment and involvement in our community such as the OPB Foundation ldquoWe are excited about the launch of our foundationrdquo said Marie Saul Vice Chair of the Board of Trustees and who has been directly overseeing this initiative on behalf of the Board of Trustees
ldquoEverything from the name to its design is a true representation of our Foundation and what we stand for It is a true testament of Omega Phi Betarsquos commitment to our communityrdquo said Saul
If you are interested in becoming a member of the Board of Trustees of the Omega Phi Beta Foundation please email us at BOTOmegaPhiBetaorg
OMEGA PHI BETA FOUNDATIONEst 2013
MISSION OPBF is a national philanthropic organization committed to providing leadership academic and community development opportunities through educational and grant-making initiatives that support individuals and organizations dedicated to advancing womenrsquos rights
VISION OPBF envisions a world free of inequality where empowered women and girls are leaders of the movement for social change and equality
Follow us Official Website wwwOmegaPhiBetaFoundationorg
Facebook OmegaPhiBetaFoundation
Twitter OPBFoundation
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 17
Booking inquiries 9148376851 UniversalMCDJyahoocom The Whole Event
Let us transform your home into a breathtaking venue that will wow you and your guests
Need music or food We got you covered
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
18 El Girasol Spring 2013
Fitness a word that affects all of us differently some look down at the bellies of days past others run in the other direction Most women have tried at least 61 diets by the time they are 45 (httpwwwhuffingtonpostcouk) So what does it take to find something that works and will stick
I was 23 years old when I pursued my interest in our beautiful sorority Before then I had tried to diet but I was afraid of exercise There were periods of time when I tried to incorporate exercise like volleyball but as soon as it got hard I turned away The first time I ran like sweating breathing hard choking on my own saliva run was when my sorority sisters and I made a commitment to a healthier lifestyle which of course included the dreaded word- exercise
When I wanted to stop they were there to cheer me on and because of that they helped change my life by opening my mind to exercise and its benefits
February of last year I decided I was going to take my weight more seriously I remembered how great being able to run and completing exercise felt I joined a gym and got a trainer because I was still lazy By April I had lost almost 20 pounds I have held on to my diet mostly and overall have lost 2 pant sizes and 46 pounds
Amazingly I have kept the weight off for a whole year I decided to change and because of the influence of my fellow sorors have held true to my goal
Fitness and Self AppreciationBy Natasha Torres Alpha Eta Fall 2010
Be a Beta Be a Scholar The OPBSI Book Rental
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
February 2012 - 210 lbs February 2013 - 163 lbs
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 19
4 Skinless Chicken Breasts2tbsp Onion Powder2tbsp Garlic Powder2tsbp Paprika2tsbp Dried Oregano1tsp Cumin (optional)Aluminum Foil (For easy cleanup)
Preheat oven to 350degF
Line a roasting pan or cookie sheet with aluminum foil Lay chicken breast on foil ldquobottoms uprdquo Combine all ingredients and sprinkle over bottom of breasts Flip the breast and apply remainder to rest of breasts Use additional oregano if desired to lightly cover top of breasts Adjust spices to taste for future meals Place in oven for approximately 35 minutes at 350degF or until golden brown and internal temperature is at 165deg
Side Dishes Boxed Rice Pilaf Try adding finely diced onion to the rice browning stage Cook remainder as listed on box Itrsquos a nice variation
Beta Cookinrsquo Roasted Chicken BreastBy Jane Vega Founder
(serves 4)
Mixed Vegetables Add frozen mixed vegetables in a sauce pan and boil with a pinch of salt pepper and a bay leaf
Dinner is served in under 45 minutes
This combination of spices will also work for a whole roasted chicken or split chicken breast with rib bone Just add an additional teaspoon of each spice so you have enough to cover chicken top and bottom
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
20 El Girasol Spring 2013
Appreciating the Everyday Love in our Lives
I recently suffered a loss On January 21 2013 my grandmother Guillermina Davila Hernandez passed away just 3 months shy of reaching 96 She was amazing not only because she was my grandmother but also because of the person she was and the living history she was
I spent a good deal of time with her and we were close She and my grandfather Ventura Hernandez helped raise my siblings and me Irsquom glad that although she left this earth she died knowing she was cared for and lovedmdashby me my parents siblings cousins her children and so many more
Thinking of this makes me glad that I appreciated her and the shero she was to me That I didnrsquot neglect her as so many neglect their loved onesmdashparticularly elderly relatives Additionally reflecting made me think of the appreciation I had for the people in my life Although we live never knowing how or when our time on this earth will end I know that I have a group of loving friends and family that I love and love me in return In celebrating the life of my grandmother at the funeral I noticed the sea of people in the funeral home
Lots were family but I also looked at friends- some old and some new sorors and other people that took time out of their day
By Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fall 1999
to acknowledge a moment that they knew was a significant and difficult one Many didnrsquot know
my grandmother but came to give their time and acknowledgment and be supportive friends
I was deeply moved that friends took out time on a frigid day to be there for me and to share in such a heartwarming gesture of friendship At a time where my heart was broken it was too caressed by the loving spirits of friends I appreciate all of my
friendships and hope that they know it
I daresay that as we walk through life and become enveloped in the day-to-day minutiamdashremember that appreciation means trying to remain connected and putting forth an effort to maintain the relationships you cherish I donrsquot only mean significant others although they are just as important I mean friends you may stop calling because you got caught up in your life I mean the sisterbrother cousin aunt mom dad or grandparents that you forget to call or schedule time to see
While it takes work believe me I know the connection we have with our friends and family can be so fulfilling when you take the time to foster them We are all busy working being parents life partners students but remembering to take the time even if its once a month can be all that is needed to make someone you love feel appreciated Trust me you will find that you too will appreciate it
In Loving Memory of
Guillermina ldquoMairdquo Davila Hernandez
April 24 1917- January 21 2013
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 21
Always the same question ldquoHow was your experiencerdquo No amount of words can ever capture the two years I spent in Peace Corps but I will try to create a picture for you as beautiful as the country in which I served Vanuatu A small island nation located in the South Pacific (just between Fiji and Australia) that was once voted ldquo The Planetrsquos Happiest Countryrdquo It took 22 hrs to get there from NYCrsquos JFK airport but then I began the experience of a lifetime I arrived in the country with 41 other Americans of all ages who were there to do the same as me We were
there to help this developing country by giving them all the knowledge we had but little did we know how much more we would learn from those whose knowledge wasnrsquot in academics but in such skills we might never learn in the good olrsquo USA For the first 2 months I was in what they called ldquotrainingrdquo During this time I was placed with a family considered my host family in which they were only allowed to speak to me in the conversational language of Bislama and teach me on how they lived and what was culturally acceptable Cultural integration and
overcoming the language barrier was only the first of many challenges I would face but if you never step out of your own comfort zone you can never experience anything new Living with this family I began learning how they lived and luckily picked up the language rather quickly I lived in a house made of local materials including leaves from a tree called ldquoNatangurardquo that was woven together and bamboo And what kind of setup was there inside this house you ask Well thatrsquos all that it was a room for me to sleep in How about the bathroom shower toilet Well that was located about 50 ft from the house (outside) and consisted of a concrete slab on the floor with a hole in it
If you were lucky and could afford it a wooden box over the hole to sit on top of (kind of like a toilet seat) was there if not well you begin to find it normal just squatting over a hole in the ground And as for a shower water was gathered in a bucket from a nearby pipe coming out the ground then carried to a stall where you poured the water over your head to get clean Easy you think itrsquos just like camping Well yes but really would anyone go camping for 2 years
The ToughesT Job Yoursquoll ever love underneath the mango tree
By Desiree Lopez Theta Fall 2003
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
22 El Girasol Spring 2013
The first step to adjusting to any new situation is patience and openness even if everyday was a question of ldquoWhy am I doing this againrdquo I just learned to expect the unexpected like developing a crazy skin infection on my hand and legs where I was unable to walk for a week or painful boils on my legs that caused fevers and even the possibility of catching malaria While I can go on for days about the reasons that could have made me come home the list of reasons I didnrsquot is far longer and more interesting to talk about
Two months in training felt like an eternity and it was time to be shipped off on our own to different islands within the nation I was now ldquocompetentrdquo in the language enough to communicate and had enough to know how to cook over a fire and how not to anger the locals with my Western ways Now some islands had multiple volunteers on it but I was lucky enough to be the only ldquowhite [wo]manrdquo living on my island which
I will forever consider my second home
The second I stepped foot in my village I was welcomed with open arms as if this was my family and Irsquod known them for years I was even given a local name Leimara to show that they accepted me as a native
to the country The name meaning ldquoWoman who leads the peoplerdquo as I was there to lead them towards development Boy did I have my work cut out for me
Everyday was a challenge trying to remember everyonersquos name as well as set myself a schedule of things I wanted to accomplish as there was no one to tell me the hours I had to work or exactly the things that needed to be done I started by always joining the nurse at the local health center I would hang around to meet those who came by While I spent endless hours in the health center for months I always noticed in the distance this one mango tree It was located pretty much in the middle of the village No matter what time of day it was there were always people sitting underneath it and never anyone alone Sometimes the faces were serious other times loud outbursts of laughter were heard
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 23
and in the middle of the night guitar playing and high pitched singing I realized if there was any place to be was underneath the mango tree I began going everyday to sit underneath the mango tree and here is where I got the most work done This is a very big extreme coming from NYC and working in an office 9-5 but it was the best job I will ever have Here is where I made the best friendships I could have ever imagined learned custom stories about the island I lived on and how the community was genuinely worried about their health status especially for the woman and children Anytime I was to meet with someone the mango tree is where it happened napping during a hot summers day or just watching the kids play a game of soccer This is where lessons on health were taught and many arts and craft session took place but most of all where I wasnrsquot the white miss who came to teach I was Leimara
The Peace Corps traces its roots and mission to 1960 when then Senator John F Kennedy challenged students at the University of Michigan to serve their country in the cause of peace by living and working in developing countries From that inspiration grew an agency of the federal government devoted to world peace and friendship
Since that time 210000+ Peace Corps Volunteers have served in 139 host countries to work on issues ranging from AIDS education to information
technology and environmental preservation
Todayrsquos Peace Corps is more vital than ever working in emerging and essential areas such as information technology and business development and contributing to the Presidentrsquos Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief Peace Corps Volunteers continue to help countless individuals who want to build a better life for themselves their children and their communities
For more info visit wwwpeacecorpsgov
Desireeacute Lopez became a sister in the Fall of 2003 She graduated from Stony Brook University in 2005 with a BS in Healthcare Management From 2009- 2011 she served as a Peace Corps Volunteer as a Community Health Volunteer in the Republic of Vanuatu
Disclaimer The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly my own and do not reflect those of Peace Corps the US government or anyone else
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
24 El Girasol Spring 2013
sunshine Corner By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
For this edition I decided to share with you ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo I think it is a great read for anyone who wants to start their day off in a positive way I recently found myself in a bit of a funk Life wasnrsquot going as planned and I started to feel very discouraged It didnrsquot matter what I did who I spoke to or what I tried to do something inside me kept making me feel like I couldnrsquot change what I needed to in order to make my life happier
I know that remaining positive is the best way to get through pretty much everything From a bad day to a break-up to frustrations at workthe list can go on and on I do recognize it can be very challenging to remain positive It can be difficult to see the silver lining when you are in the middle of a hard situation Itrsquos natural and trust me you are not alone
I got to a point where I felt like all I did was think about everything I didnrsquot want to happen or everything I didnrsquot have and it made me start to think negatively Thinking negatively didnrsquot make me feel good so I realize that something had to change It wasnrsquot making me feel better and nothing would improve the longer I stayed in this funk
One day I decided to spend a weekend focusing on myself and trying to figure out what I really wanted I needed to make my inner voice be my cheerleader It started with appreciating what I had and the good in my life I also realized its not the person who is complaining all the time who is the happiest itrsquos the one who can see the silver lining My life didnrsquot change overnight things are still not where I want them to be but I donrsquot feel defeated I found my strength and inner cheerleader I can face my life with a better attitude Itrsquos a daily challenge to remain optimistic but its worthwhile to make the effort
That same weekend I stumbled across ldquoThe Optimist Creedrdquo It is something that I think can help you start your day off with the right mindset Read this creed in the morning and see if it helps your dayI promise that it wonrsquot make it worse Remember that it takes more work more energy and more persistance to remain positive but you will receive much bigger rewards including becoming a better person
SoleilFollow me wwwweinspireuswordpresscom
The Optimistrsquos CreedI Promise Myselfhellip
To be so strong nothing can disturb my peace of mindTo talk health happiness and posperity to every person I meet
To make all my friends feel that there is something worthwhile in them
To look at the sunny side of everything and make my optimism come true
To think of of the best work only for the best and to expect the best
To be just as enthusiastic about the success of others as I am about my own
To forget the mistakes of the past and press on to the greater achievements of the future
To wear a cheerful expression at all times and give a smile to every living creature I meet
To give so much time to improving myself that I have no time to criticize others
To be too large for worry too noble for anger too strong for fear and too happy to permit the presence of trouble
To think well of myself and proclaim this fact to the world not in loud words but in great deeds
To live in the faith that the whole world is on my side as long as I am true to the best that is in me
- CHRISTIAN D LARSON -
Downloadable Copy httpthesecrettvprintsUSUS_optimists-creedpdf
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 25
wenDy brito (Theta ChapterFall 2001) welcomed a baby boy Eli February 2013
beTa Mommies
valencia briscoe (Tau ChapterSpring 2005) is expecting a baby boy in April
June Jimenez (Nu ChapterSpring 2000) gave birth to her first daughter in March
Jennifer echavarria moJ ica (Tau ChapterSpring 2000) is expecting a baby girl in March
erica aguilar bou(KappaFall 2000) welcomed a baby girl Isabel Elena March 2013
glaDys moncayo (Theta Chapter Fall 2005) welcomed a baby girl Denalise March 2013
Welcome our neW Beta BaBies and congratulations to
our expecting mommies
Congrats to Elaina (Sainato) Renda (Alpha Chapter Fall 2000 ) whose June wedding was featured in the Daily Gazette this January Please check it out httpwwwdailygazettecomnews2013jan250125_renda_wp
Congrats to Darlene De Jesus (Theta Chapter Fall 2002) who got engaged February 2013 to Jason
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
26 El Girasol Spring 2013
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
Congratulations and best wishes to Claudia M Miletic (Epsilon Chapter Spring 1994) former President of Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc on starting her own Peruvian import clothing company called Jason amp Juliana LLC
Congratulations to AYARIrsquoS BRIDES Jessica Tororsquos (Xi Chapter Spring 2001) company The company is taking off and was featured in the SpringSummer 2013 issue of The Knot New York Magazine (current issue until this summer) You can see a scanned article of the mention here httpayarimakeoversblogspotcom201302ayaris-brides-featured-in-knot-magazinehtml
Ayarirsquos Brides was also awarded the following this past January
2013 Best of Weddings Award Winner by The Knot
2013 Bridersquos Choice Award Winner by WeddingWire
Check out my website wwwTheGlossyPartycom
Carissa Davis (Beta Lambda Chapter Spring 2012) secured an internship as the editorial assistant for Miami Shoot magazine in Miami Beach Florida
Elizaveta Reyes (Xi ChapterSpring 2001) was promoted from Senior Consultant to a Director
The Alumnae Association is proud to announce that the 2013 Reach for the Gold Scholarship application is now available
Please go to httpwwwOmegaPhiBetaorg for more information
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 27
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline PHone numbers
Domestic 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 301New 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
CHiCago
1-877-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
Beta Smarts Celebrations and Professional Achievements
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
28 El Girasol Spring 2013
UPCOMING NATIONAL MEETINGS
natIonal conferenceOctober 11-13 2013
Beta Mu ChapterUniversity of California at Berkeley Berkeley CA
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
Erica Diaz Daiana Hidalgo and Jessica MedinaYour Best EventwwwYourBestEventcomwwwfacebookcomYourBestEventIncEricaYourBestEventcom
Desiree Henry MOYA Creative Design BoutiquewwwMOYACreativecomMOYACreativeDesignsgmailcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Health Home Services
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 toOPBSIElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Ivy Roman IvySweetsNYCIvySweetsNYCgmailcom
Food Services
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
Spring 2013 El Girasol 29
Health Home Services
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
top related