El Girasol ~ Spring 2015 Edition
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Transcript of El Girasol ~ Spring 2015 Edition
Omega Phi Betarsquos National Sorority Magazine
SPRING 2015 Edition
2 El Girasol Winter 2014
table of contents
El Gir asolOmega Phi Betarsquos
National Sorority Magazine
Editor in ChiEf
Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fal11999
Copy Editor
Marielys Garcia Alpha Gamma Spring 2007
dEsiGn Editor
Desiree Henry Theta Fal12000
Contr ibutinG Wr itErs
Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
ContaCt us ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
su bsCr ibE to El Gir asol
ht tpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol
Feature Articles
14
2 1
7 OPBSI Celebrate March
8 SAVED
10 All in one rhythm
13 BOTNCOO Inagural Holiday Party
14 Beta Cooking BAKED PARMESEAN Zucchini Chips
16 An ayari makeover a beautiful journey
21 Get your Twerk On
13
Winter 2014El Girasol 3
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
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
In Every ISSUe4 Letter from the Editor
5 Staying Connected
18 Beta Mommies
19 Beta Brides
20 PersonalProfessional Accomplishments
24 Sunshine Corner
25 Domestic Violence Resources
27 Beta Yellow Pages
29 Chapters and collectives
Are you interested in being a part of El Girasol Team We are currently looking for writers designers and editors
El Girasol allows OPBSI to share all the great things happening around the country and allows us to share relevant and useful resources for our sorors in all places in their lives
If you are interested in being a part of the team send an email to ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
4 El Girasol Winter 2014
Happy Anniversary BetasHaving been a sister for way over a decade now I find it amazing how many friends I have in my life that are a part of OPB We meet for brunch discuss life issues celebrate each otherrsquos milestones Whatrsquos even more surprising is that sometimes wersquoll even go by our entire gathering without even talking about ldquobusinessrdquo Shock I know Donrsquot get me wrong we all have a love for OPB that will last a lifetime but the point is through OPB we have been able to create and foster relationships that go beyond ldquoSorority Businessrdquo
OPB has given me opportunity to learn more about myself network educate myself about my roots and womenrsquos issues and create unique friendships Even now where most of my personal life takes precedence and I donrsquot have as much time to be active in a chapter I still reap the benefits of being a part of it I have friends that I love and we are supportive of each other and I canrsquot imagine them not being in my life
As we celebrate another year Irsquom thankful to being a part of something that although is bigger than myself is also as intimate as 2 gals getting together to have a cup of coffee and sharing their day
Happy Birthday Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
S elina Hernandez Ascendera
Letter from the Editor
Winter 2014El Girasol 5
Once you become an alumna you are removed from your chapter rsquos 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 Tag us in your photos too
AA NewsletterThe Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list Find out about activities for alumnae
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only
Find us on FacebookThere is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups Stay connected share ideas articles and jobs These are closed group for sorors only
Get Connected
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
2 El Girasol Winter 2014
table of contents
El Gir asolOmega Phi Betarsquos
National Sorority Magazine
Editor in ChiEf
Selina Hernandez Alpha Beta Fal11999
Copy Editor
Marielys Garcia Alpha Gamma Spring 2007
dEsiGn Editor
Desiree Henry Theta Fal12000
Contr ibutinG Wr itErs
Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
ContaCt us ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
su bsCr ibE to El Gir asol
ht tpissuucomOPBSI_ElGirasol
Feature Articles
14
2 1
7 OPBSI Celebrate March
8 SAVED
10 All in one rhythm
13 BOTNCOO Inagural Holiday Party
14 Beta Cooking BAKED PARMESEAN Zucchini Chips
16 An ayari makeover a beautiful journey
21 Get your Twerk On
13
Winter 2014El Girasol 3
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
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
In Every ISSUe4 Letter from the Editor
5 Staying Connected
18 Beta Mommies
19 Beta Brides
20 PersonalProfessional Accomplishments
24 Sunshine Corner
25 Domestic Violence Resources
27 Beta Yellow Pages
29 Chapters and collectives
Are you interested in being a part of El Girasol Team We are currently looking for writers designers and editors
El Girasol allows OPBSI to share all the great things happening around the country and allows us to share relevant and useful resources for our sorors in all places in their lives
If you are interested in being a part of the team send an email to ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
4 El Girasol Winter 2014
Happy Anniversary BetasHaving been a sister for way over a decade now I find it amazing how many friends I have in my life that are a part of OPB We meet for brunch discuss life issues celebrate each otherrsquos milestones Whatrsquos even more surprising is that sometimes wersquoll even go by our entire gathering without even talking about ldquobusinessrdquo Shock I know Donrsquot get me wrong we all have a love for OPB that will last a lifetime but the point is through OPB we have been able to create and foster relationships that go beyond ldquoSorority Businessrdquo
OPB has given me opportunity to learn more about myself network educate myself about my roots and womenrsquos issues and create unique friendships Even now where most of my personal life takes precedence and I donrsquot have as much time to be active in a chapter I still reap the benefits of being a part of it I have friends that I love and we are supportive of each other and I canrsquot imagine them not being in my life
As we celebrate another year Irsquom thankful to being a part of something that although is bigger than myself is also as intimate as 2 gals getting together to have a cup of coffee and sharing their day
Happy Birthday Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
S elina Hernandez Ascendera
Letter from the Editor
Winter 2014El Girasol 5
Once you become an alumna you are removed from your chapter rsquos 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 Tag us in your photos too
AA NewsletterThe Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list Find out about activities for alumnae
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only
Find us on FacebookThere is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups Stay connected share ideas articles and jobs These are closed group for sorors only
Get Connected
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 3
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
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
In Every ISSUe4 Letter from the Editor
5 Staying Connected
18 Beta Mommies
19 Beta Brides
20 PersonalProfessional Accomplishments
24 Sunshine Corner
25 Domestic Violence Resources
27 Beta Yellow Pages
29 Chapters and collectives
Are you interested in being a part of El Girasol Team We are currently looking for writers designers and editors
El Girasol allows OPBSI to share all the great things happening around the country and allows us to share relevant and useful resources for our sorors in all places in their lives
If you are interested in being a part of the team send an email to ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
4 El Girasol Winter 2014
Happy Anniversary BetasHaving been a sister for way over a decade now I find it amazing how many friends I have in my life that are a part of OPB We meet for brunch discuss life issues celebrate each otherrsquos milestones Whatrsquos even more surprising is that sometimes wersquoll even go by our entire gathering without even talking about ldquobusinessrdquo Shock I know Donrsquot get me wrong we all have a love for OPB that will last a lifetime but the point is through OPB we have been able to create and foster relationships that go beyond ldquoSorority Businessrdquo
OPB has given me opportunity to learn more about myself network educate myself about my roots and womenrsquos issues and create unique friendships Even now where most of my personal life takes precedence and I donrsquot have as much time to be active in a chapter I still reap the benefits of being a part of it I have friends that I love and we are supportive of each other and I canrsquot imagine them not being in my life
As we celebrate another year Irsquom thankful to being a part of something that although is bigger than myself is also as intimate as 2 gals getting together to have a cup of coffee and sharing their day
Happy Birthday Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
S elina Hernandez Ascendera
Letter from the Editor
Winter 2014El Girasol 5
Once you become an alumna you are removed from your chapter rsquos 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 Tag us in your photos too
AA NewsletterThe Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list Find out about activities for alumnae
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only
Find us on FacebookThere is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups Stay connected share ideas articles and jobs These are closed group for sorors only
Get Connected
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
4 El Girasol Winter 2014
Happy Anniversary BetasHaving been a sister for way over a decade now I find it amazing how many friends I have in my life that are a part of OPB We meet for brunch discuss life issues celebrate each otherrsquos milestones Whatrsquos even more surprising is that sometimes wersquoll even go by our entire gathering without even talking about ldquobusinessrdquo Shock I know Donrsquot get me wrong we all have a love for OPB that will last a lifetime but the point is through OPB we have been able to create and foster relationships that go beyond ldquoSorority Businessrdquo
OPB has given me opportunity to learn more about myself network educate myself about my roots and womenrsquos issues and create unique friendships Even now where most of my personal life takes precedence and I donrsquot have as much time to be active in a chapter I still reap the benefits of being a part of it I have friends that I love and we are supportive of each other and I canrsquot imagine them not being in my life
As we celebrate another year Irsquom thankful to being a part of something that although is bigger than myself is also as intimate as 2 gals getting together to have a cup of coffee and sharing their day
Happy Birthday Omega Phi Beta Sorority Inc
S elina Hernandez Ascendera
Letter from the Editor
Winter 2014El Girasol 5
Once you become an alumna you are removed from your chapter rsquos 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 Tag us in your photos too
AA NewsletterThe Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list Find out about activities for alumnae
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only
Find us on FacebookThere is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups Stay connected share ideas articles and jobs These are closed group for sorors only
Get Connected
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 5
Once you become an alumna you are removed from your chapter rsquos 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 Tag us in your photos too
AA NewsletterThe Alumnae Association collects the emails of alumnae and adds it to their distribution list Find out about activities for alumnae
Get LinkedIn with OPBSI Job postings virtual networking and professional development opportunities Join the Omega Phi Beta LinkedIn Group today This is a closed group for sorors only
Find us on FacebookThere is a main OPBSI Alumnae Association group page and various indutry related groups Stay connected share ideas articles and jobs These are closed group for sorors only
Get Connected
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
6 El Girasol Winter 2014
Commencing your academic year with confidence and style
This contemporary amp stylish single breast two-button blazer is easy to maintain wrinkle resistant fully lined cool and comfortable Wearable year round featuring -100 Polyester 105 oz wt - Fully lined center back vent -Inside breast pocket Two patch pockets -Embroidered OPBSI Crest over the heart -Sizes Sndash XXL -Just $75 (compared to $125+)
Professional Crest Blazer
Essential staple of the on-the-go woman Bag features 4rdquo satin-stitched letters and reinforced handles to secure your laptop tablet or books Features -Self-fabric handles 12 ounces -Zippered closure -inside zippered hanging pocket -1675x 15x 45 -Only $30 (compared to $35+)
OPB-Lettered Tote Bag
A symbol of academic achievement Commemorate your special day offered in Black satin for Bachelors degrees Forest Green satin for Masters degrees and Gold for Doctorate degrees Features -Light weight and customizable -Contrasting Trim -Fully covered stitching -Greek letters on the right and OPBSI Crest over the heart -Each $45 (compared to $65+)
Graduation Sash
Or visit OPBSIrsquos only authorized custom Greek Apparel Store httpgreekdesignzcomgreek-storethe-radiant-sisters-of-omega-phi-beta-sorority-inchtml
Ready to place an order Visit our Beta Store at httpsomegaphibetawufoocomformsproperty-of-opbsi-beta-store
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 7
Happy 26th Anniversary to Omega Phi Beta Sorority Incorporated
Thank you to all sorors and chapters who participated in OPBSIrsquos First Founderrsquos Week
March 9 - March 15th
This March OPBSI celebrates all women
MARCH 2 2015
The celebration to honor sisterhood was started in 1997 by the National Panhellenic Conference The date is recognized during March which is also National Womenrsquos History Month and set aside for International Womenrsquos Day The inaugural campaign was titled ldquoItrsquos as Simple as Wearing your Pin hellip With Priderdquo
Annually on 8 March thousands of events are held throughout the world to inspire women and celebrate achievements A global web of rich and diverse local activity connects women from all around the world ranging from political rallies business conferences government activities and networking events through to local womenrsquos craft markets theatric performances fashion parades and more
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
8 El Girasol Winter 2014
I promise
I promise I promise this was the last time
I mean it was the first time
It was the first and last time
I love you
I blink back tears
I hold back screams
My clenched fists seem to wind up tighter and tighter and as much I
search I canrsquot find it
Where is that wave of saddens that has crippled me before
Where is the pain from the blast to my stomach that has shattered
my world so many times before
I can still breathe and in front of me all I see are the remnants of a
man
Pathetic
I notice my cuticles need trimming in between his sobs and pleading
I wonder who he thinks he is to make my mind spin laughter tears
pain all my fears transcended and meshed together so cohesively I
canrsquot separate them
I canrsquot decide what to feel and then all I feel is nothing
Numb space thick air take over my mind more than my reality
My avoidance a clear sign that I canrsquot deal with the break the break
from you the break from us how could you
Left right straight wait
Donrsquot go
Irsquove become a master of pep-talking yes thatrsquos a thing
and my self realization is that Irsquom stuck in the vehement fantasy
where his love is mine
It grows while I shrink
It stops me Irsquom frozen I canrsquot think
of anything else except that moment
A moment I missed somewhere locked up in time
Saved
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 9
A moment I overlooked and didnrsquot understand
A moment that was mine the last moment that was ever only mine
My tongue seems lost while my mind is locked away from the rest of
me
I am high off the clouds of smoke that surround us
I can barely see his face and only our fingertips touch as we pass it
back and forth
The lies the pain the deception the hypocrisy
My cries mean nothing to him anymore but Irsquom stuck here
Waiting for a love song waiting for the day he will realize I am
everything he needs
Waiting for him to see me as his queen
The rain outside my window makes it muggy inside
Humidity creeping through the vents and I silently catch every drop
that threatens to fall to the ground
I wonder how amazing it could feel to be a part of the universe
Swimming with the leaves as they swirl from tree to floor to water
Carrying all the stories they hear unlocking everyonersquos secrets
Maybe this way I could get inside his head
Maybe if Irsquom gone he will miss me love me want me
My lips help push out the smoke thatrsquos choking me inside
I close my eyes and fall back into the darkness
I want to stay here I decide
Engulfed in my silence caught up in my nirvana a place where he
doesnrsquot exist for me
A place where I donrsquot need his love
Where I donrsquot need anyone or anything and finally itrsquos like my
solitude has saved me
Itrsquos like he saved me
By Gernice Leonardo Theta Spring 2009
Saved
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
10 El Girasol Winter 2014
By Nohelia Orozco Beta Zeta Spring 2012
Growing up in a Colombian household meant that for an entire month every four years the whole family would gather to watch soccer It was something we all looked forward to as nations from every corner of the world left it all on the field to be called ldquoThe
number one futbol team in the worldrdquo
AS A YOUNG GIRL IT WAS ALWAYS A DREAM OF MINE TO ATTEND A WORLD CUP TO EXPERIENCE THE EMOTIONS AND EXCITEMENT OF THIS EVENT IN THE FLESH AFTER 22 YEARS MY LINE SISTER KENIA AND I DECIDED TO MAKE
OUR DREAM A REALITY
Usually people take months or even years to plan
for this trip but we planned a two week trip within
a matter of weeks Irsquom proud of us for being so
organized and working together seamlessly Time was
of the essence and so was money as we had both
just graduated and started new jobs In the end it
all worked out We booked flights accommodations
bus rides and even managed to score tickets to
Colombiarsquos first match
Our stay in Brazil kicked off in Satildeo Paulo the largest
city in the country During our time there we were able
to warm up to Brazil We welcomed the World Cup
at FIFA Fan Fest and I was in a state of shock and
disbelief I couldnrsquot believe I was there living that
moment I had dreamed of for so long The energy
was indescribable Imagine a giant block party with
All in one Rhythm
people from all over the world We spoke and took
pictures with strangers whom by the end of the day
had become friends We even had locals try to
teach us how to dance Samba to no avail might I
add This day is easily one of the most memorable
days of my life to put it simple I was high on life
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 11
We left Satildeo Paulo in the wee hours of the night to
catch an early flight to Belo Horizonte As the name
of the city suggests we were greeted by beautiful
horizons The view from our rooms was beautiful
colorful houses covered the mountainside
OUR TIME THERE WAS SHORT BUT WITH THE HELP OF OUR HOST WE WERE ABLE TO EXPERIENCE THE BEAUTY OF THE
CITY FOR OURSELVES
The Colombia versus Greece game was epic for
lack of a better word I have been to many soccer
games before but absolutely nothing compares to
the energy in the stadium that day Being that this
was Colombiarsquos first appearance in a World Cup
after nearly 20 years it rsquos easy to understand why
fans were so emotional and energetic Colombia
dominated and wan the game so of course that
night there was only one thing to docelebrate
We did so in the heart of the city streets there was
music beer dancing and a sea of people wearing
Colombia jerseys In that particular moment and
place in time Colombians outnumbered Brazilians
From Belo Horizonte we embarked on a 6 hour bus
ride to Rio de Janeiro Rio was a challenge and
although we got off to a rough start we enjoyed
our time in the city Our apartment was two blocks
from the beach so we paid a visit to every beach
in the area Copacabana Ipanema and Leblon
We visited the Christ the Redeemer statue and
got to see a beautiful sunset while overlooking the
city from high above Up there we were in heaven
and I say that in a literal sense The clouds came
down as the night approached so that everything
beneath us was covered in clouds While in Rio we
also visited the Lapa steps although this is a huge
tourist attraction the locals and those who live in
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
12 El Girasol Winter 2014
the area also go there to play music talk and ease
their minds The last stop on our trip and my personal
favorite was Florianopolis This was our vacation
from our vacation There were not many tourists or
people on the island at that time of year so it made
for a relaxing getaway
We stayed within walking distance from the beach
and the most delicious bakery ever This bakery has
the most delicious fresh pastries you can imagine so
we made a stop for dessert there every single day
We walked the soft sandy beaches for miles and went
sandboarding in sand dunes Yes sandboarding is
a thing and it is indeed a lot of fun Despite the fact
that most of us spent the majority of the time on the
ground what made it fun and memorable was that
we all shared a new experience together
When it came time to say goodbye none of us
wanted to part ways with Brazil or with each other
Our pretend lives in Brazil were splendid better than
we had imagined For now all we can hold on to
are the memories of the summer we decided to take
a chance and spend every penny to our names in
order to make our dream come true What we got
in return for the money are memories you canrsquot put
a price on
Memories that would not be half as special without
the strangers who opened their doors to us and
made us feel at home the delicious food the long
conversations over dinners the tears the laughter or
the warm and inviting people of Brazil It is clear to
see why both Kenia and I fell in love with Brazil and
why we canrsquot wait to go back
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 13
On Friday January 2 2015 OPBSIrsquos Board of Trustees and National Council of Officers hosted a Holiday Party at Slate in New York City The night was open to all sisters to come out and celebrate the end of our 25th year of service and volunteerism It was a fun night filled with good food drinks and laughs This is the first annual Holiday partylook out for more to come Here are some photos from the night
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
14 El Girasol Winter 2014
B eta Cookinrsquogbaked parmesean zucchin i Ch ips
Are you ever looking for healthy delicious snacks to help you on your weight loss journey or just because you live a healthy lifestyle From personal experience we know the internet is a great place to start You can find loads of new snack ideas on Pintrest and other websites One of our favorites are baked parmesean zucchini chips This is a great option if you want something light sweet and the fun part is you can flavor it up in so many different ways Unfortunately we didnt have photos available from the last time we made zucchini chips so we found a great resource and reference on jocookscom
Prep Time 15 minutesCook Time 25 - 30 minutesServes 8
INGREDIENTS2 cups of Panko breadcrumbs (Try the Spicy Panko breadcrumbs for extra kick) 1 cup of all-purpose flour12 grated Parmesean cheese2 Zucchini thinly sliced to about 14 inch thick rounds3 large eggs beaten1 tsp dried oregano
salt and pepper
1 Lay out a couple paper towels and place the zucchini rounds on the paper towels Sprinkle zucchini with salt on both sides Cover zucchini slices with more paper towels and press down them Leave for about 20 minutes After 20 minutes you will notice that the paper towels are wet and the zucchini slices are pretty dry
2 Preheat oven to 400 F degrees Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper
3 In a shallow plate combine Panko breadcrumbs Parmesan cheese oregano and season with salt and pepper if preferred set aside
4 In another shallow plate add the flour which you also need to season with salt and pepper
5 In a 3rd plate beat eggs with salt and pepper
6 Start dredging zucchini rounds in flour dip into eggs then dredge in Panko mixture pressing to coat Place zucchini slices on prepared baking sheet
7 Repeat until all zucchini slices are done One large baking sheet was enough for me
8 Bake for 20 to 30 minutes or until the zucchini rounds are golden and crispy
9 Serve with your favorite dip
This recipe was found at httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-parmesan-zucchini-crisps
For an even healthier version of this snack check out httpwwwjocookscomhealthy-eatingbaked-zucchini-chips
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 15
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Eight years ago I decided to turn my dream into a reality by freelancing as a makeup artist in NYC Before I could really let clients trust me with their faces and get hired for photo shoots
16 El Girasol Spring 2014
By Jessica Toro Xi Spring 2002
Today I still owe Geraldine a public apology for having to spend her day like a Geisha I can only imagine what she looked like in those wedding photos G from the bottom of my heart IrsquoM SORRY
Soon after 3 more sisters hired me for their special day Doris Duran-Corporan (Theta chapter) Michelle Rosado (Alpha Chapter) and Dana Lopez-Torres (Kappa chapter) I made it my business to make sure they looked beautiful and realistic And I nailed it It was then I realized that I could thrive in the wedding business With the power of makeup and the stroke of my brush women all over NY were hugging me and sending me thank you cards for transforming them and boosting their confidence
Several brides later Omega Phi Beta continued to support me Vinely Cruz-Day (Theta chapter) hired me for her bridal party but was hoping I
An Ayari Makeover
The Beautiful Journey
I needed to practice And so friends family and sorors allowed me to make them up for their special occasions
I remember my first soror Geraldine Lugo (Beta Chapter) who needed my services since she was a bridesmaid for a friendrsquos wedding Poor G - she left my apartment with a good 2 lbs of makeup on her face that could have been scraped off with a spatula I didnrsquot realize that what I had been taught in makeup school for news anchors and film didnrsquot translate well for the everyday woman or brides
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Spring 2014El Girasol 17
would offer airbrushing for herself I never got to do Vinely rsquos makeup since I hadnrsquot been trained yet but I thought if it was that important to her it must be important to other brides Soon after YouTube exploded and thanks to the many online videos I watched I trained myself and practiced practiced and practiced On myself on my mom on her friends on my sister on my son and on my boyfriend When I finally felt ready to take on the bridal world with my airbrush gun I created an official division Ayari rsquos Brides It was a match made in heaven when I found out my line sister Erica Diaz (Upsilon) was skilled in hair styling and Kristin Sepulveda (Alpha Gamma) in makeup as well There we were 3 little sunflowers ready to beat face and create updos Somewhere down the road Kerryann Pozzi (Zeta) joined us as well (I also did her wedding makeup)
In 2010 I was still unemployed after facing a huge lay off at work and knew I should take the opportunity to utilize my freedom to really push us in the direction I knew our team was destined It didnrsquot come cheap I decided I needed to start advertising with the big bridal sites to generate the necessary leads
if I was going to make this a full time job And through it all sorors continued to support me My first airbrush client was Jessica ldquoRemordquo Morales (Alpha) in 2010 I donrsquot think she knows that but if shersquos reading this she knows now She looked amazing The more brides I did the more photos I posted and the more Betas requested us
Almost 5 years and several wedding industry awards later I get a chance to reflect on how long me and my team have come I canrsquot thank enough the women of our organization who took a leap of faith and trusted me enough with their beauty needs for their special day As we continue to grow as an organization and as individuals who will one day become someonersquos wife I want our sorority to know that we are hear if you need us We are also looking to expand to markets in California Florida and Washington DC If there are any sorors who love all things beauty and are experienced in hair styling or makeup or may know someone they can visit our websitewwwAyariBridescom and contact us
Before After Before After
Soror Raven Roman-Slate on her wedding day Soror Kerryann Pozzi on her wedding day
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
18 El Girasol Winter 2014
Let us weLcome our new Beta BaBies and give
congratuLations to our expecting mommies
Beta Mommies
ROBYN THOMPSON (Xi Fall 2001) and An Duong welcomed daughter Lien Rose on June 4 2014
GLADYRIS CONCEPCION-BOISSEAU (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed daughter Mila in November 2014
MABELL PERDOMO JIMENEZ (Alpha Fall 2000) welcomed son Nathan in October 2014
GISELLE BELTRAN (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed daughter Nayeli Huitzil in November 2014
VALERIE V JAMESON (Beta Mu Spring 2012) welcomed son Ollin Valentin April 26 2014
LIZA GUTIERREZ (Alpha BetaSpring 2013) welcomed son James Anthony on October 8 2014 at 75lbs and 21 inches long
ANNA MARTINEZ (Theta Fall 2003) is expecting a new arrival August 2015
YOLANDA RODRIGUEZ (Alpha Beta Summer 2011) welcomed a baby boy in February 2015
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 19
THE PRAGMATIC DOULA BIRTHING SERVICES By Yvette Lopez ColganMy mission is to support educate and empower women to create their most lsquonaturalrsquo birthing experience without judgment or regret To advocate on behalf of all expectant moms so they are able to realize their best birth experience with no outside pressure or influence I use my knowledge and life experiences to help guide you through the birthing process with dignity and respect
If you are expecting contact me at ylopez333hotmailcom or (917) 716 - 3516
Deep discounts for Betas available
BETA BRIDES
CRYSTAL M ZARGOZA (Beta Mu Spring 2011) will be getting married in May 2015
Congratulations to all our newlyweds and newly engaged couples
DORA PEGUERO (Alpha Spring 2002) was married in August 2014
JANE SANCHEZ (Chi Fall 2003) was engaged to Ash Swain in August 2014
HEIDY VALENZUELA (Beta Beta Spring 2006) was engaged to Richard Persaud in July 2014
SIMONE DE NOBREGA (Colony at Pace Spring 2011) was engaged to her boyfriend of five years in July 2014 He proposed while horseback riding on the beach and they are getting married this year
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
20 El Girasol Winter 2014
professional and personal highlights
Congratulations to Beta Mu Chapterat the University of California Berkely was acepted into the UC Berkeley Public Service Center rsquos Student-Initiated Community Projects program for the 2014-2015 academic year Thus receiving a Public Service Cennter grant award for a total of $800 in order to host a workshop catering to young women in high school who come from low-income minority families In photo Josey A Garcia (Beta Mu Spring 2014)
and Vanessa Rojas (Beta Mu Spring 2014) at the Public Service Center Fall 2014 Orientation
Congratulations to all our sorors and chapters who have achieved professional and personal success We wish you the best on all your endeavors
Congratulations to Amanda Crane (Iota Spring 2000) who was recently promoted to HR
Consultant 2 at her company
Congratulations to Daisy Cuevas (Beta Mu Spring 2012) back in the Bay to continue her journey to
become a lawyer through Capitol Fellows Program in Sacramento
Congratulations to Sureyma C Gonzalez (Beta Mu Spring 2014) who recently completed the
California Washington DC program (UCDC) in Fall 2014 She
traveled from California to DC to do an internship for a semerater as
an investigator at the Public Defender rsquos Office
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 21
Congratulations to Angelica Monteverde (Alpha Theta Summer 2011) She is a 4th year doctoral student at the Florida School of Professional Psychology at Argosy University in Tampa Florida She attended the 7th Annual Combined Agency Training Initiative (CATI) Conference in Sarasota Florida (An annual professional psychological conference) She presented at the conference alongside her friend Cristina Dominguz (member of Lambda Theta Alpha) a poster presentation on how Latinosas who are affiliated with Latino fraternities and sororities can assist with retention Their poster discussed how there is an increase in Latinos attending college or
Ann-Gel S Palermo (Eta Spring 1997)shares her story and experiences that helped shaped her career and the woman she is today Read more about it here
httpbemoxieorgmoxie-leader-ann-gel-palermo
Ann-Gelrsquos existing and previous work was also recently highlighted in a Mount Sinai newsletter Congratulations
higher education however the number of graduating Latinos have drastically decreased Their study looked at how these organizations have assisted Latinoa students and other minorities in these organizations on remaining in college and graduating in order to continue into graduate school At the last minute prior to attending the conference Cristina and Angelica agreed to present with thier crossing shirts to show the personal connection with our presentation and discussed the significance of each of their organizationsrsquo They also wanted to show Greek Unity
Deanna M Peralta LCSW (Alpha Fall 1998) is offering psycotheraphy services She specializes in working with teenagers and young adults on a variety of difficulties
httpmtherapistspsychologytodaycomrmsprof_detailphpname=Deanna_M_Peralta_LCSW_Ossining_New+York_109183
Desiree Henry (Theta Fall 2000) recently started a business offering photo booth rental services design services and consulting services for all types of events including fundraisers
Find out more at wwwSweetArtsNYCcom or sweetartsnycgmailcom
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
22 El Girasol Winter 2014
El Girasol What is the Vixen workout and who would enjoy this
Josie Bee The Vixen Workout is not your run-of-the-mil l dance class You can find our Vixen Army (clients) booty-bouncing to the l ikes of Rick Ross Beyonceacute Iggy and Pitbull just to name a few The Vixen Workout is an all-womenrsquos intense hip-hop cardio fitness class Each Vixen Workout creates a fun club atmosphere where women can let loose forget responsibil it ies and transform into their ldquoalter-egordquo
EG On average how many calories are burned per classJB You can expect to burn anywhere from 600 to upwards of 1000 calories per class The more you come the more you burn
EG How do women dress for class JB You wil l f ind our class veterans donned in their favorite vixen tank leggings sneaker wedges and a
We are always looking for new ways to get healthy get f it and better ourselves Over the last couple of years a new work out has come out that has women feeling great fabulous and getting fit This workout is called the Vixen Workout
Our ver y own soror Josmer y ldquoJosie Beerdquo Brito (Chartering Member of Manhattan Metro Colony at City College Fall 2008) is an Vixen instructor in New York City teaching class four times a week The Vixen workout started in 2012 when Janet Jones was looking for a fun way to have fun feel sexy and fabulous with her gir l f r iends when dancing at the clubs was no longer a fun way to let loose for the new mothers wives and professional women they had become What started in a small studio in Miami Florida has grown to 4 cities and over 40 classes a week
Hear from Josie Bee about the Vixen Workout
Get your ldquoTwerkldquo On
pop of l ipstick Though not mandator y the sneaker wedges increase the intensity of the workout by about 20 Most importantly we want you feeling sexy comfortable and ready to dance for through your 60 minute sweat session
EG What is the motto Your mantraJB The Vixen Workout motto is Stay Hungr y Live Fierce Stay hungr y tells us never to settle in l i fe Always reach for that next level because there is nothing you cannot attain Live fierce reminds us to hone our powers as women Wake up ever y morning as the best versions of ourself and ready to take on the day EG How much are the classes What are the optionsJB A single one hour class costs $18 You can also take advantage of our class packages and unlimited monthly memberships at reduced rates
By Desiree Henry Theta Fall 2000
NYC Vixen instructors Josie B Meliza Fernandez and Julie Kaufman
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 23
EG How long have you been a Vixen instructor What are your thoughts on itJB I rsquove been a part of the Vixen Workout staff since its expansion to New York City in July of 2012 I would have to say that therersquos nothing else quite l ike it on the market Sure you can break a sweat just about anywhere but there is a special bond that develops behind these studio doors A room of 45+ women from all walks of l i fe who come to chip away at their stress and insecurit ies all the while boosting their confidence and self-esteem You canrsquot quite put a price tag on that
Check out our soror Josmary Brito talking about Vixenhttpswwwyoutubecomwatchv=HsEASwev_ZE
Stay tuned to the latest happenings at Vixen Workout by checking out our website and following our social media accounts Also check out the hashtags below to follow our army of women their testimonies and weight loss journeys
Follow the Vixen Army on Social MediawwwVixenWorkoutcomvixenworkout vixenworkoutnycvixenarmy vixenarmynyc
You can milkshake booty-pop and lsquosur fbordt rsquo with Josie B each and ever Monday Tuesday Thursday and Saturday in NYC See times amp locations below Full schedule on wwwVixenWorkoutcom Not in the area Check us out in Miami Chicago and LA too
Monday bull 630PM bull HarlemHeights
Tuesday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Thursday bull 800PM bull Midtown
Saturday bull 1130AM bull HarlemHeights
Some sorors have taken the Vixen Workout classes and here is what they have to say
ldquo I started Vixen in Januar y of 2014 I love to dance and
wanted to work out It was the best way to do both I hadnrsquot had a cardio workout l ike that in years I have burned about
1000 in one class I have come to love it and now tr y to
consistently get two workout classes in a week I have lost weight and am feeling great I would defitnetly recommend it for anyone tr ying to find a fun workout Just an hour of feeling l ike your a back up dancer for Beyonce Feeling empowered
and supported by some women and instructorsrdquo
Linda Merenguell i Kappa Fall 1999
ldquoFor me the class gives me the motivation to get moving I
feel l ike I rsquom going out dancing once or twince a week with my gir l f r iends and forgetting about
ever ything else for an hour I love the feeling I get both physically and mentally The instructors are
so motivating and seeing the women around you having fun transforming their bodies and
taking time our for themselves is truly inspiring
Deisree Henr y Theta Fall 2000
Vixen Army encourages women
to ldquoStay Hungry Live Fiercerdquo and to remind themselves ever yday
Yes Ildquom SexyYes Ildquom FierceYes I Got This
Yessssss
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
24 El Girasol Winter 2014
Everyday we are faced with choices that either help or hurt our future but most choices are simple oneswhere to get your next meal or what to where to work or school where to take a vacation Once in a while you are faced with choices that alter the direction of your life Those choices can be exciting fun scary anxiety-provokingyou name it So what do you do you What do you do when you are faced with such choices
You give yourself a moment to breathe you weigh the pros and cons and then listen to your gut Of course this is easier said than done Many of lifes chocies are not black amp white The last several months have been life changing for me in a good way Irsquove had to take some riskes make some changes and adjust to a new life that I believe will bring the happiness in my carrer that I desire During this process I kept reminding myself one thingthat I already knew what one choice looked likethe choice of remaining the same of staying in the same place
I had reached a point in my career where I had to decide whether to stay and keep faith that things would improve or if I should just take a step in another directon I chose the latter I left a job I had for nine years because I just didnt see the light at the end of the tunnel and honestly I saw for too long what would happen if things just stayed the same For once in my career I felt that I had to make myself happy even if it meant that I would have to sacrafice a little more and work a little harder I had already proven to myself that I was able and willing to do it for someone else it was about time I put that energy and effort towards myself
Irsquoll admit I was scared but I wanted to do something new something differentso I took a voluntary leave and started a small business I am beyond happy with my decision for one reasonI am in complete control of my career and my destiny Irsquom challening myself every day to do or learn something new Irsquom showing my son how to start and run a business and that moms can provide and be there for their families in more than one way I was blessed with an opportunity to leave and have the support of my wonderful fiance Its not everyday that we can just quit our jobs and do something else but what we can do is keep our eyes and ears open for opportunities They usually come when you least expect it People around me where surprised at my decision but supportive and it helped me realize that so long as I was confident and passionate I could acomplish anything I set my mind to I know the road ahead wont be an easy one but Irsquom willing to try and see where this path takes me Life is about taking chances and making the most of our talents and time Irsquom open to seeing where this opportunity takes me and what lessons I have to learn now
I started a small business where I sell photo booth rental services and design services wwwSweetArtsNYCcomCheck out my bloghttpsweinspireuswordpresscom Soleil
If you do what yoursquove always done yoursquoll get what yoursquove always gotten
Tony Robbins
I always did something I was a little not ready to do I think thatrsquos how you
grow When therersquos that moment of lsquoWow Irsquom not really sure I can do thisrsquo and you push through those moments thatrsquos when you have a breakthrough
Marissa Mayer
You canrsquot outwit fate by standing on the sidelines placing little sidebets about
the outcome of life Either you wade in and risk everything you have to play the game or you donrsquot play at all And if you
donrsquot play you canrsquot win Judith McNaught
Do one thing every day that scares you Eleanor Roosevelt
There is only one way to avoid criticism do nothing say nothing and be
nothing Aristotle
I refuse to accept other peoplersquos ideas of happiness for me As if therersquos a lsquoone
size fits allrsquo standard for happiness Kanye West
Everything yoursquove ever wanted is on the other side of fear
George Addair
You have the same amount of hours in the day as Beyonce
Unkown
Life open up opportunities to you and you either take them or you stay afraid
of taking themJim Carrey
Desiree Henry Almazi
Sunshine Corner
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 25
V-DayA Global Movement to End Violence against Women and GirlswwwVDayorg
Hotline Phone NumbersDomestic Violence Hotline800-621-HOPE (4673)
Crime Victims Hotline866-689-HELP (4357)
Rape amp Sexual Assault Hotline212-227-3000
US National Domestic Violence Hotline 1-800-799-SAFE (7233) TTY 1-800-787-3224wwwnnedvorg
Washington DC
Rape Abuse amp Incest National NetworkThe Rape Abuse amp Incest National Network (RAINN) is the nationrsquos largest anti-sexual assault organization Among its programs RAINN created and operates the National Sexual Assault Hotline at 1800656HOPE and the National Sexual Assault Online Hotline at rainnorg This nationwide partnership of more than 1100 local rape crisis centers provides victims of sexual assault with free confidential services 24 hours per day 7 days per week These hotlines have helped over 13 million people since RAINNrsquos founding in 1994
1-800-656-HOPEWashington DCwwwdccadvorgwwwhouseofruthorg
Bostonwwwc2homeorgwwwfeministorgwwwmahomlessorg
Los Angeleswwwagapefdnadvorghttpdvcouncillacountygov
Los Angeles County Hotline(24 HOUR)
(800) 978-3600
New York City
New York Cityrsquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 621ndashHOPE (4673)
Sanctuary for Families(212) 349ndash6009bull Press 0 for general information and for
information about shelterbull Press 1 for Clinical Programbull Press 2 for Legal Centerbull Press 3 for Childrenrsquos Programbull Press 8 if office is closed and on
weekends - Sanctuary is open from 9 am - 6 pm on Monday - Thursday and 9 am - 5 pm on Fridays
bull Press 9 for Spanish
MADRE121 West 27th Street 301
New York NY 10001 USA
(212) 627-0444Fax (212) 675-3704Volunteersvolunteersmadreorg
Safe Horizonwwwsafehorizonorg
In New York StateNew York Statersquos 24-hour Domestic Violence Hotline(800) 942-6906 (English)(800) 942-6908 (Spanish)
NY State Resourceshttpnyscadvorgdirectoryhtm
Additional Help in your areawwwthehotlineorg
Florida
Florida Coalition Against Domestic ViolencewwwfcadvorgcentersFlorida Domestic Violence Hotline at 1-800-500-1119
Harbor House of Central FloridaIf you or someone you love is going through domestic abuse PLEASE CALL US at407-886-2856Administration OfficePO Box 680748Orlando FL 32868adminharborhouseflcom
GET HELP 24-Hour Crisis Hotline (407) 886-2856 (TTD) 1 (800) 500-1119 (FL)407-886-2244 (main office)Safehouse of Seminole
24-Hour Crisis Hotline(407)-330-3933 (TTYTDD) (800) 500-1119 toll free
Chicago1-877-To-END-DVDomestic Violence Agencies by City wwwdhsstateilus
Important Anti-Violence ResourcesNational Hotlines and Organizations
If you know of any resources in your local city please share it with the membership
Email ElGirasolOmegaPhiBetaorg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
26 El Girasol Winter 2014
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
Winter 2014El Girasol 27
Beta ldquoYellowrdquo PagesCreative and Beauty SrvS
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
Lydia Jimenez Stampinrsquo with Lydiawwwstampinwithlydiablogspotcom
Maria JaramilloBirth Doulanediva89gmailcom
Elbanery LoraDianarsquos Cleaning Servicesdiana_cleaningserviceshotmailcom(347) 564-6491
Lupe Flores Sangria Anytime sangriaanytimegmailcom(917) 457-8650
Selina HernandezMy Sisterrsquos Creationswwwmysisterscreationscommysisterscreationsyahoocom(917) 348-8556
Food ServiCeS
HealtH Home ServiCeS
ClotHing
Claudia M Echeverri MileticJason amp Juliana LLChttpwwwjasonandjulianacom
Doris Duran Corporan MA MSEd Mental Health CounselorHelp to Adjust Counseling amp Anger Management(516) 445-0143
Deanna Peralta LCSWPsychotherapistDeannaMPeraltagmailcom(646) 546-9405
ProFeSSional ServiCeS
Yvette Lopez-ColganBirth Doulaylopez333hotmailcom (917) 716 - 3516
MAKING SWEET MEMORIES ONE FLASH AT A TIMEServing Anywhere in the TRI-State Area
Your Event Your Style Your Booth
RENTALS INCLUDE
Unlimited printsPrints in 10 secs
Custom logoOnline gallery
FunThemed propsRedcarpet
Memory bookCustom backdrops
4X6 Printsand more
CUSTOMIZED PACKAGES AVAILABLE
Follow Us SweetArtsNYCwwwSweetArtsNYCcom
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
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Winter 2014El Girasol 27
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28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
28 El Girasol Winter 2014
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg
Winter 2014El Girasol 29
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
Collective at University of Maryland Baltimore CountyEst 2003
Collective at Rhode Island CollegeEst 2003
Collective at Charleston Southern UniversityEst 2008
Collective at St Thomas AquinasEst 2010
Collective at Ramapo CollegeEst 2010
Collective at Pace UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Columbia UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Purdue UniversityEst 2011
Collective at Yale UniversityEst 2014
Collective at University of North Carolina at CharlotteEst 2014
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 CollectiveEst 2011
Chicago Alumnae CollectiveEst 2012
Alpha Alpha ChapterHonorary Sisters
Omega ChapterEternal Sisters
Omega Phi Beta SOrOrity incchaPterS and cOllectiveS
COLLECTIVES
Alumnae Chapters
eSt 1989 wwwOmegaPhiBetaOrg