I trust you all had a wonderfully refreshing summer recess Sorors! Fresh off the Leadership Seminar trail and rejuvenated from the days I took off for myself and my family to recharge, I can report that this Basileus is Present and Ready to Soar!
As we reconvene for the final months of the year, let's endeavor to finish 2023 stronger than ever. We have our OXO Leadership Retreat coming up on September 16th Prepare for a great time of learning and reflection as it is surefire to empower us to Soar to Greater Heights TOGETHER!
I want to encourage all eligible Sorors to prayerfully consider Soaring in a leadership role as we have several positions that will be on the upcoming ballot. Special thanks to our Nominating Committee led by Soror Tuanda Ward-Holmes for working diligently through the Summer. Additional "thanks" to Madam AntiBasileus, Soror Charo Earle, and Technology Chairman, Soror Nathifa Riiley who have worked on multiple projects throughout the summer months.
October will be a spectacular month as we have our 2023 Michigan Cluster to look forward to on October 21st and we will host our 6th Annual Pearls & Potions Masquerade Ball! Get your masks and attire ready, find 2+ guests, and let's sell this event out to support our Program Initiatives.
Welcome back Sorors, let's put our hands to the plow and get back to work as we continue to make a difference in the County of Macomb and beyond!
Blessings, Soror Keia
The 2023 Leadership S ment and development. Our Soror nal in their transparency and delive -equipped leaders.
While there was so muc Charletta Wilson Jacks’ workshop: D
Soror Charletta Wilson Effective Communications. She e with the understanding that even in the face of intense fellowship the talk needs to take place because we must realize that “The conversation is for me, NOT for them.” She indicated that the more difficult the conversation, the less likely it will be handled well. But noted that because opinions vary, we must work to meet people right where they are.
Her takeaways for successful navigation of difficult conversations were:
The majority rules, but the minority must be heard.
Don’t get hooked on emotion. Make your messages safe.
Do not ever have a conversation based on hearsay.
Although some conversations can be extremely difficult to have, we must poise ourselves with compassion and patience to both hear our sisters out and to be heard by them as well.
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ListingofCommittees&Chairmen-6
Chaplain'sCorner-7
Standards-8
Protocol-9
EmpowerOurFamilies-10
AdvocateforSocialJustice-11
UpliftOurLocalCommunity-12
ScholarshipUpdate-13
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The Omega Xi Omega Chapter was chartered and exists as the result of clear collective vision and strong leadership. As women of character, we seek to embody and enact the highest ethical standards within our chapter while fostering a culture of uncompromising unity both within our chapter - as evidenced by the strong bonds of sisterhood among our members - and within the community as demonstrated by exemplary programmatic service and our strong partnerships with local community leaders and service organizations.
About the cover
SororKeiaPerry-Farr
Basileus
SororCharoEarle
Anti-Basileus
SororMichelleWilliams-Ward
Grammateus
SororCathyCarr
Anti-Grammateus
SororTamariaWhite
Epistoleus
SororLindaEwing
Tamiouchos
SororKimberleyWill
PecuniousGrammateus
SororTenekaLiddell
Hodegos
SororKeaNorrell-Aitch
Philacter
SororStephanieEdwards
Parliamentarian
SororBriannaHarris
IvyLeafReporter
SororCarlaPostell
Historian
SororJuanaeStephen
Chaplain
SororMelanieHarris-Farmer
Member-at-Large
SororPamelaTinsley
FormerBasileus
Bylaws:SororStephanieEdwards
Finance:SororLindaEwing
Program:SororCharoEarle
Standards:SororTuandaWard-Holmes
Membership:SororCarlaPostell
Archives:SororCarlaPostell
Technology:SororNathifaRiley
LeadershipDevelopment:SororSandraBoykins
Courtesy:SororTenekaLiddell
Protocol:SororGloriaWare
Fundraising:SororCydGrace
Publicity:SororBriannaHarris
EAF:SororShawndalynn"Nikki"Roberson
RiskManagement:SororConsueloMartinez
Awards:SororBriannaHarris
StrengthenOurSISTERHOOD:SororDwanMcGrady(SisterlyRelations)
EmpowerOurFAMILIES:SororShemyaDoster
BuildOurECONOMICWEALTH:SororHelenaJones
EnhanceOurENVIRONMENT:SororHeatherLloyd
AdvocateforSOCIALJUSTICE:SororEdnaClark(Connections)
UpliftOurLOCALCOMMUNITY:SororTomaraNolen
Rituals:SororPamelaTinsley
ScholarshipCommittee:SororVestaRumphy
InternalAudit:SororTuandaWard-Holmes
SororArgentinaAbney
SororMichellaKing
SororMichelleWilliams-Ward
Please join me on the 19th of each month for the Sisters Refueling Our Faith Prayer Call from 7:007:08 pm via Zoom -
https://us02web.zoom.us/j/82514228338?
pwd=QkVGK1JTK0NnWVRSblB1Y2x5am1xdz09
Sorors I pray that you all are having a wonderful time with family and friends during our break. As we prepare to come back together, I just want us all to take a moment and think about what we are grateful for. For some of us this may take longer because there are so many things, we are grateful for.
We tend to take things for granted, like when we wake up in the morning. We should think about how many people went to sleep last night and did not wake up this morning. How about having a roof over our heads and food to eat? Have you noticed how the homeless population is growing around us?
As we prepare to come back together and do the work of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., let’s continue to give thanks for what God has done, what He is doing right now, and what He will do in the future. Let’s not forget where our blessings come from and let us not take them for granted!
Psalms 9:1 ~ I will give thanks to the Lord with my whole heart; I will recount all of your wonderful deeds.
Welcome back from Summer Break, Sorors! The Standards Committee is excited and grateful for your diligence in completing the program surveys thus far this year. We have had a consistently high response rate of more than 90%. Thank you, Sorors, for your commitment to completing the surveys in a timely manner and providing feedback to ensure that our Omega Xi Omega is delivering the best programs and services. In addition to the Program Surveys, the Standards Committee will be sending forms and checklists this Fall that are required in order for us to be compliant with Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated®’s Standard Procedures and requirements. Let’s continue to ensure OXO's operational excellence by completing the following:
●Chapter Self–Assessment Form: Chapters are responsible for conducting an annual self-assessment. Each chapter member must complete a copy of the form and submit it to the Standards Chairman. The data from the self-assessment will be used to complete the annual Standards End of the Year Report.
●Officer Transition Checklists: We will soon be electing new officers. As new officers begin their terms in office, it is the responsibility of the outgoing officers to transition any and all documents, material, and instruments that were obtained by virtue of their position as chapter officers to the incoming officer. It is also the responsibility of the outgoing officers to prepare all End-ofYear Reports. The outgoing officers must also prepare and complete the Transition Checklist in conjunction with the incoming officer. Effective Chapter Operations is contingent upon providing a seamless transition from outgoing officers and completing all end-of-the-year reports on time.
We look forward to continuing the momentum with our surveys and soaring in operational excellence!
References: Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated® Standards Resource Guide; Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Incorporated® Manual of Standard Procedure; Omega Xi Omega Bylaws and Standing Rules
The following guidelines may be used to distinguish between business and business casual attire for
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. events.
Business Attire: Closed Toe Shoes Preferred, Sandals are acceptable.
Hosiery (optional)
Short or Long Sleeves
Skirt/Dress at Knee Length
Pants Suits
An example of appropriate business attire for chapter meetings:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Official Blazers, Dress Skirt /Pants Suits/Skirts/Dresses at Knee Length.
Business Casual Attire:
Open-toe shoes or Sandals
No Hosiery
Sleeveless
Skirt at Knee Length
Khakis/Polo shirts, Trousers/Shirts/Skirts
Blouses/Slacks/Sweaters
An example of appropriate business casual attire:
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. long-sleeved shirts, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. Sweaters, Blouses, Slacks, or pants.
NOTE: The following items are not business attire: Short Dresses or Skirts, Sleeveless dresses, leather pants and dresses, flip flops, Crocs, gym shoes, and jeans are not permitted as business attire or chapter meeting attire.
As we prepare to return to work, return the children to school, and return to our many extracurricular activities let's keep self-care in mind.
According to the National Institute of Mental Health, self-care means taking the time to do things that help you live well and improve both your physical health and mental health. When it comes to your mental health, self-care can help you manage stress, lower your risk of illness, and increase your energy. Even small acts of selfcare in your daily life can have a big impact.
Get regular exercise. Just 30 minutes of walking every day can help boost your mood and improve your health. Small amounts of exercise add up, so don’t be discouraged if you can’t do 30 minutes at one time.
Eat healthy, regular meals, and stay hydrated. A balanced diet and plenty of water can improve your energy and focus throughout the day. Also, limit caffeinated beverages such as soft drinks or coffee. Make sleep a priority. Stick to a schedule, and make sure you’re getting enough sleep. Blue light from devices and screens can make it harder to fall asleep, so reduce blue light exposure from your phone or computer before bedtime. Try a relaxing activity. Explore relaxation or wellness programs or apps, which may incorporate meditation, muscle relaxation, or breathing exercises. Schedule regular times for these and other healthy activities you enjoy such as journaling. Set goals and priorities. Decide what must get done now and what can wait. Learn to say “no” to new tasks if you start to feel like you’re taking on too much. Try to be mindful of what you have accomplished at the end of the day, not what you have been unable to do.
Practice gratitude. Remind yourself daily of the things you are grateful for. Be specific. Write them down at night, or replay them in your mind. Focus on positivity. Identify and challenge your negative and unhelpful thoughts. Stay connected. Reach out to your friends or family members who can provide emotional support and practical help.
Self-care looks different for everyone, and it is important to find what you need and enjoy. It may take trial and error to discover what works best for you. In addition, although self-care is not a cure for mental illnesses, understanding what causes or triggers your mild symptoms and what coping techniques work for you can help manage your mental health.
Join the Uplift Our Local Community Committee as we support Turning Point Macomb’s Signature Event
The 16th Annual Tara’s 5K Run and Walk
Saturday, September 23, 2023
9:00 am – 1:00 pm
Freedom Hill County Park
14900 Metropolitan Parkway, Sterling Heights, MI 48312
About Tara: Turning Point and Tara’s sister formed a partnership to honor her memory after Tara was tragically murdered in Macomb County by her husband in 2007. Sharing Tara’s life story through this partnership increases awareness about the prevalence and dangers of domestic violence and helps prevent other families from experiencing a similar tragedy.
$35 Registration September 1 – September 20 (plus $2.80 SignUp Fee) $40.00 Registration at the Event.
Click Here to Register: Event Day Information
9:00 am: Registration
10:00 am: Opening Comments
10:30 am: 5K Begins
**Omega Xi Omega members will meet under the pavilion at 9:45 am for a group photo before the program and walk begin.**
Riley Davidson: Chippewa Valley High School - Morgan State University
Gavin Rodzik: New Haven High School - Macomb Community College
Zion Williams: Parkway Christian Schools - Michigan State University
Kojak Valentine: International Academy of Macomb - Bowling Green State University
Soror Cynthia Miree-Coppin received a Resolution for her service to Jack and Jill of America. Soror Cynthia served faithfully as the Regional Secretary for the Mid-Western Region. She is pictured here with the Regional Director and Regional Treasurer.
CONGRATS Soror Cynthia on a job well done!
Soror Michelle Williams-Ward and Soror Edna Clark were part of an exhibit about Black Women in Macomb County called "From Where I Sit". They provided chairs to add to the exhibit which was held on August 26, 2023, at the Anton Art Center. Way to Go Sorors!
Congrats to Soror Teneka Liddell as she defends her dissertation proposal: The Relationship between Stress and Weight in African American Women Veterans!
JULY 6 SOROR
JULY 4
JULY 17
SOROR STEPHANIE EDWARDS
SEPT EMBER 8
SOROR CYD GRACE
SEPTEMBER 10
SOROR NATHIFA RILEY
SEPTEMBER 14
SOROR CARLA POSTELL
SEPTEMBER 20
SOROR PAMELA TINSLEY
SEPTEMBER 21
SEPTEMBER 25
SOROR BRIANNA HARRIS
SEPT 28
SOROR CLEO LLOYD
LAMBDA CHI OMEGA
ALPHA THETA
MAILING ADDRESS:
Omega Xi Omega Chapter
P.O. Box 480435 New Haven, MI 48048
CONTACT US, WE ARE HERE TO SERVE YOU
Basileus: basileus@aka-oxo.com
Anti-Basileus: akaoxoantibasileus@gmail.com
Grammateus: akaoxogrammateus@gmail.com
Anti-Grammateus: akaoxoantigrammateus@gmail.com
Epistoleus: akaoxoepistoleus@gmail.com
Tamiouchos: akaoxotamiouchos@gmail.com
Pecunious Grammateus: akaoxopg@gmail.com
Hodegos: akaoxohodegos@gmail.com
Philacter: oxophilacter@gmail.com
Parliamentarian: akaoxoparli@gmail.com
Ivyleaf Reporter: akaoxoivy21@gmail.com
Historian: akaoxohistorian@gmail.com
Chaplain: akaoxochaplain@gmail.com
Member-At-Large: akaoxomemberal@gmail.com
Protocol: akaoxoprotocol1@gmail.com
Membership: akaoxomembers@gmail.com
OXO NPHC Representatives: oxoakanphcrep@gmail.com
SEPTEMBER 3: DEADLINE TO REGISTER FOR OXO'S LEADERSHIP RETREAT
SEPTEMBER 10, 6:30 PM: EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING
SEPTEMBER 16, 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM: OXO'S LEADERSHIP RETREAT
SEPTEMBER 17, 2:30 PM: CHAPTER MEETING
SEPTEMBER 23, 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM: 16TH ANNUAL TARA’S 5K RUN AND WALK
SEPTEMBER 30, 11:00 AM - 12:00 PM: KAPPACCINO KONVERSATIONS w/KEIA
SEPTEMBER 30, 1:00-3:00 PM: OXO HOMECOMING
If you would like to join the newsletter team, please contact Soror Tamaria White at: akaoxoepistoleus@gmail.com
Submissions to The Promise are due on the 20th day of each month. Please contact Soror Tamaria White if you have any questions or feedback.