~Eta Sigma Delta's Sapphire Monologues - A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant, & A Prayer~

On February 23, 2017 at 6 pm slt, Eta Sigma Delta shocked the SL world with yet again their rendition of the inspired play by Playwright Eva Ensler's "The Vagina Monologues". The Sapphire Monologues was created in order to shed some light on domestic violence against women. It was done in a exciting, emotional and fun way, while held in deep in the Bayou of New Orleans.

Each performer brought such a amazing talent to their performance. Some made you want to cry, some made you emotional, some made you laugh, some made you mad and some just made you HOT. The audience took in a sense of what each female was bringing to the table, rather it was a monologue or a poem. Everyone was all eyes on the stage as the performer spoke every word.

********************

KariNoelle Baptiste, The Host for the night - Introduction to “A Memory, A Monologue, A Rant & A Prayer” by Eve Ensler

KariNoelle Baptiste, Eta Sigma Delta’s Secretary, head of philanthropy & host for the night educated the audience that although the Sapphires Monologue’s were inspired by "The Vagina Monologues,”  Eta Sigma Delta Sorority is fully committed to ONE BILLION RISING as part of their philanthropies raising awareness and spreading the word about Domestic Violence against women. Her introduction was riveting and phenomenal, her words, her actions, her voice, all came off strong, and awesome!

******************

Mookie Lazarno – Lyrical Café’s Poetess (Original poetry)

Mookie's performance along with appearance was OUTSTANDING! The emotion she put into giving her view on a abusive relationship, feeling bonded and not free had the audience all in and just breathless as they watched her speak and felt the pain she was feeling even through her performance. Just fabulous job!


                                                             ******************

SnowAngel Monroe performing "The Perfect Marriage by Edward Albee"

SnowAngel, Eta Sigma Delta's Founder's performance had you laughing, in awe and with the wow factor as she explained how a "perfect marriage" turned into a pleasure filled abusive one. The way she executed this skit and gave life to what it was depicting was awesome!

****************

Stevie Basevi - “Ego Tripping" by Nikki Giovanni

Stevie, Eta Sigma Delta's Princess' performance was amazing, she gave the visual along with the way her words flowed, and the delivery of it all was fantastic. 

****************

Micvonjo Kenyon – “Groceries” by Abiola Abrams

Micvonjo, Eta Sigma Delta's Princess' performance was also amazing. It truly gave the audience something to think about especially women when it came to bringing your groceries in the house. This monologue depicted a woman that got way more groceries than she could carry and left some outside of the house to take the other one inside. This monologue showed the abuse of a woman sexually and abusively. The way this was executed was great!

****************

Kamille Kamala – Lyrical Café’s Owner (Poetry)

Kamille's performance gave you the visual as well as a awesome spoken word depicting of being caged and then free. She had the audience engulfed into her performance and for great reason. Her performance was amazing!

****************

Kilolo Jenkins – “Maurice” by Kathy Najimy

Kilolo, Eta Sigma Delta's Princess' performance was so exciting and refreshing! She had you tuned into what she was saying with the expressions and the acting she put forth in it. It was a perfect monologue about a teenage unpopular girl with a great personality that is into boys and was violated by one of the cool boys at school during a dance. She perfected this performance!

****************

SugaBaby Brite – “Stop The Violence Against Woman” by Alice Walker

When I say Sugababy, Eta Sigma Delta's Duchess' performance had every woman in the place ready to stop the violence against woman, that would be a understatement. She gave a very emotional rendition of this, with the yelling and strong sound in her voice. She did a awesome job bringing this forward!

****************

Stevie Basevi – “In Memory of Imette” by Periel Aschenbrand

Stevie once again gave a amazing performance, from her props to her delivery. If you know Stevie, to see her come out like this in this performance was like WOW. It made you feel as though you were there with her during this monologue. It had you all in and she did awesome!

                                                               ****************

SnowAngel Monroe – Woman Works by Maya Angelou

Again, SnowAngel did a awesome job with reciting this great poem by Maya Angelou. She made you feel the poem and gave a wonderful performance.

                                                             ****************

Destiny C. Basset – “Fur is Back” by Eve Ensler

Now for my performance and keep in mind I am not reviewing my own performance but relaying what was said directly to me. Destiny, Eta Sigma Delta's Empress performance of a non excited party goer with absolutely no interest in partying but went to a party with a friend and basically became the lifeless of the party if you get me. She was uninterested in their fancy clothes and boring conversation that had nothing to do with what was going on in the world today. She gave a awesome performance of a woman giving some party goers history on the abuse going on around the world happening to women. Accompanied by her 2 party goers in their fancy furs was KariNoelle and Kilolo, standing pretty excited about how fur is back. She yelled, cussed screamed and ranted until it got her thrown out of the party. Awesome job to all of these ladies!

                                                             ****************

LP Kidd – The Nile Experience

The big finish was one word, EPIC! LP Kidd - The Nile Experience gave the audience some entertaining and soothing dances that was perfect end to a perfectly emotional night.

In closing, remember that domestic violence happens everyday. Take a closer look at the One Billion Rising website. One Billion Rising is the biggest worldwide action to end violence against women in human history. Keep the statistic that "1 in 3 women on the planet will be beaten or raped during their lifetime" as cited by One Billion Rising website. Help us continue to raise awareness... Stay Aware! Help especially if you see it happening.

Signing off
Dr. Destiny Basset aka Big Sister On Point

~Sisterhood/Brotherhood Week~

     

This week is sisterhood/brotherhood week and Eta Sigma Delta thought it would be a great idea to include this week in one of our blogs, after all in Greek life we are all sisters and brothers no matter what sorority or fraternity you are affiliated with. Sisterhood and Brotherhood is about unity, coming together for various reasons but mostly to do great to the community.

But really what is sisterhood? Well by definition sisterhood means unity and friendship among women. A deep bond based on eternal love and respect. However, if you ask different women, they will likely have different answers.

For me sisterhood means a long-lasting unbreakable bond among women. The bond that ties you to that person in different ways then others. In a sorority that bond will be special with each one of your sorority sisters because each sister is unique in her own way therefore so should our bond be. Sisterhood is not something that is formed overnight, no, that bond happens over time and effort on all parts. This is what makes being a Sorority different, special and a enjoyable experience.  

Sorority membership is for a lifetime, so you know that your sorority sisters will stand by you way for a lifetime. A sorority woman says “My sisters encourage me to be a leader, and they support me in all of my endeavors. My sisters will bum around with me, go to random events with me or take me out for a special occasion. My sisters will share my joys and sorrows, and they will stand with me on my wedding day.”

This is a bond, a unity, a friendship, a family, a respect and a mutual eternal love.

Sisterhood — it’s the reason for sorority. There are many benefits to sorority membership, but few are greater than the unconditional and lifetime bonds of friendship that we call sisterhood. 

And what is really brotherhood? By definition a brotherhood is a relationship between brothers, friends, a feeling of kinship with closeness to a group of people or all people. We all know it runs way deeper than that. As the picture above states, don't call me a brother unless you know it's meaning. As with a sisterhood, it is not easy to explain to a person, it is something they have to experience for themselves.

Brotherhood is the bonding of men of various backgrounds, beliefs, places, and eras around a singular set of life-directing commitments.

A brotherhood is weak or strong based on the degree to which the commitments are made and maintained.

A brother is a good brother if he follows the commitments and helps others follow them as well.

Brotherhood has to be maintained. Constantly. For the rest of your life. If you choose to stop adhering to the commitments you made, then you fall out of the brotherhood. You stop being a brother, even if you're wearing the letters or your name still appears in the directory.

If a fraternity values togetherness and hanging out, then it is really valuing friendship. This is completely fine. Friendship is an attractive asset for a fraternity. Lot's of places can claim friendship. Brotherhood is not friendship, although it can create friendship. Brotherhood is a sacred privilege. It's not easy to maintain.

Why is brotherhood difficult to define? Because done right, it is extraordinary. There is a reason so many brothers stand up at each others' weddings. And eventually eulogize each other. Those moments are reserved for family, or those who might as well be. For those with whom we’ve forged a connection that’s deeper than just beers on Saturday nights, or Spring Break trips together. A connection born on the day we spoke the oaths that made us fraternity men together. (Source)

Happy Sisterhood/Brotherhood Week to all my fellow Greeks!

Signing out

Dr. Destiny Basset aka Big Sister On Point

~National Love your pet day~

Well I am not sure about anyone else, but every day is love your pet day to me! Same as we do any loved one. But today is set aside for our beloved pets, no matter what they may be.  This holiday is a day set aside to give extra attention to and pamper your pets.  This is a good day to focus on the special relationship that you have with your pets.

Almost all households in the U.S have pets or at least one pet. I have two cats in my home. In my second life, however I have many pets. I have a few cats, as well as dogs. Pets are not limited to the canine and feline categories.  There are quite a few who prefer the companionship of birds, reptiles, fish or rats.  

Whoever your pet companion is, we are sure you will enjoy spending a little extra time with them on National Love Your Pet Day and reap the benefits, as well such as stress relief and lower blood pressure.Bring your pet a special treat, take an extra long walk or give them more attention on National Love Your Pet Day.  Whatever you decide to do, spoil and appreciate your pets!  

It's a known fact that people that do own pets have lower blood pressure and stress than people who don't. Pets do accompany things in life that human beings can't; they're the best at keeping secrets and always there as company, even in complete silence.

If you don't have a pet yet, try think of adopting one from a shelter. If you still live with parents, discuss if it's suitable for the house. Pets can be a huge responsibility in life, but it's well worth it in the end.

Here are some ways you can honor your pets today, or any day: 

Take your dog out for a walk. It allows you and them to get plenty of exercise and a nice way to show appreciation to them.

Give them a special treat. Choose something from a pet store, or make it personal and create it yourself.

Make them new toys. Got any toilet paper or paper towel cardboard rolls? Perfect for a mouse. Have fun with a cat with bells and string.

Give them a bath filled with love. No animal (except for cats) hates baths. Make them feel clean and comfortable with this method.

Let a rodent out of its cage for a longer time. (Eww not my pet of choice, but they need love to lol) When a mouse or hamster is kept in a small place for a period of time, like humans, they want and need to explore the environment and surroundings.

Give it extra attention. You don't need to spend literally every minute of your day, but just to acknowledge that someone loves them.

Let your pet sleep alongside you. Whether it's your bed or on the floor, your pet will appreciate the company.

International Flirting Week- { February is the Month of Love }

International Flirting Week: Top Tips for Successful Flirting.

💋Flirting is the step in any relationship and it always helps to know how to do it successfully! Zoosk have teamed up with Jean Smith and given us some great tips to get you on the flirting highway.

💘  1) Make a good first impression

Studies have shown it takes only a few seconds to make a first impression.  Upon first meeting us, people pick up clues about us both consciously and subconsciously. They only know what we tell them, so project yourself in the way you’d like to be perceived. Follow these tips and techniques to make sure yours is a good one!

💘 2) Be confident
People are attracted to confidence. The good news is that even if you are not feeling confident on the inside, you can always fake it on the outside the outside by standing tall with your head held high. Soon, these physiological indicators for confidence might just make you believe it yourself.

💘 3) Like yourself
If, as the most important person in your world, you don’t like yourself, how can you expect anyone else to?

💘 4) Smile
Smiles are easy to give and powerful to receive. Even when they are fake, the action of smiling produces oxytocin in the brain, promoting feelings of happiness.  Besides, everyone looks more approachable, and like someone we would like to be around, when they smile.

💘 5) Eye Contact
Eye contact is the most powerful flirting tool. In my research, it was the number one sign that made people understand when someone was flirting. The glances were more frequent, more intense, and lasted for longer. Women take note: it takes the average guy three looks before he begins to understand your interest.

💘 6) Touch
When used appropriately, touch can be very effective in flirting. As a general rule, shoulders and higher up on the arm are considered ‘safe’ areas, as we move down the arm towards the hand, touch becomes more intimate. A light tap on the hand might be the perfect flirting tool for you to try.

💘 7) Don’t be so quick to judge potential partners
Yes, looks are important, but how often have you started speaking with someone you weren’t initially attracted to, and they became a Greek god, before your very eyes!  There is more to you than just your looks, just as there is more to others’ than their outside shell. Find out what is on the inside before you make your decision.

💘 8) We all like to be feel special
It’s not all about you! Change your ‘me’ centred world to one of ‘other’ and feel the pressure and self-consciousness melt away. Make the other person your first priority. Focus less on yourself and how you are feeling and put your attention on the other person.

💘 9) Take the ‘reject’ out of rejection
Rejection isn’t about you, it’s about the situation of the other person. Maybe they are tired, married, or you’re just not their type. The good news is that you are a million other people’s type … so go flirt with them!

💘 10) Flirting is fun!
Don’t look at flirting as something you are forced to do – flirting is a fun way to pass the time. Keep in light, fun, and pressure free. The only losers are those who don’t try...

February is a special month with significance touching the secular, romantic, and spiritual realms.  First, it is the shortest month of the year.  This year’s span is only 28 days.  Also, Valentine’s Day falls on the 14^th of this month.  Most of us will forget this romantic day until it is upon us a week or two before the the14^th; remembering just in time to send candy, roses and cards filled with human expressions of love and devotion to our true loves.  

                                                                                                                                                 

~Eta Sigma Delta's 2nd Annual Artist Village ~ Celebrating Black History Month~

Once again Eta Sigma Delta dazzled everyone at our second annual The Artist Village. " When we say artist, it mean the ones who are building things ... some with a brush - some choose a pen - some with voice "

During black history month we want to not just focus on the obvious black heroes but also the creative ones as well. The main focal point in this is to be moved, loved, to hope, to tremble, to live.

Art will remain the most astonishing activity of mankind born out of struggle between wisdom and madness, between dream and reality in our mind.

Music is the poetry of sound, so is painting the poetry of sight, poets send us into another world as they take us with them into their journey with voice...

We were entertained with poetry from Dr. Destiny Basset, Egypt Angel Xaris, and Kilolo Jenkins. These ladies did a great job with their wonderful poetry.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 All was mesmerized with the beautiful voice of the lovely Melenda McBride.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

All was amazed with the wonderfully enlightened dance performance by Tiviyah.


We would also like to thank our first lady SnowAngel Monroe with all her many talents,  A special thank you to those that submitted the wonderful paintings for the village.

Each year we enjoy taking part in this because it is truly inspiring and a very awesome display to see.

We would like to thank everyone that came out to support us and we hope to see you again next year!

Signing out
Dr. Destiny Basset aka Big Sister On Point!

~National Children’s Dental Health Month~

February is National Children's Dental Health Month!!!!

It's time to get into gear and make sure all those little teeth are fresh and well taken care of. Dentist can be scary for anyone especially a child, however it is very necessary. The key is to make sure you find a dentist office that caters to children. Why? Because they know exactly how to soothe your child. I had that experience myself on Valentine's Day actually. My son who is eleven, had a dentist appointment on the 14th of February. Ever since he found out that I made this appointment for him, he had such anxiety about it. He was terrified. I understood why, because his first dental visit was terrifying for him because he had a abscess and this was maybe 5 years ago. I ensured him that this was just for a cleaning, you know the routine check up. I'm not sure if he believed me because he was terrified. We get in the office and immediately, they had to be the friendliest people. 

The dental staff was warm and welcoming, picked up on him being nervous and immediately tried to ease his mind. They talked to him, told him what they were about to do, showing the equipment and all. They were patient and I really enjoyed the experience and so did he. We even found out that one of his teeth that came out did not fully come out so we have to go back to get that extracted. He had no cavities and overall had a great mouth sort to speak. This is very important for growing children. 

Your child’s baby teeth are at risk for decay as soon as they first appear—which is typically around age 6 months. Tooth decay in infants and toddlers is often referred to as Baby Bottle Tooth Decay. It most often occurs in the upper front teeth, but other teeth may also be affected. In some cases, infants and toddlers experience decay so severe that their teeth cannot be saved and need to be removed.

The good news is that tooth decay is preventable! Most children have a full set of 20 baby teeth by the time they are 3-years-old. As your child grows, their jaws also grow, making room for their permanent teeth.

First Dental Visit  

As soon as your child’s first tooth appears, it’s time to schedule a dental visit. The ADA recommends that the first dental visit take place within six months after the first tooth appears, but no later than a child’s first birthday. Don’t wait for them to start school or until there's an emergency. Get your child comfortable today with good mouth healthy habits.

Although the first visit is mainly for the dentist to examine your child’s mouth and to check growth and development, it’s also about your child being comfortable. To make the visit positive:

• Consider making a morning appointment when children tend to be rested and cooperative.
• Keep any anxiety or concerns you have to yourself. Children can pick up on your emotions, so emphasize the positive.
• Never use a dental visit as a punishment or threat.
• Never bribe your child.
• Talk with your child about visiting the dentist.

During this visit, you can expect the dentist to:

• Inspect for oral injuries, cavities or other problems.
• Let you know if your child is at risk of developing tooth decay.
• Clean your child’s teeth and provide tips for daily care.
• Discuss teething, pacifier use, or finger/thumbsucking habits.
• Discuss treatment, if needed, and schedule the next check-up.

Fluoride  

Fluoride is a mineral that occurs naturally in all water sources, including oceans, rivers and lakes. Fluoride is also added to some community tap water, toothpastes and mouth rinses. Infants and toddlers who do not receive an adequate amount of fluoride may be at an increased risk for tooth decay since fluoride helps make tooth enamel more resistant to decay. It also helps repair weakened enamel. Bottled water may not contain fluoride; therefore, children who regularly drink bottled water or unfluoridated tap water may be missing the benefits of fluoride. If you are not sure if your tap water has fluoride, contact your local or state health department or water supplier.

Discuss your child’s fluoride needs with your dentist or pediatrician. They may recommend a fluoride supplement if you live in an area where the community water is not fluoridated.

When to Start Flossing

It doesn't matter if you floss your child's teeth before or after they brush as long as you clean between any teeth that touch. You can use child-friendly plastic flossing tools to more easily floss your child’s teeth until your child learns to do it.

Water Works!

When your child has worked up a thirst, water is the best beverage to offer—especially if it has fluoride! Drinking water with fluoride (also known as “nature’s cavity fighter”) has been shown to reduce cavities by 25%. While sweetened drinks like fruit juice (even those labeled 100% natural), soda and sports drinks can cause cavities, water with fluoride protects teeth. Sugary drinks also contribute to weight gain, and water is calorie-free.

Eating healthy foods helps keep your teeth and body healthy. Don’t eat or drink too many sweets. If you have something sweet, try to eat or drink it with a meal to limit the exposure time to your teeth. That's because certain foods can put you at risk for cavities and other oral health problems? Here are some MouthHealthy tips.
What to Eat:

According to MyPlate, a website from the Center for Nutrition Policy and Promotion, an agency of U.S. Department of Agriculture, a balanced diet should include:

• Fruits and vegetables. Combined these should be half of what you eat every day.
• Grains. Make sure at least half of the grains you eat are whole grains, such as oatmeal, whole wheat bread and brown rice.
• Dairy. Choose low-fat or fat-free dairy foods.
• Lean proteins. Make lean protein choices, such as lean beef, skinless poultry and fish. Try and vary your protein choices to include eggs, beans, peas and legumes, too. Eat at least 8 oz. of seafood a week.

Snacking tips:

• Snacking is hard to resist but you can do your mouth a favor by watching the amount of soda, juice or other sweetened beverages you drink.
• If you want a snack, try and choose something like fruit, low-fat cheese, yogurt or raw vegetables.
• If you chew gum, make sure it’s sugarless. Certain sugarless gums have earned the ADA Seal of Acceptance for helping prevent cavities by strengthening teeth. Look for the ADA Seal on the package.

If you have braces: Good oral hygiene is especially important for people wearing braces. Your dentist may recommend avoiding certain foods that could interfere with braces or accidentally bend the wires. These foods may include nuts, popcorn, hard candy, ice and sticky foods like chewing gum, caramel or other chewy candy.

Signing out

Dr. Destiny Basset aka Big Sister On Point