Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc. --- Midwestern Region





	Kansas State Director: J’Vonnah Maryman (Wichita, Kan.) has been re-appointed to serve as Kansas State Director. J’Vonnah became a member in 1997 as an undergraduate at Wichita State University (Mu Nu) and earned a Bachelor of Science degree in Health Service Organization and Policy in 1998. She currently holds a Master’s degree in Public Health from the University of Kansas and works as the Associate Director of Clinical Services for the Sedgwick County Health Department. Her professional insight will be leveraged as we explore health-related Z-Hope and community programs. J’Vonnah serves on several community boards and has extensive grant writing experience which will aid the region as it identifies innovative ways to generate funding for scholarships and programs. Email: ks.state.director@zpbmidwesternregion.org for information on our State. Website: Newsletters: Calendar: Kansas 2011-2012 New Charter The State of Kansas is pleased to announce the chartering of the PSI TAU CHAPTER at Emporia State University We celebrate growth in Zeta with our newest undergraduate members: Front Row: Brittany Marie Riggs, Marqueita Cherie Marisette Back Row: NaCoya Sharae Copeland, Noel Denise Smiley, Katherine Ann Clarice Boyice A local story about prematurity Prematurity Awareness Climbing the rough side of the mountain: A local story about prematurity My name is Gloria Brown. I was born and raised in Kansas City. In 2010 my husband and I were excited to learn we were expecting our first child. The first trimester went by problem free. But, at one of my prenatal check up I was informed that my cervix was weak and was opening. If this condition continued, I would have a second trimester miscarriage. Corrective surgery was undergone, and doctor advised strict bed-rest was given. I had to leave my job and a strain was put on my marriage. Less than 10 days went by before I was admitted to the hospital for premature labor. My labor was stopped by medicine, but I had to stay in the hospital for weeks because I was not considered stable. 25 weeks into my pregnancy, I contracted a virus; the doctor's could not delay the birth anymore. On September 23, 2010 by cesarean section my son Phillip A. Brown Jr was born. He weighted 1lb. 12 oz. His nickname became P.J. and he was hospitalized for about 100 days at Overland Park Regional Hospital. There were many trails during his stay at the hospital and many times we thought we were going to lose him. But through God and the prayers of our family, friends, and ourselves, he was destined to overcome. Since I have had this trial, my eyes have opened to the numerous cases just like mine. I think everyone knows at least one story of a baby born too early. Though there are many reasons why, I strongly advocate regular prenatal checkup, healthy living and education of the public about the matter. Zeta Phi Beta Sorority Inc. has collaborated nationally with March of Dimes to support the research and awareness that the March of Dimes offers. At a local level, the Alpha Epsilon Zeta Chapter has yearly worked to raise funds and awareness in the Kansas City area. I hope my story will assist in enlightening and encouraging you to become aware and support this cause, for we now know in America 1 out of every 8 babies born, will be born premature. A few days after P.J's birth, I am assisting the nurse to take his temperature. P.J's 1st birthday party. Kansas Youth 2009-2010 Alpha Epsilon Zeta- Kansas City, KS Groups Sponsored: Archonettes, Amicettes, Pearlettes Youth Sponsors: Monica Green, Melanie Shelton, Gloria Brown Alpha Epsilon Zeta Youth Groups have been focusing on safety this year. Youth attended sessions on Stranger Danger and Self Defense. These sessions helped to inform youth on how to take care of themselves and to be more aware of their surroundings. All participants completed identification kits. Youth celebrated Thanksgiving and Christmas together as well as observing Black History Month. Youth visited the Ronald McDonald House as a community service project and celebrated family with a Mother/Daughter Tea. Sigma Zeta - Wichita, KS Groups Sponsored: Archonettes, Amicettes, Pearlettes Youth Sponsors: Kim Knox, Kamiel Evans, J'Vonnah Maryman Sigma Zeta youth groups have been focusing on community service this year. Groups participated in the March of Dimes - March for Babies Walk. Youth assisted with the mission tent as well as raising funds with Zeta Chapters. Over $400 was raised and donated to the March of Dimes. During Black History Month, groups focused on timelines and the impact of famous African Americans. They also completed projects on famous African Americans. Youth participated in a health education event entitled "Keepin' It Real: Models and Images" sponsored by the American Cancer Society. Youth also raised funds for Haiti and attended a story telling event sponsored by the Kansas African American Museum.

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