The Jade Times

By Geri “J-Lan” Orante, Staff Writer
     
Memorial Day marks the unofficial start of summer.  For some fashionistas, it may even indicate that it is now OK to wear white (that is only for the sticklers, though). 

After researching my favorite fashion sites and magazines, I’ve narrowed it down to three summer must-haves for you fashion-forward ladies. They won’t break the bank, either!
The Perfect Swimsuit
Yes, it is possible to find the most flattering swimsuit for your body. What’s in now is retro chic, which in my opinion, can flatter any body shape. This one-piece swimsuit from Old Navy ($29.50) is great for pear shapes and busty types.  The ruched part is designed to disguise the pudge that we all have. If you’re looking for a two-piece suit instead, look for bottoms with a ruched or banded hem.  The ruched-waist scoop bottom from Victoria’s Secret ($25), which can be mixed and matched with any of its tops, is a good example.
Wedges

While gladiators and jellies are the “it” thing to wear now, chances are the style will not last forever.  That’s where wedges come in. Look for ones with wooden or cork heels for a summery look.  This Cork Bow Wedge from Wet Seal ($10), paired with a jean skirt and colorful shirt, creates the perfect summer casual look. Still want a pair of gladiators?  Aldo’s Faiola has both the wedge and the gladiator look. The heel is even mid-height for those of you who don’t feel confident rocking 5-inch heels. Wedges are more comfortable and easier to walk in than heels, too.
Little White Dress

The little white dress is a summer staple as much as the little black dress is a winter one.  When paired with the right accessories, it can go from casual (cardigan and flip-flops) to dressy (statement jewelry and heels). Or you could always just buy two dresses for such separate occasions. This Goddess Knit Maxi Dress from New York & Company ($49.95) gives off that old-school romantic vibe that you may want for a date. For the more casual feel, Delia’s has an array of white summer dresses.  The Cleo Crochet Dress is my ultimate favorite.

By Gaoli “Chamomile” Moua, Staff Writer
This side of the earth is warming up and whether or not you already have plans to travel during the
summer, chance may draw you away from home to bask away under the blazing sun. However, a relaxing weekend getaway does not mean letting your guard down completely.

Safety should always be priority when traveling, even when you are at home — but especially
when you are away from home. It is usually the most simple safety tips that will save travelers. Here are
some safety tips to remember when you are going away:

1. Check the weather forecast of your destination and pack accordingly and lightly. Try to bring versatile pieces of clothing so you don’t end up lugging multiple heavy bags. Always leave room for souvenirs and other
pieces of clothing you may purchase during your trip. Packing lightly will also allow you to have a free hand when you’re in transition in airports and other transportation modes to handle important money and documents.

2. Bring only necessary important documents, credit cards and money and keep them close to your body. Personal cellular phones often are loaded with sensitive information, so put a lock on your phone or rename some of your contacts just in case you misplace it.

3. Try to arrive at your destination during the day, especially if you are unfamiliar with the area. Arriving when the sun is still up will allowyou to be more aware of the new surroundings and will let you scope out the area.

4. Have someone you can check in with every couple of hours. Whether it is your mom, a friend or the receptionist at your hotel, checking in with someone will alert others if you might be in trouble.

5. Stay where there is traffic. Well-trafficked areas like streets and shopping areas are safer than quiet, residential areas you are unfamiliar with.

6. Study the area and find the appropriate names and directions before setting off to your destination to avoid looking like a lost tourist. Tourists are most frequently the victims of scams.

7. Avoid wearing jewelry, but a wedding ring or band is encouraged to avoid attention from men. Shiny necklaces and bracelets could cause injury if it is yanked.

8. Blend in and dress like the locals when necessary. If you are going to a more conservative place, don’t unintentionally seek attention by wearing tight or revealing clothing.

9. Don’t stop and try to help someone if you are alone in a secluded area or driving by yourself. Instead, go find help and come back when you find people who are authorized or assist in helping.

10. The most simple and important thing you should remember is to look and act confident. Use your common
sense, be alert and walk like you know where you’re going. This will make you less likely become a victim, period.
 
References:
http://travel.state.gov/travel/
http://www.kevincoffey.com/safety_tips_index.htm

By Lisa “T.I.” Soluren, Staff Writer

During this month, we are reminded of the importance of milk and dairy products for the human body. According to the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), it is recommended we consume three cups of milk a day. As an organization that aims to decrease the rate of osteoporosis in Asian women, this is a great time to reflect on how individually and as a sorority we can take more positive strides towards our philanthropic goal. With this in mind, here some alternate suggestions for those who do not like cow’s milk or other types of milk:
-Lactose-free milk
-Milk-based desserts (pudding, ice cream, frozen yogurt)
-Cheese
-Yogurt

By Kippie “Sumitra” Aguilan, Staff Writer
     
The 2010 Midwest Formals went off without a hitch! The newest lovely ladies of Delta Phi Lambda for the 2009-10 school year made their debut to the world, showing not only that they had earned their letters, but can rock them like no other. Starting with a private ceremony, then a tasteful dinner, followed by lots of delightful surprises, the neos certainly shined for their night – adorned in white, showered with goodies and gifts and showing off their new gear, there were plenty of entertaining surprises in store for them and the guests throughout the night.
     
Though not every newly initiated sister was available for her formal, each chapter had enough representation, old and new, to show off their pride and joy for their newest members. One great treat for the newest Midwest sisters was that even sisters from the South were present to support – sisters Emily “Saphira” Luong, Amanda “Lyriq” Luong, Monique “Volition” Medina, and our outgoing National Board Vice President of Finance, Alison “Royale” Kao, all attended to welcome them into everlasting Sisterhood. Driving the twenty-eight hours round trip to Allendale, Mich., they shared in the Midwest’s celebration, bringing their own Southeast spirit. Having attended the 2010 Southeast Formals, Christ-Anh “C-Reyus” Nguyen, incoming Vice President of Finance and Grand Valley State University Charter, said, “It was awesome seeing sisters from far away to come up and enjoy formals with us, [...] it shows our neos the kind of support system they are now a part of.”

The presentations and performances were a big hit as well! Featuring Grand Valley State University’s newest Alpha Class with their step show; DePaul University’s Christie “Razzlé” Andgerson singing her version of Lady Antebellum’s “Need You Now”; Loyola University’s Jasmine “Kalysta” Moy performing a sexy hip-hop rendition; and finally, one of Grand Valley State University’s own founding members and Installs Coordinator, Linda “Harmony” Truong, alongside her brother, performing their version of Keri Hilson’s “Knock You Down.” Nancy “Illyrix” Ngo, one of the newest Loyola University sisters from the Lambda Class, had this to say about her big sister, kalysta: “The performance was absolute hotness. She needs to show her little some moves.” If you are able to obtain copies of these performances, there is no doubt you will have trouble hearing them because of the crowds going wild for each and every presentation.
 
Finally, one sweet and touching act of friendships across organizations – members from fraternities Kappa Pi Beta (ΚΠΒ) and Chi Sigma Tau (ΧΣΤ) gave a brief but exciting presentation of red and yellow roses to each and every new sister at the 2010 Midwest Installs.The colors represented the love and passion sisters feel along with the friendship and bonds they will develop, not only with sisters but with other organizations. Stefan “Ironhide” Murakami, one of the founding members of Kappa Pi Beta’s chapter at the University of Illinois in Chicago, said, “It was good to see all the chapters celebrate their newly crossed together as opposed to separate banquets. It shows a lot of unity in an organization that you [ladies] obviously haven’t lost throughout the years of expansion.”

By Alexandria “Wisteria” Prejido, Staff Writer

Sunny, hot summer weather is here and the coasts are calling. Where are the best beaches, you ask? Stephen P. Leatherman, Director of Florida International University’s Laboratory for Coastal Research, also known as “Dr. Beach,” selects the top U.S. beaches every year since 1991 and now has spoken and pinpointed the top three U.S. beaches of 2010. 

Ranking in third place is Coronado Beach in San Diego, Calif. Located at the southern tip of California, it is great for ship watching and brings in waves of warm and mild surf. The local landmark, Hotel del Coronado, has been around for over hundred years. It offers breathtaking architecture of the Old World. Famous celebrities such as Babe Ruth, U.S. President Benjamin Harrison and the presidents after him  have stayed at the hotel, where they serve food and drinks on the beach.

Siesta Beach located in Sarasota, Fla., is in second. Having the finest and whitest sand in the world, this beach attracts sand collectors as well as beach-goers everywhere. This Floridian coastal spot has a unique underwater structure of coral rocks and caves, which are great for snorkeling and scuba diving. This beach is ideal for recreational fitness activities and its clear warm waters are perfect for swimming.

Last but not least, ranking in first place is Coopers Beach in Southampton, N.Y. Located in the beautiful village of Southampton,  Coopers Beach is one of America’s Gold Coasts, where the rich and famous reside. This coastal getaway is hundreds of yards in length and consists of grainy white sand. The shoreline is backed by majestic sand dunes covered with American beach grass. Along the background are large and extravagant mansions. The beach offers a snack bar that serves lunch and drinks, helping you make the best of your beach going experience.

Coopers Beach. Photo Credit: National Geographic, Best Beaches

References
http://www.boston.com/travel/explorene/specials/summer/gallery/dr_beach_top_beaches_2010/
http://www.drbeach.org/DetailedList.htm
http://www.hoteldel.com/PressReleaseTemplate.aspx?id=1374
http://traveltips.usatoday.com/famous-hotels-america-2933.html

New policy on unrecognized organizations

National Board has released a new policy on unrecognized groups in response to recent incidents and concerns from University officials about unrecognized or “underground” groups on their campuses.  These groups not only disregard University procedures and policies, but have blatant disregard for the fact that is it an organization’s privilege, not a right, to be present on a campus.  Unrecognized groups are a liability not only to themselves and the school, but also to others that associate with them.  We encourage all chapters to talk with their Fraternity and Sorority Life Advisors to find out which groups are recognized by their University.
 
National dues restructured
 
Due to termination of our current insurance policy, National Board has been shopping around for a new insurance carrier.  The best rate we have found was almost a 200% increase in our current insurance expense.  Because of this, National Board has researched other organizations’ dues structures to come up with the most equitable plan based on our current chapter and membership size.  Because of this, many chapters will see a large increase in the amount of their dues required by their chapter; however, by raising each member’s chapters dues, we believe each chapter will be able to sufficiently cover the costs required of them.  We would like to remind all sisters that fraternal organizations operate chiefly with money raised by member dues.  Any questions can be directed to vp.finance@deltaphilambda.org.

Association of Fraternity & Sorority Advisors (AFA) Annual Meeting boycott
 
Many discussions are taking place currently among the AFA members because the Annual Meeting is slated for Phoenix, Ariz. this December.  This Annual Meeting is the primary professional development for officers of Delta Phi Lambda and many other University and organization’s headquarters staff.  Because of backlash against Arizona SB 1070, many organizations are calling for AFA to move their meeting and even stated that they will not be sending any members to Phoenix.  Alpha Phi Alpha has moved their convention to Las Vegas.  Sigma Lambda Beta, Lambda Theta Phi and Iota Phi Alpha will not be sending members to Phoenix.  The National APIA Panhellenic Association (NAPA) is currently in talks about whether we too should release such a statement.  Please send any comments or concerns you have about Arizona SB 1070 to national@deltaphilambda.org.

Elections Results

National Board would like to announce this year’s 2010-2011 National Board Executive and Chair Members. Please congratulate our new or returning National Board members.

President (2009-2011): Hannah Seoh

Vice President of Internal Affairs (2009-2011): Victoria Huynh

Vice President of External Affairs (2009-2011): Lillie Madali

Vice President of Finance (2010-2012): Alison Kao

Vice President of Records (2010-2012): Wilma Miranda

Midwest Governor (2010-2011): Jennifer Chui

Southeast Governor (2010-2011): Open for appointment

Mission Coordinator (2010-2011): Amanda Supratanapongse

Alumnae Director (2010-2011): Alyssa Soluren

Webmistress (2010-2011): Wilma Miranda

Affiliate Member Coordinator (2010-2011): Open for appointment

By Amy “Ancaria” Li, Staff Writer

The Southeast chapters of Delta Phi Lambda Sorority, Inc. welcomed fall 2009 and spring 2010 neophytes into Everlasting Sisterhood at Formal 2010. Throughout the past year, sisters have endured challenges to prepare the neophytes to carry on the future of Georgia State University – Gamma Chapter. Sisters have served as mentors, teachers and, more importantly, sisters. Through their eyes, we have seen that sisterhood truly does not end. Through their faithfulness and commitment to the virtues of Delta Phi Lambda, Gamma Chapter has truly demonstrated loyalty for the neophytes.

L to R: Wen “Selene” Guo, Jamie “Mercury” Zhou, Hai Van “Esmeralde” Nguyen, Lauren “Raider” Soriano, Kristine “Calyx” Chung, Jennifer “Paris” Lee, Bich “Indigo” Tran, Jennifer “Lotus” Chow, Trang “Momentum” Dinh, Tish “Giselle” Lee, Stephanie “Radiance” Guo, Lisa “Ferrari” Yi, Gina “Elevate” Lawson, Kellee “Thrive” Duong, Hannah “Siena” Kyung, Kristie “Kaito” Chan, Katie “Ruby” Chan, Jojo “Mira” Ngo.

Graduation marks a period of change, and we would like to congratulate all of the Delta Phi Lambda sisters who have graduated and wish them the best of luck in the next chapter of their lives!

University of Georgia sisters celebrate at the Tate Student Center in Athens, Ga.

L to R: Ha “Dynasty” Le, Stella “Naru” Kim, Christine “ECKO” Ho, Sophia “Expose” Guan and Amanda “Lyriq” Luong.

Gamma Chapter celebrates the graduation of Wen “Selene” Guo and Jamie “Mercury” Zhou at the Georgia Dome.
L to R: Minh “Novae” Tran, Katie “Ruby” Chan, Kristie “Kaito” Chan, Wen “Selene” Guo, Stephanie “Radiance” Gan, Jamie “Mercury” Zhou, Phuong “kensie” Le, Cam “Sakura” Nguyen, San “Endora” Hsieh, Hai Van “Esmeralde” Nguyen and Bich “Indigo” Tran.

Alberta “Harlequin” Chu on the “P” (for Purdue) rock on campus after graduating.