On March 3, 2020, members of the Zeta Epsilon Chapter of Epsilon Sigma Alpha International Sorority, a philanthropic organization met at the First United Methodist Church parlor. Pam Robinson was the hostess for the meeting. Co-hostesses were Susan Gates and Tara Hurt. Hostesses served ham and cheese sliders, chicken salad with croissants, chips, fruit tray and dip and a variety of desserts.

Before the business meeting, LaDonna Vanlandingham, Educational Director, introduced Justin Holliday. Justin attends the Methodist church where he often plays and sings both traditional hymns and original pieces during the services. Justin began playing the piano in the 4th Grade. His mother taught him how to count out the keys to create a chord and from there, Justin learned the piano. He has played and sang with his family at their church since he was a small child. Justin comes from a musical family and keeps his ties to his family by keeping the traditions alive. He entertained the group by singing and accompanying himself on the piano the song “Renew Me.”

Justin traveled to Nashville, TN to audition for “The Voice.” Their feedback was that he, with four other contestants were great singers but not performers. This was not a critique for Justin, but a compliment. He was taught from an early age that songs should come from the heart so others can feel the emotion behind the words of the song. His Mom always instructed him to sing and never perform. The opportunity to audition for “The Voice,” was rewarding to him!!

President Debbie Lyon called the meeting to order by reciting the ESA Opening ritual. Chaplain, Charity Boyer shared a story entitled “The Butterfly.” It was about a man who helped a butterfly that looked as though it was stuck but actually ended up making the butterfly unable to fly despite his kind gesture. The moral was our struggles in life develop our strengths.

Martha Steger called the roll and read the December minutes which were approved and placed on file.

Tina Savage gave the treasurer’s report.

Under correspondence, the local chapter received a certificate of appreciation from their adopted child from the OK School for Blind for his Christmas gifts.

A slate of officers for the 2020-2021 year were presented and will be voted on at the April meeting. Lyon adjourned the meeting and the closing ritual was recited by the group. The door prize was won by Nelda Robertson.

The next meeting will be Tuesday, April 7th, at Nelda Robertson’s home. Co-hostesses will be Barbara Tatum and Ivona Watson.

Members attending the March meeting were: Stacy Beach, Charity Boyer, Shirlene Davidson, Susan Gates, Tara Hurt, Debbie Lyon, Nelda Robertson, Pam Robinson, Tina Savage, Joy Smith, Martha Steger, Ann Streets, Barbara Tatum, LaDonna Vanlandingham, and Mary Whitley.