"BACK DOWN MEMORY LANE"

Chicago Chapter members enjoyed a fabulous, fun-filled, weekend, “Steppin’ to a Caribbean Beat,” in 2018 thanks to the exemplary planning and outstanding hospitality displayed by the Decatur Chapter!  A job, well done!

This year, we travelled  “Back Down Memory Lane” with our bedrock Richmond Chapter!

While the club year began with great excitement and new possibilities, the Chicago Chapter ultimately experienced some highs and lows.  Eppie Deborah Taylor lost her beloved father near the end of the year. In early 2019, the Chicago Chapter mourned the loss of Eppo George Cottrell Jones, devoted husband of Eppie Elsie Jones; beloved brother of Eppie Sharron Taylor; and dear uncle of Eppie Eve Boston.  He was a devoted member of Chicago Chapter Eppos. Eppo “Cottrell” fully supported the Chicago Chapter in any way that he could, and spent his life working to uplift and enrich the lives of many others. His vibrant spirit lives on forever in our hearts.

Chicago Chapter Eppies continue to bond and expand our sisterhood- with the 2019 induction of seven awesome and enthusiastic new members.  Members continue to demonstrate civic engagement, exhibit cultural and literary interests, exemplify high moral standards, and provide a variety of community services.  Eppie Felicia Blasingame is a member of Phi Delta Kappa Sorority, and truly loves entertainment. Eppie Joycie McCoy is a member of the National Black Nurses Association, and the Christmas Cheer Foundation.  Eppie Robynne Sharp is a Bible Study Teacher, and works with “Dress 4 Success.” Eppie Shelia Young is a member of Order of the Eastern Star, and works with the Detric Young Foundation. Eppie Darlena James works with the Youth Committee at Lighthouse Baptist Church; is a member of the “Faithful Few” Organization; and the “Life Changing” Book Club. 

Eppie Mamie Grady continues her work with the Missionary Society at Pilgrim Baptist Church.  Eppie Rochelle Jones continues as President of Woman to Woman-The Confident Woman, and Fellowship Chicago-Youth Ministry.  Eppie Sharon Brown is a “Gift of Hope Organ Donor” Ambassador, and serves on the Board of Directors at Cosmopolitan Community Church. Eppie Sharron Taylor continues to volunteer at Chicago’s Black Ensemble Theatre. Eppie Carolyn Roundtree volunteers as a writing coach for the Odyssey Project at the University of Chicago.  Eppie Deborah Taylor is a member of the American Library Association, and “Poets United to Advance the Arts.” Eppie Elsie Jones continues her annual support of Habitat for Humanity, and Pacific Garden Mission.

Chicago Chapter Eppies and Eppos are planning a number of great initiatives this year, along with many exciting and fun-filled activities to “Eat, Drink, and Be Merry!” 

We extend a special salute and tribute to our very own Eppo, Herman Videau.  He was among the World War II, Korean, and Viet Nam Veterans, who traveled on the “Honor Flight Chicago” for a day long trip to Washington D.C. in July, 2018.  We sincerely honor and thank him for his great and valiant service to our country.