[Congressional Record Volume 171, Number 57 (Monday, March 31, 2025)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E272]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




     HONORING THETA PI ZETA CHAPTER OF ZETA PHI BETA SORORITY, INC.

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. BENNIE G. THOMPSON

                             of mississippi

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, March 31, 2025

  Mr. THOMPSON of Mississippi. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor a 
truly exceptional organization, the Theta Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi 
Beta Sorority, Inc., based in Itta Bena, Mississippi. Since its 
inception, the chapter has been a steadfast beacon of service, 
community involvement, and the embodiment of the principles upheld by 
Zeta Phi Beta.
  Founded on November 10, 1976, with the leadership of then State 
Director Bertha Blackburn and co-founders Henri E. Lowe and Maxine P. 
Stewart, Theta Pi Zeta began its journey in a small yet significant way 
at the Western Sizzlin' Steak House in Greenwood, Mississippi. The 
chapter's roots are deeply intertwined with the spirit of dedication, 
as evidenced by the work of Henri E. Lowe and M'Elena Matthews, who 
signed the chapter's charter application, helping to ensure its 
establishment.
  Throughout the years, 14 remarkable women have served as president, 
with the late Henri E. Lowe leading the charge during the formative 
years. Currently, under the leadership of Denise Pitchford, the chapter 
continues its dedication to service and community outreach, earning 
recognition at the state and regional levels. The chapter boasts 32 
financial members and has been involved in countless community 
initiatives, such as hosting a State Round-Up for Zetas in Greenwood, 
Mississippi, and supporting local events like the March for Babies 
campaign.
  The Itta Bena Amicae Auxiliary, established in 1986 and sponsored by 
Sister Shirley Burks, remains a vital part of the chapter's outreach 
efforts, and the chapter's youth auxiliaries--including the Archonette, 
Amicette, and Pearlette Clubs--engage in community service projects 
like adopting families for Thanksgiving and Christmas, ringing 
Salvation Army bells, and delivering care bags to local nursing homes.
  The chapter's charter members, such as Riller Bennett, Thelma 
Collins, Laura Davis, Doroty Edwards, Amanda Elzy, Anna Hicks, Irene 
Howard, Zelma Howard, Jean Jennings, Henri E. Lowe, M'Elena Mathews, 
Betty Morris, Geneva Pickens, Henrine Stewart, Bobbie Wicks, Ann 
Wilson, and Malinda Winters laid the foundation for what has become a 
powerful and enduring force in the Mississippi Delta. Many of them have 
left lasting legacies, including the late Henri E. Lowe, and Florence 
Weathersby, who served for an impressive 70 years and remained an 
inspiration to many.
  The chapter's commitment to service continues with a full slate of 
community activities for 2025, including events like hosting a 
Sisterhood Tea for Women's History Month, visiting nursing homes, 
organizing water hydration drives, and supporting the March of Dimes 
Campaign.
  Mr. Speaker, I ask my colleagues to join me in taking a moment to 
acknowledge the Theta Pi Zeta Chapter of Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc., 
for their unwavering dedication to service, leadership, and the 
betterment of their community.

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