Beta Sigma · PDF fileOfficial Publication of Beta Sigma Phi, 1800 West 91st Place, Kansas...

5 62011

Beta Sigma Phi

Dear Sisters,

Holy Moley, did the sorority year go faster this year than ever before. I can’t believe we are looking at the end of the year for traditional chapters and the beginning of a new one for many career chapters. Most of you have had elections and some of you, like me, will be your chapter’s new president. That makes the

summer a bit busier for planning but I also get to look forward to the new year and Beginning Day sooner than anyone else.

My chapter’s favorite meeting is soon, Revealing Day, when we get to know who our Secret Sisters are and pick new victims. It’s a great time for all of us and usually a well attended meeting. We all want to see each other before summer starts and of course, there are the gifts.

Take your summer to make plans for the coming year. You can have get togethers with your families and summer rush parties as well. The yearbook needs to be worked on but other than that, it’s a pretty laid back time for most of us. You all know the new theme for our 80th Anniversary year, it is, “Building our Future on Traditions” and it describes us so well. We continue to enter new realms through technology, but we remain anchored through our traditions to our past. Some members feel we should set aside all those things that over the years have made us what we are and have kept us going when other organizations have faltered. But it is these traditions that weave the string that binds us together no matter where on earth we find ourselves.

We update Rituals but they will never be in everyday language, they are meant to be different and sound different, to take us outside our every day lives. Young women are not scared off by Rituals, they take them in college sororities, but they are turned off by Ritu-als that are not given the care they deserve. Does that mean Rituals have to be perfect? No, they never will be and my chapter’s last Ritual sure proved that, but we tried hard and we cared, and that is what really matters. So don’t worry if you laugh or flub something, just give them with love and they’ll be memorable to all. Of course a really amazing mishap makes them really, really memorable, but that’s another story. Have a wonderful summer.

Laura

TORCH [email protected] Editor - Laurey Lummus Graphic Designer - Eric Burgess Assistant Editor - Betsy Thomas

BETA SIGMA PHI INTERNATIONALAddress: 1800 West 91st Place Kansas City MO 64114-0500Phone: 816-444-6800 (8:30 am - 5:00 pm CST M-F)Fax: 816-333-6206Insurance Only: 800-235-2806Long Term Care Insurance: 888-290-7207Gifts Only: 800-821-3989

DIVISION CHAIRMENKarla MacRae [email protected] - Canada, GA, Greece, HI, IL, IN, MN, NM, Norway, Scotland, WA, WY, & RussiaVivian Iddings [email protected] - AK, AZ, CT, DC, DE, KS, KY, MA, MD, ME, MI, MO, MS, MT, NH, NJ, NV, NY, PA, Puerto Rico, Germany, RI, VA, VT, & WVLaura Ross Wingfield [email protected] - On-Line Chapters & ConventionsCynthia Meadows [email protected] - AL, AR, CO, NC, TN, OH, OK, SC, TX, Belgium, & ZimbabweCindy Vance [email protected] - Austria, Australia, CA, England, Finland, FL, ID, IA, LA, Mexico, NE, ND, OR, Saudi Arabia, SD, UT, & WI

E-MAIL ADDRESSESTorch Department [email protected]/Rushing Department - [email protected] Department [email protected] Page -http://www.betasigmaphi.orgBeta Journal -http://www.betajournal.comBeta Sigma Phi is an international women’s friendship network. It also provides educational programs to its members and opportunities for service to others. We are women of all ages, interests, and educational and economic backgrounds, and are the largest organization of our kind in the world. For Beta Sigma Phi membership information call:

1-888-BETA-2B1(238-2221)

May/June 2011 Volume 129 - Issue 3

THE TORCH OF BETA SIGMA PHI (ISSN 0888-8930). Official Publication of Beta Sigma Phi, 1800 West 91st Place, Kansas City, Missouri 64114-0500. Periodical postage paid at Kansas City. Canada Post Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #1548255. Published 7 times a year by Beta Sigma Phi International. Member subscription price $14.00 per year. Non-member sub-scription price $14.00 per year. Individual copies $2.50. Printed in U.S.A. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The Torch of Beta Sigma Phi, PO Box 8500, Kansas City MO 64114-0500.

May/June 2011 The Torch 3

TORCH TRADITIONS 6 Rushing 5 What Beta Sigma Phi Means to Me 4 Conventions, New Chapters, Friendly Ventures 16 Chatter 30 Gift Selections

FEATURE STORIES 8 Chapter Spotlight – Featuring Texas Xi Rho Beta, Duncanville

10 Officer’sPlanningCalender12 Our Spring Parade of Legacies

18 A Bow to the Master

19 Saluting California Nu Master, Pacifica member Betty Varner

20 Dorothy and Walter W. Ross Memorial Scholarship Fund Recipients

24 Bill Ross Literary Scholarship Fund Recipients

27 Puppet Power

On the CoverIt’s Legacy Day at the park for these cuties sponsored by Mississippi Xi Alpha Phi, Natchez. They are Haelyn and Suzannah Straub and Sage and Madison Newman. Check out the back cover to see the rest of their crew!

4 May/June 2011 The Torch

Alabama (Mobile) June 10-12Arizona (Scottsdale) September 30-2Arkansas (Fayetteville) June 24-26British Columbia (Courtenay) Conclave May 6-7British Columbia (Oliver) Area Conclave May 28British Columbia (Vancouver) NW Regional June 24-26California (Redding) May 12-15Carolinas Cruise (Charleston, SC) May 25-30 Colorado (Colorado Springs) June 24-26Florida (Jacksonville) May 13-15Georgia (Macon) June 3-5Indiana (Terre Haute) October 28-30Iowa (Dubuque) June 10-12Kentucky (Frankfort) June 10-12Louisiana (Houma) April 10Michigan (Frankenmuth) October 21-23Mississippi (Greenville) September 23-25Missouri (Independence) October 14-16New Mexico (Las Cruces) June 3-5New York (Albany) September 16-18Nova Scotia (Halifax) October 28-30Ohio (Toledo) May 20-22Oklahoma (Oklahoma City) June 24-26South Dakota (Pierre) September 23-25Tennessee (Manchester) June 3-5Texas (Austin) June 24-26Texas East Area (Frisco) October 14-15Virginia (Williamsburg) October 28-30West Virginia (Beckley) October 21-23Wisconsin (Sturgeon Bay) October 28-30Wyoming (Sundance) September 16-18

Conventions2011

New FriendlyVenture ChaptersAlabama Theta Gamma, Phenix City(Chapter in a Box)by: Amanda Gallatin

Ontario Nu Kappa, Kitchenerby: Katherine Silver, Kelly Lorimer and Kitchner City Council

Texas Sigma, Houstonby: Mary Hue, Kathy Sterling and Houston City Council

Welcome TheseNew Chapters

Arizona Alpha Chi Master, Sun West City

British Columbia Laureate Delta Zeta, Vernon

California Epsilon Eta Master, Riverside

Florida Alpha Delta Rho, Clermont

Florida Xi Alpha Gamma, Apopka

Illinois Beta Iota Master, Freeport

Kentucky Preceptor Alpha Zeta, Danville

Missouri Beta Chi Master, Oak Grove

Missouri Beta Omega Master, Independence

Missouri Online Iota, Kansas City

Missouri Preceptor Theta Iota, Lake Ozark

Ontario Preceptor Zeta Zeta, Welland

Texas Epsilon Theta Master, Lubbock

Texas Preceptor Pi Xi, Deer Park

Virginia Alpha Rho Master, Richmond

Wisconsin Xi Master, Madison

Want to Become a Pen Pal?We have had many requests for information on our Pen Pal program. What with Facebook and email, finding (and keeping) a pen pal is easier than ever. We would love to match you with someone you share interests with, so fill out this form for us and send it or email it to the Torch. We will then find you the ap-propriate pen pal and contact you. Sign up, it is fun, and you never know, maybe there is a new best friend just out there waiting for you.

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THREE EASY WAYS TO CONTACT US! On-line E-mail May/June 2011 The Torch 5

“Allow me to travel back to 1988.

This is when a lovely lady named Wanda Engelbrecht invited me to join a group of women led by her daughter Linda. My question was, are they active in the community? The answer came back with a resounding yes. They worked at the homeless shelter, Volunteers Against Violence, Idaho Youth Ranch, Pregnancy Crisis Center and Relay for Life, to name just a few of their projects.

I found joy and love with Wanda and Beta Sigma Phi in the years I shared with her. She passed away and I almost left sorority in heartbreak. I then realized to honor this wonderful woman I needed to set out to be the best I could to sorority. I have been a chapter president in every degree to now (Laureate). I have served in every officer capacity and worked in all committee positions. It was with great joy to be Council president because I got to reach out to the five chapter sisters and we worked on many fun projects with great success. Worked on several conventions and was the chair of one. My joy in Beta now is being Sunshine Chair and I get to write notes to all the Beta sisters in our area in need of love and cheer.

What started out as a question has become joy to be a part of a great group of women called Beta Sigma Phi.”

What Beta Sigma Phi Means to Me by: Jeanne Meyer Idaho Xi Alpha Tau, Twin Falls

Rushing


No city or town is too small for a Beta Sigma Phi chapter. Like the famous movie line says, “If you build it, they will come.” Which is exactly what hap-pened in La Plata, Missouri. The town, which counts 1,400 as residents, sports three active Beta Sigma Phi chapters, all of which are thriving! They are Xi Kappa Delta, Alpha Beta Alpha, and Upsilon Mu. Each one has carved out their own niche for giv-ing back to their community and cel-ebrating sorority.

La Plata, known to be the intersection of north and south stagecoach roads in the 1800s, was also a trading post, earning the name La Plata, whose translation is “the silver.”

The first Beta Sigma Phi chapter in La Plata was formed in 1972. Known for their contin-ued service projects supported by their an-nual ways and means projects, each chapter has a large roster of members. Each chapter continues to invite more women into the Beta

Sigma Phi fold, with the purpose of sharing their fun activities and traditions with other women in the community. The main La Plata fundraiser is an annual craft and hobby show. This event supports many of the community service projects, such as donating books to the public library and awarding local scholarships. Last year marked the 19th anniversary of the craft and hobby show, which now sees visitors attend-

ing from as far away as Des Moines, Iowa. The fair hosts more than 50 booths displaying a variety of wares, handmade items, and foods which include the popu-lar homemade soups, pies, cheesecakes and chocolate covered potato chips. Many shoppers have summed up the experience by exclaiming that, “they shopped till they dropped.”

Thriving on Tradition

“Watts New in Rushing”The summer months are perfect for local vice presidents of a City Council to meet and strengthen their friend-ship bond while working together to plan for upcoming

rushing activities. They should also take steps to plan the next Friendly Venture for the area, especially if the chap-

ters and/or members are well established.


Members of Ohio Preceptor Sigma, Bryan enjoyed a cheerful evening at a re-cent Ladies Night Out event which benefited a local charity, and introduced several wom-en to Beta Sigma Phi. “We handed out fliers to the interested ladies,” writes Preceptor Sigma member Noreen Piechocki. “We also presented our ways and means project.”

Ohio Preceptor Sigma, Bryan

Alpha Beta Alpha supports various ser-vice projects such as the Ronald McDonald House, after-prom activities, Veteran’s Day events and the Adopt-a-Family program. This time of year they are gearing up for the An-nual Citywide Easter Egg Hunt, and donating man hours to the beautification of the Memo-rial Garden in the community park.

Upsilon Mu is a very busy chapter as well, with a variety of activities, such as working with the local nursing home by donating gifts at Christmas, cards and candy on Valentine’s Day and assisting in planting flowers with the residents each spring.

Upsilon Mu enjoys adopting a family each year at Christ-mas, giving two scholarships to La Plata High School seniors, as well as donat-ing items and money to the school nursing system. An exciting event that Upsilon Mu started in 2004 is hosting

a tea at a historical institution for the gradu-ating senior girls. The afternoon includes tea with finger sandwiches and other light foods. The main fundraiser each year of Upsilon Mu is working a booth at the University of Mis-souri football games.

“If your chapter wants to enjoy a fun day trip, take the train or drive your car, and plan on visiting us in La Plata, Missouri,” says Upsi-lon Mu member Mary Ellyson. “You won’t be disappointed.”

T exas Xi Rho Beta, Dun-canville,

like the Lone Star state from which they hail, is com-prised of members born of pioneer strength and tenac-ity. The chapter was chartered in 1975, starting out with six sisters. Through thick and thin they have managed to keep up their member-ship count, and the chapter roster count now stands at 18 ex-traordinary women.

“Xi Rho Beta provides a setting of friendship and sisterhood. We look after one another and have become an extended family and support group,” says Xi Rho Beta member Sharon McGinnis. Their depth of care may be a common story in sorority, but continues to still fill the heart with joy as the true sisterhood found in sorority is exemplified.

An example of this caring is related by Sharon. “A few years ago one of our members lost her husband, and the member was in a serious health crisis herself. When her family traveled to Texas, our chapter took care of food and the family during their stay and assisted in funeral arrangements. The mem-ber’s sibling expressed disbelief at how much

the women were doing – he commented he had never seen anything like it. But we told him - that is what Beta Sigma Phis do when there’s a crisis – we circle the wagons, take

care of our friends and bring a casserole!” And when the beloved sister decided to move to be with the rest of her family, the chapter continued to assist – they provided care for her dogs and put the fam-ily in touch with someone who organized and held an estate sale.

The chapter just celebrated 33 years together, but it seems like it was only yesterday that

these lives came together to form this lasting bond. And they make an ongoing effort to keep track of every sister. “On our 25th an-niversary we hosted a reunion inviting former members who had moved away and who

Chapter SpotlightChapter Spotlight – Texas Xi Rho Beta, Duncanville


could be located. The chapter had an outstanding turnout because most were able to attend.” It was a great time, sharing experiences and remi-niscing about the good old days.

Like all successful chapters, Xi Beta Rho enjoys giving back to their com-munity, which has fostered the growth of their chapter. The chapter’s service projects are diverse and plentiful. One project dear to their heart is the Seena Meglino Scholarship Award, named for a beloved sister who was taken too soon. This scholarship is awarded to a deserving student who attends a local school for at risk students.

Another service project is the Duncanville Outreach Holiday Project. Each year members of Xi Rho Beta donate toys to the Duncanville Outreach. Xi Rho Beta is also very involved with the Brighter Tomorrows Women’s Shelter, for which they provide used cell phones and personal products for these women and chil-dren who are seeking assistance at the shelter due to domestic violence.

Cultural programs are planned according to the theme, making for some interesting sub-jects, and something that the chapter consid-ers invaluable because of the education they receive.

Socials are big on the chapter’s list, and rightly so. These members have a blast! They travel to

horse races, museums and make time for very special occasions, where they travel to nearby Dallas and dine.

“One special social we look forward to is planned and hosted by our spouses so that’s always fun and a big surprise,” says Sharon.

“Our husbands are dear to us and a few years ago we planned and hosted a special Envoy ceremony for them.”

Every year members of Xi Rho Beta end the year with a special road trip. On one of their latest trips the chapter headed south to historic Waco, Texas. While in Waco, sisters toured the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame, the Dr. Pepper mu-seum and guided tours of two historic Waco homes.

The chapter cannot wait until their next big anniversary, their 50th! And they are making exciting plans to help celebrate the 80th anni-versary of the founding of Beta Sigma Phi.

What sorority has done for these members shows in the happiness that is projected whenever they are together, and all the fun they have in and around Duncanville. Good times are ahead, and it should be a great ride for this vital chapter!



Makayla Berene NolanSponsor: California Laureate Theta Phi,

Ontario member Jill Donahue-HopsonChiane L Bond

Sponsor: New Mexico Tau Master, Las Cruces member Kamme L Bond

Haley Elyce BogdanSponsor: New Jersey Xi Alpha

Lambda, Pennsville member Margaret Pietrantonio

Emily Louise GarrisonSponsor: Tennessee Xi Delta Omicron,

Smyrna member Mary Ann Corrigan

Grace Ann MeehanSponsor: Virginia Xi Gamma Pi, Win-chester member Shirley Ann McInturff

Sarah Grace HendersonSponsor: Virginia Preceptor Gamma Pi,

Yorktown member Madeline McMillan

Madison Salyer Dougall

Sponsor: South Carolina Epsilon Delta, Beaufort member Shawn Salyer McDougall

Whitney Danielle PohlSponsor: Texas Xi Upsilon Psi, Yoakum

member Sandra T Steinmann

Sunny Paulele ValledorSponsor: Hawaii Preceptor Gamma, Pearl

City member Carolyn Canubida

Spring Parade of Legacies


Kady Kaleookealoha Valledor

Sponsor: Hawaii Preceptor Gamma, Pearl City member Carolyn Canubida

Spring Parade of Legacies

Emily Lakin WilkersonSponsor: Georgia Xi Beta Lambda,

Albany member Mary Stewart

Savannah TouchetSponsor: Florida Alpha Beta, Jack-

sonville member Tina Touchet

Miranda Reae JanssenSponsor: Michigan Xi Zeta Lambda, Hol-

land member Vickie WalkerAmanda Nicole MiguelSponsor: California Delta Kappa Master,

San Jose member Charlotte HossnerJordan Lexis KurtzSponsor: Missouri Mu Gamma, Blue

Springs member Rose Kurtz

Emily Catherine Elizabeth Butler

Sponsor: Iowa Xi Iota Gamma, Center-ville member Vickie Butler

Serena Alexis FullerSponsor: Iowa Xi Iota Gamma,

Centerville member Sheryl Fuller Ashlynn Ranae HamiltonSponsor: Iowa Xi Iota Gamma, Centerville

member Heather Benjamin


Kylie Marie HowingtonSponsor: Iowa Xi Iota Gamma, Centerville

member Brenda Howington

Cassidy Grace WarrenSponsor: Georgia Xi Beta Lambda,

Albany member Denise Jackson

Samantha Elena BradySponsor: Ontario Nu Alpha, Port Perry

member Barbara Brady

Celeste Morrow-BailieSponsor: Online Beta member Barbara Morrow

Hannah M DavisSponsor: Florida Laureate Epsilon Theta,

St. Petersburg member Joyce Keller

Hailey Jo StefanSponsor: Oregon Xi Delta Tau, Beaverton

member Anita Marie Stefan

Lauren Elizabeth BillsSponsor: New York Laureate Alpha Pi, Westfield member Shannon K Bills

Shelby Grace BegierSponsor: New York Laureate Alpha Pi,

Westfield member Amy Begier

Olivia Rose RebstockSponsor: Missouri Xi Delta Pi, Ken-

nett member Evone E Rebstock


Megan Elise Lavaux and Trinity Charlene Schreiner

Sponsor: Colorado Alpha Phi Master, Denver members Charlotte Smith and Karen Scott

Selina StolzSponsor: British Columbia Xi Beta Delta,

Kamloops member Sharon Primrose

Jade ScottSponsor: British Columbia Xi Beta

Delta, Kamloops member Nickie Lasaga

Katie HannaSponsor: British Columbia Xi Beta Delta,

Kamloops member Annette Hanna

Kendall Grace BredesonSponsor: Oregon Laureate Epsilon, Port-land member Teddy-June Bredeson Smith

Stephanie Nicole FieldSponsor: Florida Alpha Phi, Pensacola

member Irene Field

Agueda Daniela GarzaSponsor: Texas Beta Theta Iota, Rio

Grande City member Agueda M. Garza

Cheyenne Carole Giles and Jordan Constance Giles

Sponsor: Nebraska Gamma Master, Omaha member Constance Carr

It was right in time for Mother’s Day, when Deborah Strube of Texas Preceptor Omi-cron Rho, Bedford officiated her mother’s Golden Circle Ritual. The lucky mom is Bar-bara Danner of Texas Laureate Theta Tau, Euless. Barbara in turn bestowed the 25th year Silver Circle Award upon Deborah. The two saluted each other by crossing their beau-tiful yellow roses and pledging more years to come.

As members of Washington Eta Eta, Spo-kane during the 70s, many of these sisters had not seen each other for at least 30 years. “Eight of us met up for lunch at a restaurant where we had our last meeting at years ago,” writes Washington Preceptor Beta Epsi-lon, Spokane member Karen Rogers. “We were able to contact one sister through Inter-national and she drove over to meet up with all of us. We had also lost contact with Eliza-

Members of Laureate Eta, Gads-den, Alabama participated in an an-nual bowl-a-thon to raise money for the Spina Bifida Association of Alabama. Helen Graham, a much-loved Laure-ate Eta member, has the disease, but doesn’t let it deter her from enjoying life, her family and her sorority func-tions. “Some of the members bowled, some cheered, some kept score and others just watched as teams bowled and other sponsors helped to raised over $14,000 at this year’s event,” says Laureate Eta member Sharon Yancy.

Over the past six years, the members of Wisconsin Beta Sigma Phi chap-ters have worked together to raise more than $18,000 for the Wauke-sha, Wisconsin City Council state project, the Wisconsin Alliance For Fire Safety, which sponsors a sum-mer camp for burn injured youth. This camp gives a special opportu-nity for these youth to share feel-ings and experiences, have fun and make new friends, as well as provide a sense of belonging and temporary freedom from the frustrations felt by burn survivors.

ChatterChatter


beth Lind, only to find she had moved back to Spokane from Idaho and is now a member of Laureate Gamma Beta, Spokane, Wash-ington.”

Member Marlene Nelson, of Florida Laure-ate Omega Omega, Melbourne won a fancy electric guitar at a concert, signed by mem-bers of the band Foreigner. Choosing sorority first, as our members tend to do, she decided that she would donate it to whatever effort

the chapter decided. After investigating vari-ous charities in their local area, it was proudly donated to Early Intervention, which is spon-sored by Tim Wakefield, an American-league pitcher for the Boston Red Sox. Early Interven-tion is a non-profit organization that works with children from infancy to kindergarten, most of whom have special needs. The guitar was auc-tioned at a charity event and fetched a whop-ping $1,350 !

The sisters of Oklahoma Nu Eta, Mustang of Beta Sigma Phi, have come up with a fun t-shirt to mark the earthquake event that shook Oklahoma in October. The money from the sale of these t-shirts will be used to fund their service projects which have included support of the Jesus House, Infant Crisis Center, Pets and People, Angel Network and participating with the Federal Transfer Center’s Federal Women’s Program in sponsoring a project with Santa. A super t-shirt for a great cause. To order, please go to Craig’s List and look for Fun Earthquake Tee.

Virginia Xi Delta Gamma, Manassas

members collected items for Marines sta-tioned in Afghanistan.

Member Julie Ponn, whose brother is in

the Marines, suggest-ed the chapter send

the soldier’s favorites that included micro-wave popcorn, candy, trail mix, dried fruit,

granola bars and magazines. The sisters collected enough items to fill 6 boxes full of goodies, plus endearing cards that

Julie’s daughter made for her uncle and his fellow servicemen. May/June 2011 The Torch 17


The lifestyle we may adapt as we grow older is often sed-entary, but do not mention this word to 68-year old Jimi Hadley, of Oklahoma Xi Beta Xi, Oklahoma City. She is way too busy doing kicks, splits and breaking boards with her hands to worry about aging.

Jimi knew exercise was mandatory to fend off com-plications resulting from a troubling diagnosis - Type II diabetes. She hit the treadmill hard and began to take off the excess weight she had put on through the years.And then she hit pay dirt – passion wise. Caring for her grandchildren, while her daughter was fighting breast cancer, she fell in love with the Korean martial art of taekwondo.

She had come to bring her four-year-old grandchild to the school – but she quickly became entranced with the gracefulness the sport necessitates. But there was also a nagging voice inside her telling her not to be silly, this was for younger people, and that she was much older than any of the students. But another voice, echoing the days when Jimi was not afraid of anything, when she water-skied for the first time and almost drowned, but managed to surface with her chewing gum still in her mouth, said, “So what?”

This sister has always loved a challenge. She had trav-eled to Japan to teach English, anchored the 440 relay in the Junior Olympics, become proficient in fencing... and last but not least, snow-skied in the Japanese Alps. Jimi loved the taekwondo training which includes kicks, punches, and open-handed strikes.

She also loved looking up at the rows of colored belts that defined one’s rank. “I thought, if I could only get a blue belt, I would be so proud,” she said. “The next thing I knew I was testing for my first-degree black belt.”

In September, Jimi will turn 69, and she will also compete for her third-degree black belt, out of a possible ten. She has also participated in several tournaments. There are two age categories: 14–17 years and 18 years and older. Jimi’s new hobby has even gotten the attention of ABC News and she is slated to be on “Good Morning, America” this summer.

“She is always our inspiration, she has the energy we all aspire to have – at any age,” says friend and sorority sis-ter Roseanna Kaiser, of Oklahoma Mu, Oklahoma City. And it is this energy that has propelled her to master the art of Korean swordsmanship. Named Kumdo, this disci-pline requires participants to swing a large heavy sword over their head and through a series of complex moves. Talk about your toned biceps and triceps!

Jimi’s main competition is a 14-year-old, who she is even-steven with in terms of style. But then numbers don’t mat-ter to her. Unless we are talking about black belts. And in that case, she likes the sound of the number 10.

Resources - The Oklahoman

A Bow to the Master

In 1946 the Baby Boom began, the first bikini went on sale, “It’s a Wonderful Life” ruled the box office, and 20-year-old Betty Varner began

her federal career.

Today, with more than 62 years of federal service, she is the longest serving member of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. As a Navy wife and mother, her only break in service was the two years after her son was born. Today Varner is a Civil Works Program Manager. But she began her USACE career as a sta-tistical clerk in San Francisco in August of 1959.

Varner witnessed the rise of women in USACE. She began as one of a handful of women--clerks and secretaries. Today women make up a third of the workforce and serve at the highest levels of leader-ship.

“Betty is a true pioneer who opened doors for wom-en in the Corps,” said Altendorf. “Her generation changed leadership’s perception of women in the workplace. They showed men they were serious about their careers and opened opportunities for women to excel.”

Betty said she personally witnessed the transforma-tion during the 1970s when she served on special staff to the Division Commander preparing General Officers to testify before Congress. Varner remem-bers tough questions from her role model, Congress-woman Lindy Boggs, an outspoken champion of women in the federal work force.

Betty says of Congressman Bogg, “She wanted to know in detail what types of jobs women were working, and what grades they held. We would be gathering statistics to help the leadership answer.

She was a mother with three children and the first woman elected to Congress from Louisiana. She un-derstood the biggest obstacle career women faced was opportunity.”

Varner’s career began at the U.S. Navy Terminal Leave Disbursing Office in Great Lakes, IL process-ing claims for sailors leaving the service after the 2nd World War. IBM built the first large-scale electro-mechanical calculator for the Navy during the war, and Varner used adding machines and early com-puter punch cards to run tape, and process final checks and bonds. In those early days of automa-tion, a good operator could turn out 1,500 punch cards daily. Today a handful of program managers pull detailed data for thousands of projects.

Varner earned the respect of those around her throughout her career through hard work and pa-tience working the infinite details of the Civil Works budget.

COL Bill Leady, Commander of the South Pacific Di-vision, said Betty helps keep change in perspective.

“She’s made the journey from punch cards to our totally wired world,” he said. “When the pace of change seems crazy, Betty reminds us it also brings new opportunities, so jump on and enjoy the ride.”

Varner believes the secret to a good career is stay-ing active and engaged. “I truly like what I do,” she said. “I guess that’s why I’m still here!”

Reprinted (in part) with permission of US Army Corps of Engineers South Pacific Division Publication.Photo credit Torrie McAllister (U.S. Army Corps of Engi-neers South Pacific Division)

With more than 62 years of Federal Service Bet-ty Varner witnessed the rise of women in federal service. She began as one of a handful of women who were clerks and secretaries. Today she is a Civil Works Program Manager for the U.S. Army Corps of En-gineers South Pacific Division in San Francisco, California.

California Nu Master, Pacifica member Betty Varner Witnessed Rise of Women in Federal Service



2011Scholarship RecipientsScholarship RecipientsIntroducing our newest recipients of the Dorothy and Walter W. Ross Memorial Scholarship Fund. These students achieved stellar grades and were involved with many extra-curricular activities. Beta Sigma Phi is very proud that we can help contribute to their pursuit of higher education. We would like to wish them congratulations and good luck.

Apple, Stephanie Marie

Sponsor: Virginia Xi Delta Gamma, Manassas member

Patricia Ann AppleChosen Career Path: Veterinary Medicine

Brandt, Caitlyn Lea

Sponsor: Florida Lambda Phi, West Palm Beach member Erin

Lynn BrandtChosen Career Path: Anthropology

Gliatas, Marisol America

Sponsor: Ohio Lambda Phi, Greenville member Stephanie

SzymanskiChosen Career Path: Pediatric Audiologist

Harris, Thomas Ryan

Sponsor: Missouri Preceptor Alpha Tau, Independence

member Angelia HarrisChosen Career Path: Aerospace Engineering

Bender, Leah Elizabeth

Sponsor: Minnesota Omicron, Albert Lea member Becky

LohseChosen Career Path: Ministry

Dewaele, Carissa Marie

Sponsor: Illinois Laureate Beta Psi, Rock Island member Doris

CarpentierChosen Career Path: Anthropology

Glover, TiffanySponsor: British Columbia Omicron Master, Nanaimo

member Dora GloverChosen Career Path: Law

Jones, Sonja Danielle

Sponsor: Alaska Sigma, Kodiak member Kris Jones

Chosen Career Path: Engineering


Scholarship RecipientsScholarship Recipients 2011Ricketts, Molly

RoseSponsor: Montana Preceptor

Omega, Polson member Constance L. Carte

Chosen Career Path: Law

Prakel, Margaret Michelle

Sponsor: Ohio Lambda Phi, Greenville member Judy Stemley

Chosen Career Path: Psychology

Rutledge, Erica Nicole

Sponsor: Colorado Kappa Master, Clovis member Bunny

MarstonChosen Career Path: Business

Skelton, Eleanor Ballard

Sponsor: Georgia Xi Delta Iota, Canton member Patricia B.

SkeltonChosen Career Path: Business

Rossman, Erin Elizabeth

Sponsor: Kansas Sigma Upsilon, Ottawa member

Lisa RossmanChosen Career Path: Speech – Speech

Pathology

Raposa, MeganSponsor: South Dakota Iota,

Rapid City member Susan Raposa

Chosen Career Path: Journalism

Scott, Dillon Michael

Sponsor: Nebraska Gamma Theta, Falls City member Cindy

Sue ScottChosen Career Path: Medicine

Vazquez, PhilipSponsor: New York Zeta Master, Rome member Genevieve McClintock Chosen Career Path: Medicine

Williams, Ellen Amelia

Sponsor: Oklahoma Xi Zeta Pi, Pryor member JoEllen T.

WilliamsChosen Career Path: Undecided

Warner, Lauren Olivia

Sponsor: Arkansas Xi Delta Epsilon, Greenwood member

Jennifer BrittChosen Career Path: Meteorologist


2011Marcolla,

Madison LaurieSponsor: Missouri Preceptor Delta Lambda, Chillicothe

member Laurie MarcollaChosen Career Path: Law

Jorgensen, Darrah

Sponsor: Kansas Sigma Upsilon, Ottawa member Kelly

Otter JorgensenChosen Career Path: Paleontology

Mathis, KatherineSponsor: Iowa Pi Beta, Clear Lake member Maria MathisChosen Career Path: Marketing/

Advertising

Nancekivell, Brooke Simpson

Sponsor: Virginia Laureate Rho, Richmond member

Jeannet NancekivellChosen Career Path: International

Development

Marcolla, Mollie Marie

Sponsor: Missouri Preceptor Delta Lambda, Chillicothe

member Laurie MarcollaChosen Career Path: Nursing

Kiser, Brittany Ciera

Sponsor: Texas Xi Alpha Gamma Gamma, Huntsville

member Bambi Irby Kiser Chosen Career Path: Journalism

Morris,Tracy Lucille

Sponsor: Nevada Xi Omega, Carson City member Lucille

AdamsChosen Career Path: Culinary Arts

Nekimken, Kyle James

Sponsor: New Mexico Xi Nu, Los Alamos member Judy

NekimkenChosen Career Path: Mechanical

Engineering

Parker, Chelsea Renee

Sponsor: Oregon Laureate Alpha Beta, Portland member

June Cecilia StahlyChosen Career Path: Pharmaceutics

Nussbaum Ashley Elizabeth

Sponsor: Missouri Alpha Mu Master, Cape Girardeau

member Gwendolyn NussbaumChosen Career Path: Psychologist


20112011 Exemplar Fund Scholarship Recipients

Willms, Ashley Ann

Sponsor: Iowa Pi Beta, Clear Lake member Julie Willms

Chosen Career Path: Medicine

Clark, Debbie Annette

Sponsor: Texas Alpha Rho Theta, Friendswood

Chosen Career Path: Education – Reading Specialist

Rumbellow, Brenda JoyceSponsor: Texas Gamma

Omicron Master, GeorgetownChosen Career Path: Psychology

Mazuch, Tina Marie

Sponsor: Nebraska Zeta Chi, Alma

Chosen Career Path: Organizational Performance in the health field

Exemplar Fund Scholarship awards are given to those members who wish to continue their higher education.

Julie Smith Amador is a past scholarship winner who is the granddaughter of California Preceptor Delta Phi, Sonora member G. Clare Smith. Clare wrote to tell us that Julie completed her Master’s degree in Educa-tional Leadership, and a Doctorate of Philosophy by her 25th birthday, all while teaching at an elementary school. “At the present time she is working in math education,” writes Clare, who has enjoyed sorority for more than 50 years. “Needless to say, we are extremely proud of Julie’s accomplishments at such a young age and we look forward to what she will offer in the future.”


Kaitlyn Elizabeth Wurnig

Sponsor: Montana Preceptor Tau, Billings member Carmen

WurnigChosen Career Path: Radio and Television

Broadcasting

Sara Brianne Waeckerle

Sponsor: South Dakota Preceptor Zeta, Rapid City

member Carol RickertChosen Career Path: Law

Dear Sisters in Beta Sigma Phi,

I write this thank you letter today with a heart filled with love, humility and gratitude for your thought-ful and oh so generous remembrances you sent to the Literary Scholarship Fund I established in memory of Bill upon his death.

Those of you who knew him well know there was nothing he loved to do more than help others, both in big and small ways. I read something recently that I knew I would include in this letter to you. “Sometimes a person’s light shines so brightly, that even when they are gone, a beautiful glow remains.” In that spirit, one thousand dollar scholarships are presented to 12 college bound freshmen, wishing to pursue their education in the Liberal Arts. There weren’t many English or Literature only applicants. Given the 61-65% rise in college tuition this fall, I know Bill would want to help these students start to make their big dreams come true, now. He would be extremely proud and oh so humbled knowing so many of you remembered him in this grand and thoughtful manner. And, on his behalf, I thank you.

These twelve scholarships will be sent to the college of choice directly from Beta Sigma Phi Interna-tional and the Bill Ross Literary Scholarship Fund.

Thank you, thank you for your beautiful cards, notes, contributions to the scholarship fund and most of all your loving expressions and messages of sympathy to me and our family after Bill’s death. Please know each and everyone was read and appreciated. There were hundreds upon hundreds as you can well imagine. What a tribute to such a special fellow and our own Mr. Beta Sigma Phi!

Bill Ross was one-in-a-million for sure. He was our champion torch bearer! Always remember that because of you, his light will continue to shine.....and that light shall not go out forever!

With a hand clasped in gratitude and friendship across the miles, I remain “Thy Sister” Marilyn Ross

Bill Ross Literary Scholarship Fund


2011Kelyn Rose

Gibson (Kelly)Sponsor: Virginia Alpha Theta

Master, Richmond member Melinda L Gibson

Chosen Career Path: Law – Prosecuter

Chandler Rae Alford

Sponsor: California Laureate Iota Omicron, El Centro

member Cynda HenryChosen Career Path: Public Relations

Eric Andrew Heumann

Sponsor: Florida Beta Beta Master, Gainsville member

Judith C SteffenChosen Career Path: Music – Writing for

companies, movies, & television

Crystal Elizabeth Linde

Sponsor: Florida Pi Phi, Sebring member Linda Joyce

DeLoney Chosen Career Path: Education - Middle

School Teacher

Megan HastingsSponsor: Tennessee Xi Gamma

Eta, Paris member Nancy Melton

Chosen Career Path: Secondary English Education

Dalton James Duke

Sponsor: Texas Preceptor Lambda Epsilon, West

Columbia member Lisa DukeChosen Career Path: Radio Broadcasting

Jessica Bre-Anne Leis

Sponsor: Saskatchewan Laureate Chi, Regina member

Jill M Collins Chosen Career Path: Criminal Justice

Connor Garrett Luff

Sponsor: Delaware Preceptor Delta, Milford member Cathy

LuffChosen Career Path: Law

Taylor Julia Lucie Roth

Sponsor: Delaware Laureate Gamma, Dover member

Maryellen B BrownChosen Career Path: Education – Teacher

Nina Kaitlyn Tierney Price

Sponsor: Indiana Laureate Beta Omicron, New Albany

member Tina P PriceChosen Career Path: Law – Criminal

Justice

Bill Ross Literary Scholarship Fund


TORCH SUBSCRIPTION NEWSIs it time for your Torch renewal?

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Address ____________________________________

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or call (816) 444-6800

page

year’s


Camp Quality is a children’s family cancer charity that believes in bringing opti-mism and happiness to the lives of children and families affected by cancer through fun therapy and education. The first Camp Quality was established by founder Vera Entwistle in 1983 in Sydney, Australia. Entwistle was responsible for introducing Camp Quality to several countries, including Canada and the United States.

The name Camp Quality comes from a statement attributed to founder Vera Entwistle, “No one can do anything about the quantity of life, but we all can do something about the quality.”

The puppet shows were developed by Camp Qual-ity when it was demonstrated how the effects of childhood cancer effect a community. The Camp Quality Puppets were introduced as a free educa-tional program aimed at primary school children. The feedback was immediate and quite positive, and in 1989 McDonald’s sponsored the program. The McDonald’s Camp Quality Puppets now reach almost 250,000 primary school children each year.

“The program was launched here in Thunder Bay in 2007, by our chapter member and Camp Qual-ity volunteer Julie Ready, who inspires all of us, her friends in Beta Sigma Phi,” says Laureate Eta Gamma member Millie Kondraker.

After Julie’s enthusiasm for the project was so ap-parent, her chapter decided wholeheartedly to take on the task of puppeteering. “We visit schools with the life-size puppets and have two performances for junior kindergarten to third grade.

The hospital program for children and their families utilizes a remote controlled robot puppet named Giggle. The kids love him and interact with him through his jokes. Hospital staffs often use Giggle to explain treatments to their patients. The smiling face of Giggle and tag line “Laughter is the Best Medicine” have become well known throughout the Camp Quality community as the symbol for fun, laughter and support for children living with cancer and their families.

And the puppets get plenty of their own giggles as well, as Millie states. “The puppets are well-re-ceived and are asked many questions and accom-plish their mission of creating an empathetic and informed audience.” And always remember that laughter is indeed, the very best medicine.

Ontario Laureate Gamma Eta, Thunder Bay has joined a growing effort that teaches children about cancer. The encouragement and help comes by way of other youngsters who speak frankly with the children. But these presenters are puppets from Camp Quality, who have become imbued with life through the sisters of Laureate Gamma Eta, whose kind and funny words touch hearts and eliminate fear.

Puppet POWER

JoAnn has chaired all the committees through the years. At times, she did double duty by holding an office and chairing an existing committee. During the 2000 New York State Convention held in Rochester, JoAnn was in charge of group and other photo opportunities. JoAnn was also in charge of securing forums for the conven-tion.

Aside from her regular chapter duties, JoAnn recently spearheaded the recognition of the Wheelchair Founda-tion to receive grants from the International Endowment Fund. She sent letters to chapters in surrounding states and attended conventions where she gave speeches and made collections of money. She did 99% of the work necessary to see this through to fruition.

“JoAnn has headed our Service Committee for several years. She has also been the moving force to have our chapter progress to the next degree when we are eligible. She has also worked with the Ways and Means Com-mittee during the time that we had a booth at a weekend festival. JoAnn is also always on the lookout for an in-teresting program or worthwhile service project for our chapter.”

JoAnn is well known for always being there for a fellow sister. When a member recently had physical problems while caring for her ailing husband and mother, JoAnn stepped forward. She took them shopping on a weekly basis and checked in on them regularly to see if anything else was needed. When other members have had sur-gery, JoAnn has been there with a cheerful attitude and a helping hand and often times with the medical items that were required. If she sees a need for something, she takes care of it without hesitation.

“In addition to her duties in sorority, she has always been a sister on whom any one of us can rely upon to help out with our lives. She has been there for each and every one through joyful times and sad times. JoAnn has been a faithful sister when anyone was in need of assistance, be it a visit during a hospital stay, a cheery phone call when someone is down, and physically lending assis-tance to drive a sister to do shopping or just to check on her to see if she is all right and in need of anything.”

JoAnn Terry New York Omicron Master, Rochester Member Since 1969

International Award of DistinctionMeet one of the newest recipients of the International Award of Distinction (IAD), the highest honor that Beta Sigma Phi bestows on active members.

JoAnn has shown her enthusiasm for all things Beta Sigma Phi.


“Margaret certainly exemplifies what it means to be a true sister of Beta Sigma Phi. This organization has re-ally been important to her. Margaret is always happy to recite the Greek alphabet, and does so if any hint is given that someone would be interested in her recita-tion. Margaret has held every office multiple times and served on each committee in a willing manner. Ways and Means has been her special project for more than four decades.”

“Her sense of humor and willingness to participate in business aspects and social functions of our chapter are legendary,” says Nebraska Preceptor Alpha Lambda, Nebraska City member Gail Wurtele.

Margaret has received the JayCee’s “Distinguished Ser-vice Award,” the Chamber of Commerce “Outstanding Community Service Award,” and was honored by the local hospital for 30 years of dedicated service, which includes the past 18 years as board president. She has

served as manager of the hospital’s gift shop for over 30 years. She has served as president of her high school Alumni Association for the past 19 years, and she and her husband ran their family’s furniture store from 1967 to 1999. She has also enjoyed bowling for more than 50 years, as well as bridge, travel, and singing with a women’s barbershop chorus and church choir.

Margaret herself writes of joyous memories of her 60 years in Beta Sigma Phi, “Our director, Jo Davis, was the first hostess and presented our first cultural program. We learned how to properly set a formal dining table. We were very young and eager to learn the Good, the True, and the Beautiful. Jo was a music teacher and she had the idea to form a Beta Sigma Phi vocal trio, and she accompanied us on the piano. We sang at many area events for several years, letting our audiences be more aware of Beta Sigma Phi. Through the years we pro-gressed from Alpha Omega, to the Exemplar chapter Xi Alpha Iota, and then to Preceptor Alpha Lambda. I am now the only active charter member, and I have been active all sixty years...........and I did learn the Greek al-phabet!”

“Great leader and promoter of Beta Sigma Phi. She ac-tively participates in chapter functions and joint chap-ter functions within Nebraska City. She’s an excellent example of a Beta Sigma Phi member,” according to Linda Willson of Nebraska Preceptor Beta Gamma, Nebraska City.

Margaret Brawner Nebraska Preceptor Alpha Lambda, Nebraska City Member since 1948

International Award of DistinctionMeet one of the newest recipients of the International Award of Distinction (IAD), the highest honor that Beta Sigma Phi bestows on active members.

Margaret has shown her enthusiasm for all things Beta Sigma Phi.


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Baby Bib. PinkNo.215 [2oz]......$4.00BlueNo.216 [1oz]......$4.00YellowNo.217 [2oz]......$4.00

8260 [.2oz]Secret Sister

8243 [.2oz]Teddy Bear

8535 [.2oz]Yellow Crest

8530 [.2oz]Yellow Rose

- ALL CHARMS $4.25 -

Silver Heart Necklace.Silver chain and heart pendant engraved with “Chance made us friends BSF Made us Sisters” 18” long No.178 [.3oz]. . . .$10.00

Life, Learning & Friendship Silver Heart w/cordNo.994 [.3oz]. . . . $4.95

Life, Learning & Friendship Silver BraceletNo.975 [1oz]. . . . $9.95

Friendship Plate. White porcelain, 7 1/2” in diameter, features gold and green bands, our yellow rose, and the words “Life, Learning, and Friendship - Beta Sigma Phi.”No.1137 [16oz].......$17.00

Petite Friendship Brooch.A hidden ring allows you to wear it as a necklace, too! Brooch is 7/8” high and available in gold or silver finish.No.2192 [.2oz].........$9.00 Gold

Party Book. This book contains hundreds of party ideas from sorority members.No.426 [14oz].....$14.95

Bud Vase. This cylindrical vase, etched with long-stem rose and “Beta Sigma Phi”in script will elegantly hold your yellow roses! Vase is 7 1/2” high.No.1130 [9oz]......$8.75

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Because We Love This PhotoBecause We Love This Photo

Mississippi Xi Alpha Phi, Natchez Envoy IIs and precious Legacy Isabel Pierce enjoy watermelon at a water park on the Mississippi River. Isabel’s playmates (l-r) are Jackson Webb, Tate White, Isabel’s brother, Sam Pierce and Gabe White.

Beta Sigma · PDF fileOfficial Publication of Beta Sigma Phi, 1800 West 91st Place, Kansas...

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Transcript of Beta Sigma · PDF fileOfficial Publication of Beta Sigma Phi, 1800 West 91st Place, Kansas...