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2 TORCH STAFF Editor - Laurey Lummus Graphic Designer - Eric Burgess Assistant Editor - Betsy Thomas BETA SIGMA PHI INTERNATIONAL Address: 1800 West 91st Place Kansas City MO Phone: (8:30 am - 5:00 pm CST M-F) Fax: Insurance Only: Long Term Care Insurance: Gifts Only: DIVISION CHAIRMEN Karla MacRae karlam@betasigmaphi.org - Canada, GA, Greece, HI, IL, IN, MN, NM, Norway, Scotland, WA, WY, & Russia Vivian Iddings viviani@betasigmaphi.org - 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, & WV Laura Ross Wingfield laura@betasigmaphi.org - On-Line Chapters & Conventions Cynthia Meadows cynthiam@betasigmaphi.org - AL, AR, CO, NC, TN, OH, OK, SC, TX, Belgium, & Zimbabwe Cindy Vance cindyv@betasigmaphi.org - Austria, Australia, CA, England, Finland, FL, ID, IA, LA, Mexico, NE, ND, OR, Saudi Arabia, SD, UT, & WI ADDRESSES Torch Department - Torch@betasigmaphi.org Membership/Rushing Department - Rushing-FriendlyVenture@betasigmaphi.org Gift Department - Gifts@betasigmaphi.org Home Page - Beta Journal - Beta 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: BETA-2B1( ) Dear Sisters, Letter From The Editor August 2011 Volume Issue 4 Hope your summer is going well. Here in the heartland and elsewhere, it has been a rough summer so far, with rivers overflowing their banks and tornadoes ripping through towns and cities. Along with pretty considerable heat, many of us here are ready for cool weather, and summer officially just started! Our prayers are with our members in Alabama, Missouri, Oklahoma, and most recently, those affected by the flooding in North Dakota. Many of our sisters were affected by the tornadoes. If you go to our home page, you may read some of their stories, and there is also a very moving one in this issue on pages 10 and 11, on Tona Court of Missouri Xi Iota Omega, Florissant. Reading your stories are heartbreaking, and pictures do not begin to tell the story. If you were a victim of one of these natural disasters, please call International. You may qualify for assistance from our Disaster Fund. I would like to thank chapters and individual members, as well as other organizations that have contributed to this fund. I was recently in Mobile, Alabama at a spectacular convention, and the happy winners of a 50/50 raffle, Alabama Laureate Chi, Prattville member Linda Fisher and her husband Lee, approached me and donated their winnings to the fund. I could not have been more overwhelmed with admiration. Thanks, guys! The staffers who attend conventions have been busy flying in and out of Kansas City, attempting to navigate the horrors of modern air travel with smiles on our faces. I experienced a particularly interesting accident that does not bear repeating except to issue my beloved sisters a warning moving sidewalks are not always your friend please be careful. When we arrive back at work the joy we have felt with our fellow members trumps any woes and we are excited to tell everyone about our fantastic times. As you may know, this past year International has lost two members of our family our first member, Helen Pepper of Kansas Alpha Master, Abilene and Amy Wykes, a beloved 60-plus-yearemployee of Beta Sigma Phi, an excellent historian who loved her adopted country as well as her native Canada, in equal measure. God Bless them both. Laurey

3 FEATURE STORIES 5 Operation Shut-In Sisters Bringing sorority to our members at home Beta Sigma Phi Poetry Contest Winners Beta Sigma Phi Photography Contest Winners 10 Fury From the Sky A firsthand account of the harrowing tornadoes that cut a swath through Missouri and killed 145 people. 12 Convention Coverage Good Friends, Crazy Costumes and Zany Times. 14 Sleeping Children Around the World British Columbia Preceptor Phi, North Vancouver helps our young achieve a good night s rest. 32 Cruise News Read about Beta Sigma Phi s next cruise! It is going to be fun! Special Section Gift Selections On the Cover 2012 Interna national Contest Infor ormation HURRY!!! Deadline rapidly approaching! Please send your entries to the appropriate contest, c/o The Torch, Beta Sigma Phi International, P.O. Box 8500, Kansas City, MO ALL ENTRIES BECOME THE PROPERTYOF BETA SIGMA PHI INTERNATIONALAND 2012 Valentine Contest CANNOT BE RETURNED. INTERNATIONALCANNOT BE RESPONSIBLEFOR ITEMS LOSTOR DAMAGEDINTH . Yearbook Contest Deadline: November 1, Please submit a quality photo. Photos should be crisp, clear and in color. No digital/ ed photos will be accepted. Most important: Please attach the entry form to the back of the photo. Please include a short biography of your chapter s valentine sweetheart. Deadline: November 15, 2011 V alentine Contest Entry Form Member Name Address City St ate/province, Country Zip/Postal Code Phone Number Chapter Number Why is this member so special? (Please complete statement and attach short bio.) THIS SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR CONSIDERATION Reminiscent of the style of the 30s, we reflect on what an honor it is to be a part of Beta Sigma Phi. We celebrate 80 years of Life, Learning and Friendship, as we use our past to guide us into the future. - Eric Burgess NO ED PHOTOS WILL BE ACCEPTED Your entry should be the one your chapter uses during the current sorority year. Entries should bear the name and address of the yearbook committee chairperson and the name, number and location of the chapter. Yearbook covers are not judged. Points the judges consider include the following: Year Score Sheet Possible points Program assignments (more than one member), resources, presentations, innovations Originality (use of theme, creativity, attractiveness) Outline main social activities Outline main ways-and-means projects Outline main service projects Usefulness, organization, neatness Concise, clearly outlined plans... 5 Chapter Roster... 5 Officer s names... 5 Committees (chairpersons included)... 5 TORCH TRADITIONS 4 Conventions, New Chapters, Friendly Ventures 6 Rushing 28 Chatter THE TORCH OF BETA SIGMA PHI (ISSN ). Official Publication of Beta Sigma Phi, 1800 West 91st Place, Kansas City, Missouri Periodical postage paid at Kansas City. Canada Post Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement # Published 7 times a year by Beta Sigma Phi International. Member subscription price $14.00 per year. Non-member subscription 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 August 2011 The Torch 3

4 Conventions 2011 Welcome These New Chapters Arizona (Scottsdale) Sept Oct. 2 British Columbia (Victoria) October Indiana (Terre Haute) October Michigan (Frankenmuth) October Minnesota (Alexandria) Sept Oct. 2 Mississippi (Greenville) September Missouri (Independence) October New York (Albany) September Nova Scotia (Halifax) October South Dakota (Pierre) September Texas East Area (Frisco) October Virginia (Williamsburg) October West Virginia (Beckley) October Wisconsin (Sturgeon Bay) October Wyoming (Sundance) September Arkansas Laureate Beta Beta, Clarksville British Columbia Preceptor Delta Nu, Chemainus California Epsilon Theta Master, Pacifica Florida Preceptor Omicron Pi, Miami Indiana Beta Theta Master, Portage Kansas Alpha Omicron Master, Clay Center Kentucky Mu Master, Ashland Michigan Beta Gamma Master, Benton Harbor Missouri Beta Psi Master, Concordia Newfoundland Zeta Master, Corner Brook Ohio Gamma Alpha Master, Akron Ontario Delta Beta Master, Peterborough Ontario Delta Gamma Master, Orangeville Saskatchewan Laureate Omega, Regina Tennessee Kappa Master, Lebanon Tennessee Laureate Alpha Mu, Tracy City West Virginia Alpha Iota Master, Morgantown New Friendly Venture Chapters Missouri Online Omicron, Kansas City By: Dianne Kent and Arlene Fox, assisted by Karen Ing Ontario Alpha Beta, Hamilton By: Janice Graham, Xi Delta Alpha, and Hamilton City Council Texas Alpha Lambda Theta, Pearland By: Stephanie Proffitt, Laurie Pevy and Alpha Rho Theta 4 August 2011 The Torch

5 Operation Shut-In Sisters Bringing Sorority To Our Sisters If you can t come to us, then we will come to you. This was the promise Sharon Herman of California Preceptor Nu Rho, San Luis Obispo made when she became president of the Pacific California Council (PCC), when it was decided to be more proactive in keeping elderly sisters up-to-date. Many of our Beta Sigma Phi sisters no longer drive or are able to attend meetings. I observed years of membership decline where no one was taking an interest in bringing that spark of sisterhood back to those gals who once were so active. says Sharon. Just because some sisters were out of my sight didn t mean that they were off my mind or out of my heart. When Sharon joined sorority, one of her favorite benefits of sorority were the connections between sisters. I realized Beta Sigma Phi women remain close with one another forever. Sharon decided that she would keep everyone in touch, no matter what it took. And so this project, Operation Shut-In Sisters (SIS), began. The first PCC president, Veltea Beck, was the first member visited. Veltea now resides in a residence equipped to facilitate seniors in Santa Barbara. Everyone who attended agreed it was one of the most rewarding days we ever spent together, and Veltea had a delightful time. We also made personal visits to see sisters in retirement homes and at an occasional California Beta Pi Master, Santa Barbara member Veltea Beck (seated) is visited by Operation Shut-In Sisters. chapter meeting when it was difficult for them to support our PCC brunch, continues Sharon. I thought it was important that they knew how much was raised for our philanthropic donation that was presented at our state convention and what other service projects we have been supporting. We also promoted the International theme and my Council s theme, Friendship Dressed in Heels and Handbags, and gave out a pin shaped like a shoe, exclaims Sharon. The board continued with Operation SIS this year. The Council s hope is that it will catch on to other areas and perhaps to other states. August 2011 The Torch 5

6 Rushing Dear Sisters, 6 August 2011 The Torch How wonderful to be celebrating the 80th anniversary of Beta Sigma Phi with each of you Building our Future on Traditions. What an awesome year to be a part of sorority, don t you think? A perfect time for believing each and every one of you are UNSTOPPABLE in all that you do. As Helen Reddy so perfectly sang, I Am Woman, Hear Me Roar! This is the year to pull out all stops remove the obstacles don t listen to your head - listen to your heart. Your heart tells you that Beta Sigma Phi is the best thing that has happened to you and you know you want to share it with every woman you meet. Don t listen to your head when it says, No, they aren t interested. We are our own worst enemies when it comes to being defeated before we even begin, especially in rushing. 80 years have passed, how quickly time flies. Our values, beliefs and traditions have survived all the changes that have happened in the world all these years. We know today s women are busier and more independent than ever. They are staying single longer, traveling solo and independently driving the success of their careers. For women with busy personal and professional lives, making and keeping a group of great friends can mean the difference between fulfillment and loneliness. Many articles and books have been written for women on that fact - we need to have friends. Women need to be sure they have a group of friends for the good times and the bad times, someone to share their feelings with or ask for help when needed. In multiple friendships, we can celebrate the variety in life. Variety is the spice of life. Every chapter needs a variety of women. The more the merrier. Each sorority sister brings something different to the group. Think about your chapter for a minute. You probably have a good listener... SHE hears you, loud and clear. You probably have a straight-shooter... SHE tells it like it is whether you truly want to hear it. You probably have an old faithful...she is special because she is always there for you. You probably have a joker...she is always good for a laugh. You probably have a go-getter... SHE is always the one you call on for helping or leading a new project. No one friend can or should be everything to us. We need several friends with different strengths. Having more than one friend ensures that you ll get support when you need it - that s why our Beta Sigma Phi chapters work so well. We need enough friends in our life to cover just about any circumstance and if your chapter is closer to having twenty active members, you re covered. If you are reading this article, the odds are you have found this is true in your membership, right?

7 January 1, 2011 May 31, 2011 Top Rushing Chapters A friendship simply has to have consistency in order to form. We develop friends easily at work due to being in the same place at the same time - eight hours a day. Remember back to our school days, how we had the best of friends and more than one best friend due to spending so much time together. Friendships do take time to build, time needed to get to know each other, even if there s an instant connection. Your chapter meetings and social outings are the scheduled times you ve committed to meet and develop those friendships. Where do you find the time? Make the time? How can we possibly squeeze in more time for our friends or for ourselves? Beta Sigma Phi is the simple answer to all of these questions. Your meetings easily share an environment for interaction, a set time. Taking the time to start a new friendship by committing to extend invitations to prospective members to attend the next chapter meeting, social or even just for a Coke - it takes just one small piece of your time to start those new Friendship Connections. So don t wait any longer, make the commitment to take the time to meet new women, to introduce them to your chapter, to enjoy new Friendship Connections, to celebrate our 80th anniversary in style. SO LET US HEAR YOU ROAR! Your Membership Director and sister, Lola Added 14 Pledges N. Carolina Kappa Rho, Fayetteville Added 8 Pledges Illinois Beta Nu, Carmi Kansas Beta, Topeka Added 7 Pledges Kansas Kappa Psi, Larned Louisiana Alpha Pi, Natchitoches Texas Preceptor Kappa Lambda, Portland Added 6 Pledges Alabama Preceptor Alpha Theta, Alexander City Arkansas Beta Alpha, Mena Arkansas, Delta Lambda Wynne Florida Alpha Gamma Eta, Titusville Kansas Iota Gamma, Kinsley Missouri Rho Eta, Hale Texas Xi Alpha Epsilon Mu, Madisonville Texas Alpha Rho, Jacksonville Texas Alpha Zeta Epsilon, Albany Texas Xi Delta Gamma, Dalhart Added 5 Pledges British Columbia Iota Alpha, Kimberley Mexico Zeta, Bucerias Nayarit Arizona Beta Alpha, Mena Arizona Xi Chi, Scottsdale California Delta Omega, Alturas California Delta Kappa Iota, Live Oak Florida Alpha Gamma Chi, The Villages Georgia Beta Delta, Elberton Georgia Lambda Beta, Newnan Kansas Sigma Psi, Marysville Missouri Epsilon Xi, Marshall Missouri Delta Alpha, Carrollton Montana Gamma Beta, Baker Nevada Beta Omicron, Las Vegas Nevada Xi Xi, Winnemucca Oklahoma Mu Theta, Blanchard Oklahoma Delta Xi, Blanchard Texas Eta Rho, Center Texas Beta Theta, Omega Texas Xi Iota Pi, Amarillo August 2011 The Torch 7

8 Poetry Contest 1st Place Lulling in a Southern Garden by: Linda Dowling South Carolina Preceptor Mu, Florence Under the lush, green trees in this quiet garden I am intoxicated with the heat and the aroma of magnolias. I watch the hummingbirds drinking lunch in flight and envy their freedom. spiders display their awesome talents sculpting their webs into intricate shapes and dwarfing us in our inadequacies. grasshoppers rule sidewalks butterflies glide from flower to flower and birds bring harmony to the quiet while the trees offer cool breezes and peace. the eyes absorb 3 the awe and beauty of a summer afternoon grateful for solitude thankful for rest. 8 August 2011 The Torch rd Place 2nd Place England in the Eyes of a Visitor by: Barbara Toyne California Gamma Sigma Master, Sacramento The skies above change from fluffy white to darkening gray To shower their kisses on the ground this day. The rolling greens, spotted with animals of the land, And divided by stone fences, make this country grand. And in the distance, a thriving town appears - Flanked by stone cottages that have stood throughout the years. Castle walls stand tall with moats around all sides, While cathedrals spires point upward, praying toward the skies. And as the eve draws near and sunset cools the land, A calm a gentle breeze is there, wafted by God s hand. I Know My Son by: Jane Kidneigh Medved Wyoming Epsilon Master, Casper Laughter is a great stress reliever And especially a lot of fun When the other humor perceiver Happens to be your son. Oh, how we laughed one night As together we watched TV. Suddenly I realized with delight That he giggled just like me. Honorable Mention A Yellow Rose and Friendship by: Pat Hill Colorado Laureate Beta Eta, Colorado Springs A yellow rose, like friendship Comes in colors, shades and depths Pale with a light, sweet scent Deep with a strong fragrant bent Some will dazzle with lots of sun Others are strong, and climb about Just for fun Delicate or tough Strong scent or just enough My friends are like roses Entwined for all my days Giving me substance like the Sun s yellow rays

9 1st Place Photo Contest Sandra C. Green Ontario Xi Beta Mu, Trenton My grandson Fletcher has been communicating on a daily basis with a little deer, he calls Deer, Deer. The deer comes to see him about three times a day and they have conversations. The deer also mimics Fletcher, if Fletcher jumps, the deer jumps, if Fletcher goes down on his knees or turns around so does the deer. It s really been an amazing experience for the whole family to see how wildlife and humans can connect. 2 nd Place Jodie Mutchler Florida Gamma Gamma Master, Tampa Columns in the Roman Forum while on a trip to Rome traveling with a sorority sister. Dorenda Shackelford Ohio Preceptor Sigma, Bryan My dog, Emmi, a Shiba Inu (a Japanese breed), taken this past winter. 3rd Place August 2011 The Torch 9

10 Fury From Missouri Nu Master, Moberly member Tona Court and her husband Dan had planned a holiday visit on April 27, 2011 to visit their daughter, Jennifer, her husband Kris, and their family in nearby Bridgeton. What started as a wonderful visit turned into a disaster unlike most of us will ever know. It was in the form of an EF4 tornado that ripped open the sky and wreaked unimaginable devastation. It was Good Friday, and the Court s were looking forward to spending Easter weekend with their grandchildren, eight-year-old Savannah and Mason, age three. The home belonged to Tona and Dan but their daughter and family lived there and operated a daycare. The couple arrived just in time to see Savannah hop off the school bus, greeting her as she came running to meet her beloved grandparents. I ll never forget that precious moment she was so happy and bubbling over with Easter enthusiasm, and Mason was standing in the doorway grinning and waving at us. She continues, We spent time playing catch and enjoying the breezy afternoon, and we made big plans to dye Easter eggs. I remember admiring the dozens of pink tulips blooming all around the deck, and thinking everything was so perfect. But the world crashed down just a few hours later. Soon after the dishes had been cleared after dinner, the urgent cry of the tornado sirens signaled trouble. We went to the lower level of the house and continued to watch the weather reports and radar. When they announced there was a tornado on the ground four minutes away, we huddled together and prayed. First came the roar, then the ear pressure, then the loss of power and then the horrible noises from above. To me, it sounded like a gigantic crowbar prying the house apart. It was over in about 15 seconds. Most importantly, no one was injured. The house didn t fare well, and was virtually destroyed. The roof was completely gone over the three bedrooms, two baths and hallway, not even a rafter was left bolted. Rain poured in, and the sound of emergency vehicles wailed from every direction. We made our way by flashlight to the sunroom, says Tona. One glimpse of the outdoors told us of the devastation. Our big, beautiful trees were gone. There was a utility pole and transformer laying between our cars in the driveway. The storage shed was gone. We managed to find a path to the street, and waited for help. 10 August 2011 The Torch

11 the Sky When daylight finally came, we were simply nauseated by the sight, continues Tona. Every direction looked like a war zone. People were moving about the neighborhood dazed like us. Fiberglass insulation had swirled through the entire house even the oven was full of it. All that remained of the daycare was a few scattered toys. But Tona s former sorority sisters from Missouri Xi Iota Omega, Florissant came quickly, in their own emergency vehicles. They have been absolutely wonderful to us. Helen French and her daughters Cherie Edwards-French and Kim Jackson gathered up load after load of clothing and linens to launder. That s a messy job when everything is wet and covered with blown insulation. Cherie even took Chris suits to the dry cleaners and brought them back good as new in plastic bags. She continues, Helen gave the kids bunk beds, mattresses, and linens. She and her grandson even assembled the beds and made them up. One of her daughters donated a queen-size bedroom set complete with mattresses, linens and a chest of drawers. Xi Iota Omega sister Linda Long was preparing to place her mother s home on the rental market, when she had a great idea and said, Just move in here! Linda s mom Janet Baker, also of Xi Iota Omega, was a devoted member for many years before her death. Tona adds that Janet collected angels, and is certain that she is now serving in that capacity. Somehow, the Courts and thousands of other families in weather-ravaged states have managed to keep putting one foot in front of the other and look ahead. My grandkids have gotten through it, even though everything in their bedrooms was covered in a yucky layer of wet insulation and drywall from the ceilings and attic, says Tona. Mason was already afraid of thunder and rain. Now he is terrified. Both kids are having nightmares, but that s to be expected after the trauma. Don t get me wrong we are most thankful that our guardian angels were watching over us. Now we re just trying to move forward and achieve some kind of normalcy. Beta Sigma Phi members also brought food and have given gifts of cash -- it has been an extraordinary outpouring of sisterly love. We would have been lost and alone without them. I just learned today from BSP International that I m eligible for a $1,000 disaster relief loan that doesn t need to be repaid. Beta Sigma Phi what a simply amazing organization! In her postscript, Tona adds her spirit was lifted when her son-in-law helped his family to adjust to their temporary home. After packing and moving all day, Kris went back to the ruined home and retrieved a forgotten item. They were the pink tulips, abloom and vibrant, untouched by the storm. August 2011 The Torch 11

12 Conventions What a blast we are having this year at conventions! Is it just us reps from International, or are all the states and provinces just continuing to outdo themselves? Read about these successful soirees for yourself you will want to book more than just the one in your state for the most fabulous weekend parties you can imagine. Macon served as the backdrop for the Georgia convention, held June 3-5. The theme was Beta Sigma Phi Goes to Hollywood, and there was surely no shortage of stars on hand to shine. The event started off with a pajama party which after a good night s sleep (not!), there was a Saturday morning Breakfast Club theme, followed by a Night At the Oscars, with an MC greeting the glitterati as they emerged from their chauffeur-driven vehicles. Members were dressed as their favorite movie stars and walked the red carpet and then posed in a free photo booth. It was fabulous, dahling, from beginning to end. The Florida State Convention brought everyone back to their childhood as a weekend of Fairy Tales unfolded. Held in Jacksonville, May 13-15, the gala left no tale untold. Diotima made her entrance at a beautiful opening ceremony, with dessert being white chocolate Cinderella slippers with raspberry sauce. Saturday began with a great meal, cute skits and a bit of free time before the Saturday evening ball began. The evening was magical with a comedian hypnotist who put several members under his spell. Sunday morning a plethora of awards were given, honoring the top Florida Beta Sigma Phi members, although all the members were super! 12 August 2011 The Torch The theme Las Cruces Mysteries Will Drive You Nuts managed to intrigue all, and the goal was accomplished when this City of the Crosses hosted the New Mexico State Convention. Inquisitive minds discovered clues to many of the mysteries that surround the city s heritage, and were also given a primer on forensics by a local detective. To offset any seriousness, there was also a fun winetasting. To accompany the theme, a mystery play was on the bill for Saturday night, titled, There s Gold in Them Thar Hills. The ending was as magical as the entire weekend, making for spine-tingling moments and lots of togetherness.

13 The members of Houma, Louisiana hosted their state s convention with the always fun and area favorite theme of Mardi Gras. The weekend started out with some of the funnest entertainment around Karaoke! Lots of fun and singing (both on and off-key) were enjoyed, and it made for the perfect convention opener. Saturday started with registration and plenty of Jambalaya and other morsels, while shopping was on the agenda Saturday afternoon. Saturday night the Mardi Gras mambo saw all in attendance decked out in their finery and ready for a decorated mask competition. Both the masks and the fun that was had will be talked about for years to come! Iowa held their state convention in Dubuque, lovingly called the Masterpiece on the Mississippi. With Destination Dubuque as the theme, members were in a constant state of hustle and bustle, with just enough relaxation time to renew - and rev back up. There was something for everyone river cruises, slot tourneys at the casino and even a festival with the legendary band Chicago performing! Forums were exciting and ranged from cooking classes to wine-tasting, followed by a captivating talk by Harlequin Books romance novelist Anne McCallister. Iowa continuously puts their state service projects at the forefront, this year taking in thousands of dollars for CASA and Amanda the Panda Grief Support for Kids. Redding, California set the stage for the California State Convention, held May Boasting a theme of Broadway Nights, the roaring gala started off with a bow to On the Town, which featured tours to such acclaimed sights as Shasta Caverns, Burney Falls and the Anselmo Vineyards. The Saturday luncheon saluting the phenomenal Chicago, with a few Roxie Hart and Velma Kelly lookalikes spied amongst the guests. The Recognition Dinner, held traditionally on Friday night, honored many deserving members. With their elegantly dressed escorts by their side, the lovely ladies were congratulated during an impressive reception line. There was much more on the agenda, including a fabulous fashion show, the always inspiring philanthropic donations and a gifted singer who entertained the crowd. August 2011 The Torch 13

14 Sleeping Children Around the World Beta Sigma Phi members have always been front and center when it comes to caring for the needs of the young. Through 80 years of exemplifying the Good, the True and the Beautiful, it has been shown that we recognize that the precious children of the world are our most vulnerable asset. British Columbia Preceptor Phi, North Vancouver is involved in a service project that will help many children have the sweet dreams they have never before experienced. Sleeping Children Around the World (SCAW), provides bed kits to children of any race and or religion who will benefit the most, primarily children located in underdeveloped and developing countries. The mission of Sleeping Children Around the World is through free-will donations and in partnership with volunteers. Preceptor Phi members note that the core values of SCAW will indeed stand the test of time. It is a charity that will always be needed and will welcome those who often have no voice. For a $35.00 donation children of any race or religion are provided with the essentials for a good night s sleep; a mattress or mat, pillow, sheets, blanket, towel, mosquito net if required, clothes outfit and school supplies. Bed kit contents vary from country to country depending upon local needs. 14 August 2011 The Torch The organization was started by Murray and Margaret Dryden, the parents of Canadian hockey star Ken Dryden, and is run completely by volunteers. The organization has provided the supplies to more than one million children, a goal that was reached last year. Funds in excess of 20 million dollars have been raised since SCAW started in Sleeping Children Around The World also: Guarantees that 100% of supplies go to bed kits and that no portion of donations goes to cover operating costs. Strives to provide hope and always aims to preserve the dignity of the children. Sleeping Children Around the World verifies that each kit is received by a needy child. Sleeping Children Around the World does not request or accept government funding. Although SCAW is based in Canada, they gladly welcome US Funds. You can visit their website at If donating from the United States, be sure to click on US Funds donation page.

15 2012 Interna national Contest Infor ormation HURRY!!! Deadline rapidly approaching! Please send your entries to the appropriate contest, c/o The Torch, Beta Sigma Phi International, P.O. Box 8500, Kansas City, MO ALL ENTRIES BECOME THE PROPERTY OF BETA SIGMA PHI INTERNATIONAL AND CANNOT BE RETURNED. INTERNATIONAL CANNOT BE RESPONSIBLE FOR ITEMS LOST OR DAMAGED IN THE MAIL Valentine Contest Deadline: November 1, Please submit a quality photo. Photos should City be crisp, clear and in color. No digital/ ed photos will be accepted. Most important: Please attach the entry form to the back of the photo. Please include a short biography of your chapter s valentine sweetheart. V alentine Contest Entry Form Member Name Address State/Province, Country Zip/Postal Code Phone Number Chapter Number Why is this member so special? (Please complete statement and attach short bio.) THIS SECTION MUST BE COMPLETED FOR CONSIDERATION NO ED PHOTOS WILL BE ACCEPTED Yearbook Contest Deadline: November 15, 2011 Your entry should be the one your chapter uses during the current sorority year. Entries should bear the name and address of the yearbook committee chairperson and the name, number and location of the chapter. Yearbook covers are not judged. Points the judges consider include the following: Year Score Sheet Possible points Program assignments (more than one member), resources, presentations, innovations Originality (use of theme, creativity, attractiveness) Outline main social activities Outline main ways-and-means projects Outline main service projects Usefulness, organization, neatness Concise, clearly outlined plans... 5 Chapter Roster... 5 Officer s names... 5 Committees (chairpersons included)... 5 August 2011 The Torch 15

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28 Chatter It has long been a tradition for the six chapters in the Auburn, California Area Council to entertain members from another chapter in the council. Xi Alpha Eta chapter in Grass Valley had the privilege of entertaining their sisters in Delta Nu Phi from Auburn. The latest get-together was a blast! Everyone meet at the local bowling ally for an afternoon of bowling and pizza. A great time was had by all. The two teams names? The Lois Lanes and the Brittany Spares. This was such a wonderful opportunity for North Carolina Pi Master, Havelock recently celebrated the royal wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton with a lunch of bangers and mash, better known as sausages and mashed potatoes, and wedding cake. Pi Master member Jackie Gitthens, who hosted the event with chapter sister Jan Allaire, has a special interest in the royal wedding as she was raised in England. Many of Jackie s family live in England and she feels the royal wedding is a time to celebrate. There was a drawing to see who would be the Prince and Princess of the affair and Pi Master sisters Lorene Pfeiffer and Judy Repass were selected as royalty. the members of our chapter to get to know our younger sisters, and for them to get to know us. We had so much fun we have decided to try and make this a monthly event, and you can bet we will all be wearing our special t-shirts! In other museum news, Oregon Upsilon Master, Monmouth hosted a very successful fundraiser at a historical society museum in their area. We invited chapters from Dallas, Monmouth, Independence and guests, report Upsilon Master members. At the conclusion of the event, the chapter was pleased to award the check to the museum president. Oklahoma Preceptor Alpha Beta, Oklahoma City spearheads the efforts to help Ally s House, an organization that provides support to Oklahoma children with cancer. To date, the sisters of Beta Sigma 28 August 2011 The Torch

29 Port Alberni, British Columbia chapters Preceptor Xi and Preceptor Gamma Beta Phi have led the way to increase opportunities for the youth of their community. The chapters are commemorating their 60th anniversary by paying the fees for those students who wish to participate in educational programs at the museum. It s a true legacy that we can give to the children, said Penny Cote of the Preceptor Xi chapter of the sorority. They can grow up anywhere, but this is where they are from, this is their history. We are very excited, added the museum s director. It s the little bright lights that keep us enthused around here, she said. Phi have donated more than $21,000 in the form of monetary donations, toys and other gifts. We would especially like to thank Preceptor Alpha Beta member Gwen Jones, who has tirelessly led the charge. Thanks for all your good work, sisters, you are really making a difference. Nova Scotia Laureate Kappa, New Glasgow, has made a generous donation in excess of $7,500 for sleeper chairs to be used at a local hospital. The chairs can be easily converted into beds, which provide families with a more comfortable stay at their loved one s bedside. For many years we have hosted a Christmas Craft Sale and we have decided to give back to our community by making this donation, says Laureate Kappa member Sharon Elliott. As an added bonus, several of the chapter members are members of a quilting club, and donated lovely quilts to go with each chair. August 2011 The Torch 29

30 International Award of Distinction Meet one of the newest recipients of the International Award of Distinction (IAD), the highest honor that Beta Sigma Phi bestows on active members. Sandra has shown her enthusiasm for all things Beta Sigma Phi. Sandra Jane Salmon California Laureate Alpha Rho, Fremont Member Since 1972 When she was Council president, she formed the Yellow Rose Patrol, complete with hats with yellow roses and a theme song to the tune of The Yellow Rose of Texas, with customized lyrics written by her. The Rose Patrol was comprised of one or more members from each chapter in Council. We visited the sick, other Councils, and made a surprise visit to each chapter in Council throughout the sorority year. It was a huge success. She initiates projects that spark interest and participation. Council meetings and event attendance is up during her tenure as president. Every rushing function Sandra is involved with is successful, she puts the same amount of effort into it no matter how many are scheduled to attend. She makes sure that we always follow through when International sends us contact information. She is also an ambassador for sorority and never passes up a chance to extol the benefits of Beta Sigma Phi. She is also concerned about members that are about to fall by the wayside. She has on two occasions talked us into giving a chapter home to someone who was about to call it quits. I know two members of my chapter who returned after talking to Sandy. 30 August 2011 The Torch Sandy cares a lot. Helpfulness is her middle name. She always steps up and is willing to lend a hand. She is what Beta Sigma Phi is all about. She personifies sisterhood and has been voted Valentine Queen and Woman of the Year many times. My chapter has entrusted me to write this profile with their input, however, mere words cannot convey to you the true person she is. You have to experience her in action and she is always in action for the good of the whole. Her leadership abilities are not limited to Beta Sigma Phi, she is quite active in her community as well. Her creativity, fun spirit, and her attention to detail make any social, fund raiser, or meeting successful. She knows how to delegate and rally the troops, writes Elaine McKinley of California Laureate Alpha Rho, Fremont.

31 International Award of Distinction Meet one of the newest recipients of the International Award of Distinction (IAD), the highest honor that Beta Sigma Phi bestows on active members. Janice has shown her enthusiasm for all things Beta Sigma Phi. Janice Graham Ontario Laureate Beta Rho, Hamilton Member Since 1966 As reported in the 2010 Sept/Oct Torch, Janice was responsible for forming an enthusiastic group of fellow sisters who successfully challenged themselves to think outside the box. They arranged to have the city buses advertise sorority when there were no paid advertisements in the alloted space, which made for a banner rushing year. She also set up a Beta Sigma Phi informational booth in a local mall, added sorority brochures to the local Welcome Wagon, and was responsible for maintenance of a Council website. Janice s promotions of Beta Sigma Phi also include local parade participation and walkathons. Her efforts with the rushing committee have resulted in a renewal of our membership and the bonus is that we feel confident it will also result in a Friendly Venture chapter, says Angeline Overholt of Ontario Alpha Delta Master, Hamilton Janice has all the qualities that make a good sister. Friendship, loyalty and the dedication it takes to keep our membership healthy and growing. As a result of her efforts our chapters are becoming stronger and as a Master chapter we are gratified to know Beta Sigma Phi will continue to grow, says Angeline Overholt of Ontario Alpha Delta Master, Hamilton. Dulcie Barber of Ontario Laureate Beta Rho, Hamilton continues, She has really worked on getting many new members and returning members to enlarge our chapters this year. She has worked on conclaves and conventions. Janice is truly knowledgeable of all aspects of Beta Sigma Phi. She lives the beliefs of Beta Sigma Phi in all that she does and almost never misses an event. Janice is the poster girl for Beta Sigma Phi. Her enthusiasm is displayed in every project she takes on. She is a total optimist and can t be done is not in her vocabulary. She always has time for everyone, says Bonnie Campbell of Ontario Xi Delta Alpha, Hamilton. August 2011 The Torch 31

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34 PERIODICAL MAIL The Torch of Beta Sigma Phi (USSN ) P.O. Box 8500 Kansas City, MO For Canada: P.O. Box 122 Niagara Falls, ON L2E 6S4 My Favorite Beta Sigma Phi Memory by: Sara Beal Arizona Laureate Alpha Omicron, Prescott Valley A learning and educational experience came after I retired from teaching. My husband, John and I moved to a new community. I soon learned from two Beta Sigma Phi sisters that lived in my neighborhood that they were forming a new chapter in Prescott Valley. At about the same time my daughter Jennifer gave me her old, but new to me, computer. Jennifer stated, Mom you can learn the computer, you type. So she left the computer with me, and a handwritten notebook which read, first turn the computer on, followed with many more directions. Our new chapter was formed and I attended the first meeting and became the treasurer. I don t know what overcame me, but I then volunteered for the yearbook. I had this new but used computer just waiting for me to get to work. I was on my way. I learned a lot about this computer, Beta Sigma Phi and putting the yearbook together. Beta Sigma Phi has put me in positions many times where I was the person learning a new skill and at other times I was the teacher. Through these experiences I became more confident with myself and was able to meet wonderful sisters, of which several are my closest friends.