Torch Bearer Lorraine Marquez“Sisters by Choice” was this year’s Beta Sigma Phi Sorority theme and Preceptor Tau embraced the motto. During the pandemic, the chapter waited several months to be able to have in person meetings while observing the Covid-19 safety protocol. Meetings were held starting back up in February by with masks and social distancing 6 feet. Several activities had to be put on hold, but the chapter was able to endure with programs, fundraisers, service projects, and special sorority rituals that accommodated the circumstances.
Programs that the chapter participated in included “Why the Heart is a Valentine symbol, Koolickies (Kool-aide flavored pickles), Spring time planting; members were given supplies to plant seeds of herbs or wildflowers, Irish Mad Libs, an article about child labor in Indonesia and Malaysia, benefits of using Zoom for meetings, an overview of history and craftmanship of MacKenzie-Childs, an innovative high end brand of tableware and furniture, and the meaning of flowers with a discussion following the symbolism of flowers and traditional uses.
The chapter held the annual RADA knife order as their only fundraiser to fund their many services projects. The fundraiser was very successful, and the chapter was able to amend their budget for service. Service projects for Preceptor Tau included; donating to Silver Health Care prizes for their weekly bingo, donating to the SPIN program, Easter and Mother’s Day for clients at El Refugio, Donating to the Gila Regional Auxiliary Cancer Patient Meals/snack program, hygiene supplies to The Gospel Mission. Chapter members also donated clothes to SWAG and Spin, supplies to the Humane Society and scarfs to the GRMC Cancer Center. Preceptor Tau also joined the Fort Bayard Preservation Society and look forward in helping this great organization by donating their time to volunteer at the museum. The grand total for the chapter’s service budget exceeded $1200.
The chapter held their annual Founder’s Day dinner the end of April was honored to be able to bestow the Platinum Circle Ritual, 70 years as a member of Beta Sigma Phi to one of their former members, Louise Eastep via Zoom. Later this month, Mrs. Eastep will be celebrating her 100th birthday. Preceptor Tau was also able to confirm the Torch Bearer’s degree to their own member, Lorraine Marquez. During the Founder’s Day activities, the 2021-2022 theme was announced, “90 Years to Shine”. Members were excited about the announcement and the new slate of officers. Incoming President will be Rosalie Saiz, incoming Vice-President will be Molly Healy, incoming Secretary will be Maria Elena Sanchez and incoming Treasurer will be Shelley Topmiller.
The chapter hopes to be able to have a few activities this summer and will be having another Rada knife sale the middle of July 2021 to help fund next years’ service projects