Back from Dayton. Big bucks for Osteosarcoma & Fibromyalgia & tons of fun to boot!

[olena]

To start, I'm a member of Sigma Beta Sorority. We raise money for charities, volunteer with local projects and have a great time doing it..... This past weekend was our National Convention in Dayton, Ohio.

Last night, I got back from Dayton. I had a lot of fun with my sisters and found Dayton to be such a neat place..... The locals were very friendly....

The Emerald Angels, my chapter, had four in attendance. I think there were around 200 there from an active membership of 335, which is an excellent turnout.

The highlight of our weekend was Saturday's Charity Session. Speakers from a few charities made presentations on their projects and needs and then we voted. This year, we gave $25,000 to a doctor's research on Osteosarcoma treatments. A $10,000 grant went to the National Fibromyalgia Foundation. Afterwards, we presented $7,200 in scholarships to college students with disabilities. We raise this money every year for these awards. For 335 women, I think it's pretty amazing.....over $1000 per member. My sisters are so very dear and inspiring.

Saturday night was our big party. The theme was Margaritaville and everyone got into the spirit of it. Our entertainment was provided by a fantastic Jimmy Buffett cover band, the Parrotthedz. They set the tone for an awesome party.

We did have a little mischief, too. We toilet-pepered a few rooms and pulled some birthday pranks. The bar at the hotel was hosting a Class of '72 reunion. A few of us filled out bogus name tags and went on in. I wasn't fooling anyone though.....

 

[catsrule]

So cool, Heather! I have fibromyalgia! Thank you so very much!

 

[olena]

I didn't know that, Mary Jo. My Mom has it, too. I'm at high risk, but I haven't exhibited any symptoms yet. The President of NFA was just wonderful.

 

[catsrule]

Cool! I have had it for 18 years, back then there was no support or anything for it. I didn't even know there was a support group for it now, or a magazine.

 

[olena]

We saw the magazine. The next cover will have an 11 year old named Margo....if I remember correctly. Here's a pic I took of the NFA President.

 

[catsrule]

Thanks for the pic, Heather. I see she is a redhead too.

 

[helenabear]

Sounds like a lot of fun and for such wonderful causes there! I love that picture with the bird hats and I must admit you guys look like you all know how to have fun.

 

[mamajoan]

Heather.. thank you so much for posting about your sorority and its generous donations to benefactors which often get lost in the shuffle. Please let them know that their hard work is appreciated... really appreciated.

Glad you had such a fabulous time with friends! Ain't life grand?!!