This spring five local women celebrate 50 years in Beta Sigma Phi.
Theirs has been a journey of life, learning and friendship in the organization. The Cowichan Valley is home to nine chapters of Beta Sigma Phi sorority with members from Lake Cowichan to Mill Bay, and as far north as Nanaimo.
Recently we had the pleasure to host a celebratory tea in honour of these five women who have been instrumental in maintaining the presence of our group in the Valley. Eileen Curtis, Mary Fitzgerald, Wendy Keserich, Alice Pearson and Pat Woike have participated in all aspects of their chapter’s operation, taking executive positions on a regular basis. Unfortunately Pat was unable to attend the tea but she was honoured nevertheless.
The Duncan Guide Hall on Cairnsmore Street was the location of the tea on March 1, which was attended by approximately 60 guests. Hats and gloves were optional!
We all enjoyed a lovely array of sandwiches, squares and other goodies served along with tea and coffee in bone china tea cups!
Special guests were asked to make a few remarks and bring greetings. We were pleased to welcome Sharon Jackson on behalf of Duncan City council, Jon Lefebure, mayor of North Cowichan, Leslie
Ann Baird our local Beta Sigma Phi council president, and representatives from both Victoria and Nanaimo city councils of Beta Sigma Phi.
Billie Vandelinde did an admirable job of speaking about each of the honourees. The afternoon was a wonderful time to share stories and enjoy one another’s company.
On April 29 at our Founder’s Day Dinner we will honour these same ladies with their Golden Circle Ritual and pins. A special evening for us all to celebrate.
Beta Sigma Phi is a cultural and social organization primarily, but has always been active in fundraising for local causes and school bursaries.
Later this spring we are hosting a conclave for many Island and Lower Mainland members to come together in the Valley to celebrate with us at "Ain’t it Nifty – We’ve turned Fifty!".
Beta Sigma Phi has been active in the Cowichan Valley since 1965, beginning with the Ritual of Jewels Chapter.
This was the same year that Canada adopted a new flag, the maple leaf. Lester B. Pearson was prime minister and W.A.C. Bennett was premier of B.C. How times have changed, but we are thankful to all the women who brought Beta Sigma Phi to our Valley because our goals of life, learning and friendship remain the same.
