News from Xi Iota Phi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi

by Karen Sutton and Diana Boyce, Xi Iota Phi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi

     The ladies of Xi Iota Phi Chapter of Beta Sigma Phi, have enjoyed many interesting programs and events during the last few months of the calendar year.
     In September, Karen Blau gave an interesting program on Virginia Hall, who was an American woman and a WWII spy for the allies in France.  She became one of the Nazi’s “Most Wanted” spies and was known as “The Limping Lady” due to an artificial leg. 
     Also in September, we toured the Overland Park Arboretum and saw such beautiful gardens and displays.  Following the tour, we all had lunch at The Red Door Woodfired Grill.
     In October, Chris Smith gave a very interesting and informative program on the history of nursing beginning from 1700 forward to today.  Chris also shared her own experiences in nursing as well as those of her mother’s. 
     Also in October, we toured the Auschwitz Exhibit at Union Station.  This was an amazing tour with so many videos and exhibits.  It was extremely thought provoking.  We all met for lunch afterward, in Union Station.
     October is the annual Preferential Tea in Beta Sigma Phi, and we enjoyed a wonderful dinner at Tuscany in Blue Springs.  The committee, headed by Debbie Woods, presented a program on “Shining Olympic Women”. 
     In November, Diana Boyce presented a program on The Events of 1931, which was the year that Beta Sigma Phi was started.  We learned about sporting events, gangsters, the production of new cars, average salaries, and the average cost of new homes and cars, among other things.
     December was our annual Christmas meeting and party, which is always a fun event.  We met at Debbie Wood’s home, which is always beautifully decorated.  Debbie’s program was about “Women in the Workforce-The Last 50 Years”.  She talked about gender equality as well as sexual harassment in the workplace.  Later in December, we enjoyed a limo tour of the Plaza and surrounding neighborhoods.  The decorations and lights were nothing short of amazing.  After the tour, we had dinner at The Grand Street Café. 
     Throughout the sorority year, we have been collecting much needed items for the women and children at Hope House. 
     We look forward to the new year and even more activities.