“The Spark”
VSC PRESIDENT’S NEWSLETTER
NOVEMBER 2016
SUSAN CALDWELL, VSC PRESIDENT 2016-2017
JUNE 11, 2016
Our Facebook Page—Epsilon Sigma Alpha Virginia
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MESSAGE FROM CHARLOTTE CARLONI, ESA EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, ON B.J. CLARK’S RETIREMENT
Good afternoon,
As you know, BJ will be retiring on December 31st, but we can’t let her leave without letting her know how much
she is loved! The staff and I are planning a “memory shower” and asking folks to send a short (300 word) email
about their favorite BJ memory along with a photo (if possible). We will be compiling them and creating a book for
her. Please help us reach all ESA members by sharing this email with members in your state.
Please send the email to me ([email protected]) no later than December 8th. Let me know if you
have any questions, and please help us keep this a secret!
Thank you!
Charlotte Carloni
Executive Director
Epsilon Sigma Alpha
363 West Drake Rd, Fort Collins, CO 80526
970.223.2824, ext. 105
fax: 970.223.4456
www.epsilonsigmaalpha.org
President’s Report—Susan Caldwell
Hey, hey VSC,
Are you lighting your spark? Hope so! New members? New ideas? New projects?
I just received a lead from Tracy Swanson on a possible new member for VA!
THANKS!!!

The VSC members who attended the SERC Conference—Thanks for the gift of my bracelet that fit
me to a tee, just my style! Very generous of all of you!

All VSC members for your hard work in making SERC Conference such a success! More below in the
SERC Conference Review

Debbie Langfitt for her minutes of the VSC Fall Meeting—If you couldn’t attend, her minutes
provided an inside look at the meeting.
SERC CONFERENCE 2016 VIRGINIA REVIEW
I’ve posted many, many pictures on the Epsilon Sigma Alpha Virginia Facebook page! Check them
out!
DAY-BY-DAY REVIEW
THURSDAY
Our extreme thanks go to Marie La Duke and Beverley Wright, Co-Chairs, for such a fine job and
such a successful conference! They were off and running from Thursday until Sunday morning!
The Registration Committee, Susan Caldwell, Eveleen Harrison, Sue Danielson, Brenda Bowersox,
Margaret P-nut Schools, Judy Williams, and Lynne Rightmyer, worked tirelessly before and at the
Conference! We got everything set up in the hotel lobby for the convenience of our attendees and
then moved over to the Henrico Ballroom Pre-function area for the remaining days. That’s a lot of
stuff to move!
Doris Hood and Sandy Reed headed up the Goody Bag brigade. Thanks to several other members
who contributed to the contents—Marie La Duke, Beverley Wright, Brenda Orebaugh, Sue
Danielson, and Susan Caldwell. There was an assembly line for filling the bags consisting of—or at
least those I can remember-- Doris, Sandy, Kathy Gibbons, Eveleen Harrison, Diane Mc Lane, Judy
Williams, Marie La Duke, and others.
Theresa Morris put together a wonderful Bunko Event featuring local St. Jude Patient, Katie Schools,
and her mother Susan Schools. I think I need another visit to St. Jude as I could answer very few of
Katie’s Trivia Questions. All the attendees seem to enjoy the event and many want to carry the idea
back to their states.
FRIDAY
As VSC President, I attended a lunch for “Sherry’s Sparkles”, the 2016-2017 SERC State Presidents,
hosted by Sherry Day, IC President, and Sherry Suggs, 2016-2017 State Presidents Coordinator. Of
the twelve SERC States, nine State Presidents and two representatives enjoyed catching up and
sharing ideas of projects in our states.
The VSC Wreath for the Live Auction was coordinated by Bev Scott with the help of Brenda
Bowersox. So many VSC members brought gifts cards and decorations. The value of the gift cards
alone was $350! There was quite the bidding war over the VA wreath.
Beta Kappa hosted the Friday Night Mixer “Love Fills Our Heart in Virginia” with clever centerpieces.
A Candidates’ Skit and a Future IC Convention Sites Skits were presented.
Lou Ann Wyer and I shared my step stool when we gave our “Welcomes.” You know the shortest
VSC Executive Board members.
Jerry Hymer, our photographer, has the photo as well as many, many others online at
jhymerphoto.photoreflect.com in case you would like to see the photos he took and/or to order
photos. I checked with Jerry before I left SERC Conference and asked if he could send the photos I
ordered on a flash/thumb drive and he agreed that he could. Of course, you can get hard copies or
request photos on a CD.
The VSC Caucus was held at 10:00 pm on Friday night. Good thing I booked a suite as we filled it to
beyond capacity. We came to quick agreement on the candidates that we would support leaving us
time to enjoy some fellowship, wine, water, and cookies. There would have been popcorn too, but
the hotel does not allow microwaves. Who knew? Thanks to Sharon Davis and Judy Williams for
getting it all set up! A great help to me!
SATURDAY
Celebration of Life Service
Conducted by Susan Knudson, SERC Chaplain, the ceremony was quite touching.
Virginia honored Judy Bane, Beta Sigma; Ruth “Abbie” Bannister, Delta Rho; Gail Elks, Beta Kappa;
Marjorie Harmon, Theta Lambda; Leigh Kikos, Alpha Xi; Carol Ann Ledford, Beta Gamma; and a
tribute to Nancy Reece, Alpha Xi and former SERC President, was displayed by the Alpha Xi Chapter.
Flag Ceremony
As every State President says, “It is an honor to represent our state in the Flag Ceremony.” I now
know first hand how true that is. Romanda Talley presented the Ceremony. Leading off was our
Officer and Gentleman, Rick Rightmyer, carrying the U.S. Flag accompanied by Charlotte Carloni,
ESA Executive Director. As host state, Virginia, was next to proceed. Kathy Gibbons, VSC President
2015-2016, was asked to carry in the Mississippi State Flag in the absence of the Mississippi State
President.
Years of Service Awards—Numerous VSC members received recognition for 40 +++ years of Service.
So much to admire!
International Council Message—Sherry Day, IC President
Boy, do I admire Sherry’s ability to deliver her message with NO NOTES!
The centerpieces for the Saturday Recognition Luncheon “What’s Not to Love about Virginia?” were
coordinated by Carol Campbell with contribution from most VSC Chapters. Now you really do have
to look at all of the pictures on the Epsilon Sigma Alpha Facebook Page. I posted all of the pictures
sent to me by Jenny Brunelle who did a great job!
Beth Sherron and Leslie Bowen delivered a funny, funny Awards Presentation. Such a nice change!
Drum roll, please!
Here’s what the VSC WON!
1st Place—Ennis Karns Hope of Heroes Award
1st Place—Joan Mason St. Jude Award
2nd Place—Jan Lee Easter Seals Award
2nd Place—Thelma Waggoner ESA Foundation Award
3rd Place—Jean Freeman Philanthropic Award
Lots of VA Flags waving and pom-poms shaking in celebration of all of the hard work done by the
VSC!
Installation and Banquet
First, I want to thank LeAnn Wray for my “adult beverage.” I’m repaying her at IC Convention
St. Louis!
The PPA hosted “A Magical Night in Virginia” with top hats and wands on silver glittery fabric!
As always, Flora Burns delivered an entertaining “Welcome.” Denise Holdaway, Arkansas,
was installed as the new SERC President.
St Jude Presentation
Theresa Morris, ESA for St. Jude Coordinator, Senior, presented a parade of SERC States with
the totals raised for St. Jude. With a balloon flying from a hot air balloon, Carol Campbell,
the VSC ESA for St. Jude Coordinator, proudly unveiled the VSC total of $764, 803. A perfect
end to an amazing SERC Conference!
Well done, Virginia!!!
CHAPLAIN’S REPORT—LESLIE BOWEN
VSC CHAPLAIN’S VIEW...
Hi! First the time change and then the election. Both changes kept me up and I am still trying to catch up on my beauty sleep. Yes,
I know, I have a long way to go :)
Change is constant. Many have written about it in all kinds of ways. Scriptures tell us to expect changes cause there is a season
for everything and seasons, ‘they are a-changing.’
Years ago, oh, so many years ago, when I was a young wife and mother, I often pondered on the changes around me. I was a little
fretful at times, wondering what would happen tomorrow and in the future because of all that was occurring. Our leaders were
changing. Our morales were changing. Our morals were changing. Our world was changing and I wondered what effect it would
have on my family.
Kinda like what is happening now!
Another wakeful night, but the next morning I wrote this...
I have just a penny, after all is said and done,
To leave to my loved ones—my daughter, my son.
Not much of a profit to show for
this life,
Just the taxes and the points, the deductions and the strife.
I have only remnants of cancelled checks, cancelled bills, of monthly mortgage statements, higher interest, and frills; Just a penny
do I offer you; I know it’s a shame,
But the world takes all you earn and the world’s to blame!
I know it’s just a penny, but read what’s inscribed...
“Bank on Heaven,” “Trust in God,” and in that you can confide! The world
couldn’t tax what I knew to be true—
My Savior wanted me and made my life anew.
I offered up what I had—my tithe, my talent, my time— He offered me His love and joy that made my life sublime! I made a wise
investment that cancelled out my sin,
And now my Father’s saying, “Come, My Child, Enter In!”
...Only just a penny!
I suppose, that penny change could put a little jingle in your pocket,
but what about ‘THAT CHANGE’ that could put a song in your
heart and soul?
Just Me, Leslie Bowen VSC Chaplain
Cha-ching!
MESSAGE FROM JAMIE ATCHISON, IC PAST PRESIDENT AND REPRESENTATIVE TO OUR VSC CONVENTION 2017 IN
WINCHESTER, VA
Hello VA ESA!!! I’m excited to be joining you May 20 – 21 in Winchester, VA for
your state convention. Love Susan’s theme of “Light That Spark,” and I know all
the VA members are doing everything they can to make it shine brighter than ever.
No matter if you are in a small, medium, large, or x-larger chapter, everyone has
something to give and contribute. Together, we can achieve our goals and make
our communities better than ever!!! Looking forward to being with you in May to
celebrate!!!
VSC TREASURER’S REPORT—LOU ANN WYER
Thanks to everyone for sending their chapter dues in October. 100% of the chapters met the deadline.
I was excited to see so many of you at SERC in November. It was a great meeting. I enjoyed the fellowship
and hearing all the good works done by the participating states. Marie and Beverley organized a wonderful
weekend at a beautiful venue – I hope they take a day (at least) to recoup!
Happy Fall! I love the fall colors as the leaves say farewell to the summer months. I love walking in the
leaves – raking, not so much!! There were some beautiful trees at the Wyndham resort. I have shared
some beautiful upstate NY fall foliage on my FB page, my native state.
My Beta Kappa chapter held a multi-consultant LuLaRoe Fundraiser for St. Jude at a hotel in Chesapeake.
LuLaRoe is a clothing line that is made up of real comfy leggings, tops, dresses, skirts and kimonos. It was a
lot of fun to watch everyone trying on these colorful items and to step outside our comfort zone (for some).
We are also doing an online FB show December 1-3, all for St. Jude, and just in time for holiday shopping.
I hope you are planning for some great holiday festivities with family and friends.
Lou Ann Wyer
VSC Treasurer
ASSOCIATION OF THE ARTS REPORT—SHERRY FLESHER
“LIGHT YOUR SPARK OF CREATIVITY”
HAPPY AUTUMN :)
Hope you are enjoying the cooler temperatures of this beautiful autumn season! Speaking of cooler
weather, here’s a thought!!!!! We tend to spend more time inside when the weather gets cooler and
thoughts of the upcoming holidays come to mind!! SEW—pun definitely intended :) --now is the
time to get your amazing creative juices going and start knitting/crocheting/quilting/sewing/etc. This
is such a beautiful time of the year with the gorgeous colors and the upcoming winter scenery about
to arrive shortly and pictures would be a wonderful addition for our Association Of The Arts :) Just
saying……………..!!
So let’s get into the competitive spirit and show off your amazing talents!!
I KNOW YOU CAN DO THIS!!! Let’s make President Susan’s year the Light and Sparkle of the
sky :)
AND as my challenge to you continues, I TRIPLE DARE YOU :)
Please let me know if you have any questions at [email protected] or you can send a note to my
home address at 162 Shalom Road, Waynesboro, Va. 22980.
Have a grand day—today and everyday :)
Yours In ESA,
Sherry Flesher
EASTER SEALS REPORT—LYNN KEFFER AND SUSIE GARLAND
Let’s Shower Easter Seals UCP with Love UCP
Our Sigma Chi Chapter wishes to thank Delta Kappa, Alpha Nu, and Zeta Nu, family and friends for all the
support that made our Shower a success. Our door prizes and refreshments were enjoyed by our guests.
Valerie Hughes and Hope Key represented Easter Seals and spoke briefly about the Early Childhood
Outreach Program The presents, gift cards and cash donations were certainly more than our wildest
dreams. The Easter Seals office is very excited about changes they can actually make to their classroom with
our support. The final accounting was $1,762 including cash and merchandise.
Pictured are Bev Scott, Susie Garland, Pat Wertalik, and Lynn Keffer, and a cameo of some of our guests.
PHILANTHROPIC DIRECTOR—SANDY REED
Philanthropic Director’s Input for VSC President’s Newsletter
It was really exciting to witness the Virginia State Council win five Philanthropic Awards at the
SERC Conference.
Therefore, I am on the bandwagon again for chapters to send in their Philanthropic Reports. I know
there was a Walk for St Jude Children’s Research Hospital in Richmond in September. Susan had a picture
of all the Virginia ESA members who participated. I have only received one report from a chapter with
hours, money and miles for this event. According to the picture at least three chapters participated.
Your chapters may have sent in reports to the ESA for St. Jude Coordinator, but if you haven’t sent
in your reports to me your hours were not counted toward these projects at the IC and SERC level. Each year
the Philanthropic Director sends in the state totals to IC and SERC for awards.
So Virginia can win again, please send me your reports.
SOCIAL DIRECTOR—ELAINE PRILLAMAN
Please send me your Social reports and I know you have plenty if you like to eat as much as my
chapter does. With the Holidays coming up so soon you will have lots of opportunity to send me
your Socials.
Happy Holidays to all of you.
Elaine Prillaman, Social Chairman
STATE PROJECT DIRECTOR—LAUREN HEWITT
State Projects Status Update
Don't you love this time of year? We're getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving and Christmas with our
closest friends, family and sisters, in our comfy, warm homes surrounded by tables of food and yummy
goodies, listening to Christmas carols and unwrapping presents.
I want to tell you about a few of the things I am thankful for.
First, that would be all of my Virginia ESA Sisters (and Mike), because all of you simply amaze me with your
generosity, and inspire me with the goodness that flows through all of you. Every single one of you makes
me want to be a better person.
I'm also thankful to be a part of an organization that TRULY helps kids and families when they are in need.
Lastly, I'm thankful that the children who suffer from Pediatric cancer have places like Special Love and
A.S.K. where they can be just a regular, normal kid.
As of right now, we have received $95.00 for our State projects. Please think about the children that we
support in our own state. Think about how difficult of a time they may be going through during the holidays
and that they may not be able to enjoy a family thanksgiving at home or the excitement of waiting for Santa.
Please consider holding a fundraiser for A.S.K. and Special Love.
Thank you again for all of the work you do and happy holidays!
MORE
NEWS
ON
THE
NEXT
PAGE
YOU’RE INVITED!
Please Join Us!!
Bunco Party
A fun event
To Benefit: ASK @ VCU/MCV
& Special Love / Camp Fantastic
January 14th, 2017 @ 7:00pm
Creekwood Club House
4225 Ketchum Drive
Chesterfield, VA 23832
(Chesterfield County)
Silent Auction, Door prizes, Game prizes
And lots of food and fun!
Tickets
$15 in advance
OR
$20 at the door
Hosted by:
Epsilon Sigma Alpha – Beta Sigma Chapter #4368
For more information, call: 804-314-0085
or email: [email protected]
or
Susan Caldwell 804-690-6378 [email protected]
“ELECTRONIC SCRAPBOOK”
Got pictures??
Email your event pictures to [email protected]
Many more VSC members are emailing me pictures! Yeah!
Please send pictures of your events and meetings. I can “steal” some pictures from FB and ESA Virginia FB
page but would prefer original pictures. If you know how to “rename” the picture, please do so. If you
don’t know how, perhaps this would be a good technology educational for our next meeting
LUCKY NUMBERS THEMES FOR 2016-2017
Spring Meeting - March 25, 2017
"Ignite your Imagination -Let the Sparks Fly"
Be creative - bring something that makes your chapter happy!!!!
Finance Committee 2016-2017
Betty Cason, Jane Harris, and Millie Simmons
DATES TO REMEMBER 2016-2017
DECEMBER 2016
JANUARY 2017
14—Beta Sigma Bunco Party for VSC State Project—See Invitation Above
15—Deadline Lamplighter Articles [email protected]
FEBRUARY 2017
2-4--IC Leadership
13—Deadline--President’s Newsletter Articles [email protected]
MARCH 2017
17—Deadline--Electronic Files to VSC Recording Secretary Debbie Langfitt
[email protected]
25—VSC Spring Meeting, Winchester, VA
APRIL 2017
15—Deadline--Lamplighter Articles [email protected]
MAY 2017
19-21—VSC Convention, Winchester, VA
JUNE 2017
17—VSC Summer Meeting
JULY 2017
16-23--IC Convention, St. Louis, MO— “Looking Back—Moving Forward”
Registration and Tours Forms can be found on the ESA Website
SEPTEMBER 2017
22—Preparation Day for the St. Jude Walk
23—St. Jude Walks
OCTOBER 2017
27-28—SERC Conference Huntsville, AL “Reflections of the South”
NOVEMBER 2018
2-3—SERC Conference Lafayette, LA “Fais.do.do on the Bayou”
___________________________________________________________________________________
Happy Thanksgiving,
Susan