Style show co-chairs and Chapter EP ingoing and retiring presidents smile in celebration; photo by Bill George
Smiling models relax at the conclusion of a successful fundraiser; photo by Bill George
The MountainView Ballroom was abuzz on February 24 for the P.E.O. style show and luncheon hosted by Chapter EP. Seated at tables for 10, guests were served a delicious Cobb Salad luncheon and treated to festive spring fashions from Soft Surroundings, located in the La Encantada shopping center. Emcee Fira Stout introduced SaddleBrooke musicians Randy and Christine Smith, who were received with enthusiastic applause. As guests arrived, pianist Carolyn Cochran provided delightful background music.
Guests were afforded a close-up look at the colorful Soft Surroundings clothing as models circulated through the room. EP members on the runway included Kathy Ames, Kathy Coffman, Bev Frazee, Vicki Graham, Lynn Hobbs, Carolyn Kelsey, Carolyn McCants, Carolyn Reygers, Andrea Stephens and Emma Lou Van Atta, all assisted by Laurie Bendon.
Celebrating the theme “A Wonderful World of Sisterhood, Education, Scholarship and Friendship,” the event raised significant funds to support the Philanthropic and Educational Organization’s projects, including an educational loan fund, an international peace scholarship, assistance for women returning to university studies, merit-based financial awards for doctoral students and a scholarship for exceptional college-bound high school seniors. P.E.O. also owns and operates Cottey College, a liberal arts and sciences college for women located in Nevada, Missouri.
Sponsor support for the luncheon and style show was invaluable. Chapter EP is grateful to Soft Surroundings, Bon Voyage Travel Company, Lynn Slaten and Kristy Johnson of Long Realty, SaddleBrooke Remodeling, Frame 56, Gadabout Salon Spas and Tullia Salon and Spa for their participation. Drawings for sponsors’ door prizes delighted the lucky winners.
Co-chairwomen Louise Fraser and Carol O’Dell directed a hard-working committee through months of planning, culminating in a day devoted to fellowship, fashion and fundraising.
P.E.O. chapters support the educational and charitable funds of the P.E.O. Sisterhood, but are not classified as charitable by the IRS; therefore, donations to individual chapters do not meet the IRS requirements for a charitable income tax donation. P.E.O. shall not be liable in any way for any goods and services supplied by third-party vendors or public establishments.