Models before the grand event
Smiles graced the MountainView Ballroom on February 26 as three hundred guests oohed and aahed over the colorful, comfortable fashions presented by Soft Surroundings (La Encantada) and modeled by Chapter EP members of the P.E.O Sisterhood. With support from both guests and Bon Voyage Travel and Navigation Retirement Group, the event raised nearly $8,000 to help fund P.E.O. projects benefitting education for women.
Arriving guests were treated to piano selections provided by Carolyn Cochran. Country singer Kaci Bays, a former cast member of Mickey Gilley’s Branson show, set an appropriate tone for the luncheon and style show with her opening number, Something in Red. After continuing with such numbers as Patsy Cline’s Crazy and Loretta Lynn’s Coal Miner’s Daughter, Bays turned the microphone over to the Soft Surroundings narrator who introduced fashions ranging from brilliantly colored tunics to casual skirts and slacks, to stunning scarves and jewelry.
Coupons and gift drawings provided by Soft Surroundings, Bon Voyage Travel and Navigation Retirement Group capped off a delightful salad lunch and entertaining look at spring fashions.
Chapter EP president Lorraine Erickson hosted Jan Billings, the Arizona State P.E.O. vice-president. Style show chairpersons Mary Baglien and Vicki Graham lauded the efforts of all who contributed to the success of the event.
Walking the runway were models Kathy Ames, Perky Armstrong, Emma Lou Van Atta, Tammy Beeler, Barb Evans, Carolyn Kelsey, Mickey Levich, Carolyn McCants, Bonnie Thomas and Judy McLaughlin. Fira Stout served as emcee.
Plans are already underway for the 2017 P.E.O. Luncheon and Style Show to be held on Friday, February 24.
Proceeds assist the philanthropic and educational organization’s efforts to help women pursuing their educations. These projects include scholarships and loans benefitting seniors in high school, women working to complete a baccalaureate degree, scholars in doctoral programs and international students studying in the United States. P.E.O. also provides major support for Cottey College, a liberal arts institution for women in Nevada, Missouri.