HAPPY FOUNDER'S DAY!

AOII Fraternity Founders’ Day Message for 2008-2009
Above all, we wanted a high and active special purpose to justify existence, a simple devotion to some worthy end, some object of loving kindness that should make our organization to its members an enduring bond of happy mutual labors to their environment an enrichment. --Stella George Stern Perry at the Ohio Valley District Convention in 1936

From its earliest inception, Alpha Omicron Pi has held simple values at its core. Our Founders wanted this organization to stand for ideals that would never be secret or hidden-- ideals that could be seen and understood by all. Stella, Helen, Jesse, and Elizabeth knew that human love and kindness were values that, if not lost sight of, would carry AOII on to a bright future. There is a reason that our Ritual, the heart of AOII, has not changed since 1897. At its core, these human truths are universal to all and know no end. Our Founders had the foresight to know that no matter how times may change, kindness and love would always be necessary to create a lasting sisterhood. They may have never expected AOII to be over 137,000 members strong 112 years later, but with such fundamental human truths at its heart, this organization was destined to grow and last far into the coming years. With that in mind, we must remember that these very principles are more than simply the ideals of our Fraternity. They are the legacy of our Founders and what we must embody to solidify the future of AOII. After all, our future lies in our past—it lies in our ability to carry on what our Founders set out to do with this great organization. This is duty of each and every one of us. While the day-to-day advancements of our Fraternity are vital to our success, our true responsibility is to always keep these principles in our hearts. With showing a love for one another serving as our purpose, prosperity is inevitable. We must always remember that AOII was not created for superficial gain or esteem. Our four Founders created Alpha Omicron Pi in order to serve a purpose to themselves, to each other, and a simple devotion to some worthy end. We must always remember that at the heart of Alpha Omicron Pi is the desire to love one another and foster true sisterhood. By fulfilling this promise, we will preserve the sisterhood within AOII as well, as our character within the world around us.
Fraternally with love, The 2007-2009 Executive Board
Susan Danko,Kathy Jensen,Louanne Condreay,Kristy Manchul,Barb Zipperian,Linda Grandolfo,Allison Allgier,Phyllis Gilson

Be there with bells on!

One month countdown: Join us Sunday December 14th, 2008- - Get in the spirit this holiday season at the Arthritis Foundation’s Jingle Bell Run/Walk for Arthritis®. Be one of the thousands of runners and walkers who hit the nation’s pavements, pathways and parks this winter to fight arthritis, the nation’s most common cause of disability.

The Philadelphia Arthritis Association is joining forces for a thrid year with the Race Against Arthritis. Robert M. Ruggiero, M.D., orthopaedic surgeon in the Malvern area, initiated the Ruggiero Orthopaedics Race Against Arthritis nine years ago in an effort to raise fund for the Arthritis Foundation and improve arthritis awareness. Join his team or create your own to help make a difference in our community!

Jingle Bell Run/Walk® is a fun and festive way to kick off your holidays by helping others! Wear a holiday themed costume and join in the fun of our costume contest. Tie jingle bells to your shoelaces. Run or walk a 5 kilometer route with your team members and celebrate the season by giving. Bring along the children for the Kid's Fun Run a 1/4 mile loop around the track with Santa and don't forget that Dog's Get Arthritis Too! Pets are welcomed!

Click here for additional: EVENT INFORMATION. The Jingle Bell Run will begin 10 am at General Wayne Elementary School in Malvern, PA.

WE MADE IT IN!!!

No, I'm not making a pledging announcement... that was the heading of an email I received from Teresa Lynch with great news... our reunion last year made it into the alumnae news: Ship Magazine Fall edition, or you can visit www.ship.edu. If you don't already receive this magazine, be sure to update your info on the website for Ship alums... and view the rest of the magazine to look out for the Stewart Family entry!!! Happy Reading~

Homecoming Report

Well, it was most of the "usual suspects" at Homecoming this year... and of course, we all had a blast! To sum it up, this weekend was also very... WET!!! Unfortunately Mother Nature did not cooperate, so the parade was cancelled and there were not many in attendance for the tailgating or the football game. We managed to meet up at the regular hotspots: Maxi's, Knute's, Black Horse, Wib's, ... (you get the idea!)

OCTOBER 16 - 17, 2009
If you are interested in attending next year (yeah, we really have to plan ahead!) Shippen Place Hotel began taking reservations at 7 am this morning - and the rooms are already booked... BUT you can call and be placed on the waiting list and more rooms will probably open up before next October. The hotel is (717) 532-4141 or visit: Shippen Place Hotel.

IMAGINE IF...

... this is the theme for this year's festivities and AOII has teamed up with Pi Lam for the weekend's celebrations... look out for their tent at the field before the football game on Saturday - - tailgating begins at 10, 2 1/2 hours prior to the game and kick-off is at 12:30 pm. (You may recognize our girls wearing their "Imagine if you could be us!" t-shirts.) Saturday night everyone is invited to Pi Lam's house (on fraternity row) for a pig roast!
If you are in town, we hope to see you around - have a great time!

SHIPPENSBURG HOMECOMING 2008

OCTOBER 24 - 26th, 2008

Humanitarian Awards Luncheon
Friday: 12 pm - Ceddia Union Building
This year's recipients are Rev. Janice Bye, United Campus Minister and Dr. David Lovett '77-'83M, assoc. vice president for student affairs and dean of students.

1st Annual SU Service Project
Friday 2pm King's Kettle, Fayette St.

Athletic Hall of Fame Induction Dinner
Friday: 6pm - Student Rec. Ctr.
Inductees are Richard Dyer '84, Jeffrey Fickes '91, Ellen Banick Kellar '94, Melissa Nash Mertz '95, David Miller '82, Laurie Gibble Mumma '92, Larry Rhone '61-'72M, Lisa Rice Rudisill '92, and Jeffrey Taylor '84-'88M. Honorary inductee is David Smith.

Spirit Rally
Friday 8:15pm Heiges Field House

Alumni Party @ Knute's Pub & Grill
Friday: 8 - 11pm
Let's get this party started! Bring your friends to kick off the 2008 Homecoming celebration. Hors d'oeuvres &cash bar with door prizes.

Alumni Hospitality Room
CUB Lounges Friday, 8am - 1pm
Enjoy coffee, tea, juice and pastries while visiting with other alumni.

Homecoming Parade
Saturday: 10:15am
Show your Raider spirit! Bring a chair or blanket to see some of the most school-spirit students and alumni of all time. The parade will leave the community center at 10:15am and arrive on campus around 10:45am.

Tailgate Lunch at the Red & Blue Alumni Tent
Saturday: 10am - 12:15pm., behind Seth Grove Stadium
Why hassle with bringing all your own food and drinks when you can tailgate with us? Relax and let us do the work! Tailgate lunch: hot dogs, shredded beef barbecue, fried chicken, baked beans, sauerkraut, chili, potato salad, chips, pretzels, brownies, coffee, hot cocoa, sodas, water.
Former Green Bay Packer Rob Davis '92 will be available from 11:30am -12:15pm and will sign autographs. Tickets are required.

Football Game Kick-Off vs. Bloomsburg
Saturday: 12:30pm

Alumni Party @ Wib's
Saturday: 12:30pm
Relive your college days for an afternoon football party at Wib's. Pizza and light refreshments with a cash bar. Door prizes will be handed out as the Red Raiders take on the Huskies on closed circuit TV .

President's Postgame Supper & Martin House 100th Birthday
Saturday: 3:30pm Martin House Lawn
President Bill Ruud and his wife Judy invite you to picnic at their house following the game. Menu includes boneless chicken breast,hot dogs, hamburgers,Italian sausage,chicken corn and vegetable soup,an assortment of vegetables,salads, breads,desserts,non-alcoholic beverages.

AirSupply
Saturday: 8pm Luhrs Performing Arts Center

Alumni Party @ Market Cross Pub
Saturday: 8:30 - 11:30pm
Continue the Homecoming celebration with SU alumni and friends for a postgame party with faculty and administrators. Hors d'oeuvres, refreshments and cash bar provided with door prizes throughout the evening.

University Bookstore
CUB 1st Floor Friday 7:45 am - 4:30 pm / Saturday 9 am - 5 pm
Take home a few items with your special 10% discount

Starbucks Open
Lehman Library Saturday, 9am - 4pm / Friday 8:00 p.m. - 9:00 p.m

For more information on Homecoming Weekend, please contact
University Relations at (717) 477-1218 or email: alumni@ship.edu
Homecoming 2008 Chair: Carol Henicle '66

That should cover it... all you need to know about this year's events... are you planning on attending? Let us know... hope to see you there...

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME FOOTBALL???

Red Raider Tailgating at Kutztown
Date: Saturday, October 11, 2008
Tailgate Party: 11 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.
Location: Wiesenberger Alumni Center - 15197 Kutztown Rd (Main St)
Kick-off: 1:05 p.m., University Field, KU
Cost: $5.00/person (n/c Raider members)

Red Raider Tailgating at West Chester
Date: Saturday, October 18, 2008
Tailgate Party: 12 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Location: Lot S2, lot next to softball field, South Campus, WCU
Kick-off: 2:05 p.m., Farrell Stadium, KU
Cost: $5.00/person (n/c for Raider Club members)

Enjoy tailgating before every home game:
September 27 - Millersville 1 pm game
October 4 - CW Post 1 pm game
October 25 - Bloomsburg HOMECOMING 12:30 pm game More info later
November 1 - Cheyney 1 pm game
*(Prior to the last home game, there will be a dedication of the new Student Recreation Center - or "SHIP REC" as they refer to it... this is a state of the art facility including raquetball/squash courts, cardio equipment, basketball courts, and an indoor track for the students. To christen the Ship Rec, they will break a champagne bottle on the corner of the building (((significant of how a boat is christened!!)))
Last game November 8 - at California

SU: Dear old Red and Blue

In the dear old Cumberland Valley
'Neath the glowing sky
Proudly stands our Alma Mater
On a hilltop high.

My husband and I attended an event this past weekend at Ship... it was interesting to see a different side of the university. It was the president's recognition dinner where they gave an update of how much Shippensburg Foundation had raised over the past year, their hopes for the upcoming year, and how any contributions have benefitted the school. Dr. Ruud recently explained, " No matter whether you are a current member of the campus, a recent alumnus or retiree..., your Ship has changed and is continuing to change - all with our students in mind."

Yes, here's my "Rah-Rah SU"... and what better timing: the Annual Fund will begin this week so if you've updated your info thru the university, you can expect a phone call asking for donations. Okay, that was my warning: but remember~ we had to make these calls as part of our community service hours, and it was fun to talk to those OLD people!!!

Back to the event and on a positive note: we were reintroduced to President Bill Ruud, we ran into Jerome Dean, the current Alumnae Association President, and I spoke with Ellen, who was our Panhellenic Advisor when I attended Ship. Dr. Blaine Shover and the Madrigal singers performed for the group, and Dr. Shover smiled and said that when he ran into people that evening, their response was all the same: "You're still here???" (I admit, I remember him, I had him for Intro to Music... TWICE!!! but that's a whole different story!)

Here's my favorite part of the evening: we sat down at a table with two elder women and a gentleman. (The couple was husband and wife.) They asked if we went to Ship and I explained I graduated in 93 and my husband in 91... the one lady joked that those numbers sounded more like their ages than graduation years!!! Throughout dinner, we were entertained by their stories of Ship... how the women lived in Horton Hall and the men lived in Old Main... that they would meet in the Old Main dining room for dinner (dressed, of course), how they had to sign out if they went anywhere for the evening (the one lady laughingly said she that they were so strict, she felt like she had more freedom at home!) These women were two of about eight alums from the Class of 1958 who escorted the Class of 2008 at graduation... they were also honored this summer at Alumnae Days for their 50 year anniversary!

You hear stories of how you make lasting friendships in college... "they" say to enjoy it because it is a special time in your life... as you move on, everyone experiences different yet exciting times as they start their own families, are rewarded by their careers, etc. - but it's still fun to reminisce with old college friends... and it's so inspiring to see women like this... that have maintained their special friendships for over 50 years! They were brought together by one thing we also all have in common...
Isn't SHIP great???!!! See you at Homecoming!

Swell the chorus ever louder
We'll be true to you
Hail to thee our Alma Mater
Dear old Red and Blue

SHOPPING: PAMPERED CHEF Fundraiser

Along the lines of beginning to raise money for "THE" event (celebrating our 25th Anniversary next year), Tara Pomponi Whisenant has set up a wonderful fundraiser for us. She is an independent consultant for Pampered Chef.
Hey, we can all get a head start on our holiday shopping... after all, there are only 86 shopping days until Christmas!!! :)
To check out these great items please visit: http://www.pamperedchef.biz/tarawhisenant
Click on "order products" - lower left-hand corner... Under Option 1 - type "Tau Lambda Alum"... Order products... The event will run until 12/5/08... and when you place an order, be sure you choose to have the products shipped directly to yourself.
Happy Shopping!

HAPPY BIRTHDAY, JEN!

Taken from
Charlotte Smarty Pants
by Jen P:
On this special day, I remember my best bud, Jen Bunich and wish her a happy, happy birthday up there! Not a day goes by when I don't think of her and miss her dearly. When I reflect back on how Charlotte Smarty Pants has evolved, I can't help but ache in my heart wishing she was here with us enjoying this special ride. She would be so proud of us. And you, our CSP readers, for all of the incredible support you have given us whether it be through a comment on a post, a Smarty Mom nomination, a referral to your friends, or just living Smarty. Trust me, she sees it all. So on this day, I'm reaching out to our Smarty friend, Keely Lane, Captain of the Jen Bunich Team for Lungstrong. On February 4, 2008, CSP was forever changed when we lost Jen to non-smokers lung cancer. The entire Charlotte community was shocked by the intensity of this disease. We have decided to direct our philanthropic efforts to LungStrong in Jen's name. Meet Keely:

"Dear Smarty Moms & Friends,
I'm here to tell you about a topic that should scare the Smarty Pants right off of you! Did you know that lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women? Let me say that again....lung cancer is the #1 cancer killer of women. Additionally......it kills more women each year than ALL gynecological cancers COMBINED. Yes...more than breast, ovarian, uterine, etc. COMBINED. This fact was brought to light in a most unfortunate way when we lost our amazing friend and Co-Founder of CharlotteSmartyPants.com, Jen Bunich. When Jen died suddenly from stage 4 lung cancer, with very few symptoms, we were beyond shocked.

Why IS lung cancer such a killer? Well....there is a 'smoking' stigma associated with the disease. People think that lung cancer is caused by smoking, and since smoking is a choice the federal government has been unwilling to fund research for a disease that they think can be prevented. But the fact is....just as many non-smokers as smokers are getting lung cancer. Because there has been so little funding for research for lung cancer, there is no early detection system in place; therefore by the time people realize they have lung cancer it is often too late because the cancer has already metastasized. Think about it.....we have pap spears to detect uterine cancer, mammograms for breast cancer, colonoscopies for colon cancer, skin screenings for skin cancer and so on...but what is there for lung cancer - NOTHING!! It is time to take a stand and raise money for research to create an early detection system and treatments for lung cancer.

Charlotte Smarty Pants is joining forces with LungStrong - a local organization putting on a race at Lake Norman on October 18th, 2008. Funds raised from this race will go to Lungevity - a research organization out of Chicago, as well as Presbyterian Hospital's Cancer Ward. This will be the second year of this event and we plan to continue this effort each year and even take the LungStrong organization to a national level. As a Smarty Friend, I call on each of you to join the Jen Bunich Team in honor and remembrance of our friend. I've set a goal of $25,000. Yes...it's a hefty goal, but with your help we can reach it. You do NOT have to be a runner - you can walk, volunteer or even make a simple donation.

Jen left such a mark on this world as an amazing mom, wife, daughter, friend, and co-worker - let's now let her lead us to a new level of awareness of lung cancer. In her name and honor, I'd like to see an early detection system and a CURE!
Your Smarty Friend and Jen Bunich Team Captain - Keely"

End of Summer - AOII flip flops

Don't Let Summer End!!!
To join in this end of summer campaign and get your AOII flip flops, click here:
Last Chance for the AOII flip flops

TUESDAY TRIVIA: Scattergories

Okay... Take the first letter of your name to answer each of the following... Must be real names and places, not made up!
1. What is your name?
2. Four letter word:
3. Vehicle:
4. City:
5. Boy's Name:
6. Girl's Name(not your own):
7. Occupation:
8. Something you wear:
9. Food:
10. Something found in the bathroom:
11. Reason for being late:
12. Something you shout:
It's harder than it looks, isn't it??

Wednesday July 30 -National Cheesecake Day

The Cheesecake Factory's 30th Anniversary! Looking to get out next week??? Here's an 'insider' tip for a sweet mid-week treat...

Celebrating “30 Delicious Years,” The Cheesecake Factory is serving up several sweet initiatives throughout 2008. To kick-off the anniversary celebration and in commemoration of National Cheesecake Day on July 30th, 2008, The Cheesecake Factory restaurants will offer every delicious slice of its more than 30 varieties of cheesecake with a dollop of nostalgia by featuring all cheesecakes at $1.50 per slice, limit one per guest, dine in only, on that day — as they were when the restaurant first opened in 1978. In addition, a special, limited edition cheesecake, the 30th Anniversary Chocolate Cake Cheesecake, will be introduced on July 30th with $0.25 from the sale of each slice sold this year benefiting the national hunger-relief organization, America’s Second Harvest – The Nation’s Food Bank Network. Additional activities will be announced throughout the year.

UPCOMING SU ALUM EVENTS

Some noteworthy Ship Alum events you may be interested in:

Ship @ the Shore, Ocean City, MD
Monday, July 28, 2008
3:00 p.m. – 5:00 p.m.
Location: Fager’s Island Restaurant and Bar, 201 60th St. on the Bay, Ocean City, MD
Take a break from the beach and join fellow alumni for a casual afternoon. Buffet style appetizers provided with a cash bar available. $15 per person.

Reading Phillies Baseball Game & Picnic – Fireworks Night!
Saturday, August 9, 2008
Picnic buffet: 5:30 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Game time: 6:35 p.m.
Location: First energy Stadium, Rt. 61 South, Reading
Your Alumni Host: Keirstan Edris ‘97
Cost: $22.00; Ages 4 and under is free.
Join us in Reading for baseball, food and fun. Two and a half hour picnic buffet in the Coors Light Deck Picnic area includes bbq chicken, hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, pasta and potato salad, cookies, lemonade, iced tea and soda. Enjoy the evening - we'll watch the game from the left field picnic area and stay for the fireworks after the game. Gates open at 5:30 p.m.; Prior to the gates opening, the Phillies will be hosting Happy Hour in the right field food court at 4:30 p.m.

A Dickens of a Christmas
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Theatre in the mansion: 7:00 p.m.
Location: Mt. Hope Estate, Rte. 72 @ Turnpike exit 266
Your Alumni Host: Stephanie (Jacobs) Ponnett ‘93
Your host, Stephanie Jacobs Ponnett ’93 invites you to join fellow alumni & friends in the holiday spirit. With the help of characters from Charles Dickens timeless novels, we’ll partake in a fun and entertaining celebration. Arrive early at the Wine Shop in order to sample Mt. Hope’s variety of wines including their piping hot Holiday Wine. Inside the mansion you’ll find a full-service bar where you may purchase glasses of wine to enjoy during the shows. $18.00/adult; $8.00/child.To make reservations, please RSVP by Nov. 3 to alumni@ship.edu or phone (717) 477-1218. Payment for the event may be made by credit card over the phone, or send your check payable to SUAA/SU Foundation to: University Relations, 1871 Old Main Dr., Shippensburg, PA 17257-2299.

To correspond with us, e-mail alumni@ship.edu phone (717) 477-1218.
You may update your address or e-mail on-line at http://www.ship.edu/alumni/update.html.

PRAYERS WANTED: Peyton Azar

Kathy (Bryan) Azar's daugter has become very sick... the following has been taken from Kathy's running blog to keep all informed on Peyton... For more updates, you may visit Azar Family Blog...

Peyton has Focal Segmental Glomerulosclerosis, or FSGS for short. That means that parts of her kidneys are scarring, for whatever reason. It’s a much worse disease than mild change nephrotic syndrome.

She is being treated with Cytoxan - the chemo drug. It has a 20 percent chance of working. If it fails there is another, more toxic drug that we can try. If that fails, we’re looking at kidney failure, dialysis, and transplant down the road. FSGS is the leading cause of acquired kidney failure, meaning that you weren’t born with it, but acquired it. Cause is unknown considering there’s no family history and she’s not a heroin addict.

This week, please pray specifically for her urine protein levels to fall to two (bet you never imagined that you’d be praying about someone’s urine), that the Cytoxan is working, and that her kidneys heal. (The scarring that has occurred so far, we’ve been told, is permanent - but hey - prayer can lead to miracles!)

Please keep Kathy & Doug, Peyton and Keagan (their son) in your thoughts and prayers.

5 THINGS YOU NEVER KNEW YOUR CELL PHONE COULD DO

FIRST - Emergency
The Emergency Number worldwide for Mobile is 112. If you find yourself out of the coverage area of your mobile network and there is an Emergency, dial 112 and the mobile will search any existing network to establish the Emergency number for you...this number 112 can be dialed even if the keypad is locked. Try it out!
SECOND - Locked your keys in your car?
Does your car have remote keyless entry? If you lock your keys in the car and the spare keys are at home, call someone at home on their cell phone from your cell phone. Hold the cell phone about a foot from your car door and have the person at your home press the unlock button, holding it near the mobile phone on their end. Your call will unlock! We tried it; it worked!!
THIRD - Hidden Battery Power
If your cell battery is very low, press the keys *3370#. Your cell phone will restart with this reserve and the instrument will show a 50% increase in battery. This reserve will get charged the next time you charge your phone.
FOURTH - How to disable a stolen mobile phone
To check your Mobile phone's serial number, key in *#06#. A 15-digit code will appear on the screen. If your phone would get stolen, give your service provider this code; they will be able to block your handset so even if the thief changes the SIM card... your phone will be useless. You may not get your phone back but at least you know no one else will be able to use it!
FIFTH - Free Directory Service
There are charges for the 411 calls; instead dial (800)FREE411 or (800)373-3411 and not incur a fee. Program this number into your cell!
Hope you find this info helpful... we are just trying to stay on top of these "electronic gadgets" and keep up with the times!

SISTER PROFILE: Danette Gabner Swartley

This focus is on Danette Gabner Swartley, currently the Harrisburg Alumnae President. Danette makes Tau Lambda proud as she has shown passion in continuing her commitment she made with our sorority. However, she is not only devoted to AOII, she serves on many other committees and projects that make a difference in her community. She shows the true spirit of a leader and for that reason we thought you would all enjoy reading more as we "get to know her"!

Please share a little about yourself: I have a wonderful husband named Jason and three beautiful children. I have a 13 year old son, Luke; an 8 year old son, Aubron; and a 5 year old daughter, Sophia. We live in Mechanicsburg, PA. My hobbies are PTO, PTO, PTO. (Just kidding. It's a running joke in our family because I'm involved with three PTOs and hold multiple positions in each one. Last year I was the president at Aubron's school and it was a huge time commitment.) I also volunteer in our church and with an organization called Operation Wildcat. Operation Wildcat is an organization affiliated with our school district and consists of members from all the schools. We collect donated items and distribute them to families with financial needs that wouldn't otherwise be able to provide these items for their children. I chair Project Bikes and Project Books, but these are only 2 of the 14 different projects.

Family tree - founding sister: Cristie Renner

When did your term as President of Harrisburg Alum begin? What has been your alumnae involvement prior to taking on this position? I was only just inducted as President this spring. I became involved in the Harrisburg Alumnae chapter the summer I graduated from college. That same year I became the Public Relations chair. Later, I moved into Collegiate Relations, then back to Public Relations, and then Vice President. I was the Recruitment Advisor for Tau Lambda for a while before my third child.

Please share what the alumnae chapter does for the community and collegiate chapters: One of my goals is to recruit new members. So many sisters think the Alumnae meetings are going to be like the Collegiate meetings but they really aren't. They're a lot of fun and a little business. Every year we support Arthritis Research and several other philanthropies that change from year to year. This past year we donated items to the Food Bank and the year before that we donated items to a home for teenage or young mothers. We get together with the collegiate chapter every year for Founder's Day and send goody bags to the new members every semester.

What is your favorite AOII memory? Getting my bid. It was so exciting. I just loved all the sisters and couldn't wait to be a part of them.

What is your most meaningful AOII memory? I've always loved Ritual. Every time I hear or read a passage from the Bible that we read during Ritual it feels special because it reminds me of AOII.

What do you remember most about your SHIP days? "Don't remember, didn't happen." Really, it was the first thing that popped into my head when I read the question. On a more serious note, I would have to say all the great times spent with my sisters. I couldn't pick just one time. College is the only time in your life when you get to live with your friends and be with them all the time. That's something special that I've always cherished.

Please share a funny story: I have a couple funny stories about my red Oldsmobile that I drove in college. It was the best car around-most of the time. It was old so it had a solid steel frame. Younger sisters fondly remember being picked up at the CUB during Rush and driven to the house on two wheels around the corners and bottoming out on the potholes down the alley. It was a sturdy car but the first time it gave me trouble was during pledging when we took a road trip to the University of Delaware. It was right after an exchange with Kappa Sig and on our way home we stopped to return our big brother's sweatshirts. About a block away the car started smoking and by the time we got to Kappa Sig smoke was just pouring out of the front of the car. Guess I should have checked the oil before driving to Delaware. This was my first sign to avoid Kappa Sig, but how could I stay away. A few years later I drove that same car into a snow pile at Kappa Sig and had to wait until the snow melted my car out. Yes, I drove it in too deep to dig out. So anyway, the engine was replaced after our Delaware road trip, but on the way to my first formal just a few weeks later, the car broke down again. Go figure. Rose Kasenic and I were stranded with our very cute dates who knew nothing about cars either.

What is your most proud accomplishment since college?Definitely my three children. They are all kind and generous toward others, involved in activities, and hard working. I'm especially proud of my oldest son. He had to be resuscitated after his birth and has dyslexia. I really believe he is the reason I was called to elementary education. I worked with him almost every day from kindergarten through fifth grade. In second grade, we were able to get him into learning support. At that time, after two years of extra work outside of school, he was only in the 16th percentile and more than a year behind in reading. When he was tested for his reading level going into 6th grade he was reading almost two years above grade level. I'm so proud to be raising a child who was so persistent and hard working at something that was so difficult.

What advice can you give sisters about getting involved in their alumnae chapter? Get involved! It's great. The dues are low (usually under $50. Harrisburg's are only $30 a year). The meetings are flexible and never mandatory. It's fun to get together with sisters who have a common bond and spend a little girl time together. We go to restaurants, movies, spas, all kinds of fun "meetings". And best of all, you can get To Dragma again. I loved their article giving advice on how to clean up clutter. It sat on my counter for weeks. To find an alumnae chapter near you, go to: http://www.alphaomicronpi.org/Content/NavigationMenu/Directory/AlumnaeChapters/default.htm

Other comments: I love catching up with everyone. Feel free to e-mail me at danetteswartley@yahoo.com.
Thanks, Danette... and thanks for all you do.

Wednesday: Mid Week Shopping Spree

Our "Resident Shopper" has a great tip if you need a little pick-me-up today:

Kate Spade is holding a "FOR YOUR EYES ONLY" private sale June 17 - 20... with savings upto 60% off!!! Thanks, Jen - for the great deal...

SUMMER-TIME!!!

IN THE GOOD OL' SUMMERTIME...
HAPPY almost SUMMER!
Looking for some great activities this summer for the family??? For those who are fortunate to have some time off during the week, here's a great idea to keep the family entertained: Regal Cinemas offers a FREE Family Film Festival. Every Tuesday and Wednesday at 10 am, select locations offer a different movie! The festival begins tomorrow - June 17 and runs thru August. Check out the site for locations and movie listings, there is a wide variety of films to satisfy all ages! Our theater offers a "Meal Combo": popcorn, soft drink and candybar... maybe not the "Breakfast of Champions", but hey - this little treat beats being couped up in the house on a rainy summer day!! Thanks, Teresa - for a great tip...

COLLEGIATE UPDATE

WE NEED YOU!
Many of you received a letter from Headquarters last summer stating that the chapter was in need of help. They were looking for alumnae involvement, specifically advisers. Fortunately the letter was well received and this past year the chapter once again had a group of alumnae advisors; however many of them had dual roles and were asked to hold more than one position. In an effort to plan for the upcoming year we are again looking for help in the 2008-2009 school year. As many of you witnessed this past spring, they are a wonderful group and very appreciative of any guidance!

Tau Lambda is currently in a "Chapter Development Program" which is overseen by Headquarters... meaning: Nationals has more involvement to grow and strengthen the chapter. Over the past year, Tau Lambda progressed within this program in LC Leadership, Network Communication, and Reporting. The goals for the chapter to improve include: Recruitment/ Membership Retention, AAC Recruitment and Public Relations. By doing so, this will help the chapter operate at its full potential.

We recognize that so many of you have previously held advisor positions and appreciate the time that you spent assisting Tau Lambda - thank you for your support, we'd love to have you back and could use your experience! And if you're new to this and looking to get involved,
"there's no better time than the present"!!!

There are many positions available and they do not necessary require that you live closeby... and some do not require a huge time committment. (The more advisers we have would make it easier to spread out the work load!) If you have any questions, would like to hear more about available positions, or if you are willing to get on board, email us - we'd love to have you!

PI's ON VACATION

DO YOU HAVE ANY FUN PLANS FOR VACATION??? WILL YOU BE VISITING OR TRAVELING WITH OTHER PI's & THEIR FAMILIES???
We want to hear about it... and as always, send pictures!!

Bill Allison and Winni (Painter) helped Lisa (Sourbeer) and Doug Bower enjoy their 10th year wedding anniversary with a trip to Punta Cana.
What a way to celebrate!

BROAD STREET RUN & SOME AMAZING PI's!

This weekend was SPECIAL!! Saturday evening Nickey Powell Estep (AOII sister) and I travelled to the home of Teresa Stewart Lynch (AOII sister) in prep. for the Sunday Broad Street 10-miler. We had a great time running in Philadelphia, the weather was amazing and our hosts were so gracious! Among the 22,000 registered participants we even ran with AOII sister Jen Kuc Shearon. It was wonderful to reconnect and catch up. The bonds of sisterhood really do last a lifetime!
Heather Bigler Swartz

SHIPPENSBURG ALUMNI WEEKEND 2008

FRIDAY JUNE 6 - SUNDAY JUNE 8:
For those of you that may have missed our April weekend OR if you're ready to go back and are looking for something fun... SHIP ALUMNI DAYS promises to be a great time!
Events begin Friday morning: you may stop by the Alumni House to browse thru past yearbooks and memorabilia... lunch, then tour the new Luhrs Performing Arts Center. Graduates of years ending in 3 or 8 are offered to the Reunion Class Social at Shippen Place Hotel followed by a dinner at the CUB, and the one hour planetarium show at the Franklin Science Center is a family must - - or if you're gettting away, be sure to be on the Pubs and Grubs Tour! Saturday's events include breakfast, an aerobics class at the new Rec Center, Activities Fair at the CUB, morning 'chat' with the President, and don't miss the first Shippensburg Arts and Wine Festival. For the family there is a scavenger hunt at as well as tours of campus followed by an ice cream social ... you can even Renew Your Wedding Vows at the Spiritual Center (hey, it's closer than a trip to Vegas!!). An awards banquet and dinner will be held that night then Frankie Avalon and Bobby Rydell are featured at the Performing Arts Center. Sunday there is a farewell breakfast and the 20th annual Golf Outing at Eagles Crossing in Carlisle.

Let us know if you plan on attending or if you have ever been... we hear it's a blast and would love for you to share stories!

For more information please visit: Ship Alumni Days 2008. Be sure your profile on the Ship alum site is updated and check your mail for the Shippensburg University magazine which should go out this week!

OH, WHAT A WEEKEND!

Oh, what a night... oh, what a weekend...
LET'S RECAP: Relay for Life was moved to the Student Rec Center (indoors due to the weather) and going into Friday night, AOII had raised the most money than any other organization. Great job, girls! They will still be collecting donations until May for the American Cancer Society.
The ceremony was beautiful and we enjoyed hearing wonderful "Lisman stories" from Juliet, Mrs. Lisman, Jodi, Manning and Sheila. The new AOII house is awesome and we were able to reminisce and visit over lunch... and of course share more "Lisman stories"! We had the pleasure of spending time with Mr. Lisman, Mrs. Lisman and Aunt Jeanne! We met TL! The scrapbook looked great, many attended the social, and at the end of the night, we ended up at Wibs! (some things never change!!)
The collegiates were a fun and impressive group of girls, who were excited to talk to the alums and really made us feel welcome.
We made new friends, re-connected with old,
and a good time was had by all. . .

Don't Forget Your Badge!

When packing for this weekend, don't forget to bring your badge... we are hoping everyone will wear them at the ceremony on Saturday. We will have pearl colored ribbons for you to attach behind our badge, since pearl is the color for Lung Cancer Awareness. (And don't worry - - for those of you that just cannot locate it, we will have pins you may use!!!)
Mrs. Lisman will be proudly wearing Jen's badge.

'DA WEEKEND

Our 1st Annual(?) Alumnae Weekend is fast approaching...
We have a very impressive guest list of about 40 alum!
Here are the final details:

FRIDAY APRIL 4th:
6 pm - Relay For Life begins at Seth Grove Stadium
9 pm - Ceremony for Hope Luminary candle lighting
Anyone coming in Friday night, we can plan to meet at Black Horse Tavern at the Shippen Place Hotel - OR if you are participating in the relay you may want to go over to the field on your own.

SATURDAY APRIL 5th:
6 am - Relay For Life wraps up

7 am to 10 am - Complimentary continental Breakfast served at Shippen Place Hotel

10 am to 3 pm -SHIPPENSBURG University Bookstore will be open
If you are looking for some light shopping / souvenirs. . . and if you haven't been to Ship recently, you may want to 'cruise around campus' - there have been so many improvements made, you may not recognize it!!!

11 am - Memorial Service for Jennifer Lisman Bunich held at Messiah United Methodist Church 30 South Penn Street This is not a ritual; therefore all are welcome and we don't need to wear white! Heather has arranged that we are able to use this location without a fee or donation... Thanks, Heather ~ "your church rocks!!"

12 noon - Luncheon at AOII House 19 North Earl Street
Cold buffet lunch will be provided by Kathy's Deli. The cost is $10 per person and we would like to cover the cost of our collegiate sisters, who have been so helpful and gracious during our planning. If you are willing and able please add an additional $7 to the cost to show our appreciation.

***So many of you have asked if you could do anything to help... YES! we are in need of desserts and if you feel like baking or stopping by a bakery, we would appreciate it if you could bring a "sweet treat" to our luncheon.***

3 pm to 4 pm - "Scrapbooking" with Sheila and Kathy at Shippen Place Hotel Conference Room - Please bring your pictures, poems, memorabilia to add to our special scrapbook for Claire Bunich.

6 pm - Social at Shippen Place Meeting Room (next to Black Horse Tavern) Join us for light appetizers and cocktails. We are asking about $7 per person for the appetizers. Anyone interested in ordering dinner may do so from the tavern menu.

SUNDAY APRIL 6th:
7 am to 10 am - Complimentary continental Breakfast served at Shippen Place Hotel

11 am to 12 pm - Alumnae Advisor Meeting at AOII House

12 noon to 1 pm - Corp Board Meeting
All sisters and alumnae are welcome to attend.

Have a safe trip and we look forward to seeing everyone!

LET'S TALK

As many of us have been 'reconnected' after all these years, we want to hear what you've been up to!!! (Life after SHIP!) Please share. . .

Luminaria Form

The below link is a donation form for the Relay for Life held at Ship's Seth Grove Stadium on April 4th - 5th, 2008. Our team is "Alpha Omicron Pi". The event begins 6 pm Friday night and continues into 6 am Saturday morning. Anyone is welcome to join the team, there are almost 40 AOII collegiates who have signed up to participate. . . the "Luminaria Ceremony for Hope" will be held at 9 pm Friday night when the candles are lit and names of loved ones are announced. Please have any donations to Philanthropy Chair, Heidi Semple, by April 1st. Thank you for your support.

Click here to print out form: Luminaria Form

SISTER PROFILE: Theresa Levenduski Cottrill

Periodically we would like to spotlight various sisters to hear a little about those we may not yet know... we thought it only appropriate to start our interviews with the person who brought us all together!

FOCUS ON: THERESA LEVENDUSKI COTTRILL

I am pleased to introduce one of our founding sisters, Theresa Levenduski Cottrill. . . She is currently one of the Alumnae Advisers for Tau Lambda, serving as Alumnae Relations Advisor and Chapter Relations Advisor. I am sure we would all love to hear a little more about her!

Please share with us a little bit about yourself: My hometown is St. Marys, PA, but I know reside in Dallastown, PA. I am a single mother of two. My son Steven is a freshman at Ship and has a full scholarship through the Army ROTC Program on Campus. My daughter Nicole is 15. She cheers both for the High School team, as well as on a competitive cheerleading squad, which I am the coach. Aside from spending most of my time at the gym coaching the cheer squad, I have a full time job as an Account Rep for a Printing and Publishing Firm in Harrisburg, PA. I also serve as Membership Chair for the Wildcat Football Booster Club, and as a Board Member for Dallastown Area Dollars for Scholars.

Since graduation, I was part of the Founders of the Alumnae Chapter of AOII in York (which has disbanded). Helped out only in a limited capacity with Tau Lambda over the years, first as Chapter Advisor and then Chapter Relations Advisor and on the Corp Board. I had the opportunity to Visit Headquarters last summer, which was so totally awesome!

What was your vision for AOII? My vision for Tau Lambda was to start a Sorority at Shippensburg that offered the alternative to Hazing and Pledging, but provided a means to develop honest and true friendships. It seemed to me that the Sororities at the time were only interested in numbers and not the inner person. "Beating" a person into liking you wasn't my idea of friendship.

What is your favorite AOII memory? My initiation.

What is your Most meaningful AOII memory? My initiation.

What were your favorite AOII Activities? I loved the "Tiger Retreat," where the Big Sisters took the Littles away for a sleep-over for bonding time.

What do you remember most about your SHIP days? The friendships that I developed, how much fun we had, and how my roommate still calls me every time she hears a song on the radio that reminds her of something we did, or where we were at the time we heard that song.

What funny story can you share with us? I was roller skating on the sidewalk from McCune Hall (which used to be a boy's dorm) towards the library. I was coming down the hill quite fast, and wiped out on a broken piece of concrete at the bottom. I was only shaken up a bit, and a little embarrassed. I looked around, shook myself, thinking that no one had seen me. But as I started to skate on my merry way, I heard a round of applause and whistles coming from McCune. As I turned around to look, there were guys cheering and clapping for me from just about every window! OMG!

What were you main challenges starting AOII? My hardest challenge was standing up to the "Inter-Sorority" Council. The Inter-Sorority Council was the governing body over all the sororities on campus. Since there were only 2 national sororities at the time, there was no Pan-Hel, which meant No Real Rules. The 2 national sororities did not want a third national on campus, because that would mean no more Public Hazing. You see, Public Hazing was very much a part of Sisterhood at Shippensburg in the early 80's.

What is it like going back to the AOII house, knowing that this was all possible because of you? The first time I walked into the AOII House, I was so totally "Blown Away!" I never dreamt that a meeting between a handful of friends at Seavers Apartments back in the 80's, would have turned into something as big as it has become. I was truly humbled by the experience, and speechless.

What is your most proud accomplishment since college? I have had several career accomplishments, as in top Account Rep for the firm I work for. And in the community: Building a strong recreational cheerleading program that started with 40 girls and blossomed into 170 in just two years, and then taking another small group from that and putting together powerful All Star Team. However, my proudest accomplishment is simply my two children, and everything they do!

What advice could you give our graduating sisters? My advice to graduating sisters:"It's the experience in life that counts!" No matter what you do, which direction you go, enjoy the experience, embrace it, and take the energy and always use it for something meaningful and positive. Keep all the negatives behind you. You never know what one small experience for you can turn out to be for those you touch.

AHHAH MOMENT When I was at the AOII house this past fall, and saw all the Paddles upstairs in the hallway, I only wished that I actually would have been able to have my own Family Tree. I was the only Founding Sister that didn't get to have a Line. But then I realized, the entire Chapter is my line! That was kind of my "Ah hah! Moment"

I am also amazed at how the Original Story of the Origination of Tau Lambda has been preserved over the years! Wow!

Thanks, Theresa ~ it has been fun to hear about the person behind the Tau Lambda!

WEEKEND UPDATE

As we are finalizing the plans for our April Weekend, it would help if we had a head count for Saturday April 5th so we can prepare accordingly.
So far the plan is:
11 am - Ceremony
12:30ish - Lunch at AOII house Heather is working with a caterer and I'm sure will get a wonderful menu - Thanks, Heather!
6 pm - "Social" at Shippen Place Hotel (may include light appetizers)
Please let us know your plans by adding a comment or e-mail us. Thanks and we look forward to seeing everyone soon!

SISTER PROFILE

With over 400 alums it's hard to get to know everyone... so periodically we would like to spotlight a special sister and share more about her. Who is your favorite AOII??? If there is someone you would like us to interview, submit your suggestions to Sister Profile. Include the sister's name, e-mail and reason WHY you think everyone would like to GET TO KNOW HER!!! Brag about her a little bit... she deserves it!

JOIN CARLA & THE THREE DAY

Hello everyone,
I was so happy to read Karen's email suggesting that we all get together to do the breast cancer walk. I had been thinking of doing the walk myself and was preparing to send out a letter to everyone when the tragic news about Jen came out. I wasn't sure if I should put it out to everyone and then when I read Karen's email it seemed to be a sign. I checked with her and she gave me the go ahead to organize it all. There are two walks which happen in the October time and the one I have signed up to do is the Philadelphia 3-Day Walk. I would love to put together a team of sisters to walk in the Breast Cancer 3-Day and hopefully some of you will be able to join me. We’ll be walking 60 scenic miles over three uplifting days to help fund breast cancer research and community outreach programs through Susan G. Komen for the Cure and the National Philanthropic Trust Breast Cancer Fund. There is a minimum of $2200 per person that needs to be raised. This seems like a lot but honestly the cause is so amazing that if we put our minds to it I know we can do it. Without a cure, 1 in 8 American women will be diagnosed with breast cancer. This is our opportunity to do something about it. Together, we can. I know since we are geographically scattered getting together to do training won't be easy - however we will be able to stay in touch through email and maybe even phone. Then, for the walk it will be great to take the journey with anyone of you. I have already registered and gone to the meeting so if you have any questions please feel free to email me. Also, if you do decide to join me let me know so we can set up our team. To register or to find out more information go to http://www.the3day.org/ or call 800.996.3DAY. If the walk seems to be too much I hope that you can support the cause in other ways. I look forward to seeing everyone who can make it in April and I am truly happy that we are all coming together again, I just wish the catalyst had been a happier one. Peace, Carla Geary DiProspero

AOII ALUMNAE WEEKEND

Join us for a reunion weekend April 4 - 6, 2008 at SHIP as we remember our friend, our sister, Jennifer Lisman Bunich.

Friday April 4th -
6 pm - Relay For Life - Seth Grove Stadium
This campaign sponsored by the American Cancer Socitey is a 12 hour relay beginning at 6 pm Friday and continuting until 6 am Saturday morning. We will join various campus organizations to raise money for this worthy cause - all monies raised by the AOIIs will be donated in Jen's name. As part of the relay, luminaries will be sold for $10 to help to light the track (and they may be dedicated to someone). The sisters will be mailing these forms to everyone the beginning of March with all the information (and we will update this site so continue to check in!).

Saturday April 5:
11 am - Memorial Service for Jennifer Lisman Bunich Location TBD
The memorial ritual ceremony is not limited to only AOII sisters and -great news- alumnae do not have to wear white!!! Thanks for the info, Danette!
12:30 pm - Lunch at the AOII House 19 North Earl Street Details to follow
6 pm - "Social" at Meeting Room - Shippen Place 32 East King Street More info at a later date

Sunday April 6:
11 am - 12 pm: Alumnae Adviser Meeting - AOII House 19 North Earl
12 pm - 1 pm: Corp Board Meeting - AOII House: All collegiates and alumnae are welcome to attend

Rooms available at the Shippen Place Hotel for $72 / night for any room type - mention "LISMAN" when making your reservation to take advantage of this group discount. Please book early to ensure your room by calling the hotel at (888) 532-4141 or (717) 532-4141.

We have decided to create scrapbooks for Jen's daughter, Claire. Below are the instructions if you would like to submit your "Jen memories"...
Thanks to Teresa for putting together this info, and Sheila and Kathy for setting up the scrapbooks:
Online scrapbook:
Go to http://www.shutterfly.com/
First name: AOII
Last Name: Sister
Email address for account login:taulambdaalum@gmail.com
Password: Lisman
Once in the account, the name of the project is: Scrapbook for Claire.
**Note, be sure that your pictures are at a high enough resolution to scan or upload to shutterfly. Older pictures from Ship may not print in the final copy. Check with Shutterfly on their requirements.
Problems / questions: Email Sheila at sheila@dragondesignco.com
Please have this completed by March 19, 2008

Hand-made / Creative Memories Book:
Mail entries to:
Kathy Azar
405 Greyhawk Circle
Venetia, PA 15367
Here's another option for people. If anyone wants to make their own album pages prior to the April meeting, they could do so and bring them or send them to me ahead of time. (These need to be CM pages, see below). Here are some tips for either sending stuff or creating one's own page:
-Pictures, pictures, pictures - whatever you can find is great. Get copies made at your local developing place if you can't part with what you have.
-Memorabilia is great. Old notes, paper pandas made by your little/Aunt Stella/big, etc. that you still have for some reason (I do!)
-A memory-filled note in your own handwriting - it's more personal than typed. Use acid free, lignin free paper if you can and a special scrapbooking pen. If you can't beg, borrow, or buy these, write one anyway. A note that may yellow over time is better than none. Just don't use a Sharpie - they really bleed over time. If you're at a loss as to what to say, consider putting "I remember..." at the top of your note, then bullet point things underneath.
-Any poems, quotes, special words that might enhance the album, either on your page or others. We will probably have some blank backs to pages that will need "fillers". Poems are perfect for this.
-If you're making your own pages, please use Creative Memories pages (any color) since that is what will fit in the album we'll use.
-Lastly, if there are sisters who don't have pictures or memorabilia, but would like to contribute to the album, they could still send remembrances - either written (as suggested above) or in e-mail format. I'll create several pages of that kind-of donation.
Questions: contact Kathy (Bryan) Azar at : Thecmlady7@aol.com.


RELATED LINKS:
Charlotte Sunday paper front page: http://www.charlotte.com/local/story/506939.html
Jennifer Lisman Bunich: http://www.legacy.com/Charlotte/DeathNotices.asp?Page=Lifestory&PersonId=102759798
Jen & Jen - Smarty Pants: http://charlottesmartypants.blogspot.com/2008/02/charlotte-smarty-pants-legacy-jennifer.html