|
Contents
Messages from President,
National VP,
National Conductress,
National Treasurer
In Jail
2013 Convention
Chapter Happenings
Dates to Remember
| | |
|
|
|
Message from our National President - Kim Crawley
"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of 'disaster,' I remember my mother's words, and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers - so many caring people in this world." - Mister Rogers
 As we embark on a new year, may we remember the wise words of Mister Rogers for the tragedies in our lives are many-whether it be in a massive disaster like in Connecticut that cuts into our hearts-mourning for the parents and families, classmates, teachers, community and as a nation. Or a loss of a family member, depression or the loss of a job. We all have "tragedies." We must remember the good in the world and seek to find those who are the "helpers" in our own lives to get through these tragedies or situations. My family experienced great loss this holiday season, but I was encircled by many helpers which made the tragedy easier to bear. It only takes a second to see those willing to help out, and I appreciate them and hope that I can be that kind of person for them when the need arises.
We (Psi Otes) are the helpers and caring people in our communities. Maybe your chapter made meals for a needy family, held a coat drive, rang a bell for the Salvation Army, or donated money for those less fortunate. Maybe it was a prayer you said or a card that you sent. We never know how deep that simple gesture goes in someone's life. It could be a ripple effect. One little drop of kindness that could ripple out into the community or the world.
Mister Rogers' mother said "You will always find people who are helping." Does your community feel that way about your chapter? That they always see Psi Otes helping? If so, how awesome! However, what if the bickering and the thoughts of throwing in the towel for your chapter and personal issues have now made that quote obsolete for your chapter? No one helping in your community without the Psi Otes...now that's a scary thought for me! What if the Lyons, Human Services, or even the Tri Kappa's all quit being the helpers...it could be a disaster for the human race in my opinion. You laugh like that couldn't happen? There are groups all over having the same issues as your chapter does and our organization as a whole. People don't want to dedicate time for this, too busy, too many fussers in that organization/group, the thought: someone else can do it-and no one does.
Let us as Psi Otes make a resolution this New Year to increase the momentum to be helpers and care givers of the world-even if it is just in our own little corner of the world like Greensburg, Bethany, Southport, St. Joseph, Attica, Bedford or elsewhere because our ripple effect can then be carried on to elsewhere that we may never know. One little ripple...that extends to the community, the state, and out into the world through our many projects and caring deeds that we each do in the name of Psi Iota XI. Let's take on a New Years pledge like never before and renew the vows and not merely state them to be stating them---put some ACTION into those words! I see the New Year in
And rise to toast
To praise the things I value the most.
For those with less than me
I would provide
An equal share
To help the growth of pride.
Good health and friends for life
One blessings sought
But I must heed
The subtle lessons taught.
Sometimes it's out of reach
But try I must
To change the wrongs
And make things right and just.
I count the blessings that
One granted me
But yearn to fill
The many voids I see. Pax Vobiscum
 |
|
Message from National VP - Marcia Mohre
ALL ABOARD - Motivated Psi Otes Needed!
Do you have a sister Psi Ote who always has great ideas? Does she live and breathe Psi Iota Xi?
Does she make your meetings fun or always has suggestions for doing things in a new way? You probably know exactly who fits that mold! How about suggesting she apply for the NW or SE District Officer position?
Support her with your encouragement to apply! OR ARE YOU interested in coming on board and getting to know even more Psi Ote Sisters? You'll have a chance to spread your Psi Ote Spirit and experience serving on a council with women who share your dedication and enthusiasm for Psi Iota Xi.
It's a two-year term and a wonderful opportunity to get to know more about Psi Iota Xi as well as the women who help make it great! A letter of support from your Chapter must accompany your letter of application.
For more information contact Marcia Mohre, National Vice President, as soon as possible!
419-272-2618, home or 419-212-3004 cell or at marciamohre@gmail.com
|
|
Message from Conductress - Georgiann Coons
Our Psi Iota Xi Crest
 One of the most prominent pieces in your Chapter's ritual tool/jewel box is the crest of Psi Iota Xi. This crest, often mounted on a wood or metal base, is an important reminder of not only our history, but of our sisterhood's mission, as well.
Organizations like ours have traditionally adopted a crest (or coat of arms) to symbolize their unity. Throughout history, a crest has served as a rallying symbol for families, clans, territories and warrior groups; the crest would be stitched onto a banner and carried before them into battle. The elements of the crest - the shape, color, symbols and words - were all carefully chosen to best illustrate the group's vocations, beliefs and ideals, and preserving the crest and its dignity were of the upmost importance.
Later, organizations began to design and create crests which would tell the story of their own groups. Fraternal college organizations first began to adopt official crests in the mid-1800's, and fraternities, sororities and other campus organizations honor crests which include the symbols of their missions. (In many organizations, members are not told the meaning of the crest or allowed to wear or use the symbol until they are fully initiated into the organization; in Psi Iota Xi, the explanation of our crest is a part of our initiation ceremony.)
For many philanthropic groups, their adopted crests have become well-known logos of their organization's service to their communities, and can often be seen on signs welcoming travelers to their towns: the crests of the Lions Club, the Knights of Columbus, Sertoma and Kiwanis are just a few.
The crest of Psi Iota Xi is based upon a shield design, popular throughout history as a symbol of forward progress. Although most often seen in black and white, it is highly possible that the original design of the crest chosen by our founders was made in our colors of gold and turquoise blue, which are traditionally the colors of wisdom (and also wealth, blessing and faith) and loyalty. At the top of our crest sits a lamp, which is the traditional symbol of both light and learning. Placing the lamp at this position gives us great insight into the importance of education to our founders.
Inside the crest are the date of our founding, a lyre (ancient harp) which celebrates our commitment to music, and sprigs of laurel, which are symbols of honor and loyalty. Finally, the ribbon which decorates the bottom of our crest carries the Greek letters of Psi Iota Xi.
We are shown the crest at our initiation when its symbolism is explained to us. However, I encourage you to add the crest to your correspondence, t-shirt designs and promotional materials. (A download of the crest is available on the website for your use.) Let the crest of Psi Iota Xi continue to inspire you and your chapter onward toward your goals!
Pax Vobiscum, my sisters!
|
|
Message from National Treasurer - Susie Lewis
Happy New Year Ladies!  To get to know your National Treasurer, I thought I would tell you a little about myself. I work in retail sales, as the manager of a Verizon Wireless retailer, selling cellular phones, etc. For those of us in retail, the Christmas season is a very busy time of year. I had to give up doing any additional Christmas choir music at my church, because of this, several years ago. I have two children in college, one at IU/Bloomington, and one at Ohio Northern University, near Lima, Ohio. So, I can relate to those who stay constantly busy. Throughout the year, your national officers are spending much of their "spare time" working on Psi Iota Xi business. We are ALL a very dedicated group of ladies. That being said, it is also an attempt to justify taking a little "vacation" from Psi Ote business during the most recent holiday season. To update what has been happening in the "financial" area of our organization: - All national fees were received on time. Thank you very much!
- NP-20 forms, for chapters in the state of Indiana, were submitted to the Indiana Department of Revenue by the deadline listed on a previously filed extension request.
- MOST IMPORTANTLY - if your chapter receives communication from the IRS or Indiana Department of Revenue, please forward it to your National Treasurer, Susie Lewis. My contact information is in the "members only" portion of this website, or contact your District Officer, who will gladly give it to you.
- Your national officers had been under the understanding that we no longer had to file NP-20's (Indiana chapters only) but have recently found this is no longer true. All Indiana chapters do need to be filing an NP-20 form, prior to September 15th of each year. This will be remedied by including the form with each Indiana chapter's PCR each year. If your chapter does not receive one, please let your District Officer know.
- Also, in order for your National Treasurer to be able to communicate on the chapter's behalf with the IRS or Indiana Department of Revenue, a "POA" (power of attorney) will be requested from each chapter. This will be requested this Spring, and come out with the PCR.
Again, feel free to contact me with questions or concerns and I will do my best to be of assistance.
|
|
Psi Otes are Out of Jail
Our Sisters Were Released for Good Behavior
The Gamma Xi members invited surrounding Psi Ote chapters to a brunch and tour of the Rotary Jail Museum. The idea evolved from conversations held at the convention in June. Yessi Girdler, Iota Alpha, Veedersburg; Pam Karle & Jenny Slavens, Gamma Xi, Crawfordsville were together and networked the idea. It was held on Sat., November 3rd. Four chapters, Iota Sigma, St Joseph, IL, Iota Alpha, Veedersburg, IN, Beta Tau, Frankfort, IN, and Gamma Xi, Crawfordsville were represented with 21 members in attendance. Iota Sigma, St Joseph, IL, Iota Alpha, Veedersburg, IN, Beta Tau, Frankfort, IN, and Gamma Xi, Crawfordsville. The brunch was held in the Tannenbaum Cultural Center which is the former steam plant built in 1887 to heat the rotary jail, sheriff's residence and courthouse. At the end of the brunch, Jennifer Slavens, Gamma Xi President, divided us into three groups to brainstorm. Ideas were tossed around and shared about member recruitment, fundraisers and general fund money makers. Each member came away with new ideas and motivated about the future of Psi Iota Xi. After the brainstorming session, a tour of the rotary jail was given. The jail was the first rotary jail constructed in the United States. It has a two-story cell block on a turntable that is rotated by a hand crank. Today it is the only operational rotary jail in the country. It operated as a jail for 91 years from 1882-1973. After it was closed, the Montgomery County Cultural Foundation was created to run the jail and attached sheriff's residence as a museum. The sheriff's residence is a beautiful two-story home of predominantly Eastlake style architecture. While on the tour, members just had to get behind bars and have the tour guide take a picture. The brunch/tour was creative and informative. There was even a prospective member in the group. Thanks Gamma Xi for putting on this event to inspire our sisterhood.
|
|
Cheese Ball Ladies
PIX's Most Popular Fund Raiser
As you all know, more than 50 of our chapters find the time in their busy schedules to come together and whip up many varieties of delicious cheese balls. You then take orders, pick up, collect payment and deliver your delicious treats to your neighbors, friends and family. Monies made benefit your local chapter projects as well as your chapter's contribution to national projects. Many folks have taken to calling us the "Cheese Ball Ladies." We thought we'd do something with that. Using a sweet poem written by our own Conductress, Georgiann Coons, some cheese ball making event photos shared by a couple chapters and a nice piano piece, our web/marketing team (Tony and Donna/Aradise) has created a delightful video that should motivate folks to order our cheese balls and possibly join Psi Iota Xi. Please visit our home page, turn up the volume on your speakers and watch our little cheese ball video. |
Chapter Happenings
Eta Alpha - Nashville, Indiana
FOUR New Members!
 The Eta Alpha chapter of Psi Iota Xi received two new members at their annual initiation dinner on Monday, November 12, 2012. About 25 members and Southwest District Officer, Connie McDaniel, attended the lovely dinner and ceremony at the beautiful Hotel Nashville in downtown Nashville, Indiana.
A magnificent dinner was served with a choice of either chicken or salmon and was topped off with a scrumptious chocolate seduction cake. Donned in turquoise and blue robes, the officers and President Stephanie Dean led the traditional ceremony. New members Christy Tartar, Malini Stiles, Marie Mooney, and Jill Wray were welcomed with a long-stem yellow rose by chapter members.
Gamma Iota - Shoals, Indiana
Pitch-In Dinner and Purse Auction
 The Gamma Iota chapter of Psi Iota Xi hosted a pitch-in dinner and purse auction on Tuesday, November 13, 2012. About 25 members, Indiana State President, Mo Dix, and Southwest District Officer, Connie McDaniel, were in attendance. A delicious assortment of food was enjoyed by all. President January Roush led the opening and closing lines. The purse auction was hosted by Program Chair Cordilla George. An interesting selection of purses held surprising contents. Creatively auctioned by Ms. George, the bidding wars were often heated. The prize of the night was the purse filled with none other than - cash!
|
Mark Your Calendar for 2013 "NOW"
National Convention
June 28-30, 2013
Crowne Plaza Hotel,
Indianapolis
Kim Crawley, National President and the sisters of Sigma chapter, Greensburg, IN, invite all Psi Iota Xi members to attend the 2013 National Convention scheduled for June 28, 29, and 30, 2013, at the beautiful Crowne Plaza Hotel at Union Station in downtown Indianapolis.
This year's theme is "All Aboard the Psi Ote Express." Friday, June 28, we will kick off the weekend with a "Wild, Wild, West" Welcome Party that will feature a live band, casino-style "gambling" and new for this year -- Bring your "Cy Otes" -- your husband or other date.
Come celebrate another year of accomplishments at the 2013 Welcome Party. Get your cowgirl hats on and come ready to dance as the "Nuttin Fancy" band will be playing at our OK Corral for the evening. Have fun getting your picture taken in the Old Time Photo Studio or enjoy refreshments at the Chuck Wagon. Most importantly just come to have fun.
For the Welcome Party, find all the words in the word puzzle (click here and print) and bring a completed copy with you for an extra chance to win a door prize.
Mark your calendars. Registration information will be posted soon. You won't want to miss this one!
|
|
Let Your National Editor Help
Does your chapter have something it would like to include in the monthly newsletter? A special event a unique fund raiser? If so, please forward your articles to the National Editor for review. Prior to placement in the newsletter the article will need to have approval of the National President as do all mailings that go to our full membership.
If you have questions about how to place something on the National Website Calendar contact the National Editor. Remember the calendar is a marketing tool to help your chapter share your upcoming activities. The editor will review calendar events posted for content and appropriateness but a chapter can post the event on to the calendar along with a picture, event announcement and appropriate forms.
Feature your chapter pictures by forwarding them to the National Editor for review and approval by our National President. All chapters want to know what is happening and to gain new ideas for projects and fund raisers -- let's help each other.
Has your chapter taken advantage of building a chapter web page? If not, contact the National Editor for help and assistance. That page is an awesome recruiting tool and allows prospective sisters know what you're chapter is doing and might even encourage a lady to seek more information about becoming a member. Remember the web site is a marketing tool for all chapters! Come on board and let us help you market your chapter! .
Margaret Larson
National Editor
|
|
Psi Iota Xi Upcoming Events
Mark Your Calendar Today
March 2 - Kentucky State Association Meeting
April 1 - Chapter By-Laws Approval
April 20 - Indiana State Association Meeting
April 30 - All Chapters Close Books
May 10 - PCRs due to District Officer
|
|
|
