Beta Sigma Phi Marks 40 Years of Community Service

McKENZIE — Beta Sigma Phi is a ladies' international service organization. The McKenzie chapter was organized May 28, 1985.

The chapter made a name for itself in 1989 with the organization of the Angel Tree program, but now may be most well-known in McKenzie for the annual Breakfast with Santa during downtown Christmas festivities.

Besides those highlights, the list of contributions, many recurring annually, is extensive.

Each summer, members adorn the pier at McKenzie City Park with American flag swags ahead of the Fourth of July celebration.

In the fall, they decorate the gazebo at Veterans Park and the city's welcome signs with beautiful fall displays.

The organization purchased the Pocket Park property on Main Street, donated it to the city and donated funds for renovations.

Beta Sigma Phi has made multiple contributions to the Gordon Browning Museum, including the purchase of a computer, funding of interior and exterior repairs and painting and funding of HVAC repairs.

The club bought the concrete flower pots previously used around downtown and donated funds for the new pots now in place.

They purchased the Christmas wreaths with candles hung along Highland Drive and have purchased many of the new Christmas decorations mounted to poles downtown.

Members donated $4,500 to the purchase of McKenzie's first tornado sirens and $5,000 to the renovation of the Park Theatre.

Beta Sigma Phi has left an indelible mark on the beauty, identity and culture of McKenzie.

Jennifer Waldrup, chapter president and a charter member, told The Banner, "We love the City of McKenzie, and through the years, we have hoped to make a difference."

Other current members include: Bonnie Dillon, Gina Roegge, Sandra Spires, Amanda Lifsey, Judy Davis, Lisa Page, Mistee Cooper, Letha Basford, Brenda Berryman, Fay Garrett, Karen McCaleb, Karen Moore, Jennifer Taylor and Sheila Willis.