The Eta Omicron Chapter, Beta Sigma Phi, of Washington hosted the 3rd annual “Playing FORE the Cure” golf tournament and steak dinner on Saturday, October 17, 2009, in memory of a beloved sister, Nancy Callaway Long, who died August 27, 2002, at the age of 42 after a courageous battle with cancer.

The chapter’s main focus is to help provide support to cancer patients and their families along with other love offering projects throughout the year to those in need within Wilkes County. The golf tournament is a small tribute in memory of a genuine lady that was very caring and giving of herself to our community. We hope others that are battling cancer will benefit from this fund-raiser and all the generous contributions, which totaled just over $7400.00.

All of the money raised will remain in Wilkes County, except for a contribution in memory of Nancy Callaway Long that is specifically for breast cancer research through the American Cancer Society. The money that stays in Wilkes County will help support local cancer needs through the purchase of much needed medical equipment and programs at Wills Memorial Hospital. Proceeds will also help support the Cancer Relief Fund organized by cancer survivor, Bunny Boyd Gunby, used for transportation needs of cancer patients or medication needs that are not covered through insurance or any other available funds. Beta Sigma Phi deeply thanks individuals of the community for their generous support and donations during this event. Washington Wilkes is so special and so giving, whether volunteering personal time and effort or giving monetary and/or material donations.

We give our heartfelt thanks to businesses and individuals that sponsored each hole for the tournament: F & M Bank, Lincoln County Vet Services-Dr. Greg McLeod, Maloof Roofing, WW Primary School, WW Middle School, WW High School, Rayle EMC, Barnett Southern Corporation, Andrews Quick Lube, Fareway Building Supply, Attorney Charles LeGette, Georgia Respiratory, Debbie Bennett, Bob and Kathy Dinneweth, Big Chick, Brian and Lavenia Henderson, O.A. and Jerry Denard, J & E Development, Napa Auto Parts, Standard Auto & Equipment, Southeast Land Surveying-Jack Newsome, George & Cherry Andrews, Wilkes Eye Center ( Z & B Optical, Inc.), Bobbie Ann Griffin, Fievet Pharmacy, CSRA Private Duty, Wilkes Telephone, Pliant, The News-Reporter, Auto Parts of Washington, Washington Jockey Club, Southern Forest Management, Wills Memorial Hospital, Bee Southern, The Boot Rack, Broome Brothers Construction, La Cabana Mexican Restaurant, Farmers State Bank, McDonald’s, ATAP Enterprises, Rod & Caroline Canterbury.

Gracious donations were given by: Episcopal Church Women, The Cornelia Johnson Circle of First United Methodist Church, Lynn Goolsby, Karen Moore, Louise Burt, VFW, WW Primary School, W-W Elementary School, W-W Middle School and W-W High School.

We are also grateful to Tena’s, Bee Southern, Fitzpatrick, Creating Waves, Scarborough’s, Restore Galore, Poss Hardware, Talk of the Town, Fancy Plants, Petal Pushers, Fareway Building Supply, Washington Jockey Club, Southern States, Hendricks, The Boot Rack, Regional Open MRI of Thomson and Mercer Harris Photography for their fabulous door prizes for the Steak Dinner event.

A huge thank you to W-WCHS FBLA members, The News- Reporter, McDonald’s, Ryan’s, Coca-Cola, Wal-Mart, Ingles, and Bi-lo and Brian Henderson for their generous help in making the Steak Dinner such a success. Last, but certainly not least, many thanks to all the golfers and individuals who participated in the Golf Tournament as well as those that enjoyed the fun, fellowship, and scrumptious steak dinner. Beta Sigma Phi members wish to give a big congratulations to the winning team of Will Long, Sam Moore, and Tommy Wells.

Even though October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, the chapter is still urging the community to continue making contributions to this worthy cause that touches the lives of so many regardless of health, social, or financial status. Contributions can be made to Beta Sigma Phi through the chapter treasurer, June Baston. Please make checks payable to Beta Sigma Phi.