The S igma O micronicle Oklahoma State University of Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity - Spring 2011 Edition PIG DINNER - ALWAYS A GOOD TIME By: Chris Day (1980) - SOHA Director Oklahoma State University’s ConocoPhillips Alumni Center was filled with Fijis for the 2011 Pig Dinner. Highlights Nearly 280 (130 graduate brothers, 100 undergraduate Fall 1990 pledges: John Ha (1994), Jeff Turner (1995), Jeff Jones (1994), Shawn Yates (1994), Andrew Crabtree (1994), brothers and 50 Chad Neidig (1994) and Peter Megna (1994). guests) enjoyed the celebration of all things Phi Gamma the “Silver Owls” reception Ran(1981) and Brian Smith Delta. The crowd overflowed dall Whittaker (1970) had (1992), were initiated. into the Alumni Center’s hosted the last several years. We George Ramey (1966) lobby. hope to have a better arrangeserved as the Patron of the ment of space to continue this A few grads gathered Friday Pig. The graduate who helps fun, well-attended tradition. evening, and the Sigma Omiunderwrite the cost of the cron Housing AuthorityEarlier in the day, four graduates swine and its preparation hosted reception was a high– Mark Boler (1973), Johnny (Continued on page 3) light. This event grew out of Riter (1977), Brent Russell ENDOWED SCHOLARSHIP • Nearly 280 brothers and guests attended Pig Dinner this year. Mark your calendar for next year, February 24-25, 2012, for the 50th year celebration Pig Dinner. • Over $16,000 has been generously donated to the SOHA Annual Fund this academic year. Thank you donors! • Plan to attend an OSU football game this fall and join the Sigma Omicron brothers at their tailgate. Graduates are always welcome to attend! Inside this issue: Founding Celebration Thank You Donors By: Ryan Bebee (1995) In 2010 OSU uber-booster, Boone Pickens announced the Pickens Legacy Scholarship Match (PLSM) from a $100 million matching gift from his estate. A minimum donation of $50,000 was required to realize the 2:1 match of $150,000 upon his death. SOHA was faced with a deadline and a decision. With overwhelming support, the board moved to plunge into the future to assist our younger brothers in this unique and historical opportunity. “What an exciting time and wonderful initiative for SOHA to be able to offer this to our most important source of membership – the undergraduates” said Aaron Wilson (2008), SOHA Director. (Continued on page 2) Graduate Spotlight SOHA President Report 2 5 6 9 Join “Sigma Omicron Fijis” on Facebook! \r\nSigma Omicronicle Page 2 FOUNDING CELEBRATION - SAVE THE DATE! Do you remember these names? Dale Anderson, Harry Kent Moore, Jan Turley and Bill Gurley. Their efforts brought Phi Gamma Delta to Oklahoma State University in April 1961 as Delta Colony. Today, the Sigma Omicron chapter is a leader of the university’s Greek community. The four founders and the chapter’s first President James L. Daniels, Jr. worked diligently and the chapter moved from colony to charter in a single year. The founders and charter members received a lot of help from national headquarters, the Nu Omega Chapter, the Mother’s Club, Phi Gam Dames and the Oklahoma City and Tulsa graduate chapters. The Sigma Omicron Chapter will be celebrating 50 years at Oklahoma State in the upcoming school year, and the highlight of the celebration will be the 2012 Pig Dinner, which will be held February 24 - 25 in Stillwater. The site hasn’t been determined, yet. It largely will depend on us. As the 50th anniversary of our founding, we expect a huge turnout and encourage graduate brothers to organize by decades, spread the word and encourage their pledge brothers, big brothers, little brothers, roommates and floormates to attend this Pig Dinner. Start spreading the news about the 50th-Anniversary Pig Dinner celebration and mark February 24 - 25 as dates to be in Stillwater for a weekend of Phi Gamma Delta brotherhood. This photo and caption appeared in the December 1962 issue of The Phi Gamma Delta magazine announcing the new Sigma Omicron Chapter. Endowed Scholarship Update continued... (Continued from page 1) Once the decision was made, there was little time to inform all audiences and properly publicize this good news. We would like to thank Jim “Harris” Elder (1967) and Kim Cunningham (1975) for seeing the article in the last issue of The Sigma Omicronicle and making a tax-deductible gift. In our inaugural year, this principle amount yielded $2,500 for scholarships. The scholarship committee of the SOHA decided to award five $500 scholarships. Applicants had to meet the following requirements and criteria. He must be an active undergraduate member or pledge of the Sigma Omicron Chapter of Phi Gamma Delta at Oklahoma State University. One will be awarded to an outstanding freshman, sophomore, and jun- “What an exciting time and wonderful initiative for SOHA to be able to offer this to our most important source of membership – the undergraduates.” Aaron Wilson (2008), SOHA Director. ior member or pledge. The other two awards will be given to members, regardless of age, who have made the utmost sacrifices for Sigma Omicron while exhibiting friendship, knowledge, service, morality and excellence. All recipients must have exhibited consistent chapter involvement. Some criteria included chapter responsibilities, other campus involvement, honor societies or campus recognition, community service activities and all scholarships, grants or fellowships currently received. Applicants also were required to submit a one page essay describing what he has done to improve the Sigma Omicron Chapter. At the 2011 Pig Dinner, the following undergraduates were each awarded $500 scholarships: Shane Gibson (2012), James Riter (2012), Brentley Lindsey (2013), Brady Sheer (2012) and Ryan McDougal (2012). Please contact the OSU Foundation at (800) 622-4678 and specifically reference the Phi Gamma Delta – Oklahoma State Scholarship if you wish to make a contribution. \r\nPage 3 Pig Dinner - Always A Good Time continued... Max Pischel (1968) made good on his promise to attend all the way from Dubai. receives this honor. Founder and charter He has already made his reservation for 2012. We’re wondering if Donald member J.D. Boyer (1964) will be Greenamyer (1972) will come in for the Patron in 2012. 50th all the way from the Land Down UnThe new initiates came in rejoicing and der? “bringin’ in the Pig!” Zach Overton Michael Knam (1994) received the Bob (1996) gave a stirring rendition of the Hamm Graduate Award of Excellence. SilExile’s Toast, inspiring a standing ovaver Owls (initiated in the Fraternity for 25 tion from the crowd. Zach also inspired years) certificates were presented to Rick the audience with singing “I Would Ewing (1984), James Wuerflien Rather Be a Fiji!” at the close of dinner. (1980) and Kelly Kobs (1985). Framed Pat Gallagher (1966) and Jacob Sires and Sons certificates were presented Stivers (2014) were the honored brothto Johnny (1977) and James Riter ers assigned Pig-kissing duties. (2012), Terry (1982) and Brett Reavis (Continued from page 1) (2012), Kelly (1985) and Brandon Kobs (2013), Kelly (SMU 1981) and Benjamin Rogers (2014) and Brent (1981), Zach (2011) and Jacob Russell (2013). Former Archon Orsen Paxton (UTA 1971) challenged the undergraduates to do a little better, take nothing for granted, have fun, but do better because you can! Plan now to attend the 50th celebration February 24 - 25, 2012! We look forward to awarding our first Gold Owls, more Silver Owls, and reminiscing on the college days that united us together in Phi Gamma Delta. Left - Fall 1991 pledges (l to r): Erik Scott (1994), Dan Freet (1995), Mike Knam (1994), Ben Evans (1995), Eric Lee (1994), Mike Morgan (1995), Eric Knam (1993), Ryan Bebee (1995) and Jay Boatright (1995). Below - Bob Hamm Graduate Award of Excellence to Mike Knam (1994) - center, Jonathan Chandler (2012) and Brentley Lindsay (2013). Above - Silver Owl recipients Rick Ewing (1984), James Wuerflein (1981) and Kelly Kobs (1985). Right - (standing l to r) B. Russ McNew (1966), Danny Deaver (1967), Don Boyd (1969), Charlie Powers (1969), Max Pischel (1968), Mike Hill (1968), Terrell Potts (1968); (sitting l to r) George Ramey (1966), Pat Gallagher (1966) and Jim Thomas (1965). \r\nSigma Omicronicle Page 4 PIG DINNER MEMORIES Boone Pickens matching SOHA scholarship award winners: Ryan McDougal (2012), Shane Gibson (2012), Brentley Lindsey (2013), James Riter (2012) and Brady Scheer (2012). Jules Roberts(1978) and Jim Quigley (1979). Terrell Potts (1968), Pat Gallagher (1966) and Max Pischel (1968), the farthest traveled from Dubai. Pig kissing honorees: Jacob Stivers (2014) and Pat Gallagher (1966). Ralph Heatly (1971), Karen Hicks (widow of Craig Hicks 1972) and Steve Bowersox (1972). Judges George Ramey (1966) and Danny Deaver (1967). \r\nPage 5 THANK YOU DONORS Sigma Omicron would like to thank and recognize our donors. Your generosity has resulted in contributions of over $16,000 since October 1, 2010. If you would like to make a donation to the Sigma Omicron Housing Association Fund, visit www.phigam.org/netcommunity/OKStateDonations or send a check along with the form on the back page. James Howell (parent) In honor of Dickson J. Howell (2011) Patrick and Charlene Murray (parents) In honor of Shane P. Murray (2011) William and Katherine Nelson (parents) In honor of Jordan H. Nelson (2012) William and Katherine Nelson (parents) In honor of Clayton E. Nelson (2007) Ernie & Roxanne Sadau (parents) In honor of Zachary W. Sadau (2012) Karen Hicks (wife) Lon C. Kile 1977 Jules D. Roberts, IV 1978 Ronald L. Taylor 1980 Michael L. Lanata 1981 In memory of Marshall F. Persson (1967) In memory of Ernest C. Young (1966) George H. Ramey 1966 Harris J. Elder 1967 Duane W. Gagle, Jr. 1967 Robert B. Lindsly 1967 Robert W. Roper 1967 Michael R. Wendel 1967 Michael C. Hill 1968 James M. Wuerflein 1981 *M. D. Tripp Fezler, III 1969 Dr. Bob C. Hamm 1969 Philip G. Bowersox 1970 J. David Jensen 1970 Fred C. Ringwald 1970 Randall L. Whittaker 1970 In memory of Charlie Abercrombie (1971) In memory of John D. Shaw (1971) Mark A. Lobo 1971 Stephen C. Bowersox 1972 Steven H. Dennehy 1972 Richard W. Hatter 1972 James S. Sheehan, USAF 1972 Philip D. Webb 1972 Kirk A. Jewell 1974 James L. Keating 1974 Roland J. Heatly 1975 Steven B. Pittman 1975 Gregory Z. Winters 1975 Thomas A. Pyron 1976 Treasurer - Chris Neurohr ‘03 cneurohr@scissortailenergy.com Secretary - Michael Martin ‘05 michaelpaulmartin@yahoo.com Directors & Members In memory of Frank Anderson (1984) Kelly K. Kobs 1985 In memory of Mark A. Rice (1983) Bradley S. Austin 1993 *John R. Delano 1993 *Eric D. Knam 1993 Jeffrey A. Jones 1994 Michael J. Knam 1994 *Peter R. Megna 1994 *Ryan J. Bebee 1995 In memory of Wade Scruggs (2000) In honor of Max A. Pischel (1968) President - Randall Whittaker ‘70 rwhittaker@pixius.net In memory of Mark A. Rice (1983) *Christopher K. Woosley 1991 J. Pat Gallagher, Jr. 1966 Thomas W. Lucas 1966 Association, Inc. In memory of James F. Tredway (1968) In memory of her husband Craig Hicks (1972) Stephen K. Boeckman 1992 James D. Boyer 1964 In memory of Jay D. Reinking (1990) Joe G. Berry 1965 James L. Thomas 1965 Sigma Omicron Housing Jay Boatright 1995 Cason E. Grover 1995 *Michael J. Morgan 1995 *Matthew D. Barnes 1997 D. Scott Henry 1997 Robert A. Cuthbertson 1998 *Joel B. Embry 1999 *Jeremy J. Welter 1999 *Michael J. Jaskowiak 2000 Daniel R. Cahalan 2001 Steve B. Foster 2001 Justin E. Boatsman 2002 Andrew J. Burnett 2002 Zachary R. Keller 2002 Trenton R. McKnight 2002 Jeffrey R. Pinter 2002 Wesley B. Reed 2002 *Christopher R. Neurohr 2003 Adam P. Hammack 2004 Michael P. Martin 2005 *Michael R. Gilbert, Jr. 2006 *Matthew M. Drouhard 2008 *Aaron V. Wilson 2008 Lucas B. Elwell 2009 In memory of Jason M. Wright (2007) Joseph K. Prochaska 2009 * indicates a monthly donor Kim Cunningham ‘75 Tanner Cooper ‘04 Jim Quigley ‘79 Mike Hill ‘68 Steve Pittman ‘75 Eric Lee ‘94 Chris Day ‘80 Aaron Wilson ‘08 Purple Legionnaire Eric Knam ‘93 eric.d.knam@gmail.com Sigma Omicron Board of Chapter Advisors Chairman - Taylor Shinn ‘07 Taylor.shinn@chk.com Member Education Advisor Ross Bebee ‘97 Treasurer Advisor Clayton Nelson ‘07 Advisor At-Large Jeffrey Pinter ‘02 Cabinet Advisor Trent McKnight ‘02 Historian Advisor Wesley Reed ‘02 Recruitment Advisor Jay List ‘97 Grad Relations Advisor Joel Embry ‘99 Grad Relations Mike Knam ‘94 Advisor Blake Burger ‘07 \r\nSigma Omicronicle Page 6 GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT - ROBERT WILLIAMS (1964) Why did you choose OK State? OSU was a family tradition though I was a bit of a contrarian in that respect. My parents both graduated from "OAMC" in 1938 and my maternal grandmother had lived on Stillwater's University Circle since the 1930s. Being the hard-headed type, however, I trotted off to Virginia for college. My immaturity led to some poor decisions, and I found myself in Stillwater as a sophomore in the fall of 1961. It was good to get a second chance. Having learned my lesson, I am now a proud Oklahoma Aggie! Why did you pledge Phi Gamma Delta? The people is the short answer. I had skipped rush in the fall of 1961 to concentrate on academics. On campus, however, I ran into Jamie Lowry (now deceased), a friend from Pawhuska. Like me, he had started college elsewhere (West Point, in his case), but now he was President of something called "Delta Colony," thus, my introduction to the Gingerbread House. In those early days, the Colony concentrated on personalized recruiting and did not participate in formal rush. The Colony pledges in pledge date order in spring of 1961 were Richard Garrison (1963), Mark Birmingham (1967), Martin Glasser (1964), J. D. Boyer (1964), Max Hampton (1964) and Dan McCarty (1964). In the fall of 1961, Danny Daniels, a new initiate from Georgia Tech transferred to Delta Colony, plus John Tway (1964) and Vaughn Bryan (1965) pledged that fall. That seemed pretty good company to me so I pledged Delta Colony on November 14, 1961. A couple of weeks later, Jim Swagerty (1965) was pledged and in the spring of 1962, Mike Crocker (1963), Fred Mostrom (1964), Jerry Robinson (1964) and Rex Stith (1964) all pledged together. Bennie Cravatt (1965) pledged in the early fall of 1962. The 15 of us were initiated on the day Sigma Omicron was chartered, November 10, 1962. That same day, we took in our first formal rush pledge class of 10, and we were on our way! That first formal pledge class in alpha order was Dick Cornish (1964), Dale Durfee (1965), Darrell Fry (1967), Pat Galla- gher (1966), Jim Gearhart (1966), Jay Haggard (1965), Fred Lawson (1966), Bill Ross (1966), John Sanger (1964)and Val Wheeler (1966). By then, we also had two brothers transfer in from William Jewell-- Bill Thomas and Vernon Thornton. What is your favorite memory as an undergraduate? It has to be a combination of Colony days, Sigma Omicron charter day, rush & intramural successes, achieving above average grade points as a group, and those early Pig Dinners, Fiji Island parties and Purple Garter Formals (my date still has hers!). What is your favorite memory as a graduate so far? While working at The Williams Companies in Tulsa during the early 1980s, it was cool to be working there at the same time as Dick Cornish, Pat Gallagher, Jim Swagerty and Val Wheeler. All five of us were part of Sigma Omicron on November 10, 1962. What kind of influence has the Fraternity had on your life? In addition to learning how to say inculcate with a straight face, the undergraduate experience was invaluable in learning how to work together as a group toward a set of common goals. We did not always agree on everything, but we found a way to proceed and hang together. In many ways, the best part was the diverse nature of the group. With whom do you stay in contact? Living far away from Oklahoma except for 1980-1983 made staying in touch difficult, though I have enjoyed some form of contact with most of those present on November 10, 1962, as well as some of those who had the wisdom to become a part of Sigma Omicron not too long after that. The names which come to mind, in no particular order, are Richard Howell (1967), George Ramey (1966), Kim Cunningham (1975), Jim Thomas (1965), Tom Lucas (1966), Don Greenamyer (1972) and Jim Tredway (1968) (now deceased). Robert with his wife Lorene and her original Purple Garter. Tell us about your family. Some may remember that aforementioned Purple Garter Formal date who still has her garter. She was a dorm counselor at Thatcher Hall by the name of Lorene Dillahunty. We married in 1965 when I finished grad school and she got her degree. We have one daughter, Eleanor, an international private art dealer and adviser based here in Houston (which is where Lorene and I have resided since 1983). Eleanor pledged Tri-Delt at SMU. Did you live in the chapter house? If so, who were your roommates? I lived off-campus until my senior year. That year, as President, I shared a room with Jim Swagerty, the Treasurer. The room was the master bedroom of the Gingerbread House. The room had a walk -in closet-- certainly a first for both Swags and me-- and a nice view of the Thetas walking to and from classes. Too many stories here to tell! What is your favorite Pig Dinner memory? The first one after we were chartered-- must have been early 1963-- was held in the party room of what was then called the Hi-Lo Motel (Continued on page 7) \r\nPage 7 AAA SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS Academic Achievement Awards (AAA) are just one benefit the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation provides to undergraduate brothers - a $250 check to new initiates for achieving at least a 3.0 GPA during their pledge term. Phi Gamma Delta is the only national fraternity or sorority to offer this blanketed scholarship that helps get our new brothers focused on their academics. Thanks to those donors who support the Phi Gamma Delta Educational Foundation. Go to www.phigam.org/netcommunity/OKStateAAA to support Sigma Omicron AAA scholarships. Since its inception in 1999, AAA scholarship has awarded 241 Sigma Omicron brothers, including this list of current brothers who received the AAA this academic year: Kyle T. Beckel 2013 Samuel D. Hitchcock 2014 Robert S. Potts 2014 Mitchell L. Bertrem 2014 Michael W. Johnson 2014 Shane R. Rasch 2014 Simuel T. Blosser 2014 Bradley N. Kershaw 2014 Matt C. Renz 2014 Marvelle C. Elledge 2014 Brandon K. Kobs 2013 Benjamin F. Rogers 2014 Matthew M. Farley 2014 Blake A. LeForce 2014 Robert S. Russell 2014 Taylor F. Galvin 2014 Michael W. Mcdaniel 2014 Nicholas K. Staples 2014 Alex N. Geis 2014 Jeb W. Park 2015 Jacob W. Stivers 2014 Michael A. Hale 2014 Evan R. Pazzo 2014 Benjamin A. Wolff 2014 VENUS NAMED NEXT PISTOL PETE Each year, 10-15 Oklahoma State students compete for one of the two openings as the beloved Pistol Pete mascot. A panel of former “Petes” judge the tryouts and select the two best candidates that will bring energy to crowds. Sigma Omicron is proud to announce that Brother Taylor Venus (2012) will share the title of Pistol Pete for the 2011-12 year. He will make approx. 250 appearances, including athletic events, peprallies, business openings, weddings, birthday parties and public school events. Congratulations Brother Venus! Go Cowboys! ROBERT WILLIAMS (1964) continued... (Continued from page 6) (now the stylish Relax Inn at W. 6th & Western). When I saw that pig, I knew I was in the right place! Tell us about your career. My OSU economics degree and a MBA from Baylor pushed me in the financial direction. After a short stint with AT&T in financial management, I spent time as a Vietnam-era U.S. Navy officer on a couple of WWII vintage aircraft carriers. Then, I worked for Ford Motor (MI & Brazil), The Williams Company (OK), Texas City Refining (TX) and Furnishings 2000 (CA) in various officer positions relating to financial and operational areas. After retiring before age 50, I enjoyed an unexpected second career of 15 years with the FBI, and retired for good in 2005. daughter grow personally and professionally, and I still like to chase that Purple Garter Formal date. Genealogy has become my primary hobby and I volunteer weekly at the Ronald McDonald House in the nearby Texas Medical Center. Oh, yes, I also am accomplished at walking the family dog. What are your major interests now? Enjoying the good life in a home we built for retirement near the Rice University campus. It is a joy to watch our Contact Robert at quenby@peoplepc.com. \r\nSigma Omicronicle Page 8 GRADUATE SPOTLIGHT - RICK HATTER (1975) Why did you choose OK State? The University had a great reputation, and I really loved the campus with the magnolia trees around Theta Pond. All of the university grounds were beautiful, the “Strip” was so lively, and many of my friends from Mangum were either already attending or planned to attend OSU. Some of these guys were Jim Keating (1974), Robert Keating (1972), Greg Dennis (1973), Randall Whittaker (1970), Ralph Heatly (1971), Rollie Heatly (1975), Greg Winters (1975), and Jerry Levine (1975) to name just a few. Why did you pledge Phi Gamma Delta? Several of these above friends were already Brothers, and other friends had pledged or were going to pledge Fiji such as Rollie, Greg, and Jerry. The Fijis rushed me, and I liked the guys in the house better than any others because everyone always seemed to be having fun, but yet they were quite focused on being successful in university studies and in life. Also, they were friendly, helpful, and most of all they were really solid, decent guys with a great sense of humor. I couldn’t wait to move into that beautiful Fiji house. What is your favorite memory as an undergraduate? Some of my favorite undergraduate memories are of the wonderful Fiji Island parties, Spring Sing, and the weekly dance get-togethers with different sororities. We did have fun. There was never a dull moment in the house or otherwise. We were always up to something. I’ll never forget our “pledge sneak” and hijacking Joe Mark El Kouri, Stevie Thomas, and a couple of others. That was a real feat! We went to Clinton, OK, where my aunt’s husband was City Manager. While there, we did public service work, which included the painting one of the city’s stadiums and cleaning up all around. What is your favorite memory as a graduate so far? My four years at OSU and Sigma Omicron were wonderful. I’ve kept in contact with many brothers, who remain great friends. It’s so true --“not for college days alone.” Some of those that I’m still in contact with are John Doty (1975), Randall Whittaker (1970), Greg Dennis (1973), Joe Bush (1975), Larry Reinmuth (1975), Rick Poplinger (1975), Charlie Peppers (1974), Martin Blazy (1978), Phil Webb (1972), Danny Deaver (1967), Jules Roberts (1978), and many others. Yes, social networking does have its advantages! In fact, Randall, his wife, Regna, and I had a great lunch in Manhattan just last year, and we plan to do so again this year. John Doty, who is now in Chicago, and his family have visited quite a few times. Martin Blazy lives in New Jersey, and I’ve been to several of his band’s shows here in Manhattan. One of my favorite memories is of Martin’s band from years ago, “Voodoo Martini,” playing at the “Windows on the World” on the top floor of the World Trade Center. We had a really great night. I sometimes listen to the CD to bring back memories from that time. Martin’s band continues playing great gigs in Manhattan, and I’ve been to several of their shows. What kind of influence has the Fraternity had on your life? The fraternity provided me with many of the social skills needed in my profession of fundraising/ development and public relations. Being a Fiji taught me the importance of teamwork and perseverance -- always be tenacious but gracious. As a development professional and as an artist/photographer, when one is receives an answer of “no” regarding funds for a project or a gallery show, it certainly does not mean never. It just means not right now. One should simply wait a bit and make another attempt. I think this is the case in so many aspects of life. What activities were you involved in during college? I was always involved in Spring Sing and the Island Party. In addition, I was a research assistant in Department of Biology, and there were many other campus clubs and activities. Tell us about your family. I have a great, loving Mom and Dad, who are still living in Mangum. I’ve remained very close with my other amazing family members in southwest Oklahoma. And, of course, there is my wonderful partner, Philip, and his family, who are all “native New Yorkers.” In addition, there are so many friends who have become family over the years. Tell us about your career. I’ve spent all of my professional life working with non-profit educational, academic, and philanthropic groups. My past positions include Senior Director and Assistant Dean for Development at New York University, Vice President for Development of the American Academy in Rome, and for the last 14 years I’ve served as the Director of Development and Public Relations of the John Simon Guggenheim Memorial Foundation. What are your major interests now? I’m very involved in the world of philanthropy in New York City where I serve on the board of an arts foundation, which supports arts residencies in Maine, and there’s my long career at the Guggenheim Foundation. Also, I spend a lot of time “growing” and working with my art/photography business, Jaybuckle Springs Studio, located here in Manhattan. Yes, all of you southwest Oklahoma guys will remember Jaybuckle Springs west of Mangum. I thought I’d bring a little Oklahoma to the “Big Apple.” Contact Rick at rwhatter@yahoo.com. \r\nPage 9 SOHA PRESIDENT REPORT By: Randall Whittaker (1970), House Corporation President The house has survived another academic year and remains in relatively good condition. The UGs, under the direction of House Manager John Jarred (2013), President James Riter (2012), and House Mother Rena Sterling, cleared out 1123 University the weekend after finals. We are looking at a few issues regarding maintenance and repair for the summer. The closet/pantry in the dining room has a water leak that most likely is due to a roofing issue. The basement storage closet under the west stairwell is a quagmire and continues to be the source of water leaks. The closet is to be cleared out and a professional basement repair firm will inspect for foundation cracks and treat as needed. The same process will be done to clean and repair any damage to the external downspouts, as they are not flowing completely; thus adding to our water damage problems. The company that services our kitchen appliances has agreed to shut down, drain, and turn off the ice machine for the summer. They will re-start the week before the house is open for the semester. The refrigerator is leaking condensate and will be inspected and the decision made to repair or replace. There will be a professional cleaning of all bathrooms. Due to the increase of staph infections on campus, it has been decided to have this complete service done at least twice a year. It was discovered that two toilets on the third floor had cracks in the base and have been replaced. The Parents Club has stepped up again with its various activities to benefit the house. They are deciding what project they will do for the good of Sigma Omicron. President Jamie Gable and all the parents continue to bless us with their time, energy, and generosity. The UGs are thinking that a makeover of the study room would enhance the image of the basement, as well as make the area more conducive for study hall. I have been asked to address the brief history of Patron of the Pig in hopes of fostering greater interest and participation in the Norris Pig Dinner. Additionally, it is hoped that spotlighting this budding award will bring a tradition specific to Sigma Omicron. The genesis of the award and honor was at a SOHA/UG meeting in 2009 where the difficulty of finding a vendor for a suckling pig was a point of discussion. The cost of the pig had increased, as well as the various other expenses of bringing in Zeus. Several options came up including the tongue in cheek remark that we could cut costs and hassle by having a ceremonial pink plastic pig with which we could continue the bringing in of the pig and the “We salute you, oh Zeus” march by the new brothers, complete with kissing both ends of the plastic pig. Several “The goal is to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and recognize those graduate brothers who have contributed to the spirit of Sigma Omicron.” cabinet members showed their PURPLE and voiced their outrage at being the class that did away with the pig. Brother Brent Morris (2009) summed it up by stating, “I don’t want to be remembered as the class that did this.” The Pig Dinner Chair, Brett Merrit (2011) and Cabinet were charged with finding a solution to this dilemma. Two days later an email was sent from SOHA Director Richard Howell (1967) stating that a Grad Bro, after hearing of the problem and a possible plastic pig, volunteered to pay for the pig. He asked to remain anonymous, but his name was leaked and Brother Val Wheeler (1966) had bought himself a pig. At the next SOHA meeting, it was suggested that Brother Wheeler’s generosity be recognized, and that the idea of a Graduate Brother donating to the cause become an annual tradition. Several themes were discussed including Order of Zeus, Norris Benefactor, and then Patron of the Pig. Seeing the opportunity to add interest and tradition to Pig Dinner, Brother Randall Whittaker (1970) wrote a check to cover the cost of a pig and became the second Patron of the Pig. As happens with many new programs, ceremonial awards, and honors, there was concern that the Patron of the Pig be a short lived moniker of recognition. Not wanting this tradition to go the way of Best Looking Date of recent years (this one is dead, thank Zeus), Brother and newly elected SOHA Director Michael C. Hill (1968) moved that we officially select an annual Patron of the Pig and that they be asked to accept the honor and donate $200 for the procurement of the official pig. All agreed. The big question of “who” for the next Patron of the Pig was answered telepathically by several SOHA Directors, George Ramey (1966). Since there was no criteria set for the nomination and selection of the Patron, Brother Hill simply called Brother Ramey and informed him he had been chosen the third Patron of the Pig. Several graduate brother communiqués have confirmed the idea of making the Patron of the Pig a tradition. There are ideas for criteria to choose the honoree in the making. A plaque is being designed and will be presented annually at the banquet. The goal is to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and recognize those graduate brothers who have contributed to the spirit of Sigma Omicron. I am pleased to announce that the 4th Patron of the Pig (again chosen telepathically and mostly by ESP and a call from Brother Ryan Bebee), is J.D. Boyer (1964). On behalf of SOHA, we ask that all Sigma Omicron brothers support the house in whatever way they can and especially return to Stillwater Feb. 2425, 2012 for the 50th Pig Dinner!! \r\nNonprofit Org US Postage Paid Lexington, KY Permit # 540 Phi Gamma Delta Fraternity 1201 Red Mile Road Lexington, KY 40504 FOOTBALL AND FIJIS Oklahoma State football is the talk of Stillwater and all of Oklahoma. The Cowboys should be ranked in the top 10 in the preseason polls and early season ticket sales are way higher than last year at this time. Sept. 3 – Louisiana-Lafayette. The Cowboys were 54-28 winners last year after trailing at halftime. Football and Fijis are a perfect combination and the undergraduate brothers are planning pre-game tailgates at a site to be announced on campus. Oct. 8 – Kansas. This series dates back to 1923 SCHEDULE Sept. 8 – Arizona. A Thursday-night rematch of last year’s Alamo Bowl that OSU won 36-10. Can OSU make it two in a row? Oct. 29 – Baylor. The Bears are OSU’s homecoming opponent. The Cowboys have six home dates this year – including a Thursday night game. Plan to attend some games and enjoy the fellowship with your fraternity brothers before the games. Contact tickets@okstate.edu or (877)255-4678 for tickets. Nov. 5 – Kansas State. The Pokes try to make it three straight over the Wildcats. Dec. 3 – Oklahoma. OSU hosts Bedlam for the secondstraight year. The game has been moved from its traditional day after Thanksgiving date. CONTRIBUTE TO THE SOHA FUND I am pleased to make a contribution to Sigma Omicron of : $1,000 $500 $250 $100 $50 $25 Other $_______________ I would like my donation to be used in the following area: _______________________________________________. Donations can be made on-line at www.phigam.org/netcommunity/OkStateDonations, by phone at (859)255-1848 ext 136 or send checks payable to Phi Gamma Delta - Sigma Omicron to: Sigma Omicron/Oklahoma State Donations, PO Box 4599, Lexington, KY 40544 and include this form. Design, printing and mailing services provided by the International Fraternity of Phi Gamma Delta.