Page 16 - 1919 September - To Dragma

TO DRAGMA OF ALPHA OMICRON PI 11

The official opening of Convention came Tuesday morning at nine
o'clock, when the first business session was held. The Delta Sigma
words were used in the opening observance. Wilhelmina Hedde, last
year's president of Theta, gave the welcome and the Grand President,
Mrs. Stewart, replied with Theta's motto. Just to look around the
room at Bowman Hall and see so many girls, all interested in the
same organization, seeking knowledge whereby to better that organiza-
tion, was very impressive. Tuesday evening, the beautiful reception
rooms of Rector H a l l were decorated with jacqueminot roses, for the
reception given by Alpha Omicron Pi, to the people of Greencastle
and the faculty and students of De Pauw. Since this was the first
convention ever held in Greencastle, there was much interest shown
by the town's people and it was interesting to meet them in this
social way. During the evening, Mrs. Frank Weber, harpist, and
Miss Ruth Murphy, violinist, from Indianapolis, furnished music.
After the guests had gone, we lingered near the piano and sang the
many Alpha O songs, which we love best. Just as we were to
retire, we heard singing from outside and learned that it was a group
of the summer students who had gathered to serenade us. As they
walked away singing, the faint harmony could be heard of Good-
night, Ladies. I t was one of the many pretty and appreciated mo-
ments of Convention.

The weather man turned on f u l l steam for the next day, and our
business sessions were held under the great disadvantage of extreme
heat. Mrs. C. A. Kelley, mother of two Theta's, opened her house
and grounds to us for a garden party in the afternoon. Here was our
best imitation of war. The "machine gun" cameras certainly made
a raid on foe and friend, with consistent and scrutinizing fire. We
"were taken" in groups, as individuals, and even in sections, since
many of the returned proofs show some minus heads and arms. But
such is war! I n the evening, was held the most impressive ceremony
one can imagine. The model initiation, pledge ritual, and formal
chapter services were given. Every detail for the occasion was carried
out in the most effective manner. How fine it would have been had
each member of Alpha Omicron Pi seen this evening's work! Not a
hurried word or act, but sincere reverence was emphasized through-
out. After this, the memorial service for the Alpha Omicron Pi
sisters, who have died during the past two years, was conducted by
Mrs. Bickley. As each name was read, a member of the chapter went
to the altar and placed a rose in the ribbon band, thus gradually form-
ing "the sheaf of memory." A short prayer was offered, and at the
close, a beautiful hymn was sung by two of the members. The