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P.E.O., Philanthropic Educational Organization, was founded in 1869 and dedicated then and now to encouraging and enabling women to complete their education. This photo and attire might suggest we just graduated from the Paris Cordon Bleu institute or that we’re about to retrieve fresh baked pastries from a dozen hot ovens. However, it means much more than that. These colorful aprons are worn by members of P.E.O. Chapter CY, centered in Walker and surrounding communities. Aprons, through the decades, have represented hospitality, honest toil, practical skill, and protection of one’s character, across various cultures and traditions. Couple that with the traditions of P.E.O. and you have philanthropy, academic excellence, and lifelong sisterhood. You have seen Chapter CY members at Ethnic Fest, sharing music with senior living facilities, and through our scholarship for a graduating senior woman from local high schools, and more. This will continue as we bring Carols and Cakes and good cheer to multiple senior living complexes this holiday season. Thanks to CY Officer, Barb Gorman and chapter member Helen Hankins for the idea, creation and embroidery of each apron. We thank the community for your support and hope to see you when we are out and about.  Photo Submitted.

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