Michael Shather
Staff Writer
Giving back through community service and philanthropy events are a big aspects of any Greek organization. As a member of Phi Delta Theta, I took part in last year’s teeter-totter event.
Can you remember the last time you were on a teeter-totter? This childhood recess activity always brings back pleasant memories.
On April 1, Phi Delta Theta members, myself included, began our 24-hour teeter-totter marathon to raise money for research to find a cure for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, which is better known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease.
The party started at noon Thursday and ended at noon on Friday.
The 24-hour teeter-totter event raises money for the ALS Foundation and goes to help families affected by the disease.
ALS affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord that control muscle movement.
“It was a great experience being out there all day raising money for ALS,” said junior Phi Delta Theta Assistant Treasurer Mike Lindsey. “My uncle passed away from ALS so it was great knowing that I was directly contributing to stomp out this terrible disease.”
Because this was the second time we held this event, everyone was excited to see how it had grown. Raising about $2,000 last year, we hoped to surpass that number, as well as raise awareness for ALS.
“I thought it was pretty fun although it was quite a work out for me,” said junior fraternity member Chris Barnes-Baxter. “I was riding the teeter-totter from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. and there was good amount of people there, all having a good time.”
“I thought this was a great event,” said Christopher Weedon, senior and Phikeia Educator for the fraternity. “It was nice to see this event grow from last year, and it was cool having news crews from Channel 7 come out to cover our event.”
With the dreaded forecast of showers Thursday, we feared a wet and miserable night.
Fortunately, it didn’t rain, and the nice weather provided a the perfect atmosphere for the long awaited event.
“I would like to thank all of the faculty and staff who supported us during this event,” Weedon said.
Throughout the night, students showed up to support us, and the company was more than welcome.
With music playing through the night air, many people danced to stay warm as they cheered on the teeter-totterers. Others found themselves wrapped up in blankets awaiting their turns to ride the wooden see-saw.
As the sun started to rise on Friday morning, everyone was happy to soak up the warm rays after a long night of ups and downs.
Only a few remained in the early morning hours, but regardless they teetered on. Further proving their dedication in the early hours of the morning.
Sore backsides and blistered hands were a small price to pay for this charitable event.
Although funds raised have not yet been tallied, we are hopeful that we raised a hefty amount to fight ALS.
I look forward to next year, and await to see how this event will continue to grow.
Michael Shather can be reached at michael.shather@laverne.edu.
