FORT LAUDERDALE, FL – Daughters of Penelope (DOP) Narcissus Chapter 289 held its Annual Fashion Show and Luncheon on October 15 at the Home2Suites by Hilton in Pompano Beach. ‘The Power of We’ spirit from the DOP Grand President was obvious with over 150 people in attendance to support PACE Center for Girls of Broward County. The theme was ‘Old Florida’, and Lilly Pulitzer-style dresses and décor were the highlight of the day.

The event included numerous raffles to benefit PACE. Several members of the DOP Chapter modeled the fashions of Luxe by the Sea Boutique on Las Olas Boulevard in downtown Fort Lauderdale. The bright and colorful centerpieces were designed by chapter member Melissa Bakatselos, Nicole Angelakos, and Tam Economou who worked in partnership with event chair, Arlene Touris.

Special guests from the DOP Grand Lodge included Past Grand President Connie Pilallis, current District 2 Grand Governor Patty Didik, and Maids of Athena Advisor Eftyhia Kirkiles. The District 2 Lodge was well represented with Past District Governors Alice Asparas and Maria Kyriaku, Past District Treasurer Judith Koutsos, current District Governor Ann Pirello, District Marshall Mona Kapakos, District Treasurer Stella Stringer, and District Secretary Iliyana Simeonova-Boyce.

The chapter welcomed AHEPA District 2 Warden Chris Kapakos, as well as Sisters from the Eros, Leda, and Cassandra Chapters.

This year, the fashion show was dedicated to the chapter’s friend Betty Athanasakos. “For those of us who were fortunate to know her, we know what a loss it was to our entire community,” the chapter said in a statement via email. “Betty was a true pioneer for women everywhere, and a champion for PACE.”

Representing PACE at the luncheon were Aggie Pappas, Vice President of Program Innovation and Strategic Implementation, and Sara Nuñez, Executive Director of Pace Center for Girls for Broward, and Palm Beach counties.

Focusing on the development of critical life, health, and academic skills, PACE has changed the life trajectory of more than 40,000 girls and is recognized as one of the nation’s leading advocates for girls in need. Pappas and Nuñez shared the inspiring work that PACE has done transforming the lives of thousands of young girls at centers located in Florida, Georgia, and South Carolina. As Lilly Pulitzer said: “Style isn’t just about what you wear, it’s about how you live.”