Submitted by Jennifer S. Cardwell

Helen Shivers, 2010-11 president of the Sirens of the Sea, a local women’s Mardi Gras krewe, presented Principal Jonathan Ellis of Orange Beach Elementary School with a check for $2,450. This money will be dedicated to the needed refurbishment of the school playground.

Each year the president and reigning queen of the Sirens selects a charity that in lieu of gifts, the members donate to in the queen’s honor and Helen designated Orange Beach Elementary School as her chosen charity.

Queen Helen stated, “I have three grandchildren who have attended Orange Beach Elementary School and I am proud of the quality education they have received there.  It is a real honor to contribute to such a worthy cause.”   

During Queen Helen’s reign, the Sirens have also contributed to other local charitable organizations.  They sponsored Special Olympics athlete, Sissy Flanigan, a member of the Starfish swim team.  Christmas was provided for a needy family adopted through the Christian Service Center and canned goods were also collected and given to the Christian Service Center.  Lunch was provided by the Sirens for the Orange Beach and Gulf Shores city workers in appreciation of their outstanding dedication during the BP crisis.  In addition to these endeavors, the Sirens will present their annual scholarship to a Gulf Shores High School senior in May 2011.  The Sirens take great pleasure in giving back to their wonderful community that has been so supportive and generous throughout the year.