the journal - southern dames of · pdf fileinsignia & ribbons: doris thompson, chairman...

THE JOURNAL

Volume L Number 4

Spring 2014

National Society Southern Dames of America Organized 1962

Historic Monticello, Home of Thomas Jefferson

Robin R. Towns

National President 2012—2014

National President’s Message

Dear Southern Dames,

It is amazing that almost two years have passed since

this administration was installed in office! And what a

productive and wonderful two years it has been. It has

indeed been an honor to serve as your National President.

You will be so pleased that the Virginia Dames are busy

planning our 52nd National Assembly to be held in historic

Glen Allen, Virginia, in the Richmond area. See National

Assembly information and registration form on pages 6

and 7. Please plan to join us in beautiful Virginia and enjoy

outstanding Virginia hospitality!

Representing Southern Dames at Opening Night of

DAR Continental Congress in 2013 for the second time

was a distinct honor for the National Society Southern

Dames of America. Your President has been invited to

represent Southern Dames at the Hereditary Society

Community Dinner, National Conference Opening Night

of Colonial Dames XVII Century, and the Annual Meeting

of Dutch Colonial Society, to be held in Washington, DC

in April. She will again be honored to represent Southern

Dames at the Gavel Society.

Be sure to read about Southern Dames support for

Atlanta History Center and The Hereditary Society

Community of the United States of America.

(see articles on page 3).

Of importance this year is the NSSDA REPORTING

FORM (on page 5). State Presidents should use this form

to report all of the State Society’s activities, including the

State President’s Report, Eye Report, and Chaplain’s

Necrology Report. In State Societies with chapters,

Chapter Presidents should use the form to report their

activities to the State President, simplifying her job of

gathering information statewide.

Using ONLY ONE FORM should simplify annual

reporting and eliminate repetition of information. Each

National Officer will be able to collect all necessary

information from one reporting form. National Officers

hope that you are pleased with using the single form.

Southern Dames are always busy serving others and

accomplishing great things. Let’s remember to adequately

report our activities and accomplishments.

Membership is one of our important goals, and Dames

have been extremely busy this year inviting new members!

Brisk membership growth has kept our National

Registrar’s office busy! (see page 4) Always remember that

good programs promote good attendance at meetings and

warm fellowship among our members.

The support of eye programs and

the advancement of our knowledge

of Southern culture are our goals.

Dames are doing a wonderful job of

accomplishing these goals.

When planning your State Society’s

or chapter’s activities, please

remember the National President’s

theme: “Plan to make a difference

by serving others,” and the

Scripture: “Commit your work to

the Lord, and your plans will be

established.” Proverbs 16:3.

You will find the Roster of your National Officers for

2012–2014 containing contact information for each Officer

on page 2. These Officers are willing to serve and help you

with your needs. Please contact them if you need

assistance.

The National Society Southern Dames of America has

had a great 52nd year and are looking forward to an

outstanding 2014 National Assembly. Hope to see you

there!

In Southern bonds,

Robin Robin R. Towns National President

* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *

Tips & Reminders

All Dames: Mark your calendar and plan to attend the 52nd

National Assembly to be held in Glen Allen, Virginia (Richmond

area), June 5-7, 2014.

State Presidents: Please send your State Society Report to each

National Officer listed before the deadline of May 25, 2014.

State & Chapter Treasurers: Please be certain that you have

filed your IRS 990 form and that you have sent your confirmation

letter to the National Treasurer. This is NOT an option.

State Chaplains, Presidents, & members:

A Message from the National Chaplain:

Please inform the National Chaplain of

members’ deaths during the year, in order for

those members to be memorialized and their

names included in the National Assembly

Memorial Service Program in June. Please do

not wait until the last minute to send this

information. State Chaplains and members

are welcome to complete and mail the Membership Change

Form (on page 12), or Email specific information requested

to the National Chaplain. Please include the deceased

member’s name, national number, and date of death. If

possible, include name and address of next of kin, and an

obituary.

Thank you. Camille R. Baxter, National Chaplain 1

NATIONAL OFFICERS 2012—2014

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Robin R. Towns (Mrs. Robert F.)

1261 Tanglebrook Drive

Athens, GA 30606-5773

Phone: 706.548.7291

Email: [email protected]

NATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Sue Comerford (Mrs. Richard J., Jr.)

P. O. Box 7582

West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Phone: 561.585.9756


NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Gabrielle “Gaby” Hadyka (Mrs. Joseph)

4506 Lake Charles Drive

Corpus Christi, TX 78413-5239

Phone: 361.854.5432


NATIONAL CHAPLAIN

Camille R. Baxter (Mrs.)

4690 Kilmersdon Lane

Johns Creek, GA 30024

Phone: 770.886.4008


NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY

Mary Ann Hepler (Mrs. Ray)

410 Otteray Avenue

High Point, NC 27262

Phone: 336.887.2241


NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

Doris N. Thompson (Mrs. James D.)

2002 Ashbrook Court

Leland, NC 28451

Phone: 910.371.1371


NATIONAL TREASURER

Betty W. Stevens (Mrs. Jim)

452 Love Street

Erwin, TN 37650-1758

Phone: 423.743.4335


2

NATIONAL REGISTRAR

Carla Whitehurst Odom, (Mrs. Charles Robert)

5233 N. Willowhaven Drive

Durham, NC 27712-1958

Phone: 919.383.1905

Email: [email protected].

NATIONAL HISTORIAN

Melissa H. Fischer (Mrs. Jeffery)

13525 Sanderling Place

Germantown, MD 20874

Phone: 301.916.8331


PARLIAMENTARIAN:

Nelly G. Shearer (Mrs. James O.)

1225 Oak Timber Circle

Collierville, TN 38017-9087

Phone: 901.854.9151 (Home)

901.278.2403 (Work)


IMMEDIATE PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT:

Nelly G. Shearer (Mrs. James O.)

——————————————————————

NATIONAL COMMITTEES

Auditing - Carolee McKinstry, Chairman

Budget & Finance - Betty Stevens, Chairman Bea Fischer, Robin Towns

Bylaws & Standing Rules: Nelly Shearer, Chairman Mary Ann Hepler, Sue Comerford

Handbook: Camille Baxter, Chairman Bonnell Lashley, Melissa Fischer

Creative Arts: Patricia Gallagher, Chairman Linda Harvey, Marilyn Smith [Hostess State Society will appoint judges]

Eye Program: Gaby Hadyka, Chairman

+ State President of each State Society

Advisor: Mary Rever

History: Melissa Fischer, Chairman

Camille Baxter

Advisor: Polly Hutson

Insignia & Ribbons: Doris Thompson, Chairman

Advisor: Fritzi Martin

Membership: Sue Comerford, Chairman Carla Odom, Virginia Barnard, Renee Fairchild

mailto:[email protected]










National Society Southern Dames of America

Thanks Atlanta History Center National President Robin Towns, accompanied by

National Chaplain Camille Baxter and Georgia Society Pres-

ident Bonnell Lashley, visited the Atlanta History Center on

Wednesday, November 13, 2013 to show the society’s appre-

ciation for the excellent archiving of the society’s historical

materials. The Atlanta History Center has carefully archived

the materials belonging to the National Society Southern

Dames of America since 1982, when the Doris Walker Lyle

Library was transferred to the center. All of the society’s rec-

ords and materials are carefully catalogued in chronological

order, placed in Mylar sheets, stored in acid-free folders in

acid-free file boxes, and stored in a secure below-ground

vault. Any access to the materials is carefully monitored and

copies requested are made by library personnel. These

services have been provided for thirty-two years without

charge.

During the 51st National Assembly in Gonzales, Texas, a

recommendation was passed to approve the donation of

$1500 to Atlanta History Center in appreciation for the outstanding services provided for the society.

National President Robin Towns presented the check to Sheffield Hale, President and Chief

Executive Officer of Atlanta History Center.

In 2010, then National Registrar Camille Baxter was asked by National President Dorothy Lee to

visit Atlanta History Center to gather information for the writing of a history of the National Society

Southern Dames of America, due to Camille’s location near Atlanta. Camille Baxter made numerous

visits, gathering copies of the society’s minutes and materials on each visit. After many months of

reading and review of society records, and many more months of writing, Camille Baxter has

graciously compiled and published the history of the society entitled “National Society Southern

Dames of America: The First Fifty Years 1962—2012.” We are most appreciative of her outstanding

efforts on behalf of the society. Camille Baxter presented a copy to Michael Rose, Executive Vice

President of Atlanta History Center for History Center Library. Members will find a copy of the

society’s history, available for printing a copy, on the society’s web site, in the members only section.

From the

National Society

Bonnell Lashley, Robin Towns, Sheffield Hale, Camille Baxter, Michael Rose

A Visit to Ivy Green Contributed by Carolee McKinstry PNP

Carolee McKinstry visited Ivy

Green, home of Helen Keller, and

has shared photos of our

Southern Dames Gazebo and

marker located there, and some

Southern history.

The gazebo is located in a

clearing surrounded by 150 year

old English boxwood, magnolia, roses, and English ivy. The

Gazebo was built in 1981 to honor Helen Keller, who was an

honorary member of Southern Dames since 1964. Helen Keller’s

father, Captain Arthur H. Keller, was an attorney and farmer,

served in the Confederate Cavalry, and was editor and publisher

of the North Alabamian. His home was built in 1820 on a 640 acre

tract of land, only one year after Alabama became the twenty-

second State of the Union. During the War

Between the States, the house was used as

a hospital and survived untouched.

Southern Dames should enjoy visiting

Ivy Green and our society’s gazebo.

National Society Southern Dames of Ameri-

ca

Perpetual Sponsor of The Hereditary

Society

Community of the United

States of America

National Society

Southern Dames of America has become a

Perpetual Sponsor of the Hereditary Socie-

ty Community of the United States of

America. A check for $1000, a one-time

donation, was presented to Barry C. Howard, President of

HSC.

HSC is an non-profit organization who ably chronicles

and reports information and activities of hereditary societies

throughout the nation. HSC’s excellent web site provides

a wealth of knowledge and information for the public. In

addition, the organization holds an elegant annual Awards

Dinner in Washington, DC each April to recognize individu-

als who have provided outstanding service in the hereditary

society community.

Barry C. Howard

HSC President

ALABAMA Brenda Haynie 2836

Deborah Hicks 2848

CALIFORNIA

Catherine Ford 2830

Susan Orozco 2831

Kay Hildebrandt 2832

Anna Burham 2833

Nancy Kilbourn 2834

Carol LeMarr 2837

Marilyn Nahas 2838

Carole Vercellino 2840

Urith Chase 2841

Marsha Davis 2842

Susan Montgomery 2843

Karen Montgomery 2844

Mildred Enke 2845

Karen Schaffer 2846

Candace Suneson 2847

Mary Mohler 2852

Jwanita Alexander 2853

Norma Fiedler 2854

Mary Austin 2855

Maryann Allen 2856

Maureen Tipton 2857

Sarah Swafford 2865

Mary Feist 2866

Paula Mortensen 2867

Linda Knoebel 2868

Carole Robbins 2869

June Lazich 2870

Anne Scholz 2872

Sandra Krutilek 2873

Diane Walter 2874

Regina Clark 2875

Sarah Steenberge 2876

Judith Hall 2877

Elaine Hirtle 2878

Sandra Selditz 2879

Susan Evans 2880

Melissa Brisso 2881

Carol Satterwaite 2882

Genevieve Lancaster 2883

FLORIDA

Susan George 2849

4

GEORGIA Christie Noble 2863 KENTUCKY

Margaret Martin 2850

Mary Kuster 2851

MARYLAND Holly Atherton 2858

Mary Ensminger 2859

Linda Peterson 2860

Sasha Atherton 2861

MISSISSIPPI

Rose Roberts 2871

Billie Breedlove 2887

NORTH CAROLINA

Lisa English 2839

Carolyn Hardaway 2886

SOUTH CAROLINA

Mary Armstrong 2835

TEXAS

Mary Glenn 2862

VIRGINIA

Laura Womack 2864

Suzanne Townsend 2884

Linda Gallup 2885

WELCOME New Members

Since Fall 2013 Issue of THE JOURNAL

ATTENTION:

SOUTHERN DAMES

WEB SITE

http://www.southerndamesofamerica.org

To access Members Only area:

In the Email address space, type: magnolia

Password: blossom

NATIONAL SOCIETY SOUTHERN DAMES OF AMERICA

IMPORTANT: REPORTING FORM

ALL STATE SOCIETY INFORMATION may be recorded on ONE REPORTING FORM:

State Presidents should assemble all information and enter on the REPORTING FORM.

State Presidents should attach a Narrative Report of the State Society’s activities.

Note to State Societies with Chapters: Chapter Presidents should use this form to report to State President.

State Presidents: Please send a copy of your State Report to EACH National Officer listed:

National President, 1st Vice President, 2nd Vice President, Chaplain, Recording Secretary, Registrar, & Historian.

Send by US Mail or Email (if sending by Email, type questions and answers on a WORD Document and attach)

Each National Officer’s address & email address listed on page 2 of The Journal. Retain a copy for your files.

The State President’s Narrative Reports are presented at the National Assembly.

If the State President is unable to attend, the narrative report will be filed with the National Recording Secretary.

State Society President’s Report

Deadline May 25th (covering the period May 1, 2013 to May 1, 2014)

Include: Name of State Society _____________________________________________________________

State President’s Name:____________________________________________________________________

Address:__________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone number: ________________ Email address: __________________________________________

Date and Location of State Assembly ________________________________________________________

Number of members attending State Assembly _______________

Number of members in State Society _________________ Number of new members _________________

$__________ Monetary donations to support Southern cultural and historical programs

List Outstanding Southern programs:

EYE PROGAM REPORT

State Eye Chairman _______________________________________________________________________

Number of eyeglasses collected and donated _________

One Eye Program each year? Yes ______ No _______ List outstanding Eye Programs:

$_____________ Amount donated for ophthalmic research or aid to the visually impaired

List of Beneficiaries: ________________________________________________________________________

$__________ Monetary contributions to Seeing Eye Dog Programs

$__________ Donations to Eye Banks

$__________ Donations to Blind/Braille organization

Describe any assistance given to the blind and visually handicapped:

CHAPLAIN’S NECROLOGY REPORT

Number of members deceased ____________

Include: Name, NSSDA Number, Date of death, Obituary if available, Name and address for next of kin.

(Attach list on a separate sheet, if necessary. Information may be emailed to National Chaplain.)

Reproduce Form, as needed. 5

VIRGINIA SOCIETY CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO ATTEND


52nd NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

June 5-7, 2014

Location: Wyndham Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center (804) 727-1400

1000 Virginia Center Parkway, Glen Allen, Virginia 23050 (north of Richmond, VA, just off I-95 and I-64)

For reservations, please call the hotel directly @ 1-804.727.1400, or central reservations @ 1-877.999.3223.

Rates per night: $109. plus tax (Mention “Southern Dames of America” for special room rate)

Standard Room - two queen beds Please reserve by May 15, 2014

Please plan to arrive on Thursday, June 5 by 11:00 am, and depart on Sunday, June 8

PROPOSED SCHEDULE:

Thursday, June 5

10:00 am - 2:00 pm REGISTRATION HALLWAY - YORK ROOM

12:00 noon WELCOMING EVENING Festive Casual dress.

Depart from Hotel Lobby promptly at 12:00 noon, traveling by personal vehicles. HOTEL LOBBY

Dames & guests will be treated to a private tour of Monticello, Home of Thomas Jefferson,

followed by Dutch-treat Supper at Shadwell’s Restaurant.

Friday, June 6

8:00 am National Officers Club Breakfast (Current and Past National Officers only) HOTEL DINING ROOM

8:30 am - 10:00 am REGISTRATION HALLWAY - YORK ROOM

9:00 am - 12:00 noon COMMITTEE MEETINGS DINWIDDIE ROOM

Endowment Committee, Budget & Finance Committee, Executive Council

10:00 am FRIDAY MORNING FUN EVENT YORK ROOM

For those not attending morning meetings, Virginia Dames will entertain you with

“Seventeenth Century Lace” presented by Pat Newbern

12:30 pm VIRGINIA LUNCHEON YORK ROOM

Buffet Luncheon Bring Creative Arts to MEETING ROOM

2:30 pm MEMORIAL SERVICE YORK ROOM

3:30 pm National Board of Management (National Officers, State Presidents only) YORK ROOM

6:15 pm VIRGINIA RECEPTION Semi-formal Dress HOSPITALITY SUITE

Southern Dames meet and mingle with National Officers. ALL INVITED.

7:00 pm VIRGINIA PATRIOTIC BANQUET YORK ROOM

Semi-formal Dress. Dinner Buffet Creative Arts Display

Saturday, June 7

8:30 am - 9:15 am REGISTRATION HALLWAY - YORK ROOM

9:30 am First Plenary Session (members only) YORK ROOM

12:30 pm EYE LUNCHEON Buffet Luncheon Creative Arts Display YORK ROOM

2:00 pm Final Plenary Session (members only) YORK ROOM

6:15 pm FORMAL RECEPTION Formal dress. ALL INVITED. HOSPITALITY SUITE

7:00 pm FORMAL AWARDS BANQUET YORK ROOM

6 Formal dress. Dinner Buffet AWARDS & Creative Arts Display


52nd NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

REGISTRATION FORM

DEADLINE: MAY 27, 2014 Assembly Registration Fee is required for all members & guests. All members & guests are welcome to attend all luncheons, receptions,

and banquets. MEMBERS ONLY for Business Meetings. Meal tickets and Name tags are available during Registration hours only.

Please PRINT Clearly

FIRST NAME _____________________ LAST NAME __________________________

ADDRESS _____________________________________________________________

PHONE NUMBER _________________ EMAIL ADDRESS _______________________

STATE OF MEMBERSHIP ____________________ CHECK, IF GUEST ______________

NAME OF GUEST (for name tag) ____________________________________________________

Please indicate any food allergies ________________________________________________

_____ $20 Assembly Registration

Thursday, June 5, 2014

_____ $25 Tour of Monticello. Dutch-treat Supper at Shadwell’s Restaurant.

Friday, June 6, 2014

_____ National Officers Club Dutch-treat Breakfast (NOC Members only)

_____ $25 Virginia Luncheon

_____ $35 Virginia Patriotic Banquet

Saturday, June 7, 2014

_____ $25 Eye Luncheon

_____ $35 Formal Awards Banquet

$_______ Total amount enclosed

Make check payable to Virginia Society SDA and mail to:

Mrs. Rachel Hill, Virginia Society Treasurer

4284 Buckminster Lane

Warrenton, VA 20187-2416

[Contact: Email: [email protected] Phone: 540.347.5450 ] Reproduce form as needed.

7

Georgia Society Dr. Linda O. Harvey, President 2014-2016

Bonnell W. Lashley, President 2012-2014

The 2014 State Assembly of the Georgia Society

Southern Dames of America was held on Friday, January

31, 2014 at Heritage Hall in historic Madison, Georgia,

with outstanding attendance. Chaplain Betty Samaras gave

the invocation. Beth Fears, Ann Williams, and Judith

Young led the rituals.

President Bonnell Lashley reported that the Georgia

Society has had an outstanding year. The society gained

fifty-nine new members, donated 125 pairs of glasses, and

reported excellent eye programs. Two new chapters were chartered by Dr.

Linda Harvey and Ann Williams, resulting in excellent membership growth

for Georgia Society. Vice President Dr. Linda Harvey presented the Eye

Report, followed by State Officer reports. National President Robin Towns

presented greetings to the State Assembly. Chapter Presidents presented

reports: Oconee Chapter by Peggy Gates, Wiregrass Chapter by Betty Sa-

maras, Chattahoochee Valley by Ann Williams, and Highland Ridge Chap-

ter by Dr Linda Harvey. State Chaplain Betty Samaras presented a lovely Memorial Service honoring deceased mem-

bers Zoe Anne Connolly, Ann Cork, and Carolyn Perry.

State Officers for 2014-2016 were elected: State President, Dr. Linda Harvey; Vice President, Betty Samaras; Chaplain,

Julie Hawk; Recording Secretary, Amelia Pelton; Corresponding Secretary, Robin Towns; Treasurer, Peggy Gates;

Registrar, Hazel Everett; and Historian, Camille Baxter. Bonnell Lashley was appointed to serve as Parliamentarian.

A most interesting and informative program on the history of Madison, Georgia and Heritage Hall, home of Morgan

County Historical Society, was presented by Docent Ruth Feliks, followed by a tour beautiful Heritage Hall. An hon-

orarium of $100 was presented to Heritage Hall. Highland Ridge Chapter members served as hostesses, providing clev-

er cotton bale centerpieces for each of six tables, and a fan made of “Dixie” sheet music as the favor. A delightful buffet

salad luncheon was enjoyed by all.

New Jersey Society Rhonda Florian, President 2012-2014

New Jersey Society of Southern Dames of America held its Fall

meeting on October 10, 2013 at the home of Historian Carol Jos-

wick. The Society’s honored guest was Margaret G. Chaplin, Execu-

tive Director of Lions Eye Bank of New Jersey. Ladies enjoyed a love-

ly brunch of quiche, bagels, pumpkin bread, and assorted baked

goods. Mrs. Joswick’s festive fall decorations and an arrangement of

beautiful fall flowers, supplied by new member Janie Predergast, were

a delight for the eyes. During the brunch, Society members enjoyed

getting to know Ms. Chaplin. Each member introduced herself and

briefly shared her Southern heritage. Ms. Chaplin shared a bit of her

heritage with the members. Originally from the island of Dominica

near Martinique, Ms. Chaplin stated that she is now inspired to learn

more about her heritage to pass it along to her sons. Following the

brunch, Ms. Chaplin presented an inspiring program on the work of

the Lions Eye Bank. The mission of the Lions Eye Bank is the restoration of sight. The Lions Eye Bank accomplishes its

mission through recovery, evaluation, and distribution of the highest quality eye tissue for transplantation, as well as for

ophthalmic research and training. Ms. Chaplin presented a

stirring appeal for donors who could provide the gift of sight.

She carefully explained the procedure for registering as an organ

donor. Ladies particularly enjoyed the film shown by Ms. Chaplin

about recipients who had received the gift of sight from cornea

transplants arranged through the Lions Eye Bank. Lions Eye Bank

charitable services program provides corneal tissue to those

who cannot otherwise afford transplantation procedures. New

Jersey Society donated $100 to the Lions Eye Bank.

8

From the

State Societies

L to R: Treasurer Shirley Bove; Margaret G. Chaplin, Executive Director,

Lions Eye Bank of NJ; and Rhonda Florian, President

L to R: Front row: Julie Hawk, Linda Harvey, Betty Samaras, Back row:

Camille Baxter, Hazel Everett, Peggy Gates, Amelia Pelton, Robin Towns

Bonnie Lashley

Kentucky Society

Carol S. Seales, President 2014-2016 Nan-

cy Thames, President 2012-2014

Kentucky Society Southern Dames of America, held two meetings in 2013 at the Lexington Country Club. At the

March 29th meeting, an informative program was given by Theresa Thomas and Paula Wiese of Lexington Council of the

Blind, demonstrating equipment used for the visually impaired and help aids for the blind. Kentucky Society presented a

check for $100 to benefit Lexington Council of the Blind and a $25 speaker’s honorarium.

At the October 17th meeting, members enjoyed an informative program given by Sharon Withers on Protocol and

Insignia of lineage societies. During the business meeting, copies of State Bylaws were presented and discussed. Bylaws

will be voted upon at the Spring 2014 meeting on March 20, 2014.

The Nominating Committee presented the Slate of Officers for the 2014-2016 term, who were duly elected. State

Officers for 2014-2016, shown in the photo, left to right, are: State President, Carol S. Seales; 1st Vice President, Beth

Ann Cooke; 2nd Vice President, Jeanette

Wortham; Chaplain, Patricia Hughes;

Recording Secretary, Priscilla Fikes;

Corresponding Secretary, Nancy

Thames; Registrar, Beverly Hicklin; and

Historian, Sarah Hamilton; (not pictured:

Treasurer, Alberta Baker).

Kentucky Society SDA continues to

encourage members to promote the

society’s work with visually impaired

and blind within Kentucky. We have

increased membership during the past

year and are striving for an even larger

increase in the coming year.

Florida Society Dr. Sue Comerford, State President 2012-2014 Central Florida Chapter

The purposes of the Southern Dames of America include the advancement of knowledge through the study of

Southern culture which will include history, literature, art, music, creative arts. With these guidelines, the Central

Florida Chapter met on February 24, 2014 in the Ocoee Christian Church (Disciples of Christ), in Ocoee, Florida. The

Reverend Margaret Marquis introduced members and guests to this beautiful historic church which has played an

important part in the Ocoee community for 131 years. In 1883, the congregation was formed by General and Mrs.

William Tempe Withers, with the meetings being held in their home. General Withers,

who was injured in the Mexican War, served during the War Between the States as a

Confederate artillery commander. In 1889, plans were made to build a church on land

donated by Captain and Mrs. Bluford Sims. General Winters died before the building

could begin. However, his family decided to continue the plans. In 1891, the church

building, designed by a Boston architect, was completed.

The awe-inspiring sanctuary design has a floor plan similar to great Gothic cathedrals

of Europe on a smaller scale. The shape of the cross is formed by the nave, transept,

and chancel. The stained-glass chancel windows, dedicated as a memorial to General

Withers, were designed and made in Belgium, shipped to New York, then to

Jacksonville. They traveled to Sanford on the St. Johns River, then to Ocoee by oxcart,

accompanied by a Belgian glass artisan who installed them in the new church. Church

tradition says that the stained glass in the nave and transept windows came from the

Tiffany Studios. In 1891, Shane Bell Foundry in Maryland made the church bell which

rings on Sundays and on special occasions. Attendees were honored to pull the rope to ring the church bell. In 1997,

the Ocoee Christian Church was placed upon the National Register of Historic Places.

A Service of Remembrance was conducted by Reverend Margaret Marquis for member Lucia Kathryn Phillips Wilson,

SDA #1892, who passed away on December 10, 2013. Kay was an authentic Southern belle born in Osceola County, a

fifth generation Florida family who migrated from Georgia in 1865. Two ladies with Osceola families dating back five

generations were present. Kay would have been pleased. Reverend Margaret Marquis, the first woman pastor of

Ocoee Christian Church since 2008, is a sixth generation Floridian. She serves Central Florida Chapter as Chaplain. 9

California Society Pat Hugar, President 2014-2016

California Society Southern Dames of America held its first State Assembly on Tuesday,

March 4, 2014 at Marriott Los Angeles Airport. The meeting was held in conjunction with

Heritage Week, when numerous California hereditary societies meet. California Dames

met for a lovely Afternoon Tea and enjoyed tea sandwiches, small desserts, and a

Champagne toast to launch the new California Society. Reports were given by State

Officers: Pat Hugar, Organizing President; Barb Aerni, Vice President; Joanne Murphy,

Chaplain; Karon Jarrard, Secretary; Nancy Alexander, Treasurer; and Donna Derrick, Registrar. Four chapter were

represented, with one more to be named. The chapters are Poinsettia, City of Roses, Gardenia, and Azalea. Clever

table decorations highlighted the flower of each chapter. Poinsettia Chapter President Donna Derrick reports

that the chapter is off to a great start by visiting San

Diego Center for the Blind and donating $100, plus a

Poinsettia plant for a door prize for the center’s

Christmas Luncheon. The First Annual Poinsettia

Chapter Tea, held November 14, 2013, was a great

success and Dames wore hats! Southern heritage

programs presented include “Colonial Christmas in

Williamsburg,” presented by Historian Lillian Leslie,

and “History of the Poinsettia Plant” presented by VP

Paula Jo Cahoon.

Virginia Society Penny Chaboudy, President 2014-2016

Sharon Stine, President 2012-2014

Virginia Society of Southern Dames of America meets at Dogwood Village in Orange, Virginia

for a luncheon and program shared with the Crown Colony Chapter, Colonial Daughters of

the Seventeenth Century. For the Fall meeting in September, Mr. Frank Walker, a retired at-

torney and Orange County tour guide, presented a fascinating program on colonial history of Orange County.

Virginia Society is proud to have an outstanding Eye Report. The Eye Program project was chaired by Junior

member Virginia Matsumoto, who diligently collected more than one hundred pairs of eye glasses from members. She

then sorted, processed, distributed, and helped to fit them to the needy refugees in Senegal, as part of a mission trip.

Virginia Society is proud of Virginia Matsumoto’s accomplishments for Virginia Southern Dames.

In March, the Spring meeting featured planning for the Virginia Society’s hosting of

the 52nd National Assembly, in Glen Allen. Virginia Society elected new State Officers

for 2014-2016: State President, Louise “Penny” Chaboudy; 1st Vice President, Cynthia

Matsumoto; 2nd Vice President, Carol Featherston; Recording Secretary, Donna Hall;

Corresponding Secretary, Laurie Nesbitt; Chaplain, Melanie Platt; Treasurer, Rachel

Hill; Registrar, Anne Winn; and Historian, Lila Housen. New members Linda Gallup,

Suzanne Townsend, and Laura Womack were welcomed.

__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Order your official National Society Southern Dames of America Tote bag

SDA TOTEBAG $ 18.00

Shipping & handling 5.00

TOTAL (no sales tax) $ 23.00

Mail completed order form and personal check for $18, made to NSSDA, plus $5.00 CASH

to: Doris Thompson, NSSDA Corresponding Secretary

2002 Ashbrook Court

Leland, NC 28451-7689

Member _______________________________________ National number ___________

State Society name______________________ Chapter name (if applicable)_______________

Ship to _______________________________________

Address ______________________________________

City ___________________________________State________ Zip_________________

Phone number: ________________________Email: _____________________________

10 Questions: Call Doris Thompson 910.371.1371 or Email: [email protected] Reproduce Form, as needed.

Sturdy Canvas bag 18’wide x 12”tall with front pocket

Pat Hugar, Organizing State President

Penny Chaboudy & Sharon Stine

ORDER FORM FOR OFFICIAL NSSDA INSIGNIA

Member _______________________________ National number _____________

State Society name_____________ Chapter (if applicable) name_______________

Ship to _______________________________________

Address _______________________________________

City ________________________________________State____________ Zip________

Phone number: ____________________________ Email: ___________________________

National Society Southern Dames of America Insignia $ 50.00

Shipping & handling 8.00

TOTAL (no sales tax) $ 58.00

________ Check enclosed, made to Hamilton Jewelers

__________ VISA __________MasterCard _________American Express __________DISCOVER

Card number _____________________________________ Expiration date: ____________________

Mail completed order form to: Doris Thompson Please include a Self-addressed, stamped envelope,

NSSDA Corresponding Secretary addressed to: Hamilton Jewelers

2002 Ashbrook Court 215 S. Broad Street, 3rd Floor

Leland, NC 28451-7689 Philadelphia, PA 19107

- - - - - - - - C- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -C - - - - - - - - -

SOUTHERN DAMES CHARMS AVAILABLE IN TWO SIZES

Charm # 1 - Charm Bracelet Size $15.00 For either charm ordered, please add $3.00 CASH for shipping.

Charm # 2 - Branch Bar Size $23.00 (Yes, the smaller charm costs more to make.)

Mail completed order form and personal check made to NSSDA, to: Doris Thompson

NSSDA Corresponding Secretary

2002 Ashbrook Court

Leland, NC 28451-7689

Member _______________________________________ National number ____________________

State Society name________________________ Chapter (if applicable) name__________________

Ship to _______________________________________

Address ______________________________________

City ________________________________________State____________ Zip_________________

Phone number: ____________________________ Email: ____________________________________

Questions: Call Doris Thompson 910.371.1371 or Email: [email protected] Reproduce Form, as needed.

11

NATIONAL SOCIETY SOUTHERN DAMES OF AMERICA, INC.

CHANGE OF MEMBER INFORMATION FORM

(One member per form - Please print)

National Number ___________ Name on record_______________________________________

Current Information:

State Society ______________ Chapter (if applicable) _________________________________

Current Address ________________________________________________________________

Phone____________________________ Email ______________________________________

Change Information:

Name changed to: (if applicable) ____________________________________________________

New Address: (if applicable) _______________________________________________________

New Phone_______________________ New Email ___________________________________

DEATH – Date: __________________ Place of Death _________________________________

Next of Kin (if available) – Name & Address__________________________________________

This Section to be completed by State Treasurer:

Transfer Out Date __________From: _______________To:_______________________

Transfer In Date __________To: _________________From:____________________

State Dues paid (if applicable) $____________ Date: ________________

Resigned in Good Standing – Date ______________________

Reinstatement – Date ___________________ Fee Paid, Date: $______________________

Reinstated to State Society _______________ Chapter (if applicable) _______________________

Dropped for Non-payment of Dues – Date _____________ Date last paid dues: ______________

Reinstatement from Dropped Status – Date _____________ Fee Paid, Date: $_________________

Reinstated to State Society _______________ Chapter (if applicable) ______________________

Approved by:

State President __________________________________ Date: ________________

State Registrar __________________________________ Date: ________________

State Treasurer _________________________________ Date: ________________

PROVIDE A COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO:

National President State President

National Registrar National & State Chaplains (only in the case of Death)

National Treasurer

RETAIN A COPY FOR YOUR FILES. Reproduce form as needed.

12

You are cordially invited to attend National Society Southern Dames of America 52nd Anniversary National Assembly

Glen Allen, Virginia June 5—7, 2014

Wyndham Virginia Crossings Hotel & Conference Center

1000 Virginia Center Parkway, Glen Allen, Virginia

1791 Richmond Road

Charlottesville, Virginia

Monticello, Home of Thomas Jefferson

Virginia State Capitol Richmond, Virginia

the journal - southern dames of · pdf fileinsignia & ribbons: doris thompson, chairman...

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