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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
Email: [email protected]
NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT
Gabrielle “Gaby” Hadyka (Mrs. Joseph)
4506 Lake Charles Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78413-5239
Phone: 361.854.5432
Email: [email protected]
NATIONAL CHAPLAIN
Camille R. Baxter (Mrs.)
4690 Kilmersdon Lane
Johns Creek, GA 30024
Phone: 770.886.4008
Email: [email protected]
NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY
Mary Ann Hepler (Mrs. Ray)
410 Otteray Avenue
High Point, NC 27262
Phone: 336.887.2241
Email: [email protected]
NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY
Doris N. Thompson (Mrs. James D.)
2002 Ashbrook Court
Leland, NC 28451
Phone: 910.371.1371
Email: [email protected]
NATIONAL TREASURER
Betty W. Stevens (Mrs. Jim)
452 Love Street
Erwin, TN 37650-1758
Phone: 423.743.4335
Email: [email protected]
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
Email: [email protected]
PARLIAMENTARIAN:
Nelly G. Shearer (Mrs. James O.)
1225 Oak Timber Circle
Collierville, TN 38017-9087
Phone: 901.854.9151 (Home)
901.278.2403 (Work)
Email: [email protected]
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
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
NATIONAL SOCIETY SOUTHERN DAMES OF AMERICA
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
NATIONAL SOCIETY SOUTHERN DAMES OF AMERICA
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