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THE JOURNAL

Volume M Number 4

Spring 2016

National Society Southern Dames of America Organized 1962

Birmingham, AL

L. Sue Comerford

National President 2014-2016

Founded in 1871 as a steel-making center, Birmingham exploded almost overnight, quickly growing into Alabama's largest city and earning the nickname "The Magic City." Today, it is a medical and financial

center, as well as a bustling hub of culture and heritage that's famous for its beautiful golf courses, year-round calendar of entertainment, fabulous shopping and world-class dining.

1

National President’s Message

Dear Southern Dames,

Welcome to Spring, 2016 and our 54th National Assembly.

We are in Helen Keller’s State Alabama. We are honored to be able

to share her wisdom in a special way this year. A quote that de-

scribes us as Southern Dames: “Alone we can do so little; Together

we can do so much!” Helen Keller

Have you enjoyed anticipating our Assembly as you read this

Journal and discover the wide variety of activities that are planned

for our enjoyment and education of Alabama? And as you read the

depth of our work this year, we can quote Henry Ford: “Coming

together is a beginning, staying together is progress, and working

together is success.” We have accomplished so much. Please re-

port all your activities……We want to have more outstanding

presentation than last year even. And Robin Towns our own special

certificate designer is planning beautiful awards for all of you. One more quote: an African Prov-

erb that describes our Southern Dames work habits: “If you want to go fast, so alone.. If you want

to go far go together.” We have gone far this year with so many new chapters and projects. Con-

gratulations!

Please use the REPORTING FORM on page 6. State Presidents should use this form to

report all of the State Society’s activities, including the State President Report, Eye Report, and

Chaplain’s Necrology Report. In State Societies with chapters, Chapter Presidents should use this

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 infor-

mation. Please report all of your activities and accomplishments.

Membership is an important goal. Brenda Hamilton, our National Registrar reported that

we have 262 new members and still growing with ten arriving as she wrote this note! Sharing

your programs in the Journal encourages everyone to branch out to support eye research and

Southern culture in planning your programs and then to send pictures and details for the Journal

for all to share!

You will find the Roster of your National Officers with contact information on page 2.

New officers will be elected at this Assembly.

The National Society Southern Dames of America has had a great 54th year. We are look-

ing forward to an outstanding 2016 National Assembly. And being a part of the big celebration

starting now of Alabama’s Statehood Bicentennial in 2017-2019. And if you have the opportuni-

ty, visit Helen Keller’s home, Ivy Green in Tuscumbia, is located on a 640 acre tract, built in 1820

(one year after Alabama became a state. It is open Monday-Saturday 8:30 -4:00.

Sue

L. Sue Comerford, National President, NSSDA

1st Corinthians 13 Love

2

A Message from the National Registrar:

WOW! What a busy and productive time we have

had. We are approaching 300 new members for this ad-

ministration. Congratulations to Dr. Kimberly Nagy and

the new members in the state of Illinois, who will be hav-

ing their organizational meeting in May. What a wonderful

way to keep your Registrar busy. Continue to send in your

applications as we grow in membership and accomplish the

work of our wonderful Society.

Brenda M. Hamilton

National Registrar

NATIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Auditing - Nelly Shearer, Chairman, Betty Stevens

Budget & Finance - Melissa Fischer, Chairman;

Dr. Linda Harvey,

Sue Comerford (ex officio)

Bylaws & Standing Rules: Nelly Shearer, Chairman

Mary Ann Hepler,

Patricia Gallagher

Handbook: Betty Stevens, Chairman;

Melissa Fischer, Virginia Fettes, Gaby Hadyka

Advisors: Catherine Brister, Nelly Shearer

Creative Arts: Lynn Jones, Chairman

Mary Armstrong, Trudy Tanzillo,

Lucy Willis

Editor, The Journal: Gaby Hadyka

Eye Program: Camille Baxter, Chairman

+ State President of each State Society

History: Bonnell Lashley, Chairman, Peggy Gates

Insignia & Ribbons: Barbara Ray, Chairman

Rhonda Florian, Doris Thompson

Membership: Gaby Hadyka, Chairman

Brenda Hamilton, Carla Odom

Special Awards: Gaby Hadyka, Chairman,

Susanna Rawlins

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 Change of Member Information Form (on

page 5), or Email specific information requested to the

National Chaplain. Please include the deceased mem-

ber’s name, national number, and date of death. If pos-

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

obituary.

Thank you, Betty Stevens, National Chaplain

[email protected]

A Message from the National 2nd Vice President:

Dames, please continue to support the SDA mission

of eye health, eye education, and monetary contributions

to eye research. The chapters and state societies are

complying as evidenced by their splendid reports in

2015. The Report Form can be found in this issue of

The Journal. State Presidents please observe the dead-

line for reporting. A special award will be presented to

the first State Society to report. Eye Awards will be

presented at the 54th National Assembly in Birming-

ham, Alabama, June 2-4, 2016. All Dames are cordially

invited to attend the Eye Luncheon, Saturday, June 4,

2016, and receive your Eye Awards in person!

Thank you, Camille Redfern Baxter

A Message from the National Corresponding Secre-

tary:

Society items are available for purchase. Charms, large

as well as Branch Bar size, and Tote Bags are currently

in stock. They will also be available at the National As-

sembly in Birmingham, Alabama in June. You may

also contact me to purchase a Sash. Thank you,

Bobbie Lou Ray, [email protected]

A Message from the National Treasurer:

All states and chapters are reminded to file their annual

federal tax form 990-N, also known as an “e-

postcard.” Simply go to the IRS website at https://

epostcard.form990.org/ and log in. New chapters and

states will need to register as a new user and this is easy

to do via the above website.

E-postcards must be filed each and every year by each

and every state and chapter in order to preserve not-for-

profit status. If a state or chapter fails to file an e-

postcard for three consecutive years, it will be dropped

from the umbrella not-for-profit status of the National

Society.

Thank you, Melissa H. Fischer

3

NATIONAL OFFICERS 2014-2016

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

L. Sue Comerford

(Mrs. Richard J., Jr.)

301 Plymouth Road

West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Phone: 561.585.9756

Email: [email protected]

NATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Gabrielle “Gaby” Hadyka (Mrs. Joseph)

4506 Lake Charles Drive

Corpus Christi, TX 78413-5239

Phone: 361.854.5432


NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Camille R. Baxter (Mrs.)

4690 Kilmersdon Lane

Johns Creek, GA 30024

Phone: 770.886.4908


NATIONAL CHAPLAIN

Betty W. Stevens (Mrs. Jim)

452 Love Street

Erwin, TN 37650-1758

Phone: 423.743.4335


NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY

Virginia Fettes (Mrs. Michael)

1706 SW 66th Place

Gainesville, FL 32608-5424

Phone: 352.335.8385


NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

Barbara “Bobbie Lou” M. Ray (Mrs. Wilson)

P.O. Box 53

Red Springs, NC 28377-0053

Phone: 910.843.4277


NATIONAL TREASURER

Melissa H. Fischer (Mrs. Jeffery)

13525 Sanderling Place

Germantown, MD 20874

Phone: 301.916.8331


NATIONAL REGISTRAR

Brenda M. Hamilton (Mrs. Edwin B.)

917 W. 2nd Avenue


Phone: 910.843.4644


NATIONAL HISTORIAN

Bonnell W. Lashley (Mrs. Eugene C.)

1130 Dove Creek Circle

Winder, GA 30680-5037

Phone: 770.725.5020


PARLIAMENTARIAN (2015 National Assembly)

Louise “Penny” Chaboudy (Mrs. Butch)

335 Mt. Ida Lane

Staunton, VA 24401-5618

Phone: 540.337.1006


IMMEDIATE PAST NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Robin R. Towns (Mrs. Robert F.)

1261 Tanglebrook Drive

Athens, GA 30606-5773

Phone: 706.548.7291


4

Alabama

Linda Jane Ingram Jacob 3180

Jane Alice Ball Jones 3181

California

Janet Marie Montgomery Bates 3167

Dawn Elizabeth Byrd Beresovoy 3155

Julia Ann Shelton Bordona 3165

Orinda Vesta Conniff Breilh 3166

Diana Lee Godwin Brenna 3127

LaDorna Lynn Groom Bunt 3158

Sandra Lee Scholl Campagna 3146

Peggy Belua Foust Comstock 3156

Tina Renee Lippis Mancebo 3162

Cheri Laine Sutter Graham 3140

Diane Gwen Breilh Groome 3164

Cynthia Gage Dennett Jones Hewes 3141

JoAnn Achatz Maddalena 3133

Marissa Barri Mancebo 3163

Cindi D. Milleer S. Newbold 3161

Elizabeth Ann Brunell Pain 3178

Katherine Ellen Frimand Peek 3139

Ellen Marie Casteel Rabin 3154

Kayla Marie Robertson 3160

Laurie Ann Vercellino Robertson 3159

Angela Renee Carnes Sinclair 3157

Katherine Mary Brunell Stokes 3179

Florida

Carol Jean Trunck Acosta 3173

Diana Jean Byther 3150

Frances Penn Casey 3134

Patricia Ann Rouse DeRobertis 3130

Frances Ann Martin Eilert 3176

Laura Caroline Jennings Fafeita 3128

Elizabeth Ann Coldwell Frano 3175

Norma Jennings 3153

Mary Elizabeth White McIntyre 3174

Elizaabeth Anne Denby Michael 3129

Mary Ellen Sawyer Shugart 3151

Dianna Lynne Quaintance Sorensen 3152

Joyce Ethel Shirley Strickland 3177

Georgia

Montez Drinkwater Hammack 3168

Mary Linda Gault Hinson 3144

Sarah Elizabeth Barker Hinson 3145

Margaret Anne Mahan McCurdy 3184

Illinois

Sara Frances Steckler Uhlhorn Caddell 3190

B. A. Church 3192

Gloria Perkins Flathom 3189

Cary Randall Stone-Greenstein 3188

Catherine Marie Mader Humphrey 3194

Jeannine Alice Sheldon Kallal 3185

Lynn Dalian Moore McCreery 3191

Teresa Ann Sanderson McLeod 3193

Linda Anne Sperry Mizell 3187

Margaret Lindal Sprinkle Sopp 3186

Kentucky

Dana Lynne Botkins Crawley 3182

Priscilla Ann Cruse Robertson 3183

Louisiana

Lee Pitre Lynch 3148

Julia Jan French Wood 3149

Maryland

Bonnie Annette Blocker Dybalski 3137

Christina Marie Dicken Harle 3136

New York

Frances Johnson Feldmann 3135

North Carolina

Carrie Anne Bracey Lewellen 3171

Barbara Ann Smith Reining 3147

Treena Yvonne Millen Ruotanen 3172

Tennessee

Sandra Treadway Kyte 3169

Aundra Kay Hampton Millsaps 3170

Texas

Mary Ida Drummond Brandhorst 3143

Janet K. Plumley Taylor-Carusi 3124

Lisa Elaine Dodds 3131

Darla Jeannette Downs Hendon 3126

Elizabeth Venia Miller Jones 3138

Jennifer Elizabeth Jones 3125

WELCOME New Members

Since Spring 2015 Issue of THE JOURNAL

5

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.

6

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, 2015 to May 1, 2016)

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 PROGRAM 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

7

ALABAMA SOCIETY CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO ATTEND


54TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

June 2-4, 2016

Location: Liberty Park Hilton Garden Inn

2090 Urban Center Parkway, Birmingham, AL 35242 (Just off I-459)

For reservations, call the hotel directly, 205-503-5220, ask for Reservations, or Call 877 782-9444, ask for Southern Dames Room Rate,

or to make reservations On Line: birminghamselibertypark.hgi.com, select check-in & check-out rates, Click on-Go

Scroll down to-Special Accounts, enter group code: SDA, select room type, click on Continue

Fill in personal information, Click on-Book Now. Room Rate: $109 plus tax

Complimentary Breakfast served from 6 a.m. – 10:00 a.m. up to 2 per room

Please plan to arrive on Thursday, June 2 by 11:00 a.m. and depart on Sunday, June 5

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

All meetings: Stonegate, Cahaba or Vulcan Rooms

Thursday, June 2

9:00 am - 12:00 pm REGISTRATION

12:00 noon WELCOMING DAY and EVENING Casual Attire

Depart from Hotel Lobby promptly at 12:00 noon,

carpooling in personal vehicles. Dames & guests will have lunch & tour Arlington House. We will

have a special visit from Lou Wooster, a “madam” in Birmingham in the late 1800’s who saved many people

during a cholera epidemic. We will have a Dutch treat dinner that evening at Taziki’s not far from the hotel.

Friday, June 3

8 a.m. National Officers Club Breakfast (Current & Past National Officers only)

9:00 a.m.-10:00 a.m. Registration

9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon Committee Meetings

Endowment Committee, Budget & Finance Committee, Executive Council

12:30 p.m. Alabama Luncheon

2:30 p.m. Memorial Service

3:30 p.m. National Board of Management (National Officers, State Presidents only)

6:15 p.m. Alabama Gathering Cash Bar

7:00 p.m. Alabama Dinner Cocktail Attire

Saturday, June 4

9:00 a.m. – 9:25 a.m. Registration

9:30 a.m. First Plenary Session (members only)

12:30 p.m. Eye Luncheon

2:00 p.m. Final Plenary Session (members only)

6:00 p.m. Reception & Receiving Line (white gloves) Formal Dress Cash Bar

7:00 p.m. Formal Awards Banquet

8


54THNATIONAL ASSEMBLY

REGISTRATION FORM

DEADLINE: MAY 15, 2016 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 _______________________________________________________

*****Please indicate food choices below*****

Assembly Registration (required for all members and guests) $20.00 _______

Thursday, June 2, 2015

Tour of Arlington House with lunch & Program by Madame Lou Wooster $22.00 _______

Dinner Taziki’s Mediterranean Café (Dutch-Treat)-I /we plan to attend: ___________

Friday, June 3, 2015

National Officers Club Dutch-Treat Breakfast (NOC Members only) I plan to attend Y/N ________

Alabama Luncheon: Executive Deli Buffet $26.00 _______

Alabama Banquet: Stuffed Grouper____ or Pecan Crusted Chicken____ $37.00 _______

Saturday, June 4,2015

Eye Luncheon: Baked Lasagna $25.00 ______

Formal Awards Banquet : Bourbon Tenderloin of Beef _____

Atlantic Salmon w/Dill sauce_____ $50.00______

Total amount enclosed ..................................................................................................... $ _______

Make check payable to Alabama Society SDA (ASSDA) and mail to: Marlene Lee Lawley, Registration Chairman

1661 Old Cahaba Court

Helena, AL 35080-7055

[email protected] Phone: 205-621-2493

Reproduce form as needed.

9

The Atlanta History Center has carefully archived the materials be-longing to the National Society Southern Dames of America since 1982, when the Doris Walker Lyle Library was transferred to the cen-ter. All of the society’s records and materials are carefully catalogued in chronological order, placed in Mylar sheets, stored in acid-free fold-ers in acid-free file boxes, and stored in a secure below-ground vault. Any access to the materials is carefully monitored and copies request-ed are made by library personnel. These excellent services were pro-vided for thirty-two years without charge to our society.

Bonnell W. Lashley, National Historian, accompanied by Camille R. Baxter, National Second Vice President, Robin R. Towns, Past National President, and Peggy S. Gates, Treasurer, Georgia Society, visited the Atlanta History Center on Friday, September 23, 2015 to express our society’s appreciation for the excellent archiving of the society’s histor-ical materials. A donation in the amount of $250 to be given to the Atlanta History Center was approved at the 53rd National Assembly.

The check was presented to Michael Rose, Executive Vice President, Atlanta History Center, who expressed appreciation for the donation.

Tips & Reminders All Dames: Mark your calendar and plan to attend the 54th National Assembly to be held in Birmingham, AL June 2-4, 2016.

State Presidents: Please send your State Society Report to each National Officer listed before the deadline of May 25, 2016.

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.

SOUTHERN DAMES WEB SITE: http://www.southerndamesofamerica.com

To access Members Only area: In the Email address space, type: magnolia Password: blossom

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 payable to Hamilton Jewelers ____ VISA ____MasterCard ____American Express _____DISCOVER

Card number _____________________________________ Expiration date: ____________________

Mail completed order form to: Barbara M. Ray Include a Self-addressed, stamped envelope,

NSSDA Corresponding Secretary addressed to: Hamilton Jewelers

P.O. Box 53 930 Town Center Drive Suite G 50

Red Springs, NC 28377-0053 Langhorne, PA 19047

From the National Society

(L to R) Robin Towns, Past National President; Paul Crater, Vice Presi-dent, Research Services; Bonnell Lashley, National Historian; Camille Baxter, National Second Vice President; Michael Rose, Executive Vice President, Atlanta History Center; and Peggy Gates, Georgia Society

10

Alabama Society, Judith K. Arthur, President 2014-2016

The Alabama Society SDA met in April 2015 at the Country Club of Birmingham. 20 members in attendance. Leslie Kirk pre-

sented a program on Havilland China and how is became one of the most popular china companies in America. After Leslie’s

presentation, we had a buffet lunch. In June, two of our members, Lucy Clamp Willis and Marlene Lee Lawley traveled to Jackson-

ville, Florida to attend the National Assembly. They enjoyed the meetings very much and came back with good reports for our Na-

tional Meeting in Birmingham this coming June. We met again in September and Marlene Lawley presented a program about attend-

ing the National Assembly in June.

Our state has been making plans and looking forward to the National Assembly meeting in June. We are looking forward to a

program at the Eye Luncheon by Dr. Dawn DeCarlo who will be speaking about the UAB Center for Low Vision Rehabilitation.

She will receive the $1000 award for her department that has been given by the Southern Dames of America.

California Society, Pat Hugar, State President Azalea Chapter, Nancy Alexander, President The Azalea chapter held its second meeting on Sunday afternoon, October 25,

2015, at the home of President Nancy Alexander in Danville. She welcomed eleven

members and two prospective members. Treasurer Sharon Garrison reported that the

Azalea pins had arrived and were for sale at $15 each. See members wearing them in

the accompanying photo. Registrar Maria Mederios reported that we have 41 members

with two sets of papers to be submitted. Since the previous meeting eight members

have been approved.

The State President has requested that the Azalea Chapter supply table decorations

and favors for the March 2016 State Meeting and Tea. Kay Ernst and Susan Swindell

volunteered. The Spring Chapter meeting will be hosted by Marsha Davis at her home

on Sunday afternoon, May 22, 2016. The program on Samplers, history and examples,

was presented by President Alexander with a discussion on members’ needlework

The Tea table was covered with a crocheted tablecloth, made by the President’s moth-

er, and goodies.

Poinsettia Chapter, Paula-Jo Cahoon, President On December 15, 2015, Paula-Jo Cahoon, Wanda Prosser, and Karon Jar-

rard of the Poinsettia Chapter, SDA,

met at the Blind community Center,

1105 Upas Rd, San Diego, CA to make

a presentation and take a tour.

Each year our chapter pre-

sents a Poinsettia plant to the center for

their annual Christmas party for a door

prize. This year we were proud to also

present a Braille American Flag, hand-

made by Karon Jarrard. The Braille

flag comes in a kit from the California Society DAR with the stars pre-stitched, the

stripes are then sewn and put together to make this beautiful flag. Picture to the left is

Karon explaining to Cindy what she had made. For the first time she sees the Stars

and Stripes with her fingers.

Florida Society, Beth Wilson, State President The Florida chapters are getting ready to attend the State Assembly. This year it will be at the Ramada Mandarin. A trip to

the Mandarin Museum and the George Rogers Park will be the Friday activity. It is always good to get together for an informal din-

ner Friday night and to have a luncheon following the Saturday meeting. Our speaker will be Lily Zabeneh who is the Director of

blind Services in Cairo Egypt.

The most exciting news is that one of our chapters is reorganizing under the name “Old Fort Myers Chapter SDA”. The

Fort Myers Chapter lost their charter and IRS standing several years ago. They have been meeting as a satellite of the Society of the

Palm Beaches and were all current in their dues. It was an easy transition and made the Fort Myers ladies very happy. Thanks to

Jenny Merline who worked to get the new EIN from the IRS and is working with the President Mary McKenzie to get new bylaws.

Congratulations Old Fort Myers!

From the State Societies

Pictured left to right, Wanda Prosser, Paula-Jo Cahoon. Karon

Jarrard, Gwen, and Barbara the center director. Our flag will

be displayed at the center for all to see, and touch.

Back: Debbie McMenamin, Maris Mederios, Sandra

Schaad; Susan Swindell, Kay Ernst, Ruth Edmondson-Johnson; Sharon Garrison, Midge Enke, Carol Sat-terthwaite, Pat Everette; Nancy Alexander, Marsha

11

Georgia Society, Patricia E. Gallagher, State President 2016-2018 The 2016 State Assembly of the Georgia Society Southern Dames of America

was held on Friday, January 29, 2016 at Monroe Golf and Country Club,

Monroe, Georgia, with attendance of twenty-three per cent of the state socie-

ty. Following patriotic exercises, members joined in the singing of “This is

My Country.” National Second Vice President Camille Baxter read a message

from National President Dr. L. Sue Comerford.

State President Dr. Linda Harvey reported that the Georgia Society has had

an outstanding year gaining eleven

new members and having excellent

eye and Southern culture programs.

State Officer reports were followed

by excellent reports from Oconee,

Wiregrass, Chattahoochee Valley,

and Highland Ridge Chapters. Dr.

Harvey presented Creative Arts

Awards to exhibitors.

Members were advised of a special opportunity to help a wom-

an, blind since birth, whose home had burned. Members collected

$300 for a donation to repair her “brailler”. Georgia Society gifted

$830 to the James and Jean Culver Vision Discovery Institute,

Georgia Regents University, Augusta, Georgia. In addition, $300

was given to the Guide Dog Foundation for the Blind, Inc., and $25 was given to the Wobbly Wednesday

Fund.

Chaplain Julie Hawk providing invocations, blessings, and benedictions and pioneered a new area, send-

ing a birthday acknowledgement to each state society member. As Georgia Society has been fortunate in

having no need for a Memorial Service during this term, the Chaplain offered a prayer of Gratitude for

Benevolence.

State Officers for 2016-2018 were elected by acclamation: State President, Patricia Gallagher; Vice

President, Dianne Cannestra; Chaplain, Amelia Pelton; Recording Secretary, Susan Campbell; Correspond-

ing Secretary, Jan Stancil; Treasurer, Camille Baxter; Registrar, Cindy Richeson; and Historian, Tommie Elaine Shattuck.

Keynote speaker, Angela Williams, a noted South Carolina author, who taught English at The Citadel, presented a program on her

recent publication Hush Now, Baby: The Help Becomes Family. An honorarium was presented to Mrs. Williams, honoring her con-

tributions to promoting a better understanding of twentieth century Southern culture.

Kentucky Society, Jessieanne H. Wells, State President 2015-2017

Kentucky currently has a membership of thirty-one. We meet jointly twice each year with Dames of the Court of Honor.

The Kentucky Society, SDA hosts one meeting and the Kentucky Society, DCH hosts the other meeting. A donation of $1,000 was

made to the University of Kentucky Eye Program. Used glasses are collected and given to the Lion’s Club to help someone who

may be in need of these glasses. The October 2015 program was very interesting about Antique Needles and how they were used

with beads and fabrics. Several antique purses were displayed. The program for the March meeting will be Dry Eye Disease.

New York Society, Anne Farley, President 2014-2016

Members of the New York Society enjoyed dinner at Serafina Restaurant in Man-

hattan on October 8, followed by the play Desire. Desire is a collection of six new

one-act plays by Tennessee Williams. Our

fall meeting was held at lunchtime the

following week on October 13 at South-

ern Hospitality, a Memphis-style barbecue

restaurant in Manhattan. Featuring a talk

by the restaurant’s General Manager, Josh

Livesay, a native of North Carolina.

Each of our meetings includes a

report on one of the Southern states.

Anne Farley shared facts about Tennes-

see and provided samples of Tennessee

products Jack Daniel’s Old No. 7, and MoonPies Anne relayed the warm welcome she re-

ceived at the 2015 National Assembly in Jacksonville, FL, and shared the award certificates

earned by our new society.

Front row: Amelia Pelton, Patricia Gallagher, Dianne Cannestra. Back: Tommie Elaine Shattuck, Cindy Richeson, Camille Baxter, Jan Stancil

Dr. Linda Harvey, Robin Towns, Angela Williams

New York Society members at Serafina Restaurant be-

fore the theatre outing l-r, Melissa Zack; Debbie Kopin-

ski; Frances Johnson-Feldmann; Melinda Thomsen;

Betsy Bloomer; and Bonnie Perry (guest)

Southern hospitality luncheon: Pulled pork, fried chicken salad, cornbread, and fried pickles

12

North Carolina Society, Emily Weil, State President 2014-2016

Goldsboro Chapter, Sandra Scronce, President 2014-2016

Pinehurst Chapter, Brenda Hamilton, President 2014-2016

Southport Chapter, Linda Rivenbark, President 2014-2016

Wilmington Chapter, Amanda Ladd, President 2014-2016

The Eighth State Assembly of The North Carolina SDA was held on Saturday, Febru-

ary 20, 2016 at the Terrance Room in the beautiful historic Goldsboro hotel hosted by the

Goldsboro Chapter. Thirty members from our four chapters attended along with nine guests.

Emily Weil, State President, presided as State Officers and

Chapter Presidents gave reports. A Memorial Service was con-

ducted by Linda Rivenbark, State Chaplain Society items were

available for purchase. Betty Duncan and Katherine Wolfe sold

tickets for a basket of local goodies. The proceeds were given

to a local family of a toddler who has lost one eye to cancer and

doctors are trying to save her other eye. The basket raised $235

and the chapter added another $115 for a total of $350. Many

eye glasses were turned in. Emily Weil, dressed in a teapot costume, entertained us singing “I’m a

Little Teapot” which emphasized our teapot theme. How many State Societies can boast of having a

live Dancing Costumed Tea Cup perform at their State Assembly? As well as an original dramatic

skit entitled "One-eyed Jacks and Jills," written by member Marian Westbrook and performed by

local performers informing all those in attendance of "famous people" who were visually impaired

without most of us knowing that fact! We are looking forward to another productive and fun year.

Several members are already making plans to attend the National Assembly in Birmingham, Ala-

bama in June.

South Carolina Society, Mari Noorai State President

The South Carolina Society Southern Dames of America toured the S.C. Commission for the Blind

and Agency Overview after having an enjoyable holiday luncheon in the cafeteria. Jacqueline

Keisler, the Community Relations and Training Coordinator, informed the members about what

assistance and programs are available to the visibly impaired who receive services through the

Commission. Following the tour, there was a brief question and answer session. Members were

able to interact with students and see the beautiful craft projects and smell the delicious food that

the students make.

Texas Society, Annie Stafford, State President 2014-2016

North Texas Chapter, Jane Power, President

East Texas Chapter, Janisue Rigel, President

The Texas Society had their annual meeting October 17th in New Brausfels, TX. A

nominating committee was set and new officers will be installed in May. The assembly vot-

ed to sent $100to the Lion Camp in Kerrville and $100 to Hellen Keller Fund in memory of

Mrs. Dorothy Ingram (deceased member).

State President Annie Stafford has requested a new chapter be formed in the South

with Sudie Pool as president.

Tennessee Society, Faye Henson, President 2014-2016 East Tennessee Chapter, Mary Shaw Van, President

The East Tennessee Chapter met at the Johnson City Country Club on March 5, 2016.

The guest speaker was Dr. David Mills, an optometrist, who spoke to the group about the “Vets

with a Mission” program. This group sends charity medical mission teams to Vietnam a couple of

times a year to help the Vietnamese people. The teams are comprised of both medical/health and

non-medical volunteers. Vietnam veterans are encouraged to participate. For many of the veterans

it helps heal the emotional scars of the war. Dr. Mills served in Vietnam during the war and he

gave a wonderful presentation which included memories of the country then, and as it is today. He

also shared several pictures of the local people, and their food and culture.

The East Tennessee Chapter donated 26 pairs of eyeglasses to Dr. Mills to take on his next

mission and $100 to the “Vets with a Mission” program.

Vice President Juacquetta Edwards pre-

sents 26 pairs of eyeglasses to Dr. Mills.

Middle Tennessee Chapter, Carolyn Christian Martin, President

Middle Tennessee Chapter Southern Dames of America met on Friday Sep-

tember 18, 2015 at The Graymere Country Club in Columbia, TN for their

September meeting and luncheon. Club member Eleana McCoy served as

hostess for the event.

President Carolyn Christian Martin called the meeting to order, wel-

coming members and guest. Patriotic Exercises followed with President Mar-

tin reading the Objects of the Society. Chaplain Donette Sellers gave the In-

vocation and prayer. Secretary Peggy McLain read the minutes of the May

Meeting, which were approved as read. Treasurer Faye Henson gave the fi-

nancial report and collected 2016 dues. She also stated that the donations to

Friends of the TN School for the Blind and The Seeing Eye, Inc. had been

completed and told how these organizations would use the funds. The meet-

ing adjourned for lunch and reconvened at 1:00 PM. Eye Chairman Marjorie

Hernandaz announced that 120 pairs of used eye-glassed had been collected

so far this year. These glasses will be used in Third World Countries for the

vision impaired. Registrar Carole Fields gave the registrar's report. President

Martin ask for ideas on eye projects for 2016 and it was decided that we

would support Vanderbilt University Eye Research. Donna Skees installed the 2016-18 Officers, they are: President Carolyn Chris-

tian Martin, Vice-President Jane Dugger, Chaplain Donette Sellers, Secretary Peggy McLain, Treasurer Faye Henson, Registrar

Carole Fields and Eye Chairman Marjorie Hernandez. The meeting dates were confirmed for 2016, they are: February 19, May 20,

September 16, 2016.

Jane Dugger , Program Chairman presented Carole Fields who gave a presentation on the ten Southern State Rooms deco-

rated and furnished by the individual states of Georgia, Missouri, Tennessee, Kentucky, Georgia, North Carolina, South Carolina,

Louisiana, Mississippi, Florida and Maryland in the DAR Museum in Washington, DC. Carole described the period of the furnish-

ings in each room.

VIRGINIA STATE SOCIETY, Penny Chaboudy, President 2014-2016

The National Society Southern Dames, Virginia Society and the National Soci-

ety Daughters of the 17th Century Crown Colony Chapter held a joint meeting in the

fall. It was the Southern Dames biannual meeting. With the help of our National Society

grant, the Dames were able to give Dr. Peter A. Netland, head of the Ophthalmology

Department at the University of Virginia, two checks from our chapter, The National

Society check for $1000 and from the Virginia Society check for $262 were presented at

Shadwell Restaurant in Charlottesville September 27, 2015.

Dr. Netland thanked our society for our support and shared with us what the

support had meant in furthering eye research. He then presented “New Findings in Eye

Research”... The research on aniridia—the absence of the iris, usually involving both

eyes—has been ongoing at UVA. The

condition, which can be a congenital

disorder or the result of a penetrant inju-

ry, is panocular, with macular and optic

nerve hypoplasia, cataract, and corneal

changes. Aniridia causes progressive

vision loss and is often associated with

glaucoma and keratopathy. Patients often require surgical treatment. Current gene-

based research at UVA centers on the PAX6 gene, which helps regulate a cascade of

other genetic processes involved in the development of the eye. Because the human

PAX6 gene is around 95 percent similar to the pax gene found in zebra fish and

frogs, UVA is doing research thru frogs on this gene. Ataluren gene-based trials are

promising. Dr. Netland has invited the southern Dames for a tour of the new oph-

thalmology new facilities when they are completed.

The Virginia Dames are looking forward to our Southern Friendship and fun with the Tennessee Dames in Birmingham

Alabama.

See you in Alabama

Dr. Netland receiving Southern Dames Grant

from Penny Chaboudy, President

Member Trudy Tanzillo and guest Elizabeth Midgette

listening to presentation

left to right: Peggy McLain, Carole Fields, Marjorie Hernandez,

Donette Sellers Faye Henson, Jane Dugger and Carolyn Christian

Martin

14

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: Barbara M. Ray

NSSDA Corresponding Secretary

P.O. Box 53


Member _______________________________________ National number ____________________

State Society name________________________ Chapter (if applicable) name__________________

Ship to _______________________________________

Address ______________________________________

City ________________________________________State____________ Zip_________________

Phone number: ____________________________ Email: ____________________________________

Questions: Call Barbara ”Bobbie Lou” Ray 910.843.4277 or Email: [email protected] Reproduce Form, as need

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 for shipping to:

Barbara M. Ray, NSSDA Corresponding Secretary

P.O. Box 53


Member _______________________________________

National number ___________

State Society name___________________ Chapter name (if applicable)__________________

Ship to _______________________________________

Address ______________________________________

City ___________________________________State________ Zip_________________

Phone number: ________________________Email: _____________________________ Questions: Call Barbara ”Bobbie Lou” Ray 910.843.4277 or Email: [email protected] Reproduce Form, as need

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

Helen Keller’s BirthplaceHelen Keller’s BirthplaceHelen Keller’s Birthplace “Ivy Green”“Ivy Green”“Ivy Green”

300300300 North Commons Street West Tuscumbia, AL 35674 North Commons Street West Tuscumbia, AL 35674 North Commons Street West Tuscumbia, AL 35674

Located on a 640-acre tract in historic Tuscumbia, Ivy Green was built in 1820 by

David and Mary Fairfax Moore Keller, grandparents of Helen Keller. The old "whistle

path" carries the visitor to the outdoor kitchen from the main home. Sprinkled around the

estate are the Lion's Club's International Memorial Fountain, the "Clearing" and herb gar-

dens, the Carriage House and Gift Shop. 1981 The Helen Keller Gazebo was built by the

National Society Southern Dames of America to honor Helen Keller, an honorary member

of the NSSDA. It was built on the grounds of Ivy Green and contributions are made to aid

in the maintenance of the gazebo.

Helen Keller's birthplace cottage is situated east of the main house and consists of

a large room with a lovely bay window and playroom. Originally, the small "annex" was

an office for keeping the plantation's books.

When Captain Arthur H. Keller brought his bride, Kate Adams (the bride of his

second marriage), home to Ivy Green the office was daintily re-furnished and fitted for

them as a bridal suite. Later, the cottage would serve as living quarters for Helen and

her teacher, Anne Sullivan.

The home and museum room are decorated with much of the original furniture of

the Keller family. Each is highlighted by hundreds of Miss Keller's personal mementos,

books and gifts from here lifetime of travel and lectures in 25 countries for the better-

ment of the world's blind and deaf-blind. Of particular note is her complete library of

Braille books and her original Braille typewriter.

The entire estate is nestled under a cooling canopy of English boxwoods (over 150

years old), magnolia, mimosa, and other trees, accented by roses, honeysuckle, smilax,

and an abundance of English Ivy (for which the estate receives its name).

Ivy Green is located two miles off Hwys. 72 and 43 in Colbert County,

Tuscumbia, Alabama.

Hours: Monday through Saturday 8:30 a.m. - 4:00 p.m. Last tour starts at 3:45 p.m. daily

Home Tour Admission: Adults.......................................$6.00 Students ages 5 -8………........$3.00 Seniors & "AAA" members..... $5.00 Military (Active and Retired)…..$5.00

You are cordially invited to attend National Society Southern Dames of America 54nd Anniversary National Assembly

Birmingham, AL June 2-4 2016

Hilton Garden Inn Liberty Park

2090 Urban Center PKWY, Birmingham , AL

Arlington Antebellum Home

and Gardens Birmingham, AL

Taziki’s 3439 Colonnade Pkwy, Ste 1000

Birmingham, AL 35243

Yellowhammer Blackberry

See pages 7 and 8

for details

Alabama State Flag

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