The April luncheon meeting was held at noon April 13 at the Sanford IHOP Restaurant . Before lunch was served members who attended the recent Florida State Conference in Orlando gave mini reports, enthusiastically citing highlights of the Conference. Six delegates and three alternates attended the Conference. Melissa Schneider, a member of Fort Mellon Society, C.A.R, served as a Page.
Carol-Lynn Bevc, Regent, and Dr. Lois Somerville, Chaplain, conducted the opening ritual. Fran Morton led the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag of the United States of America and Sandy Hux led members and guests in singing the first verse of The National Anthem. Virginia Mikler led all in reciting The American’s Creed.
Ann Howland, National Defense Chairman, gave the National Defense Report, reading from an article in The National Defender written by national Chairman, Helen Drew Mitchler. She stated: “Since 1926, when the National Defense Committee was established to assist members in carrying out the patriotic, educational, and historical purposes of the National Society and, thereby, helping to promote an enlightened public opinion, it has urged its readers to think about many things. It has advocated a strong American military defense and unwavering faithfulness to the ideals of the Founding Fathers as codified in the U.S. Constitution, in order to ensure the survival of our national sovereignty.....
Freedom is earned and preserved by each succeeding generation. It must not be taken for granted.”
Betty Berseth read excerpts from the President General’s report which focused on restoration of historic sites. In the current issue she states: “we shine the spotlight on one of the country’s most endangered sites: historic movie theaters. These larger than life, grand palaces played a central role in early 20th century life but many have gone dark and are in danger of succumbing to the wrecking ball. Some communities are rediscovering their value and looking for ways not only to preserve them, but also to give them an encore by turning them into event venues, cultural centers and engines for downtown revitalization.”
During the business meeting Regent Bevc commended member Grace Marie Stinecipher, Chairman of the Sanford Museum Advisory Board, for her tireless efforts in making the museum’s Golden Anniversary Celebration such a success.
The Regent also encouraged members to volunteer at Central Florida Fair April 21 and 22 and at the Antiques Roadshow June 30 at the Orange County Convention Center.
The Chapter sponsored Abigail Kennedy, a student at Jackson Heights Middle School in Oviedo, in the recent American History Essay Contest. Her essay was declared the state winner in the seventh grade competition. She received a medal and cash award at the recent State Conference and her essay was sent to NSDAR Regional offices for further competition.
Registrar Nancy Williams announced that on April 21 Gail Freie, Candy Fish, Beth Bevc and Sue Mamula will be members of the National Society and locally of Sallie Harrison Chapter.
She also introduced the following guests and prospective members: Virginia Vogel, Betsy Dhuyvetter, Merle Brosnon and Cathern Monroe.
During the months of April and May Chapter members will be presenting JROTC certificates and medals to a senior winner in each of the seven county high schools who have a senior JROTC program.