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THE JOURNAL Volume N Number 2

Spring 2017

National Society Southern Dames of America Organized 1962

North Charleston, South Carolina

Gabrielle Smith Hadyka

National President 2016-2018

Magnolia Plantation and Gardens Charleston, SC

2

NATIONAL OFFICERS 2016-2018

NATIONAL PRESIDENT

Gabrielle “Gaby” Hadyka (Mrs. Joseph)

4506 Lake Charles Drive

Corpus Christi, TX 78413-5239

Phone: 361.854.5432 (Home)

361.215.3534 (Cell)

Email: [email protected]

NATIONAL FIRST VICE PRESIDENT

Camille R. Lowery (Mrs.Clifford C.)

4690 Kilmersdon Lane

Johns Creek, GA 30024

Phone: 404.851.7338


NATIONAL SECOND VICE PRESIDENT

Melissa H. Fischer (Mrs. Jeffery)

13525 Sanderling Place

Germantown, MD 20874

Phone: 301.916.8331


NATIONAL CHAPLAIN

Brenda M. Hamilton (Mrs. Edwin B.)

917 W. 2nd Avenue

Red Springs, NC 28377-1219

Phone: 910.843.4644


NATIONAL RECORDING SECRETARY

Bonnell W. Lashley (Mrs. Eugene C.)

1130 Dove Creek Circle

Winder, GA 30680-5037

Phone: 770.725.5020


NATIONAL CORRESPONDING SECRETARY

Louise “Penny” Chaboudy (Mrs. Butch)

335 Mt. Ida Lane

Staunton, VA 24401-5618

Phone: 540.337.1006


NATIONAL TREASURER

Virginia Fettes (Mrs. Michael)

1706 SW 66th Place

Gainesville, FL 32608-5424

Phone: 352.335.8385


NATIONAL REGISTRAR

“Bobbie Lou” M. Ray (Mrs. Wilson)

P.O. Box 53

Red Springs, NC 28377-0053

Phone: 910.843.4277


NATIONAL HISTORIAN

Mary Ann Hepler (Mrs. Ray)

410 Otteray Avenue

High Point, NC 27262-2918

Phone: 336.887.2241


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

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

301 Plymouth Road

West Palm Beach, FL 33405

Phone: 561.585.9756


——————————————————————

NATIONAL COMMITTEE CHAIRMEN

Auditing - Emily Weil, Chairman; Lucy Willis

Budget & Finance - Virginia Fettes, Chairman;

Betty Stevens, Gaby Hadyka (ex officio)

Bylaws & Standing Rules: Mary Ann Hepler Chairman; Sudie Pool

Handbook: Ann Farley, Chairman; Jane Power

Advisor: Catherine Brister

Assembly Meeting Place: Jeanette Taylor, 2017 Chairman;

Judith Arthur Advisor: Gaby Hadyka

Creative Arts: Mary Armstrong, Chairman 2017

(Hostess State Society to appoint judges)

Eye Program: Melissa Fisher, Chairman; All State Presidents

Helen Keller Gazebo: Connie Grund, Chairman

Insignia & Ribbons: Penny Chabouy, Chairman; Trudy Tanzilla

Membership and Website: Camille Lowery, Chairman

Scholarship: Dr. Linda Harvey, Chairman; Kimberly Nagy

Endowment: 2015-2018 - Virginia Fettes, Penny Chabouy,

Robin Towns 2015-2020—Brenda Hamilton, Bobbie Lou Ray

Editor, The Journal: Gaby Hadyka

mailto:[email protected]




1

A Message from the National 1st Vice President:

Gracious Southern Dames, as Chairman of the Membership

Committee it is my job to identify prospective members, and let

me remind you that ALL members of Southern Dames of Ameri-

ca are members of the Membership Committee! Every mem-

ber is encouraged to invite one or more friends to join our society

by June, 2017, to learn about eye health/education and study

Southern culture. Longtime and new members are invited to at-

tend our 55th Annual Assembly in Charleston, South Carolina,

June 1-3, 2017, and plan to have great fun in

the "World's #1 Vacation Destination". See y'all

in Charleston!

Camille Redfern Lowery

A Message from the National Chaplain:

Greetings from your National Chaplain. Just a reminder of

how important it is not only to our Society, but to friends and

family of members we have lost through death during the year to

know how special their loved one was and that she will be re-

membered. Please inform the National Chaplain of members’

deaths during the year, in order for those beloved members to be

memorialized and their names included in the National Assembly

Memorial Service Program in June. State Chaplains; please make

sure this officer has received notice of all deaths in your state this

past year. Members and State Chaplains are welcome to use the

Change of Member Information Form found in The Journal or

you may e-mail the information to me. It is most helpful to in-

clude the member’s full name, national number, and date of

death. Name and address of next of kin will enable me to write a

note of condolence on behalf of the Society. If an obituary is

available, please include that.

In Southern Friendship, Brenda M. Hamilton,

National Chaplain

[email protected]

A Message from the National Corresponding Secretary:

Society items are available for purchase. Charms, large as well

as Branch Bar size, and Tote Bags [which wash really well] are

currently in stock. They will also be available at the National

Assembly in Charleston South Carolina in June. You may also

contact me to purchase a State President Ribbons.

Thank you, Penny Chaboudy

[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 www.irs.gov/900n 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, Virginia M. Fettes [email protected]

National President’s

Message

Dear Southern Dames,

This past year has been an amazing

adventure. The work being done at the

Helen Keller Gazebo has made a world of

difference so far as you can see in the

article by Connie Grund on page 3.

Thank you to the states that have already

donated and those who have pledged to send a donation our

area of the Helen Keller grounds will be a sight to see rather

than an eye sore.

This officer was thrilled to be asked to be the guest speak-

er at the North Texas Chapter meeting in Arlington. She

spoke on the history of Southern Dames and what people

with eye disease see.

All state and chapter websites have been taken down as

requested and this officer thanks you all for your co-

operation with this effort. Our National Website is up and

running and we thank Camille Lowery, National First Vice

President and our webmaster for their work on getting this

set up. All forms are located on the members only section.

Please use these forms as they are the current forms. Three

forms are in this Journal for your convenience, the Report

Form on page 10, Change of Member Information on page

11, and Order Form on 12.

State Presidents should use the Report Form (pg. 10) 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. One form per state should be sent to all National

Officers listed on the form (email is acceptable and pre-

ferred). Please report all of your activities and accomplish-

ments.

Penny Chaboudy, National Corresponding Secretary is

working on getting a distributor for sets of SDA flags to be

available for purchase for states and chapters to have for their

own use. At the same time she is looking into having a setup

for a Southern Dames Flag to be made available as well.

More to come as we get this all squared away.

Bobbie Lou, National Registrar has been approving new

members. Check out the long list of new Dames on page 2.

This President and her board looks forward to seeing you

all in South Carolina for some fun and Southern Hospitality.

The South Carolina Dames have worked hard for us to have

a wonderful Assembly. See pages 4 and 5 for details. Re-

member to bring your crafts. Looking forward to seeing eve-

ryone in North Charleston.

In Southern bonds,

Gaby

Gabrielle S. Hadyka,

National President, 2016-18

http://www.irs.gov/900n


2

New Members

Since THE JOURNAL

Fall 2016

ALABAMA KENTUCKY NEW YORK

Susan Patricia Dooley 3316 Virginia Helen Pauley Anderson 3336 Kay Mettz Alpaugh 3271

Shelia Gail Gaddy 3304 Pamela Lynn Noe Godwin 3337 Sedley Hayward Roussell Alpaugh 3273

Mary Powers Williams 3331 Nancy Glynn Clay Hampton 3338 Amber Sipes Cleary 3323

Vicky Lee Thrasher Zuverink 3303 Pakash Masand 3332

CALIFORNIA Nancy Ruth Mettz 3272

Sharon Elaine Gorrell Corum 3324 LOUISIANA Kate Serena Moffett 3322

Leora Joyce Jones Frise 3325 Bettye Ellen Ogle Barrett 3298 Joan Louise Graham Nathan 3320

Margaret Patricia Louise Rankin Foulk 3278 Ellen Elaine Featherston Boston 3296 Bonnie Lou Vaughn Perry 3319

Cynthia Kay McBride Greene 3315 Catherine Anne Margaret Burnley 3294 Leah Hampton Tinsley Polack 3270

Maureen Lynn O'Neal Twork Jones 3314 Stacie-Jill Stanley Burnley 3285 J. Kari Kjontvedt Weis 3321

Jacqueline Dawn Elvington Magri 3274 Maria Cielle Muller Clemenceau 3293

Wyletta Jean Guthrie Nickson 3276 Mary Sue Darouse 3267 NORTH CAROLINA

Charlotte Vivian Westberry Matteoni 3277 Janin Rynikar Goff 3297 Susan David Parrott Brown 3311

Delores Viola Strandberg Pederson 3261 Georgia Elizabeth Wright Head 3288 Phyllis Wray Weaver Reaves 3310

Lolita Stiegelmeir Smith 3262 Ysonde Gomez Hobbs 3292

Diane Kelly Weintraub 3305 Brittney Nicole Kean 3263 TENNESSEE

Sherrie Lynn Greiner Stein 3306 Monet Luree Bellinger Kietzman 3284 Nancy Jean Johnson Coghlan 3299

Wyletta "Michelle" Moody Williams 3275 Rena Theresa Verret Labat 3264

Laurie Hourguettes Ledet 3283 TEXAS

FLORIDA Lucinda Agatha Morgan Manint 3265 Margaret Alice-Long Carr 3279

Ouida Jeanette Weissinger Felker 3307 Linda G. Scott 3286 Sheila Ray Whitt Cauley 3282

Carolyn Marie Weisner McDuffie 3289 Elizabeth Lee Cheney Sewell 3287 Golda Marie Foster 3280

Penny Witchell Park Philips 3301 Genevieve Margaret Moreau Walgamotte 3266 Janet Cecelia Stineman Kres 3317

Betsy Anne Groom Powers 3335 Desiree St. Paul-Fricke Wegmann 3290 Theresa Joy Sanders Lee 3327

Lily Marsena Hawk Smith 3308 Charlotte Hodge White 3291 Barbara Ann Bourgeois Lewis 3333

Carolyn Susan Wright Wiltbank 3300 Kristian Louise Lewis 3334

MISSISSIPPI Sherri "Sherra" Ann Weldon Miller 3302

GEORGIA Priscilla Anne Scabery Anderson 3269 Charleen Anne Mullenweg 3281

Margaret Isabella Gorley Ehrlich 3295 Pamela Anne-Little Stennis Williams 3309 Shirley Kay Jones Pyburn 3328

Elizabeth Kate Orr Messer 3268 Carol Elaine Mayo Steakley 3318

Allie Joyce Ball Patton 3326 Tresa Tatyrek 3330

Lee Merritt Porter 3313 Rhoda Cathleen Pyburn Tutt 3329

Virginia Kelly Boyd Stuckey 3312

3

IVY GREEN

HOME OF HELEN KELLER

TUSCUMBIA, ALABAMA Helen Keller Gazebo Chairman, Connie Grund

It had been many years since I had visited the home of Helen Keller in the northwest section of Alabama, in the town

of Tuscumbia, but when the Southern Dames announced they were coming to Alabama for their National Assembly in June of

2016, I was dispatched to check out the gazebo and the historic marker dedicated 35 years ago, by the National Society South-

ern Dames of America.

It was wonderful driving up to the pretty 1820’s cottage style home and knowing that I was going back to the perma-

nent shrine where the “miracle” had occurred in the life of a 7 year old blind and deaf young girl. This young girl, Helen Ke ller,

mastered braille and even learned to use a braille typewriter. She graduated from Radcliffe College, and became the shining

example around the world, of what a person with disabilities could do with love and support. The simple rudimentary tools she

used to communicate are shown in the museum room, and the rest of the house is shown as it was during her life, with the

clothes of her, and her mother, still there.

The grounds are lovingly maintained by volunteers led by Betty Balch and her husband, Dennis, both Master Garden-

ers, and the tradition of park benches throughout the various gardens are so inviting they welcome you to sit and think about

the history of the property, and those that came before.

It was a big disappointment to walk to the back of the property and find a very forlorn gazebo in need of repair and an

historic marker that was so dirty it was unreadable, but that was ok, because who would want to claim the dismal gazebo. The

many dedicated volunteers that care for the 640 acre tract have not had the funds, or man power to upgrade our donated ga-

zebo. It was time for action!

After the National Assembly, the new National President, Gaby Hadyka, met me in Tuscumbia and we discussed what

could be done to improve the gazebo and the surrounding area. I am very happy to report that we got started in the fall, which

is cool enough to be planting season in Alabama, but due to the ongoing drought conditions, it was determined that we would

have to take on the added expense of running the sprinkler lines to the back of the property to do any real improvements.

We are now well on our way to creating a new, very appealing and respectful location, for our gazebo and historic marker on

the grounds of Ivy Green. Quality soil was brought in, new shrubbery beds were created, two ipe wood benches were pur-

chased, sprinklers were laid, antique brick from a former building on the grounds was used to create two pads for the new

benches and flowering shrubs were planted. Most important, the historic marker is gleaming and readable.

The next steps are to paint the actual gazebo mossy green, reshingle the roof, add some wood trim pieces and then

stand back and admire the new setting and cozy welcoming area created by the Southern Dames of America out of their admi-

ration and respect for all that has happened, and continues to happen, to aid the blind and deaf from the very beginnings here

at Ivy Green. Thank you, Southern Dames from around the country, for your continuing contributions will enable us to have

our area of Ivy Green shine, and be noticed, as we enter the Bicentennial Celebration in Alabama. This 1820’s vintage home

will be a highlight of the celebration of Alabama’s history, and you will be proud to know you are well represented

Then Now

From the National Society

4

ALABAMA SOCIETY CORDIALLY INVITES YOU TO ATTEND

NATIONAL SOCIETY SOUTHERN DAMES OF AMERICA

55TH NATIONAL ASSEMBLY

June 1-3, 2017

Location: North Charleston Hilton Garden Inn

5265 International Boulevard, North Charleston, SC 29418 (Just off I-526)

For reservations, call the hotel directly, 843-308-9330 ask for Southern Dames of America Room Rate

or to make reservations On Line: hiltongardeninn.hilton.com/en/gi/groups/personalized/C/CHAHGI-SDA-20170601/index,jhtml?WT.mc_-id+POG

Room Rate: $139 plus tax RESERVATION CUT OFF is MAY 1, 2017

Complimentary Breakfast served. Wifi, Refrigerator, Microwave, and Keurig coffee maker in room.

Please plan to arrive on Thursday, June 1 by 11:00 a.m. and depart on Sunday, June 4

TENTATIVE SCHEDULE:

All meetings: Cypress I and II Rooms

Thursday, June 1

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 Magnolia Plantation and Gardens . The Plantation is listed on the National Register of His-

toric Places and has been in the Drayton family since 1676. It is the oldest plantation on the Ashley River. It

offers over 500 acres of gardens and grounds to explore.

Friday, June 2

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. South Carolina Luncheon

2:30 p.m. Memorial Service

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

6:15 p.m. South Carolina Gathering Cash Bar

7:00 p.m. South Carolina Dinner Cocktail Attire

Saturday, June 3

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

5


55THNATIONAL ASSEMBLY

REGISTRATION FORM

DEADLINE: MAY 15, 2017

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 1,2017

Tour of Magnolia Plantation with box lunch: (please place “X” by choice)

Chicken Salad ___Turkey with Cheese____ or Ham with Cheese___ $26.00 _______

Dinner at local restaurant (Dutch-Treat)- I /we plan to attend Y/N: ________

Friday, June 2, 2017

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

South Carolina Luncheon: Downhome Buffet with fried chicken and pork $32.00_______

South Carolina Banquet: Grilled Salmon_____or Roasted Pork Loin ____ $45.00 ______

Saturday, June 3, 2017

Eye Luncheon: Lowcountry Buffet with Frogmore Stew and pecan chicken $34.00 ______

Formal Awards Banquet : Beef Medallions________or Shrimp and Grits____ $45.00______

Total amount enclosed ..................................................................................................... $ ________

Make check payable to (SCSSDA) and mail to:

Julie N. Hardaway, Registration Chairman

Narrow Gate, 1316 Park Ave. SE,

Aiken, SC 29801-4777

Question: [email protected]

Reproduce form as needed.

6

Alabama Society, Deborah Whitmore Hicks, President 2017-2019

New state officers were elected and installed by 2014-2016 State President

Judith Kennedy Arthur at the meeting held on 29 Sep 2016 at the Birmingham Country

Club. We welcome new members Susan Dooley, Sheila Gaddy, and Mary Williams.

Helen Keller Gazebo Chairman, Connie Grund, and National President, Gabri-

elle S. Hadyka, met on June 9, 2016, at Ivy Green with the Executive Director of the

Helen Keller House to begin the refurbishing project of the gazebo and the area around

it. The restoration and rededication of the SDA marker and gazebo also ties into Ala-

bama’s three year state celebration "Footsteps to Statehood" culminating in the Bicen-

tennial of Alabama in 2019. Since the house was constructed in 1820, it will be one of

the focus points in North Alabama on early structures and will be seen by many. The

National Society has a Helen Keller Gazebo Fund, to help complete this project, to

which the Alabama Society donated. If your society has not already donated to this fund,

we are asking for each state society to give a donation to the fund to help refurbish the

Gazebo so that the SDA gazebo and marker is proudly presented to visitors. We look

forward to hosting the rededication event in 2017.

Alabama Dames are also making plans to attend the 55th National Assembly in

South Carolina June 1-3, 2017, and to a “Lunch in the Dark” program at our next meeting

on April 27, 2017.

California Society, Barbara Payne Aerni, State President 2016-2018 The California Society is proud to announce the chartering of another chapter in the Northern section of our State! Laven-

der Chapter organized on October 29, 2016 with the Organizing President, Carole Vercellino. They are a small chapter but they

have wonderful members and we all wish them a very successful year.

Our other chapters: Azalea, City of Roses, Gardenia, Orange Blossom, and Poinsettia have all been busy with the goals and

objectives of the Society.

We are looking forward to our Annual Meeting and Tea to be held on March 15, 2017 at the San Ramon Marriott in San

Ramon, California.

Florida Society, Davine Roberts, State President 2016-2018 Southern Dames of the Palm Beaches held their October meeting

at Battle of Okeechobee Historic State Park Okeechobee FL. The largest

battle of the Second Seminole War was held Christmas Day, 1837 at this

location on the north shore of Lake Okeechobee between the Seminole

Indians and Federal troops led by Colonel Zachary Taylor.

At the Park, the Society was greeted by SDA member, Su George,

Magi Cable, City Councilman Dowling Watford, and Park Ranger Natalie

Carlson — all members of the Okeechobee Battlefield Friends, Inc. After

an introduction by Su George, Ranger Carlson described the challenges of

caring for a large property as well as plans for the future. Councilman Wat-

ford became “Pvt. Watford” as he gave us an overview of the Seminole

Wars and described soldiering in south Florida during the 1830’s. Magi

Cable presented military and Indian artifacts on loan from the local muse-

um that had been found in the area.

From the State Societies

2016-2018 AL State Officers, l-r: Carol Kitch-

ens, Historian; Sally Woolley, Registrar; Judith Arthur, Treasurer; Lucy Willis, Corresponding Secretary; Roberta Hardman, Recording Secre-

tary; Marlene Lawley, Vice President; Deborah

W Hicks, President

Tips & Reminders All Dames: Mark your calendar and plan to attend the 55th National Assembly to be held in North Charleston, SC June 1-3, 2017.

State Presidents: Please send your State Society Report to each National Officer listed before the deadline of May 1, 2017.

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: Password: Blossom

7

Georgia Society, Patricia E. Gallagher, State President 2016-2018 The 2017 State Assembly of the Georgia Society Southern Dames of America was held on Janu-

ary 27, 2017 at the Chattahoochee Country Club in Gainesville, Georgia. Following the patriotic exercis-

es, members joined in the singing of "This is My Country". First Vice President National Camille Lowery

brought greetings from our President Gabrielle Hadyka.

Officers gave their reports and we worked on updating our bylaws. A prayer of gratitude was

offered as we were fortunate in having no deaths this year. Chapter presidents from Chattahoochee Val-

ley, Highland Ridge and Oconee gave excellent report with updates of increased membership in each

chapter. A donation of $1000 was given to Culver Vision Discovery Institute in Augusta, Georgia. A

$400 donation was given to the Helen Keller Gazebo restoration fund, and $100 donated the Guide Foun-

dation for the Blind.

Hostess chapter, Highland Ridge provided lovely table decorations and beautifully wrapped

boxes with table favors of a pearl bracelet for everyone.

Dianne Cannestra, First Vice President introduced the speaker, Susan Copeland. Susan is the North At-

lanta Area Coordi-

nator, Puppy Raiser

Program for the

Guide Foundation for the Blind. Susan and her

dog "Harry" presented the program titled "The

Journey from Helpless to Helper: Raising Future

Service Dogs".Everyone seemed to enjoy the pro-

gram and was touched by what Susan had to say.

Patricia Gallagher, President closed the meeting

and everyone enjoyed a beautiful luncheon with

members and friends. A special thanks goes to

Bea Fischer for sponsoring us and to Robin Towns

for her help with the decorations.

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

Kentucky Society, Southern Dames of American held its joint fall meeting October 19, 2016, with Dames of the Court of

Honor. DCH hosted the meeting and the program about General William Woodford of the Revolution was presented by Buck

Woodford at the Lexington Country Club, Lexington, KY. Kentucky SDA continues to collect used eye glasses to donate to the Li-

ons Club Eye Bank.

Mississippi Society, Mary F. Willard , State President 2017-2019

The year 2016 has been a good year for our group. We have welcomed three new members and there are three waiting on

their acceptance. The attendance at the meetings has been very good.

We began with wonderful program by Mrs. Carissa Gardner, ABO, CLE, Jackson Eye Associates Optician who gave a very

entertaining and informative presentation on current trends in eyeglasses fashion with tips in selecting frames and lenses. She

brought different examples of frames and the members were allowed to choose ones that best suited the shape of their face. She ex-

plained some of the procedures of an eye examination. During the Phillips administration 123 pairs of eye glasses, 2 Lenses and 24

eyeglass cases were donated to the Lions Club.

New officers were elected and Mrs. Cindy Phillips passed the sash on to newly elected President Mary Willard. Other offic-

ers installed were Vice President-Jean Willis; Chaplain-Roslinda Wells; Recording Secretary- Vicki Pekich; Corresponding Secre-

tary-Jennifer Miller; Treasurer-Martina Mayfield; Registrar-Sue Patterson; Historian- Jill Taylor; Parliamentarian-Bettie Johnson;

Advisor-Sharon Nettles.

At the October meeting in Madison, MS, we welcomed Mr. Harold Miller, VIST Coordinator at the Sonny Montgomery

Veterans Administration Medical Center as our guest speaker. After the opening ritual, treasurer report, and other business, a brief

report about two Southern states, Tennessee and Arkansas, was presented by 2 of the ladies. Next month southern states, Louisiana

and Alabama will be featured. We plan to make this a part of each meeting until reports about the southern states have all been giv-

en. Afterward Mr. Miller presented a very interesting talk about help available to blind or visually impaired veterans. He demon-

strated various machines and instruments available to the veterans. After his presentation he worked with a husband of a Dames pre-

sent at the meeting. An appointment was made for the gentleman at the VA Hospital for the following week. He also encouraged the

members to become an Independent Living Services for the Blind volunteer. A delicious lunch was enjoyed and during that time

members were encouraged to ask questions and give comments about the program.

Members were also encouraged to bring handmade eyeglass cases to the April 8, 2017 meeting along with used eyeglasses.

Members with birthdays in September of October were allowed to take home one of the beautiful table arrangements. The meeting

was adjourned with a benediction given by Jean Willis. The MSSDA presented a Tactile American Flag to Mr. Miller to be carried

to his VIST Department at the Sonny Montgomery Medical Center so blind veterans could feel and touch the flag."

Pat Gallagher, GA State President NSSDA, Susan Copeland and Harry

Georgia State Society National Society Southern Dames of America

8

North Carolina Society, Brenda M. Hamilton, State President 2016-2018

The 101st North Carolina Society Southern Dames of America members bring you greetings. Our

four chapters (Goldsboro, Pinehurst, Southport and Wilmington) are active in membership growth and

generous with their donations. We are excited about our State Assembly during which MIRA USA

will be our featured program. MIRA USA was co-founded in 2009 by Robert and Elaine Baillie, and

Guy Bouvier, following Bob’s total vision loss. After obtaining a guide dog, Bob was surprised to

learn that guide dogs were unavailable to anyone under the age of seventeen in the United States.

Thus began an extraordinary story. Based in North Carolina, MIRA USA accepts program applicants

from any part of the contiguous United States and provides guide dogs free of charge to eligible chil-

dren. The North Carolina Society is proud to list MIRA USA as one of the recipients of our dona-

tions.

New York Society, Melissa Zack, President 2016-2018

The New York Society was organized in 2015 by Founding President Anne Farley and Registrar Mary Raye Casper. We have

more than doubled our numbers since, and are now proud to have a diverse group of members from New York and New Jersey as

well as Illinois, Louisiana and North Carolina.

The New York Society has enjoyed several meetings and events since our initial tea, including a fascinating tour of the Guide

Dog Foundation on Long Island, an evening of Tennessee Williams-inspired plays and a luncheon where we learned The Language

of the Fan.

Our annual meeting this year promises to be equally fun and inspirational. It will feature a play entitled Immaculate Degeneration,

written and performed by a woman who was diagnosed with juvenile macular degeneration while in her teens. In music and words,

she details her struggles and triumphs in the years since her diagnosis. The play gets great reviews and should be a unique and inter-

esting way to learn about this uncommon vision disorder

South Carolina Society, Jeanette Taylor State President

2016-2018

The State Society of South Carolina toured the South Carolina School for the Deaf

and Blind in Spartanburg in November 2016. They enjoyed a Thanksgiving lunch with

the students followed by the Fall meeting where plans were made for the 2017 National

Assembly.

Picture left to right – State Society President Jeannette Taylor, Marion Whitehurst,

Mary Armstrong, Frankie Abbott, Diane Culbertson, Sarah Jane Armstrong, Julie Harda-

way and Tammy Herron.

Texas Society, Janisue Rigel, State President 2016-2018

Texas focuses on donation of eye glasses. To date 5590 were received. Special Thank You to our membership, Dr. Kauf-

man’s offices, Dr. Robertson’s offices, The Woodlands recycling, Eye Care Associates, community gathering and other locations in

the Woodlands.

The East Texas Chapter supports The Houston Delta Gamma Founda-

tion which has long term relationship with the Lighthouse of Houston, Universi-

ty of Houston School of Optometry Good Neighbor Clinic, Eye Care for Kids,

Herman Eye Fund, Sight Savers, Sight to Sound to name a few. The East Texas

members attended the (Sam Houston) Kentucky Derby and had fun with south-

ern attire, hats, great food and fun. East Texas chapter members also attended a

high tea at the St. Regis Hotel, networking and fellowship was enjoyed by all.

The North Texas Chapter, Diane Dyess, President , welcomed Jim

Cook, Director of the Lion's Club Eyeglass Recycling Center sharing the recy-

cling process and opportunities for service. Their next meeting they welcomed

President General Gaby Hadyka gave a presentation on the purpose and tradi-

tions of Southern Dames which brought inquiries about membership from five

ladies.

The third Texas chapter, the South Texas Chapter, was organized in May

2016, making three chapters in Texas. The South Texas Chapter ,Sudie Pool.,

President, had their organizing meeting in Seguin, TX and enjoyed a lovely lunch

and fellowship while setting goals for the chapter.

Pictured from left to right: Richard Chatham, Executive Director MIRA USA, Elaine Baillie, Co-Founder MIRA USA, Mrs. Brenda Hamilton, NC State President, and Guide Dog DJ.

North Texas Chapter: front row: Jane Power, Diane

Dyess, Gaby Hadyka, Sharon Allen, Betty Abdo Back: Betty Arnold, Katherine Beck , Martha Bender, Ruth Cot-trell Debbie Hinckley, Carol Alexander, June Gunn, Karen

McClendon, Colleen Petosa

9

Other State Society

Virginia Society, Carole Featherston, President 2016-2018

The Virginia Society has had a busy 2016 honoring our Southern History and is looking forward to 2017 with an added ave-

nue to enhance vision screening of school age children. A new State Committee has been formed to screen all school age children in

kindergarten, third grade, 7th grade and 10th grade. In the past it is estimated that 23 % of all children screened failed to detect a vi-

sion problem. A new technology devise that makes the eye chart history, is now being used. As a child looks into the devise, it can

detect vision problems, stigmatisms, and calculate the need vision correction in less than one minute. A note is then sent home to the

parent and various agencies and Lion’s clubs help to get corrected vision eye ware for the child. Due to funding levels, not all chil-

dren are reached and the Virginia daughters hope to help make this available for all children.

Virginia, being the first colony by the year

1716 was well established and was pushing westward.

However the Blue Ridge Mountain Range had stalled

westward settlement. Governor Spotswood set out from

the Capital in Williamsburg in grand style in his coach

and traveled westward to see what he could see. As he

journed he visited many of the landed gentry and asked

many of them to join him. Thus the party, which includ-

ed about 50 men of the landed gentry, scouts, 4 Mehrin

Indian guides, and 74 horses arrived at the most west-

ward settlement, Germania. Gov. Spotswood had settled

this community to mine iron ore and begin an iron in-

dustry to add to trade for the colony. By the time the

party reached Germania the terrain had grown rocky. It

became obvious that the horses were struggling and

need horseshoes.. This task being completed the party

set off to the Blue Ridge mountains. The party contin-

ued on the difficult upriver ride. The axe men had to

clear the brush as they climbed on ever higher terrain.

They encountered many deer and black bears. The hors-

es were stung by hornets. At night the howling of the

wolves was heard. Many poisonous rattlesnakes were

encountered. Finally the party reached the head of the

Rappahannock on September 5th. Today we know it

was the Rapidan River that the men traveled along.

This was the eastern slope of the Blue Ridge. The ex-

pedition crossed the top of the Blue Ridge at Swift Run

Gap [elevation 2,365feet]. The men rode down into the Shenandoah Valley and reached the Shenandoah River, which they called the

“Euphrates,” near the current town of Elkton. There they fired multiple volleys and drank special toasts of wine, brandy and claret to

the King, to the Prince of Wales, other royal family members and to Governor Spotswood, naming the two peaks Mount George and

Mount Spotswood. On the banks of the river, the expedition buried a bottle containing a paper claiming this place and all land west-

ward in the name of King George. On the return trip it must be noted that the expedition met no unfriendly Indians and there were

no deaths or serious injuries. On September 10th the group returned to Germanna. Governor Spotswood gave each of his compan-

ions a stickpin made of gold and shaped like a horseshoe. The horseshoes were encrusted with small gems and were small enough to

be worn from a watch chain. Hence the expedition was forever known as “The Knights of the Golden Horseshoe. “ To commemo-

rate the event 12 Southern Dames joined with the Daughters of the American Colonists and The Best of America by Horseback for a

ceremony at Big Meadow on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Our members welcomed the horses as they reached the top of the Mountain.

The state of Virginia had made a proclamation honoring this event. There was an historical presentation, repeat of the toasts and the

event was filmed for a television show which is currently being viewed of WRT TV.

The importance of this event to our Southern Dames of America is that in Governor Spotswood claiming the land westward

to the Mississippi and to the Gulf of Mexico , many of our Southern States were created from this. We speak English and follow

many of the English traditions.

Members Jane Chavis, Cynthia Matsumoto, Penny Chaboudy, Host of Seeing America

by Horseback, Tom Seay, Macayla Thommason, Virginia State President Carole Feath-

erston, Kathy Thomasson Second Rowm Pam Meirang, Melanie Platt, NSDAC National

President, Phyllis Jones, Mary Ann Hepler. The riders were dressed in Colonial Cos-

tume.

Illinois Society

Maryland Society

Kimbery Nagy, State President

Ellan Thorson, State President

Louisiana Society

Tennessee Society

Hazel Gaudet, State President

Betty Stevens, State President

10


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 in 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 1st (covering the period May 1, 2016 to May 1, 2017)

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

11


CHANGE OF MEMBER INFORMATION FORM (One member per form - Please print)

National Number _______________ Name on record____________________________________________________

CONTACT CHANGES:

Current Information:

State Society ______________ Chapter (if applicable) ____________________________________________________

Current Address __________________________________________________________________________________

Phone____________________________ Email _________________________________________________________

New Information:

Name changed to: (if applicable) _______________________________________________________________________

New Address: (if applicable) __________________________________________________________________________

New Phone_______________________ New Email _______________________________________________________

DEATH OF MEMBER:

Date: _____________________ Place of Death __________________________________________________________

Next of Kin (if available) – Name & Address_______________________________________________________________

TRANSFER OF MEMBERSHIP:

Transfer Out Date ______________From: ___________________________To:_______________________________

Transfer In Date _______________To: __________________________From:_______________________________

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

RESIGNATION/DROP AND REINSTATEMENT OF MEMBERSHIP:

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:

Chapter President ____________________________________________ Date: ________________

Chapter Registrar ____________________________________________ Date: ________________

Chapter Treasurer ___________________________________________ Date: ________________

State President ______________________________________________ Date: ________________

State Registrar ______________________________________________ Date: ________________

State Treasurer _____________________________________________ Date: ________________

PROVIDE A COPY OF THIS COMPLETED FORM TO: National Treasurer, State President, National Registrar, and National &

State Chaplains (only in the case of Death) RETAIN A COPY FOR YOUR FILES.

Reproduce form as needed.

12

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, payable to: Hamilton Jewelers OR Credit Card ___ VISA ___MasterCard ___American Express ___DISCOVER___

Card number ________________________________________ Expiration date: _____________________

Mail completed order form to: Penny Chaboudy Include a Self-addressed, stamped envelope,

NSSDA Corresponding Secretary addressed to: Hamilton Jewelers

335 Mt. Ida Lane 930 Town Center Drive Suite G

Staunton, VA 24401-5618 Langhorne, PA 19047

SOUTHERN DAMES CHARMS and TOTE BAGS Mail completed order form and personal check to:

Penny Chaboudy, NSSDA Corresponding Secretary

335 Mt. Ida Lane,

Staunton, VA 24401-5618

Member _______________________________ National number _____________

State Society name____________________ Chapter (if applicable) name______________________________

Ship to ________________________________________________

Address ________________________________________________

City _____________________________________________State____________ Zip________

Phone number: ____________________________ Email: ___________________________________________

Questions: Call Penny Chaboudy 540.337.1006 or Email: [email protected]

SDA TOTEBAG

$ 20.00

Shipping & handling

5.00

Sturdy Canvas bad 18” wide

x 12” tall with front pocket

Number of Orders

Tote Bag $20 each $

Bracelet Charm $15 each $

Branch Charm $23 each $

Total $

Please make check for product out to NSSDA

Shipping Fees

Tote Bag $5 each $

Charms $3 each $

Total $

Shipping fees are to be on a separate check made payable to:

Penny Chaboudy.

Charm Bracelet Size

$15.00

Branch Bar Size

$23.00

Shipping & handling $ 3.00

13

You are cordially invited to attend National Society Southern Dames of America 55nd Anniversary National Assembly

North Charleston, SC June 1-3, 2017

Hilton Garden Inn Charleston Airport

5265 International Blvd, North Charleston, SC 29418

Magnolia Planation and Gardens

Carolina Wren

Yellow Jessamine

See pages 4 and 5

for details

South Carolina State Flag

Pineapple Fountain

South Carolina State Seal

Fort Sumter

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