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_________________The Upsilon State________________

__________ _of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International_______ Winter 2017 Vol. 71 No. 2 Iowa State

Music Man Square Welcomes Upsilon State

If knowing you were attending the 2017 Upsilon State Convention in Mason City, IA, wasn’t enough to get you thinking parades and music; stepping into Music Man Square would seal the deal. Add a box picnic supper including ants and musical instruments, a showing of “The Music Man” movie complete with popcorn, a Collect for which we sang “May the Good Lord Bless and Keep You” by Meredith Wilson, and meetings in Exploratorium which features 76 trombones hanging from the ceiling.

June 9-11, the convention theme “Iowa Leads the DKG Parade” was brought to life through the creative ideas of the members of Xi, Alpha Omega, and Beta Omicron from Area 8 led by Convention Chairs Paula Warren-Xi and Rae Jean Nuehring-Alpha Omega. Their warm hospitality would never have revealed to the 173 registered attendees that they were challenged by a nonfunctioning air-conditioning system. Pre-convention tours of Carrie

Chapman Catt’s childhood home at Charles City, the Frank Lloyd Wright Stockman House and other aspects of Mason City, and the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake gave attendees an opportunity to experience more of north central Iowa.

CHANGES AHEAD FOR DKG Simplify! That is one of

the messages we have heard many times in the last year. One way this will be noticed is in the schedule for the 2018 State Convention to be held at the West Des Moines Marriott, June 8-9, 2018. Because this will be a training year for chapter officers, EEC Chairs, and Membership Chairs; Friday evening will include dinner and workshops, as well as time for fellowship. There will also be tours for those wishing to come early.

Training and other workshops will continue Saturday morning, followed by the Executive Board meeting. One noticeable change will be the Ceremony of Remembrance, which will be held immediately prior to the banquet, in a nearby room. The convention will conclude with the banquet. Members will be free to leave for home or stay an additional night and leave the following morning.

Some members have asked about the reason for the changes. When the Finance Committee met in April, it was clear that it was necessary to find cost savings and adjustments to the proposed budget for 2017-2018. As membership numbers,

Continued on page 3

NEWS BULLETIN

Aronson Receives Achievement Award During the Presidents Banquet of the 2017 Upsilon State Convention, State Treasurer Sandy Aronson was presented the state’s highest honor. A member of Alpha Omega Chapter, Sandy has been an active member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International for 36 years. The presentation speech which was written and read by Achievement Award Committee Chairman Patricia Fox is printed on page 4. State President Pam Wittkamp, left, presented Sandy with her certificate and medallion. She is the 29th recipient.

Key Thoughts from Karen I have

chosen the DKG Vision Statement, “Leading Women Educators Impacting Education Worldwide,” as the theme for my biennium as Upsilon State President. This is also International President Carolyn Pittman’s theme.

LEADING WOMEN EDUCATORS – A leader is one who serves, directs, guides, inspires, and empowers others. Delta Kappa Gamma members can be found leading in our classrooms, schools, educational workplaces, communities, and professional organizations. Thank you to all of you who also serve as leaders in DKG at the chapter, state and International level.

Delta Kappa Gamma encourages and empowers members by providing opportunities to explore and develop leadership skills through chapter initiatives and projects, along with workshops and training at State, Regional, and International meetings and Conventions. Other options for strengthening leadership skills are Iowa’s Neva Barnhart Leadership Conference and the International’s Golden Gift Leadership Management Seminar. There are also ample opportunities to exercise those leadership skills by serving as an officer, committee chair or committee member and by presenting programs or workshops at chapter, state, or International levels of DKG.

IMPACTING EDUCATION WORLDWIDE – To impact is to have an effect on or influence. DKG members impact education in many ways, at all levels. Chapters impact their schools and communities through local projects and partnerships, including those related to our State Project, EMBRACE Your Environment; state-sponsored mini-grants allow chapters to leverage resources and multiply the impact. Our International Projects, Schools for Africa and Support for Early-Career Educators, are other ways that we have an impact.

Local grants-in-aid, Iowa Scholarships and International Student Grants, and International Scholarships and World Fellowships help educators to further their education. The DKG Foundation supports creative projects, seminars, and professional development.

Upsilon State’s Legislative Day and the State Legislative Focus, as well as the National Legislative Seminar and the U.S. Forum, provide opportunities for members to learn about issues and advocate for policies that impact education at the local, state, and national levels.

One of my goals for this biennium is to retain and grow our membership. I challenge each member to honor at least one educator by recommending her for DKG membership, and then to mentor her. Think outside the box when recruiting members. I also challenge chapters to reach out to former members who might be ready for reinstatement. Tied to this goal is one of connecting – frequent

Celebrating their installation as your Upsilon State officers for 2017-19 are from left First Vice President Laurie Marple-Alpha, President Karen Dole-Xi, Second Vice President Kristin Merkle-Tau, and Secretary Rae Jean Nuehring-Alpha Omega.

Upsilon State News Bulletin Winter 2017 page 2

communication at all levels to help members feel connected to each other, our state, and the International Society.

A second goal is to encourage more members to take on leadership roles at the chapter, state, and International level. We need willing leaders to continue our good work of impacting education.

A third goal is to maximize and develop new financial resources to support our mission. Tied to this goal is another – adapt and simplify processes and procedures for increased efficiency at both the state and chapter level.

Lastly, we will need “All Hands on Deck” to help prepare to host the Northwest Regional Conference Des Moines in July of 2019. Chapters and members can help by contributing to the Silent Auction fundraiser at the 2018 State Convention, as well as by volunteering to help in other ways as we prepare to welcome members of our region.

Members are the cornerstone of our Society. I am here to serve you. Please let me know if I can help in any way.

Karen Dole, Upsilon State President (Xi) ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~ Continued from page 1

Changes Ahead for DKG have dropped, so has dues revenue needed to continue to support Upsilon State activities and projects. In lieu of raising membership dues, the committee looked at other options for saving money and for expediency looked at ones that didn’t require a change in bylaws or standing rules.

One proposal was to shorten the State Convention, beginning in 2018, by eliminating the Sunday inspirational brunch and moving the Ceremony of Remembrance to Saturday, ending the convention with the banquet. Because standing rules state that officers and committee chairs receive one-half night’s lodging for the convention, ending the convention on Saturday evening would save approximately $1,300 in reimbursements. Speaker fees and room charges are other potential cost savings. Traditionally, about half as many members attend the Sunday brunch as the banquet, and some members have expressed an interest in being done on Saturday evening.

Another cost savings that was enacted is to no longer print and mail the Upsilon State News Bulletin. This cost-saving measure would allow approximately $3,000 in printing and mailing costs to be reallocated for other activities. The News Bulletin will continue to be published but as part of the website in winter and spring. Chapter presidents will receive notification of its availability. Chapters are asked to print and distribute copies to their members who do not have Internet access and email.

It is hoped that these changes will help Upsilon State to continue to be able to fund the projects and activities that are important to our Society’s mission. Note: President Dole provided this information at the editor’s request to help explain some changes made at convention.

2017-19 Upsilon

State Officers

President Karen Dole Xi Chapter Mason City

[email protected]

First Vice President Laurie Marple Alpha Chapter

Eldridge [email protected]

Second Vice President

Kristin Merkle Tau Chapter

West Des Moines [email protected]

Secretary

Rae Jean Nuehring Alpha Omega Chapter

Albert City [email protected]

Treasurer

Sandy Aronson Alpha Omega Chapter

Albert City [email protected]

Parliamentarian

Jan Sowers Beta Omicron Chapter

Algona [email protected]

Immediate Past President

Pam Wittkamp Alpha Iota Chapter

Burlington [email protected]


Presentation of Achievement Award

Patricia Fox introduced the 2017 Achievement Award honoree during the banquet with the following remarks: Good evening DKG sisters!

I am honored to present to you the 2017 Upsilon State Achievement Award recipient. This award is given annually to a member of Upsilon State for distinguished service to the state organization. It is the state’s highest honor.

Achievement Award Committee members are Patricia Fox-chair, Chris Leichsenring, Lorraine Sewick, and Julie Derby. Would you please stand and be recognized for your work and efforts this past year.

This evening, we also have past recipients of this honor in attendance. Would all past recipients of the Upsilon State Achievement Award please stand and be recognized.

This year’s recipient is well qualified. Our committee would like to remind chapter members that there are still many qualified candidates among our membership. Please collect the necessary information from all your members and then submit your nominations when they are called for next year.

Our 2017 recipient has been active in Upsilon State for 36 years. She has attended many state conventions, fall State Executive Board meetings, at least three Northwest Regional Conferences, and three International Conventions.

Now retired, she taught for 35 years as a public school educator, and at that same time, for approximately 24 years as an adjunct professor for Morningside University. She now substitutes in her local district. She is an active volunteer in many capacities in her community. On the state level she has served on the Finance Committee, the Professional Affairs Committee and has been the Upsilon State Treasurer for many years.

Sandy Aronson of Alpha Omega Chapter, please come forward and receive the 2017 Upsilon State Achievement Award. Upsilon State News Bulletin Winter 2017 page 4

Rita Rossman – Alpha Omega

50-Year Members Honored

Special recognition was given to a group of women who have made Delta Kappa Gamma an important part of their lives for 50 or more years. President Wittkamp and Membership Chairman Kristin Merkle had certificates to present which read “Celebrating 50 Years of Membership.” Unfortunately only one of the women, Rita Rossman, was able to attend and receive recognition in person. The other certificates were either mailed or delivered by chapter members. Recognized for their 50-years of membership were Constance Cummings............................... Alpha Rose Mary Zemanek ................................ Alpha Marie Sunderman ..........................................Eta Alice Petersen...........................................Sigma Ina Underwood ............................................. Chi Alta Bolhoefer (55 years) .............................. Psi Mary Esther Hutchcroft..................... Alpha Iota Freda Bumgarner........................... Alpha Sigma Mary Yoder ....................................... Alpha Chi Murval Wiedlein (55 years) ............. Alpha Chi Rita Rossman................................Alpha Omega Patricia Thorell ..................................Beta Theta Mickey Combs .................................. Iowa State

Musician Betsy Kirby entertained during the

banquet with songs she wrote as well as familiar tunes like “Everyone Wants to Be Loved.”

Convention pianist Bev Mawdsley and Elna Easter, both from Beta Omicron chapter, take advantage of the front porch seating in front of the music shop

After their box picnic supper Friday evening, Dena Higginbotham and Linda King, both from Beta chapter, select their favorite musical instruments from the picnic basket centerpiece. Using kazoos, tamborines, clap hands and similar instruments everyone participated in some fun music led by Music Rep. Nancy Burrow-Nu Alpha Gamma.

Registration tables were easily located within the streetscape of Music Man Square.

Girl Scouts of Greater Iowa presented the flags at the Executive Board/General Session meeting on Saturday.

Geri Harnisch and Connie Gillespie, both from Alpha Rho chapter, admire one of the items in the silent auction. Wine baskets, a game basket, a chocolate basket, the rose quilt, and a bird lover’s basket were among the treasures offered for sale to benefit the Neva Barnhart Leadership Seminar.


IowaLeadstheDKGParadeandMasonCityWelcomesAttendees

mini-grant displays * workshops * meetings * meals * silent auction * fellowship * door prizes

International Guest Nita Scott, Member Services Administrator, presented two workshops so everyone had an opportunity to hear her presentation. While sharing “The Myth of One Size First All,” Scott told us “We have it; we just need to present it in a Music Man sort of way.”

The “Slipping & Sliding into Scholarships” workshop was presented right on the streetscape. Attendees heard about scholarship and educational travel experiences, learned about the application process, and were directed to the state website for applications. Martha Schmidt, Candy Carlson and Roxy Schwartz who presented the workshop are joined by other Scholarship Committee members Pauline Antons (second from left) and Rosanne Robe (fifth). Upsilon State News Bulletin Winter 2017 page 6

“Kindergartners and first graders are the best to find fossils—they locate the littlest things!” is a thought Heidi Reams, below, shared during her workshop. Fossils are, in fact, her business as she oversees the Fossil & Prairie Center at Rockford. At the preserve, visitors can collect Devonian fossils, hike native prairies, and visit the historic kilns used by the Rockford Brick & Tile Co.

Speed dating? No, Speed Book Dating! Donna Niday provided a hands-on

experience in her workshop, “Speed Book Dating.” The activity which has potential for classroom use as well as book clubs or DKG programs had members quickly examining books and sharing their impressions of them.

With the streetscape as a backdrop, Barb Sabin, left, and Laurie Haugen presented their program on TLC (Teacher Leadership Compensation). Following the workshops, Saturday morning everyone moved into the Exploratorium for the Executive Board/General Session meeting with Pam Wittkamp presiding. International Representative Nita Scott gave an update. Currently DKG has 7,500 members, 2,200 chapters, 78 states, and 5 regions. Iowa’s membership was reported as 1,117. There is a strong need for members to step up and take leadership roles. Sadly the Expansion Committee reported the dissolution of Alpha Eta and Alpha Mu chapters. An Adhoc Committee to study the structure of the state organization was formed. Members are Dena Higginbotham-chair, Connie Hoag, Janet Hayes, Peg Romack, Lorraine Sewick and Pam Wittkamp. Committees gave reports during the morning session and when it resumed after the Birthday Luncheon. During a music break, members were encouraged to get out their musical instruments and once again make some joyful noise!

Convention Chairs Rae Jean Neuhring-

Alpha Omega and Paula Warren-Xi can be proud of the event they coordinated.

Founders’

Day Birthday Luncheon

With beautiful

rustic sunflower centerpieces placed on colorful hand-dyed African batiks, the Reunion Hall of Music Man Square was decorated and ready for the Founder’s Day Birthday Luncheon. Surround-ing each sunflower centerpiece were hand-carved miniature safari animals from Kenya. Carved out of muhugu wood using only rudimentary tools, members were told these fun miniature carvings are sold by an organization called International Blessings and are produced by 3rd world families in order to break the chains of poverty.

The taco bar at the birthday luncheon let guests select their favorite fillings and fixings, choosing from chicken, beef, lettuce, cheese, sour cream, rice, and salsa. It was fabulous, and a fresh take on a favorite meal. There were mini gourmet birthday cupcakes for dessert, which were enjoyed after singing the Delta Kappa Gamma birthday song to celebrate Upsilon state’s 81st birthday.

The presentation for the Founders’ Day Celebration was full of fun facts about each of the founding members of Upsilon State. These facts along with a picture of each founder were presented as a slideshow as members shared the stories behind these fascinating women. Familiar facts and trivia about the 1936 origins of Iowa DKG were enhanced with more personal details of each of the state founders, which really helped to connect current members with those who established our organization.

Submitted by Lisa Green, Eta chapter


BANQUETTIME—AFirstTimer’sView

People always remember the first time they do anything. This first time for me at the Iowa State

Delta Kappa Gamma Society’s Annual Convention, fulfilled a great need of mine – to find a group of women who stand for the good of people in service. I am a new member of Delta Kappa Gamma as of May 2017. I have attended one meeting, and now I have attended my first Delta Kappa Gamma Upsilon State Convention!

I enjoyed meeting women from all over Iowa, and I loved sharing our life stories and professional stories. There was so much wisdom amongst the ladies at this convention, that no other could top the professionalism! The theme was “Iowa Leads the DKG Parade.” I enjoyed the presentations called “The Myth of One Size Fits All” by an excellent speaker named Nita Scott, and the “Speed Dating Book Talk” by Donna Niday. There was also a session on TLC (Teacher Leadership Compensation by Laurie Haugen & Barb Sabin), which I did not have time to attend, but would have like to have attended. The convention took place in Mason City at a unique place called Music Man Square – a building streetscape with a brick walkway where meeting rooms called Exploratorium and mini old-fashioned stores on a streetscape set up the quaint atmosphere.

The convention proved to promote the motto, “Women Educators Committed to Life-Long Learning Opportunities for All”! I definitely learned a lot about DKG during the Executive Board / General Session Meeting and through the society’s missions and purpose.

Decorations of music fit the theme of “Iowa Leads the DKG Parade,” along with the use of plastic “musical” instruments for each person to “play”! I also learned that there are Delta Kappa Gamma songs! During the banquet, we sat at circular tables adorned with candles scented of spiced apples with red and gold tinsel combined with a light in a glass cylinder over a square mirror provided a centerpiece for the tables. They actually gave away the candles as a gift!

My DKG chapter, Zeta, earned excellence points/awards along with other chapters, for completed activities. I will have to learn more about the activities with my chapter.

After a President’s flag introduction of chapters present – where chapter presidents placed a flag in a central area – our meal was served. I really wish someone would have told me that ladies dress up for this night, everyone looked so elegantly dressed – I felt a little underdressed, but I guess anything goes, because I saw another member in a t-shirt! Everyone makes a new person feel so welcome. The food was fantastic at the banquet! We were served a red vinaigrette salad with fruit, which was so delicious that I split a second, extra salad at my table, with my Chapter President and friend, Cara! (Shh! Don’t tell anyone!} We had a choice of herbed chicken or pork as our entré meat with homemade mashed seasoned potatoes, a dinner roll, and a decadent dessert of cheesecake – cherry or lemon – (don’t tell anyone), but I ate my piece of lemon dessert AND split an extra piece of cherry cheesecake with that same friend of mine! Outstanding menu!!


More “Girl Power” was shared as a female named Betsy Kerby, Musician-Singer-Entertainer, sang familiar tunes and played the piano in Reunion Hall. She was very talented; I was amazed at the fact that she had just given birth two months before, then, here she was entertaining us! I especially enjoyed a song she had written for her students called, “Hand Safe in Mine” – this was just what I was feeling about my DKG group at this time.

Each table had a hostess, who was very easy to talk to and helped us get conversational by promoting introductions and conversation – a great idea! Each table hostess we experienced at every meal time was very congenial and interested in the stranger’s life at our tables. This made me feel so welcome. As I listened to the words in a song, “Everybody wants to love and be loved,” I could just feel the admiration in the air. Then the Beatles song was sung, with the words, “Speaking words of wisdom, let it be.” I was thinking about ALL the WISDOM in this room at the banquet, and how fortunate I was to be amongst such wonderful people.

Awards were presented for years of service, 50-year members, to thirteen women across our great state of Iowa. Two women were recognized for 55 years = Alta Bolhoefer and Murval Wiedlein! The Achievement Award Presentation was made by Pat Fox to Sandy Aronson. I hope to be a part of my chapter’s commitment to service projects and meetings as well. Finally, Chapter Excellence Award Recipients were recognized.

Door prizes were drawn from two containers – one container for new members (how nice!), and another container contained everyone’s name! Therefore, I believe, I had TWO chances to win – however, it was not to be – I was happy that our Zeta Chapter president did win a prize! Presidents should win something for all their time commitment! Very nice decorative prize baskets were awarded – and there were several of those made as door prizes. There must have been ten of those given away just during this meal time!

A Farewell Address was given by outgoing DKG Iowa President, Pam Wittkamp. She was a first class lady and handled the convention with professionalism. I felt like a true sister with her when she mentioned that her mother had been at a banquet with her before, and had been ill since then – I felt saddened by that fact. Karen Dole presented her a music box as a gift of appreciation from her officers and committee chairmen – as she has a collection of music boxes. She gave the longest-stemmed red roses, that I have ever seen, to her steering committee members – thanking them for their service. I imagined the music, “Thank You For Being a Friend,” playing in the background, as the good-byes were given and the acknowledgements of a jobs well done.

The installation of 2017-2019 officers was conducted by Mary Zirkelbach. I learned that offices are served in two-year terms. Closing remarks were presented by Pam Wittkamp, outgoing DKG Iowa President. It was not a sad farewell, but a “carry on” for the good of us all, farewell. Then my Zeta Chapter and I greeted each of the new officers and wished them good luck in their leadership venture.

I was curious what tomorrow would bring with a Ceremony of Remembrance, a brunch and more door prizes, another fun speaker, and singing the closing Delta Kappa Gamma song for my first time! I just know this is going to be a great adventure in my life!

Respectfully submitted, Marlene Huggins, Zeta Chapter, Newton, Iowa

Pam and Odelia, left; Karen, Cara and Marlene in receiving line Upsilon State News Bulletin Winter 2017 page 9

Nita Leaves an Impression

As the International Representative to the Upsilon State Convention, Member Services Administrator Nita Scott had a busy weekend. She is shown above with Outgoing President Pam Wittkamp following the banquet. Instead of speaking at the banquet, Nita presented her “The Myth of One Size Fits All” workshop at both workshop sessions Saturday morning. Nita’s presentation gave everyone much to think about for the present and the future of DKG. She suggested that many things keep us in our boxes, but those things are ours to change. Traditions, requirements, time restraints, words, eligibility and classifications are all aspects of restraint. She feels that people join organizations for opportunities to lead, learn and make a difference. To keep our chapters alive, members need to be progressive. Find out what the chapter needs and wants. Find out what potential members need and be the group to provide it. Nita suggested DKG members need to be like the Music Man who found a problem, found a need, then made everyone feel important.

UpsilonStateNewsBulletinEditorNancyMiddaugh

P.O.Box71,Hamburg,[email protected]

NextdeadlineFeb.1,2018

“ApplyforScholarships”

It is the responsibility and privilege of the Scholarship Committee to select scholarship recipients from three categories of scholarships. This year we are giving one scholarship. The state scholarship is for graduate work for $600.00. It is awarded to Rochelle Barnum-Mu (below right).

Rochelle is an American History and World Cultures teacher at the West High School in the Sioux City Community Schools for the last 20 years. Seventeen of those 20 years she has also been a museum educator at the public museum in Sioux City. She is working on her second master’s degree in history from Adam’s State College in Colorado this summer. During the last two summers Rochelle was invited to participate in two learning communities--one at Yale where she dressed up as John Adams and one at Mount Vernon where she was George Washington. Rochelle and her teaching partner dressed as Martha and George Washington as they taught about the Revolutionary period of time.

Rochelle is a reflective educator, who is

passionate about delivering content in a way that is both challenging and engaging for her students. She is always looking for the best student centered approach to content delivery. It was my privilege to give this award on behalf of the Upsilon State Scholarship Committee. “Apply for scholarships” was the message Roxy emphasized in closing.

Roxy Schwartz-Nu Alpha Gamma 2015-17 Scholarship Committee Chairperson

Mark your calendars for the 2018 Upsilon

State Convention in West Des Moines June 8 and 9


Ceremony of Remembrance A Parade of Heavenly Sisters was the theme of the Ceremony of Remembrance at the 2017 Upsilon State Convention. Through songs, prayer, responsive reading, and poetry, eighteen deceased members were honored. As members of the Membership Committee—Connie Hoag-Mu, Connie Gillespie-Alpha Rho, Barb Blinks-Lambda, and Chair Kristin Merkle-Tau read tributes to the women, others placed white roses in vases. Honored members were Delta Mary Sherer April 11, 2017 Zeta Dorothy Spiker June 6, 2016 Iota Joy Corning May 20, 2017 Iota Helen Smith Dec. 15, 2016 Lambda Doris Jean Wallace March 20, 2017 Mu Caroline Donaway June 21, 2016 Chi Joan Williams August 28, 2016 Chi Elaine Berghefer Jan. 30, 2017 Omega Clarabelle Henderson Dec. 13, 2016 Alpha Epsilon Nancy Gaunt Feb. 12, 2017 Alpha Rho Carol Downing March 12, 2017 Alpha Rho Gladys Houser May 6, 2017 Alpha Phi Rita Bosler July 1, 2016 Alpha Chi Jeanette Miksch May 7, 2016 Beta Zeta Mary Elaine Bowen April 23, 2017 Beta Nu Virginia “Ginny” Bone March 29, 2017 Beta Rho Margaret Johnson Dec. 2, 2016 Nu Alpha Gamma Wilma McManus July 22, 2016

The fragrance always remains in the hand that gives the rose. ~ Heda Beja

Photograph Published A photograph submitted by Susan Carlson – Alpha Omega was selected for inclusion in the 2017, Volume 83-4 issue of The Delta Kappa Gamma Collegial Exchange. The title of the photo is “Nature’s Beauty in a Moment.” Congratulation, Susan.

Inspirational Brunch June 11, 2017

After honoring our members who passed

during the last year we entered the banquet room for the Inspirational Brunch. All the table deco-rations were very fitting for the venue with music sheets rolled up in glass vases & chains made of music sheets. Table favors were bookmarks printed with “2017 Iowa Leads the DKG Parade” and tea bags wrapped in a piece of music stating, “Time for Tea with DKG”.

We had a buffet brunch and then settled in for our speaker Deadra Stanton. She has been an educator for 41 years and owns a business,

“Creative Communication.” She used humor and examples from her career to inspire us to ‘Break the Cycle’ by reaching out to all students. Taking the time to care can be all it takes to turn a

student’s life around. Always remember we will have good days and bad. Don’t ever think what we have done as teachers is not important.

Submitted by Susan Schaefer Alpha Nu


Hoag Article Published

Congratulations to Dr. Constance Hoag – Mu for having her article “STRETCH GOALS: Strategies to Break the Cycle of Disconnect Within DKG” selected for publication. The article is included in the 2017, Volume 83-4 issue of The Delta Kappa Gamma Collegial Exchange. Submission for the magazine in various cate-gories are encouraged. You can find details in the magazine or on the international website.

CONVENTION PHOTOS

Your editor has a few

more photos from convention to make you wish you had attended. Hopefully the fun and friendship displayed will encourage you to attend the 2018 convention at the Marriott in West Des Moines. Registration information will be on the website.

Photos at right— ! Making music in Music

Man Square. Notice the trombones on the ceiling of the Exploratorium

! Newly installed Pres. Karen Dole greets Donna Becker, a happy door prize recipient from Waverly

! The ice cream shoppe on streetscape was open for treats. Relaxing between convention activities are Angela Pratt – Tau and Carolyn Finnestad – Gamma.

! A photo opportunity in the museum couldn’t be passed up by Chris Fink and Dena Higginbotham- both Beta

Registrar Carol Iverson - Xi

Following the convention, Registrar Iverson reported attendance at meal events—Friday night - 94, Saturday luncheon - 146, Saturday banquet – 135, and Sunday brunch 112.


Silent Auction Benefits Seminar

The Neva Barnhart

Leadership Seminar silent auction fundraiser was held at the Upsilon State Convention in Mason City, June 9-11. The items for the auction were donated by past participants and presenters at the Neva Barnhart Leadership Seminars. In addition to the donated baskets, Nu Alpha Gamma and Alpha Omega each donated an item to the silent action.

This non-dues revenue event raised over $800.00 to help the future Neva Barnhart Leadership Seminar classes. There were 16 items to bid on, which ranged from candy to wine, from reading to bird feeding, quilting to cooking, and coffee to jewelry. There was a nice variety of items to attract bids. You could say there was something for everyone. Several members made monetary donations.

Thank you to all who donated items to the silent auction. A special thank you to all who purchased items in the silent auction, your generosity is appreciated.

Submitted by: Liz Poock - Psi

NW Regional in Spearfish Upsilon State President Karen Dole center was joined by this group of Upsilon State sisters at the Northwest Regional in Spearfish, South Dakota, June 28 – July 1. The group included a past International President, International committee members, past State presidents, State officers, committee chairmen and members. Several of the attendees participated in special training sessions. Dr. Carolyn Rants delivered an inspirational at the Conference. Thank you to Chelle Mannhardt for sharing this group photo. Your next opportunity to attend (and assist with) a Northwest Regional Conference will be in your own backyard. Iowa has been chosen to host the event in 2019 in Des Moines.

Thank you from Beta Omicron

Thank You! Beta Omicron Chapter would like to thank those of you who gave donations for table decorations after the Saturday Birthday luncheon at convention. All proceeds of $369 have been donated to Schools for Africa. We hope your sunflower arrangements are a pleasant reminder of a great convention and the hand carved African animals are being enjoyed! Submitted by Trudy Dugan, President of Beta Omicron

“3Rs: Refresh, Renew, and Revitalize” 2018 Upsilon State Convention

Mark your calendar now: Friday and Saturday, June 8th and

9th. The two-day convention will be held at the West Des Moines Marriott beginning Friday afternoon and ending after the Banquet Saturday night.

Tours, workshops and training for new Chapter Presidents, Membership Chairs, Treasurers will be held Friday evening. Saturday will have more breakouts for new chapter officers and personal development, the Executive Board Meeting/General Session, and Remembrance Ceremony. Three meals will be served, including the Friday night, Founder’s Birthday Luncheon and Banquet. Meet old friends and make new friends at the Convention.


You Can Do This! You love your chapter and the good works it does. You’ve received state scholarships and emergency funds. You’ve seen the success of mini grants and Neva Barnhart Leadership training. “So I decided it was time to give back to the Society.”- Carolyn Rants, Past State and International President. “I found that many of the leadership skills I learned from DKG also helped me in my professional positions.” You smile in agreement.

You have been on committees and enjoyed getting to know women from across the state. You’ve learned more about DKG. As a teacher your joy was in sharing knowledge with the kids. Guiding them. You’re good at it. Being an officer would be a new knowledge adventure with women across Iowa. “…I agreed to be nominated for the office of state secretary, I learned a great deal about the workings of the state organization during those two years.”-Angela Pratt, Past State President.

You sit back and think about a nomination to a state office like secretary and second vice president in 2019.

“I thought I’d just be State Secretary for two years but after seeing the ‘inside’ working of state officers, I stretched myself and convinced myself I could do it.”- Mary Zirkelbach, Past State President.

You talk to your fellow sisters. They are supportive and encourage you to venture forward.

“I thought this was a good way (a nomination) to challenge myself and help the organization simultaneously.”- Donna Niday, Past State President

Share your desire to be nominated with your DKG sisters.

Submit nominations for the 2019-2021

biennium to- Yettee Girard Nomination Chair -

[email protected] Cathy Clark - [email protected] Lori Bruzek - [email protected] Yvonne Fielder - [email protected] Mary Pieper - [email protected]

Congratulations, Barb Top!

BarbTopofSiouxCenter,amemberofAlphaPhiChapter,wasrecentlypresentedthesixthannualAddinkCommunityServiceAwardduringPromise

CommunityHealthCenter’s“AnEveningofPromise.”Barbviewsitasherpurposeinlifetoserve.Shehasapassionforreachingouttopeoplewhosocietymayviewas“underdogs.”Herperspectiveisthesamewhethershe’sinMexico,Mississippi,Guatemala,Romania,anorthwestIowafoodpantryorSiouxCenter. Top,whoholdsadoctorateinspecialeducation,dedicatedmostofhercareertostudentswithdevelopmentaldisabilities. ItisextremelyfittingthatBarbwasselectedasthe2017recipient.Astheawardcriteriastates“Theawardrecipientexemplifiesthebestinvolunteering–asenseofcaringandresponsibilityforothers,forthebettermentofthelocalcommunityandforthegreatworldbeyond.”

Encouragement from State Webmaster

Your Upsilon State Webmaster Mary

Zirkelbach encourages chapters to share their events, programs and projects on chapter web sites, Facebook group pages and local news.

Share the successes of your members with the public, including that they are members of your chapters. Let the public know what DKG means to us.

Our Upsilon State web site has a ‘Chapter News’ page which shares these same stories when chapters send them to her at [email protected].

UpsilonStateNewsBulletinWinter2017Page14

Summary of NW U.S. Forum Session

Approximately 150 DKG members, representing each of the twelve states of the Northwest Region and five states from the NE, SE and SW regions, gathered on June 29 in Spearfish for the US Forum Session. Darlene Cook, US Forum NW Regional Representative, presided over the Session. Guest speaker was Sheri Nelson, Suicide Postvention Coordinator with the Helpline Center in Sioux Falls, SD. In her presentation, “Curbing an Increase in Youth Suicide,” Ms. Nelson gave statistics on bullying, especially cyber bullying, and its effects on children and young adults. Participants learned that according to 2015 rates of suicide by state, four of the five highest were states within our Northwest Region.

Members received a report on the work of an Ad Hoc Committee charged with revising the US Forum operational guidelines.

Forum business included a motion brought forward by Int’l First Vice Pres. Barbara Whiting of Minnesota. It was moved by Barbara and seconded that in order to acknowledge the efforts of the convention on the elimination of all forms of discrimination against women (CEDAW), Northwest Regional members of the United States Forum support and endorse CEDAW. The motion passed. Barbara then moved to forward the CEDAW motion for presentation to the Northeast, Southeast and Southwest regional members of the US Forum for their consideration. The motion passed. The original motion has since passed in the other three regions.

A video of members reporting on their experiences from the 2016 National Legislative Seminar was shown. Northwest members were encouraged to attend the 2018 seminar, March 18-21 at the Holiday Inn in Arlington, Virginia. The door prize was a free registration to the 2018 National Legislative Seminar. Judy O’Brien – Beta Chapter Iowa was the winner. She’s presented her prize below by Darlene Cook (OR) and Dr. Carolyn Rants (IA).

Forum participants completed a survey of issues indicating their

top four areas of concern. Those issues selected by our Northwest members were human trafficking, health care for women and children, hunger in America and opioid addiction. Results from all four regions will be considered in determining the issues to be addressed at the seminar.

The Session ended with state groups discussing issues of concern in their states. Most of the concerns seemed to cross state lines only emphasizing the importance of working together for the welfare of women, children and education. Communication; Cooperation; Advocacy. We must be "Women Poised for Legislative Action!"

InformationprovidedbyDarleneCook

Chapter Tidbits Beta Alpha honored three of their recent retirees with red roses. Roberta Hass, Jonelle Kann, and Norma Thiese were encouraged to take time to be with family and friends, have fun, keep active, kick up your heels, and throw out the clock!

Congratulations to Norma Thiese of Beta Alpha for being selected as a current member of the Iowa Commission of Libraries! Norma has been an Iowa AEA Media and Technology Consultant. Seven members are appointed by the Governor to serve four-year terms. Xi Chapter will be continuing their focus on three projects: their crayon-recycling, bras for the “Free the Girls” program, and membership “brags” with the money going to Schools for Africa. For Tau Chapter, KATS means Keeping Alive Tau Sisterhood. KATS are social activities with no business meeting. At their most recent one, participants did a Mason Jar Baking project for World Fellowship. Members provided cookie ingredients into jars and sell to themselves or others. Afterward they gathered for supper and played games. Aware that the Inter-national Emergency Fund is being reduced by the devastating damage done by recent hurri-canes, Jan Sowers of Beta Omicron challenged her sisters to donate toward the Fund for a chance to win a door prize she had won at state convention.

DKG’s version of pass-it-forward.


Helen Watts Honored

Lambda Chapter member Helen Watts

celebrated her 100th birthday last December 19th. She has been a member since 1965 and retired from teaching at the University of Dubuque.

To honor Helen, Lambda Chapter renamed their Grant in Education the Helen Watts Grant in Education. This year's winner of the grant is Laura Naber from Dyersville, IA. She will be a senior at Clarke University majoring in Secondary English.

Several members of our chapter went to visit Helen at Bethany Home in Dubuque and introduced Laura to Helen. Helen, who began teaching in a one-room school, gave Laura advice for her upcoming student teaching at Dubuque Senior High School.

Submitted by Susan Bateman President, Lambda Chapter

Chapter Tidbits

Nu Alpha Gamma sister Darlene Pitsenbarger was the parade marshal at the Old Settlers’ Day parade in Redfield on June 24. She rode in a horse drawn wagon. In a recent newsletter, Alpha Nu shared that immunizations recommended for those over 50 are shingles, Hepatitis B, Tdap, pneumonia and flu. (U.S. Forum Connection #164) At Beta’s November meeting, author Mary McGinn shared her knowledge and photos of historical homes in Council Bluffs.

Dr. Fechek Passes Dr. Theresa Fechek, International Executive Director, passed away recently in Ohio. At age 84, she had served DKG as Executive Coordinator of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society for almost 20 years. She received the International Achievement Award in 2002.

K A T R I N A Although the top five World Fellowship per capita donations were announced by Chair Beth Ross at the 2016 Convention, Katrina didn’t travel to her new home until Fall Executive Board Meeting.

Donations were 5th Zeta $6.45, 4th Alpha Omega $8.25, 3rd Eta $9.67, 2nd Gamma $10, and Tau $17.43. Shown above representing Tau Chapter are Yvonne Felder and Kristin Merkle.

DKG Mission Statement

The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International promotes professional

and personal growth of women educators and excellence in education.

VISION STATEMENT

Leading Women Educators

Impacting Education Worldwide

UpsilonStateNewsBulletinWinter2017page16

Approved Changes in the State Standing Rules

At the state convention, Odelia Schrunk as Chair of the State Rules Committee presented two proposals for changes in the Standing Rules. The proposals were printed in the spring issue of the Upsilon State News Bulletin.

Following are the changes as approved for Standing Rule 4.85 f. and 4.85 g. 4.85 Meetings f. Fall Executive Board (1) At the fall meeting of the State

Executive Board, luncheons shall be provided at a uniform cost to all members registered. The luncheon cost shall be announced in the president’s fall newsletter, on the state web page, and printed on the registration form.

(2) State committee members shall be paid round-trip mileage if their committees are meeting.

(3) Program presenters who do not qualify for mileage under Rule 4.85 of the Upsilon State Standing Rules shall also receive round trip mileage.

g. Leadership Development Workshops

(1) Incoming chapter presidents and incoming chapter membership chairs shall be allocated twenty-five dollars ($25.00) each for attending all Leadership Development workshops at the Upsilon State Convention.

(2) Committee members shall be reimbursed for workshop materials authorized by the state president.

CREATIVE OPPORTUNITY FOR ALL

There is a new non-dues revenue project. It

will be a silent auction of baskets at the 2018 State Convention in Des Moines.

Laurie Marple, Kristin Merkle, and Liz Poock will spearhead the project to help defray hostess costs for the 2019 Northwest Regional Conference to be held in Des Moines, Iowa.

Each chapter will be responsible for a silent auction basket with a minimum value of $25. The basket could be a chapter project. Individuals wanting to contribute a basket for the auction would also be happily accepted.

The place to be June 8-9, 2018, is this Marriott Hotel, West Des Moines, Iowa. See you there!

Chapter Tidbits Mary Krohlow, author of Streets of Honor & More Des Moines Country Commenctions gave the program at the November meeting of Alpha Iota.

For their November 6 meeting, Epsilon welcomed Jaci Easter, a professor at Grand View University, who discussed women in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) professions and how education can promote more female involvement.

UpsilonStateNewsBulletinWinter2017page17

FALL EXECUTIVE BOARD Upsilon State Fall Executive Board Meeting was held Sept. 16 at the Holiday Inn Airport, Des Moines. Seventy-nine registered including six first-timers. The day began with Keynote speaker Ruth Buckels (left) and her presentation “Human Trafficking: It is Here and Thriving in Iowa.” Attendees learned that in Iowa, human trafficking primarily exists as corporate/pimp, gang, or family. Ruth emphasized that it was not a choice the individual made. It is an industry that sells souls and spirits. Workshop sessions included chapter presidents with President Dole, area coordinators with Expansion Chair Pam Wittkamp, “Legislative Issues and How Members Can Advocate” by Margaret Buckton (middle), and “Make & Take” Hands on Art with Jan Sowers at which Sherry Craig creates a Halloween spider (right).

Human Trafficking “Foot in the Door” Collaboration As women educators, we need to know the signs of trafficking to protect our students. As Iowa DKG members we can support the efforts of Teens Against Human Trafficking (TAHT) –based in Ames and founded by an Ankeny high school girl. TAHT needs to get their Foot in the Door. “According to a study of U.S. Department of Justice human trafficking task force cases, 83 percent of sex trafficking victims identified in the United States were U.S. citizens. The average age that U.S. citizens are first used for commercial sex is 12–14.”* Logo used with permission.

In addition to chapter Executive Board packets, all chapter presidents in Iowa have received a detailed email explaining how to help TAHT make contacts for their local school districts. Tau Chapter is continuing their mini-project into this school year by encouraging all other chapters to contact TAHT to help this organization make connections through presentations and education with more schools and communities. Send your contact information emails to Shannon Schott: [email protected] *https://www.iowaattorneygeneral.gov/for-crime-victims/fighting-human-trafficking Upsilon State News Bulletin Winter 2017 page 18 Submitted by Mary Zirkelbach, Tau

Upsilon State Joins Others in Donation to

Emergency Fund Both Alpha Kappa State (Connecticut) and Upsilon State (Iowa) made a monetary contribution to the DKG International Emergency Fund at their Fall Executive Board meetings. Each state donated $500 to the Fund to help members who have been victims of the recent hurricanes in both Texas and Florida, as well as the wildfires in the northwest. The fund is distributed by the DKG Supporting Foundation. It is endowed solely by donations and is a 501(c)(3) charitable fund, making all contributions tax-deductible to donors. Because your “News Bulletin” editor saw an article written by Carol Beam, Editor, in “The Connecticut Keynote” Fall 2017, about their state’s donation, I asked her permission to reprint parts of the article which I felt explained the Fund well. “Following a 1948 flood that destroyed Vanport, Oregon, a plea for help in the DKG NEWS resulted in more than $3,000 that became the Emergency Fund. The fund continues as natural disasters affect members. Contributions demonstrate the Society’s genuine spiritual fellowship. Members who sustain major losses from floods, tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, wild fires and other natural disasters may be recommended by their chapter and state organization presidents to receive a U.S. $500 Emergency Fund Award. “To contribute to the Emergency Fund by credit card go to https://www.dkg.org/DKGDONATE/Donate_to_DKG.aspx and click on “Emergency Fund.” If you would prefer to make a donation by check, please download Form-43 on the DKG website under Forms. Mail this form with your check to The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, P.O.Box 1589, Austin, TX 78767-1589.” Besides the $500 donation from Upsilon State, individuals and chapters have made monetary donations to this worthwhile cause since the Executive Board Meeting in September meeting.

An invitation was issued at the State Convention in Mason City

and again at Fall Executive Board to the

Upsilon State Convention West Des Moines

Marriott Hotel June 8 and 9, 2018

Hostess Chapters

From Area 9 Delta, Epsilon and Tau


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