The Lone Star Regalia - 2016 Spring Bulletin
Transcription
The Lone Star Regalia - 2016 Spring Bulletin
Texas Society Daughters of the American Revolution The Lone Star Regalia Volume XXXIV, Edition 1 Fall 2015 A Message from your State Regent Judy Callaway Ostler Greetings Texas Juniors! It is with great pride that I offer up words of praise for the wonderful work you are doing in your support of the Texas Society. This is an amazing time to serve DAR as a Texas Junior. Thank you for bringing home first place in every Junior Membership Award handed out at the 2015 Continental Congress. You are an incredible group of ladies and so vital to the successes of TXDAR. Congratulations on this wonderful achievement. In this Issue Texas Awards at Continental Congress -3- Dates to Remember -6- Continental Congress -8-10- Fall Forum Schedule -10- "Miss Lynn" -12-13- Committee Spotlights -14-17- Helen's Help Desk -19- Many of you have accepted positions as State Chairs, Vice Chairs and Committee Members during the Ostler Administration. I am so grateful for the leadership qualities of our Texas Juniors and your willingness to serve TXDAR in the promotion of historical preservation, education and patriotism in Texas. I look forward to working with each of you in your positions. At this writing, Texas has 1,564 Junior Members. 166 Juniors were approved during the month of August. This is remarkable! It is so important to TXDAR that you participate in our Fall Forum and State Conference events, especially those involving paging. TXDAR Pages are the backbone of successfully run Texas State events. Paging is a wonderful opportunity to meet and make lifelong friendships. Please encourage all TXDAR Junior Members to sign up to page at State Conference this year. We need you. As we live out our theme for this administration of “Inspiring faith of our founding fathers, hope for America’s future and love of God, home and country,” I look forward to your support for the TXDAR Executive Board knowing that we stand firm in our support of our Texas Juniors. I am honored to serve as your state regent for 2015-2018, and I am excited about all the opportunities in our future as we serve God, home and country together. Inspiring faith, hope and love, Junior Membership TXDAR Junior Council Dear Daughters and friends: “Service Ties Us Together” is the Junior Membership theme during Mrs. Ostler’s administration, and, like our enthusiasm for TXDAR, we wear our “Totally Texas” bowtie proudly. We invite EVERYONE – Daughters, HODARs, SARs, C.A.R.s, and friends – to celebrate our active service in support of historic preservation, education, and patriotism as the tie that binds us to each other. With the first summer as a Council under our “bows," Texas Juniors have much to be proud of! Thanks to our supporters, Texas Juniors were recognized this June during Continental Congress for their tremendous hard work and generosity. Congratulations on an AMAZINGLY impressive list of National awards! Just as impressive was the announcement that DAR Junior Members had contributed $186,400.00 to six DAR-supported schools through the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund in 2014 – with Texas as a significant contributor. A special thank you to Brandi Sellepack and the Junior Membership Council for your “Friendship Through Service” during the last three years. You have set a standard of excellence that the 2015-18 Junior Membership Council will aim toward in all that we do. To keep this tradition of excellence moving forward, this August, our state Junior Membership chairs and vice chairs attended our annual planning meeting in Arlington. As a part of the busy weekend, we learned more about the roles and responsibilities of the committees within the Junior Membership Council, developed the 2015-16 operational calendar for Junior events and programs, and had a fantastic time learning more about each other while developing friendships. Our plans to help create meaningful experiences for Texas’ Junior members include a fully developed in-chapter program on how to recruit and engage Junior Members, trendy bow-themed items at low-cost price-points to help chapters recognize and appreciate their Juniors, and social and service-oriented events that will bring Juniors together across various regions of the state. We’re looking forward to sharing more details on how “Service Ties Us Together” at Fall Forum! You won’t want to miss our Junior/Pages event on Saturday, September 12th at 7:30am where we will discuss all the ways our Junior Members can make big impacts on their chapters, communities, and TXDAR. Our refreshed “Junior Bow-tique” will have National sales products, gently used items, silent auctions, and limited edition bowtie shirts and door hangers – perfect ways to support and celebrate our Texas Junior members, all helping us create Texas-sized impact at DAR schools through the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund. Tied Together In Service, Jeannie Deakyne State Chair, Junior Membership [email protected] Jeannie Deakyne Junior Membership Chair [email protected] Gwen Parks Friends of Jr. Membership Chair [email protected] Lauren Miller Junior Events Chair [email protected] Sarah Adams Junior Sales Chair [email protected] Angie Dodd Junior Shoppe Chair [email protected] Jamie Burchfield Lone Star Regalia Chair [email protected] Shawna Ditmore Outstanding Junior Contest Chair [email protected] Shannon Cranson Pages Chair [email protected] Allie Dunklin "Miss Lynn" Doll Co-Chair [email protected] Shannon Owen "Miss Lynn" Doll Co-Chair [email protected] Casey Nichole Hoffman Juniors Club President [email protected] 2|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Texas Junior Membership Sweeps National Awards! First Place, Largest Total Contribution to the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund First Place, Overall Junior Sales First Place, New Juniors by Application First Place, HPMF Contribution First Place, New Friends of Jr. Membership Most Outstanding State Committee Report Fall Forum Casting Call! American Girl (or 18-inch equivalent) dolls are needed for our Friday Night Fashion Show featuring the fabulous fashions of Miss Lynn and the Dazzling Daughters. Please bring your labeled dolls to the Junior Bow-tique on Friday! Email [email protected] to let us know to expect you! Where do the dollars go? Measuring the Impact of the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund The impact that the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund has in support of K-16 education is staggering! In 2014 alone, DAR Junior Members contributed $186,400.00 to six DAR supported schools, with Texas Juniors leading all other states in their generous total donations. Just think of the impact TXDAR Juniors can make in 2015! Kate Duncan Smith DAR School - $44,012 total $20,000 for new playground equipment $17,000 for new elementary school carpet $3,092 for student health needs $3,150 for laminating equipment $770 for high school art supplies Tamassee DAR School- $44,057 total $18,562 for a new outdoor basketball court $17,800 for new playground equipment $7,695 for a HVAC System for the Robert Building Crossnore School- $25,000 total $25,000 for a campus community center Hindman Settlement School - $30,885 total $5,400 for the summer tutoring program printing $5,000 for the meals for summer tutoring program $12,000 for the dyslexia program $5,210 for dyslexia program technology needs $3,275 for technology replacement costs Hillside School- $22,446 total $11,000 for construction of a baseball diamond infield $350 for a Vernier probe app $10,996 for campus energy efficiency improvements Berry College - $20,000 total $6,000 for student work for the Martha Berry Digital Archives Project (2 Students) $6,000 for a Gate of Opportunity Scholarship $2,000 for an interpretive marker at Victory Lake $6,000 for historical markers at Oak Hill Gardens During the Wright TXDAR Administration, Texas Juniors: Total Overall Contribution to the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund: $84,323.57 857 New Juniors Approved by Application 126 New Friends and Best Friends of Junior Membership Congratulations and a special thank you to Honorary State Regent Pamela Wright and Junior Membership Chair Brandi Sellepack for their vision, leadership, and enthusiastic support of Texas Juniors and the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund! 3|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Junior Events At Fall Forum please join us for a special event Friday night in the Junior Bow-tique (Shoppe)! Open until midnight- it will include the Texas premiere of the Miss Lynn Doll and a Friday night-only sale alongside treats, goodies, and lots of fun! After a quick rest, please join us bright and early for a 7:30 am Page Meeting to socialize and learn more about paging. The 3rd Annual TXDAR Junior and Page Retreat will be held in January in Austin. Together with informative sessions about Junior Membership, we will celebrate DAR's 125 Years of Service with an outing to a local nonprofit. Please contact me if you have a suggestion for an Austin charity that accepts group volunteers. Lauren Miller State Chair, Junior Events [email protected] THE JUNIOR BOW-TIQUE NEEDS YOUR HELP! Fall Forum will be your first opportunity to celebrate our new logo and theme, so please help us spread the “Service Ties Us Together” theme by bringing 1 dozen bow-themed treats (cookies, cupcakes, rice krispie treats, etc.) to Fall Forum for the Friday night special sale. Please drop off your treats at the Junior Bow-tique (Junior Shoppe) beginning at 2pm on Friday. You may pick up your containers on Saturday from the Junior Bow-tique. All proceeds benefit the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund. Please contact Lauren Miller with any questions. 4|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Friends of Junior Membership The Friends of Junior Membership Endowment Fund is used to support Junior Membership projects at the DAR schools. Members and chapters are encouraged to contribute any amount to this fund. Those who contribute $100 or more are eligible to purchase the Friends of Junior Membership pin from Hamilton Jewelers to wear on the official ribbon. If you are already a Friend of Junior Membership, make an additional $100 donation, and you are eligible to purchase the Best Friends pin. To make a donation to Friends of Junior Membership or to become a Best Friend of Junior Membership, the donor sends the money directly to the Office of Development. Complete the Donations and Contributions Form (DEV-1003), which can be obtained from your chapter treasurer, this Chair, or from the DAR members' website. Complete page 1 with your personal and payment information. On page 2, select number 19 under the "Education" category, and indicate the amount of your contribution. To be eligible for the Friends of Junior Membership pin from Hamilton Jewelers, a minimum donation of $100 is required. Send the form to the Office of Development address as listed on the top of page 1 of the form. If you are already a Friend of Junior Membership, become a Best Friend by contributing $100 or more to Friends of Junior Membership. By making an additional donation, you are eligible to purchase the Best Friends Pin. This is listed as number 28 on the Donations and Contributions Form. All donations apply toward membership in the Heritage Club. Please contact this Chair with any questions about being a Friend or Best Friend of Junior Membership. Gwen Gerber Parks State Chair, Friends of Junior Membership [email protected] "Service Ties Us Together" Items Available at Fall Forum Lapel Pin $10 T-shirts, assorted sizes $20 5|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Charm $10 Junior Shoppe This Chair and her amazing team of Vice Chairs are already gearing up for the Junior Shoppe "Bow-tique" at Fall Forum – please let your chapters know that there are 3 ways in which they can help our Juniors through participation in the Shoppe: 1. DONATE! • New or gently used, clean items to the Junior Shoppe, including holiday, patriotic and Texasthemed items, handmade items, and craft kits. • Voice Items: Items of rarity, value, or uniqueness to be considered as a part of the drawings at State Conference. • Silent Auction Items: Items offered for highest bid during the Silent Auction portions of Fall Forum and State Conference. • These donations will be accepted all yearround, and chapter awards will be given out at the end of each year at State Conference. 2. VOLUNTEER! in the Shoppe. We happily rely upon ALL of our members who are able to lend a helping hand. 3. SHOP! at the Junior Shoppe during Fall Forum Funds raised are used to provide financial assistance to the DAR Schools as a function of the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund. Juniors will be on hand in the Junior Shoppe beginning at 2pm on Friday to accept your generous donations, or contact us at 806-435-0097 and we will be happy to help transport your items from the lobby to the Shoppe. Please feel free to contact this chair with any donations, questions, or concerns – thank you for your support! Angie Dodd State Chair, Junior Shoppe [email protected] Burlap Bow Door Hanger Available at Fall Forum! Thanks to the creative heart and hands of Mary Barrow (Lady Washington Chapter), these door bows will be available for purchase at Fall Forum with all proceeds benefiting Texas Juniors' support of the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund - only $25, or $35 if you'd like it shipped home or to a friend. Please contact Mary at [email protected] to pre-order for pickup at Fall Forum or to arrange for shipping. Dates to Remember TXDAR Fall Forum September 11-12, 2015 TXDAR Junior & Page Retreat January 2016 117th TXDAR State Conference March 10-13, 2016 125th Continental Congress June 15-19, 2016 6|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Junior Sales Greetings, Texas Daughters! I am very excited to begin this Administration as the Junior Sales Chair. I had a great time at Continental Congress, catching up with faraway friends and working in the Junior Shoppe, a great way to prepare myself for what these next 3 wonderful years will surely bring! We will have a great setup at Fall Forum, and I hope that you all can stop by to shop, shop, shop! The newest version of the Junior Sales Order Form will be available on the Texas DAR members’ only website soon. Please use this form to order for yourself or a friend! Remember, all items sold are Nationally approved items and can be worn anywhere, not just DAR activities. If you would like Junior items at your meeting or workshop, please contact me to set it up. I will be more than happy to send you a package or have someone bring products to sell! I have had several requests for Junior Products at meetings and workshops already. By purchasing Junior National Products, your chapter receives credit toward Texas Junior Awards and the State Society toward the National award. At State Conference, one Chapter will earn the Sparkling Tiara award, which will be given to the Texas chapter who has supported Junior Sales the most throughout the year. Shop early and often, and your chapter may be recognized for your generosity to Texas Juniors and the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund. My Vice Chairs and I look forward to seeing all of you at Fall Forum! Sarah Adams State Chair, Junior Sales [email protected] Junior Sales Items Spotlight Texas Juniors Club Any current Texas Junior or any member who joined Texas DAR as a Junior Member is eligible to join the Texas Juniors Club. Dues are just $2.00 per year for current Juniors or $50 for lifetime dues for any past Junior members. After payment of dues you may purchase the official Texas Juniors Club pin from Hamilton that may be worn on the official insignia. Visit the Junior Bow-tique at Fall Forum to pay dues, or contact Juniors Club President Casey Hoffman ([email protected]). 7|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 124th Continental Congress ● June 24th-28th ● Washington, DC 8|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 124th Continental Congress ● June 24th-28th ● Washington, DC 9|Lone Star Regalia, Fall 2015 Continental Congress … through the eyes of a First-Time Page On my way to my first Continental Congress, I was excited but a bit nervous mostly thinking that all my carefully packed dresses would burst out of my suitcase in an explosion of white. After arriving without incident, I quickly felt at home in Constitution Hall when the events kicked off. I learned that Continental Congress isn’t so different from State Conference, but it’s much larger and provides the wonderful opportunity to connect with the DAR and its members on a national and international level. Navigating the labyrinthine buildings is more difficult at first, but I eventually learned my way around! As one of my first events, the page meeting and flag rehearsal put me right at ease by introducing me to the key information, people, and resources that would help me throughout the week. At the end of the meeting, I got to learn about my specific paging assignment and meet my fellow pages. I was a House Committee page, and I had a great time! In addition to keeping the peace in the halls by patrolling with “Quiet Please” signs while business sessions occurred, I got to help with a variety of roles that gave me a broad behind-the-scenes view of Continental Congress, such as distributing information to State Regents, lining delegates up and walking them to the well-orchestrated voting area, filling in as an exit page, and proudly carrying the Texas flag during the processional on National Defense Night. I also helped welcome guests to the Texas Tea and get them lined up to sign in and join the receiving line. Not wanting to get overwhelmed at my first Continental Congress, I didn’t sign up for any big events this time, but I enjoyed going to some of the forums to hear about what’s happening in different DAR committees. I watched the evening programs from the Pages Lounge, where I got to hear the speakers and bond with other pages at the same time. At the more informal Celebrate America! Night, I had fun catching up with my TXDAR friends, visiting the array of booths to learn about exciting ongoing projects, and attending presentations by the extremely entertaining D. Joshua Taylor and our President General. My favorite thing about Continental Congress was getting to meet DAR ladies of all ages from all over. I met pages from other states and loved getting to know them and hearing about how the DAR is run in their states. One of the places where I got to meet other people was the taxi on the way to and from headquarters - after piling into a cab, we would all introduce ourselves and have friendly conversations on the drive. I never knew who I would share my ride with, from other first-time pages to former State Regents, but every new acquaintance treated me like an old friend. I can’t wait to go back next year, armed with my new experience and know-how. I hope to see you there! Lauren McMahon State Vice Chair, Pages Committee Margaret Montgomery Chapter 2015 Fall Forum Events Friday, September 11, 2015 2:00 pm Junior Shoppe Setup 7:30 pm Evening Meeting with State Chair Intros 10:00 pm-midnight Friday Night Sale in the Junior Shoppe Saturday, September 12, 2015 7:30 am Pages Meeting 8:00 am- 2:00 pm Junior Shoppe Open 10 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Pages Outstanding Junior Contest Paging is, without a doubt, one of the most direct ways to serve the Society that tie us together in service and friendship. The Page committee is one of the best ways to get integrated into the organization and learn the ins and outs of how the society works. Chapters are encouraged to select a Junior (18–35 years of age) as its Chapter Outstanding Junior. Each DAR chapter may select one Outstanding Junior per year whether or not she has the points to enter the Contest. We would like all chapters whether you have one or many Junior members to name a Chapter Outstanding Junior. The Page Committee is excited about what's to come this year... and to start, we'll see you at Fall Forum! We invite you join us Saturday morning at 7:30 a.m. to learn more about Paging and to ask any question you have. Not a morning person? Have other places to be? The Page Committee will have a table in the Junior Shoppe, so come talk to us! We would love to meet you and talk with you about the joys and benefits of paging. We are still determining our needs for pages at Fall Forum, so keep an eye on the Texas DAR Junior Membership group or the Texas DAR group on Facebook. More details will be posted there as we finalize them. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact the committee at [email protected]. Shannon Cranson State Chair, Pages [email protected] Lone Star Regalia The Lone Star Regalia is an online-only publication of the Texas Society Junior Council published four times a year (Fall, Winter, Spring, and Summer). To receive notice when the next issue is available, email [email protected] to be added to the distribution list. Jamie Burchfield State Chair, Lone Star Regalia [email protected] Vice Chairs: Allie Dunklin Kate Johanns Maria Minzenmeyer Lisa Smith 11 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 By selecting a Chapter Outstanding Junior, you are recognizing the hard work and dedication of a young woman and encouraging her to be active in DAR and her community to further the DAR’s historical, educational, and patriotic objectives. All Chapter Outstanding Junior Members will be recognized during State Conference with a certificate presented by the State Regent. In addition, the chapter may wish to purchase a Chapter Outstanding Junior Member pin from Hamilton Jewelers and/or a Chapter Outstanding Junior Award Certificate from the DAR Store online to present to their honoree. Also, if you are named a Chapter OJ and have at least 10 points per Part III, DAR Leadership section of the OJ Contest application form then you are able to enter the contest and are encouraged to submit your application no later than October. Feel free to contact me if you are interested in entering the contest. The State Outstanding Junior Member and Runner-Up will be announced on an evening as designated by the State Regent at State Conference. Who knows… the next winner could be you! Please contact me if you have questions or need further information about the Outstanding Junior Contest or naming a Chapter Outstanding Junior. Shawna Ditmore State Chair, Outstanding Junior Contest [email protected] Miss Lynn 2016 National Junior Membership Doll Saluting Dazzling Daughters! Celebrating the 125th Anniversary of the National Society honoring Lynn Forney Young Thankful Hubbard Lynn Forney Young, President General and 100 Dazzling DAR Daughters Texas Daughters across the Lone Star State lovingly created Miss Lynn's fabulous wardrobe and accessories, including 125 separate outfits. Here's a glimpse at some of the Dazzling Daughters. Sponsoring chapters are listed below each Daughter. All proceeds benefit the Helen Pouch Memorial Fund. Ellen Hardin Walworth Gen. Levi Casey Dr. Mary Edwards Walker Martha Jefferson Randolph Princess Agnes Winona Leclerq Salm-Salm Sam Houston Mary Baker Eddy San Jacinto Harriett Stone Lothrop T.S.C.A.R. Corrine Lindy Boggs Mary Tyler Dina Merrill Col. George Dashiell Mildred M. Anderson Pocahontas Marsha Evans Captain James Jack Anna Mary Robertson Moses Samuel Sorrell Voices are one for $5 or five for $20. Please make checks payable to TXDAR. Allie Dunklin & Shannon Owen* National Co-Vice Chairs, Junior Doll 2016 9108 Zyle Road, Austin, TX 78737 [email protected] www.facebook.com/misslynndoll 12 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Miss Lynn ● 2016 National Junior Doll ● Saluting Dazzling Daughters Laura Welch Bush George Blakey & Joseph Ligon Frances Willard Wolf Creek Elizabeth Dole Daniel Coleman Susan B. Anthony Margaret Montgomery Bo Derek La Villita Margaret Seddon Alexander Hodge Clare Booth Luce George Washington Mary Hogg Koops Fort Bend Ginger Rogers La Villita Jane A. Delano Corpus Christi Albion Bacon Guadalupe Victoria Lillie Hitchcock Coit Corpus Christi Chapter Mary Cunningham Logan Mary Tyler Jennie Brownscombe San Jacinto Mamie Eisenhower Lost Pines Frances Parkinson Keyes John Abston 13 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Emily Warren Roebling Lt. Thomas Barlow Janet Reno Austin Colony Grace Murray Hopper Western Trail Julia Roberts Spring Creek State Chair and Vice Chair Spotlights Jeannie Deakyne State Chair, Junior Membership Committee Lucretia Council Cochran Chapter, Arlington Family: Husband, Will; daughters Libby (6), Emma Kate (2), Evie (2) Occuptation: Director of TCU's Neeley School of Business Executive Education I wish I knew how to: Sew. My mother is an AMAZING quilter. I'd love to be able to learn how to do anything beyond just sewing on a button. What experience has changed you the most? This is honestly a toss up- either my time spent in the Army in Iraq, or motherhood. I've fought quite a few battles during both One thing people would know about you: If there is a small town pageant in Texas, I've judged it! Favorite DAR experience so far: There are so many of them, but the experience that stands out the most to me is each time I have the opportunity to carry the Texas Flag during National Defense Night at Continental Congress. When the Texas Flag appears, Texas Daughters always erupt with cheers that are just a little bit louder than any other night. It's like being a DAR rockstar. The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experiences so far is: Our American history matters. It shows us the highs and lows of what determined women and men can accomplish in the name of a cause so much larger than themselves. That spirit- to not just persevere, but to create a movement- is as relevant today as it was 240 years ago. Shawna Ditmore State Chair, Outstanding Junior Contest Jane Douglas Chapter, Dallas Pets: 2 cats and many other animals- deer, quail, roadrunner, raccoon, sheep Occupation: Corporate Accountant If I could, I would: Travel more. Love to travel and haven't seen enough of the world yet. My favorite junk food is: anything salty or sour One thing people wouldn't know about you : I am allergic to chocolate and eggs. Favorite DAR experience so far: Paging for the Office of Development at Continental Congress this year where I learned many, many things about DAR in general and worked with some of the most encouraging, lovely staff members. The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experience so far is: DAR is full of welcoming and wonderful individuals who can come together to support the objectives and purposes of the society as one even though we all have varying backgrounds, education, experiences, employment and opinions. 14 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 State Chair and Vice Chair Spotlights Gwen Gerber Parks State Chair, Friends of Junior Membership Brazos Valley Chapter, Houston Occupation: Certified Child Life Specialist / Instructor for Texas Tech University If I could, I would: travel the world doing volunteer work as a Child Life Specialist. My favorite quote is: "To know even one life has breathed easier because you have lived- that is to have succeeded." Ralph Waldo Emerson I'm tired of: The entire Frozen gang… I love them all but, I'm tired. What experience has changed you most? Living in Lubbock, Texas, 596 miles away from home for 6 years. Lubbock is where I earned 2 degrees and found my husband along the way! I was able to graduate on time not once, but twice. My husband was an added bonus. Favorite DAR experience so far: There are many, but I love watching the American flag fall from the ceiling of Constitution Hall as the President General processes in at Continental Congress. It always makes me smile! The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experiences so far is: It's a small world! Lisa Smith State Vice Chair, Lone Star Regalia Captain Molly Corbin Chapter, Grapevine Occupation: Teacher Family: Two children; 7 year old son (Austin) and 10 year old daughter (Laura) My favorite book is: The "Little House" books My favorite quote: "Life is not measured by the number of breaths We take, but by the moments that take our breath away." My favorite junk food is: chocolate covered pretzels I'm tire of: political disagreements Three accomplishments you are proud of: Master's degree from UT, raising two beautiful children, making a difference in kid's lives. One thing people wouldn't know about you: I have been skydiving. Favorite DAR experience so far: Paging at Continental Congress, when the flag comes down is always a moving experience. The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experiences so far: There are a lot of people who love America! 15 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 State Chair and Vice Chair Spotlights Allie Dunklin National Co-Vice Chair, Junior Doll State Vice Chair, Lone Star Regalia Rio Grande Chapter, McAllen Family: Husband, Bill; 3 sons: Griffin (20 months), William (4 months), and Wellington (4 months) Pets: Bella, Rudy, and Fergie (all Yorkies) I wish I knew how to: do more home renovation projects myself. When you look in the mirror, you see? Usually a child – either hanging on my leg or in my arms. One thing people wouldn’t know about you: For four years, I played on an Adidas-sponsored year-round basketball team that was ranked number 8 in the nation. Favorite DAR experience so far: Introducing the Community Award recipients at State Conference. The recipients all utilized their talents in order to help make a difference in their community. From serving on the board at Mothers Against Drunk Driving to building homes for returning veterans, it was clear that these were worthy recipients. The best lesson I’ve learned from my DAR experiences so far is: If you see a white dress, buy it! Ok… not the only lesson I’ve learned! The best lesson I have learned from my DAR experiences has been if we do not take the initiative to preserve our history, there is a good chance no one else will. It seems that the importance of historical preservation has not been passed down through the generations and DAR has really helped me to see that in order for our cemeteries, monuments, markers, etc. to withstand the elements, someone needs to step up and help. By physically preserving these symbols of history we are also preserving our history’s memoires for future generations to learn and appreciate. NSDAR Day of Service is October 11th! To commemorate the 125th Anniversary of the National Society, each chapter has been encouraged to participate in the NSDAR Day of Service on our Founder's Day, October 11, 2015 by choosing meaningful service projects for their communities. Please send photos and details about how your Junior Members participated to [email protected] so they may be featured in our next issue! Lone Star Regalia Connect with TXDAR on Facebook! www.facebook.com/groups/TexasDAR www.facebook.com/groups/TXDARJuniors www.facebook.com/misslynndoll 16 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Winter Issue Deadline is November 15! Please send articles, photos, and Junior happenings (chapter events, wedding, birth, graduation announcements) to [email protected]. State Board Spotlights Judy Ostler State Regent Major Jarrell Beasley Chapter, Crockett Family: Daughter, Jennifer Ostler Stanney, DAR member Pets: Sophie and Gracie (two Maltipoos) Community Activities: Church, Houston County Historical Activities Center I wish I knew how to: play the piano well If I could, I would: Hot Air Balloon My favorite quote is: "I can do all things through Christ who Strengthens me." Phil. 4:13 My favorite movie is: Gone with the Wind and Out of Africa (tie) My favorite junk food is: Cheetos What experience has changed you most? The loss of my son. When you look in the mirror, you see? A creation of God, though not His best! One thing people wouldn't know about you: I was once assigned my own Scotland Yard Agent. Favorite DAR experience so far? Being installed as State Regent of Texas DAR. The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experiences so far is: DAR is the best support system a woman can have! Zia Lowe State Historian Lost Pines Chapter, Smithville Occupation: Broker Associate with RE/MAX Bastrop Area Family: Husband, Jason; Son, Gibson Lee (5.5 years); Daughter, Gemma Kay (2.5 years) Pets: Mango, cat; Mazy, dog Community Activities: Executive Board of the Children's Advocacy Center I wish I knew how to: sing. I'm totally tone deaf. My favorite quote is: "Be kinder than necessary, for everyone you meet is fighting some kind of battle." (apparently, according to Google, there is some debate as to who first said it) My worst habit is: procrastination Favorite DAR experience so far: I have had so many great ones. Pretty sure being named National Runner Up with my Grandmother and best DAR friends in attendance has been the best so far. The best lesson I've learned from my DAR experience so far is: A strong group of women that think outside themselves and want to make an impact in their communities and beyond can accomplish just about anything. 17 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 An Afternoon of Service with the USO The USO, or United Service Organization, has a long and rich tradition of supporting troops both overseas and at home. So it’s no wonder that ladies from the Daughters of the American Revolution have a long history of being involved with this organization. Considering the USO’s Mission Statement is “To Lift the Spirits of America’s Troops and their families,” it’s no wonder that some of our daughters have decided to take up this cause. This summer, we’ve been busy with activities that carry on the tradition, along with our regular duties at the airports. In case anyone isn’t familiar with the USO, I’ll give you a quick background. Founded in 1941, the USO was a way to provide morale to troops deployed overseas during World War II. The USO was disbanded twice, once after World War II, and the second time after the Korean War, but since then has been in continuous operation since the Vietnam War, thanks mostly to private donations. Surprisingly, the government contributes less than 13% of the total revenue of the USO in order for the centers and programs to operate at their very best. While the USO is better known for its concerts overseas for the troops, and the “Hollywood Canteens” of yesteryear, the USO of today is very much involved stateside with home front activities at airport centers and send off activities, as well as events designed to keep the troops spirits up while they are stationed here at home. And because we have a Joint Reserve Base right here in Houston, along with two airport duty stations, plus a Military Entrance Processing Station, we manage to keep ourselves incredibly busy! One of the bigger events the USO in Houston hosted, along with the Astros, was a deployment ceremony for the 136th Expeditionary Signal Battalion for the Army National Guard at Minute Maid Park. The Battalion was being deployed for Southeast Asia, and we were in charge of making sure that the Battalion and their families were comfortable, processed through the gates quickly, fed in a timely manner, and the best part of all, flying the colors! The USO volunteers had the honor of unfurling the gigantic flag on the field before the game while the on-field deployment ceremony was taking place, and it was amazing. Not only did I get to stand on a real Major League baseball field, I got to see something that not a lot of people get to see up close. It was really cool to hear the commander explain what was happening while the flags were being waved as well, because many times, you see a lot of flag flapping, but not much else. It was a great day, and even though I got to do some really neat things, and had some pretty great stuff happen to me, this is not the reason why I work with the USO. I really enjoy meeting the people who are volunteering to leave everything and everyone they love to go into the unknown and do something that I’m not sure that I would be brave enough to do. So I at least try to be brave for them in some small way and make one day the best day they may be able to have. Emily Ash Brazos Valley Chapter 18 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Helen's Help Desk The answers to all of your DAR and Junior Membership Questions! Dear Helen: I'm attending my very first Fall Forum and I have no idea what to wear! I don't have a specific page assignment, so should I wear white? -Frightened First-Timer Dear Frightened First-Timer: Attending your first DAR anything can be overwhelming, we've all been there! Pages are needed at Fall Forum, but it's much more relaxed than State Conference so there aren't really specific assignments. You can wear white and page as needed and then enjoy the meetings and workshops when not needed as a page. The Junior Bow-tique (Shoppe) can almost always use additional hands and we definitely need as much help as possible during the special Friday Night Sale from 10 pm until midnight. Enjoy your first Fall Forum, I hope it's the first of many! Dear Helen: I always hear about how chapters should name a Chapter Outstanding Junior but none of our Juniors have the required 10 points to enter. They work and have families and can't attend our meetings each month. What should I do? -Confused Chapter Regent Dear Confused Chapter Regent: The Outstanding Junior Contest can be very tricky to navigate! There is actually no points requirement for naming a Chapter Outstanding Junior. If your Chapter OJ doesn't plan to enter the Contest, then an election isn't even required. You are correct that 10 points are required to enter the Contest and the Minutes do need to reflect that your OJ was named if she enters. It sounds like your chapter may have a number of Junior members that aren't able to actively participate for various reasons. That doesn't mean you can't or shouldn't name a chapter OJ! Bestowing the honor on a Junior member may give her an incentive to participate in the future when she is able. The OJ contest also recognizes community service, so you may consider her involvement in her community when deciding which Junior to name. Do you have a question about Junior Membership or TXDAR? Ask Helen! Your question could be answered in the next issue of the Lone Star Regalia. E-mail all questions to [email protected]. Juniors On the Go! Introducing Evelyn Marie Segura, born July 13, 2015 at 8:02 pm, weighing 8 lbs 1 oz. and measuring 19 inches long. Welcomed with love by parents Alice Wood (Captain Molly Corbin Chapter) and Nicolas Segura. 19 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5 Allie Dunklin (Rio Grande Chapter) , husband Billy and big brother Griffin welcomed twins William Hailey IV (left) and Wellington Morgan (right) on April 28th. 2015 TXDAR Junior Council Planning Meeting ● Arlington ● August 14-15th 20 | L o n e S t a r R e g a l i a , F a l l 2 0 1 5