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HENRY — The 2020-2021 closing meeting of the Chief Senachwine Chapter NSDAR was held via Zoom on May 7. Illinois Chaplain-elect Rebecca Lock, who is also an associate member of the chapter, presented a program on the DAR schools, which are supported by member donations. The five schools, generally located in the Appalachian Mountain-area, were opened in the early 20th century in locations under-served by public schools. For most of the schools, their mission has changed in the 21st century; however, they remain generously supported by the members of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution.
Lock also installed the 2021-2023 Chief Senachwine officers: Sharon Bittner, regent; Carol Byrd, vice regent; Diana Williamson, chaplain; Nancy Gillfillan, recording secretary; Dolores Dace, corresponding secretary; Adelaide Flanigan, treasurer; Nina Herridge, registrar; and Diane Zimmerman, historian/librarian.
The 2019-2021 chapter regent, Dolores Dace, reported that the chapter had received a Bronze-level award for subscriptions to the national “American Spirit” magazine as well as four State Conference Awards for American history, honoring patriots, and most news articles and most photos for the State Regent’s press book. Additionally, nine certificates of award were received for the Women’s Issues report, Level 1 Chapter Achievement, American Heritage, Commitment to Conservation, Constitution Week program on the Bill of Rights plus outstanding Constitution Week scrapbook, re-dedication at the Henry Cemetery, Literacy Promotion and activity for veterans.
Members will be attending District II’s June 3 meeting in Rochelle and the 125th anniversary of Illini Chapter in Ottawa on June 5. Officers and chairmen gave end-of-the-year reports and Regent Dace was voted an honorary chapter regent.
National Defense Chair Carol Byrd noted that May is National Military Appreciation Month due to six notable military observations “intended to raise awareness and encourage the celebration and appreciation for those who serve and who have served in the U.S. armed forces. Events during the month also express appreciation for the service members’ families, who stand by and support their serving relative.”
The six national observances are: Loyalty Day (May 1), Public Service Recognition Week (May 2-8), Military Spouse Appreciation Day (May 7), Victory in Europe Day (May 8), Armed Forces Week (May 9-15) and Day (May 15) and Memorial Day (May 31), originally known as Decoration Day. In 2000, Congress passed the National Moment of Remembrance Act, asking that Americans pause at 3 p.m. on Memorial Day to remember the meaning of the day and to honor those who have fallen in service to their country.
Another important May observance is held May 6-12: Health Care Week. About 78% of health care workers are female, opening them to COVID-19 infections and transmissions and concerns over child care and family health. Members are encouraged to extend thanks to nurses and other health care workers during these stressful times.