DAR Fort Steuben Chapter members learns about origin of forts, tribes

WEIRTON -- Jay Frey, president of the Fort Henry Chapter of the National Society of Sons of the American Revolution, was the featured speaker when the Fort Steuben Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution met Nov. 13 at Giovanni's Restaurant in Weirton.

Introduced by Regent Vickie Joseph, Frey presented a program that featured historic information about the families present in the Wheeling/Panhandle area of West Virginia. Members learned about the origins of local forts and tribes such as the Mingo and were encouraged to find and read "Logan's Lament Speech."

Parliamentarian Nancy Valles gave the invocation and blessing at the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance led by Flag Chairman Barbara Starkey. The national anthem was led by Roberta Fedoush.

Transfer member Tracey Dysert was introduced.

Tammy Kotyk read the president's general message. Sandy Briggs read the minutes of the last meeting, and the treasurer's report was given by Patti D'Aurora.

The Indian Minute was given by Carolyn Mizok, who reminded members that November is National Native American Heritage Month. She highlighted many contributions made by Native Americans.

In a women's issues report, DeeAnn Greene explained this year's topic is "Managing Life's Complexities during the Pandemic in Career Category through Essay Writing." Entries are required to be on electronic word file or a picture of the essay can be taken from a phone or scanned for submission, she noted. The deadline is Jan. 25, and entries can be e-mailed to the chair at martywarthman@yahoo.com. Mailed entries should be sent no later than Jan. 15 to the chairperson, Marty Warthman.

The nominating committee is recruiting potential candidates.

Nancy Valles said she is looking for volunteers to help judge Junior American Citizenship contest entries prior to the December meeting.

In a 100th anniversary committee report, Greene showed members what the commemorative anniversary pins look like. They will be given to members during the event.

In a Fort Steuben Chapter Scholarship Committee report, Joseph asked members to consider donating to it, noting all donations are tax deductible. There is an online platform to nominate students for national DAR scholarships.

The chapter will hold its pre-Christmas sale at the December meeting. Proceeds from the items will be contributed to the chapter's scholarship account.

Under old business, members were reminded that the state DAR conference will be held March 25-27. Credentials are due Feb. 11.

Jeanne Vega purchased and donated retired flag stars to members of the Fort Steuben DAR to give to veterans.

Karen Blanc shared that 2021 is the 39th anniversary of the Wall for Vietnam Veterans in Washington, D.C.

Under new business, members voted to sponsor two wreaths to the Paris, Pa., cemetery and three to Union Cemetery in Steubenville for Wreaths Across American. Members should plan on meeting at 11:30 a.m. Dec. 18 to help at the cemetery of their choice.

In a conservation tip, Kotyk advised members to save milkweed pods to plant in the spring to help feed Monarch butterflies.

Valles gave the benediction.