ESSAY CONTEST WINNER — Kim Van Diver, a member of the Fort Steuben Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, was one of the Ohio State DAR Women’s Issues essay contest winners. She placed first in the career category with her essay entitled, “Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Law Enforcement.” Her essay will now move on to be judged in the district contest. -- Contributed

STEUBENVILLE — The Fort Steuben Chapter of the National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution met Feb. 11 at Historic Fort Steuben in Steubenville.

Regent Mary Ann Jesse called the meeting to order. The invocation and blessing were given by Chaplain Roberta Fedoush. Prospective member Cheryl Hendrix led in the Pledge of Allegiance with Sue Davidson, second vice regent, leading the American’s Creed and Roberta Fedoush, the national anthem.

Jesse read the president general’s message.

Prospective members Joy Siers and Hendrix were introduced. A potluck luncheon followed.

Judy Bratten of Historic Fort Steuben stepped in as the meeting speaker after a late cancellation by the planned speaker. Bratten shared what fort events are on the 2023 calendar, including the Ohio Valley Frontier Days on June 3 and 4. She said that more than 17,000 people visited the fort during the Christmas season.

During the business meeting, the minutes of the last meeting were read by Secretary Vickie Joseph and approved. Treasurer Patti D’Aurora gave the financial report.

Women’s Issues Chairman Janet Rymer informed the chapter that her daughter, Kim Van Diver, won the OSDAR Women’s Issues Essay Contest, Career Division, with her essay, “Breaking the Glass Ceiling in Law Enforcement.” Her essay advances to the district level for judging.

Nancy Valles, Junior American Citizens chairman, reported that the chapter had three winners in the OSDAR contest — eighth-grade stamp, second place, Allison Latinski; eighth-grade poster, first place, Jocelyn Saltsman; and 12th-grade stamp, first place, Rebekah Shoemaker. This year’s topic was “The 100th Anniversary of the Santa Fe Trail.” The winning students attend the Jefferson County Christian School.

Cameo Society Chairman Denise White reported that associate member Millie Koos has asked for the chapter’s help in forming a Cameo Society at her home chapter in East Liverpool. White offered to chair a committee to plan a Cameo tea in 2024 including the Fort Steuben and East Liverpool chapters.

Jesse reminded the members to record their service to America hours.

Under new business, Registrar Tracey Dysert notified the members of a need for volunteers at the Jefferson County Chapter of the Ohio Genealogical Society. It has historic books that need to be sorted and digitized, she explained. Members interested in information or wanting to volunteer were directed to contact Flora VerStraten-Merrin, chapter president.

Dee Ann Green suggested “How the United States Constitution is Relevant Today” as the 2023 topic for the Fort Steuben Chapter scholarship, which was approved. Scholarship Chairman Melinda Young will send contest information to local schools.

Vickie Joseph gave members information on making angel dresses for stillborn babies and will obtain information for those interested.

A sunshine report was given with members encouraged to send cards.

Green invited members to view her U-tube program, “Connecting the Dots with Dee Ann.”

Members were reminded about days to fly the flag.

Fedoush gave the benediction.

The next meeting will be held March 11 at Giovanni’s Restaurant in Weirton.