The processional leading into Opening Night of the 109th CSSDAR State Conference was full of smiles and pride. The Young American Patriots Fife and Drum Corp of Pleasanton filled our ears with music from long ago and set the mood with a feeling of pride for our patriot ancestors and seemed to take us back to their time. They played “When the Saints go Marching In”, “Seven Stars”, ” Yankee Doodle”, even “Twinkle Twinkle Little Star” which dates back to the early 1800’s.
State Regent Beverly Moncrieff offer greeting and spoke of her theme “Soaring to greater heights in service to God, Home, and Country. Serving God, by planting for the butterflies home. Home, by helping to make our headquarters in Glendora a tranquil setting and also establishing a butterfly habitat. Country, by assisting Camp Pendleton with its memorial.
President General Ann Turner Dillon brought greeting and reflected fondly on her time living in California.
The program, “Remember the Ladies” presented by Claudia Stowers, Vice President of Advancement, Museum of the American Revolution came from Philadelphia to share with us this new museum. The museum is close to Independence Hall and shares the story of everyday people during the American Revolution. This museum is full of women who organize, women who are mothers taking care of their families, and women who helped in any way they could. This interactive museum sounds like a treasure not to be missed.
Linda Winters presented the Medal of Honor Award to Colonel Nancy Summer who served in the National Guard. Linda also presents the Americanism Award to Joel Peterson who has been a citizen for 5 years. He is the author of “Dreams of my Mother’s”.
Tanya Gillick presented the Outstanding Junior Award to Chloe Meyer from the Presidio Chapter. Wonderful things were said about this special young lady who is so deserving.
Sarah Towne-di Cicco, American History and Christopher Columbus Essay Contest Chair, took us on a National Parks tour through the Grand Canyon, Everglades, Montana Glacier National Park, and Maine’s Acadia National Park and sailed the seas with Christopher Columbus using modern day technology through the essay contest winners.
Susan Brooking, State DAR Good Citizen Chair presented the award to Frances Rose Osran.
Outstanding Service to Veterans Awards presented by Jennifer Smith to Veteran John Schuler who has over 23,000 hours of volunteer service to veterans. He said, “When you do something you love, you never work a day in your life”. Youth Volunteer Award was presented to Timber Mariah who as a young child wanted to be a guardian on the Honor Flights. She was the first youth to go. DAR Veterans Volunteer was presented to Carol Brush who volunteers so much of her time to help the veterans in Yountville.
Christine McMahan, State Historian presented the Outstanding Teacher of American History Award to Kevin Roughton. He believes that every child will learn if they are interested in the topic. He integrates technology to engage his students. He shares throughout the nation with his website.
After the benediction, all enjoyed the receiving line and reception.