My Dear California Daughters:
Just as the calendar turns to April, we are two weeks past State Conference… a Conference that saw twists and turns and, certainly, unexpected challenges. We saw Daughters “rising” to the challenges, supporting each other, “shining” in their creative efforts to fill in where absences were necessary. We in San Ramon were keenly aware of missing friends who concluded to remain at home for reasons of their own regarding personal health / safety / family needs. We valued and respected these decisions and trusted our friendships and respect for each other to support those who were able to attend.
This year saw us using teleconferencing for the first time for the Opening Night keynote address and to
“present” the Gary Sinise Foundation with a check for $40,000. Many at home may have enjoyed other
presentations from time to time during conference via livestreaming, thanks to Celeste Cox. We presented awards, recognized achievements, honored service and study. We enjoyed hearing reports that were illustrated through pictures and were in awe of the many, many ways chapters and Daughters are making a difference in our communities and throughout our Society through their service to God, Home, and Country. Though missing a number of you, we didn’t lack for fun and fellowship.
Since State Conference, Governor Newsome has instructed all Californians to shelter in place, to avoid crowds and large group meetings, to seek medical attention when needed, practice social distancing, and maintain personal hygiene practices. We have seen schools and churches turn to alternative ways to deliver lessons and messages. We have seen beaches and parks closed, sporting and recreational events canceled, and neighbors reaching out to neighbors to offer assistance and check on each other. And, of course, Daughters are following these mandates.
Chapter meetings have been canceled… or rather, in many cases, chapters have discovered and are sharing alternative methods to “gather apart” in order to get our chapter’s work done. Elections this spring were a concern. At the State level, many thanks to Katryna Gonzalez, State Parliamentarian, and Linda Unrue, State VIS Chair, who provided guidelines for chapters without electronic meeting provisions in their Bylaws. These guidelines took into account our President General’s guidance to cancel regular meetings, then call for special meetings that could take place electronically so that business could be done. Thanks, also, to members in District XI who quickly researched and developed a template for such meetings, using Zoom. Both Zoom and GoToMeeting are available and free. Reach out to Linda Unrue, if you need help.
Chapters have been able to meet the April 1, 2020, deadline to determine their delegates attending Congress in June. (The credential forms are due in D.C. by/before April 15.) Too, chapters will conduct elections in April and May to allow new leaders to continue moving forward. Districts, also, will host electronic meetings to elect new officers for the 2020-2022 term.
The State Society, too, has made necessary decisions. The Marker Dedication at the San Diego Basilica Mission de Alcalá is being rescheduled. Mark Sunday, June 7th, on your calendar in pencil. Once we have been able to confirm with the Mission’s personnel, we will let you know to commit to ink. The April workshops with Debbie Duay have been rescheduled, too. We expect these dates to be October 12th and 13th in the South and 15th and 16th in the North. Same cost, locations and workshop details. We are waiting for Debbie to confirm that she was able to reschedule her travel arrangements. Watch for the details from Linda Winthers and Sharon Maas regarding simply rolling currently registered and new registration to these new dates. Final details for May Council-Meet the Officers-Elect will be coming to you early in April. We are still planning for the Backyard Barbecue for June 6th at our HQ in Glendora!
Even during these most unusual times, California Daughters continue to “rise and shine” in order to make a difference. All are following the guidelines to avoid the virus and support healthy living. Many have jobs that have them “in the thick of things” and are performing them well and uplifting spirits. Many others are using this enforced extra time to reach out to each other, do for others, and reconnect with people, both friends and family, DAR members, and those in need within our communities. Others continue with their church outreach and are instrumental in connecting through media technology. Many more have turned their talents to sewing masks and other needed supplies. Prayer shawls continue to be knitted and shared. And, many, too, are sharing upbeat, humorous, and inspirational messages via Facebook and other electronic means to lift our spirits and keep us focused on what’s really important…. our relationships and our service to God, Home, and Country.
Let us open each morning or close each evening remembering Philippians 4:6-7: Don’t worry about anything; instead pray about everything. Tell God what you need, and thank Him for all He has done.
With much love and appreciation,
Adele Lancaster
State Regent
