Friday, January 27, 2012

New York Travel Tips Series Part 5

Broadway Plays.  Ticket prices are extremely high – over $100 (“Wicked” was $200) for orchestra seats, plus several additional “service charges.”  If you are dying to see a particular play, order tickets ahead.  If you want to take your chances and save about half on the price of a ticket, you can join the other hundreds of people in line at the TKTS booth at Times Square.  Most theaters are dark on Monday nights.  Learn about other locations and download an app at www.tkts.com.  A listing of Broadway shows with ticket prices or order forms can be found at http://www.broadway.com/.  Google Broadway tickets to find other sites.

Other interesting links which provide information:
www.nyc.com/visitor_guide

Thursday, January 26, 2012

New York Travel Tips Series Part 4

Dining.  Yes, the meal function prices were exorbitant!  But don’t let that keep you away!  There are many, many eating establishments, from MacDonald’s and Popeye’s to 5-star restaurants in the area.  Some of the meals, like a sandwich at the Carnegie Deli, are enough for two people!

9/11 Memorial.  Special reserved passes are required for a visit to the 9/11 Memorial.  Go to http://www.visit.911memorial.org/.  When I checked, no passes were available for the week of the Convention.

Wednesday, January 25, 2012

New York Travel Tips Series Part 3

The Sheraton.  The cost of the hotel is actually very reasonable for mid-town Manhattan, and it is conveniently located near many of the sites you may want to see.  Many are within easy walking distance.  Others are easily and safely accessible by subway, bus, or taxi.  The Club floor rooms are $50 higher than the regular floor room, but free internet access and free continental breakfast is available in the club lounge.  Depending on how many want to use a computer or eat breakfast, this may be a better choice!  When I booked, only king beds were available.  In researching other hotels in the neighborhood, I found a few with special rates if you go in on Sunday (The Wellington), but the savings may not be worth the inconvenience of walking several blocks to attend functions. This site has a map and lists landmarks and their distances from the hotel as well as information on transportation. http://www.starwoodhotels.com/sheraton/property/area/index.html?propertyID=421&language=en-US

Tuesday, January 24, 2012

New York Travel Tips Series Part 2

Travel from airport to hotel.  Taxis are readily available.  The cost of a taxi from LaGuardia to mid-town, the location of the Sheraton, is about $50.  If there are several persons, additional charges apply.  Be prepared to pay abridge toll as well, and perhaps even additional for extra luggage.

An alternative to a taxi can be less expensive.  A shuttle (really a large 45-passenger bus!) runs from the airport to Grand Central Station for about $12.  Once at Grand Central Station, a taxi to the hotel is less than $10. This web site will give you an idea: http://www.nycairporter.com/

Monday, January 23, 2012

New York Travel Tips Series Part 1

Special thanks to Peggy King for contributing to the series this week on travel tips for New York. Many of Epsilon members are planning to drive, fly or even take a train. Whatever method you take to get to NY, you are sure to find Peggy's pointers useful.


  • Travel to NYC.  If you plan on driving, parking will be a major expense, with hotels chaging $50/day for parking.  It is much easier to get around NYC by foot, public transportation like buses and subways, or by taxi than by driving around.  The three airports that serve the city are LaGuardia, JFK, and Newark.  LaGuardia is probably the most convenient.  Expect to pay around $300 for a round trip ticket to LaGuardia.

Friday, January 20, 2012

DKG Bulletin Winter 2012 Edition now online

Have you checked out the DKG Bulletin - Winter 2012 now available online at dkg.org? The Bulletin is an exceptional tool for educators seeking assistance with specific educational issues/populations/programs. The Winter 2012 edition is entitled Diverse Learners. DKG Bulletin is an impressive professional publication which has received the 2009 APEX award for publication excellence. Way to go DKG Bulletin!

I encourage each of you to submit an article, art, poem, etc. to the editorial staff. The experience of developing your work and to have a full editorial staff review/critique/approve was a "learning journey" for me as I submitted an article and was accepted for the Fall 2010 issue. Dr. Judith Merz is a leader in the field of educational publications and DKG members benefit from her excellence in this area as she leads the editorial staff in the selections of the items for each Bulletin.

Thursday, January 19, 2012

Epsilon State Reports due February 1

Chapter presidents/officers are currently in the process of completing chapter reports due February 1 to Epsilon. These reports give an overview of our state from many areas: Communications, finance, membership, etc.  An overall report will be compiled for Epsilon and sent to International for the March 1 due date. The importance of these reports offer a "bird's eye view" from the state level concerning chapter health. Please assist your chapter president in completing this report if  you are called upon to do so. Chapter presidents have an abundance of paperwork to complete while serving in this capacity. Epsilon thanks all members for their dedication of time, talent and service to our Society.

Wednesday, January 18, 2012

Educational Credentialing/Endorsement Committee

At the present time, Epsilon does not possess the ability to award CEU's for member participation in workshops, convention attendance or educational meetings (Chapter meetings which have specific presentations focusing on educational topics). In an effort to offer greater benefits to our state membership four members have been appointed to serve on the Educational Credentialing/Endorsement Committee. ECEC Members are:
  • Dr. Sharon Hornsby
  • Eddy Anne Ouder
  • AnnMarie Wolfe
  • Janie Humphries
The committee has been charged with the task of gaining postsecondary support from an agency to endorse Epsilon events thereby awarding CEU's to attendees. Dr. Beverly Helms, Florida and DKG presidential nominee is also assisting the committee in this effort. Florida has paved the way for this program within our Society and Beverly's assistance is greatly appreciated.

Tuesday, January 17, 2012

Today Show Scarf for DKG Members

As you complete your registration form for the 2012 International Convention in NY you will notice the option to purchase a DKG scarf. Camille Kuntz in the Information Services Department at Headquarters designed the scarf specifically for the convention goers attending the Today Show. DKG members are scheduled to go to the plaza for the Today Show on Thursday. So, don't delay. Get your scarf so that you can show off your pride in DKG!

Monday, January 16, 2012

Epsilon 2012 Convention Registration

February 23 is the registration deadline for state convention at a cost of $15. Beyond February 23 the cost rises to $25. So, get your form in early! State convention promises to be an occasion that you do not want to miss. I will be looking for you!!!! Registration form is located on Epsilon's website at http://epsilonstatedkg.wordpress.com/ .

Friday, January 13, 2012

“Stylin’ n Profiln’ ”
Submitted by: Nedra Tabor, Chi Chapter, SW District

(poster)

Chi  Shoe Store

1929 Delta Kappa Gamma Blvd.

Epsilon, Louisiana 70380
 

(Sister Blister limps in while sales clerk is dusting)

Sales clerk:  “Hello, Sister Blister.  Can I help you?”

Sister Blister:   I don’t know.  My sole is really hurting. (points to foot).

Clerk:  Yes, I can see that you need help.

SB:  Oh, I am afraid I am beyond help.  You see, I’ve become calloused and I flatly refuse to think there is any hope for me.

Clerk:  Now, now, don’t talk that way.  You’ve taken a step in the right direction by coming here.  After all, our store belongs to the Relief “Sole-ciety and we specialize in taking care of “de-feet”. (points to the foot)

SB:  You do?  Well, I need a new pair of shoes.  Do you have something I would like?

Clerk:   Yes, but not just any pair will do.  You have very special problems so we need to be very careful in selecting the shoe that would be the best for you.  Let me introduce you to some of our most popular shoes.

(LOAFERS)   (poster with a picture of loafers and the word –loafers)( holding a covered shoe box with the word LOAFERS on the side of the box) (come out very casually and look bored)

SB:  This pair looks nice.

Clerk:  Yes, but they’re really just a couple of “loafers. “ They accepted the call to action, but they just refuse to get in step with the program. 

SB:  You’re right.  I guess I wouldn’t want them.

(Thongs/flip flops—poster – and shoebox--sort of flipping around)

Clerk:  Here’s another pair.  But I don’t think you’d want them.

SB:  Why not?

Clerk:  Well, sometimes they do what they are supposed to do and sometimes they don’t.  They flip flop all over the place and are not dependable.  They don’t seem to have enough substance to cover all angles.  They lack commitment.

(Sneakers peeking around the corner and comes out cautiously)(poster & shoebox)

SB:  Is that the pair for me?

Clerk:  No, I’m afraid not.  They’re just a pair of sneakers.  Oh, they do get out and intend to do things, but they are so tied up they do everything  at the last minute.  If you don’t treat them right they tend to develop a stinky attitude.

SB:  (shrugging shoulders and looking disgusted ) Well, I guess Keds will be Keds.

(Furry Slippers enter)(poster & shoebox)

SB:  Boy, they look great.  I bet they are very comfortable.

Clerk:  Yes, but don’t let their appearance fool you.  They’re one of the worst pairs.  Underneath that soft, warm surface is a cold heart.  They say they want to help and they offer their total support, but sooner or later you will find that these offers are flimsy and certainly not fur real.  Somehow, when you really need them, they always manage to just slip out.

(High Heels)(poster and shoebox)

SB:  My, but aren’t they stylish.

Clerk:   They do look good, but eventually  they will cramp your style and not hold you up over the long haul.  They may even become your arch enemy.
(PUMPS—looking nice, neat, smiling)

SB:  Wow, I think I’ve finally found what I’ve been looking for.

Clerk:  Yes.  I think these would be great.  There would be room enough to allow you to be toe-tly  comfortable,  they do not have wagging tongues, and the heels are high enough to raise your self-esteem, but not so high that you would overwork your soles. 

Yes.  I think this is the pair for you.
…..and now, a little advice from the “shoe rack”….. something to “pump” you up!


Conclusion:  “Shoe-Rack”

(post the advice on the back of the shoebox so that it can be read to the audience)
Pumps: Get pumped up and maintain a positive outlook.  Being optimistic enables you to expect good things and will help you visualize what you can do, rather than things that you fear.  Developing confidence in your ability to solve problems and trusting your instincts helps build resilience.

Heels:  Dig in your heels and look for opportunities for self-discovery.  People often learn something about themselves when working in group dynamics.   Even though things get piled high and unbalanced, avoid seeing problems as insurmountable. You can’t change the fact that stressful events happen, but you can change how you interpret and respond to these events. 

Slippers:  Don’t let your fur get messed up!   Accept that change is a part of living.  Certain goals may no longer be attainable.  Accepting circumstances that cannot be changed can help you focus on circumstances that you can change.

Sneakers: Make connections.  Good relationships are like shoelaces, they are ties that bind.  Accept help and support from team members and be willing to help others.   Remember, group interaction does not include “wagging tongues.”

Flip flops: Don’t flip flop around.  Take decisive actions rather than detaching yourself from the problems and wishing they would just go away.

Loafers: Instead of standing still, move forward with your goals.  Develop realistic goals.  Do something regularly—even if it seems like a small accomplishment.  Instead of focusing on tasks that seem unachievable, ask yourself, “What’s one thing I know I can accomplish today that helps me move in the direction I want to go?

Clerk:  My friends, stylin’ n profilin’ that’s what we do for you today.
By: Nedra Tabor Chi Chapter, Professional Affairs Committee Presentation, November 7, 2011 

Thursday, January 12, 2012

Chapter Excellence: Eta Chapter

Great job Eta Chapter! 34 members strong and located in the Northeast district, Eta Chapter is led by President Betty Rogers. Some of the member projects conducted by Eta Chapter include donations of $400 to the ULM Child Development Center, as well as $300 to Broaden Horizons and the adoption of the ULM Child Development Center as one of their two community projects. Eta Chapter covers the geographic areas of Columbia, Monroe, Calhoun, West Monroe, Farmerville, Swartz and Saint Paul. Eta will also honor a deserving student teacher during the February meeting. Way to go Eta Chapter. Keep up the great work.

Wednesday, January 11, 2012

Chapter Excellence: Alpha Zeta Chapter

Wow! Lots going on in Alpha Zeta Chapter led by President Yvonne Normand. Located in the Southwest District Alpha Zeta is 57 members strong. Alpha Zeta welcomed ten new members at their August 2011 meeting. Great job Alpha Zeta! Alpha Zeta members visited nursing home residents as part of the Christmas activities referred to as "Shoppe d' Noel", in addition to hosting a Christmas auction and gathering contributions for the Doll and Toy Fund in their area. Alpha Zeta is also the chapter for SW District Director June Inhern. Alpha Zeta Members - Keep up the great work.

Tuesday, January 10, 2012

Epsilon District Directors Series Part 6: SW June Inhern

It is truly an honor to have been asked by our state president, Donnis Poe, to serve Epsilon State as the Southwest District Director.  I am grateful to have the opportunity to get to know members of other chapters who share the same interest and love for education as I do. My name is June Guillory Inhern.  I am a member of Alpha Zeta Chapter in St. Landry Parish and have been a member since 1992.   I have served our chapter as President for two terms and I am currently on my third biennium as Treasurer of Alpha Zeta.  I am originally from Ville Platte, LA but moved to Opelousas and then Washington twenty years ago.  

 I am currently the Preschool Facilitator in our parish public school system in charge of the LA 4 and Special Education Pre-K programs.  I also serve as the Child Search Coordinator for the Special Education Program.  I am in my 37th year as an educator and I still honestly can say that I love it.  I graduated from Sacred Heart High School in Ville Platte. I have a B. A. in Elementary and Special Education from USL and a Masters of Education in Administration and Supervision from LSU, plus 30 hours with certifications in many areas but Pre-K is my love. 

I am on the United Way Board in Opelousas, the Historic District Commission and the Steamboat Association in Washington and most recently have been invited to join the Opelousas Sunrise Rotary Club.  I am active in my church community currently serving as a Reader.  I have taught catechism and was a teacher and then later the director of the children’s summer church camp for four years. 

I have been blessed with four wonderful children, Alyce, Jean-Paul, Anne Marie and Philippe, who are all grown now.  I only have one left in school…whew! 

 I am also known as “Grammy” to three beautiful grandchildren, Sam, Kate and Abigail.  They are all preschool age so you know I’m having fun!  I’m also very grateful that although my parents are getting up in age they are still healthy. 

I enjoy cooking and am always looking for new recipes so you won’t be surprised that I collect cookbooks.  I also like to decorate and I love antiques!   My home is 150 years old.  I’m hoping one day to open a bed and breakfast or rent out the house for small receptions.  This is the plan for “when I retire”.  I love meeting new people and I feel this is a wonderful way to do so. 

For now I am very honored that God has called me to be an educator, I still enjoy my profession and its many challenges.  I am proud to be a member of Delta Kappa Gamma Society International.  I consider it a privilege to have been invited to become a member of such an elite group of key women educators.  I enjoy working with people and I look forward to meeting and working with all of you.

Monday, January 9, 2012

Who will present at International?

Have you ever wanted to present at a convention (state or International)? Now is your time. Louisiana has an abundance of talented teachers with a wealth of information and knowledge for sharing at International Convention. Proposals are being accepted for breakout sessions until February 15, 2012. Form 48 (Breakout Session Proposal) can be found at dkg.org. So, develop your ideas, call on other members to assist if you want. But, don't hesitate to submit the form for your idea on a great session.

Friday, January 6, 2012

Epsilon increases workshops for Convention 2012

Epsilon First Vice President Martha Turner and convention coordinators Diane Vickers along with Bertha Hinojosa have coordinated efforts and resources to increase the workshop opportunities from eight to ten. This is a huge step in the right direction for Epsilon. Traditionally workshops are planned based upon space and time factors when determining the number of breakout sessions for the convention. Many thanks to these ladies for "thinking beyond" in this phase of the convention planning.

Thursday, January 5, 2012

Winter Deltion 2012

The Winter Deltion will soon arrive to members via email or postal mail with information from around the state, convention, and opportunities for member involvement. Please read! Some of you will be thrilled to read about those members who have received awards either from Epsilon or other agencies/groups for various achievements. The proposed amendments are included in this edition. Read the amendments about proposed changes that will affect our state. Registration form for state convention is included with deadlines and information. You will want to attend! Workshops are also listed that offer a variety of information for fun and educational projects. Your greatest challenge will be deciding on which ones to attend. So read and review the information about our state in the Deltion.

Wednesday, January 4, 2012

New Year's Resolution - Creating and assisting chapters

Connie Savell of North Carolina and a member of my Golden Gift class of 2010 recently shared her great news concerning the development of a new chapter in her state. For some time, Connie has wanted to develop a chapter in her area consisting of educators who had the same goals as DKG but lacked a developed group of DKG members in the district in which she lived. First meeting was attended by 32 members (active, retired, reinstated) from Connie's georgraphic area who feel passionately about DKG and know the value of being a member of a society that promotes women in education.

Epsilon is looking for members to assist in developing/starting chapters throughout the state. Are you a member who aspires to create a chapter in a parish which currently does not have a chapter? Are you a member who feels strongly about assisting a chapter in need? Qualifications for this task- Belief in DKG, vision of the chapter development, willingness! Make a New Year's resolution to assist Epsilon in moving forward and upward. Email me at donnispoe@yahoo.com with your ideas and let's get started. You can do it!

Tuesday, January 3, 2012

Epsilon State Convention 2012 Cover Designers

Congratulations to Pam Bond (Alpha Upsilon) and Maureen Theriot (Alpha Delta) for the creation of the cover for the 2012 convention program cover. The design cover is a representation of great efforts on the part of two highly talented women of DKG. Epsilon is truly blessed with women who are leaders, artists, musicians - teachers making a positive impact in our state. So, be sure to check out the design cover at convention and congratulate these ladies on a job well done.

Monday, January 2, 2012

DKG International Convention Registration Opens January 2012

Time is quickly approaching for Epsilon members making plans to attend the 2012 DKG International Convention in New York. This is an exciting time for DKG Society as all countries come together for the purpose of conducting business, making new friends and renewing of old friendships. As you begin to make your plans for the summer, please consider attending the convention along with other Epsilon members. So, plan to join us in July at the Sheraton in New York. Registration form will be available at
www.dkg.org.