Chapter Excellence: Beta Sigma Chapter



Beta Sigma members at Central District Meeting 2011

Located in Vernon Parish and a chapter member of the Central District,  Beta Sigma Chapter is led by President Linda Hudgens. Beta Sigma serves members from Leesville, Hicks, Simpson, Pickering, Rosepine, Anacoco, Hornbeck, Slagle, Evans, Pitkin areas. Vernon Parish is also home of Fort Polk JRTC. Beta Sigma chapter participates in a variety of projects throughout the year (Books and Bunnies, school supply packs), and programs that focus on women's health and exercise (Curves workout session) in addition to technology updates and community interest areas. Beta Sigma chapter is home to former state president, Betty Westerchil and your current state president. Beta Sigma has initiated five new members this fall. Way to go Beta Sigma!

Say "Yes" to convention requests

Epsilon State Executive Committee along with convention chairs Diane Vickers and Bertha Hinojosa are working on the development of the program for the convention. You are needed! All members play an important role in the success of the convention and the development of the program (Birthday Luncheon, President's Banquet, general sessions, etc.). Members are called upon to offer the invocation and benediction, work with logistics of the conference, etc. Please say "Yes" if you receive a call requesting your assistance at state convention.

Epsilon State launches new website!

Epsilon State Webmaster Maryanne Russell has worked extremely hard to transfer files/documents, learn a new website program (Wordpress), and make the changes recommended by the "website analysis group" to bring our state an updated/user-friendly source of electronic media for the members of the Society. Epsilon members will enjoy the ease of locating information, sending requests, and more on the new site. Some of the changes that you see are those of the layout, colors, information location and member contact information. In an effort to allow member input and options, members of the Executive Committee, Executive Board, and committees have been polled about their preference for listing information (addresses/phone numbers/email addresses) on the website. You will see the results of this action by the state in the committee listing section along with form contact info.

One of my favorites is the "What's Happening" section. Photos give members a glimpse into the events from around the state. As you peruse the website, our request is that you would make notes of the items that you like and send these comments to our webmaster. The "Contact Us" link located at the bottom of the menu bar (left-side panel) will offer you the ease of sending requests/photos/etc. So, don't delay! Add the icon to your desktop, on your phone and keep updated on the state and all that's happening at http://epsilonstatedkg.wordpress.com/.

Happy Thanksgiving to Epsilon State

As Thanksgiving draws near, teachers are preparing (In many parts of the state) for a week of rest and relaxation!!!! I hope. As this week comes, I would like to wish each and every one of you a time filled with the enjoyment of what you love most and with those that enrich your life. While it is sometimes hard to find a moment to break away from the hustle and bustle of the activities that fill our holiday, I encourage all of you to "find that moment" during your week. Invest a little time in "you". It will improve your health and focus. You are worth it!

I am also taking my advice during the holidays. The next blog is scheduled for Monday, November 28. So get ready for the big announcement on that date. God Bless you all during this holiday season.

Epsilon Traveling Tips for E-Files

It is not always easy to travel with a laptop, jump drives, etc. So, in an effort to have files within e-reach, I have began to utilize DropBox.com. The ease of uploading all my essential files to a cloud storage has made traveling alot easier. The use of DropBox allows me to upload files as well as photos and have at the touch of my fingertips whether on my computer or that of the hotel, lab, or business in which I am currently residing/presenting at the time. The basic storage is 8MG with the ability to increase storage capacity based upon referrals. So, if you have the need for cloud storage, check out http://dropbox.com/

Chapter Excellence: Highlighting members and chapter achievements - Sigma SW District

Forty-four members strong, Sigma chapter is located in DeRidder and has members from the surrounding areas of Beauregard Parish. Linda Edmonds leads members through this biennium as president. Members are to be commended for their efforts in the community as they continue to bring to the public eye the many works of Delta Kappa Gamma in our schools and community. Collections of books by members are now occupying the table tops of doctor and dental offices, in addition to the new teacher supply basket awarded to a South Beauregard Elementary recipient. Members were led in a session November 15 which focused on Irlen Syndrome.The Irlen Method is non-invasive technology that uses colored overlays and filters to improve the brain's ability to process visual information. It is the only method scientifically proven to successfully correct the processing problems associated with Irlen Syndrome (Taken from www://irlin/com November 16, 2011). Thank you Sigma Chapter for making me feel welcome. Donnis

DKG International Nominations 2012

DKG International has announced nominees for 2012. Dr. Beverly Helms has been nominated for International President. Dr. Helms was the international guest at Epsilon's 2011 convention in New Orleans. Dr. Helms of Florida is a familiar face among the members of DKG and will serve our Society well. In addition to the president nominees, International First Vice President – Dr. Barbara Baethe (Texas), and International Second Vice President - Dr. Lynda B. Schmid (Pennsylvania) are on the ballot. Epsilon State endorsement of Hanna Fowler (Georgia) contributed to the vote for Hanna as a nominee for the Southeast Regional Director. Another SER member Elaine Warwick (Tennessee) is a nominee for the Nominations Committee for the coming biennium.

These ladies are well known throughout our state from their various visits, cohort members of various events (Example: Golden Gift), and friendships developed over the course of their membership. It is without a doubt that all of the nominees will take our Society to the "next level". Congratulations to these ladies and a special "Thank you" to accepting the nomination to serve our Society which so richly enhances efforts of and supports women in education.

Blueprint for Chapter Leadership Legacy: Part III

Living Room

Social interactions, exchange of ideas

Invite members to participate in chapter programs, write articles for chapter or state newsletters, and encourage them to serve in state committees.

Ask current members to share their leadership empowerment stories from time to time.

Introduce members to state leaders

Encourage state officers to give chapter members jobs at state meetings

Assign members to shadow chapter or state officers so that they understand the responsibilities of the positions.

The Bathroom

To give us a clean and efficient practice

Flush away any practices that hinder progress

The Guest Room

Explain the "big picture" in orientation before asking commitment to membership

Encourage members to bring guests to meetings especially to hear speakers on current issues in education or to participate in fund-raising events

Taken from 2011 Leadership Development Manual

Epsilon State Salutes our Veterans

Paul and I have been privileged to teach Sunday School classes for young married couples over the past six years at East Leesville Baptist Church located in Vernon Parish and also the home of Fort Polk. The bulk of the class membership consisted of military couples ranging in married life from three weeks to ....... Getting to know these couples opened our eyes to the countless sacrifices that our soldiers and their familiar make as they serve our country. So many of our members brought perspectives to the class from a variety of geographic locations and cultural backgrounds which enhanced the study and conversation. We were oftened saddened at the deployment of class members, but elated at their safe return. Our class was also touched by the death of a member killed in Iraq. His wife's faith in God was an inspiration to all.

When I pause to remember our nations military, those serving or retired I am eternally grateful to the sacrifice that these individuals make without hestitation to protect our nation. Please make a point to "Thank a Veteran" for their service to our country.

Blueprint for Chapter Leadership Legacy: Part II

The Atrium

Environment to stimulate growth. be generour in your praise and recognition.

Maintain contact between meetings by inviting members to coffee, lunch, sending notes, etc.

Develop a culture of involvement.

Large Open Door

Welcomes new and old members alike

Include members from every educational arena and educational job description

Invite those at the beginning of their careers as well as those who have retired and everyone in between

Kitchen and Dining Room

Cook and enjoy!

Assign new members an immediate task or job.

Mentor new members and introduce them to other members with whom they have common interests.

Encourage new members to volunteer on an active committee and given them meaningful jobs.

Develop projects that everyone can be involved in.

Taken from 2011 Leadership Development Manual

Blueprint for Chapter Leadership Legacy: Part I

DKG International has created a blueprint for our society leadership which departmentalizes chapter responsibilities into easy and understandable concepts. During a three-part series, you will receive information which will assist you in chapter evaluation. When information is given to us in large portions, it may be overwhelming to assimilate into easy and understandable terms for your chapter. Through the use of the blueprint, chapters can evaluate offerings/processes/growth potential.

The Storage Room

Record chapter history and periodically review DKG history at all three levels of Society.

The Study

Plan, monitor progress and communicate with members through newsletters, phone, email, website, etc.

Publicize Society through activities receiving mediate coverage and school/community recognition.

Create strategies for attracting, retaining and nurturing chapter members and leaders.

Review Society's mission, purposes and history.

The Bedroom

Ensure self-care and demonstrate self-care to members

A place to retreat, relax, refresh yourself and ensure that you balance your commitments to your family and friends, your work and your Society.

Taken from DKG 2011 Leadership Development Conference Manual.

Treasurers: File required documents with the IRS

As a non-profit agency, DKG is required to abide by the laws/rules/guidelines of the IRS.  Information below was taken from the DKG website. Linda Ruth Jackson will also assist Treasurer's in completing the process. Please do not delay in checking the status of your chapter on the IRS website.  Failure to file the required documents on a yearly basis will result in chapter dissolvement.

******

**Please do not file unless your fiscal year reads July 1, 2010 to June 30, 2011. If you do not have these dates, please email Cheryl Schnosenberg with your name, address, chapter or council and EIN. We will notify the IRS and send you a copy of the letter for your files.

All chapter treasurers and coordinating/district councils with separate bank accounts that collect less than $25,000 a year are required to file the 990n postcard between July 1, 2011 and November 15, 2011. For quick access please follows the steps below:
1. Log onto http://epostcard.form990.org
2. Create your Form 990-N (epostcard)
3. Submit

Once you have successfully filed after July 1, 2011, please send a copy of the email that you receive from the IRS to your state treasurer.

*******

Epsilon Fall Tour 2011: South District Meeting

Epsilon State Officers enjoyed a wonderful time with members of the South District this weekend as we traveled to Destrahan Plantation. Approximately 80 members tapped their feet in the Mule Barn. The morning consisted of informative and interesting committee reports and officer presentations.  Following the morning session and lunch, members toured the plantation.

Judy Rongey was recognized as the Rose-in-bloom. Valerie Millet received the Rosebud award. Way to go ladies! Special thanks to Sheri Richardson S District Director and Upsilon Chapter for your dedication and enthusiasm as members of DKG.

Chapter Excellence: Highlighting members and chapter achievements - Beta Chi NE District



Tia Neal (left) participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure.

 Beta Chi Chapter of the NE District has excelled in many areas of education, as well as in their community. With approximately 30 members Beta Chi is a chapter whose geographic area covers Ferriday, Vidalia, Harrisonburg, Sicily Island and Jonesville. Linda Edwards, President truly delights in the work of the members as they dedicate their time and talents to DKG and their community. Special thanks to Tia Neal for supplying photos and a recent article (below) about Beta Chi projects and members of whose dedication and determination which makes membership in DKG so special. 

Becky Richard assists in preparation of bags for distribution to women in the community for "Breast Cancer Awareness" Month.



****
 

Delta Kappa Gamma Holds October Meeting

Article by: Mrs. Tia Neal

Photos by: Mrs. Katie T. Adams and Mrs. Tia Neal

            The Beta Chi Chapter of the Delta Kappa Gamma Society International held its October meeting on the 10^th at 5:00 p.m. at Utility Baptist Church.  Delta Kappa Gamma (ΔΚΓ) Society was founded in 1929 as a medium through which women leaders in education might gain recognition.  ΔΚΓ works to unite women educators of the world in a genuine spiritual fellowship and honors those who have given or who evidence a potential for distinctive service in any field of education.

            This meeting was called to order by President Linda Edwards.  Mrs. Kim Tiser led the devotional entitled “The Gratitude Adjustment”, which reminded us to always be thankful for what we have, even in the most difficult of situations.  Mrs. Tamba Eichmann then read the minutes of the last meeting and they were accepted as read.  Mrs. Tia Neal discussed the financial report. President Edwards addressed the concerns of old and new business which included the upcoming Epsilon State Northeast District Conference on the 29^th of October and the soon to come Beta Chi website.

            The program emphasis of the evening was the use of technology in the classroom presented by Dr. Melissa Cater.  She focused on the use of “clickers” in the classroom as a way of quickly collecting data from students and utilizing it in the most efficient way.  Dr. Cater also discussed the use of mobile technology, which is becoming popular globally as a way of learning, and how teachers can employ it most effectively to the benefit of their students.

            October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, and members of Delta Kappa Gamma are active in raising awareness.  Mrs. Becky Richard passed out pink ribbon bags containing pink cups and packets of pink lemonade.  She distributed the bags to the members asking them to give them to survivors with the following message: “When life gives you lemons, make ‘pink’ lemonade.”  Also, member Mrs. Tia Neal participated in the Susan G. Komen Race for the Cure in Alexandria on Saturday, October 15^th.   She raced in honor of family members, friends, and survivors of the Beta Chi Chapter.  Accompanying Mrs. Neal that day was Mrs. Tonya Womack, who is the lead Mammographer and QC Coordinator at Riverland Medical Center in Ferriday, Louisiana.

            Hostesses for the evening were Mrs. Mary Jo Williams, Mrs. Marilyn  Miller, Mrs. Misti Michot, Mrs. Mickie Brown, Mrs. Glenda Bird, and Mrs.  Jimmye Campbell.  Ladies, the refreshments were delicious and we thank you for your hard work!  Congratulations to Dr. Melissa Cater for winning the door prize.   Also, ΔΚΓ would like to say, “Thank You” to Utility Baptist Church for the use of its facility.  The meeting was then adjourned by President Linda Edwards.

Chapter Excellence: Highlighting members and chapter achievements

While traveling around the state, I am constantly amazed about the extensive involvement of members in the chapter, schools and community. As a fellow member, I am encouraged and motivated by the dedication and enthusiasm of these ladies.  You as a state should also share in knowing about the extraordinary women whom we call "Sisters in Delta Kappa Gamma".  Beginning in November, you will have a chance to read some of the great stories about chapters and the members of these chapters in "Chapter Excellence: Highlighting members and chapter achievements".

Chapters and members will be highlighted throughout this biennium. No particular order will be followed. Please feel free to send photos, articles, or just "tidbits" about your chapter and the members which make it so unique and special.

DKG Members Share their Talents for Epsilon

Special thanks to Sheryl Sweeney (Alpha Sigma) and Sherry Bohannon (Beta Omicron) for giving of their time and talents to sew the red ribbons for the DKG Epsilon badges. The sale of the ribbons supports the Florence Amy Fund. These items can be purchased at district and state meetings for a cost of $10.  Thank you Sherry and Sheryl for "stepping up" and working on this project.