Burn Ban in Effect. All outdoor burning is prohibited in Franklin County.
A new page in Mt. Vernon’s history was celebrated Aug. 15 as the Choctaw Trace Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution was officially chartered, marking the establishment of the city’s first DAR chapter.
Members, guests, and state officers gathered at the Cultural Arts Center to celebrate the milestone with a Garden Tea Party setting and recognize those whose dedication and hard work made the new chapter possible.
Cynthia Weidman, Regent of Choctaw Trace, called the meeting to order. Libby White, State Organizing Secretary, gave the opening invocation. The US Pledge of Allegiance was led by Charla Truesdale and the American Creed by State Recording Secretary Kim Clark. Alira Getty led the Pledge to the Texas Flag.
On hand to congratulate the new chapter was Sandy Cash, husband of the late Katherine Cash, who was instrumental in setting the framework for getting the Choctaw Trace Chapter started. Katherine met with state officers, recruited interested members, and presided over the first organizational meeting. Without her vision, determination, and strength, the new chapter would never have been formed. Katherine may not have seen the final phase of her dream, but her memory lives within each of the members. A scholarship will be dedicated in her name to carry on her legacy. Sandy Cash reminded the women of the legacy they were leaving for their daughters while they promoted patriotism in their community. He also addressed the importance of honoring God, country, and the family.
Regent Weidman welcomed visiting directors Dawn Needles, District II, and Ann Kuebler, District VI as well as the visiting Chapter Regents.
Texas State Regent Susan Johnston spoke on “Illuminating the Legacy of DAR” in which she reminded DAR members of the rich history of the organization and how the present headquarters now sits across the street from the White House in Washington, D.C. She spoke of the history Choctaw Trace Chapter members have right here in Mt. Vernon – Rutherford Drug Store, Drummond farm, Edwards building, etc. DAR also contributes to the educational system through grants, contests, and scholarships, and to the community by honoring veterans, supporting military families, and sponsoring various patriotic programs.
State Organizing Secretary Libby White conducted the oath of membership for all new members, reinstatements, and transferring members. Afterward, Texas State Regent Susan Johnston installed the new officers of Choctaw Trace Chapter. These include the following:
Regent Cynthia Jones/Weidman
Vice Regent Gina Speaks
Chaplain Glenda Brooks
Recording/Corresponding Secretary Pam Williams
Treasurer Diane Patrick
Registrar Kelly Patrick
Historian/librarian Teri Dikes
Following the installation of officers, Historian Teri Dikes gave a brief history of the Choctaw Trace. They were a matriarchal society of farmers, hunters, and raiders that emphasized faith, family, and community. Chaplain Glenda Brooks closed the meeting with the benediction. Members and guests were invited to stay and paint a tile for the American250 Liberty Tree Mosaic Mural to be part of a permanent display in downtown Mt. Vernon.
