Deborah Goodacre

The month of April signifies the last meeting of the season when we will take a summer break from our monthly meetings until next September. This particular April is significant, as it marks the last chapter meeting for our current chapter regent, Ms. Nancy Cooney, when she will pass the baton to the newly installed regent. The new regent’s duties begin in July after Continental Congress. Nancy has been a dedicated and giving leader, doing more than her share, leading and supporting the various committee chairs, and overseeing the chapter activities. Anyone who has ever volunteered to head an organization is aware of the amount of work necessary to maintain the position and knows the responsibilities reach far beyond the job description. Nancy has been unwavering in her devotion to lead the chapter in the many and various ways the national organization requires.

Let’s note here that before you are a regent, you are the vice-regent for two years, another job with many and varied responsibilities. After the baton is passed, Nancy will become honorary regent, an advisory role. Her experience and advice will support the success of the new administration.

I want to thank Nancy Cooney for her time, efforts, and support as the regent of the Gila Butte Chapter. Nancy deserves a rest, and I hope to see her enjoy the rest of the summer doing anything and everything she had to put aside to serve as our chapter regent.

Now that I have given you hints about the role’s width and breadth, I should mention that our April meeting is called Spring Fling and takes place on a Saturday. Children who have won DAR essay contests may read them to the chapter. Members who have given their time and done an outstanding job in their responsibilities will receive certificates of recognition. It will be a fundraiser, too. Who knows what precious items will be up for grabs!

One thing that our chapter has not done in the past is a Flag Retirement Ceremony. Thanks to the efforts of Mrs. Betty Wells and mine, there will be a Flag Retirement Ceremony at the American Legion Post on April 2 at 1 p.m. The address is 2240 W. Chandler Boulevard at Carriage, where there is a traffic light (east of the 101 Highway). We invite the community to attend and, if possible, bring young children. This may be a once-in-a lifetime opportunity for many of you.

Next, I would like to report that our Writer’s Group had their third meeting in March. Members brought stories and read them to the group. What a talented bunch of women we have! Remember, we meet the first Monday of each month at 4 p.m. in Room A-2, located behind the library at the Cottonwood Palo Verde activity area. Anyone in the community is welcome to attend. DAR membership is not necessary to join this group.

For more information about Daughters of the American Revolution, contact Lesley Baran at [email protected].