The Tarheel Patriot: October 2024

The Tarheel Patriot

North Carolina Daughters of the American Revolution | Volume 23 Issue 4 Oct. 5, 2024

North Carolina Daughters Shine Bright: A Delightful Journey of Sparkle, Celebrations, and Laughter

I want to recognize the incredible work of Catherine Bracey and the Audit Committee as they continue to pull together our finances with great care and dedication. And let us not forget State Treasurer Kathy Dean and her First Assistant Treasurer Connie Nuebel and the Second Assistant Treasurer Nina Brown, who are doing double duty—reckoning with the financial past while keeping their eyes firmly on the future. I am profoundly grateful for the hard work and commitment of Kathy, the Audit Committee, and the assistant treasurers. Their diligence benefits the North Carolina State Society, ensuring we remain financially strong and well-prepared for the road ahead. Thank you, ladies.

What a time it has been visiting the vibrant and ever-sparkling Stamp Defiance Chapter! Under the dazzling leadership of Chapter Regent Lynne Ashcraft, this chapter is not just full of life—it is practically bubbling over with excitement. You would swear the meeting room walls twinkled with all the energy they brought. Lynne has indeed orchestrated a symphony of enthusiasm that can only be described as electrifying!

Not to be outdone, Alfred Moore Chapter celebrated its 100th Anniversary, and let me tell you, they did not just celebrate — they lit the place on fire! (Figuratively, of course.) Regent Marsha Jacobs led the charge. If there had ever been an event where angels lined up to get their wings, this was it. I imagine a brigade of angels flying around, proudly wearing their Alfred Moore Chapter pins! After all, when a chapter reaches 100 years, heaven itself takes notice, right?

Let us remember the unsung heroes of the Bylaws Committee under Mary Tatum's direction. This dedicated group has been hard at work crafting and refining the rules that keep us running smoothly. They have pored over documents and fine-tuned every detail to perfection. Who knew bylaws could be so riveting? I am convinced they deserve an award for their diligence—and possibly for the coffee they have consumed.

The Davie Poplar Chapter recently hosted a delightful tea to celebrate Constitution Week, and it was an absolute hit! Chapter Regent Debra Baringtang did a fantastic job leading the event, which took place in the charming home of Jane Slater. But the real surprise of the day? Jane’s incredible basement, where her HODAR has spent over 25 years building a jaw-dropping, wall-to-wall train set! We are talking trains, cars, trees, people, animals — you name it! It was like stepping into a miniature world, and everyone was in awe. Who knew a tea party could come with such a fantastic twist?

State Chaplain Jenny Tolson was on a mission recently, hosting a Zoom gathering of chapter chaplains. Now, I do not know how Jenny does it, but she managed to pull off a meeting that was not only informative but also fun! Yes, even a meeting about the fundamentals of being a chapter chaplain can be fun when Jenny’s at the helm. She has a knack for making every moment meaningful while sneaking in a bit of joy — bless her heart!

The Mary Slocumb Chapter recently had the honor of presenting a certificate of recognition to the remarkable Ms. Rosie Bailey for her decades of selfless service to the community through her work with FeedNC in Mooresville. Ms. Bailey, as humble as anyone I have ever had the pleasure of meeting, has been a pillar of strength and kindness, dedicating her time to those in need. FeedNC is an establishment that has strengthened the community, providing essential services and support to countless individuals. If you have not yet done so, I highly encourage you to visit their website (www.feednc.org) — prepare to be inspired by their incredible work! Judy Henry can tell you all about FeedNC.

Meanwhile, State Librarian Fran Goins has already become a pretty literary sensation. Her inaugural State Book Club, The Freedom Readers, was a resounding success. Who knew a group of Daughters could get so animated about books? The discussions were lively, the camaraderie was palpable, and I am convinced Fran may be creating a new generation of DAR bookworms. Watch out, world!

And finally, drumroll, please! North Carolina Daughters took a grand trip to celebrate the 100th Anniversary of the Kate Duncan Smith DAR School (KDS), and it was nothing short of a roaring good time! The Roaring '20s attire was full display — pearls, fringe, feathers, and works! We might as well have been in the Great Gatsby’s living room. The highlight of the trip? Fran Goins (yes, her again!) pulled together a delightful treat for the KDS kids. Their faces lit up brighter than a Christmas tree — pure joy! And speaking of magic, Lizzy Thier, our NC State School Chair, was the wizard behind the curtain, ensuring everything went off without a hitch. Under her expert guidance, everyone had an absolute blast!

So, here is to the laughter, sparkle, and fire that keep the North Carolina Daughters shining bright. It has been a joy, and I cannot wait to see what adventures lie ahead!

The Tarheel Patriot is published 5th of each month. Submissions should be submitted electronically to Catherine O'Connor at catherineoconnor.dar@gmail.com.

The deadline for submissions is the 20th of the month preceding publication month. Please include photos with captions when available.

A Message from the Tarheel Patriot Editor:

“There shall be no hurkle-durkling.” If you are of Scottish heritage, you may know the meaning of the saying. I do not know any NCSDAR daughters who partake in “hurkle-durkling.” The Scottish phrase entered my mind during ten days without electricity. What I did do was help my amazing HODAR cut down 22 trees, cook tasty meals on our gas grill, and watch U.S. Military Chinook helicopters fly over our home every hour, every day. I spent hours raking branches and leaves, clearing a path to our house. I looked at the beautiful red and yellow leaves with sadness. The leaves came from more than 18 trees, 30 to 40 inches in diameter. While remembering the funny Scottish term, I had to consider how old those trees were. The trees that first inhabited our property, sitting at 5,000 feet elevation, are between 250 and 400 years old. As we near our nation’s semiquincentennial, I realized that these magnificent trees were seedlings from when our nation was being formed. Scottish immigrants were settling into the Carolinas after the second Jacobite Rebellion, looking for a new life without British oppression in our North Carolina mountains. Many Scottish immigrants fought in the Revolutionary War to secure our release from British rule and tyranny.

This is an abridged October newsletter. I promise to catch up on chapter news and other features in November. Many NCSDAR daughters endured devastation from Hurricane Helene. I appreciate your understanding.

Catherine O’Connor

Committee Announcements:

DAR Units Overseas

North Carolina State Chair — Katharine Vanzant Arno

Remember to Tie the Ribbons of Your "BOW" for DAR Units Overseas

Become a Units Overseas Chapter Associate Member,

Optimize support through social media so that together

We sparkle and strengthen DAR at home and abroad!

The Walter Hines Page (WHP) Chapter, NSDAR, based in London, England, stands out as the oldest DAR chapter outside the United States. Established in 1925, it began with just 38 members and has since grown to 126 members and more than 700 associate members spread across the United Kingdom, the United States, and various European countries. This international chapter deeply connects heritage, preservation, patriotism, and education. It welcomes lineage-based institutions, and its members actively collaborate on projects.

The chapter honors the legacy of Walter Hines Page, a notable figure born in Cary, NC. Page, a journalist, publisher, and former U.S. Ambassador to the Court of St. James's, is remembered for his critical role in influencing U.S. support for Britain during World War I. His contributions are memorialized with a plaque at Westminster Abbey.

The WHP Chapter is currently led by Regent Caroline McWilliams, who emphasizes inclusivity and engagement, welcoming members to participate in various activities virtually or in person. With the chapter's centennial approaching in October 2025, they have planned a series of events to celebrate their rich history. Additionally, the chapter

is preparing for the 250th anniversary of the United States, collaborating with Hatchlands Park on an exciting exhibition.

The WHP Chapter's commitment to its mission, impressive international membership, and profound historical significance instill a sense of pride and respect in the DAR community.

Please go to the link: https://www.dar.org/members/committees/special-committees/units-overseas/associate-member-forms. If you need more information, please get in touch with me at KvArnoDAR@gmail.com. I plan to have a drawing at the State Conference for a "special international gift" for one N.C. Daughter who has joined a Units Overseas chapter under the Cricket Crigler Administration.

American History Chair, Catherine Bracey:

American History Essay Contest

2024-2025 Essay Title: “Enjoying a new kind of Tea Party!”

Chapters are encouraged to conduct the American History Essay contest. All 5th, 6th, 7th, and 8th grade students in public, private, or parochial schools or those homeschooled are eligible.

Patriots of the American Revolution

DAR High School Essay Contest

2024-2025 Essay Topic: Select a figure from the era of the American Revolution (1773-1783)

Discuss how they influenced the course of the American Revolution, who they were, and their contribution to the founding of a new nation. Figures may be any person, whether a well-known figure or an everyday man, woman, or child, who supported the American Revolution in ways large or small.

Chapters are encouraged to conduct the Patriots of the American Revolution Essay Contest. This high school-level contest focuses on figures of the American Revolution in preparation for the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding. The contest is open to students in grades 9 12 in public, private, parochial, or home schools.

American History Video Contest: NEW

2024-2025 Video Title: “Enjoying a new kind of Tea Party!”

Chapters are encouraged to conduct this inaugural American History Video contest. This contest is open to students in grades 5-12 in public, private, or parochial schools and homeschooled. Up to two students may write and act out the video. Contest winners will be selected in the four grade-levels groupings here: 5-6, 7-8, 9-10, and 11-12.

Important Dates for History Essay & Video Contests:

August — Contact public, private, parochial, and homeschooled students for essays
November 1 — Entries due to Chapter Regent or Chapter American History Chair
December 1 — Chapter winners due to District Director
January 1 — District winners due to State Chair
February 15 – State Chair submits winning state entries to Division Vice Chair
March 15 – Division Vice Chairs submit winning entries to the National Vice Chairs

Junior Membership:

Recognize your outstanding Juniors!

Don’t forget to nominate a Chapter Outstanding Junior (OJ) this fall! Chapter members can nominate an OJ between March and October. To be eligible for OJ, the members must be between the ages of 18 and 35. This is a special time in many of your Junior members’ lives. Nominating them for this recognition can leave a lasting impression on their lives and help with future membership retention. The nomination and selection should be included in your chapter minutes. Also, for those Chapter OJs who wish to apply at the state level, the contest will be online this fall.

Helen Pouch Memorial Fund Classroom Grants

The Helen Pouch Memorial Fund (HPMF) Classroom Grants are now open for this fall! The HPMF Classroom Grants program awards two $500 classroom grants to kindergarten through 12th grade classroom teachers per state. These grants play a crucial role in furthering the educational goals of the DAR. If you missed the opportunity to nominate a teacher for this grant in the spring, you now have a second opportunity this fall. The application process will be open through October 15. The deadline for chapters to submit applications to our state Junior Membership Committee is November 1. Click here for the application. More details about the contest can also be found here.

Supplemental Review Team

Click here for more information

Membership Committee Contest is running until Nov. 5, 2024

Membership Update

In Memoriam

Anne Carver Oakley, Smith-Bryan, 5 May 2024

Deborah Lynn Clark, Alexander Martin, 24 June 2024

Linda Gail Parmentie Lewis, General James Moore, 21 August 2024

Karen Hope Andrews, Carolina Patriots, 26 August 2024

Frances Carpenter, Caswell-Nash; 27 August 2024

Betty Jean Phillips Gastor, Smith-Bryan, 29 August 2024

Kay Ellen Darnell Neff, Alfred Moore, 29 August 2024

Patricia Satterfield Jones, Battle of Sugartown, 8 September 2024

Joyce Marie Cagle Lanier, Battle of Moore’s Creek Bridge, 10 September 2024

Juanita Bulla Kessler, Colonel Andrew Balfour, 14 September 2024

There is a time for everything, and a season for every activity under the heaven.

A time to be born and a time to pass on. Ecclesiastes 3:1-2.

New Monthly Feature:

This month’s CyberChats article is about changing default passwords to strong passwords. We have all been provided default passwords from our cable providers, internet service providers, and companies that sell “smart” devices, such as watches, toasters, refrigerators, thermostats, Siri, Alexa, etc. These devices that are connected to the internet are in a category called the Internet of Things, or IoT.

IoT devices make life more convenient for everyone, but that convenience can be expensive. Default passwords are often publicly available and easy to hack, and because the password was provided to you, someone else knows what it is — so they can access your network and anything on your network. To make matters worse, most companies don’t force a password change on the devices they sell, leaving their customers vulnerable to attackers.

I hope you’ll take a few minutes to change default passwords to strong passwords for your online safety. (See last month’s CyberChats article about strong passwords). If you’re not sure how to change default passwords, a simple Google search such as “How do I change the default password for Samsung smart refrigerators?” should result in a set of instructions. If that doesn’t work, call the manufacturer.

Stay Cyber Safe!

Laura Rodgers

Samuel Johnston Chapter

Edenton Tea Party Announcement, RSVP by October 22!

Andrew Och was the Series Producer for the C-SPAN/White House Historical Association (WHHA) series “First Ladies: Influence and Image” and spent over a year pinballing across the country to any location that helped him tell the stories of every First Lady. From Colonial Williamsburg to Stanford University, he was given an ALL ACCESS–BACKSTAGE PASS to some of the nation’s most treasured collections, historical landmarks, and artifacts. He spent time in libraries, museums, homes, schools, birthplaces, cemeteries, train stations, and churches. No stone was left unturned, nor was the door left unlocked. With C-SPAN and the WHHA, Andrew has accumulated the largest archive of information, research, and video on this unique sorority of women. Few people have been to all the places he has been or seen all the things he has seen. He has walked tens of thousands of miles in the shoes of these First Ladies, and now, with his “Unusual for Their Time” program and books, you get to walk a few in his.

Andrew will discuss Dolley Madison, Elizabeth Monroe, and Louisa Catherine Adams, their direct ties to North Carolina, the Marquis de Lafayette, and his last visit to America 200 years ago.

RSVP by October 22, 2024, to: bonnie.henn.dar@gmail.com

Subject Line: Andrew Och

Limited seating …. Reserve SOON

State Regent's Tour

One more friendly reminder: Last Day to Register October 28!

Due to the horrific damage done by Hurricane Helene in the Western Carolina counties, the committee has extended the deadline for registration for the 2025 trip to Colonial Williamsburg until October 28.

Click the following link to register: (https://ncsdar.regfox.com/colonial-virginia-2025-state-regent-tour-) For registrations received after October 28, we will keep an active waiting list.

The estimated cost for the last portion of your payments is approximately $560 per person assuming we have 40 attendees.

Good news! The deadline for your final payment is January 10, 2025. At that time, the food and expenses portion of the trip will be finalized and is nonrefundable. We have eliminated the group breakfasts/lunches to save money, so those meals will be on your own.

Bus riders take note: At this time, the cost of the bus is $386.11 per person, round-trip, Asheville to Williamsburg. Please email Marcia immediately if your plans have changed and you will NOT be riding the bus.

This trip will be a lot of fun and will give us a chance to see up-close Historic Preservation on a wide scale and Celebrate America 250, with ceremonies for both.

Marcia Rowbottom , State Chairman for Colonial Virginia State Regent’s Tour 2025

marcia.rowbottom.dar@nc.rr.com

Harriett Riley, State Vice Chairman