Preceptor Alpha Eta gathers for last meeting of season

DU QUOIN - The sisters of Preceptor Alpha Eta gathered on May 9 at the home of Kathy Smith for the last meeting of the year. President Kathy Smith led the sisters in the recitation of the Opening Ritual to begin the meeting. Roll call was taken, and the minutes of the last meeting were read by Secretary Mary Riggio. Thirteen members were in attendance. Linda Sherman gave the Treasurer's Report.

There was no communication from Beta Sigma Phi International. A thank you card from Nora Fann was read regarding Preceptor Alpha Eta's attendance at the dedication of the new sanctuary at her church. A thank-you note was read from the Du Quoin Food Pantry for sorority's donation of toiletries.

Service Chairwoman, Donna Secrist, read a letter from Nubability. A motion was made by April Kremer to make a donation to the organization. Priscilla Craig seconded the motion. The sorority also made a donation to the Shrine Circus. The motion was made by April Kremer and seconded by Barbara Brock.

This year's recipient of the Preceptor Alpha Eta Memorial Scholarship was Brooke Ward.

The Special Committee reported that Founder's Day was enjoyed by members and all who were in attendance. Spring Social Chairwoman Barbara Brock took a final count for Mother's Day. The Mother's Day celebration was May 12 at the St. Nicholas Brewery. Seventeen members and guests were in attendance.

Scrapbook Chairwoman, Judy Kauffman, reported that the scrapbook was almost finished and it is beautiful.

There was no unfinished business and no new business.

Kathy Smith was selected the 2017-2018 Girl of the Year. Additionally, Smith received Program of the Year for her program about her handmade memory tablecloth.

Installation of the 2018-2019 officers followed. The new officers are Sharon Childs, President, Barbara Brock, Vice President, Judy Kauffman, Treasurer, and Toni Haner Secretary. An impressive yellow rose ceremony was conducted to usher in the new officers.

President Smith then handed over the meeting to the new President Sharon Childs. President Childs asked members to sign up for meetings and committees for the upcoming year. Childs led the members in the Closing Ritual to end the meeting.

Smith served an ice cream cake to the following members: Barbara Brock, Sharon Childs, Nora Fann, Judy Kauffman, April Kremer, Priscilla Craig, Mary Riggio, Joyce Schimpf, Linda Searby, Donna Secrist, Linda Sherman, and Johanna Tolbert.