By KATHLEEN LEWIS
A new chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution is forming in Orange County.
Organizing regent Debbie DeHart of Rhoadesville hopes to appeal to working women who want to join DAR but require flexibility for their schedules.
Meeting days and times will vary, said DeHart. One month the group might meet at 7:30 a.m.; another month, the group would get together on a Saturday morning.
Meeting places also will vary. Meetings may take place in homes or public locations, such as a library.
DeHart said 12 members are needed to form a chapter; the National Society of DAR determines eligibility.
"We have enough women whose paperwork is in the works," she said.
So far eight applicants have been approved, and DeHart is waiting for approval of the chapter name.
Members have to be 18 or older. They need to be able to prove that they are a descendent of someone who aided in achieving American independence.
This can include a signer of the Declaration of Independence or someone who provided military, civil or patriotic service.
DeHart joined DAR because she enjoys genealogy and history.
"We emphasize preserving records and historical sites," she said.
The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution formed in 1890, according to the group's Web site. The organization is a nonprofit, nonpolitical volunteer women's service organization dedicated to promoting patriotism, preserving American history and securing America's future through better education.
The organization contributes money to build and restore national historic monuments and sites.
It supports several schools in remote areas of the country that provide education to children with special needs. It also supports several American Indian schools and offers scholarships to American Indians.
The organization raises funds to help veterans in Veterans Affairs hospitals and nursing homes.
For chapter membership details, call DeHart at 540/854-6700.
To reach KATHLEEN LEWIS:
Email: klewis@freelancestar.com