“Only a life for others is a life worthwhile.” This wisdom from Albert Einstein was the theme of the meeting when Alpha Gamma Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma met at Food & Friends in Lewisburg on Saturday, Nov. 18.

The meeting began with the initiation of new member Dondie Stemple, fifth-grade teacher at Marlinton Elementary. President Barbara Beard, 1st Vice-President Pam McCurdy, and 2nd Vice President Mary Sue Burns conducted the candle lighting ceremony in which the purposes of the education sorority were reviewed and Dondie accepted the responsibilities of membership.

Linda Van Reenen led the chapter in the singing of the Delta Kappa Gamma Song. Twenty-three members answered the roll by telling what they like about the holidays and/or how they volunteer in their schools or communities. The Fun Fund/Convention Fund collection produced a total of $74.30, each member donating 25 cents for each hour she volunteers.

After the usual reports by Treasurer Nancy Bostic and Secretary Donna Jackson, the members shared personal events in a segment entitled “Joys, Celebrations, and Condolences.” Those included the following: Lynne Bostic read a thank you note from Crystal Hodge, an Alpha Gamma scholarship recipient; Linda Van Reenen thanked the chapter for their expressions of concern during her recent illness; President Barbara read a resignation letter from Heidi Houck which contained a wish to rejoin at a later date; Sharon Vance and her husband have moved from Pocahontas to Greenbrier County; and Nancy Ratliff reported on the health status of Margaret Clark, a charter member.

In “Old Business,” coats were collected for Greenbrier County students impacted by the June 23 flood of 2016. Last year, the chapter donated 26 coats. This year’s total appeared to exceed that amount, but an exact account will be available later. In other old business, Pam Echols brought beads and ribbons to update service pins.

In “New Business,” members were advised to submit new member applications at the March meeting. Also at the March meeting, the focus will be on the committees’ planning for the 2018-2020 term. Additionally, the summer meeting, usually held in June, will be in Greenbrier County. Lynne Bostic suggested Charlie Mackey Park in Maxwelton as a suitable site. A final decision will be made in the spring.

The gift/cookie exchange was a very enjoyable part of the meeting. Members brought gifts which were assigned a number and then matched with a recipient who held that number. Each person showed what she received and expressed her appreciation to the person who gave it.

Nancy Ratliff won the door prize and gave the parting thought, an Irish poem wishing blessings on everyone.

The next meeting will be Mar. 17, 2018.