On Saturday, April 5, members of the Elizabeth Denton English Chapter, National Society of Daughters of the American Revolution welcomed to their monthly meeting Cynthia Kent, retired Judicial District Court Judge. Now an attorney in private practice, Kent has a lengthy and renowned career as attorney, judge, mediator/arbitrator, teacher, civic leader and author.

Her program to the DAR reflected on the past history of service and volunteerism in the DAR chapters and the National organization since it was organized 124 years ago.

"Members of the National Society have dedicated themselves to historical preservation, promotion of education and encouragement of patriotic endeavors," Kent said. These goals are as relevant today as they were when the DAR was first organized. In fact, in many ways and in many situations they are more important because we tend to erode and lose the importance of those in our busy world. It takes commitment to service and volunteerism to maintain that focus in our American society."

Chapter Regent Charlene Rapp, welcomed four prospective members whose applications are being processed. At the recent Texas Society State Convention, the chapter was given numerous awards for chapter activities. Rapp displayed all the awards and distributed special recognition awards to several members. Those accepting were Kelly Lindsey, Registrar and Commemorative Events Chairperson, Julie Vasek of Point on behalf of her daughter, Julie Guill, an active duty soldier, Donna Farmer of Winnsboro and Barbara Vogl of Gilmer for their service in the military, and Susan Few for her computer use on behalf of the chapter. Rapp also received a State award for her computer use.

Commemorative Events Chairperson Kelly Lindsey is working on programs to commemorate the 100th anniversary of Mothers' Day and the 50th commemoration of the Vietnam War.

The DAR is a nationally known, nonprofit, nonpolitical, volunteer service organization for women, which promotes historic preservation, education and patriotism. The Elizabeth Denton English Chapter is chartered in Mineola, but members are welcome from all areas. Any woman is eligible for membership if she is at least 18 years old and can prove lineal bloodline descent from a man or woman who aided the cause of American Independence. To learn more about the DAR, visit , or , or contact Mrs. Charlene Rapp, Regent, at 903-881-8511.