STEUBENVILLE — The Fort Steuben Chapter of the National Society Daughters of the American Revolution, met Dec. 7 at the Schiappa Library.

There was no meeting held January. The group’s next meeting will take place at noon on Saturday at Historic Fort Steuben.

During the December gathering of the chapter, Regent Mary Ann Jesse called the meeting to order. The invocation and blessing were said by Chaplain Roberta Fedoush. The Pledge of Allegiance was led by First Vice Regent Jeanne Vega.

American’s Creed was led by Nancy Valles. Tammy Kotyk led in singing the national anthem.

Early announcements included informing members that those who are not vaccinated are reminded to wear a mask, except when eating or addressing the group in order to maintain social distancing.

Members were asked to wear their name tags during every meeting.

Following lunch, Vega introduced Ron Schall, who led a program about Honor Flights.

In remembrance of Pearl Harbor Day, Schall spoke to those in attendance about the Pittsburgh-based Honor Flights organization.

“Honor Flights started in 2005, and has groups in 45 states,” Schall stated. “Since its beginning, they have arranged for more than 300,000 veterans to participate.”

Schall, along with other volunteer helpers, pay for their own travel costs. All funds raised go to pay for the veterans’ trips, officials said.

During the business meeting, Secretary Vickie Joseph read the minutes of the November meeting.

Treasurer Patti D’Aurora gave the treasurer’s report, noting there is $1,652 in the general fund, as national dues were paid, $518 in the Nutcracker account and $1,286.26 in the scholarship fund.

Auction sale proceeds, which will go toward the scholarship fund, equals $106.

Committee reports included Jesse noting the chapter has done better with reporting their Service to America hours, which now stands at 1,413 hours. She said the group will “hopefully reach our goal of 1,860 hours by the end of the year.”

Veterans Affairs Chairman Nicole Balakos sent in her report, which Jesse read, and then provided members with information on homeless veterans.

Nancy Valles reported 308 student projects were judged by her, Kotyk and Joseph. Lauren Caradonna electronically-submitted all winning projects to the OSDAR state JAC chairman.

Under old business, it was noted the chapter was asked to participate in the Wreaths Across America program at the cemetery in Paris, Pa.

Shana D’Aurora Wydra and Melinda Young will decide on a topic for the chapter’s scholarship contest.

D’Aurora will submit credentialing information for members attending the OSDAR state conference in March.

Condolences were given to Shirley Farrow and her family on the death of her sister, Linda Helmick. Prayers were said for former member Kathleen Jonczak, who is in Weirton Geriatric Center, and for Wadene Nardo, who is recovering from an illness.

Members were asked to send cards or call all those on the Sunshine Report.

The benediction was given by Carol Skerbetz.