By Susie Hovater Malone
Lifestyles Columnist

The Alpha Upsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma held its end of the year banquet at North Highlands Church of Christ on Monday, May 1, 2023. The program topic was honoring female students and educators. Hostesses were Beverly Donaldson, Patricia Cox, Leah Masterson, and Cindy Bailey.

The theme was “Ride the DKG Bus to a Caribbean Paradise: Puerto Rico.” The decor featured a large tropical palm tree displayed with fresh fruit. Members were served a delicious meal which was catered by Bonnet Cafe. Cheri McCain, President, presided over the meeting. The Inspiration was given by Dianne Pace and Ginger Saylor led the Pledge to the Flag.

Special honored guests were three young ladies who have worked diligently this school year to acquire the distinction of having the highest GPA for their graduating class. Molly Bates King, Vice President, presented each senior girl with a memento from DKG Alpha Upsilon. The recipients were Emma Hutcheson-Phil Campbell High School; Kaitlyn Simmons-Tharptown High School; and Noelle Willingham-Belgreen High School. The Russellville High School recipient, Sarah Morgan, was not announced until the RHS Awards Night Program on May 22nd.

Donna Bolton, Membership Chair, recognized members reaching a milestone year in DKG. Beverly Donaldson-40 years; Judy Evett-25 years; and Karen Townsend-30 years were congratulated on their dedicated service. Judy Baker received the DKG Alpha Upsilon Chapter Rosebud Award. This award is presented to a member having five or fewer years of membership and exhibits service to her chapter and state organization.

Carolyn Eck, District 1 Director, presented greetings from the Alabama State Delta Kappa Gamma and a brief message on its projects.

Shannon O’Neal was welcomed as a reinstated member of DKG Alpha Upsilon. Carolyn Eck, Cheri McCain, Molly King, and Donna Bolton conducted the Installation Ceremony of three new Alpha Upsilon members— Emily Rush- Russellville West Elementary; Angie Garrison and Kristy Smith-Tharptown High School.

To raise money for the DKG scholarship fund a purse and jewelry sale was conducted. Debbie Beason and Cheri McCain will represent Alpha Upsilon at the Alabama State DKG Leadership Seminar June 15 -16 at the Marion Military Institute in Marion, AL.