By Susie Hovater Malone

The Alpha Upsilon Chapter of Delta Kappa Gamma International continues its virtual travels to DKG International sisters’ clubs and country during the 2023-2024 club year.

The October meeting celebrated Germany’s Oktoberfest with delicious German appetizers furnished by hostesses Brenda Oliver, Judy Baker, Donna Bolton, Debbie Beason, Lela Ray and myself. The Green Room at Russellville First Baptist Church was decorated with red, black and gold table coverings representing the colors of the German flag and adorned with a fall garland.

A table covered with Oktoberfest blue and white colors featured a display with items that members collected from their travels to Germany. Some of these items included music boxes; steins; Goebel Hummels; nutcrackers; wooden carved items including cuckoo clocks; Christmas Pyramid; Arches; and ornaments featuring the nativity, angels, wise men, Santa, carolers, village life, church scenes, animals or forest scenes.

The program also included the history of Oktoberfest which started in 1810 and is held annually in Munich, Barvaria. More than six million international and national visitors attend this celebration.  Other cities across the world also hold Oktoberfest celebrations that are modeled after the original Munich event.
The first Germany Delta Kappa Gamma Society International was chartered March 21, 1992.

President Cheri McCain presided over the meeting. The Inspiration was given by Leah Masterson and Pledge of Allegiance by Gayle McAlister. Alpha Upsilon Chapter members recognized for their services were Barbara Ayers (55 years); Louise Hester (25 years); Molly Bates King (20 years); and Rebecca Massey (40 years). Louise Hester was honored for her continued membership of DKG Alpha Upsilon since 1998 and as a teacher.

Each member received a copy of the 2023-2024 yearbooks. A preview of the new DKG Alabama state executive officers and chairmen; district directors; district committee chairmen and clubs; Alpha Upsilon Chapter committees; programs; and projects.

DKG Alabama State President is Ann Jones. The Alabama State 2023-2025 Biennium theme is “Putting the Pieces Together: Purpose, Priority and Passion.” The Alabama state president’s project is Autism Support of Alabama. This year marks the 92nd anniversary for DKG Alabama State which was founded December 19, 1931.

Elizabeth Glass defined Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a developmental disability caused by differences in the brain. People with ASD often have problems with social communication and interaction and exhibit restricted or repetitive behaviors or interests. People with ASD may also have different ways of learning, moving or paying attention. The Autism Support of Alabama mission is to improve services for individuals with ASD and their families through education and advocacy.

The closing of the meeting included the reading of the DKG Beta State Collect.

Cheri McCain arranged a pumpkin decorating craft activity for the members. Several creative pumpkins were designed through members’ participation and will be added as a personal accent to their fall holiday decorations.