A public reception for the 2013 Eastern Star Chautauqua District Grand Officers was held recently at the Masonic Hall, Baker Street Extension, Jamestown, hosted by Mt. Sinai-Mecca Chapter 132, Acacia Chapter 96 and Silver Chapter 288.
They are Linda Conti, member of the Necrology Committee; Quentin O'Bensink, district Grand Lecturer; and Jackie Olszewski, grand representative of Alberta, Canada. Their spouses (Joe Conti, Judy Bensink, and John Olszewski) escorted and introduced them.
The state theme is "Kindness Joy and Reliability Kindle Responsible Members" (which uses the initials of the Grand Matron Keri J. Rhebergen and Grand Patron Kenneth R. Milner).
Article Photos
Pictured above during the Chautauqua District Grand Officers reception, from left, are Shirley Engels, district Deputy Grand Matron, Cattaraugus District; Betty Van Etten, Grand Musician; Linda Conti, Necrology Committee; Quentin Bensink, district Grand Lecturer; Jackie Olszewski, Grand Representative of Alberta, Canada, near the Grand Chapter of New York; and Lynn Schmitt, Commissioner of Appeals West.
Officers of the evening were: Francelia Skoglund, Karen Thompson and Frances Leonard, worthy matrons; Robert Lewis, Franklin Werren and John Olszewski, worthy patrons; Nancy Schuyler, associated matron; Timothy Skoglund, associate patron; Sandra Stewart, secretary; Mary Myers, conductress; Kristy Adams, associated conductress; Bernice Lewis, chaplain; Karen Russell, marshal; Lorraine Wiggers, assistant marshal; Georganne Bemus, musician; Fred Velotte, color bearer.
"I Believe" and "Danny Boy" were piano solos offered by Linda Lewis. Visiting Grand officers were: Lynn Schmitt, Commissioner of Appeals West; Betty Van Etten, Grand Musician; Elenor Hodges, District Deputy, Cattaraugus. Quentin Bensink encouraged everyone to support the OES Home at Oriskany, N.Y. "God of Our Fathers" and America the Beautiful" were sung by all.
Honored guests introduced family members and spoke briefly. Gifts were presented. Refreshments and fellowship followed the ceremonies.