President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

First and foremost, it was great to see those of you who attended our January dinner meeting and I extend my appreciation to John Ferris and Brandon Villardi for attending the meeting.

2026 will be a year of opportunities to spread the awareness of SAR as we continue toward America’s 250th anniversary. Please take advantage of this milestone to spread awareness of our chapter throughout the communities we serve. An easy way to do that is through the presentation of flag certificates to those neighbors who proudly and regularly display the American Flag. If someone comes to mind please contact Jim Hernandez who keeps our inventory of certificates.

Reflecting on events leading to the Revolutionary War that occurred in February, most notably the Stamp Act (passed Feb. 17, 1765) comes to mind. The act imposed a direct tax on the colonies, leading to the rallying cry of “no taxation without representation”. The subsequent boycott against British goods lead to the repeal of the Act a year later.

Those February events highlighted the growing tensions between American colonies and Great Britain, setting the stage for further conflict that would eventually lead to the Revolutionary War. The Stamp Act and its repeal were pivotal moments that galvanized colonial resistance and unity against British policies.

I hope you join your fellow chapter compatriots for dinner at our February meeting, although I regret I won’t be able to join you due to out-of-state travel at that time. I’ll see you again in March, but in the interim wish you all good health and much joy.

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels

President’s Message

Dear Compatriots,

Let us all embrace the year of America’s 250^th anniversary with pride in knowing at least one of our ancestors helped achieve independence from England and establish the United States of America.  It has been an honor and privilege to serve as your chapter president these past two years, and I look forward to again serve our chapter this year and next.  The chapter continues in good health and is supported by very capable officers. Your continued support of the chapter and its leadership is appreciated, but this is your chapter so please let us know what we can do, with your help, to make this a better experience for all members.

Each of us honors our Revolutionary War patriot ancestors through our membership in SAR.  As members our mission is to promote patriotism, serve our communities, and educate and inspire future generations about the founding principles of our country.  Unfortunately, we have fallen short on our focus on youth programs except for CAR & JROTC Cadet support.  I ask your help in eliminating this shortfall through volunteering to be one of three members on a youth program committee.  Youth award contests help:

• Promote Character
• Increase Confidence
• Foster Civic Responsibility, and
• Develop Critical Thinking Skills

The Americanism Poster Contest (Grades 3-5)

The permanent themes are “Revolutionary War Events” in school years ending in an even number, and “Revolutionary War Persons” in school years ending in an odd number.  National winners receive a ribbon, certificate and a cash award, while prizes at the state and chapter level vary.  Judging is based upon portrayal of the theme, originality, evidence of research, neatness, artistic merit and creativity.

The Sgt. Moses Adams Memorial Middle School Brochure Contest (Grades 6-9)

The permanent theme is “The Founding Documents of the United States”.  National winners receive a ribbon, certificate and a cash award, while prizes at the state and chapter level vary.  Judging is based on content, creativity and correctness.

The George S. and Stella M. Knight Essay Contest (Grades 9-12)

The program is designed to give high school students an opportunity to explore events that shaped American history.  Students must submit an original essay, with topics based on original research and deal with an event, person, philosophy or ideal associated with the American Revolution, Declaration of Independence, or the framing of the United States Constitution.  Cash award.

The Joseph S. Rumbaugh Historical Oration Contest (Grades 9-12)

The contest supports the SAR education objectives by perpetuating the stories of patriotism, courage, tragedy and triumph of the men and women who achieved the independence of the American people.  These stories are universal ones of man’s eternal struggle against tyranny and will inspire and strengthen each generation as it is called upon to defend our freedoms on the battlefield and in our public institutions.

Chapter members are the primary drivers in stimulating students to participate.  They work through teachers of all subjects in the school system.  The contest culminates in a national contest held each year, with State winners representing their respective Societies and Districts. As always, thank you all for your patriotism and your membership in the SAR. Please know you and your membership are important to us. 

In patriotism,

Barry Michaels