Happy St. Patrick’s Day!

Can you believe it? Spring is almost here! Like many of you, I’m eagerly anticipating the green grass, colorful flowers pushing through the earth, and the bright, sunny skies.

For those who joined us at the Mid-Winter Conference in Arlington, Virginia, I hope you had a chance to explore more of the iconic sights in our nation’s capital. I also hope you made it home safely. I want to express my sincere gratitude for the honor of being recognized at breakfast and for the generous monetary gift — it will greatly help cover my travel expenses. Personally, I’m a morning person, though I know some of you may not be — and that’s perfectly fine! We all bring something unique to the table, and when we unite for a common purpose, we can expect wonderful outcomes.

As March approaches, it’s the time of year when our units begin selecting new officers. Like many of you, I’m excited to receive invitations to install new officers at Unit meetings and Department Conventions. Additionally, I’m also looking forward to the opportunity to travel across the country for various Division Conferences. Remember to extend a written invitation to a president, past president or other national officer to perform your installation. Also, when you invite them to attend your conference as a guest, please make sure to submit the invitation in writing and clarify what expenses your unit will cover, such as the hotel room and banquet meal. Don’t forget to have someone from your unit available to walk her around and introduce her to your Unit members.

If you do not have the current Protocol Do’s & Don’ts booklet, I strongly encourage you to order one from the Ship Store at National Headquarters. It contains vital information and serves as a reference for questions regarding protocol and etiquette for our organization. From selecting a thoughtful gift for your outgoing Unit President to ensuring a reserved table at the banquet for the presiding president, it is important that we properly honor the women who have devoted their time and energy to our organization by serving in a leadership capacity. Please don’t assume the League will automatically provide a head table at your Division Conference for your Division Vice President and her guests if it’s not requested in advance. Above all, remember: Flexibility, Patience, and Grace.

Dotty Sanning

[email protected]