By NewsLine Staff
mail@floridanewsline.com
On Saturday, Feb. 17, Atlantic Beach Country Club was the site of a special celebration in honor of the first president and Father of the Nation, George Washington’s birthday. The annual recognition was sponsored by the Regents Council of Northeast Florida, which consists of the eight chapters of the Daughters of the American Revolution.
The event highlighted a snippet from “UnMasked,” a performance by the newly organized Theatre Troupe of 1776, which is Mandarin-based and directed by Patty Everett. The performers, Christorpher Shields, Nicolas Cooke, and Louise Everett were center stage. “UnMasked” is a book trilogy of historical fiction that was recently performed, in whole, at the Mandarin Community Club.
Next, an American History teacher with outstanding contributions to American History education was selected. Jacksonville Chapter NSDAR submitted Mandarin High School teacher, James Schmitt, who spoke at the group’s Constitution Lunch in September as their choice. Schmitt received accolades with the Jacksonville Chapter and received its award. He was then honored with the prestigious award, certificate, and check from the Regents Council for Northeast Florida. Schmitt’s nomination will now be sent to the state for consideration of the DAR Florida State award. Schmitt continues to capture attention due to his exemplary dedication to educating students.
Sons of the American Revolution took part as Color Guard for the event with president of the SAR Jacksonville Chapter, Paul Tucker, presenting a tribute to President George Washington. Mandarin resident Betty Reed, president of the Regents Council of Northeast Florida, was host of the event.
Photo courtesy Betty Reed
SAR color guard with the Theatre Troupe of 1776.
