The Delta Kappa Gamma Society International held two events recently to honor local individuals.

May Memories Dinner
Delta Kappa Gamma Society International, Niles Phi Chapter met Monday, May 16 at Millennium Steakhouse in Niles. Each spring the organization of women educators choose an individual from the community who has made a valuable contribution of service.
The “Community Woman of Distinction” award was given to Patricia Saxton, the longest-serving director of the Christian Service Center, 322 Clay St., Niles. The center began under the direction of Delora Geraghty in 1979. As the work increased, Saxton began assisting her. In 2004, Saxton took over the directorship due to Geraghty’s failing health.
The center assists those who are in need of emergency food; refers clients to other agencies; and assists clients according to the center’s resources.
Saxton works with at least 56 volunteers. More than 200 people may receive assistance from the food pantry in an average month.
Saxton is the wife of Dr. Stephen Saxton.
Also each year, Delta Kappa Gamma recognizes a member for her service to the sorority. This year, Helen Crawford, a member since 1971, was named the “Chapter Woman of Distinction.”
Crawford earned degrees from Western Michigan University and Michigan State University. She began teaching in a one-room schoolhouse in Cass County that served grades 1 through 8. She also taught at Barron Lake School, which later became Howard School. After marriage and a few years in California while her husband was in the military, she returned to Niles to become co-principal at Eastside and Central schools. After three years, she returned to Howard to teach second grade and remained there until her retirement in 1985.

Scholarship brunch
DKG held a scholarship brunch April 30 at Orchard Hills Country Club to meet applicants and to hear about their future plans.
Each year a scholarship is awarded to a high school senior planning to attend college with a major in education. The applicants must stand in the top third of their class. Applications are sent to Niles, Brandywine, Buchanan and Edwardsburg high schools.
This year the scholarship was awarded to Caitlin Reese of Edwardsburg High School. Caitlin is planning to attend Grand Valley State University to major in special education. Jo-Ann Boepple, a longtime DKG member, made the presentation at the Edwardsburg awards assembly Wednesday, June 1.