DAR Chapter Rings Closing Bell
at New York Stock Exchange

NEW YORK, NY - The Daughters of the American Revolution (DAR) Knickerbocker Chapter of New York City rang the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) Tuesday, July 5, 2005. It is believed to be the first time a DAR chapter has rung either the closing or opening bell at the NYSE. The exciting event proved to be great exposure for both the national service organization and the young chapter that was only formed eight months ago.

Suzy Chase Osborne, Knickerbocker Chapter Vice Regent, rang the official bell for 15 seconds and Laura Engelhardt, Knickerbocker Chapter Treasurer, struck the gavel to close the market. "Ringing the closing bell at the New York Stock Exchange on behalf of the DAR was such an honor," said Osborne. "We like to help in whatever way we can to get the vibrant face of the DAR out to the public."

After being granted approval from the NYSE for their DAR chapter to ring the closing bell at the stock exchange, 11 members of the Knickerbocker Chapter attended the ceremony and were given a reception and tour of the official New York Stock Exchange Headquarters.  The chapter has already received interest from prospective DAR members as a result of the NYSE exposure.

The Knickerbocker Chapter was organized November 4, 2004 and has grown to 26 members in less than a year. The members in attendance were treated with high respect during the bell ringing ceremony and were praised for their service work in the community and promotion of American history.

To view a photo and read more about the DAR chapter ringing the NYSE bell, visit http://www.nyse.com/Frameset.html?displayPage=/events/1120559777949.html.

The National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, a worldwide service organization with nearly 3,000 chapters, is devoted to promoting patriotism, historic preservation, and education. With almost 168,000 members, it has been one of the nation's most active service organizations since its founding in 1890. In just a few examples: Daughters provide financial support for scholarships, fund schools for abused and abandoned children, and volunteer time to local programs such as literacy tutoring. Members contribute thousands of hours of volunteer time in the nation’s VA hospitals each year as well as provide support and encouragement to active military personnel through various programs.  In communities across the country, local chapters distribute thousands of U.S. Flags each year, and welcome thousands of new citizens. For more information on the work of the DAR and how to become a member, visit www.dar.org.

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