President Jean Smith welcomed members and visitors to the December meeting of the Chester County Retired Teachers’ Association at Freed-Hardeman University. Appreciation was expressed to President David Shannon for sponsoring the December meeting with a delicious meal. Freed-Hardeman was also represented by Dr. C.J. Vires, Dr. Amy Downing and Dr. Sharon Cypress. President Shannon also shared that Freed-Hardeman had successfully completed a three-year process for accreditation. This was from the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges. This was a three-year process, and Freed-Hardeman University was thankful for the success of the hard work. Congratulations, FHU! President Smith also welcomed Mrs. Sue Bryant and her daughter Mrs. Kay Johnson to the meeting.
Wayne Roberts gave thanks for our meal, remembering our shut-ins and those who were not well and our country. As we were enjoying our meal, Mr. Keith Brown, minister at Trinity and First United Methodist Churches, provided our entertainment. Being a former band director at Milan High School, Keith explained each instrument used. He also led Christmas songs.
Barry Smith led the Pledge of Allegiance, and Susan Patterson gave our Thought for the Day. Minutes from the September meeting were read by Marti McDaniel, and Jennie Fletcher gave the treasurer’s report. The reports were approved.
Jane Rowlett presented the necrology for Mr. Don Bryant. She shared many thoughts about Mr. Don Bryant. Besides being a great educator, he was a great supporter of the CCRTA. One of his strong points was that he worked hard for the teachers. Mr. Don Bryant will be greatly missed by all of us. It was an honor to have his wife, Sue, and his daughter, Kay, at our meeting. We are better for knowing Don Bryant.
President Jean Smith shared a thank you card from the family of Mrs. Imogene Fitts. She also gave special thanks to Nancy Lofton and the committee for the service projects. A check will be presented to the Eagles Edge at Chester County High School.
Vice President Martha Lewis reported on the West Tennessee Retired Teachers Association meeting in October. We were encouraged to work on building our membership.
President Smith once again thanked Freed-Hardeman University for the wonderful meal.
Door prizes were given out and our meeting was adjourned.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Wednesday, March 16, 2022.
