Chester County Retired Teachers held meeting September 15

President Jean Smith welcomed members and visitors to the Sept. 15 meeting of the Chester County Retired Teachers’ Association at Snookum’s restaurant. She expressed appreciation to First Bank for sponsoring the meal. President Smith thanked Renee Phelps, Russell Jones and Amanda Gregory from First Bank for the way CCRTA is supported. Renee Phelps passed out information concerning the upcoming week of events relating to the Chester County Barbeque Festival and the parade of Hometown Heroes. Appreciation was also given to Brandon Maness and the Snookum’s staff for providing our delicious meal.
Ralph Mays gave thanks for our meal and our country and remembered our shut-ins and those who were not well. Nancy Connor led the Pledge of Allegiance. Ann Lowe gave the Thought of the Day with several quotes and short sayings to brighten up our day. The minutes from the June meeting were read by Marti McDaniel. Jennie Fletcher gave the treasurer’s report. The reports were approved as read. Jane Rowlett reported the results of the yearly audit.
Gail Dyer presented the necrology for Nancy Shutt. Mrs. Shutt was a mentor for so many. Sherry Henson was present to honor her mother. Susan Patterson presented the necrology for Mrs. Imogene Fitts who left a wonderful legacy for so many. We were honored to pay tribute to such fun educators.
President Jean Smith introduced our speaker, Dr. Al Price. Dr. Price presented factual and humorous excerpts from his recently published book about life growing up in rural Mississippi titled “Gravel and Grit.” His presentation inspired many of us to get his book and read this account of history.
Vice president Martha Lewis presented details for an upcoming outing for the Chester County Retired Teachers. She has planned a day at the Casey Jones Museum in Jackson and all the fringe benefits of going out with a group of teachers.
The service project for June was to support the Chester County Imagination Library program. We collected a $320 donation for this organization. Currently, 806 Chester County children from birth to age five are receiving books each month. A thank you note from Emily Johnson was read.
Our service project for September was to collect money to buy school supplies for one of the Chester County schools. We raised $205 to be presented at a later date.
President Smith once again thanked First Bank for sponsoring our meeting and Snookum’s for preparing a wonderful meal.
Our next meeting is scheduled for Dec. 8 at Freed-Hardeman University library. We hope to see many members and potential members at this meeting.