Historical Foundation Holds Annual Meeting
During the May 26, annual meeting of the Jasper County Historical Foundation (JCHF) held at Thomas Persons Hall outgoing and incoming board members were recognized and attendees received a sample of the events that have transpired over the past year at the venue.
As Ann Mercer, 2015-2016 JCHF President, welcomed the audience gathered in the auditorium for the event, she described the evening’s program. For the business portion, last year’s Board of Directors and officers were acknowledged while two members, Mary Jim Cantera and Rachel Torrance, were recognized as retiring from the board.
Susan Haynes, in her new role as JCHF President, introduced the new board and officers which include—Ann Mercer, Chairman; Susan Haynes, President; Sandy Dennis, President Elect; Lorie Couch, Secretary; John Stork, Treasurer; and Board Members Gail Parrot, LaRue Camp, Margaret Watson, Gail Harrell, and Patricia Tomlinson.
Mrs. Haynes then spoke of the transition of Sandy Dennis from TPH Facility Director to President Elect of the foundation and introduced the new director, Cissy Benton.
To conclude the business portion of the event, two crepe myrtle trees on the grounds were dedicated to the memory of charter member, the late John Harvey, who was faithful and active for more than 25 years. Mr. Harvey’s special area was Jasper County history.
The second crepe myrtle tree is dedicated to Ann Mercer for her passionate commitment and support of the Historical Foundation. Mrs. Mercer became an active member after her retirement from the Board of Education in the year 2000. Since then she has served as foundation President, Board Chairman and Thomas Persons Hall renovation coordinator.
Cissy Benton introduced the entertainment segment of the program which included demonstrations from classes that meet in Thomas Persons Hall. This began with recognition of the ballet youth students, then an address by Yoga Instructor Sonya Jordan, and followed by Art Instructor Jeanne Trammell.
Next the audience was amazed by the high level of energy and skill demonstrated by the Aikido martial arts students directed by Melanie Gray and Tom Warner. As the Aikido students finished demonstrating their defense skills another group of youth gathered on the stage to sing. Under the direction of Sandy Dennis, a portion of the Musical Theater Camp from last summer sang,” Let’s Go Fly A Kite” from the musical Mary Poppins. Ms. Dennis instructed the group last summer during the theater camp.
Following the entertainment segment, Mrs. Mercer invited those attending to join the members for a reception downstairs in the fully renovated area of Thomas Persons Hall.
For more information about upcoming events sponsored by the Historical Foundation, call 706-468-2659
