The August 4th General Meeting of the HCRTA, presided over by President Robert Hottle, was attended by 32 members and guests. Following social time, birthday accolades, singing and the pledge, members and guest enjoyed a Ponderosa Buffet meal complete with roast pork loin, cheesy potatoes, steamed mixed vegetables, tossed salad, dressings and toppings, rolls, butter, drinks, and assorted desserts. At the completion of the meal featured speakers Dave Bushelman, Highland County Emergency Response Coordinator, and Lt. Brandon Jackman, with Paint Creek Joint EMS and Fire, spoke about the opioid epidemic and other public safety issues. Lt. Jackman summarized current trends in drug usage and emergency runs related to drug use and overdosing, factors complicating the drug problem, and current state and local approaches to addressing the opioid crisis. Mr. Bushelman discussed the various plans and emergency preparedness measures that are in place and under development to insure public safety and continuity of essential services in the eventuality of public emergencies. During the business meeting portion of the gathering reports were received from the treasurer and secretary, as well as the scholarship, necrology, and legislative committees. One of the highlights of the meeting was the announcement of scholarship award winners. Scholarships in the amount of $500 each were awarded to Samantha Shepherd of Leesburg, enrolled at Southern State College, and Deon Burns of Hillsboro, attending Thomas More University. The recipient of the Harold W. Spargur Scholarship was Samuel Buddelmeyer, also of Leesburg, enrolled at Wright State University. Miss Shepherd, was present and personally thanked the membership for the scholarship. In other business, Doris Pulse reported that we had collected $210 for Redi-Fest and school supplies to be divided among the 5 local school districts.
Joyce Baker reminded retirees that this year’s HCRTA "silver bells" Christmas tree will be located in the “classroom” display at the Highland House Museum and that decoration contributions will need to be to Joyce by mid-October. Membership was reminded of the upcoming Pioneer Days Program to be held at the Scott House on August 24th and the Bell’s Opera House Tours to take place on August 17th. Tour details are available on the Bell’s Opera House Facebook Page (https://www.facebook.com/events/1234064386772315/). Future meetings include an Executive meeting at Bell Gardens Place on October 7th and a General Meeting on November 4th at the Hillsboro Ponderosa Banquet Center. Tamla Cole will be the featured speaker with an update from STRS. In honor of Veteran’s Day, the November service project will be donations and/or collections for Sweats for Vets, to benefit residents of the Georgetown Veteran’s Home, many of which have been Highland County natives. For complete meeting minutes click here. |
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