N E W S ‘N ’ V I E W S

Published quarterly by and for the Retirees of the Memphis Annual Conference of the United Methodist Church

Carroll H. Gallimore, Editor 367 Rockwell Rd. Jackson, TN 38305-1836 731-660-1551 E-mail: [email protected]

Reporter deadlines: January 15 - April 15 - July 15 - October 15

> a net gain in membership was reported by one hundred twenty-seven churches > a new streamlined format was used…some folks liked some parts while disliking other parts. I N M E M O R I A M > a new organizational model was approved for our programming staff that will be called the

Connectional Ministries Team (CMT), replacing the We prayerfully remember our deceased clergy old terminology of Program Ministries Team (PMT). and spouses who have died since April 15, 2008, > a new budget was adopted, representing a one-half as provided by the Conference Secretary: percent reduction over 2007.

> effective January 1, 2009, there will be a 9% Dorothy Marie Palmertree (widow of Ellis) Southaven, MS March 4 increase for The Clergy Wellness Commission (insurance); new coverage for vision needs. Timothy M. Salyers (Rosalina) The increase is the first in two years. Jackson, TN March 27 > ordained as Deacons in Full Connection: Daphne Eubanks Moses and Sammy G. Tillman Ruby Virginia Hulme (widow of Joseph C.) > ordained as Elders in Full Connection: James R. Columbia, MO [Interment, Memphis, TN] May 12 McKinney, III, and Nancy Johnston Varden.

Irene Kesterson (widow of Glenn) We retirees rejoiced to see one of our very own Benton, KY June 5 recognized on the floor of the Conference. Lillie M. Raines Corinne (T.C.) Lewis (A. Kendrick) of Memphis, widow of the Rev.

Paducah, KY June 8 E. B. Raines, has been attend- ing Annual Conferences for 72

Harry E. Burke (Thelma) years, beginning in 1936. She Lexington, TN June 27 missed only one Conference because of a sister who was ill in the hospital. Forty friends and relatives helped her celebrate “96 years young” on July 1st. Call and congratulate her: 901-357-7837. FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK We also welcome the following new retirees into the For those who couldn’t attend Annual Retirees Association (don’t worry, it’s FREE and Conference, here are a few highlights. automatic and you receive this newsletter quarterly! 1 We hope you’ll become contributors by sharing your Dear Carroll, Just a note to let you know how much we views on pertinent matters and also your news): appreciate the News ‘N’ Views. It’s our connection to the Conference and friends there. I so enjoyed talking with you William Kent Bailey Stephen E. Mischke last year when we were there. We’ve both had health Thomas E. Cary, Jr. Edward W. Walton, Jr. problems, but seem to be all right now. Andy and his Billy J. Harris Jerry Lynn Wilson family were here the weekend of Conference, and Grace Ann is coming next week, so we probably will not come to Ed Franklin Jeffrey Thomas M. Yoder Tennessee this summer. Hope you and Russell are doing Don Harold Lawrence well. - Love, Mary Jane & Bill Grandberry

We invite you, our newest retirees, to attend our 50th ANNIVERSARY: annual Retirees’ Retreat at Lakeshore, October 7-8, 2008. More information will be forthcoming. Congratulations to Ann & Frank Gardner of Martin Welcome to Glenn and Sandra Jo Elliott, our who celebrated their 50th newest reporters who’ll be calling folks in 5 counties Wedding anniversary on under an “Area-Wide News” heading. Dossie June 28th. Wheatley, whose Huntingdon list seemingly weren’t news-makers, SYMPATHY TO THE RUTH MISCHKE FAMILY: “signs-off” his long reporting stint with much appreciation and thanks from all Dear Russell and Carroll: Some folks knew Vernon and of us. We’ll miss your news and your me, and our children. Our daughter, Lanie, died in “little boy” photo [right]! Lakewood, Colorado, on May 8th. It was certainly not - expected. She was diagnosed with lung cancer…and Carroll that's the story. Her brothers were wonderful...Bob and his wife Genca, taking care of her, and Dick and David Bishop H. Ellis Finger Dies helping. Her memorial service was held in Lakewood, October 8, 1916 – May 25, 2008 Colorado, on June 6th at a park near her home. Her three Ashville, NC. brothers were there, and about 50 of her friends- from over the years. She had worked in the Denver area, teaching Bishop Finger was our bishop from computer and teaching blind and handicapped skiers (she 1964-1976. We remember his loved downhill skiing); she worked with photography, magnificent memory, especially of mounting and framing many photos from Africa, bear cubs our names. We’ll always recall from the Denver Zoo, and animals in general; she restored old photographs; she traveled; and she kept foreign how he goofed on Frank Bulle’s persons in her home for short periods of time. Her wishes name when he recognized him on were that if anyone wanted to contribute something in her the floor of the Annual Conference memory, it could be to: 1) Wild Animal Sanctuary, 1946 as Frank Boo-lay! Weld County Rd 53, Keenesburg, CO 80643;303-536-0118, or “Kindness is the language the blind can see and the deaf can 2) Cat Care Society, 5785 West Sixth Avenue, hear.” - Mark Twain Lakewood, CO 80214.

NEWS ABOUT & FROM OUR READERS I'm not thinking about a trip to TN just now, but I really am glad I got to visit two years ago. It was so good to be in NOTES OF THANKS: Jackson, Memphis, at Lakeshore, etc. I'm very conscientiously trying to gain a few pounds...and feel "perky" to go to Grass Valley, California, July 2-7, for a Carol and Russell: Congratulations again for an important family get-together…there are five great-grand-children, task done well. I feel sure that all readers of News and and If I don't see them once in a while, I'm not very real to Views appreciate the result of your hours of work. A big them. Best wishes. and heartfelt THANKS! - Sincerely, Ruth Dated April 25, 2008 - Harold Montgomery A GREAL ROLE MODEL . . . More! Dear Carroll: Sending a quick note to tell you how much I Mary W. Mitchell (left) has begun her enjoy the News 'N' Views….In addition to all of your other th 9 year as pastor of the Salem-Walnut duties....you do a terrific job and I thank you. Grove Charge in Milan. She really - Sincerely, Ruth (Yancey) Redmon enjoys people…so much so that she 2 graciously took on a third church in June, the Lessenberry even see wild deer, and all kinds of birds, in the green Church within the Milan Arsenal! ways of downtown Nashville. There are a number of benches for the less hardy to just sit and enjoy nature. DALE & CHARLENE MILLS . . . America the Beautiful! FRAN & DICK FLICK. . . from Florida to England & Back! In May, Dale and Charlene Mills enjoyed one of the several “dream Our summer began with a seven-day Emory Alumni vacations” they promised sponsored trip to the Tuscany region of Italy, visiting themselves upon retirement. The places like Cortona, Siena, and Assissi. We continued to 3,500 mile venture included Venice for 3 nights and ended the 16-day trip in England. touring Shenandoah Valley of We 'just happened' to be at Westminster Abbey for a Virginia; Acadia National Park of communion service and St. Paul's Cathedral for Evensong. Maine; White Mountains in New Hampshire; Niagara Falls, That was a treat within itself, but for Methodists, a tour of New York; and celebrating a grandson’s birthday in Wesley's Chapel and Home was a highlight. Even enjoyed Indianapolis, IN. “From the mountains (snow-capped a musical concert at noon at the chapel. We haven't toured Mount Washington) to the valleys to the ocean white with the rest of Florida much, but while Dick's brother and foam,” they saw sights they had never seen before and will family were here we went to St. Petersburg and toured the not likely ever see again. So enjoyable was the trip that Salvador Dali Museum--very interesting--was glad we they are already planning for next year’s venture. joined near enough to a tour group to gather bits and pieces of info, which made the art more meaningful. The Mills now live in White Bluff, TN, where Charlene Thanks, Russell & Carroll for all your efforts! works several beautiful flower gardens and provides after- ***** school care for their granddaughter, Elizabeth, and where A Special APPRECIATION BANQUET honored Wayne Dale pastors Barth Vernon Church, plus working in his Fesmire with a special wood-working shop and fishing with Elizabeth. They say it floral gift on May 23 at is indeed “a wonderful life,” one which they hope to pursue Lambuth Memorial UMC so long as health and finances allow. Had they known in recognition of his years “retirement” would be so much fun, they would have tried it of faithful service as earlier! Conference Secretary. Special guests and Tom and Mary Perkins . . . Riding for $$$$$! spouses were those who are currently serving on the Secretary’s Staff or have served in the past. The new Hi Folks. In retirement Mary and I have been fortunate to Conference Secretary, Dr. John Bonson, was the host have 5th Sundays as vacation time. On the fifth Sunday in pastor for the event. At Annual Conference, Wayne was March, Mary and I were thirty miles presented with a wall plaque in recognition of his north of New Orleans at Mandeville outstanding contribution to the Conference. riding our bicycles among the birds and alligators. Actually, we were on RETIREES’ RETREAT a redeveloped railroad trail about Lakeshore, October 7-8, 2008 ten feet above the swamp. In June, Mary and I were on a self-guided bike tour of the Mickey R. Carpenter Wisconsin Dells area. We rode the reclaimed railroad January 24, 1948 – April 26, 2008 lines that have been donated to the State of Wisconsin by the railroads to be redeveloped as paved bike and walking Although he was anything but a retired trails. The outstanding thing about this vacation is that minister, News ‘N’ Views pays a special Mary accepted a challenge to ride 100 miles as a fund tribute to the memory of Mickey R. raiser for a new fellowship hall at Edith UMC [near Ripley]. Carpenter, who was the Paris District She expected to raise $10 for each mile ridden. No, she didn’t do the whole 100 miles in one day! She took two or Superintendent to many of our retirees. He accidentally three days to do it. Yes, I was there with her every mile of drowned while fishing. We send best wishes to Marsha the way. The great thing about the old railroad beds, and daughters Megan and Michelle. Memorial gifts may besides the wonderful scenery, is there are no cars and be sent to: Africa University Dream Farm Project, % Mr. James never more than a two percent grade. For those of you Finger, Memphis Conference Treasurer, 24 visiting Nashville, you might want to check-out the great Corporate Blvd., Jackson, TN 38305 walking/bike trail that is laid-out beside the Cumberland River all the way from Opry Mills Hotel/Mall to downtown Right: Mickey as a Lambuth College student, shown Nashville. It is about 4 1/2 beautiful miles of paved trail. while serving as Assistant Pastor & Youth Director at The best access point is the Two Rivers Park off Briley Adamsville First--Larger Parish UMC, November Parkway at Exit 10. There is a newly completed walk/bike 1969. The UMYF “loved” him! bridge across the Cumberland River at that point. You can AREA-WIDE NEWS 3 Jo and Glenn Elliott – Reporters their first great-grandchild. Also, said he performed the marriage of his oldest grandson this past month. The Elliotts have had a busy summer this year. We began babysitting our new great-granddaughters last John Middleton of Lexington was out of town at the October and agreed to keep them until they were one- time of my call. Becky said they were both well, but year old. One was one-year old on June 29th, and as I had no news to report. write, she is in her first day at day care. The other will be one on July 23rd and will also start day care. They We were unable to contact Steve Mischke and Rufus have been a real joy and we will surely miss them. Moore of Trenton or Neal Hinson of Henderson. We celebrated Jo's mother's 103rd birthday on th May 17 ! She is in the nursing home, but If FedEx and UPS were to merge, gets up everyday, dresses herself and makes would they call it FedUp? her own bed. She still crochets, reads, and works crossword puzzles. On June 21st, we celebrated our 51st wedding anniversary. MEMPHIS AREA #2 Summer days have brought a bumper crop to our little Charlotte Comes – Reporter vegetable garden and lots of weed-pulling in our flower beds. By newsletter time, we will have made a Being “busy” is a matter of semantics, I trip to North Carolina where Glenn will perform his suppose. Just getting out of bed and niece's marriage. Since we made the Israel/Jordan ready for the day can get so busy you lose yourself in trip in January, we don't have any other travel plans the “busy-ness”. But at “our age” (don’t you love that this year until early December. Glenn still fills the phrase?), we find ourselves faced with unexpected pulpit frequently on Sundays and will be doing a changes that we just couldn’t imagine a few years revival service at Mt. Pleasant UMC the last of this ago. So we ADJUST (more easily said than done month. We enjoy the newsletter. sometimes).

Tim Brown of Sharon said Betty took a bad fall a I found Pat DeBardeleben recuperating from an short while back and he has been caring for her 24/7. upper respiratory condition. However, she was all Said she was doing much better, but not sleeping very aglow as she recounted the 100th birthday celebration well. Not much else going on. Let's keep Tim and given for her mother, Virgie Morse. A group of 350- Betty in our prayers. 400 people, including relatives from as far away as Ohio and Texas, friends, church members from other Paul Eubanks said he and Doris were enjoying churches, and former students she had taught, all living in Jackson and were doing well physically. gathered to celebrate at Medina church recently. One Said they enjoyed receiving the News 'N' Views and hundred balloons accented the festive read it cover to cover. occasion as did the pictures depicting 100 years of memories, all projected on a Roger Henson said it was a screen for everyone to enjoy. Mind you, busy time for Sue and him as Virgie never sat down during the hour-long party they were in the process of except for a brief picture-taking episode. The Jackson moving [from Finger] closer to Sun news reporter came to photograph the event as Jackson. Health-wise, they were doing well. This lady is amazing in that she lives alone in well. the house that she has been in since she was 3 years old. She gathers food from her garden and even Joe and Mary Jane Johnson, Lexington, have been drives herself around town (though her children in Georgia for the last couple of months while Joe would prefer that she not drive). I believe folks from dealt with prostate cancer. He said it was under that generation lived healthier lives than we who shop control now and said Mary Jane said he looked much for our food at the grocery and stay in the air- better. They were delighted with the news that their conditioning all the time. CONGRATULATIONS granddaughter Brandy is expected a baby in January, VIRGIE! Maybe you will make another 50 years or so. Jim, you have quite a mother-in-law. 4 And, speaking of life-changing events, when I talked arms of luxury for this brief time--having your bed to Everett Roseberry, he virtually knocked-me-off- turned down for you and lovely mats being placed at my-feet with the statement that Billie has been the sides of the bed for your feet when you arise. confined at the Intermediate Care facility at Trezevant WOW! Meanwhile, being back home (and down to Manor for the time-being. He hopes to have her back earth again), Sandra is back to performing her hobby home soon. We all wish them well. Folks, please of working in their yard, something she loves to do if send them a card. It’s hard to be separated from each she can dodge the hot weather. Tom is back to doing other even for a short time. God bless you both. whatever he desires. Also, she has made a scrapbook of all the lovely cards they received. Congratulation Tom & Mary Lou Wilson had just arrived home Cooks, and to your friends, the Comptons! from a visit to their doctor when I talked to them. Seems the only thing bothering Tabernacle Church in the Brownsville District was Tom these days is not being able to gain getting ready to begin their Camp Meeting in mid- weight--the condition that most of us July. Joyce and Bob Cole were looking forward to would love to have. I told him that if that celebration, especially the “Love Feast.” Will he could get a decent cook around his Tom in 1984 Willimon was to be the speaker Friday through house, he would eat better. (HA!) Now, we all know Sunday mornings. Everyone was very excited to have that is a JOKE since Mary Lou has always been an him come. However, there was disappointment in the excellent cook. He got a kick out of the comment. fact the Dr. Howard Olds, who had planned on Sorry, Mary Lou, didn’t mean to hurt your feelings. coming to speak, also, would be unable to attend due Incidentally, Tom loves greeting cards, so let’s all to his health. Cokesbury was to be present and offer, send him a bunch! on display and sale, one of his books-- Laughing with Cancer. Recently the spring storm of Memorial George and Charlotte Comes are spending their Weekend played havoc with the trees in days eating out (most of the time) at lunch. We have that area, downing one in the our favorite haunts to visit, and then we go around in parsonage yard and damaging a circles for the remainder of the time to the same old metal fence as well. The storm also places—over, and over and over again. Hey, would managed to take down area electrical you call that being in a “rut?” But we are enjoying wiring. Fortunately, there were no injuries or loss of our rut and thankful to be able to go out everyday. life and no homes damaged. Good news about Chip The 4th of July was a grand gathering of the family at Cole, their son. He is finally free of Staph infection our home, but our daughter Laura would not let us do after a very long bout and is looking forward to anything to help. Kinda nice to have a daughter who returning to his teaching career in August. caters to you. This is more evidence of another change of the times. Now take “Busy Bees” Frank and Becky McRae who say that “Life is still GOOD on Chatham Pond”. Imagine being participants in a double-wedding Frank has been busy giving interviews on such ceremony, and then, 50 years later, getting to subjects as MIFA’s 40th anniversary (can you believe celebrate together again. That’s what Tom and they have been in business for 40 years?) and Rhodes Sandra Cook and dear friends, Peggie & David College’s “Crossroad to Freedom.” It never ceases Compton (a retiree of the Tennessee Conference) did to amaze me what Frank is up to. And Becky has in June of this year. But prior to the big celebration, established new hobbies & activity pastimes: there was a surprise “card shower” landscaping and photography (she has a new given for Sandra, who said it made her camera). She has transformed their yard into a thing feel like a bride again. This was of beauty and has been awarded the “Yard Of The followed by a grand celebratory party for Month” in Bartlett. Way to go, girl! She has even the Cooks on May 30th, given by their managed to engage their neighbor, Walter Adams children. After a delightful brunch with the (son of the late minister, Bill Adams), into joining Comptons, Tom & Sandra departed for a lovely 4-day forces to complete a landscape spectacular in his area trip to Chicago at the “Four Seasons,” also a gift as well. We certainly hope to have photos of these from their children. Now, imagine yourself in the accomplishments for our next publication. 5 RIPLEY RIDGES Jerry and Martha Ann Corlew plan to beat the Betty Evans – Reporter Memphis heat with six weeks in the cool Northwest. They’ll be visiting their Hilda McKinnie Carlson was able to daughter’s family in Winslow, make the trip to Pennsylvania for her Washington, for a week on either end of a grandson Bo’s graduation. She had a wonderful visit month-long August stay in a nearby condo. They with her daughter Virginia and also with son Bob who expect to do lots of entertaining of grandchildren, as was there from Santa Fe. well as enjoying the beautiful setting.

Joyce and Harold McSwain had been doing well Richard Hackleman is doing fine. He enjoyed until recently when Harold suffered a set-back. preaching at Gates (where he had pastored) for Joe Harold is at home and Joyce is able to care for him Johnson recently. Richard said it was such a good with Medicare help. day, and it happened to be almost exactly ten-years from his last Sunday there before he was assigned to Alystine Hare’s granddaughter graduated with a Atoka. degree in nursing from UT-Martin and was married in June at Jackson First UMC. John Archer and Jack Bettye Jo Masters continues her volunteer work at Henton officiated. John wore Lefty’s robe and stole, St. Luke’s, but I haven’t noticed any summer slump making it a special event for the Hare family. The in all she does. She’s preparing now for teaching in next week, Alystine flew to North Carolina for the the Christian Mission Education Event coming up in high school graduation of a grandson. She says Jackson. Her college grandson Matthew has been everything was wonderful…but time for her to slow staying with her and working the first half of the down! summer, and he had just left the day I called (July 5th). He’ll be working the rest of the summer in West MEMPHIS AREA #4 Virginia where his mom Kathy (Memphis Conference Shirley Lynn, Reporter deacon and missionary) lives.

Elton and Billie Jean Baker have just Jim and Ruth Mulroy report they are doing well. returned from another family reunion, this Ruth had cataract surgery recently and is time in Baltimore, MD. The Bakers flew recovering nicely. Jim says he enjoys to Columbus; her son there drove them on to MD, a the chance to read as much as he likes, beautiful drive of 500 miles. Billie Jean reports they TV when he pleases, and lots of are tired today, but “it’s a fun tired.” They always “churching.” He preached at Lynchburg close their reunions by singing “Amazing Grace.” in early July and Ruth sang the next Sunday, so the Mulroys are far from the rockin’ chair stage! Just as they finished the hymn, fireworks began to go off across the street from the cousin’s home where John and Mary Ann Sturdivant had a recent visit they were gathered. Billie Jean remarked, “When you from Mary Ann’s brother from Houston. John is sing ‘Amazing Grace’ and fire works go off, it can’t about the same, and Mary Ann sends thanks to the get any better than that!” many retirees who call from time to time to express concern. It means so much. She has accepted a Evelyn Brady, likewise, reports a good family second year as Vice-President of the UMW at Christ reunion. Her group met in June, and folks were there Church and stays active. We laughed that we didn’t from Mississippi to Anchorage, Alaska. care too much about multi-tasking these days. Uni- tasking is more fun now! Frank and Betty Grace Bulle journeyed to Atlanta in the spring for the Emory Your reporter changed positions at St. Luke’s graduation of their grandson. They are beginning June 1st. After four years as part-time keeping their “going shoes” handy since Minister of Evangelism, my new role is Special they are going to Branson in September and to Associate for Pastoral Care and will entail far less Gatlinburg with their children in October. responsibility and fewer hours. (Known as

6 “progress” in our great retirement-mode.) Summer Competition and played in the State Olympics in visits with grandchildren are underway. Franklin, TN, July 20-24.

Bill and Anna Walker were not at home when I Paul and Mary Douglass recently visited her sister called. We’ll look for a good report from them next in Columbus, Illinois. From there, they went to her time. sister's place at Lake of the Ozarks in Arkansas and spent several relaxing days. JACKSON AREA #1 Ann Archer - Reporter Jim and Ida Holmes are very excited about an upcoming trip to Hawaii. Their grandson from Lula Bingham had a lot of excitement Atlanta sings with the "Atlanta Young Singers." This the last few weeks in May. First, she and other family group was invited to Hawaii to represent the U.S. at members attended the high school graduation of the Pacific Rim. Their son invited them David's son, Jack, in Denver. Jack plans to study to go along, and, of course, they said architecture at Auburn this fall. Then, May 31 was YES immediately. How wonderful to the date of her granddaughter’s (Betsy's daughter) go to Hawaii…and see your grandson wedding at Brentwood United Methodist Church in perform also!!! Jim is also excited about Nashville. Betsy performed her duties as mother-of- his recently published autobiography, No Orphans. the-bride and then donned her clerical robe and assisted Bishop Joe Pennel as they conducted the I saw Sue Kibbons daughter, Katie, a few days ago. wedding ceremony. Lula said Betsy did a splendid She said Sue was about the same. job with the homily, and it was very special to all of them that she could give the wedding vows to her Many of you probably knew that Kathleen Phillips daughter. Nowell is about the same--they just take had surgery on May 22 at Vanderbilt. everything one day at a time. Recovery the first few weeks was very slow but she is now much better Ruby Crockett was excited but tired when I talked to and making good progress. She and her. She had a wonderful weekend celebrating her Paul say a big “thanks” to everyone 50th high school class reunion at the old Montgomery for their prayers and concern. Let’s High School in Lexington. To make it more exciting, keep them on our prayer list. Montgomery school has been recognized by the state with a historical marker. There is much excitement I had a long conversation with Sara McClarin. as activities and plans are being made for money- Their little 2 year-old great-grandson, Caleb McClarin making projects to assist in the repair of the building. who lives in Birmingham, is being treated for a rare She and Martin said that there was excitement at blood disease. It is curable but will take time. He is their church, Wesley Chapel, about their new re-evaluated every 6 weeks and they go from there. minister, Sharon Lewis-Karamoko. Treatments aren't painful and Caleb doesn't realize anything is going on. Bill and Sara are doing fine. Carroll Gallimore & Russell th attended the 100 Birthday of John and I are very proud of our oldest grandson, her home church, Bemis, on Kent, who graduated cum laude from U.T. Martin th May 18. Then on July 6 , with a degree in business. He is now employed at the immediate family members Jackson Clinic. My two brothers, my sister and our celebrated Carroll’s Mom’s spouses gathered in Ripley on July 5 for dinner Joy Weathersbee, Jack- th son Dist. Superintendent, 90 birthday! Russell together. We were joined by a niece and her husband and Carroll Gallimore at preached in revivals at Salem and our 90 year-old aunt. We enjoyed being together. the Bemis UMC 100th in Milan and Brown’s near John preached at homecoming at Archers Chapel so Birthday celebration! Jackson in the spring. He we got to see most of his family there. John has also preached at Ripley First and at Aldersgate-Jackson in had two weddings in June, as well as preaching at July, and will preach at Brown’s in August. He won homecoming at Mt. Pleasant. He has a couple of more than a dozen medals in District Senior Olympic revivals and preaching engagements coming up. 7 PADUCAH AREA Paducah, she was accompanied by her daughter Ann Vida McClure – Reporter and granddaughters Morgan and Allison. It seems E-mail: [email protected] or Morgan and her cousin Emily love to attend church phone: 270-653-3352 camp together. They are both about 16 years-old and

For those of you who have never truly enjoy each other’s company. While they are at been blessed to serve as a reporter to News ‘N’ Views camp, Mary, Ann and Allison are enjoying time for your area, let me assure you that you have truly together at home. After Morgan returns from camp, missed out! I cannot begin to tell you the joy that I Ann and the girls will be heading for Florida while have experienced with some of the folks I contact-- Mary resumes her routine in Paducah. As we were folks whom I have never met in person but who have about to conclude our conversation, Mary suddenly become my friends through a quarterly telephone remembered! She has a new great granddaughter visit! I am disappointed that I was unable to make who was born in Hong Kong! The parents are contact with Margaret Thomas, Kathleen Bradley missionaries through the Baptist Church and are Phillips, Donnie and Nancy Hardin, and Lynn currently in North Carolina on a year’s furlough with Humston this quarter. I hope they are all well; plans to return to Hong Kong. maybe I can catch them in October. Our area was saddened June 5th by the death of Irene Kesterson Rachel Siress and I had a very nice visit via from Benton and then again on June 8th with the death telephone. I am convinced she is a lady whom it of Corinne Lewis. Our sympathy goes to both would benefit me to model. Rachel is NEVER families. negative--always positive! She was celebrating that she had been able to attend the baptism of her great- Glynn & Sara Copeland: Sara’s doctor had ordered great granddaughter in worship at Benton First United her to stay off her feet due to her continuing foot Methodist Church. Heads up! IMPORTANT problem; however, Sara has found that difficult to do ANNOUNCEMENT! A big day is fast approaching and reports that her foot problem has worsened with for Rachel! On August 15th, Rachel will celebrate her her doctor threatening to “chain her to the bed!” 95th birthday. Her family has planned a Glynn still struggles with medical problems of his BIG PARTY for August 17th. Rachel did own; however, he is continuing physical work in his not suggest this - but I am! Let’s all garden. His doctors have told him to do what he feels shower her with birthday cards!!! Her like doing. So, Glynn, keep “trucking” on and enjoy address is: 2860 Maryland, Paducah, KY those veggies in your garden. 42001. Wouldn’t it be nice if she received 95 birthday cards???? Calvin & Judy Clark: Last month Judy reported a freak accident that their son-in-law had. Judy said he Ben & Agnes Butler: Ben’s report went something is somewhat better but requested continued prayers. like this - “Same old, same old;” “Still hanging on Calvin and Judy visited with both their daughters this side of the green.” He didn’t have a lot to report recently--one in Louisville and the other in Nashville. but I’m sure he has not been idle. (Don’t think Agnes Calvin continues to preach as he fills-in for pastors would let him!) He did share that he and his two from time to time. When not preaching somewhere, grandsons--Todd and Tanner--had just returned from you will find Calvin and Judy sitting on the right side, a mission trip to Red Bird Mission which they all second pew of Clinton First. enjoyed.

Kendrick Lewis: We are all saddened Mary Warren was able to attend a family reunion in at the death of Corinne who died on Alabama recently; however, she has also spent some June 8th. It has truly been a great loss. time in the hospital since our last report. She said she We all extend our sympathy to was still “getting around but in a slower gear!” Kendrick. Kendrick is continuing his ministry at Palestine. Paul & Ora Bell Peck: I received a nice letter from Ora Bell. She said things were going better for them. Mary Riley visited with her daughter Ann in Paul is much better and able to mow the lawn and put Springfield, Missouri. As she returned home to out a small garden. She reported they were unable to 8 attend Conference because her brother was worse. was headed to Louisville to begin his medical She and her sister-in-law are still taking turns feeding internship in July. The important part of this event him. Paul and Ora Bell are looking forward to the was that Hank and Grace were able to meet their 7th approaching visit of their great-grandchild, Annabelle Houser, for the first time. granddaughter and her family who live After Hank and Grace’s visit in the Memphis area, in Okinawa, Japan. Quoting Ora Bell’s they headed for Knoxville to spend time with letter: “Emily, our 5 year-old grand- Madeline (granddaughter??) before she left for Med daughter said something to me I didn’t understand. School in the Caribbean. From Knoxville, they Her Mom told me she said, ‘Thank you, Grandma’ in traveled to Jackson for Annual Conference. On July Japanese. Then Emily offered to speak Spanish so I 4th, the Russell residence was filled with family said, ‘We only speak English here.’ Emily replied, members from Gainesville, FL; Nashville, TN; ‘That’s OK, I speak English, too!’ It might be nice to Decatur, AL; Seattle, WA; Switzerland and Indonesia be 5 years-old again. Maybe I could learn to use the to honor and celebrate Grace’s 84th birthday. They all computer and cell phone.” Well, it seems Paul and attended church at Broadway UMC on Sunday where Ora Bell are doing what several of us retirees are Hank introduced them to the congregation. Rusty and doing. Starting the first Sunday of August, they will Bob were both asked to lead in prayer during the be supplying the pulpit at Palestine out of Aurora two service. After receiving Grace’s report, I received an Sundays a month until the end of December. She also e-mail regarding the death of her brother, Aubrey reported that Ryan (Ronnie’s son) graduated from Williams, Jr. We extend our sympathy to Grace and high school and plans to attend college after working her family in this loss. a few months to buy a car. Ora Bell ended her letter with “the Lord has blessed us and our family. The Fred & Annie Lou French: There is no doubt in my bad could have been worse and the good has been mind that to “mess with” Fred great.” What a beautiful way to view life! French’s message could be denying our readers a picture in words. “Lou Merle & Norma Jean Thomas: First things first! and Fred French celebrated their New email address for the Thomases is: wedding anniversary with a trip [email protected]. Merle and Norma Jean (accompanied by one daughter and enjoyed a visit from their son from Cincinnati. They son-in-law) to Alaska. Getting there (and back) was also were able to attend their high school reunion at the difficult part. We headed ‘NORTH TO ALASKA’ Clay City. While they were there, they visited the with a two-hour flight from Nashville to Houston??? church in which they were married about 60 years Then there was a seven-hour flight to Anchorage. ago. In July, they are making plans to attend a “Camp Then there was a two-hour bus journey (along with a Meeting” in Illinois. They will be camping in their 2 miles one-way tunnel, where we had to wait for a trailer for 9 days. The Camp Meeting has been north bound train), finally reaching the Island meeting for 106 years. It is interdenominational but Princess about 18 hours after getting up that morning. is primarily United Methodist. In talking to Norma We stumbled into our shipboard room only to be Jean, it sounded a lot like Joyner’s Camp Ground in roused-out for a life-boat drill! With College Fiord, Fayette County, TN, but a lot bigger. Hope they have Glacier Bay, Skagway, Juneau, Ketchikan and a wonderful time. Vancouver, we saw plenty: bears, eagles, sea otters, whales, grouses, and a stuffed long-haired Monmouth Hank & Grace Russell reported a (in an exhibit). Plenty to talk about, with pictures!!!!” busy and eventful summer. I read The only thing that would have been an improvement: Grace’s email and marveled that she if Fred had not had an outbreak of the Shingles two was able to give names/ages/and weeks before, during, and still after getting home. country of resident for all her Next: Fred is heading to the Smokies for a French children and grandchildren. (Grace, I hope you will Family Reunion. Bon Voyage!!! Hope you get rid of forgive me if I don’t include all the names.) Hank those Shingles before heading for the Smokies! and Grace attended Ellendale’s 100th Anniversary in April. While in the area, they were able to make If people from Poland are called Poles, why arenʹt connections with Phillip, II, and his family as Phillip people from Holland called Holes? 9 Phillip & Vida McClure enjoyed Phillip’s 50th High family enjoys having him here. We all get together at School Graduation with a full round of parties in May. least once a week at our house; It was amazing how good everybody looked, albeit a also, I try to have my Dad once or little heavier for some, wrinkles and gray (or tinted) twice more during the week. hair on all of us. Since our last report, Phillip and I Once in a while I go to his church have served on Emmaus/Chrysalis teams. We are also on Sunday afternoon. He is Lutheran and the church committed to a Covenant Group with five other clergy in Paris meets in the afternoon at 3, so I really don’t in the Paducah District. This has proven to be a have an excuse NOT to show up, other than laziness constant confession/encouragement session for both of or something else scheduled. Our three youngest us – “holding our feet to the fire” while being there children, with their families and Harold and I, went to with support for our covenant members. At Annual Huntington, IN, for Harold’s family reunion. The Conference, Phillip was appointed as SY (Supply) at group gets smaller each year; we had only about 61 Bardwell/Corinth; while I am serving as a non- there. Finances and distance may play a part in all appointed Associate at Clinton First. We are both family reunions now. It is good to hear from different very involved in the Older Adult Ministry at Clinton ones through the News ‘N’ Views. First which has also spread into a community activity. We seem to “fit right in.” Do you think it might have Ozella Sykes is doing fine. She had her youngest son something to do with OUR age? The Hickman/Fulton Phillip from Loganville, GA, visiting with her for the County Habitat has just completed their third house holidays. While he was here, Ozella and Phillip and preparing for the fourth. Phillip has found a real visited Ozella’s daughter in Murray, KY. Before the fulfillment in that ministry--as for me, jobs I have 4th of July, they had a cook-out at Lane’s. Leonard planned for Phillip are not always fulfilled in the Greer was the visiting minister at Pine Ridge where timely fashion that I would like because he is busy. they all enjoyed a hotdog lunch. Since our last His response is: Your projects cost ME newsletter, Ozella has been to the Wimberley money! We haven’t done any traveling-- Reunion at the Paris Landing Inn; and, on the 13th of that will come in July/August. Just been July, she will attend the Hopkins Reunion at Sanders “stay-at-home-bodies” but I challenge you to Senior Center. Ozella stays pretty busy and fairly catch both of us at home at the same time! healthy and can’t complain about anything.

RETIREES’ RETREAT Joe Walker and Bernice – Bernice’s brother, Travis Boles from Commerce, GA, visited with them for a Lakeshore, October 7-8, 2008 couple of weeks. During that time, they were able to visit Joe, Jr.’s, church (Trinity UMC in Paris) and hear Joe, Jr., preach. Erica Smith (Joe, Jr.’s, PARIS-McKENZIE AREA NEWS daughter) and Ethan went to Trinity UMC and also Jacque Stricker – Reporter visited with Bernice and Joe. They are all doing well.

At this writing, I was unable to reach the Zada Russ’s new phone number it is 270-454-4144. Kings, the McAdoos, Lockie Smith or Zada Russ. Perhaps they are doing something that I will be able JACKSON AREA #3 to report on next time. Walter German - Reporter

Covie Byars has Parkinson’s disease; unfortunately, Benny & Gail Hopper are spending about 2 weeks ago she fell, hitting her head and their summer keeping their grandchildren, one-at-a time! (Who’d skinning her nose. She has days where she doesn’t be brave enough to keep triplets all at the same feel real good and other days when she feels like she time???) Gail enjoys her volunteer work at Regional could live to be 100! She still has a good outlook and Hospital and Benny wouldn’t take anything for his enjoys being able to visit with her friends. golfing partners. He recently shot “80” in an 18-hole game, getting three “Birdies” in a row! Move over Tiger! Harold and Jacque Stricker are keeping busy with yard, garden, grandchildren and my Dad. We now Cecil & Tharon Kirk don’t let any grass grow under have my Dad settled in Paris, TN, and all of our their feet. Cecil continues his part-time staff work at 10 Jackson First. He usually golfs once a week. In Week at Junaluska. This year, his children are August, he will lead a mission team to Nicaragua and visiting him from California and Memphis. Daly Tharon will be part of the team. He and devotes most of his time to the congregation at Chuck Page, a former Conference Johnson's Chapel UMC. He is doing little minister, are planning a later trip to the professional counseling these days. In September, he Holy Land. Tharon taught a class begins his 23rd year as pastor of Johnson's Chapel. recently at the West TN Research & Education Center and stays busy with The main project is the re-activation of Sunday her gardening and yard activities. school.

John & Bobbie Clarke have enjoyed a visit from her Bob Moore and Cynthia are well, and they stay busy Virginia cousin. Bobbie was named Teacher of the keeping up with their busy three Week by WBBJ-TV with a record number of votes. Brentwood grandchildren, what with She retired from teaching in the spring and has been soccer, etc. Bob still serves on the staff at undergoing therapy on an arm. They’re enjoying Brentwood UMC, helping with pastoral their grandchildren, too. care. They are spending several days in late July visiting their daughter and her family in Joan Eickhoff is feeling good about her move to the Beaufort, SC. Cheyenne Trace Assisted Living Facility. She said, “My boxes are still full and I can’t find anything!” Julia King is doing fine, and she has taken a couple Her new phone number is: 731-668-8456. of tours with Sonshine Tours of Hendersonville. They were on a two-week tour to the Grand Canyon, Hiram & Michelle Harrison have moved into a and she was excited about a tour to Cape Cod. Julia home in Jackson, 17 Hopper-Barker Rd, phone 731- has a grandson, who will be a sophomore at The 410-6157. He is a Supply pastor at Beech Bluff-Mt. University of Memphis this fall, and he is a great Pleasant and she teaches at Lambuth University. baseball pitcher. She's really enjoyed seeing him develop. Harold & Linda Montgomery are doing “so fine” that they’re rejoicing that they have nothing new to Jerry and Dot Carr send greetings to all! They are report. well, and are spending more time caring for elderly relatives. Jerry retired "again" on June 30, after Harrell & Alice Phillips enjoyed the July 4th parade serving on the Brentwood UMC staff for eight years. and “eats” with friends at Cottage Grove where Alice They are spending the last half of July in California, graduated from high school. Harrell continues a visiting Dot's sister Patty and her family, and touring rather full preaching schedule, including a recent the region around Rocklin, CA. revival at Salem (Benny Hopper’s home church) near Rutherford. DYERSBURG AREA Pat Calhoun – Reporter We, Walter & Donna German, made a trip to Indiana in June to visit our daughter Diana and her Richard and Viola Denton – Richard family, hubby Jeffrey Miller and their sons Allen & has had surgery on his foot in which all Collin. I’ll be preaching a revival at my home of his toes were removed. He is a diabetic. The church, Antioch in Fayette County, the last of July, surgery was in Memphis, but he is now recovering at and I continue to enjoy my weekly golfing group. home in Newbern. We wish him well. Unable to

preach for a while, other ministers have been filling NASHVILLE AREA NEWS in. Jim Calhoun will be the new interim at Jerry Carr – Reporter Greenfield-Brock’s-Mt. Hermon.

Daly Thompson is not traveling much Ralph and Dene Gunter took a 4-day spring these days, but he did attend the Music vacation to Branson, MO, with Dene’s sister and her 11 husband. They saw a lot and enjoyed it! Ralph is and punch were served to some 180 folks, many of enjoying his garden and thankful for the rain! whom were former church members. It was also his 73rd birthday! Exactly 50 years ago that day he Catherine William’s son Stephen came up from preached in his first church. That morning both Memphis for the 4th of July holiday. They enjoyed Hornbeak and Mt. Manuel churches, whom we watching the fireworks at the nearby Obion County enjoyed serving very much, joined together for a final Fairgrounds. Sue, her daughter-in-law, service complete with a wonderful lunch and gifts. was walking with some other women There was a surprisingly large cake with Jim’s picture in the Memphis area and fell into an on it! unseen open manhole! It broke her arm and shoulder, severely setting-her-back for RETIREES’ RETREAT UPDATE, Oct. 7-8. A awhile! special musical program will be featured on Tuesday night. Dr. Gene Davenport will sing and Tim and Betty Brown of Sharon seem to be doing relate the history of western music, especially the OK. However, Betty has weak legs and is in a wheel- Sons of the Pioneers. A special Memorial Service chair much of the time. Tim has been filling-in for for our deceased retirees will be led by Walter Richard Denton at Greenfield. The Sharon church German. Returning by popular demand…the ice has a new minister, Rev. Susan Varner. cream & banana split bash on Tuesday afternoon!

Fred and Lorene Thomas – Fred has retired “again”

but still conducts some funerals. Lorene requests our prayers for her illness.

Brady Whitehead led Bible Study at Richard and Patsy Carruth say their 3 new Annual Conference, focusing on the churches keep them busy. The churches are: Zion, Hornbeak and Mt. Carmel. They followed Jim theme of “Radical Hospitality” as Calhoun who had been serving Hornbeak and Mt. found in the Bible. He received a standing ovation for his presentations. Manuel. Sympathy is extended to Ken & Virginia Burnette Faye Howard reports improvement from her eye th on the death of Ken’s brother, Marvin Wells Burnette surgery. Her children came for the 4 of July (70), on May 24, 2008, in Jackson. holiday. She is a faithful member of the Hornbeak church. ***** Starting or Energizing Your Older Adult Jim and Pat Calhoun have been to Plymouth, MI, Ministry where Jim performed a wedding for a cousin’s Older Adult Ministries Training daughter. The outdoor wedding went fine in spite of Tuesday, September 16 thunderstorms and rain in the area. They visited First UMC, 200 S. Church Street, Jackson, TN relatives and returned home, stopping for 2 nights and 9 AM-2 PM days in Indianapolis, IN, for an enjoyable visit with $15/person, includes lunch (Scholarships available) friends who had traveled with them to the Holy Land. Registration deadline: Monday, September 8. No Drawing on her 8 trips to the walk-ins please. Holy Land, Pat taught the study on “Israel & Palestine” at the 1. Designing a Ministry with Older Adults recent UMW Christian Mission Speaker: Luci Cromer, Coordinator, Memphis Education Event at Lambuth. She Conference Older Adult Council taught a similar study at Scarritt- Are you looking to start or jumpstart an older adult Bennett Center in Nashville the following week. First ministry and get some new ideas? You will learn how Church Union City made June 15th a very special day to work with an older adult council, how to design, for Jim. It was a lovely reception in his honor, implement, and evaluate a program of ministry, and celebrating 50 years in ministry. Homemade cakes how to identify resources. 12 2. Building your Homebound/Nursing Home Margaret Simons recently returned from Nova Ministry Scotia upon completing a Speaker: Rev. Roy Hendrick, Pastor of Hospital Sunshine Tours trip. and Visitation, Central Church, Collierville, TN Margaret's daughter from Learn about various ministry models for homebound Houston met her in ministry, how to keep the homebound connected and Nashville where they active in the church, and how to start your own boarded the tour bus. They traveled 4300 ministry team. miles, covering fifteen states and three Canadian 3. Assisted Living vs. Nursing Home Communities provinces. The trip took fourteen days and they saw Speaker: Sally Ostheimer, Director of Health beautiful cities and many wonderful sights. Margaret Care, Wesley Senior Ministries said it was a marvelous trip; but best of all, was Discover the myths and the differences between sharing it with her daughter. assisted living and nursing home communities, the people they serve, and the services they offer. Tommy Bullock reported that he and Betty are doing fine, and that they just finished VBS at Dyer First. ROUNDTABLE DISCUSSIONS: Be prepared to On July 4th, the churches of Dyer had a community- share in 5 minutes what your group has done in the wide worship service with combined choirs singing. past year as well as plans you have for the future. It was a joyous patriotic occasion. Tommy and Please bring copies of your schedule of activities, Betty's home is quite near some of the worst damage newsletter, or any other handouts that might be of the February 5th tornado. He was happy to report helpful. lots of new houses are being constructed on Addison near them. WHO SHOULD COME: Anyone interested in older adult programming including Older Adult Council members, church program directors, lay Jack Dickerson did not answer my several attempts people in older adult programming, and pastors. Call to reach him and I missed my usual friendly visit. Hopefully things are continuing as well as possible Luci Cromer, 901-755-0803, if you have questions. with him and Sara. Mark your calendars and plan on coming!

Older Adult Ministries Seminar: Registration Form Wayne and Jayne Fesmire have entertained Payment deadline: September 8—no walk-ins please grandsons during a week-visit plus two week-ends of ____Group* ___Individual Travel Ball, in which Ryan's team of thirteen year- olds competed at Jackson's Sportsplex. Travel Ball is Name: ______an advanced, very competitive baseball team sport, Address: ______City/State/Zip: ______Jayne reports. Wayne 's outdoor landscape work has Phone:______slowed down with the advent of hot weather, but he Church:______stayed very busy for several weeks. Email: ______Jayne participated in an Invitational Art Please return registration form with your check made out to Show at West Tennessee Regional Art “Older Adult Ministries.” Center in Humboldt during May and Mail to: Memphis Conference, 24 Corporate Blvd., Jackson, June, a Strawberry Festival event. She TN 38305-2315 was one of four visual artists and had twelve paintings *Please list all participants with addresses and phone numbers in the show. on a separate sheet.

JACKSON AREA #2 Marge and Bill Vaughan were at Lake Junaluska in Joann Mischke, Reporter July for Ministers' Week along with fourteen family members. Marge, Bill and grandson Will won the Jean Penny is busy getting ready for her family golf tournament with an eighteen-hole total of granddaughter Terica Redfern's wedding in 64! All the family had a great time being together. In July. Terica is marrying Jean's next door neighbor's addition to regular golf, they played putt-putt golf, son, Scott Little. Jean introduced them after Scott's went horseback riding, and hiking in the mountains. father Bruce bought the house next door and the family moved in. Scott and Terica will be serving Walter and I have had a quiet first summer in our Center United Methodist Church near Gadsden. new home developing flower beds in our front and 13 back yards. All our family gathered at the cabin on look to them during this time to support Lambuth Mockingbird Hill for the 4th (except three of our University, which has been a part of the fabric of this young-adult “grands” who were busy with their community and the United Methodist Church for interests). Our lives are occupied now with a more than 160 years,” said Dr. Fred Zuker, President new Brussels Griffon puppy which we adore. Our of Lambuth University. oldest grandchild Jill, Steve and Jodie's daughter, will marry Ben Hampton on the beach at Gulfshores in Every donation will make a difference in improving August. Ben is the stepson of Lakeshore Assembly the quality of education provided at Lambuth Administrator Gary Lawson. Ben and Jill met while University. If you are interested in making a gift to both served on the Lakeshore permanent staff. I've the University, please contact Tricia Odom at 731- learned that beach weddings take as much preparation 425-3390, or mail your gift to Lambuth University, as local weddings. The whole family will be there Development Office, 705 Lambuth Blvd., Jackson, TN with sand between their toes for what is shaping 38301. up for a beautiful wedding. ***** “I have been so inspired by the sense of family and ‘Foundation for the Future’ community that is Lambuth,” said McCarter. “This LAMBUTH LAUNCHES campaign is one of the most significant and transformational efforts that the University has ever JACKSON AREA pursued. I am confident that the Jackson area will FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN respond to this challenge to support Lambuth Jackson, Tennessee, July, 8, 2008 University and all that it represents for this community.” On Saturday, May 17, Lambuth University kicked off their Jackson area fundraising Lambuth University is affiliated with the United campaign. The campaign’s volunteer team is Methodist church and was founded in 1843. In the composed of about 50 volunteers comprised of ensuing years, Lambuth has earned a reputation as Lambuth alumni and friends. Lambuth’s team of volunteers has proven their efforts by already raising one of the South’s premier liberal arts universities just over $2.75 million. Special recognition goes out and has received national recognition as one of the to co-chairs Pastor Ted Leach and Harbert Alexander, nation’s Top 250 Liberal Arts Colleges by U.S. News in addition to all of the volunteers, for all of their hard & World Report and as one of the nation’s “Top 100 work and dedication to the campaign. Outstanding Colleges” by The Washington Post.

“We’re confident that by the end of the calendar year, with our great donors and friends, that we’ll be MURRAY AREA NEWS able to meet and exceed our goal ($3 million),” said Jenna Garland – Reporter

Kendall McCarter, Lambuth’s Vice President of Praise the Lord for the good rain we Development and University Relations. received Saturday night. We had

about 3 inches and we were in need of it. Lambuth University’s Foundation for the Future campaign will last through June 2009 and is part of a long-range strategic plan I talked with Fil Boston and he said Betty is taking approved by Lambuth’s Board of very good care of him and he is blessed to have her. Trustees in June 2006 to provide They are still up and going. improvements throughout the campus. Campus improvements Carol Craig was here recently and attended Bro. include renovating and refurbishing campus Frank and Ann Gardner's 50th wedding buildings, constructing new facilities, increasing anniversary at their home church. She also came faculty and staff compensation, increasing student back this past weekend and brought her lady friend scholarships and much more. and former Associate pastor who now lives in California. They visited with me for a few minutes “The generosity of Jacksonians and West and also went to visit Frank and Ann the next day. Tennesseans has always been remarkable, and we will 14 Nell Dotson is about the same. She said she does professor, now retired. During their visit, the yard work and works in her garden and is thankful to conversation turned to complaints about stress in their be able to do that. work and lives. Offering his guests hot chocolate, the professor went Fay Garrett is still baby sitting her two great grand into the kitchen and returned with a children, one two year-old girl and a two month-old large pot of hot chocolate and an baby boy named Colton Zane Johnson. Kevin, her assortment of cups - other grandson, got married in March and they live in porcelain, glass, crystal, some plain Benton so she is alone for the first time since Coy looking, some expensive, some died. exquisite - telling them to help themselves to the hot chocolate. Glenn and Georgia Ann Hill are busy as usual. Ann has been caring for Glenn's sister Mary who fell When they all had a cup of hot chocolate in hand, the and broke her arm. Their grandson, Steven Hill, is to professor said: "Notice that all the nice-looking, be married to Sarah Dick on the 26th of July at Dexter expensive cups were taken, leaving behind the plain Hardin Church so they are looking forward to that. and cheap ones. While it is normal for you to want Georgia Ann went to the UMC Christian Mission only the best for yourselves, that is the source of your Educational Event and enjoyed that very much. problems and stress. The cup that you're drinking

from adds nothing to the quality of the hot I talked with Bob Saywell and he is very busy doing chocolate. In most cases it is just more expensive visitation for First Methodist in Murray; also, he is and in some cases even hides what we drink. What all filling in at Palestine and Russell’s Chapel till August. of you really wanted was hot chocolate, not the cup; Then he will conduct two services a month through but you consciously went for the best cups... And then December at Palestine in Calloway County, KY. you began eyeing each other's cups . . .

Yours truly, Jenna Garland, has been busy canning green beans from my little garden and trying to get . . . Now consider this: Life is the hot things back together after my back door was kicked- chocolate; your job, money and position in society in and all my jewelry stolen. I must look like a good are the cups. They are just tools to hold and target as I had my purse snatched at Shoney's at Conference. I had just gotten my account contain life. The cup you have does not define, straightened out at the bank and was beginning to nor change the quality of life you have. settle down when the break-in occurred. The Sometimes, by concentrating only on the cup, we scripture says “all things work together for good to fail to enjoy the hot chocolate GOD has provided those who love the Lord” and I sure do love Him. us. GOD makes the hot chocolate, man chooses He is the one who gets me through all this stuff and I the cups. know he will get me through this, too. At least I wasn't hurt this time. There are still a lot of good people in this world in spite of everything. I have one The happiest people don't have the best of neighbor who has been a God-send. Thanks to everything. They just make the best of everyone who prayed for me at Conference and everything that they have. especially Carol Craig for taking such good care of me. Everyone has been wonderful. God bless. Live simply. Love generously. Care deeply.

Speak kindly . . .

A group of graduates, well . . . And established in their careers, were talking at a reunion and decided to go visit their old university enjoy your hot chocolate! 15 I Can't Remember So, if it's my turn to write you Author Unknown there's no need for getting sore, I may think I have written and don't want to be a bore Just a line to say I'm living that I'm not among the dead, So, remember that I love you Though I'm getting more forgetful and wish that you were near, and mixed up in my head But now it's nearly mail time So I must say goodbye, dear I got used to my arthritis to my dentures I'm resigned, There I stand beside the mail box I can manage my bifocals with a face so very red, but God, I miss my mind Instead of mailing you my letter I opened it instead For sometimes I can't remember when I stand at the foot of the stairs, If I must go up for something or have I just come down from there?

And before the fridge so often my poor mind is filled with doubt, Have I just put food away, or have I come to take some out? If lawyers are disbarred and clergymen And there's a time when it is dark defrocked, doesn't it follow that electricians can with my nightcap on my head, be delighted, musicians denoted, cowboys I don't know if I'm retiring, or deranged, models deposed, and tree surgeons just getting out of bed debarked???

Memphis Conference Program Ministries

24 Corporate Blvd. Non-Profit Org. Jackson, TN 38305-2315 U.S. Postage PAID Send mailing address changes to the Jackson, TN 38305 Program Ministries Office address above Permit No. 401

Delivered to the printers on 07/15/08 News ‘N’ Views

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