Published: June 17, 2009 08:03 pm      

Samuel Dale Chapter, DAR

A brief overview of Meridian's business development was presented at the May 6, 2009, meeting of the Samuel Dale Chapter, Daughters of the American Revolution at the Meridian Activities Center.

Wade Jones, chief executive officer of the East Mississippi Business Development Corporation (EMBDC), was guest speaker.

Jones began his presentation by stating that he is "so proud" that Meridian is home to him and his children. He noted that his father was a World War II Veteran. Before joining the EMBDC, Jones served 17 years as head of Mississippi Power Company.

The speaker said foremost and at the center of Meridian's business development are education, streets, jobs and industry.

"A dependable work force – one in which there are no discipline problems and in which employees can be counted on to be at work daily, in which friendships are not taken for granted, and of which God and family are the foundations – are the most important characteristics of a thriving business city," Jones said.

Capable leadership and leadership working together has brought about the changes the city is witnessing today, he said.

The community has benefited by the arrival of the Call Center, the continued operation of military and military relief and assistance agencies, and the long established reputation of Meridian as a distribution center based on the railroad industry.

In closing, Jones said the community's children, youth and schools should remain priorities. Vocational/technical schools should continue to identify and give recognition to high-ranking students and their parents by posting the pictures of those individuals in their work places and schools.

"Work skill, good attendance at school and at work, and educational and work settings without discipline problems are what we should seek to achieve and maintain," Jones said. "And what will attract new industry and business."

Jones was presented a large American flag by Regent Ethel McHenry and Glenda Thomas.

The meeting was called to order by McHenry, after which she led the opening ritual. Elizabeth Kahlmus led the Pledge to the Flag of the USA, Thomas the Salute to the Mississippi Flag and McHenry the American's Creed. The group then joined in the singing of "The Star Spangled Banner."

Excerpts from the current message of President General Linda Gist Calvin were presented by Sarah Walters. The president general expressed the intense interest and excitement she and the executive committee experienced while visiting state societies in the central section of the United States.

In addition, Calvin announced that this year's Daughters' project is the continuation of restoration and renovation of the national society's headquarters in Washington, D.C. The project's budget is being closely monitored so that the actual cost of the restoration does not exceed donations, the president general noted.

Harriet McGonagill presented the National Defense Message, which was as follows: One June 14, 1775, the Continental Congress created the first Continental Army, and in 1789, the U.S. Military and the Department of War were officially created. In 1802, West Point Military Academy was established.

During the business session, the minutes of the last meeting were read and approved. Walters presented the treasurer's report.

McHenry announced the dates for upcoming observances, which included National Day of Prayer and Memorial Day. The 118 Continental Congress, National Society of the Daughters of the American Revolution, is July 8-12.

Hostesses Ruby Robinson, Christy Aldridge, Sarah Walters, C.J. Patton, Emma Price and Jerry Ethridge were thanked, and the meeting adjourned.



• Report submitted by

Janet Sinyard.