Members of the Huajilla Unit of Texas Retired Teachers Association met April 22 at the D’Hanis Community Center.
The first activity was a guided tour of the D’Hanis Brick Yard, which many members had done as school children. Mark Garrison, Plant Manager, explained to the group of approximately 30 members how the manufacture of bricks progress from raw clay to the finished fired product. The history of the facility and the company was well described by Garrison, who has worked at the brick yard for 22 years.
The group then returned to the Community Center, and Tom Fillinger introduced the guest speaker, Travis Krause, of Parker Creek Farms. Krause, a D’Hanis High School and Texas A&M graduate, began his informative talk with a history of his family’s background in working his land since 1846. He and his wife practice alternative agricultural practices, which includes the use of no chemicals in their poultry and beef production. They also sell their products through direct marketing to individuals and San Antonio and Austin restaurants rather than through conventional methods, such as selling through auction barns. In addition, this business has led the Krauses to start a distribution company, as well as an on-line blog and consulting for other agri-businesses.
During the business meeting, a report was given on current bills before the state legislature by Ken Hanson. He detailed the bills of particular interest to retirees, such as the one that could possibly provide a supplemental annual check. He also shared information about HB 1481 that seeks to change the existing judicial system in Medina County. In addition, President Irene Dubberly and member Earline Schlortt reported on their attendance at the state TRTA convention in Austin.
Charles Carlson, Scholarship Committee Chairperson, reported that a generous donation by member Gerry Bridges increased the scholarship fund to $1500. The group decided to award three $500 scholarships this year. Those recipients were announced to the group and will be notified of their scholarship.
Officers for 2019-2020 were then installed by Carlson. Jim Rigby will be President, Irene Dubberly will be First Vice President, Betsy Polgue will be Second Vice President, Brenda Prestage will be Secretary, Sam Dubberly will be Treasurer, and Tom Fillinger will serve as Parliamentarian. Carlson then presented Irene Dubberly with an appreciation gift in recognition of her four years of service as president. He called the antique iron and mesquite wood gift the “Iron Lady Leadership” award.
The group then enjoyed a lunch catered by Seco Secret of D’Hanis.
The next gathering of the Huajilla Unit will be held at Vines on Rocks Winery in Dunlay on May 13, 2019.