Dear List:

I returned from Tennessee on Friday.  What a great time I had and I am sure all that attended the Reunion.  Friday afternoon we met at Polly "Prosser" Dodson's beautifully restored home in the Historical District of Shelbyville, TN.  Enjoyed meeting all the many distant cousins that had a tie to Chestnut Ridge.  The rain stopped in time for everything to dry up and we could
enjoy  eating the catered barbecue outside. My sister Rotha and I had not met any of  these cousins except on the Internet.  It was so gratifying to us to establish a link to an area we know nothing about but was the birth place of  our father and his family.

 On Sat. morning we all gathered at a lovely country church, The Hickory Hill Church, that is on top of the "Ridge."  We sure did fill the place.  Our  speakers were most informative, Nick Fielder State Archaeologist, Dick Poplin County historian and Sherry Finchum.  Sherry gave a slide presentation on how  to store and keep track of all that family information.  After the
speakers  and before we had a meeting on establishing a "Cousins Family History  Organization" we ate.  I am sure many of you know what a spread can be laid  out when locals bring a dish and those that traveled got deli food to pass.  Much eating and talking took place.

So glad to say that all did want an organization and one was formed.  I am sure more information will come to you all later from our new President Bobby Prosser.

Those that were not able to go did miss out on a wonderful time and most wonderful people.  There were many young as will as babies there on Sat. All were most well behaved and a delight to have them there. .

Please think now about attending next year.  You will not be disappointed.

-Julia Molitz