The Shadow
LOW MOOR, Va. (VR) – The Alleghany Retired Teachers Association (ARTA) met at Jackson River Technical Center on March 3, 2025. President Joan Green, called the meeting to order. She then led the Pledge of Allegiance followed by reading a poem, “Little Blessings”.
Vice President Anita Rice introduced the speaker for the meeting, Mr. W. L. Dressler. Mr. Dressler graduated from Virginia Tech with degrees in Business Management and Horticulture.
Mr. Dressler’s father had started his own landscaping business over 75 years ago. The Dressler brothers all helped with the business in some way. When Mr. Dressler passed away W. L. was passed the torch to keep the family business ongoing.
W. L. gave an informative presentation on how to landscape a yard with different varieties of trees and shrubs. He explained which types of trees and shrubs were best for certain soils and gave suggestions for our area. Several members were interested in what to plant that deer would not disturb.
His answer was ‘boxwood shrubs and marigold flowers’. W. L. stated that there are several types of boxwood shrubs to suit personal preferences.
Attendees thanked W.L. for the interesting program. He was presented a gift of appreciation.
President Green then started the business meeting. Treasurer Robbie Thomas presented the minutes of the December meeting which were approved as read. Treasurer Renee Warren presented the financial report which was also accepted as presented.
Dewey Lawson, co-chair of the Scholarship Committee, gave an update on the Scholarship Fund and had someone draw for the 50/50. Robbie Thomas was the winner of the 50/50 drawing.
She donated her winnings back to the Scholarship Fund.
Brenda Lawson, co-chair of the Scholarship Committee, introduced recipients of this years’ scholarships. Three Alleghany High School seniors each received $600.00 from the Alleghany Retired Teachers Association.
Recipients and their parents in attendance were recognized: Hannah Hensley and Mackenzie Nicely. Kiera Lowman could not attend as she was running in the state indoor track competition.
President Green thanked members for their generous donations to the 2026 Christmas Mother program, the AHS Chorus and local food pantries. She reminded members of important dates for spring participation.
Upcoming important dates for participation in district and state meetings are: the District P Meeting in Roanoke, April 20; the VRTA State Conference in Midlothian, VA, April 28-29 and the ARTA meeting, May 5 at Cucci’s Pizzeria.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Vice President Rice read poem and gave grace. Lunch was prepared by JRTC Culinary Arts students.
