The Monroe Current Events Club held the October meeting at the James Monroe Community Room of the Monroe Municipal Building, October 3, 2007. Members were greeted with fall decor of gourds, pumpkins and black cats. President Peggy Hesson welcomed members and two guests--Anna Hale and Pat Eckard. A delicious pumpkin dessert, nuts, mints and drinks of tea, coffee and water were served. The hostesses for the day were Phyllis Harris, Martha Barnes and Joan Bailey.
Following the theme for the year of Oustanding Women, Shirley Smith gave the program on Dr. Condoleeza Rice. Mrs. Smith began with Dr. Rice's childhood growing up in Birmingham, Alabama.
The church was the center of her family's life. Her father taught her that she could become anything she wanted to become.
She received her bachelor's degree in political science, cum laude, from the University of Denver; her master's degree from University of Notre Dame and her Ph.D from the University of Denver. She has received honorary doctorates from several universities. She had also served on the Boards of various companies. She has written books on Russia, Germany, Czechoslovkia and numerous articles on foreign policy. On January 28, 2005 she was sworn in as Secretary of State of the United States.
Interesting sidelights--as a child she wanted to be a figure skater. She is an avid football fan. Friends call her Condi.
President Hesson reported the sad news that two of our honorary members had passed away: Vera Carr and Mary Mitzel.
A thank you note was read from Matthew 25 Ministries for our donation.
Members answered roll call with a current event.
The next meeting will be November 7, 2007 at the James Monroe Community Room.