The Houston Alumni Association announced this week several changes will occur when the organization stages its annual fall gathering.
An expanded Saturday program will replace the banquet traditionally held that evening.
Among the plans:
—A mixer is set for 1 to 5 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 2, at Houston High School’s Hiett Gymnasium. A program is set for 3 p.m. Graduating classes ending in “0” and “5” will be recognized. Refreshments are planned, but there will be no meal. Donations will be accepted. Classes will be able to meet for reunions on Saturday night.
—There will be no alumni music gala on Friday, Oct. 1, allowing alumni to attend the football game and a homecoming parade. The group plans to amend its bylaws to not require its activities to be the first weekend in October. The vote is 7 p.m. Feb. 22 at its meeting at the First Baptist Church library.
To shore up its finances, the organization’s dues will increase to $10 per person. The cost of printing and mailing two newsletters is nearly $2,000 annually. This expense is paid through dues. To save about $500 in postage, no newsletter will be distributed until summer. If additional funds are received, the newsletter will continue its bi-annually circulation.
The organization also is encouraging each class to have one or more representatives attend its monthly meetings. This would allow for more input and flow of information.
“These changes have been approved by the local alumni group. We have appreciated the comments, attendance and enthusiasm at our meetings,” said Bonnie McElroy, president. “I’m really excited about the new format for the alumni weekend. It will be a relaxing and informal time to visit together.”