United Way of Smith County Marks 75 Years

TYLER — The United Way of Smith County is celebrating 75 years of activity August 27 at Cascades Country Club in Tyler from 5:30-8:30 p.m. as it kicks off its 2015-2016 campaign. The Denim and Diamonds themed event is to honor companies, individuals, and past board chairmen who have played a significant role in the organization, according to a news release. Families of past chairmen are attending the event to receive their family members’ recognition. United Way’s first board chairman, E. P. McKenna, will be represented by his grandson, granddaughter, and great-granddaughter. The first woman to lead the organization was Mrs. L. A. Grelling, whose daughter, Mary John Spence, will receive her medal. Past chairmen and their families from every decade are coming to receive their service medals.

Attendance at the 75th Celebration is by reservation only and tickets are $25. For tickets and information, contact Reece Anderson at [email protected] or 903-581-6376. There will be a cocktail reception at 5:30 p.m., with a special musical performance by The Magills, followed by a seated dinner at 6:30 p.m. United Way president Nan Moore said, “overwhelmed and pleased by the response” from former chairmen, according to the news release.