Special Guest:
Ernest Bracewell of Elgin, Texas was present with his wife Rene and daughter Debra. Ernest is the owner of
http://www.southsidemarket.com. Ernest was in search of his ancestors and connection to the Joseph Marion Branch. He provided information to Russell Bracewell for additional research.
Joyce Hartman attended from Wyoming with her
family.
Program:
Ken Farris started the program by presenting the finances. The Mt. Pleasant perpetual care fund is suffering from lower interest rates. Donations to help the fund are appreciated.
Lisa urged everyone to update their addresses and provide an email address.
Ken Farris provided the lunch blessing.
Dismissed for lunch.
Ken announced the hat collection and proposed the purchase of three new tables. The motion was passed unanimously.
Lisa called for a roll call of family branches present.
Each branch was called and stood to be recognized.
Question was raised regarding next years president. No other nominations were presented so Lisa was nominated by acclamation.
Question was raised regarding the website status. Russell presented an update.
Russell requested that anyone with computer or website skills volunteer to help with the website.
The family website has grown over the year into two websites.
www.bracewellfamily.com and
www.bracewellarchive.org The first houses all the family documents, photos, and family tree. The second is for Bracewell genealogy research and record collection.
www.bracewellarchive.org currently has over 1300 genealogy documents. Over one million visitors to the family website last year.
Russell presented the current family tree with a story about the three Richards.
Question regarding the results of the DNA project: Russell stated that the results brought about more questions than answers. He stated that with only three Bracewells in the group more participants are needed to verify the results.
Question regarding website expenses: Russell stated that a new server agreement was made reducing the yearly cost to about $100. The website will be paid from the reunion fund.
Lisa displayed a "How we are related" ladder. This is a simple way to find out how each family member is related.
Lisa dismissed the program
Ronnie called for all musicians to come forward to sing and play.
The group photo was announced and all gathered in front of the Mt. Pleasant gate.
Visitation, games, and music.
Displays:
The 35 foot family tree was displayed and all were encouraged to make corrections.
Several "Who are You" photos where on display for everyone to find family members.
Genealogy documents collected over the past year where on display.
2008 Reunion Survey Results:
After the reunion in 2008 an online survey was offered. Majority of people who completed the survey stated they attend the reunion every year they can and enjoy the experience. Mt. Pleasant is an excellent reunion location, and most know the importance of this location to our ancestors. Suggested improvements were to keep it informal and continue the music program, add more activities for children, and longer visitation after lunch. 100% surveyed stated they appreciated the family news mailing list.
Family Records 
