Welcome/Introductions:
New LCRTA President Sandy Holcombe welcomed everyone, and introduced Barbie Henderson, Banquet Director for Heritage Hall Senior Center, who in turn also welcomed everyone to the facility.
Invocation: Prayer was given by Fred Ciminello.
Lunch: A delicious box lunch was at the tables featuring a hearty sandwich, chips, fruit, cookie & water, with coffee available.
Business Meeting:
Following lunch, a short business meeting was called to order by President
Sandy Holcombe, with the following reports given:
Secretary’s report was read by Secretary Linda Leffel. She reminded everyone to also look on the website to see complete Secretary’s Report, and address any additions/corrections to her, or to Eileen.
Treasurer’s report given by Treasurer Sharon Koppert, amounts as follows: Current Treasury Balances:
TOTAL as of January 31, 2013:
Checking: $1134.35 $8835.28
Scholarship: $1968.07
Savings: $4076.88
CD: $1655.98
Community Services: David Greene shared updates with the Transportation Board, which is trying to obtain fixed route bus services throughout Licking County. This is still not an option for our community at this time, and it seems that the initiative won’t take place until well into the future. He stated that the current program, which merged the City Earthworks system with the County system, is not the best to meet the needs of our citizens. Current cost is $3/one way, and passengers need to call 24-48 hours ahead.
David reminded us that the Transportation Board meets on the 3rd Thursdays of each month. He also passed around a petition in favor of addressing these transportation issues for all to sign.
Public Relations/Pre-Retirement Planning:
Eileen shared about the up-coming Pre-Retirement Seminar which will take place on Thursday, April 11th (the day following our next meeting) at First United Methodist Church. Speaker Tamala Cole will be attending. Eileen asked for volunteers to assist with donating snack items for the teachers. Eileen will send out a copy of the flier to all-please forward it to any appropriate teacher within 3-5 years or less of retiring.
Two gentlemen promoting re-election to STRS Board spoke to the group:
George Justice was there to promote Dennis Leone currently running for STRS Board Retiree Seat. George stated that Dennis was successful in uncovering many problems existing in the STRS, and would be a good person for the job; he also handed out a promotional sheet from Dennis.
Jim McGreevy, running for re-election to the board, was also there to ask for our support. He feels that during his time on the board there were many problems, but that many of these are being addressed as best they can be. He stated that all current STRS Board members were not really happy with the legislation recently passed, but some actions had to be done in order to secure benefits for both current and future retirees. There are many teachers who will be retiring this year and next due to the upcoming changes. Jim feels he has developed a good working relationship with many area groups, and if re-elected, will strive to do the best for our interests.
Program/Speaker/ Entertainment:
Following the business meeting, Sandy again introduced Heritage Hall Senior Center/Aging Program Banquet Director Barbie Henderson who shared with the group about some of the programs and activities offered at the center.
*They currently serve about 950 “Meals on Wheels” to area citizens.
*Offer transportation services to center activities, as well as medical transport to doctors’ offices in Licking County (like a 72-hr. notice).
*Exercise room/classes offered.
*Hours are from 8 AM-5 PM daily, with clubs/groups meeting till 10 PM.
*The Connections Café restaurant is open M-F 7:30 AM-1PM
*Breakfast Buffet (all you can eat!) Friday, 7:30-10 AM, $4.99!
*Full service Banquet Facilities offered.
Barbie said they are encouraging groups to consider meeting there—they currently have, or would like to offer cards, book clubs, crafts, computers, scrapbooking, etc.
In addition to money from United Way funding, proceeds from banquet facilities stay “in-house” to help fund the aging center and its programs and activities.
To end our meeting for this month, Barbie Henderson then gave everyone a tour of the lovely facility.
Unfinished Business: None
New Business: None
Announcements:
Sandy shared about an upcoming community dinner at her church, Wright Memorial Methodist Church, on Saturday, February 9th.
Next meeting Date: Wednesday, April 10th, Heath United Methodist Church
Minutes submitted by Secretary
Linda A. Leffel