LCRTA October 15, 2015 Meeting
Utica United Methodist Church
President Eileen McNally called the meeting to order. Her theme for this meeting was "Look for the Light". After reading a short story related to the theme, she gave the invocation.
A wonderful buffet style dinner was provided by Jane Simmons and church volunteers. A round of applause was given for the kitchen workers.
Eileen introduced the speaker, the Reverend Jeff Gill. His topic "Memories of Harvest" was warmly received.
After the Pledge of Allegiance, Eileen welcomed a number of guests and new member Tracy Kerr-Mount.
A copy of the minutes from the August meeting and a current treasurer's report were at each place setting. Those in attendance were asked to look them over. No questions were floored, so both documents were accepted.
Committee Reports:
Informative and Protective Services - Judy Pflaumer provided printed ideas to handle annoying telemarketers and several other helpful hints.
Legislative - Both Karen Butt and Sandy Holcombe (District VI Co-Directors) spoke. Karen spoke about the ORTA survey which addressed the needs of both current and potential members. Sandy spoke to the probable dramatic rise in the cost of Medicare Part B. This increase will only be felt by members who DO NOT get Social Security. The cost will probably go from $104 a month to $159. There doesn’t appear to be anything we can do about it. Eileen Promised to keep the membership posted on it.
Luncheon Committee - Jean McCallin reported that the reservations went more smoothly this month. Setting a slightly earlier due date helped. 64 were in attendance!!
Membership - Members were reminded that the 2016 dues were being collected. Those who paid before January 31st would have their named entered in a drawing for a $25 gift certificate for a restaurant of their choice. Anyone who paid ahead were automatically entered. Mary Ellinger and Mary Kaschak reported that we only have a few who haven’t paid.
Courtesy - Elizabeth Troyer was welcomed back after her current illness. Elizabeth sends cards to members who might need a little lift. Members were encouraged to give names to Elizabeth.
Old Business - Eileen reported on the Grant Program that she is sponsoring. Eleven new (first or second year) teachers submitted grant proposals. The grants were each worth $200 and could be used for something needed for the students/room. Three were chosen. They are Joanna Villinger from McGuffey Elementary (1st grade), Caitlin Skeese from Utica Elementary (3rd grade), and Jessica Jensen from Garfield Elementary (Kindergarten). Each teacher must attend either the June or August meeting to share how they used the money and how it helped. In addition, each one was encouraged to bring a teacher with them who recently retired or is about to retire. All of these attendee will have their lunches paid for by LCRTA. Eileen will personally present the checks and take photos of the occasion.
New Business - Nothing to discuss
Pantry Collection - $53 Scholarship Collection $87
Closing thoughts on today’s theme by Eileen
Next meeting - December 9, 2015 at Central Christian Church Seasonal music by the Utica Swing Choir.
December Pantry item - Laundry things
Submitted by Eileen McNally for Linda Leffel
