PCRTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING Nov. 11, 2010

Members present: Norm Park, Evelyn Park, Dan McCombs, Dave Gynn, Kay Wise, Ria Mastromatteo, Ruth Weigand, Helena Parry, Art Fesemyer, Edith Scott, Mary Jane Brannon, Barbara Cribbs, Nancy Granville, Sandy Kerstetter, Darlene Fetterhoff, Jan Fencl, Judy Morgan, Pat Gynn, Jim Montaquila, Saroj Sutaria, and President nominee Ron Snowberger

President Dave Gynn called the meeting to order.

He recognized Veterans Day and showed appreciation for our veterans.

Dave introduced Hal Dubois from Kent State Theater.  Hal said the Dubois Family Foundation was started by his parents.  He said Ingentsia wants to start a program on adult education by forming reading groups throughout the community in preparation for the first performance of the play Hamlet on April 15.   Kent Roosevelt High School will have an Adult Ed course on the play also.  He announced that the Riverside Readers Theater will have the voice of Shakespeare on Feb. 2 and reading and study groups will meet at Café Elsinore on April 13.  The PCRTA Social and Travel Committee have been assigned to be in charge of the reading and study groups.

Dave introduced John Yoho who represents Empower Portage in Ravenna. This organization is an effort to end poverty in Portage County. It consists of three components: the Bridges Training for organizations and employers, “Getting Ahead” classes for those seeking to transition out of poverty, and Circles Campaign to provide support for this transition.  John made a request for PCRTA members to give up 4 hours a month to form a friendship with someone in the program to help them with prepare a resume, to go shopping, and to move toward a more secure future.

Recording Secretary – Ruth Weigand

Dave asked if there were any additions or corrections to the September 9^th or Sept.16^th meeting minutes.  Dave announced that the minutes are approved as written.

Corresponding Secretary – Barb Cribbs

Barb said she has questionnaire from AARP wanting to know things we have done such as donating school supplies and food to food banks.

Treasurer – Darlene Fetterhoff

Oct. 1 – Nov. 11, 2010

Beginning Checking Account Balance $21,409.49

Income $3,470.00

Expenses $1,022.44:  Bank fees (2months) 4.00, ORTA 660.00, Newsletters-Matt Leedom 358.44

Ending Checking Account Balance $23,857.05

Scholarship Total (deposited in checking account) $17,611.24  Carole Myers Memorial Scholarships $2K) included

Actual Working Amount in checking Account $6,245.81

Note: Darlene stated that the income includes a NEOUCOM check.

Dave said the ORTA November Leadership reported that a survey that appeared in the fall ORTA Quarterly for members to fill out how the Government Pension Offset and/or Windfall Elimination Provision affects them as public pensioners. He said that the form appears on page 3 and for anyone who is affected by a social security reduction should fill out the form and send it in. The results will be published in the fall quarterly.

Dave said that ORTA annual reports are due from the following committees: community service, informative and protective, legislative, membership, public relations, and retirement planning. He said that he would like them to be finished in the next week or so.

Dave sent a sheet around for members to initial by their name if their home address, phone number, and Email addresses were correct and also by initialing it that you agree to serve in the position that you now have on the Executive Committee.

Vice -President’s – Ken and Nancy Granville

Nancy said that greeters would be Ron Snowberger and Barb Geisey for the Nov. 19 luncheon meeting.

Dave said that he will announce at the beginning of the meeting that all members should take a look at the proposed bylaws revisions on the sheets on their tables and that there would be a vote on them after lunch.

ORTA trustee – Dan McCombs

Dan said on Oct. 28 he attended the fall ORTA conference in the STRS building.  He said that Laura Ecklar from STRS talked about our pensions’ contentiousness and the state budget. She said that there is a 4-8 billion dollar budget deficit. The new leadership seems to not be interested in our pensions. Also the health care in the state will be broke by 2021.

Dan said that we want to keep our defined benefit and not allow the state to switch us to defined contribution(401K). He said for everyone to contact their legislators to let them know.

Unfinished business

Dave said there is a telephone calling system called Notify Now for 15 cents a minute will make a database reminder to our members if an urgent need comes along for all members to do something in a hurry. He said there is a $100 setup fee, but they’re willing to wave for us.  Participation in this program was approved last year.  Barbara Cribbs will manage the Notify Now program.

Archival – Norm Park

Norm said that he took 85 pounds of PCRTA records and placed them on a shelf in the Portage County Historical Society in Ravenna. Anyone who wishes to look at them needs to call to find out the hours of the Portage County Historical Society.

Community Service – Judy Morgan

Judy said that we received good responses from the schools for the school supplies we donated to them.

A community flier called the Blue Notebook included our organization as a contributor to Freedom House.

Judy said for the November meeting to bring canned goods and/or donate money for the purchase of turkeys for the Center of Hope and gloves, mittens and hats for December.

Legislative -Dan McCombs

Dan asked the members to go to lunch at the Belleria to ask questions of Kathleen Clyde before any legislation occurs in the state legislature. A bill has been written about the pensions but no one has seen it and it will probably not be introduced until 2011. He said that there is a need to keep pensions as separate legislation and not have it placed in the overall budget bill.

Dave announced that Dan will be Legislative Chair for ORTA for one more year.  Everyone gave him a hand.

Dave announced that everyone is invited to Dave and Pat’s on Sun., Dec. 12 from 2:00-4:00 P.M.

Membership – Art Fesemyer

Art said there are 11 new members.  Art thanked Saroj, Darlene, Kay, and Dave.

He said in 2008 there were 345 dual memberships; in 2009, 418 dual memberships, and in 2010, approximately 474 dual members. He said 26 are associates,12 are PCRTA members only, and 2 dual members will be dropped by Dec. 31 with our final count being about 434.

He said Saroj gave him 36 people from KSU who can join by Dec.1. It was stated that they need to join by Nov. 15 before the dues increase.

Memorial & Sunshine – Mary Jane Brannon

It was announced that Mary Lou Kosar passed away in 2009 and her obituary needs to be located and then her name will be included in the March Memorial Service.

Someone said that Dottie Emerick had surgery and she would probably appreciate a get well card.

Newsletter – Pat Gynn

Pat said there were 421 newsletters printed and 394 mailed out at a cost of $358.44; 15 were given to Art Fesemyer for new members.

NEOUCOM Proctoring – Edith Scott

Edie said scheduling is going well and that there is one proctor needed for November and a few needed for December.  Ria said that we want to thank Edie.

Nominations – Jan Fencl

Officer candidates for January 20ll (two-year terms): President, Ron Snowberger; Corresponding Secretary, Barbara Cribbs; Assistant Treasurer, Maria Mastromatteo.  Jan said kudos to our president, Dave Gynn, for his excellent leadership. We owe him special thanks for establishing and transitioning our new team.

Jan moved to present this slate to the membership, seconded by Dan McCombs.  Motion Passed.

Pre-Retirement Planning – Helena Parry

Helena said 37 people attended the Pre-Retirement Workshop sponsored by PCRTA which was held at Kent Methodist Church. The workshop was held from 5:00 p.m.-7:00 p.m. on Oct. 19. She thanked Dave and the members who delivered the fliers to the schools. She said Dave Gynn presided over the meeting, welcomed everyone, announced the dinner service, and introduced the three speakers.

Attorney John Flynn from Kent covered the essential elements for getting your important legal documents in order such as a will, power of attorney for legal and health matters, setting up a trust, and other matters. An STRS representative from Columbus spoke about the current and upcoming changes about years of teaching service and health credit. Diane Hladky and Ronald Brown from the Legend group spoke about financial planning and investing which are offered through Legend Equities Corporation of Summit County. The supper served was gourmet potato soup, salad with mandarin oranges and/or olives , rolls, and desserts of cupcakes, applejack cookies, and cranberry bars. Most of the food was prepared by Helena Parry, Pre-Retirement Chairperson and desserts by Nancy Granville and Ruth Weigand with all three helping to serve the food.

The question arose if the pre-retirement seminar should be held yearly. It was decided to have it every other year unless there is a request from active teachers.

Public Relations – Evelyn Park

She said she had the notice for next week’s meeting put in the paper.  She said for next meeting Pat can take pictures of the new officers and can submit it to the paper along with the write-up.

Scholarship – Jim Montaquila

He said he would gear up again after the first of the year.  He said he received a thank you from Miranda Titko.

Social/Travel – John and Sandy Kerstetter

Sandy said that the Beckwith Orchard tour was a lot of fun.  She said she would work on the Hamlet reading and study groups.She announced that for Paskey tours there are three tours for Christmas with tours to see Christmas lights at Olgebay and Hartwood Acres and a Hollywood Christmas show.

Telephone /Communication – Saroj Sutaria

She said that she would be away in December and to call Pat Gynn.

Website- Connie Evans

She said to send any important info to her.

Informative & Protective Services – Kay Wise

Kay attended OELMA (Ohio Educational Library Media Association) in October. She has made copies of Dr. Carolyn Brodie’s list of 2010 Favorite Picturebooks and Dr. Carolyn S. Brodie & Dr. Greg Byerly’s Top Ten 2010 websites which will be available at the November 18 luncheon meeting.

Dr. Stacey S. Schneider, Pharm.D. from NEOUCOM called to confirm that she and 20 students will be available at 11:00 A.M. on November 18 to do Osteoporosis and blood pressure screening. She would like to do a brief five-minute presentation before the testing.

Dave suggested that we have elections at the November meeting next year. For our meeting location for next year, it was agreed to continue to have our meetings at the Kent Methodist Church.

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Proposed 2011 Calendar

PORTAGE COUNTY RETIRED TEACHERS

January 15 ORTA Reports due

January 20 – 9:30 Organizational Workshop

February 1 Newsletter Deadline

March 10 – 9:30 Executive Committee Meeting

March 17 – 12:00 Luncheon Meeting

April 1 Newsletter Deadline

May 12 – 9:30 Executive Committee Meeting

May 19 – 12:00 Luncheon Meeting

June 1 Newsletter Deadline

June Maplewood Career Center GED Graduation

July 13 – 9:30 Executive Committee Meeting

July 21 – 12:00 July Luncheon Meeting

August 1 Newsletter Deadline

September 8 – 9:30 Executive Committee Meeting

September 15 – 12:00 September Luncheon Meeting New Retirees – Program:

October 1 Newsletter Deadline

November 10 – 9:30 Executive Committee Meeting

November 17 – 12:00 November Luncheon – Elections- Program:

December 15 – 12:00 December Luncheon – Christmas Party, Installation

Location: United Methodist Church of Kent

___________________________________________________________________________

PCRTA LUNCHEON MEETING November 18, 2010

Kay Wise, Informative& Protective Services scheduled Dr. Stacey Schneider, Associate professor from NEOUCOM with three graduating pharmacy students to perform osteoporosis and blood pressure screening for any PCRTA member who wished to volunteer for the screenings.

Kay announced that there were three sheets which are color coded; pink for Children’s books , yellow for best websites, and green for holiday books on the table for lists of 2010 Favorite Picturebooks and Top Ten 2010 Websites.

Dave welcomed everyone.   He thanked Ron Snowberger and Barb Geisey for being greeters.

He announced our service project was donating food and held up a basket for money donations for the purchase of turkeys for the Center of Hope.

Dave asked if there were new retirees attending present today.  Jan Zimmerman from Crestwood, Pat Farley from Akron Public Schools – Windermere Elementary.

Kay thanked all the PCRTA members who had the osteoporosis and blood pressure screening.

John and Sandy Kerstetter announced that Paskey tours has 3 trips available for the holidays: Wed., Dec. 1 to Wheeling, WV, and to Hartwood Acres, PA to see Christmas lights. There is a 14-day trip to Alaska, starting on Sun., June 19, 2011 also offered by Paskey tours.

Dave introduced Hal Dubois from KSU Theater who is promoting the play Hamlet to be presented April 15, 2011 by asking PCRTA members to organize study groups. The info meeting will be Dec.1 and Dec. 2 at 7:00 P.M. at the Tannery in Acorn Alley. He announced that Kent Roosevelt Adult Ed will offer a course one hour weekly.  Feb. 2 is first performance of the Riverside Readers. He said the Head of the University Theater is open to the community through the entire creative process.

Dave announced the voting on the proposed changes of the PCRTA bylaws will take place today after lunch. He said the changes were published in the Desktop and copies will be placed on the tables for members to read, if they haven’t had a chance to read them.

Edith Scott announced that one proctor is needed for November and 5 and 6 are needed for December.  Dave announced that there have been changes at NEOUCOM, but proctors are still needed.

Laura Ecklar from STRS will speak to PCRTA members at the December meeting.

Dave and Pat Gynn and Dan McCombs went to Columbus to the ORTA conference. Dan said the state has difficult and contentious budget decisions due to a 4 – 8 million dollar deficit. STRS wants our pensions to continue as defined benefit and not revert to defined contribution (401 K). (West Virginia did that and went back to defined benefit ).

The Legislative Service committee is writing the pension reform bill. Six of the nine who oversee this will not return and our new governor will appoint the new people. The bill will not be introduced until January. Our pensions are worth fighting for.

Pat Gynn requested that members write their Email address in order to receive their Desktop by Email, but they will still receive their paper copy in the mail. This is for members to decide if they like receiving it by Email.

Dave announced there are 50/50 tickets on sale.

Les Bennett led the music accompanied by MaryAlice Seaholts on the piano. Ken Granville led the pledge of allegiance. Nancy Granville gave the invocation.  Dave asked members to give their volunteer hours to Judy Morgan for community service.

The program was the Tree City Toastmasters led by Chris Baughman, President, who teaches at NEOUCOM.

Three Toastmaster members assisted; namely, Ron Heaps, Kathy Hammond, and Barb Geisey. Chris said that the purpose of the Toastmasters organization is to help people to overcome the fear of public speaking. She said there are over a 100 different countries with 250,000 members worldwide.

Tree City Toastmasters meet once weekly. The purpose is to persuade and to motivate people to speak up and to practice these skills. There can be prepared speeches and impromptu speeches. Members can give oral and written evaluations.

For today’s meeting, PCRTA members were asked to volunteer to give a sixty-second impromptu speech on a randomly chosen question about teaching. There will be a person acting as timer and someone keeping track of the number of uh’s and um’s along with noting if they included the word of the day, inscrutable.

The members who took turns were Tom Emerick, Dave Gynn, Nancy Granville, Ann Spence, and Charles Morgan.  Their website is http://treecity.freetoasthost.org/  Dave thanked the Tree City Toastmasters and the PCRTA members who participated in the program.

Dave asked for a motion to adopt the proposed changes in the PCRTA bylaws.  Saroj Sutaria made the motion to adopt the proposed changes to the bylaws, seconded by Mary Evelyn Shabino.  Dave said article 3 on membership had the most discussion and item 4 duties of officers were changed to reflect current practices.   Dave said elected officers are the Executive Committee and they and the appointed chairmen are the executive board.  Motion passed.

Dave thanked the members who served on the bylaws committee and said it was very tedious work.  Connie Evans will put the results on our website.

Dave announced that the nominations for officers are: Ron Snowberger for President, Ria Mastromatteo for Assistant Treasurer, and Barbara Cribbs for Corresponding Secretary. Dan McCombs made a motion to make it unanimous to accept the slate of officers, seconded by Darlene Fetterhoff. Motion passed.

Dave said that most people on the Executive Committee agreed to remain in their positions for another year.

Dan announced that the 50/50 drawing had $136. The winner of $68 was Art Fesemyer, who said that he would donate it to the Salvation Army.

Dave reminded everyone that the Dec. 16 luncheon meeting is our Christmas party.  Members are asked to bring wrapped white elephants for bingo prizes.  The entertainment will be a performance by retired band directors.  He said Laura Ecklar from STRS will be there to give health and pension updates.  Next meeting members are asked to bring hats, gloves, and mittens for community service.

Saroj requested that the newly elected president Ron Snowberger be introduced.

Dave said Barb Cribbs and Ria Mastromatteo are not present today, but will be present at the next meeting for the installation of officers.

Dave adjourned the meeting.

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PCRTA LUNCHEON MEETING December 16, 2010

Pat Gynn and Judy Morgan greeted members and guests upon their arrival. The community service project was the collection of hats and mittens to be donated to the Clothing Center.

Dave Gynn called the meeting to order by welcoming new members/first time attendees:  Joyce Naujoks from Streetsboro, Bonnie Shimmel from Plain Local in Stark County, Donna Hajek and Jan Snowberger from Kent.

Announcements:

Volunteers are needed for the Future Educators Conference. Contact Judy Morgan if interested.

Todd McKenney, the newly elected Representative from the 43^rd District was in attendance and would meet with anyone interested after the meeting.

Member Lois Stewart is turning 101 on December 21.

The 2010 board members were recognized and thanked for their service with small gifts from Dave. In return, Kay Wise thanked Dave for his service to PCRTA and ORTA.  She mentioned that he retired from Kent City Schools in 1990.  He served at PCRTA treasurer, edited the newsletter, served on the scholarship, community service and legislative committees, and served as president for three years.  He became the District XI Director for ORTA and the Eastern Area Vice President.  He is the ORTA President-Elect for 2011.  Dave was presented with a gift certificate as a token or our appreciation for his time, effort, and dedication.

Dave recognized past president Hilda Rohlf, Edie Scott, Pat Gynn and Art Fesemyer.  Art, who will celebrate his 80^th birthday later in the month, was surprised with a cake and a song.

Patrick Pinney. ORTA District XI Director, installed the officers for 2011:  Darlene Fetterhoff, Treasurer; Ria Mastgromatteo, Assistant Treasurer; Barb Cribbs, Corresponding Secretary; Ruth Weigand, Recording Secretary; Ken and Nancy Granville, Vice Presidents; and Ron Snowberger, President.

Everyone joined Les Bennett and Mary Alice in singing “Joy to the World.”  Ken Granville led the Pledge of Allegiance and Dottie Emerick gave the Meditation.

After lunch, we were entertained by a brass trio made up of retired band directors Ken Granville, Ray Harcar, and Sam Mayes.

Laura Ecklar, Director of Communications for STRS, gave an updatge and answered questions on the status of the upcoming pension legislation.  She mentioned that the problems stem not only from the economy, but from the fact that retirees are living longer.  There are currently 146 STRS members who are over 100 years old.

Jim Montaquila won the 50/50 raffle and donated his portion to the scholarship fund.

The gavel was turned over to Ron who challenged us to bring in more members and stay active.

The meeting was adjourned.

Treasurer’s Report Nov.5, 2009 to Dec.31, 2009

Beginning Checking Account Balance $12,702.23

Income                                           $4,987.50

Expenses                                        $3,144.95

(Alan Balog-990N fee                             150.00

ORTA                                                   660.00

OH Attorney General 990N fee                 50.00

2 months bank fees                                  6.37

Luncheons                                         1,907.00

Membership                                         240.00

Postage                                                   8.08

Printing: Informative                               20.29

Refunds: dues and luncheon                    50.00

Entertainment                                        50.00

Ending Checking Account Balance                       $14,544.78

Scholarship Total (Deposited in Checking Account) $9,320.24

Actual Working Amount in Checking Account         $5,224.54

Summary of investments in Cds

Account 200-1400-9235   Total Value $22,836.97     LIFE   Interest Rate 2.46%   YearToDate Interest $982.56     Maturity Date 01/01/11     Term 12 months

Account 200-1400-9787   Total Value $4,129.36   Gene Newton   Interest Rate .2950%   YearToDate Interest $59.37  Maturity Date 05/19/10  Term 6 months

Account 1116-6000-0477   Total Value $6,282.95   Wendell Mary   Interest Rate .3450% (from 3.194% 12/03/09)     YearToDate Interest $294.16   Maturity Date 06/03/11   Term 18 months

Account 1135-0001-6804   Total Value $5,589.38   General Scholarship & T Bica     Interest Rate 3.19%     YearToDate Interest $175.48   Maturity Date 01/10/1   Term 18 months

2010 Proposed PCRTA Budget

Income                                                             $21, 981.78

Income carry over from 2009                                 $14, 544.78

Anticipated income from dues renewal

87 members @ $10                                                    $  870.00                                                                  15 members @ $5                          $   75.00

Anticipated donations from NEOUCOM                           7,500.00

Expenses                                                               21,981.78

General Scholarship Funds (Amount in Checking Account) 9,320.24

Five Newsletters($400)                                                   2000.00

Printing(Directories)                                                         100.00

Office Supplies/postage/copying                                        500.00

Pre-Retirement Planning workshop                                    200.09

Lunches for 6 scholarship winners and parents                    180.00

Membership                                                                   1000.00

Speakers/Entertainment                                                    500.00

Memorial Service Flowers and supplies                               100.00

Sunshine Fund                                                                  100.00

Auditing/990 N Fees                                                           250.00

Bank fees                                                                           42.00

Website                                                                               30.00

Miscellaneous (decorations for luncheons, gifts for outgoing officers, Reimbursements for workshop fees including mileage, awards to top Volunteers, additional number or larger amount per scholarship)                                                   $8,659.54

Dave adjourned the meeting.

EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING Sept. 9, 2010

Darlene Fetterhoff reported a balance of $21,011.20 ($5,597.96 working balance and $15,413.24 scholarship fund).  We have 34 new members this year, lost 5 members to death, and dropped 4 for non-payment.

Ken & Nancy Granville reviewed the luncheon programs for September, November, and December. Tree City Toastmasters will speak in November; Laura Echlar will talk about STRS in December along with a brass trio, officer installation, and Bingo.

Dan McCombs reported the Health Care and Pension Advocates is working with STRS to support an accessible, affordable health care program. The Ohio Retirement Study Council received the five public pension systems board-approved plans to strengthen their solvency. The systems haven’t received a draft of a potential bill. The sponsor of the bill is term limited and will not be returning to the legislature in 2011. There are two vacant appointee seats on ORSC, but the Governor has not as yet made these appointments.

Norm Park contacted Portage County Historical Society about storing our archives.

Judy Morgan will collect school supplies for county schools at the luncheon meeting. Kay Wise reported Dr. Stacey would lkie NEOUCOM students to conduct Osteoporosis screening and pharmacy students to talk  with senior citizens about medications at our November meeting. Dan McCombs added Ken Cardinal and John Gunyula   to the Legislative Committee

Dan and Dave are going to attend the update on the ORTA Legislative guidelines on Sept. 21 in Columbus. On Oct. 7 at noon at Bellaria’s   restaurant in Kent, there will be 6 candidates speaking   at the candidates’ forum.

Art Fesemyer announced the recent new members. The membership committee mailed 62 invitations to be guests at our luncheon to this year’s retirees.

Jeff Kirby is revising our membership brochure. Dave presented a request for PCRTA to pay membership dues for one year for two people who have lost their disability with STRS.

Mary Jane Brannon will send a get well card to Tom Campana who was in an auto accident.  Dave said that he sent information to the ORTA Quarterly about Rootstown Schools naming their stadium after Robert Dunn.

Pat Gynn said there were 400 newsletters printed and mailed. The Kent Historical Society is featuring “School Days in Kent 1880-1940” till December 31. Edith Scott said there are 6 more proctors as a result of the summer orientation session.

She has the new schedules available. She said there will be more computer testing this year.

Evelyn Park stated that the notice was in the paper for next week’s luncheon meeting.

Jan Fencl reported that PCRTA is in dire need of a president next year.

Helena Parry showed the flier for the Pre-Retirement Workshop and asked board members to deliver them in person to the local schools where they live.

Jim Montaquila read a thank you letter from Kyle Dreger, a 2010 PCRTA scholarship recipient. July’s presentation of the scholarship recipients was reviewed. The format was well received and should be repeated.

Connie Evans will make any changes to our website. She reminded members to sign up for the PCRTA outing Thurs. Oct. 14 at 1:30 at Beckwith Orchard.

Unfinished Business The Executive Committee members reviewed the proposed revisions to the PCRTA bylaws, discussed each proposal, and approved the changes to be presented to the membership at the annual meeting in November.

PCRTA LUNCHEON MEETING – Sept. 16, 2010

The PCRTA luncheon was held at the United Methodist Church of Kent. Ann Wiedeman and Ginny Buckley were the greeters. Les Bennett led the music. Ken Granville led the pledge of allegiance. Terrie Sargi gave the meditation. Dave Gynn welcomed newly retired teachers.

There are 62 new retirees in Portage County. Georgia Darrah and Mary Ann Kasper, Kent; Linda Jahn, Linda McGinnis and Gail Danesi, Streetsboro; Sue Dyett, Ravenna; Sally Corbett and Marlene Strebler, Field, were introduced. First time attendees were Carole Myers and John and Eunice Michaels.

Judy Morgan, provided tubs for school supplies donated for Kent, Ravenna, Field and Rootstown schools and the County Clothing Center. Retirees were reminder to submit volunteer hours and sign up for Make-A-Difference Day.

Kay Wise announced that free hearing tests were given. Conn Drugan won the drawing for a Cracker Barrel gift card from Miracle Ear. NEOUCOM will conduct bone density scans for osteoporosis at the November luncheon.

“Farmer” John Kerstetter invited everyone to ride the Trolley Ride through Beckwith’s Orchard and enjoy a slice of apple pie and coffee/cider on October 14 at 1:30 PM for $2.

Dan McCombs, reported that Ohio has an $8 billion deficit and may try to borrow from our pension fund.  He reminded members to attend the Meet the Candidates Luncheon on October 7.

Jan Fencl said that there is a need for a president to be nominated for the election of officers at the annual meeting. Dave announced that meeting will also include the membership to vote on the proposed bylaws changes.

Edith Scott said there is good news because we have five new proctors. She urged everyone to sign up and said many tests are now being given online. Dave announced that PCRTA received $7500 last year for scholarships by proctoring.

Roger DiPaolo, Record Courier Editor, gave a talk entitled “A Teacher Affects Eternity.” He highlighted the careers of Lucretia Randolph, a teacher at Garfield; Phinneas Butler Thompson, a teacher at Shalersville; Amy Hariff, a Kent Central High School teacher; William Walls, a teacher and principal at Kent Schools; plus a Portage County sheriff, who was a teacher for a short time. He reviewed the history of the township schools and the school districts and their changes. Jim Spence, a PCRTA member, said that he had Amy Hariff for a teacher at Kent Normal School.  He graduated in 1944.

Roger DiPaolo said that he has been doing the  Yesteryears’ article for the Record Courier for thirty years. He has access information back to 1832. Sandy Halem from Kent Historical Society announced an exhibit on School Days in Kent. She said that Roger’s book, Rooted in Kent, is being sold at Kent Historical Society. Dave gave a plea for Art Fesemyer, chairman of the Membership Committee, for all members to help gain new members. Judy McKinney won $62 for the 50/50 drawing and donated her winnings to PCRTA.

PCRTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING – July 8, 2010

Barb Cribbs took minutes in Ruth Weigand’s absence. Mildred Price’s family has been thanked for her remembrance to PCRTA.  Thank you notes are sent to family and friends who contribute to memorial scholarships.

Darlene Fetterhoff reported income of $4,255.00, expenses of $5,925.54 (ORTA – $580, Bank fee – $3.73, Matt Leedom – newsletters $341.81, Five Scholarships – $5000) and a checking account balance $18,515.89.  The scholarship fund has $13,038.24, The working amount in the checking account is $5,477.65. The Form 990 penalty of $1,200 has been removed.  It was decided not to pursue application for a 501(c)3 status.

Ken & Nancy Granville reported on plans for the July and September luncheons.  New retirees will be invited to be our guests (no cost) at the September meeting where Roger DiPaola will be the speaker.

Dan McCombs said that there has been discussion of  borrowing from the STRS pension fund to decrease the state’s $8 billion deficit. “Double dipping” is also a major issue that is being looked at. The AdHoc Bylaws committee is proposing revising the PCRTA bylaws to align with the new ORTA bylaws. The executive board will propose revisions to be published in the November Desktop and then voted on at the November luncheon meeting.

Norm Park has arranged for shelf space at the Portage County Historical Society and will move some of the archives so that they will be available for reference purposes.

Judy Morgan reported that our September collection of school supplies will be part of NRTA’s National Day of  Service.  She said we may designate our individual contributions for specific schools or we may allow our contribution to be used as needed.

Kay Wise sent word that hearing checks will be done at the September meeting. Testing will start at 11:00 am.

Dan McCombs will make arrangements for a forum with the Ohio House candidates. This will be held at Belleria’s on the first Thursday in October at noon.

PCRTA EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE MEETING

January 14, 2010

Members present: Dave Gynn, Ken Granville, Nancy Granville, Ruth Weigand, Barbara Cribbs, Darlene Fetterhoff, Ria Mastromatteo, Dan McCombs, Norman Park, Judith Morgan, Kay Wise, Art Fesemyer, Pat Gynn, Edith Scott, Evelyn Park, Helena Parry, Jim Montaquila, John Kerstetter, Sandy Kerstetter, Saroj Sutaria, Connie Evans, and Terrie Sargi

Dave Gynn called the meeting to order at the United Methodist Church of Kent in the absence of President Ray Troxtell.

He recommended the offices of President, Corresponding Secretary, and Assistant Treasurer be declared vacant. Saroj made the motion to declare the offices of President, Corresponding Secretary, and Assistant Treasurer vacant, seconded by Dan McCombs. The vote was unanimous. Dave said that President Ray Troxtell is in hospice in the Cleveland Clinic, the corresponding secretary has been unable to serve, and the assistant treasurer’s position was changed at the November executive committee meeting.

The motion was made to accept a one-year term with Dave Gynn as President, Barbara Cribbs as Corresponding Secretary, and Ria Mastromatteo as Assistant Treasurer as suggested by the Nominating Committee, seconded by Kay Wise. The motion passed.

Dave said that anyone who attends the executive committee meeting may vote on motions.

Dave introduced Helena Parry who is chairman of the PCRTA Pre-Retirement Planning committee.

He introduced Mandy Zantow, who is program manager for RSVP, a program of Family and Community Services for Portage County. Mandy introduced the program “Give a Day – Get A Disney Day” which is offered to inspire people to volunteer a day of service in their communities. Each volunteer needs to pre-register on Disney.go.com – Click on Parks to receive a voucher for a 1-day, 1-theme park ticket to the Disneyland Resort or Walt Disney World Resort, free. You must complete your service at an eligible volunteer opportunity in the United States to receive a ticket after verification of service. She said that our NEOUCOM volunteering qualifies. She gave Judy Morgan, Community Services chairman, four RSVP handbooks. Dave Gynn planned to have RSVP tie in with JA For A Day, but said that it may not be organized for this year.

Dave asked all board members to introduce themselves. He passed notebooks and copies of the by-laws to everyone, noting that the by-laws were revised in 2007. He asked everyone to read the duties of their jobs, to keep the by-laws in their notebooks, and to make a list in their notebooks of regular things they do for a succession plan.

Dave passed around an Information Release for each member to initial to approve publishing their information in the newsletter as well as on the PCRTA website.

Dave reviewed the 2010 schedule with everyone. He also gave everyone a copy of ORTA’s latest Leadership Bulletin and mentioned that the ORTA quarterly has included the full text of the revised by-laws to be voted on at the ORTA area meetings in April.

Dave stated that tomorrow is the deadline for the six committee reports to be sent to ORTA which includes Community Service, Membership, Legislative, Public Relations, Informative and Protective Services, and Retirement Planning.

Recording Secretary – Ruth Weigand

Ruth said that the November and December minutes will be e-mailed to everyone after today’s minutes are typed and then can be approved at the March Executive Board meeting. Dave announced that a summary of the minutes will be on the PCRTA website and in our Desktop.

Treasurer – Darlene Fetterhoff

2009 PCRTA Budget February 3, 2009

Income $14,881.67

Income carry over from 2008 9,686.67

Anticipated income from dues renewal 114 members @ $10 1140.00 11 members @ $5 55.00

Anticipated donations from NEOUCOM 4000.00

Expenses $14,881.67

General Scholarship Funds 9997.94, Five Newsletters($366.37) 1831.85, Printing Directories 120.00, Office supplies/postage/copying 500.00, Retirement Planning Workshop 200.00, Lunches for 10 scholarship winners and parents 300.00, Membership 1000.00, Speakers/Entertainment 300.00, Memorial Service Flowers 20.00, Sunshine Fund 100.00, Miscellaneous (decorations for luncheons, gifts for outgoing officers, Reimbursement for workshop fees including mileage, awards to top Volunteers) 1001.88, Auditing Fee 50.00

Darlene said that the 2009 proposed budget is shown along with the 2010 proposed budget for members to compare and asked if there were any questions. After a question about the anticipated donations from NEOUCOM, Darlene changed the amount from $6,500 to 7,500 and misc. from $7,659.54 to 8,659.54.

Membership Notes: Lost 17 dual members and one associate member in 2009 due to non payment of dues.

Scholarship Notes: Gene Newton Scholarship should be given in 2010. Money already withdrawn from CD. As of this date, T Bica has $300 still in general scholarship total (checking account0 as a result of memorial donations for brother, John Dobrilovic. $470.20 will be withdrawn from CD to cover funds that were already used in 2009 Bica Scholarship.

Darlene reviewed the status of the scholarships and noted the low interest received. For the 990 report to be completed, with a lot of paper work and phone calls she finally received a letter from the state Attorney General that we are not a charitable trust. Dan recommended that a copy of that letter be kept in the treasurer’s files and in the archive files. Darlene thanked Norm Park for spending four hours going through the archives to help find info in order for PCRTA to receive that letter from the Attorney General. She said there is a yearly fee of $50 for filing the 990 report.

In discussing the proposed budget, Darlene suggested that we give more money for scholarships. Dan suggested that there may be more money needed for office supplies in lieu of postage. Pat Gynn made a motion to accept the budget, seconded by Ken Granville. Motion passed.

Vice-Presidents – Ken and Nancy Granville

Dave, Terri, and Saroj met with the United Methodist Church and recommend that the church social hall be used for the March PCRTA luncheon meeting with the cost of $10 for lunch. Church members serve the food and members return their plates when they pick up their desserts. Nancy Granville made a motion that PCRTA hold their 2010 luncheon meetings at the Kent UMC Pierson Hall, seconded by Saroj. Motion passed.

Dave reviewed that the Executive Committee will meet at the KSU Williamson Alumni House for the next Executive Committee meeting in March. There was a question about enough parking at KSU, and members asked if the meetings could be changed to the UMC. Dave said he would make the change if the room is available.

Ken and Nancy asked for program suggestions. They said that Roger DiPaolo is already scheduled for the September meeting. Some suggestions were a speaker on Tiffany glass, Gary Harwood on his book about the migrant workers in Hartville, and the author of a book on the Ravenna Arsenal.

ORTA Trustee- Dan McCombs

Dan said that at the ORTA meeting in Canton this spring we will vote on the recently rewritten by-laws. If approved, the new bylaws will reduce the number of ORTA trustees. He said that the STRS board is meeting today and tomorrow with retirement options being discussed.

COMMITTEE REPORTS

Archival – Norm Park

Norm is ready to file all PCRTA materials in our archives. Ruth Weigand gave Norm Parks the obituary news on the death of Irene George, a Brimfield retired teacher who was 101.

Community Service – Judy Morgan

Schedule for community service items for 2010 luncheon meetings to be donated by PCRTA members will be toiletries and hygiene items for Safer Futures in March and items for veterans at Freedom House in May. Adele takes care of the Red Cross volunteers. Judy said that PCRTA members donated almost 200 hats and gloves for the Portage County Clothing Center at the December meeting. She had a picture of some PCRTA members on Make a Difference Day.

Dave said that the Future Educators need retired teachers for judging state convention competitions on April 23 at Kent State University. He said that he and Pat were judges last year. There is no Junior Achievement activities scheduled for PCRTA this year.

Terrie Sargi said that she stood in the cold for two hours to ring the bell for Salvation Army in front of Walmart. (It was noted that some stores did not allow bell ringers inside the store or if inside, they were not allowed to ring the bell).

Informative and Protective – Kay Wise

Kay said that she will put a picture of Ruth Weigand getting a flu shot at the November meeting in the next newsletter.

Legislative – Dan McCombs

Dan said that the STRS proposal is for current retirees to receive a 2 % COLA. He announced that he was selected as the 2010 Legislative Chair for ORTA. He received a round of applause. Art asked if anything was being done for GPO/WEP. HR235 currently has sponsors but this economy may prevent any progress on it.

Membership – Art Fesemyer

Art said that there will probably be an increase in ORTA dues this year. He presented a newly developed flier designed by his grandson to recruit new PCRTA members . He thanked Saroj Sutaria, Tom Campana, and Jane Bridge for their hard work. He said PCRTA has 418 members but 388 actual paid members. There is a big push to recruit new retirees. 360 letters were mailed–14 members passed away. There were phone call reminders also. Art stated two goals; namely, to enroll more members and to keep present members.

Memorial & Sunshine – Mary Jane Brannon

It was announced that Mary Jane Brannon is in the hospital.

Newsletter – Pat Gynn

Pat said she needs all newsletter information by February 1. If there is anything to be submitted after that, please let her know so she can save space for it.

NEOUCOM Proctor Scheduling – Edith Scott

Edith said that there will be a notice in the newsletter for anyone who is interested in proctoring and that they need to go through orientation.

Public Relations-Evelyn Park

Evelyn thanked Pat for taking the picture of the installation of officers for the newspaper. The picture and article appeared recently.

Pre-Retirement Planning – Helena Parry

Ria Mastromatteo, last year’s chairman stated that last year only five people signed up for the Retirement Planning workshop. There is a plan for a fall Pre-Retirement Planning seminar which will be planned by Helena Parry, the new Retirement Planning chairman. Ria will assist Darlene in her work as treasurer.

Reservation Chairman – Les Bennett

Les will continue his job of taking the luncheon reservations.

Scholarships – Jim Montaquila

Jim developed a letter to the students with directions for the scholarship and a flier to be sent to all high school principals in Portage County. The applications are due April 2. Because of the growing amount in the scholarship fund, the executive committee discussed increasing the scholarship amounts, increasing the number of scholarships, consider multi-year grants, and building an endowment fund. Ria made the motion to offer six $1,000 scholarships this year, seconded by Saroj. Motion passed with one dissension. The scholarship committee will investigate establishing an endowment fund.

Social/ Travel – John & Sandy Kerstetter

This committee will plan the fund-raising bus trip and other social activities for members. John asked what? when? Where? and how often? Someone suggested KSU concerts with coffee hour before the event and a picnic in conjunction with Porthouse Theater plays. It was stated that Ron Paskey with Paskey Tours will do trips for us after we decide what trip we wish to do. We usually take a bus trip in the fall.

Telephone & Communications – Saroj Sutaria

On November 18, the day before our luncheon meeting, the opportunity arose for flu shots to be administered at the luncheon meeting. With the help of Ann Spence, Diane Bowman, Dave Gynn, Terrie Sargi, and Saroj Sutaria, calls were made to all PCRTA members to notify members about the flu shots.

Webmaster- Connie Evans

Connie said there have been 1,820 hits and also 223 E-mails for job and volunteer opportunities on our website PCRTA.net. She reported that Doris Ullman, ORTA webmaster, says that our website is easy to read.

Before Dave adjourned the meeting, he announced that one of our PCRTA members, Barbara Bryner, recently had a house fire and is temporarily living elsewhere.