Retired educator news

By Minnie McCormick

    DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Piscataquis County Retired Educators met Aug. 23 at the Bear’s Den with 18 members and guests for the final meeting of the year. President Gil Reynolds conducted the meeting.

    Reynolds gave a report of the Legislative meeting he attended in Augusta. He discussed the Ritter Grant in which current educators who are enrolled in an education program can be eligible for $1,500. Another grant is the Shean Grant which would provide for local assistance in the sum of $300. The membership  authorized Reynolds to check into these grants and proceed accordingly.
    A goal to increase membership by 10 percent could result in a $50 bonus. Reynolds spoke about the recent COLA checks. Social Security inequities are being addressed but probably none of us will see it accomplished.
    Reynolds spoke to four of the five nurses at the elementary schools that the retired teachers voted to give Community Day of Caring money to for snacks at the schools and they were thrilled to receive the money.
    Secretary Gloria Burns gave the secretary’s report, followed by the treasurer’s report by Myrna Ricker. Members expressed interest in having a Christmas gathering. We will have the party at Thayer Parkway on Dec. 2, weather permitting. Martha Rollins will be in touch with members to advise them of what to bring.  Linda Howard suggested we each bring a book for a child to donate to the Kiwanis Community Christmas Campaign. In past years we have done toys and or books.