Retired educators news
DOVER-FOXCROFT — The Piscataquis County Retired Educators Association met at the Bear’s Den on Sept. 28. Thirteen members were joined by two new interested members for a lengthy business meeting followed by a profitable silent auction.
At the start of each meeting a small brightly decorated schoolhouse box is passed around and members are encouraged to empty the change from their purses and pockets into the box. Treasurer Priscilla Higgins reported that this adds another Andrew Jackson to the bank account each month! At the roll call each member was asked to share their favorite dessert amid a plethora of oohs and aahs. A dessert tasting meeting could be in the future plans!
RETIRED EDUCATORS — The Piscataquis County Retired Educators Association met at the Bear’s Den in Dover-Foxcroft on Sept. 28. The next meeting will be 11:30 a.m. on Oct. 26 at Our FAMBily Restaurant in Dexter.
In her Legislative Report, Jane Conroy shared that the “Under the Dome” email discussed the proposed redistricting. Members were interested in learning about the COLA increase and the increase in the state’s portion of health insurance.
By a vote of 9-1 the PCREA Annual Student/Professional Award new form and criteria were approved. The 2021 Student/Professional Award will be presented to Alexis Raymond, who is currently student teaching.
As part of the Statewide Day of Caring it was decided to work with athletic directors in area schools. It was brought to our attention that their medical supplies kits are often in need of replenishing. We care about our student athletes!
The planning committee presented a proposed calendar for meeting agendas and in keeping with our desire to visit places throughout the county a few new venues. A unanimous vote approved the calendar, including the addition of meetings in October and November.
In new business members were reminded to keep track of their volunteer hours and their exercise hours for submission in April to the MEA. As chairperson of the MEA-R convention in May, Rheba Michaud is asking for volunteers to help with this event. A decision in January will be made whether it will be an in-person convention or via Zoom.
We were reminded that schools are always looking for donations of clean winter gear, new underwear/socks, and lightly worn clothing.
The silent auction added $200 to the Student Award account. Bidding was ferocious for the tin of Maine maple syrup and a gorgeous quilted table runner! Rumor has it that the red satchel and wine bottle holder are all wrapped for a special granddaughter’s upcoming 21st birthday!
Our next meeting will be on Tuesday, Oct. 26 at 11:30 a.m. at Our FAMBily Restaurant in Dexter. All retired educators are welcome.