The April meeting of the Montgomery County Retired Teachers Association started with the Pledge of Allegiance to the flag and an invocation was given by Sheila Hodges. President Kim Nixon introduced Area Four Director for IRTA Brenda Walls. She grew up in Terre Haute, the youngest of 10 children. She attended Indiana State University and taught in Vigo County. Walls encouraged members to invite new retirees to the meetings. She passed out M+Ms because we want more members. Walls also encouraged members to talk to legislators about getting the 13th check which helps retirees keep up with inflation. Members were invited to the Representative Assembly on June 7.
Vice President Steve Frees introduced our speaker, Dr. Kathy Steele, who gave a fascinating talk on her safari in Kenya and Tanzania. She has traveled to several countries with Overseas Adventure Travels and this one was a true adventure. When on the safari they stayed in tents, some which had modern conveniences but some not so much. The small group of travels were able to see lions, cheetahs, giraffes, baboons, elephants, hippos and beautiful zebras. She noted that the animals were constantly on alert as they must be for survival where lions were constantly looking for prey. One of the most endearing trips was to a baby elephant orphanage and she noted how much they acted like little human children. The group was able to visit different villages in Kenya and Tanzania including the Massai people.
Members enjoyed Steele’s beautiful photographs of the people and villages. In Kenya the people do a lot to recycle everyday things and are trying to eliminate plastic. They also generated electricity by using solar panels. Old locks and other metals were melted down to make bracelets and other jewelry. Steele showed us how old tires are made into sandals and even door hinges. She couldn’t figure out why in some villages they kept fruits and vegetables in cages on tables until she saw the cows coming through the village looking for food. The group was able to take a hot air balloon ride which enabled them to see herds of wild animals on the ground and beautiful scenery. She took several pictures of the famous baobab tree. One of the villages had a TV set and villagers paid the owner to come to the tent and watch soccer. Steele gave an enjoyable and educational travelogue.
The business meeting was called to order by Nixon. The minutes of the last meeting which had been sent to members by email were accepted into the record. Larry Manlove gave the treasurer’s report which was approved. Nancy Bowes of the community service committee urged all members to keep track of volunteer hours and noted that we had collected $119 in cash and some food for FISH. She read a thank you from Youth Service Bureau for a contribution for CASA. She also reminded members that the Master Gardeners will be having a plant sale at the 4-H Fairgrounds on Saturday.
Member concerns chair Mary Lefebrve reported she had sent cards to people who had surgeries or had been ill. Easter cards were sent out to members who haven’t been able to attend meetings. She also sent a congratulations card to Tammy Haas who was recognized as Coach of the Year by the Indiana High School Dance Team Association for her work with the Crawfordsville High School dance team.
Steele, membership chair, reported no new members since last month. Sheila Hodges, nominations chair, reported that nominations need to be in soon for officers for next year.
AMBA representative Colleen Page gave updates on programs and benefits of joining IRTA. She passed out membership applications and a brochure of benefits.
Nixon reported that five delegates will be going to the Representative Assembly in June but all members are welcome to attend as non-voting members.
In new business, Nixon asked if we would like to donate to the camp sponsored by the Lew Wallce Study. Darlene Dusek proposed that we send a check for $75 for the camp. Bowes seconded the motion and the motion passed. Nixon called for the meeting to adjourned. She thanked our speaker, caterer, members who decorated the room and announced that the next meeting will be May 8. Door prizes were awarded.
