The Oct. 9 meeting on Montgomery County Teachers Association was held at the Crawfordsville District Public Library. President Kim Nixon called the meeting to order and led members with the Pledge of Allegiance. People celebrating October birthdays were recognized and guests were welcomed. Darlene Dusek gave the invocation.
Elisha McCulloh and her daughter Nicole Wilson were introduced as the executive director and managing director of Achaius Ranch. They gave a program about the ways in which they help people through therapeutic methods using horses. In the summer they have an eight week program for youth ages 8-18. The Achaius Ranch program is a 501 C 3 not for profit and its vision is to rescue horses and provide service to the community. Achaius Ranch is located near Ladoga and served more than 100 people last summer through its many programs. It also offers riding lessons, birthday parties, fundraisers and photo sessions.
In the business meeting, the minutes were accepted as read. Larry Manlove read the treasurer’s report which was accepted as read. The auditing committee reported that the treasury had been audited an everything was in order. Community service chair Nancy Bowes read a thank you note from David Johnson for a donation to the Free Clinic. Members collected money during the meeting and $103 was collected for the crisis shelter. Chairman Bowes noted that MCRTA is one of the retired teacher organizations that donate to many differ non-profit organizations and that we should be proud of the work we do in the county. She reminded members to turn in volunteer hours by Dec. 31.
Member concerns and service chair Mary Lefebve reported that a thinking of you card was sent out. She also asked members that Beverly Craft would love to hear from members as she has moved out of state. Membership Chair Kathy Steele reported that we have 109 paid members.
In old business, Nixon reported that she and vice president Steve Freese had attended the INRTA fall workshop. She reminded members of the benefits of joining the state organization in addition to the local organization. She also asked members to send in a reservation each month. She asked members if they would like to have a catered dinner for the Christmas luncheon. Karen Thada made a proposal that we hire Cindy Long as the caterer for December. Marilyn Spear seconded the motion which passed. They next meeting will be Nov. 13 with Darlene Goodrich as the speaker.
The meeting was adjourned and door prizes were awarded.
