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The final meeting for the 2005-2006 year of the WCREA was on the above date at Asbury Willows, NJ. The meeting was called to order at 10:35 by President Pat Kollar who led the flag salute. The singing of "America" was led by Barbara Esposito and Shirley Sloyer read a poem written by a retired educator from NJ--"Times Change" describing the different stages of life as it comes full circle. The secretary's report was read. Treasurer Vicki Rhinehart reported a balance of $3,247.10 and $915 in the WCREA Award Fund. Both reports were approved as read. Barbara Esposito read the list of officers for 2006-2008. They are: President Pat Kollar, Vice-President Doug Morris, Treasurer Vicki Rhinehart, Recording Secretary Theresa Ravenburg and Corresponding Secretary Carol Mertz. Scholarship Chairperson Vicki Rhinehart reported that she received the names of scholarship winners except Phillipsburg, but can't release them because the students don't even know yet. Warren Tech had 1 student planning to enter teaching, so an award was also granted there (6 awards @ $400=$2,400). As membership chairperson, Vicki reported that we now have 207 members with several more expected to join. Under old business, President Pat reported on several meetings held in April: Warren-Hunterdon Legislative Dinner April 5--Senator Lance and Assemblyman Doherty spoke. Mike Doherty is opposed to the Abbott districts and never has positive things to say about teachers. County President's meeting April 16--Governor Corzine wants to put money, about, $1 billion, in the pension fund (hasn't been funded in 9 years) but he does not have the support of either body of the legislature for his budget. NJREA Spring Luncheon--April 27--Maggie Moran, Governor Corzine's deputy chief of staff, spoke very candidly about needing the support of the NJREA. Carol Mertz added that it's important for NJREA members to support the governor's proposed 1 cent sales tax increase and try to persuade legislators to approve it--the projected revenue for the 1 cent tax increase is the same amount which the governor wants to put into the pension fund. Pat reported that 53.37% of school budgets in Warren County passed (13 passed, 10 were defeated). Under New Business, Sandy Beck reported that the fall trip to Culinary Institute and Vanderbilt Mansion is sold out. Pat reported that NJREA dues are increasing for 2006-2007. Professional will be $67 up from $55; ESP will be $46, up from $35 and Retired life will be $830 for professionals and $400 for ESP. Rates become effective Sept. 1. It was suggested that WCREA dues be increased. After discussion , it was decided that dues will be $10 and $5 for associate members. Likewise, due to rising costs, luncheon prices will be $20. Pat reported that NJEA members have full access to all services at Deborah Heart and Lung Center. Doug Morris reported on a "Pen-Ben" meeting held May 22 in Clinton. Wendall Steinhauer, NJEA Secretary-Treasurer spoke there about the importance af attending a rally in Trenton on June 19 to show solidarity in support of Governor Corzine's proposed budget. NJEA is a member of the NJ Public Employees Coalition which is sponsoring the rally. Wendall said it's important to show solidarity to the legislature to protect our post-retirement benefits. Though pensions are guaranteed by law, medical/health benefits are approved yearly, on a "pay as you go plan". In regards to this, post cards were addressed and signed by those present to be sent to our 3 legislators--Senator Leonard Lance, Assemblywoman M. Karrow and Assemblyman M. Doherty. They will be mailed by the NJEA. Mike Flynn from the NJEA Government Relation team spoke explaining the importance of the June 19 rally, urging as many as possible to attend. NJREA's support in this is vital as many schools will still be in session prohibiting "actives" from attending. Therefore, NJREA numbers are needed. After Mike's talk, Pat passed around a sign-up sheet asking members to: 1) contact legislators, 2) attend the rally and/or 3) attend lobby days (June 12 and 22). A bus from HCEA will be available to transport people to the rally. Many signed up to go. Next, Barbara Esposito read a letter from Warren Co. 4-H soliciting judges for 4-H presentations in the spring and at the Warren Co. Farmers' Fair. Pat announced that our next meeting will be Sept. 6 at Harker's Hollow. Fred Aug, NJREA President will be guest speaker. With no further business, the meeting was adjourned at 12:00 noon. A shortened entertainment program of songs presented by Rev. David and Susan Morrison (Joyful Noise Ministries) was followed by lunch (chicken).
Respectfully submitted Theresa Ravenburg Recording Secretary, WCREA PS 50-50 winners of $60 each were Lucille Whitmire and Theresa Ravenburg |