09/14/2024
On Monday, September 9, the Valdosta Lowndes Retired Educators Association held its first meeting for the 2024-2025 year at Austin’s Steakhouse. President Stephanie Hezekiah Bivins called the meeting to order at 11:05 a.m. Virginia Thompson gave an inspiring invocation from Psalm 23. Then, she offered a prayer and blessing of the food. The prayer was followed with the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of “God Bless America”. The theme for this year is “Hats Off to Educators”. An original skit was written by President Elect Dr. Beverley Richardson-Blake. The two main characters were the principal played by Sam Allen and his secretary played by Susan Roberson. The other characters in the skit were participants who wore various hats that teachers often wear. The rest of the program was an informative speech from our Area 3 Director, Nancy Taylor from Adel. Secretary Susan Roberson placed copies of the minutes for the last meeting, May 13, were filed as printed. Treasurer Peggy Tisdale provided copies of the current treasurer’s report and the proposed budget for 2024-2025 for members. The financial reports were filed as printed. Members will discuss and vote on the proposed budget at the October meeting. Ron Irwin, Handbook Chairman, provided copies of the VLREA Handbook which contains information for the year. Patricia McRae, Membership Chairperson, reported 42 members in attendance. The current membership is 50. Twenty members joined at the meeting. Mark Gilpatrick, Legislature Chairman, report was short and sweet “go vote”. The Scholarship Committee Chairperson, Corrie Hunter-Marable recognized members serving on the Scholarship Committee by having them to stand. She reported her committee had met and updated guidelines for the application this year. Members who celebrated summer birthdays and September birthdays were recognized with the singing of the happy birthday song and cookies presented by President Bivins. The next meeting is scheduled for Monday, October 14 at Austin’s Steakhouse—11:00 a.m.
