Welcome 2023! This is a new year for MRTA, let's hope it is a good one. As you know, there is a new executive board...well, sort of. Susan Harris is President(again). Phil Butto, 1st Vice-President; Ruth Frankenburg, 2nd Vice-President; Barbara Ade, Secretary; and Debra Mettee, Treasurer. We are in need of a couple committee chairs (historian and public relations), Neither job is difficult or time consuming. Please consider volunteering to help. Our meetings continue at Drake's Landing this year. Meetings are always the second Wednesday in Marach, May, June, September, November and December. The social hour begins at 11:00 AM, The meetings begin at 11:45 AM. Please mark your calendars so you don't miss out.
Unfortunately. the cost of food continues to rise. We have had to increase luncheon prices to offset meal costs. This year, lunches will be $17.00 each. This price increase does not entirely cover the rise in our costs. (The cheapest meal is $17.00, and most are $18.00 or higher). Raising the price to $17.00 and the 50/50 raffle should nearly cover our cost increase, so the MRTA Executive Board voted to increase luncheon prices.
If you have any suggestions for speakers, please let us know. The first half of the year is set, but there may be openings for the second half of the year. Our speakers must be willing to perform for free. A mix of informative and entertaining speakers is best so that you will want to attend the luncheons. Please let us know your suggestions.
Our By-Laws need to be updated. Please let me know if you would be willing to sit on the committee to do that.
An ORTA update can be found in this newsletter. Pat Davidson is ORTA's endorsed candidate for the active STRS Board seat being vacated this April. If you know active teachers, please urge them to vote for Pat in the upcoming election. It is important that the STRS Board work for retired and active teachers, rather than their own self-interests.
If there is anything I can do to help you enjoy and improve MRTA, just let me know. I am here to serve you. Susan Harris, President