October’s meeting of Beckham/ Roger Mills Retired Educators was held Friday the 13th, 2023 at Elk City’s United Methodist Church. The meeting room reflected sights and sounds of Halloween as President Linda Long welcomed members Mary Fern Carpenter, Cathy Lewis, Judy Haught, Cindy Wood, Carla Garrison, Larry Long, Tana Feldman, June Lovelace, Gwen Pasby, Glenda Ivins, Jan Attocknie, Dennis McRee, Stephanie Malone, Dana Anderson, Mary Beth Mahanay, Becky Newlin, Joyce Roberts and guest Pam Holland.
The invocation was given by June. The Flag Salutes were led by Judy. The devotional was presented by Mary Beth Mahanay. She shared a meaningful story about how one person can make a difference. Mary Beth encouraged retired teachers to continue to seize every opportunity to be kind, helpful and supportive. She referred to scripture John 3:16.
The minutes were approved as presented and the treasurer’s report was accepted.
Glenda reported 69 members to date. In the Membership Minute, she noted that October is Cancer Awareness Month and shared that 60% of expenses related to a cancer diagnosis and treatment are not covered by insurance or Medicare. Members can check the options from AMBA by going to OKREA.org. Becky gave good news about the volunteer hours in 2022. Numbers reflect that 2,350 hours were turned in by this unit which was the second highest of small units in Oklahoma. Linda gave the Legislative report, which revealed that legislators are currently busy with interim studies. Linda mentioned that HB 2171 is still being considered, plus two COLA Bills are still alive.
Happenings at the State Convention were offered by June, Larry and Glenda. Linda noted that Bill Hubbard was recognized as being this unit’s 2022 VIM. Gwen Pasby was honored as the 2023 VIM for this unit. District Director, Pam Holland, also reported on the recent State Convention and mentioned that this unit’s Fund Raiser Basket was reflective of this year’s theme-For The Love of Teaching. It was also at the top of the list for the amount of funds raised.
Linda noted that PAC Fund do-nations are due in November and that American Education Week is November 13-17.
For the Halloween themed meeting, there was a reading from Shakespeare’s Macbeth. It was presented by Judy, Cindy, Mary Fern and Carla, with the reoccurring quote, “Double, double, toil and trouble; Fire burn, and cauldron bubble!” The last part of the program was Halloween Bingo, which resulted in winners receiving gift card treats instead of tricks.
Linda announced the next meeting, November 10 at Elk City United Methodist Church at 10:00 a.m. and the OREA Board of Directors meeting, November 29. The door prize was won by Dennis McRee.
Linda adjourned the meeting.
