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November 2023
President’s Message
After compiling the total responses to questions on the Fall Conference’s evaluation forms, I am extremely pleased to announce that an overwhelming majority of those attending the Fall Conference and returning the evaluation form were “very satisfied” or “satisfied” with all aspects of the Conference. The few members that checked a question with “dissatisfied” or “very dissatisfied” centered mainly around the facilities at DoubleTree.
Negative comments relative to the facilities include, not providing help with luggage, and not honoring a request for handicapped accommodations. There were also positive comments about DoubleTree. The hotel is in a central and safe location and the rooms were neat and clean. There was consternation among members concerning the number of rooms in the “Block” allocated to the VRTA. The hotel set a deadline for members to take advantage of the special rate, but if the allocated rooms were filled before the deadline, the hotel had met its obligation. To remedy the situation, the hotel has agreed to increase the number of rooms in the Block. The cut-off date for making a room reservation is 21 days prior to the conference. Please, be prompt and adhere to the dates,
An overwhelming majority of members were very pleased with the AARP sponsored Reception. The food was excellent, and the fellowship was described as pleasant. The vast majority expressed the desire to keep this activity on-site.
The Luncheon presentations were informative and interactive, and the membership sharing was outstanding. Most members were delighted with the menu but wanted more choices. We will inquire, but we are limited to availability.
Comments attributed to VRTA Benefits/Advisor, Legislative Session, and VRS were “always informative,” “excellent information,” and “helpful forms,” in that order.
The Newsletter, general comments, and recommended changes are topics of interest. Some of you support emailing the newsletter and those who opt out pay $5.00 to have it mailed. Evaluation form comments included, keep the meeting moving, communicate with unit presidents, continue door prizes, enjoyed the breakfast biscuits, lengthy reports, and no door prizes. Changes that were recommended were meeting at a different facility, changing the format, and knowing the dates earlier.
There is an ongoing inquiry into different facilities. The dates for the next Spring Delegate Assembly and Fall Conference are on the back of the VRTA program distributed at each event. The Executive Committee is considering a change in format for the next Assembly in April. Some members have expressed an interest in small-group concurrent sessions. We will choose from the topics from the suggestions that members listed on the Evaluation forms.
As you can see, we value your comments and suggestions. You will be kept informed of the progress, changes, deadlines, and plans as they materialize. VRTA’s Mission is, “To be the voice, resource and connection for all retired school personnel.”
Jean Marrow
VRTA President
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