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October 2023
President’s Message
The VRTA Fall Conference was filled with the hustle and bustle one would expect from an event that had to live up to the expectations of VRTA members. Unit and district banners were on display, the Marketplace was active, Fauquier Retired Teachers’ Association sponsored the 50/50 raffle, and Judy McConville collected and recorded the donated door prizes. The Social Event that was held in the Atrium on Tuesday night could only be described as outstanding! Once again, our AARP state President, Joyce Williams and State Director, Jim Dau did not disappoint the membership. Generous breakfast snacks were available in the Foyer on Wednesday morning.
A few members of the Board of Directors were unable to attend the Fall Conference for various reasons, including illness. Although the average number attending the meeting remained about the same, some had to leave early and did not stay for the entire event.
Our Secretary, Reba Evans, was unable to attend the Conference. Janet Dye and Joy Mainor, VRTA members, graciously volunteered to record minutes for the Board of Directors meeting and the General Business Session. President-elect, Karen Whetzel took minutes for the Executive Committee meeting. We owe a debt of gratitude to these ladies.
Also, devoted chairpersons, Bea Morris and Nina McClanahan were unable to attend the Conference. However, their duties were filled by capable hands. We appreciate all of our members that willingly step up and take charge when the need arises. Directory chair, Leigh McKay, distributed directories and made needed corrections before her departure.
Many of our members received awards in the form of certificates and plaques during the Board of Directors meeting and the General Business Session. Rosa Chambers (District E), and Gary Braswell (District N) received Honorary Mention certificates from Patricia Holland, Chair of the Most Active Member Committee. Joyce Williams (District P) was named the Most Active Member and was given a plaque for that honor. In addition, Linda Ellis and Joyce Williams, members of the Community Service Most Active Unit Committee, awarded a plaque to Rockbridge (District F) on behalf of chairperson, Louise Mont-Adams.
Tuesday’s Luncheon keynote speakers were Joyce Williams, AARP State President, and Timothy Bothe, AARP Program Specialist. Joyce’s passion was evident in her presentation that focused on the desire to strengthen the bonds between AARP and VRTA. Timothy’s slide presentation was very informative and centered around strategies dedicated to encouraging members to volunteer within the two organizations. Winners during the Q & A period received a book based on the life of Ethel Percy Andrus, founder of AARP.
Vice President, Mable Scott, presided over a session that centered on sharing suggestions for increasing membership. As a result of this session a list of recommendations was made and passed out at the General Session. These suggestions need to be shared with units.
Jim DuBrueler, Jr., VRTA’s Benefits Advisor, and staff members are always available for meetings and programs. Contact information can be found on vrta.org. With members being informed about the benefits and programs available, VRTA’s Mission is accomplished. Our Mission Statement is, “To be the voice, resource, and connection for all retired school personnel.”
During the Legislative presentation on Tuesday afternoon, James Shull enlightened us on ranked voting through his slide presentation. Tina Whitaker and Ben McCartney shared information involving voting practice, updating voter registration, early voting, and voting by mail. Lobbyist, Bonnie Atwood, reviewed plans surrounding the Joint Legislative Audit and Review Committee (JLARC).
On Wednesday morning, the Virginia Retirement System’s (VRS) presentation was led by Michael Cooper, VRS Chief Operating Officer and Robert Irving, VRS Customer Services Director. The VRS total membership as of June 30, 2023 was 801,226. It is the 42nd largest public or private pension system in the world and the 14th largest public or private pension in the United States. The Pension Benefits Information (PBI) was revisited. Members were assured that this incident happened outside of VRS. It did not impact VRS or VRS systems, and benefit payments to retirees were not affected. The presenters provided an abundance of forms that members could use to organize personal information, VRS with the investments and benefits offered to VRTA members will help, “All retired school personnel to be safe, productive, informed and financially secure in retirement.”
Prior to the General Business Session, Phyllis Eastridge, Chaplain, presided over the Necrology Service and did an excellent job. Wilberta Carter, Treasurer from District T, sang a lovely song, “Nearer My God to Thee,” and Phyllis read the poem, “The Rose Beyond the Wall.” VRTA lost 103 members this year.
During the General Business Session, Patricia Hogston, Nominating Committee Chair, introduced the nominees for VRTA officers (2024-2026). President-elect, Karen Whetzel will become President on July 1, 2024. The nominees are President-elect, Drucilla Pollard; Vice President, Larry Hardesty; Secretary, Janet Dye; and Treasurer, Weldon Martin. The election will be held during the Spring Delegate Assembly. Nominations from the floor are allowed.
The Prize Patrol reminds members to donate items to be used for door prizes at the Spring Delegate Assembly that is scheduled for Tuesday, April 16 to Wednesday, April 17, 2024.
For updated information check vrta.org and Facebook.
Jean Marrow
VRTA President
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