ASSOCIATIONDECEMBER 2015

newsletterIOWA RETIRED SCHOOL PERSONNEL

ASSOCIATION

VOLUME 63, NO. 4

President’s Message

Well SUMMER is gone, and FALL went

away also but WINTER hit us hard several

weeks ago! Hope you all had your snow

boots, ear muffs, long underwear, etc. dug

out of your closets. You also will need your

shovels and ice scrapers as I don’t believe that

was the last of our winter!

Hope your Thanksgiving was wonderful

with friends and family around. Have you

started your Christmas shopping or are you all

fi nished?

I spent four days in Austin, TX the week

of November 8 through the 11, at an AMBA

meeting. Forty-nine states were represented

and fourteen states were not covered by Social Security. The fi ve of

the largest state associations who attended were Texas, California,

Ohio, Louisiana and Illinois and those fi ve were having trouble

with their retirement systems because their state legislators were

pushing for defi ned contributions instead of defi ned benefi ts.

These fi ve only had trust funds funded between 44% and 65%.

They were very surprised that Iowa did not own their own build-

ing and our offi cers are not paid but are volunteers. They also had

yearly state dues that were very expensive and much higher than

our $15 a year. Some of them were in the $100+ per year and still

they had no money.

They were so surprised that we had a very viable and stable

retirement system. Many of them had lost money due to their leg-

islature borrowing from their retirement systems and not paying

the money back to their groups.

Other meetings concerned volunteerism, how to attract young-

er members, teacher volunteer exchanges, marketing strategies,

etc. All these were geared to the very large associations and small

associations like Iowa, Minnesota, Indiana, etc. were told to steer

clear of the Koch Brothers and the Arnolds who are trying to pro-

mote Defi ned Contributions over Defi ned Benefi ts such as IPERS

offers us.

AMBA menu of benefi ts. the Government Employee Travel Op-

portunities (G.E.T.O.) program is now called the Heroes Vacation

Club, dedicated to serving First Responders, including police of-

fi cers, fi refi ghters and emergency medical technicians. AMBA has

not received any additional information, about this change. As of

now, AMBA is discontinuing advertising this benefi t to members.

We also want to remind you that Harry and David, now part

of 1-800 Flowers, is offering a 15% discount to all association

members through December, 2015. To take advantage of this of-

fer, please visit www.harryanddavid.com or call 1-877-456-9900 to

place your order and use reference code: PR14. I will begin to schedule unit meetings so if you are interested in

having me visit your unit , just give me a call or e-mail.

Stay warm everyone and Happy Holidays! Dawn

President: Dawn C. Rogers

3703 Rohret Road,Iowa City, IA 52246

(319) 339-0050E-mail:

dawncrogers@icloud.com

2014 - 2015 2014 - 2015 VOLUNTEER HOURS REPORTVOLUNTEER HOURS REPORT

IRSPA volunteer hours that were turned in for 2014-2015 from our 6100 members were calculated at a rate of $23.07 per hour, the national rate. Iowa had 399,742 volunteer hours that are valued at $9,222,030.90. Our hours are up 15,696 from last year's total. Our 49 state units had 45 that kept volunteer hours last year and 48 this year (including one that turned their hours in after the report was done); only two units are now not keeping volunteer hours. National organizations compile this information for use by non profi t groups when applying for grants. In this manner, they are able to continue grant application and receive grants. Our top three units that have increased their volunteer hours are: Winneshiek which is up 170% (9334 hours to 26,501), for a gain of 17,167 more hours. Henry Co. is up 155% (3718 to 9524) for 5,806 increased hours and Oel-wein went up 120% (5630 to 12, 633) for 7,003 more hours. Twenty one units increased their volunteer hours from the previous year.

Unit leaders tips for collecting volunteer hours:

1. Appoint one person to collect, compile and report vol-unteer hours to your chairpersons by August. Please re-port these hours after the last meeting in August or before summer, as many units do not meet over the summer until September or October. (One unit reported their hours to their chairperson at each meeting.)2. Stress the recording of hours in your e-mails, at meet-ings and informal get-togethers and provide a report sheet.3. Find an easy way to keep your hours: If you volunteer the same time each week, write a total for the month and take it times 12. Keep your hours on a calendar and total monthly so that one doesn't get so far behind.4. Add your driving time and keep hours spent in unpaid care-giving for family.5. Keep your hours for Youth and Education separate from Community Hours (church, museums, unpaid organiza-tions, etc...) and then total all of the hours.6. Challenge your unit to "beat their 2015 number" of vol-unteer hours and the number of members keeping hours.

Sandy & Jay Thede

Page 2

IRSPA’s Delta Dental Plan of Iowa

Delta Dental Rates In Effect

Rates will not increase in 2016

Single..............$36.70 Monthly Two-Person...$74.00 Monthly Family..............$91.10 Monthly

If you do not currently have Delta Dental Insurance,

and wish to sign up, please contact:

Dawn Rogers at: Phone - 319-339-0050, e-mail - dawncrogers@icloud.com

IRSPA OFFICERSPresident: Dawn C. Rogers, 3703 Rohret Road, Iowa City, IA 52246 (319) 339-0050 - dawncrogers@icloud.com

President-Elect: Chris Campidilli, 1965 - 230th Street, Humboldt, IA 50548 (515) 332-2298 - ccampidilli@hotmail.com

Secretary Mary Jo O’Connell 1700 Avoca Street, Dubuque, IA 52201 (563) 557-1451 - moconnell12@msn.com

Treasurer: Robert Swanson, 3221 Cheyenne Blvd., Sioux City, IA 51104 (712) 252-1446 - rswanson@cableone.net

Newsletter Editor & Delta Dental Contact: Dawn Rogers, 3703 Rohret Road, Iowa City, IA 52246 (319) 339-0050 - dawncrogers@icloud.com

Past Co-Presidents: Roberta Cochran-Zavitz & Gerald Zavitz, 2918 E. 18th Street, Davenport, IA 52803 (563) 359-4769 • E-mail: g.zavitz@mchsi.com Roberta’s e-mail: cochran-zavitzr@mchsi.com

We want to thank the Des Moines Area Unit of IRSPA for hosting the 2015 Annual Meeting at the Des Moines Airport Holiday Inn on October 7-8. One hundred plus attended the two-day meeting which was very well planned. The tours of the Iowa Hall of Pride, State Capitol, and the Botanical Garden were well attended. The focus groups were well-attend-ed, and very interesting and educational. Thanks again Des Moines Area Unit of IRSPA for a delightful and well planned 2015 Annual Meeting!

IRSPA Executive Board and Offi cers

DELIGHTFUL DES MOINES IRSPA STATE

CONFERENCE 2015

Approximately 100 attendees enjoyed two fun fi lled days at the Airport Holiday Inn in Des Moines. High-lights of the conference were tours to the Iowa Hall of Pride, State Capitol and Botanical Gardens. The Wednesday evening entertainment was spec-tacular. We dined on a roast beef dinner by candlelight and were later serenaded by the award winning Har-mony Central Sweet Adelines Choral Group. Their vo-cal blending was perfect. Their dancing and foot work put the group in a happy mood. These 50 ladies were fun to watch and amazing to listen to. They were sur-prised to receive two standing ovations. The breakout sessions were stimulating and infor-mative. We heard about Human Traffi cking, the Pan-ama Canal, Bitten by the Button, Life Re-imagined, Too Much Stuff, Grotesques, Celebrate Iowa and Bon-nie and Clyde in Iowa. Our favorite house poet , Joe Nemic read some of his favorite poems throughout the conference. The annual meeting included with the annual busi-ness reports, awarding certifi cates and the installation of offi cers. The day concluded with three DMARSPA presidents handing out door prizes.Thanks for visiting DELIGHTFUL DES MOINES!

Please Note:Please Note: Many nice pictures from the October 7th and 8th Annual Meeting

may be viewed at: https://picasaweb.google.com/100921088722

264098864/2015IRSPAConferenceWe apologize due to space in newsletter we were not able to print any pictures.

Thank YouThank You Thanks to the two new committee members:

New District 4 Public Relations Committee Member is Carolyn Forbes, 16866 State Orchard Road, Council Bluffs, IA 51503

(712) 323-1018 • E-mail: ccforbes@aol.com.

New District Legislative Task Force Member for District 4 is Peg Lewis 803 Golden Shores Avenue, Creston, IA 50801

(641) 782-9606 • Cell (712) 310-1202E-Mail: lewis_peg@yahoo.com

Black Hawk County Unit New Offi cers: Co-Presidents are:

Jane Brown, 1022 Lynda Road, Waterloo, IA 50701 (319) 235-7054 E-mail: brown1022@mchsi.com and

Sheila Bullock, 3849 Sager Avenue, Waterloo, IA 50701 (319) 234-2241

Thank YouThank You

Page 3

IRSPA ANNUAL MEETING AIRPORT HOLIDAY INN CONVENTION CENTER DES MOINES, IOWA

OCTOBER 7 & 8, 2015Welcome from Co-Presidents

Roberta Cochran Zavitz and Gerald Zavitz

Your State Offi cers are happy to welcome you to the 2015 Annual Meeting and Conference. We are sure you will appreciate the eff orts which the Des Moines Area School Retired Unit has done to make this a great one. This year’s theme: Delightful Des Moines; IRSPA Together Toward TomorrowThe following transpired on Wednesday, October 7, 2015:

At 9:00 a.m. registration opened in the Ballroom FoyerFrom 9:00 a.m. – Noon the Executive Board Meeting (Westview Room) (Minutes of meeting are attached).From 12:30 – 2:00 p.m. Tour of Iowa Hall of PrideFrom 2:30 p.m. – 3:30 p.m. Tour of Iowa State CapitolFrom 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. Tour of Botanical Gardens6:00 p.m.–Welcome Banquet–Theme: IRSPA Together Toward TomorrowAttendees were welcomed by DMARSPA Past President, Shirley Corkhill. She treated us to a poem written by Joe Nemec: “Unless You’ve Sat in a Teacher’s Chair”. The keynote speaker was Jack Lash-ier, Director of Iowa Hall of Pride. A delicious banquet dinner of sal-ad, roast beef w/trimmings and lemon torte dessert was served by the Holiday Inn Banquet Staff . We defi nitely all enjoyed the evening entertainment by the Harmony Central Sweet Adeline Chorus. Their music included ballads, upbeat songs and popular show tunes in barbershop four part harmony style. The banquet table decora-tions were lovely seasonal décor pumpkins on mirror tiles with a spray of seasonal orange fl orals tied with black lace ribbon. We also had “party” favors made of quilted black and orange fabric fi lled with Halloween candy treats. So festive and cute!The following transpired on Thursday, October 8, 2015:

8:00 – 9:00 a.m. – Registration in the Ballroom Foyer8:00 – 9:00 a.m. – Complimentary Rolls, etc. served in Ballroom Foyer8:00 – Noon – The following vendors were set up in the Ballroom Foyer:Connie & Carl Ode Books about Iowa Paul Havnen Delta Dental of Iowa Connie Eastman AARP Stephanie La Benz Aging Resources of Iowa Becky Ballantyne Hand-Make Cards and Jewelry Jimmy Clark AMBA Member Benefi ts Judith Kitten Travel Agent Tiff any Klouda NORWEX Cleaning Products Robert Swanson/Dawn Rogers IRSPA – Memberships and Pins Emily Whitaker Emily’s Books9:00 – 9:20 a.m. –Welcome to the General Session in Ballroom9:30 – Noon – Breakout Sessions – Attendees Choose to AttendBitten by the Button, Out of the Mouth of a Grandpa, Human Traf-fi cking in Iowa, Julius Caesar/Pope Gregory XIII & Their Calendars, IRSPA Member Benefi ts, The Panama Canal: How it Works, Too Much Stuff !, Building a Community of Trust, Grotesques in Des Moines, Life Re-Imagined by AARP, Celebrate Iowa!, Bonnie and Clyde in Iowa12:15 p.m. – Luncheon – Served in Ballroom by Banquet Staff Menu: Garden Salad, Pecan Chicken, Carrots, Mashed Potatoes, fresh baked rolls, cheesecake. (Comments: Again delicious!)1:15 p.m. - IRSPA Annual Business Meeting

IRSPA ANNUAL BUSINESS MEETING AIRPORT HOLIDAY INN CONVENTION

CENTER DES MOINES IOWA OCTOBER 8, 2015 Co-Presidents Roberta Cochran-Zavitz and Gerald Zavitz called the meeting to order at 1:15 p.m. President-Elect Dawn Rogers led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag and the singing of God Bless America. Secretary Chris Campidilli reported that 23 units were represented with 91+ attendees. Co-President Gerald Zavitz appointed Craig Down-ing to serve as Parliamentarian. The minutes of the IRSPA 2014 Annual Meeting held October 2, 2014, were available and presented. Tom Handlen made a motion to approve the minutes of October 2, 2014, IRSPA Annual Meeting as presented, motion was seconded by George Holland. Motion Carried.Treasurer’s Report: Mr. Bob Swanson, IRSPA Treasurer, presented the Treasurer’s Report covering period October 1, 2014, to September 30, 2015. Balance on Hand as of 10/01/14 = $29,770.13 and Balance on Hand 9/30/15 = $25,961.15, with investments as follows: Money Market Account @ Security National Bank, Sioux City = $26,010.96; Certifi cate of Deposit @ Security National Bank, Sioux City = $41,010.12 @.65% interest w/maturity date of 3/30/18; Goldman Sachs Bank Certifi cate of Deposit @ Citera Investments = $49,672.50 @ 5% interest w/maturity date of 5/29/20; Goldman Sachs Group Bond @ Citera Investments = $50,188.50 @ 4% interest w/maturity date of 12/15/15. Following review, motion was made by Barb Bielenberg to approve the Treasurer’s Report, motion was seconded by Dawn Rogers. Motion car-ried. (Copy of report attached to these minutes).Budget Report: Mr. Swanson also presented the 2015-16 Proposed Budget in the amount of $78,300.00 and reviewed the line-items. Fol-lowing review, motion was made by Tom Handlen to approve the Pro-posed Budget, motion was seconded by Barb Bielenberg. Motion car-ried. (Copy included with minutes).Health Advocacy Report: Chair Marge Swanson reported the 2014-15 health topic was “Aging Gracefully” and that speakers from the Area Agencies on Aging were chosen for the District “All Member” meetings; she also reported that health topic chosen for 2015-16 will be “National Hospice and Palliative Care”.Constitution & Bylaws: Chair George Holland reviewed changes. Mr. Holland also made a motion from the Committee to raise the state dues to $15 in Article IV – Dues of the Iowa Retired School Personnel Asso-ciation Constitution and Bylaws. Motion fi led with Secretary’s Minutes.Community Service: Chair Sandy Thede reported Volunteer Hours for 2014-15 was 399,742 @ $23.07 national rate = $ 9,222,030.90. Hours re-ported for 2014-15 increased by 15,695 hours over last year. Forty eight of the 50 state units reported hours. (Copy of report included with min-utes).Newsletter/Delta Dental: Chair Dawn Rogers reported corrected ad-dresses had helped as only 70 newsletters were returned and she also requested that we please send articles in for the newsletter; Reminder: Dawn has new e-mail address. Re Delta Dental: Premium information not yet available.Past Presidents Report: John and Beverly McCartney reported they have loved representing and serving IRSPA at Spring District Meetings and IRSPA State Meetings and that serving this organization has en-riched their lives. They also represented IRSPA on the Executive Council of AARP for the past six years. They expressed their thanks to local units for invitations to attend their unit meetings. They left IRSPA with quote, “May You Live Long to Prosper at IRSPA”….and “Old Retired Teachers Don’t Die…They Just Fade Away”.Old Business: NoneNew Business:

Message from Martha Willits, State President of AARP Iowa: Martha

Page 4brought greetings to IRSPA from AARP and gave an update on AARP programs and the following happenings: Life Re-Imagined, Advocacy Work, Caucuses, and Caregiving. She also thanked Beverly and John McCartney for serving as IRSPA representatives to AARP. She reminded us of the mission: “To Serve and Not Be Served” by Ethel Percy Andrus who founded National Retired Teachers Association in 1947 and AARP in 1957. She thanked IRSPA for the opportunity to bring the message from AARP.Legislative: Chair Phil Tetzloff gave a brief update on IPERS and that at this time there is no action to initiate a study to determine the costs associated with a COLA and the only BAC members who have discussed any interest in replacing the FED are ISEA and IRSPA. The funding level of the IPERS fund must be at 100% level to fund a FED and it will be a while before the level can get to 100%.Legislative (Con’t). Mr. Bill Wimmer, IRSPA Legislative Council, stated that this year is an IPERS legislative year and the Governor can recom-mend changes but have heard nothing yet. Mr. Wimmer also gave an update on the Political Status and Races in the upcoming elections. Mr. Wimmer reported the IPERS Committee Meeting is scheduled for De-cember and the process thru the Benefi t Advisory Committee will be to educate the Legislature on need for a COLA or FED.; talks will begin w/InterStudy Comm. Mr. Wimmer expressed his appreciation for the op-portunity to visit with IRSPA.Election Results: Tom and Opal Handlen served as Election Chairs and reported the following results: 85 ballots cast: for Chris Campidilli, Presi-dent Elect – 83 yes, 2 blank; for Mary Jo O’Connell for Secretary – 82 yes, 3 blank.Survey Results: Co-President Gerald Zavitz reported on the recent survey which was sent to IRSPA Unit Presidents, stated the following results: Question 1: 12 No, 12 Not Signifi cant, 8 Somewhat Question 2: 20 Yes, 11 No, 1 Whatever Per the results there was no evidence to sup-port changing the Board action taken at the April 1 Executive Board Meeting.Goals for 2015-16: 1. Continue to support our District Legislative Chairs, our State Legislative Chair, and Legislative Counsel in all their eff orts. 2. Continue to emphasize that Spring District Meetings are “all members” meetings.Awards/Recognition: Certifi cates of Appreciation were awarded to Unit Past Presidents. The Travel Trophy was awarded to District Six for having the largest attendance at their District Spring Meeting. Appre-ciation of Service baskets were given to Tom & Opal Handlen for serving as District 6 Coordinators for fi ve years and Substitute President Elects; John and Beverly McCartney for serving as Past Presidents 2012-15, and retiring Co-Presidents Roberta Cochran-Zavitz and Gerald Zavitz 2013-15.Installation of New Offi cers: The Oath of Offi ce was administered to: Dawn Rogers – President, Chris Campidilli – President Elect, and Mary Jo O’Connell – Secretary. The Zavitz’s thanked IRSPA for all of their continued support. Meeting was adjourned at 2:25 p.m. Door Prizes were then given out to any lucky attendee whose name was drawn. (Nice prizes). Many, many thanks to the Des Moines Area Unit for hosting this wonderful conference.

not in attendance. The meeting agenda was accepted and approved with the change. Secretary Chris Campidilli completed the Roll Call and the names of attendees and guests in attendance are listed at the end of the minutes. Minutes of the Executive Board Meeting held on April 1, 2015, were presented and available. Tom Handlen made a motion to ap-prove the minutes as presented, motion was seconded by Lyle Stirling. Motion carried. (Copy of minutes attached to these minutes). Mr. Bob Swanson, IRSPA Treasurer, presented the Treasurer’s Report covering period October 1, 2014, to September 30, 2015. Balance on Hand as of 10/01/14 = $29,770.13 and Balance on Hand 09/30/15 = $25,961.15. Investments as follows: Money Market Acct.: Security National Bank, Sioux City = $26,010.96 Certifi cate of Deposit – Security National Bank, Sioux City = $41,010.12 @.65% interest, matures 3/30/18 Goldman Sachs Bank Certifi cate of Deposit- Citera Investments = $49,672.50 @ 5% interest, matures 5/29/20 Goldman Sachs Group Bond – Citera Investments = $50,188.50 @4% interest, matures 12/15/15 Mr. Swanson also presented the 2015-16 proposed budget with proposed breakdown of income and disbursements in the amount of $78,300.00 (2014-2015 was $81,800.00). Mr. Swanson reviewed the line-item changes and the revenue and expenses from 2014-2015. He also gave membership numbers as of September 30, 2015, stating total membership to be at 6114. Further, the free lunches paid for prospec-tive new members so far this year totaled $1,326.51 for 144 of which 106 joined IRSPA with 20 units participating. John McCartney made a motion to approve and accept the Treasurer’s Report and the Proposed Budget for 2015-2016 as presented, motion was seconded by Sandy Thede. Motion carried. (Copy of these reports are attached to these minutes). (Note: Special thanks to Mr. Swanson for the extra statistical information and the membership information).The following Committee Reports were given:Constitution and Revision: Chair George Holland reported on his work reviewing the current Constitution and Bylaws. Based upon his work the following was transacted:

(1) Mr. Holland made a motion from the Committee to move that the edits made in June 2015 to the Iowa Retired School Personnel Association Constitution and Bylaws be accepted and that these be approved at the 2016 Annual Meeting, motion was seconded by John McCartney. Motion carried.(2) Mr. Holland made a motion from the Committee to move to change the name of the Constitution and Revision Committee to the By laws Committee, motion was seconded by Phil Tetzloff . Motion carried.(3) Mr. Holland made a motion from the Committee to move to change the name of the Policies and Procedures to Standing Rules, motion was seconded by Phil Tetzloff . Motion carried.(4) Mr. Holland made a motion from the Committee to move that all documents submitted as reports be presented in memo format starting with date, to, from, RE, and any cc, motion was seconded by Jay Thede. Motion carried. The Board also agreed to grant permission to Mr. Holland to orga-nize the Secretary’s Book in reverse chronological order (putting new-est items in fi rst). Copy of report included with these minutes).District Coordinator’s Reports: District 1: Barbara Songer – 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 19, 2016, at Cronk’s Café, Denison, Iowa. District 2: Chris Campidilli – 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 12, 2016, site TBA District 3: George Holland – 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 11, 2016, at Longbranch, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. District 4: James Tussey- 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 18, 2016, at Bethlehem Lutheran Church, Red Oak, Iowa.

IRSPA EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING HOLIDAY INN CONFERENCE CENTER

DES MOINES, IOWA, October 7, 2015 The IRSPA Executive Board Meeting was called to order at 11:00 a.m. by Co-Presidents Roberta Cochran-Zavitz and Gerald Zavitz. President-Elect, Dawn Rogers, led in the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag. Co-Pres-ident Gerald Zavitz appointed Craig Downing to serve as the meeting Parliamentarian. The meeting agenda was reviewed. Co-President Gerald Zavitz an-nounced that under “New Business” delete AMBA as Jimmy Clark was

Page 5 District 5: Lyle Stirling: 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 5, 2016, TBA District 6: Tom & Opal Handlen: 2016 Spring Meeting Date: May 4, 2015, at Methodist Church, Mount Pleasant, Iowa. Motion was made by George Holland to accept the Coordinator’s Reports, motion was seconded by Sandy Thede. (Copies of these re-ports are included with these minutes). At 12:00 noon the Board took a lunch break and enjoyed a delicious submarine sandwich luncheon prepared by the Holiday Inn food staff .At 12:45 p.m. the meeting resumed and the following was transacted:Newsletter/Public Relations/Delta Dental: Chair Dawn Rogers reported that only 70 newsletters were returned so felt that urging members to get correct addresses has helped. She also requested that we tell our unit presidents to send in articles for the Newsletter. She also reminded that she has a new e-mail address. And, an additional 500 IRSPA brochures were printed to meet the need as units are using them as a recruiting tool. With regard to Delta Dental, she reported the premium information was not yet available. (Copy of this reports are included with these minutes).Membership: Chairs Jerry and Shirley Barth presented a letter which was sent out to every unit in April which gave unit presidents some hints on gaining new members and told of the importance of attending District and State Meetings. They also reported they had attended all meetings held during the past year and some of the suggestions they gave during their sessions as well as some things they learned from other units. (Copy of report included with these minutes).Historian: IRSPA Historian, Linda Foland, reported there had been very little activity since last year’s State Meeting. She reported the following notebooks were placed in containers: (1) State Directories 2008-2009 to 2013-2014; (2) Notebook with programs, handouts, newspaper articles,and pictures-Fall 2011 – Spring 2015 (3) Notebook with Newsletters from September 2000 to December 2013 (4) An NRTA notebook with NRTA bulletins that no longer are printed but placed on the internet. The following materials are in three notebooks: (1) Materials from the Spring and Fall meetings (2) Newsletters from the State President (3) State Directories from each year. (Copy of report included with these minutes).Health Advocacy: Chair Marge Swanson reported the 2014-15 health topic was “Aging Gracefully” and reported that speakers from the Area Agencies on Aging were chosen for each District “All Member” meeting. She also reported that Iowa has six Area Agencies on Aging who cover all 99 counties and the services provided include adult day services, chore services, companion and respite care, congregate meals, em-ployment assistance, healthcare aides, home-delivered meals, home re-pairs, legal assistance, nursing and homemaker services, senior centers and transportation. The health topic for 2015-16 will be “National Hos-pice and Palliative Care”. (Copy of report included with these minutes).Community Service: Chair Sandy Thede reported IRSPA Volun-teer Hours for 2014-2015 was 399,742 @$23.07 (national rate) = $9,222,030.90. Hours reported for 2014-2015 increased 15,695 from last year. Forty-eight of the 50 state units kept volunteer hours. She also re-ported that National organizations compile this information for use by non-profi t groups when applying for grants. (Copy of report included with minutes).AARP: Connie Eastman of AARP reported on three programs off ered by AARP: 1) Pre-retirement Seminars 2) Fraud Alert 3) Life Re-imagined. Connie asked that we contact her if interested in any of these programs and reported that additional information if available on the website.President Elect Report: President Elect Dawn Rogers reported that in order to try to cut expenses she tried to coordinate the May meetings with regard to distance traveled between meetings; she also suggested that the May meeting meal be a luncheon and not a full course meal with a suggested a cost of no more than $10; Another suggestion wasthat the host unit provide the rolls, etc. and IRSPA provide the coff ee and juice. Dawn also reported that years before AARP provided the rolls and coff ee and when they stopped the unit members hosting pro-

A Retired Person’s Perspective: I didn’t make it to the gym today. That makes 1,500 days in a row.

vided home-baked goods. She stated that seemed to work very well and would like to try that again and suggested possibly asked AARP or AMBA to help with refreshments. (Copy of report included with these minutes).Past President Report: Beverly and John McCartney reported they had represented IRSPA on the Executive Council and that their term as offi cers will end in November 2015. She reported they attended all meetings and were leaders of the “Best Programs” sessions. She also re-ported they have represented IRSPA on the Executive Council of AARP for the past six years and that they have certainly enjoyed the eight years of service to IRSPA. She thanked everyone for their support and left a quote from a movie: “May you live long and prosper”. (Copy of report included with these minutes).Old Business: NoneNew Business: Co-President Roberta Cochran-Zavitz briefl y reviewed the dates and locations of the 2016 IRSPA spring District “All Member” meetings.Legislative: Chair Phil Tetzloff reported that the focus of activities for the year was to remain involved with the Benefi t Advisory Board and Investment Board Committee of IPERS. At this time no action has been taken to initiate a study to determine the cost associated with a COLA. The Investment Committee continues to invest but the opportunities for expected returns are limited and the Committee has had to deal with a volatile market. Mr. Tetzloff reported that he had made presenta-tions at several district and local meetings. Also, members of the Leg-islative committee met with Bill Wimmer in late August; Mr. Wimmer invited the expected chairs of State Government committees and both legislators expressed support for IPERS but did not make any commit-ment to replace the FED. Also, IPERS has an updated website. (Copy of this report included with these minutes).Survey Report: Co-President Gerald Zavitz gave the results of the sur-vey sent to unit presidents: (32 units responded) Question 1: Was your unit able to use the fi rst year free membership of-fer & meals as a useful recruiting tool to grow your unit’s membership? 12 No 12 Not Signifi cant 8 SomewhatQuestion 2: Would your unit members support requesting that this item be placed on the IRSPA Board agenda for further review at the next board meeting which is scheduled for October 7, 2015? 20 Yes 11 No 1 WhateverPer the results there was no evidence to support changing the Board action taken at the April Executive Board Meeting.Election Report: Tom and Opal Handlen served as Election Chairs and reported the following results: 85 ballots cast - no write ins 83 for Chris Campidilli for IRSPA Pres.Elect with 2 blank 82 for Mary Jo O’Connell for IRSPA Secretary w/3 blankMr. Tussey moved that the Board approve all reports as presented and fi led, motion was seconded by Jay Thede. Motion carried. Without any further business, the meeting adjourned at 1:45 p.m.

Chris Campidilli, IRSPA Secretary

Members in Attendance: Gerald Zavitz, Roberta Cochran-Zavitz, Robert Swanson, Dawn Rogers, Beverly McCartney, John McCartney, George Holland, Lyle Stirling, Tom Handlen, Opal Handlen, Phil Tetzl-off , Jerry Barth, Shirley Barth, Sandy Thede, Jay Thede, Marge Swanson, Linda Foland, Craig Downing, Barbara Songer, James Tussey, & Chris Campidilli. Guest in Attendance: Alice Gratias, Roberta VandeWalker, Mary Jo O’Connell, Connie Eastman, & Joelle Snyder.

Page 6

DISTRICT 1 SIOUX CITY RETIRED EDUCATORS

At the October meeting of Sioux City Retired Educa-tors Bev Hinds, a local historian, spoke about York, William Clarks’ black slave who was a member of the Lewis and Clark Expedition. Programs coming up will be about the Siouxland Regional Transit Authority and the Woodbury County Conservation Offi ce. Musical programs will feature the North High Orchestra and the East High Jazz Band. SCRE gave two $1,000 college scholarships this past year.For the ninth year in a row SCRE will participate in a service project fi lling backpacks at the Food Bank of Siouxland to distribute to elementary students to take home on week-ends. Fourteen volunteers fi ll approximately 700 backpacks at each session. by Marg Swanson

DISTRICT 1 IOWA GREAT LAKES

The regular meeting the Great Lakes unit was held on August 20th. Mr Gary Jones from the Lakes Region-al Healthcare Volunteers presented a program about the volunteers at this hospital. Many of our members work at the various volunteer positions in that hos-pital. Mr. Jones mentioned that by volunteering you would have friends if ever you have the personal need to use this facility. In September, Dr. Steve Baskerville gave us informa-tion about Spenser’s Underground Ministries. This pro-gram was formed to provide an area for teens to hang out , play games, talk to caring adult volunteers, listen to music, watch a movie and grab something to eat. Thursday nights there is a club meeting for young people with a meal (often pizza). This is a facility that many of our members were not familiar with until this presentation. Our October meeting was at the Pearson Lakes Art Center. Mrs. Holly Zinn, Education Director, was our tour guide. We were able to view exhibits in sever-al of six galleries. The center is getting ready for the “Artisans Road Trip” which is an open studio tour of Northwest Iowa artists. Many pieces were on display. It was fun to see the diversity of talent that is here in Northwest Iowa. One of the galleries was preparing for a special exhibit for “Dia de los muertos” which is Spanish for Day of the Dead. We toured several class-rooms. Programs are offered for preschool, school age

DISTRICT 2 BOONE COUNTY UNIT

The Boone County Unit met for lunch on October 13. Following a short business meeting, all were invited to the Cole County School north of Boone. Our guide was Dorothy Crooks. She told us the Cole School is one of the few remaining brick one-room school houses in Iowa. It is constructed of three layers of Boone brick. It held classes from 1888-1933. Cole School is owned and operated by the DeShon Chap-ter of the American Revolution. In 2006 the DAR partnered with the Boone Community School District in fundraising efforts to restore the school house. This project has been possible through grants, as well as the generous donations of organizations and individual citizens. This school house gives all who visit a chance to experience early rural education in Iowa.

Karren Dannen Ogden, IA

DISTRICT 2HUMBOLDT AREA RETIRED

SCHOOL PERSONNEL The Humboldt Area Unit reorganization meeting was held September 8 at the Faith United Methodist Church. Attendees were reminded that dues were payable and reminded to be sure to keep their volunteer hours. Candace Carlson, Marilyn Hinners, Linda Stauffer, Mar-tha Schmidt , and Carolyn Rohlf presented a program on their “Road Scholar” experiences from Norwegian Decorah, Ancestry Classes in Utah, and Yellowstone Park. The Road Scholar program offers many opportu-nities in the U.S . and abroad, and does include grand-parent-grandchildren experiences.The October meeting was held October 13 at the Faith United Methodist Church. Darling Stirling and Anita Fagen-Miller reported on their attendance at the IRSPA

children and adults. We were able to see the children creating for their Day of at the Dead exhibit. As we say good-bye to summer and many of our "snow bird” friends, we look forward to a holiday lun-cheon meeting and the return of regular meetings in April.

Happy Holidays, Pat Schulman

Pictured: L to RBarb Bielenberg,

treasurer, Anne Cowley,

president, Bev Hinds, speaker,

Marilyn Watkins, secretary, Bill Lyle,

vice-president

Page 7

DISTRICT 3 CEDAR RAPIDS UNIT

The Cedar Rapids Unit kicked off the 2015-2016 year on Wednesday, September 23rd at the Longbranch Restaurant and Convention Center. 100 members and guests attended. It was good to get back together af-ter the summer break and to catch up with our friends. After a delicious lunch of soup and salad bar, Becki Lynch, Master Gardener presented a program entitled “Pollinator Habitats”. We learned what to plant in our yards to attract bees, butterfl ies and other pollinators. Her slides of her plantings were beautiful. Our second meeting was held on Wednesday, Octo-ber 21st. Dennis Hite sang songs of the 50’s, 60’s and 70’s. It was fun to hear songs that brought back lots of memories. Member Les Yeager received a free lunch for suggesting Dennis as our entertainment. November is our Thanksgiving turkey dinner com-plete with pumpkin pie. Amy Stoner will entertain us by singing holiday tunes and some of her personal fa-vorites. We will also have a food drive with donations going to the Linn Community Food Bank. We have a break in December and will resume our meetings in January through May. Ron and Donna Smrha have lined up some great entertainment for 2016. We look forward to enjoyable, informational meetings and time together with our friends in the New Year. Linda Meyer, Secretary

DISTRICT 2 CARROLL/GREEN COUNTY IRSPA

The Carroll-Green County Unit met in October and their program was presented by member Nancy Brutsche on India. Her son lives there so she visits and is familiar with the country and customs. The picture is of the members who attended the meeting.

State Conference held October 7 & 8 in Des Moines. (We had a picture of the attendees but couldn’t get it transferred to our article….sorry!) They said the meet-ing was very well organized and very worthwhile with many breakout sessions available along with several vendor tables; the attendees enjoyed the evening ban-quet with wonderful entertainment provided by Har-mony Central Sweet Adelines. Congratulations to Walt Reemtsma from Algona for becoming a lay minister at Lone Rock as well as Algona. (He’s also a great fl oral arranger!) Our program was presented by Marilyn Hinners who gave us a wonderful history of the Humboldt College with many interesting facts, pictures and articles. The Humboldt Unit adjourned until the spring 2016 meeting set for April 12, 2016, at the Faith United Meth-odist church. Happy Thanksgiving to All. Chris Campidilli

DISTRICT 2 BIG 4 UNIT The Big 4 unit of IRSPA enjoyed a fi eld trip that we called our Mennonite Adventure earlier this year. Earl and Edna Martin of Elma, Iowa welcomed us to their business,E&E Woodworking and Confectionary.

Edna served homemade rolls and cookies, tea, coffee, and lemonade while we had a short meeting. Their daughter then gave us a tour of the Mennonite school nearby. We had many questions and learned so much. These photos were taken at the school.

The Martins also asked if we would like to see their church. It was very plain and beautiful. We had many more questions and again learned so much. They re-quested that we should not take pictures while in the church. It was so kind of this family and their com-munity to share this holy place with us. Members ex-pressed that this was an excellent experience and also appreciated the quality and variety of the items for sale in the shop. If you or your unit would like to take a great trip let us know and we will send you the infor-mation. Mary Koenigsfeld

Need information about IRSPA?

Check out our Website. You’ll fi nd everything you

want to know at:

www.

irspa.org

Page 8

DISTRICT 5 DAVIS COUNTY

"The Davis County Retired School Personnel Associa-tion (DCRSPA) held their fi rst meeting of the new year at the Bloomfi eld Country Club August 25. There were several newly retired school personnel as our guests.

In September there wasn’t an offi cial meeting. How-ever, (Pictured L-R) Lyle Stirling, Carol McKee, Marlynne Urban, Elaine VonBon, and Linda Rowe, participated in the Davis County High School Homecoming pa-rade September 25. We handed out candy that vari-ous members donated. The parade truck was decorated with (DCRSP) signs and was loaned to us by Mikel’s Inc. October found us per-fect weather for a sched-uled picnic out at Lake Wapello on October 6. We had the pleasure of three visitors from Costa Rica who came with David Short. All

DISTRICT 4 COUNCIL BLUFFS UNIT

The Council Bluffs Unit of IRSPA had a busy fall. Two new events were held in addition to our September

and October meetings. The unit had an i n f o r m at i o n table at the Council Bluffs C o m m u n i t y School kick-off session for all staff members. The purpose was to provide information to

the staff members who are considering retirement in the near future. This was followed up with a Pre-Retire-ment Seminar. A ARP, IPERS and SHIIP were involved with this meeting.

DISTRICT 3 BLACKHAWK COUNTY UNIT

The Black Hawk Retired School Personnel met Tues-day, October 20, 2015, at the Friendship village din-ing room, Park Ave., Waterloo, Iowa, with 23 members present with co-presidents, Sheila Bullock and Jane Brown, presiding. Phil Tetzloff, IPERS Benefi t Advisory representative, presented an update on IPERS and answered ques-tions. A committee was appointed to plan the Christmas party in December. Alice Walther-Ellis presented a plaque to Beverly Hinders-Trost for the many years of service to our unit. Our November meeting “Technology Practice” with Kim Van Deest , will be at the Waterloo Public Library Computer Training Lab. Lunch will follow at Factory City - Ramada Inn.

L-RJane Brown

and Sheila Bullock, Co-Presidents

L-R Alice Walther-

Ellis, Beverly

Hinder-Trost, Saul Austin, Jr.

The fi rst regular meeting of this year was held September 16. An informative program, Avoiding Frauds and Scams, was presented by Mike Rusher from the A ARP Fraud watch Network. Identify theft was named as the number one scam. Our October 21 meeting, the Omaha Danc-ing Grannies

were unable to attend, so Coun-cil Bluffs Superintendent Martha Bruckner spoke on the new Coun-cil Bluffs Athletic Complex. When completed it will include facilities for football, baseball, softball, track, soccer, and cocessions. A number of large contributions were received from both Coun-cil Bluffs and Omaha donors. Wickersham Stadium is named for Gale Wickersham, a 1967 Abraham Lincoln graduate and a large contributor of this project. Those attending the November meeting were en-tertained by a musical group from Lewis and Clark Elementary. Following the meeting, the group will be in recess until March. Sue Griswold, Secretary

Darlene Schwarzkopf & Mike ForbesDarlene Schwarzkopf & Mike Forbes

Page 9

DISTRICT 5 Appanoose - Wayne IRSPA

A Friend of Education Celebrates 100 Years of Ac-tive Life - Appanoose-Wayne IRSPA is honored to have GL ADYS HOUSER, member of IRSPA since June 17, 1980, celebrate 100 years. (We cannot say old, because that does not fi t Gladys). She was born on October 9, 1915 and enjoyed a big 100 year Birthday party on Oc-tober 10, 2015, with over 200 family members, friends, former students and teachers. She is a beautiful lady, calling everyone present by their fi rst name something special about each one. A brilliant memory and gor-geous in her purple attire. Ms. Houser began teaching in 1934 at Cornbread Country school south of Mt. Ayr Church in Appanoose County. She was married to Leo Houser in 1936, but could not tell anyone, as married women were not al-lowed to teach school at the time. She retired from teaching at Centerville Junior High after 35 years in education. (She took time off when her daughter and son were born to be home with them and returned to teaching when her son started to school.) The Centerville Superintendent of Schools did not want Gladys to retire, but her husband wasn’t in the best of health and they wanted to spend time togeth-er and travel. Gladys and her husband always resided on the fami-ly farm until the passing of Leo. In1990 she bought her fi rst home in Centerville. When closing the purchase,

enjoyed the food and socializing. Halloween found us with Carol McKee representing (DCRSPA) handing out left over candy from the Home-coming parade at Copy Cupp’n Keyboard on the town square. There were many smiles to be shared. The November 3 meeting was yet another beauti-ful day. We met at the private home of Katie Fetcho for a luncheon which consisted of Spanish cuisine fol-lowed with a program by Katie about teaching Span-ish to children of various ages. The children made a Piñata to help us celebrate the birth-day of Peggy Rupe, a retired teacher and counselor, who was blindfolded and given a device to swing at the Piñata. The Retired School Personnel members sang Happy Birth-day to Peggy in Spanish after a brief instruction from Kaiti Fe-tcho and David and Ana Short. Fun was had by all. To celebrate American Education Week, members donated nutritious, snack goodies on 5 trays deliv-ered to the Elementary, Middle School, High School, Bus Barn and the Superintendent's offi ce on Novem-ber 19.

Carol McKee, Davis County

her son Jim said, “Tell the banker you want a 30-year mortgage." We truly believe she could have honored that contract. Houser is blessed with a sense of humor. Her word of advice…"Think Positive.” If you get an-gry, you only hurt yourself. Her best memory of life… to be married and have a family. Mark District Five as the All Member District Five Meeting on May 4, 2016 in Corydon on your calendar for an opportunity to meet this very special 100 year young lady and to send a card on October 9, 2016, to her. Mail to Gladys Houser, 803 N.Haynes, Centerville, IA 52544.

Jane Kaster, CO-President Appanoose-Wayne Unit

DISTRICT 6 DAVENPORT AREA UNIT

After enjoying 4 months of "vacation" The Davenport Area Retired School Personnel Association met for our new year on Tuesday, September 8, 2015. Our month-ly meeting takes place at Steeplegate Inn. A total of 440 members were reported for this upcoming year. It felt good to be back in the routine. A delicious Swiss Steak dinner was served and we had a father-son sing-ing duo return. This was one of the highlights from last year. Ray Wierson and his son, Scott are extremely talented and put on a great show. In October nine members from our group attend-ed the IRSPA State Conference in Des Moines. Presi-dent Lorraine Sewick gave an interesting report to the members about the two day event. This year we have added something new and fun to our day. Each month when a member signs in, they are given a ticket. At the end of the program, tick-ets are drawn for prizes. It has been great fun to see who has won and what they have won. Some very nice prizes have been given away. Our guest for Octo-ber was Kathy Middleton speaking on Identity Theft. What a great topic! Many went away with lots to think about. It is a changing world out there. Retirees make an effort to try and keep up with current topics and information in our "modern" world. I think everyone appreciated the program. Lynda Kuehn, Secretary

Wear it Proudly.... An IRSPA Pin.

Contact Dawn Rogers

319-339-0050e-mail dawncrogers@icloud.com

The IRSPA brochures are available. It is excellent to use when recruiting new members or as information for members. The brochures will be available at all May District Meetings or by contacting Dawn Rogers...

Phone: (319-339-0050)

E-mail: dawncrogers@icloud.com

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Page 10

DISTRICT 6 LEE COUNTY IRSPA

The Lee County Retired School Personnel Association got off to a good start for the 2015-2016 year with a program by the "Islanders" a family group led by Dan Proctor former music teacher in the Keokuk School Dis-trict , his wife was from Hawaii. The Luncheon was held at the Emmanuel Methodist Church in Keokuk on September 2, with the women and men of the church serving the meal. There were 52 members and guests in attendance with 3 new members. After the Flag tribute by Duane DuBois and the Pledge to the Flag the regular meeting was called to order by Co-President Cathy Sellers with the approval of the minutes and treasurers report and reports from the various commit-tees. After the close of the meeting our usual auction was held to raise money for the three $750 scholar-ships that we award each year to graduating students going into education with $75.00 being raised and an additional $40.00 in the scholarship basket. The October meeting on the 7th at The United Methodist Church in Montrose with the luncheon pro-vided by the women of the Church. The program for this meeting was provided by the Keosippi Kickers, a group of women who meet twice a week for exercise and fellowship and provide entertainment for various groups around the area. After Flag tribute and Pledge the business meet-ing was called to order by Co-President Cathy Sellers, approval of minutes and treasures report and commit-tee reports. There were several members who were having health problems and cards were sent around for members to sign. There were 41 members and guests at this meeting. It was reported that the State Meeting of the Iowa Retired School Personnel Association was to be held the next day in Des Moines however no one from our group was planning to attend this year. The auction that followed the meeting raised additional funds for the scholarship fund. The fi nal meeting before the winter break from De-cember through February was held at the Denmark Congregational United Church in Denmark with the women and men of the church serving their usual Thanksgiving Dinner of Turkey, dressing, gravy, peas, cranberry salad and delicious pumpkin pie. At this meeting there was 57 members and guests in atten-dance. Gretchen Kirchner Co-President called the meeting to order and the Flag tribute was given by Duane followed by the Pledge to the Flag. Minutes and treasurers reports were read and approved and committee reports were made. Nadine Linder report-ed that the 13th check would be coming for those who retired before 1990, however, there would not be one for the newer retirees. As is the case at each meeting, Laetitia Rotter, Health Care Advocacy, treated us with

DISTRICT 6 CLINTON COUNTY

VISION SCREENING FOR KIDS Iowa KidSight was the informative topic of our meet-ings special event. Dennis Mumm, a member of the DeW i t t N o o n L i o n s C l u b and our local IR-SPA ex-plained how this is a joint p ro jec t of Lions clubs of Iowa and The University of Iowa Chil-dren's Hospital Department of Ophthalmology and Vi-sual Sciences. Iowa KidSight Program began in 2000 with the voluntary program to all children ages 6 to 48 months. Younger children will not be screened. Children who are older can be screened. A child's vision should be checked yearly for condi-tions such as : misaligned eyes, cataracts, and prob-lems that need correction with eyeglasses. The screening is free for Iowa children thanks to support and volunteer efforts of Iowa Lions Clubs and Program. A Polaroid camera was used at the beginning and now it's all digital. DeWitt Lions work with Ralph Binnie of the LowMoor Lions who share their camera, which was donation by Archer Daniels Midland Com-pany, a ten thousand dollar camera. Lions Club vol-unteers are trained to use this special camera. It's as simple as having a child's picture taken. Make the child comfortable, be in a darkened room, take a picture of the child's pupil, give them a thumb's up and a Lion's Club coloring book and they are fi nished. The results of the child's vision screening are evalu-ated by specialist in the Department of Ophthalmol-ogy and Visual Sciences at the University of Iowa Chil-dren's Hospital. The results will be sent to the parents in two to four weeks. If a possible vision problem is detected, they will also be given a letter of referral for the child and a list of ophthalmologists and optom-etrists in their local area. Lions also provide eyeglasses for those who can't afford glasses. If follow-up exams are needed Individual health insurance or Medicaid should cover most exams. One family expresses their gratitude by saying, "We just wanted to thank you for this program which made such a difference in our child's vision and life."Thank you Dennis and The Lions of Iowa!

Sharon Leonard, President

A Retired Person’s Perspective: Everyone has a right to be stupid. Politicians just abuse the privilege.

Page 11her usual very interesting health tidbits. Cards were circulated for several members who are having prob-lems and request we keep them in our thoughts and prayers. The program for this meeting was provided by our own member, Judy Bartachek as she presented a very interesting presentation about "Emma Cooper". Emma was a teacher who had taught 35 years and had been a student at the Denmark Academy in Denmark Iowa which was the fi rst High School West of the Mis-sissippi, Judy also gave us a little history of the town of Denmark and its school system over the many years un-til recently when all students were sent to Fort Madison Schools. Following the meeting the auction was held with numerous items, many Christmas decorations, which raised another $173.00 for the scholarship fund. In March 2016 we will resume our monthly meetings at the Trinity United Methodist Church in Keokuk. Howard Carter

DISTRICT 6 JEFFERSON/VAN BUREN

COUNTY UNIT The Jefferson/Van Buren County Unit of the Iowa Retired School Personnel met on Wednesday, Septem-ber 23, at Sunnybrook in Fairfi eld for a luncheon and meeting. Before the luncheon, John Miller, a repre-sentative of RSVP, passed out information on the RSVP program of Monroe, Wapello, and Jefferson Counties, which is making a special appeal to retired citizens to be volunteers for various organizations and projects. Some of our members had already signed up. The guest speaker was Russ Lippincox, director of the Civic Center in Fairfi eld, which now attracts for-ty percent of its attendees from outside of Jefferson County. Mr. Lippincox pointed out that the variety of program type is the draw, but that the bread and butter of the Civic Center is the 50 plus age group. However, the Civic Center does try to have a yearly program especially for elementary students, who are brought in during the school day. The purpose of this is twofold: fi rst to provide the opportunity for children who might not otherwise get the change to see a live performance and secondly to promote the arts for a future audience. After the Mr. Lippincox’s presentation, President Judith McDonough conducted the business meeting. There were two committee reports that members of other units might fi nd of interest. Health Committee Chairman Becky Peters shared a list of 12 questions to ask the doctor, the pharmacist , or the insurance company before fi lling a prescription in order to check for possible side effects, drug interactions, and exces-sively high cost. Legislative Chairman Mary Margaret Horras reported that Iowa ranks second on the ACT scores, but is now the only state that gives the ITBS because it is considered obsolete. Two members plan to attend the state convention in Des Moines on October 8, Judy McDonough and Michele Weber, and will report back on that at our next meeting on October 28.

Michele Weber, secretary

DISTRICT 6 JOHNSON COUNTY UNIT

The Johnson County Unit began their new year with a September 23 meeting at the Coralville Public Library and were entertained by “Deaf”inately dogs. Founders of Deafi nitely Dogs shared information about their non-profi t organization that places highly trained dogs with persons with disabilities. Monica Leo presented the Eulenspiegal Puppets and their past 40 years in October. A special outing on October 16 took a group of 24 members and friends who drove to Moline, IL. to ride the Celebration Belle Riverboat up the Mississippi River for a luncheon cruise to see the fall foliage and spend the afternoon. The unit takes several special trips/tours around the state during the year including a September trip to the Kirkwood Regional Academy in Coralville; on November 11 to visit the Proctor and Gamble plant in Iowa City. Other tours are planned throughout the year. On December 9 we will have our second annual holiday potluck. January will see members plan to attend a local theatre event. Be-tween February 28 and March 1 we will sponsor a team to ”Bowl for Kids Sake.” In the second week of March we will visit the Indian Creek Nature Center in the Cedar Rap-ids area for the maple syrup event. In April we will travel to the Muscatine History and Industry Center. June 16, we will visit Plum Grove, the birthplace of Iowa’s fi rst territo-rial Governor in Iowa City. On July 12 we will visit the Des Moines Botanical Center and on August 12, we will visit Noelridge Green house and Park in Cedar Rapids. These trips are scheduled monthly throughout the year for mem-bers who would like to have other events to attend be-yond regular monthly meetings. On the second Tuesday of each month, a coffee is planned for those who just want to get together for camaraderie and to try to solve the problems of the world. So far the problems have outlasted our suggestions!

Dawn Rogers

Get info to Dawn Rogers, at dawncrogers@icloud.com or to

3703 Rohret Road, Iowa City, IA 52246

Newsletter Deadline!

Articles for the December newsletter are due no later than Friday, February 5, 2016.

Please e-mail articles & pictures if at all possible to avoid retyping. Thank You Dawn

NewsletterIowa Retired School Personnel

Association3703 Rohret Road

Iowa City, IA 52246

LEGISLATIVE FUND Contributions to the Iowa Retired School Personnel

Association legislative fund for the improvement of retirement

benefi ts are being accepted for the current year (Oct. to Oct.)

Please make your contributions as generous as possible.

$5.00 _____ $10.00 ______ $15.00 ______Other _______

Name _____________________________________________

Street Address______________________________________

City ______________________________________________

State __________________________ Zip________________

If Member of Local Unit

__________________________________________________

Unit Name County

MAIL EITHER FORM TO:Robert Swanson, IRSPA Treas. • 3221 Cheyenne Blvd.,Sioux City, IA 51104 • Make Checks payable to IRSPA

MEMBERSHIP APPLICATION Iowa Retired School Personnel Association

Name _____________________________________________

Last First M.I.

Street Address______________________________________

City ______________________________________________

State __________________________ Zip________________

If Member of Local Unit

__________________________________________________

Unit Name County

Annual Dues: $12 Make Checks payable to

IRSPA LIFE MEMBERSHIP: $300

PRSRTD STDU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDFORT DODGE, IOWA

PERMIT NO. 4

Change Service Requested

WE REMEMBERName City Unit

Barnes, William (Bill) Madrid, IA Boone County UnitBeaman, Lucille Arispe, IA Creston Area UnitBlake, Beatrice Fairfi eld, IA Keokuk County UnitBohnen, Joyce Peosta, IA Dubuque Area UnitBreitbach, Ida Waterloo, IA Black Hawk County UnitBrooks, C. Thomas Cedar Falls, IA No UnitBuchanan, Rosary Dubuque, IA Dubuque Area UnitButt, Dorothy Shennadoah, IA Montgomery County UnitGehrett, Mary Lynn Ottumwa, IA Wapello County UnitGoeldner, Marilyn Boone, IA Boone County UnitGooding, Vonda West Burlington, IA Des Moines County UnitGoughnour, David Corydon, IA No UnitGreischer, Dennis Fairmont, MN Mason City Area UnitHeggen, Don Long Grove, IA Davenport Area UnitHerrick, AD Waterloo, IA Black Hawk County UnitHomeier, Mary Newton, IA Jasper County UnitHumprey, Edith Millersburg, IA Keokuk County UnitHutton, Daniel Iowa City, IA Johnson County UnitJones, Jane Cedar Falls, IA Black Hawk County UnitKalick, Berneita Muscatine, IA Louisa County UnitKelso, Jane Iowa City, IA Johnson County UnitKopsiecker, Mary Hedrick, IA Wapello County UnitLanning, Maxine Burlington, IA Des Moines County UnitLeamer, Alicia Sioux City, IA Sioux City Area UnitMattke, Jo Ann Davenport, IA Davenport Area UnitMattke, Keith Davenport, IA Davenport Area UnitMesser, Robert Cedar Falls, IA Black Hawk County UnitNelson, Robert Mason City, IA Mason City Area UnitOlson, Beulah (Brinker) Youngstown, NY No UnitPaulson, Glenda Kiron, IA Crawford County UnitPotts, Gerald Dubuque, IA Dubuque Area UnitRippe, Lois Cedar Falls, IA Black Hawk County UnitSchaefer, Donald Bettendorf, IA Davenport Area UnitSherwood, Scott Davenport, IA Davenport Area UnitSteinkamp, David Winthrop, IA No UnitStelk, Theresa Davenport, IA Davenport Area UnitStrandberg, Gloria Oelwein, IA Oelwein Area UnitTrysla, Margaret South Sioux City, NE Sioux City Area UnitWalcott, Jack Floyd, IA Big Four Area UnitWielinski, Rich Charles City, IA Big Four Area UnitWilkinson, Dave Ankeny, IA DMARSPAWolf, Velma Jeff erson, IA Carroll-Greene County UnitWorrell, Fred Denison, IA Crawford County Unit

Wright, Wifrord Coal Valley, IL No Unit