PREBLE COUNTY — President Harold Niehaus welcomed 40 plus members and guests on June 12 to the second PCRTA meeting of 2018. After the Pledge of Allegiance, Vice President Bob Fox offered the blessing and also read a tribute to fathers, “Thanks, Dad!”, written by Darrell Meeks, PCRTA treasurer.
After a delicious meal, secretary and treasurer reports were approved as written. Sharon Norman reported Phyllis White, a past president of PCRTA, had broken her arm, and a card would be sent from the group. Judy Looker urged members to continue to volunteer, with total hours for 2018 to be collected in November. Nancy Wright reported four Preble County teachers had retired this year, three from Eaton City Schools and one from Preble Shawnee. All have been invited to join PCRTA. Phyllis Marling warned the group of ongoing scams that start as a simple email or call to verify the account or number is active, and advised to block those not coming from a known source.
George Henry continued to monitor state legislation. Rosalie Doran and Jean House announced the group has raised over $600 for the 2018 “Tools for Schools” initiative, to purchase supplies for Preble County students. Paul Ellison has updated the member list, and continues to post pictures, ORTA and STRS news, and meeting summaries on the website, www.PCRTA.org.
Janet Crelin recognized retired educators who continue to have an impact. Harold Steiner, longtime teacher at National Trail, who had been advisor to the Jefferson Class of 1968, was recognized for having a positive impact on so many young lives. Phyllis and Beryl Wesler put the finishing touch on the Jefferson alumni by playing the school fight song to complete the evening.
The group also discussed the possibility of funding a project or scholarship for Preble County students. Door prizes, handcrafted wooden items made and donated by Darrell Meeks, were awarded.
Guest presenter, Ohio Humanities Council speaker and American Civil War historian, John C. Fazio discussed the importance of the Emancipation Proclamation, how the war affected Ohio, and the individuals who shaped the era leading up to the war.
The next PCRTA meeting will be September 11. All retired teachers and school personnel are invited to attend. For further information about the group, see www.PCRTA.org.
