Special guest speaker and IRTA State Board Area 4 Representative Kenneth Pierce provided an overview of ongoing activities with the Indiana Retired Teachers Association, a review of 2015-2016 state legislative activities impacting the association, and an overview of existing and new IRTA member benefits.

Following the IRTA update, Jane Nichols of the Vigo County Education Foundation thanked the VCRTA for all its work in the past and discussed options for supporting VCEF in the future. A “Mini-Grant Challenge” was issued by Vigo County School Board and VCRTA member Jackie L. to help raise funds to support mini-grants for the coming school year. In a matter of minutes, the challenge was met and over $700 was raised for the VCEF mini-grant program.

VCRTA will have a new Vice President beginning in July. Millie V. will be taking over for Diane S. After many years of service, Lorraine B. will be stepping down as the Membership Committee chairperson.  Jim C. has graciously volunteered to lead the Membership Committee.

Lastly, VCRTA was recognized by the Salvation Army for its support during the 2015 Bell Ringing season. JoAnn B. presented the certificate and urged everyone to join the 2016 Bell Ringing winter service project.