A motion to adjourn the meeting was made, seconded and approved. Respectfully submitted. Gladys Gregnoli/MeierThe meeting was called to order by President Michael Daly with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for deceased members.
Michael requested that I read e-mails from Shirley Leonard and Jesse Fenster in which they stated how much they enjoy our website. Michael also mentioned that we have been getting requests for contributions from various sources, but at the present time we have developed no procedure as to who should be the recipients. It was suggested that we might adopt a family for Christmas. Joan O’Grady advised us that she knew of a former Special Education student,Patti Gleason, who attended Newfield H.S. and is now married with two children. She is very limited in funds and, at times, does not have money to buy food or personal items. A discussion followed and it was decided that we would issue a money order to her four times a year in the amount of $150.00. A motion to accept this proposal was made by Anne Bedard and seconded by Ruth Greenberg. Motion approved.
Rose gave the financial report as of October 2007.
It was announced that Fred Fitz who was in the hospital is now at home.
The June Luncheon at the Watermill was wonderful and all those involved reported that the staff went out of their way to accommodate us. The trip to Belmont Track also turned out to be a very enjoyable day for all who took part.
Joan advised that she had received many reports from retirees regarding our news letter saying how much they enjoyed receiving news from home.
It was announced that Guy Martin and Robert Schneiderman passed away. Also, Lucille Derby is in hospice at home, and Georgia Callas who is now living in Virginia is not well.
Joan informed us that there have been many problems having our meetings at the Selden Library. She has been in contact with the Rose Caracappa Senior Center and beginning in March 2008 our meetings will be held there.
Michael informed us that there have been 12,000 visits to the website. The MCRA History Page has now been completed. If there is anything anyone wants to add, please let us know.
We now have 61 people coming to our Holiday Luncheon which is scheduled for December 3rd, 2007.
The vaccination for shingles was discussed and again stated that one will only be covered if he or she belongs to the Part D Medicare. Michael asked me to read a letter he had written to Empire regarding the fact that they do not cover the cost for the vaccine, and reiterated that they consistently send out notices that we are better served if we stay with Empire. A request was made that they furnish us with information as to why we are not covered for this immunization.
Michael also informed us that we received a letter from the President of the Board of Education requesting a volunteer from our organization to sit on the Middle Country Legislative Sub-Committee.
Anne advised that we have had many contributions to the Chinese auction and added that it anyone forgot to bring one to the meeting he/she could still bring it to the luncheon. The auction helps to offset some of the luncheon costs.
A discussion was held regarding how to inform new retirees about our organization in order to recruit new members. Joan advised that they should be informed what what we are all about especially since there are rights we now possess that need to be protected such as medical coverage and Cola. Joan advised that she sends a letter which includes an invitation to attend our meetings, to all new retirees, but some just don’t come. Most teachers go into the NYCET Retiree Association. It appears that they are confused and believe that NYCET and the Middle Country Retiree’s Association are one and the same.
We are in need of someone to handle refreshments. If there is anyone who would like to volunteer, please let us know.
