Retired educators plan 2025 scholarships

The Boone-Newton County Retired Teachers and Support Staff met Tuesday, December 3, 2024 at Western Sizzlin’ Restaurant at 11:15 a.m.
Due to student schedules, the Harrison High School Chamber Singers were the first item on the program. Choir director, Ms. Molly Magouryk, was introduced by acting president Lynn Holmes. Ms. Magouryk introduced the 17- member group as well as each Christmas carol as they sang. They began with the traditional “Here We Come a Wassailing” and concluded with “Jingle Bell Rock.” At the close of the program, Ms. Magouryk announced that all HHS choirs would be performing Thursday, December 5th at 7 p.m. at the HHS Performing Arts Center. In addition, Chamber Singers would perform their annual “Feast of Carols” in the HHS Commons area at 7 p.m. on December 20th and 21st. Ms. Magouryk was presented with a thank you gift, and singers enjoyed home-made Christmas treats prepared by Mrs. Holmes. A $100 check will be sent to the group by treasurer Linda Mathis.
Following the Chamber Singers, Mrs. Holmes called the meeting to order. Dr. Adair led the invocation, and Linda Mathis led the pledge of allegiance. Minutes of the November meeting were approved as presented. Treasurer Linda Mathis reported a current membership of 31, and the treasurer’s report was approved.
Committee reports were the next item of business. Members were reminded to continue to keep track of volunteer hours and were invited to take a 2025 calendar to assist in this endeavor. Jane Adair reported that the scholarship committee would begin contacting North Arkansas College and area schools after January first about the scholarship our organization provides. Vickie Overman reported presenting on the scholarships given in the spring to Jasper senior Espn Daniels who was very pleased to receive it.

Mrs. Holmes reminded the group of the ARTA Annual Report she had emailed to members. It contains several articles that might be of interest to members. She also reminded the group of the “Whispers” email we receive monthly and the Interlink newsletter we receive quarterly as ways to stay abreast of current happenings and items of interest to retired educators.
Old business mentioned was that the date for the yearly meeting of Area 7 had been postponed until after the State Convention. The BNCRTSS will be considering a new date for the area meeting in the near future.
New business included nominations to fill two positions on our local board due to the relocation of former president Lisa Bailey and Secretary Jim Works. Vickie Overman made the motion to nominate Lynn Holmes to be president through May. Motion was seconded by Linda Mathis. All voted in favor of Lynn Holmes being president through May. Amy Young was nominated to be secretary through May by Linda Mathis and seconded by Vickie Overman. All voted in favor of Amy Young serving as secretary through May. The need for a vice president was discussed. It was decided that Linda or Amy could fill in if Lynn were unable to be at the meeting.
The next meeting of BNCRTSS will be Feb. 4. Alcoholics Anonymous will have the program and will share resources and helps for substance abusers.