With a quieter kickoff to the school year (although vastly improved from 2020-2021!), our numbers at the monthly luncheons/meeting started off on the low side, but definitely increased over the passage of the autumn months.
The September 26th luncheon featured Peter Diedrick, Washington State School Retirees Association (WSSRA) Legislative Director as our guest speaker. Pictures to follow hopefully :--)
In October, we welcomed approximately 64 members and guests to our luncheon and meeting, and appreciated the comments and information provided by our guest speaker, Tony Cerda of My Friend's Place. My Friend's Place was Southeastern Washington's first safe overnight sanctuary for homeless teens. Tony described the facility's beginnings, and its current services and needs. This awesome and thought-provoking presentation was followed by a presentation by Alan Burke, Executive Director of the WSSRA. Alan updated us on a number of important subjects, including health insurance, PEBB, and the continuing need for Cost of Living Adjustments for pension plans. Finally, Alan presented Victoria Russell, Dottie Stevens, and Don Parks with certificates of appreciation for the important work they do to accomplish the goals of BFSRA and WSSRA.
November 21, 2023 was the final General Meeting and Luncheon of 2022. It was also the scene of generous giving, fun fellowship, and wonderful holiday music from Mary Lou Gnoza and Steve Haberman. Representatives from the Salvation Army graciously accepted the piles of toys and gifts donated by our members, and many people made selections from the amazing variety of books and puzzles available for purchase at the Scholarship Table.
Our wonderful greeters
