BARTA Spring Luncheon was great!!
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Our speaker, Sukie Decker, gave us insights into the many, many programs available through Hospice…and some food for thought. Thank you, Sukie.
David Lennen, president of IRTA, joined us for lunch and spoke about current legislative movement on the “13th check” stipend. Sandy Watts presented information about Be Smart, a gun safety project that provides free gun locks to the community. Five members won gift certificates to local restaurants! Why don’t you join us at the next meeting, May 6 at Four Seasons? |
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IMPORTANT!
HB 1221 Advances Toward a 13th Check
Dear IRTA Members,
Exciting news! House Bill 1221, authored by Rep. Michael Karickhoff and co-authored by Reps. Ben Smaltz, Heath VanNatter, and Gregory Porter, was amended and successfully voted out of the Ways and Means Committee yesterday!
This means we are one step closer to securing a 13th Check for 2025 and 2026 for retirees! Stay tuned!
Laura Penman, IRTA Director, testifies before
Legislative Ways and means committee
Greetings BARTA Members,
I’m inviting you to join me virtually as I testify on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 1:30 PM EST in front of the Ways and Means Committee regarding House Bill 1221 (HB1221), also known as Pension Matters.
To tune in, please use the link below at the time of the event. Alternatively, you can visit the Indiana General Assembly website (iga.in.gov), where you’ll find the schedule under "Upcoming Meetings" on the right side of the page. Simply scroll down to January 22, 2025, and click on the video camera icon next to the Ways and Means meeting.
If you are unable to join tomorrow, don’t worry—all meetings are recorded and available for future viewing.
Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you can join me!
Warm regards,
Laura Penman
Executive Director
Indiana Retired Teachers Association
January 22,2025
I’m inviting you to join me virtually as I testify on Wednesday, January 22, 2025, at 1:30 PM EST in front of the Ways and Means Committee regarding House Bill 1221 (HB1221), also known as Pension Matters.
To tune in, please use the link below at the time of the event. Alternatively, you can visit the Indiana General Assembly website (iga.in.gov), where you’ll find the schedule under "Upcoming Meetings" on the right side of the page. Simply scroll down to January 22, 2025, and click on the video camera icon next to the Ways and Means meeting.
If you are unable to join tomorrow, don’t worry—all meetings are recorded and available for future viewing.
Thank you for your continued support, and I hope you can join me!
Warm regards,
Laura Penman
Executive Director
Indiana Retired Teachers Association
January 22,2025
Photos from the november thanksgiving
barta luincheon
Our November 12th BARTA General Meeting featured
Falicia Garr from the local non-profit group, Black and
Black Bi-racial Youth Initiatives.
Barta members enjoyed a delicious Thanksgiving themed lunch.
Fellowship was another highlight of the day.
Falicia Garr from the local non-profit group, Black and
Black Bi-racial Youth Initiatives.
Barta members enjoyed a delicious Thanksgiving themed lunch.
Fellowship was another highlight of the day.
Photos from the September 10, 2024
BARTA Luncheon Meeting
Doctor Chad Phillips was the main speaker at our September 9th meeting.
Thirteenth Check coming in September 2024!
This past spring the "Indiana Legislature passed a directive to the Public Employee state agency to issue a supplemental check in September. Full details on the inclusion of the 13th check for 2024 will be coming soon, so stay tuned for more information. The legislators also asked for a study of costs for an annual COLA increase for retired public employees in the future.
July 2024
July 2024
BCSC to administer Mental Health Matters
grant program
By Brad Davis
the republic
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July 23, 2024
Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. received a grant providing funding for mental health resources that will be available to all of the county. CRH Foundation provided a $90,000 grant to pay for two years of access to parentguidance.org, where families can find online mental health help.The website includes courses developed by mental health experts delving into a range of topics including anxiety and depression, child development and technology.
Another feature is a list of solicited questions from parents answered by a licensed therapist. “What to do if your teenage son won’t even talk to you or his therapist? He has isolated himself from the rest of the family and has shown a lot of disrespect,” one reads.
The platform also has a parent coaching program where participants will set customized road maps for parenting goals, take assessments to track progress and meet with a coach bi-weekly.
Another feature is a list of solicited questions from parents answered by a licensed therapist. “What to do if your teenage son won’t even talk to you or his therapist? He has isolated himself from the rest of the family and has shown a lot of disrespect,” one reads.
The platform also has a parent coaching program where participants will set customized road maps for parenting goals, take assessments to track progress and meet with a coach bi-weekly.
Photos from the BARTa
General Meeting May7,2024
BARTA
Legislative action needed!
Dear BARTA Members,
Legislators reconvened for the 2024 Legislative Session January 8th, 2024. We need your help to “flood” our State Senators with professional and respectful emails asking for a 13thcheck allocation. Your email should include personal examples of how you use the money.
You can find your senator easily by visiting Find your Legislators
The preferred method of contact is by email.
Senator’s email addresses are all similar:
Senator. last name@iga.in.gov
An example would be [email protected]
Additionally, you can send a handwritten note to the legislators at the following mailing address:
200 W. Washington St.
Indianapolis, IN 46204
Don't forget, for the most up-to-date legislative news for Indiana Retired Educators, visit retiredteachers.org.
Thank you for being an essential part of our advocacy efforts. Your involvement can make a significant impact on securing a pension enhancement in 2024.Originally sent by IRTA
January 25, 2024
BARTA Memebrs Active During 2023
2023 BARTA Projects
Dear IRTA Committee,
Bartholomew County Retired Teachers Association had another active year giving back to the youth and community of Bartholomew County. As a group, we contributed over 24,000 hours of service to various groups and youth in our county and surrounding area.
One specific project that we focused on was clothing school nurses could use for student emergencies. BARTA conducted a new Clothing Drive for Bartholomew County Public School Nurses Kelli Thompson, BCSC School Nurse Coordinator and Lori Kistler, FRHC School Nurse recommended BARTA collect shirts, shorts, sweatpants of all sizes for kids in the schools. Sweatshirts and sweatpants are most helpful. Tennis shoes, socks, and underwear for Pre-K through 3rd grade were also specifically requested. We asked our membership to donate new items for students of all ages and bring to the September BARTA meeting. Please wash new clothing, if possible. Last year, we collected 234 items.
Another major emphasis this past year was providing grants to local educators. BARTA, Bartholomew County Retired Teachers Association, provides grant funding for public, private and parochial schools in the county on an annual basis. For the last few years, BARTA has partnered with the Bartholomew Consolidated School Foundation in funding some of the Donors Choose grants for BCSC schools that allows BARTA funding to be matched by the school foundation. Usually the grant funds of $1500-$3000 provide school classrooms with literature books, games, STEM projects, special seating, rewards for behavior, cooking equipment, field trips and other tools to enhance the educational process in Pre-K through 12th grades. A team reviews the grants and makes the funding available in the late fall and utilizing GIVING TUESDAY when possible. The educators receiving the grant funding are very appreciative of the help provided to 11 different public/private/parochial schools and represent Pre-K-high school projects.
BARTA also helps fund community projects, as well as volunteering with many groups such as Book Buddies, Love Chapel, a specific organization also funded by United Way of Batholomew County, Utopia, and the back pack programs in both school corporations. Smith Robotics was a specific example of a program that received a BARTA Grant along with numerous other programs making the lives of children better.
December 31, 2023
Marylin Brackney Receives 2023 BARTA
Volunteer of the Year Award
BARTA’s outstanding volunteer candidate comes in a dynamic package of art and volunteerism. Her volunteerism throughout Bartholomew County is exemplary, but among her many accomplishments, one achievement is legendary, the annual Deja Vu Art and Fine Crafts Show. created by retired teacher, Marilyn Brackney. Every November Marilyn brings 50 to 55 artists to Columbus, the best among artists who repurpose materials into works of art. In 2023, to see those artists and their work, spectators and buyers came from 45 Indiana counties and 1,365 zip codes.
It started with a challenge to Marilyn, an art teacher. Her school budget was cut, so Marilyn turned to trash and disposables for instructional materials. Seeing her approach, the local Waste Management director challenged her: “Produce an art show, using trash,” and gave her $200 to do so. In 2005 Deja Vu was born.
Now for nine months a year, more than 1600 hours. Marilyn, with her husband Larry, prepares for the November show, the downtown kickoff for holiday shopping. She locates potential exhibitors by on-line research, visiting art shows, and word-of-mouth, looking for ideal candidates for a juried art show. She markets the show and community on-line, with mailings, and press releases to all area newspapers.
Meanwhile Marilyn creates her personal art and teaches others. She is the only Indiana artist named an Indiana Artisan for original marbling techniques and creations. Many community members, young and young-at-heart, have been students in Marilyn’s classes. Marilyn also maintains Facebook pages to promote the Columbus community and to show others how to repurpose their “junk” into art.
Come November, Marilyn is ready with packs of volunteers, including 20 to 30 retired teachers as well as students, to set up and tear down the venue spaces, to carry and run errands for exhibitors, and to welcome the visitors. She creates an event where both artists and spectators return, where the art is wonderful, and the atmosphere is welcoming. Marilyn calls Deja Vu the Brackneys’ gift to the community they love. We believe Marilyn, with her husband, is a gift to Columbus. Her creativity, hard work and vision of what could be, has made our community a better place to live.
December 31,2023
BARTA General Meeting Activity for September 2023
Clothes for students will be collected at the September General meeting. Clothing will be given to nurses to be used for chidren who have an emergency need for a clothing change.
- Sweat pants and sweat shirts of all sizes - Pre K though high school
- T-shirts elementary sizes
- Socks/underwear Pre K through 3rd grade
- Gym clothes for sports - shorts and t-shirts (upper elementary through high school)
- Tennis shoes for Pre K through elementary age
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- BARTHOLOMEW COUNTY RETIRED TEACHERS
GENERAL MEETING 2023 Minutes
- SANDY HOOK METHODIST
GENERAL MEETING 2023 Minutes
Bartholomew County Retired Teachers
General meeting Nov. 14, 2023 at Sandy Hook Methodist
www./barta2.org or https://www.facbookcom/bartholomewretiredteachers
Respectfully submitted,
Georgianna Waldrop, Secretary
General meeting Nov. 14, 2023 at Sandy Hook Methodist
www./barta2.org or https://www.facbookcom/bartholomewretiredteachers
- Pledge by Bill Riley and blessing by Mary Ann Robbins. President Janice recognized the veterans in the group. Greetings from the Methodist minister.
- Pennies from heaven will be donated to Love Chapel. Donna Nicholson gave a brief history of Love Chapel and the educators involved.
- Marty Mullins announced IRTA grant goes to a teacher in Hope, IN
- Lu Ann introduced the Guest speaker, Frank Griffin, program director of corporate responsibility from Cummins. Frank shared the data he has gathered that formed his opinion of why education is so important. He believes the solution to most educational problems is mentorship of various kinds.
- Jane Johnson announced sympathy cards were sent to the families of Cheryl Nugent, Carol Gosling, Johnnie F. Miles and Bev Greenwood. 12 sympathy cards have been sent and 8 get well cards.
- Lynne Fleming reported that the pension management oversight committee has recommended a 13th check and a COLA.
- Membership is currently 240 but we are facing a steady decline. A committee needs to address ways to increase BARTA membership as well as IRTA. Volunteers should let Janice or Joyce know.
- Sept. minutes approved with motion by Bill Riley and second by Mary Ann Robbins.
- Treasurer, Teresa Heiny, is recuperating so there was no report.
- Larry Klebenow spoke about his experiences in visiting shut-ins and included some of the materials he shares during his visits.
- Lu Ann gave out door prizes
- President Janice closed the meeting at 1:30
Respectfully submitted,
Georgianna Waldrop, Secretary
Unapproved Minutes September 19, 2023
Greeting to guests and new retirees by President Janice Montgomery. Pledge by Bill Riley and blessing by Mary Ann Robbins. Pennies from heaven collected during lunch.
*Guest speaker Kathy Oren, President, and CEO of the Community Education Coalition. Kathy shared the mission, the organization and the focus of the work of the coalition.
Business Meeting- Thanks to the new officers.
*Pennies from heaven will go to the school nurses’ clothing program. Thanks for the members who brought items.
*Honoring members- Jane Johnson passed out address slips so members could let her know if someone needs support. Sympathy Cards have been sent for the following members:
Jo Ann Anness for husband, Dennis; Sue Ellen Brown for husband Glenn; Charles Helton for wife, Carol; Kim Miller for mother, Shirley Everroad; William Jackson for wife, Janice; Hayley Smith for mother, J. Snider Ficher; and Emily Smith for Barbara Joyce Essex Andrews.
*Legislative Update- Lynne Lewis Fleming No Cola this year, no 13th check. Members are encouraged to attend election meetings and speak up in support of libraries who are under attack. We should address the legislature about enacting a law mandating a Cola or a 13th check.
* Members were informed about a presentation by Chad Phillips on Oct. 3 at Mill Race concerning the need for a referendum to support updating the older buildings in BCSC.
*Minutes of the May meeting and balance of $7,091.66 in treasury were approved with expenses of $612.32
* Pennies from Heaven produced $700 to support the school backpack program last month.
*Constitution changes were approved. Bylaws need to be approved by the Exec. Board at the
Next meeting.
*A flyer was distributed about the Imagination Library and the Heritage Fund who is supporting the pediatricians’ book distribution program.
*The new BARTA logo was shared with members.
* Next meeting Tuesday, November 14 at Sandy Hook Methodist
*LuAnn awarded door prizes
* Meeting adjourned at 1:00.
Respectfully submitted,
Georgianna Waldrop, Sec.
www/barta2.org or facebook.com/bartholomewretiredteachers/
Greeting to guests and new retirees by President Janice Montgomery. Pledge by Bill Riley and blessing by Mary Ann Robbins. Pennies from heaven collected during lunch.
*Guest speaker Kathy Oren, President, and CEO of the Community Education Coalition. Kathy shared the mission, the organization and the focus of the work of the coalition.
Business Meeting- Thanks to the new officers.
*Pennies from heaven will go to the school nurses’ clothing program. Thanks for the members who brought items.
*Honoring members- Jane Johnson passed out address slips so members could let her know if someone needs support. Sympathy Cards have been sent for the following members:
Jo Ann Anness for husband, Dennis; Sue Ellen Brown for husband Glenn; Charles Helton for wife, Carol; Kim Miller for mother, Shirley Everroad; William Jackson for wife, Janice; Hayley Smith for mother, J. Snider Ficher; and Emily Smith for Barbara Joyce Essex Andrews.
*Legislative Update- Lynne Lewis Fleming No Cola this year, no 13th check. Members are encouraged to attend election meetings and speak up in support of libraries who are under attack. We should address the legislature about enacting a law mandating a Cola or a 13th check.
* Members were informed about a presentation by Chad Phillips on Oct. 3 at Mill Race concerning the need for a referendum to support updating the older buildings in BCSC.
*Minutes of the May meeting and balance of $7,091.66 in treasury were approved with expenses of $612.32
* Pennies from Heaven produced $700 to support the school backpack program last month.
*Constitution changes were approved. Bylaws need to be approved by the Exec. Board at the
Next meeting.
*A flyer was distributed about the Imagination Library and the Heritage Fund who is supporting the pediatricians’ book distribution program.
*The new BARTA logo was shared with members.
* Next meeting Tuesday, November 14 at Sandy Hook Methodist
*LuAnn awarded door prizes
* Meeting adjourned at 1:00.
Respectfully submitted,
Georgianna Waldrop, Sec.
www/barta2.org or facebook.com/bartholomewretiredteachers/
Photos from the BARTA General Meeting
Septrmber 19, 2023
Reduced Price For Columbus Philharmonic Tickets
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BARTA members can purchase tickets to the Columbus Philharmonic at reduce prices if they mention that they are BARTA members when they purchase tickets to each of the upcoming symphony performances. Now you can enjoy great music at a wonderful price. Go and enjoy! BARTA Columbus Philharmonic Discount Tickets Columbus Philharmonic is offering a 20% discount to retired teachers on season and single tickets - excluding Cabaret. Simply call 812-366-3638 and identify yourself as a Retired Teacher. Then, sit back and enjoy the music! |
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BARTA Spring Meeting at
four seasons May 9, 2023
Please put your cursor on the picture below and press play in the upper left hand corner.
Life goes on: teacher-turned-entertainer finds
all she needs without leaving home
Donna Browne was nominated by Bartholomew County Retired Teachers Association for the Retired Teacher of the Year in 2017. This is a portion of an article that was published in The Republic recently.
By Staff Reports from The Republic
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April 25, 2023
Carla Clark | For The Republic
Donna Browne poses for a photograph during a dress rehearsal for a Lasting Impressions production of the Sound Of Music at Mill Race Center, Columbus, Ind. Monday, April 10, 2023.
Ed Browne, Donna's husband, said he admires Donna’s “drive, her intelligence, her ability to get things done and her compassion for others.”
From dreaming up shows to arranging publicity and sponsor recruitment, Donna devotes “hours and hours and hours” of time to their mutual commitment to The Lasting Impressions, Ed Browne said.
“She does it all. All I do is sing and memorize lines,” he said.
BARTA Members present for the
March 7, 2023 General Meeting
January 16, 2023
Mike Wolanin | The Republic
Paulette Roberts gives a speech after receiving the Beloved Community Award during the annual Martin Luther King Jr. Day breakfast at The Commons in downtown Columbus, Ind., Monday, Jan. 16, 2023.COLUMBUS, Ind. —
Retired Bartholomew Consolidated School Corp. teacher Paulette Roberts, who has continued her educator role with tutoring local students, dramatic history presentations and more, was named the local African American Pastors Alliance’s Beloved Community Award winner Monday.
The honor was presented in front of an estimated 350 people attending the 26th Annual Rev. Martin Luther King Day Breakfast at The Commons in downtown Columbus. Fred King, who chaired the event, told the crowd that the pastors previously thought Roberts already had won the award a number of years ago.
“That is why she was not recognized much sooner,” King said.
Roberts, who came to Columbus in 1970 and served as the King breakfast keynote speaker just a few years ago, has long been lauded for her passion for teaching both inside and outside the classroom. She has presented single-act vignettes about Black history at places such as the Bartholomew County Public Library during Black History Month and at other times such as Juneteeth when she portrayed characters such as abolitionist Harriet Tubman.
She has coordinated exhibits about Black history dating back years ago at the original Commons.
Award presenter Whitney Gaines, a local middle school teacher, said she has always admired Roberts.
“She’s a whole vibe,” Gaines said. “She deserves all the accolades. She is an example of what it actually looks like to do this (community) work.”
For the complete story and more photos, see Tuesday’s Republic.
Brian Blair
The Republic
BARTA Members Meet for their
late fall November 15, 2022 meeting
BARTA members met at Sandy Hook Methodist Church on Tuesday, November 22. Everyone was excited to meet and visit friends and enjoy a great meal. Dr Laura Hack presented timely information about BCSC. Janice Montgomery presided over our business meeting that followed. A good time was had by all.
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Mary Kendrick shared her life time memories of Bill Mihay and his legacy he left to BCSC and the community.
BARTA Members meet again at the Fall
2022 General Meeting
BARTA members met at Sandy Hook United Methodist Church to enjoy a delicious meal. We had the opportunity to renew some long-time friendships, and listen to an engaging speaker, Larry Perkinson.
barta members receive community service awrds
BARTA members meet for the first time in two years at Four Seasons for our Spring meeting on May 10, 2022. Members who served more than 400 hours of community service were announced at the meeting. Fourteen members were announced during the meeting. Three members were present to receive awards for their service.
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Marilyn Brackney and Georgianna Waldrop receive Service certificates for their volunteer work.
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Dan Fleming received a certificate for his community service and BARTA volunteer of the Year Award. Dan was also recognized for receiving the IRTA CASA Volunteer of the Year Award.
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BARTA Recipients receive Several State awards
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The Indiana Retired Teachers Association met in June 2022 for their annual meeting. Retired teachers representing their local retired teacher organizations met in Indianapolis for the IRTA Representative Assembly. BARTA was well represented at the meeting. We received several state awards. The photos above show BARTA President Janice Montgomery and Vice President LuAnne Davis receiving State awards for Outstanding Website, Outstanding Group Project Award and Facebook production.
Dan Fleming won the IRTA State Award for Volunteer of the Year and Outstanding CASA Volunteer.
Congratulations to all for a job. Well done!
Dan Fleming won the IRTA State Award for Volunteer of the Year and Outstanding CASA Volunteer.
Congratulations to all for a job. Well done!
Pack the State House for Education Days
This was an email sent to Janice Montgomery, BARTA President about going to the State Legislature to lobby our legislators in regard to critical issues that would affect education and teachers in Indiana if passed. The note was sent by Mandy Keele from ISTA. If any BARTA members are interested, please contact Janice at [email protected] and ISTA at: https://www.mobilize.us/ista-in/event/439407/
The note reads:
I hope this finds you safe and warm under this blanket of snow! I wanted to reach out and share information about a series of events that ISTA is organizing, and if you're willing, I'd love it if you could share this with other BARTA members.
As you have likely seen, there are a series of anti-education, anti-academic freedom, and anti-teacher bills in the statehouse right now. It has been horrifying to watch one of them advance (HB 1134), but the concepts in that bill are contained in many other bills and could come up in a variety of other ways.
ISTA is organizing Pack the House days February 7th through the 10th and the 14th through the 17th. The goal is to fill the Statehouse with as many people as possible to stand ready to push back as lawmakers discuss, debate, amend, and more the many bills about which we are concerned. People that attend will be able to participate in the legislative process to the degree they're comfortable or can simply attend to lend more bodies and presence to the cause. These days are not just for current teachers or members of ISTA--we already know of many parents and community members that are going.
If anybody from BARTA is willing to attend, we would deeply appreciate it.
Once you have registered to attend a Pack the House day, you will receive an email at the latest the day prior to your day explaining what the agenda will be for the day you attend. People will be able to participate to their comfort level, but activities could include testifying in favor of/against a bill, submitting written testimony, meeting with a lawmaker, sitting in the galleys, and/or just being in the statehouse with Red for Ed imagery, lending visible support to the cause.
Each Pack the House day will start with a briefing at the ISTA building one block from the statehouse. Staff will be able to assist participants with whatever it is they're comfortable doing, whether it be testifying or simply being present.
In particular, we are looking for folks that can attend this Monday, February 7th, and/or Tuesday, February 8th, though we would love for folks to register for any and all days that they're able to participate. They can register at this link: https://www.mobilize.us/ista-in/event/439407/
Of course, please let me know if you have any questions and hope you're doing well!
The note reads:
I hope this finds you safe and warm under this blanket of snow! I wanted to reach out and share information about a series of events that ISTA is organizing, and if you're willing, I'd love it if you could share this with other BARTA members.
As you have likely seen, there are a series of anti-education, anti-academic freedom, and anti-teacher bills in the statehouse right now. It has been horrifying to watch one of them advance (HB 1134), but the concepts in that bill are contained in many other bills and could come up in a variety of other ways.
ISTA is organizing Pack the House days February 7th through the 10th and the 14th through the 17th. The goal is to fill the Statehouse with as many people as possible to stand ready to push back as lawmakers discuss, debate, amend, and more the many bills about which we are concerned. People that attend will be able to participate in the legislative process to the degree they're comfortable or can simply attend to lend more bodies and presence to the cause. These days are not just for current teachers or members of ISTA--we already know of many parents and community members that are going.
If anybody from BARTA is willing to attend, we would deeply appreciate it.
Once you have registered to attend a Pack the House day, you will receive an email at the latest the day prior to your day explaining what the agenda will be for the day you attend. People will be able to participate to their comfort level, but activities could include testifying in favor of/against a bill, submitting written testimony, meeting with a lawmaker, sitting in the galleys, and/or just being in the statehouse with Red for Ed imagery, lending visible support to the cause.
Each Pack the House day will start with a briefing at the ISTA building one block from the statehouse. Staff will be able to assist participants with whatever it is they're comfortable doing, whether it be testifying or simply being present.
In particular, we are looking for folks that can attend this Monday, February 7th, and/or Tuesday, February 8th, though we would love for folks to register for any and all days that they're able to participate. They can register at this link: https://www.mobilize.us/ista-in/event/439407/
Of course, please let me know if you have any questions and hope you're doing well!
RETIRED TEACHERS’ COLA RESTORED BY 2021 LEGISLATURE
FOR FIRST TIME IN 12 YEARS!
RETIRED TEACHERS’ COLA RESTORED BY 2021 LEGISLATURE, FOR FIRST TIME IN 12 YEARS!
In response to this change, IRTA commissioned an actuarial study to review the effects of the change from a "13th " check and the new COLA. The results found were that the "13th" check was more beneficial to retirees than the COLA increase.
- 45,800 of the total 60,500 retired educators have an average monthly pension of $2,000 or less each month. So if we do the math, 1% of $2,000 is $20 increase each month or $240 for the year. This is less than the "13" check amount we have received over the last several years.
- 31,000 of the total 60,5000 retired educators have an average monthly pension of $1,500 or less. The 1% COLA then calculates to just a $15.00 increase per month or $180 for the year. This again is less that the "13th" check we received the past several years.
BARTA Legislative Chair John Quick and the 2021 Legislature
“The big takeaway from the legislative session for us is that COLA (Cost Of Living Allowance) has been reestablished. We haven’t seen COLA in our pensions for more than a decade. The COLA is only 1%, but this is better than a 13th check as we get the compounding effect year after year. We have long lobbied for COLA and it initially appeared it was unlikely to happen this year. However, a sudden influx of $2 billion of unpredicted revenue materialized.
Senator Everett Dirkson once said, “A billion here, a billion there and pretty soon you are talking real money.” A few billion dollars of federal stimulus money came our way and it had the effect of helping the state revenue to a tune of a few billion more than the December projections. All session the majority party kept telling the minority party that they had good ideas, but “we just don’t have the money.” And then, when we suddenly had the money, it created probably the best budget in memory. That is evidenced by the fact that only five of the 150 legislators voted against this amazing budget. Most generally the minority party votes no.
In a macro sense the legislature puts about a billion dollars a year into the pension fund. Remember, the Teacher Retirement Fund (TRF) and the Public Employee Retirement Fund (PERF) are now under the same umbrella. About a half a million Hoosiers fall under this umbrella, including legislators should they be vested with 10 years of tenure. We saw an additional $400 million from the unexpected revenue directed toward reestablishing the COLA. The pension fund is solvent and we should see it nearing the $40 billion range in a few years. This is important to note because our pre-1996 retirement colleagues had no real money in the bank to support their pension. They were dependent upon the legislators to guess how much money would be needed each biennium.
About a billion new dollars were directed toward K-12 public education. Locally BCSC will get 4.4% the first year and 3.2% the second year. That is a little less than the 4.5% each year that you may be reading about for districts across the state. This increase comes with a caveat that at least 45% of the dollars are to be directed toward teachers’ salaries and that the beginning teacher salary be at least $40,000. BCSC will meet this expectation.
Come Join Us! We are looking for you
BARTA members Larry Klebenow, Jon Moore and Linda DeClue enjoy the lunch at Four Seasons.
Is there anything better than getting together with old friends and colleagues? Well, maybe, but seeing those folks with whom we can share our stories or who remember those extraordinary students and school events is very special. BARTA offers friendship and fellowship that grows from our past but connections and programs that keep us up-to-date with education and community matters.
Membership in BARTA is open to any current or former teacher or school administrator and their spouse.
The membership fee is only $10 per year. In August of each year BARTA sends a newsletter to current and prospective members, and included is a membership card that can be completed and returned so we can add new members to our roll. If you are not now a member but are interested in attending a meeting or receiving the August newsletter, just complete the Contact Form on the Resources & Contact page of this website. You may also call 812-372-7458.
Membership in BARTA is open to any current or former teacher or school administrator and their spouse.
The membership fee is only $10 per year. In August of each year BARTA sends a newsletter to current and prospective members, and included is a membership card that can be completed and returned so we can add new members to our roll. If you are not now a member but are interested in attending a meeting or receiving the August newsletter, just complete the Contact Form on the Resources & Contact page of this website. You may also call 812-372-7458.
Please consider joining BARTA. It's easy, fun, and inexpensive, four times a year.
BARTA MEMBERSHIP MAY BE OPEN TO YOU
BARTA is an organization with a broad outreach among retired teachers, school administrators, and their spouses and companions. Our 290-member roll includes people from Bartholomew County and the surrounding counties of Brown, Decatur, Jackson, Jennings, and Johnson counties. Loyalty to and support for our public school systems and BARTA have also prompted memberships from folks now living in Arizona, California, Florida, Pennsylvania, and others.
The general membership of BARTA meets four times per year, September, November, March and May, for lunch and a program, followed by a business meeting. Generally the meetings last about 1 1/2 hours so that folks can be on their way by 1:00 pm.
The general membership of BARTA meets four times per year, September, November, March and May, for lunch and a program, followed by a business meeting. Generally the meetings last about 1 1/2 hours so that folks can be on their way by 1:00 pm.
For only $35 per year, your membership adds strength in numbers to the Association when we lobby on behalf of Indiana's retired teachers to the state legislature for a cost of living (COLA) to pensions and a one-time payment (13th check) to retirees. By joining, you help to:
Join your fellow retirees today! The membership form is available on the IRTA website: http://portal.retiredteachers.org/cgi-bin/register.pl For more details, go to https://www.retiredteachers.org/membership/ OR for more info about benefits, go to http://www.retiredteachers.org/benefits |
Benefits can more than pay for your $35 IRTA membership: AMBA Benefits for IRTA Members Personal security: Life Alert services Insurance: Dental; Vision; 1st Diagnosis Cancer; Medicare Supplement; Medical Air Services; Long Term Care; Short Term Home Health Care; Whole Life; ID Protection; Auto; Home Dining: Discounts for area restaurants Travel: Inscribe Africa, Orlando Employee Tickets, TravelPerx, Road Scholar, Government Employee Travel Electronics: Apple products; Dell products Lifestyle: 1-800-Flowers Investments: Tax-Deferred Annunity Other Discount Providers Hotels: LaQuinta Inn Rental Cars: Hertz, Budget and Avis Phone Service: AT&T; Verizon Insurance: MetLife; VPI Pet Insurance Security Service: Life Alert, Identity Theft Protection Home and Health Aids: Hear in America, Premier Care in Bathing Airport Parking: Fast Park & Relax Realty Services: Homes for Heroes For more information, go to https://www.retiredteachers.org/member-benefits . |
Friends and Colleagues who have passed away
during the previous year
May 2023 to May 2024
Mary Jo Robertson Pierson Mary Jean Wolf
Glen Brown Carol Sue Helton
Shirley Jean Helton Shirley Jean Everroad
Jami Snider Fischer Janice Clevenger Jackson
Barbara Joyce Andrews Sheryl K. Nugent
Carolyn Janice Gosling Bobbs Johnnie Frances Miles
Beverly Ann Greenwood David Hilgemann Martin
Joan L Eaton Sharon Nelson
Marjorie Foster Schmeakebier Philip L. Houston
Barbara Sue Brands Carolyn Wheeler
Joyce Ann Blackburn Marie Moore
Glen Brown Carol Sue Helton
Shirley Jean Helton Shirley Jean Everroad
Jami Snider Fischer Janice Clevenger Jackson
Barbara Joyce Andrews Sheryl K. Nugent
Carolyn Janice Gosling Bobbs Johnnie Frances Miles
Beverly Ann Greenwood David Hilgemann Martin
Joan L Eaton Sharon Nelson
Marjorie Foster Schmeakebier Philip L. Houston
Barbara Sue Brands Carolyn Wheeler
Joyce Ann Blackburn Marie Moore
In Meroroium
mEMBERS WHO PASSED
|
THE ANGELS
THE ANGELS LOOKED DOWN FROM HEAVEN ONE NIGHT. THEY SEARCHED FOR MILES AFAR, AND DEEP WITHIN THE DISTANCE THEY COULD SEE A SHINING STAR. THEY KNEW THAT VERY INSTANT THAT THE STAR WAS THEIRS TO GAIN, SO THEY TOOK YOU UP TO HEAVEN, FOREVER TO REMAIN. LOOK DOWN ON US FROM HEAVEN. KEEP US FREE FROM HURT AND PAIN. YOU'LL ALWAYS BE WITHIN MY HEART UNTIL WE MEET AGAIN. 2020 - 2021 Norris Moore
Don Reed Mary A. Clark Phyllis Baker Paul Riddle Raymond Jones Ellen Hughes Ruth Hamilton Willis Hagan Wallace Cantrell Jo Ann Cline Donald Delaney Kenneth Tull Dennis Sylvester Reta Mae Slaughter Norman Lewis Bill Mihay Shirley Thickstun Jewel Fleetwood Raymond Betz Bob Welsch Tim Voorhies |
Lydia Bohn Donna Ostrick Nancy Whitaker Robert Sprague Jewel Fleetwood Dale Stelting Robin Whited Gary McBride Nancy Battleson Barbara Johnson Doris Hoffman Margaret Stephens Harold Whishon Thomas Byers Joann Scrifres Betty Welch Carole Goshorn Hal Driver, Jr. Anne Hoffman Marie Clouse Linda Boyte White Marian Callon Mickey Land James Kevin Butler September 2021 - April 2022 Joseph Giovanini George McKinney Mikel Lewman Jay Heath Jane Starr Bill McCaa Natalie Lavengood Dick Howe |
EDucators who have passed since april 2022
Beverly Mead Thompson Marcia Dickherber
Shirley Richards Audy Waldrop
Bob Harden Margaret Kelly Dismore
Alyssa Dempsey Barbara Piper
Ann Burgess Piper Ronald W. Hoffman
Avalon Marie Hoffman Audrey J. Williams
Alice Jean Owens Carol Lynne (Anthony) Nelson
R. David East Tessa Anne Musillami Mayer
Sue Ann Henderson
Shirley Richards Audy Waldrop
Bob Harden Margaret Kelly Dismore
Alyssa Dempsey Barbara Piper
Ann Burgess Piper Ronald W. Hoffman
Avalon Marie Hoffman Audrey J. Williams
Alice Jean Owens Carol Lynne (Anthony) Nelson
R. David East Tessa Anne Musillami Mayer
Sue Ann Henderson
in memory of our friends and colleagues who passed in 2019-2020
Norris Moore Don Reed Hal Driver, Jr. Anne Hoffman Marie Clouse Linda Boyte White Lydia Bohn Donna Ostick Nancy Whitaker Robert Sprague Dale Stelting Robin Whited Gary McBride |
Nancy Battleson Barbara Johnson Doris Hoffman Margaret Stephens Harold Wishon Thomas Byers Mary A. Clark Phyllis Ann Baker Paul Riddle Raymond Jones Ellen Hughes Ruth E. Hamilton Willis Hagan |
