serving retired teachers since 1957...serving retired teachers since 1957 volume lv number 1...
TRANSCRIPT
Serving Retired Teachers Since 1957
VOLUME LV NUMBER 1 LOUISVILLE, KENTUCKY JULY 2020
A Q
UA
RT
ER
LY P
UB
LIC
AT
ION
Ken
tuck
y R
etir
ed T
each
ers
Ass
oci
ati
on
pr
srt
st
du
.s. p
ost
ag
eP
A I
Dp
er
mit
57
2
lo
uis
vil
le
, ky
75
05
Ba
rdst
ow
n R
oa
d
Lo
uis
vil
le, K
entu
cky
40
29
1-3
23
4
(Continued on Page 10)
IN THIS ISSUE . . . TOP STORIES
Retired Teachers Impact Communities . . . . . . . . .1
Volunteer of the Year. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1
PERSONALLY SPEAKING
From the Executive Director . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
Changing Times
A New Tool for Engaging With Our Members . . .2
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2
IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE . . .3
N. O. Kimbler Scholarship Recipients . . . . . . . . . .3
KRTA PARTNERS
Comfort Keepers
Home Care Tips for Improving Memory . . . . . . . . 3
Liberty Mutual
Play It Safe—Get Extra Coverage . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3
LOCAL & DISTRICT AWARDS 2020
M. L. Archer Award. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Virginia Shaw Award . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
Local Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
District Recognition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5
District Grandparent Essay Winners . . . . . . . . . . .6
Grandparent Essay Winner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
Best Grandma Ever by Ava Farnham
Cathy G. Gullett Leadership Award . . . . . . . . . . .6
Top Hat Awards . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6
MEMBERSHIP
Focus on KRTA by Betty Hester . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
Th e Energizer Bunny Hops to Frankfort! . . . . . . .7
Lessons of the Geese . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7
YOUR HEALTH & SAFETY
Let’s Talk About Your Health . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Popular Scams To Avoid. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
Your Medical Identity is a Hot Commodity
Do Illegal Robocalls Have Your Phone Ringing
6 Steps To A Stronger Memory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8
AROUND THE STATE
Barren County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Campbell County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Edmonson County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Kenton County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Lee County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Madison County RTA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Menifee County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Th ird District RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9
Wayne County RTA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
Volunteer of the Year Nominees . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10
FOR YOUR INFORMATION . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
QUIPS, QUOTES & PUZZLES . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11
DECEASED RETIRED TEACHERS . . . . . . . . . . . .12
Volunteer of the YearRuth Lature
(Continued on Page 7)
Th e year 1970 was a pivotal year for area students with reading
disabilities due to the launch of an innovative program to aid
children in achieving reading competence. In that year, a local
young educator experienced a life changing event, both for herself
and children in the Pennyrile at risk of failure academically due to
their inability to read words and sentences correctly.
When approached by a group of local parents seeking a diff erent
method for reading instruction, Ruth Lature attended a summer
training session at Berea College which focused on a new multi
sensory approach to teaching vital reading skills. She then returned
to her hometown and organized the Dyslexia Association of the
Pennyrile. From 1970 until 2015, a total of 45 years, Ruth Lature
served as the volunteer director of the program while also teaching
in the Christian County Public Schools .
Th e local Dyslexia program has served hundreds of students and adults through an innovative
method of instruction which supplements the reading methods used in classrooms. Dyslexia
is recognized under Federal Law as a Specifi c Learning Disability found in people with normal
intelligence or below normal.
Th e program functions as an independent entity where no student is ever denied program access
Ruth Lature
Retired teachers in Kentucky continue to have an enormous
impact through volunteerism, giving and economically in their
communities throughout the Commonwealth. With more than
88% of Kentucky’s retired teachers residing in the Commonwealth,
their annuities add over $164 million dollars to the Kentucky
Kentucky’s Retired Teachers Continue
to Have Impact in Their Communities
PAGE 2 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
PERSONALLY SPEAKING . . .
PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE . . .Sue Ellen Caldwell
Tim Abrams
Executive Director
(Continued on Page 3)
(Continued on Page 10)
Sue Ellen Caldwell
Changing Times
Th e fi rst half of 2020 has seen an
increase in the use of many words and
phrases into our daily conversations
that were rarely, if ever used just a
few months ago. Social distancing,
unprecedented, pandemic, stay safe, corona virus, COVID-19, healthy at work,
healthy at home, and singing happy birthday while we wash our hands are just a
few examples.
Th ere is no doubt that we are dealing with a “New Normal” not only in language
but in our routines. For KRTA the annual convention, local and district chapter
meetings, state committee meetings and now the annual “in person” KRTA Fall
Workshops across the state have been moved to an online platform. Th e KRTA
staff , like offi ce staff s across the world, have had to adjust to working from home.
However, like most dilemmas, we have seen throughout our lives—this too shall
pass. Until it is safe to resume a more “back-to-normal” routine, it is vital that our
members 65 and older who have pre-existing conditions take every precaution to
stay healthy and follow CDC guidance regarding their health during the pandemic.
If your district or local chapter is in need of help to launch an online meeting, don’t
hesitate to call the KRTA offi ce.
Without a doubt our best years are ahead, and because of what we have learned
during these diffi cult times , we will grow as people and as an association. COVID-19
has forced us all to communicate, meet and socialize in new and diff erent ways.
KRTA held its fi rst webinar and had over 400 registrants to hear an update from
TRS. Th e KRTA Executive Council has met twice via Zoom as has the KRTA State
Membership and Recruitment committee. Locals and District Chapters across the
state are holding on-line meetings and calling members who are not online to make
sure they are doing well and staying connected. I look forward to the time when we
are able to meet in person again, and I pray that day is soon. Th ese diffi cult times
will enable KRTA to be even more impactful for our members because of improved
A New Tool For Engaging With Our Members!
More and more of you are relying on smartphones to communicate, and texting
is an increasingly popular feature. So, we’ve set up a new service to add texting to
communicate with our members.
We’ll continue our standard communications like e-mail, regular mail, social
media and phone calls to keep in touch. We’re adding texting to alert you quickly
about important or time-sensitive information.
We anticipate that texting will be particularly helpful to keep you informed of
legislative issues and when we need your voice to tell elected offi cials to protect your
retirement benefi ts. You have our commitment to keep the texting to a minimum;
and of course, we will never share your information.
All you need to do is sign up to receive texts from KRTA. If you have a smartphone
with texting, just follow these four easy steps to sign up:
1. Open your texting application just like you would
normally do to send a text message.
2. In the “To” fi eld, enter 41411
3. In the “Message” fi eld enter KYPENSION
4. Hit send
Th at’s it! You’ll receive a confi rmation text, and then you
are ready to receive our text messages. Please note that
message and data rates on your mobile phone plan may
apply. If you would like to terminate receiving texts from
KRTA, just send us a text message to 41411 and type the
message STOP.
Th ank you in advance for signing up. Your voice to legislators
is vitally important to protecting your retirement benefi ts,
and we know this tool will make our advocacy eff orts even
stronger!
Remember to visit https://teachfrankfort.org for more
information on how to join the fi ght to eff ectively become
an advocate to help protect the rights and interests of retired
teachers throughout the Commonwealth of Kentucky.
KYPENSION
To: 41411
Vision 2020 When I was approached about being 5th District’s
nominee for President of KRTA, I approached
it like I do most major decisions in my life. I
made a list of positives and negatives. On the
positive side was the opportunity to get to
know the many retired teachers around our
great Commonwealth of Kentucky. Also on
this positive side was the opportunity to work
with the dedicated leadership that I had already
come to know and respect in my work with the
association. However, there was that other side
of the list—the negatives.
First and foremost, would I have to sacrifi ce time with my two sons, their wives and
my three wonderfully perfect grandchildren? Second, did I have the knowledge of
the many issues facing the membership? Th ird, did I have the skill sets to eff ectively
lead and represent KRTA? And my fourth concern, did I have the passion for the
work of KRTA as it protects the pensions, healthcare and general welfare of retired
teachers? I knew that this organization valued family, so my fi rst negative was really
not an issue. Th e second answer was no: I probably did not have all the knowledge
needed; but I was willing to work hard, listen and study to get up to date. As for the
skill sets, again, I was willing and eager to learn. Th e fourth negative was moot. I
already had a passion for the work of KRTA and could only see that passion growing
as I sought to represent all the retirees. Little did I know there would be a negative
so big and beastly waiting to pounce as we turned the corner into 2020—COVID 19.
As I write this, we are just beginning Phase II of our comeback from this pandemic.
Looking back, we have had to cancel our local meetings and our convention. We have
been in quarantine and missed the fellowship and interaction with our friends and
family. We have missed participating in worship in our churches. We began wearing
masks to protect ourselves and those we love and care about. Some of us may have
lost income or watched our children struggle to maintain a business and livelihood.
Some of us may have even lost friends and family. We have not been able to grieve
and comfort or be comforted in the way to which we have become accustomed. I
could go on and on with all the things we have given up to try and conquer this beast.
When I get in my car, the fi rst thing I do before starting the motor is put on my seat
belt and adjust my mirrors. I adjust the little rear view mirror until it is just right.
Th at little rear view mirror shows me almost everything behind me. I check it
frequently; but as I drive forward, I am looking intently through a much bigger and
broader perspective—my windshield. Th at windshield is my window to the future.
Sometimes the view through that windshield gets foggy. Sometimes the rain distorts
my vision. Sometimes a bird fl ies over. When these things happen, I simply turn on
the wipers to clear the view and keep moving forward.
JULY 2020 KRTA NEWS PAGE 3
Immediate Past President’s MessageHarold Wilson 2019-2020
N. O. KIMBLER MEMORIAL SCHOLARSHIP FUND INC.(D/B/A KIMBLER-BOURGARD FOUNDATION)
Scholarships Paid 2019-2020Community College Recipient High School Amount
Ashland Brooke Maynard Paul Blazer HS $1,650Big Sandy Hannah Marsillett Johnson Central HS 1,650Bluegrass No Recipient N/A -------Elizabethtown Samantha Blankenship Central Hardin HS 1,650Gateway Candace Ritter Bishop Brossart HS 1,650Hazard No Recipient -------Henderson Molly Yates Home Schooled 1,650Hopkinsville Peyton Embry Heritage Christian Acad. 1,650Jeff erson Alexander Hughes Oldham County HS 1,650Madisonville Mallie Turnier Hopkins County Central 1,650Maysville Courtney Bevan Montgomery County HS 1,650Owensboro Courtney Wright Frederick Fraze HS 1,650Somerset Hailey Carpenter Berea 1,650Southcentral Makayla Lynn Lindsey Bowling Green HS 1,650Southeast Cole Isaac Gent Pineville HS 1,650West Kentucky Jaden Raney McCracken County HS 1,650 TOTAL $23,100.00
Just a few weeks ago I was so excited about
the upcoming “March Madness “season.
Everyone knows all that March and April brings.
Everything from basketball tournaments,
the KRTA state conference, baseball and
track season, to a multitude of other events
including the Kentucky Derby have been
cancelled. Of course, the Kentucky Legislative
General Assembly limped along on crutches
in desperation because of the COVID-19 virus
fear. How diff erent it all turned out to be. No
one knew what was coming in January. I was so
excited about serving and attending meetings
across the state. By mid-February, the bad news
of the virus suddenly changed the whole world.
We all know the number of cases, deaths and
survivors currently. Th e Governor with Team
Kentucky has led the way in protecting us and
saving lives. It has not been easy for most. I even learned a new techy word called
“Zoom.”
During this last half of my term as your president, it seems like I have been your
“President in Exile.” I have really missed attending meetings across the state and
speaking on the importance of your membership and the work that we do. I miss
giving Dr. Guy Doud’s message that you are the “Molder of their Dreams.” You still
make their dreams come true. I miss the moments when we shared the very “heart
and soul” of our joint mission, that of “teaching children.” You have been called. I
saw your moments of tears, smiles, sadness, and expressions of achievement in your
calling as I spoke. How touching that was!
I appreciate your everyday measure of safety and wisdom. You have helped save
others as well. Yes, we will experience all of “March Madness” again. Hopefully, all
those events will return, and our State KRTA Convention will be bigger and better
than ever next April. I pray that I will be there to see your smiles, enthusiasm, and
dedication to our Kentucky Retired Teachers Association. And yes, our local and
district meetings will also be bigger and better than ever. I wish I could attend them all.
We know that the legislators passed a one-year tentative budget with strings attached.
Th e Governor announced April 30 that there will be at least a $500-million shortfall
due to the pandemic cost. Our pension and health insurance fund will be greatly
aff ected. It also can aff ect new hires. We all know what these repercussions can
make in years to come. We must all be vigilant and knowledgeable when we are
called upon to contact our legislators. From past experiences we know that contact
numbers count. It did this time for sure by persuading the senate and house to meet
in joint conference.
Our membership chairs, legislative chairs and health/insurance chairs are to be
commended for all their hard work and achievements. Special thanks go to
State Membership Chairs, Debby Murrell and Betty Hester, for another successful
membership drive. A special thank you goes to our State Legislative Chairs, Don
Hines, Larry Woods, Ray Roundtree and lobbyist, Steve Gillespie, Margaret Sims
and Allen Schuller for working their way through this unusual session. During this
awful pandemic, we give special thanks to Health/Insurance Chairs, Margaret Sims
and Ed Cook, for their diligence in keeping us informed about our Health/Insurance
updates. Everyone will want to join me in thanking Allen Schuller for his brilliant
satirical writings. He really made us think. Th anks also goes to the TRS staff for
fi ghting for our pensions and health care during the legislative session and informing
membership.
Special thanks go to other groups and individuals we have greatly counted on. Th ey
are:
Strategic Advisors: Greg Green, Pat Crowley, Daniel Shields.
Impact Government Relations: Bob Rowland, Greg Brotzge, Andrew Brotzge.
Keneally Communications: (Washington, DC) Kelly Keneally.
There are no words to express the
outstanding and humbling experience
I have had serving as your 2019-2020
KRTA President. I thank you all for your
support and kindness shown to me. My
love and thanks go to my wife, Claudia,
who has been by my side during the entire
experience. Special thanks go to our
executive director, Mr. Tim Abrams, with
whom it has been a joy to work. I want to
thank my offi cers, Shirley Wolf, Sue Ellen
Caldwell and Bill Kelley for their valuable
knowledge, support and help through the
years. A special thank you goes to Scotty
Parsons, Neil Tucker and Second District
for placing my name in nomination for
Vice-President three years ago.
Then, of course, I want to thank my
executive council, district and local
offi cers, home offi ce staff , vendors and
the full membership for their tremendous
love and support. I welcome the time
when we can all be together safely. I
would be honored to speak to your local if
called on next year as your past president.
May we all continue to strive to make
dreams come true during our retirement
years. May you all be blessed during this
diffi cult time. Please be safe. We will get
through this. We will get through this
pandemic together!
Harold Wilson
Immediate Past President
(Continued from “President” Page 2)
I think life right now is like that mirror
and the windshield. Th ere have been too
many birds fl ying over. Th ere is a reason
that the rear view mirror is so small and
the windshield is so large. We just need
to keep things of the past in the past and
focus on the future. Th e future may look
diff erent than we anticipated. In fact, as I
reevaluate my life, I actually hope some
things don’t make it back as “normal.”
Change can be good.
None of us are sure what the future
holds. Will there be meetings? What will
meetings and gatherings look like? KRTA
will planning for our Fall Workshops to
be done on line. Technology such as
Zoom and live streaming may become
our new “best friends” as we navigate to
our new normal.
Unfortunately, we are al l in the
“vulnerable group” until a vaccine is
developed and made available. As you
plan to resume your local meetings, think
about changes that may need to be made
to ensure the safety of your members. Th e
need for masks and social distancing may
continue for some time for our age group.
Do we really need to serve shared food or
should we each bring our own? Consider
bringing back that telephone tree to
check on the welfare of members. A lot
of our members may not have access to
internet or updated equipment. Some
may lack the skills or confi dence to use
the many new forms of technology.
The phone tree could become their
lifeline to information. Emails and
texts are great, but there is nothing like
personal calls to say “Hey, are you doing
OK?” or “By the way, did you know
. . . ?” Sending a postcard collected
from previous travels to just say, “I
was thinking about you” can certainly
brighten a day. Consider developing a
Facebook page for your local members if
you don’t already have one. Never forget
our membership is our greatest asset.
KRTA will continue to provide everyone
with an up-to-date web page, newsletters
and text alerts as needed. However, only
you can provide that personal touch that
we all need so much.
It is 2020. Let’s all have 2020 vision as we
look to the future.
PAGE 4 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
KRTA PARTNERS . . .
Dave Farmer
Liberty Mutual Insurance
To learn more about Liberty Mutual Auto and Home
Insurance or get a free, no-obligation quote, call David
Farmer at 502-429-4504 ext. 51690 or visit www.
libertymutual.com/krta.
Coverage underwritten and provided by Liberty Mutual
Insurance Company and its affi liates, 175 Berkeley Street, Boston,
MA 02116. Reprinted with permission from Liberty Mutual.
©2014 Liberty Mutual Insurance
Play It Safe—Get Extra Coverage with a
Personal Liability Protection Policy
A message from Liberty Mutual InsuranceBy Dennis Goebel, Vice President, Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
Every day, we hear about neighbors suing neighbors, accident victims suing those
responsible, and people fi ling lawsuits for libel, slander and countless other reasons.
But you can protect your assets or future earnings from substantial legal claims
against you with a personal liability protection—or umbrella—policy, which will
pick up where home, auto and watercraft policies leave off . A PLP policy is an extra
layer of protection against lawsuits stemming from a catastrophic accident or loss
—whether someone slips on your front step or has a run-in with your car. And if
your auto policy includes children under the age of 25 (the age group most likely
to be involved in car accidents), a PLP policy will off er a big dose of peace of mind.
PLP policies provide additional coverage for things not included in your home and
auto insurance—such as false arrest, defamation and wrongful eviction. If you
already have auto and home insurance from the same carrier, you likely won’t need
big bucks to add this expanded coverage. Premiums and underlying coverages can
vary by state. Higher coverage limits are also available. To be eligible for excess
liability, you must maintain certain personal liability limits on your auto and home
insurance; so it is best to review all of your policies simultaneously.
Additional coverage may be purchased for any recreational vehicle you own or
operate, such as a snow mobile, golf cart or ATV. And a Liberty Mutual PLP policy
also provides higher limits for bodily injury and property damage on your auto
and home policies. Check with your insurer to see what type of additional liability
coverage they off er.
Sarah Short
Comfort Keepers
Home Care Tips for Improving
Memory For Seniors1 in 9 adults in the U.S. over the age of 45 reports memory issues.
For seniors with memory issues, receiving care
while remaining in their home can further enhance
their quality of life. This is true for those with
minor memory problems that result from age or for
those with Alzheimer’s, dementia or other forms of
memory loss. A familiar environment can reduce
confusion and improve mental engagement, and
being surrounded by beloved objects and memory
cues can foster a sense of connection and peace.
For older adults, there are some conditions that
progress over time and have a signifi cant eff ect on
memory. However, lifestyle changes may help control
memory problems and help seniors continue to
remain independent at home with a little extra help
from family or a professional caregiver.
Mental exercise: Research has shown memorization helps keep the
brain healthy. Learning how to play an instrument or fi x a car, and
even teaching others, strengthens the brain’s circuits.
Take a class: Formal education works the brain through the learning
process. For those who want to keep their minds sharp, many colleges
and universities off er courses at low cost or for free to seniors.
Socialize: Seniors who interact regularly with friends, family, and
community are less likely to experience cognitive decline and can
experience a better sense of overall wellbeing. Th ose who are unable
to drive can enlist the help of family and friends to get to social
engagements or seek the assistance of a caregiver.
Get up and move: Exercise is a great way to help keep the mind sharp.
Seniors that are interested in increasing their physical activity should
consult with a physician before beginning an exercise program.
Eat well: Good nutrition benefi ts the mind and the body. Healthcare
professionals can suggest dietary guidelines and/or supplements that
can help with memory issues.
Believe in yourself: Scientists are not sure why self-effi cacy seems to
ward off mental decline, but it may have to do with a person’s ability
to manage stress.
Organize the home: Creating to-do lists, calendars, a dedicated spot
for keys and items that are oft en lost, and ensuring that things are put
back aft er use can help those with memory issues feel comfortable
and confi dent.
Get enough sleep: Lacking sleep can contribute to memory loss, so
seniors should take steps to improve their sleep.
Taking an active role in engaging the mind can help older adults continue to live
with purpose, connection and joy. To learn how professional caregiving can help
seniors stay active, social, and engaged, contact your local Comfort Keepers® offi ce
today.
Comfort Keepers Can Help
Our goal is to provide uplift ing in-home care that benefi ts seniors and their families.
Th e individualized care plans we create for our clients can include companion
care, respite care and Alzheimer’s and dementia care. Our caregivers can provide
transportation to community events, support physician-prescribed exercise and
diet regimens, provide companionship and help families stay connected through
technology. We strive to elevate the human spirit through quality, compassionate,
joyful care.
References
Psychology Today. Physical Activity Improves Cognitive Function. Web. 2014.
Verywell Mind. Self-Effi cacy and Why Believing in Yourself Matters. Web. 2019.
U.S. News & World Report. 5 Secrets to staying sharp as you age. Web. 2015
WebMD. 1 in 9 U.S. Adults Over 45 Reports Memory Issues. Web. 2018.
Mayo Clinic. 7 Tips to Improve Your Memory. Web. 2018.
COMFORT KEEPERS
866.676.9888 or www.comfortkeepers.com
JULY 2020 KRTA NEWS PAGE 5
M. L. Archer
Gold, Silver and Bronze Awards
Each year the 119 local RTAs strive to grow in membership and participation in
the community and in the program sponsored by KRTA. Points are earned based
on the local associations’ emphasis on these important areas:
• Membership increases and percentage of potential members
• Number of meetings held and the topics of those meetings
• Contact with new retirees and honoring them at a meeting
• Participation in the state convention
• Contact with local legislators concerning current issues
• Contribution to the community
• Contribution of $30 or more to the N. O. Kimbler Scholarship Fund
• Standing committees in Health/Wellness & Insurance, Legislation, and
Membership
Gold Seal = 425 Points Silver Seal = 375 Points Bronze Seal = 325 Points
M. L. Archer Award
In recognition of his contribution to the Association, the M. L. Archer Award
was established. Th is award is given to top local associations with membership
of at least 90% of those eligible. Mr. Archer served as Membership Committee
chairman for 12 years.
Virginia Shaw Award
In honor of Virginia Shaw and her continued work with membership, the Shaw
Award is awarded for Districts reaching the goal of 80% of those eligible. Mrs.
Shaw served as Membership Committee chairperson for 17 years.
NoneFirst
Second
Th ird
Fourth
Fift h
Central KY East
Upper KY River
Big Sandy
Eastern
Gold Silver Bronze
Jeff erson
Northern
Central KY West
Upper Cumberland
Virginia Shaw
Crittenden 100%
Fleming 100%
Fulton 100%
Garrard 100%
Lee 100%
Mason 100 %
Menifee 100 %
Monroe 100 %
Fulton 98.7%
Hancock 97.3%
Crittenden 97.2%
Owen 97.1%
Carlisle 96.4%
Nelson 96.3%
Middlesboro 96.2%
Knott 95.0%
Hickman 94.9%
Powell 94.4%
McCreary 94.2%
Martin 93.8%
Bracken 93.6%
Wayne 93.2%
Wolfe 93.2%
Webster 93.0%
Letcher 92.8%
Hart 92.5%
Garrard 92.0%
Nicholas/Robertson 91.2%
Montogmery 91.1%
Morgan 92.6%
Bullitt 90.1%
Each year at the Spring Convention, local and district retired teacher associations
are recognized for their achievements and volunteer activities. Th is year, however,
the pandemic prevented us from honoring these groups.
Local Recognition Local & District Awards 2020
KRTA District Associations 80% & Above Membership
Eligible For Th e
Virginia Shaw Award
January 24, 2020
Second 81.0% Upper KY River 80.6%
District Recognition
Barren
Bell
Bluegrass
Clay
E’town/Hardin/Larue
Gallatin
Harlan
Hickman
Marion
Muhlenberg
Simpson
Bath
Boone
Boyd
Bracken
Breathitt
Bullitt
Butler
Calloway
Campbell
Carlisle
Carroll
Casey
Clinton
Crittenden
Cumberland
Edmonson
Fulton
Garrard
Grant
Grayson
Green
Harrison
Henderson
Henry
Kenton
Knott
Lee
Gold Silver Bronze
Ballard
Breckinridge
Caldwell
Clark
EKU
Estill
Floyd
Franklin
Greenup
Hancock
Hart
Jackson
Jeff erson
Jessamine
Logan
Perry
Pike
Pulaski
Shelby
Warren
Whitley
Woodford
Letcher
Lincoln
Lyon
Madison
Mason
McCracken
Menifee
Metcalfe
Middlesboro
Monroe
Montgomery
Nelson
Nicholas/Robertson
Ohio
Owen
Owsley
Trimble
Pendleton
Powell
Rowan
Taylor
Todd
Trigg
Union
Webster
Washington
Wayne
Wolfe
Applied/No Award
Allen
Boyle
Graves
Knox
Lawrence
Rockcastle
Spencer
Gold = 55
Silver = 22
Bronze = 11
Solution to
Number Fun on
Page 11
Start at any point,
but the pairs should
read:
1-9, 2-8, 3-7, 4-6.
www.facebook.com/
KentuckyRetiredTeachersAssociation.
Click on the “Like” button
PAGE 6 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
District Grandparent Essay Contest Grandparent Essay Contest Winner
Best Grandma Ever(In Ava’s Farnham’s Own Words)
Do you have a grandparent that means the
world to you? Well I do. She is an amazing
grandma! Her name is Sharlene Blackburn.
She is more than just a grandparent. She’s my
everything. She should be AARP’s Kentucky
grandparent of the year because she goes
beyond the role of being a grandparent.
When I was just 3 years old my mom passed
away. Th is was really hard on my family,
especially my grandma. Ad shortly aft er when
I was only 5 my dad passed away too. As you
can imagine this was a hard time in our lives.
My grandma adopted both my brother and me from our family. I was very blessed
for my grandma to want to raise my brother and me.
One of the many ways she takes care of me is she take’s me to my basketball games.
She loves to watch me play . I believe she like’s to watch me play because my mom
played. I wear my mother’s number, 25. My mother was knownfor being one of the
best platers to come out of our county. I hope to be like herbecause I know it makes
my grandma happy.
Another reason she should be AARP grandparent of the year, is she take’s care of all
our school stuff . She drives us to school and back everyday. She help’s us with with
our home work, she even makes it fun. She tries to get us what we need or want
especially school. She doesn’t have much money but she always take care of us.
Th e most important thing is how much she loves us. She’s always there for us.
Granny don’t pick favorites and she’s always fair. She even take’s us to church so we
can learn about the love of God.
Th roughout the time she has raised us she has fought cancer. During this time I
was worried I could lose her too. We decided to help her like she has helped us. She
was very tired at this time. So my brother and me cooked meals for her. My brother
cooked in the morning while I cooked in the evening. But his eggs were not as good
as grannys. Th ankfully granny got better so I wouldn’t have to eat his eggs anymore.
As you can see my grandma should be AARP Kentucky grandparent of the year.
She goes above and beyond what a grandparent does. We love her with all our heart
and I would be lost with out her. Ava Farnham~Eden Elementary~Inez, KY
Winner District
Sam Dobson. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First
McCracken County
Julianne Holmes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Second
Webster County
Lily McIntosh . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Th ird
Todd County RTA
Annabelle Brockman . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fourth
Taylor County
Whittani Ritter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Fift h
Bullitt County RTA
None . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff erson
Mason Meadows . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Central KY East
Garrard County RTA
Phoenix Yates . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Central KY West
Mercer County RTA
Madisyn Spurlock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Middle Cumberland
Wayne County RTA
Aubrey Hall . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Northern
Grant County RTA
Carley Hope Fultz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Upper Cumberland
Clay County RTA
Kylan Combs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Upper KY River
Breathitt County RTA
Ava Farnham . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Big Sandy
Martin County RTA
Naydine Kiestler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eastern
Rowan County RTA
Cathy G. Gullett 20 Year State Leadership AwardIn 2019 the KRTA Executive Council voted to name the state volunteer leadership
recognition award aft er the late Cathy G. Gullett. Volunteer was at the core of
Past KRTA President Cathy Gullett. During the
fi rst Executive Council meeting which Cathy
attended, representing the Big Sandy District, she
posed this question, “How does this organization
recognize their volunteer leaders?”
Th e award established in her honor recognizes
volunteers who have served as a state offi cer,
a member of the executive council, district
president, or a state committee (Membership
and Recruitment, Health and Insurance, and
Legislative) member for 10, 15, and 20 years. At
the 2019 Convention, there were 40 recipients of
this award who were recognized.
Th e following people received this honor in 2020.
Th ere were no 20 Year awards.
Gerald Preston . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Years
Johnson County—Big Sandy
Jane Dalton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 Years
Wayne County—Middle Cumberland
Darl Henley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Years
Crittenden County—First
Golden Hale . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 Years
Knott County—Upper KY River
2016-2017 President, Cathy Gullett
District Members Gained
Jeff erson 55
First 32
Big Sandy 28
Second 14
Upper KY River 13
Local Members Gained
Bluegrass 30
Johnson 24
Boone 23
Madison 22
Taylor 21
Pulaski 13
Mercer 11
Calloway 9
Harrison 9
Daviess/McLean 8
Whitley 8
Th e “Top Hat Award” is given to the top ten locals and the top fi ve districts for their
number of members gained over the previous membership year and are presented
at the dinner the night before the convention
begins. Betty Hester, Membership Co-chair,
created the “Yes We Did” and “Top Hat”
awards. Th e “Yes We Did” awards appeared in
the March issue of KRTA News.
Betty Hester, Membership Co-chair
Top Hat Awards
Jessica Jewell (Ava’s Teacher), Ava
Farnham and Principal Shane Staff ord
JULY 2020 KRTA NEWS PAGE 7
(Continued from “Kentucky Retired Teachers” Page 1)
MEMBERSHIP . . .
Focus on KRTA . . . Because We are All in this Together!by Betty Hester
Trying to get everyone in our local associations to focus and help is a real job I know!
But our Committee members shared real experiences in membership building at
our annual meeting held on-line on May 18. Each member then came away from
the meeting with new ideas and a renewed determination to win those inactive
retirees who need to be reminded of our responsibility to focus on the tasks before
us. We want every retired teacher to share in the joy of belonging; but, in addition
to that, we need everyone to help because we are all in this together.
When it comes to what KRTA represents and that we “are the only organization in
the state that has as its main purpose to look out for the welfare of retired educators,”
every retired teacher in our local associations should be on board to help. So it is
the focus of the Membership Committee to build KRTA . . . for our pension, health
insurance, and the stability of TRS and the Board we elect! Just as important, we
feel responsible for helping with the advocacy in Frankfort and Washington DC on
retired teacher issues!
Each Committee member represents one of our 14 districts across the state. We
looked at the results of their eff orts over the past year, each trying to determine a
strategy for improvement. Th e 2020-2021 Local and District Goals have been set.
As with every year, they are based on the idea that just a little more eff ort in the
coming year can mean rewards for each local and district. I’m asking you to move
forward just 1 or 2 tenths of a percent before January 20, 2021. Th at can earn for
you the “Yes We Did” award. And . . . accomplishing that can mean other awards
for your local or district association.
Th e new goal for this membership year is 32,821. Th e use of the tools we have
available will make the job much easier in reaching that goal. Th ese recruitment
tools are available from the offi ce:
Pink Sheet for recruiting, with detailed list of benefi ts
FACT Sheet with complete descriptions of benefi ts
Reminder forms for soliciting membership payments
Using the KRTA News, your stories of taking advantage of benefi ts of belonging
are evident. Th ey are savings through dental, vision, long-term care plan, car
insurance, home insurance, life insurance, pet insurance, just to name a few—all
of this is a “telling experience” that no one knows unless you tell it. Face to face
with your former co-workers can bring results that I can’t get with someone I don’t
know. Th is is how a local association works—with everyone fi lling a position. Th at’s
why I’ve always encouraged to work membership building with a committee, not
just one person. LET’S FOCUS AND GET THE JOB DONE BECAUSE NUMBERS
COUNT!
economy each month.
In addition to retirees volunteering hours to the community, they also donate food
to local food banks, backpack programs, churches and schools.
In 2019 KRTA members documented 867,976 volunteer hours. Th e Independent
Sector was used as the source for assigning the value of each volunteer hour at
$21.17 for Kentucky. Th e national value of a volunteer hour is $25.43.
Members donated 23,322 food items and 2,459 bags of school supplies valued at
over $18,161,570.
Each donation has value; whether it be hours of work donated to schools, hospitals,
local agencies or schools; bags of school supplies or bags/boxes of food.
KRTA uses a formula to arrive at $.77 for each food item and $15.37 for each bag
of school supplies.
Debby Murrell, CoChair
Membership Committee
Lessons of the Geese
Geese fl ying in a V-formation have always been a welcome sign of spring as well
as a sign that heralds the coming of winter. Not only is this a marvelous sight, but
there are some remarkable lessons that we can learn from the fl ight of the geese
signifi cant to us as members of KRTA. As we continue to embrace the challenges
of pension reform, health and insurance and other legislative issues pertinent to
Kentucky’s retired teachers, the lessons of the geese fi t directly into our goals and
purposes.
As each goose fl aps its wings, it creates an uplift for others behind it. Th ere is 71
percent more fl ying range in V-formation than in fl ying alone.
Lesson: People who share a common direction and sense of
purpose can get there more quickly traveling on the support and
momentum generated from the team.
Whenever a goose fl ies out of formation, it feels drag and resistance and tries to get
back into position.
Lesson: It’s harder to do something alone than together. Th e sense
of community emerges from a willingness to work together as a
team.
When the lead goose gets tired, it rotates back into formation and another goose
fl ies at the head.
Lesson: Shared leadership and interdependence gives us each a
chance to lead as well as an opportunity to rest.
Th e geese fl ying in the rear of the formation honk to encourage those up front to
keep up their speed.
Lesson: Encouragement is motivating. We need to make sure our
“honking” is encouraging—and not discouraging. Uplift ing words
of support and inspiration help energize those on the front line
helping them keep pace in spite of the day-to-day pressures and
fatique.
When a goose gets sick or wounded and falls, two geese fall out and stay with it until
it revives or dies. Th en they catch up or join another fl ock.
Lesson: We may all need help from time to time. We should stand
by our colleagues in diffi cult times.
Let us continue to be helpful to one another; to encourage
each other to be the best we can be; to celebrate the victories
we have gained during our 60 + years as a viable organization
for Kentucky’s retired teachers. For it is, indeed, a reward,
a challenge and a privilege to fl y in V Formation with the
Kentucky Retired Teachers Association Team.
Prepared, Augmented, Edited, Revised
by
Shirley Dick Wolf
KRTA - President-Elect 2017
The Energizer Bunny Hops to Frankfort!
Membership letters should be in the homes of inactive
retirees and those folks who are on cash basis for
membership renewal.
Now would be a great time to fi ll out the automatic
dues deduction card—the “white card” like Debby
(AKA Energizer Bunny) is holding. By completing this
form and returning it to us, dues will automatically be
deducted from the November annuity check. Wouldn’t
it be nice to never worry about keeping your dues up
to date?
When a member recruits someone to fi ll out the “white
card,” a $5 donation will be made by KRTA to the local
association of the recruiter. Simply put your name and
your local association on the back of the “white card.”
Shirley Dick Wolf
PAGE 8 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
Do Illegal Robocalls Have Your
Phone Ringing Off the Hook?
Does this scenario sound familiar?
You’re in the middle of dinner and your
phone rings. Maybe the number looks
familiar. Perhaps the fi rst few digits are
the same as your number … you may
even be looking at your entire number.
You answer the call, and on the other
end is not a live person but instead … a
robotic voice.
You are the recipient of a robocall. While
many robocalls are made by legitimate
entities looking to conduct legitimate
business, it is estimated that 40% of all
robocalls are fraudulent.
How It Works
• Illegal robocalls made by scammers
oft en use “spoofi ng” technology
to mask their true origin, and may
change the caller ID to look similar
to your own phone number. A recent
AARP study showed that 59% of us
are more likely to answer if the caller
ID shows a local area code.
• Th e robotic voice on the other
end might claim to represent a
utility, a name-brand company or
a government agency, or it may
off er you a free trip, cheap health
insurance or a low-interest loan.
• You may be prompted to press “1” to
be removed from the list.
What You Should Know
• Illegal robocalls make up a fast-
growing share of phone traffi c,
making it all the more important to
be on guard for automated scams.
• Even just pressing a key or answering
a question alerts scammers that
they’ve hit on a “live” number, and
your number will be added to even
more lists that are bought and sold
among criminals.
What You Should Do
• Let calls go to voicemail or your
answering machine if you aren’t
100% sure who is calling you. Listen
to the message and if it’s a threat
from a government agency, a utility
company or some other entity, know
that it is a scam.
• If you do pick up on a suspicious
robocall, once you realize it’s
suspicious, hang up without
engaging. If the caller claims to be
from a legitimate-sounding entity,
hang up and call that entity on a
YOUR HEALTH & SAFETY . . .
Popular Scams To Avoid . . .
number you know to belong to
them.
• Explore free and low-cost call-
blocking options, such as apps and
services that screen calls and weed
out spam and scams. Ask your
phone service provider if it off ers
any such tools.
• Report scam calls to the proper
authorities. Every report helps
authorities piece together a fuller
picture of what scammers are
doing.
When it comes to fraud, vigilance is
our number one weapon. You have
the power to protect yourself and your
loved ones from scams.
AARP Fraud Watch Network
Let’s Talk About Your Health . . .
—Margaret Head Sims
KRTA Co-Chair for Health and Insurance
As I have said many times, turning 65 does have its advantages,
especially when it comes to the healthcare of our Kentucky
teacher retirees. Once a teacher signs up for Medicare and
health insurance through TRS of Kentucky, then there is never
anything else to do to ensure that great benefi ts will be available
from now on.
Th ere is never any more worry about open enrollment, because
there is none. Th ere is never any worry about choosing any
health insurance, because Kentucky teacher retirees over 65 have the best insurance
of anyone in the state. We have Jane Gilbert to thank for the coverage that we enjoy
with our UH Medicare Advantage Plan.
It is very important that we understand that there are always companies out there
wanting to sell us more health insurance. Please remember that if you should take
health insurance with another company, TRS of Kentucky will “cut you loose” from
our policy and you will NEVER be allowed to come back onto our coverage.
If you receive insurance sales information in the mail regarding buying other health
insurance, tear it up. If you receive a phone call wanting to sell you any form of
supplemental insurance, hang up. Every teacher over 65 already has the best health
insurance. Don’t mess with a good thing! I am always available to answer your
questions. Feel free to contact me.
Your Medical Identity is a Hot Commodity for Scammers
When we get medical care, we typically provide health insurance. It’s something
we expect, and it may not raise any red fl ags.
Unfortunately, scammers know this. And, with our health top of mind right now,
they have no problem trying to take advantage. Th eir goal is to steal your medical
identity — to fraudulently bill insurers or Medicare, or to sell it so others can get
free care in your name.
How It Works
• Someone asks for your Medicare or insurance number as part of a health care
“survey” or off er of free medical products or services.
• Scammers set up fake coronavirus testing sites in an attempt to get passersby to
drive up and hand over health insurance or Medicare information.
• Criminals “dumpster dive” or steal mail looking for health insurance or
Medicare information.
What You Should Know
• Medical identity theft can lead to huge fi nancial losses and complications,
including legal and medical costs, badly damaged credit, and aggressive
medical debt collectors haranguing victims for years.
• If someone uses your medical identity to get treatment, it could result in
treatment delays, incorrect prescriptions and even misdiagnoses for you.
What You Should Do
• Share your Medicare or health insurance information only with providers you
know and trust — not with a stranger off ering “free” medical care or equipment
• Carefully review Medicare or health insurance statements and bills and report
unauthorized charges immediately.
• Shred all paperwork related to your
medical care before discarding it.
6 Steps To A Stronger Memory
1. Learn something
Stimulating the brain helps it develop
a resilience that allows us to fi ght off
diseases like Alzheimer’s, says Paul
D. Nussbaum, Ph.D., of neurological
surgery at the University of Pittsburgh
School of Medicine who has been
working with AARP on its brain health
program. “Age doesn’t matter,” he says.
“We have the ability to shape our brains
throughout our lives.”
2. Walk with a friend
Gary Small, M.D., a psychiatrist, calls
this a triple threat against Alzheimer’s
disease: It gives you a cardio-vascular
workout, stress-relieving social
interaction and mentally stimulating
conversation.
3. Sleep
Getting fewer than six hours of sleep
a night can raise the risk of stroke,
according to Associated Professional
Sleep Societies meeting.
4. Eat right
More than half your plate should be
fi lled with green vegetables. Get plenty
of fi sh, nuts and olive oil, and steer clear
of refi ned carbs. A Columbia University
study found that this kind of diet may
help ward off Alzheimer’s.
5. Challenge yourself
“Th e number one memory complaint is
bad with names,” says neurologist Majid
Fotuhi, M.D., Ph.D. His prescription:
Memorize three names a day—such as
those of an announcer on TV, a person
in your company and a player on your
favorite sports team.
6. Meditate
Reduced anxiety improves blood fl ow
to the brain. A quick calm- me-down:
Inhale for a count of seven, hold for
a count of seven, exhale or a count of
seven. Repeat seven times.
JULY 2020 KRTA NEWS PAGE 9
AROUND THE STATE . . .
Edmonson County RTA
Campbell County RTA
Barren County RTA
Kenton County RTA
Lee County RTA
Madison County RTA
Menifee County RTA
Third District RTA
Barren County/Glasgow
RTA recognized Madison
Johnson, fi ft h grade student
from Hiseville Elementary,
as the local winner of the
KRTA/AARP Grandparent
Essay Contest. Madison
shared her special story
about her grandfather, Bobby
Simpson. She received a
certificate and monetary
award. Shown here are, left
to right: Lead Teacher, Keri
Mosier; Fift h grade teacher,
Miranda Phillips; Principal, Shari Alexander; Mother, Nia Johnson; Madison and her
grandfather Bobby; and local committee member, Cindy Jackson.
The March meeting was
held in Alexandria at
the Highland Country
Club. Fift y members were
in attendance to listen
to Margaret Head Sims
tell of the many benefi ts
available to both the Under
65 KEHP and Over 65 MEHP members. Members brought in 21 gift s to be given as door
prizes. Terry Lightfoot is President of Campbell County RTA.
Th ere was a good turnout
for a Saturday meeting of
the Edmonson County
R e t i re d Te a ch e rs i n
Brownsville in February.
Th e program on Under 65
KEHP and Over 65 MEHP
insurance was given by
Margaret Head Sims,
KRTA State Co-Chair for
Health and Insurance. Bobby Joe Duncan is President of the Edmonson County RTA.
Kenton Co. Retired Teachers held their meeting December 10 at the Gardens of Park Hills with 86 in attendance.
Pictured here is the speaker, K e n t o n C o . S c h o o l s Superintendent, Dr. Henry Webb, in the center with J.B. Losey, KCRTA President on the left and Pat Workman, Vice President on the right.
Th e March meeting of the Lee County Retired Teachers in Beattyville featured a program on
insurance benefi ts available to both the Under 65 KEHP and Over 65 MEHP members.Th e
Program was given by Margaret Head Sims, KRTA State Co-Chair for Health and Insurance.
Lee County RTA is maintaining a 100% membership in KRTA. Willie Addison is President
of the Lee County RTA.
M C R T A c o n t r i b u t e d more than 100 b a c k p a c k s , fl eece blankets a n d s t u f f e d animals to the Department for C o m m u n i t y Based Services.
This organization supervises the safety and well-being of Madison County children. President Judy Baugh organized this drive to benefi t foster children who must be hastily removed from one location to another.
Liz Mattox delivered the Backpack
Program foods to Melanie Golden,
FRYSC director. There were 15
grocery bags of easily opened and
prepared foods for kids who have been
identifi ed as needing a boost to their
weekend food sources. Melanie was
very appreciative of MCRTA for helping
support this program. Cora Brewington
got to see the program in action with her
identifi ed students and says it’s a very
worthwhile program! Here is a picture
of Melanie and Liz—unfortunately they
are standing in front of the two boxes
holding all the other bags of food! Melanie Golden and Liz Mattox
A great time was had by all at the Th ird District Retired Teachers Meeting in Bowling Green
in February. Margaret Head Sims spoke on the great insurance that all retirees, both Under
65 KEHP and Over 65 MEHP, have as a retirement benefi t for having taught in Kentucky.
Carol Gard is Program Chair and Arthur Green is President of the Th ird District RTA.
PAGE 10 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
Wayne County RTA
Th e March meeting of the Wayne County Retired Teachers was held in Monticello with
Margaret Head Sims presenting a program on the Under 65 KEHP and Over 65 MEHP
insurance. Jane Dalton, President of Wayne County RTA, is currently serving on the Executive
Council.
(Continued from “Volunteer” Page 1)
Volunteer of the Year
Nominees Nominee District
Kathy Mowery . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . First
Calloway County
Ruth Lature . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Second
Christian County
David Shultz. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Th ird
Ohio County RTA
Julia Richardson . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fourth
Etown/Hardin/Larue
Sandy Perry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Fift h
Henry County RTA
None . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Jeff erson
Geneva Duncil . . . . . . . . . . Central KY East
Lee County RTA
Sioux Finney. . . . . . . . . . . . Central KY West
Woodford County RTA
Rosemary Sparr. . . . . .Middle Cumberland
Casey County RTA
Shirley Miller . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Northern
Campbell County RTA
None . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Upper Cumberland
Sharon Roberts . . . . . . . . . Upper KY River
Knott County RTA
Hobert Dye . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Big Sandy
Pike County RTA
Cora Brewington. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Eastern
Menifee County RTA
as fees are waived when necessary. Th e
majority of students who voluntarily
spend a portion of their Saturdays in
structured tutoring provided by trained
volunteers become successful both in
school and in their careers. Students
who once could not read successfully
learned how to do so through this
approach to reading instruction. Th ey
gained the skills they needed from Mrs.
Lature and her tutoring staff .
In addition to her local teaching
responsibilities, Ruth Lature spent
her personal time assisting in the
weekly tutoring sessions and preparing
instructional materials. Additionally,
she spoke to local civic groups such as
the Chamber of Commerce and the
United Way. She spoke at school open
house events and prepared numerous
exhibits of the program. All of this
was done through her concern for
the children, not for personal gain.
Although, at times, there were paid
tutors, she never earned a salary in her
position as director of the program.
Aft er her retirement, Ruth continued to
assist as needed. Th e Dyslexia program
is thriving because of her eff orts. It is
a member agency in the United Way
through her eff orts and those of the
Dyslexia Association board members.
Now that she has more time to do so,
she volunteers in numerous community
activities. She has also published a book,
Dyslexia: A Teacher’s Journey, about her
journey through the years of developing
and nurturing the Dyslexia program.
She has received many honors for her
devotion to children. She is a member of
the International Dyslexia Association
and the Kentucky Dyslexia Association.
Prior to the establishment of a Kentucky
chapter, Mrs. Lature served fi ve years
on the board of the Tennessee Dyslexia
Association. She accepted an invitation
to attend the Tennessee International
Conference in April 2020. Th ere she was
going to assist in evaluating teaching
materials. In 2017 she was inducted
into the Oak Leaf Society of the IDA
honoring a 25-year membership.
Mrs. Lature has been called a pioneer in
Kentucky’s eff orts to meet the needs of
at-risk students. She has a true servant’s
heart, and through her diligence, no one
need be left behind in reading, writing
or math skills. Although her greatest
recognition comes from those students
she served, it is our honor to recognize
Mrs. Ruth Lature as the Christian
County Retired Teachers Association
Volunteer of the Year and the Kentucky
Retired Teachers Association for 2020.
KRTA will honor Mrs. Lature at the
2021 Convention.
communication options. Until that time “Stay Safe!” and stay engaged online with KRTA.
FALL WORKSHOPS
As stated earlier, Fall Workshops will be held in an online platform this year. Th e State Committee Co-Chairs are working to
create an informative, entertaining and enjoyable experience for our members this fall. Stay tuned—while it won’t be the same
as meeting in person with our members, it is my hope that we will be able to get vital information to more of our members
through this platform.
ELECTIONS
Let us not forget that elections have consequences. On November 3, 2020, all members of the Kentucky House of Representatives
and half of the members of the Kentucky State Senate are up for election. KRTA is non-partisan and does NOT support
candidates; however, these elected offi cials will be making decisions about the fi nancial security of retired teachers. It is vital
that our members are informed of the positions these candidates have in regard to the retired teacher issues. Stay tuned as we
plan to off er ways to get to know the candidates in your location.
As the only organization whose sole mission is to look out for the welfare of Kentucky’s Retired Teachers, we will continue to
get information to you about happenings in Frankfort and Washington D.C. that impact our members.
(Continued from “Personally Speaking” Page 2)
JULY 2020 KRTA NEWS PAGE 11
ORDER FORM
KRTA MEMBERSHIP PIN
Please send _______ pins @ $3.50 each to
_________________________________
_________________________________
_________________________________
Enclosed is the check in the amount of $__________.
Send completed Order Form to: KRTA
7505 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40291-3234
FOR YOUR INFORMATIONKRTA OFFICE
800.551.7979 ~ 502.231.5802
[email protected] (e-mail) www.krta.org (website)
KRTA LEGALINE
800.232.1090
Rebecca Murrell Louisville, Kentucky
KRTA FINANCE & INVESTMENT INFO
Hank Hensley 800.927.0030
DELTA DENTAL/VSP INSURANCE
800.955.2030 or www.deltadentalky.com/KRTA
AVESIS KRTA VISION PLAN
Enrollment 800.466.5182 ~ Provider Questions 800.828.9341
www.avesis.com
BAY ALARM MEDICAL
877.522.9633 www.bayalarmmedical.com/krta
FIRST CHOICE PROTECTION
Home Protection 502.709.5645 www.1stchoiceprotection.com
AUTOMOBILE & HOMEOWNERS INSURANCE
Liberty Mutual Insurance Company
888.504.0156 ext. 51690 or 502.710.0553
HEARING INSTRUMENT PLANS
Hear in America
800.286.6149 or www.hearinamerica.com
Heuser Hearing Institute
800.912.9981 or https://thehearinginstitute.org
TEACHERS’ RETIREMENT SYSTEM OF KY
800.618.1687 or www.trs.ky.gov
COMMONWEALTH CREDIT UNION
800.228.6420 / 502-564-4775 or www.ccuky.org
COMFORT KEEPERS
866.676.9888 or www.comfortkeepers.com
HOME INSTEAD SENIOR CARE
866.886.6831 or www.homeinstead.com
HOME HELPERS HOME CARE
800.216.4196 or www.homehelpershomecare.com
NORTH AMERICAN LIFE PLANS including LifeLock
888.362.1214 or 502-553-7630
www.krtabenefi ts.com
TRAVEL
Air Land Sea Travel LLC. 502.873-5610 or [email protected]
HEALTH INSURANCE
65+ (MEHP) United Healthcare 844-518-5877
Express Scripts 877-866-5834
KYRx Coalition 855-218-5979 Edumedics 855-210-8514
Silver Sneakers for MEHP 888-423-4632
Under 65 (KEHP) Anthem BCBS 844-402-KEHP
CVS Caremark 866-601-6934 KEHP 888.581.8834
Q uips, Quotes & Puzzles
To read the papers and listen to the news on TV,
you’d think there was no hope. But what makes this
the wonderful nation it is, keeps right on happening
—quietly.
—the hard-working, dedicated school teachers
trying to work their way through a bureaucratic
jungle in order to help a child learn.
—the countless nurses and young interns who
won’t quit at the end of their shift , but instead take
the time to go back to the bedside of a frightened
child or a desperately lonely elderly person.
—the volunteers who donate weekends to repair
a widow’s leaking roof and broken windows.
—the young men and women who risk
everything—their security and savings—to launch a
business in order to create something worthwhile.
—the parents who deny themselves necessities
to give their children health and educational
advantages they never had.
—underpaid pastors, hard-working fund raisers,
and especially those young men and women in
uniform who off er their futures and their lives to
their country.
Th ere may be no news in good news like this, but
it helps us prove that our nation and its citizens
have the potential to help change the world.
Recently I went through some old fi les that Betty Hester left behind when she was
the KRTA Editor. I found the following on the back of a September 1998 calendar
from Capital Printing. I read it and thought, “Not much has changed in the past 22
years.” See what you think.
Brenda Meredith, Editor
Number Fun
Directions:
Arrange the
numbers 1-9
(except 5) in the
circles so each
circle, when
connected with its
opposite, totals 15.
Solution can be
found on
Page 5
PAGE 12 KRTA NEWS JULY 2020
Deceased Retired TeachersJANUARY, FEBRUARY, MARCH, APRIL 2020“. . .these immortal dead who live again in minds made better by their presence . . .”
KRTA STAFF
Tim Abrams
Executive Director
Janie Caslowe
Deputy Executive Director
Jan Abrams
Special Events Coordinator
Emily Carey
office manager
Betty Hester
Database Administrator
Charlotte Lindley
Receptionist
Kentucky Retired Teachers Assn.
7505 Bardstown Road
Louisville, KY 40291-3234
502-231-5802
1-800-551-7979
[email protected] (e-mail)
www.krta.org (web site)
OFFICE HOURS
mon.- fri. 8:30 am - 4:00 pm
KRTA NEWS
KRTA NEWS Express
Brenda Meredith, Editor
KRTA OFFICERS
Sue Ellen Caldwell, president
Bill Kelley, president-elect
Harold Wilson, past president
ADAIR CO
Ramona Barbee
Sara Burris
ALLEN CO
Doral Conner
Ann Stewart
BARREN CO
Carrie Newberry
Renna Page
Helen Russell
Michael Smith
Charles Th ompson
Zelma Turner
BATH CO
Freda Ellington
BELL CO
Silas Goodin
Imogene Rose
BOONE CO
Anna Dunn
Don Fernandez
Ernest Hahn
Orland Hoskins
Roberta Jones
Patty Mills
Ben Powell
BOURBON CO
Jessie Spears
BOYD CO
Christine Burgess
Wilma Hemlepp
BOYLE CO
Judith Dickey
James Ledford III
BRACKEN CO
Daniel Seithers
BULLITT CO
Doris Garrison
BUTLER CO
Robert Green
Ruth Weed
CALDWELL CO
Elizabeth Cayce
Shirley Fritz
Talonna McCormick
William McCormick
CALLOWAY CO
Concetta Culliver
Harold Eversmeyer
K George
Mary Hammack
Jules Harcourt
Cary Miller
Donald Story
CAMPBELL CO
Glenda Painter
Jerry Sebastian
Fred Williams
CARROLL CO
Ann Deatherage
Henry Williams Jr
CARTER CO
Audrey Danner
Betty Patton
CASEY CO
Sherman Richards
CHRISTIAN CO
Namon Grenead
Carolyn Johnston
William McConnell
CLARK CO
Gary Coyle
Lillah Farmer
Virginia Luttrell
Judith Stone
CLAY CO
Florence Farmer
Beulah Gray
Mildred Sandlin
CLINTON CO
Mary Craft
DAVIESS CO
James Bradley
Richard Burgraff
Barbara Cockrum
EDMONSON
James White
EKU
Arlene Cooper
Fred Francis
Bonnie Hume
Jerry Perry
Leslie Ramsdell
ESTILL CO
Bobbie Johnson
Ica Mays
FAYETTE CO
Margaret Brown
Betty Clarke
Johnny Combs
Cathy Crowley
Judith Delaney
Albert Evans
Elizabeth Fugazzi
Anita Gaynor
Ann Greis
Constance Huff man
Wanda Klein
Deborah Laboone
Joyce Leininger
Elva Littrell
Edith McClelland
Betty Mills
Robert Morris
Faith Osborne
Jo Robertson
Daniel Rutledge
Jo Shelton
Joan Vice
Marjorie Walden
Priscilla Weaver
Lillie White
FLEMING CO
Marian Bernard
FLOYD CO
Hope Blackburn
Constance Gearheart
Clara Johnson
Ray Jones
Frank McGuire Jr
Ruth Patterson
Evelyn Smith
FRANKLIN CO
Joanne Brooks
Ruth Lockyer
Irene Muth
Rose Polsgrove
Clarence Salyer
Evalyn Verhey
GARRARD CO
Betty Murphy
GRANT CO
William Garrett
Linda Webster
GRAVES CO
Laverne Waldrop
Billy Watkins
Edward Wright
GRAYSON CO
Noye Cain
Jack Golden
Joseph Link
GREEN CO
Joyce Ward
GREENUP CO
Saundra Carte
Patricia Hamilton
HARDIN CO
William Edwards
Jackson Holman
Patricia Lirot
William McKinley
Kathryn Richardson
Woodrow Will
HARLAN CO
Betty Buttermore
Pauline Estes
Louise Jones
Banna Smith
HARRISON CO
Peggy Dunn
William Nichols
HART CO
Betty Bryant
David Lindsey
HENDERSON CO
Virginia Collins
Sammie Dixon
Elizabeth Embry
Betty Knight
Bobby Liles
Juanita Martin
Sandra Woodard
HOPKINS CO
Brenda Glover
Rebecca Hayes
John Hicklin
Shirley Kembel
Joyce Laff oon
Bobby May
Mary Osburn
Donald Parson
William Prow
Rosemary Purdy
Mildred Ramage
Mary Ramsey
Villa Townsend
JEFFERSON CO
Bonnie Abner
Dorothy Backey
William Bacon
Bonnie Baer
Elsie Beeler
Joyce Bolton
Betty Boyer
William Brown
Vinceredus Buford
Joyce Bullitt
Nelda Cannon
Barbara Childers
Sarah Copley
Gail Culver
Russell Day
Garnet Dixon
Joyce Edelen
Th omas Elliott
Mary Eschels
Donald Fightmaster
Mary Glauber
Erna Gwinn
Judith Hardin
Kathleen Harding
Dorothy Harmon
James Haswell
Minnie Herndon
Janet Hoenig
Betsy Holton
Jill Ireland
Floyd Krick
Garnett Lane
Lucile Leggett
Clift on Lewis Jr
Minnie Macaulay
Olive Mackey
Georgia Macy
Mary Mahin
Alice Martin
Cynthia McHolland
Samuel McKenna
Berl Meyer
Betty Miles
John Miller
Margaret Moore
Jean Newman
Joseph Perry Jr
Michael Piper
Harmon Register
June Richards
Nikki Schweinbeck
Cynthia Sexton
Bennie Sheeley
Patricia Slover
Clarence Smith
Deforest Summerville
Sara Th omas
Patricia Tierney
Virginia Tuttle
Stuart Watts
Katherine Wheat
Julia Wilson
Delma Yates
Gregory Youngblood
JESSAMINE CO
Martha Farris
Philip Stewart
JOHNSON CO
Vaughnie Cantrill
Annettia Combs
Wallace Conley
KENTON CO
Lillian Arrowood
Th elma Jones
Steven Kiefer
James Lykins
Jerry Potinsky
Emil Sell
Marsha Stenzel
Bernice Webb
Richard Williams
KNOTT CO
Velma Hall
Peggy Watson
KNOX CO
Ernest Bennett
Frances Dunn
Clara Hammons
Larry Mills
Debra Soper
LARUE CO
Ann Gray
John Poteet
LAUREL CO
Joyce Cobb
Hiram Cornett
Alan McDaniel
Margaret Rose
Carl Weaver
LEE CO
Edith Little
LESLIE CO
Dorothy Gay
Mary Napier
LETCHER CO
William Greer
Curtis King
LEWIS CO
Doris Chinn
Tyrone Sauley
LINCOLN CO
Helen Francis
Marjorie Gooch
Dorothy Hackley
Wilma McCulley
Mary Morrow
LOGAN CO
Emma Kendrick
Th omas McCall
Lana Vincent
LYON CO
Th omas Buchanan
Jennie Weill
Margaret Wilford
MADISON CO
William Hendren
Wanda Jones
Elmo Moretz
Ronald Stambaugh
MAGOFFIN CO
Donnie Arnett
MARION CO
Kay Carlew
William Weatherford
MARSHALL CO
Boyce Clayton
Doris Crutchfi eld
Howard Powell
Nancy Solomon
MARTIN CO
Willa Robinson
MASON CO
Deborah Booher
MCCRACKEN CO
Lyman Gullett
Evelyn Hensley
Josephine Malone
Roy Ramage
MCCREARY CO
Irma Ross
MCLEAN CO
Monna Hayes
Gilda Settle
METCALFE CO
Ruth Butler
Hurshel Toms
MONROE CO
Virginia Brown
Tony Gumm
MORGAN CO
Larry Adams
Kenneth Cottle
Rita Davis
Olen Gamble
Dolores Jones
NICHOLAS CO
Charles Wilson
OLDHAM CO
Darrell Th urman
OWEN CO
Lillian Martin
OWSLEY CO
Teresa Cann
Dorothy Turner
PENDELTON CO
Bruce Gosney
PERRY CO
Susan Melton
PIKE CO
James Bartley
Karen Biliter
Stella Blankenship
Goldenia Frazier
POWELL CO
Geneva Pence
Beverly Porter
PULASKI CO
Wilma Burton
Elizabeth Spillman
Murrell Stewart
Bobby Sullivan
Geneva Taylor
ROCKCASTLE CO
Gatliff Craig
Nancy Parkerson
James Wells
ROWAN CO
John Brock
Dermalene Brown
Louise Brown
James Knoll
Claude Meade
Nadine Reynolds
Wanda StaleyL
SCOTT CO
Bob Barlow
Katherine Gaines
Joan Kille
Ann Sanderson
Betty Wise
SHELBY CO
Joyce Dotson
Joseph Hays
Jo McGavic
Rita Ridley
SIMPSON CO
Lisa Grow
SPENCER CO
Alice Bayne
David Nedros
Amelia Tyra
TAYLOR CO
Roger Barnett
Susan Davis
Phyllis Early
Sue Parrott
TODD CO
Grace Miller
WARREN CO
Ralph Bernard
Bonnie Blanton
Gary Boyd
Josephine Brown
Katherine Bunting
Emily Cunningham
George Goble
Sydna Griffi n
Elizabeth Honeycutt
Vanous Lloyd
William McMahon
Vernon Sheeley
Lou Travelsted
John Vokurka
Donald Wendt
Edward Whalen
Jane Wilkinson
Doris Wilson
WASHINGTON CO
Dianne Lutz
WEBSTER CO
Florence Brown
Dara Frost
WHITLEY CO
Belva Goins
Marcella Mountjoy
Earl Siler
WOODFORD CO
Wayford Metzger