Archives
2009 Luncheons
Thursday, December 17,2009 - Inverness Country Club
Thursday, October 22,2009 - Belmont Country Club
Eighty-seven members and guest attended the LCRTA luncheon and meeting held October 22, 2009 at Belmont Country Club. Samantha Long and Melissa Eickholt were awarded teaching scholarships. Kathleen Brunt thanked us for the contributions to the Friendly Center. Everyone enjoyed the tasty chicken dinner with the delicious apple dumpling. The Belmont Country Club also had many positive comments. Many members shared that is was a “Great meal and it was a lovely setting !”, “ Great to see young people so positive as they begin their teaching careers!”, and the “Friendly Center project very worthwhile”.
50/50 Raffle Winner
Barbara Gilmore won $62.00 at the luncheon from the 50/50 raffle.
Scholarship Recipients
The Arthur White Memorial Scholarship for $1000.00 went to Samantha Long, a senior at the University of Toledo majoring in Middle School Education of math and science.
While the Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship for $1000.00 went to Melissa Eickholt who had also received a scholarship from us last year. She is a 5th years senior majoring in Middle School Education with Language Arts and science.
Thursday, September 24, 2009 - Highland Meadows Golf Club
One hundred thirty-five members and guests attended the LCRTA luncheon and meeting held at Highland Meadows Country Club. Dr. Ann Baker spoke about the new children’s zoo exhibition, Nature’s Neighborhood. Also Shawna Woody from the Boys and Girls Club shared information about the Power Hour Program which is an after-school tutoring program. Our school supply donations are very much appreciated by tutors and students. Many members had positive responses about both speakers. Most members enjoyed Highland Meadows facility. Many thought the salad, rolls, and cheesecake were great, but the fettuccini with grilled chicken needed to be warmer. A new member wrote, “ Super speakers and very friendly people”. Other members shared, “Good portions for the dollar!”, “Staff was very helpful and available”, and “having Dr. Ann Baker was great!”
Welcome New Members;
Margaret Forquer, Micaela Lynch, and Emily Thayer.
50/50 Raffle Winner
Mary Hafner won $71.00 at the luncheon from the 50/50 raffle.
Door Prize Winner
Doreen Yountz won the Toledo Symphony Cookbook at the luncheon
Thursday, May 28, 2009 - Tamaron Country Club
Ninety-eight members and guests attended the LCRTA luncheon and meeting held May 28, 2009 at Tamaron Country Club. Jen Honier, Director of Marketing for WGTE presented “Any Time is Learning Time” program for low income families. Also Sara Mattson from the United Way thanks us for our children’s books donations for the second year. She discussed “Let’s Read You and Me”. Both programs had positive responses. Once member said, “Wonderful-caught me up on the programs being used!” Many of the members enjoyed the chicken marsala luncheon and the dining room with the view of the golf course. Lilly Szyskowski was the winner of the 50/50 raffle. A large number of books were collected for the United Way.
Nan Fetter & Sara Mattson
Thursday, April 23, 2009 - Toledo Botanical Gardens
April 23 was a bright sunny warm day at the Botanical Gardens the location of the second LCRTA luncheon with seventy-three members attending. A box lunch from Pam’s Corner was enjoyed by everyone. We learned first hand what students learn when they take a field trip to the Garden through the same hand-on activities they participate in. After the meeting several members continued enjoying the beautiful setting by wandering though the gardens. Collection was for Mom’s House.
Thursday, March 26, 2009 - Brandywine Country Club
The first meeting of 2009 was held at Brandywine Country Club with seventy-eight members attending. The food was delicious and John Tharp from the Lucas County Sheriff’s Office was informative. He talked about how technology was affecting the teenage population negatively and some safety measures for seniors. Collection was for Beach House.
2008 Luncheons
LCRTA Board Meeeting
December 16 - Clarion Hotel
We had 91 people fill out their evaluation forms for today’s meeting at the Clarion Hotel. In the future it would be nice if everyone would turn in their forms. The tables were decorated beautifully by Kathy Decsman and Carol Ludwig. The colors were green and red and they really sparkled.
Eighty five out of ninety one people were pleased with the location. However, some thought it was hard to hear in the room.
Teddy Bear Project
Nan Fetter introduced Sherry Dunn from Lucas County Children’s Services and she told about how she uses some of bears, that we provide, in her school program to teach about adoption and foster care. She seems to be a dedicated woman and very good at her job.
Jeff Chapman, a board member for STRS, gave us an overview about our pension fund and the problems keeping this fund solvent during this economic crisis. He explained how they have been trying to introduce HB 315 and how its presentation has been stopped. They are hoping for relief after the new congress is sworn in January first. There were some criticism that he talked too long.
The Whitmer High School Strings played for us and they were enjoyed by all.The food was given mixed reviews. Many commented that they thought that the food was too heavy for lunch time. Others were very pleased with the menu.
This was Rhea’s last meeting as president and there were many comments on the super job she has done this year. We look forward to a new year and more terrific meetings.
October 30 - The Toledo Club
One hundred forty-four members and guests attended the LCRTA meeting and luncheon October 30 at the Toledo Club. As they have many times before, Kathy Decsman and Carol Ludwig provided really attractive fall table decorations. Congresswoman, Marcy Kaptur especially commended the University of Toledo and their efforts toward researching creative alternative power sources such as solar energy and wins turbines. Marcy also spoke of the benefits of living in northwest Ohio. Most of the evaluations praised her speech. A few felt it was too political. Claudia Trombla, Scholarship Chair, introduced Frank Dick and the three Scholarship recipients. The Frank and Shirley Dick Scholarship was awarded to Rachel Perry. The two Dr. Arhtur White Scholarships were awarded to Melissa Eicholt and Lauren Bollinger. The nominees for the slate of officers for the 2009 year were then presented and accepted.
Nan Fetter, Chair of Community Participation, presented the giant thank you card that came from the Boys and Girls Club thanking us for the gifts we gave at the last meeting and thanked all who brought the many items for the Friendly Center.
Nan reminded us that at our December 16 meeting at the Clarion we will bring teddy bears for Children’s Services. Rev. Harris thanked members for their generous donations! He also gave a few remarks about the Friendly Center.
From STRS Governing Relations, 
Terri Bierdeman assured members that our retirement benefits are in excellent condition and not to worry about our monthly checks. Most of the evaluations rated the location and speaker as excellent. A few thought the food was slow in coming and a little too heavy for a lunch. Generally, the location, speaker and food were rated between excellent and positive. All of you comments and recommendations will be shared with the Board at our next Board meeting. We welcome your evaluations, comments and attendance. We look forward to seeing all of you on December 16 at the Clarion.
September 16 - Oak Openings Metropark
One hundred perople attended the LCRTA meeting and luncheon held on September 16 at Oak Openings lodge, the largest Metropark which has more rare and endangered plant species than any place else its size in Ohio as well as 50 miles of trails for walkers, cyclists and horsemen. The scenery was beautiful and the tables were nicely decorated by Kathy Descman. The weather could not have been better.
David Speas from Springfield Ohio, a former teacher, a former STRS Board Member and the author of “SagamoreOmega Wolf” mesmerized us with history about how wolves helped make him the person he is today. He brought two wolf dogs, Dakota and Kae Jae with him and we were able to pet them and talk with them. He showed beautiful pictures of wolves and educated us on how these animals live and used the wolf pack to demonstrate how responsibility is the first step to success.
Nancy Pfau from the new ProMedica Hospice reported on the philosophy of Hospice and encouraged us to become volunteers at the new building replacing Crestview, on the Flower Hospital ca
mpus.
Nan Fetter thanked everyone for bringing numerous school supplies for the Boys and Girls Club. Most of the evaluations spoke of truly enjoying the speaker, the location and the food. We welcome your evaluations and look forward to seeing you October 30 at the Toledo Club.
The 50/50 raffle was won by Susan Mag.
May 29 -Toledo Country Club
One hundred forty-four members and guests attended the LCRTA meeting and luncheon May 29 at the Toledo Country Club. Maybe a “first” that all who attended made reservations! Many commented on how attractive the setting was. The tables were very attractive with decorations by Kathy Decsman and Carol Ludwig.
Chrys Peterson, news anchor of WTOL-TV was our guest speaker. She gave an enjoyable personal history of her journailsm journey to Toledo and how much she enjoyed her job, her fellow workers and being in Toledo. Members showed their appreciation with comments such as: terrific, great, excellent. She gave us many laughs and lots of information. She graciously answered many of our questions. 
Nan Fetter, Community Participation Chair introduced the Ambassador of Reading project and then introduced Sarah Matsson from United Way. Sarah was overwhelmed by your gifts of gently used and new books for the United Way preschool reading program.
Marion Boyer, Slate editior, Erlene Bond, and Gene Conger told of their positive experience being judges for the first Lego League Tournament and they hoped many of our members would become involved and volunteer to be a judge at future contests. Most of our evlautions rated an excellent for Chrys Peterson, the location and the food. Some of the comments were a thank you for the great locations and meetings for this year. A few said that they had a wonderful afternoon. A few has problems with parking but on the whole most enjoyed the meeting. “Best” and “Great” were also used to express appreciation. Some requested the ‘garden guy” to return. We welcome your evaluations, comments and attendance. We look forward to seeing all of you on Tueday, Septmber 16.
March 26 - Inverness Country Club
One hundred and one members and guests attended the LCRTA meeting and luncheon held on March 26 at Inverness Country Club. The tables were beautifully decorated by Kathy Decsman and Carol Ludwig using the Easter theme.
Chrisitina Alvarado was the keynote speaker. She told how her family, sponsored by a church group, came to the U.S.A. from Cuba. Christina graduated with a full scholarship to the University of Toledo where she graduated with a degree in medical robotics and is employed by St. Vincent’s Hospital She plans to continue her education towards a degree in nursing. Comments on the evaluation form gave Inverness Country Club an excellent score. The food did not fare as well with only thirty excellent scores. Many members and guests
One hundred and thirty members and guests attended the LCRTA luncheon and meeting on December 17, 2009 at the Inverness Country Club. Nan Fetter, community participation chair, thanked us for the many bears and other stuffed animals for Lucas County Children Services. Everyone had positive comments about the beautifully decorated Inverness County Club. Many members enjoyed the valet parking. Most had positive comments about the luncheon. Everyone felt that the Bowsher Rebeliers show was great entertainment. The Rebeliers will be putting on “Beauty and the Beast”, March 25, 26,and 27, 2010, check with school for more details.
50/50 Raffle Winner
Nancy Wigham won $82.00 at the luncheon from the 50/50 raffle
2007 EVALUATIONS
Bobbie Burks
November General Membership Meeting
Suellen Newnham, President LCRTA and Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, UT President
Seventy-seven members and guests attended the LCRTA meeting and luncheon held on November 28 at Central Park West. The tables were beautifully decorated for the holidays by Kathy Decsman and her committee. Dr. Lloyd Jacobs, President of the University of Toledo, was the guest speaker and discussed the role of an university in the community. He said that the University of Toledo creates 10,000 jobs per year. Sherry Dunn, employee of the Lucas County Children’s Services, told the members and guests how overjoyed she was to see the vast array of teddy bears donated. Comments on the evaluation forms ranged from “beef too rare, desset too warm and sweet”, “very good, well worth the cost”, new Slate, very well done.” “Dr. Jacobs was excellent, very informative speech,” “wish coffee was served to us.” Your evaluation, attendance, comments and donations are greatly appreciated.
Lucas County Children’s Services Teddy Bear Pantry Project, Nan Fetter, Chair
Jeanne Emch, 50/50 Winner
OCTOBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
Ann Hanning, Executive Director, ORTA with Sue Hirsch
One hundred and twenty one members and guests attended the meeting at The Toledo Club, October 24. The guest speakers were Rev. Morlon Harris, Executive Director of Friendly Center who expressed his appreciation for the items and money donated. Anne Hanning, Executive Director of ORTA discussed the issues pertaining to the STRS Ohio Health Care Proposal. One evaluation stated, “Ann Hanning is always informative and does a great job. the program, location and meal were highly evaluated by members and guests. Some the the evaluations state: “Speaker outstanding”, “Wonderful to hear about the scholarship winners”, “I am a guest and I enjoyed myself”. Thanks for your evaluations. We are looking forward to seeing you at 11:30 a.m. on November 28 at Central Park West.
SEPTEMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
President Suellen Newnham and speaker Julie Marino
One hundred and eight members and guests attended the meeting at the Ward Pavillion, Wildwood Metropark, September 19. The guest speakers were Paula Lewis and Julie Marino. Paula is Director of Beach House, a family shelter for homeless people. She spoke of how the items brought to the meeting by members were most appreciated.
Julie Marino, Director of Wellness at St. Hames Health Center, discussed the importance of exercising your way to an excellent quality of life after retirement. Everyone seemed to enjoy the location at Wildwood Metropark and several took advantage of the beautiful weather to take a walk after lunch. The program was informative, however it was difficult to hear the speakers due to the poor acoustics, for which we apologize. The food was catered and delivered by Panera Bread which appeared to be enjoyed by most members and guests. Some of the evaluations stated: “You worked hard to provide this meeting. Thanks”, “Food was good, but it took too long to serve”. “Perhaps if we meet here again , we could have more than one serving line or box lunches”. We welcome your evaluations, comments and attendance. We are looking forward to seeing you at The Toledo Club.
MAY GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
The Toledo Country Club with Mike O’Rourke “The Garden Guy”
The LCRTA meeting was held at the Toledo Country Club on Wednesday, May 23, 2007. One hundred twenty-eight members and guests attended the luncheon. The guest speakers werre Sarah Mancini and Mike O’Rourke. Sarah Mancini is Assistant Director of Ronald McDonald House which provides a temporary homelike environment for families while their children receive medical care at Toledo and St. vincent Hospitals. Thanks to the members and guests who donated kitchen supplies to the Ronald McDonald House.
Mike O’Rourke, the garden guy, was entertaining and informative. Mike involved the audience by discussing and asking various questions about plants such as the knock-out roses and hydrangeas which he brought with him. Pesticides and lawn pests such as moles and grubs were also discussed. Many wonderful tips were shared by Mike and the audience. Seven plants were drawn by lucky members.
The program, location and meal were highly evaluated by members and guests. Some of the evaluations stated: “liked the lighter lunch”, “Please allow more time for eating”, “A really great meeting to end the year, terrific service”, “Exccellent meeting, very entertaining speaker”, “Lovely day spent in a beautiful place”, Fantastic speaker!, Get him again!”, “Coffee, tea service very poor,” “Nice light room, lovely decorations, fantastic speaker”. Your evaluations are greatly appreciated. Looking forward to seeing each and everyone at Wildwood Metropark, September 19.
APRIL GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
The LCRTA luncheon was held at the Belmont Country Club on Wednesday, April 18,2007. The lumcheon was attended by seventy-seven members and guests. The guest speakers were Stephanie Koehler, Director of Mom’s House. She expressed her appreciation to members and guest for the donations to Mom’s House. She also discussed the purpose of Mom’s House and the success of the single mom’s continuing thier education to reach their goals. One of her most proud mements she shared with us was whena single Mom received her Master’s degree. Scott Jeffer, the Assistant to the General Manager is the Business Operator of the Mud Hens He spoke about the past and present history of the Mud Hens and answered questions from the audience. The majority of the guests and members highly evaluated the program, location and meal. Some of the evaluations stated the following: “Enjoyed the food, lunch & program.” “Quality and amount of food was the best this year.” “Program different and interesting.” “Lovely table decorations.” “Very much worth the $ plenty of delicious food.” “Keep up the work.” “Overall, best program.” “Very Tasty, more servers needed, but food was hot, so no problem.” We welcome each and everyone’s evaluations, attendance and will be looking forward to seeing you May 23 at the Toledo Country Club.
MARCH GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
The LCRTA luncheon was held at the Inverness Country Club on Wednesday, March 21. One hundred and six members and guests attended the meeting.
The guest speakers were: Dick Hanson, who is in charge of the First Lego International Contest to be held on December 8, 2007 at the Technology Academy. He discussed the contest, gave papers on the specifics of the contest and encouraged members to judge, be team mentors etc. Contact Dick at 419-535-6000 ext. 116
Allen Smith, Director of Operations for the Boys and Girls Club of Toledo expressed his appreciation to members for their donations of school supplies.
Sandy Bihn, Executive Director of Western Lake Erie Association Waterkeepers discussed the Maumee River, western Lake Erie water and the Toledo Lighthouse. The program, location and meal appeared to be enjoyed by the majority of the members and guests. Most of the evaluations were positive. Some of the comments stated: “Excellent meal, real tasty, really enjoyed the day, location and program.” Salad was excellent.” “The quality of food was very good but the dinner is too heavy for lunch. Very high fat, not too healthy!” “Very little chicken in the main dish” Thank you for ending by 2:00 pm. (1:50 to be exact).” Everyone’s evaluations, comments and attendance are welcome. We look forward to receiving evaluations from each and everyone. Our next meeting is at the Belmont Country Club. See you there.
DECEMBER GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING
The December 19 meeting at the Toledo Hilton was attended by approximately 145 members and guests and apeared to be enjoyed by most. Guest speakers Tim Kreps and Alan Thompson portrayed Lewis and Clark by telling stories of their adventures during that era. Both dressed the part, demonstrating the weapons that were used during their adventures with the Corps of Discovery. Members and guests asked questions about their adventures. For further reading Tim and Alan recommend: 1. Undaunted Courage by Stephen Ambrose 2. The Lewis and Clark Journals.
Some evaluations of the meal. location and program stated: “Nice to hear from members of our group.” “Didn’t like the food at all”.” “Program is excellent, couldn’t be better.” “Dessert could have been better.” “cookies, not even two a piece.” “Meat was tough and lacked flavor.” We welcome your evaluations, comments and attendance. We are looking forward to seeing you at our first meeting of the new year on March 21 at the Inverness Club.
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