Community

Retired employees hear of program

WEIRTON -- In the absence of President Debra Marino, Vice President Earlean Jones opened the Hancock County Association of Retired School Employees meeting April 16 at St. Thomas Episcopal Church. Jones welcomed the 43 members in attendance and the afternoon's guest speaker, Kristen Bowman-Cross, coordinator of the Hancock County Communities in Schools program.

Jones led attendees in the mission and reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance. Members thanked Wendy Speer and St. Thomas parishioners for preparing the meal.

Terri McAtee introduced Bowman-Cross, who discussed a three-tiered program at Weirton Elementary School. The project helps surround students with community support. The partners empower participating children to stay in school and become successful. Goals include basic needs, academics, assistance, emotional support and continuous attention. She invited association members to assist Communities in Schools with the Back Pack to School project coming up in August.

Secretary Liz Pugh read the March minutes, which were approved and Membership Chair Rita Orler presented a financial report from acting Treasurer Debra Marino.

A donation was given to Energy Express by the group. Outreach Chairman Mishel Robinson gave the monetary collection to Energy Express Coordinator Laura Greathouse. The monthly project for May is local hospice centers, officials noted.

Orler discussed West Virginia Association of Retired School Employees membership statistics for Hancock County. She reminded membership to invite retired Hancock School employees to the May meeting. Scholarship Chairman Cathy Glass said recipients of the 2024 WVARSE scholarships will be announced at the May meeting. An Oak Glen High School senior and a senior from Weir High School, will receive the award.

Jones announced she, Marino, Orler and Rosalie Lebec are the representatives for the June WVARSE convention.

Rosalie LeBec announced Nancy Wetzel was the winner of the group drawing. Robinson and Lebec distributed numerous door prizes to winners. Melanie Donofe was the winner of the golden egg contest.