March 19, 2024

CARSPA minutes from July 10 meeting

Clarke Area Retired School Personnel Association

CARSPA met for their regular monthly meeting 9:30 a.m. Monday, July 10, at the Osceola Senior Center. Social time began at 9 a.m.. Hostesses June Lohr and Tom Murr served delicious homemade rolls, coffee and water. There were 10 members and a guest present. Linda Foland presided.

The guest presenter was Ronda Audlehelm from Flowers ‘N More. She had started working in a greenhouse for a few years before new owners purchased it. After a few years, they sold the business, and Ronda bought it. Four years ago this coming November she moved the business from the north side of the square to the east side of Osceola’s square. After 37 years in the business, she has six part-time employees. The flowers come mostly from two wholesalers in Des Moines where she can get one-day delivery of needed floral products. Ronda then created three entirely different flower arrangements and explained that she starts arrangements by making a nest of greenery and then adds the flowers. She concluded her superb demonstration by answering questions and offering those present to come to the store and receive a wrapped rose.

President Linda Foland read an article about the Fourth of July. The members then pledged to the flag and sang “Grace”.

Minutes from June 12, were read by Venita Escher. The minutes were approved. The Treasurer’s report gave an ending balance of $829.56.

Linda Foland had purchased two books as memorials in honor of deceased members, Margaret Alley and Wilma Stuva. The books will be placed in the Osceola Library. A motion was made and passed to reimburse Linda Foland for the cost of the books.

The state IRSPA meeting will be October 4 and 5 in Cedar Falls. Registrations to attend are due by September 15. Chris Campidilli will become the new state president.

In August, total volunteer hours are due. The June IRSPA newsletter contained a list of suggested volunteer hours that members should include.

Discussion followed on the proposed changes in the IRSPA Bylaws that were included in the IRSPA newsletter. The new proposed Article XIII on Dissolution was opposed by CARSPA members.

Venita Escher asked that any changes for the next CARSPA booklet be given to her. Suggestions for programs for the next year were solicited.

Sue Brimm will be presenting information about her Haiti trip in the August meeting.

Linda Foland closed the meeting with some children’s quotes “out of the mouth” from the Iowa Magazine.