Members of Beckham/Roger Mills Unit of Oklahoma Retired Educators Association gathered at Elk City United Methodist Church for the April 11, 2025, meeting. Cheerful hues of Spring, Easter bunnies, and brightly colored Easter eggs decorated the tables. President Linda Long welcomed Cathy Lewis, Glenda Ivins, Judy Haught, Karen Whitely, Sharon Gilliland, Stephanie Malone, June Lovelace, Larry Long, Janice Mollet, Tana Feldman, Mary Fern Carpenter, Carla Garrison, Dennis McRee, Gwen Pasby, Mary Beth Mahanay, Leann Welk, Jan Attocknie, Jodie Laufer, and guest Sabra Tucker, OREA Executive Director.
Gwen gave the invocation. Judy led the salutes to the USA Flag and the Oklahoma Flag. The birthday song was sung to celebrate Jodie’s April birthday. Karen Whitely presented the devotional, “Maintaining a Gentle Tongue” from the devotional book by Joyce Meyer. She also referenced scriptures-Psalm 141:3, Psalm 19:14, Proverbs 12:18, and James 3:8. Karen shared one of her favorite quotes, “Attitude is contagious. Is yours worth catching?”
OREA Update is today’s program. Sabra Tucker, OREA Executive Director, brought news from the Capitol. It is good news that there are several COLA bills that will benefit Oklahoma State Retirees. Other bills of interest for retirees include SB 172, HB 1561, HB 2191, and HB 2288. Information regarding bills is available at www.okhouse. gov, www.legislature.gov, and www.legiscan.com.
The minutes were approved as presented. The treasurer’s report was accepted as read.
In committee reports, Glenda reported membership is 71. Gwen reminded members to turn in their volunteer hours as soon as possible.
In unfinished business, Linda announced “Summer Camp” is the theme for the basket at summer conference. Members who wish to participate may bring a gift card or cash to purchase a gift card to the May 9 meeting.
In new business, Carla made a motion for this unit to pay the registration fee of members who attend the June conference. Jan seconded, motion carried.
The VIM will be selected in 2026. The next OREA meeting is scheduled for May 9, 10:30 p.m. at Elk City United Methodist Church. Suzanne will present the devotional. The program will be the Memorial Service, by Judy. The next OREA Board Meeting is May 14. OREA Regional Leadership Training is June 9 at WTC campus, Burns Flat.
The door prize was won by Mary Beth. Linda adjourned the meeting.
