The Barton County Association of Retired School Personnel met at the Club at Stone Ridge on Friday, Sept. 2, at 11:30 a.m. President Rose Kelly called the meeting to order and welcomed four guests, Leonard Gales, Toni Rice, Carol Lanich and Scott Gregory. A total of 48 members were present. Kelly led the flag salute and Becky Dudrey gave the invocation. The minutes of the May 6, 2011, meeting were approved as printed and the treasurer’s report was approved as read. Dues of $20 for 2012 are now payable to treasurer Danelda St. Aubyn.
Laverne Lessor reported on membership and said there would be a KARSP booth at the state fair in Hutchinson. On the state level, Lessor reported that the 2012 convention is still scheduled at the Highland Hotel and Convention Center even though the venue has had a change of ownership. Judy Fox, David Tinkler, and Lessor are on the 2012 convention committee. Don Halbower presented a legislative report stating that a possible KPERS change to a defined contribution plan would not affect members already retired, and a COLA is not going to happen this year. A necrology report was made by Lorrie Hollaway, who read memorials for Harriet Richardson, Joe Hickel and Gaile Zelenka.
The nominating committee report was given by  Lessor. All officers are returning except for the secretary, so the following slate of officers was approved: President, Kelly; Vice-president, Mary Bieberle; Secretary, (open); Treasurer,  St. Aubyn; and Membership, Kayleen Kern.
Vice-President Bieberle introduced Scott Gregory, director of the Brit Spaugh Zoo in Great Bend, who presented a program on zoo news. AZA accreditation, when achieved, would mean more available grants and funding sources, more highly trained personnel attracted, improved tourism, and AZA animal exchange. New zoo projects include perimeter fencing, overhangs on too-short fences, and the addition of another quarantine area. Misting systems in all enclosures allow animals to stay outside in the heat. A panther, temporarily in quarantine, is on loan for one year. The bison have been relocated to another venue and a signature animal is needed to replace them. There is a new education department at the zoo offering interactive and outreach programs.
Birthdays for July, August and September were recognized. The next meeting will be at 11:30 a.m. on Friday, Dec. 9, at the Club at StoneRidge.
Any newly eligible retired school personnel interested in joining may contact Membership Chairman Kern or Kelly. Members get together for luncheons in September, December, March and May.