O'Kones presents program to NEIA Regional IRSPA ...

Retired Waukon teacher Barbara O’Kones (pictured above) presented her program “St. Augustine by Bicycle to San Diego” to the Northeast Iowa Regional Iowa Retired School Personnel Association (IRSPA) at the annual meeting October 20. She showed her PowerPoint pictures and gave insight to the 94 days and over 3,000 miles she traveled with her brother. The West Union IRSPA unit hosted Decorah and Oelwein unit members and guests for the meeting and program. Thirty-five people enjoyed the morning brunch that was provided by Fayette County Historical Society members in their building meeting room prior to the program.

Following the presentation, State and District IRSPA officers spoke to those gathered, answering questions concerning the association and happenings of the recent State meeting that was held in Marshalltown. Those present were State Vice President and President-Elect Chris Campadilli of Humboldt, State Legislative Officer Phil Tetzloff of Marshalltown, and District Three Representative George Holland from Dubuque. The three units from Winneshiek and Fayette Counties invite and encourage any and all retired school personnel from the school districts of the four northeast Iowa counties of Allamakee, Clayton, Winneshiek and Fayette to attend this annual Regional meeting each October. This allows person-to-person connection with State officers and officials concerning education benefits and current questions. Non-members are welcome. This was the fifth annual meeting for reaching out to unit members and school personnel non-member guests alike. Submitted photo.