HCRTA Releases Minutes of Recent Meeting

Natalia Connolly from Solstice Salt Spa

On October 20, the Hardin Co. Retired Teacher Assoc. gathered at the Kenton Elks for a luncheon meeting at 11:30 a.m. Pres. Madelyn Lowery welcomed 22 members and guests Holly Dyer and Natalia Connolly after a short concert presented by the Kenton Middle School Dimensions with substitute choral leader Todd Daquino. The group presented an entertaining group of songs with food as the theme. This concert helped them to prepare for a concert in Ada in November.

Kenton Middle School Dimensions with substitute choral leader Todd Daquino

Following the concert, Chaplain Melanie Kindell offered a prayer before everyone enjoyed lunch. The menu was comprised of delicious ham loaf, sweet potato, salad, pumpkin roll, and beverages. Pres. Lowery thanked the committee of Chr. Joyce and Mike Hubbell, Billie Thompson, and Pat Ritchey for the lovely decorated tables filled with plates of cookies. Sue Buroker and the Elks volunteers were thanked for the delicious meal.

Pres. Lowery introduced the guest speaker Natalia Connolly who spoke about a new business in Kenton called Solstice Salt Spa at 19 N. Detroit St. This concept of therapy has been in the US since the 1970s, but it was begun in Poland in the 1840s. This business offers dry salt therapy or halotherapy which deals with a variety of concerns such as sinusitis or sinus infections, asthma, chronic bronchitis, emphysema, COPD, ear infections, coughs, colds, flus, allergies/Hay Fever, snoring/sleeping problems, and skin problems like acne or psoriasis. It is one therapy that relieves swollen tissues in the nasal area that might cause headaches and other respiratory conditions, but it does not necessarily cure the condition. Some users of this salt spa think it is a preventive measure. It is to stimulate the immune system and thus reduce the need for antibiotics in ear and sinus infections.

There are a variety of sessions that are offered by appointment. A salt room session can be either 25 or 40 minutes. These include Dry Salt Therapy, Energy Healing, Infrared Sauna, BioMat, Ionic Foot Bath Detox, Natural and Handmade Bath and Body Products, Relaxation Massage, Embodiment Session, and Energetic Bodywork Workshops. One can call for appointments at 419-679-1130 or check the internet www.solsticesaltspa.com or solsticesaltspa@outlook.com. Connolly encouraged all to research the website of www.salttherapyassociation.org. There is a workshop to educate residents on November 4.

Pres. Lowery led the group in thanking Connelly for the information and began the meeting. Sec. Norma Frederick had sent the September minutes digitally so it was accepted. Treas. Joan Mouser gave her report which was filed for audit. She is now accepting $10 dues for 2023-2024 for the club as well as $30 for (ORTA) Ohio Retired Teacher Association. The scholarship collection was $84. There were 139 volunteer hours reported by attendees.

Mouser has found some members who can help her with the treasury at various times. She thanked Joyce Hubbell, Sandy Berry, and Joan Sullinger and will work out a schedule. Membership chairman will be Jean Kearns. Pres. Lowery asked that cards can be sent to Ellen Johnson, Billie Thompson, and Mike Hubbell.

Others had reports. Annette Ansley reported about the fight to reinstate Wade Steen on the STRS board since he has been unfairly replaced by Gov. DeWine. She suggested to donate to the ORTA Defense Fund. The club voted to send $25 to help with his defense. Donna Myers discussed a new House Bill that would not let any teacher discuss civil rights with students. She encouraged to vote against it.

Norma Frederick gave a thank you for those who brought any socks or slippers for Helping Hands. There is a change this year, since Home Savings & Loan is remodeling throughout December. The Newland-Heydinger Insurance Agency has graciously accepted to be the collection place for all donations of socks or slippers and etc. The Santa Train from HS&L will be set up by November 20 and will stay until the items are picked up and taken to Helping Hands in the afternoon of December 11. These will be for the clients students’ Christmas gifts. New clean socks and slippers are things that mean a great deal to students in dealing with their peers.

Pres. Lowery thanked all attendees for the bags of wrapped candy that were brought. These will be divided and taken to the teacher lounges at all of Hardin County Schools. It is a little appreciation from HCRTA for their hard work.

Pres. Lowery will make plans to meet in early 2024 in order to plan for future speakers and committees for HCRTA. Chaplain Melanie Kindell closed the meeting with a prayer. Having no other business, Pres. Lowery adjourned the meeting and wished everyone safe travels and happy holidays.