CERTA Celebrates 50 Remarkable Years
CERTA Celebrates 50 Remarkable Years
CERTA (Central East Retired Teachers Association) marked a golden milestone on October 27th with a joyful “Cheers to 50 Years” celebration at the beautiful new Barn on the Bend venue, just east of Vermilion.
More than 50 guests, including retired teachers, affiliate members, and special guests, gathered to share memories, laughter, and friendship. The event was emceed by Bonnie Bauer, CERTA President, who warmly welcomed everyone and guided the celebration with her enthusiasm and charm.
CERTA was honored to host several distinguished guests. Daniel Mulloy, ARTA CEO; Ray Hoger, ARTA President; and Deb Gerow, Past President, each shared heartfelt congratulatory messages recognizing CERTA’s enduring legacy of community, advocacy, and connection among retired educators.
A highlight of the celebration was a special historical presentation by Marilyn Bossert, Past President of CERTA and ARTA, who shared a captivating overview of CERTA’s 50-year history. Marilyn’s engaging storytelling and her amazing PowerPoint presentation beautifully captured the memories, milestones, and faces that have shaped the organization over the past five decades.
Another touching part of the afternoon was the recognition of CERTA’s new Life Members—retired teachers aged 85 and older—who were presented with a certificate, free membership for life, and three roses in gratitude for their many years of dedication and service. Eight members were honored in this meaningful tribute.
Adding a splash of fun, a lively group of “Mrs. Ropers” joined the celebration, collecting donations for the ARTA Charitable Foundation. Jim Allan, the President of the Charitable Foundation was on hand to accept the donation.
The luncheon, catered by Colleen Hozak, featured a nostalgic 1970s-inspired menu, followed by a ceremonial cake cutting led by Past Presidents Dean McMullen and Janet McLennan. The festivities continued with door prizes, including a special gift won by Carolyn DeFord, courtesy of ARTA’s Marketing Director, Jennifer Hope.
The afternoon concluded with laughter, conversation, and plenty of reminiscing as guests reconnected with colleagues and friends.
The 50th anniversary celebration was a heartwarming reminder of the strong bonds that continue to unite educators long after their classroom days—truly a fitting tribute to half a century of friendship, service, and community.
