Update on the Utah Retirement System

Here are a few facts from the "Deseret News" story today.

• URS fund has lost 20% or $3.5 Billion with this downturn
• URS's ability to pay benefits isn't in question.
• The plan was worth more than $20 Billion in 2007.
• Last year the URS plan paid out $800 Million and took in $650 Million
• The plan earned $1.3 Billion on its investments.
• The plan deversifies with 40% in stocks, 25% in bonds and 13% in real estate and the rest in other investments.
• The plan is funded and stable.

We look forward to the economy working itself out of this downturn, but it is good to know our retirement system is in good shape.

Professionalism Presentation

I will be presenting my Professionalism and Ethics power point to district schools again this year. Weber's Supt. Jacobsen suggested that his principals arrange for me to come visit and present the ideas on professional behavior. Yesterday I showed it to two Intro to Ed Classes at WSU. I look forward to coming to the schools and discussing this important topic.

Visits to Weber State University

I have been invited to present to a couple of WSU College of Education Intro to Ed 1010 classes today. I will present a power point dealing with Professionalism and Ethical Behavior. It is very similar to the one I have presented in faculty meetings in Weber and Ogden Districts. I think it helps us to have the relationship with WSU College of Ed. Many of our new teachers have heard a little bit about the association at college. More important than just joining as student members is the positive first impressions they might receive. I am also speaking to a group of Elementary Student Teachers this afternoon. I show them the UEA membership dvd and offer them membership in the student association.

UEA Celebration Contest

Hi everyone. Please go to the UEA Website http://www.utea.org/ to get information about this years UEA/Utah Jazz Celebration. Last year Kellie Lopaz, T.H. Bell teacher, was a recipient and her school received a visit from the Jazz Bear. Click on the apple at the right to go there.

Leadership Spotlight on Barbera Wayment

Barbera Wayment, special education teacher at Washington Terrace, is the newest member of the UEA Board of Directors representing minority members. Barbera served as our Building Rep at her school and always had great membership numbers. She is enthusiastic and we know she will do a great job along with our UEA Board Member, Mary Courney.

We are sad to report the passing of Ken Despain, former OEA President and member of the UEA Board of Directors. You will be missed at the Barn Golf Course.

Early Voting in Weber County

Where Can I Go To Early Vote?

• Weber County Library-Huntsville, 131 S. 7400 E., Huntsville
• North Ogden City Offices, 505 E. 2600 N., North Ogden
• Weber County Library-Roy, 1950 W. 4800 S. Roy
• The Weber Center, 2380 Washington Blvd., 1st floor, Ogden
• The Weber Ice Sheet, 4390 Harrison Blvd., Ogden
• Marriott-Slaterville City Offices, 1570 W. 400n., Marriott-Slaterville

Early Voting locations will be open at the following times:

Tue thru Fri Oct. 21-24 8am-5pm

Sat. Oct 25 9am-5pm

thur Fri Oct. 27-31 8am-5pm

Beat the long lines of November 4 and vote early.

For next election, sign up for permanent absentee voting. The county sends you a ballot at home and you never have to brave the lines again.

Future Educators Association and Teachers of Tomorrow

FEA, WSU College of Education and Teachers of Tomorrow have planned some exciting activities in the next few months.

• November-Teacher Appreciation Breakfast at OHS.
• November-Multicultural Conference, Scholarship Day, and Majorfest @ WSU
• December-FEA Fall Conference @ WSU
• January-Education Emphasis Week-"The Chalk Guy" @ WSU
• February-Storytelling Festival @ WSU
• February-FEA National Conference-Denver