Kindsey Ely, president and senior financial advisor for ENJ Financial, presented the program at the April 19 meeting of the Woods County Retired Educators Association (WCREA). Ely was accompanied by Meagan Caldwell, insurance advisor for ENJ Insurance Professionals. Ely initially worked as an advisor for Edward Jones and Wymer Brownlee before opening her own practice in May 2016.

Ely talked about estate planning, understanding taxes and the need to update trusts every five years. She and her employees are passionate about helping clients to effectively manage their money and protect their assets. Caldwell encouraged retirees to re-evaluate their insurance needs to determine if they might be over-insured at this point in their lives. She presented several ways to save money on home and vehicle insurance and advised retirees to maintain adequate health insurance coverage.

Following the program, WCREA President Lenny Reed conducted the business meeting. Jerry Cox led in the flag salute, followed with prayer by Arden Chaffee. The minutes of the previous meeting were read and approved, and the Treasurer's Report was approved as presented.

An update was received on the COLA bill (HB 2304) from Sabra Tucker, executive director of the Oklahoma Retired Educators Association (OREA). The bill was amended by the Senate Retirement and Insurance Committee and moved to an actuarial study. Therefore, a cost of living increase is not expected during this legislative session.

Flyers promoting membership in WCREA were distributed to the Alva Public Schools. Flyers will also be taken to the Northwest Technology Center and the Freedom and Waynoka schools.

The OREA State Convention will be held on Nov. 12 in Tulsa. Cosette Wymer, OREA Northwest District director, is checking into the possibility of getting a bus for those attending from the Northwest District.

Barbara Case presented the membership minute for April 2019 regarding savings on lodging and discount tickets for tourist attractions available this summer for OREA members.

Linda Tutwiler announced that the 50th anniversary of the Nescatunga Arts Festival will be held on June 1 on Alva's downtown square.

The next WCREA meeting will be held at 1:30 p.m. on May 16 at the Alva Public Library. Tim Argo, superintendent of Alva Public Schools, will present the program.

Any person interested in the purpose of the organization may join the Woods County Retired Educators Association.