Deputy Devon Sons gave a presentation on situational awareness at the MRTA meeting.

(Submitted photo)

Submitted by Phyllis Dannar

The Atchison-Holt Unit of MRTA met November 7 at Dusty Trail in Rock Port. Meeting plans were made by Kayla Sierks, Retirement Education Committee Chairman. Guests included Donnie Parsons, Rock Port High School Principal; Ken Miller, Rock Port Board of Education member; and Devon Sons, Atchison County Deputy Sheriff.

After lunch Deputy Sons gave a very informative presentation about situational awareness. One of his main points was to always be aware of your physical surroundings. When in public places, take notice of the nearest exits, and pay attention to the people around you. When you go to your car in a parking lot, have your keys out and be ready to use either to unlock the car or as a weapon, if necessary. Be mentally prepared for bad situations. Plan ahead for what you would need to do to get away or fight back.

As retired, senior citizens, this group hopes to never need this advice, but we feel it is better to have some education about such things rather than assume “it will never be me.”

During the business meeting, Carol Brandon reported on the state MRTA conference held in Jefferson City in September, and Anita Sutter reported on the MRTA Region 1 meeting she attended at the Mozingo Conference Center near Maryville on October 21.

The number one priority of MRTA and Public School Personnel is to promote and protect pensions, programs, and benefits of all public school personnel in retirement. Become a member and join us March 5 for our next meeting.