The Lehigh Chapter of the Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees celebrated 50 years of its charter with the state association.

The group met recently at Iron Lakes Country Club for the celebration, which was attended by PASR state officers.

The event was also a time for honoring outgoing officers and installing new officers for the 2017-2018 year.

PASR Region 2 director Joan Glass announced to the group of retirees the Lehigh Chapter was the only chapter in the state to “successfully complete all of the goals and activities established by the state association.”

Glass also presented a Certificate of Commendation to Lehigh Chapter president, Linda Bortz in recognition of its 50th year anniversary.

Bortz then presented the John J. Dillon Award to William Bedics, who served as treasurer for the chapter for the past four years.

The annual award recognizes outstanding service and contributions to the association.

It was then time for the installation of officers for the 2017-2018 year and Gary A. Parker, PASR state president-elect, did the honors.

Newly elected officers were Linda Bortz, president and Allentown School District retiree; Thomas Newhard, president-elect and retiree of Southern Lehigh; Edward Richards, treasurer and RECREO treasurer and East Penn retiree; and Eileen Stinson, recording secretary and East Penn retiree.

There is currently a vacancy for the position of vice president.

Following induction of the officers, the group celebrated with food and fellowship as they embark on a new year.

The Pennsylvania Association of School Retirees is the only organization consisting of, governed by and working exclusively for retired public school employees.

The Lehigh County Chapter is comprised of school retirees who live in Lehigh County or were employed by one of the administrative units that serve the county.