The voice for Alabama’s education retirees Janice J. Charlesworth spoke at the Chilton County Retired Educators Luncheon on Tuesday at Clara’s Country Cafe.

Charlesworth’s, executive secretary for the Alabama Education Retirees Association, main topic for the afternoon was what’s happening in Montgomery.

“2011 is the year of changes and challenges,” said Charlesworth. “The message will be ‘keep the promise’— keep the promise to retirees, don’ t think that is asking too much.”

Charlesworth went on to speak about finances, budgeting, AERA and protecting retiree’s benefits.

“The session begins March 1 in Montgomery and will go until June, but you probably won’t hear budget talk until May,” said Charlesworth.

Charlesworth invited the retirees to help lobby during the sessions in Montgomery.

“We have to remind them that the people elected you — not the party,” said Charlesworth. “Listen to constituents, not the party.”

There will be a lobbyist meeting Jan. 25 in Montgomery.

Charlesworth also discussed the 2011 Annual AERA Meeting that will be held in Birmingham on March 29.

“Governor Dr. Robert Bentley will be the guest speaker and we are expecting over 800 people,” Charlesworth said. “We will award scholarships, and Brenda Ladun will be the inspirational speaker.”

At the end of her speech, Charlesworth opened the floor to anyone with questions. Vice President Curtis Smith also presented her with a gift of appreciation – frozen peaches.