Fortunate being NYSUT retirees
As NYSUT retirees, we are fortunate to belong to an organization
which appreciates the work and effort we put into providing decent
salaries, pensions and working conditions for ourselves and those
who have followed us in teaching. Our gains helped not only NY teachers,
but have had ripple effects throughout our country. This influence
of NYSUT is seen most clearly in AFT where many of our NYSUT leaders
have been and still are in leadership roles there.
Supporting other retiree organization
Because we enjoy such security, it is important that we support
organizations dedicated to improving conditions for other retirees.
Notable among these groups are ARA and FLARA. ARA, the Alliance
for Retired Americans, is an organization of over three million
members. It is the successor of the National Council of Senior Citizens.
The goals of ARA are to support, protect and enhance senior benefits
such as Social Security and Medicare. As NYSUT retirees, we are
members of ARA, but we pay no dues or fees, because AFT as a participating
partner supports the organization. Bill Cea, our NYSUT Retiree Coordinator,
sits on the Executive Committee of the national ARA and represents
Florida, Georgia, North and South Carolina.
FLARA, the Florida Chapter of ARA,
200,000 members strong, is important in lobbying locally and nationally
for our senior rights. At our annual conference in September, our
delegates voted to request and urge each TRIF Unit to affiliate
with ARA and FLARA. On December 3, 2007, all fifteen units of RC
43-TRIF will be presented with their affiliation charters. This
brings added responsibilities to each of us to become more active
in the fight to preserve and enhance our senior rights.
Warmest wishes for the holidays
I hope everyone will enjoy the holiday season with family and loved
ones. I wish everyone Good Health and Happiness now and in the years
to come.
