The 30th anniversary of retiree councils, and a slow return to normal, were focuses of the 2021 NYSUT Retiree Contiguous ED 51–53 At-Large meeting, held virtually in late May.
In her opening remarks, Florence McCue, ED 51–53 At- Large director, recognized retirees who were honored at the 2021 NYSUT RA. She also saluted retiring NYSUT retiree services staffer Geralyn O’Reilly for her years of dedicated service.
NYSUT Second Vice President Ron Gross thanked attendees for their activism over the past year and encouraged them to “make sure new retirees connect with their councils and chapters.” He also saluted Ken Ulric, RC 17, for compiling a detailed history of labor strikes on Long Island and discussed plans for marking the 30th anniversary.
ED 51, 52 and 53 Directors Loretta Donlon, Rosemary Catanzariti and Tom Murphy provided overviews of regional activities over the past year. Participants were encouraged to stay informed about in-service health insurance changes to ensure retirees stay protected. Murphy also presented about the American Federation of Teachers Program and Policy Council.
Pat Puleo, RC 16, introduced The Legacy Fund, a new NYSUT program that enables locals, chapters, retiree councils or members to honor activists with statewide recognition. (See page 10.)