MAINE EDUCATION ASSOCIATION RETIRED
~Promoting the economic, professional and social welfare of retired educators.
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A Message From Our MEA-Retired President
Timely Communications
January 1, 2021
Happy New Year
Last evening we said “Goodbye” to an unpredictably turbulent and challenging year that saw changes beyond our wildest dreams and expectations. Furthermore, we realize that 2020 will never be “behind us” because it has changed our lives forever. In fact, as we begin today to write 2021, our thoughts of anticipation for the new year could very well be “Look how far we’ve come!”
We saw that the dark, ominous clouds of 2020 have silver linings. When the pandemic hit in the second week of March, we immediately began to hold meetings on Zoom--affiliates, statewide committees, ad hoc committees, grants, and more. Contacts with each other are possible without leaving the comfort of our homes. The convenience of connecting via the computer often enables one to meet retired educators for the first time. We now have a Facebook page that has greatly increased our connectivity with members. Our webpage is busier than ever! We provided free registrations to Senior College for 70 of our members. We have a record number of members involved at the affiliate level. Our membership continues to grow.
We are hoping to have all our representative assembly delegate seats filled, and we need 11 alternates. Will you consider stepping into one of these positions? The events will be held online and will not require any traveling this year.
Affiliate leaders have faithfully conducted virtual meetings that provide meaningful connections and projects for enhanced participation among their members. Many of our members remain diligent in reaching out to stay connected and socialize at the Zoom meetings. In fact, several counties have already scheduled their 2021 Zoom meeting rooms and dates.
Record-breaking food distributions help to ensure families will not go to bed hungry. Restaurants are handing out ready-made meals. Many sewing machines continue to churn out thousands of face masks in all sizes and colors and patterns. They are now a must-have accessory. Our frontline workers face unprecedented challenges as they prepare for the unknown in their nurse or doctor or police or fire uniforms and work around the clock. Their essential services are boundless and greatly appreciated.
Let’s consider today’s classrooms where our hearts remain long after we retire. We often think of our teachers and support personnel who acquiesce to the restrictions of in-class instruction and adhere to the guidelines for remote learning. They are truly amazing in their creativity and energies to ensure students are provided the best possible learning experiences—day after day. Retired educators have been prolific in assisting in classrooms, outdoor recesses, and school-related projects.
As we press onward, new opportunities and teachable moments await us as we embrace uncharted waters. Let’s not miss one so that we may learn and grow and become more productive than ever. We are here for each other. We are ready.
Kay Grindall
President, MEA-Retired
Maine Education Association Retired
35 Community Drive, Augusta, ME 04330 (207) 622-5866
We Have Received Sad News
It is with the deepest, sincere sympathy that we send the following message from NEA-Retired president, Sarah Borgman:
I am saddened to inform you of the death of past NEA-Retired President, Tom Curran. He passed away at his home in Florida after only a few days in hospice. Our hearts and prayers go out to the family.
Tom was from Raymond, Maine, and a long-time educator in Westbrook and very active in the local teachers association as well as Cumberland County Retired Educators Association. He also served as vice president of MEA, president of MEA-Retired, president of NEA-Retired for six years, and a number of years in other positions of leadership within NEA-Retired. He leaves behind two brothers.
Helpful Links and Important Messages During COVID
STATE-WIDE FOOD PANTRIES
The Good Shepard Food Cupboard has a list and link to a map of state-wide food pantries here. You can also find the location of nearby food pantries in your community by calling your town office.
MAINE 211: Need Answers to Questions About the Coronavirus? Go to the State-Wide 211 website HERE. There is information on how to text, call, or email a question about the virus and a lot more.