Last Post

I set this blog up as a campaign information piece and didn't really post as much here as I had hoped. The election is over, and congratulations go out to Charles, Brent and Lisa for winning election to our great association's leadership team.

The election loss was easy to process compared to the news - while driving home - that my great friend and mentor, Gerald Bonham, had passed away. Gerald founded our local in 1973. He taught me virtually everything I needed to know about being a local leader, and he did it by example. I will miss him so much. He was going to be my first call upon arriving home.

I've met some amazing people in MNEA over the years, and I am so thankful to have at least had the chance to travel about and campaign as best I could on a very limited budget. Truth is, the focus for me has always been on the local and individual member level, and I was unable to persuade enough delegates that the skills I have developed during seven years leading our local in Springfield would translate into strong leadership at the state level.

So, it's back to work . . . two member meetings this morning, one hotline investigation and a teacher bargaining session in the afternoon. This is the work we do, and it feels good to be back in the saddle after a long, sleep-deprived weekend at the RA.

I'd like to thank some truly amazing friends and colleagues who came together to support my one-and-only campaign for state office. It was an unforgettable experience. I learned a lot about our state association, its culture, and how we choose our leaders . . . and I take with it some friendships that will last forever.

Once again, good luck to Charles, Brent and Lisa . . . as they join Phil as executive leaders of our association. May they work well together and stay focused during the challenging battles ahead.

Ray