Reactions continue from around the state re: Fisher resignation

July 13, 2006

From George Doyle:

Molly:

I have put this in this month's newsletter for all who wish from our Association to write to the Governor and suggest that he appoint Tom Hall to replace Fisher. I also suggested that we send an election flyer to the Governor because this lists all of his qualifications so well.

George Doyle

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From Ryan Holderman:

I've been sitting here in front of my computer screen dumbfounded by the comments attributed to STRS Board President Constance Ramser and member Judith Fisher! They've stooped to the now all-to-familiar tactic of attacking the messenger when they cannot refute the message. It reminds me of those who attack the patriotism of anyone who dares raise their voice in opposition to our present national leadership or questions the motives of anyone who questions the actions of those in leadership positions.

The STRS board is not a social organization. Board members were not elected so that they could attend ball games, enjoy a few rounds of golf, take in the latest theater production and bond over a lovely meal! Board meetings are supposed to be the forum where the oversight of our pension fund is discussed, ideas are exchanged, and decisions in keeping with the charge of ORC 3307.15 are voted upon and executed. Invoking "civility" as an reason for stifling frank discussion is a pathetic attempt to intimidate and demean anyone with the valiancy to speak against the majority!

The open discussions that have taken place since John Lazares and Dennis Leone were elected to the STRS Board have increased the transparency of the Board's actions, stimulated careful examination of the way business is conducted, and guaranteed that the rubber stamping of items brought before the Board will be met with resistance by those who have pledged to protect our retirement funds.

The vitriol hurled at Dr. Leone is hurled at all who dare challenge those who are entrenched in a business-as-usual mindset. Anyone who advocates reform is targeted as a "malcontent" or "trouble-maker". Changes in the rules for participating in the public speaking sessions at the STRS Board meetings, attempts to quash responses by Board members to those who address the board and attempts to limit the discussion of motions before the Board have all failed to silence those who engage in discussion, dissent, and criticism.

Ohio's teachers, both active and retired, will be heard. We will continue to elect representatives to the STRS Board who will speak loudly, insistently, and forcefully in there effort to move forward and bring reform to our retirement system. Dennis Leone and John Lazares have dared to do just that. I challenge other board members to step forward and support their efforts and defend their right to speak their mind.

For too many years STRS was governed by individuals with an imperial attitude and ingrained sense of entitlement.

Never, never, never again!

Sincerely, Ryan Holderman

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From Teresa Pressler:

I'm glad that she has resigned. ANYONE who does not act on teachers' best interests should be gone. I've had it with the arrogance. I've got a sister-in-law whose afraid to retire after 30+ years because she's afraid that she can't pay the premiums to insure her husband. Those pesky retirees any way!!!

Teresa