Kathie Bracy: Letters to Board members

From Kathie Bracy, January 19, 2009

To Regina Burch:

Dear Ms. Burch,

I just wanted to thank you for the monumental and pivotal role you played in getting a landmark vote through the STRS Board last Friday regarding the PBI policy. I admire tremendously your keen insight for knowing what is right; your courage to stand up for it; and the compassion you have shown for those who have the least power to bring about badly needed changes at their own pension system: the retired educators of Ohio.

The dynamic leadership style you have demonstrated in the very short time you've been on the Board is a real shot in the arm, and hopefully a sign of things to come. We desperately need Board members such as you to continue the reform movement started by Dennis Leone, but which still has a long way to go. You will never know how many lives your actions will touch. You have given us renewed hope.

Thank you for what you have done for us, and keep up the good work. We will be cheering you on.

Kathie Bracy
1998 STRS Retiree

To Craig Brooks (click to enlarge):

To Tai Hayden:

Tai --

I can't tell you how much it meant to me to see you strongly supporting Dennis Leone's motion to suspend the PBIs at last Friday's STRS Board meeting. Your seconding his motion sent a clear message to the other Board members that you aren't afraid to stand up for what you know is right. That's all we ask of any Board member.

Thank you, Tai. That motion wouldn't have passed without your help, and thousands will benefit because of it. It took a lot of courage on your part. Hang onto that courage, because you're going to need it for future battles. You will be tested many times, but never be afraid to Do The Right Thing, no matter what. I promise that you will never regret it.

Kathie Bracy
1998 STRS Retiree

To Jeff Chapman:

Jeff --

I just wanted to thank you for supporting Dennis Leone's motion to suspend the PBIs in last Friday's STRS Board meeting. I know it was not an easy decision for you, but it was an intelligent one; you did the Right Thing. You will never regret it. Thank you!

Kathie Bracy
1998 STRS Retiree

To Steve Puckett:

Dear Dr. Puckett,

I just wanted to thank you for your support of Dennis Leone's motion to suspend the PBIs in last Friday's STRS Board meeting. I know it was not an easy decision on your part, but you did the right thing. It's always good to see Board members following the letter and the spirit of ORC 3307.15, and I hope to see more of this on your part. Thank you!

Kathie Bracy
1998 STRS Retiree