The New York State Alliance (NYSARA) has been busy honoring Social Security and Medicare this month. Last Thursday, they, along with New York State United Teachers (NYSUT) and StateWide Senior Action Council, held a bithday celebration at Saint Sophia's Center in Albany.
Well over 100 people attended, including about 15 high school and college students. Luke Anapolis, a sophmore at Vanderbilt University led the group in singing the Star Spangled Banner and Happy Birthday. Anna Boughtwood who is entering Brown University spoke to the group on why Social Security and Medicare is important to people her age.
In addition to Boughtwood, the list of speakers included Dennis Tracey, New York Alliance President; Andy Palotta, NYSUT Executive Vice-President; Debra Riitano, NNORC Coordinator and Jewish Family Services; Carol McLaughlin, President of Albany's Common Council; Mike Breslin, Albany County Executive; and Mike Burgess, StateWide Senior Action Council.
After singing Happy Birthday, cake was served and a certificate of appreciation was presented to staff of Congressman Paul Tomko for his work in preserving Social Security and Medicare.
This Monday afternoon, the New York State Alliance joined the Hudson-Catskill Area Labor Federation and many other groups in celebrating Social Security's Birthday outside Congresswoman Nam Hayworth's office in Goshen, NY. About 70 people attended to express their disappointment with the Congresswoman's support of the Ryan Budget Proposal and overall lack of understanding of the importance of Social Security and Medicare.
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