Union County Education Association (UCEA) members and their families descended on Costa Del Sol in Union last Saturday for a Fall Festival event. The spacious, outdoor venue featured multiple vendors, a pumpkin decorating for the kids, food and face painting. The family atmosphere was evident, and applause rang out during the magic show. Led by UCEA President Lisa Palin, the event served as an opportunity for members and community stakeholders to gather for activities, music, food and family—as well as learn more about the upcoming election.
“It’s a great opportunity for educators to get involved with what’s important for us as a union, which is electing politicians that service us, the members of NJEA, as well as our families of students in our classroom,” said UCEA First Vice President James Frazier.
The November gubernatorial election is right around the corner, and, in addition to the offered attractions, there were computers that allowed members to log on and view the NJEA Members for Murphy site. Attendees then had the opportunity to acquire Members for Murphy giveaways, which included such goodies as shirts, bags, buttons, hand sanitizer and eyeglass cleaners.
NJEA Vice President Steve Beatty spoke to the members and stakeholders about the importance of voting, the convenience of early voting and the support needed for Gov. Murphy.
“The stakes couldn’t be higher – and voting couldn’t be easier. Members can help to lock this down by voting early or turning up to the polls with their voting aged family members in tow,” said Beatty. “We know we have the power and the numbers, now it’s time to get the word out and get our souls to the polls. Show everyone that NJEA votes!”
Some key achievements of Gov. Murphy include the long-awaited Chapter 78 relief and ESP job justice being signed into law. Additionally, this past summer, his administration issued the first full pension payment since 1996. These, coupled with expanded access to preschool and tuition-free community colleges opportunities are only a few of the reasons why Gov. Murphy is endorsed for re-election by the NJEA Political Action Committee (NJEA-PAC.)
Festival-attendee Kayla Khaled of the Kenilworth Education Association echoed these reasons to indicate why she is casting her vote for Gov. Murphy and expressed how important it is for all NJEA members to stand with him during this election.
“We are getting together to support our governor, who—during a very difficult time—supported us, paid into our pension and has given us an opportunity to be heard,” Khaled declared.