This week AFT-Maryland, the Baltimore City Public School system, the Baltimore Teachers Union and the Labor Movement lost a great friend. On Tuesday November 27, 2012, Patricia Cook-Ferguson passed away after a brief illness.
I met Pat more than twenty years ago when she came to Cross Country Elementary School. She taught Special Education in a small art room that had been converted into a classroom. We became friends instantly. She had three small sons that I watched grow into young men. She later had five grandchildren that were the light of her life.
Pat became involved in the Union
Before, during and after Superstorm Sandy, Ocean City, Md., employees worked to keep residents safe and protect their seaside town. Praise for them came from all quarters: the mayor, city council and residents.
With a sigh of relief, we can begin the day by congratulating President Obama and Vice President Biden on their re-election. It’s been an exciting election season, and one of the most exhilarating aspects has been watching our members step up to the challenge. You talked to your friends and families, knocked on doors, made phone calls, and supported this campaign with your time and your vote. It has been an incredible team effort, and we thank you all for your hard work and determination.
The devastation that Super Storm Sandy caused in New York is unimaginable. Our brothers and sisters up there need help!
Not surprisingly, AFT members along the Eastern Seaboard felt the impact of Hurricane Sandy—both professionally and personally. The storm and its aftermath highlighted the essential services provided by educators, state workers, healthcare professionals and other public employees. Many of these workers stepped up to help with the rescue and relief efforts. In some cases, these employees mounted heroic efforts in the face of very difficult circumstances.