Be aware and be informed were key messages at a Saturday morning breakfast meeting attended by dozens of NYSUT retirees.

"Even though President Obama is listening to what we have to say, he may just as well be listening to some others who aren't in step with what we have to say," said Ruth Dworkin, ED 51-52-53 at-large director. "So we must remain active."

Health care was a key discussion topic.

NYSUT Vice President Kathleen Donahue thanked the retirees for their continued hard work and support and announced progress on the health insurance moratorium.

"The moratorium passed the Senate last week and is on the Assembly calendar for next week," she said.

The moratorium would preclude a local from unilaterally diminishing retiree health insurance benefits without also diminishing the benefits of in-service members.

"I want to ask you to take up fencing," said Loretta Donlon, ED 51 director. "The first words in fencing are 'en garde' and that's what we must be — on guard, because the Obama administration is moving fast."

Donlon advised retirees to pay close attention to presidential communications, to ensure changes on the horizon are good for seniors.

Dennis Tracey, executive director of the New York State Alliance for Retired Americans, agreed. "If you have employer-provided health insurance, count your blessings — but, as Loretta says, be on guard," said Tracey. "Think of the United Auto Workers and how they are now waiting on pins and needles to see how things will turn out."