Pledge: President Sam Fulginiti
Prayer: Rev. Ed Cornell
Song: No song - waiting for Bill to come back
Brents Card Game Winner: Joe Arcari
Sergeants Report: Joe Arcari
Raffle Winners: Pete, John, Brent
Happy Bucks: Joe was happy to be in quiet Old Saybrook, Marty for a great trip to New Orleans (see picture), Rev. Ed for snow on Friday and for getting a hedge trimmer on sale from Home Depot to replace the stolen one he had, lots of bucks for the holidays, Merry Christmas bucks, Geno Auriemma bringing pride to the university and the state, Sam was happy for the great attitude in the club.
Announcements:
Sam passed a Holiday card around from the kids in our school system - all original artwork - well done!
Meals on Wheels: Pete and Brent
Program: Emily Boushee, Outreach Assistant for Senator Chris Murphy
By coming to our meeting and talking about several issues and then taking questions, Emily was doing her job as the Outreach Assistant for Senator Murphy. In some ways she is his eyes and ears out in the field. After her talk, she took questions and listened to some of the comments from club members. There are 8 case workers in Hartford who deal with policy issues such as immigration, the IRS and veterans affairs. Health care reform has been a big issue in this country particularly when it comes to mental health. The VA must provide mental health and behavioral services to former combat veterans who received other than honorable discharges due to mental illness stemming from their service. Emily talked about getting more money for training workers to meet new and future job demands in Connecticut. Loopholes that have allowed jobs to leave the US are being closed. Social Security will continue to be important as the population ages and must be protected. Emily took questions and comments. Jan wants high school kids to get more involved in the business world and Emily pointed out some programs available for that such as the Eastern Mfg Assoc. She can connect and educate people on federal grants available. Rev Ed voiced concerns about the effect of the casinos in our state (gambling, drug addiction) and asked about gaining control. The deporting of people and the resulting breakup of families also weighs on his mind. He asked how he can help intercede.
Emily can be reached at 860-810-9021 or email: emily_boushee@murphy.senate.gov.
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