THE HENTON HEADLINES
October 12, 2023

Pension Commission to meet in Duluth

The Legislative Commission on Pensions and Retirement has scheduled a  meeting on Monday, October 30, from 5:00-6:00 PM at the Duluth Courthouse, County Board Room. This is a “Listening Session” for the members of the commission and public to come together on the topics of pension and retirement benefits for Minnesota’s public employees. No official action will be taken.

If you would like to speak at the meeting, please contact commission staff at sean.kelly@lcpr.mn.gov. Those who do not sign up in advance may be able to speak at the meeting if time permits.

Pension reform was included in the 2023 MASA Legislative Platform. I am pleased to share that Superintendents Mike Malmberg and Blaine Novak have signed up to speak. 

A Look at MASA Membership Data

With help from our members who complete the data requested during the membership renewal drive, MASA can compare data from year to year to learn more about who we serve. Take a look at the Membership Data Graphic to learn more about your MASA colleagues!

Attention Region Leaders!

The 2024 legislative session will begin before you know it! Please note the following as you select your “Days at the Capitol:”

• The session begins on February 12 and must adjourn on May 20, 2024.

• Easter Sunday is March 31, and while we don’t know yet when the legislative break will be scheduled, it is advisable to not schedule region visits the week of March 25-April 1.

• Mondays and Fridays are not the best days to schedule meetings-Tuesdays and Wednesdays are best followed by Thursdays.

• Region 3 has selected March 3, 2024.

• The joint MASA/MSBA Day at the Capitol is on Monday, March 18, 2024.

• MASA lobbyist Valerie Dosland and I are happy to meet with your group at the capitol before you start your day. 

• Please send the date you select to taylor.ethen@mnasa.org and deb.henton@mnasa.org 

Recognize this Twins Fan?

When the Twins lost to Houston on Tuesday afternoon, I teased one of our members that he didn’t cheer loud enough when he was at the game. He replied, “Oh, I did and here is proof!” Send me an email with the correct guess at deb.henton@mnasa.org and I will enter your name in a prize drawing for a $25 Amazon gift card supplied by me!

Leadership Matters!

Post by JonGordon11 (@Jon Gordon):

“7 things that will hurt your team:

1. Energy Vampires

2. Complaining

3. Ego

4. Selfishness

5. Jealousy

6. Resentment

7. Pessimism

7 things that will help your team:

1. Love

2. Encouragement

3. Vulnerability

4. Selflessness

5. Unity

6. Communication

7. Optimism”