| Historical Images |
MEL TABER
1974 WGTA Crisis Center Mel
is one of Jim's best friends in the WGTA. Mel has not been around
as long as Jim, but then, who has? A lot of people think Mel's main
job in the WGTA has been grievances, but he's done more than that!
For years, he has been one of our Retirement System delegates, always
willing to answer any questions about retirement. In fact, at least
a dozen times a year, he would have to answer Rudy's question: "When
are you guys going to retire?" But
what Mel is mainly known for is his expertise on pregnancy and child
rearing leaves. Ever since I've been involved with the WGTA, anytime
any teacher has even been thinking of becoming pregnant, we'd send
her to Mel. The next thing you know, she's taking a pregnancy leave!
He's done a great job some ladies have come back to him two,
three, even four times! And he always delivers!
Mel has a couple of hobbies that should keep him busy into retirement. He is an avid golfer and a skilled wood crafter. He has created some beautiful works toys, boxes, vases, etc. and even the building blocks and their storage box in the Onondaga Road Kindergarten class! But
his crowning achievement has got to be a gift he created for Rudy's
50th birthday. Mel designed and created a plaque which had a hammer
mounted on it. (Rudy is always complaining that we're hammering him!)
On the handle of the hammer is a WGTA pin. And the hammer is mounted
upside down. And someday, maybe at Rudy's retirement, Mel will reveal
the reason for this.
by Ray Fuller Click for tribute to: Jim Ridgeway |
