June Message from AARP Maine's State Director
Greetings from your friends at AARP Maine,
It’s hard to believe that three months have gone by since we began staying at home and practicing social distancing. I hope you are finding ways to stay connected to friends and family and taking the opportunity to get outside thanks to the change in the seasons. I find daily walks with my rescue pup Sophie very helpful.
I wanted to let you know that in light of continuing concern for the safety of our staff, volunteers, members and the public, AARP has cancelled all in-person events in Maine and across the country through the end of 2020. In addition, our staff will continue to work remotely through Labor Day. Know that we do remain “open for business” and hope you will feel free to reach out to us in the weeks and months ahead. Please also continue to visit our website and special COVID-19 section, and follow us on Facebook (@aarpmaine) and Instagram (@aarpme) for important updates, the latest news, and resources.
While it may not be the same as joining us for a coffee, beer, or walk on the Eastern Trail, right now AARP Maine staff is working to bring you virtual events that are educational, informative and just plain fun. However, we would love to hear your ideas, too! Think local, think Maine. All ideas are welcome and you can send them to me@aarp.org anytime. You will see us begin to promote these opportunities soon.
In the meantime, AARP remains active in our advocacy work. As you know, the Maine State Primary and Special Referendum Election is Tuesday, July 14th. Maine voters will have the opportunity to vote in support of a referendum, Question 1 on the ballot, which provides $15 million to fund high-speed internet expansion to underserved and unserved areas in the state. These funds will be matched with an additional $30 million in private, local or federal funds. This will particularly help rural areas of Maine that currently lack the infrastructure for high-speed internet. Maine currently ranks 49th across the country in connectivity- which is having a negative impact on economic growth statewide. Please consider voting Yes on Question 1. Mainers of all ages, no matter where they live, deserve to have access to affordable, reliable high-speed internet to stay connected to school, friends & family, and to do business. You can learn more at www.aarp.org/mainevotes.
AARP Maine is also looking ahead to the general election in November and planning how we will share information with you, our members, on where the candidates for office stand on the key issues that matter to Mainers and their families. We want to ensure those issues are front and center leading up to November.
As always, I welcome your feedback and ideas on how we can better serve you locally. I look forward to when I get to spend time on the road again visiting with many of you.
Sending warm wishes to you and your family,
Lori Parham
AARP Maine State Director
