REGION 5 SCHOLARSHIP
The CSEA Region 5 Scholarship information and application are available by clicking the link below. The application deadline is April 1, 2011.
Click Here - Region 5 Scholarship Application
Click Here - Region 5 Scholarship Information
EMPLOYEE BENEFIT FUND CO-PAY REIMBURSEMENT
A reminder that co-pay reimbursement applications must be submitted to the Employee Benefit Fund by March 31st, 2011. Members may submit documentation for up to a combined $325 reimbursement for both physician office co-pays and prescription co-pays. The guidelines for acceptable co-pay reimbursement are available in the EBF booklet, page 26. The co-pay reimbursement form is available on our web site, under "Forms and Member Services" or on the EBF web site, www.cseaebf.com. The entire "Unified Court System CSEA EBF" booklet is also available on the CSEA EBF site.
NEW EMPLOYEES
As a result of the large number of our members that took advantage of the retirement incentive, we now have many new faces in our work locations. Please take a moment to be certain that our new members are recipients of our "Receiver Notices" and feel free to refer them to me if they have any union-related questions or would like to be added to the Receiver List.
POLAR PLUNGE
Many thanks to our members who pledged money for the December 2010 Polar Plunge, a fundraising event for the Special Olympics. Some of your Local officers, along with over 40 other CSEA Region 5 members, teamed up to earn over $21,000 in donations from our team alone! Many thanks to those who contributed, and especially to our Local team for braving the cold weather and frigid waters in support of this great cause. A team photo is posted under our link on the CSEA Judiciary web site, the Local 334 "Chain Gang," who won a first place prize for best team costume.
SCHOLARSHIPS
(From Terri Bello Vecchio, Local 334 Scholarship Chair)
Scholarship Applications are available under the Local 334 link of our CSEA Judiciary web site for the 2011 Irving Flaumenbaum Memorial Scholarship and the Local 334 Lt. Michael D. Carraway Memorial Scholarship. The CSEA Region 5 Scholarship information was previously announced and is also posted under our Link on the web site. Please take note of the deadlines for submitting applications. If you have questions, please contact Terri Bello Vecchio at tvecchio334@roadrunner.com.
Application for the 2011 Flaumenbaum Scholarship automatically enters the student for the Pearl Carroll and MetLife Insurance Company scholarships.
Click Here - 2011 Local 334 Lt. Michael D. Carraway Memorial Scholarship Application
Click Here - 2011 Irving Flaumenbaum Memorial Scholarship Application
RECEIVERS
Local 334 Receivers are reminded that notices should be shared with co-workers, either by posting within the office or forwarding by e-mail. Please do not keep the information to yourself; we need your assistance in keeping all of our members informed. If any member wishes to be added to the Receiver list, let me know.
CHEMUNG COUNTY CLOSING NOTICE
UCS has informed CSEA that due to the observance of an official holiday on Friday, February 18th, the Chemung County Courts will be closed. Members must use annual leave on this day.
CHENANGO COUNTY INFORMATIONAL DINNER MEETING
Local 334 will be holding an informational dinner meeting on Thursday, February 24th, at Fred's Inn, 5149 State Highway 12 in Norwich. Vendors have been invited to attend. We will meet at 5:00 and conduct our meeting at 5:30, dinner to follow. All Local 334 members are invited to attend. Please RSVP by Wednesday, February 16th to don@csealocal334.com.
GOVERNOR'S PROPOSED BUDGET
Keep up to date on our union's response to the Governor's proposed budget by logging in to the CSEA headquarters web site,www.csealocal1000.org. You can also access Region 5 President Colleen Wheaton's Winter 2010 newsletter on our web site, under the Local 334 link. We need to keep ourselves informed, as well as helping to educate the public as to what we do every day.
Click Here - Region 5 President Colleen Wheaton's Winter 2010 Newsletter
PAYMENT OF DEFERRALS
(From Jim Hennerty, CSEA Dep. Dir. Of Contract Administration)
The Office of the State Comptroller has kindly given us a preview of how the payment of deferred salary will occur for those employees affected. This procedure could change, depending on what is happening overall with the proposed budget and other actions in the Legislature and the Governor's Office. Remember, this is the repayment of salary percentage increases, increments and increments upon promotion which were deferred (withheld) from employees whose pay was already at $115,000 a year or which would have put a member at or above $115,000 a year. (See Article 7.11 in the current Agreement.)
The plan is to implement the salary restoration in April 2011.
--The payment will be processed in one check and NOT separate checks. All retro pay will be included in the same paycheck as the regular pay for that period.
--The projected payment date is the Administrative Lag Payment Date of April 27, 2011.
--The Division of the Budget has indicated that no pay bill (appropriation bill) is required, as funding is already included in the UCS budget.
--Regarding employees who have separated from UCS employment, the individuals have been identified and the payments will be reflected in the above processing dates.
PLEASE NOTE: CSEA does not give advice to members concerning income tax withholding or filing. Members who are concerned about withholding rates for the anticipated large check of April 27 should see a financial adviser or appropriate professional if they wish assistance in handling the matter.
Could something about this go wrong? If there is no State budget on time, or no emergency appropriation, or a "shutdown" of State services, the plan could be upset. It seems unlikely this would happen, but in the event the State does not pay the money, CSEA will make efforts to enforce the provisions of our Agreement, as we have done in the past.
STATE BUDGET CAMPAIGN TRAINING
CSEA will be offering training to all members interested on how to respond to the Governor's proposed budget, how it will impact us and what we can do. The training will be held Saturday, March 5th, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., at the Embassy Suites in Syracuse. Seats are limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis. Lunch will be served. To make reservations, please call Rick Noreault at 800-559-7975.
There will also be a meeting in Utica, on Thursday, February 24th from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. at SUNY IT, Kunsella Hall Auditorium, to discuss dealing with the Governor's proposed budget and recent attacks on public employees regarding our pensions, "causing" higher taxes, and now threats of layoffs.
There are informational flyers regarding these events available on our web site, under "Links and Locals," "Local 334." Everyone is encouraged to attend. These are our jobs and benefits - now is the time to address these attacks!
Click Here - State Budget Training, Syracuse, March 5, 2011
Click Here - CSEA Meeting, SUNY IT Utica, February 24, 2011
SICK LEAVE BANK ANNUAL CONTRIBUTION
We have been informed by the CSEA-UCS Sick Leave Bank Committee that there will be no annual contribution from our members for 2011. Open enrollment information will be sent out from District Offices in April. Every eligible member is strongly urged to join the Sick Leave Bank.
STATE BUDGET
Please visit our CSEA statewide web site, www.csealocal1000.org, for very important information regarding the proposed State budget. It is extremely important that our members voice their opinions to their legislators in an effort to save jobs and redirect cuts across the state.
UNION FLOW CHART
Have you ever asked the question: Well, our Local number is 334, but what is Local 1000? And what is and where does AFSCME fit into all this? Attached is a Union Flow Chart to help you understand how our union affiliations fit together. We are CSEA Local 334, Region 5 of CSEA. CSEA itself is Local 1000 of AFSCME.
Union Flow Chart
STEP INCREASES AND LONGEVITY BONUSES
It is our belief at this time that step increases and longevity bonuses will be paid in April. That is certainly subject to change based on the uncertainty in Albany these days. We will keep you posted when we learn more.
WORK/LIFE ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
The Work/Life Assistance Program is a voluntary, free and confidential benefit for UCS employees and their families. Some members have utilized the counseling services offered to deal with workplace and/or personal issues, oftentimes in connection with counseling or disciplinary matters. This program also offers a variety of other counseling services in other areas, including emotional well-being, health and wellness, resources for child and adult care, educational assistance, and financial and legal issues. For more information, log onto their site, login.corporatecounseling.com and enter the code "UCS" or you may call 1-800-833-8707. Assistance is available 24/7.
SAVE THE DATES
Our Local will be hosting three social events in the summer/early fall, so please mark your calendars. July 23rd is CSEA Local 334 Day at Enchanted Forest/Water Safari in Old Forge, August 13th will be the Uncle Sam Boat Tour in Alexandria Bay, and September 10th will be a Clambake at the Spinning Wheel Restaurant in North Syracuse. More information will be sent out in future notifications.
ONONDAGA UNIT DINNER MEETING
Our Onondaga Unit will be holding a meeting on April 14th at the Twin Trees Too, 1029 Milton Ave. in Syracuse, 5:30 p.m. More information will be posted by Adriane Marino, Unit President, around the Onondaga County facilities in the very near future.
The impact of an additional $70 million being cut from the Judiciary budget is undetermined at this time. We will send out information in this regard as soon as it becomes available. Naturally, the only source of that information is from UCS and at this time, they have not discussed with CSEA any plan of action. Please hold off on inquiries until we have more information.
UPCOMING RALLY ALERTS
Click the link below for important information regarding upcoming rallies in Cortland, March 30th at 5:30, 88 Main Street; Utica, March 30th, 4:15, going from 285 Genesee St. to the State Office Building; Binghamton, April 4th, 5 p.m., 15 Henry St.; and in Syracuse, April 4th, from 4-6 p.m. It is extremely important that our CSEA members unite with all other union members in an effort to save jobs and redirect cuts across the state!
Rally Information
PARTERNSHIP FOR EDUCATION AND TRAINING (PET) PROGRAM
The tuition reimbursement program benefits will sunset with the expiration of our contract on 3/31/11. If you requested and received a 2010-2011 tuition voucher, it is still valid as long as you are actively enrolled and participating in the course as of 3/31/11. The PET program benefits will not be available unless and until it is negotiated again in our next contract.
CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS
Your CSEA negotiating team has not yet met with UCS to begin contract negotiations, despite our request to do so. James Hennerty, Dep. Director of Contract Administration, this week composed a written letter to Judge Pfau, Chief Administrative Judge, demanding negotiations for a successor agreement.
LAYOFF ANNOUNCEMENT
As Judge Lippman announced yesterday, layoffs will be occurring within UCS sometime in the near future. As the employer, UCS does not have to and, indeed, did not consult with CSEA in this regard. UCS has invited all of the unions statewide to an informational meeting tentatively set for Monday, April 11th to discuss the layoffs. Your CSEA representatives will be attending this meeting.
On Wednesday, April 13th, CSEA Local Presidents will be meeting in Albany to discuss the information relayed by UCS and to discuss layoff and bumping procedures. Soon thereafter, we will update our members on our statewide Judiciary web site, www.cseajudiciary.org. Members are asked to please hold off sending specific inquiries regarding the layoffs until after April 13th.
There have been numerous inquiries regarding the definition of seniority for layoff purposes. Generally speaking, seniority is based on years of UCS service, NOT on the years served in a particular position. More information in this regard will be available the end of next week.
ONEIDA CITY COURT
CSEA has been notified that the hours of operation in Oneida City Court on Thursday, April 21, 2011, will be from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Oneida City Court will be closed due to local bargaining agreements on Friday, April 22nd, 2011.
DEFERRED PAY - NYS DEFERRED COMPENSATION PLAN CONTRIBUTIONS
We have just been notified that any member whose salary was deferred under the terms of the 2007-2011 contract will be eligible to contribute an additional percentage to their NYS Deferred Compensation for the retro paycheck on 4/27/11. If interested in doing so, call the Plan at 1-800-422-8463 to speak with a Help Line representative. (Tip: Press #, 0 to go directly to a representative) Participants will be asked what percentage they wish to contribute from that specific paycheck, which will include regular pay plus the retro pay in one check. Be certain to inform the representative if you only want to change the percentage contribution for that one specific paycheck and if you want it changed back to your normal percentage contribution for the next paycheck. IMPORTANT: This request must be made by Tuesday, April 12th at 4:00 p.m.
SICK LEAVE BANK OPEN ENROLLMENT
The CSEA-UCS Sick Leave Bank open enrollment period extends from April 1st through April 28th, 2011. UCS has distributed notification of the open enrollment via Groupwise. If you need an application, please let me know. All eligible members are strongly encouraged to enroll!
The Unified Court System (UCS) has formally notified court employee unions, including CSEA, of its intent to lay off approximately 400-500 employees, with the possibility of thousands of other employees being displaced. OCA offices will be laying off 50-70 employees (as part of that total number). UCS asserts that these layoffs are made necessary by a budget cut of $70 million in UCS's proposed budget for this fiscal year. All of the unions representing court employees met with UCS on Monday, April 11th in New York City. At this point, UCS has not yet determined what positions will be abolished, much less which employees will be affected.
A number of our members have asked CSEA to negotiate some agreement with UCS whereby all members would agree to a furlough or a lag payroll as a way to make the layoffs unnecessary. In our judgment, that is not possible. UCS has indicated that it would not consider either a lag or furlough unless all eleven unions agreed to it and nine of the unions have already vetoed the idea. Therefore, we are unable even to entertain the idea of either option.
It is important to note that CSEA is not implementing layoffs. It is being done by the Unified Court System and it is up to that system to answer employee questions and explain the process to affected employees. CSEA Local representatives are available to double check responses from management if a member has any questions. Employee inquiries should first be directed to their personnel office or other appropriate management operation for such information.
CSEA Local Presidents met today in Albany to review the legal procedures concerning the layoff process and methods of displacement. Until UCS publishes their plan of implementing layoffs, we do not have all the specifics, but we can provide the following tentative timeline:
OCA Employee (Administrative Offices) Layoffs
4/15 - OCA Employees Seniority List generated 4/15-4/19 - Identification of OCA employees to be laid off 4/20 - Layoff Notices delivered to OCA employees, effective 5/4
All Other Layoffs in UCS
4/15-4/27 - UCS will generate a seniority list 4/18 - UCS will distribute Location Preference forms 4/22 - Veteran's/Volunteer Firefighter credit form must be returned and verified by this date 4/27 - Location Preference forms must be returned to UCS 5/17 - The list of all affected employees will be completed by close of business on this date 5/18 - Notice will be given to affected employees, effective end of business 6/1/11.
CSEA will continue to monitor the situation and update the membership through the Local Presidents and the web site.
COURT CLOSINGS
We have received notification from UCS that Schuyler County courts and Binghamton City Court will be closed on Friday, April 22, due to building closures in observance of an official holiday.
5th JD SUMMER HOURS
The 5th Judicial District notified employees that the traditional summer hours will not be observed this year within the district "in light of the stringent statewide budgetary restraints and resulting operational changes."
INFORMATIONAL DINNER MEETINGS
Our Local will be holding two information dinner meetings, open to ALL Local 334 members.
On Thursday, May 12th, we will be meeting at the Community Restaurant, 10 Main Street, Cortland at 5:30, meeting to begin at 5:45, dinner to follow. Vendors have been invited to attend. Please RSVP to don@csealocal334.com by Wednesday, May 4th if you wish to attend.
On Thursday, June 2nd, we will be meeting at the Owego Treadway Inn, 1100 State Route 17C in Owego at 5:30, meeting to begin at 5:45, dinner to follow. Vendors have been invited to attend this event, also. Please RSVP to don@csealocal334.com by Wednesday, May 25th if you plan to attend and also note your dinner selection from the following choices: chicken piccata, petit prime rib or scallops.
Unit 4 (Oneida, Herkimer & Madison counties) will also be holding an informational dinner meeting for its members on Monday, May 9th at the Aqua Vino Restaurant, 16 Harbor Lock Road in Utica. Unit President Brenda Leone has distributed detailed information regarding this meeting. If you have questions, please contact Brenda at reporterbl@aol.com.
LAYOFF INFORMATION
The tentative schedule that was provided by OCA indicated that Location Preference forms were to be distributed on 4/18, but to our knowledge, as of this moment, that has not occurred.
Regarding those members with the same start date, i.e. Court Officers that started the academy together, UCS has informed us that they will apply an as-yet undetermined policy to establish seniority. It will be a uniform policy applied statewide. Local Management will not be creating or implementing the policy. CSEA will be informed once the method of establishing seniority has been decided upon.
OCA (Administrative Staff) lay-off notices will be distributed today. Affected members will be notified by their local management. They will be receiving a packet of information related to Work/Life Assistance, applying for unemployment insurance, health insurance, and NYS Deferred Compensation. UCS has also prepared an informational booklet that will be delivered today to targeted OCA employees.
Executive Branch employees who have transferred to UCS will not be given credit for that prior service. Their start date will be the original date of appointment in the Unified Court System. Transfer of function employees, however, will receive credit for time in their previous employment.
We have submitted numerous other questions to UCS and are still waiting for answers. We will keep you apprised as we learn more.
UCS has indicated on today's date that: They are not prepared to answer individual questions in reference to the location preference forms and that employees are to check off wherever they are willing to work if affected by the layoffs. If an area is excluded, that employee will not be considered for positions in that area. For example, if you are targeted but have seniority, UCS will refer to the areas that you have checked off to see if there is availability in that location. If the only other job opening is in an area that the employee did not check off, they will not be considered for that position and will be laid off.
All employees should complete this form. Your submission will constitute your decision to accept displacement to a new work location if affected by the layoffs. To our knowledge, employees will not be offered the opportunity to change their selections at a later date. If an employee rejects a displacement offer to an area that they have previously indicated that they would accept assignment to, then that employee would no longer be eligible to offered a position in that location.
The Location Preference Forms are based on the layoff unit, either Judicial District, Appellate Division, etc. Generally speaking, "bumping" rights are within the layoff unit only, with only a rare exception.
If a member is laid off, they will have the opportunity to "cash in" up to 50 days of annual leave, as provided in the contract. At this time, we do not know what will happen with sick leave or how long it can be "banked" in the event the person is rehired.
Again, we have submitted numerous other questions to UCS and are still waiting for answers. We will keep you apprised as we learn more.
CSEA has been informed that members that lose their employment may be compensated in cash for up to 50 days of annual leave and also up to 50 days of comp time. Accrued Sick Leave credits will be credited to the Sick Leave Bank; however, if the employee is rehired within one year, those credits will be restored to the employee.
Layoff units are defined as: (1) Court of Appeals, (2) each Appellate Division, (3) each Judicial District 3-9, (4) Nassau County, (5) Suffolk County, (6) Courts in NYC, (7) OCA in NYC, (8) OCA outside of NYC, and (9) Court of Claims.
Employees that have served in a part-time capacity will receive service credit equal to the length of time served in that position. It will not be prorated.
Inquiries have been made relative to the Location Preference form, if a member does not select all possible counties, would that person still be eligible for unemployment insurance if laid off. UCS has responded that they cannot make that determination, that that decision is up to the Department of Labor.
On April 20, 2011, 56 OCA employees were given lay-off notices, 21 represented by CSEA.
Laid off employees who are placed on preferred lists can continue health insurance coverage for up to one year if the employee pays the employee share of the premium (10% for individual coverage, 25% for family coverage). Laid off employees who are NOT on a preferred list MAY be eligible for health insurance coverage if they have been permanently appointed to their positions, or--if non-competitive but not confidential--they have 5 years of non-competitive service.
The Work/Life Assistance program will be available for one year for employees affected by the layoff.
UCS will establish a Preferred List to rehire. Any employees with layoff rights will be placed on this list (confidential and exempt class employees laid off do not have this right). Preferred lists take precedence over all other lists if a rehiring occurs. That list remains in effect for four years.
Many of our members have questions regarding their own individual situation if laid off. It is certainly understandable that the anxiety level is very high for all of us, and we all have unanswered questions. Your CSEA representatives ask that you please refrain from case-specific questions at this time, simply because all of the information being sought is not yet available. We will continue to supply all available information obtained from UCS that affects our members. If an employee is targeted for layoff/displacement, then at that time we will certainly be available to assist employees with individual case-specific questions.
INFORMATIONAL DINNER MEETINGS - REMINDERS
On Thursday, May 12th, we will be meeting at the Community Restaurant, 10 Main Street, Cortland at 5:30, meeting to begin at 5:45, dinner to follow. Reservations were due yesterday.
On Thursday, June 2nd, we will be meeting at the Owego Treadway Inn, 1100 State Route 17C in Owego at 5:30, meeting to begin at 5:45, dinner to follow. Vendors have been invited to attend this event. Please RSVP to don@csealocal334.com by Wednesday, May 25th if you plan to attend and also note your dinner selection from the following choices: chicken piccata, petit prime rib or scallops.
A reminder that Unit 4 (Oneida, Herkimer & Madison counties) will be holding an informational dinner meeting for its members on Monday, May 9th, 5:30 p.m., at the Aqua Vino Restaurant, 16 Harbor Lock Road in Utica.
BINGHAMTON - BUDGET INFO SESSIONS
CSEA Region 5 will be holding two NYS Budget Informational Sessions in Binghamton on Tuesday, May 17th. The first session will be held from 12-1 p.m. at the Binghamton State Office Building, 18th floor conference room, and the second session will be from 6-7 p.m. at the Holiday Inn Arena. A light lunch will be provided at the noon session and finger foods will be provided at the evening session. These meetings are for all CSEA members in the area, not just Judiciary. I will be present at both meetings and would encourage our members to attend to learn how the NYS budget will affect all of our CSEA members and how we can respond.
Binghamton Budget Session Information
EBF BENEFITS - CONTINUATION FOR LAID OFF EMPLOYEES
EBF benefits will continue for 28 days following an employee's effective date of layoff. For full-time employees, those benefits can be continued through COBRA after that 28-day period at a cost of $106.67 monthly for dental, vision and miscellaneous benefits or $18.14 monthly for miscellaneous benefits only. For part-time employees (dental only), the COBRA cost would be $53.33 monthly. If a new contract is ratified, these amounts are subject to change.
LAYOFFS
Our intent was to contact our members after each judicial district had notified all affected employees, but UCS has already released the layoff statistics to the media.
Of the 367 statewide layoff notices, 15 of our Local members were laid off today. We represented no one laid off in the 4th JD, eight members in the 5th JD, four members in the 6th JD, and three members in the 7th JD. There were no "bumps" or "retreats" among our Local 334 members in any of the districts.
Breakdown of the layoff titles are as follows:
5th JD, one Case Manager I, six court reporters, one Resource Coordinator III; 6th JD, one Case Manager I, one Court Attorney Referee, one Law Librarian, one Law Library Clerk; 7th JD, one Case Manager I, one Resource Coordinator I, one Resource Coordinator III.
I would ask each affected employee to reach out to me as soon as possible to verify the seniority list information. There were errors found when the OCA layoffs occurred a few weeks ago, so it is important that we verify the start date information that may have been used, as well as any veteran's credit, if applicable.
BROOME and OTSEGO COUNTIES - SUMMER HOURS
CSEA has been notified that summer hours have been approved for courts in Broome County, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., May 31, 2011 through September 2, 2011 and also for courts in Otsego County, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., July 5, 2011 through September 6, 2011.
JULY, AUGUST, SEPTEMBER SOCIAL EVENTS:
Now that summer is here, we are happy to update you on some social events planned by both our Local and our Region. We hope that you will join us!
Judiciary Local 334 Events:
Water Safari Enchanted Forest, Saturday, July 23rd, 2011
Join the fun at Water Safari Enchanted Forest on Saturday, July 23rd in Old Forge. The all-in-one price includes park admission, a picnic lunch at 12:30 and free drinks all day. We will hold a short meeting during lunch, and vendors have been invited to attend. See the attached for further information regarding this fun-filled event, as well as the registration form, due back by July 15th.
Click here for information and registration materials for Water Safari Enchanted Forest.
Alexandria Bay, Uncle Sam Boat Tour
We'll be boarding the Uncle Sam Boat Tour on Saturday, August 13th for a beautiful tour around the Thousand Islands. Lunch will be included, and we will invite vendors and hold a short meeting. See the attached flyer for more information and registration materials. Registrations must be received by July 27th.
Click here for information and registration materials for Alexandria Bay.
Local Clambake, Save the Date!
Save the date, Saturday, September 10th, 2011, for our first Local 334 Clambake to be held at The Spinning Wheel Restaurant in North Syracuse. More information will be posted in the coming months.
__________________________________________________________________________________________________
CSEA Region 5, which our Judiciary Local 334 is a part of, has a number of upcoming events planned this year. The Region 5 Member Services Committee will be posting information and registration materials on the Region web page, www.csealocal1000.org/r5, for the following events:
Yankee Stadium, July 30th
Orioles v. Yankees, bus trip to Yankee Stadium. Buses will leave from Syracuse and Binghamton. Only 100 seats available!
Darien Lake, August 12th and 13th
CSEA Region 5 Days at Darien Lake. Ticket prices are $27.99 for a park pass and picnic and $19.99 for a park pass only. Ticket sale deadline is August 2nd.
Region 5 Golf Tournament
Save the date of September 23rd for our 5th annual Region 5 Golf Tournament, to be held at Camillus Country Club.
Radio City Music Hall - Christmas Show
December 27th, ride the bus to New York City to see the ever popular, always changing Radio City Music Hall Christmas Show.
Watch the Region 5 section of the CSEA web site for information and sign-ups for each event, www.csealocal1000.org/r5.
Regrettably, we will be losing 15 of our fellow Local members to layoffs at the close of business today. We wish each of them our best and hope that at some point in the future we will see them once again back in our courts.
FRANKLIN and ST. LAWRENCE COUNTIES - SUMMER HOURS
CSEA has been notified that summer hours have been approved for courts in St. Lawrence County, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., May 31, 2011 through September 2, 2011 and also for courts in Franklin County, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., June 1, 2011 through August 31, 2011.
SPEAK UP! SPEAK OUT!
Our Union has begun a new campaign to educate our friends, family and the public on who we as "public employees" really are and how we benefit this state. Each one of us needs to do our part to speak up and speak out. Please visit the CSEA web site, www.csealocal1000.org and review the information under the "Fight Back Against Attacks" link. You can also visit our Region 5 web page to keep updated at www.csealocal1000.org/r5.
We also need to let the governor know that we DO want the millionaire's tax to extend beyond 2011. The governor has stated that he is opposed to extending this tax. If it is cut, the State will lose $1 billion this year and $5 billion next year. How many jobs could be saved with the amount of money? Call the governor at 1-877-255-9417. For more important information in this regard, visit the CSEA web site. There is even a link on the CSEA site allowing you to enter your address and quickly e-mail your senate and assembly representatives, letting them know that we need to extend this tax!
ALEX BAY BOAT TOUR/MEETING - IMPORTANT UPDATE
We have been notified that our count for the Alexandria Bay boat tour must be in by July 22nd, so please confirm your reservation by that date. Payment must still be received by July 27th. If you wish to reserve seats for the tour/meeting before sending in your payment, e-mail Darlene O'Hara at doharajudiciary334@yahoo.com with the number of members/guests/children prior to July 22nd.
DRESS CODE
Please be aware that our CSEA-UCS contract does contain a "Dress Code" under Article 34. Members should use discretion in choosing their summer attire, particularly those in contact with the public. While the warm temperatures are here, members should refrain from wearing inappropriate footwear or clothing while in the office. Beach sandals, jeans, and walking barefoot in the office (yes, I'm told this is happening) obviously fall outside the guidelines of "business shoes" and "appropriate business attire" as stated in Article 34.
SYRACUSE CHIEFS TICKETS - MEMBER DISCOUNT
CSEA is offering a member discount for tickets to the Syracuse Chiefs home games this summer. Click below download the coupon and game schedule.
Click Here for Syracuse Chiefs discount information.
REGION 5 PRESIDENT'S NEWSLETTER
Please read the Spring 2011 newsletter from CSEA Region 5 President Colleen Wheaton for updated information on "busting the myths."
Click here for Colleen Wheaton's Spring 2011 newsletter.
REGION 5 VETERAN'S COMMITTEE
Our CSEA Region 5 Veterans Committee is collecting table top games, large print playing cards, and cloth shopping bags to distribute to veterans residing in the Oxford Veterans Home. The cloth shopping bags are used to carry oxygen tanks on the back of wheelchairs. If you are attending one of our social functions this summer or one of our meetings in the future, please consider bringing any of these items with you and we'll be sure to get them to the committee for distribution to our vets.
WATER SAFARI-ENCHANTED FOREST and ALEX BAY BOAT TOUR/MEETING
Reservations must be received by next Friday, July 15th, for the Water Safari-Enchanted Forest event, and by Friday, July 22nd for the Alex Bay Boat Tour on the Thousand Islands. Complete information and reservation forms are available on our web site, under "Locals," "Local 334," "Events." Get your reservations in today!
The Executive Branch of the State has been negotiating with the Governor's office for some time now and has reached a tentative agreement that now must be ratified by its members. Our contract negotiations have not yet begun with UCS; however, the Judiciary contract is typically the same or similar to the Executive Branch agreement as far as percent raises and health care costs. Your Judiciary contract negotiating team has been meeting in Albany over the past few months formalizing our proposals. We have offered tentative dates to meet with UCS and are waiting to receive confirmation of agreeable dates to meet.
CIVIL SERVICE EXAMINATIONS
In light of the recent workforce reduction, no civil service examinations will be held for the remainder of this year. The exams affected by this decision are: Administrative Services Clerk (JG-15), Senior Administrative Services Clerk (JG-20), Associate Court Clerk (JG-23), Principal Court Clerk (JG-26), Senior Data Recording Assistant (JG-12), Supervising Data Recording Assistant (JG-16), and Senior Supervising Data Recording Assistant (JG-18). The current active lists for Principal Court Clerk and Associate Court Clerk will be extended for an additional year. A civil service examination schedule for 2012 will be posted in September. (Source: UCS).
ENCHANTED FOREST WATER SAFARI
We had a great turnout and a perfect day last Saturday at the Enchanted Forest Water Safari! Over 120 attendees enjoyed the water park, great buffet lunch, and complimentary NYS Court/CSEA Local 334 beach towel. Many thanks to Brenda Leone, 1st VP, for organizing this event. We are looking forward to next year already!
SCHUYLER COUNTY COURTS CLOSING
CSEA has been notified that the Schuyler County Multi-Bench Courts will closed on Friday, September 9, 2011, due to the Grand Prix Festival in Watkins Glen.
LOCAL CLAMBAKE
Please click on the link below for information on our Local 334 Clambake, to be held on Saturday, September 10, 2011, 12-4 p.m., at the Spinning Wheel Restaurant in North Syracuse. All members are invited to attend! Our menu will include steamed and raw clams, mussels, chicken, BBQ beef or pork, kielbasa, sausage and peppers, hamburgers, cheeseburgers, hot dogs, coneys, and the list goes on! RSVP by August 24th to Adriane Marino or Barb Tracz. We hope to see everyone there!
Click Here for Clambake Information and Registration
LOCAL OFFICERS
As a result of the resignation of Shari Hillman, former 2nd VP of our Local, we welcome our new officers: Terri Vecchio, 2nd VP (former secretary); Natalie Spilman, Local Secretary (former Delegate); and Adriane Marino as our Local Delegate. Many thanks to Shari for her long tenure as a unit and local activist; we will miss having her as part of our Local team.
A reminder that reservations for the 9/10/11 Local 334 Clambake at the Spinning Wheel in Syracuse must be received by August 24th. Even if you do not particularly like clams, this is a fun event with LOTS of different foods, music, etc. - you won't be disappointed! Reservation information is available on our web site, under the Local 334 link (see the July 27th posting for the link to the information). You won't want to miss this event!
ALEXANDRIA BAY BOAT TOUR/MEETING
Many thanks to Darlene O'Hara, Local 334 Exec. VP, for organizing our Alexandria Bay event this past weekend! We had a group of over 50 people for the luncheon and Uncle Sam boat tour through the Thousand Islands on a picture-perfect day.
OSWEGO COUNTY DINNER MEETING/SENECA & CAYUGA COUNTIES DINNER MEETING
We will be holding a dinner meeting on Tuesday, September 20th, 5:30 p.m. at Vona's Restaurant in Oswego, West 10th and Utica Street. This dinner invitation is open to all Local members. Please RSVP to don@csealocal334.com by Tuesday, September 13th if you plan to attend.
We'll also be holding a dinner meeting on Wednesday, September 21st, at the Deerhead Inn, 2554 Lower Lake Road, Seneca Falls, 5:30 p.m. Again, this invitation is open to all Local 334 members. RSVP by Tuesday, September 13th to don@csealocal334.com.
Vendors have been invited to both dinner meetings. We hope to see you there!
4TH ANNUAL REGION 5 GOLF TOURNAMENT
Our 4th Annual CSEA Region 5 Golf Tournament will be held on Friday, September 23 at the Camillus County Club. This event is a fundraiser for our regional scholarship program. Registration begins at 9 a.m., Tee Time at 10 a.m. Please click below for further details. Get your foursomes ready! A fantastic steak dinner and wonderful prizes will follow at the completion of the tournament.
Click here for Region 5 Golf Tournament information
CSEA ELECTIONS
As announced in the August CSEA "Work Force," elections will take place January 18, 2012 - February 14, 2012 for the CSEA Statewide Officers, Region officers, and Statewide Board of Directors. The following documents are posted on our web site, under "News": Election Schedule; Nomination Notice; Notice of Nominations and Eligibility requirements for Statewide Officers' election, Region Officers' election and Board of Directors' election, including the signature requirements for each Board Seat; Notice Regarding Campaigning; Notice of Election Rules; and the Standing Rules and Regulations, including the Notification of Intent to Observe form, the Slate Procedures, and the Candidate Printing/Mailing Costs.
NEGOTIATIONS
The Executive Branch contract ratification count is taking place today. Once again, this is NOT the Judiciary contract. We are still in the very early stages of our negotiations with UCS and will certainly keep everyone apprised as to our progress in that regard.
REMINDER - LOCAL CLAMBAKE
A reminder that reservations for the 9/10/11 Local 334 Clambake at the Spinning Wheel in Syracuse must be received by the end of the day today, August 24th. Reservation information is available under the Local 334 "Events" section of our web site. You won't want to miss this event!
LABOR DAY EVENTS
CSEA Region 5 Communications Director, Mark Kotzin, announced a variety of Labor Day events, as follows:
Syracuse:
The Greater Syracuse Labor Council will sponsor a Labor Solidarity March at the New York State Fair at the State Fairgrounds in Geddes (West of Syracuse) on Monday, September 5 at 10:30 a.m. CSEA members and their family members who march can get free admission tickets from the Central Region Office by stopping by 6595 Kirkville Road in East Syracuse or by calling the receptionist at (315) 433-0050. Tickets/parking passes are limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis for those who march. Free tee shirts to the first 200 members who attend! Line up for the march beginning at 10 a.m. between Fair entry gates 4 and 5 (look for the CSEA banner). Ithaca:
Join the Mid-State Central Labor Council and the Tompkins County Workers' Center for their annual Labor Day Picnic at Stewart Park in Ithaca on Monday, September 5 from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Festivities include music, free burgers, hot dogs, veggie burgers, beverages, and ice cream, and the Friend/Goat of Labor Awards, Mother Jones and Joe Hill Awards. All are welcome! Contact Bonnie Wilson at (607)-372-3153 for more info.
Massena:
On Monday, September 5, CSEA members will line up for the annual Labor Solidarity Parade at Willlow Street in Massena, by Coaches Corner Restaurant at 10:00 a.m. The parade, sponsored by the Jefferson, Lewis and St. Lawrence Counties Central Trades and Labor Council, starts at 11:00 and will end at Springs Park with the events, refreshments and drawings to follow. All CSEA members and their family members are invited to march. Contact Amy Simmons at 315-486-8123 for additional info. NOTE: If you are calling to order Labor Day State Fair tickets, please don't call asking for Mark... just give your ticket order to whoever answers the phone at the Region Office. Thanks.
CSEA REGION 5 GOLF TOURNAMENT
A reminder that the deadline to register for the Region 5 Golf Tournament is Friday, September 9th. Registration materials are available on our web site, under the August 15th posting below.
OSWEGO COUNTY DINNER MEETING; SENECA & CAYUGA COUNTIES DINNER MEETING
If you have only one "Receiver" in your work location, please consider volunteering or finding another person to receive Local 334 e-mails. You cannot predict when a person may be out for an extended period. Recently some of our members were not informed of the clambake because their Receiver has been out of the office. Send your name and work location/court and we'll add your name to the list.
IMPORTANT NYSHIP CHANGES
(Source: James Hennerty, CSEA Dep. Director of Contract Administration)
We have just learned that changes in the New York State Health Insurance Plan, NYSHIP, negotiated by CSEA for its Executive Branch members will apply to CSEA-represented court employees, non-unionized court employees, and judges as of October 1st of this year. It is the responsibility of the NYSHIP Office to inform all affected employees about the details. We do not yet know if this is being done at present. Further developments will be posted on the web site.
(Note from Don: We will send out further information to our Receivers and post on the web site as we learn the details of the changes.)
CSEA ID NUMBER
Every member was sent a CSEA ID card about eight weeks ago. It is important to keep this card in a safe place as it contains your CSEA ID number. You must have this number in order to vote for your representatives, to vote on your contract, etc. We pushed for many years to end the practice of utilizing Social Security numbers. Now that this system is in place, it is up to each member to keep track of their ID number. If you need a replacement card, please contact the CSEA Membership Department at headquarters (1-800-342-4146) or the CSEA Region 5 office.
Earlier in the year, the CSEA Employee Benefit Fund (EBF) also sent out a membership ID card with BOTH the CSEA ID number and also the EBF number to be utilized with participating providers. Please keep your card in a safe place.
The EBF web site, www.cseaebf.com, now has offers the ability order a replacement card with your EBF ID number. However, replacement cards do NOT contain your CSEA ID numbers, only the EBF number.
HEALTH OPTION PROGRAM
UCS management has informed us that they will NOT continue the Health Option Program (HOP) for the calendar year 2012. Article 8.3 of the contract does not continue the HOP beyond 2010. CSEA did persuade them to extend the program through 2011.
Because this provision is not "Triboroughed," UCS is within its legal rights to refuse to continue it. Naturally, CSEA will fight to include it in a contract as we continue efforts to negotiate a new one.
IMPORTANT: FLOOD RELIEF INFORMATION
CSEA Region 5 President Colleen Wheaton has distributed information relative to "Union Flood Relief" for our fellow union members in the southern tier that are suffering from the devastation caused by recent flooding. There are two programs available, one from our international union, AFSCME, and another from the Union Plus Grant Program. Eligibility guidelines are detailed in the attached documents. Please be certain to distribute this information. We hope to assist all of our fellow union members affected, and we need to get the word out to everyone in order to reach that goal.
Please note that AFSCME has scheduled two Disaster Relief Intake Meetings, one today in Johnson City, from 3:00-8:00 p.m., and the second one in Owego on Thursday, from 1:00-8:00. (I apologize for the late notice, but I just received this information today.)
President Wheaton has also distributed information for flood relief volunteer opportunities and scheduled three "CSEA Cares" days. That information will be sent/posted in the next few days. As you will read in her attached letter, we are calling for volunteers to assist our fellow CSEA members in cleaning up their homes on three Saturdays, October 15th, 22nd and 29th. Keep these dates in mind and consider taking a day to help our union family members that have lost SO much recently.
Click Here: Flood Relief Letter from President Wheaton
Click Here: Union Flood Relief Information
HOLIDAY CLOSINGS
CSEA has received notification that the following courts will be closed on the specified date(s):
Elmira City Court - Friday, November 25th; Friday, December 23rd beginning at noon
Tioga County Courts - Friday, November 25th
Chenango County Courts - Friday, November 25th
IMPORTANT: FURTHER FLOOD RELIEF INFORMATION - CALL FOR VOLUNTEERS
(Note: Some of this information has been sent in a prior notice, but all volunteer opportunities are included in this posting)
CSEA Region 5 has organized three "CSEA Cares" Saturdays in October to help assist our CSEA-represented members in the Southern Tier in cleaning up their homes. Some of our members have lost not only their belongings but their entire residence to the devastating floods. Please call the Region Office at 1-800-559-7975 to register to help on October 15th, October 22nd and/or October 29th.
The "2011 Flood Volunteer Information" pamphlet (link below) lists not only the "CSEA Cares" days but also a variety of other volunteer opportunities that we, as CSEA members, can partake in to make this difficult time a little bit easier for those affected.
Click here for "Flood Volunteer Information"
Click here for "CSEA Cares" Days Information
"PEP" PROGRAM INFORMATION
A new program called "PEP," Product Enhancement Program, will be taking the place of the "HOP" program, which expired with our last contract. This program allows employees Grade 23 and below the opportunity to exchange six annual leave days for up to $1,000 to be applied to the employee's share of their health insurance premiums during 2012. Click the link below for further information. Each Judicial District will be contacting employees to inform them of the program guidelines and to advise them of the enrollment cut-off date of November 25th.
Click here for "PEP" Program Information
RALLY IN UTICA
Oneida County budget cuts are having a severe impact on the CSEA-represented nurses and the services they provide throughout the community. Nine of the 12 nurses represented by CSEA are slated for layoffs. CSEA will be holding a rally on Tuesday, October 25th at 5:00 p.m. at the Sons of Italy, 644 Bleecker Street, Utica in support of our fellow union members. Having just experienced layoffs in the Judiciary this year, we are well aware of the struggles these employees are facing. If you are in the Oneida County area, please come for an hour or so and show your support! Let me know if you're planning to attend. Click the link below for further details.
Click here for "10/25/11 Utica Rally" information
CSEA has received notification that the following court will be closed on the specified date:
Schuyler County Courts - Friday, November 25th
LOCAL DINNER MEETINGS
We will be holding two Local dinner meetings in November, one in Tompkins County on November 1st, the second on November 9th in Oneonta for our Otsego & Delaware County members. Both meetings are open to all Local 334 members.
On Tuesday, November 1st, we will meet at 5:30 p.m. at Joe's Restaurant, 602 West Buffalo Street in Ithaca. Please confirm your reservation via e-mail to me by Thursday, 10/27.
On Wednesday, November 9st, we will meet at 5:30 p.m. at Christopher's Restaurant, 716 State Highway 29, South Side Oneonta. Please confirm your reservation via e-mail to me by Thursday, 11/3.
Vendors have been invited to attend both meetings. Bring your questions, and make your reservation today.
Also, Unit 4, Oneida, Herkimer and Madison counties, will be holding a dinner meeting on Thursday, 12/1/11 in Utica. Please mark your calendar. Further information will be sent out soon.
REMINDER: RALLY IN UTICA
A reminder, CSEA will be holding a rally on Tuesday, October 25th at 5:00 p.m. at the Sons of Italy, 644 Bleecker Street, Utica in support of our fellow union members facing layoffs in Oneida County. Come join us for a brief time and help show our support!!
NYSHIP INFORMATION 10/19/11:
(Source: CSEA Headquarters)
The Special Option Transfer Period that is occurring from September 29 - October 31, 2011, will allow employees to make changes to their health insurance, if they so desire. This could be moving from an HMO to the Empire Plan, etc.
The Opt Out or Buy Out in which employees will receive $1,000 if they had individual coverage or $3,000 if they had family coverage, if they have proof of other insurance, will not occur until after 1/1/12. In order to be eligible to receive the buy out, employees must have been insured through the state continuously from 4/1/11 until the buy out period. If any employee drops their state insurance before the buy out period, they will not be eligible to receive the buy out.
Also, any State employee who retired from 1983 through 12/31/11, will pay a 2% increase on their health insurance.
The extended collective bargained changes effective October 1, 2011 results in premium contribution increases. This change resulted in enrollees being responsible for an additional 6% of the total health insurance premium contributions. Enrollees with individual coverage (above a grade 10) are now required to pay 16% of the individual premium (was 10%); enrollees with family coverage (above a grade 10) are now required to pay 31% of the dependent portion of premium (was 25%).
The increase in premium contribution affects all NYSHIP Options (The Empire Plan and various Health Maintenance Organizations), however, the increase varies by plan due to many factors.
Effective October 1, 2011, for grade 10 and above, New York State will contribute 84% toward the individual coverage and 69% toward the dependent portion of the Empire Plan premium.
For enrollees in an HMO, there is an added twist to New York State's contribution which makes comparison of HMO premiums more difficult. New York State's contribution to the HMO premium (hospital, medical, mental health/substance abuse components) is capped at the State's dollar contribution for the same components under the Empire Plan. The HMO prescription drug premium component is not capped at the Empire Plan contribution; prescription drug component is paid 84% for individual and 69% for dependent (no cap).
Onondaga County Office Building - Friday, November 25th
DELAWARE AND OTSEGO COUNTIES DINNER MEETING, NOVEMBER 9TH
Reservations are due by the end of the day today for our Local Dinner Meeting at Christopher's Restaurant in Oneonta on Wednesday, November 9th, 5:30 p.m. The meeting is open to all Local members.
2011 POLAR PLUNGE
On December 4th, a team of Local Officers will be joining CSEA Region 5 "Polar Peeps" team plunging into the chilly waters of Oneida Lake in an effort to raise funds for the 2012 Special Olympics. We'll be "freezing for a reason," to help over 40,000 athletes compete in the 2012 games. $5, $10, $25, $50….whatever you can consider donating would help us attain our goal of assisting the athletes from around New York State. Donations may be made to individual team members, Don Lynskey, Darlene O'Hara, Brenda Leone, Sheila Sears or Natalie Spilman, or you may donate to the CSEA Region 5 "Polar Peeps" team. Secure online donations may be made at the team page (general team donation or select a participant) Click Here! or information is available on the site to mail in your donation. Can't afford $5 or $10? Collect $1 from your co-workers and send in a group donation! A sincere "Thank You" to everyone for helping to support the Special Olympics athletes.
The new "PEP" program recently announced has now been enhanced. As previously explained, this program allows employees Grade 23 and below the opportunity to exchange six annual leave days for up to $1,000 to be applied to the employee's share of their health insurance premiums during 2012. A second option is now available whereby employees may contribute three days of annual leave for up to $500 to be applied to health insurance premiums. The file associated with the link below will give you complete information. Each Judicial District will be contacting employees to inform them of the program guidelines and to advise them of the enrollment cut-off date of November 25th.
Click Here for Updated PEP Program Information
SYRACUSE VETERANS DAY PARADE
CSEA Region 5 Veterans Committee invites you to march in the Syracuse Veterans Day Parade on Saturday, November 5th, 12 noon, at the New York State Fairgrounds. We will begin lining up at noon between Fair Gates 4 and 5 (behind the Fair's Indian Village). Join us in honoring the service of our veterans. For more information, contact Ron Witt, Veteran's Committee chair, at (315) 338-1927.
HOLIDAY CLOSINGS AND CHANGE OF HOURS
CSEA has received notification that the following courts will be closed or have a change of hours on the specified date:
Cortland City Court - closed Friday, November 25th and Friday, December 23rd
Cortland County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th and Friday, December 23rd
Oneonta City Court - closed Friday, November 25th
Oneida City Court - Wednesday, November 23rd, revised hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.; Friday, November 25th, closed; revised hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on December 22nd; closed Friday, December 23rd
Norwich City Court - closed Friday, November 25th and Friday, December 23rd
Chemung County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th; closing at noon on December 23rd and December 30th
Delaware County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th
Madison County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th; closing at noon on December 23rd
Tompkins County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th
Broome County Courts - closed Friday, November 25th
(Note: CSEA Judiciary posts only official notifications from UCS of closures and change of hours. Please check with local management if you have questions regarding changes of hours and/or closures in your location.)
UNIT 4 DINNER MEETING 12/1
Our Oneida/Herkimer/Madison Unit 4 will be holding a dinner meeting at the Aqua Vino Restaurant, 16 Harbor Lock Road, Utica, on Thursday, December 1, 5:30 p.m. The meeting is open to all members of our Local. Vendors have been invited and door prizes will be given out. Send your $5 reservation check made payable to "CSEA Local 334 Unit 4" to Brenda Leone, 3104 Oneida Street, Sauquoit, NY 13456, by Monday, November 28th. Bring a can of food or pet food/blanket to donate and your $5 will be refunded at the door. If you have questions, call Brenda at 315-266-4474.
CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 11/16/11
Your CSEA Contract Negotiations team met with UCS on August 10th and September 28th, 2011. The majority of our contract proposals have been delivered to UCS, and we have held extensive discussions regarding whether certain proposals are a mandatory or non-mandatory subject of negotiations. UCS indicated that any proposals with a fiscal attached, they would be looking to go in the opposite direction.
We were scheduled to meet with UCS on October 27th, but the day prior to the scheduled meeting, management cancelled, saying they were not yet prepared to proceed with their proposals.
KRONOS SWIPE IN/OUT
A number of our members have reported being told by management that they are not allowed to swipe in or out prior to their actual start time or the end of their workday. You are entitled to swipe in up to 15 minutes prior to the start of your shift and you are allowed to swipe out up to 15 minutes prior to the end of your shift. If you are told otherwise, let me know immediately. That being said, you are obviously expected to continue working and remain within your work location until the end of the workday.
WORKING "OFF THE CLOCK"
I have been informed that a few of our members in various locations complete their workday, swipe out, then come back to their office and continue to work in order to "catch up." While it is admirable to have a good work ethic and want to complete your assigned tasks, our members should NOT be working after hours or even through their lunch. As recently as yesterday, the Dep. Director of Labor Relations met with CSEA Local Presidents and informed us that they have notified their managers that this should NOT be happening. In a couple instances, members have even been threatened with disciplinary action for working "off the clock." Working after hours creates issues with security, the Labor Law, liability to UCS, etc.
We all work very hard, but if you feel you are unable to complete all of your assignments on a given day, inform your supervisor mid-afternoon if you suspect some tasks will not be completed prior to your departure that day.
REMINDER: 2011 POLAR PLUNGE
On December 4th, a team of Local Officers will be joining CSEA Region 5 "Polar Peeps" team plunging into the chilly waters of Oneida Lake in an effort to raise funds for the 2012 Special Olympics. $5, $10, $25, $50….whatever you can consider donating would help us attain our goal of assisting the athletes from around New York State. Donations may be made to individual team members, Don Lynskey, Darlene O'Hara, Brenda Leone, Sheila Sears or Natalie Spilman, or you may donate to the CSEA Region 5 "Polar Peeps" team. Secure online donations may be made at the team page (general team donation or select a participant) Click Here! or information is available on the site to mail in your donation. Can't afford $5 or $10? Collect $1 from your co-workers and send in a group donation! A sincere "Thank You" to everyone for helping to support the Special Olympics athletes.
Ithaca City Court, Friday November 25, 2011, closed.
OUT OF OFFICE
I'll be out of the office November 21-28, returning the 29th. If you need assistance, please call 1-800-498-0334 and leave a message.
Have a very Happy Thanksgiving!
PRODUCTIVITY ENHANCEMENT PROGRAM
The deadline to enroll in the PEP program has been further extended to December 23, 2011. For further explanation on this program, refer to prior Receiver Notices and/or our web site, under "Locals," "Local 334," "News."
OPT-OUT FOR DUAL ENROLLMENT EMPLOYEES - Dispute Resolution for Calendar Year 2012 (As posted on www.csealocal1000.org)
A dispute has arisen between CSEA and the State of New York regarding the health insurance opt-out provision in regard to NYS Executive Branch Employees represented by CSEA that have a spouse or domestic partner that is also enrolled in a State health insurance plan (Note: This also employees to UCS employees). In short, the State believes these employees are not entitled to opt-out at all; CSEA believes that there were no such exceptions to the opt-out provision. This has no effect on the opt-out provisions for other enrollees-just those that are dual state enrollees. In order to allow some form of opt-out for these particular enrollees, the parties have agreed, for 2012 only, to allow such employees represented by CSEA to elect to opt-out and receive $1,000 for calendar year 2012 whether the coverage opted out was individual or family. Both employees had to be enrolled in a State plan by April 1, 2011 to elect the 2012 opt-out. The parties will continue to discuss an overall resolution for the length of the contract and CSEA still reserves the right to file a contract grievance if the parties are unable to resolve the dispute by May 31, 2012. CSEA is the only union with this dual enrollment provision. The State Department of Civil Service will mail information to CSEA-represented employees with specific opt out enrollment instructions in the very near future.
Many thanks to those of you who donated to the Polar Plunge, the fundraiser in support of the Special Olympics. On Sunday, December 4th, Don Lynskey, Brenda Leone, Sheila Sears, Natalie Spilman and Natalie's son Gaige donned "Dog the Bounty Hunter" costumes and took the plunge into the frigid waters of Oneida Lake in Brewerton. (Pictures are posted at www.csealocal1000.org, under Region 5) Our Local officers raised almost $2,000 alone. Adding that amount to the CSEA Region 5 team, the "Polar Peeps," CSEA raised over $13,500 for this great cause! It's not too late to make a secure online donation at http://tinyurl.com/cseaplunge2011.
2012 ELECTION NOTICE
The 2012 Election is posted on our web site, under "News." The only contested race that our CSEA Judiciary Region 5 members will be voting in is for the position of Statewide Treasurer. Ballots will be mailed on January 18, 2012.
LOCAL 334 RETIREMENT BENEFIT
Our Local has been notified of a number of retirements taking place at the end of this year. Remember to apply for the Local 334 Retirement Benefit. Our best to those retiring - Enjoy!
Wishing everyone a safe, happy holiday and all the best in the New Year!
Don, Darlene, Brenda, Sheila, Terri, Natalie & Adriane
2012 CSEA STATEWIDE ELECTIONS
The 2012 CSEA Election ballots have been mailed to all members. Please take a moment to carefully read the directions and vote. Ballots must be received in Albany by 8 a.m. on February 14th.
EBF CO-PAY REIMBURSEMENTS
Applications for our 2011 Co-pay Reimbursement benefit must be filed with CSEA EBF by March 31st. The benefit provides for up to $325 combined reimbursement between physician office visits and prescription co-pays. Original receipts for physician office visit co-pays, one per visit, must contain name, physician's name, address and also must indicate the co-pay was for an office visit. X-ray, lab, physical therapy, etc., are not eligible for reimbursement. The EBF requests an itemized print-out of prescription co-pays indicating date of service, item dispensed and co-pay amount. Please do not use a highlighter on print-outs. Cash register receipts, canceled checks, and credit card receipts are not accepted for this benefit. The newly revised Co-pay Reimbursement form is available on our web site, www.cseajudiciary.org, under "Resources/Services."
COUNSELING MEMOS
A reminder, if you receive a counseling memo, you must sign that you have received the memo, not that you necessarily agree with its contents. Members are strongly advised to print below their signature "see attached response" and, within a reasonable period of time, compose a written response to be attached to the counseling memo in your personnel file. In some judicial districts, union representatives are asked to attend counseling sessions; other districts do not request our presence. Whether a union rep is present or not, we are available to discuss the content of the counseling memo and your written response.
COMMENTARY OF THE GOVERNOR ON THE JUDICIARY BUDGET PROPOSAL
FYI, last week's commentary by the Governor on the Judiciary's proposed budget:
"The Judiciary has requested appropriations of $2.54 billion. Across all fund types, this reflects no growth from last year and includes a decrease of $3.9 million in General Fund appropriations. On a cash basis, the proposed Judiciary budget reflects a spending decrease of $19.2 million (or 0.7 percent)."
"The budget submitted by the Chief Judge recognizes the ongoing budgetary pressures the State faces, addressing fiscal reality while supporting the courts' ability to uphold their constitutional duty. The budget as submitted both sustains the savings achieved last year and holds the line on new spending. I commend the Judiciary for examining their operations and for continuing to seek to make the court system work better and smarter."
A reminder to send in the recently mailed 2012 CSEA Election ballots. It is our privilege to be able to elect those who represent us. As members of CSEA Region 5, which geographically is the same as our Local, we have three voting options on the ballot this year, to elect the slate of statewide officers or to vote for one of the two individuals running for statewide treasurer. Ballots must be received in Albany by 8 a.m. on February 14th.
COURT CLOSURE - CHEMUNG COUNTY
CSEA has been notified that Chemung County courts will be closed on Friday, February 17th in observance of an official holiday. Non-judicial personnel must use annual leave on this day.
PROPOSED TIER 6
(Source: CSEA Political Action Department)
Governor Cuomo has proposed the creation of yet another pension tier. This new tier will require employees to choose a 401(k) type retirement plan or accept a reduced pension plan that requires increased employee contributions and requires the employee to work longer in order to get a smaller benefit. Although your pension is constitutionally protected, it is not financially protected. As more employees enter the defined contribution plan, the state retirement system would become weaker because there would be fewer people paying into the system. This will weaken the overall strength of the pension fund and put your pension in jeopardy.
Visit the CSEA Statewide web site, www.csealocal1000.org, to learn more about how the proposed creation of Tier 6 would adversely affect you and your pension, as well as statements of concern by the state comptroller.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
IMPORTANT - PROPOSED TIER 6
"I'm in Tier 4, so I'm not concerned about the proposed new retirement tier." "Why should I care about Tier 6? It won't have any effect on me."
Think the new Tier 6 proposal will not affect you? WRONG. In Rhode Island, current retirees had to take as much as a 50% loss in their pensions.
We do not want that to happen in New York. A constitutional guarantee to your pension is completely useless if the pension fund is broke! The proposed Tier 6 plan 401(k) option requires no mandatory employee contribution and the employee carries all of the risk. Even more important, the stability of our retirement system will be at risk with less people paying into the system.
What you need to do:
BROOME COUNTY DINNER MEETING, WED., 2/29/12
There will be a Local informational dinner meeting in Binghamton on Wednesday, February 29th, at the Terra Cotta Restaurant, 81 State Street. This meeting is open to Local members from all counties. We will get together at 5:30 and start our meeting at 6:00. Reservations are required and must be received by 12 noon on Friday, 2/24. If you are not certain you can attend, please do not make a reservation - we don't want to waste our members' money paying for uneaten meals. If you do plan to attend, please RSVP to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com by next Friday at noon. (Please do not e-mail me as I will be away a couple days next week.) We look forward to seeing everyone. Bring your questions!
ONONDAGA COUNTY UNIT MEETING, THURS., 3/8/12
Unit 3, Onondaga County, will be holding a general membership meeting on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at the Twin Trees Too Restaurant, 1029 Milton Avenue, Syracuse, at 5:30 p.m. Reservations must be received by March 1st and require a $5 check payable to "CSEA Local 334 Unit 3," sent to Adriane Marino, Room 202 County Courthouse, or Barbara Tracz, Syracuse City Court.
ONLINE LEARNING SCHOLARSHIP
Empire State College is offering an Online Learning Scholarship for union members, their families and/or domestic partners interested in registering for undergraduate degree studies. Please see the attachment for further information on applications and guidelines or go to www.esc.edu/Bahr.
(Thank you to Terri Lamb, Grievance Rep, for submitting this information.)
SICK LEAVE CREDIT CALCULATION
Interested in estimating the value of your accumulated sick leave credits? Clink on the link below to access the worksheet.
Click here - Sick Leave Calculation Worksheet
(Terri Vecchio, Judiciary Local 334 Scholarship Chair)
Please find attached scholarship applications for the following:
2012 CSEA Judiciary Local 334 Lt. Michael D. Carraway Memorial Scholarship, filing deadline April 15th - Two $1,000 scholarships based on academics (must have 80 average and above to apply) and one $500 financial assistance scholarship, awarded to graduating high school seniors who are a child or legal dependent of a court employee represented by Judiciary Local 334 and will be continuing their education at an accredited institution of higher education. Awards are presented in June.
Click Here - Local 334 Scholarship
2012 CSEA Region 5 Scholarship application and poster, filing deadline April 15th - Four $500 scholarships awarded to graduating high school seniors who will be continuing their education at an accredited college/trade school and are the child/legal dependent or grandchild of a CSEA member in good standing or a CSEA Region 5 Staff member. Awards are presented in June.
Click Here - Region 5 Scholarship
Click Here - Region 5 Scholarship Poster
2012 Irving Flaumenbaum Memorial Scholarships, filing deadline April 30th -This one application includes three different scholarship opportunities:
Awards are presented in June and published in "The Work Force."
Click Here - Irving Flaumenbaum Memorial Scholarships
Have you taken the 60 seconds (or less) to e-mail your legislators in opposition to the proposed Tier 6? Forward this e-mail to your home address, then forward a copy to friends and family. On your home computer, visit www.tinyurl.com/stoptier6 to quickly and easily e-mail your legislators and tell them NOT to put your retirement at risk. The process is simple - simply fill in your address, your legislators are automatically selected, there is a proposed letter that you can submit immediately OR you can write your own thoughts. This is extremely important. We all want pension security when reaching retirement age! Contact your legislators today.
Last call for reservations. Join us at 5:30 on Wednesday, 2/29, at the Terra Cotta Restaurant, 81 State Street, Binghamton. Reservations should be sent to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com by this Friday, 2/24, before 12 noon. We look forward to seeing everyone.
Reminder: Unit 3, Onondaga County, will be holding a general membership meeting on Thursday, March 8, 2012, at the Twin Trees Too Restaurant, 1029 Milton Avenue, Syracuse, at 5:30 p.m. Reservations must be received by March 1st and require a $5 check payable to "CSEA Local 334 Unit 3," sent to Adriane Marino, Room 202 County Courthouse, or Barbara Tracz, Syracuse City Court.
Save the dates for upcoming Local dinner meetings, Wednesday, 4/11/12 in Jefferson County, Best Western Carriage House, and Thursday, 4/12/12 in Lewis County, Steak-N-Brew. More information will be sent out in the near future.
SYRACUSE MONSTER JAM
Feld Entertainment will present "Monster Jam" coming to the Carrier Dome at Syracuse University on March 10th, 2012 at 7:00 p.m., with special savings for UCS employees. The attached discount, $5 off the regularly priced $20 seating level, is being offered at no cost to UCS. Share the attached information about the Monster Truck Jam with your co-workers and their families. Anyone that is interested can contact Bill Shanks directly to order their tickets or have any questions answered. This discount will expire at noon on March 7th, 2012. Contact: Bill Shanks, Group Sales Specialist, BShanks@feldgroupsales.com or 1-866-248-8740, ext. 130, mention "Unified Court System discount."
Click Here - Syracuse Monster Jam
One more reminder to e-mail your legislators in opposition to the Governor's proposed Tier 6. On your home computer, visit www.tinyurl.com/stoptier6 to quickly and easily e-mail your legislators and tell them NOT to put your retirement at risk. It is extremely important that you contact your legislators today and every day until this matter is resolved!
JEFFERSON & LEWIS COUNTY DINNER MEETINGS
We have two upcoming informational dinner meetings, one on Wednesday 4/11/12 at the Best Western Carriage House, 300 Washington Street, Watertown, 5:30 p.m., and the second on Thursday, 4/12/12, at the Steak 'N Brew Restaurant, 4497 State Route 26, Turin, 5:30 p.m. Vendors have been invited to attend both meetings. As always, members from throughout all counties of our Local are invited to attend these dinner meetings. Reservations should be sent to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com by Wednesday, April 4th. We look forward to seeing everyone.
VACATION NOTIFICATION
I anticipate being out of the office from Wednesday, 3/21 through and including Wednesday, 3/28. Please leave a message on our Local phone/fax, 1-800-498-0334 and your call will be returned. You may also contact any of our Local officers, whose e-mail information is available on our web site, under Local 334.
SICK LEAVE BANK ENROLLMENT
The CSEA-UCS Sick Leave Bank enrollment period will run from 3/29/12 through 4/25/12. Members are strongly encouraged to enroll if they meet the eligibility requirements. Current members do not need to reapply. The 2012 contribution has been waived for those already enrolled. District Offices will be notifying employees of enrollment guidelines and providing enrollment forms.
COURT CLOSURES & MODIFICATION OF HOURS
CSEA has been notified that Schuyler County courts will be closed in observance of an official holiday on Friday, April 6, 2012.
We have also been notified that Oneida City Court will observe the hours of 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Thursday, April 5th and will also be closed on Friday, April 6th, 2012.
SCHUYLER & CHEMUNG COUNTY DINNER MEETINGS
Save the date - We have scheduled an informational dinner meeting on Wednesday 5/16/12 at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel and a second dinner meeting at Lib's Supper Club in Elmira on Thursday, May 17th, 2012. Mark your calendars - more information will follow.
A final reminder that reservations should be sent to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com by Wednesday, April 4th for the 4/11/12 Jefferson County dinner meeting and also for the 4/12/12 Lewis County dinner meeting. We look forward to seeing everyone.
INFORMATIONAL DINNER MEETINGS - SCHUYLER & CHEMUNG COUNTIES
We have two upcoming informational dinner meetings, one on Wednesday, 5/16/12 at the Watkins Glen Harbor Hotel, 16 North Franklin Street, Watkins Glen (Schuyler County) and the second on Thursday, 5/17/12, at Lib's Supper Club, 106 W. 5th Street, Elmira (Chemung County). Vendors have been invited to attend both meetings and will be available at 5 p.m. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. As always, members from throughout all counties of our Local are invited to attend these informational dinner meetings. Reservations should be sent to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com by Wednesday, May 9th. We look forward to seeing everyone.
UPDATED EBF FORMS
Newly updated CSEA Employee Benefit Fund forms are available on our website for Legal, Dental and Vision care reimbursement. Click on "Resources" and "Services" to locate links to the pdf files.
INCREMENTS TO BE PAID
UCS has informed CSEA that increments will, in fact, be paid based on the salary steps set forth in our contract. To date, we have not received confirmation that longevity bonuses will be paid, but presumably, they will be paid at the same time as the salary steps.
We have received a number of inquires as to the salary schedule and the definition of "Maximum," "1st Longevity," and "2nd Longevity steps." Members remain at the "Maximum" step for four years, then at "1st Longevity" for four years, then reach the top of their pay schedule in the "2nd Longevity" step.
A reminder that reservations for our dinner meetings next week in Watkins Glen (Wednesday, 5/16) and Elmira (Thursday, 5/17) are due by Wednesday, May 9th. Vendors have been invited to attend both meetings and will be available at 5 p.m. The meeting will begin at 6:00 p.m. As always, members from throughout all counties of our Local are invited to attend these informational dinner meetings. Reservations should be sent to Brenda Leone at reporterbl@aol.com. We look forward to seeing everyone.
REGION 5 PRESIDENT WHEATON'S NEWSLETTER
Please take a moment to read Region 5 President Colleen Wheaton's Spring Newsletter by clicking on the link below. Colleen writes about a few very important topics that every Local member should be aware of and follow closely - these issues can have serious implications for all of us.
Colleen Wheaton's Spring 2012 Newsletter
More information with be posted in the future, but a couple "save the date" notifications:
Local 334 Enchanted Forest Water Safari, Old Forge - Saturday, July 21, 2012
Local 334 Clambake, Syracuse - Saturday, September 8, 2012
CSEA Region 5 Golf Tournament, Camillus - Friday, September 21, 2012
Polar Plunge/Special Olympics Fund Raiser, Oneida Shores, Brewerton - Sunday, December 2, 2012
Region 5 NYC Bus Trip to NYC/Radio City Christmas Spectacular - Thursday, December 27, 2012
Forms & Member Information