
Be sure to check out the Fully Mobilized Divisions Honor Roll
8/15/2008
PEF hails Gov. Paterson for signing bill restricting nurse overtime
ALBANY - Leaders of the New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today commended Gov. David Paterson for signing legislation that will finally set limits on mandatory overtime for nurses.
"We salute the governor for delivering on his promise to sign this bill which offers the first real hope for alleviating the shortage of nurses in our hospitals and other health care institutions throughout New York state," said PEF President Kenneth Brynien.
"By putting realistic restraints on employers to force nurses to work double or even triple shifts, this law will relieve the terrible strain on nurses and their families and it will ensure patients have the quality of care they need," Brynien added. "We strongly believe this will open the door for many nurses who left their profession feeling burned-out and exhausted to return with fresh enthusiasm and vigor for their chosen vocation."
New York now joins the ranks of other enlightened states that have recognized the level of care improves when the nurses and other caregivers are not forced to work long hours beyond their regular workdays.
Brynien also praised New York Assembly Speaker Sheldon Silver and former Senate Majority Leader Joseph Bruno who brought the bill successfully through the Legislature this spring.
"Special accolades go to state Sen. Thomas Morahan and Assembly Member Aileen Gunther who sponsored this bill and worked for years to get it enacted," Brynien said. "Their loyalty and determination to bring this issue to a successful conclusion kept hope alive in the hearts of thousands of nurses in PEF and many others throughout the state."
PEF is the state's second-largest state-employee union, representing approximately 8,000 nurses throughout New York state.
SAFE PATIENT
HANDLING CONFERENCE
We are happy to announce that the State of New York/PEF Statewide Health and
Safety Committee has approved funding to provide support for up to 200 eligible
management and labor representatives to attend the Safe Patient Handling
Conference.
The conference is being sponsored by NYS Department of Labor and the Zero Lift Task Force and will be held in Niagara Falls, New York on October 1-2, 2008. The aim of this conference is to increase labor and management knowledge and collaboration in preventing of back injuries, patient injury and related workers' compensation costs due to patient lifting.
For all of the details and the registration forms, please visit your PEF H&S Web presence at:
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/SPHconference.htm
Please NOTE that this is very time sensitive and needs your immediate attention.
As always, if you have any questions, please feel free to contact me via e-mail at kdarminio@pef.org or via telephone at 518-257-6983.
Thank
you,
Kathy J. D'Arminio
PEF Chair Article 18 Joint Statewide Health and Safety Committee
http://www.pef.org/healthandsafety/index.htm
Office
- 800-342-4306 ext. 252
Cell - 518-257-6983
e-HealthBeat
Empire Plan Disease Management Program Update
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
The Empire Plan offers a number of disease management (DM) programs for individuals with a chronic medical and/or mental health condition. DM programs are available for individuals with: asthma, cardiovascular/coronary artery disease, congestive heart failure, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, depression, diabetes and sleep apnea. All of the DM programs use nationally-recognized clinical practice guidelines and recommendations. Participation is voluntary, free of charge to the participant, and confidential. Three new DM programs began on July 1, 2008.
DELEGATES
The 2008 Convention
Workshop Pre-Registration form is available on the Convention Website. It can
be completed and submitted via the web as we continue to try to go green.
https://www.nyspef.com/logon.aspx
If a delegate cannot access the web version they can contact Linda Giglio at 1-800-342-4306, ext. 328.
USEFUL
WEBSITES - SHOP STEWARDS TAKE NOTE!
CONTRACT NYS/PEF 2007/2011
Executive Summary
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/files/contactsummary200711.pdf
Salary
Schedules
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contract07-10/2007-2011_salary_schedules.pdf
Full
Text
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contract07-10/index.htm
Educational Offerings Inc. Reimbursements
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/pst/tuition/index.html
VRWS
Guidelines
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/benefits/vrwsguidelines92000.html
Pre-Tax
Transportation Programs:
www.nysride.com
Flexspend (Health Care Spending Account and Dependent Care Advantage Account):
http://flexspend.state.ny.us/
Mileage
Reimbursement Rates
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/agencies/travel/mileage.htm
Over 40
Comp Time Info
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/comptime/index.htm
NYS CIVIL SERVICE
Exam Fee Reimbursement Info and Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.com/pro/fee.html
Attendance and Leave Manual
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/attend_leave_manual/
Information On Civil Service Titles
http://careermobilityoffice.cs.state.ny.us/cmo/rguide/titlesrch.cfm
Title
and Salary Plan
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/tsplan.cfm
State
Personnel Management Manual (SPMM)
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/ssd/Manuals/SPMM/index.cfm
Special
Salary Treatments (e.g., Geographic, Shift Differentials)
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/sstse.cfm
Traineeships
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/cc/traineeships.cfm
Calendar of Legal Holidays
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/attendance_leave/2008_legal_holidays.cfm
Sign up
for State Jobs Exam Announcements ? Receive Via E mail
http://www.cs.state.ny.us/announ/emaillist.cfm
MISC.
NYS THRUWAY - Toll and Distance Calculator
http://www.nysthruway.gov/tolls/calc/index.html
Hotels
Accepting State Rates
http://hotelsatperdiem.com/
Link to
State Agency Websites
http://www.nysegov.com/citguide.cfm?displaymode=normal&fontsize=100&contrast=lod&superCat=102&cat=449&content=main
Retirement System
http://www.osc.state.ny.us/retire/
Deferred Compensation Home Page
https://www.nrsservicecenter.com/iApp/ret/content/landing.do?Role=None&Site=nysdcp
OFT
Telephone Directory
https://www6.oft.state.ny.us/telecom/phones/indsearch.jsp
Pre-retirement Planning
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/onlinelearning/PR/intro.html
New
York Codes, Rules and Regulations (NYCRR)
http://government.westlaw.com/linkedslice/default.asp?SP=nycrr-1000
PEF
PEF Membership Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.org/join.html
PEF
Membership Benefits
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.org/
Exam
Fee Reimbursement Info and Application
http://www.pefmembershipbenefits.com/pro/fee.html
Signing
up for PEF e mails is easy. Visit us here
http://www.unionvoice.org/pef/home.html
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"The man who is brutally honest enjoys the
brutality as much as the honesty. Possibly more."
Richard Needham
7/11/2008
- Upcoming Retroactive Payments
Pursuant to
Chapter 114 of the Laws of 2008 which implements the new 2007-2011 Agreement
between the State of New York and the Public Employees Federation (PEF) and
provides for retroactive increases to Overtime Meal, Hazardous Duty Pay, Standby
Pay and Intermittent Inconvenience Pay payments effective April 1, 2007 for
eligible employees. These payments will occur in paychecks dated 7/17/08
(Institution) and 7/23/08 (Administration)
-
Hazardous Duty Pay Increase
The contract provides for an increase in the Hazardous Duty differential to $.75
per hour and Hazard Duty OT to $1.13 per hour effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or
4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Overtime Meal Allowance Increase
The contract provides for an increase to the Overtime Meal Allowance to $6.00
effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Standby Pay Increase
The contract provides for an increase to Standby Pay to 25% of daily rate of
compensation effective 3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
-
Intermittent Inconvenience Pay
The contract provides for increases to Intermittent Inconvenience Pay to $2.21
per shift and Intermittent Inconvenience Pay OT to $.43 per hour effective
3/29/07 (Institution) or 4/5/07 (Administration).
For more information - http://www.pef.org/pst2007/osc/pb826.htm
- Mileage Reimbursement Rate Increase Scheduled
The IRS has
increased the mileage reimbursement rate to 58.5 cents per mile effective July
1, 2008. The PEF contractual reimbursement rate mirrors the federal rate.
- NYS-RIDE
One way the new PS&T contract can help keep a few extra dollars in your pocket
is if you take advantage of the NYS-Ride program. Under the 2007-2011 agreement,
the program allows employees to pay their mass transit commuting expenses using
pre-tax dollars through a payroll deduction program.
In the 2003-2007contract the pilot program was available to 35,000 state employees who were working in one of the five boroughs of New York City.
In an effort to support a greener New York and help members save up to 40 percent on the cost of monthly transportation fares, the program will be expanded statewide to employees in eligible negotiating units. Participants in the pilot program will continue to be eligible to participate regardless of their negotiating unit.
The enrollment process is easy and can be done online at www.nysride.com or by calling a toll-free number at (866) 428-7781, where you can also get more information.
ACTION ALERTS
Here are two important bills heading to the Governor's desk. Please take a
couple of minutes to communicate your support of both measures!
- Health Insurance in Retirement
Public employee retirees have given years of service to the state and local
governments with a promise of security in their health insurance.
Unfortunately, when budgetary pressures mount, it becomes all too easy to target
retiree benefits. That is why the Governor should sign S6457A. This bill would
create a task force on public retiree health insurance protection, and establish
a temporary moratorium on unilateral reductions in benefits.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/healthcareprotection_bill_08
- Geographic Reassignment Limitations
PEF's
geographic reassignment bill, S6652, has passed both houses of the legislature.
It provides reasonable safeguards in situations where the State seeks to
reassign civil service employees to a different geographic location from their
normal work site.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/geographicreassignment_bill_08
AGENCY
SPENDING REDUCTIONS PLANS POSTED
See where your employer proposes to save money -
http://www.pef.org/special_postings/agencyspendingreductionplan2008.pdf
ATTENTION
2008 PEF CONVENTION DELEGATES FROM REGIONS 9, 10, 11 & 12!
The
deadline
to make airline reservations is
July 20, 2008.
If you have not made your reservations, please call PEF Travel at (800) 767-1840
as soon as possible.
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"A consultant is someone who takes the watch
off your wrist and tells you the time."
Anon.
6/20/2008
DETAILED
PAYMENT INFORMATION
The Office of the State Comptroller (OSC) has issued the payroll bulletins
necessary to implement the raises and make retroactive payments required by the
2007-2011 Contract. Most of the adjustments (including base salary) will
be made in checks dated July 3 (institution) or July 9 (administrative).
Copies of the payroll bulletins are posted on the PEF Website at:
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contactindex.htm
DEFERRED
COMPENSATION DEDUCTIONS
The Deferred Compensation Plan has issued a memo (we've posted it at our website
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/contactindex.htm)
concerning how enrollees can modify their election in anticipation of the
payment of retroactive contract monies. As the memo details, employees on the
Administrative payroll have until June 25 to submit any changes. For those on
the institution payroll, because the payroll for the July 3 payments have
already been processed, the time period for making changes in the deferral rate
has already was passed; deductions taken for deferred compensation in the July 3
paycheck will be based on the election currently in place. However, we
have been advised that enrollees who would have wanted to modify their deferral
can change their deferral rate for the July 17 institutional payroll in an
attempt to approximate the amount they would have had deferred from the lump sum
paycheck. Those changes would have to be received at the HELPLINE no later
than July 3. (The same action can also be taken at any point during the
remainder of the calendar year). The staff at the Deferred Compensation Plan are
aware of this problem and have offered to assist enrollees however they can.
PASSAGE
of S.6342/1898B BANNING MANDATORY OT for NURSES
From the Desk of Ken Brynien, PEF President
I am pleased to inform you that late yesterday afternoon Governor Paterson,
Assembly Speaker Silver, and Senate Majority Leader Bruno announced a three-way
agreement on our bill to end mandatory overtime for nurses in New York State.
The agreement and imminent passage of the bill represents the
culmination of nearly a decade of effort by PEF and our coalition partners SEIU,
CWA, AFT, NYSUT, NYSNA, and CSEA. I would like to thank all of you who
participated in our efforts over the years seeking passage of the bill, as well
as the bill sponsors Senator Tom Morahan and Assembly Member Aileen Gunther.
I especially want to thank our Legislative Director Brian Curran for his hard
work and effort over the last several weeks to keep the bill on track and in the
forefront of issues the legislature and governor were seeking to address.
Below is a brief summary of the bill and changes agreed to between the governor
and the legislature.
- Amends the Labor Law to prohibit the practice of requiring mandatory overtime
for nurses (RNs and LPNs).
- Prohibits health care employers from mandating that a nurse work more than
their regular work schedule.
- Exceptions are allowed for emergencies and health care disasters.
- Applies to hospitals, nursing homes, and government- operated facilities that
provide health care that are licensed under the Correction law, Mental Hygiene
Law or Education Law, including facilities run by State and local government.
This would include correctional facilities, OMH psychiatric centers, OMRDD
facilities, OASAS facilities, as well as most other health care facilities.
- Does not prohibit a nurse from voluntarily working overtime if he or she
feels professionally able to do so.
- Amends the Education Law to say that a nurse who refuses to work mandated
overtime shall not be charged with patient abandonment if the nurse has given
reasonable notice to his or her supervisor.
- Takes effect on July 1, 2009
Again, thank you for your efforts in achieving passage of this important piece
of legislation.
NYS-RIDE
PROGRAM
The NYS-Ride Program allows employees to pay for their mass transit commuting
expenses using pre-tax dollars via a payroll deduction program. During the
2003-2007 Agreement, this program was a pilot limited to employees working in
New York City. The new contract required that it be expanded to all employees.
The State has started distributing information about the program in anticipation
of the July 2 start of enrollment. Additional information can be found on
the PEF Website at
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/nysride_goes_statewide.htm
TUITION
REIMBURSEMENT PROGRAMS: GUIDELINES AND APPLICATION FORMS NOW AVAILABLE!
Click here
http://www.goer.state.ny.us/train/pst/tuition/
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Nothing is really lost. It's just where it doesn't belong."
Suzanne Mueller
6/6/2008
PEF praises governor’s effort to save taxpayer dollars
Albany - The New York State Public Employees Federation (PEF) today
applauded Gov. David Paterson’s executive order requiring that contracts
between state agencies and private consultants be justified by savings to
the taxpayers, and open to full public scrutiny.
In recent years, bipartisan reports by separate comptrollers and a study by
the Fiscal Policy Institute (FPI) determined millions of tax dollars were
wasted annually through the use of expensive private consultants when, in
most cases, public employees could do the same work for less.
“This is a great day for New York state taxpayers and it’s public servants,”
said PEF President Ken Brynien. “It ensures the taxpayer gets the best
value, and it’s an acknowledgement of the efficiency of public employees.”
“The effective implementation of this executive order could result in
hundreds of millions of dollars in savings for taxpayers,” added FPI
Executive Director Frank Mauro.
In addition to thanking Gov. Paterson, Brynien also acknowledged the work of
state Sen. Joseph Robach, and Assembly Member Donna Lupardo, who spearheaded
a legislative effort related to the order by sponsoring legislation adopted
in 2006 requiring the cost of state contracts with private consultants be
fully disclosed.
President Brynien also recognized the important advocacy of state Assembly
Member Susan John, and Sen. Vincent Leibell, who sponsored legislation
calling for cost-benefit analysis of consultant contracts. “The John/Leibell
bill was the stimulus that helped to initiate the discussions leading to
this executive order,” Brynien said.
Republican former state Comptroller Ned Regan and Democratic former state
Comptroller H. Carl McCall were among the first to alert the public to the
high cost and inefficiency of using private consultants at the New York
State Department of Transportation. State Comptroller Thomas DiNapoli has
also been supportive of PEF’s efforts to reduce the use of unnecessary
consultants in state agencies. Follow up research done by the FPI showed
that similarly wasteful contracts were undertaken for many different types
of consultant work across all state agencies.
“The governor’s executive order is a major first step toward cutting a
significant amount of waste in state spending,” Brynien added.
PEF is the state’s second-largest state-employee union, representing 58,000
professional, scientific and technical employees.
Note: The Governor's office has also issued a press release on this subject
which is being posted at
http://www.state.ny.us/governor/press/index.html
6/3/2008
CONTRACT '07 - '11
UPDATE
- PEF PAYBILL
The Governor has introduced our paybill into the state legislature. We
anticipate that the legislature will take up the matter later this week or early
next. Following the bill's passage the Office of the State Comptroller (OSC)
will issue payroll bulletins which include pay date information. Keep an eye on
our website for developing information.
- CONTRACT IMPLEMENTATION UPDATE
PEF Contract Administration has issued an update on the implementation
process. It can be read here:
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/civilservice/implementationprogress.htm
e-HEALTHbeat
CSC
Recommends Shingles Vaccine
www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
People age 60 and older should be vaccinated against shingles, or herpes zoster,
a condition often marked by debilitating chronic pain, the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention (CDC) recommended recently. CDC recommends a single dose
of the zoster vaccine, Zostavax, for adults 60 years of age and older even if
they have had a prior episode of shingles. The good news is effective 7/1/08,
Empire Plan enrollees will be able to get the shingles vaccine at age 55.
RALLY - Join the Nurses Rally to
create a better health care system in NY!
PEF hopes to push
two bills through the Legislature this year - the 'stop mandatory overtime' bill
and another to create safe staffing levels in health care facilities. PEF
leaders are asking nurses and other PEF members to support a rally to persuade
our lawmakers to pass these bills and create a better health care system in New
York, as other states have done.
The rally will be held at the State Capital on Tuesday, June 10 and will start at 11:15 a.m. It will include PEF, and other union members from the New York State United Teachers, the Communication Workers of America, and the Service Employees International Union 1199.
http://www.thecommunicator.org/pradcampaigns/nurserally08.htm
PROTECT PUBLIC EMPLOYEE RETIREE
HEALTH CARE
If you haven't already please contact your State Senator and Assemblymember and
ask them to support the retiree health protection study and the associated
moratorium. Contacting them has never been so easy. Click here and follow the
simple instructions. A faxed letter will be sent by PEF on your behalf.
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/ProtectPublicEmployeeRetireeHealthCare
Background - Public employee retirees have given years of service to the public with a promise of security in their health insurance. Unfortunately, when budgetary pressures mount, it becomes all too easy to target retiree benefits. That is why the legislature should pass S6457A/A9393A. This bill would create a task force on public retiree health insurance protection, and establish a temporary moratorium on unilateral reductions in benefits. The task force, which would include a variety of experts and interested parties appointed by the Governor and the Legislature, will be charged with studying cost-effective strategies for protecting adequate and affordable health insurance coverage for retired public employees and their dependents. In conjunction with the task force, a moratorium would also be in effect, prohibiting public employers from diminishing retiree health benefits.
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PROGRAM
(800) 342-4306 ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
- Disney's Mary Poppins - New Amsterdam Theatre, New York City
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the July 10,
2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City (214 West 42nd
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Amusement Park Discounts
Membership
Benefits is selling discount amusement park tickets for the following parks:
Atlantis Marine World, Canada?s Wonderland, Cedar Point, Darien Lake, Dorney
Park, Dutch Wonderland, The Great Escape, Geauga Lake and Wildwater Kingdom,
Hershey Park, Hurricane Harbor, Idlewild and Soak Zone, Jiminy Peak Mountain
Adventure Park, Kennywood, MarineLand, Martin's Fantasy Island, Mountain Creek,
Seabreeze, Sandcastle, Great Adventure, Six Flags New England, Soak City, Splash
Zone, Splish Splash, Splash Down Beach, The Big E Fair, The Fun Spot, Water
Safari, Water Slide World, Zoom Flume, Sesame Place, Adventure Island, Water
Country USA and Busch Gardens. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Golf-A-Round
2 for 1 Greens Fees. Golf-A-Round is accepted at over 109 golf courses in the
Capital District. Books costs $26.25 (regularly $36.00) for PEF Members. Orders
can be placed on our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling our office at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium
Save on Bronx Zoo and New York Aquarium admission. To purchase and print your
tickets, click on the Zoo or Aquarium link amusement parks at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.org
or go to
https://tickets.wcs.org
and enter this exclusive 'Store Name': PEFMBP.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Like a union
worker, it went right to work."
Phoenix Mission co-scientist Ray Arvidson.
5/24/2008
CONTRACT '07 - '11
-RAISES
We are
pleased to report that the UUP paybill has just been released by the Governor's
Counsel's office. UUP ratified their contract nearly a month before PEF. As we
pressed the state for action on the PEF paybill, we were told that in fairness
to UUP, their paybill needed to be done before PEF's. UUP expects their bill to
be in the Legislature early next week.
The PEF paybill is now front and center. Historically the content of the PEF paybill is very similar to the CSEA paybill, which should help the state expedite their review.
We had projected raises to occur in June with retro payments to follow on a schedule to be adopted by OSC. The unusual delay resulting from the unexpected change of governors will delay the raise. We are now projecting a July implementation date.
Keep an eye on our website for the most recent news.
- EDUCATIONAL PROGRAMS
Tuition and
Education Program Parameters are Set
Since
the April 11, 2008 ratification of the Professional, Scientific and Technical
Unit (PS&T Unit) Agreement the Professional Development Committee (PDC) has met
to determine how the funds in Article 15 will be allocated for training and
education programs. The PDC has established the programs described below.
Program guidelines and application forms will be available in mid June.
Retroactive Programs: April 2, 2007 - March 31, 2008
These programs apply only to expenses incurred from April 2, 2007 through March
31, 2008. Applications for these programs must be postmarked July 1, 2008 or
thereafter.
- College Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit up to two (2) claims for up to $600 each
for credit-bearing courses at accredited colleges or universities. The PDC has
allocated up to $1.7 million for this program and reimbursement is on a
first-come, first-served basis.
- Voucher Alternative (VALT) Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit one (1) claim for up to $600 for
reimbursement for workshops and conferences attended between April 2, 2007 and
March 31, 2008. The PDC has allocated up to $275,000 towards this program and
reimbursement is on a first-come, first-served basis.
Programs: April 1, 2008 - March 31, 2009
These programs apply only to expenses incurred from April 1, 2008 through March
31, 2009. Applications for these programs must be postmarked July 1, 2008 or
thereafter.
- College Tuition Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to two (2) courses. The
standard claim rate will be up to $600 for undergraduate courses and up to
$1,200 for graduate courses. However, for a four credit hour undergraduate
course, claims for up to $725 can be submitted.
- Voucher Alternative (VALT) Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to $600 for reimbursement
for workshop and conference attendance.
- Certification and Licensure Exam Fee Reimbursement Program
Employees in the PS&T Unit can submit claims for up to $600 for initial
licensure and certification exam fees.
In addition, the Public Service Workshops Program (PSWP) and Workforce
Initiative Grants will be available in fall 2008.
Please note, this is just a brief summary and eligibility will be governed by
the program guidelines. Look for guidelines and application forms on the GOER
and PEF websites beginning in mid June.
PEF website:
www.pef.org
GOER website:
www.goer.state.ny.us/train
Email
address:
PSTtraining@goer.state.ny.us
Also, the PDC has begun discussions on re-establishment of the tuition voucher
program in April 2009. Additional details will be forthcoming this summer.
RALLY
PEF nurses at the Sunmount Developmental Disabilities Services Office in Tupper
Lake will be holding a rally on Thursday, May 29 at 4 p.m. to bring attention to
the all-time low staffing levels at the facility. The rally will take place in
front of the administration building at 2445 State Route 30. For more
information, call (315) 323-0884.
MEMBER-ONLY
BENEFITS
-
AMUSEMENT PARK DISCOUNTS
The new
amusement park discount ticket prices are now available. For additional
information visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
- BASEBALL TICKET DISCOUNTS
Baseball Tickets are now available through Membership Benefits for the following
local baseball teams:
- Rochester Red Wings
- Buffalo Bisons
- Syracuse Chiefs
- Binghamton Mets
- Tri-City Valley Cats (7/19/08 PEF Member Night - extra discounts
available)
- Hudson Valley Renegades
- Batavia Muckdogs
- Brooklyn Cyclones
Contact our office or visit our website
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
for prices.
- NEW DISCOUNT MOVIE TICKETS
AVAILABLE
In addition to our other movie discounts, we are now selling discount
tickets for Dipson Theatres in the Buffalo area and Bow Tie Cinemas in
Schenectady. For a complete statewide listing of theatres and prices visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
- Disney's The Lion King
- Minskoff Theatre, New York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the August 19, 2008, 8:00pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City
(Broadway & 45th Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating),
regular price is $111.25. Orders will be filled on a first come first serve
basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
Click on "Performing Arts/Theatre".
- Disney's Mary Poppins
- New Amsterdam Theatre, New York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the July 10, 2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City
(214 West 42nd Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating),
regular price is $111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be
filled on a first come first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com.
Click on "Performing Arts/Theatre".
- Gift Cards and Certificates
Membership Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates for
Panera Bread, Allposters.com/Art.com, JCPenney and Simply Certificates. For
information on purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Entertainment".
- 2008 SARATOGA PERFORMING ARTS
CENTER DISCOUNT FOR: NEW YORK CITY BALLET, PHILADELPHIA ORCHESTRA AND SARATOGA
WINE AND FOOD FESTIVAL GRAND TASTING AND AUCTION
PEF members save on select performances. To order tickets visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click "Performing Arts/Theatre" to print out an order form. In addition, a
limited number of PEF Member Night tickets for the Ballet (7/24/08) and
Orchestra (8/14/08) are available. Call Membership Benefits 800 342-4306, ext.
243 for details.
- BRONX ZOO
PEF members can save on tickets for the Bronx Zoo. To order tickets,
visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Amusement Parks".
- NEW REGIONAL VENDORS
The Membership Benefits Trustees have recently approved several new Regional
Vendors that are offering a discount for PEF members. For a complete listing,
visit
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on "Regional Vendors."
- WATKINS GLEN DISCOUNTS
PEF Members can get a discount for the Camping World Grand Prix (7/4 -
7/6) and the Finger Lakes Wine Festival (7/18 - 7/20). For details call Mike
Evranian at (607) 535-2486, ext. 351.
- GREAT ESCAPE LODGE
Members can save on select dates for overnight lodging at the Great
Escape Lodge, Lake George. Stay at the Lodge May 18-22, September 5, 14-18 or
19, 21-25 and pay only $149.00 per night. Visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
and click on
"Limited Time Offers" for details.
- SYSTEM MAINTENANCE 5/29/08
The PEF Membership Benefits on-line ticket sales will be shut down for system
maintenance from 3:00 pm on 5/29/08 until 10:00 am on 5/30/08. We apologize for
any inconvenience
For additional information on these benefits you can contact our office at 800
342-4306, ext. 243 or visit us on-line at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
PEF
Membership Benefits Program
PO Box 12414
Albany, NY 12212
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"We take the shortest route to the puck
and arrive in ill humor."
-Bobby Clarke
5/2/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE
The contract process continues along its normal course. A draft pay bill,
necessary for its implementation, has come out of the Division of Budget (DOB)
and is being reviewed by the Governor's counsel's office and PEF. State
representatives expect an expeditious review. This is the last step before
introduction in the legislature. We will update our website when the bill is
sent to the legislature.
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
e HealthBeat
- Act now to preserve health benefits for
student dependents
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
May and June are traditionally the months in which most full-time students complete their studies. If you have a child who is age 19 or older and enrolled in the NYS Health Insurance Program (NYSHIP), it is important to determine if he or she remains eligible for coverage. Your unmarried dependent children who are age 19 or over but under age 25 are eligible if they are full-time students at an accredited educational institution, and are otherwise not eligible for employer group or military health care coverage (e.g., cadets at U.S. military academies).
- Generic Albuterol Inhalers No Longer Available http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Albuterol inhalers are used for asthma and related conditions. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has mandated that albuterol inhalers containing the propellant chlorofluorocarbon (CFC) be discontinued from the market by December 31, 2008. They are being replaced by albuterol inhalers containing a more environmentally friendly propellant known as hydrofluoroalkane (HFA). Several HFA inhalers are available as alternatives to albuterol CFC inhalers; however, they are available only as brand name medications.
MEMBER ONLY
BENEFITS
(800) 342-4306 ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
- DISNEY'S THE LION KING - MINSKOFF THEATRE, NEW YORK CITY
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the August
19, 2008, 8:00pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City (Broadway & 45th
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- DISNEY'S MARY POPPINS - NEW AMSTERDAM THEATRE, NEW YORK CITY
Membership
Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for the July 10,
2008, 8:00pm show at the New Amsterdam Theatre in New York City (214 West 42nd
Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular price is
$111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a first come
first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
- GIFT CARDS AND
CERTIFICATES
Membership
Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates for Panera Bread,
Allposters.com/Art.com, JCPenney and Simply Certificates. For information on
purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or call Membership Benefits Program at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
PONDERABLE
QUOTE
"Most of
man's problems upon this planet, in the long history of the race, have been met
and solved either partially or as a whole by experiment based on common sense
and carried out with courage."
Francis Perkins
3/28/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS - OPEN TO
ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
Monday, March 31
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
Tuesday, April 1
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7
(888) 498-8532
Wednesday, April 2
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
Thursday, April 3
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
Friday, April 4
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
PEF REGIONAL
OFFICES
Region 1 - Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 - Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 - Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 - Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 - Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 - Utica (800) 724-5005
Region 7 - Malone (888) 498-8532
Region 8 - Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 - Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Region 10 - NYC (800) 522-8700
Region 11 - Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 - Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT BALLOT INFORMATION
Members who have not received a ballot by 03/27/08 are to call AAA to request a
ballot
or replacement ballot at 1-800-529-5218.
To vote on the contract one would have needed to be a union member as of
02/06/08.
If a member's address has changed they still need to call AAA. As long as they
are
on our list of members AAA will send them a new ballot.
LONGEVITY AWARDS
Employees newly
eligible for a 5 year award will need to wait until after the contract is
ratified to receive the award.
Employees who are newly eligible for a 10 year award will receive their 5 year award and after ratification of the contract receive the additional $1250.
Those who received an award last year and have remained otherwise eligible will receive the award this year on the following schedule created by OSC.
"Payment will be processed in a separate check dated April 16, 2008 (Administration) and April 24, 2008 (Institution). There will be no direct deposit for this payment."
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF
CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Want to
multiply your life? Then divide yourself from people of subtraction, and
surround yourself with people of addition."
Austin Staubus
3/21/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
Tuesday,
March 25
ELMIRA
- Elmira PC - 11:30 - 1 pm
- Elmira C.F. Clubhouse - 3 - 5 pm
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
- ENDICOTT
2001 Perimeter Road East Building 16
3rd Floor Training Room
Two sessions - Noon and 1:30pm
- BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
Friday,
March 28, 2008
OXFORD
- DOH Vets home 4:00 p.m.
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
Monday, March 31
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
Tuesday,
April 1
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7 (888) 498-8532
Wednesday, April 2
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
Thursday, April 3
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
Friday,
April 4
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
CONTACT INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 - Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 - Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 - Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 - Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 - Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 - Utica (800) 724-5005
Region 7 - Malone (888) 498-8532
Region 8 - Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 - Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Region 10 - NYC (800) 522-8700
Region 11 - Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 - Long Island (800) 832-5284
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP THE
OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP
CLOSURE OF
CORRECTIONAL
FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
e-HEALTH BEAT
Important Claim Deadlines
March 31, 2008 is the last day to submit your 2007 claims to: United
HealthCare for the Empire Plan Basic Medical Program, the Home Care Advocacy
Program (HCAP), and for non-network physical medicine services; ValueOptions for
non-network mental health and substance abuse services; and Caremark for
prescriptions filled in 2007 at non-participating pharmacies or without using
your Empire Plan Benefit Card.
Read entire article here:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Why is This "Nosy" Company Asking About My
Accident?
If you get a letter from a company called Healthcare Recoveries, Inc. (HRI)
asking about a medical claim you have made for benefits under the Empire Plan,
it's O.K. to answer it. Answering won't delay or reduce the payment of your
claim, and it might save the Empire Plan money and help reduce premiums for all
Empire Plan enrollees. Here's how it works. If you or one of your covered
dependents is injured, another person or their insurance company may be legally
responsible.
Read entire article here:
http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
SEIU sponsors ‘Everybody
Wins’ contest
PEF
members are invited to participate in the “Everybody Wins” contest sponsored by
the Service Employees International Union (SEIU). If you have an idea on how to
improve public services, you could win the first prize of $5,000, a $4,000
second prize, or a $3,000 third prize. Entries must be submitted through its Web
site at
www.publicdivisionvision.org/everybody_wins_guidelines
That’s also the site where you will find all the rules and entry information. Or, you can also mail your submission, as long as it is postmarked by midnight, April 4.
All top winners will be
recognized at the SEIU 2008 Convention in
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"If we have learned one thing from the history
of invention and discovery, it is that, in the long run - and often in the short
one - the most daring prophecies seem laughably conservative."
Arthur C. Clarke
3/14/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your
Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 4
(1-800-724-5004)
Friday March 14, 2008
SOLVAY
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Twin Trees Too Restaurant, Milton Ave., Solvay
- PEF REGION 1
(1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn
Airport (Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF REGION 3
(1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March
19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF REGION 4
Thu March 20th, 2008
SYRACUSE
9th floor auditorium
Weiskotten Hall
SUNY Upstate Medical University
2:15pm & 3:30 pm
- PEF REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE -
Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
Friday,
March 28, 2008
OXFORD
- DOH Vets home 4:00 p.m.
- PEF REGION 6 (800) 724-5005
3/31/08
WHITESBORO
6 - 9 pm
Hart's Hill Inn
Please call Region 6 (Wendy) for reservation
4/1/08
JOHNSTOWN
5 - 8 pm
White Holland House
Please call Wendy for reservations
- PEF REGION 7 (888) 498-8532
4/2/08
PLATTSBURGH
5:30 pm.
Plattsburgh Comfort Inn
Please call Region 7 (Darlene) for reservations
4/3/08
SARANAC LAKE
5:30 pm
Hotel Saranac
Please call Region 7 for reservations
4/4/08
MALONE
4:30
Gallagher's
Please call Region 7 for reservations
CONTACT INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 Utica (800) 724-5005
Regions 7 Malone (888) 498-8532
Regions 8 Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Regions 10 NYC (800) 522-8700
Regions 11 Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT
INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION
POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION
TODAY!
- STOP
THE OCFS CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PROGRAM
(800) 342-4306
ext. 243
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
Disney's The Lion King - Minskoff Theatre, New
York City
Membership Benefits Program has a very limited supply of tickets available for
the May 25, 2008, 6:30pm show at the Minskoff Theatre in New York City (Broadway
& 45th Street). PEF members pay $86.25 per ticket (Orchestra Seating), regular
price is $111.25. Ticket supplies are very limited. Orders will be filled on a
first come first serve basis. Tickets can be ordered on-line with a
Visa/MasterCard,
www.pefmembershipbenefits.org
or by calling 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
Gift Cards and Certificates
Membership Benefits is now selling discount gift cards and certificates
for Panera Bread, Allposters.com/Art.com and Simply Certificates. For
information on purchasing gift cards visit our website at
www.pefmembershipbenefits.com
or call Membership Benefits Program at 800 342-4306 ext. 243.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"The criteria
for success: you are free, you live in the present moment,
you are useful to the people around you, and
you feel love for all
humanity."
-
Sri Sri Ravi Shankar
3/7/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS
- OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your
Contract Team - Get answers to your questions
- PEF REGION 12 (1-800-832-5284)
Monday, March 10
HAUPPAUGE
PEF Field Office
1383-16 Veterans Memorial Highway
2 Meetings: 4:30 pm - 5:30
5:30 - 6:30
Tuesday, March 11
HAUPPAUGE
State Office Building - Cafeteria
2:00 p.m.
- PEF
REGION 4 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday March 12, 2008
AUBURN
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Curley's Restaurant (downstairs), 96 State St., Auburn, NY
Thursday March 13, 2008
WATERTOWN
Time: Noon
Location: American Legion Post #61 138 Sterling St. Watertown.
- PEF
Region 7 (1-888-498-8532)
Thursday March 13, 2008
OGDENSBURG
Time: 5:30 p.m.
Location: Freight House
- PEF
REGION 4 (1-800-724-5004)
Friday March 14, 2008
SOLVAY
Time: 5:00 PM
Location: Twin Trees Too Restaurant, Milton Ave., Solvay
- PEF REGION 1 (1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn Airport (Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF REGION 3 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March 19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE - Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
-
BEYOND (contact your Regional office for details)
3/31 Region 6
4/1 Region 6
4/2 Region 7
4/3 Region 7
CONTACT
INFO FOR PEF REGIONAL OFFICES
Region 1 Buffalo (800) 462-1462
Region 2 Hornell (800) 724-5001
Region 3 Rochester (800) 724-5003
Region 4 Syracuse (800) 724-5004
Region 5 Binghamton (800) 724-4998
Region 6 Utica (800) 724-5005
Regions 7 Malone (888) 498-8532
Regions 8 Albany (800) 342-4306, 228
Region 9 Poughkeepsie (800) 548-4870
Regions 10 NYC (800) 522-8700
Regions 11 Brooklyn (866) 897-9775
Region 12 Long Island (800) 832-5284
CONTRACT INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION
POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS
CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP
CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
SCHOLARSHIP GRANT
Do you know a
member who is paying tuition for any further education program? Chances are,
they are eligible for an AFT scholarship grant of $1,000.
American Federation of Teachers Robert G. Porter Scholars Program
This program offers 10 one-time $1,000 grants to AFT members to assist with
their continuing education. This program is now accepting applications for
2008. APPLICATIONS MUST BE POSTMARKED NO LATER THAN MARCH 31, 2008.
For more applications and information about this grant and other scholarships go to www.pef.org and click on the Scholarship link in the blue navigation bar.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"I am always
doing that which I can not do, in order that I may learn how to do it."
Pablo Picasso (1881 - 1973)
2/29/2008
CONTRACT MEETINGS - OPEN TO ALL PEF MEMBERS!
Hear from your Contract Team - Get answers to your
questions
- PEF
REGION 9 - Mid Hudson (1-800-548-4870)
Tuesday March 4, 2008
PEEKSKILL, NY
11:30am- 2:00 p.m.
Local 21 Union Hall
1024 McKinley Street
Peekskill, NY 10566
POUGHKEEPSIE
5:00 pm
Poughkeepsie Grand Hotel- Dutchess Room 40 Civic Center Plaza Poughkeepsie, NY
12603
- PEF
REGION 10 - NYC (1-800-522-8700)
Thursday, March 6
MANHATTAN
PEF FIELD OFFICE
225 Broadway - Suite 1406
2 Meetings: 4:30 to 5:45 p.m.
6:00 to 7:00 p.m.
- PEF
REGION 12 (1-800-832-5264)
Monday, March 10
HAUPPAUGE
PEF Field Office
1383-16 Veterans Memorial Highway
2 Meetings: 4:30 pm - 5:30
5:30 - 6:30
- PEF
REGION 1 (1-800-462-1462)
Monday, March 17
BUFFALO
Holiday Inn Airport(Genesee St.)
5:30 pm
-PEF
REGION 3 (1-800-724-5004)
Wednesday, March 19
ROCHESTER
RIT Inn and Conference Center at 6:30
- PEF
REGION 2 (1-800-724-5007)
Monday, March 24
HORNELL
3:00 - 4:00 pm Hornell State Office Bldg
- PEF
REGION 5 (1-800-724-4998)
Thursday, March 27
GLENDALE - Noon
BINGHAMTON - Binghamton Regency 7:00 p.m.
CONTRACT INFO
DETAILED 2007 - 2011 CONTRACT INFORMATION POSTED AT
http://www.pef.org/pst2007/index.htm
TAKE ACTION TODAY!
- STOP THE OCFS CLOSURES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopocfsclosures
- STOP CLOSURE OF CORRECTIONAL FACILITIES
http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/stopdocsclosures
MARK YOUR CALENDAR
- NURSE LOBBY DAY 2008 - TUESDAY, JUNE 10
http://www.pef.org/nurses/index.shtml
- PEF WOMEN'S COMMITTEE PRESENTS:
-
Strategies that Promote Women's Activities and Leadership
- Update on Women's Health Issues
WHERE
The Inn at Saratoga
231 Broadway
Saratoga Springs, NY
WHEN
Saturday, March 29
11:30 - 3:30 pm
WHO
All PEF members and their guests
Light lunch
to be provided - Pre-registration is required - Registration fee is $20.00 -
Please send check made payable to PEF by March 21, attention: Kim Partridge
Registration is limited to 50 people
For more information or a registration form, please contact Kim Partridge at (800) 342-4306, ext. 235 or kpartridge@pef.org
e-HealthBeat Flex Spending Account Reminders http://www.pef.org/healthbenefits/newspromos.htm
Now that we're well into 2008, here are some tips to help you make the most of the pre-tax dollars in your Health Care Spending Account (HCSA) or Dependent Care Advantage Account (DCAA).
The following apply to both HCSA and DCAA:
1) New employees can submit a change in status application within 60 days of their start date. This change will benefit employees who don't receive their new employee orientation in a timely fashion.
2)
Employees can now submit change in status applications on-line instead of via
paper. The application is at
http://flexspend.state.ny.us/.
PONDERABLE QUOTE
"Anger is a symptom, a way of cloaking and expressing feelings too
awful to experience directly - hurt, bitterness, grief and, most of all, fear."
Joan Rivers
2/22/2008
CONTRACT UPDATE #37
PEF EXECUTIVE BOARD APPROVES
On February 21, 2008 the PEF Executive Board Approved Sending the
2007/2011 Contract to PEF Members for Their Vote! What's Next?
TIMELINE
2/21/2008
Executive Summary, Side by Side “Gains and Trade-Offs”, and contract text sent
to the home of every PEF member
2/25–4/10 Contract Info Membership “Town” Meetings held throughout the State
3/20/2008 Ballots Mailed to Membership (by AAA)
4/10/2008 Ballot Return Deadline
4/11/2008 Ballot Count (by AAA)