: ae agreed pon at the Dior alenone
Lo sone Ce have
nt ne at the
thholding ¢ ae after August 5,
are not delinquent from payment of their dues
om. ey ‘between August 5, 1984 and the
ion will be eligi Ble to vol
ir candidates and/or ae ee
; ane a ane of Mis supervised election : i
Official Publication of The Civil Service Employees Association Local: 1000,
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees
In Suffolk; new. law to reduce proposed layoffs
HAUPPAUGE — CSEA successfully lobbied
the Suffolk County Legislature to pass the Early
Retirement Incentive Program which will
reduce layoffs. The program was signed into
local law on Sept. 17, by Peter F. Cohalan, county
executive.
Under the new law, the county will offer
eligible employees, who are 55 or more years old,
SIGNED — ‘Lyon Martins, acting Suifolk County local president, and Danny Donol
AFL-CIO.
three years service credit if they retire early.
Employees must be eligible for retirement from
the New York State Empleyees Retirement
System.
“Tt was vital to our members that this option
was passed by the county Legislature,” said
Lynn Martins, Local 852 acting president. ‘‘We
stressed to county legislators that the early
Region president, look on as Suffolk County Executive Peter F. Collen signs new early retirement
option into lay.
: public Heating on the Je isl;
, Long Island
Capi ATES STATEMENTS,
‘Pages 8-13
Vol. 5, No. 51
Friday, September 21, 1984
retirement option provided the county with an
effective tool in dealing with its budget
problems.”
Both Martins and CSEA Long Island Region
President Danny Donohue witnessed the option
signed into law. Donohue said the new option
“means saving the jobs of many county
workers.”
CSEA Local 852 represents more than 7,000
workers in Suffolk County. The union was the
driving force behind the state Legislature in”
creating the Early Retirement Option for Local
Government, which enabled Suffolk County. to ©
offer the option to eligible employees.
In Rensselaer, 40%
expected to use option
TROY — Rensselaer County is the first
county in the Capital Region to take advantage of
the CSEA-backed early retirement oe for
local government employees.
On Sept. 11, the Rensselaer County Legislature
unanimously passed the local legislation 7
necessary for implementati
at ion is sos for
anorty after the puilie peo =
: ig to statements by the county, several
CSEA blasts commission's proposed MH changes
ALBANY — CSEA President William L.
McGowan described as ‘‘a roller coaster without
brakes’’ proposals unveiled by the Governor’s
Select Commission on the Future of the Local-
State Mental Health System.
The commission proposes a ‘network of
management agencies to care for the mentally
ill.”” But McGowan says it would create confu-
sion, and complains, ‘“‘The commission itself
raises more questions than it answers.”
CSEA Associate Director of Research Bruce
Wyngaard recently resigned as a member of the
commission, explaining: “I have no confidence
in its findings. Its final draft report advocates an
uncharted course in untested waters with no
guarantees a better system will prevail.”
McGowan and Wyngaard recently held a news
conference in the Legislative Office Building to
blast the report. Wyngaard said that, unfor-
tunately, “the commission started out with the
conviction that it had to design a completely new
mental health system. In other words, it began
its charge with a closed mind.”
Regional president terms
plan ‘management nightmare’
NEW YORK CITY — CSEA Metropolitan
Region President George Boncoraglio has added
his voice to opponents of the commission’s
report.
At a Sept. 18 public hearing, Boncoraglio ex-
pressed fears that ‘the creation of regional
management authorities, as recommended by
the commission, would only create a new
bureaucracy, add to confusion in the system and
allow more mentally ill people to fall between the
cracks.”
He also told members of the commission its
plan “‘will create a management nightmare.”
A full report on Boncoraglio’s testimony will
appear in the next edition of the Public Sector.
Page 2
THE PUBLIC SECTOR; Friday,‘ September 21; 1984
uT
BRUCE WYNGAARD .. . resigns over report
Board seat ballots mailed
. .. for Dutchess education rep
ALBANY — Ballots are now in the
mail for the election of a new Dutchess
County educational representative to
CSEA’s Local Government Executive
Committee. Members of Dutchess
Educational Local 867 will participate
in the special election to fill the vacan-
cy on the statewide Board of Directors.
Only one candidate — V. Norma Con-
don of Wappinger Falls Central School
District — sought the position and will
appear on the ballot, along with a space
for write-ins.
Members eligible to vote in the elec-
tion who have not received ballots by
Sept. 27 may obtain replacement bal-
lots at that time by contacting Marcel
Gardner at CSEA Headquarters, (518)
434-0191, ext. 503.
Completed ballots must be received
by noon, Oct. 11 and will be counted
that day.
... for Region Il MH rep
ALBANY — Ballots are now in the
mail for the election of a new Region
II Mental Hygiene representative to
the State Executive Committee.
Members of OMH and OMRDD locals
in the Metropolitan Region are par-
ticipating in the special election to fill
the vacancy on the statewide Board of
Directors.
Candidates for the Board seat are
Frederick J. Daniels, Henry Reese,
Robert Gripper, Roy Johnson, Adrian
R. Mitchell, Richard J. Moccia and
Harold L. Robertson Jr.
Members eligible to vote in the elec-
tion who have not received ballots by
Sept. 27 may obtain replacement
ballots at that time by contacting
Marcel Gardner at CSEA Head-
quarters, (518) 434-0191, ext. 503.
Completed ballots must be received
by noon, Oct. 11 and will be counted
that day.
He's head over heels about judo...
>
...and his chance to coach in world championships
By Brian Baker
Assistant Editor
ALBANY — Jim Hrbek’s job as a statistical
clerk throws you off — in the same way that
Clark Kent’s job as daily reporter throws you off.
But the truth is that Hrbek, as a judo expert
and a master of movement and leverage, has
thrown a lot of people — into the air and down
onto mats. And now he’s throwing himself full
force into something he’s always dreamed of
doing. -
Hibek, a member of New York State
Insurance Department Local 666, took a leave of
absence last week to begin a five-week stint as
coach of the United States Women’s Team in the
World Judo Championships. The job kicks off
Sept. 21 with a European tour including an
international invitational in Austria, training in
West Germany, followed up by an international
open in France.
After a brief return to the United States, Hrbek
will be off again with the team to Vienna for the
championships in November. ,
Sitting behind a desk in his office a day before
his first flight to Austria, Hrbek made no bones
about the way he feels serving as coach of a
world class team.
“This is something I’ve been dying to be
involved in for years,” says Hrbek, who had
hoped to be chosen as coach in the 1982 judo
championships. “I guess you could say I’m very
happy about this.”
Happy enough to take eight vacation days and
the rest of the time without pay in order to take
the trip, he noted.
This is not the first time that Hrbek will have
served as a coach in international judo games.
Just last year, he coached the national women’s
team in the Dutch Open, and in 1982 he trained
men and women in separate competitions on
the international circuit. But because the world
championships are the ‘‘big time’ for women,
who are excluded from the Olympics, it’s his
most lofty judo job.
Hrbek, who got interested in judo 15 years ago,
teaches the ancient oriental sport at the
Guilderland Town Recreation Department and
the College of St. Rose in Albany.
One of his students at St. Rose, Mary Lewis, is
an alternate on the U.S. judo team and is one of
nine Americans ever to have placed in world
competition in the sport.
Hrbek himself is an accomplished player who
took second place in the YMCA national
nee ier in 1978, and holds a fourth degree
black belt, which is just one rung down from the
highest possible grade.
“Statistically, only one in 100 who take up judo
makes black belt,’”’ he explained. “And most
atte champions are third-degree black
belts.”
Hrbek, now 34, still spends five nights a week
working out on the judo mat, but says he’s taking
it easier than he used to. One reason is a torn
ligament in his knee, a ligament so shredded it
“looks like a doily” now from years of abuse.
“Tn the long run, when you constantly abuse
our body in any sport it starts an erosion process.
I would keep going even when my knee was in
pain. As a coach, I try to keep my players from
making the-same stupid mistakes,” Hrbek said.
There’s no doubt that judo, which concentrates
heavily on bodily throws, is a very tough sport —
which is probably why women didn’t get
involved as players in the past. But today, even
despite the increased participation of women in
all kinds of sports, the Olympics still don’t have
an event for women’s judo. ‘
“Men get into the Olympics, women don’t and
that’s because of discrimination,” said Hrbek,
noting that there are a couple of civil actions
pending to have them included.
Most female judo players peak in their early
twenties, which is earlier than men and due
partly to social pressures on women, Hrbek
thinks :
“For one thing, men are not expected to have
babies,” he said, noting that, in truth, though, it
really doesn’t matter much. A woman who
placed first in the U.S. Open, just three weeks
after giving birth, is testimony to the endurance
of some for the sport. "
The eight members and three alternates
on this year’s women’s team come from all
across the country including Colorado, New
Mexico, California and New York. Hrbek is
betting on at least three medals for the U.S.
team, but says that with the “right draw” there’s
. a chance for wins in every division.
Hrbek’s job will involve not so much physical
as “situational” training, briefing players on the
strengths and weaknesses of competitors from
other countries, he says.
“These women are already in shape,’ says
Hrbek, ‘‘so the kind of training they get on the
tour will not be the hardest — just the smartest.”
4
CSEA veteran Vera Van Dyke leaves longtime job
VERA VAN
Kingston.
DYKE — She’ll be missed in
By Anita Manley
CSEA Communications Associate
KINGSTON — A former Hudson River
Psychiatric Center Halfway House therapy aide
will not only be missed by her co-workers and
patients, but by the entire community in this
Ulster County city.
Vera Van Dyke, who was Mental Health
Therapy Aide and CSEA member for 10 years,
recently moved to Washington, D.C., leaving
behind a lot of grateful friends.
A civil rights activist for most of her life, Van
Dyke helped to organize the Kingston branch of
the Congress of Racial Equality and worked as a
CORE labor organizer putting blacks to work in
jobs that were traditionally held by whites.
Van Dyke’s husband, Leonard, who died in
1974, was elected Kingston’s first black city
alderman in 1963.
Political and social activism have been a way
of life for Van Dyke, who participated in sit-ins,
protests, the march on Washington, the Poor
People’s march and working for the NAACP. She
also helped migrant families.
An invitation from President Lyndon Johnson
to visit the White House for the anniversary
signing of the Emancipation Proclamation was
the highlight of her career.
Working in the Halfway House, Van Dyke
helped former mental patients learn everyday
living skills. In addition to helping the clients
learn how to shop and find jobs and housing on
their own, she took many into her own home,
becoming not only their mentor but their friend.
A mother of 10 children, Van Dyke’s love and
compassion for people rubbed off on her family.
She proudly points out that most of them are now
employed in “‘people jobs,’”’ helping cthers. One
son, Joseph is a CSEA shop steward and
employee of Ulster County. Other children also
work in human service jobs. One daughter is a
social worker and one is a family worker.
Another works for the federal government
finding housing for poor families and a son is in
the Air Force.
Van Dyke says she has not decided what kind
of work she wants to do in Washington. Whatever
she ultimately becomes involved with, Van Dyke
will no doubt put her heart and soul into it, says
those who know ier.
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 2) 1984
“Page 3
Publ
SECTOR
Official publication of
The Civil Service Employees Association
Local 1000, AFSCME, AFL-CIO
33 Elk Street, Albany, New York 12224
EavoRTiSM pacers
yn rAeaRNAL
Ss 5 508 @ S
HMM... THIS MAY
NOT BE QUITE SO
ELEMENTARY.
00
The Public Sector (445010) is published every
other Friday by the Civil Service Employees
Association, 33 Elk Street, Albany, New York
12224. i
>
Publication office, 1 Columbia Place, Albany, fi Set
New York 12207. Meee ae iy
Second Class Postage paid at Post Office, © MWEST¢atN )
Albany, New York. Uy j ABUSES
{ Wie + IN
MICHAEL P. MORAN — Publisher Q Kod 1 Civib
¢ h » SERVICES
ROGER A. COLE — Editor ‘A i
TINA LINCER FIRST — Associate Editor ts
BRIAN K. BAKER — Assistant Editor
Address changes should be sent to Civil Ser-
vice Employees Association, The Public Sector,
33 Elk Street, Albany, New York 12224,
zy ERED 4 ‘A A Gis (C1 RI ta
Buffalo Labor Studies fall classes kick off
BUFFALO — The Buffalo Labor
Studies program of the New York
State School of Industrial and Labor
Relations at Cornell University has
announced its fall and winter sched-
ule of courses.
Seven courses will be offered on
Wednesday evenings during the fall
term, which runs from Sept. 19 to
Dec. 12. They are: Contract Ad-
ministration (6:45-8:20 p.m. and
8:35-10:10 p.m.); Communications
Skills for Workers (6:45-8:20 p.m.);
Labor Journalism (8:35-10:10
p.m.); Collective Bargaining
(6:45-8:20 p.m.)
Also, Unions, Workers and Polit-
ics in a Presidential Year
(8:35-10:10 p.m.) ; Occupational and
Environmental Health (6:45-8:20
1984 - 85
p.m.); Concessions and Other Col-
lective Bargaining Challenges in the
’80s (8:35-10:10 p.m.).
Courses for the winter term also
will be held on Wednesday evenings,
from Jan. 9 through March 27. They
are: Labor Law I, Private Sector
(6:45-8:20 p.m.); Labor Law I, Pub-
lic Sector (6:45-8:20 p.m.); Labor
History (8:35-10:10 p.m.); Labor
Economics (6:45-8:20 p.m.).
Also, Union Leadership
(8:35-10:10 p.m.); Black Workers
and the American Labor Movement
(6:45-8:20 p.m.); The Future of Un-
ionism in America (8:35-10:10 p.m.)
The Buffalo Labor Studies pro-
gram is designed primarily for
working men and women interested
in furthering their education and de-
veloping their skills and knowledge
of labor relations and organized
labor.
Students may take individual
courses to meet specific needs, or
they may enroll in one of the Labor
Studies Certificate Programs. An
Advanced Labor Studies Certificate
Program has recently been added to
the curriculum.
All courses will be held in the
Classroom Building on the State
University College at Buffalo Cam-
pus, 1300 Elmwood Ave.
For more information, call, write
or visit Lou Jean Fleron, Director of
Labor Programs, NYSSILR, Cor-
nell University, Western District
Extension Office, 120 Delaware
Ave., Buffalo, N.Y. 14202, telephone
(716) 842-6180; or Larry Flood, As-
sociate Coordinator, Buffalo Labor
Studies, telephone (716) 878-5732.
_
New unit welcomed
in Rockland County
become the newest unit of Rockland County CSEA
Local 844.
Newly-elected Clarkstown School District Unit
President Patrick Duffy explained that the
buildings and grounds and maintenance employees
and bus mechanics ‘“‘felt that by joining CSEA, we
would have more strength.”’
Vice President Dominick Angelo said the
employees, who spent 19 months negotiating their
last contract, wanted to belong to a union with
strength and political influence.
Local President Frank Bosco credited Region III
Field Representative Chris Lindsey and others with
the organizing and affiliation of the new unit. He
said it ‘was a display of the finest organizing
techniques. It involved a concerted effort on the
part of the field staff, the regional president and
Larry Scanlon, CSEA’s Director of School District
Affairs.” ey
{
i =a : —_ |
WELCOME ABOARD - Rockland County Local $44 President Frank Bosco welcomes Patrick Duffy,
president of the Clarkstown School District Unit. With them are Region III Field Representative Chris
Lindsey, left, and Unit Vice President Dominick Angelo.
NS
Page 4
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984
A MEMBER OF THE TEAM — The A’s, shown at practice above, have an official
baseball card for John Liburdi. His position? GK. Groundskeeper, that is.
Cleaning up at Heritage Park
A's Liburdian ace ‘fielder’
By Daniel X. Campbell
CSEA Communications Associate
COLONIE — Every time the umpire yells “Play ball!” at Heritage
Park, John Liburdi’s reputation is on the line.
He’s not a star hitter or catcher with the Albany-Colonie A’s. In fact, he
doesn’t even play baseball, professionally at least. He’s the head
groundskeeper and a public employee. And if the field’s not up to snuff,
Liburdi’s in trouble.
But, the team doesn’t call Liburdi “‘The Rock”’ for nothing. His work is
consistently in good form and so far, no games have ever been called due to
field conditions — if the grounds crew has been able to do anything about
them.
“We can’t control rain or snow, but we’re on top of the rest,” Liburdi
said.
Heritage Park, a $1.2 million sports facility, covers 15 acres with three
and one-fourth acres within the field’s fences. Like most new sports
stadiums built in the United States, the complex is publicly owned. In this
case, Heritage Park is owned and operated jointly by the town of Colonie
and Albany County.
“Town of Colonie employees work inside the park,” Liburdi said, ‘‘while
Albany County workers take care of the outside of the facilities. It’s a good
working arrangement that seems to be going smoothly.”
Liburdi is used to dealing with public officials and often calls upon his
experience as president of a CSEA unit in the town of Colonie to get over
some rough spots.
“Our job is to make sure that the park is properly maintained and
developed,” Liburdi said. The workers are following a six-year development
plan for the park which includes expanding its use for other sports such as
football and soccer.
“The job is seeing that the park is maintained without disrupting
everyday services which the town of Colonie and Albany County taxpayers
expect,” Liburdi said. ‘‘We have to coordinate the availability of equipment
and hours so that the job gets done properly and professionally. And every
crew that works in Heritage Park from the town of Colonie or Albany County
keeps that in mind.”
Their meticulous work has not gone unnoticed. ‘‘This facility is rated as
one of the top five in the United States,” said Ben Bernard, owner of
Capitaland Professional Sports and operator of the Oakland A’s AA Eastern
league Team — the Albany-Colonie A’s.
“No single individual, unless he was a multi-millionaire, could afford to
build a facility like Heritage Park. And I’m sure that its owners, the town of
Colonie and Albany County, would like to see it developed into the number
one rated park in the nation.”
Heritage Park had the greatest, seasonal attendance in the Eastern
League in 1983 with a total of 200,196 people attending the A’s games. This
year, with the A’s suddenly eliminated from post-season play after finishing
the regular season in first place, attendance was down by 500.
LIBURDI AT WORK, on the field.
But attendance is expected to jump again next season when the
Yankees, who recently got the park’s franchise, play their Double A Farm
Team on the field.
“The town of Colonie and Albany County have already benefitted from
the presence of Heritage Park,” Liburdi noted. “The area has had an
economic boost of about $2 million per year from tourism as a result of the
Heritage Park development.”
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984 Page 5
P # Banks:
oe mamma
Page 6 THE "PUBLIC. SECTOR, Friday, ‘September 21, 1984
EXPOSED ASBESTOS is visible on piping at Adam D.C.
6 Members were beginning to think they were garbage men
instead of Sieaniers and maintenance workers. 9
'VELOPMENTAL CENTER
OSHA scraps garbage siaaaa bee searches
™~
J
GOODBYE GARBAGE PICKING — CSEA Local 400 ‘sp Steward William Ribblett and President
Dana Tietz, right, stand in front of dumpster where members had to sift through garbage bags in search
of mop heads and linen. Looking on in back is Field Representative Mark Higgens.
, Asbestos danger
also being probed
in some buildings
PERRYSBURG — A practice of making
employees pick through garbage bags — in
seach of discarded linens and mop heads — has
TASES:
ee
been halted at J.N. Adam Developmental ©
Center, following CSEA OSHA intervention.
Local 400 President Dana Tietz and Steward |
William Ribblett said some of their members ~
“were beginning to think they were garbage
men, instead of cleaners and maintenance
workers.”
“We filed a grievance on the matter, which |
was denied at the first step,” said Ribblett, “and |
then we decided to have an OSHA inspection to §
expedite the matter.”
An initial inspection by CSEA OSHA }|
Representative John Bieger resulted in a finding
by state inspectors that a danger of hepatitis |
existed in the practice.
A cease and desist order was accompanied by 1
a requirement that a hepatitis warning be posted _
at every site at the facility.
Bieger said a possible asbestos danger is also ©
being probed by state inspectors in some |
buildings on the center’s grounds.
ASBESTOS PROBE — Region VI 1 OSHA Representative John Bieger, left, discusses
asbestos problem with William Deet, center, and Jim Sutter, both plumber- |
steamfitters and members of Local 400.
VICTORIES IN CENTRAL REGION
Reinstatement, back wages, benefits for ‘Herkimer 5’
HERKIMER — After 10 months of fighting,
five village of Herkimer employees have been
reinstated to their jobs and benefits and received
lump sum back wages totaling more than
$36,200.
According to Robert Wellington, president of
the Herkimer Village Unit of CSEA Local 822, the
five employees were rehired as village trash
collectors July 2 and received retroactive pay in
a lump sum Aug. 31.
The case began in November 1983 when the
village of Herkimer terminated six employees
(one was rehired shortly thereafter) after
contracting out its garbage collection.
Claiming the village had defied the contract
with CSEA by not negotiating the impact of
contracting out, the union filed an improper
practice charge.
In April the Public Employment Relations
Board (PERB) supported the CSEA charge and
ordered the employees reinstated with full back
pay and benefits.
After a series of delays that included a request
for an extension, the village finally reinstated
the men — but not before considerable pressure
was brought by CSEA regional and local officers
directly and a letter campaign was staged
through the media. Regional President Jim
Moore, Local 822 President Mary Sullivan and
Unit President Wellington issued hard-hitting
statements protesting the village action without
proper negotiations with the union.
Added help also came from Field
Representative Butch Ventura and CSEA
Attorney Michael Smith. {
A successful conclusion was reached when the
. A i“ sig
IT’S A WIN — CSEA Field Representative Butch Ventura, right, discusses the impact of a Herkimer
Village letter of reinstatement with Unit President Bob Wellington, center, and Mike Makohen, one of
five village employees reinstated with back pay and benefits.
village rehired the men in July and made lump
sum payments of back wages amounting to more
than $36,200 before taxes to August Schmidt,
Matthew Ward, Clemente Lamanna, James
Seaver and Michael Makohen.
“Tt was a great landmark victory for Local 822
and one CSEA can be proud of,”’ Unit President
Wellington said. “From the beginning we knew
the village had violated the contract and were
determined to carry on the fight. I think we
proved to the six men involved, and to every
other member in Local 822, that CSEA will do
everything it can to correct injustice to its
members. It took nearly a year, but working
together we did it.”
Reassignment
for school
custodian in
No. Syracuse
ALBANY — CSEA members and agency fee payers who object to the
appropriation of a portion of their dues or agency shop fees for political or
ideological purposes unrelated to collective bargaining can obtain a rebate.
The CSEA political rebate amounts to $3.92.
The union’s procedures call for rebate requests to be submitted by
certified or registered mail addressed to the statewide treasurer. Requests
will be accepted during the month of October.
Individual requests should be submitted; list of members and fee payers
NORTH SYRACUSE — The 1984 school year started
out well for Harold Reichard, a custodian for the North
Syracuse Central School District and a member of the
NSCSD Unit of CSEA Local 834 Onondaga County.
Reichard recently learned of an arbitrator’s award in
his favor that returned him to the day shift in the school
system,
The chain of events began in June 1983 when decreas-
ing enrollment forced the district to close a school.
Reichard was notified of his assignment to the second shift
at the district office. At about the same time he learned
another employee with the same job title (Custodian I),
but two years less seniority, had been assigned to the day
shift. Reichard filed a grievance.
The case proceeded through three grievance steps
with the employer citing Reichard’s employment record
and the less senior employee's ability to “‘interact effec-
tively and emotionally with severely handicapped chil-
dren” on the day shift, a district school dealing with the
handicapped.
Reichard requested CSEA legal assistance and a de-
mand for arbitration was filed in September 1983.
At the hearing the school district argument centered
around ‘‘the consideration of shift changes had the poten-
Political action rebate
application.
tial of being disruptive of the working conditions of other
custodial employees” and the ability of the less senior em-
ployee to “interact” with handicapped children and his al-
leged better work record. s
CSEA Regional Attorney Earl Boyle argued that the
district had violated specific contract language concern-
ing seniority when it reassigned Reichard to the second
ane and placed a less senior employee in a day shift po-
sition.
Boyle further contended that the job title called for
nothing more than specific custodial duties and that any
other interaction between employee and students was not
called for.
In July 1984 the arbitrator decided in favor of Reichard
by declaring the North Syracuse Central School District
had breached the collective bargaining agreement. “Ac-
cordingly, the District shall assign Grievant (Reichard)
to the day shift at the Riordan School as Custodial Wor-
ker I as soon as is practicable, but in no case later than
the beginning of the 1984 school year, or immediately if
grievant is not now working on a day shift assignment.””
Thanks to well-defined contract language and CSEA
Has assistance, Harold Reichard is again working the day
shift.
on dues
are not acceptable. Each requests for reimbursement must include the
individual’s Social Security number.
AFSCME’S Constitution also includes a rebate procedure. The Inter-
national secretary-treasurer calculates the portion of per capita payment
or service fee equivalent that has been used for partisan political or ideological
purposes during the fiscal year and rebates that amount upon proper
Individuals asking CSEA for political action rebates are not required to
file separate requests to the International. CSEA will forward requests it
receives to the AFSCME secretary-treasucer.
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984,
Page 7,
before, during, or within ten days after the
supervised election. Members are urged to use
certified mail, return receipt requested.
(Continued from page 1)
US Department of Labor, OLMS
Room 1310, Federal Building
111 West Huron Street
Buffalo, New York 14202
Rerun of election of officers to begin
Any member who does not receive a ballot in
the mail may request a replacement ballot from
Brenda Smith of the Independent Election
Corporation of America, (516) 437-4900, Lake
Success, New York, beginning on October 1, 1984.
An affidavit will be
replacement ballot that must be completed by
the member and included with the ballot
included with the
envelope upon return of the marked replacement
ballot.
All mailings made during the course of this
supervised election will be made according to
the records of CSEA, Local 1000, AFSCME. All
members are encouraged to verify that their
current addresses are accurately shown on the
above mentioned records.
The candidates for statewide union offices have been afforded this issue of The Public Sector. The statements begin here and
the opportunity to publish statements concerning their candidacy in _ continue on pages 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13.
Statements by candidates for president
Raymond O'Connor
William L. McGowan
Ls
Statewide CSEA elections have been thrown out by a U.S. Federal
Court Judge because of the many IMPROPRIETIES, and ordered
a_new election to be held under the watchful eye of the Federal
Department of Labor. In accordance with his ruling, the election must
be completed by October 7, 1984.
During the middle of July, I announced my candidacy for the
presidency of CSHA against William McGowan. Coincidently, within
a few days after my announcement, I was slapped with a $13 million
lawsuit for ‘“‘libel’’ and ‘‘emotional distress’’ by James
Featherstonaugh, one of the partners of the law firm representing
CSEA, in the obvious attempt to keep me from running.
It appears that McGowan & Company have a great deal to worry
about. They are now forced to have another election under the
supervision of the Federal Department of Labor, an election that
“CANNOT” be manipulated, controlled or rigged. And with elections,
come the traditional campaigns where issues are raised and discussed
openly among the members. Obviously, this too, is something that
McGowan & Company can ill-afford. All of this comes at a time when
units and locals throughout the state are moving for decertification
from CSEA.
Let me state emphatically, that I will not be intimidated or
swayed in my pursuit to oust the current administration of CSEA.
Nor will any of their fabricated lawsuits deter me, or members of
my team, from discussing the issues which indicates a blatant
disregard for the interests of our union’s members.
Joining me in this commitment are Pauline McDonough,
candidate for Executive Vice President, and James Neely, candidate
for Treasurer.
Unfortunately, the issues are many in number and continue to
increase. The important fact is that these issues have left CSEA is
shambles, and more importantly, have had a dramatic impact on the
daily lives of CSEA members.
Ten years ago, we enjoyed the highest average salaries in the
entire nation. During the tenure of McGowan’s administration we
have declined to eighth place, and slipping fast. Not only have we
(Continued on Page 12)
Iam seeking your support to continue the job you elected me to
do in 1982. Let’s look at the record.
During my years as President, CSEA has become an effective
union, producing tangible benefits for its members.
Working together, in 1982, we won the best contract — ever —
for state employees. Negotiated settlements in local governments and
school districts have also improved in many areas. We are working
to make our bargaining position in local governments even stronger.
We have repeatedly beaten back the threat.of massive layoffs.
Fighting together we saved the jobs of thousands of our members.
Our victories in the state legislature and the courts have improved
the Tier III retirement system. By taking our case successfully to
the Court of Appeals we restored the “take-aways”’ in Tier III and
set a precedent that protects all retirement benefits.
By convincing the state’s lawmakers to eliminate the “Social
Security offset” in Tier III we made sure that thousands of CSEA
members will receive more money when they retire.
I will continue to work for the elimination of the “Tiered” retire-
ment system. I believe that people working side by side should enjoy
the same retirement benefits. But as we work toward that goal, we
will continue to seek improvements in all the existing retirement
plans. : °
One of the proudest accomplishments of my term as President
has been the creation of the public sector OSHA law. The workplace
is safer for every public employee thanks to this safety law. This year
we won improvements in the OSHA law. I am working to improve
CSEA’s ability to enforce the safety laws and protect our members,
The Employee Assistance Program, that began under my leader-
ship, has become a model for other states around the country. EAP
has saved lives, jobs and families. EAP has given CSEA members
with alcohol, drug and family problems somewhere to turn for the
help they need to put their lives back in order. I am determined to
go forward and make this same help available to all of our local
government and school district members.
CSEA is a leader in the fight for pay equity. The pay equity study
(Continued on Page 12)
Page 8
‘THE RUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 2), 1984
Jimmy Gripper Jr.
Joseph E, McDermott
‘Pauline McDonough —
1 AM MORE than honored that the CSEA
members of the Statewide Nominating Com-
mittee have found me qualified and have plac-
ed my name on the ballot for the position of
Executive Vice President.
In October 1984 CSEA will go into contract
negotiations for a new contract beginning
April 1, 1985. Now is the time for you the
membership to know the issues.
The First Issue is Money, we are
underpayed compared to people performing
the same kind of job in Private Industry.
Local Government and State Employee have
been patient and have suffered long enough.
My First demand, if elected by you will be a
deserved raise of 20% per year for a three-
year contract.
(a) 20% on April 1, 1985
(b) 20% on April 1, 1986
(c) 20% on April 1, 1987
Each pay raise componded, we don’t just
want, we need this type of raise to keep up
with inflation alone, and to make up for all we
have given up in the PAST to Save New York
State.
I will Fight for:
¢ No Lagg Payroll
¢Normal increments with additional
longevity increments
» Full Cost of Living Clause — no cap
» Improved health and dental plan — no cap
we Examinations and eye glasses — fully
« A better grievance procedure
e All contract articles will go to arbitration
° No give backs
This is the first time that I will be running
for a statewide office. This election for the
first time will tell each Local President and
the members how many members voted by
each local, thanks to the Federal Courts and
the Landrum-Griffin Act. Below is a brief
listing of my CSEA and community
experience:
« President of Brooklyn Dev Center.8 years
President of Region II............
« Statewide Vice President
¢ Contract Negotiating Team
* CSEA/AFSCME Delegate........
« County Executive Committee..... 2 years
« State Executive Committee....... 7 years
¢ Mental Hygiene Labor management
COMM BG fe iro tiaul iuimenae's ¢ 7 years
¢ CSEA Political Action Trustee. ...2 years
* Public Sector Committee......... 3 years
(Continued on Page 13)
y
JOE McDERMOTT — A Union activist
since he joined state service as a Grade 3
Clerk in 1957 is proud to claim “I joined the
Union the day the State hired me.”’ He has
been a Statewide CSEA Delegate for 20 years,
active in two N.Y.S. D.O.T. Locals as
grievance rep and Board Member and Local
687 President three terms.
He was elected Capital Region IV President
for five terms and is presently the incumbent
CSEA Executive Vice-President. Joe has been
elected AFSCME International Vice-
President from CSEA twice.
“The Office of CSEA Executive Vice-
President is the second in command. It
requires a person who isn’t afraid of working
long hours and seven days a week, someone
intimately familiar with CSEA problems and
procedures.” Joe claims “I have worked very
hard for the last year and a half to change the
perception of the job from ‘social
ambassador’ to that of a full-time working
administrator.”
Joe has said ‘NO’ to being assigned to
represent the officers at social functions, but
has never said ‘NO’ to a work assignment. His
recent letter to the Local leadership stated:
“For the past, 17 months, since becoming
Executive Vice-President to fill a vacancy, I
have been extremely busy with
administrative projects-which are important
to CSEA. Presently I am involved in
negotiations to purchase a new headquarters
building so that our scattered staff can be
pulled under one roof and ultimately, put
those thousands of dollars in rent money to
better use and value to our members. Matters
such as this can’t just be set aside! (to go
campaigning).
For the first time in years, your Statewide
Committees are being assessed as to their
goals, procedures and accomplishments. A
new policy book is being developed so that
both the activists and staff will no longer have
to wonder — how? when? why? I have
represented the President at meetings
chaired meetings and just answered
telephones — it’s a busy and full time job. I
have worked closely with a great many staff
department heads to improve our Education
programs, provide increased research,
develop a comparative worth program for
local government and school district
membership, gain representation rights,
propose and gain legislation, update our
organizational and administrative
(Continued on Page 13)
PAULINE McDONOUGH IS a career civil
servant with over twenty-eight year of cler-
ical service with the Department of Audit
and control. During these years Pauline has
been active in CSEA activities as a Chapter
Representative for 10 years, a member of
Audit and Control women’s committee, a
member of the negotiating team and a region
delegate for 16 years. Pauline is the widow of
Tom McDonough, former Executive Vice
President for State CSEA and traveled exten-
sively with him throughout New York State,
advising and participating in CSEA affairs.
Pauline’s family is indeed a CSEA union
family. Her husband coined the phrase,
“Fight for my union?...Damm right I
would!”’ And the commitment continued. Her
son and daughter are both state employees
who have been active CSEA members at one
time or another. There is little doubt about
how deep her commitment is and where it is
directed.
In announcing her candidacy, Pauline
believes it is time to work with all CSEA
members to bring members and CSEA closer
together. She asks each CSEA member to par-
ticipate in this special election, to turn out the
largest vote possible, to show that CSEA
members truly care about who runs their
labor organization.
Statements by candidates seeking the office of CSEA Statewide Secretary
TE
Irene Carr
IT IS WITH pride that I ask your support for
my reelection to the position of Statewide
Secretary of CSEA, Inc. I say with pride because
I’ve been a member for 30 years and I’ve been
priviledged to be a local secretary, delegate and
president, a region officer and a Statewide
officer. These offices have been held during a
unique time in the history of our union. I have
served’ CSEA on many committees and I
understand the problems of the members. I care:
about the rights of the members and I want to be
part of the fight that upholds these rights.
I must note that over the years issues that I
have pushed within the union have now become
part of our overall program — womens rights,
comparable worth, technology, VDT awareness,
daycare, the need for our Annual Delegates
meeting to address registration in a more
efficient manner and present seminars of
interest to the membership.
My duties are narrowly defined in the
Constitution but I do not believe you want a
Statewide officer who is not totally involved in
the day-by-day activities of the union.
now facing State negotiations with State
management we have never negotiated with
before. It will not be easy and you must take time
to complete that ballot quickly. Our brothers and
sisters in local government need the expertise of
qualified officers. There is much to be done in the
way of aiding them to benefit from special
programs — EAP, Clerical Advancement
Programs, Quality of Life Committees attention
to professionals. I support the need for the
Education Department to expand to better
represent the membership.
We are all bound by a sacred trust to represent
the best interests of the membership. It is time to
call up the ranks to vote and show with that
vote your real concern for the leadership of your
union. ‘
In compliance with a motion presented by the
Local Government Committee my office has put
together a policy book. This will givelocal officers
an advantage of having in one book mandates
that are not incorporated in any other manual.
We face a challenge for job stability and union
status as we have never before. Thus there is a
dire need for experienced, qualified officers.
LL You must consider when you vote that we are
Helen Carter
election procedure is honest.
Committee.
and a union which appears unsupportive.
© your VOTE IN a CSEA election has never
counted more. This election is being supervised
by the U.S. Dept. of Labor because of
irregularities which I brought to their attention
in the 1982 election of statewide officers. The
Dept. of Labor’s supervision will ensure that the
My qualifications for the office of Secretary
include four years as Regional Secretary,
participation in the 1979 Administrative Contract
ae membership on many committees,
otably the Mental Hygiene Task Force in
Region 2 and the Statewide Insurance
My loyalties are to the membership. I have no
ties to incumbent officers or to the law firm. I
share your problems on the job, the frustrations
of dealing with ambiguous contract language
T have seen dedicated local leaders, who dared
to speak out against the manipulations of the law
firm or the inactions of union leadership,
silenced through “‘kangaroo court” disciplinary
proceedings or highly suspect elections. I have
‘shared the frustration that the only recourse is
legal action at their own expense while the
organization uses our dues money to protect its
interests. I have seen a diminishment of
democracy in the union while the stakes, and the
dues, have increased.
I can bring to the office of Secretary the
professionalism which is needed. I can also bring
a dedication to democracy and a familiarlity
with the problems and frustrations of the
workplace. I will be actively involved in contract
negotiations and will be responsive to the
membership.
|_@
arr
Statements by candidates seeking tl e office of CSEA Statewide Treasurer
James C. Neely
WHEN YOUR UNION has its officer elections
dumped by the courts, and when two other
elections are being investigated by the federal
government, you know it’s time to change
officers.
When your union’s Employee Benefit Fund is
being investigated by the State Investigations
Commission, you know it’s time to change
officers.
When huge blocs of members are seeking
decertification from CSEA, you know it’s time to
change officers.
The O’Connor-McDonough-Neely slate is glad
it does not have to run on the record our
incumbents must groan under in these court-
ordered elections. We are free to seek solutions
to the tough problems, instead of defending our
errors.
Tough problem #1 is restoring members’ faith
in what CSEA is willing to do for them. We
pledge the honest use of union funds. We pledge
proper legal help for every member in their
grievances. We pledge to allow elected regional,
local and unit officers to hold their offices
whether they happen to support us or not. We
pledge to make local and county employees as
important to the union as state employees,
instead of stepchildren.
We pledge to make health benefits better,
removing the $1000 cap on dental benefits,
reducing the waste in the prescription drug plan
and negotiating a decent deductible on medical
claims.
Tough problem #2 is restoring CSEA’s place in
the state community. We pledge our most sacred
word to be open and honest with the members we
|
we
will serve. We pledge to work with our fellow
unions on issues that affect all workers — Taylor
Law repeal, comparable worth, safety in the
worksite, veterans’ benefits and other issues —
where the present officers have not.
We pledge to initiate programs to bring CSEA
to the forefront of the new labor movement, and
out of the special interest category. We pledge to
make your dreams the source of our efforts
where we can, and to ask your understanding
where we cannot. We pledge to seek a place for
each member in the community that the future
will bring us all into, ready or not.
fi HA. (Tony) Bentivegna
I WOULD LIKE that the members unders-
tand my views on the Office of Statewide
Treasurer. Fiduciary responsibilities, bills, Ac-
counts, Money, certainly! .. . Without question
in addition, a deeper commitment to the office of
Treasurer. There should be a strong dedication
to the hard principles of Unionism.
As an example, when I was a Local Treasurer
in 1976, I was also the Grievance Chairman to
that same large local. Being Treasurer is an
important part of a larger commitment to the
members. Everything that is significant about
any Union passes through the office of the
Treasurer, who should see the Unions issues in
proper perspective.
dedication to CSEA that I described, those who
know me personally, know that there is truth in
what I say.
Some of my past efforts on behalf of CSEA are;
Greivance Chairman and Treasurer of
CSEA/Local 411. I was also Exec. Vice
President, and twice President of that same
Local, also I was Head Steward for a number of
years, and I was Strike Co-ordinator for the 1978
strike preparations.
In Region 1, I served as Contingency Action
Planning Committee chairman, Political Action
Committee, and Chairman of the Regional Trail
Board, and a member of the Regional Mental
Hygiene committee.
In the Statewide Sector, I served on the
Contingency Action committee, and the QWEP
committee, and the Continuity of employment
Subcommittee, in addition, I am a Negotiator to
those are the responsibilities of the Office. I see@}
e
I feel that I am capable of the kind of
@ cd
1979-81 Statewide contract, and I serve on the
Office of Mental Health Labor Management
e:
now seek to be your Statewide Treasurer.
Dne more word if I may, you should look and
igjen carefully, there are candidates that seek
Office on a platform that is anti-CSEA. Anyone
wigo seeks Office in a Union they do not like is a
fogll, and not acting in the best interest of you, the
imbers.
ank You. I am looking forward to counting
yar vote on Oct. 12, 1984,
Barbara M. Fauser
AFTER HAVING GONE through the Petition
route in 1982 and winning by 9000 votes as the
first full-time Statewide Treasurewr, I now, as
the incumbent again ask for your support and
vote to permit me to continue to serve in this
great Union.
I wish to assure you the financial status of your
Union is excellent. Assets have increased to $19
million and annual income now exceeds $30
million. Your Union has a very healthy fund
balance of $14 million. All of these areas have
increased during my first term.
In addition to financial stewardship, I have
implemented over 30 Administrative changes
such as new or revised policies, procedures, In-
house cost savings measures particularly in the
printing and paper supply area. All four Model
Constitutions have been condensed to booklet
size, Board of Directors reports were condensed
and as of 1983, the Delegate format was changed.
Constitutional and By-law amendments were
passed effecting the Statewide Constitution as
well as the Region, Local and Unit Models that
were beneficial to all members, provided Audit
Committees on all levels with Guidelines which
became an addendum to the Financial Standards -
Code in 1983.
Through intensive treasurer’s training and
improved follow-up procedure, I wish to report
the majority of Locals now file financial reports
on a more timely basis thus enabling
headquarters to rebate the 25% Local Dues more
expeditiously back to the Locals.
Written communications in the Treasurer’s
and the Internal Auditor’s office has increased
significantly. In addition, I have personally
corresponded with over 2800 individuals, a
responsibility I felt was mine not the staff's. All
this has been done without the assistance of an
assigned secretary. ©
I currently serve as consultant on the Audit,
Budget and Convention Sites Committees, as a
ro La Aa
Trustee of the Political Action Fund and as a
member of the CSEA Building Task Force.
I held the position of Director and Vice-
President for 2 years and President of Local 315
for 54 years and chaired the Local’s Negotiating
Committee through three contracts.
I served as Region VI Treasurer from 1975
until 1982 when I was elected as the First Full-
time Statewide Treasurer. Also chaired or
served as member on all Standing and several
Ad-Hoc Committees on a Local, Region and
Statewide level. In 1980, 1982 and 1984 was
elected AFSCME delegate of Region VI.
My background includes 33 years in
purchasing and accounting at Roswell Park
Memorial Institute at Buffalo. I also supervised
and provided new methods and procedures in the
(Continued on Page 13)
ne
ea
a
Page 10
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984
Page 11
Raymond O'Connor
Statements by candidates for president
William L. McGowan
(Continued from Page 8)
experienced the worst salary track-record in our history, but it was
at the cost of phenomenal givebacks, such as lag payrolls which gives
the state two-week interest-free loans at our expense; secretly
negotiated increases in health insurance premiums; the Performance
Evaluation System; and of course, massive layoffs,
County and local government employees are CSEA’s second-class
members, While the status of CSEA’s state employee members has
constantly been deteriorating with layoffs, threatened layoffs in 1985,
poor wage contracts, etc., county and local government employees
have enjoyed even less. 50% of CSEA members are county and local
government employees, yet they continue to have minimal
representation in CSEA, with only one of the State CSEA’s 10 top
officers representing this forgotten half of our membership.
Comparable Worth for Women has been “ignored” by McGowan
& Company. A part of the 1982-85 negotiated contract for the state’s
three bargaining units guaranteed a study to be commissioned to
evaluate comparability of work duties and salaries. $500,000 was
allocated for the year-long study to be completed by March 31, 1983
which would force the state to rectify all inequities. March 31, 1983
has come and gone! No studies, no results, no comments, not even
a whimper. Comparable Worth for Women has since become a major
issue nationally. CSEA under McGowan’s leadership could have
resolved this problem years ago, and in fact, was contractually
obligated to do so. Now why would he forget something as important
as that, an issue affecting so many of our employees? Was another
deal made, and at whose expense?
Employee Benefit Fund dollars have been diverted to “feather”
Roemer & Featherstonaugh’s nest! .CSEA’s attorneys have major
holdings in firms doing business with the CSEA Benefit Fund; they’re
paid by CSEA, and are paid by the Benefit Fund; and reap the profits
from the contractors doing business with us too. These activities are
the subjects of many investigations currently in progress by state
and federal agencies.
Many local-negotiated contracts have created Funds and
produced benefits that are far superior to those offered by EBF’, yet
CSEA Field Staff have been directed to negotiate ONLY the EBF into
new local contracts.
Mental Hygiene employees continue to be threatened with the
CLOSING of their facilities and facing major layoffs! Staten Island
Developmental Center is scheduled for closing in three years.
Surveyors from OGS have been investigating “other uses” for mental
hygiene facilities statewide. The Morgado Memorandum has been
violated by the State and forgotten by McGowan. McGowan’s chief
advisor on mental hygiene affairs just left CSEA to get a job with
United Cerebral Palsy. Getting the picture?
There appears to be a systematic move by CSEA to deny
members representation by our union’s attorneys at arbitrations and
Section 75 hearings. Members are losing their jobs simply because
they cannot afford to pay for an arbitrator and lawyer out of their
own pockets. Isn’t that supposed to be a principal function of our
union? Yet, CSEA’s law firm, Roemer & Featherstonaugh, continue
to receive $2.2 million to administer the legal program.
Since McGowan seized control of CSEA our membership has
declined by 20% when all other unions have shown dramatic increases
in their membership. 45,000 PS&T members pulled out, and Suffolk
County, with 7,000 members shows every intent to successfully pull
out within a month or so. In fact, the Association of Deputy Sheriffs
and Correction Officers petitioned for decertification and CSEA didn’t
even attempt to challenge their effort.
Executive Vice President McDermott doesn’t even belong in our
union; just the result of another MeGowan deal. While McDermott
continues to play a viable role with McGowan & Company, he was
a PS&T employee who, when PS&T decertified from CSEA, was given
a “special” title to keep him in the union. He is an “exempt” employee
and enjoys the same salary and benefit increases as “management
confidential” employees.
Our Field Staff are dedicated professionals who have the ability
to serve members, but instead are forced to place the benefit of the
union’s leadership well-before the members’ interests. They operate
with one-hand tied behind their backs. In fact, the Governor’s Office
of Employee Relations has more influence with McGowan than their
own field staff, and that’s a shame!
In addition to those major reforms that their union needs to cause
the pendulum to swing back to the members’ interests; to remove
corruption and self-serving abuses; to eliminate the bureaucracy that
has evolved; we intend to initiate the following:
—to use the full resources of CSEA: Field Staff, lobbying,
AFSCME research, to gain a major salary increase for state
members in the upcoming negotiations;
—to demand that Governor Cuomo’s announced $14 million state
(Continued on Page 13)
(Continued from Page 8)
currently underway as a result of our state contract negotiations is
the first of its kind in the country. We are also moving forward with
a project to bring pay equity to local governments and school dis-
tricts as well. More than half our members are women and CSEA,
under my leadership, is dedicated to fighting for the rights of all our
members.
The Employee Benefit Fund, which began during my presiden-
cy, has provided thousands of CSEA members and their families with
improved benefits. Through the EBF we have been able to provide
more benefits, with lower ‘‘out-of-pocket costs,” than commercial in-
surance companies. Complete dental, vision and prescription drug
programs have enabled thousands of our members and their fami-
lies to lead healthier and happier lives.
Working together we have accomplished a great deal during my
years as President. But there is much more to be done.
For state employees we face a very difficult negotiation. We will
be going to the table with a management that has already declared,
in the media, that its target for a salary increase is three-and-a-half
percent. It will take hard work and solidarity to win a good contract,
building on our current agreements.
I will bring experience and determination to the bargaining ta-
ble. And, I will ask you to become involved, provide input for our de-
mands, stay informed and participate. Only if management knows
we are united will be able to win a fair contract, with an acceptable
salary increase and job security protections.
For too long, New York State leaders have tried to balance the
budget on the backs of state workers while putting more dollars in
the political porkbarrel. We paid our dues during the state’s darkest
days. Our sacrifices helped New York avoid bankruptcy. The con-
tracts we negotiated in 1982 put a stop to that trend. Our current con-
tracts started to put our state members back on the road to the
economic recovery that the rest of New York is enjoying.
I want to continue that progress in 1985. In the negotiations that
are about to begin we will face a tough fight. But working together,
with experience and dedication, we will succeed.
T also want to make progress that will benefit our local govern-
ment and school district members. Our effort this year to pass the
local government early retirement bill and increase school aid are
examples of that commitment. The early retirement option helped
avoid layoffs in state government. It will do the same in many local
governments. At the same time it provides a benefit to CCEA mem-
bers who have dedicated their lives to public service and are now
ready to retire.
As part of that commitment CSEA’s Political Action Department
is being restructured to put more lobbying clout in local governments.
The September edition of Empire State Report magazine has a cover
story on this reorganization. The article speaks of the accomplish-
ments of our political action efforts during my term. It ends with the
following assessment: ‘Most labor leaders agree with a New York
City labor official, who said that once the new political organization
gets in place, ‘CSEA is going to be one of the most powerful political
forces in the state.’ ””
My opponent has made a number of false and misleading state-
ments. He has said things that are so far from the truth that I refuse
to dignify them with a response. But in April, CSEA’s Board of Direc-
tors created a committee to investigate the charges raised in The Free
Press, the paper in which these charges have been made. On Sep-
tember 12, 1984 that committee submitted its report and this was its
conclusion: ‘“‘It is therefore, the conclusion of the CSEA Board of
Directors Ad Hoc Committee to Investigate Alleged Internal Im-
proprieties that the information and statements contained in The Free
Press are completely and totally void of any substantiation. The Free
Press has chosen, apparently, to either quite consistently ignore
and/or distort pertinent factual information or to speculate carelessly
in the manner in which it purports to offer information on the activi-
ties and representatives of CSEA, Inc.”
I believe I have a record of accomplishment and a program for
the future that deserves your support. Over the years, I have worked
for CSEA’s members as a local, regional and statewide officer. The
needs and welfare of the members of CSEA have always been my
only concern as an officer of this union. I believe that the record
shows, that during my years as President, CSEA has functioned to
improve the lives and working conditions of our members, despite
very difficult economic times in New York. With your support we will
accomplish even more in the future.
I would also ask you to support the slate of officers who have
worked with me: Executive Vice President Joseph E. McDermott;
Secretary Irene Carr and Treasurer Barbara Fauser.
Make sure you vote. Whatever your choice of candidate, take the
time to return your ballot. A low voter turnout is a sign to manage-
ment that you just don’t care. Help your union work for you, vote!
Page 12‘ THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday
, September 21, 1984
Statements by candidates
Raymond O'Connor
(Continued from Page 12)
surplus be used to eliminate all of McGowan’s givebacks, to
provide for substantial increases, and to provide job security
in the face of constant threats of layoffs;
—to create a special blue-ribbon panel to study Comparable
Worth, headed by Executive Vice President Pauline
McDonough, picking up the ball that McGowan & Company
dropped two years ago;
~—to guarantee equal representation to members of cities, school
districts, counties, villages and libraries, and to commit the
full resources of CSEA to resolve their lingering problems;
—to eliminate the hand-picked Judicial Board and replace it with
impartially-elected members, not appointed. The new Judicial
Board will be charged with the responsibility to review all past
cases;
—to administer the Employee Benefit Fund with professionals.
Your negotiated dollars will purchase the best benefits
available after competitive bidding. The $1,000 dental cap will
be removed;
—-to insure that CSEA will be an open, dynamic union that will
fight for its members’ rights and interests; to encourage the
flow of ideas and proposals that will make our union the
strongest and most responsive in the country.
From 1946 to 1961, Ray O’Connor served as a full-time member
of the National Maritime Union AFL-CIO. In 1953 he was elected as
a Convention Delegate, and again in 1960. In 1966 he became a
member of the Maritime Engineers Beneficial Association AFL-CIO,
and in 1970 became a member of CSEA; elected Vice President of
the Probation Section, Westchester County, CSEA. In 1978 Ray was
elected President of the Westchester County Unit, Local 860, CSEA,
followed by his election as 1st Vice President of Region 3, CSEA. In
1980 he was re-elected as President of the Westchester Unit, and in
80, elected President of Region 3, CSEA.
From 1981 to 1983, Ray served as Trustee on the CSEA Employee
Benefit Fund. During his tenure of CSEA involvement, he served as
amember of the Statewide Constitution and By-laws Committee, and
successfully negotiated the Westchester County contract which
provided two 8.5% raises plus increments, created the Westchester
County Benefit Fund, and the Westchester County Emergency Sick
Leave Bank.
S
SS
Vs
Jimmy Gripper Jr.
Joseph E. McDermott
Barbara M. Fauser
(Continued from Page 9)
« Constitution and By-Laws Committee. ..3
years.
Community
e NAACP
« Concord Baptist Church of Christ
¢ M.W. Hiram Grand Lodge A.F. & A.M.
¢ St. James Lodge No. 10 ; ee
I think you know what I stand for, and what
I won’t stand for while representing CSEA
members. This is a re-run election and as a
candidate there is little or no time to
campaign, the ballots will be mailed on
September 25, 1984 and must be mailed back
to reach by October 12, 1984. If you care about
our contracts and CSHA, now is the time to
participate, talk to your co-workers about this
re-run election and why. If you wish for me to
serve you as your Executive Vice President,
then vote for me and you'll have a friend
working for you in CSEA Headquarters at 33
Elk St. I’m number 1 on the ballot.
(Continued from Page 9)
procedures, enhance our legal position in
judicial matters, plan strategy in dealing with
NYS and several major county situations, and
prepare CSEA for two conventions. I have met
with appointed County Government and State
Officials, elected and party officials, to discuss
and obtain our Union ends. Most importantly,
I have reviewed and proposed. staffing
improvements to enhance our Union
operation,
Given the continued opportunity of serving
as Executive Vice-President, my intentions
remain as always: To be up-front in my views,
to continue my attempts to improve the
Union’s administrative responsiveness, to
continue efforts for both long-range and short-
term planning and to be responsive to the
memberships’ collective voice.
Again I ask for your campaigning support to
enable me to continue this effort.”
(Continued from Page 11)
operation of a $30 million computerized equip-
ment inventory control system. It is my intention
to implement a similar system for CSEA
throughout our facilities.
Education and training remains a_ high
priority. We have the expertise to accomplish
this task. An In-House cost accounting program
is of utmost importance if we are to improve
reporting and productivity relative to budget
analyses, negotiations, etc.
Help me to CONTINUE to “MIND THE
MINT” and to prove my Sincereity, Honesty and
total Commitment to the Membership by RE-
ELECTING me as your TREASURER.
i
Deadline for .
ballot return
is October
SECTOR, Friday,
eptember: 21,7984. * °°
12,
Page13
jai
STOP REAGAN’S RERUN
8.5 million
out of work
NEW RECESSION FORECAST
WASHINGTON — The nation’s civilian
unemployment rate hung at 7.5 percent in August,
with 8.5 million people actively seeking work and
failing to find it, the Labor Department reported.
The jobless rate was 7.5 percent in May, declin-
ed to 7.1 percent in June and jumped to 7.5 percent
in July.
“This and other signs are further proof that the
next recession is on its way,”’ declared AFL-CIO
Chief Economist Rudy Oswald.
He said the stability of the jobless rate was a
negative sign because the Labor Department also
reported a decline of 426,000 civilian jobs in
August. He noted, too, that the leading economic
indicators point to an economic slowdown ahead.
Oswald pointed out that the number of
unemployed, now at 8.5 million, is more than
500,000 higher than when President Reagan took
The jobless rate is up and
leading economic’ indicators
- point to an economic
; slowdown ahead.
office. The jobless rate, he added, is still about the
same even after Reagan “put the economy
through the wringer.”
The August report showed some divergence in
the two major job series. The household survey
showed the sizeable drop of 426,000 in civilian jobs
to 105 million. The non-farm payroll total edged up
by 159,000 to 94.5 million.
On the unemployment side, in addition to the 8.5
million jobless seeking work could be added the
1.3 million who dropped out of the labor force
because they believed no jobs were available. An
additional 1.7 million were on involuntary
parttime.
The jobless rates for major worker groups re-
mained about unchanged between July and
August. These were 6.4 percent for adult men; 7.1
percent for adult women and 18.4 percent for
teenagers. The rates were 6.4 percent for white
workers, and 10.7 percent for Hispanics, both
steady over the month. Unemployment among
blacks fell from 16.9 percent to 16.0 percent.
The average workweek of production workers
was unchanged at 35.2 hours. In manufacturing,
weekly hours edged down 0.1 hours despite a full
hour increase in the average workweek in the auto
and equipment industry.
Study finds Reagan's policies hurt all but rich
WASHINGTON — President Reagan’s tax and budget policies ‘‘helped
the affluent but were detrimental to the poor and middle class,” according
to a 412-page study by the Urban Institute, a non-partisan public policy
research organization.
Titled ‘‘The Reagan Record: An Assessment of America’s Changing
Domestic Priorities,” the foundation-funded report was billed as ‘the most
comprehensive study of an incumbent American president in history.”
Some 50 Urban Institute experts and some 100 consultants worked on the
study over the past three years.
The study examined the effects of the Reagan program on family in-
come, the nation’s economy, taxes, state and local governments, poverty,
non-profit organizations, businesses, and social policy. It also forecasted
trends for the rest of the 1980s and weighed the likely effects of alternative
policies. The report found:
* On family income, from 1980 to 1984, the bottom 40 percent of U.S.
families lost ground, while the top 20 percent experienced a substantial net
gain. Income is adjusted for inflation in 1982 dollars and for federal taxes.
During the same period, the average income of the poorest 20 percent
of all families declined nearly 8 percent, from $6,913 to $6,391, while the in-
come of the most affluent 20 percent rose by nearly 9 percent, from $37,618
to $40,888.
Since Reagan took office, about $25 billion has been shifted to the top 20
percent of families from the other income groups.
* On taxes, federal income tax-cuts have been offset by increases in
Social Security payroll taxes and in state and local taxes, so the total tax
burden on the average family has grown slightly during the past four
Page 14° THE BUBLIC’SECTOR, Friday, September 21,
years. The average family will pay 26.3 percent on its income in taxes in
1984 compared with 25.9 percent in 1980.
For corporations, however, the effective tax rate, about 33 percent in
1980, was cut to less than 5 percent by the 1981 tax bill. After some of these
tax breaks were eliminated in 1982, the effective corporate tax rate still
was less than 16 percent. ‘The federal tax structure has become less pro-
gressive because it relies more on payroll taxes and because the personal
income tax cuts favored people with higher incomes.”’
* On the federal budget, ‘the Administration proposed to lower
spending and taxes in relation to the size of the economy.” But in spite of
the Reagan social spending cuts, federal spending as a share of GNP is
now higher than when Reagan took office, 24.1 percent versus 23.5 percent
in fiscal 1981. The main reason is that military spending has grown from 26
percent to 32 percent of the federal budget in the past four years.
* On the deficit, Reagan pledged to balance the budget by 1984. But
Reagan’s rapid military buildup, tax cuts and the recession “‘led to huge
deficits. Nearly as much national debt will have accumulated in the past
four years as in the entire history of the country prior to this
Administration.”
These deficits, “if not brought quickly under control, will slow
economic growth.” They also result in a ‘‘rapidly growing share of the tax-
payer’s dollar going to pay for interest on the debt rather than for current
benefits and services.”
* On poverty, ‘government programs do less now than in the past to
protect people from poverty,” which increased from 11.7 percent of the
population in 1979 to 15.2 percent in 1983. ‘Recession and cuts in social pro-
grams contributed about equally to the increase,”” Economic recovery
won’t be enough to reduce the poverty rate to its lows during the 1970s.
‘Contract News
SIDNEY — More than 10 months after the start of negotiations,
members of the Sidney Hospital Unit of CSEA Delaware County Local 813
have voted to accept a new three-year agreement calling for salary in-
creases each year, plus other improvements in benefits and contract
language.
The new agreement, affecting 166 employees in the bargaining unit, was
ratified by a narrow margin after months of negotiations, changes in the
hospital administration and original proposals that were totally unaccep-
table to the CSEA negotiating committee.
Unit President Richard Burden released the following agreement
terms:
« A salary increase of 2.5 percent for 1984, retroactive to Jan. 8.
¢ An increase of 3 percent in 1985.
« An increase of 5 percent in 1986, with increments of approximately 2
Ossining workers take
A new two-year agreement
OSSINING — The approximately 85 village employees here who are
members of Westchester County Local 860, who have been without an
agreement since Dec. 31, say they are extremely pleased with their recently
ratified two-year contract.
The employees, who work in the Recreation and Parks, Highway, Water
and Sanitation Departments, will receive a 5 percent across the board pay
increase retroactive to January and an additional 2 percent retroactive to
July 1. Effective Jan. 1, 1985, the workers will receive a 4.5 percent increase
and 3.5 percent on July 1, 1985,
The contract also provides for increases.in stipends for ‘‘standby”
workers, additional bereavement days and new language which clarifies
procedures for posting job openings and promotions.
Unit President Lou Caraisco praised the work of CSEA Collective
Bargaining Specialist Manny Vitale throughout the negotiations.
“We couldn’t have asked for better representation. Without his
expertise and experience, we would have been in for a very difficult time,”
said Caraisco. “Manny took a tough stand and I feel we came to a fair
settlement.”
Members of the negotiating team included Caraisco, Lillian Kelly,
Stanley Jones, Ralph Trapanese and Dominick Savino.
Saratoga sheriffs OK
county's second offer
BALLSTON SPA — More than a quarter of a million dollars in salary
increases and benefit improvements will be shared by the 85 members of the
Saratoga County Deputy Sheriffs Unit of CSEA during the next three years.
That’s the price tag management has put on the costs of the new three-
year pact recently ratified 41-21 by CSEA members.
The agreement starts with a 6.5 percent salary increase retroactive to
Jan. 1, That’s a $81,735 increase this year. A 5 percent increase next year
will put an additional $76,980 into the worker’s pockets and $99,495, a 4.5
percent raise, will appear in the workers pay checks in the third year of the
agreement.
A 20-year half-pay retirement program for members involved in law
enforcement was negotiated and will add $21,000 in one-time start-up costs
to the pact with a $35,000 payment being due in the final year of the
agreement,
Auniform allowance increase, a differential between correction officers
and dispatchers and a 12th-year longevity increment of $400 were also
negotiated into the pact.
Contract talks were stalled for six months while the county and CSEA
battled over the county’s unilateral demand for open negotiations.
Following several union legal victories the negotiations were held behind
closed doors as provided in the Taylor Law.
Originally, the deputies narrowly defeated the county’s offer. But
after two lengthy sessions with the county to iron out some rough spots in the
pact the bargaining team returned the county’s offer to the members for a
secret ballot mail ratification vote.
Fossa
ital unit accepts new |
« Employees will receive a lump sum payment of retroactive wages in
four weeks. 4
Other provisions of the new contract for promotions. 3
¢ A minimum raise of 4 percent for promotions.
Retiring employees will receive $5 for each day of unused sick leave. |
¢ Full tuition for employees in an RN study program.
« Payment of the difference between jury duty pay and regular wages |
for employees called for jury service. ]
CSEA field representative Gerry Phelan served as chief negotiator for |
the committee which included Burden, chairman, and team members
Marlene Hares, Diane Hendee and Martha Pilotti-Gerty.
Both Phelan and Burden acknowledged the dedicated work of the com-
mittee and expressed their appreciation to the scores of hospital employees
who responded to several calls for information picket duty throughout the
months of negotiations.
Clarkstown unit contract
holds benefits, hikes pay
CLARKSTOWN — Fourteen months of negotiations and an
informational picket held in the spring by CSEA members have
resulted in a three-year contract that preserves medical benefits for
250 members of the Clarkstown Unit of Rockland County Local 844.
The employees, who have been without a contract sifce Dec. 31, |
include clerical, highway, sanitary landfill, sewer treatment and |
recreation workers. _ f
According to Unit President Lee Pound, the new contract includes |
a $1,000 pay increase retroactive to Jan. 1. Effective Jan. 1, 1985, the |
employees will receive a 6 percent increase and on Jan. 1, 1986, an {
i
additional 6 percent. :
The contract also adds a step to the longevity scale and provides
for the formation of a committee to review upgrading discrepancies. t
_ While the agreement reduces the amount of vacation time allowed |
long-term employees and the amount of sick time that may be ©
accumulated, Pound as pleased that employees will not have to pay for
increases in health insurance, a major bone of contention during
negotiations. 1
Local President Frank Bosco praised the unit negotiating team for
its perseverence during the long bargaining process. “I want to j
congratulate the Clarkstown employees for their patience and spirit ©
during the difficult months of negotiations. Their many hours of
negotiations were rewarded with a fair and good contract.”
Referring to the informational picket held in May, Bosco said:
“The demonstration in which over 300 participated was one of the
factors in this settlement. As a result the town administration received .
» the message that the employees were determined not to give up their
hard-won benefits.” © :
Negotiations fall off
at Wappinger Falls
WAPPINGER FALLS — A mutual impasse has been declared in
contract negotiations between the Wappinger Falls School District and
clerical employees who are members of Dutchess County Local 814.
According to Region III Field Representative Diane Campion,
employees have been working without a contract since June 30. The 130
workers earn between $6,500 and $13,000 per year for 10- and 12-month
positions.
Campion said a mediator has been appointed by PERB and is expected
to schedule a meeting of the negotiating teams in the near future.
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21,1984. Page 15
he
ie S i 3 tS 3
“WE WANT OUR OWN TRANSPORTATION” — That’s the message from
CSEA members and the public as they hold an informational picket to pro-
test against contracting out in the Lake Shore Central School District in
COMMUNITY SUPPORT — This sign demonstrates the feelings of local
residents, who turned out in numbers to support CSEA members of Local 868
on the picket line.
‘ :
CSEA’s Western Region. In line at right is bus driver Barbara Kent and
her grandson, Joe Brodzinski.
PRESSING THE ISSUE — Jack Schlenker, president of Erie County Educa-
tional Employees Local 868, talks to the press during recent demonstration
against contracting out of bus driver and mechanic jobs.
Members, public protest contracting out school jobs
ANGOLA — CSEA members in the Lake Shore
Central School District are being overwhelming-
ly supported by the public in their fight against
contracting out of bus driver and mechanic jobs.
That support was demonstrated recently when
more than 200 residents joined a Local 868 infor-
mational picket line at a school board meeting.
Jack Schlenker, president of Local 868, Erie
County Educational Employees, said more than
3,500 community residents have signed petitions
opposing the Board’s contracting out plans.
“Most people realized there would be a drop in
the quality of service if they are allowed to do
this,” said Schlenker. ‘‘There’s not even a pro-
jected savings for the district in their plans.
“Tt just doesn’t make sense,” Schlenker con-
tinued, adding many mothers have vowed to
keep their children home from school because
the proposed contractor would force some
children to walk longer distances to pick-up
locations.
Bus driver Barbara Kent said many parents
are concerned about possible child molesting
following an incident involving an 11-year old
girl ‘who was approached, in daylight, while
riding her bicycle in the area.”
Schlenker said his members have tried to keep
the public informed of the impact of contracting
Page'16 THE PUBLIE'SEGTOR) Friday; September 21,1964
out through newspaper ads, signs in store win-
dows, word of mouth, “and any other way we
can.”
The PERB-mediated decision to subcontract is
at the mediation stage.
CSEA field representative Bill Thomson said
the school district has been ordered by mediator
Thomas Rinaldo to submit in writing its ra-
tionale for subcontracting the transportation
jobs.
CSEA will then submit its rebuttal opinion to
be considered in the matter. Mediation of the im-
pact of subcontracting, if not reversed, would
then follow.
7
PLANNERS — Pictured above with CSEA President William L.
McGowan are members of the statewide Women’s Committee who took
part in organizing the Fourth Annual Statewide Women’s Conference
held recently in Utica. Flanking McGowan, members are, from left:
Ruby Everette, Region VI; Helen Zocco, Region III; Marilyn Whittam,
Region IV; Pat Taylor, chairwoman; Kathy Roma, Region V; Harriet
Hart, Region I; and Connie Wunderlich, Region I.
FIGHTING FOR WOMEN'S
RIGHTS AND DIGNITY
UTICA — ‘‘We, as individuals, cannot
accomplish anything, but together we can
accomplish everything,” CSEA President
McGowan said in his opening address
welcoming more than 250 participants in the
Fourth Annual Statewide Women’s
Conference held here recently.
Held Sept. 14-16 at the Sheraton Inn and
Conference Center, the meeting carried the
theme, “‘CSEA Women Working for Bread and
Roses,” signifying the women’s fight for
rights as well as dignity.
The conference, which ran the entire
weekend, included information tables and
several workshops focusing directly on the
working woman and her problems and
concerns. Women’s labor history, women and
technology, workers’ compensation, conflict
resolution and reproductive risks in the:
Allarticles
by Anita Manley
CSEA Communications Associate
workplace were among subjects addressed
during the three-day event.
In a plenary session on the first night,
conferees also discussed issues, directions
and projects for the statewide Women’s
Committee and local women’s committees.
According to Education and Training
Specialist Peg Wilson, a survey taken during
this opening session indicated that the top
concerns of women at the conference include
such work-related issues as comparable
worth, education, upgrading, promotion, flex
time, VDTs and day care.
Wilson said that the committee will design a
plan of action to address these concerns.
“The survey provides a direction for the
committee,”’ she said, ‘instead of working in
a void.”
Wilson also noted that participants who
A Woman's Place
CSEQ
IS IN HER UNION.
Civil Service Employees Association
Local 1000, AFSCME. AFL-CIO
<<
completed the questionnaire were pleased
. with and inspired by the conference.
“T never wanted to get involved in politics,”’
wrote one member, ‘‘but tomorrow when I get
to work, I’m going to ask to join the Political
Action Committee of my unit.”
“’m new to this,” wrote another, “and I
found a renewed hope for the future of
working women.”
Other members called the opportunity to
meet and talk with other women in the union
“enjoyable and beneficial.”
McGowan reminded participants of their
responsibility to bring information they
learned at the conference to their members
throughout the state.
He also offered them support.
“Keep together, work together, and we will
stay behind you,”’ he said.
MORE ON
WOMEN’S MEET
PAGES 18 & 19
(s
THE PUBLIC,SEGTOR, Friday, September, 21, 1984
Page 17
1984 csea annvat
WOMEN’S CONFERENCE
TRENE CARR
UTICA — American workers, more
than ever, need help from unions to
protect themselves from the new high
technology, according to participants in
a workshop held during the recent
statewide Women’s Conference held
here.
Panelists Jeanne Lyons, Sue Waltz
and Bart Bracken addressed the issues
surrounding VDTs, the BOLTS
computer system and contact language
on new technology in a segment entitled
“Women and Technology.”
Region IV member Waltz told
participants that physical complaints of
VDT operators, such as muscular and
skeletal problems and eye strain, can be
alleviated. Workers were warned,
however, that improper posture can
cause nerve damage.
Adjustments that can be made include
wrist pads, shades for the VDT screen,
newly designed chairs, neutral color
schemes and higher humidity levels.
Stress is also a major factor in
employee problems due to repetition and
boredom. Physical exercise and work
breaks are suggested.
Waltz advised workers that. if
management does not respond to the
needs of employees, then workers should
organize. “Don’t let them ignore you,”
she said. “Network with your co-
workers.”
Region IV member Lyons said that the
Women amal
TECHNOLOGY
recent introduction of the new BOLTS
(Benefit On Line Terminal System) has
impacted Unemployment Insurance
workers.
“When you have something new,
people get upset,” she said. ‘‘What are
the implications? Do we need new job
specifications? Will there be an increase
or decrease of duties? Will we be trained
properly?”
Lyons noted that a survey
questionnaire will be sent to state
workers who are now using the system.
“Tt is imperative that you respond to the
survey,”’ she emphasized. “This is the
first time that we have a grant for this
type of survey.”
Anyone with questions about BOLTS
or the survey should contact Lyons at the
Dept. of Labor, Building 12, State Office
Building, Rm. 442, Albany, N.Y. 12240.
Survey results will be sent to all
participants.
Bracken, representing AFSCME,
advised CSEA members that contract
negotiations can include classes for
workers affected by the high technology
revolution. Numerous issues such as
reduction of work hours, loss of jobs,
advance notice of any changes in
procedure, training and retraining,
wage and job security, safety and
health, severance pay and relocation
can be addressed as part of the
collective bargaining process.
‘Page 18
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friddy, September 21, 1984
Carr: Pass ERA
UTICA — ‘‘Look carefully at the issues involving you as women particularly,
and your families,” advised CSEA Statewide Secretary Irene Carr, referring to
the upcoming national election.
Addressing more than 250 CSEA members at the recent statewide Women’s
Conference held at the Sheraton Inn and Conference Center, Carr stressed that @
the Equal Rights Amendent, reproductive rights, employment, health and nutrition,
Social Security, foreign policy, education and civil rights should be major concerns
of all voters.
Referring to the state, Carr said, ‘The voter should be allowed to make the
decision as to whether or not the ERA will be adopted in New York state.
The amendment, which would ‘‘provide a constitutional basis for governmen-
tal efforts to further the principle of equality,’’ has been previously ratified by 35
states, but did not become law because it lacked the approval of three additional
states required for final ratification.
Pointing out the necessity for the ERA, Carr emphasized that the amendment @
would lead to “‘the creation of a cohesive doctrine.”
“The current piecemeal approach to the issue of gender inequality lends itself
to some arbitrary adjudication and enforcement,” she said.
“How do we, as a union proceed to get the ERA passed?” asked Carr.
“Personnally, I would like to see the question asked when we are interviewing
candidates along with a question on support for a pay equity bill which was printed
last year, but that’s a whole other story,” said Carr. “These are decisions that have
to be made by the Legislative and Political Action Committee.”
LISTENING UP—
Kathy Collins, presi-
dent of Upstate Medical
Center Local 615, con-
templates speaker's
words at one of the con-
ference workshops.
-The workplace and
reproductive risks
Worries about job-related infertility,
premature births and defects
UTICA — More than 250,000 children are born with birth defects in the U.S. poe
each year. Approximately 20 percent of those defects are environmentally caused.
And according to Genetics Counselor Luba Djurdjinovic, there is cause for con-
cern among those exposed to unknown chemical hazards. =
Djurdjinovic told members attending the annual statewide Women’s con- :
ference here that she and her colleagues are finding increases in infertility,
miscarriages, birth defects and permature births. Citing statistics that indicate
a 15-20 percent increase in infertility, Djurdjinovic noted that about 40 percent of
these cases cannot be diagnosed.
e While geneticists have been able to pinpoint defects that are the result of faulty
genes or chromosomes, the problem of environmental factors is not as clear cut.
Unfortunately, she said, workplace hazards are most likely to be investigated
after the effects become apparent, such as in the case of Vietnam veterans and
their problerns with Agent Orange.
Djurdjinovic pointed out that prior to 1920, wives of men who worked with lead
had more miscarriages, stillbirths and children who were mentally retarded and
had seizure disorders. The men also had low sperm counts. It was only after the
1920’s that laws which protected workers curbed these problems. (Lead is used
in the manufacture of batteries, paints, gasoline.) 4
It was only after thousands of children in Japan showed abnormally high rates
e of Cerebral Palsy, mental retardation and seizure disorders that tests revealed
in the 1950’s that mercury was causing the problems.
Cigarette smoking and heat exposure have also been proven to cause defective
pregnancies, early births and low birth weight. °
According to Djurdjinovic, of approximately 60,000 chemicals in the workplace,
only about 3,500 have been formally evaluated. “There is limited testing,” she said.
“We don’t know how to test for many.”
Djurdjinovic also noted that despite workers’ complaints scientists are not
generally concerned with the low level radiation that is emitted by VDT’s.
Djurdjinovic says that workers who suspect that environmental factors are
contributing to ill effects such as miscarriage or illness should keep accurate
@ records.
She advised concerned members to speak up about problems. They should ask LUBA DJURDJINOVIC
co-workers if they are having similar problems and should contact union
representatives to survey comparable worksites for supporting data, she said.
SRUTT IT ALL TOGETHER” — That was the title of a workshop on conflict resolution and
communitations for union activists. Taking part in discussion below are, from left, Linda Berry,
moderator; Carol Davis, Region III; Julia Ryezek, Region V; Ruby Everette, Region VI; and
e Sarah Jackson, Region III.
1
e
e
e
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984
Page 19
Jobs
MONDALE — Urges full employment policies
with teeth in them to encourage job-creation so
all may work. To avert another recession like
Reagan’s, would trigger special job-providing
programs that sustain economic growth.
Believes full employment is basis of strong
| economy.
| REAGAN — More than 30 million wage-
earners suffered one or more episodes of
_ unemployment in Reagan-Republican recession
1981-83, losing $336.1 billion in earnings. Presi-
dent proposed no jobs programs for those laid off
and tried to stymie plans advanced by others.
Social Security
MONDALE — Would uphold basic concept of
Social Security, its protections and benefits. If
) necessary, would draw from general Treasury
funds to sustain benefit levels for retirees.
REAGAN — A loose cannon on the deck.
| Erupts regularly on Social Security with com-
| ments that suggest he’d revamp program to cut
protections, benefits.
Trade
| MONDALE — Supports “content” law. Vows
strict import limit unless U.S. trading partners
lower barriers to products made here. Will not
tolerate “dumping” of foreign-made goods on
U.S. markets. Insists on fair trade that benefits
our workers and industries as well as countries
we trade with.
REAGAN — Talks “free trade” in a world
where it doesn’t exist. Opposes ‘‘content”’ plan to
require certain portion of U.S.-made parts in
products sold here, save American jobs. Permits
almost unrestricted flood of foreign goods that
continue to wipe out millions of U.S, jobs.
Equal Rights
MONDALE — Would throw out Reagan ap-
pointees to Civil Rights Commission, provide
strong enforcement of Voting Rights Act, other
minorities protections. Supports ERA, full rights
for women, minorities.
REAGAN — Weakened U.S. Civil Rights Com-
mission. Fought extension of Voting Rights Act,
fostered lax enforcement. Opposes ERA, gutted
programs that aid minorities.
| > Vote
xx The issue is the future « x
ON NOVEMBER 6, Americans will choose between two candidates for president
— and between two programs and two policies. Above all, we will choose between
two visions of the future.
One — Walter Mondale’s — promises fairness to all Americans. The
other — Ronald Reagan’s — assures continued favor to wealthy Americans.
One — Walter Mondale’s — represents the values and aspirations of
average Americans — family, work, responsibility and compassion.
The other — Ronald Reagan’s — is shaped by the values of the rich
and by the ambitions of the corporations.
One — Walter Mondale’s — stresses adequate aid to
Americans in need and restoration of the programs that help
them. The other — Ronald Reagan’s — preordains further
retreat from our national responsibilitiy to those who need
assistance.
One — Walter Mondale’s — foretells opportunity for all
Americans. The other — Ronald Reagan’s — forecloses
opportunity for far too many Americans.
At stake within this encompassing issue of the future of
this nation and its people are many issues of particular con-
cern to working people and their families. The record of
Ronald Reagan and the program of Walter Mondale on these
issues follow.
Job Safety/Health
MONDALE — Sponsor of original job
safety/health law when in Senate. Urges increas-
ed coverage, more effective enforcement.
Demands clear identification of, protection
against, hazardous substances in the workplace,
swift clean-up of toxic waste dumps.
REAGAN — Has undercut OSHA: fewer in-
spections; fewer protections for workers; delays
in setting standards for worker exposure to
hazardous substances; inadequate standards
when finally set. Has made no real headway in
toxic waste clean-up.
Reviving Basic Industry
MONDALE — Proposes business/
labor/government consultation to aid basic in-
dustries through hard times largely caused by
unfair foreign competition. Would OK loans if ab-
solutely needed to safeguard industries essential
to employment and national defense.
REAGAN — Opposes any special effort — of-
fers no plan — to help basic U.S. industries,
regardless of consequences to millions of U.S.
workers and the economy itself. (Opposed
Chrysler loan which saved hundreds of
thousands of jobs and was repaid within a few
years.)
Taxes/Deficit
MONDALE — Proposes cap on tax benefits
Reagan heaped on wealthy, plus repeal of
Reagan giveaways to Big Oil, other corporations
that let nearly 100 profitable firms escape taxa-
tion entirely. (These steps would greatly reduce
deficit.) Would close loopholes and tax shelters
to oblige rich persons, corporations to bear fair
share of tax load.
REAGAN — Engineered history’s biggest tax
bonanza for rich persons, big corporations —
Major reason for Reagan’s $200 billion deficits
which starve programs for workers, the needy.
Under Reagan tax cuts, rich reap huge gains,
average citizens at best hold their own. Would
tax worker health insurance.
Pace 20
Health
MONDALE — Would put lid on hospital and
doctor charges (fastest rising costs of all),
strengthen Medicare, Medicaid to provide more
protection at less cost and safeguard funding for
both programs.
REAGAN — Has no effective program to con-
trol runaway medical costs. Cut Medicare,
Medicaid, seeks further cuts in these basic
health programs.
Unions
MONDALE — Opposed extreme action by
Reagan against PATCO. Vows to appoint fair-
minded, even-handed persons to NLRB, who'll
judge cases on merit, provide decisions more
speedily.
REAGAN — Broke air traffic controllers
union, threw 11,000 out of work. (Present con-
trollers lodge same complaints PATCO struck
over, move toward unionizing.) Stacks NLRB
with management representatives.
Fairness
MONDALE — Will restore Reagan cuts in pro-
grams for the needy, resume fight to eradicate
poverty that’s been abandoned under Reagan.
(Number of persons living in poverty increased
by 6 million during Reagan era, reached highest
levels in 20 years.)
REAGAN — Deprives a million persons of all
food stamps, 4 million of some. Cuts 1.1 million
school children out of school lunches, 900,000 off
school breakfasts. Slashes $110.2 billion from
wide range of people-serving programs,
Education/Youth
MONDALE — Urges $10 billion infusion of new
funds to upgrade public schools, increase
teacher pay. Promises to protect, expand college
loan program for children of workers and the
needy, so every qualified student will have
chance at higher education. Opposes youth sub-
minimum wage.
REAGAN — Slashed aid to public schools; cut
college loan programs, depriving more than
800,000 low/moderate income students of needed
funding to help complete education. Repeatedly
proposed subminimum wage for youth.
MONDALE/FERRARO | xq
THE PUBLIC SECTOR, Friday, September 21, 1984
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