PUBLIC SECTOR
Official Publication of The Civil Service Employees Association, Local 1000, Vol. 9, No. 7
American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees AFL-CIO. SN 0164 a 4 ; Monday, April 7, 1986
The check is
in the mail
Budget snafu a close call. .. page 3
Monroe Woodbury drivers protest | }
Monroe Woodbury School District bus drivers represented by
CSEA recently took to the streets, despite foul weather, to show
their dissatisfaction over lack of a new contract since last June. The
members had rejected a contract that would have granted the
district discretion in assigning bus runs to drivers without regard to
seniority.
A tentative agreement was reached in the dispute recently, and
details of the settlement will be published in the next edition.
THE IMPACT OF FEDERAL BUDGET CUTS on public employees is
discussed by AFSCME staffer Chuck Loveless, left, while Joe Conway,
chairman of CSEA’s statewide Political Action Committee, listens. Love-
less recently spoke to the committee and urged union members to be-
gin a massive grassroots effort to lobby against cutbacks that will have
a devastating impact, particularly on local governments, here in New
York state.
Communication Associates
SHERYL CARLIN
STEVE MADARASZ.---
Official publication of The Civil Service
Employees Association Local 1000, AFSCME, ANITA MANLEY
AFL-CIO 143 Washington Avenue, Albany,
New York 12210
DAN CAMPBELL
CHUCK McGEARY-
+= Publisher
. --- Editor
Associate Editor
AARON SHEPARD-
ROGER A, COLE
BRIAN K. BAKER --
RON WOFFORD
2
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
MOVED?
If you’ve moved recently, or plan to move in the near future, it’s very
important, to you and CSEA, that you notify the union of your new address
immediately. Use this form for your convenience.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS
Name = Social Security No.
=|
MY OLD ADDRESS WAS:
Street
City ae ZIP
MY NEW ADDRESS Is:
Street
City State ZIP
My employer is:
My work location is:
I am a member of CSEA Local a =
MAIL TO: Civil Service Employees Association
Attn: Membership Department
143 Washington Avenue
Albany, New York 12210
The Public Sector (445010) is published every other
Monday by The Civil Service Employees Association,
143 Washington Avenue, Albany, New York 12210.
Region |
(516) 273-2280
Region II
(212) 514-9200
Region Ill
(914) 896-8180
Region IV
(518) 489-5424
Region V
(315) 451-6330
Region VI
(716) 634-3540
Publication Office: 143 Washington Avenue, Albany
New York, 12210. Second Class Postage paid at
Post Office, Albany, New York
Address changes should be sent to: Civil Service Em-
April 7, 1986
Regular state payday but, whew, it was close
“In God We Trust,”’ is the motto on all U.S. currency. But last
week thousands of state workers were putting their trust into the
hand’s of the State Legislature to make sure they got paid on time.
Lawmakers, still unable to agree on the budget dealing with
aid to education, managed to pass the state operations section of
budget Wednesday morning, which authorized the release of $136
million in payroll checks to 143,000 state workers.
For those who work close the state’s cash register in Albany it
would be a regular payday, but for workers in outlying areas it
meant a two, and possibly three day delay in getting their checks.
Under the CSEA/State Agreements for 1985-88, CSEA-represented State
employees in the Administrative Services, Institutional Services and Operational
Services bargaining units will receive pay increase of 542% across the board. A new
salary schedule will be in effect which will incorporate the 542% for all salary grades.
Those employees who are not on step in their salary grade will receive a 542% pay
increase added to the basic annual salary which they are now receiving. The pay
increase will be effective for work performed during that payroll period, the first day
of which is closest to April 1, 1986.
Additionally, employees who meet the eligibility requirement will receive a $750
longevity salary increase. The $750 longevity increase will be incorporated in the
basic annual salary of those eligible employees with payment being spread-oveér the
bi-weekly paychecks throughout the course of the year. Because of the lag payroll
both the salary increase and the longevity increase will be feund in paychecks dated
April 24, 1986 for those employees on the Institution payroll and in.the paychecks
dated April 30, 1986 for those employees on.the ‘Administrative payroll. é
It is important to note that the basic annual salary. of an employee, who is eligible
to receive the longevity salary increage, may not exceed the April 1, 1986 job rate’
salary for his/her grade plus $1,500. The Majority of eligible employees will receive ©
the $750 longevity increase, however, for those employees whose basic annual salary.
is higher than the job rate of their gradi $450, the longevity, increase will be in
amount necessary to bring their basic afinual'salary up to
plus $1,500. For those eligible employees ¥ ¢ basic annual salary.on April 1, 1986:i:
greater than the job rate of their grade pliis $1,500, the longevity salary increase will
be 0. For this latter group of employees, thése:who are eligible for the'longe)
salary increase but who will receive no incréasé because;their basic anual
April 1, 1986 exceeds the job rate of their grade by $1,600 or more,-a-lump sum
longevity payment of $500 will be made to them. in providing they
meet the eligibility requirements for such. payment, Sector will carry a
detailed article on the eligibility for the $500 December fump sum payment in a
November 1986 issue.) a
Eligibility requirements for the longevity salary increase are as follows:
» Employees must have completed five or more years of continuous service at a
salary equal to or at the job rate of the grade of the position which they occupied on
March 31, 1986.
Now, about state pay and longevity increases
je job:rate of their grade
« An employee must be an incumbent (active or on an approved leave of absence)
of his or her position on March 31, 1986.
and
+ Receive a performance rating during 1985-86 of “Satisfactory” or its equivalent.
Continuous service as used in.determining eligibility for the longevity salary
increase is paid service assdefined by Section 130.3 (c) of the State Civil Service Law.
It is important to’note that in determining eligibility, employees who have been
continyously,oecupying the same ion, without any break in service, must have
reached the maximum salary of their grade by April 1, 1981. For employees who have
@ break in'sérvice, between April 1, 1981 nid March 31, 1986, any amount of
contiriuous service, prior to April 1, 1981, éyhivalent to or greater than the length of
‘the break in service, during which the employee was receiving a salary equal to or in
excéss of the job rate can be counted towards the five-year eligibility requirement.
“dn determining whether or not an employee,meets the requirement of completing
five Or more years of continuous service at.a salary equal to or above the job rate of
his/her grade of the position occupied on March 3%, 1986 the following situations are
also considered: *
»* If an employee.has occupied a higher'grade position at any time in the past, all
rvice Phy position-at which he/she earned a salary equal to or above the job rate
the grade arg Pouiol which he/she occupied on March 31, 1986 will be credited
ward.the flve-Vear requirement.
* Ap.emiployee, who had been receiving a salary equal to or above the job rate of
his/tiér grade and, who upon promotion to a higher grade received a salary equal to
or above the job rate of the higher grade, will receive credit for service in his/her
current position and for all service in the prior position during which he/she was
receiving a salary equal to or above the job rate of the lower grade.
* An employee who was receiving a salary equal to or above the job rate of
his/her grade, and whose position had been reallocated with the result that his/her
salary was below the job rate of the reallocated grade but whose salary on March 31,
1986 was at the job rate of the reallocated grade, will receive credit for all service
subsequent to the reallocation and for all service in the position prior to reallocation
during which his/her salary was equal to or above the job rate of the lower grade.
Employees who occupy NS grade-equated positions are also eligible providing
they meet all of the other eligibility requirements.
The following examples show the effect of the April 1986 salary increase
(Article 7.3) and the longevity salary increase (Article 7.4), as provided for in
the 1985-88 CSEA/State agreements, to the basic annual salary of grade 9
employees who have 5 years of service at or above the job rate on March 31,
1986.
EXAMPLE 1;
An employee reached the job rate of grade 9 on March 31, 1981, has 5 years of
continuous service since that time and received a 1985-86 performance rating of
“satisfactory.” This employee would be eligible for the longevity salary
increase calculated as follows:
Current Salary
(March 1986) $18,348 (job rate grade 9)
§.5% Salary Increase
(April 1986) $19,360 (job rate grade 9)
Longevity payment added.
to base pay
(April 1986) $ 750 (5 yrs of service 3/31/81 to
3/31/86 at job rate)
New Base Salary
(April 1986) $20,110 (job rate grade 9 plus $750)
EXAMPLE 2:
An employee reached the job rate of grade 9 on March 31, 1981; this
employee was on Maternity leave (without pay) for 6 months, May 15, 1983 to
November 15, 1983. This employee WOULD NOT be eligible for the April 1986
longevity payment due to the requirements of Section 130.3 (c) of the Civil
Service Law. The 6 months of maternity leave without pay cannot be credited as
continuous service at the job rate. Therefore, this employee, as of March 31,
1986 has 4% years of service at the job rate which does not meet the
requirement of 5 years of service at the job rate calculated as follows:
Current Salary
(March 1986) $18,348 (job rate grade 9)
5.5% Salary Increase
(April 1986) $19,360 (job rate grade 9)
Longevity payment added
to base pay
(April 1986) 0 (442 years of service at
job rate, not eligible)
New Base Salary
(April 1986) $19,360
April 7, 1986
EXAMPLE 3:
An employee reached job rate of grade 9 on June 1, 1980; this employee was
on maternity leave (without pay) for 6 months, May 15, 1983 to November 15,
1983. The employee WOULD BE eligible for the longevity payment as she has
sufficient time at the job rate of the 9 months of continuous service from June
1980 to March 1981, covers the 6 months of maternity leave and meets the
requirements of Section 130.3 (c) Civil Service Law for continuous service at the
salary grade job rate, calculated as follows:
Current Salary
(March 1986)
5.5% Salary Increase
(April 1986)
Longevity payment added
to base pay
(April 1986)
$18,348 (job rate grade 9)
$19,360 (job rate grade 9)
$ 750 (employee has 5 years
service at job rate)
New Base Salary
(April 1986) $20,110
EXAMPLE 4:
An employee, on April 1, 1981 had an annual salary greater than the grade 9
job rate, has continued at a salary greater than the job rate. The employee's
annual salary on March 1986 is $19,500 which is $1,154 greater than the $18,348
job rate. The 5.5% April 1986 salary increase will result in a salary that is $1,213
greater than the new $19,360 grade 9 job rate. This employee will receive a
PARTIAL longevity payment as the full $750 payment would result in an annual
salary that is greater than $20,860 which is the job rate plus $1,500.
Current Salary
(March 1986) $19,500 ($1,154 greater than grade 9
job rate $18,348)
5.5% Salary Increase
(April 1986) $20,573 ($1,213 greater than grade 9
job rate $19,360)
Longevity payment added
to base pay
(April 1986) $ 287 (difference between salary and
job rate plus $1,500)
New Base Salary
(April 1986) $20,860 (grade 9 job rate $19,360
plus $1,500)
3
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
SIGNING UP — CSEA
statewide officers recently
filled out cards like the
one at right to authorize
deductions for PEOPLE.
Pictured, from left, are:
President William
McGowan, Secretary Irene
Carr and Executive Vice
President Joseph
McDermott.
Proposais flying around Washington now to.
balance the federal budget by cutting government
programs would certainly affect all public employees.
Whether or not the changes directly touch your job, you’re
bound to feel them in your pocketbook and see their impact on
the lifestyles of working people like you.
That’s why CSEA is pulling together for PEOPLE, AFSCME’s special
fund for political contributions. Under terms of the new state contract,
CSEA members will be able to have a bi-weekly deduction set aside
especially for PEOPLE. The monies will be used for contributions for
Congressional candidates who have your best interests at heart. And
remember, this is an election year.
The kickoff for PEOPLE will come at CSEA’s State Workshop April
20-22 when the union’s activists will be invited to sign up, said Robert
Haggerty of CSEA’s Political Action Fund.
Ask for an official copy of the authorization form (shown below)
from your Local president. The chart below lists giveaways for the
amount you authorize to have deducted from your check per pay
PEOPLE windbreaker,
diamond lapel pin plus
$1.50/
step! pallad
“e-
AFSCME's PEOPLE visor plus
AFSCME President's Club
membership plus
50 cents/
period
“In Partnership with PEOPLE” 18 oz. mug and
pay CSEA's “Washington Watch” newsletter
Regional and Local
competition for
‘The PEOPLE Cup’
Info in the next issue
of The Public Sector
PEOPLE
CSEA and AFSCME
In PARTNERSHIP
for
PEOPLE
VOLUNTARY PEOPLE DEDUCTION AUTHORIZATION
CSEA, Local 1000 AFSCME, AFL-CIO
143 Washington Ave., New York 12210
PLEASE PRINT
Name
Leiter aac meaetn
Street
City
Social Security Number
Agency mine Dept, ___ gga
DEDUCTION PER PAY PERIOD:
(i 50¢ [756 ($1.00)... $2.00
oO OTHER: 2
MOTE: In accordance with federal law, the PEOPLE
committee will accept contributions only from
members of AFSCME and their families
In addition to my Civil Service Employees
Association, Inc. dues deduction previously
authorized by me,-tfurther authorize the State of
New York or associated agencies to deduct each
pay.period the PEOPLE deduction amount listed
below and remit to the Civil Service Employees
‘Association, In¢., aga voluntary contribution to be
forwarded to: the Treasurer of the PEOPLE
Qualified Committee, AFSCME, P.O. Box 6587
Washington, D.C. 20009, to be used in accordance
with the By-Laws of PEOPLE Qualified Committee
for the purpose of making political contributions
My contribution is voluntary and | understand that
it is not required as a condition of membership in
any organization or as a condition of employment
and is free of reprisal, and that | may revoke this
authorization at any time by giving written notice
Signature: _
pcr
4 THE PUBLIC SECTOR
April 7, 1986
A message
to members from
CSEA President
William L. McGowan
I’m for the strikers!
Dear Brothers and Sisters:
The strike by Local P-9 of the United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) against the
Hormel Company in Austin, Minnesota, is moving into it’s eighth month, leaving a path of
suffering and hardship for 1,000 fellow union workers who remain on the picket lines.
I have watched the strikebreakers cross those picket lines with the support of the National
Guard. The company says it wants to prevent ‘mob violence.” I call it union busting!
Hormel applauds the arrests of what it calls the ‘lawless element.’’ What is lawless about a
worker seeking a decent salary while the chairman of Hormel receives more than a half-million
dollars a year in salary and perks?
I know that the International Union disagrees with the strike at Austin. I disagree with the
International! Now is time for solidarity, not alienation. A divided house of labor will weaken our
own cause.
I, for one, will not allow Hormel products into my home. I ask that each of you examine your
own conscience, and if you feel as I do, keep Hormel off the kitchen shelf and out of your
refrigerator.
Remember, their victory in Austin is your victory too.
BRETT MULLER
Heavy Equipment Operator
Delaware County Highway Dept.
“We’ve had union representa-
tion for 20 years and I say it’s
high time non-members pay
their fair share. They accept the
raises and other benefits; they
should help pay for that
representation, too!
April 7, 1986
contract?
WHERE ASKED: DELAWARE COUNTY LOCAL 813
What is your opinion
regarding an agency
shop clause in your
Yours in Unionism,
LJ ot re
CSEA President
OwWare
ROBIN GORDEPE
Nurses Aide
Delaware County Infirmary
“In my opinion, every employee
who shares the benefits of a
union-negotiated contract
should be required to share the
expense of union represen-
tation.”
JAKE DICKMAN
Mechanic
Delaware County Highway
Department a
“Abe Lincoln was right! ‘A
house divided cannot stand.’ We
definitely need agency shop. The
stronger we are in numbers, the
stronger we are at the bargain-
ing table.”
DEBBIE PETTIT
Nurses Aide
Delaware County Infirmary
“I pay my share for union
representation, and the same
should hold for other county em-
ployees. Of course, the smart
thing for non-members would be
to join the union... it’s the best
way to support the union that
represents us.”
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
CSEA’s ‘Public Asbestos Abatement
Act” has picked up the endorsement of
Sen. James J. Lack, who has agreed to
sponsor the union’s tough health and
safety standards proposal in the state
Senate.
The Suffolk County Republican senator
is chairman of the powerful Senate Labor
Committee. Sen. Lack joins with Brooklyn
Democratic Assemblyman Frank J.
Barbaro, chairman of the Assembly Labor
Committee, who earlier agreed to sponsor
the proposal in the state Assembly.
CSEA’s asbestos
abatement bill gaining
more momentum
asbestos has long been recognized as
having an adverse impact on health,
whether exposure is limited or over a long
period of time. The Asbestos Abatement
Act will provide a mechanism for
identifying asbestos in public buildings
and determining whether or not it exists
in a damaged, deteriorated or dangerous
state. In addition, it will require public
employers to develop an abatement plan
to deal with asbestos, which is considered
to be a hazard to health. This proposal,
together with my bill (S-6415C) to require
contractors that handle asbestos to be
SEN. JAMES J. LACK
improper removal of asbestos and the
exposure of the public and public
employees to asbestos in a non-
occupational setting.”
CSEA’s proposed legislation would
require the systematic inspection of every
public building in New York state within
18 months to identify the presence of any
asbestos materials, and require the
material to be removed, repaired or
encapsulated. It would also require
employees to be notified of the presence
In agreeing to sponsor the proposal in
the Senate, Sen. Lack said, “Exposure to
By Stephen Madarasz
CSEA Communications Associate
BRONX — As momentum grows for passage of CSEA’s _
proposed Public Asbestos Abatement Act, which would require the
systematic inspection of every public building in the state to
identify the presence of the cancer-causing material, there’s a
real lesson to be learned from the experience of CSEA Local 401 at
Bronx Psychiatric Center:
| Even when it’s signed and sealed, a clean-up project still has
to be delivered.
In 1980, CSEA and the facility signed an agreement to
eliminate an identified asbestos harzard in BPC’s Building 23,
which houses the food storehouse, work center, and garage.
Emergency spraying was undertaken to contain the problem
before the year was out.
Unfortunately, the story doesn’t end there.
In September, 1984, the facility acknowledged the problem
was resurfacing. Asbestos particles were being found throughout
the building each day and plans were developed for the complete
removal of the substance. But now, more than 18 months later,
CSEA is still waiting for action and getting more and more
impatient with hollow promises.
Documents indicate the project was to begin last November.
Local 401 President Ernest Punter says he was then told it would
begin in February. Now he says the only explanation he is
receiving is that it is being held up somewhere between the Office
of Mental Health and the Office of General Services.
“Right now we don’t know where it’s at because the
administration says it’s in Albany’s hands. The money was
approved, the contracts were bid and accepted, and dates were
licensed, will, I believe, go a long way
toward addressing the problems of both
a ta
of asbestos in the workplaces and be
protected from exposure to it.
And why it’s desperately needed
even set to start the work, but nothing’s happened.”
“How much longer are we supposed to wait?’’ asks Punter.
“Most of the employees in the areas of exposure are our
members. Are we supposed to just sit back and keep quiet while
the state keeps dragging its feet?”
Adds CSEA Region II Safety and Health Specialist Floyd
Payne: “‘What’s so disturbing is that OMH knows and agrees this
is a hazard, but they continue to let it exist.’’ Payne says that as
late as last spring the Labor Department cited the facility for
unsafe levels of asbestos fiber in the air. Those findings actually
helped justify the funding of the clean-up project.
While the facility presently contends there is no immediate
danger to health and safety in Building 23, CSEA questions that
claim. A recent visit to the location revealed varying degrees of
friable asbestos at several spots in the building. Particles were
apparent at a number of places, including on top of cartons and
food packages in the storehouse. Employees also insist that
clumps fall every night and are found on the floor each morning.
They have not received any special equipment, instructions, or
procedures on cleaning it up.
“T don’t know what the state is waiting for?” claims Punter.
“The problem is here and it can only get worse and they agree. . .
That’s what’s so frustrating — even with an agreement on what to
do in writing, we’re still no better off than before.
For that reason Punter is encouraged by the CSEA-sponsored
Asbestos Abatement Act because it would establish the force of
law in correcting situations like what he faces in the Bronx.
However, Punter says in the meantime he is pursuing with
CSEA the legal options to end the foot dragging and see that what
has been agreed will be completed.
By Kyle Hughes
Knickerbocker News Capitol Bureau
information,
The presence of the toxic substance in ceilings
has some workers fearing for their health,
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
The Knickerbocker News, Monday, March 31, 1986
No workers are being relocated, but the
Department of State has decided not to continue
the renovations until Wilsi Realty provides more
ui 5A
cae
Asbestos find delays office renovation
the space, he said.
The renovation at the building is costing “a
couple of hundred thousand dollars,” with the
owner contributing about $100,000 through the
multi-year lease agreement, he said.
It was unknown how much it will cost to
correct the asbestas situation and exactly what
will have to be done, Brown said, characterizing
the current situation as a “standstill.”
artment of State is_not
Wilsi Realty owner Bruce Backer said he did
not know whether it would be appropriate to
cover or remove the asbestos.
“I've contacted a couple of asbestos contain-
ment companies, and I'm in the process of
getting reports from them,” he said.
“It was brought to our attention, I think, about
weeks ago, and I honestly don't know that
April 7, 1986
Water,
water,
everywhere
except where you might think
At Manhattan PC,
CSEA flushes
those troubles
down the drain
By Stephen Madarasz
MANHATTAN — Like Chinese water
torture, pipe and drainage problems are
driving CSEA members up the wall at
Manhattan Psychiatric Center.
The deteriorating system is eroding ceilings
and walls, flooding offices and labs and
wreaking havoc on staff. But the most
negative impact was felt when major repair
work was undertaken in the facility’s
kitchen.
COOKS IN THE
CENTER’S KITCHEN are
happy CSEA raised a fuss
and got latches placed on
oven doors, below, that
wouldn’t stay closed. But
members are still stirred
up about the crumbling
ceiling in the morgue, at
right. Pictured are: Local
413 President Fred
Daniels, Second Vice
President Ed Wooten,
First Vice President
Charles Perry, and Lab
Aide Mary Sidari.
COOKING KETTLES LIKE THIS were used for potwashing duty over a recent six-week
period when the plumbing was down at Manhattan Psychiatric Center. CSEA Local 413
The work prevented employees access to
the potscrubbing area without providing
another location to adequately clean utensils
and cookware. As a result, employees were
required to do the washing in giant mixing
kettles without running water. Pots would be
scrubbed in one filled with soapy water and
rinsed in another.
“This was just totally unacceptable,”
insists CSEA Local 413 President Fred
Daniels. “It had already been going on for a
President Fred Daniels and Region II OSH Specialist Floyd Payne, pictured above,
questioned the arrangement until management finally made repairs.
month when the local found out about it and
we immediately pointed out to management
that the repairs should have been completed
immediately or other provisions should have
been made.”
In fact, Manhattan Psychiatric Center
recently had to dismantle a brand new
$20,000 potwasher because it was creating
drain back-ups.
Once the union discovered the questionable
working arrangements and began pushing
for corrections, there was a flurry of
activity. Comments Daniels: ‘“‘The change is
really amazing. Two weeks ago, this kitchen
was foul, but once we started screaming, the
administration got it cleaned up. I think they
were nervous because we were questioning
sanitary conditions and possible health code
violations.”
CSEA Region II Health and Safety
Specialist Floyd Payne also points out that
other matters of concern in the kitchen have
also been addressed, such as oven doors that
wouldn’t stay closed and steamers that
didn’t work properly.
“The administration has been saying that
these were minor problems and that a whole
new food service system would be coming in
anyway in the next few months. Well, fine,
but in the meantime, our members have a
right to expect working equipment to do
their job,”’ said Payne.
While the kitchen problems appear to be
solved, the local is also concerned about
deteriorating condition’s in the facility
morgue. Although it is rarely used, the
morgue looks like something out of a bad
horror film with gaping holes in the ceiling,
crumbling plaster over everything, falling
lights, and a freight elevator with missing
floorboards — all of which CSEA contends
are safety hazards.
“There are two issues here,” claims
Daniels. ‘First, why should any employees
be exposed to hazardous working conditions
that are fixable? And second, what does it
say when a facility is consciously allowed to
fall apart?”
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Women’s Workshop
Women
180 WOMEN BEATEN EVERY
HOUR—Psychotherapist Judith
Berry spoke about the role of unions
in combatting domestic violence
through education, organizing self-
help groups, and Employee As-
sistance Programs.
PARTICIPANTS in the Region II
: services.
WE'VE COME A LONG WAY, MAYBE—Empire State
still needs to be done to focus national attention of the is
of maternity leave and day care. CSEA statewide
cretary Irene Carr added that while women have made
ignificant gains on the job over the years, they constant- Field Representative Charles Bell,
ly have to be concerned about backsliding.
: 2),
acl ES ae 4 ¥
’5 Workshop ’86
NEW YORK—tThe need for labor unions to give more recognition
to the special needs of women workers was a major theme at the
annual Women’s Workshop here in Region 2 recently.
In opening remarks, Region 2 President George Boncoraglio
pointed out that women are a growing force in the workplace and
that unions must respond to them—by improving career
opportunities, changing sexist attitudes, and bettering daycare
Boncoraglio noted that although unions generally have not been
progressive on women’s issues, CSEA and AFSCME are exceptions:
‘“AFSCME has been in the national forefront in pushing for
women’s rights through the courts, Congress, and in the workplace.
CSEA is the first union in the country to negotiate guaranteed pay
equity adjustments for women and minorities.”
Committee Chairwoman Harriet Hart added that as CSEA takes
MUST BE SEEN AND HEARD—
Women’s Committee Chairwoman
: Nites 4 fF Harriet Hart told participants in the
an increasing interest in the needs of its members at home as well workshops. that ese need to
as in the workplace, women have to tell the union how issues affect speak up and let unions know how
them differently than men and how they think the union should they stand on issues.
approach solutions to their problems.
REGION 2 WOMEN’S COMMIT-
Labor College Professor Ruth Spitz commented that much TEE — Joining Committee mem-
bers above are, Region 2 President
George Boncoraglio, CSEA
statewide Secretary Irene Carr,
and Region 2 Director Ron Mazzola.
8 THE PUBLIC SECTOR
April 7, 1986
By Anita Manley
CSEA Communications Associate
It was an unprecedented move, but CSEA’s
Legal Assistance Program came to the res-
cue of three CSEA members who played star-
ring roles in an unusual drama that began a
week before Christmas and has finally
ended.
The first episode started about 11 a.m. on
Dec. 18 when a Department of Social Serv-
ices client became extremely vocal and bel-
ligerent at the Mt. Vernon office.
At one point, receptionist Janice Johnson
asked him to leave. When he refused, she
asked the security guard, a member of the
Westchester County Police Department to
remove him. Then she left the room.
Another receptionist, Mary Barksdale was
on her break at the time.
Meanwhile, the security guard was having
a problem with the client. After being as-
saulted by the man, the guard was able to
grab him in a headlock. But the client was
strong and fast. He linked his leg through the
policeman’s leg and tripped him, causing
him to fall on the floor.
At that point, a caseworker who was in the
reception booth called the police. Seconds
later, one of the examiners also called the po-
lice. At about the same time, Social Worker
Michael Daley happened to walk through the
reception area.
“Did anyone call the police?” he asked.
“] did,” said the caseworker.
Seconds later, the policeman and the cli-
ent fell against a door. On the other side, an
armed district attorney’s investigator heard
the commotion, opened the door and quickly
apprehended the man. At the same time, po-
lice arrived and took the man away.
“—
1
~ TOSWELTER
3 CHARGES DROPPED — Above, CSEA Attorney
& Arthur Grae and Westchester County Unit
President Richard Saluga leave courtroom after
charges against Mt. Vernon Department of Social
Services workers were dropped.
VINDICATED — At left, Janice Johnson, Michael
Daley and Mary Barksdale are all smiles after the
City of Mt. Vernon Court throws out the case
Freed of charges!
CSEA law firm clears 3 DSS workers
A classic case
of wrongful arrest
of completely
innocent people.
It was three hours later — about 2 p.m. —
when the incident took on a surprising twist.
A group of police officers arrived at the of-
fice and asked who the receptionists were
who were on duty at 11 a.m. In addition, they
asked for the name of the male employee
who passed through the reception area dur-
ing the scuffle.
Janice Johnson, Mary Barksdale and
Michael Daley stepped forward and were im-
mediately placed under arrest. The charge?
Failure to aid a police officer in distress!
They were escorted to the county police
department, mugged, fingerprinted and
booked. Meanwhile, another police officer
called a friend who happened to be a news-
paper reporter, and told him about the three
DSS workers who were arrested.
Immediately, Westchester County Unit
President Rich Saluga was called. When he
arrived, he was informed that the three em-
ployees were under arrest. To add insult to
injury, they would not receive any legal sup-
port from the County Attorney’s office. He
turned to CSEA for help.
CSEA Legal Program Administrator Tony
Campione explained that as a rule, Legal As-
against them for “lack of evidence.”
- ing of legal assistance and heartened by the
sistance is not provided by CSEA for crimi-
nal cases.
But, he stressed, ‘‘We considered this mat-
ter an exception to the rule because of West-
chester County’s outright refusal to
represent its own employees. The county’s
actions amounted to a total breech of respon-
sibility to its employees.”
Campione emphasized that due to the na-
ture of the charges, ‘‘the livelihoods and
freedom of these people would have been
jeopardized, unless these employees were
defended fully and properly.”
Although the charges were ultimately
dropped almost three months later, and the
records of the three workers wiped clean, the
incident will leave indelible scars.
Daley says he can never forget the day his
name was published in the newspaper.
“Someone approached my father in church
and asked if he was related to the Michael
Daley who was arrested. How humiliating
that was!”
“This case was a classic example of a
wrongful arrest of completely innocent peo-
ple by a disgruntled police officer who had
no regard for the rights of career Civil Serv-
ice employees,” said CSEA Attorney Arthur
Grae. “I was most grateful to have these un-
just accusations against my clients dis-
missed without the necessity of a trial.”’
Saluga said he was pleased with the grant-
show of the support that was demonstrated
by the employees’ co-workers during the
time between the arrest and the withdrawal
of charges.
Said Region 3 President Pat Mascioli:
“The end result more than justified my re-
quest to have these employees represented
by CSEA counsel despite the fact that the sit-
uation did not fit within the framework of our
CSEA Legal Assistance Program.”
Mascioli commended the flexibility of the
program which allowed it to be extended to
these particular circumstances and prevent-
ed the employees from being unjustly
April 7, 1986
accused,
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Labor and
management
CIVIL SERVICE EMPLO
FE } PSSOCIATION AND THE STATE UNIVERSITY OF NEW YORK
A spirit of cooperation
4 Jf we don't work together to offset the Reagan budget cnt-
backs, well all be looking for the lifeboats. ,
—CSEA President William £. MeGowan
Compiled by
Chuck McGeary
CSEA Communications Associate
SYRACUSE — The importance of working together to achieve
common goals was emphasized time and time again when 120 CSEA
and State University of New York (SUNY) representatives.
par eipated in a three-day labor/management conference here
recently.
To reinforce the commitment of cooperation, both labor and
management sent their top officials to pledge their willingness to
work in harmony toward common objectives.
CSEA statewide President William L. McGowan and SUNY
Chancellor Clifton R. Wharton Jr. both addressed opening sessions
of the conference.
“If both sides will make a sincere effort to sit down, talk and
work together toward improving the system, it would go a long way
toward solving many problems,” McGowan said. ‘“‘We must make
every effort to work together. If we don’t cooperate to fight effects
of the Reagan budget cuts, we will all be looking for the lifeboats.””
McGowan suggested that SUNY management would do well to
seek input from employees to learn how to increase productivity
and save money by the reduction of waste and unnecessary
stockpiling.
USEA PRESIDENT WILLIAM £. Me tA) sa welcome to
SUNY Chancellor Clifton R. Wharton gr.
faculty positions—a top heavy administration—at the expense of
operational staff and the adequate maintenance of facility
together and sharing dialogue with each other. By taking full
He told the representatives from 33 SUNY facilities where more _ buildings?’”’ asked McGowan. ‘We are getting reports of serious
than 130,000 students are enrolled that CSEA is concerned about a deteriorization of campus buildings. Those buildings and equipment
plan to divert SUNY budget money decisions to the campus level. must be properly maintained systematically, or replacement costs
“Will we be faced with too much emphasis on administration and will escalate in future months and years,” he warned.
Chancellor Wharton said, “‘We have much to gain by working
Megowan, SUNY Chancellor Clifton KR. Wharton Jr., amd Assistant SUNY
Dinctor of Employee Relations Steve Beditz:
CORNELL IER SCHOOL PROIE
eft, highlights a flip chart p dation to Tom Maniv of SUNY Central
management, left, SUNY Cobleskill’s Cherie Clapper, Richard Silver
Purchase, and ¢ Board of Directors member betty Lennon of
Plattsburgh.
SOK Bernard Faherty, second from
1 0 THE PUBLIC SECTOR
Aprig7, DS&
sident Kathy Collins
ants, and Dale Dusharm, president of SUNY C
: Re \
© HIGHLIGHTS are, from left, Cormell
Upstate Medical Ce
mybrook Vie
THE CONIEREN
structor Wynn Ha
ated from left are
SA LABOR MANAGE,
A Di
NT COMMITTEE members compare motes.
yf Training and Education Sally
CSEA Local Engelhardt, SU, NY Stonybrook Loeal 614s Charli fi
dent of Operations Kerchou of SUNY Buffalo Local 002. Standing are CSE,
0 CSEA Local Management Committee Chairperson Marte Romanclii and Pat Crandall,
. president of SUNY Cortland CSEA Local 605.
Yani, and Kathy
A SUNY Labor
SUNY faculty and support staff, saying, “‘We cannot afford to re-
gress in these areas. We will make every effort to solve our prob-
lems with committees on the campus level.”
Two full days of workshops and seminars were conducted by
faculty members from the Cornell University School of Industrial
Labor Relations.
—SUNY CHANCELLOR CLIFTON R. WHARTON JR.
Medical Center CSE
CHECKING SCORES ont a w
Me Millen of SUNY Onconta
Justructor Marsha J. Orr
Central Administration's
Dave Thomas of SUNY Stonybrook,
eve Keditz, and Lloyd Graham of Downstate
“A Local 646.
hop examination are, from te
1 otal 635, Comell Univ
UNY
THE PUBLIC SECTOR 1 1
long campaign by CSEA to
A convince the state to more
adequately compensate licensed
practical nurses (LPNs) in the Long
Island and New York City area, where
recruitment and retention of LPNs has
been a problem, has been successful.
LPNs in state service there saw the
results when they opened their paychecks
in late March.
All LPNs in New York City and on Long
Island who were at or below the job rate
of the salary grade saw the first
payments of a new geographic pay
differential, retroactive to Jan. 2, 1986, in
that paycheck.
The new geographic pay differential is
$2,000. LPNs earning a basic salary above
the job rate receive a partial differential
(see adjacent explanation for examples).
The new differential for New York City
and Long Island LPNs is the culmination
of an effort begun in July, 1983, during a
meeting of the CSEA statewide LPN
Committee and the state and resulted
from seperate ongoing negotiations
between CSEA and specific agencies
involved.
The new differential pay should help
\_ address the significant difficulties the
(CSEA finds an Rx
for LPNs’ low pay
in L.l. and NYC
‘The following is an explanation of payment
of geographic pay differential to licensed
‘practical nurses on Long Island and in
New York City:
The procedures for the payment of
geographic pay differentials is authorized
and established by Section 130.7 of the Civil
Service Law.
The differential is paid to employees
whose basic annual salary is at or below
Employees who are above the job rate for
the salary grade will receive a portion of
the differetial sufficient to increase their
salary to a level equal to the job rate of
grade 9 plus $2,000.
The following examples illustrate the
\ Gilles tion of the $2,000 geographic pay
the job rate of the salary grade. ~
differential for LPNs in New York city \
and Long Island.
The $2,000 differential is applied to each
step, hiring rate-job rate of grade 9.
April 1, 1986 Hiring Rate Job Rate
$15,670 $19,360
Geographic Pay
Differential 2,000 2,000
Adjusted Rate $17,670 $21,360
LPNs earning a basic annual salary
above the job rate will receive a partial
differential payment to bring their salary
up to the adjusted job rate of $21,360.
For example, an LPN whose basic
annual salary is $20,870 would receive a
partial differential of $490; the difference
between the adjusted job rate ($21,360)
and the LPN’s annual salary ($20,870):
Job Rate plus $2,000 $21,360
LPNs annual salary $20,870
Difference
(Partial Differential) $§ 490
_ The $2,000 differential is in addition to
and is not part of the basic annual salary,
and does not affect or impair increment
advancement, longevity payments, or
other rights and benefits under Section 130.
The differential is included as
compensation for retirement purposes.
»
state has experienced in recruiting and
retaining the services of LPNs, a grade 9
position, particularly in the downstate
area.In addition, a proposal is pending
before the state Division of the Budget
that would establish two new titles on a
statewide basis: Senion LPN I, grade 11;
and Senior LPN II, grade 13.
“This is really a milestone,” said
Pilgrim State Psychiatric Center LPN
William Oram. Oram has served on the
CSEA LPN committee from the
beginning, and said the latest
development ‘“‘is the first time the state
has recognized LPNs as a specific
discipline.” He said, ‘‘We are not RNs or
MHTAs. We have a specific identifiable
job to do. But for too long we’ve been
treated like step-children and shifted from
job to job to just fill in whereever
needed.” Oram said the new geographic
differential pay is the result of CSEA
getting the state’s attention about specific
concerns on behalf of LPNs.
t
a
( Kings Park pay grievances get response
\
By Sheryl Carlin
CSEA Communications Associate
KINGS PARK — A flood of 240 out-of-title grievances filed by
CSEA on behalf of mental health therapy aides (MHTAs) and
licensed practical nurses (LPNs) at Kings Park Psychiatric Center
resulted in the deputy director of the Office of Mental Health
scurrying down from Albany to KPPC to meet with union
representatives and some of the grievants.
z Deputy Director Phil Scott went to Long Island in response to a
flurry of out-of-title grievances charging management with man-
dating grade 9 MHTAs and LPNs to work as grade 11 ward
Qe charges without paying them the salary
ry differential.
ie In order to give Scott an overview of the
/\ situation, the meeting was attended by a panel of
grievants, KPPC Local 411 President Tony
Bentivegna, Grievance Representaive Eric
LaRuffa and CSEA Field Representative Nick
Pollicino. .
The influx of grievances began last summer
when it was reported to the union that grade 9 mental health therapy
aides and licensed practical nurses were being mandated to work as
grade 11 ward charges, and were not being paid the salary
differential.
CSEA grieved on behalf of those employees and won, and the
differential was paid. Local 411 then notified its members that
anyone expriencing a similar situation should file a grievance. The b
members responded with 240 grievances.
During the meeting with Scott, the CSEA also complained that
while grade 9 employees were mandated to work overtime, grade 11
and grade 13 employees were denied requests to work the overtime.
That, the union said, proved that the Center’s administration was
trying to fill the ward charge positions wihtout paying the grade 11
salary that goes with the title.
Ken Meyer, the deputy director for the admnistration at Kings
Park Psychiatric Center, voiced his support of CSEA, according to e
Bentivegna. ‘Meyer understands the position the union has taken.
He admits the need for more grade 11 positions at the facility and
has also said that he feels there are many grade 9s who should be
promoted to grade 11.”
In hopes that more grade 11 items will be offered at the
Psychiatric Center, Bentivegna has been pushing his members to
take the next civil service test offered for that position.
a)
12
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
LN A TN REE ONE ET LT TT a
April 7, 1986
- - | . .,Members raise funds
»)
eee
NEW ROCHELLE CSEA UNIT PRESIDENT Tony Blaisie belts a
softball during this year’s snowball tournament that raised $3,700
for the March of Dimes.
Westchester and Putnam
members raise $3,700
CARMEL — CSEA members from Putnam and
Westchester counties, along with other civil-minded citizens,
played softball in the snow here recently and helped raise
$3,700 for the March of Dimes.
CSEA Region III Organizer Jim Farina, a former Putnam
County CSEA Local president, organized the unusual annual
fund-raiser four years ago. He said his mother, Doris Galvin,
also a CS9EA member, has been involved in supporting the
March of Dimes for many years and that he, himself,
particpates in many charity projects annually.
This year some 28 teams signed up to play in the 2-day
softball tournament in the snow to raise funds.
(Long Island members to
SS y,
- for March of Dimes
walk for kids April 27
HAUPPAUGE—CSEA members on Long Island are expected
to turn out in big numbers on Sunday, April 27 to march for the
March of Dimes. CSEA locals and units are already issuing
challenges to each other to see who can raise the most funds for
the charitable cause.
In Nassau, the April 27 march will start in Eisenhower Park, and
in Suffolk, the walk will begin at the Smith Haven Mall. For details,
members from Suffolk can call Local 852 at 273-4140 and ask for
Kathy Hyland. Nassau members should call Jerry Donahue of
Local 830 at 535-4305.
MARCH OF DIMES POSTERCHILD sr LaFalce sports a
CSEA PEOPLE cap given to her by Smithtown CSEA Unit
President William Maccaro, left. Also, from left, are CSEA
Communications Associate Sheryl Carlin, Nassau County Local 830
President Jerome Donahue and Long Island Regional Director Ross
au 5 DV,
4
SUPREME COURT OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK
COUNTY OF NASSAU
JAMES TUCCI, on behalf of himself and all
other employees of the Town of Hempstead, Index No.
who are similarly situated, and TOWN OF HEMPSTEAD 14719/85
UNIT OF THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES
ASSOCIATION, NASSAU LOCAL 830, AFSCME, NOTICE OF
LOCAL 1000, AFL-CIO, PENDENCY OF
Plaintiffs, CLASS ACTION
-against-
J@ Town OF HEMPSTEAD,
Defendant
PLEASE TAKE NOTICE, that an Order of the Supreme Court of the State of New
York, County of Nassau has been made and entered approving the maintenance as
a class action of an action for breach of the collective bargaining agreement entered
into by the Town of Hempstead Unit of the Civil Service Employees Association and
the Town of Hempstead which was instituted by James Tucci as plaintiff for himself
and on behalf of all other persons similarly situated and against the Town of Hempstead
as defendant, pursuant to said Order, James Tucci has been approved as the represen-
Nae of a class of persons of all employees effected by the defendant's unilateral reduc
=
tion of the number of special collection crews from seven per day to six per day since
on or about September 4, 1984; and
PLEASE TAKE FURTHER NOTICE, that
1. You will be included as a member of the above described class and you will be
bound by the result, whether favorable or not, unless you give written notice to this
Court on or before May 31, 1986 that you desire to be excluded from said class
2. You may appear individually if you do not desire to be excluded and be represented
by your own counsel in respect to your individual claims by entering an appearance
through your own counsel
3. You may pursue on your own behalf whatever legal remedies you may have if
you do elect to be excluded from the above described clas
4. Notice of your election to be excluded or to be represented by counsel of your
own chosing should be sent to: Richard M. Gaba, Esq., 1055 Franklin Avenue, Gar
den City, N.Y. 11530
Dated: Garden City, N.Y
January 20, 1986
Yours, etc
RICHARD M. GABA
Attorney for Plaintiffs
1055 Franklin Avenue
Garden City, N.Y. 11530
persica ramen samme na eran we SON 8 Re 2 pe ac et
April 7, 1986
THE PUBLIC SECTOR 1 3
her good IDEA from CSEA:
‘ : ;
IDEA student, with
| ‘ Mary Carol Puehn,
f her instructor
am a 7
SS a Lt
CSEA members know a good IDEA when they get one: that’s CSEA’s M k t f
Institute for Development, Education and Advancement. a I n I rom
The program is for state employees in the Administrative, Institutional
and Operational Services units, and members are using IDEA to get ahead M - TA t
in their jobs and feel better in their personal lives. O n u rse
IDEA programs offered at worksites throughout the state (see list) help
members: Emma McElveen is a mental health therapy aide at Rochester
© prepare for promotional exams, college-level courses and the Psychiatric Center. But with the help of IDEA, she is working to-
General Educational Development (GED) exam; wards her dream of becoming a nurse
* refresh basic skills in reading (vocabulary and comprehension), McElveen is currently taking college preparatory courses in
math (concepts, problem-solving, and computational skills) and Eng- CSEA's IDEA program. Her goal is to enter the nursing program
lish (spelling, capitalization, punctuation, usage, sentence structure at Monroe Community College.
and effectiveness of expression).
+f i f Even prior to the prep training, IDEA was there to help McElveen
Prior to enrollment, prospective students are given a placement test with another goal. One of eight children, she'd left school in the
(Test of Adult Basic Education) to determine if IDEA’s curriculum would seventh grade to go to work to supplement the family income. When
help them accomplish the goal they've chosen. The value of this test is to she entered IDEA’s General Educational Development program at
make members aware of basic skills they already possess and to point out Rochester PC, her hopes were high. Her subsequent failure in her
areas where IDEA can help. first attempt was a disappointment. But McElveen persisted,
For more information, call Bob Knower at |-800-253-IDEA. (In the improved her academics and met with success nine months later
Albany area, call (518) 434-01 91, extension 228.) Or fill out of the cou- McElveen, who sings in her church choir, is an inspiration in more
pon below and mail to CSEA/IDEA, 143 Washington Avenue, Albany, ways than one. A dedicated IDEA student, she has been a source
New York 12210. of encouragement for her classmates and a leading example of how
CSEA members can use a good IDEA for a better life
INSTITUTE for DEVELOPMENT, EDUCATION & ADVANCEMENT
A HOME STUDY COURSE IS
OFFERED TO EMPLOYEES Shift t
WHO CAN'T ATTEND CLASS- Name Sipe il Lome
ROOM PROGRAMS. AN 800 Z : H ddress:
TELEPHONE NUMBER ENA- @ igen hdey eae ee
BLES STUDENTS TO USE THE
PROGRAM'S TELE-TUTORING
SERVICE.
Work Phone (
Home Phone (
Check Interest
_____ Promotional Exam _______ High School Equivalency
College Preparation ______ General Refresher
Currently, IDEA is conducting classrooms at the following locations
REGION 4 NYS Psychiatric Institute REGION 4 i REGION 6
. Bronx Psychiatric Center Tower Building, Empire State Plaza
Hauppauge State Office Building Kingsboro Psychiatric Center
Pilgrim Psychiatric Center Manhattan Psychiatric Center
REGION 2 Queens Children's Psychiatric Center
er Psychiatric Center
i =} elopmental Center
REGION 5 swell Park Memorial Institute
Willard Psychiatric Center
Two World Trade Center REGION 3
State Insurance Fund Middletown Psychiatric Center
1 4 THE PUBLIC SECTOR April 7, 1986
CSEA clears 5 DFY workers of abuse charges
e abuse to attempts to cover up the incident.
"]
Vindicated,
‘Tryon 5
Vd
p Charlies Niles.
Compiled by Daniel X. Campbell
CSEA Communications Associate
PERTH—Five employees of the Division
for Youth’s Tryon School for Boys are
planning to sue the state after having been
cleared of charges that they used excessive
force with minors at the facility.
® Claiming that the state made “malicious”
and “‘irresponsible’’charges against them
are four CSEA members: Louis Carleo,
Charles Niles, Carmelo Rizzio and Robert
Stewart. Also involved in the case is Richard
Angellotti, who was part of the CSEA
bargaining unit at the time of the charges.
The announcement of the suit by DFY
FIVE IN A SUIT—Cleared of charges of resident abuse, five employees of the Tryon School
plan now to counter in a suit against the state for two years of abuse and intimidation. Pic-
tured, from left, are: Carmelo Rizzio, Richard Angellotti, Local President Dominic
Ruggeri, Robert Stewart, and Louis Carleo. Not pictured is fifth employee in the suit,
Local 559 President Dominic Ruggeri is the
latest turn involving a two-year-long
disciplinary case which closed in December
after an arbitrator ruled all employees were
not guilty.
The state-appointed arbitrator, Jeffrey M.
Selchick, said that the state “‘failed to sustain
the required burden of proof,”’and dismissed
all charges contained in notices of discipline
against the five facility workers.
Charges against the workers were brought
by a senior staff member at the Tryon School
and a resident involved in an alleged incident
of abuse that occurred two years ago. The
charges ranged from physical and verbal
But in a lengthy 40-page decision, Selchick
found testimony of the state’s two star
witnesses to be full of inconsistencies. On the
other hand, he commended the workers and
CSEA representatives and attorneys for
presenting a positive, sound case for their
innocence.
The state’s charges against the Tryon
workers concerned their handling of an
uprising of residents at one of the facility’s
five cottages March 9, 1984. The incident,
which took place about 5 p.m. was quelled
within 15 minutes. Forty-five days later, all
five workers involved were served with
disciplinary notices that DF Y was seeking
their dismissal for alleged child abuse.
Mysteriously, charges had been brought by
a senior staff member—since transferred
for another DF'Y facility—whom none of the
five accused workers remembered seeing
at the scene.
Following issue of the notices, Ruggeri
immediately began the process of fighting
for the complete vindication of the workers.
In the meantime, workers say they had to
endure two years of abuse and intimidation
from the state.
“DEFY thought that, given enough time and
pressure, it could break one of the so-called
‘Tryon Five’ into signing off on a lesser
charge,” said Ruggeri. ‘“They wanted one of
them to admitting some type of guilt so that
DFY management could use this to stop
other DFY employees from even thinking
about fighting DFY management.”’
Ruggeri explained that time after time
management “offered a deal’ and the
workers said no. “DFY made their lives
miserable, denying promotions, threatening
suspensions,” he said.
At a press conference to announce the
workers’ exoneration from all charges,
Ruggeri blasted the state and the DFY
administration for ‘‘maliciously and
irresponsibly” filing the charges in a blatant
attempt to make the five workers an
example to the rest of the DFY unionized
statewide workforce.
Pleased with the arbitrator’s ruling, the
workers now can decide to sue the state
individually or collectively for compensation
in their ordeal.
“The Division for Youth took two years
from our lives,” says Angellotti. “Someone
should be accountable for that.”
oe
On Golden Anniversary
$8,000 scholarship offered by AFSCME
WASHINGTON — An $8,000 scholarship will be awarded this
year to celebrate the golden anniversary of the American
Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees.
The scholarship will pay $2,000 annually for up to four years of
udy in any field at a four-year accredited institution. Expenses
covered include tuition, room and board, books, incidental fees and
transportation.
The sons and daughters of AFSCME members may apply. If
they are high school seniors, they must submit the following by
May 1:
* Certified high school transcript;
* Statement identifying parent’s membership in AFSCME Local
1000 which is CSEA;
% Signed essay not to exceed 1,000 words on “‘What AFSCME
Has Meant to Our Family; and
* Names of schools where they have either applied or been
accepted. Materials should be sent to:
AFSCME Scholarship
Office of the President
American Federation of State, County and
Municipal Employees
1625 L Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20036
The winner will will be notified in June and invited to
AFSCME’s 50th anniversary convention June 23-27 in Chicago.
L
April 7, 1986
THE PUBLIC SECTOR 1 5
ANNUAL
REPORT
CSEA Treasurer Barbara M. Fauser
The financial statements of CSEA Inc. for the year ended Sep-
tember 30, 1985 are published in this issue of The Public Sector. The
statements contain comparative figures for the previous fiscal year.
The combined statement of Fund Revenues and Expenses in-
dicates that expenses exceeded revenues by $891,200 compared to
a loss of $93,000 for the prior year. As a result, the Fund Balance
for General Operations and Working Capital decreased by 12/when
comparedto the prior year.
The report of Coopers & Lybrand, our independent certified
public accountants, and a report by the CSEA Special Audit Com-
mittee are also included.
BARBARA M. FAUSER.
CSEA Statewide Treasurer
WILLIAM L. McGOWAN
CSEA Statewide President
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
To the Officers and Directors
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
We have examined the balance sheets of THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC
for the General Fund and Insurance Fund as of September 30, 1985 and 1984, and the related state:
ments of revenues, expenses and changes in fund balances and changes in financial position for the
years then ended. Our examinations were made in accordance with generally accepted auditing stan.
dards and, accordingly, included such tests of the accounting records and such other auditing proce:
dures as we considered necessary in the circumstances
in our opinion, the financial statements referred to above present fairly the financial position of
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC. as of September 30, 1985 and 1984, and
the results of its operations and changes in its financial position for the years then ended in conformity
with generally accepted accounting principles applied on a consistent basis.
¢ Z 7 LOD
Certified Public Accountants
Albany, New York
January 10, 1986
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
GENERAL FUND BALANCE SHEETS as of September 30, 1985 and 1984
ASSETS 984
CURRENT ASSETS
Cash and cash equivalents - Note 2 $ 6,747,283 $ 7,448,113
Short-term investments 1,787,520 6,779,087
Membership dues and agency fees receivable 299,796 747,738
Due from Insurance Fund 167,751 38,384
Miscellaneous receivables 531,536 642,130
Prepaid expenses 179,429
Total current assets T1558: i
PROPERTY, PLANT AND EQUIPMENT Fi i
Land 124,207 gf
Executive headquarters 996,192
Furniture and equipment 904,882
Real estate held for sale - Note 10
2,025, 2B
Less accumulated depreciation (__"767 ,520)
OTHER ASSETS
Certificate of deposit - Note 2 1,000 ,000
Long-term investments 1,085,673
Deposits 169,000
Cash surrender value - officers’ life insurance
2,218,673
$23,074,430 $19,307,315
LIABILITIES AND FUND BALANCES Se eats
CURRENT LIABILITIES @)
Accounts payable $ 962,128 $ 590,232
Compensated absences 462,221 412,166
AFSCME per capita dues 843,933 826,990
Payroll tax accruals and funds withheld as agent 7,969 8,216
Due to locals for share of dues 2,770,728 2,550,286
Due to employees’ retirement plan - Note 6 13,427
Dues collected in advance 2,789 10,078
Current maturities of long-term debt - Note 8 =e
Total current liabilities 30,337 «4, ATT 385
LONG-TERM DEBT - Note 8 308) 7306 |) semen
DEFERRED COMPENSATION LIABILITY - Note 6 107,000
COMMITMENTS AND CONTINGENT LIABILITIES -
Notes 4, 6, 7, 9, 10 and 11
FUND BALANCES
Fund for general operations and working capital:
Undesignated 3,531,766 4,589,696
Designated by the governing board to @
offset future dues increases 4,500,000 4,500,000
8,031, 9,089,656
Fund for contingency 3,822,287 3,407,722
Fund for building and equipment investment 801,129 1,427 ,580
Fund for additions to building and equipment 1,349 1575 338, 782
Fund for replacement of headquarters building 632,140
14,004, 75
$23,074,430
$19,307,315
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
Statements of GENERAL FUND REVENUES, EXPENSES, AND CHANGES IN
FUND BALANCES for the years ended September 30, 1985 and 1984
d
Fund balance, end of year 5
8,031,761
56
Fund for
General
Operat ions
and Working Fund for Other 1985 1984
Cont ingency Funds Total Total
Revenues:
Dues and fees:
State $15,671,271 $ $ $15,671,271 $14,540,770
County 13,750,255 13,750,255 1
9.421, 526 z 5, 421,526
Less |
Refunds to locals 4,844,308 4,844,308 4,474,502
Political action provisions - Note 5 854,801 854,801 808,499
Affiliation dues - Note 4 10,005,750 10.005. 750 9.681.468
15, 708,859 704,85 ait 469
13,716,667 13,716,667 12,771,476
Insurance Fund reimbursement of expenses - Note 3 426,000 426 000 402,869
Labor Education Action Program Grants 1,607,120 1,607,120 1,359,932
AFSCME Grants - Note 4 491.657 491,657 850,000
Interest earned 1,198,310 372,785 153,328 1,724,423 1,882,940
Gain realized on investments 197,784 197,744
Income fran other sources
79,525
Expenses: @
Employees’ pension and group life insurance costs 1,003,407 1,003,407 912,807
Salaries, payroll taxes and other personal servi 7,812,253 7,812,253 7,181,197
Administrative travel, lodging and meals 954,338 865,040
Officers’, directors’ and committees’ expenses 1,185,614 696,419
Official publication 746,854 791,110
Printing and commun icat ions 401,314 460,579
Legal services 2,120,915
Data processing services and equipment rental 387,509
General expense 208, 686
Depreciation 228,118 131,913
Interest expense 314,254
Headquarters occupancy costs 196, 382
Public relations programs 144,918 424,736
Travel allowance to locals 143, 132 147,646
Regional offices, conferences, State and County @
workshop costs other than payroll 965,230 965,230 924,043
Labor Education Action Program expenses 1,607,120 1,359,932
Delegate meetings, election expenses and organizational costs 550,499 780,961
69, 656 17
Excess of revenues over expenses Sere me
(expenses over revenues) (1,071,608) (891,163) ( 93,390)
Fund balance, beginning of year 9,089,696 3 4,895,920 14,989, 310
Appropriations between funds 13,678 087
$14,895,920
16
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
April 7, 1986
INFORMATION
ANNUAL REPORT
Civil Service Employees Assn.
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
Statements of GENERAL FUND CHANGES IN FINANCIAL POSITION
for the years ended September 30, 1985 and 1984
985 1984
FINANCIAL RESOURCES PROVIDED BY OPERATIONS
Excess of expenses over revenues $
ten which did not require cutlay of
Working Capleal dirtng) the year:
891,163) ($ 93,390)
Depreciation 131,913
Total working capital provided a
(used) by operations 663,045) 38,523
Long-term investments transferred to current 600,000 300,000
Proceeds from long-term borrowing 4,000,000
Increase in deferred compensation lability 102; 000
LEP
FINANCIAL RESOURCES APPLIED TO
Purchase of property and equipment 4,834,974 62,362
Purchase of long-term investments 5,483,087 418,107
Current maturities of long-term debt 162,664
Increase (decrease) in deposits (148,000) 169,000
Cash surrender value - officers’
life insurance 28,000
10,
Decrease in working capital
($6,321,770)
SUMMARY OF CHANGES IN WORKING CAPITAL COMPONENTS
Increase (decrease) in:
Cash and cash equivalents $ 700,830)
( ($3,666,266)
Short-term investments (4,991,567)
3,469,591
Membership dues and agency fees receivable 152,058
Due from Insurance Fund 129,367
Miscellaneous receivables (110,594) (
Prepaid expenses (81,262) 120,135
Decrease (increase) in:
Accounts. payable (371,896) (18,546)
Compensated absences (50,055) (61,210)
AFSCHE per capita dues (165943) (52,270)
Payroll tax accruals and funds withheld as agent 247 1,718
Dues to locals for share of dues (220,442) (10,820)
Due to employees’ retirement plan 13,427 52,751
Dues collected in advance 7,289 14168
Current maturities of long-term debt
Decrease in working capital ($6,321,770)
*
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
INSURANCE FUND - FOR INSURED MEMBERS ONLY
BALANCE SHEETS
as of Septenber 30, 1995 1984
ASSETS
Due from insurance underwriter $228,750 $110,000
$228,750 $110,000
LIABILITIES
ue to General Fund $167,751 $38,384
FUND BALANCE
Restricted for menbers insured under the group plan 60,999 71,616
$228,750 $119,000
STATEMENTS OF REVENUES, EXPENSES and CHANGES IN FUND BALANCE
for the years ended September 30,
REVENUES
Refund fron insurance company
EXPENSES
Reimbursement to General Fund of costs of maintaining
the group life insurance program - Note 3 424,350 402,869
Other expenses 1,650 650
426,000 _404,519
Excess of revenues (expenses)
transferred to fund balance (10,617) 11,583
Fund balance - beginning of year 1
Fund balance - end of year $60,999
THE CIVIL SERVICE EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Significant Accounting Policies
The Association adheres to generally accepted accounting principles as described
in the Industry Audit Guide, "Audits of Certain Nonprofit Organizations," of the
American Institute of Certified Public Accountants,
Income taxes:
The Association is a labor union exempt from income taxes under Section 501 (c)
(5) of The Internal Revenue Code. Accordingly, no provision for income taxes
has been made.
Investments
Investments are carried at amortized cost, which approximates market. Premiums
paid or discounts received on acquisition are amortized on a straight-line
basis over the life of the security.
Property, plant, equipment and depreciation:
Property, plant and equipment are recorded at cost and depreciated on a
straight-line basis over the estimated useful lives of the assets ranging from
5 to 35 years.
Grants received
Labor Education Action Program funds are deemed to be earned and reported as
revenues of operating funds when the Association has incurred expenditures in
compliance with the grant specifications, Funds received in advance of
expenditures are restricted,
Retirement plan:
The Association has a retirement plan covering most of its employees. Pension
expense is determined in accordance with an actuarial cost method, and it is
the Association's policy to fund pension costs accrued, Past service costs
under the plan are being funded over a 27-year period. (See Note 6.)
Insurance Fund:
The Insurance Fund is restricted to use for insured members only, but is
controlled by and considered part of one legal entity, THE CIVIL SERVICE
@ April 7, 1986
a
EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION, INC. Based upon an estimate of the cost of handling the
group life insurance program, made at the beginning of each fiscal year,
expense is recorded in the Insurance Fund, with the offsetting income reflected
in the General Fund. After the close of the fiscal year, a study is done to
determine the actual cost of operating the program, with the adjustment, if
any, for a particular year reflected in the subsequent year. (See Note 3.)
The Association maintains individual records with respect to members who
participate in the Group Life Plan underwritten by the Travelers Life Insur-
‘ance Company. Premiums collected through the State Comptroller's office and
many municipalities are forwarded to the Association to be processed and
thereafter transmitted to the underwriter's agent in original form, The fi-
nancial statements of the Association do not reflect the insurance plan activ-
ity.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Cash and cash equivalents as of September 30, 1985 and 1984 include:
198 1984
Cash in banks, unrestricted $4,142,331 $2,800,713
Cash in banks, restricted 206,044
Certificates of deposit 2,398,908 _ 4,647,400
$6,747,283 $7,448,113
During the year ended September 30, 1982, the Association entered into a long-
term deposit contract in the amount of $1,750,000 with a banking institution,
The principal deposit was to remain intact through March 1984 and will be re-
duced by varying amounts each six months thereafter through March 1987. The
principal deposit balance at September 30, 1985 is $700,000, of which $400,000
matures subsequent to September 30, 1986,
Group Life Insurance Reimbursement of Expenses
The Board of Directors has approved separate studies conducted to determine the
cost of handling the group life insurance program for the years ended Septem-
ber 30, 1984 and 1983, The effect of these studies was to decrease fund income
and the Insurance Fund balance by $49,350 and $27,869 for the years ended Sep-
tember 30, 1985 and 1984, respectively. General Fund income and the fund
balance for genera] operations were conversely increased by similar amounts for
the respective years.
A cost study for the year ended September 30, 1985 has not yet been initiated.
(Continued on Page 18)
THE PUBLIC SECTOR 1 7
FOR YOUR
INFORMATION
Affiliation Agreement
Effective January 1, 1981, the Association entered into an affiliation agreenent
with the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, AFL-CIO
(AFSCME) incurring al] financial obligations of an AFSCME local. As an affil-
jate member, CSEA must pay the prevailing AF: per capita tax per member per
month ($4.10, 1/1-12/31/85: $3.90 1/1-12/31/84). AFSCME also provides CSEA with
organizational grants for various Association activities. The grants amounted
to $491,657 and $850,090 for the years ended September 30, 1985 and 1984, re-
spectively. 2
Political Act fon Provis ions
To advance the political goals and interests of the Civil Service employees of
the State of New York and its political subdivisions, a Civil Service Employees
Political Action Fund was organized, This fund is maintained independently of
the Association and, accordingly, is not included in the accompanying financial
statements, The provisions of $854,801 and $808,499 recorded in the fund for
general operations and working capital represent the amounts appropriated and
transmitted to the political action fund for the years ended September 30, 1985
and 1984, respectively.
Employee Benefit Plans
Pension plan
The Association has a noncontributory pension plan covering substantially all
its employees. Total pension expense was $755,155 and $762,995 for the years
ended September 30, 1985 and 1984, respectively. The unfunded actuarial liability
at December 15, 1988, according to the latest actuarial valuation, was $890,557
and is to be funded over a remaining period of 12 years. The Association's
policy is to fund pension costs accrued. The assumed rate of return used in
determining the present value of accumulated benefits was 7% for both years.
The accumulated plan benefits and plan assets for the Association's def ined
benefit plan as of December 15, 1984 and 1983 are presented below:
1984 ‘1983
Actuarial present value of
accumulated plan benefits:
Vested $5,649,051 $4,621,883
Nonvested 507,781 531.683
$6,156,832 $5.153,566
Net assets available for benefits $9,132,128 $7,710,649
Deferred compensation plan:
During 1984, the Association instituted a deferred compensation plan for offi-
cers that provides benefits upon retirement or death. The deferred compensation
benefits are funded by life insurance policies on each participant with the
Association as owner and beneficiary. Total expense for this program for the
years ended September 30, 1985 and 1984 was $175,288 and $78,946, respectively.
Litigation
The Association is a defendant in a number of actions in several jurisdictions.
The amounts of liability in these actions were not determinable at September 30,
1985, but in the opinion of management any ultimate settlement will not materi-
ally affect the Association's financial position.
Long-Term Debt
Mortgage payable in monthly installments
of $36,600 plus interest payable at 9.25%,
maturing November 2004, collateralized by
Vand, building and equipment. $3,917,905
Current 80,569
Long-term $3,837,336
Debt principal payments required are as follows:
1986 $ 80,569
1987 88,346
1988 96,873
1989 106,224
1990 116,477
Thereafter 1416
$3,917,905
Interest expense for the year ended September 30, 1985 was $314,254.
9. Commitments
The Association is committed to various noncancellable leases for rental of
office space for satellite and regional offices, vehicles and equipment expiring
at various dates, Minimum rental payments under such leases are as follows:
18
THE PUBLIC SECTOR
ANNUAL REPORT
Civil Service Employees Assn.
@
: Vehicles and ‘Total
Fiscal Year Offices Equipment Amount
1986 $ 400,299 $ 119,670 $ 519,969
1987 342,947 71,920 414,867
1988 285,230 67,670 352,900
1989 198, 583 67,570 266,253
1990 177,084 45,113 222,197
7408, 372,083 1,776, 186
Later years 561,002 561,002
Total minimum payments
required $1,965,145 $372,043" $2,337,188
Rental expense for the years ended September 30, 1985 and 1984 was as follows:
1985 1984
Satellite and regional offices $591,313 $400,491
Vehicles and equipment 227,328 221,188
$818,641 $621,679
The Association entered into a Bond Purchase Agreement with the City of Albany
Industrial Development Agency during November 1984 whereby the Association re-
ceived $4,000,000 for the purchase of certain real estate and improvements. In
accordance with terms of that agreement, all funds are to be utilized for purchase
of qualified capital expenditures by November 21, 1987.
Any funds not expended by that date are to refunded to the City of Albany Indus-
trial Development Agency. As of September 30, 1985, bond proceeds utilized for
the purchase of qualified capital expenditures were $3,853,806.
Headquarters Facility and Real Estate Held for Sale
uring the fiscal year ended September 30, 1985, the Association purchased new
executive headquarters facilities and land for $4,265,963. The Association's
former executive headquarters facilities and land, which was recorded at $1,120,399
at September 30, 1984, was offered for sale during the current fiscal year and has
been classified as real estate held for sale at September 30, 1985. Effective
January 15, 1986, the Association finalized an agreement to sell this real estate.
Subsequent Event
During January 1986, the Association purchased a new regional office building for
approximately $400,000.
The Audit Committee met at headquarters Feb. 18, 1986.
The following committee members were present: Chairman
John Geraghty, Charles Perry, Ralph Spangolo, Gail Hansen,
Pat Gooden and Frank Nero. The main topic was a review of
the Annual Financial Report of the union for the fiscal year
ended Sept. 30,1985. That report is attached for your
information. The details of the report were reviewed with
auditors from the accounting firm of Coopers & Lybrand.
CSEA experienced a loss of $891,163 in fiscal year 1985 as
compared to the $93,390 loss in fiscal 1984. At the close of @
fiscal 1985, CSEA remained in a strong financial position
with a total fund balance of $14,004,757.
Fraternally,
SPECIAL AUDIT COMMITTEE
JOHN GERAGHTY, Chairperson
Ralph Spagnolo
Charles Perry
Gail Hansen
Pat Gooden
Frank Nero e@
Linda Fiorentino
April 7, 1906
M
April 18 deadlinet
ALBANY — Ballots are now in the mail for the election of
delegates to the AFSCME Convention to be held June 22-27 in
Chicago. Beginning April 8, replacement ballots may be
obtained by contacting Marcel Gardner at CSEA Headquarters,
142 Washington Ave., Albany, N.Y. 12210.
The ballot count is being conducted by an outside agency,
the Independent Election Corporation of America (IECA).
Candidates will, as usual, be afforded an opportunity to
observe all aspects of the tabulating process such as the
o elect delegates
picking up and opening of ballots, etc.
Candidates, or proxies with written authorization from
candidates, who wish to observe the tabulation, may do so
between the hours of 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. at the IECA
Headquarters, Lake Success, N.Y.
It is recommended that observers notify IECA in advance
of their visits by phoning (516) 437-4900.
Ballots will be counted on Friday, April 18, following the
noontime deadline for their return.
McGowan backs Savings Bond Campaign
Dear CSEA members:
Savings Bonds are today’s hot investment! For
example, since 1982 they have paid an average 9.6
- percent interest rate. And there’s no ceiling on how high
rates can go. You get a good return on your investment
@blus tax advantages, and that makes good financial
sense.
1986 has been designated ‘‘Save for the U.S.A.
Year,’’and here in New York state, April 21 through
May 9 has been set aside to promote Savings Bonds. It
has my enthusiastic support. In fact, I am chairing the
SAVINGS BOND
TOORDINATORS
The Savings Bond Campaign coordinator for the
counties of Nassau, Queens, Richmond and Suffolk
is Frederic Catalano, (212) 264-3286
The coordinator for Kings and Nassau counties is
William A. Lewis, (212) 264-3286
Kalman Wiesenfeld, (212) 264-3287, is
coordinating the campaign for the counties of Bronx,
Orange, Putnam, Rockland and Westchester
JOB TEES a =
APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 14, 1986
Canal Maintenance Shop Supervisor | G-14
Civil Engineer | G-20
capital district’s U.S. Savings Bond Campaign.
Remember, Savings Bonds are now linked to
market-based rates. I urge you to ‘“Take Stock in
America!” Buy Savings Bonds!
The Savings Bond Campaign begins April 21. If you
want to get involved, contact the Savings Bond
coordinator assigned to your county.
Fraternally,
Bill McGowan
CSEA President
COMPETITIVE PROMOTION EXAMINATIONS
(State Employees Only)
EXAM NO, DEPARTMENT
38-944
38-892
Transportation
Interdepartmental
Nancy A. Burger, (518) 472-2891, is coordinator
for the counties of Albany, Clinton, Columbia.
Delaware, Dutchess, Essex, Franklin, Fulton, Greene,
Hamilton, Herkimer, Montgomery, Otsego
Rensselaer, Saratoga, Schenectady, Schoharie,
Sullivan, Ulster, Warren and Wasnington.
Robert Boryszewski is coordinating the campaign
for the counties of Broome, Cayuaga, Chemung,
Chenango, Cortland, Jefferson, Lewis Madison
Oneida, Onondaga, Oswego, St. Lawrence, Schuyler,
Seneca, Steuben, Tioga and Tompkins
Charles E. McGowan and Dorothy Snow, both of
whom can be reached at 33 Federal Building, 111
W. Huron Street, Buffalo, are coordinating the
campaign in the counties of Allegany, Cattaraugus
Chautaqua, Erie, Genesee, Livingston, Monroe
Niagara, Ontario, Orleans, Wayne Wyoming and
Yates
John P. Hearn, (¢ 64-1368, is coordinating the
campaign in Manhatte
APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 21, 1986
Senior Consumer Frauds Representative G-17
Social Worker Il G-19
Principal Sanitary Engineer M-4
Associate Sanitary Engineer G-27
Social Worker Assistant III G-16
Social Services Assistant Trainee | (transition exam)
APPLICATION DEADLINE APRIL 28, 1986
Parole Program Aid G-11 (transition exam)
38-879 Law
38-880 Interdepartmental
38-908 EnCon
38-909 EnCon
38-937 Interdepartmental
00-237 Social Services
00-236 Executive, Parole
APPLICATION FORMS: Application forms for promotion candida
though your Personnel or Business Office. You may also obtain th
in person at the following offices of the New York State Department of C
NYS Office Building Campus, Albany, N.Y. 12239; 5th Floor, Two Wor
Center, New York, N.Y. 10047; 6th Floor, Adam Clayton Powel
Building, 163 West 12: ‘ w York, N.Y, 10027; or Re
Court Street, Buffalo, N 02. S| examination by its number and
title. Mail your completed application form to: NYS Department of Ci
The W. Averell Harriman NYS Office Building Campus, Albany, N.\
Service
meas ums sc SEIS 1S A LS I
@ april 7, 1986
THE PUBLIC SECTOR 19
Saving
souls
can be
a kick
A black belt
andthe bible |
create unique
church class
KICKING. TECHNIQUE
pointers are given by Keith
Nesbitt to student Donald
“D.J.” Pendley:
By Ron Wofford
CSEA Communications Associate
PALMYRA — For the vast majority of
movie-goers and television viewers, the
martial arts probably represent mayhem
and madness.
But for Keith Nesbitt, a member of
Department of Transportation Local 506,
the Korean martial art of Taekwon-Do
represents something profoundly
different. Two years ago the highway
equipment operator and holder of a black
belt in the martial art formed a
“Taekwon-Do for Christ” class for
youngsters at his church to “reach and
save souls for the Lord.”
Nesbitt’s unique class combines bible
teachings and Christian principles with
the discipline derived from practicing the
drop kicks, smashes and other exercises
of the martial arts.
“Before and after each Taekwon-Do
class,” says Nesbitt, “‘we read passages
from the bible, and talk about trying to
apply the pertinent principle to our daily
lives. It’s become a popular class. We
started with two students two years ago,
and now we have about 20.”
Nesbitt feels the discipline developed in
Taekwon-Do is helpful in everyday life.
“1’m sure it has helped me in my job
performance, where I might be called
upon to operate anything from a truck to
a lawnmower, a loader to a
jackhammer,” he said. “But you need
more than discipline in your life. You
need the love of Jesus Christ.”
Nesbitt, who also serves his CSEA local
as a steward, is planning to teach his
fellow members in self-defense
techniques, at the request of the local’s
Employee Assistance Program
chairperson, Laura Ritter.
While his martial arts expertise has
helped him change his life for the better,
Nesbitt credits being “born again in Jesus
TAEKWON-DO
FOR CHRIST
Christ’’ with helping him to overcome an
overwhelming alcohol abuse problem.
“I consider myself a recovered
alcoholic, and I know the Lord helped me
quit drinking and smoking, as well as
patch up my marital problems. My pastor
and other church members prayed long
and hard with me, and I’ll be forever
grateful,” Nesbitt said.
As part of his black belt requirements,
Nesbitt learned to speak and write Korean.
He said Taekwon-Do loosely translates
to ‘‘the art of hand and foot fighting.
“Karate, a Japanese self-defense
art, means ‘‘open hand.”
Nesbitt said his style most closely
resembles that of Chuck Norris, which is
the “Tang Soo-Do” style. The late, re-
nowned Bruce Lee practiced the art of
Kung Fu, which is of Chinese origin.
He noted Taekwon-Do is the only
martial art accepted for olympic
competition, and he is “thinking about
entering The Empire State Games this
year, just to see how I could do.”
Also a member of Local 506’s safety
committee, Nesbitt said he is on the verge
of opening his own school in nearby
Newark, ‘‘as soon as we can get the
remodeling completed. I’m really looking
forward to opening soon, and I'll be giving
CSEA and other union members a special
price to enroll in our classes.”
The five-year state employee said, how-
ever, he has no plans to leave his present
job. ‘‘It would probably take five to ten
years to get a business really built up.
Besides, I really like my DOT job.”
Meanwhile, he said he plans to continue
to help his martial arts students transfer
their skills and knowledge “‘to a more
spiritual life. I’ll be there to help them,
just as I was, to walk more closely with
the Lord.”
yu teps aboard a loader in,
highwe
20 THE PUBLIC SECTOR
April 7, 1986
