Vol. 51, No. 2 Summer 2017
On June 17, Local 237 hosted an OPEN HOUSE for members, retirees and their families, to YEARS OLD AND mark our 65th Anniversary. See the centerfold for some of the photos of the festivities and you can visit www.local237.org GOING STRONG to see all of the photos.
he year was 1952. In the U.S, the Dwight Eisenhower, a Republican, bests THEN AND NOW average worker earned $3,400 per Democrat Adlai Stevenson to become Pres- year. 2 out of 3 families owned a car. ident following Harry Truman. 2 out of 3 families had a phone and But that’s not all that occurred in 1952. 1 in 3 households had a television. A new In May of that year, Teamsters Local 237 carT cost $1,700 and gas was .20 per gallon. was chartered. Its first President was Chopped meat was .53 per pound. The av- Henry Feinstein. Throughout the years, erage new house cost $9,050 and the aver- other divisions of municipal workers in age rent was $80 per month. Testing con- New York City and on Long Island were tinued on the atomic bomb and the first enfolded into the Local to comprise almost Henry Feinstein, The current President of Teamsters Local 237, Gregory Floyd (center) with hydrogen bomb was detonated. The first 24,000 members in nearly every govern- the first President of members of the Executive Board: Trustees, Curtis Scott and Jeanette Taveras; Teamsters Local 237. Vice President, Richard Hendershot; Secretary-Treasurer, Ruben Torres; mechanical heart is used on a patient and ment agency today, making 237 the largest Recording Secretary, Patricia Stryker and Trustee, Edmund Kane. the Polio vaccine is invented. Emmett Ash- public employee Local of the Teamsters in ford became the first African American the nation, Canada and Puerto Rico. (The substitute umpire in major league baseball entire timeline of Local 237’s history can and Perry Mason, Lassie, Wagon Train, 77 be found on website: www.local237.org. Sunset Strip and the Lone Ranger were A poignant, personal account by retirees, some of the shows viewers watched on known as the Oral History Project, also their 21” inch black and white console TV, appears on the website.) costing $339.95. ‘Singing in the Rain’ and Gregory Floyd, the current President ‘The African Queen’ were box office hits of Local 237, elected to office in 2007, and The original building of the headquarters of Local 237. The current building of the headquarters of Local 237. and ‘The Caine Mutiny’ remained on the also the Vice President-at-Large on the New York Times best seller list for months. General Board of the International Broth- forgotten that unions fought for working accomplishments, among them: Lobbying Jo Stafford’s “You Belong To Me” and “I erhood of Teamsters, has said about Local families so that they could enjoy a better for legislation to protect our members; Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus” topped 237: “When you think about it, 65 years is quality of life. Unions built the middle class providing health and pension benefits for the record charts. MAD magazine printed a long time to keep anything going, let in America. And it is public employees who active members and retirees; and ending its first edition and Mr. Potato Head and alone, going strong. Across our nation, la- help to run and maintain services and fa- gender-based pay discrimination. Today, the Joe Palooka Bop Bag were among the bor unions have seen a dramatic decline in cilities upon which millions rely — our we are still faced with many challenges, but most sought after toys. The first Kentucky membership — to only 11% today. Union schools, hospitals, the Housing Authority we are well-prepared to fight with the vigor Fried Chicken franchise opened that year bashing and union busting are rampant, and homeless shelters — to name only a and commitment that has become synony- as did the Holiday Inn. New York City in- with public sector members often por- few. But, throughout 237’s history, we’ve mous with Local 237 throughout our stalls “Don’t Walk” signs and the bar code trayed as greedy, incompetent workers who had to fight many battles on behalf of our history. We are proud, and should be, gets a patent. Former World War II General abuse the system. Somehow, many have members and retirees. We’ve had many because, at 65, we’re still going strong.”
Local 237 goes to Albany for “Lobbying Day”. Carl Haynes, when he was the Director of Lone woman is Irma Rabinowitz, from Housing, Housing addressing Supervisors. Carl became and a charter member since 1948. Graduation of Hospital Police. the fourth President of Local 237. Institutional seamstresses for HRA.
Members of Local 237’s Executive Board met with Mayor Robert Wagner (third from the right) at Arthur “Sonny” Illery (right), then a Citywide City Hall. William Lewis, (to the Mayor’s right), was Business Agent who later became the VP on the Local 237’s newsletter from 1967. Housing members go on strike in 1967. 237’s President at that time. Executive Board, assisting injured members. 2 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017
Local 237 Member Services
UNION HEADQUARTERS PERSONNEL, 5th Fl. 212-924-2000 212-924-2000 A message from the President 216 West 14th Street Edmund Kane, Director and New York, NY 10011-7296 Chief Negotiator LOCAL 237 DIVISIONS POLITICAL ACTION & LEGISLATION, CITYWIDE DIVISION, 2nd Fl. 5th Fl. 212-924-2000 212-924-2000 By Gregory Floyd Donald Arnold, Director Local 237 protects members’ Derek Jackson, Director, rights by helping to sponsor President, legislation that is important Law Enforcement Division Teamsters Local 237 and Randy Klein, Deputy Director to members, and by opposing initiatives that would hurt Vice President-at-Large HOUSING DIVISION, 2nd Fl. members. on the General Board 212-924-2000 Patricia Stryker, Director Kevin Norman, Housing Director of the International GRIEVANCES/DISCIPLINARY Brotherhood of Teamsters LONG ISLAND DIVISION PROBLEMS, 7th Fl. 631-851-9800 212-924-2000 100 West Main Street, Babylon, For grievances and job related New York 11702 problems, first contact your Benedict Carenza, Director shop steward and/or grievance Long Island Welfare Fund: representative. If they can’t For information on the various resolve the issue, contact your funds call 800-962-1145 business agent. RETIREE DIVISION, 8th Fl. Mal Patterson, Director of 212-807-0555 Grievances and Hearings Provides a variety of pre- and Todd Rubinstein, Esq. Vote ‘NO’ post-retirement services, Grievance Coordinator including pension and health CIVIL SERVICE BAR ASSN insurance counseling to mem- to the CON CON con 7th Fl., 212-675-0519 bers. (Pension counseling by Saul Fishman, President appointment, Thursdays only). Aldona Vaiciunas, General retirement counseling n November 7, 2017, when voters go to the polls to until at least 2020 and beyond. Delegates will be paid a Office Administrator and and retirement planning series cast their ballot for candidates of various elective salary of $80,000 a year (in addition to their other Grievance Coordinator during spring and fall. offices, including Governor and Mayor, there’s an- income). Since Delegates are elected to their position, Nancy B. True, Director John Picucci, Esq., Grievance Representative Oother part of that ballot—toward the end—that may affect many will be elected officials or politically savvy insiders LOCAL 237 DEPARTMENTS CSBA Welfare Fund them as much, if not more. who are familiar with the techniques and demands of the (Citywide and Housing) Alicare 866-647-4617 It’s a question on the ballot which comes up every 20 political process, such as fundraising and campaigning. years and which seems innocent enough: “Should there be a The argument that the Convention provides an opportu- SKILLED TRADES, 2nd Fl. COMMUNICATIONS, 5th Fl. 212-924-2000 646-638-8501 convention to revise the constitution and amend the same?” nity for “fresh eyes” and “outsiders” to participate in gov- Donald Arnold, Director Phyllis S. Shafran, Director The wrong answer can prove deadly for union ernment is not the reality. Instead, the reality is that a Local 237 Newsline and members, and in particular, public sector union members. Constitutional Convention would be controlled by well- HEALTH AND SAFETY, 2nd Fl. Retiree News & Views, Editor We need to vote “NO”, and here’s why: funded special interests, like the Koch brothers, and career 212-924-2000 Website: www.local237.org Donald Arnold, Director Our benefits — the envy of so many — are protected politicians, and will put the “foxes in the hen house.” Carl Giles, Coordinator EDUCATION AND TRAINING by the current state constitution. In today’s political cli- New Yorkers from all sectors of employment and 8th Fl. MEMBERSHIP, 3rd Fl. mate, where union bashing and union busting is rampant, socio-economic backgrounds have rejected the call for a 212-807-0550 212-924-2000 when union membership has fallen to an all-time low Constitutional Convention—which takes place every Provides a variety of training Provides membership services (nationwide it is only 11%) and with 28 states having al- 20 years—since 1967. And with good reason. Then and and educational advancement and records, including address opportunities for members. ready passed so-called “Right to Work” laws which, con- especially now in this politically-charged climate, there changes. Bertha Aiken, Director trary to its name, allows “freeloader” employees in union- is concern that long-standing guarantees will be destroyed. WELFARE FUND, 3rd Fl. ized workplaces to receive the same advantages as union Among them, clean air and water, preserving recreational 212-924-7220 USEFUL NUMBERS members without paying dues — we DO NOT want to parkland, caring for the needy, mentally ill, and elderly, The Fund administers the eligi- FOR PRE-RETIREES create a mechanism for wholesale alterations to the New and providing free public schools — just some of the bility, enrollment, disability, York State Constitution. mandates protected by NYCERS optical and death benefits We need to vote the current Constitution. directly by the Fund’s in-house (New York City Employees staff, as well as prescription Retirement System) “NO” to the Constitutional Along with worker rights, and dental programs indirectly. By Mail: Convention! issues like pensions, Mitchell Goldberg, Director 335 Adams St., Suite 2300, Union members are prevailing wage rates, LEGAL SERVICES, 4th Fl. Brooklyn, NY 11201-3751 not the only ones who collective bargaining and 212-924-1220 In Person: would be negatively af- workers’ compensation Lawyers advise and represent 340 Jay Street, Mezzanine, fected by a Constitutional could all be on the members on covered personal Brooklyn, NY 11201 Convention. Many others chopping block, if we Gen’l Information: legal problems, including are too. allow a Constitutional domestic relations (family 347-643-3000 Outside NYC toll-free: According to a recent Convention. court proceedings, divorce and Siena College poll, 89% of It is important to note separation), purchase and sale 877-6NYCERS of a primary residence, wills, NYCERS Internet New Yorkers have heard DON’T BE CONNED! that there is a path for adoptions, credit and www.nyclink.org/html/nycers little or nothing about the beneficial change. If there consumer problems, tenant upcoming convention. But the political insiders and lob- are changes that can improve our lives and livelihoods, NYC Department of rights and bankruptcies. byists are well aware of it and view the Convention as a the legislature can amend the Constitution at any time Education Retirement Office Hours: System great opportunity to rewrite the current Constitution to with specific proposals. In fact, there have been Mon.- Fri. 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 65 Court St., Brooklyn, NY 11201 their own benefit, while making a huge profit in the 222 amendments to the 120 year-old documents, changes Mary Sheridan Esq., Director process. The Constitutional Convention takes place over achieved through legislation. And, as the Assembly Kenneth Perry Esq., 718-935-5400 Deputy Director Social Security several years—while the taxpayers, you and I, are footing Speaker Carl Heastie cautions: “My concern is there can the bill for the Delegates’ election and salary— at an esti- be a lot of outside money influencing what would be the EXECUTIVE OFFICES, Administration 5th Fl. mated cost of $200 million. To make things even worse, election of 180 or so temporary legislators…I think we 212-924-2000 800-772-1213 there is no time limit for how long the process can take. should be very, very careful in exposing the constitution Gregory Floyd, President NY State and Local Richard Hendershot, Retirement Systems The vote to have a Convention (or, hopefully, not) takes to the whims of someone from outside the state who can Vice President 518-474-7736 place in 2017; in 2018, there will be the election of Dele- decide to spend millions to put forward their position.” Ruben Torres, gates to the Convention and in 2019, the Convention will In other words: just vote “NO” to the Constitutional Secretary-Treasurer convene. Any approved amendments will not take effect Convention and avoid the Con Con con. NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 3 MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Local 237 is the largest Teamsters Local in the United States and Canada. Our members are dedicated municipal workers performing tough jobs in a wide range of titles for nearly every government agency in New York City and on Long Island. The quality of life for all of us is On the Job positively impacted by the hard work of 237 members. Meet some of those members:
Tiffany Johnson, Store Room Keeper at the Langston Hughes Houses in Brooklyn, cutting At Dyckman Houses, HA Zelda White, HA Patricia Johnson and Assistant Manager, Patricia Maxwell. keys for a resident in distress.
Caretaker at Coney Island Houses, Tyree Jones, enjoy- DCAS warehouse stock workers in records ing the job and the weather. management: Edward Coit, Paul Chester, Alex Friedlander, John Hall, Avery Jackson and Maurice Moore.
Getting the job done, proud NYCHA workers were photographed in full focus by Business Agent Ken Roper. At Amsterdam Houses, Caretaker J workers (left to right) Shop Steward Sharon Alexander and Adrienne Boyd; Dymar DeJesus, and John Taylor; Andre Harvin and Caretaker G, Israel Ortiz. Caretaker J workers at Chelsea Houses Amanda Pagan, Kadesha Beathea and Athena Almodovar, who is also the Shop Steward; Athena Almovodar and Anthony Bono, Maintenance Worker. At Manhattan South, Heating Plant Technicians Devin West and Eric Mody.
Local 237 Food Service Supervisors at a grievance hearing Justin Calnan, Assistant NEWSLINE pictured with Mal Patterson, Director of Hearings Superintendent, Surfside 216 West 14th St., New York, NY 10011 and Grievances (second from the left),Jerry Sim- Houses in Coney Island, 646-638-8501 mons, Sidney Grabill, Chris Maniace and Kelly Website: www.local237.org shows off his “tat” that e-mail Newsline: [email protected] Bacci. Also present, but missing from the picture, commemorates his lasting Local 237 Newsline (USPS 700-000 ISSN 1083-3536) is published by Local 237, are Nicole Bonica and Alessandro Palumbo. Teamster pride. International Brotherhood of Teamsters, 216 West 14 Street, New York, NY 10011. Periodical postage paid at New York, NY. Postmaster: Send address changes to Local 237 Newsline, 216 West 14th Street, New York, NY 10011.
Executive Board Gregory Floyd Richard Hendershot Ruben Torres Patricia Stryker President Vice President Secretary-Treasurer Recording Secretary Edmund Kane Curtis Scott Jeanette Taveras Trustee Trustee Trustee Newsline and www.local237.org Phyllis S. Shafran Editor
Special thanks in the preparation of Newsline to: Gisela (GiGi) Reyes, Executive Administrative Assistant, Winston George, Deputy Director of the Retiree Division and Midersi Martinez, Executive Assistant Secretary IF YOU MOVE – Please send your change of address in writing to Membership to insure that you continue receiving your newspaper. At the Janitorial and Grounds Training Center at Ingersoll Houses, NYCHA Super-
Metro NY intendent Stanley Davis gave helpful instruction to NYCHA workers in those divisions. Labor Communications Council 4 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017
So many of our members go above and beyond the call of duty, performing acts of heroism, MEMBERS IN THE NEWS ingenuity, kindness and generosity that demonstrate their professionalism and heart. They were willing to go that extra mile, and by so doing, made a difference in someone’s life. Here are some of their stories. Above and Beyond
STUDENTS BRING LOADED GUNS TO SCHOOL-SSAs JUMP INTO ACTION
A WOODHULL VISITOR RUSHED TO ER THANKS TO HOSPITAL POLICE 150 STUDENTS Captain Sha-neeka Speight, Detective Jamar CAN’T BE WRONG SCHOOL BUS HITS Simpson and Sgt. Doren Perez aided a visitor A CHILD, SSAs to Woodhull Hospital after being spotted un- 150 students at Edison Career and Tech- SAVE THE DAY responsive in the bathroom by Detective nical Education High School signed a For 8-year-old, Zacherius Del- Simpson, who administered CPR while Sgt. petition given to the school Principal in gado, a student at PS 109, it Perez called for assistance. Under the super- praise of School Safety Agent Pointdu- was just another school day, vision of Captain Spreight and with the help jour. The students wrote, in part: “School until he was hit by a school of an off-duty nurse passing by the scene, the has become the second home for many bus. Luckily for the youngster, distressed man was rushed to the ER’s Critical of us. Home is a place where one feels School Safety Agent III Care Unit by the Code Blue Team, where he safe and protected. Mr. Pointdujour Ronald Foster was on the was later listed in stable condition. allows students of Edison to consider it scene and sprung into action. their second home due to his kindness and heartwarming actions… Mr. Point- EMS was immediately notified Another day, another weapon confis- dujour’s presence is highly valued and and transported the critically cated by fast-thinking School Safety appreciated at Edison.” injured child to Brookdale Agents. A loaded .380 caliber firearm Hospital. Zacherius’ mother fell out of the pocket of an agitated 15- was notified and the student’s year-old male student at Intermediate condition was being moni- School 171 in Cypress Hills during a tored with regular updates to scuffle with SSAs who were asked by Central Headquarters. Al- the Principal to search the young man though he sustained severe SSAs AID STUDENT after receiving a tip by other students trauma to his right leg and WITH MEDICAL CRISIS that the suspect had a gun and intended foot, Zacherius is now on the A female student attending Midwood High to rob a store. The NYPD took the stu- mend. School falls to the floor apparently in extreme dent into custody. Pictured left to right distress. With the school nurse present and are SSAs Stafford Nicholas, Elizabeth EMS on the way, School Safety Agent lll Ceballos and Petria Santiago. Camela Wade performed CPR and applied other vital techniques to help the apparently gravely ill student. Along with SSAs Agnes H. George, (Camela Wade, center) and Darryl Lomas, they helped to stabilize the MOMMY, DO YOU SCHOOL SAFETY AGENT teen until she was transported to Maimonides WORK TONIGHT? Hospital, where, despite their exhaustive and HURT IN ON-JOB CAR Leslie Tene Marshall, a School Safety valiant efforts, the young lady died. CRASH AWARDED Agent for five years, was constantly $432K COMPENSATION asked by her two little children, Denzel Recently retired School Safety and Diamond, why she had to leave Agent Shareen Byrd has been them to go to work and stay away from awarded $432,000 in compen- their home for so many hours. Despite sation for injuries suffered in having a strong family support system, an on-the-job car crash while the questions persisted and the answers responding to an emergency. became an inspiration for her to write The Agent, hurt eight years a book: “Mommy, Do You Work ago when, as a passenger in a Tonight?” It took 14 years for the book van owned by the Police De- to be published due to the high costs partment and driven by her involved in publishing. At a recent co-worker, was en route to an book signing event, Leslie was encour- emergency at Morris Interme- SSA III Anthony Williams appre- aged by family, friends and colleagues, diate School (I.S. 61) concern- A SPECIAL MOTHERS’ DAY GIFT hended a 17-year-old male student who including Assistant Commissioner ing a fight between students. School Safety Agent, Abiodun Olayemi, as- entered New Utrecht High School with Ramon Garcia, who attended to cele- The van was hit by another signed to PS 243 in Brooklyn, wanted to give a loaded .380 caliber gun. This school brate the accomplishment with her. As auto in Sunnyside and Byrd the Principal, Karen Hambright-Glover does not have metal detectors. The stu- Leslie says: “Don’t let the naysayers suffered shoulder injuries re- something special to celebrate Mothers Day. dent was spotted carrying the gun when hold you back—let them push you to- quiring surgery. Her injuries The accomplished artist used her creative Williams approached him to surrender ward success.” To find out more about prevented her from returning skills to paint — in two hours — a portrait it, which he did. The NYPD was called the book and to order a copy go to: to work for nearly five months. of the principal. and arrested the student. www.lesliemarshall.com NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 5
JUMPING FOR FUN AND FOR A PURPOSE Brooklyn North School Safety Division and PSA 3 teamed up for a friendly Double Dutch Com- petition against the students of Science Skills High School. The DOE Administration sold re- freshments during this event and all proceeds have been donated to Lupus Research. This event allowed the students and members of the community to see a different side of law enforcement RALLY TO PROTEST PROPOSED NYCHA CUTS and to bridge the gap that often exists between the two. The students were shocked to see that 237 members joined protesters fearful of drastic Federal cuts the women of NYPD had the same Double Dutch skills talents as them. The judges panel to public housing. Along with Senator Schumer, other elected included: Captain McLeod, Agent Sadler, DOE Administrator Ms. Gomes and Officer Nelson. officials, tenant groups and advocacy organizations like Com- Captain Daniel A. Dooley, Commanding Officer of PSA3, was in the audience cheering NYPD munity Voices Heard and Community Service Society, our on. Several Explorers from Post 370, which is housed inside of JHS 218, also attended the com- members pressured lawmakers to spare public housing from petition and were able to earn community service hours by helping out during the event and the funding axe which could have a disastrous effect on an al- cleaning up the gymnasium afterwards. Commanding Officer of Brooklyn North School Safety ready financially struggling agency. AsGregory Floyd, Presi- Division Yamese Lavington took part and jumped rope with student of Science Skills Shawn. dent of Teamsters Local 237, said: “For many New Yorkers, As ShaQuanna Rasin, Commanding Officers Assistant PBBN/SSD Crime Analysis Unit, noted: public housing is their only affordable option. And for 8,000 of “This collaboration between PBBN/SSD and PSA 3 is one of my most favorite. We work side by our members it’s their livelihood. We need to stand strong with side on a regular basis when it comes to work, so it was good to be able to come together for an Senator Schumer in the fight to protect public housing.” exciting event for the students. We jumped for the children, We jumped for Lupus Research. Apparently their voices were heard and their frustration did not We jumped for the community. And we jumped for Sisterhood. We are involved in our students go unnoticed. The severe cuts were avoided, at least for now. lives daily and we are making a difference, bridging the gap one turn of a rope at a time.”
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS The first-rate work of our members is often acknowledged with special honors to mark their achievements. Here are some members recently In recognition of a Job Well Done recognized for their professionalism and performing a job well-done:
QUEENS SOUTH CIVILIAN UFT BRONX COMMAND AWARDS RECOGNITION BOROUGH CEREMONY CEREMONY OFFICE HOSTS The School Safety Division has The NYPD acknowledged the ITS 6TH ANNUAL a mission statement that says hard work of the School Safety SCHOOL SAFETY it is dedicated “to provide a BRONX BP HONORS Division at a ceremony in April AGENTS AWARD at 1 Police Plaza. Pictured at the safe environment, conducive Two unarmed school safety offi- DINNER event are: to learning, where students cers, who responded to an Amber and faculty can be free from Alert and rescued an abducted 2- FELLOWSHIP hostility and disruptions year-old on Feb. 7, recently re- which could negatively impact ceived honors for heroism from LUNCHEON on the educational process.” the Bronx Borough President School Safety Agents, working In a recent awards ceremony, Ruben Diaz, Jr. at Borough Hall. in conjunction with the the Commanding Officer of Pictured with the BP (center) are NYPD, mentor New York City Honorees pictured, among them: Queens South, Wilbur Jones, Brian Caballero, a School Safety teens and young adults, ages SSA Brian Calballero and SS De- Derek Jackson, Director of Law agreed that the mission has Agent and Deshawn Woodford, 14 to 20, to learn about law shawn Woodford (pictured first row left), been met, and honored sev- Enforcement at Local 237; Sher- Ramon Garcia, Jr., Assistant Com- a Supervisor of School Security, enforcement and consider ca- eral Agents in recognition of who were taking a lunch break man Richards, Commanding missioner, School Safety Division reers in that field. The Explor- Charlie Cotto, on the right; Law En- that accomplishment. together when their phones lit up Officer of Bronx West; Gerome ers Program, which focuses forcement Business Agent next to with Amber Alerts related to a Quinn, Deputy Bronx/Manhat- on six areas: Career, Service, him, and Brian Conroy, Assistant kidnapping on Staten Island. Wit- tan; SSAs Elaine Ramirez-Ro- driquez; Brian Caballaro; Leadership, Social, Fitness and Chief Commanding Officer, School nesses who had spotted a car Safety Division (seated center). Louise Kelly Johnson; Director, Outdoors, has nearly 4,000 matching the one described in the 2016-2017 Honorees alert flagged the officers down on Patrol Operations, SSD; Lyndsey posts. Uniformed police offi- P.S. 18: SSA I Maria Garay; P.S./M.S. the Major Deegan Expressway. Martinez, Deputy Director, cers volunteer to be the on- 31/JHS 151 Campus: SSA IIII Fay Brooklyn/Queens/Staten Island Peterkin; P.S. 36: SSA I Yanira Velez; The black Kia Sorrento was actu- site Post Advisors responsible P.S. 140: SSA I Tryphena Lee; M.S. First Year Perfect Attendance ally right behind them. The offi- and SSA Damaris Taveras. for teaching, motivating and 145/M.S. 325/M.S. 328 Campus: Award-Derek Jackson, Local cers halted traffic on the express- SSA I Lucretia Vereen; P.S. 126: serving as role models to SSA I Luisa Escoto; M.S. 279: 237 Law Enforcement Direc- way and called for backup. youngsters who might follow SSA II Ricardo Aybar; P.S. 306/M.S. tor; honoree Officer Essam Although they were unarmed, in their footsteps. Recently, 331/PX186 Campus: SSA I Keith Girgis, CO Jones and honoree Crawford; P.S./M.S. 498: SSA II they handcuffed the suspect and the annual luncheon was held Hilda Pereira. Andrea Bedell; P.S. 169: SSA I secured his vehicle, from which to commemorate the accom- Mohammad Borhan; P.S. 314/P.S. 458 they rescued the child. “I wasn't Campus: SSAI Nadia Daniel; P.S. plishments of the program really fearing for my life at that SSAs Anselma Ambris-Miller; 531/P.S. 536/P.S. 691 Campus: SSA I and to acknowledge the ex- Donna Brown; PX12: SSA I point. I was more focused on the Billy Boler; Tyesha Nixon-Shaw; Fiona Bogie; PX176@X181: SSA I 2-year-old — like any parent or Delores John; SSAIII Hewitt emplary work of several of its Shanekqua Cruz; PX723@X189: grandparent would be,” Caballero Ruby; Commanding Officer participants. Pictured: Deputy SSA I William Cruz-Santana; Mon- SSAlll Stephen Nemley (left) Commissioner Ramon Gar- roe Campus: SSA III Luis A. Albino; said. Woodford, a mother and Yamese Williams-Lavington; Wings Academy: SSA III Tamara and SSAlll Terese Nemley re- grandmother, has been on the job SSAs III Nadine Massey-Samp- cia; SSA Brian Caballero; Cornwall; Lehman HS Campus: ceived Certificates of Appre- for 19 years. Caballero, who has son and Rhondean Gripper; SSAI School Safety Supervisor SSA I Cindy Daniel; Bronx HS of ciation for their work with the Visual Arts: SSA III Doublas Cruz; two daughters, has been on the Gwendolyn Farmer and SSAIII Dishon Woodford and SSA ALC@Jane Addams HS Campus: Explorers (pictured). job for 25 years. Charles Harper. Dennis Foster. SSA II Tamika Santos 6 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017
The first-rate work of our members is often acknowledged with special MEMBERS IN THE NEWS honors to mark their achievements. Here are some members recently recognized for their professionalism and performing a job well-done: In recognition of a Job Well Done
LOCAL 237 JACOBI HOSPITAL HARLEM HOSPITAL KINGS COUNTY HOSPITAL CELEBRATES NATIONAL POLICE WEEK
In 1962, President John F. Kennedy signed a proclama- tion which designated May 15 as Peace Officers Memorial PO Patrick Green; PO Raphael Torres; Director of Hospital Police, Ronnell Day and the week in which PO Jesus Rosario; Local 237 Law Enforce- Boylan with recipients of the Meritorious Director Juan Checo (left) withErneste that date falls as National Po- ment Division Business Agent, Charlie Service Award: Officer Lance Wood and Baptiste (right), the CEO of Kings lice Week. Currently, tens of Cotto; Captain Moises Suer; PO Siheem Detective Giovanni Franco. County Hospital, presented Officers thousands of law enforcement Washington; PO Hafiz Ali; PO Fello Par- Doris Maldonado and Jean Audens cer- officers from around the rilla and PO Johnathan Morales . LINCOLN HOSPITAL tificates of Exceptional Merit for putting world converge on Washing- their lives at risk to remove a loaded gun ton, DC to participate in a from a disorderly man at the hospital. number of planned events QUEENS HOSPITAL CENTER which honor those who have paid the ultimate sacrifice and to acknowledge with appreci- ation those who continue to make us feel safe in our com- Front row: Captain Edward Santiago; Sgt. munities. In New York City Jack Lazzerini; Watch Person Dwaine Moore PO Rosa Madrigal; PO Rosa and on Long Island, members ; Valdez; PO Sierra Jack; PO Manual Asto; of Local 237 play a vital role Chris Roker, CEO; William Olmeda, Lt. Elvis Cruz; Local 237 Law Enforcement in keeping the public secure, Director of Hospital Police; Albert Will- Business Agent, Charlie Cotto; and Direc- working for a wide range of Local 237’s Director of Integrity, Dwayne ingham; Joint Labor Management Com- tor Guillermo Magdaleno. Second row: municipal agencies—in some Montgomery mittee; Captain William Perry; Detective PO Donald Wilson; Det. Santa Lay; Sgt. (left) with the honorees of the most challenging loca- PO Turner-Perfect Attendance; PO Bor- Reggie Bertheo and Detective Lixandro Jason Torres; PO Shawn Cole and Watch tions—including, for exam- den-Personal Achievement Award; PO Colon. Person Valentine Okpala. ple: public schools and col- Dubose-Personal Achievement Award; leges, hospitals, homeless PO Secaira-Personal Achievement shelters, Administration for WOODHULL HOSPITAL Award; PO Jacobs-Personal Achieve- Children’s Services sites, and ment; PO Morales-Personal Achieve- in the Town of Babylon, the ment and The Community Service Fire Department and the har- Award-PO Supall. 5 years of Service- bor. Jacobi Hospital, Wood- Merit Award Recipients: PO Maldonado hull Hospital, Lincoln Hospi- and PO Audena; Watch Persons- tal, Queens Hospital Center, Ms. Boston-15 years of Service and Kings County Hospital, Mr. Willie-Perfect Attendance Harlem Hospital and Elmhurst Hospital all held Captain Shawn Stewart (left), hospital Sergeant Bruce Hill, Woodhull Police recognition ceremonies to Police Officer Oladipo A. Lawal (mid- Officer of the Week, recognized for his 32 formally acknowledge the dle) received a certificate for ten years of years of service, all in Woodhull Hospital. dedicated work of their hos- service. On the right is the newly pro- Among his many claims to fame — pital police force. moted Director of Hospital Police for He trained Teamsters President Gregory Woodhull Hospital, Rachel Evans. Floyd when he was a rookie officer.
SEAVIEW HOSPITAL ELMHURST HOSPITAL
Not Pictured: Director Juan Checo presents Officer TOUR I-Detective Christo- David Morales with a certificate for pher Alers, Special Officer Community Service. Jane Irvine, Special Officer Reij George, Special Officer Donna Tannenbaum and Derek Jackson, Director of Local 237’s Law Watch Person Vincent Nelson Enforcement Division; Officer Anthony (Pictured Left to Right) Chief Executive TOUR II- Stephens; Director Kubrat Hristoff; Capt. Officer Angelo Mascia; Director Ruben Watch Person Steve Lara Vincent Fraser; Officer William Hau; Of- Morales; Special Officer Richard Torres; TOUR III- Special Officer ficer Andrew Hall; Randy Klein, Deputy Special Officer Lynette Rivera; Detective Kyle O’Hagan, Watch Person Director, Local 237’s Citywide Division; Robert Miranda; Sergeant James Bing Rosemary Fernandez and Officer Pranav Dey; Sgt. Walter Lobation; and Local 237”s Citywide Director Special Officer Vito Dispigna Officer Shaheeda Kelly and Det. Tonya Roll call at Kings County Donald Arnold. Moore. NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 7
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS We commend our members who have succeeded in achieving higher rank within their agencies. Members Promoted, Congratulations Here are some of those recently promoted:
SCHOOL SAFETY AGENTS PROMOTED On April 28, 2017 at a cere- mony held at 1 Police Plaza, the following School Safety Agents were upgraded to the title of School Safety Agent 3: Moi K. Underwood Ruben D. Jimenez Lucretia P. Vereen DHMH Promotions Vanessa E. Gardner On March 13, 2017, the Department of Health and Mental Hygiene Linda F. McIntosh held a promotional ceremony to elevate members to the rank of Ser- Jacquileen E. Lowe Woodhull Hospital Police geant. The event was coordinated by Gary G. Ortalano, Chief of Margret Y. Marin Officers Luis Figuera (left) DOHMH Police. Teamsters Local 237 also took the opportunity to honor Shop Steward, DOHMH Detective Princess Pascal for her Victoria V. Vargas Charmaine Berry, promoted and Brian Zambrano were 18 years of dedicated service. (Pictured left to right) Derek Jackson, Joseph I. Thomas to Chief Inspector at TLC. promoted to the rank of Director, Local 237’s Law Enforcement Division; Sergeant Devon Casaundra Hickson-Miller Charmaine is the first female Detective. They also were Beaumont; Deputy Chief Andres LaSalle; Sergeant Brenda Williams; Kenya S. Rodriguez to hold that position. She is awarded certificates in Sergeant Michael Arzouane; Detective Princess Pascal; Captain Nancy Annie Craig pictured with Randy Klein, acknowledgement of their Martinez; Sergeant Lester Lloyd and Andre Green, Assistant Director, Ninette Ferrell Deputy Director, Citywide. years of dedicated service. Local 237’s Law Enforcement Division.
MEMBERS IN THE NEWS Local 237 wants to thank the following members for their years of dedicated service, Added to the Roster of Retirees and wish them well in their retirement:
John Napataino (center), a Level 2 Inspector, has Jeanette Taveras (left), Law Enforcement Business retired after being on the job for 28 years. Wishing Agent and Local 237 Trustee and Curtis Scott, Patricia Reid started her career in 1984 as a Housing him well are: (left to right) Lalan Varghes, Inspec- Housing Business Agent and Trustee (right) were Authority receptionist and worked her way up to tor; Randy Klein, Deputy Director, Citywide; on hand to congratulate two School Safety Agents Housing Manager, a position, she says, that made Mariano D’Angelo, Chief Inspector, Brooklyn and III upon their retirement. Leo Pedone (left) has 25 her very proud. Pictured with her is Ken Roper, Neal Holley, Chief Inspector/Queens. years of service and Roberto Perez was on the job Housing Business Agent. for 28 years. Leo said that he plans to spend time traveling with his family and Roberto noted that there have been many changes to the job over the years but he feels good about making a difference.
Steven Billingy, a NYCHA Maintenance Worker Luigi Mula (right), a Mason for 31 years at the and Shop Steward at Sheepshead/Nostrand Houses, Department of Transportation, has retired. He is Terry Stewart, a Police Sergeant at Bellevue Hos- has retired after 24 years on the job. His co-workers pictured with Randy Klein, Deputy Director, City- pital, recently retired after 29 years of service. To gathered to offer their congratulations and wishes wide, who thanked Luigi, on behalf of Local 237, mark the occasion, Dwayne Montgomery, Integrity for an enjoyable retirement. for his many years of dedicated service. Director, presented her with a plaque. 8 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 9 10 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017
Next to Long Island Division Director Lynn Platt was a Cook for the Half Benny Carenza is Wendy Obloj and Hollow Hills school district and the Shop Donna Samuells retired from OTB. next to her is Lucy Fairclough who Steward for food service and Long Island Business Agent Cathy Rice and Long both were aides who retired from the Our great members at the town of Division Director Benny Carenza Island Division Director Benny Carenza Plainview Old Bethpage school district. Islip’s Resource Recovery collection unit. presented her with a plaque.
Charlotte Scaturro who was an Aide at Plainview Old Bethpage school Town of Babylon members working North Babylon schools maintenance district and retired after 44 years of on road repairs. and custodial crew. service. Handing her the plaque is Sue Rusineck who is an Aide and Groundskeepers from the Brentwood building shop steward and in the back School District keeping the schools in is Maureen Sciulla who is an Aide. great shape.
Jakes 58 Casino is one of our new contracts on Long Island. There are over 125 new Teamsters working there and the titles are: Count/Drop Team, Main Bankers, Long Island Division Director Benny Long Island Division Director Benny Cage Cashiers, Floor Attendants, Guest Service/ Player Rewards , Security Officers, Carenza with North Babylon mem- Carenza with Plainview Old Bethpage Security Officer EMT, EVS Attendant Cleaners and EVS Heavy Cleaners. bers at Parliament Elementary School. Security Guards Cathy Rice is their Business Agent.
Long Island Division Director Benny Carenza with Long Island Division Director Benny Carenza with North Babylon school district Custodial members. Long Island Division Director Benny Carenza with the North Babylon Schools Night crew of Custodians Far right is Vinny Laferrera, who is the Shop Town of Babylon Mechanics and CEO Operators and Maintenance at Robert Moses Middle School. Steward of the High School. keeping the town moving. NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 11 MAKING THEIR VOICES HEARD
Long Island Division Director Benny Carenza and John Gallagher from the Half Hollow Hills School District lent their support to Teamsters of Local 812 in their strike against Clare Rose. Members protesting the current contract at the Brentwood School District. “Celebrating Local 237s Everyday HERO’S” Honorees The event was held on May 19th, 2017 at the Martin Kessler Post 2912 VFW. PresidentGregory Floyd, VP Richard Hendershot and LI Division Director Benny Carenza bestowed awards to the honorees.
Bob Verch from the Town of Babylon and current Chris Olsen is a Custodian Night Supervisor at Peggy Conroy is a Cook for the Brentwood School Chapter Chairman for the Town of Babylon. Brentwood School District. District, Shop Steward and on the Contract Negotia- tion Committee.
Demetra Tietjen works as a Bus Driver for the Mike Dowsett works as an Attendant Custodian at Chris LoSardo is a Maintenance Mechanic Night North Babylon School District. She is a Shop Off Track Betting. He is a Shop Steward. Supervisor for the North Babylon School District. Steward and Contract Negotiator. He is a Shop Steward and Contract Negotiator.
Food Service Workers, North East Elementary, Brentwood’s Southwest Kitchen Food Service workers. Brentwood’s Oak Park Kitchen Food Service workers. Brentwood School District. 12 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 POLITICAL AND LABOR NEWS Inauguration of International Teamsters Local 237 on Hand as Officers of the IBT’s General Board Governor Cuomo Shows Support for Labor Unions FIGHTING BACK RALLY Governor Andrew Cuomo signed several pieces of legislation into law that benefit union mem- bers. He also hosted a labor- packed rally with the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, Nancy Pelosi, to launch his “New York Fights Back” campaign to unseat Republican members of Congress who, the Governor ar- James P. Hoffa, (left) General President; Gregory Floyd, (center), At-Large Vice President and gues, have not voted in the best Ken Hall, (center, right) General Secretary-Treasurer, as they take the oath of office to serve a Gregory Floyd fighting back five-year term. Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT) represents interest of New Yorkers by favor- more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto ing Trump-generated polices that Rico. Upon winning the election in October, Hoffa noted: “This was a hard-fought campaign and a historically close election. Though we have many challenges before us, now is the time jeopardize workers’ rights and to join together as brothers and sisters against those who would destroy the labor movement guarantees, ranging from prevail- and deny workers the gains they have struggled to achieve.” The swearing-in ceremony celebrated the Teamsters Union as a force for change on behalf of working families, and the ing wages to collecting union General Board will be leading the way. dues, as well as endanger health care, immigrants and affordable housing. Teamsters Local 237 APPRECIATING LABOR President Gregory Floyd and its members were on hand to show Local 237 members and retirees join forces to “fight back” their support of the Governor’s actions and to send a strong mes- sage to union bashers and union busters in Washington DC, that labor unions are alive and well and are not to be ignored. COMBATTING HOMELESSNESS
Gregory Floyd at the podium as members of the health panel look on.
The labor-oriented media outlet, Labor Press, in conjunction with radio Governor Andrew Cuomo with Speaker Pelosi station AM 970’s The Answer, hosted “Labor Appreciation Day,” featuring labor leaders in panel discussions with various professionals in the fields of education, health care, law enforcement, commerce and politics. Local 237 President Gregory Floyd served as both a host and panelist. Floyd told the audience: “Today’s event is titled: Labor Appreciation Day. Those are words we don’t often see together… Governor Cuomo signs historic legisla- and I’m not talking about the word day!” tion to help combat homelessness. Triangle Shirtwaist Factory Fire Commemorated On March 11, 1911, 145 workers, trapped inside the sweatshop, which charges. Some good did come from the The Governor’s message to Republican members of Congress: “We promise you that if you violate your mostly immigrant women and young had chains on the doors and no sprin- tragedy: With the International Ladies office, you defraud the voters, you hurt the people girls, were killed in a largely preventable kler system. Within 18 minutes, it was Garment Workers leading the way, of this state, we will remove you from office. Those are not just words. You can bet your political life.” fire in a factory located in Greenwich all over: 49 suffocated, 36 died in the New York City passed several worker Village. The business owners were broken elevator, 58 jumped to their protection laws, and on the federal A TAX BREAK FOR UNION MEMBERS known for their notorious anti-worker, deaths and 2 more died at the hospital. level, a light was also shined on the union busting policies. Most of the Despite evidence that the owners and need to codify worker safety. workers, who made only $15 a week managers were negligent, a Grand Jury for a 12-hour day, 7-days a week, were failed to indict them on manslaughter
Local 237 members, pictured with New York State AFL-CIO President, Mario Cilento, after viewing Cara Noel (r), Director of Communications at Governor Cuomo sign into law legislation which will the New York City Central Labor Council, which allow union members who itemize on their tax coordinated the commemoration ceremony, returns to deduct the cost of their union dues from with Phyllis Shafran, Director of Communica- their state taxes. The new law, which increases the tions for Teamsters Local 237, which lent its number of eligible workers who can take advantage The building where the tragedy took place as it is today. In 1911, firefighters had ladders support of the event that reinforces the call for of the tax break, will put back into the pockets of that could only reach to the seventh floor — the fire was on the eighth. safety guarantees for all workers. union members an estimated $35 million. NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 13
Can Bankruptcy Help? Dr. Rev Barber Branching Out By Mary E. Sheridan, Esq. As a recent New York Times article noted: Director Local 237-Legal Services Plan “Across the country, religious leaders whose politics fall to the left of center, and who used to shun the political arena, are getting involved Are you drowning in debt? Feel- dischargeable in a Chapter 7 filing. — and even recruiting political candidates — ing anxious and stressed out from The Federal Bankruptcy laws re- to fight back against President Trump’s poli- nasty creditor phone calls? Have you quire complete disclosure of all debt, cies on immigration, health care, poverty and tried and tried to pay your credit card income and other assets. The process the environment. Some are calling the holy debt and the balance never seems to involves gathering a lot of documents ruckus a “religious resistance.” Dr. Rev. change? You are not alone. Although and then your attorney will advise you William J. Barber II is one of them. As pres- the number of bankruptcy filings in on whether or not you qualify for a ident of the North Carolina N.A.A.C.P. and the United States has decreased since Chapter 7 filing. Sometimes an indi- pastor of a small Disciples of Christ church the highs of 2010, there were still close vidual’s income will be too high to in Goldsboro, Dr. Barber began staging Pictured left to right are: Gregory Floyd, to 800,000 people seeking the protec- qualify or the income versus expenses “Moral Monday” protests in Raleigh in 2013 Rev. Jacques Degraff and Dr. Rev. William Barber. tion of the bankruptcy courts in 2016. allows for a certain amount of money to oppose voting-rights restrictions and other the same pulpit and denounced what he saw The majority of individuals filing to go to creditors. If this is the case, a policies of the Republican-led state govern- as pervasive racism across the political right. for bankruptcy file a Chapter 7 peti- Chapter 13 bankruptcy filing might Local 237 President Gregory Floyd was in- tion. People often refer to Chapter 7 be appropriate. In a Chapter 13, the ment. The demonstrations attracted thou- filings as “liquidation” petitions. This individual must submit a payment sands of participants and helped defeat the vited to a private breakfast with Rev. Barber is a bit of a misnomer, since bank- plan to the Court for approval, for a governor in 2016. Last year, he branched out. and several faith-based and community lead- ruptcy laws protect certain assets such time period of up to 5 years. A Chap- In April, to mark the 50th anniversary of the ers to discuss the Reverend’s plans for the fu- as some of the equity in your home ter 13 may also be appropriate where landmark sermon at Riverside Church in ture, which included a latter-day version of and car, most personal belongings and someone is trying to save a home Manhattan, in which King denounced the King’s 1968 Poor People’s Campaign which household furnishings, and a certain from foreclosure and reinstate his or Vietnam War, saying, “I cannot be silent,” prompted his stepping down from his amount of cash. In general, a Chapter her mortgage. Dr. Barber preached against Mr. Trump from N.A.A.C.P. position to fully engage the effort. 7 filing works to discharge most un- Remember - your Legal Services secured debt and secured debt, where Plan is available for advice and repre- you no longer have or want the secu- sentation where appropriate. rity. Even income tax debt might be Call (212) 924-1220 Flex Ops a Win Win Win!
LIGHTS! CAMERAS! ACTION! and Local 237 Award winning documentary film director, Des Henderson (left), based in Northern Ireland, special- izes in independent films for major broadcasters such as the BBC, RTE and Channel 4. He is working on a project about housing in New York City and the many changes that have taken place in affordability over the last several years. He wants to tell the story from the perspective of Des Henderson with Gregory Floyd those who help maintain the build- Gregory Floyd with the McLean Security Team. ings, their Supers. Local 237 President Gregory Floyd met with Des and Local 237 recently hosted a safety training was your safety. That had to be ensured. provided him with meaningful insights, especially regarding public housing. session at Ravenswood Houses— the first NYCHA agreed. So we hired security experts, Des learned about the controversial plans to privatize several NYCHA prop- among several—to provide valuable tips from McLean Security, to analyze safety problems erties as a questionable means to fund the money-strapped Authority and security experts, on how workers can help en- and make recommendations on how to solve to produce more affordable housing units. This was a real eye-opener for sure their safety in the workplace. Local 237 them. We said those safety issues had to be him, understanding that union jobs are in jeopardy and gentrification is not President, Gregory Floyd, in his welcoming addressed by NYCHA before the program synonymous with affordability. remarks, told the members how this session kicked in. We also advocated for monitoring came about and encouraged them to follow those safety measures on a regular basis to the recommendations they were going to hear make sure we were achieving our goals. The Boy Scouts Salute Labor from the professionals in the field. As Floyd other thing we said was that a safety noted: “You are here today to talk about brochure had to be created that clearly out- Anthony G. Speelman, Presi- ways that you can protect yourself and feel lines ways you can help yourself be safe. dent, United Food and Commercial safe on the job. One year ago, we weren’t so That was done. Here it is. But that’s not all. Workers Local 1500 and Shaun D. sure we would get this day. As many of you We wanted you to hear from these experts Francois I, President, NYC Board may know, our union was opposed to the yourself and get those safety tips in person. of Education Workers Union Local Flex Ops program as originally designed. We Feel free to ask them questions. That’s why 372 received the 2016 Labor Indus- felt that our members were not well protected. we are here today. We care about you. We try “Good Scout” Award presented We were especially concerned about your know you take pride in your work, but that by the Greater New York Council, safety working on those shifts. We took our can only happen when you feel good about Boy Scouts of America. Gregory concerns to Court. The judge agreed and the your workplace. In fact, that’s when you’re Floyd, President of Teamsters Local program was halted. Our concerns had to even more productive. So for the union, for 237, was the Chairman of this year’s be addressed first. Next, we sat down with the housing authority, and for our members, event. Floyd took the opportunity to the housing authority to suggest ways Flex today is a win win, win!” congratulate the organization and its Boy Scout Curtis with Gregory Floyd Ops could work better for you. We said: Video tapes of this very informative train- honorees for helping “ordinary kids Here’ s what’s important. Make it voluntary ing session can be accessed through the benefit in extraordinary ways due to scouting.” He is pictured withCurtis , and give monetary incentives. But that’s not Local 237 website at: www.local237.org. from Staten Island Troop 2, who awarded a Certificate of Appreciation. all. We told them that our biggest concern 14 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017
We are very proud of the accomplishments of our MEMBERS IN THE NEWS members striving to achieve new educational and professional heights. Meet the new graduates. Congratulations to the Graduates
DHS GRADUATES
Department of Homeless Services and Local 237 wel- comed new Officers to the ranks having completed a rig- orous training program. One ceremony was held on April 7, 2017 (top) and the other on “Never too late” are the words of wis- May 5, 2017 (bottom), both at dom offered by Housing Assistant John Jay College of Criminal Jacobs upon graduating from the Col- Justice. Pictured with each lege of New Rochelle with a Degree in graduating class is Law En- Psychology. Ms. Jacobs, a 25-year vet- forcement Business Agent, eran with the Housing Authority is a Charlie Cotto (right). member of the National Honor Society of Psychology, and graduated with a 3.89 Grade Point Average.
CUNY GRADUATES Teamsters Local 237 President, Gregory Floyd (left) and Law En- forcement Business Agent and Board Trustee, Jeanette Taveras (second from the right) congratu- lated 40 proud CUNY cadets as they graduated to Police Officers in a graduation ceremony held at York College. President Floyd told the new Officers: “Higher education pres- ents many challenges, but thanks to your efforts, feeling safe in our colleges SSA Kirt Caesar, who works at JHS and universities is not one of them.” 226, earned a Masters Degree in Sports Management from Brooklyn College.
We are very proud of the accomplishments of Local 237 members, and MEMBERS IN THE NEWS our members are very proud of the accomplishments of members of their own families. Here are some family achievements shared with us: All in the Family
WHAT A RAP! BASKETBALL PHENOM Renowned rapper, Cam’ron, performed in a public Samaya Clark-Gabriel is a 7-year old hoops sen- service announcement for Local 237 to encourage sation, whose thrilling skills on the court got her our members — especially new and younger ones- an invitation to perform with the Harlem Globe -to participate in union activities and to utilize the Trotters. Samaya is the daughter of School Safety many services we provide. The hit rap artist is the Agent, Wayne Godson-Gabrial, assigned to Brook- nephew of Carl Giles, (pictured third from the lyn South. A media favorite, she has been featured right), Safety Coordinator and Assistant to the Pres- MEET THE YOUNGEST TEAMSTER on TV and in several newspapers; among them: ident. Local 237 President Gregory Floyd is on the Madison Grace Galimi, born February 19, making CBS Sports, ESPNW, Good Morning America, USA extreme left andKevin Norman, Director of the parents Bari and Steve overjoyed. Steve is a main- Today, People and Rolling Stone magazine. Check Housing Division is on the right. Catch the entire tenance worker at Glenwood Houses. out Samaya’s moves on YouTube. announcement on our website: www.local237.org NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 15
Resumen En Español
En Junio 17, el Local 237 organizó una Años: Casa Abierta para miembros, jubilados y sus familias, para conmemorar nuestro 65th Anniversario. Vea la página principal de Marchando algunas de las fotos de las festividades y puede visitar www.local237.org con Fuerza para ver todas las fotos.
ra el año 1952.En los Estados semáforo “Dont Walk” y el código de barra ANTES Y AHORA Unidos el trabajador promedio electrónico (“bar code”) fue patentado. El ganaba $3,400 por año. 2 de cada ex general de la Segunda Guerra Mundial, 3 familias tenían un automóvil. 2 Dwight Eisenhower, un Republicano, su- de cada 3 familias tenían un teléfono y i de pera al Demócrata Adlai Stevenson para Ecada 3 hogares contaba con un televisor. ser Presidente después de Harry Truman. Un carro nuevo costaba $1,700 y la gasolina Pero eso no fue todo lo que ocurrió era .20 por galón. La carne molida costaba en el 1952. En Mayo de ese año, Teamsters .53 por libra. El valor promedio de una Local 237 fue establecido. Su primer Pres- casa nueva era $9,050 y el alquiler prome- idente fue Henry Feinstein. A través de los Henry Feinstein, el Gregory Floyd (centro) el actual Presidente de Teamsters Local 237, con dio era $80 por mes. Las pruebas de una años, otras divisiones de trabajadores mu- primer Presidente miembros de la Junta Ejecutiva: Fideicomisarios Curtis Scott y Jeanette Taveras; el Vicepresidente Richard Hendershot; el Secretario Tesorero Rubén bomba atómica continuaban y la primera nicipales en la Ciudad de Nueva York y en Torres; Secretaria de Actas Patricia Stryker y fideicomisario Edmund Kane. bomba de hidrógeno fue detonada. El Long Island llegaron a integrarse al Local primer corazón artificial es usado en un llegando así a tener casi 24,000 miembros paciente y se inventa la vacuna contra el en casi todas las agencias gubernamentales Polio. Emmett Ashford llegó a ser el primer hoy día, logrando que el Local 237 sea el Afroamericano empleado como árbitro sindicato más grande de trabajadores substituto en las Grandes Ligas de béisbol públicos en toda la nación, el Canadá y y Perry Mason, Lassie, Wagon Train, 77 Puerto Rico. (La línea completa de eventos Sunset Strip y the Lone Ranger eran al- históricos del Local 237 se encuentra en la gunos de los programas vistos por televi- página web www.local237.org. Un re- Edificio original de la sede principal del Local 237. El edificio actual de sede principal del Local 237. dentes en su aparato de televisión de 21” cuento de experiencias profundas y per- en blanco y negro, que costaba unos sonales de jubilados conocido como el de los sindicatos es común, frecuentemente la historia del Local 237 hemos tenido que $339.95. Películas como ‘Singing in the Proyecto de Historia Oral también aparece categorizando a los empleados del sector lidiar muchas batallas a favor de nuestros Rain’ y ‘The African Queen’ eran favoritas en la página web.) público como trabajadores codiciosos e in- miembros y jubilados. Hemos tenido mu- en los cines y libros como ‘The Caine Gregory Floyd, el actual Presidente competentes que abusan del sistema. De chos logros, entre ellos cabildeando a favor Mutiny’ permanecieron en primer lugar del Local 237, electo a su cargo en el 2007, alguna manera, muchos se han olvidado de leyes y reglas que protegen a nuestros en la lista del New York Times durante y quien también es un Vicepresidente Ad- que los sindicatos lucharon a favor de las miembros; proveyendo beneficios de salud meses. Canciones como “You Belong To ministrativo en la Junta General Ejecutiva familias trabajadores para que pudieran y pensión para nuestros miembros activos Me” de Jo Stafford y “I Saw Mommy Kiss- de la Hermandad internacional de Tron- disfrutar de una mejor calidad de vida. Los y jubilados; y acabando con la discrimi- ing Santa Claus” estuvieron al tope de las quistas (Teamsters), ha dicho acerca del sindicatos construyeron la clase media en nación de sueldo basado en género sexual. gráficas musicales. La revista MAD pub- Local 237: “Cuando uno lo piensa, 65 años los EE.UU. Y los empleados públicos son Hoy día, todavía enfrentamos muchos re- licó su primera edición y los juguetes Mr. es un tiempo largo para mantener algo en los que ayudan a manejar y mantener los tos, pero estamos bien preparados para Potato Head y Joe Palooka Bop Bag eran marcha, y eso, marchando con fuerza. Por servicios y las facilidades en que dependen luchar con vigor y el compromiso que se entre los más buscados. El primer restau- toda nuestra nación, los sindicatos labo- millones de personas – nuestras escuelas, ha convertido en sinónimo del Local 237 rante de la cadena Kentuky Fried Chicken rales han visto una disminución dramática hospitales, la Autoridad de Viviendas y los a través de nuestra historia. Estamos orgul- abrió ese año y también el Holiday Inn. La en su membresía – a solamente el 11% hoy asilos para los desamparados—para men- losos, porque, a los 65 años ¡todavía mar- Ciudad de Nueva York instaló señales de día. El ataque y la mala lengua en contra cionar solamente algunas. Pero, a través de chamos con fuerza!
El Local 237 viaja a Albany para “Día de Ca- Carl Haynes, cuando era director de Viviendas bildeo.” La única mujer es Irma Rabinowitz, de hablando a los supervisores. Carl llegó a ser el Housing, y miembro fundadora desde 1948. Graduación de Policías de Hospital. cuarto Presidente del Local 237. Costureras Institucionales para HRA.
Miembros de la Junta Ejecutivia del Local 237 se Arthur Illery “Sonny” (a la derecha) era entonces reúnen con el Alcalde Robert W. Agner en City Hall. un represéntate de Citywide que más tarde se William Lewis, era el Presidente del Local 237 convirtió en el VP de la Junta Ejecutiva ayudando La hoja informativa del Local 237 en el 1967. Miembros de la Vivienda van a huelga en 1967. en ese tiempo. a los miembros heridos. 16 NEWSLINE, Summer 2017 An Extra Special Founders Day
Labor Day Parade
Winston George (center) with family and Local 237 well-wishers. This year, Founders Day had as City employees, you understand want to do us in. Vote no and an extra meaning. Not only did it the challenges we faced. But be- don’t be conned by Con-Con. commemorate the hard work of cause of the work of many of you Also, just when we thought that our retirees and members who here today, we met those challenges the coast was clear after the helped to make 237 the gold stan- head-on. We did not just survive. Friedrich’s case ended in a tie dard among public employee We thrived! And now, we’re cele- vote due to the death of Justice New York City’s Labor Day Parade will be held on Locals, but it also marked the 65th brating the 65th anniversary of Scalia, now, there are several Saturday, September 9. Local 237 President anniversary of this union. And, this union. As we pause to cele- more cases up for review by the Gregory Floyd and the Executive Board invite all that’s not all! This Founder’s Day brate this milestone, it’s important Supreme Court. And with a Trump members, retirees and families to join in the celebrated the retirement of the to note that our work is not over. Supreme Court, things are not celebration to mark Teamster pride and solidarity. Deputy Director of the Retiree Di- There’s an upcoming referendum likely to go our way. The Janus A float, live entertainment, free food and tee shirts vision, Winston George, at the that will be on the ballot in No- Case, for example, is almost iden- are in store for 237 participants as they march along end of June, after 24 years of ded- vember. There’s a question on it— tical to Friedrichs. If decided 5th Avenue from 44th Street to 68th Street. icated service. Winston’s family which seems innocent enough— against us, for Public Sector was present to share in the festiv- asking if New York should have unions in particular, the results Among those pictured from last year’s festivities are ities, pictured with Local 237 Pres- a Constitutional Convention. This will be fatal. If labor unions Ruben Torres, Secretary-Treasurer, (third from the left); ident Gregory Floyd (second question comes up every 20- are silent now, we will lose our 237 President and Vice President At-Large of the IBT, from the left) Nancy True (on the years, and has been voted down voice forever. So I ask all of you Gregory Floyd (center); General President James Hoffa right), Director of the Retiree Di- since 1967... and with good reason! to do what you’ve always done. and George Miranda, Vice President At-Large of the IBT. vision and Patricia Stryker (sec- While some people think this Get involved! Get out the word! ond from the right), Recording convention could result in mak- And plan on Local 237 being Secretary on the Executive Board ing things better, nothing could be around for at least another 237’s kick-off time and location and Director of Political Action further from the truth! Especially 65 years!” will be posted on our website: and Legislation. At the luncheon for public union employees, whose www.local237.org when finalized. portion of the day, Floyd told the pension and other benefits are audience: “I always enjoy attending guaranteed by the current con- Founders Day. It gives me a chance stitution. A convention will be to talk with longtime friends who made up of mostly well-healed po- share a bond. Our union connects litical insiders, many of them union us. It makes us family. Especially bashers and union busters, who Condolences It is with great sorrow that we announce the death of the following members of Local 237 or members of their family. They will be sorely missed.
*to the family of Sergeant Vincent T. Oliver, a beloved CUNY Police Officer working at Brooklyn College for 19 years. The married father of two daughters and the son of a popular Baptist minister, E. Thomas Oliver, died at the age of 46. Local PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID POSTAGE
AT NEW YORK, NY AT 237 President Gregory Floyd said about Vincent, “He gave students at Brooklyn College the best learning tool they could receive: a sense of security. He served with commitment, and it
SUMMER 2017 showed. He’s going to be missed by all.”
*to the family of Harry Gaskin, Sr., who was the longest serving member of Local 237. On the job for a remarkable 63 years, the well-admired Harry started his career as a food service worker at Harlem Hospital. Always willing to lend a hand, among his many credits, Harry was an out- standing chef, a union activist and a dedicated family man.
*to retired Shop Steward at Clinton Houses, Franklin Murray, whose cherished mother Annabelle Davis passed away in May.
*to Keenan Scott, Law Enforcement Business Agent, upon the death of his much loved brother-in-law, William Carson Sr., a retired NYPD Detective. To change your address, fill in the form below, cut it out, and mail fill in the form below, change your address, To it back to Newsline at the above address. Are you moving? Are Name Address City State Zip DATED MATERIAL MATERIAL DATED Local 237, IBT 14 Street 216 W. NY 10011 New York, NEWSLINE