Joan Perini of NYSUT has written a letter to all NYSUT member about the proposal for a New York State Constitutional Convention and what it would mean to NYSUT members. She states:

We need to understand what is at stake and what you can do to help.  For one thing, let your fellow retirees know about the plans for a 2017 convention and what the proposed changes would mean to them.  A good example of a negative issue that could be raised has to do with pension rights.  Currently it states that once hired as a public employee and told your pension rights, your pension can never be diminished or

Higher-ed advocates to call on state Legislature to provide long-term funding for SUNY and CUNY campuses.

The AFT as issued a bulletin from on recent changes to Social Security and Medicare that all retirees, and soon to be retirees, should be aware of.

2016 Changes Announced for Social Security and Medicare

The Social Security Administration and Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services recently announced changes in Social Security and Medicare benefits effective January 1, 2016. This bulletin provides some of the key changes for review and use by local leaders and active and retired members.   More detailed information can be found at www.ssa.gov.

Social Security Changes

• Cost-of-living Adjustment
  Th

RC 23 Chapter members are getting together to celebrate the holidays. Visit the Events page for more information:

December 4 — Retired - United Teachers of Northport Luncheon at Norcello's, Northport

December 8 — Kings Park Retired Teachers Association Luncheon at San Marco Ristorante, Hauppauge

December 8 — Three Village Schools Retirees Luncheono at Lombardi's on the Sound, Port Jefferson

December 9 — Elwood Retired Teachers Alliance Luncheon at the Bonwitt Inn, Commack

NYSUT is holding a Retiree Conference for Councils 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 on November 19^th at the Watermill Restaurant in Smithtown.

The  conference will feature a Mini Symposium on Education and a series of Breakout Session on topics relevant to retirees. The 25th Anniversary Celebration will include an address by NYSUT Staff Directors and the presentation of Service to NYSUT Retirees awards to members of the seven retiree councils. Former Congresswoman Carolyn McCarthy will also be honored during the luncheon.

The cost to attend is $32, including continental breakfast and lunch