Issue:  10
  Justina Ketyer, Editor
November 8, 2017  
In this issue
  • President's Pen 
  • Honoring America's Veterans
  • It's Time to Show Your Appreciation
  • The Meaning of Tolerance
  • Know Your NYSTRS Facts
  • You Can Save on Your Auto Insurance Rates
  • Condolences
President's Pen

You have undoubtedly heard by now that New Yorkers resoundinglly rejected the referendum on a Constitutional Convention-- 83% opposed to 17% in favor! Every county in the state overwhelmingly opposed Proposition 1 by margins as large as 18 to 1!

Make no mistake-- this victory for the working middle class in New York was a result of a collaborative effort undertaken by LABOR and led in no small part by our state affiliate NYSUT. Often the driving force behind such initiatives, NYSUT played a pivital role in building the coalition, New Yorkers Against Corruption, with myriad other unions throughout the state. Fortifying our campaign's message were televised commercials, radio ads, and of course the thousands of buttons, magnets and lawn signs proudly displayed statewide.

We can all take pride in the hard work that was so instrumental in disseminating the message that labor in New York will not be silenced. While we should all revel in the sentiments that our collaborative efforts staved off this attack, we should not rest on our laurels and must recommitt to defending our rights against the next pack of wolves awaiting us at the door.

On behalf of the HCT Board of Directors, I offer my most sincere gratitiude to you, our sisters and brothers of the HCT, for rolling up your sleeves and doing the work of the union. Onward and upward to the next challenge ahead!
NYSTRS News


Saturday, November 11th, 2017 (observed Friday, November 10th) is the day to honor our nation's veterans. The HCT is truly grateful to the veterans throughout the country, and especially those among our ranks and in our families. Be sure to take the time to offer a small word of thanks to any veterans in your life. Start a tradition where your children call a veteran you know to say 'thank you'.  Volunteer at, or donate to the local VA hospital.

Visit the U.S. Department of Veteran's Affairs website for a history of Veteran's Day and links to useful information on the subject. 
Every Drop Counts

The massive damage caused by Hurricane Maria and the lack of electricity and clean water on the island of Puerto Rico continue to threaten the health, safety and lives of millions of American citizens. This is a humanitarian crisis the likes of which we have never seen in our country.

HCT Partners with the AFT for the Operation Agua "Every Drop Counts" Challenge!

AFT President Randi Weingarten spent several days in Puerto Rico after the storm, where she witnessed the devastation and the tremendous need firsthand. In most areas, it still looks like the hurricane struck three days ago, not more than three weeks ago. People are resorting to collecting water in contaminated waterways, or from runoff, and there are reports of some even drinking from toxic Superfund sites. And the danger is not over for those with running water; because water-treatment plants are still not operational, tap water may be tainted with raw sewage.

The HCT has endeavored to raise funds for the people of Puerto Rico. A $30 donation will provide a filtration device that will give a family clean drinking water! This is a human rights issue, and we can do our part to help alleviate some distress to families in dire need.
It's Time to Show Your Appreciation
SAVE THE DATE
School Related Professionals Day is November 21st, 2017

This day celebrated each year to recognize the importance of NYSUT members who are an integral part of students' educational experience. SRPs are cafeteria workers, custodians, building and grounds workers, clerical staff, bus drivers, monitors and attendants, mechanics, teacher aides and teaching assistants, health care professionals, security personnel and many other members.
The Meaning of Tolerance

 
By resolution in 1995, the United Nations invited member nations to observe  International Day for Tolerance . It has been celebrated every year since in an effort to bring about an understanding of and respect for cultural differences in the face of escalating violence and non-acceptance worldwide. The fast-paced, hectic, and oftentimes angry world in which we find ourselves today allows for so many to be complicit in fostering the indifference of the plight of others. 
Join your HCT sisters and brothers in being mindful on November 16, and each and every day, of the struggles our students and colleagues may silently face. Be an ear or shoulder for those around you and model the acceptance we wish to see in all our students. 

Visit the United Nations Tolerance Day website to learn about the resolution, resources on the subject, and an extremely powerful video that speaks volumes.

In a similar vein, members of the LGBTQ community often feel isolated in their daily lives for fear of not being accepted or understood. LGBTQ teachers are no different. It's important to know that NYSUT has many LGBTQ resources available, including an LGBTQ task force.
NYSTRS Retirement Facts
Save on Your Automobile Insurance Rates

This class will be limited to the first 40 registrants

DATE:  
Saturday, November 18th
TIME:  
9:00 A.M. - 3:30 P.M.
LOCATION:  
Hicksville High School Kristoff Theater
COST:  
$22.00
check/money order 
made payable to NTSI

This class will decrease your auto rates for your car insurance 
regardless of your carrier. 

To reserve your spot, contact Ira Hochhauser by phone at 516-785-8500, Ext. 52791  or by e-mail at  [email protected]
Upon completion of this 6-hour class, you are entitled to 10% reduction on your liability, no fault, and collision 
premiums for 3 years.

***PLUS***

Up to a 4 point reduction from your driving record for points accumulated in the past 18 months.

If you are interested in an auto quote, please bring a copy of your existing auto policy declaration page to the class.

Upon completion of this 6-hour class, you are entitled to 10% reduction on your liability, no fault, and collision 
premiums for 3 years.

***PLUS***

Up to a 4 point reduction from your driving record for points accumulated in the past 18 months.

If you are interested in an auto quote, please bring a copy of your existing auto policy declaration page to the class.
Condolences

Condolences to the family and friends of HCT retiree Rosemary Barrow (1989) who passed away this month.
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