The President's Corner

WHERE'S MY CHRISTMAS GIFT CARD!?!

2011-11-28T11:43:00.001-05:00

Sorry, AFSMCE Local 2456 does not give its members gift cards. Why don't we? If we give you a $25 gift card under Federal Law, AFSCME Local 2456 would have to issue you a 1099-MISC and you would have to report that $25 as income on your Taxes.

We know other locals do it, but we are big, and Audited on many levels. We love our members, but we aren't going to jail for them. If you would like to read more about the IRS Rules on Gift Cards please follow this link http://www.irs.gov/publications/p525/ar02.html

We love our members and would love to see you at meetings, so much so we buy you dinner at every local meeting. Often we give away great gifts like in May we gave away a Hershey Park Ticket to every member that came to the meeting. A $52 value.

But we can only do this if you come to the meetings. Hope to see you there!

CONTRACT RADIFICATION DATE SET!!! 7/8/2011 - 3PM - 7PM

2011-06-27T16:23:00.000-04:00

CONTRACT RADIFICATION FOR AFSCME LOCAL 2456

Will take place on FRIDAY, JULY 8, 2011 AT THE AFSCME CONFERENCE CENTER

(for directions visit www.2456.org/directions)

If you need assistance with transportation please contact Della Selner at 717-772-8166

Please have your membership card and photo id with you when you come to vote.

Negotiations and radification...

2011-06-24T15:37:00.000-04:00

Hi Everyone, I know things have been pretty quiet for a while out here. As most of you know from the meetings and the web page we have been ask to maintain a level of quiet around the new contract negotiations. I haven't been web casting meetings, no long blog posts, but hopefully, we can begin web casting meetings again on Tuesday and catch everyone up on the contract gories.

The only thing I can say is, it is much much better than I thought it was going to be. I know most of you have see a copy from management, all I can say is for the most part it's right, there are some minor details that are wrong.

I know it is frustrating to not know, especially for you dues paying members, but the ratification process is coming soon. At the ratification meetings you will have a chance to ask questions.

I personally am very glad that it is over for another four years.

Just a reminder, there will be no local meetings in July or August. Look forward to seeing you all on June 28, 2011 at 6pm. Visit http://www.2456.org/ for times and directions.

In Solidarity, Della

Knock knock knock knocking on Fair Share members doors, and Water whoes...

2011-04-21T20:55:00.000-04:00

What a week hun? First we are at work, then we are off work, then we are at work, wow. Some of us are essential some of us aren't. We have toilets, we have porta potties, WOW. Hope all of you survived well. Most of the members we represent work in the Capitol Complex.

I have also had several phone calls from Fair Share Fee Payers asking about visits by AFSCME Volunteer Organizers to their homes. Yes, they are real, they are from AFSCME, and they are visiting Fair Share folks at home. Why? Because we can not organize in the work place per the contract. AFSCME Local 2456 represents over 2,500 employees in every Agency except Corrections, Auditor General, Treasury, PHEAA, and Fort Indiantown Gap. I have no way of reaching out to all of you except the internet and these Volunteer Organizers from AFSCME Council 13. I appreciate their hard work on our behalf. If you have any questions about the Organizers or don't feel comfortable in the situtation just tell them so and they will leave.

If you aren't a member you should join, you saw the Governor's Proposal. You know what he wants, the more members AFSCME has, the louder and more powerful our voice at the bargaining table. Look at what is happening in Wisconsin and Ohio, they weren't strong, we need to be strong in these though labor unfriendly times.

Tomorrow is negotiations. I invite all the fair share and full members to come to the local meeting to hear about negotiations. Unfortunately, we will not be webcasting this meeting either out of respect to Mr. Fillman's request to not negotiate this contract in the press. You can also call me at work and I will tell you what I know.

Remember, full share or fair share we are all in this together.

In solidarity,

Della

AFSCME 13 Convention, Negotiation, and why you should be a member and join PAL

2011-04-05T23:34:00.000-04:00

The AFSCME 13 convention is over for another year. You can view pix at http://www.flickr.com/photos/dzether/sets/72157626309723843/show/. We learned a lot, and we thought about our Brothers and Sisters in Wisconsin, Ohio and all the other Battleground States. We talked about negotiations.

I have spent most of the past couple days reading many of you the Governor's Contract proposal. I can't stress enough that this is just a proposal and this is just the beginning. Our next negotiating session is on April 22, 2011. I look forward to talking to all of you on Monday.

I know many people feel "Why be a full dues paying member? I pay fair share. I don't use the Union". But you do, every time you get a pay raise you use the union, every time you use your health insurance benefits you use the Union, every time you take a day off you use the Union, every time you get overtime pay, you use the Union. With out AFSCME negotiating a contract for you, you would be at the mercy of the Governor and the Legislature's whims. Look at Ohio and Wisconsin. That is what happens when Unions aren't strong, the stronger we are, the harder we can fight for your rights. I know it's a little bit more money out of your paycheck. I know that is hard for all of us in these difficult times, but think of it as an investment in your work future. One other reason to join is to strengthen our voice at the negotiating table, the more full dues paying members we have, the stronger our voice at the negotiating table. The Governor knows EXACTLY how many full dues paying members we have, and how many fair share, each fair share member make our voice softer at the negotiating table.

Speaking of the Governor and the Legislature, I am sure you don't like how Union Members are being portrayed as money grubbing fat cats who are free loading on the backs of tax payers. I don't either. I am a taxpayer. I count on hard working public employees like you to clean my roads of snow, inspect the hospital I take my children to, to protect the forests I love. As you know, your Union dues are NOT used for political activity. One way as a Union Member you can help assure that Legislators who respect the hard work we do for the citizens of the Commonwealth are elected is to contribute to PAL. PAL puts all our money into a pool to support lobbing and political activities to assure that Public Employee friendly Legislators are elected to office. If you would like more information about what PAL is and how to join, give me or one of the Stewards a call, and ask about negotiations while you have us on the phone.

In Solidarity, Della

Negotiations, Bake Sale, and much much more...

2011-03-31T11:45:00.000-04:00

Hi ~ Our webmaster Dean Winklespecht has been promoted, so I am brushing off my web skills and updating the website.

Mary Reading, a bargaining unit covered employee of AFSCME Local 2456 is having a bake sale to support Japanese Relief efforts, we like Mary a whole lot so we are encouraging you to stop my the Midtown Scholar Bookstore on Saturday, April 2, 2011. The flyer is available here... http://www.2456.org/BakeSaleFlyer.pdf

Negotiations, on Tuesday, we got to see the Corbett's Negotiating teams wish list. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be, it wasn't good either, but it is just the beginning. I was encouraged by the negotiator's, (Frank something I forget) willingness to negotiate. He even ask for and got Joyce Cullpepper's "we are one" pin from her.

Mr. Fillman has ask us not to post anything specific online, or in email, etc. I am trying very hard to comply with those wishes. Several other negotiators haven't complied. (Being new to this negotiating thing I am trying to be a good kid) What I am willing to do, is, if you call me, I will go over what the Commonwealth is asking for, what we ask for and my very humble opinion.

We will be meeting again with the Corbett team on April 22, 2011. I will give you all updates then. I still don't think we need to panic. This seems like a reasonable bunch of folks, nothing like those idiots in Wisconsin and Ohio and all those other states where Public Sectors workers are being cast in the role of villains and thugs.

Since I am back to being the webmaster extraordinaire, send me your updates, your news and bake sale flyers and I will get them up on our web page, http://www.2456.org/.

In Solidarity, Della

TGIF

2011-03-25T09:36:00.000-04:00

TGIF hope everyone's week is going well. I want to take this opportunity to remind you of the Local Meeting on Tuesday, March 29, 2011 at 6 pm at the AFSCME Conference Center. Directions are available on our webpage, http://www.2456.org/.

We will have two special guest on Tuesday, Mike Fedor, Candidate for the Office of County Commissioner in Cumberland County (http://www.votefedor.com/) and our very own, recently retired, JT Gould. Please come and meet Mr. Fedor and wish JT bon voyage.

The first Contract negotiation meeting with the Corbett Administration is on Tuesday Morning. I should have "Something" to tell you Tuesday Evening. Please remember though that this is just the beginning and nothing has been decided yet.

Look forward to seeing you and your family Tuesday evening. If you can't make the meeting, you can watch it live on our ustream feed. Follow AFSCME2456 on twitter for details.

In Solidarity ~ Della

Update...

2011-03-14T16:05:00.001-04:00

Hi Everyone, just an update on negotiations, they have been schedule for March 29, 2011. As you may know I am the negotiator for our local. I will update you as soon as I can.

Michele Brookins, Linda Green, Valentina Chubb, Dawn Imes, Danielle Gibson and myself attended the AFSCME 13 Women's Conference over the weekend and learn lots! Conferences are always exhausting but well worth it.

On Thursday evening at the District Council 89 meeting we learned that increasing full dues paying members is important at this time. With Public Employees under attack from every side, the more members we have the stronger we are in our battles. If you are interested in getting emails from me about issues affecting our Union Brothers and Sisters please email me your HOME email address at della.selner@gmail.com.

Hanging, stay calm, and keep fighting ~

DON'T PANIC, the budget is out

2011-03-09T00:05:00.000-05:00

Today Governor Corbett delivered his budget speak (Click here for Transcript of Governor’s Speech).

I know, it's scary especially with what is happening in Wisconsin, Ohio, and many other states across the US. All I ask is that we take a little advice from "The Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" and don't panic.

As of this moment, I have not been formally told of any negotiation meetings, but I did hear a rumor from another AFSCME Local that a negotiations meeting has been scheduled for March 29, 2011. As I get more information I will share.

What I do want you to do, is remind you co-workers who are fair-share dues payers, now is the time to join the Union. Why? Because the Governor knows how many members we have, and how many we don't. The more full dues paying members we have, the louder and more clearly the Governor and the Legislature will hear our voices. Not only at the negotiating table, but in the workplace.

Speaking of voices, there will be a Rally for a Responsible Budget on May 3, 2011. Council Director Mike Fox sent me this information;

Sisters and Brothers,

The Budget debate begins. Tomorrow Governor Corbett will make his budget address to the General Assembly. All reports suggest that it will be full of cuts that will affect everyone except the rich and large corporations. We must engage in the debate as public employees because we will be directly impacted. The cuts that are expected will affect us at all levels of government. We will be joining other unions as well as other groups and concerned citizens at a rally on May 3rd in the rotunda at the capitol from 1:00 PM to 2:00 PM.

A strong showing by AFSCME is expected and needed.

The Clear Coalition has chartered 36 buses all over the state. There will be buses leaving from the AFSCME conference Center, 150 S 43rd St., Harrisburg. I will be sending another notice once we have determined the departure times but in the meantime go to the below link and register to attend.

Here ' s the link: http://clearforpa.org/index.cfm?zone=/unionactive/view_calendar.cfm&calendarID=4323471&thisdate=%7bts%20%272011-05-01%2000:00:00%27%7d&useCalSection=main

Mike Fox

I personally look forward to seeing EVERYONE there.

If you have questions or concerns about the Governor’s Budget, don't hesitate to contact me. I will do my best to answer them, until we know more, don't panic.

In Solidarity,

Della

Keeping our eyes on other states...

2011-02-28T11:52:00.002-05:00

I know what is happening in Wisconsin, Ohio, Indiana, and the other states with Public Employees and collective bargaining has us concerned, especially with negotiations coming up.

As of today, February 28, 2011, there have been no contract negotiation meeting scheduled with the Corbett Administration. In several interviews, Governor Corbett has said he intends to negotiate fairly with the Unions. I have no reason to believe he won't. Anything you may hear other than that is pure speculation.

I know it is a scary time, but we must not let rumors and speculation control our emotions. Check your facts, and if you aren't sure, call one of our Stewards to get the information verified.

Our next local meeting is on March 29, 2010 at 6pm at the AFSCME Conference Center in Harrisburg, PA. I look forward to seeing you there.

In Solidarity,

Della

Rally cancelled!

2011-02-19T08:51:00.001-05:00

Sisters & Brothers,

As you can imagine the dynamics of the struggle in Wisconsin and its affects elsewhere are complex. After scheduling the rally for Wednesday, February 23rd all the Unions involved reconsidered and believe the timing is not right here in Pennsylvania therefore the rally for Wednesday, February 23rd has been cancelled.

I will keep you informed of all future developments.

Thank You for your patience, support and understanding.

Michael Fox
Council Director
District Council 89
(717)564-7998 Ext 8900
(800)583-2376 Ext 8900

Harrisburg Rally to support Public workers in Wisconsin, 2/23/2011

2011-02-18T15:50:00.000-05:00

Sisters & Brothers,

As you know there is a very serious effort to strip public employees of their ability bargain with their employers in the state of Wisconsin . Included in this law the Governor wants to unilaterally impose increased contributions to the employee's healthcare and Pensions. These increases would amount to an approximately 13% cut in pay.

Could you afford a 13% cut in pay?

We need to understand that if this Governor gets away with this affront to democracy and the fundamental rights of working men and women it will spread.

We will be having a rally on Wednesday, February 23 from 12 noon to 1:00 PM in the state capitol rotunda.

I am requesting that as many of you as possible come to this rally to support our brothers and sisters in Wisconsin and send a message that this type of treatment of workers is unacceptable.

Michael Fox
Council Director
District Council 89
(717)564-7998 Ext 8900
(800)583-2376 Ext 8900

Happy Holidays!

2010-12-01T12:44:00.004-05:00

Happy Holidays! Hope this holiday season finds you and yours well.

Instead of the usual holiday party, AFSCME Local 2456 is partnering with the Rick Smith Show in their Hungry and Homeless for the Holidays campaign. AFSMCE Local 2456 has made a donation on behalf of our Members to help those less fortunate this holiday season.

I also want to let you know that Mike Neafsey reports that the Members of AFSCME Local 2456 have donated over 577 pounds of food to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank this year. I encourage you to think about giving this holiday season.

On December 20, 2010 there will be a vote at the AFSCME Conference center to allow The Commonwealth of PA to continue deferring payment at the higher rate in to PEBTF. In exchange, The Commonwealth agrees that there will be no rolling furloughs from 1/1/2011 to 6/30/2011 when the Contract expires. The Commonwealth will begin paying the past due amount into the PEBTF on 6/30/2011 and the entire amount due will be paid in full by 12/31/2012. If you have questions about this please don't hesitate to contact me.

New way to get more people to local meetings...

2010-09-29T10:56:00.002-04:00

Hi ~ We are starting a new way to get more members to a local meeting, it's easy you don't even have to leave home, webcasting. Did you miss last nights meeting? Trying to remember what you heard at last nights meeting? It's archived on line, Septemeber's Local 2456 Meeting.

I personally know how hard it is to get to local meetings. Hope you will join us online.

In Solidarity ~ Della

Why you should be an AFSCME Member...

2010-06-14T16:06:00.000-04:00

Today I had a conversation with a Member who wants to leave the local. His wife sent me an email upset about the disability insurance that the Local has for all it's members. She was particularly upset about the free child safety kits American Income Life offered because they don't have children.

After apologizing to the wife via email, and explaining that there was no cost to her or the local for the insurance, I walked down the hall to talk to the member. A rarity in the case of our local.

The members concern was that he doesn't like who AFSCME endorses. Really that was why he wants to leave the local. I explained that no Union dues were used to support candidates endorsed by AFSCME. I explained that he could vote for whoever he wanted, AFSCME doesn't go into the voting booth with him.

I did explain to him why leaving membership was a bad idea. I ask him to look what AFSCME PA has done for him, guaranteed that there will be no more payless paydays, that if furloughs occur his seniority bargaining rights are assured. I explained that when we go to the Bargaining Table on the next Contract, the Governor, who ever it might be, will know EXACTLY how many Union members AFSCME has, and will bargain with AFSCME accordingly.
If you aren't a member of the local, if for no other reason, this is why you should be a member. To make AFSCME voice bigger at the bargaining table. To help AFSCME keep your benefits and pay raises that you have come to love. There need to be more members behind us and fewer fair share fee payers.

2010 Election Results for AFSCME Local 2456

2010-03-31T08:40:00.003-04:00

The Election Results :

President - Della Selner
VP A-4 - Tim Wolfe
VP B-4 - Mike Murphy
Treasurer - Dani Gibson
Recording Secretary - Joann Smith
Executive Board -
Mike Neafsey
Clark Gibson
Jim Barnhart

DC 89 Delegates
Della Selner
Dani Gibson
Jim Barnhart
Michelle Brookins
Tina Chubb
Clark Gibson
JT Gould
Larry Lash
Annuncianto Marino
John Matchik
Joe McCarthy
Mike Neafsey
Bill Orner
Kathleen Ribec
Tim Wolfe
Jeremy Zuckero
ALTERNATES
Mike Murphy
Ed Reardon
Linda Green

AFSCME Council 13 Delegates
Della Selner
Dani Gibson
Clark Gibson
Tina Chubb
Dave Ehrhart
Annuncianta Marino
John Matchik
ALTERNATES
JT Gould
Jermey Zuckero
Linda Green

AFSCME 39th International Convention Delegates
Della Selner
Dani Gibson
Jim Barnhart
Tim Wolfe
Clark Gibson
Tina Chubb
JT Gould
ALTERNATES
Michelle Brookins
Dave Ehrhart
Jeremy Zuckero

Congratulations to all those elected to serve AFSCME Local 2456 and thank you for your continuing support.

Stupid Groundhog...

2010-02-03T13:38:00.004-05:00

That stupid groundhog saw his shadow, so six more weeks of winter. Not that winter matters much to the jobs our members do.

So what is your local doing this winter? AFSCME Local 2456 has nominations coming up in at our February meeting and elections at our March meeting. Most of you should have received a green postcard in the mail.
The positions that are open are;
President, Treasurer, Vice-President A-4, Vice-President B-4, Recording Secretary, 3 Executive Board Members, 1 Three year Trustee, Council 13 Delegates, District Council 89 Educational Conference Delegates, AFSCME International Convention Delegates.
I look forward to seeing you at both meetings.

We had 35 people at our last meeting. It was great to see such a terrific turn out. So great to see new faces. If you are planning on coming to a meeting, and have dietary restrictions, please contact our Master Sergeant at Arms Cliff Ackman to make sure that we get something that you can eat. We usually order Pizza, Stromboli and Salads.

Some of the on going issues we have are;

1. Employees in the Department of Corrections will be represented by the AFSCME Locals in the Department of Corrections. AFSCME feels that our members will be better served by the Locals in the Prisons and in the work areas because of the unique nature of the Department of Corrections.

2. Agency IT Departments continue to merge with OA-OIT. Currently we are working with the JCJC to merge their IT Staff. If you have questions about an IT merger please don't hesitate to call.

3. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE COMPUTER ON YOUR DESK AT WORK IS NOT YOUR PERSONAL PROPERTY. It is property of the Commonwealth of PA, and they have the right to restrict your use of it. This includes, disconnecting your internet account and reading your email. AFSCME Local 2456 advises all it members to not write ANYTHING in email that you wouldn't want your mom or your children to read in the newspaper. One little information request and every email you write is public.

4. Contract Negotiations and Furloughs. Several rumors about Contract negotiations and more furlough have been brought to my attention. To date, AFSCME has no knowledge of either furloughs or Contract Negotiations.

That's all for now, stay safe, stay warm and have a great Valentines day. Our next local meeting is on February 23 at 6:00 pm. I look forward to seeing you there!

Holiday Season and Furloughs

2009-11-17T13:07:00.003-05:00

Once again the Holidays and Furloughs are upon us.

This year, instead of having a holiday party that no one attends, or trying to satisfy our members request for a gift certificate which we legally can not do. (While I would do most anything for my members jail is where I draw the line) The Executive Board of AFSCME Local 2456 has chosen to give a $500 donation to the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank. The Central Pennsylvania Food Bank has helped, and continues to help, our members during tough times. For more information on the Central Pennsylvania Food Bank please visit them on the web at http://www.centralpafoodbank.org/.

As for furloughs, while the numbers are out, we still don't have names to go with them. Here are some important facts to know if you are among those furloughed;

If you are furloughed, APPLY FOR UNEMPLOYMENT IMMEDIATELY. Do not wait until you get your last check.
Exploit your Commonwealth Benefits to the max, make dentist appointments, get eye exams and glasses, etc while you have these benefits. Pay, or apply for assistance with COBRA Health care payments. While this is a terrific option, it is a very expensive one. If you can afford to do it, you should.
COMPLETE YOUR PAPERWORK with the Commonwealth of PA immediately. List only the Counties you realistically want to work in.
ASK FOR HELP if you need it. As a Union member there are several financial assistance programs available and SEAP has some financial planning as well.
Think about retirement. Contact SERS. If you have military time, and are not receiving a Military Pension or disability payment, BUY THAT TIME BACK NOW. It is an actuarial debt and really does not come out of your pocket. The amount of retirement years you gain covers the difference. SERS toll free number is 1-800-633-5461.

If you need help finding resources or just need a sympathetic ear, don't hesitate to call us. A posting of Stewards is available at www.2456.org.

I found an interesting article from my hometown news, http://www.gantdaily.com/news/43/ARTICLE/65486/2009-11-17.html. Not only does it talk about the upcoming furlough but the work force reductions Ed Rendell has implemented during his years as Governor.

Wishing you a happy and safe holiday season, In Solidarity,

Della A. Selner, President
AFSCME Local 2456

My speech for today's rally at the Capitol

2009-07-28T10:48:00.001-04:00

What do we want – PAID! When do we want it – NOW!

Hi everyone, my name is Della Selner, and I am the President of AFSCME Local 2456.
I have been asked to tell you my story though I know from talking too many of you; my worries are small in comparison to yours.

In September 2008, my husband lost his job with the construction company he worked for as an independent contractor, there went most of my savings.

In December of 2008, I was involved in a car accident with an uninsured motorist; there went the rest of my savings.

In March 2009, I had surgery on my foot that was supposed to be covered by workman’s compensation, they denied the claim, and I have no savings.

Now here we are in July of 2009, I have no savings, I was already behind and struggling to keep up with everything, and now, THROUGH ABSOLUTELY NO FAULT OF MY OWN, I have to come to work and not get PAID!

I wake up each and every morning since this nightmare began absolutely terrified that I COULD LOSE EVERYTHING that I have worked the past 25 years to build. My house, my new to me car, my family.

We were living paycheck to pay check, most weeks, robbing Peter to pay Paul as my mother says. Now, I can’t even tell my creditors when I will get my next paycheck. Thank god my husband is working, making about half of what he was in September of 2008. Every Morning I think, how will I keep the lights on? The water and the sewer flowing? How will we eat? I already can’t pay my flood insurance. That is enough for my mortgage company to start foreclosure. Where will we live? Rendellville? What is Rendellville, think Hooverville during the great depression, but in Harrisburg.

How long do you think it will be after I can’t provide for my 11 year old daughter that social services will become involved? Will my family fall apart?

I think about this every single morning, and every single night. My last thoughts are of this, and of you. My fellow Commonwealth Employees, the Doctors and Nurses at the Hollidaysburg Veterans Home, The County Assistance Workers in Johnstown, Clearfield, Erie, and Lancaster, The Prison Guards at SCI Greene, the dedicated employees at the Ebensburg Center, the rest of you already struggling before this to make ends meet, and I wonder how long it will be until all of you join me in Rendellville THROUGH NO FAULT OF OUR OWN.

One person described it best, maybe the Gov and the Republican Senators have watched too much Popeye, un- like Whimpy we can’t “Gladly pay you Tuesday for a hamburger today”.

Thanks for listening to my story, stay strong, if you need help ask. AFSCME Local 2456 is offering the use of our office computer and telephone to those who need it. Whether to call your creditors or apply for help. Have your Steward get in touch with our Stewards and schedule a time.

What do I want – PAID! When do I want it – NOW!

budget update day of action July 28

2009-07-21T14:50:00.001-04:00

----- Forwarded Message ----
From: Mike Fox
To:
Sent: Tuesday, July 21, 2009 2:36:50 PM
Subject: budget update day of action July 28

Sisters and Brothers,

AFSCME and the seven other state employee unions are sponsoring a Day of Action on Tuesday, July 28 at noon on the capitol steps in Harrisburg . We will be bringing in buses of union members from across the Commonwealth and I am urging those of you who can get the day off to come in and join the rally. Those of you in Harrisburg if you can ' t get the day off please come down on your lunch period. Also please plan to visit your state senator and representative while at the capitol.

Please plan to attend and urge your co-workers to do so also. We must make our voices heard loud and clear.

We want a budget that gets us paid and one that adequately funds our jobs and the services we provide.

Mike Fox
Council Director
District Council 89
(717)564-7998 Ext 8900
(800)583-2376 Ext 8900

Filing a complaint with the Federal Department of Labor under the Fair Labor Standards Act

2009-07-16T10:01:00.003-04:00

Here is the information to file a complaint with the Federal Department of Labor under the Fair Labor Standards Act.

From: "Mike Fox"
Date: Tue, 14 Jul 2009 09:15:34 -0400
To: VARIOUS UNION REPS
Subject: FW: DOL District Offices

It would appear that payless pay days might be grounds for a complaint with the Federal Dept of Labor under the Fair Labor Standards Act’s requirements to pay minimum wage. Before a complaint can be filed the employee for the bi-weekly period must have been paid below the minimum wage for the hours worked. That may occur on July 17 and 24th. To see, you would take the gross amount of that pay divide by the hours you worked and, for the 17th pay if the amount is less than $6.55 per hour a complaint should be filed. For the 24th pay you do the same math but the minimum wage increases on the 24th to $7.25 per hour consequently if your result is less than $7.25 per hour a complaint should be filed. If you work more than 40 hours in a work week and your pay does not yield 1 ½ a complaint should be filed. If we get to point when no pay is received obviously you have not been paid minimum wage and a complaint should be filed.

The compliant can be made by a phone call or a letter to any of the following DOL District Offices.

The complaint also must be filed by the employee. Under the DOL rules a Union cannot file on behalf of someone, the affected employee must make the appeal.

Subject: DOL District Offices

Philadelphia District Office
US Dept. of Labor
ESA Wage & Hour Division
US Custom House, Room 400
Second & Chestnut Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19106
Phone: (215) 597-4950
Stewart BosticDistrict Director

Pittsburgh District Office
US Dept. of Labor
ESA Wage & Hour Division
Federal Building
1000 Liberty Ave., Suite 1416 P
ittsburgh, PA 15222
Phone: (412) 395-4996
John DuMontDistrict Director

Wilkes Barre District Office
US Dept. of Labor
ESA Wage & Hour Division
7 North Wilkes Barre Blvd.
Stegmaier Bldg. Suite 373M
Wilkes Barre, PA 18702-5284
Phone: (570) 826-6316
Alfonso J. GristinaDistrict Director

Payless Payday #6

2009-07-08T15:17:00.002-04:00

Welcome to payless payday #6, budget impasse day #8, Not much new to report. Other that last night on the radio I heard a reporter say that 75% of the Citizens of the Commonwealth of PA polled think their legislators and the Govenor are doing the right thing.

That worries me that not more Commonwealth of PA Citizens are not worried about the Commonwealth Employees not getting paid. Then I realized, this doesn't affect them. Not one little bit, not yet anyway.

When they loose their job at the convience store, or Walmart, or Wegeman's because I can't afford to buy groceries it might. To them this isn't real, it's drama. Maybe when they see us losing our houses it will get real for them. Maybe they will care then.

Until then we have to do everything we can to make it very real for them. Visit www.afscme13.org everyday to find out what AFSCME is doing.

A poem Katie wrote about Furloughs

2009-07-07T16:26:00.003-04:00

In January, when we were facing furloughs and rolling furlough my daughter Katie wrote this poem;

"I'LL whine, I'll scream, I'll holler, if you take away my job"
By Katie, daughter of Della Selner, President AFSMCE Local #2456

I'll whine, I'll scream, I'll holler if you take away my desk!
I'll whine, I'll scream, I'll holler if you take away the rest!
I'll whine, I'll scream, I'll holler if you take away my dollars,
so don't you think your going to lay me off cause believe me bub
I'll whine, I'll scream, I'll holler if you take away my job!

Kate is 11 years old and has a complete and total grasp on the impact of payless paydays and furloughs on Commonwealth Employees.

Why don't the Governor of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania General Assembly?

If an 11 year old gets it, it makes you wonder about the suposed adults doesn't.

Are you sure this isn't about egos?

Sample letter going out to my Creditors,

2009-07-07T14:30:00.001-04:00

(home address)

(Creditor address)

(Date)

Dear (Creditor);

It is with great sadness that I write you to tell you of my unfortunate financial situation. I am an employee of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania. My pay check is being held hostage by the Governor and the Pennsylvania General Assembly. They refuse to pass a budget and are using me, and my fellow Commonwealth Employees as pawns in their political wrangling.

My last pay check from the Commonwealth is (DATE). I will not receive another paycheck from my employer until the budget is passed. I know that this is going to affect my credit rating and if property is involved you may need to start the foreclosure/repossession process.

Unfortunately, my paycheck is being held hostage by the Governor of Pennsylvania and Pennsylvania General Assembly. I have no control over when I may get my next paycheck.

Please add me, and all the other Commonwealth of PA employees to your prayers.

Sincerely,

YOUR NAME HERE

Where's my paycheck! PASS THE BUDGET!

2009-07-06T14:55:00.000-04:00

After the 4th of July holiday it is back to reality, PA still hasn't passed a budget and I am NOT getting a paid for being at work. So I thought I better get to that to do list;

Call all my creditors and explain that I work for the Commonwealth of PA and I am not getting paid.
Apply for a PSECU Loan, though with my credit I bet the answer is NO!
Get together a flyer for members of resources for help during the Budget Impasse.
Stock Fridge
Make calls to my State Reps DAILY telling them to pass the budget.
Visit www.afscme13.org for updated budget information

So far, I have done 2-6. I am dreading doing the first one.

My advice to you is make your to do list look just like mine. I am going to hold on to as much cash as I can and tell my creditors, when I get paid, you will get paid. The only bill I wouldn't put off is my daycare bill. I would ask them though if they can work with you. I understand some of the Governor's Daycare center are working with employees.

The first full check I miss, I am filing for Welfare and you should too. We pay taxes. Call the numbers below for assistance in your County don't be proud, ask for help. It is NOT your fault you are not getting a paycheck.

Please remember to check http://www.afscme13.org/ DAILY for information about the budget impasse. AFSCME is NOT sanctioning ANY work slowdowns or sick offs. Do either at your own risk.

Our local does not have any meetings scheduled for July or August, if you need something visit http://www.2456.org/ and pick a steward from the list to call.

In Solidarity, Della

My future home? Rendellville

Help for Commonwealth Employees – compiled by Della Selner, 7/6/2009

Adams County

South Central Community Action Agency (SCCAP)
153 North Stratton Street,
Gettysburg, PA
Phone: 717-334-7634
http://www.sccap.org/

Contact Helpline –1-800-932-4616

Cumberland County

Cumberland County Offices1 Courthouse Square
Carlisle, PA 17013Hours: M-F 8:00 AM - 4:30 PMPh: 717.240.6100Toll Free: 1.888.697.0371
http://www.ccpa.net/index.aspx?NID=2428
Food Pantries http://www.ccpa.net/index.aspx?NID=271

Dauphin County

Information and referral2 South Second Street Administration Building , 5th Floor Harrisburg, PA 17101 (717) 780-6288 PhoneOffice Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:00AM - 4:30PM

Contact Helpline –1-800-932-4616

Franklin County

Community Services Department
51 S Main St
Chambersburg, PA 17201717-261-3141
Fax - 717-267-0812
Office Hours: Monday - Friday, 8:30 - 4:30Closed on weekends and all county observed holidays.
http://www.co.franklin.pa.us/franklin/lib/franklin/information_referral/basic_needs.pdf

South Central Community Action Agency (SCCAP)
533 South Main Street,
Chambersburg, PA.
Phone: 717-263-5060
http://www.sccap.org/

Contact Helpline –1-800-932-4616

Lancaster County

United Way of Lancaster630 Janet AvenueLancaster, PA 17601717-)291-5462 ,
http://www.uwlanc.org/
Where to Call Guide http://www.uwlanc.org/pdf/wtcgenglish07-08.pdf
Navigating Hard Times http://www.uwlanc.org/pdf/linc/navigatinghardtimes_web.pdf

Lebanon County

Lebanon County Community Acton Partnership
503 Oak Street
Lebanon, PA 17042
Phone: (717) 273-9328
http://www.lebcounty.org/lebanon/cwp/view.asp?A=3&Q=444160

Perry County

Perry County Human Services
8391 Spring Rd
New Bloomfield, PA
Phone: 717-582-8703
http://www.perryco.org/perry/cwp/view.asp?a=3&Q=401873&perryNav=6748

Contact Helpline –1-800-932-4616

York County

FIRST - Information Referral
United Way
York Office
800 E. King St.
York PA 17405
Hanover Office
21 Baltimore St.
Hanover, PA 17331
717-755-1000 or 1-800-673-2529
http://www.unitedway-york.org/first_main.html

Contact Helpline –1-800-932-4616

Juniata

Mifflin-Juniata Energy Bank/Coalition of H.O.P.E.S.
(717) 248-2552

Mifflin-Juniata Human Services
Allison Fisher
Phone: 717-242-5452
http://www.co.mifflin.pa.us/mifflin/cwp/view.asp?=640&Q=409097&mifflinNav=6764

United Way of Mifflin-Juniata
13 E. 3rd St.
Lewistown, PA 17044
http://www.mjunitedway.org/help/

June 30, 2009, and No budget, surprise, surprise...

2009-06-30T11:23:00.000-04:00

Did anyone really think that the Representatives and the Gov were really going to pass a budget this time? I didn't, I was hopeful but I didn't think it would get passed in time.

What to do now?

1st, visit AFSCME Council 13's website at http://www.afscme13.org/

2nd, click on the link for the script to contact your Representative, phone, fax or email. If you need to know who your Rep is visit http://www.legis.state.pa.us/, there is a box in the upper right hand corner.

3rd, Make a plan. The AFSCME13.org website has some helpful information, contact PSECU about a loan, and plan.

As this goes forward, we hope to develop a list of resources for Members to use to make it through these tough time.

Remember each and every Commonwealth of PA Employee is in this together.

In Solidarity, Della

Conversations in an elevator and why you SHOULD join the Union

2009-05-26T22:08:00.000-04:00

Last week, while waiting for the elevator in the parking garage, I over heard a conversation that made me want to give one of those "You should join the Union because..." soap box standing, contract thumping speeches.

A little background, in the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, most employees are covered under a contract. The exception to this is certain Managers and other confidential and non-union covered positions. There are two types of members in the groups covered by Unions, Full dues paying members and fair share fee payers. Fair share fee payers (and even management and non covered employees until recently) get all the benefits of Union Membership, pay raises, contractual rights and Union representation just like the full dues paying Members. What they don't get to do is participate in meetings, vote on the contract, run for Union Offices or be Stewards. They also don't get the Members only discounts.

Enough background. The two gentleman I over heard were discussing the recent vote that kept them from being subject to rolling furloughs. (A rolling furlough is one day over a period of time off with out pay.) One gentleman said to the other, "I was a Union member but I got out at the last Contract because I don't want to run for a Union office, I didn't go to meetings and I am just not interested in being involved." (Yes there is still a hole in my tongue where I bit it). The other gentleman said he didn't join because it just seemed like a waste of his hard earned money.

EXCUSE ME? I wanted so badly to explain to them that they are exactly the kind of people that make it VERY hard for me to negotiate better benefits and pay raises when I go to the bargaining table. Don't they know that the Gov knows EXACTLY how many full dues paying Members we have, where we are strong and where we are?

Here is the speech, share it with all the "Non-members" you know. In PA we kept you working 37.5 hours a week, you got a raise, you have one of the best benefits packages in the country, you ONLY pay 1% of you health care plans (medical, dental, eye glasses, mental health AND hearing aids). But, here is the bear bones, do you, guys in a elevator, think for one minute, you could take this contract, that protects you from abuse, long hours, gives you vacation, sick leave, provides for seniority, and benefits and walk over to the Gov's office and negotiate anything better for yourself, NO you could not. THAT IS WHY YOU SHOULD BE A FULL DUES PAYING MEMBER, that and that alone. To keep what you have, the more Full dues paying members the louder my voice at the bargaining table. The louder my voice, the more he has to listen.

Especially in the field I am in, IT. We work long hours for people who don't often understand it isn't all magic. It's hard work, tedious, time consuming, attention to detail to get everyones email to appear flawlessly, to make sure you database is backed up every day, to make sure you can do you work in a smooth manner with as few glitches as possible. We don't often get to work a 9-5 schedule. We often get called late at night or early in the morning, on weekends, and holidays to make sure that you get timely, continuous service from your State Government. We have to work in teams, across platforms, in a variety of conditions with lots of people to assure that you get your email. Often, our concerns aren't addressed at the negotiating table because so few of us are full dues paying members.

If you have a Union, fighting hard to keep what you have JOIN IT. Do not sit on the side lines whining what your Union isn't doing enough for you, add you voice to the voices of you co-workers and help your Union do more for you, make it stronger, louder and harder to ignore at the bargaining table.

Furloughs, Budget Empass, the Ecomony

2009-02-24T11:15:00.000-05:00

What a fun time we have been having as Commonwealth of PA employees! (DRIPPING SARCASM). I know in these trying times it is hard to remain calm. Worries about furloughs, and the economy have everyone down. There are several programs that help AFSCME Members get their finances under control. You can learn more at http://afscme13.org/resources/benefits.htm.

Also, as an Employee of the Commonwealth of PA, SEAP has financial planning assistance. For more information about this program, visit http://www.portal.state.pa.us/portal/server.pt?open=514&objID=231834&mode=2.

I encourage you to remain informed. Please contact us with any questions, comments or rumors.

In Solidarity,

Della A. Selner, President
AFSCME Local 2456

2009-01-23T19:38:00.000-05:00

Dave Fillman's reply to da Gov's threats

Governor's Furlough Threat Premature
1/23: Gov. Rendell may want 'no whining' when it comes to furloughs, but In an interview today with WGAL TV, C13 Exec. Dir. Fillman said, "I'll whine, scream and holler when it comes to laying off workers." more

http://www.afscme13.org/RendellPressConference.htm

I think that we need pins that say "DON'T YOU WANT TO BE A WHINER TOO?"

Our January 27, 2009 Meeting

2009-01-05T09:42:00.000-05:00

All members are invited to attend our January 27, 2009 local meeting and get up to $25 dollars to spend at Charlie's Table of AFSCME Goodies.

If you have not received your flyer by January 9, 2009, please contact Danielle Gibson at 214-9056.

Hope to see you there!

Best ~ Della

Almost the new year....

2008-12-03T11:53:00.000-05:00

Where has the year gone? With Art retiring, the change of Staff in our local, IT Consolidation, Budget concerns, this year has just flown.

My least favorite question at this time of the year is where is my turkey? When is the Christmas Party?

As most of you know, our local is very large. We are the 41st Largest AFSCME Local in the US and the Largest in the State of Pennsylvania. We represent over 2,700 Commonwealth A4 and B4 employees in Adams, Cumberland, Dauphin, Franklin, Fulton, Lancaster, Lebanon, Perry & York Counties. Only 927 of those people are full dues paying members.

Because of the size of our local, we can not legally, give out any kind of gift certificate with out issuing the member a 1099.

To get around this, and make sure our members are rewarded, we have taken to handing out gifts at meetings either with Door Prizes or just by giving everyone who shows up a gift. At the end of November we had a nice sit down meal served buffet style for everyone who attended and Memebers in attendance were given AFSCME Local 2456 TShirts.

If you would like more information about attending meetings, or maybe having the meeting come to you, please feel free to contact me at dselner@state.pa.us or 717-346-9356.

September 2008

2008-09-16T22:09:00.000-04:00

It is hard to believe Summer '08 has come and gone. What did we do?

Personnally, I survived another 10 and under girls softball season.

What has the Union done? This Summer, 8 of your elected delegates went to the international Convention in San Francisco. Mike Neafsey and JT Gould are going to make a presentation at the September 30, 2008 membership meeting.

Local 2456 continues to work with OA on the Agency IT shops being merged into the OA-OIT shop. The current Agencies being merged are PSP, PHMC and OCG. We have yet to see any adverse effects of these mergers on any of our members.

Another project I am hoping to start is a letter writing campaign to our members who are on long term active duty. If someone who works with you is being placed in an active duty status, give us a call. We will do all we can to support them during their tour.

I would love to see you at the Local meeting. Please don't let your lack of a baby sitter be the reason you don't show up, I love to see Union Families, not just Union Members at our meeting. These children are the Union Members of tomorrow.

In Solidarity ~

Della A. Selner, President
AFSCME Local 2456
visit us on the web at www.2456.org

President, AFSCME Local 2456

visit us on the web http://www.2456.org/