Feeling insecure about Social Security? Union shows how to COPE

March 28, 2005

PICTURED: VOTE-COPE coordinators have a playful tug of war over the prototype of a bag that will be distributed at the convention to delegates from award-winning locals. From left, Sheila Goldberg, retiree coordinator; Tom Tucker, United University Professions coordinator; and June Smith, Suffolk County coordinator, couldn't wait to get theirs. You'll get yours, if your local was a VOTE-COPE award winner.

You should be feeling insecure, what with the Bush administration attacks on Social Security.

You can fight back at the NYSUT Political Action Center. Send your state legislators and congressional representatives faxes and e-mails on this critical issue and more.

The Political Action Center will be located just outside the entryway to the convention ballroom on the Third Floor Promenade. Hours are from noon to 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 7, and 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Friday, April 8.

This activity, and every time the union advocates with lawmakers on your behalf, is primarily thanks to VOTE-COPE, the union's voluntary political action fund. Delegates this year led the most successful drive on record in 2004. Each year, the convention honors those locals with outstanding VOTE-COPE contributions with awards. Locals that reach an average contribution of $50 per member receive the highest category of achievement, the Albert Shanker award. Those that reach an average contribution of $25 per member receive the Dan Sanders award; and those that contribute $10 per member receive the Abel Blattman award. All delegates and alternates will receive a pin designating the level they achieved in the most recent drive. Pins and bags will be distributed at registration.