March 2016 Issue

Kudos!

It's an honor

Marcus Latham, Niagara Falls Teachers president, received the Union Champions at Work award from the Niagara Orleans Central Labor Council, AFL-CIO. Latham was honored for his work serving the members of his local, and his dedication to the labor movement and his community.

David Robertson, United University Professions Geneseo chapter, was featured on Buffalo TV station WGRZ describing his research on the Genesee Oaks. Robertson's research shows that the old-growth oak trees are remnants of a Seneca-maintained oak savanna that survived 19th century pioneer land clearance. He is collaborating with natural scientists from the University at Buffalo on a National Science Foundation grant to fund expansion of the project.

In print

William Fibkins, Shoreham-Wading River TA retiree, recently published The Graveyard of School Reform: Why the Resistance to Change and New Ideas. The book explores the role resistance plays in defeating valued programs for students, parents and staff and calls for reformers to include teachers in the decision-making process. To order, visit www.rowman.com.

Frank Tassielli, Sachem Central TA retiree, has written and self-published An Italian Boy's Life: An Episodic Memoir. In his memoir, Tassielli traces his days from his birthplace in Southeastern Italy, where he and his family suffered tragedies and poverty; to his arrival in America, along with his older sister and mother. The book is available from the author at cheech40@optonline.net; order Kindle or print copies at www.amazon.com.

Victor Sgambato, Fort Plain TA retiree, has published Inspiration is Key: Unconventional Strategies to Motivate and Support Students. The book, available at www.rowman.com, hopes to inspire educators to try unique approaches to reach and inspire students.

Elsie Szecsy, Garden City TA retiree, published The Cadet Nurse Corps in Arizona: A History of Service. Through this book, Szecsy describes how the federally funded U.S. Cadet Nurse Corps met the high demand for nurses in Arizona during World War II. The book is available at www.arcadiapublishing.com or www.amazon.com. Proceeds from the sale of this book will be used to support the uscadetnurse.org website.

"Kudos!" recognizes the accomplishments of NYSUT members. Have good news you'd like to share? Email united@nysutmail.org; include "Kudos!" in the subject line.