the 2009 ufa delegate education seminar · pdf filestephen j. cassidy president ......

THE 2009 UFA DELEGATE

EDUCATION SEMINAR

PROGRAM GUIDE

MAY 19-22, 2009

TRUMP TAJ MAHAL

ATLANTIC CITY, NJ

204 East 23rd Street, New York, NY 10010

212-683-4832 - www.ufanyc.org

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UFA Executive Board................................................................

Welcome.....................................................................................Page 3

Seminar Agenda (Meals, Classes, Events)..........................................Pages 3-8

Tuesday, May 19 .................................................Page 3

Wednesday, May 20...................................................Pages 4-5

Thursday, May 21......................................................Pages 6-7

Friday, May 22...........................................................Page 8

2009 UFA Honorees...................................................................Pages 9-11

Raffle Prize Donors....................................................................Page 12

Seminar Exhibitors & Sponsors...............................................Pages 13-17

UFA Founder & History 1917 - 2009.....................................Pages 48-55

Title Sponsor: Honeywell First Responder Products

(Formerly Total Fire Group) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Inside Back Cover

THE 2009 UFA DELEGATE EDUCATION SEMINAR PROGRAM GUIDE

TABLE OF CONTENTS

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STEPHEN J. CASSIDYPresident

JAMES M. SLEVINVice President

ROBERT STRAUBTreasurer

JOSEPHA. MICCIORecording SecretarySeminar Director

WILLIAM ROMAKAHealth & Safety Officer

Sergeant-at-Arms

JOHN G. KELLY, Jr.Trustee-Brooklyn

Chairman, Board ofTrustees

DANIEL MURPHYTrustee-Manhattan

STEPHENG.HUMENESKYTrustee-Queens

DONALD RULANDTrustee-Staten Island

EDWARD BROWNTrustee-Bronx

UFA EXECUTIVE BOARD & OFFICERS

LESTER LAYNEFire Marshal Representative

TUESDAYAFTERNOON & EVENING, MAY 19, 2009

4:00 pm — Check-in ‘till 8 pm: Convention Counter - Delegate ID Badge & SeminarMaterials Pick-up Sponsored by IAFF

4:00 pm —Welcome Suite Buffet ‘till 11 pm - TIARA ROOM BSponsored by Michael N. Block, Esq.

5:00 pm — Defensive Driving Class - DIAMOND BALLROOM ASponsored by FAST Consultants

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WELCOME

Thank you for joining us at this year’s seminar. Details for all events are listed in the agenda pages. We have accom-plished much in the past year in our efforts to see that New York City Firefighters are more adequately compensated andequipped to allow us to protect ourselves and the lives of 8 million New Yorkers each day.

This past year, thanks in large part to the leadership of this Delegate body, we have accomplished many things for ourmembers. When we stand united, we are much more effective in our negotiations and political efforts. It is our hope thatyour investment of time here will help provide the means to improve your ability to effectively lead in this capacity. Thisis no small task, but your members and the Executive Board are counting on you to bear the weight of this very impor-tant role.

You will participate in many important educational activities this week which will help you to more easily accom-plish member-beneficial objectives. Knowledgeable guest speakers will make meaningful presentations – including per-sonalized workshops – where you choose topics that interest you the most. When added to the Taj Mahal’s gourmetmeals, wonderful people, prizes and great events, you are sure to have an unforgettable stay. This booklet is a referenceguide to help you with locations and times for all seminar activities during your stay. Keep it handy. Ask questions andtake notes. But most importantly, share what you have learned when you return to your firehouse.

We encourage you to visit our exhibitors, who have informative hand-outs about opportunities and benefits for youand your family. We also want to express our appreciation to our generous sponsors and corporate friends who help makethis seminar better each year. This is a tremendous undertaking and we rely on their support.

Sharing experiences with other Delegates is another important way to pass along institutional knowledge while here.The FF Michael Boyle Hospitality Suite is just the vehicle for this. Once dinner activities conclude both nights, be sureto visit the Hospitality Suite, which is dedicated to our former UFA staffer and Firefighter Michael Boyle, who made thesupreme sacrifice on 9-11. Thank you once again for joining us. It is our sincere hope that you will enjoy your stay!

STEPHEN J. CASSIDYPresident

A G E N D A

JOSEPH A. MICCIORecording Secretary

Seminar Director

The 2009 UFA Delegate Education Seminar

WEDNESDAY MORNING, MAY 20, 20097:30 am — Check-in: Convention Counter - Delegate ID Badge & Seminar Materials Pick-up

7:30 am to 1:00 pm and 5:00 pm to 6:30 pm Sponsored by IAFF

7:45 am - BREAKFAST -GRANDBALLROOM Sponsored by Prudential

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A G E N D A

8:55 am— State of the Union by UFA President Steve Cassidy: Opens the seminar with an overviewof what the UFA has accomplished on behalf of our membership. More importantly, our current critical issuesand objectives will be presented. This includes the City’s threatened closure of FHs, possible layoffs, and MayorBloomberg’s attempts to eliminate or reduce our hard earned and well deserved pension and healthcare benefits.

9:45 am— UFAMedia & PR Strategies by UFA Media & Public Relations Director Tom Butler& President Steve Cassidy: Tom and Steve discuss the UFA’s ad campaign, THE TRUTH & REALITIES OFPROTECTING NEW YORKERS. This educational awareness campaign targeting legislators in Albany andNew York City Hall through the media was initiated in early 2009 to address the Bloomberg administration’smisinformation campaign intended to ease the closure of fire companies, the reduction of manning and gaina new pension tier for municipal workers, including New York City Firefighters. Specific examples of thecampaign will be demonstrated and discussed as well as explanations of how the UFA PR strategy factorsinto achieving longer term goals, which impact contract negotiations, Department safety protocols and leg-islative agenda.

10:30 am — Silver Room - For Battalion Delegates only! UFA Political ActionCommittee Meeting immediately followed by UFA Field Safety Committee Meeting10:30 am — UFA Criminal Attorney: Emergency Help by UFA Criminal Counsel RobertGallo, Esq. Rob shares info re the types of emergency problems members and Trustees call him for at allhours of the night, and what emergency legal services the UFA covers. Ask questions. Get answers.

11:15 am — Cardiac & Other FF Health Issues by Rob Brown, Physician Assistant &Director of the NY FFs Heart & Lung Institute: Rob Brown, RPA-C, who has been a NYC FF for over10 years, will be discussing issues important to the health & safety of all members of the FDNY. Someissues he will touch upon include: Cardiac Health, Injury Prevention, and PTSD, among others. Funded by agrant from the NYS Department of Labor / Hazard Abatement Board (Contract # C013244).

11:30 am — UFA Compensation Accrual Fund (Annuity) by Carl Wagner, Jeff Huester,John Schmitt of Prudential Retirement & Tom Reynolds, Reynolds Securities: Carl, Jeff, John and Tomexplain the investment choices available for your annuity contributions. They explain your options with a focuson creating balanced portfolios that are based on what year you plan to start making post-retirement withdrawals.You will better understand the long-term impact of your annuity investment choices!

12:00 pm — UFA Prescription Drug Card Benefits Update by Andy Cooper ofCVS/Caremark: Andy will explain and answer questions about the UFA’s Security Benefit Fund prescrip-tion drug program. This includes important information about savings available through mail order, genericvs name-brand and the CVS ExtraCare Health Card.

12:30 pm — Employer Support for the Guard & Reserve (ESGR) by Chief WarrantOfficer Michael Chierico, NewYorkArea Chair: ESGR informs and educates service members and theircivilian employers (i.e. FDNY) regarding the rights and responsibilities governed by USERRA (UniformedServices & Redeployment Act of 1994). Mike, who is also a retired FDNY Lieutenant, will brief you aboutactual cases where his intervention on behalf of our members has resulted in the Department changing itspolicy regarding leave time, seniority restoration, health coverage and more.

10:30 am—12:15 pm Special Spouse Sessions—Gold Room. Health,Wellness &HomeSafetyAwareness by Theresa Carapella, UFA Security (Health) Benefits FundAdministrator &MikeChierico, FAST Consultants: Theresa explains Dental, Vision Care, Prescription Drugs and other UFA supplementalhealth coverage for your family. She also shares tips on how member benefit claims are handled, explains how the office isorganized and who provides what services. Then join Mike and his team for a follow-up light, fun and informative workshopfor important info to safeguard and protect the wellness of your family. Great gifts and raffles too!!!

8:55 am to 1 pm -MORNING GENERAL SESSION -DiamondBallroom

5:00 pm —6:30 pm Check-in:Convention Counter - Delegate ID Badge & Seminar Materials Pick-up

Sponsored by IAFF

6:00 pm — 9:00 pm — Exhibit Tables & Booths Open — GRAND BALLROOM

7:00 pm — Reception Dinner Buffet & Cocktail Party — GRAND BALLROOMSponsored by Honeywell First Responder Products (Formerly Total Fire Group)

9:30 pm (approx) — FFMichael Boyle Hospitality Suite ‘till 2:00 am (room # to be announced at events)

Sponsored by AIU/American General Life Companies

1:00 pm — LUNCH — GRAND BALLROOM Sponsored by AFLAC

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RoomA — Grievances: How to Stop Bad Dept PolicyRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

Room B — 457 & 401(k) NYC Deferred Compensation PlansRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

Room C — UFA Compensation Accrual Fund (Annuity)Repeat session-see 2pm workshop description

Room D — Disability PensionsRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

WEDNESDAYAFTERNOON, MAY 20, 2009

Room A — Grievances: How to Stop Bad Dept Policy— Filing for Grievance, ImproperPractice,Workload Impact, Safety Impact—HowYou Get Results by Recording Secretary Joe Miccio& UFA Labor Counsel Mike Axelrod: Joe and Mike show you how to identify bad Dept Policies that wecan fight effectively through the system—with your help. You’ll learn fundamentals that will empower youto actually get the Department to blink, stumble, and sometimes fall! You’ll also learn what we can’t fight.A well invested hour.

Room B — 457 & 401(k) NYC Deferred Compensation Plans by Christopher Johnson,Jonathan Beckford from NYC Deferred Compensation Plan: Jonathan & Christopher explain the advan-tages members receive by participating in the 457, 401(k), ROTH 401(k) and NYCE IRA Plans, investmentchoices and how retiring members can roll their final pension payments into the 401(k) Plan and save ontaxes today.

Room C —UFA CompensationAccrual Fund (Annuity) by CarlWagner & Jeff Huester ofPrudential Retirement & Tom Reynolds, Reynolds Securities: Prudential manages UFA annuity contri-bution investments and administers the plan. Carl, Jeff, and Tom will help your members understand the insand outs of directing annuity contribution investments, via the web or phone, and the type of investmentfunds offered in the plan.

Room D — Disability Pensions by former UFA President Lou Sforza, UFA Pension Consultant:Lou explains the process of documenting and navigating the FDNY disability pension application system.His expertise will make the difference if you should find yourself in the unfortunate position of having toretire due to a career-ending Line-of-Duty injury.

5:00 pm — EVENING EVENTS

A G E N D A

3:00 pm—YOURCHOICEOFWORKSHOPS—DIAMOND BALLROOM

2:00 pm—YOURCHOICEOFWORKSHOPS—DIAMOND BALLROOM

THURSDAY MORNING, MAY 21, 20097:30 am— 1:00 pmCheck-in:Convention Counter - Delegate ID Badge/Seminar Materials Pick-up

(Last chance to pick up Delegate Hand-outs) Sponsored by IAFF

7:45 am - BREAKFAST - GRAND BALLROOM Sponsored byAETNA

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8:55 am — UFA Discipline Attorney to the Rescue by UFA General & Criminal CounselMike Block: Mike shares his many years of experience representing and helping members address serious issues weall hope to never find ourselves in. Now you’ll understand what help is available and how to get it when needed most!

9:30 am— UFA 2009 LegislativeAgenda by UFAVice President & Legislative Chairman JamesSlevin: Jim discusses UFA legislative activities and challenges in City Council, Albany and Washington D.C.He explains PAC funds use, various legislative initiatives, pending bills, how they benefit Firefighters and thesteps it takes to get them passed.

10:00 am — Next Generation Bunker Gear by Mary Grilliot & Jack Reilly, Honeywell FirstResponder Products (our gearmanufacturers): Mary makes an eye-popping presentation on the following 3 top-ics: The current FDNY Helmet upgrade program to reduce the possibility of wires snagging on and around the hel-met front piece; The Morning Pride/American Firewear Super Glove including a discussion on its patented and uniquedesign features; and The NFPA 1971 ten year replacement rule for Personal Protective Equipment.

10:30 am — Disability Process & Pension Board Explained by UFA Treasurer Bob Straub:Bob sits on the FDNY Pension Board and has helped many members to properly document their disablinginjuries in the manner legally prescribed to retire with Line-of-Duty disability pensions—including for memberswho were initially not approved by the 1-B Medical Board. Bob explains how the 1-B Medical Board andPension Board are selected and set up, how they function and what you should know.

11:15 am — SafeApparatus Response by Lt. MichaelWilbur L-27 & Sgt-at-Arms Bill Romaka:Lt. Wilbur presents a "Back to Basics" approach for Emergency Vehicle Operations and Fire Ground Operations.A ‘Q & A’ session will follow. Lt. Wilbur has been a FDNY Firefighter for 25 years and is also a contributingeditor for Firehouse Magazine and Fire Apparatus Journal. He is nationally recognized in Emergency VehicleOperations, Apparatus Placement and Purchasing. This portion of the session has been funded by a grant from the NYSDepartment of Labor / Hazard Abatement Board (Contract # C013244).

12:00 pm — 2011World Police & Fire Games in NYC by Bronx Trustee Eddie Brown, UFASports Chairman,Member of the 2011WPFGCommittee: The members of the F.D.N.Y., Port Authority P.D.& N.Y.P.D. will be hosting 20,000 athletes from over 70 countries during the 2011 WPFG in NYC. Events willtake place in all 5 boroughs during the two weeks leading up to the 10 year anniversary of the attacks. The themeis “Thank you & Remembrance”. It will be our opportunity to thank FFs & POs from around the world for all theirsupport during our time of need. Eddie will explain what will be occurring and how you can get involved.

12:15 pm— Pension Buyback byAlbert Connolly, FDNY Pension & Payroll Bureau:Al explains theFDNY pension system, and in particular, will help educate you regarding the prior City/State/Military buyback laws andwhat eligible members need to know. Hundreds of Firefighters come to Al each year for guidance in making decisions thatwill have a permanent impact on the rest of their lives. Learn the best ways to improve your pension and retirement.

8:00 am — 2:00 pm: Exhibit Tables & Booths Open — GRAND BALLROOM

11:00 am — 12:15 pm Spouse Session — Gold Room. Quick Guide to Skills for HandlingEveryday Emergencies, by Mike Chierico & Staff, FAST Consultants: Practice and Learn many new andcurrent skills and guidelines for acting in an Emergency. Review home Safety, Accident Prevention andAwareness and other valuable and important safety tips for child-proofing and safety in your home. Win prizesand great gifts.

A G E N D A

8:55 am -1 pm -MORNING GENERAL SESSION -DIAMOND BALLROOM

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THURSDAYAFTERNOON, MAY 21, 2009

RoomA —The Effective Delegate by Recording Secretary Joe Miccio & guest Trustees: Joe andTrustees explain & expand on various important Delegate roles & the ‘UFA Delegate’ chapter of your Delegate Manual.Trustees and experienced Delegates share their knowledge and experience—giving you useful pointers on how to be a moreeffective Delegate. This is a ‘must workshop’ for all newer Delegates!

Room B — ITHP Waiver, 50% Indicator, Roth IRAs & NYS College SavingsProgram by Pension Planner George Duignan, CFP, CPA: George explains how these convenient NYC payrolldeduction programs work, detailing the info you need to make your own important investment decisions. They also show you how touse the FDNY Pension Planner web program, where you enter your specific information to get a better future financial picture basedon investment choices today.

Room C — Firefighter Cancer Awareness by Erin Fusco, RN, FNP, Nurse Practitioner fromMemorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center: What you eat and drink, how you live, where you work... all thesefactors can affect a person’s risk for cancer. At least 32 separate studies have been conducted, examining the linkbetween cancer and the hazards of fire service. If we cannot eliminate cancer altogether, the next best thing we can doto protect our health is to detect it early and take steps to improve our chances of not getting it. Recognizing symptoms,getting regular check-ups, and performing self-exams are just a few ways one can do this. This training session will giveinformation to NYC Firefighters regarding cancer awareness, prevention and symptoms. This session has been fundedby a grant from the NYS Department of Labor / Hazard Abatement Board (Contract # C013244).

Room D — UFA Security (Health) Benefits Fund by Theresa Carapella, SBFAdministrator& Joni Howe from Healthplex Dental Plans: Theresa shares tips on how member benefit claims are handled, andexplains how her office is organized, and who provides what services to our members and their families. She alsoexplains how you save money by utilizing “Coordination-of-Benefits” if your spouse has separate coverage, and who tocontact if you run into problems with your NYC Health Plan coverage. Joni from Healthplex will bring you up to speedon newest UFA Dental coverage.

2:00 pm - YOUR CHOICE OFWORKSHOPS -DIAMOND BALLROOM

3:00 pm—YOURCHOICEOFWORKSHOPS—DIAMONDBALLROOMRoomA —The Effective Delegate

Repeat session-see 2pm workshop descriptionRoomB — ITHPWaiver, Indicator 50% Indicator, Roth IRA’s & NYS College

Savings ProgramRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

Room C — Firefighter Cancer AwarenessRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

Room D — UFA Security (Health) Benefits FundRepeat session-see 2pm workshop description

4:00 pm —WORKSHOP — DIAMOND BALLROOMRoom C — FDNY Pension System & Buyback-the Answers! by Albert Connolly, FDNYPension & Payroll Bureau: Al will answer your FDNY pension system questions in an informal setting in this fol-low-up workshop to this morning’s general session. Learn the best ways to improve your pension & retirement.

6:30 pm — EVENING EVENTS — SEE NEXT PAGE

1:00 pm - LUNCH—GRAND BALLROOM Sponsored byEmblemHealth

A G E N D A

ExhibitTables&BoothsOpenDuring Lunch—Closes down at 2:00 pm

6:30 pm — BANQUET COCKTAIL HOUR — GRAND BALLROOMSponsored by Healthplex

Sponsored by AIU/American General Life Companies

11:30 pm (approx) — FF Michael Boyle Hospitality Suite(room # to be announced at events)

— DinnerWine & Refreshments— Bagpipers for Honoree Event

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THURSDAY EVENING, MAY 21, 2009

FRIDAY MORNING, MAY 22, 2009

10:00 pm — MUSIC & ENTERTAINMENT

A G E N D A

7:30 pm — BANQUET DINNER — GRAND BALLROOM

Sponsored byW L Gore &Associates

9:55 am — UNION MEETING — DIAMOND BALLROOM

8:45 am - BREAKFAST —TIARA BALLROOM

12:00 pm — SEMINAR CONCLUDES

Sponsored by Empire Blue Cross Blue Shield

THANK YOUUFA DELEGATES!

— Raffles — See page 12 for our generous prize donors listing

A G E N D A

George D. Martin is the Founder of “a Journey for 9/11” whichis the ongoing nationwide initiative to raise awareness and funds tohelp mitigate the serious medical conditions, including post trauma-tic stress disorder, faced by thousands of 9/11 rescue and recoveryworkers who are ill from their work at Ground Zero. Mr. Martinwalked 3,000+ miles, from September 16, 2007 to June 21, 2008,raising more than $2 million. Mr. Martin, 55, passed through 13states and lost more than 40 pounds. During his trek he visitedschools, fire houses, police stations, government offices, and otherplaces where he raised awareness about the plight of Ground Zeroworkers.

Mr. Martin, former vice president of AXA Sports FinancialServices at AXA Equitable, was a star defensive end and co-captainof the Super Bowl XXI Champion New York Giants (1986). Heplayed his entire career (1975-1988) for the Giants and retired withmore touchdowns than any defensive lineman in NFL history. InSuper Bowl XXI, Mr. Martin famously tackled Broncos’ quarter-back John Elway in the end zone for a safety. Mr. Martin, a true

labor leader, also served as president of the NFL Players Association and was instrumental in negotiating theleague’s collective bargaining agreements.

If “a Journey for 9/11” was the only thing George Martin ever achieved, it alone exemplifies theadage that one person can make a difference. With Mr. Martin, however, you could pick from a whole list ofsignificant accomplishments which have made—and are still making—a difference. For his amazing per-sonal sacrifices in making “a Journey for 9/11” a reality, and his many additional humanitarian achieve-ments, on behalf of all NYC Firefighters, we honor George.

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GEORGE D. MARTIN

Co-founder and Chairman of Minority Athletes Networking, etc(MAN) – a not-for-profit organization committed to cultivating innercity youths.

During the past 18 years, MAN has provided approximately 200 stu-dents with over $800,000 in scholarship monies. Additionally, MANsponsors the Football Camp of Bergen County, Toys for the New HopeDevelopment Center, Bronx Psychiatric Hospital, Harlem JuniorTennisProgram,Althea Gibson FoundationTennis Program,Adopt-A-School-Central High, SAT Prepatory classes-FDU, and Thanksgiving Dinnerfor Seniors-Patterson, Roselle, and Newark, NJ.

Executive Board Member for the NFLYouth Football initiative-focused on molding, teaching, and instructing NFL coaches,facilities, and players.

Board member for the N.Y. Giants Alumni, where he focuses onintegrating disenfranchised former team members back intoproductive roles within society.

Distinguished Achievement award recipient at FairleighDickinson University, Mr. Martin is still involved in numerousuniversity fundraising efforts.

Honorary President of Tomorrow’s Child Fund.

Honorary Dinner Chairman of the Make A Wish Foundation.

Formed Young African-American Professionals (YAAP) whosesole responsibility is that of a self-help networking groupresponsible for supporting each others’ growth personally andprofessionally and going out into the community and making adifference. He is responsible for mentoring countless individu-als and has had a profound influence on the lives of youth.

Inducted into the NFL Hall of Fame as Humanitarian of theYear (Also known as the Byron “Whizzer” White award recipi-ent, in honor of the United States Supreme Court Justice).

Shared a national platform with the Reverend Billy Graham in1986 representing Christian Ball Players.

Nominated by President George H. W. Bush Sr. for his human-itarian efforts in 1987.

Inducted into the Sports Hall of Fame in New Jersey in 2004.

For his charitable efforts, Mr. Martin was named on the ABCNews’ 2007 “Persons of the Year,” received the prestigiousHeisman Humanitarian Award in December 2007, and was rec-ognized in May 2008 with an Honorary Doctor of HumaneLetters Degree from Fairleigh Dickinson University in NewJersey for his lifelong commitment to community service.

At AXA Equitable, Mr. Martin was responsible for implement-ing the company’s financial sports programs, helping to formstrategic partnerships with AXA’s financial experts in invest-ments, insurance, money management, tax and estate planningstrategies to facilitate meeting the needs of individuals with theprofessional arena. Under his leadership, AXA SportsFinancial Services provided Financial Education Seminars to20 of the 32 NFL teams, 10 teams in Major League Baseball,the Women’s National Basketball Association (WNBA), and theNBA Retired Players’ Association (NBRPA). He played a piv-otal role in helping the NFL Players Association develop itsRegistered Financial Advisors Program. He joined AXAEquitable following the company’s acquisition of Mutual ofNew York (MONY) in 2004.

Before the Giants drafted Mr. Martin in 1975, he was a star col-legiate player for the University of Oregon Ducks. He laterearned his Bachelors Degree from Fairleigh DickinsonUniversity (FDU) in 1987. Mr. Martin is currently serving asecond term as a member of FDU’s Board of Trustees.

Mr. Martin also serves as a board member of HackensackUniversity Medical Center, The East Orange Medical Center,Drug Abuse Resistance Education in New Jersey, The GiblinFoundation, and the Harlem Junior Invitational TennisTournament.

NOTABLE ACHIEVEMENTS

2009 UFA Seminar Honorees

Nancy Carbone’s induction into the FDNY familywas tragically pre-ordained when her great uncle,Matthew Dunn of Ladder 14, was killed in the Line-of-Duty in 1931. This event impacted her family for gener-ations and instilled a belief in Nancy and her siblingsthat firefighters are more than a “cut above” all others.When tragedy struck on 9/11/01, Nancy, who has a pro-fessional background in postpartum home care andteaching, went to her local firehouse to offer her assis-tance. Simple requests of acquiring bunting or findingbuglers or even clean socks evolved into somethingmuch more for Nancy.

The guys quietly asked her if she knew of a privateplace—outside of the firehouse—for counseling. The fact that any group of big, burly andself-sufficient NYC Firefighters opened up enough to ask her such a personally revealingquestion is a testimony in and of itself to the early confidence our members intrinsicallyplaced in Nancy. Nancy’s response was quick and thorough. Over the immediately ensuingmonths Nancy worked tirelessly finding help for those who asked. The growing number ofrequests led her to establish the first Friends of Firefighters center in Red Hook, Brooklyn,before the recovery efforts at Ground Zero were done in 2002. Nancy worked with SafeHorizon to ensure the necessary number of professional counselors were available at thenew site for our members. A few years later, Friends of Firefighters filled our additionalneeds by opening its first Peer Center.

Most recently—and amazingly—Nancy acquired Ladder 101’s original decommis-sioned firehouse which will now become the new center for Friends of Firefighters! Scoresof FFs have been volunteering their time each day restoring it to its old traditional look andfeel, under the supervision and direction of Tony Catapano and Danny Prince, two of themost experienced Firefighters and UFA Delegates to recently retire from the FDNY, with80 years between them. Sadly (or inspiringly), in the interim, Nancy has chosen to pay formost of the materials and its other expenses on her personal credit cards because post 9-11 funding, in general, is drying up. But, says Nancy, “I believe in what I am doing, and Iwill not fail our heroes.” Nancy is still working to acquire the necessary funding. Butsoon—very soon—that kitchen will be open once again this spring. Those four walls willhear, once again—in our time honored tradition—proud but humble men pouring out theirhearts and souls over hearty breakfasts. Our needs will be met. Help will continue.

Nancy has accomplished all this—not alone—but with the support of her family.Nancy is the mother of two and married to her high-school sweetheart for 29 years. Forthis, and so much more, we honor Nancy.

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NANCY CARBONE


After 39 years of dedication and service, DannyPrince retired last year, having been a Company Delegateand Alternate Delegate for the past 25 years. Danny wasassigned to L156 his entire career, and served a secondstint as Delegate while detailed to the Safety Battalionprior to retiring. Danny has been so much to so manypeople so many times that it would be impossible to pointto any single accomplishment to honor him.

Danny’s education and background in publicsafety is impressive. Besides obtaining an AssociatesDegree in Applied Science from NY Technical Collegeand a Bachelor of Science Degree in Fire Science fromJohn Jay College, Danny also served active duty in theUS Navy. He later joined the US Coast Guard Reserve, retiring last year as Chief PettyOfficer Port Security.

Since retirement Danny continues his dedication and service to numerous organi-zations that serve our members, including: the NY State Knights of Columbus 12 Division,as V.P. for the FDNY Holy Name Society of Brooklyn & Queens, a Member of the Boardof Directors for NY Firefighter Burn Center Foundation, a Member of the EmeraldSociety, the Columbian Society and the Anchor Club, The Brooklyn Wall ofRemembrance, Fire Family Transport Foundation, The Wounded Warriors Foundation,Hope for Wounded Warriors Foundation, and Friends of Firefighters. Danny also previ-ously served as President of Fire Science Society of New York, Grand Knight of ColumbusCouncil #126, and past Youth Auxiliary Chairman.

Danny helped as a contributing editor and fellow chef in the original FirefightersCookbook, along with its author, John Sineno. John and Danny appear on its famous coverphoto along with Tony Catapano and Jimmy Lee in front of E276 quarters.

Most recently, Danny has been heavily involved with assisting in the restoration ofLadder 101’s decommissioned quarters in Brooklyn where Friends of Firefighters will con-tinue its mission of helping our members. This is a tremendous undertaking in a projectthat involves many Firefighters who are donating their time and trade skills

Danny was born, raised, worked and is still living in Brooklyn, with his wifeDeborah. He has two children and three grandchildren. For those who do not know Danny,he is one of the most humble, good natured and generous people you’ll ever meet. For alife time of most impressive dedication to public service and leadership, on behalf of allNYC Firefighters, we honor Danny.

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FF DANIEL PRINCE

AIU/American General Life CompaniesBank of America

Michael Axelrod, Esq.(Certilman, Balin,Adler & Hyman)

UFA Labor Counsel

Michael Block, Esq.(Sullivan, Papain, Block & Cannavo, P.C.)

UFA General Counsel

CPS Optical & CPS Dental

DrifireEmblem Health

Empire BlueCross-BlueShieldGallo Law Offices

Health NetHealthplex

Honeywell First Responder Products(Formerly Total Fire Group)

IAFF

Inner Imaging

Members Mortgage Corp

Prudential Retirement

Reynolds Securities

Trump Taj Mahal

Vascular Diagnostic

Vision Screening

W.L. Gore andAssociates, Inc.

WWW.1075Awards.com

2011World Police & Fire Games - NYC

12THE 2009 UFA DELEGATE EDUCATION SEMINAR PROGRAM GUIDE

*Due to print deadline not all raffle donors are listed

Donated by many of our corporate friends, including:

RAFFLE PRIZES & GIFTS

13THE 2009 UFA DELEGATE EDUCATION SEMINAR PROGRAM GUIDE

GOLD SPONSORAETNAStacey Navas99 Park Avenue, 3rd FloorNew York, NY 10016212-457-0412 (Cell) 914-643-9909(Fax) [email protected]

GOLD SPONSORAFLACTodd BurkeOne Seaport Plaza, 23rd FloorNew York, NY 10038212-908-2572 (Cell) 917-617-4306(Fax) [email protected]

BRONZE SPONSORAIU HOLDINGSShawn Austin, Lawrence Dagonell32 Oldslip, 22nd FloorNew York, NY 10005646-857-1584 (Cell) [email protected]

AMERICAN GENERAL LIFECOMPANIESTed Makuch, Laura Rawson Shine599 Lexington Ave, 25th FloorNew York, NY 10022212-709-6687 (Fax) [email protected]@aig.comwww.americangeneral.com

BANK OF AMERICAJohn T. McGuire, Rachael Ringold,Whitney Luther135 Pinelawn RoadMelville, NY 11747516-593-7826 (Cell) 516-668-1264(Fax) 866-526-5118(Rachael) 516-523-1869(Whitney) [email protected]@[email protected]

CE FINANCIALMichael Hecht, James McBratney,Michael Carter202 North Avenue EastCranford, NJ 07016908-931-9400 (Cell) 888-672-9899(Fax) [email protected]

CENTRALIZEDLABORATORYSERVICESBarbara D’Albero43-25 Hunter StreetLong Island City, NY 11101718-720-1219 (Cell) 917 864-0680(Fax) 718-720-1438

CHASE HOME FINANCEUNION PLUSFran Libretto-Ward900 Stewart Ave, 3rd FloorGarden City, NY 11530516-745-3541 (Cell) 917-667-1656(Fax) [email protected]

SEMINAR 2009 EXHIBITORSWed. May 20, from 6 pm - 9 pm GRAND BALLROOMThurs. May 21, from 8 am - 2 pm GRAND BALLROOM

CIGNA HEALTHCAREDan Moskowitz499 Washington Blvd. – 4th FloorJersey City, NJ 07310(800)CIGNA24www.cigna.com

CPS OPTICAL & CPS DENTALJohn Felder11 Hanover SquareNew York, NY 10005212-675-5745 212-675-1147 (Fax)[email protected] / www.cpsdental.com

DRIFIREStephanie Youker, Gerri Kearns3151 Williams RoadColumbus, GA 31909781-273-5136 (Cell) 617-697-1297(Fax) [email protected]

GOLD SPONSOREMBLEM HEALTH(Parent company of HIP & GHI)June Giuffo (HIP)Kathleen Smith-McElhiney (GHI)55 Water StreetNew York, NY 10041(June) 646-447-6997(Fax) 646 [email protected](Kathleen) 646-447-5046(Fax) 646-447-3033KathleenSmith-McElhiney@emblemhealth.comwww.hipusa.com www.ghi.com

GOLD SPONSOREMPIREBLUECROSS / BLUESHIELDChristopher Bugeya, Dominick PellegrinoThomas Canty, Gail Sands1 Liberty Plaza165 Broadway - 14th FloorNew York, NY 10006212-476-7535 (Fax) [email protected]@[email protected]@empireblue.comwww.empireblue.com/NYC

FDNYWTC MEDICAL MONITOR-ING & TREATMENT PROGRAMBUREAU OF HEALTH SERVICESPhilippe Mouren, Agatha Ponickly9 MetroTech Center, 2nd FloorBrooklyn, NY 11201718-999-1858 (Fax) 718-999-0080

FIRE FIGHTERS CANCER SUPPORTNETWORKAntonio J. Cruz132 Lawrence AveSmithtown, NY 11787(Cell) 631-495-4222 (Fax) [email protected]

FRIENDS OF FIREFIGHTERSNancy Carbone199 Van Brunt StreetBrooklyn, NY 11231718-643-0980 (Fax) 718-643-1240www.friendsff.org

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FUSCO, BRANDENSTEIN & RADAKen Larkin180 Froehlich Farm BlvdWoodbury, NY 11797516-496-0400, ext 4550(Cell) 516-426-6072 (Fax) [email protected]

GENERALVISION SERVICESSharon Devine520 8th Avenue – 9th FloorNew York, NY 10018212-729-5342 (Fax) 212-279-0498www.generalvision.com

HEALTH NETJerome LordeOne Far Mill CrossingShelton, CT 06484203-225-8161 (Cell) 203-803-8791(Fax) [email protected]

SILVER SPONSORHEALTHPLEX, INC.Joni Howe – VP Account Services333 Earle Ovington Blvd. – Suite 300Uniondale, NY 11553516-542-2701 (Cell) 516-662-2420(Fax) [email protected]

TITLE SPONSORHONEYWELL FIRST RESPONDER

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Mary Grilliot, Jack Reilly, Doug Sloan,Bobby West#1 Innovation CourtDayton, OH 45414937-264-2662 (Fax) 937-264-2677www.totalfiregroup.com

INNER IMAGINGAlbert Barrette307 East 63rd StNew York, NY 10065212-991-5445 (Cell) 917-449-4561(Fax) [email protected]

JOHN HANCOCKJason Hill122 E. 42nd Street, Suite 1903New York, NY 10168212-867-9080 ext 186(Cell) 516-592-3818 (Fax) [email protected]

MARSH US CONSUMERMatt Arvanites1440 Renaissance DrivePark Ridge, IL 60068800-503-9230 (Fax) [email protected]

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MEMBERS MORTGAGE CORPKerry Fleming600 Old Country Road, Suite 518Garden City, NY 11530516-622-9000 (Cell) 516-353-8757(Fax) [email protected]

MORGAN STANLEYSuzanne Akian, Michael Morrison2 Penn Plaza - 22nd FloorNew York, NY 10121866-688-9757Suzanne.Akian@[email protected]

MUSCULAR DYSTROPHYASSOCIATIONKaylan Scagliola1140 6th Avenue #1801New York, NY 10036212-689-9040 (Fax) [email protected]

NYC DEFERRED COMPENSATIONPLAN/ NYCE IRA457 & 401(k)Georgette Gestely - Director40 Rector Street – 3rd FloorNew York, NY 10006212-306-7760 (Fax) 212-306-7376www.nyc.gov/deferredcomp

THE PENSION PLANNER“The Firefighters’ Financial Resource”George Duignan55 Salem RoadRockeville Center, NY 11570516-766-1411www.FDNYpensionplanner.com

GOLD SPONSORPRUDENTIAL RETIREMENTCarl Wagner, Ray Sweetland, John SchmittOne Penn Plaza – Suite 2501New York, NY 10119917-339-4423 (Fax) [email protected]

SAFE HARBOR CAPITALGROUP, LLCJim Miller, Tom Sullivan127 South Country RoadBellport, NY 11713631-776-7507 (Cell) 917-757-6336Jmiller@safehabcap.comwww.safeharborforfirefighters.com

BRONZE SPONSORSULLIVAN, PAPAIN, BLOCK,McGRATH, & CANNAVO, P.C.Michael N. Block, Esq.120 Broadway - 18th FloorNew York, NY 10271212-732-9000 (Fax) 212-266-4148www.triallaw1.com

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UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES, INC.Joseph K. Barbara, Frank Euvino109 North AvenueWestfield, NJ 07090800-352-7930 (Fax) [email protected]

UNITED INSIGNIA, CO.Jim Hahl397 Bridge StreetBrooklyn, NY 11801718-222-3400 (Cell) 516-369-6886(Fax) [email protected]

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VISION SCREENING, INC.Seth Polan1919 Middle Century Road, Suite 304Centereach, NY 11720631-467-4515 (Cell) 631-495-2280(Fax) [email protected]

WACHOVIA SECURITIESJohn S. O’Donnell200 Campus Dr, Suite 220Florham Park, NJ 07932973-301-8440 (Cell) 973-886-8963(Fax) [email protected]

SILVER SPONSORW.L. GOREANDASSOCIATES, INC.Jennifer Wise105 Vieve’s WayElkton, MD 21921410-506-5490 (Fax) [email protected]

2011WORLD POLICE & FIREGAMES IN NYCBill Miccio, Jim Carney, Bill Brooks135 General RW Berry DrivePostal Unit #2 - Box 9Fort Totten, NY 11359(Miccio’s Cell) 845-258-0181(Carney’s Cell) 917- [email protected]@2011wpfg.orgwww.2011wpfg.org

WWW.1075AWARDS.COMGlen Barile (Ret. L-84)P.O. Box 120-075Staten Island, NY 10312718-967-1671 (Fax) [email protected]

17



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Aetna’s Government and Labor Division is proud to be a Gold Sponsor of the Uniformed Firefighter’s Association 2009 Delegate Education Seminar.

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Union Plus is a registered trademark of Union Privilege. This program is only available to Union Members, theirparents and children.Eligibility for mortgage assistance begins one year after closing on a Union Plus Mortgagethrough Chase. For information regarding mortgage assistance, speak to a Chase Loan Officer. Subject to credit

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The Uniformed Firefighters Association of Greater New York

Annual Delegate Seminar


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The 2011 World Police & Fire Games are coming to New York City August 26th to September 5, 2011 and will coincide with the 10 year anniversary of September 11th. Once again, the world’s eyes will be focused on New York City. This time to come together and

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Make a donation, everything helps. Support fund raising initiatives that come to the firehouses. Volunteer for the Games, many opportunities! Register an interest to compete in the 2011 WPFG! Sign up to receive our quarterly newsletter. Attend 2011 WPFG lead up events.


47

THROUGH THE 1920’s….

• 1917 FF Albert Guinness (picturedright) formed the Uniformed Firemen’sAssociation of the FDNY, which becameLocal 94 of the International Associationof Firefighters the following year.Firemen were working “continuousduty,” of 151 hours per week with 3hours off each day. Annual salary was$1,500.

• 1920: UFA won a 27% increase to amore livable annual salary of $1,900.

• 1921: The Honor Emergency Fund wascreated to provide financial assistance toactive/retired Firefighters and their fam-ilies due to death, illness or injury.

• 1922: UFA pressure resulted in a two-platoon system of 84 hours per week.

• 1927: Due in large part to the lobbyingefforts of the UFA, “Right of AppealLaw” legislation was passed, the granti-ng civil service employees the right toappear before legislative bodies toexpress grievances. Previous to theenactment of this particular measure,civil service employees could be deniedthe right by departmental edict.

• 1928: The UFA won the right for refer-endum vote raising annual salary to$3,000.

THE 1930’s. . .

• As the Great Depression was takinghold, Mayor Jimmy Walker pressuredcity workers to take a “payless fur-lough,” claiming the city was on theverge of bankruptcy.

• 1930s The UFA was the only group torefuse to submit. Mayor LaGuardia hada bill passed reducing the salaries of allcity employees. The UFA fought themeasure until it was rescinded.

• 1936 The UFA succeeded in achievingthe three-platoon system (or eight-hourday) through a referendum of the votersduring the general election.

• 1936 Passage of a local law granting adisability pension for Firemen with line-of-duty injuries.

• 1937 The UFA inserted a provision inthe state Constitution, making publicemployee pensions a contractualrequirement of the state.

• 1939 Voters then passed a UFA-spon-sored resolution in 1939 reducing aFireman’s work week from 84 to 50hours.

FFAlbert GuinnessUFA Founder

U F A H I S T O R Y


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U F A H I S T O R Y — contd...

THE 1940’s….

• 1940 Two major pension systems wereinstalled in 1940: Article 1, wherebymembers appointed prior to April, 1940were to pay 5% or 6% of their salariesand Article 1B under which newappointees were required to contribute9% to 14% on an actuarial basis.

• 1943 The UFA and FDNY establishedthe Medal of Supreme Sacrifice. Some1,800 members of the Fire Departmentserved in the armed forces during WorldWar II.

• 1944 The three-platoon system was sus-pended and the remaining membersworked 84 hours per week.

• 1946 The workweek gradually reduced to60 hours per week. First grade FF earns$3,900 per year.

• 1947 A 28-day vacation for Firefightersand numerous pension improvementswent into effect.

• 1948 The UFA negotiated a 20-yearretirement and a return to the two-pla-toon system, although the City had theright to keep the three-platoon system.(More improvements came on this inthe 1960s.)

THE 1950’s...

• 1950 First grade Firefighter earned$4,400 a year.

• 1953 The Mayor’s Management SurveyCommittee recommended the elimina-tion of 52 fire houses. The UFA opposed

the plan and it was disapproved.

• 1953 46-hour work week won.

• 1953 Uniform allowance

• 1953 UFA starts its 1st Political Actionprogram

• 1957 A Constitutional Convention cameup for approval by the voters, the UFAcampaigned against it, and theConvention was defeated. The intentionwas to invalidate the contractual obliga-tions on pensions.

THE 1960’s…

• The UFA successfully led the battle forincreased pensions of widows andretired men.

• 1961 A 40-hour work week mandated byreferendum

• 1961 1/60th pension benefit secured forall Firefighters.

• 1961 Four paid holidays successfullynegotiated, as well as emergency over-time paid in cash.

• 1961 UFA has abolished three-platoonsystem both legislatively at the statelevel and by voter referendum in NYC.

• 1962 Equalized vacations for all first-grade Firefighters.

• 1962 Residency restrictions liberalized.Paid holidays increased to six.

• 1962 Dues check-off inaugurated. Priorto that, all dues had been collected bydelegates.

• 1963 Ten paid holidays secured.


49

• 1963 A two and one-half percent reduc-tion in pension rateachieved.

• 1963 Improved 1/60thbill for Article 1 mem-bers;

• 1963 Half final payfor Article 1 B mem-bers.

• 1963 HonorEmergency DeathBenefit increased.

• 1963 UFA’s SecurityBenefit Fund estab-lished.

• 1965 Paid holidaysincreased to 11 annually.

• 1965 Dental and Optical Plans added toUFA Security Benefit Fund.

• 1965 Members and families givenchoice of health plans.

• 1965 Death Gamble provided.

• 1965 Payment of time-and-a-half for OTgained.

• 1965 First-grade FF earns $8,483 basepay.

• 1967 Pension contributions reduced by5%.

• 1967 Longevity established.

• 1967 Pension escalation for disabilityretirements and service retirements afterage 62.

• 1967 Personal leave day granted.

• 1968 The UFA successfully gets the “nostrike” clause eliminated from the IAFFConstitution, then seeks approval of themembership to order a strike. This was

prompted by the city’s foot dragging innegotiating a new contract. Threats leadto negotiations and a contract within twomonths.

• 1968 UFA and the city reach agreementon a new benefit for members who retireafter 20 years of service-the VariableSupplement Fund (VSF). (Legislation issigned by the Governor in 1970, and thefirst payments are made in 1973.)

• 1968 First-grade FF base pay reaches$10,325.

• 1968 Union name is changed from the“Uniformed Firemen’s Association” tothe “Uniformed FirefightersAssociation”.

• 1969 Permanent “Lung Bill” was signedinto law by Gov. Rockefeller.

• 1969 Heart Bill. The Heart Bill signedinto law (was an original goal of theUFA, beginning with its first PresidentAlbert E. Guinness)

• 1969 UFA achieves vested pension

The fireboat New Yorker was located at the foot of Beekman Street inManhattan when this photo was taken in 1930 and was designated as EngineCo. 77.



50

option for members after 15 years ofservice.

• 1969 Through negotiations, the UFAobtains overtime pay for ordered over-time work, as well as night differential.

THE 1970’s. . .

• 1970 City agrees to increase companiesand manning, creating one newDivision, five battalions and eight com-panies. Manning increases to 11,891Firefighters.

• 1970 UFA-sponsored “one-man, onevote” resolution is adopted by the IAFF,giving New York City’s Local 94 greaterrepresentation in the International.

• 1970 Contract demands again fall ondeaf ears at City Hall, prompting yetanother strike threat from the UFA.

• 1970 $25,000 line-of-duty death benefitachieved for New York City Firefighters.

• 1972 A new contract guaranteed five-man manning on all apparatus.

• 1972 Night differential increased from5% to 10%

• 1972 Portal-to-portal & “clean-up” paysecured.

• 1972 Number of FFs reaches its high-est-12,500.

• 1972 The Rand Corporation retained bythe City to study the fire service, recom-mends closing six companies and relo-cation of seven others. The plan isimplemented, and the UFA responds byholding mass rallies and filing a lawsuit.

• 1973 After several threats over the pastfew years to hold a job action inresponse to the city’s unwillingness to

negotiate a new contract, the UFA goeson strike. Members walk out at 8:30 a.m.on Nov. 6, but return to work five-and-a-half hours later after Supreme CourtJustice Sidney A. Fine ordered the cityto negotiate with the union.

• 1973 By December, the union hadreached an agreement with the city on aone-year contract.

• 1973 The UFA wins an increase in com-pulsory insurance (compensation insur-ance) coverage for active Firefightersfrom $2,000 to $5,000.

• 1974 The City’s fiscal crisis citing finan-cial problems, disbanded eight compa-nies. The UFA unsuccessfully sued tostop the closings.

• 1974 Base pay of a first-gradeFirefighter increased to $17,458.

• 1975-7 The City’s fiscal problems wors-en, more than 40,000 city workers arelaid off, including 1,600 Firefighters,although 700 are hired back within threedays. The UFA continues to providehealth, hospital and dental care to thesemembers and their families. The unionalso is instrumental in getting Federaljobs for 250 brothers and in havinganother 300 hired in temporary jobs asbus drivers for the Transit Authority.

• 1975-7 The City reneges on minimummanning provisions, reducing to 42 thenumber of five-man engines. (By 1982,the number of engines riding with fiveFirefighters is increased to about 140,leaving 71 four-man engines.)

• 1976 The UFA establishes a SecurityBenefit Fund for retired members.

• 1976 Federal legislation passed provid-ing assistance to the family of a LODD



51

Firefighter, $50,000 to survivingdependents.

• 1976 The first annualDelegates Seminar isheld.

• 1977-8 As the number offires soared in the mid-1970’s, and the fiscalcrisis began to abate, thecity agreed to restorefive-man manning on 20engines. By this time, allFirefighters who hadbeen laid off and wantedto return were rehired bythe FDNY.

• 1977-8 New programscreated by UFA includes free legal con-sultation and voluntary group life insur-ance program.

• 1977-8 UFA achieves increase in pen-sions for line-of-duty widows throughlegislative actions signed by Gov. Carey.

• 1977-8 Union negotiates increases incompulsory insurance coverage foractive Firefighters from $5,000 to$7,500, retired Firefighters from $2,000to $4,000.

THE 1980’s…

• 1980 UFA plays key role withUniformed Forces Coalition, two-yearcontract, salary raises of 9% and 8% andno give- backs.

• 1980 Members vote to end the union’s63-year affiliation with the IAFF

• 1980 Problems at the medical office,which had been brewing for years, cameto a head, the UFA and 1,000Firefighters rallied outside the Medical

Office to protest mistreatment and

improper care rendered. The protest ledto the appointment of a special panel byMayor Koch which recommended sever-al operational changes at the Bureau.

• 1981 After many years of struggle, asupplemental cost-of-living increasewas passed by the state Legislature, pro-viding pension increases of 3 % to 29%for retirees.

• 1982 Unified, more than 10,000Firefighters, police officers and correc-tion officers marched on City Hall.Negotiating once again under theumbrella Uniformed Forces Coalition,several months a two-year contract of8% per year, one-percent higher than thecivilian coalition.

• 1980 UFA filed for a court injunction tohalt the retest of women who failed theFD physical.

• 1983-4 The UFA secures law for FFslaid off in 1975 and later rehired theright to buy back time for pension cred-it. Affected about 950 Firefighters.



52

• 1983-4 Back wages deferred as a resultof the mid-70’s fiscal crisis were negoti-ated by the UFA.

• 1983-4 Union sues to bring five-Firefighter minimum-manning level tothe remaining 71 engine companies stillriding with four Firefighters.

• 1983-4 UFA lobbying resulted in a $5.2million boost in the FDNY budget,including the creation of two new enginecompanies, two truck companies, onebattalion and the Haz Mat unit.

• 1985-89 A negotiated contract is reject-ed by the Executive Board and the dele-gates. The sticking point is the city’soffer to restore 5-Firefighter manning toonly six additional engine companies,out of 73 that still have four-Firefightermanning. Membership rejected twonegotiated agreements. UFA forced intoan arbitration. The city’s Office ofCollective Bargaining “scoped out” sev-eral key provisions, including minimummanning, vacation, the group chart andthe Firefighter’s job description. Itwould take several years and severalnegotiated contracts to win back some ofthese important provisions.

THE 1990’s. . .

• 1990-91 Calling it unsafe forFirefighters and citizens, the UFA urgedthe city’s Office of CollectiveBargaining to eliminate the FireDepartment’s roster manning program,which-despite promises to the contrary-had failed to provide promised manninglevels on engines (five Firefighters) themajority of the time.

• 1991 The UFA launches a political action

committee, Fire PAC, to fund effectivelobbying efforts in City Hall, Albany andWashington, DC.

• 1991 The union purchased a five-storybuilding in Manhattan as its newHeadquarters.

• 1991 Proposed draconian cuts of 10% ofthe FDNY budget-including firehouseclosings-are avoided due to intense UFAlobbying efforts. The Department takesonly a $1.3 million budget hit, out of aproposed $57 million cut.

• 1993 A pilot CPR program begins inBrooklyn, where Firefighters respond tomedical emergencies. The program,established without union input due tothe loss of the Firefighter’s job descrip-tion in the ‘87-90 arbitration, is expand-ed a year later to include the use ofdefibrillators.

• 1994 The Cancer Bill, allowing for line-of-duty pensions for members disabledby six different types of cancer, wassigned into law by Gov. Cuomo, cappingan eight-year struggle to protectFirefighters and officers.

• 1995 UFA settles Roster Staffing hear-ings restoring five-man manning to 61engine companies. In conjunction, 96hours of RSOT is guaranteed for everyfirefighter.

• 1995 Members vote 2-1 to re-affiliatewith IAFF.

• 1995 First Legislative Day in Albanysponsored by UFA. Attended by severaldozen members.

• 1996 Major UFA victory is won with theelimination of the Home Visitation andPMLA programs through a federal law-suit.

• 1996 The Compensation Accrual Fund



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(CAF), or annuity, is converted into aself- directed plan. Members havedirect control over their investmentfunds.

• 1997-98 UFA negotiates 5-year contractwhich includes chauffeur pay andrestoration of several key provisionslost in disastrous 1987-90 arbitrationdecision: 39 hours vacation leave, andincreased longevity and annuity pay.In addition, the contract included pro-vision for Safety Committee com-prised of Department and union offi-cials which results in an additional five5-man engine companies, bringingUFA-negotiated number up to 66 five-man engines. UFA negotiates andmembers ratify CFR-D agreementincluding a 3% pay differential,retroactive pay, training for laddercompany members, and a voluntaryfeature that ultimately makes the pro-gram optional for all Firefighters.Unfortunately, the civilian patternwhich included two years of zero, waspart of the deal.

2000 TO THE PRESENT

• 2001 Terrorist attack World TradeCenter. The UFA in partnership withthe IAFF established the 9/11 Fund,and dispensed millions to our familiesin need.

• 2001 The years of persistence throughpolitical efforts and the courts wins theUFA and PBA the absolute right toarbitrate impasse contracts throughstate PERB—removing us foreverfrom the City’s tilted system.

• 2002 A LOD Funeral Fund was estab-lished to provide for members to travel

to Firefighter memorial and funeralservices nationwide.

• 2002 Unified, more than 10,000 fire-fighters & police rally in swelteringsummer heat at Time Square, whichresulted in contracts that eliminated 6months of zeroes.

• 2002 Historic first PERB award grant-ed to PBA. Leveraging that award, theUFA negotiated contract whichexceeded the uniform coalition patternestablished by civilian unions.

• 2002-3 UFA harnesses the newestcommunication technology. Launchesinstantaneous telephone, fax and e-mail broadcast systems to firehouses,Delegates and entire membership, pro-viding instantaneous info to the field.UFA website enhanced to include themost up-to-date information aboutunion initiatives.

• 2003 Major UFA legislative win toexpand of the Cancer Bill to includecancers involving the neurological,breast and reproductive systems as pre-sumed LODI.

• 2003 UFA efforts through public ral-lies and successful lobbying stoppedthe closing of 2 of the 8 firehousesMayor Bloomberg had on choppingblock.

• 2004 Pension loans legislative winallows retiring members to borrow upto 90% of contributions.

• UFA reactivates legislative/lobby dayprogram (May 10, 2005) in Albanywith bus loads of FFs to push for WTCPresumptive Illness Bill’s passage.

• WTC Presumptive Bill signed into lawon June 15, 2005. This Landmark



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Bill, which was secured because of thetireless lobbying efforts of the UFA andits members of Fire PAC, allows for fire-fighters who become injured as a resultof the work performed at the attacks andlater on, the clean-up, at the World TradeCenter to be eligible for accidental dis-ability pension, even if already retired.

• December 2005, new contract over-whelmingly ratified by the membership.Four-year contract is retroactive to 2002and provides a compounded 17.5% raisefor NYC Firefighters. Civilians agreed to4% over 3 years.

• The 2005 contract extends the rosterstaffing agreement another 5 years andincreases the number of engines operat-ing citywide with 5-firefighters, a criti-cal win for New York’s Firefighters.

• 2006 Stroke Bill Signed by GovernorPataki. UFA is successful in its lobbyingefforts of the State Assembly, Senate andGovernor’s office. UFA members whosuffer from strokes are protected withLODI pensions. The Bill retroactivelycovers 4 members.

• 2006 WTC LOD Death Pension. UFA issuccessful in getting this bill signed intolaw. Families of members who die as aresult of a WTC presumed illness willnow receive full LOD pensions—even ifthe death occurs after the member isretired. This law retroactively applies tofamilies of all members who died priorto its signing into law.

• 2006 WTC LODI Prescription DrugCard approved. UFA is successful inconvincing the City to provide LODIdrug cards for all members who are ill asa result of exposure at WTC. Membersno longer use UFA SBF money, or cashout of their own pockets.

• 2007 The UFA led the Uniformed Uionsin setting the CBA pattern by settling itscontract first. For the first time ever, thecontract contained reopener language forthe current and previous contracts. Thiscontract was groundbreaking because itsecured a 12% increase in the base payfor special assignment duty to Haz-techcompanied, the Squads, and RescueCompanies (a total of 17 Companies).This increase was at no cost to our mem-bers. The contract also eliminated Extra-Departmental Employment filingrequirements.

• 2008 Contract Reopened - The UFA wassuccessful in getting the 2004-06 con-tract reopened and increased by 3.48%retroactively the base salary of all first-grade firefighters. The reopener wasachieved due to unique language theUFA negotiated in the 2006-08 contractin order to maintain parity with the PBAif the PERB arbitration award exceededthe UFA agreement for the same period.Thus, the parity that has existed betweenfirefighters and police for 140 yearsremains.

• 2008-10 Contract Two 4% raises over 24months, with additional benefits, includ-ing a longevity escalator, with automaticincreases and compounding of all exist-ing longevity steps. For the first timeever, firefighter longevity pay willincrease and compound at the same per-cent rate as all future base salaryincreases.



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the 2009 ufa delegate education seminar · pdf filestephen j. cassidy president ......

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