1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds nd Non-Profit Org. U.S ......¡Esperamos verlo pronto en una de las reuniones de agrupación o en las clases! Atentamente, Este número del Boletín

July/August 2014 2QUESTIONS: CALL (646) 473-8666 • OUTSIDE NYC (800) 892-2557

1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds330 West 42nd StreetNew York, NY 10036-6977

Address Service Requested

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDNew York, NY

Permit No. 3700

Questions: Call (646) 473-8666 Outside NYC: (800) 892-2557

1199SEIU Retired Members

BulletinJuly/August 2014

IMPORTANT NEWSabout chapter meetings

and classes!

(646) 473-8666 • www.1199SEIUBenefits.org

A Message from the Executive Director

Un Mensaje de la Directora Ejecutiva

Dear Retired Members,

As 1199SEIU retirees, you enjoy the kind of security in retirement that so few workers are offered anymore. A defined pension benefit and supplemental retiree health benefits like ours are becoming rarer every day. In addition, our Retired Members Department offers plenty of ways for you to stay active, including drama and fitness classes, regular chapter meetings and other get-togethers. Whatever your interests, we are sure you will find an activity that helps you stay involved and connect with your fellow retirees.

And for those of you who retired between the ages of 55 and 64 and receive the supplemental prescription benefit through the National Benefit Fund, you will have a onetime opportunity to keep that coverage or choose a new plan that provides dental coverage – which will also allow you to access a subsidy for comprehensive medical coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace. See the Summary of Material Modifications at the end of this bulletin for more information.

Remember that your Benefit and Pension Funds are always here to help you. If you have any questions about your health or pension benefits, please don’t hesitate to call our Retiree Services Representatives at (646) 473-8666 or (800) 892-2557.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our chapter meetings or classes soon!

Sincerely,

This issue of the Retired Members Bulletin contains important information about your rights under your benefit plan and the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), which you should read and retain for future reference.

Estimados Miembros Jubilados,

En su condición de jubilados de 1199SEIU, disfrutan del tipo de seguridad en la jubilación que cada vez se ofrece menos a los trabajadores. El beneficio de pensión definido y los beneficios de salud suplementarios de jubilados como los nuestros son cada día más raros. Además, nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados ofrece muchas formas para que usted se mantenga activo, incluidas clases de teatro y acondicionamiento físico, reuniones regulares de las agrupaciones y otras reuniones. Cualesquiera que sean sus intereses, estamos convencidos de que encontrará una actividad que le ayude a mantenerse involucrado y conectarse con sus compañeros jubilados.

Y para aquellos que se jubilaron entre las edades de 55 y 64 años y recibieron el beneficio para medicamentos con receta suplementario a través del Fondo Nacional de Beneficios, tendrán la oportunidad única de mantener esa cobertura o elegir un nuevo plan que brinda cobertura dental, que también les permitirá acceder a un subsidio para la cobertura médica integral en el mercado de seguros de salud. Consulte el Resumen de Modificaciones Materiales incluido al final de este boletín para obtener información adicional.

Recuerde que sus Fondos de Pensión y Beneficios siempre están a su disposición para ayudarle. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre sus beneficios de salud o de pensión, no dude en llamar a nuestros Representantes de Servicios a Jubilados al (646) 473-8666 o al (800) 892-2557.

¡Esperamos verlo pronto en una de las reuniones de agrupación o en las clases!

Atentamente,

Este número del Boletín para Miembros Jubilados contiene información importante sobre sus derechos bajo su plan de beneficios y bajo la Ley de Seguridad de los Ingresos de Jubilación del Empleado (ERISA, por sus siglas en inglés), que debe leer y conservar para referencia futura.

You’re Invited to Our 2nd Bi-Annual Quilting ExhibitCome see your fellow retirees’ creativity on display at our Manhattan Headquarters, 330 West 42nd Street, Penthouse. September 2 to September 4, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Two 1199SEIU Retiree Exhibits in JulyJoin us for the annual 1199SEIU Art Exhibit from July 14 to July 31 at the 1199SEIU Art Gallery, 310 West 43rd Street. Weekdays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Come to our Brooklyn Retirees Needlework Exhibit from July 16 to July 31 at the 1199SEIU Brooklyn Office, 25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street). Weekdays, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Coming in September!Join us for a new sewing class, featuring a new teacher, beginning September 4 at Fund Headquarters. See September’s bulletin for more details.

2014RMDJulAug.indd 1 6/18/14 4:33 PM


1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds330 West 42nd StreetNew York, NY 10036-6977

Address Service Requested

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDNew York, NY

Permit No. 3700

Questions: Call (646) 473-8666 Outside NYC: (800) 892-2557

1199SEIU Retired Members

BulletinJuly/August 2014

IMPORTANT NEWSabout chapter meetings

and classes!

(646) 473-8666 • www.1199SEIUBenefits.org

A Message from the Executive Director

Un Mensaje de la Directora Ejecutiva

Dear Retired Members,

As 1199SEIU retirees, you enjoy the kind of security in retirement that so few workers are offered anymore. A defined pension benefit and supplemental retiree health benefits like ours are becoming rarer every day. In addition, our Retired Members Department offers plenty of ways for you to stay active, including drama and fitness classes, regular chapter meetings and other get-togethers. Whatever your interests, we are sure you will find an activity that helps you stay involved and connect with your fellow retirees.

And for those of you who retired between the ages of 55 and 64 and receive the supplemental prescription benefit through the National Benefit Fund, you will have a onetime opportunity to keep that coverage or choose a new plan that provides dental coverage – which will also allow you to access a subsidy for comprehensive medical coverage in the Health Insurance Marketplace. See the Summary of Material Modifications at the end of this bulletin for more information.

Remember that your Benefit and Pension Funds are always here to help you. If you have any questions about your health or pension benefits, please don’t hesitate to call our Retiree Services Representatives at (646) 473-8666 or (800) 892-2557.

We look forward to seeing you at one of our chapter meetings or classes soon!

Sincerely,

This issue of the Retired Members Bulletin contains important information about your rights under your benefit plan and the Employment Retirement Income Security Act (ERISA), which you should read and retain for future reference.

Estimados Miembros Jubilados,

En su condición de jubilados de 1199SEIU, disfrutan del tipo de seguridad en la jubilación que cada vez se ofrece menos a los trabajadores. El beneficio de pensión definido y los beneficios de salud suplementarios de jubilados como los nuestros son cada día más raros. Además, nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados ofrece muchas formas para que usted se mantenga activo, incluidas clases de teatro y acondicionamiento físico, reuniones regulares de las agrupaciones y otras reuniones. Cualesquiera que sean sus intereses, estamos convencidos de que encontrará una actividad que le ayude a mantenerse involucrado y conectarse con sus compañeros jubilados.

Y para aquellos que se jubilaron entre las edades de 55 y 64 años y recibieron el beneficio para medicamentos con receta suplementario a través del Fondo Nacional de Beneficios, tendrán la oportunidad única de mantener esa cobertura o elegir un nuevo plan que brinda cobertura dental, que también les permitirá acceder a un subsidio para la cobertura médica integral en el mercado de seguros de salud. Consulte el Resumen de Modificaciones Materiales incluido al final de este boletín para obtener información adicional.

Recuerde que sus Fondos de Pensión y Beneficios siempre están a su disposición para ayudarle. Si tiene alguna pregunta sobre sus beneficios de salud o de pensión, no dude en llamar a nuestros Representantes de Servicios a Jubilados al (646) 473-8666 o al (800) 892-2557.

¡Esperamos verlo pronto en una de las reuniones de agrupación o en las clases!

Atentamente,

Este número del Boletín para Miembros Jubilados contiene información importante sobre sus derechos bajo su plan de beneficios y bajo la Ley de Seguridad de los Ingresos de Jubilación del Empleado (ERISA, por sus siglas en inglés), que debe leer y conservar para referencia futura.

You’re Invited to Our 2nd Bi-Annual Quilting ExhibitCome see your fellow retirees’ creativity on display at our Manhattan Headquarters, 330 West 42nd Street, Penthouse. September 2 to September 4, 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.

Two 1199SEIU Retiree Exhibits in JulyJoin us for the annual 1199SEIU Art Exhibit from July 14 to July 31 at the 1199SEIU Art Gallery, 310 West 43rd Street. Weekdays, 10:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Come to our Brooklyn Retirees Needlework Exhibit from July 16 to July 31 at the 1199SEIU Brooklyn Office, 25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street). Weekdays, 11:00 am to 4:00 pm.

Coming in September!Join us for a new sewing class, featuring a new teacher, beginning September 4 at Fund Headquarters. See September’s bulletin for more details.


July/August 2014 8QUESTIONS: CALL (646) 473-8666 • OUTSIDE NYC (800) 892-2557QUESTIONS: CALL (646) 473-8666 • OUTSIDE NYC (800) 892-25573 July/August 2014

President’s MessageMensaje de la Presidenta

Dear Sisters and Brothers,

As we enjoy these wonderful summer months with family and friends, I want to begin by thanking each and every one of you for your commitment to helping our retirees – and each other – by remaining “Retired but Active!” I am especially proud of all of you who volunteer at our local chapters and in our Retired Members Department. Volunteerism is a rewarding way to stay alive and well – and I am continually inspired by the spirit of cooperation and unity among our 1199SEIU retirees.

I know the warm temperatures can make it tough for many of us to stay active outdoors, but another great way to get moving, keep in touch with fellow retirees and even make some new friends is by visiting our Retired Members Department at the Fund’s Manhattan Headquarters. Inside the cool confines of the ninth floor, you’ll find a variety of activities Monday through Friday, including dance, drama, arts and crafts, quilting and photography, to name a few. There are also yoga, Chi Gong and Tai Chi classes in Manhattan and at our Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island and Long Island chapters to help keep your body – and mind – healthy.

Please save this bulletin or check the schedule at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org for a list of classes, and remember, even one new activity can be that all-important first step toward a healthier, fuller life. Of course, to properly care for ourselves, I urge any of my sisters and brothers who have yet to see their healthcare provider this year for an annual wellness visit to schedule an appointment. Remember, the way to stay healthy is through a nutritious diet, an active lifestyle and regular check-ups and preventive screenings that can spot a warning sign before it becomes something more serious.

In closing, I’d like to thank all of you who have stayed current with your Union dues and ask those of you who have lapsed to please restart your contributions. Paying your dues is an important part of helping to keep our organization strong and expressing our commitment to the future generations of 1199SEIU members.

In solidarity, Lena Hayes

Queridos Hermanos y Hermanas,

A medida que disfrutamos de estos maravillosos meses de verano con la familia y los amigos, quiero comenzar por agradecer a cada uno de ustedes su compromiso en ayudar a nuestros jubilados, y entre sí, al mantenerse “Jubilados pero Activos”. Estoy especialmente orgullosa de todos los que se ofrecieron como voluntarios en nuestras agrupaciones locales y en nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados. El voluntariado es una forma gratificante de mantenerse vivos y con buena salud, y me siento continuamente inspirada por el espíritu de cooperación y unidad que existe entre nuestros jubilados de 1199SEIU.

Reconozco que las temperaturas elevadas pueden hacer que para muchos de nosotros sea más difícil permanecer activos al aire libre, pero otra gran forma de estar activos, de mantenerse en contacto con compañeros jubilados e incluso hacer nuevos amigos es visitando nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados en la sede de los Fondos en Manhattan. Dentro del ambiente fresco del noveno piso, encontrarán una variedad de actividades de lunes a viernes, incluidos baile, teatro, artes y manualidades, elaboración de colchas y fotografía, solo por nombrar algunos. También se ofrecen clases de yoga, Chi Gong y Tai Chi en Manhattan y en nuestras agrupaciones locales de Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island y Long Island para mantener saludable su cuerpo y su mente.

Guarde este boletín o consulte el horario en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org para obtener una lista de clases, y recuerde, tan solo una nueva actividad puede ser ese primer paso muy importante hacia una vida más saludable y más plena. Por supuesto, para el debido cuidado de sí mismos, rogaría a todos mis hermanas y hermanos que aún no han visitado a su proveedor de atención de la salud este año para una consulta anual de bienestar, que programen una cita lo más pronto posible. Recuerden, la forma de permanecer saludable es a través de una dieta nutritiva, un estilo de vida activo y chequeos regulares y evaluaciones preventivas que puedan detectar una señal de advertencia antes de que se convierta en algo más grave.

Para terminar, me gustaría agradecer a todos ustedes que se han mantenido al día con sus cuotas del Sindicato y pedirles a aquellos que se hayan retrasado que por favor reinicien sus contribuciones. Pagar sus cuotas es una forma importante de ayudar a mantener sólida nuestra organización y expresar nuestro compromiso con las generaciones futuras de miembros de 1199SEIU.

En solidaridad, Lena Hayes

As a result of a historic Supreme Court decision holding that the federal law restricting the definition of “spouse” to opposite-sex couples was unconstitutional, the trustees amended the Plan to recognize same-sex spouses married under state law.

1199SEIU HEALTH CARE EMPLOYEES PENSION FUND SUMMARY OF MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS

This Summary of Material Modifications describes changes that affect your pension plan and updates the Summary Plan Description (“SPD”) that was previously distributed to you. You should keep this summary with your current SPD until the booklet is updated to reflect the changes discussed herein.

The 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund (“Plan”) is amended by adding the following underlined language and removing the following stricken language:

SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSPg. 141 1.42 Wherever used in this Plan, the term “spouse” means the person of the opposite gender to whom a Participant is legally married, as recognized under applicable law, (as determined in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which he resided) and the term “marriage” shall refer to the marriage of a Participant and his or her “spouse.” A former spouse may be treated as a Participant’s spouse to the extent required under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, as defined in Section 414(p) of the Code.

__________________________________________________________________________

The SPD is hereby amended by adding the following underlined language and removing the following stricken language:

SECTION VI. B RULES REGARDING ALL BENEFIT OPTIONS Pg. 69 ABOUT YOUR SPOUSE For Plan purposes, your “Spouse” is a the person of the opposite gender to whom you are legally married, as recognized under applicable law, (determined in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which you live) when your pension begins.

A former Spouse may be treated as your Spouse if required by law (for example, under a court Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), as defined on page 91). A former Spouse can be assigned a portion of your pension as an “Alternate Payee” in accordance with a QDRO.

SECTION XII KEY TERMS AND DEFINITIONSPg. 126 Spouse A person of the opposite gender to whom you are legally married, as recognized under applicable law (determined in accordance with the laws of the state in which you live). For Plan purposes, a former Spouse may be treated as your Spouse to the extent required by law (for example, under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, as defined in the Internal Revenue Code.)__________________________________________________________________________

This summary only highlights the key changes made to the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund. Summaries of material modifications together with the Summary Plan Description make up your official plan descriptions; please keep them together and refer to them as necessary. We have made every attempt to insure the accuracy of the information in this summary and the Summary Plan Description. However, if there is any discrepancy between them and the plan document or other legal documents, the plan document and other legal documents will always govern. If you would like to review the plan document or have any questions, please contact the Fund’s Member Services Representatives at (646) 473-9200.

The plan sponsor of the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund, or any part of it, at any time.

If you currently receive 55/10 Early Retiree benefits, you will have a onetime option to change from your current prescription and vision plan to the hospital indemnity, dental and vision plan described below. You will receive more details in the mail in the next several weeks.

1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service EmployeesSummary of Material Modifications

This Summary of Material Modifications describes changes that affect your welfare benefit plan and updates the Summary Plan Description (“SPD”) that was previously distributed to you. You should keep this summary with your current SPD until the booklet is updated to reflect the changes discussed herein.

The following changes to the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees (“Benefit Fund”) SPD apply:

Effective October 1, 2014, to establish for certain Early Retirees who retire with Wage Class I benefits a non-minimum essential coverage benefit package for members and spouses only, Early Retirees between the ages of 55 and 64 with at least 10 years of Pension Fund Credits (SPD Section VI.F) and their spouses and the benefits for eligible pre-Medicare spouses of Medicare-eligible members as described in Sections VI. C, D and E of the SPD (together, “Early Retirees”) may choose either the benefit package they are entitled to under the Current SPD or the following benefit package:

1. Vision Care as described in SPD Section VI.F. 2. A per diem “hospital indemnity” benefit, with the following limitations: a. Payable to members and spouses admitted to a hospital; b. Limited to $200 per day of hospital admission; and c. Limited to a maximum of 10 days per hospital stay. 3. Member Choice dental benefits described in Section II.K of the Current SPD. 4. Upon the Early Retiree becoming eligible for Medicare, benefits revert to the retiree health benefits described in the Current SPD as applicable.

Effective April 1, 2014, SPD Sections VI.B, C and D shall (i) provide that if you live in New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, or designated counties in Florida, you must enroll in the Benefit Fund Medicare Program in order to receive retiree health benefits through the Benefit Fund, and (ii) clarify that retirees who retired with Wage Class ll or III coverage are excluded from the Benefit Fund’s Medicare Program.

Effective April 1, 2014, (i) any Wage Class III benefits that would qualify as “minimum essential coverage” under regulations pursuant to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and are not otherwise excepted under the law are hereby eliminated; (ii) Wage Class III shall be eligible for the Member Choice dental benefits described in Section II.K of the Current SPD (for members only); and (iii) Wage Class III benefits shall include a per diem “hospital indemnity” benefit (for members only), payable to members admitted to a hospital, limited to $200 per day of hospital admission up to a maximum of 10 days per hospital stay. Coverage shall be extended for an additional thirty days for Wage Class I and II participants who, due to a reduction in earnings, would otherwise be reduced to Wage Class III benefits under the terms of the Current SPD.

Effective May 1, 2014, prior authorization is required for molecular and genomic laboratory tests. Please note that admissions to Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs also must be pre-certified.

__________________________________________________________________________

This summary only highlights the key changes made to the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees. Summaries of material modifications together with the Summary Plan Description make up your official plan descriptions; please keep them together and refer to them as necessary. We have made every attempt to insure the accuracy of the information in this summary and the Summary Plan Description. However, if there is any discrepancy between them and the plan document, insurance contracts or other legal documents, the legal documents will always govern. If you would like to review the plan document or have any questions, please contact the Fund’s Member Services Representatives at (646) 473-9200.

The National Benefit Fund believes it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the Affordable Care Act). As permitted by the Affordable Care Act, a grandfathered health plan can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this plan may not include certain consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act that apply to other plans, for example, the requirement for an external review process for claims appeals. However, grandfathered health plans must comply with certain other consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act, for example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan and what might cause a plan to change from grandfathered health plan status can be directed to the plan administrator at (646) 473-9200. You may also contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor at (866) 444-3272 or www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans.

The plan sponsor of the1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees reserves the right to amend or terminate the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees, or any part of it, at any time.



A Message from / Un Mensaje de

GEORGE GRESHAMPRESIDENT / PRESIDENTE, 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST


Two years ago, Occupy Wall Street put income inequality squarely on the national agenda. Since then, politicians and best-selling authors have “discovered” that the rich are getting much richer while the rest of us barely hold our own or fall behind.

Since the 2008 economic collapse, bankers, hedge fund managers and CEOs have made out like bandits. Millionaires became multimillionaires. Billionaires became multibillionaires. Corporate profits are up 53 percent while median household income has fallen 4 percent.

Healthcare workers are on the receiving end of brute-force income disparity. Our hardworking, dedicated 1199SEIU home care workers live in or near poverty. Caregivers in the homes of the frail and elderly receive no more compensation than those who serve at fast-food counters.

In Massachusetts, Lexington Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation announced wage cuts of as much as 40 percent for some members. A Certified Nursing Assistant with 14 years seniority making almost $19 an hour would make less than $12 an hour.

In Florida, at 19 hospitals belonging to HCA, the country’s largest for-profit hospital corporation, some 10,000 members are negotiating for an increase in minimum wages and lifting wage caps for experienced employees. HCA CEO Richard Bracken received $48 million in compensation in 2012, but the corporation says it can’t afford to pay its caregivers a decent wage.

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore recently built two new 12-story towers at a cost of $1.2 billion, thanks in large part to former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg. Yet 70 percent of Johns Hopkins caregivers make less than the $14.92 hourly wage that qualifies a single parent and child for food stamps.

The workers want $15 an hour for those with at least 15 years seniority, and guarantee the rest at least $14 an hour by the end of a four-year contract. The hospital, whose profits were $94 million for the first half of the current fiscal year, is offering a 1.75 percent wage increase.

In New York, the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes, representing dozens of hospitals and nursing homes that employ over 160,000 members, reopened the contract earlier this year. The five largest health systems had revenues of over $20 billion last year. Hospital executives, with skyrocketing incomes, want us to eviscerate our hard-won, world-class healthcare benefits, while in the meantime, putting no money on the table for wage increases or bonuses for retirees.

“Power concedes nothing without a struggle. It never has and it never will,” said Frederick Douglass. We 1199ers will win what we rightfully deserve to the extent that we – all of us – are ready to fight for it.

In solidarity,

George Gresham


Hace dos años, el movimiento Occupy Wall Street colocó el tema de la desigualdad de ingresos en el centro de la agenda nacional. Desde entonces, los políticos y los autores más famosos han “descubierto” que los ricos se están volviendo más ricos mientras que el resto de nosotros con las justas aguantamos o nos rezagamos.

Desde el colapso económico de 2008, los banqueros, administradores de fondos de cobertura y los CEO han obtenido ingresos desmesurados. Los millonarios se convirtieron en multimillonarios. Los billonarios se convirtieron en multibillonarios. Las ganancias de las corporaciones subieron un 53 por ciento mientras que el ingreso promedio de los hogares ha caído un 4 por ciento.

Los trabajadores de la salud son los que más sufren la brutalidad de la disparidad de ingresos. Nuestros trabajadores de cuidados en el hogar de 1199SEIU que son tan dedicados y trabajan tan duro, viven en o cerca de la pobreza. Los cuidadores en los hogares de los débiles y ancianos no reciben una compensación mayor que los que sirven en mostradores de comida rápida.

En Massachusetts, Lexington Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation anunció recortes de salarios de tanto como el 40 por ciento para algunos miembros. Un Auxiliar certificado de enfermería con 14 años de antigüedad que gana casi $19 la hora ganaría menos de $12 la hora.

En la Florida, en 19 hospitales que pertenecen a HCA (por sus siglas en inglés), la corporación de hospitales con fines de lucro más grande del país, alrededor de 10,000 miembros están negociando un aumento en los salarios mínimos y la eliminación de los topes salariales para los empleados experimentados. El CEO de HCA, Richard Bracken, recibió $48 millones de compensación en 2012, pero la corporación dice que no puede pagar un salario decente a sus cuidadores.

El Hospital Johns Hopkins en Baltimore recientemente construyó dos nuevas torres de 12 pisos a un costo de $1.2 billones, en gran medida gracias al alcalde de Cuidad de Nueva York, Michael Bloomberg. Pero el 70 por ciento de los cuidadores de Johns Hopkins gana menos del salario de $14.92 por hora, lo que hace que un padre de familia solo y su hijo califiquen para recibir cupones de comida.

Los trabajadores piden $15 por hora para aquellos que tienen por lo menos 15 años de antigüedad, y una garantía para el resto de por lo menos $14 por hora hacia el final de un contrato de cuatro años. El hospital, cuyas ganancias fueron de $94 millones en la primera mitad del año fiscal actual, está ofreciendo un aumento salarial de 1.75 por ciento.

En Nueva York, la Liga de Hogares y Hospitales Voluntarios, que representa a docenas de hospitales y casas de reposo que dan empleo a más de 160,000 miembros, reabrió el contrato al comienzo de este año. El año pasado, los cinco sistemas de salud más grandes tuvieron ingresos superiores a $20,000 millones. Los ejecutivos de los hospitales, que ganan exorbitantes ingresos, quieren que anulemos nuestros beneficios de salud de primera categoría ganados con tanta dificultad, y a la vez no ofrecen dinero para aumentos salariales ni para bonos para jubilados.

“El poder no concede nada sin una lucha. Nunca lo ha hecho ni nunca lo hará”, dijo Frederick Douglass. Nosotros los miembros de 1199 ganaremos lo que justamente nos merecemos en la medida que nosotros, todos nosotros, estemos listos para luchar por ello.

En solidaridad,

George Gresham

ACTIVIST PAGE / PÁGINA DEL ACTIVISTA

THIS PAGE IS PAID FOR BY 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST / ESTA PÁGINA LA FINANCIA 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST

Shakespeare Class There will be no classes in July or August. Classes will resume on Tuesday, September 16.

New play coming in September!The Merchant of Venice, a story of prejudice, revenge and a monetary loan whose collateral was “a pound of flesh.”

Continuing Education Classes Available

Retirees can keep up with the latest research, clinical trends and emerging healthcare issues with the 1199SEIU League Training and Upgrading Fund’s Institute for Continuing Education (ICE). ICE offers accredited continuing education seminars and symposiums for social workers, dietitians, laboratory technologists, LPNs and more. Through a special arrangement, the three- and six-hour courses are available to retirees and cost $15 per credit/hour. Registration is required, and retirees who are interested in finding out how to sign up must call (646) 473-6916 for more information. Find a schedule of seminars and symposiums at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/Institute.

Explore an Age-Friendly College WebsiteAge-Friendly NYC College Link is an online database that connects older adults with educational and cultural opportunities at more than 40 New York City-area colleges and universities. Age-Friendly NYC is a joint initiative of the Mayor’s Office, the City Council and the New York Academy of Medicine that is dedicated to making New York a great place to enjoy your senior years.

On the website – www.agefriendlycollege.org – you can learn about programs for the liberal and creative arts, computers and technology, business, job skills, personal growth and more. Performances, lectures and physical fitness activities are also offered. We encourage you to check out this resource, which will allow you to explore new horizons and meet new friends. Log on today and see what you can learn next!

Chi Gong Classes Learn this Chinese healing art that aims to increase the body’s healthy energy. Participants perform simple movements, while both sitting and standing, that are believed to benefit the immune, circulatory and nervous systems. Classes are held four times each month in Brooklyn on Mondays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Check the calendar for exact dates.

Act Now! Come to the Drama ClassThe Drama class reads plays and screenplays aloud (no experience or memorization required) and discusses how their themes relate to daily life. Films of some works, including The Great White Hope, will also be shown. Tuesdays from 10:30 am to noon.

New Crafts Class on Mondays in Staten Island!From July 7 to August 25, we are offering a crafts class on Mondays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Please check the calendar.

Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting Classes on Tuesdays in Queens! Please check the calendar for times.

Sewing and Quilting Classes in BrooklynSewing: Tuesdays, noon to 2:00 pmQuilting: Thursdays, noon to 2:00 pmBoth classes are held at 25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street) in Rooms 4 & 5. Please check the calendar.

Starting in September!Brooklyn Quilting Class Moves to ManhattanBy popular demand, our Brooklyn quilting class will be moving to Manhattan, giving all retirees the opportunity to learn under our master quilting instructor. Beginning in September, the quilting class will be held on Fridays, from 10:00 am to noon at Fund Headquarters. We will no longer have a quilting class in Brooklyn. Please check September’s calendar for times.

Vision Screening Friday, July 18, 10:00 am to noon. First come, first served.

1199SEIU RMD, 330 West 42nd Street, 9th Floor



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710-11 Chi Gong (Brooklyn)10:30-11:30 Opera Appreciation12-1 Art History1-3 Crafts (Staten Island)

1410-11 Chi Gong (Brooklyn)10:30-11:30 Opera Appreciation12-1 Art History1-3 Crafts (Staten Island)1:30-3:30 Executive Committee Meeting


89:30-12 Photography10-11 Yoga* (Queens)10:30-12 Drama11-1 Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting (Queens)11:15-12:15 Beginners’ Yoga (Queens)12-2 Sewing (Brooklyn)12-3 Art1:30-3 Discussion Group

159:30-12 Photography10-11 Yoga* (Queens)10:30-12 Drama11-1 Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting (Queens)11:15-12:15 Beginners’ Yoga (Queens)12-2 Sewing (Brooklyn)12-3 Art1:30-3 Discussion Group2-3 Yoga (New Hyde Park)


910-11 Yoga* (Hicksville)10-12 Choral Group10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11-12 Dance (Hicksville)11:30-12:30 Yoga* (White Plains)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-2 Bingo (White Plains)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)

1610-11 Yoga* (Hicksville)10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11:30-12:30 Yoga* (White Plains)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-2 Bingo (White Plains)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)


1010-11 Tai Chi11-12 Yoga* 12-1 Lunch Club12-2 Quilting (Brooklyn)3-5 Arts & Crafts

1710-11 Tai Chi11-12 Yoga* 12-1 Lunch Club12-2 Quilting (Brooklyn)1-3 Birthday Party1-3 General Membership Meeting3-5 Arts & Crafts


1110-11 Yoga* (Brooklyn)10-11 Yoga* (Staten Island)10-12 Quilting1-2 Dance2-3 Yoga*

1810-11 Yoga* (Brooklyn)10-11 Yoga* (Staten Island)10-12 Quilting10-12 Vision Screening1-2 Dance2-3 Yoga*


4

OFFICE CLOSED

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY



All classes are held at our Manhattan

Headquarters unless otherwise indicated.

299:30-12 Photography10:30-12 Drama11-1 Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting (Queens)12-2 Sewing (Brooklyn)12-3 Art1:30-3 Discussion Group

3010-12 Choral Group10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11-12 Dance (Hicksville)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-2 Bingo (White Plains)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)

3112-1 Lunch Club12-2 Quilting (Brooklyn)3-5 Arts & Crafts


210-11 Yoga* (Hicksville)10-12 Choral Group10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11-12 Dance (Hicksville)11:30-12:30 Yoga* (White Plains)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)2:30-3:30 Bingo (White Plains)

There are no New York City chapter meetings in July and August. There will be no classes in the month of August, except for the following: Beginners’ Computer Training, Beginners’ Jewelry Making, Mad Hatter/Shoe Lover, Floral Design & Table Setting and Crafts classes in Staten Island. All other classes and chapter meetings will resume in September.

Out-of-State RetireesThere are no chapter meetings in July and August for the Florida chapters. Meetings will resume in September. If you have any questions before the September meetings, please contact Marilyn Silverberg: [email protected]; Toll-free (877) 369-8340;Palm Beach County (561) 369-8340; fax (561) 369-8342; 8775 Via Tuscany Drive • Boynton Beach, FL 33472

There are no chapter meetings in July and August for the North & South Carolinas chapter. Meetings will resume in September. If you have any questions before the September meeting, please call Nonnie B. Perry at (803) 481-0475.

All classes are open to retirees and free of charge. NYC JULY CALENDAR

QUESTIONS: CALL (646) 473-8666 • OUTSIDE NYC (800) 892-25575 July/August 2014

Yoga ClassesClasses are held four times each month, except where noted.*Please check the calendar for exact dates.

Brooklyn Fridays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street), Rooms 4 & 5

Hicksville Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am 100 Duffy Avenue, 3rd Floor

Manhattan Headquarters Thursdays, 11:00 am to noon • Fridays, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm330 West 42nd Street, 9th Floor

New Hyde Park* Tuesday, July 15, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm*(one class per month)North Shore-LIJ Cohen Children’s Medical CenterTeaching Center – Conference Room • 269-01 76th Avenue

Queens Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 amNEW! Beginners’ class, Tuesdays, 11:15 am to 12:15 pmDevore Dance Center • 205-05 Hollis Avenue, Main Floor

Staten Island Fridays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds Office790 Port Richmond Avenue (off Forest Avenue)

White Plains Wednesdays, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm1199SEIU Benefit and Pension FundsWhite Plains Office • 99 Church Street

Beginners’ Computer Training Classes in the Bronx, Brooklyn and HicksvilleSign up for a six-week beginners’ class to learn basic computer skills, including email and the Internet. If you sign up for the course, you’ll attend two classes each week. The courses are free of charge, but space is limited and classes are first come, first served. If you are interested, please call Donna Demas at (646) 473-6162 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Registration is required.

Bronx – Joseph James Chapter (two sessions offered, 9:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm)Tuesdays and Fridays, July 15 to August 22

Brooklyn – Mattie Small Chapter (1:00 pm to 3:00 pm)Mondays and Wednesdays, July 14 to August 20Tuesdays and Fridays, July 15 to August 22

Hicksville – Milton Konowe Chapter (1:15 pm to 3:15 pm)Mondays and Wednesdays, July 7 to August 13

Three New Summer Classes in July and August!Beginners’ Jewelry Making: This class will teach you the basics on designing and creating your own jewelry as well as “reinventing” some of your old pieces. (*Please note: This class is available only to retirees who are enrolling for the first time. Retirees who enrolled in last summer’s jewelry making class will not be able to sign up again.)

Mondays and Tuesdays, 3:00 pm to 5:00 pm (Note: time change – August 4 to August 12, 2:00 pm to 4:00 pm)Session 1: July 7 to August 12

Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm (Note: time change – August 29, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm)Session 2: August 7 to August 29 Mad Hatter/Shoe Lover: In this class, you’ll learn how to add stylish embellishments to your hats and shoes to brighten up your closet.


Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm (Note: time change – August 29, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm)Session 2: August 7 to August 29

Floral Design & Table Setting: Brighten up your home with colorful floral designs, and learn how to make stylish table settings that are great for summer entertaining. (*Please note: Each session meets twice. You may sign up for one session only.)

Mondays and Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pmSession 1: August 4 and August 5Session 2: August 11 and August 12 Session 3: August 18 and August 19Session 4: August 25 and August 26

Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pmSession 1: August 6 and August 7Session 2: August 13 and August 14Session 3: August 20 and August 21

Class size is limited to 15 students per class and registration is first come, first served. To sign up, call Donna Demas at (646) 473-6162 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. (Please speak clearly and slowly when leaving your name and phone number. You must speak to Donna in order to confirm that you are registered for a course.)

To learn about trip and vacation offers, call (800) 552-6262, ext. 112 & (800) 431-1130, ext. 5537.

Meeting Topics*July/August No Chapter Meetings

September Healthcare-associated Infections

October Elder Abuse

* Sponsored by HealthCare Partners, IPA



* Sp

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1410-11 Chi Gong (Brooklyn)10:30-11:30 Opera Appreciation12-1 Art History1-3 Crafts (Staten Island)1:30-3:30 Executive Committee Meeting



159:30-12 Photography10-11 Yoga* (Queens)10:30-12 Drama11-1 Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting (Queens)11:15-12:15 Beginners’ Yoga (Queens)12-2 Sewing (Brooklyn)12-3 Art1:30-3 Discussion Group2-3 Yoga (New Hyde Park)



1610-11 Yoga* (Hicksville)10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11:30-12:30 Yoga* (White Plains)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-2 Bingo (White Plains)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)



1710-11 Tai Chi11-12 Yoga* 12-1 Lunch Club12-2 Quilting (Brooklyn)1-3 Birthday Party1-3 General Membership Meeting3-5 Arts & Crafts



1810-11 Yoga* (Brooklyn)10-11 Yoga* (Staten Island)10-12 Quilting10-12 Vision Screening1-2 Dance2-3 Yoga*


4

OFFICE CLOSED

MONDAY TUESDAY WEDNESDAY THURSDAY FRIDAY



All classes are held at our Manhattan

Headquarters unless otherwise indicated.

299:30-12 Photography10:30-12 Drama11-1 Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting (Queens)12-2 Sewing (Brooklyn)12-3 Art1:30-3 Discussion Group

3010-12 Choral Group10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11-12 Dance (Hicksville)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-2 Bingo (White Plains)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)

3112-1 Lunch Club12-2 Quilting (Brooklyn)3-5 Arts & Crafts


210-11 Yoga* (Hicksville)10-12 Choral Group10-12 Knitting & Crocheting (Beg)11-12 Dance (Hicksville)11:30-12:30 Yoga* (White Plains)12:30-4:30 Knitting & Crocheting (Int/Adv)1-4 Knitting & Crocheting (Brooklyn)2:30-3:30 Bingo (White Plains)

There are no New York City chapter meetings in July and August. There will be no classes in the month of August, except for the following: Beginners’ Computer Training, Beginners’ Jewelry Making, Mad Hatter/Shoe Lover, Floral Design & Table Setting and Crafts classes in Staten Island. All other classes and chapter meetings will resume in September.

Out-of-State RetireesThere are no chapter meetings in July and August for the Florida chapters. Meetings will resume in September. If you have any questions before the September meetings, please contact Marilyn Silverberg: [email protected]; Toll-free (877) 369-8340;Palm Beach County (561) 369-8340; fax (561) 369-8342; 8775 Via Tuscany Drive • Boynton Beach, FL 33472

There are no chapter meetings in July and August for the North & South Carolinas chapter. Meetings will resume in September. If you have any questions before the September meeting, please call Nonnie B. Perry at (803) 481-0475.

All classes are open to retirees and free of charge. NYC JULY CALENDAR

QUESTIONS: CALL (646) 473-8666 • OUTSIDE NYC (800) 892-25575 July/August 2014

Yoga ClassesClasses are held four times each month, except where noted.*Please check the calendar for exact dates.

Brooklyn Fridays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street), Rooms 4 & 5

Hicksville Wednesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am 100 Duffy Avenue, 3rd Floor

Manhattan Headquarters Thursdays, 11:00 am to noon • Fridays, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm330 West 42nd Street, 9th Floor

New Hyde Park* Tuesday, July 15, 2:00 pm to 3:00 pm*(one class per month)North Shore-LIJ Cohen Children’s Medical CenterTeaching Center – Conference Room • 269-01 76th Avenue

Queens Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 11:00 amNEW! Beginners’ class, Tuesdays, 11:15 am to 12:15 pmDevore Dance Center • 205-05 Hollis Avenue, Main Floor

Staten Island Fridays, 10:00 am to 11:00 am 1199SEIU Training and Employment Funds Office790 Port Richmond Avenue (off Forest Avenue)

White Plains Wednesdays, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm1199SEIU Benefit and Pension FundsWhite Plains Office • 99 Church Street

Beginners’ Computer Training Classes in the Bronx, Brooklyn and HicksvilleSign up for a six-week beginners’ class to learn basic computer skills, including email and the Internet. If you sign up for the course, you’ll attend two classes each week. The courses are free of charge, but space is limited and classes are first come, first served. If you are interested, please call Donna Demas at (646) 473-6162 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Registration is required.

Bronx – Joseph James Chapter (two sessions offered, 9:30 am to 11:30 am and 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm)Tuesdays and Fridays, July 15 to August 22

Brooklyn – Mattie Small Chapter (1:00 pm to 3:00 pm)Mondays and Wednesdays, July 14 to August 20Tuesdays and Fridays, July 15 to August 22

Hicksville – Milton Konowe Chapter (1:15 pm to 3:15 pm)Mondays and Wednesdays, July 7 to August 13

Three New Summer Classes in July and August!Beginners’ Jewelry Making: This class will teach you the basics on designing and creating your own jewelry as well as “reinventing” some of your old pieces. (*Please note: This class is available only to retirees who are enrolling for the first time. Retirees who enrolled in last summer’s jewelry making class will not be able to sign up again.)


Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm (Note: time change – August 29, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm)Session 2: August 7 to August 29 Mad Hatter/Shoe Lover: In this class, you’ll learn how to add stylish embellishments to your hats and shoes to brighten up your closet.


Thursdays and Fridays, 1:30 pm to 4:00 pm (Note: time change – August 29, 1:30 pm to 3:00 pm)Session 2: August 7 to August 29

Floral Design & Table Setting: Brighten up your home with colorful floral designs, and learn how to make stylish table settings that are great for summer entertaining. (*Please note: Each session meets twice. You may sign up for one session only.)

Mondays and Tuesdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pmSession 1: August 4 and August 5Session 2: August 11 and August 12 Session 3: August 18 and August 19Session 4: August 25 and August 26

Wednesdays and Thursdays, 10:00 am to 1:00 pmSession 1: August 6 and August 7Session 2: August 13 and August 14Session 3: August 20 and August 21

Class size is limited to 15 students per class and registration is first come, first served. To sign up, call Donna Demas at (646) 473-6162 between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. (Please speak clearly and slowly when leaving your name and phone number. You must speak to Donna in order to confirm that you are registered for a course.)

To learn about trip and vacation offers, call (800) 552-6262, ext. 112 & (800) 431-1130, ext. 5537.

Meeting Topics*July/August No Chapter Meetings

September Healthcare-associated Infections

October Elder Abuse

* Sponsored by HealthCare Partners, IPA



A Message from / Un Mensaje de

GEORGE GRESHAMPRESIDENT / PRESIDENTE, 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST


Two years ago, Occupy Wall Street put income inequality squarely on the national agenda. Since then, politicians and best-selling authors have “discovered” that the rich are getting much richer while the rest of us barely hold our own or fall behind.

Since the 2008 economic collapse, bankers, hedge fund managers and CEOs have made out like bandits. Millionaires became multimillionaires. Billionaires became multibillionaires. Corporate profits are up 53 percent while median household income has fallen 4 percent.

Healthcare workers are on the receiving end of brute-force income disparity. Our hardworking, dedicated 1199SEIU home care workers live in or near poverty. Caregivers in the homes of the frail and elderly receive no more compensation than those who serve at fast-food counters.

In Massachusetts, Lexington Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation announced wage cuts of as much as 40 percent for some members. A Certified Nursing Assistant with 14 years seniority making almost $19 an hour would make less than $12 an hour.

In Florida, at 19 hospitals belonging to HCA, the country’s largest for-profit hospital corporation, some 10,000 members are negotiating for an increase in minimum wages and lifting wage caps for experienced employees. HCA CEO Richard Bracken received $48 million in compensation in 2012, but the corporation says it can’t afford to pay its caregivers a decent wage.

Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore recently built two new 12-story towers at a cost of $1.2 billion, thanks in large part to former New York City mayor Michael Bloomberg. Yet 70 percent of Johns Hopkins caregivers make less than the $14.92 hourly wage that qualifies a single parent and child for food stamps.

The workers want $15 an hour for those with at least 15 years seniority, and guarantee the rest at least $14 an hour by the end of a four-year contract. The hospital, whose profits were $94 million for the first half of the current fiscal year, is offering a 1.75 percent wage increase.

In New York, the League of Voluntary Hospitals and Homes, representing dozens of hospitals and nursing homes that employ over 160,000 members, reopened the contract earlier this year. The five largest health systems had revenues of over $20 billion last year. Hospital executives, with skyrocketing incomes, want us to eviscerate our hard-won, world-class healthcare benefits, while in the meantime, putting no money on the table for wage increases or bonuses for retirees.

“Power concedes nothing without a struggle. It never has and it never will,” said Frederick Douglass. We 1199ers will win what we rightfully deserve to the extent that we – all of us – are ready to fight for it.

In solidarity,

George Gresham


Hace dos años, el movimiento Occupy Wall Street colocó el tema de la desigualdad de ingresos en el centro de la agenda nacional. Desde entonces, los políticos y los autores más famosos han “descubierto” que los ricos se están volviendo más ricos mientras que el resto de nosotros con las justas aguantamos o nos rezagamos.

Desde el colapso económico de 2008, los banqueros, administradores de fondos de cobertura y los CEO han obtenido ingresos desmesurados. Los millonarios se convirtieron en multimillonarios. Los billonarios se convirtieron en multibillonarios. Las ganancias de las corporaciones subieron un 53 por ciento mientras que el ingreso promedio de los hogares ha caído un 4 por ciento.

Los trabajadores de la salud son los que más sufren la brutalidad de la disparidad de ingresos. Nuestros trabajadores de cuidados en el hogar de 1199SEIU que son tan dedicados y trabajan tan duro, viven en o cerca de la pobreza. Los cuidadores en los hogares de los débiles y ancianos no reciben una compensación mayor que los que sirven en mostradores de comida rápida.

En Massachusetts, Lexington Center for Nursing and Rehabilitation anunció recortes de salarios de tanto como el 40 por ciento para algunos miembros. Un Auxiliar certificado de enfermería con 14 años de antigüedad que gana casi $19 la hora ganaría menos de $12 la hora.

En la Florida, en 19 hospitales que pertenecen a HCA (por sus siglas en inglés), la corporación de hospitales con fines de lucro más grande del país, alrededor de 10,000 miembros están negociando un aumento en los salarios mínimos y la eliminación de los topes salariales para los empleados experimentados. El CEO de HCA, Richard Bracken, recibió $48 millones de compensación en 2012, pero la corporación dice que no puede pagar un salario decente a sus cuidadores.

El Hospital Johns Hopkins en Baltimore recientemente construyó dos nuevas torres de 12 pisos a un costo de $1.2 billones, en gran medida gracias al alcalde de Cuidad de Nueva York, Michael Bloomberg. Pero el 70 por ciento de los cuidadores de Johns Hopkins gana menos del salario de $14.92 por hora, lo que hace que un padre de familia solo y su hijo califiquen para recibir cupones de comida.

Los trabajadores piden $15 por hora para aquellos que tienen por lo menos 15 años de antigüedad, y una garantía para el resto de por lo menos $14 por hora hacia el final de un contrato de cuatro años. El hospital, cuyas ganancias fueron de $94 millones en la primera mitad del año fiscal actual, está ofreciendo un aumento salarial de 1.75 por ciento.

En Nueva York, la Liga de Hogares y Hospitales Voluntarios, que representa a docenas de hospitales y casas de reposo que dan empleo a más de 160,000 miembros, reabrió el contrato al comienzo de este año. El año pasado, los cinco sistemas de salud más grandes tuvieron ingresos superiores a $20,000 millones. Los ejecutivos de los hospitales, que ganan exorbitantes ingresos, quieren que anulemos nuestros beneficios de salud de primera categoría ganados con tanta dificultad, y a la vez no ofrecen dinero para aumentos salariales ni para bonos para jubilados.

“El poder no concede nada sin una lucha. Nunca lo ha hecho ni nunca lo hará”, dijo Frederick Douglass. Nosotros los miembros de 1199 ganaremos lo que justamente nos merecemos en la medida que nosotros, todos nosotros, estemos listos para luchar por ello.

En solidaridad,

George Gresham

ACTIVIST PAGE / PÁGINA DEL ACTIVISTA

THIS PAGE IS PAID FOR BY 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST / ESTA PÁGINA LA FINANCIA 1199SEIU UNITED HEALTHCARE WORKERS EAST

Shakespeare Class There will be no classes in July or August. Classes will resume on Tuesday, September 16.

New play coming in September!The Merchant of Venice, a story of prejudice, revenge and a monetary loan whose collateral was “a pound of flesh.”

Continuing Education Classes Available

Retirees can keep up with the latest research, clinical trends and emerging healthcare issues with the 1199SEIU League Training and Upgrading Fund’s Institute for Continuing Education (ICE). ICE offers accredited continuing education seminars and symposiums for social workers, dietitians, laboratory technologists, LPNs and more. Through a special arrangement, the three- and six-hour courses are available to retirees and cost $15 per credit/hour. Registration is required, and retirees who are interested in finding out how to sign up must call (646) 473-6916 for more information. Find a schedule of seminars and symposiums at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org/Institute.

Explore an Age-Friendly College WebsiteAge-Friendly NYC College Link is an online database that connects older adults with educational and cultural opportunities at more than 40 New York City-area colleges and universities. Age-Friendly NYC is a joint initiative of the Mayor’s Office, the City Council and the New York Academy of Medicine that is dedicated to making New York a great place to enjoy your senior years.

On the website – www.agefriendlycollege.org – you can learn about programs for the liberal and creative arts, computers and technology, business, job skills, personal growth and more. Performances, lectures and physical fitness activities are also offered. We encourage you to check out this resource, which will allow you to explore new horizons and meet new friends. Log on today and see what you can learn next!

Chi Gong Classes Learn this Chinese healing art that aims to increase the body’s healthy energy. Participants perform simple movements, while both sitting and standing, that are believed to benefit the immune, circulatory and nervous systems. Classes are held four times each month in Brooklyn on Mondays from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Check the calendar for exact dates.

Act Now! Come to the Drama ClassThe Drama class reads plays and screenplays aloud (no experience or memorization required) and discusses how their themes relate to daily life. Films of some works, including The Great White Hope, will also be shown. Tuesdays from 10:30 am to noon.

New Crafts Class on Mondays in Staten Island!From July 7 to August 25, we are offering a crafts class on Mondays from 1:00 pm to 3:00 pm. Please check the calendar.

Beginners’ Knitting & Crocheting Classes on Tuesdays in Queens! Please check the calendar for times.

Sewing and Quilting Classes in BrooklynSewing: Tuesdays, noon to 2:00 pmQuilting: Thursdays, noon to 2:00 pmBoth classes are held at 25 Elm Place (off Fulton Street) in Rooms 4 & 5. Please check the calendar.

Starting in September!Brooklyn Quilting Class Moves to ManhattanBy popular demand, our Brooklyn quilting class will be moving to Manhattan, giving all retirees the opportunity to learn under our master quilting instructor. Beginning in September, the quilting class will be held on Fridays, from 10:00 am to noon at Fund Headquarters. We will no longer have a quilting class in Brooklyn. Please check September’s calendar for times.

Vision Screening Friday, July 18, 10:00 am to noon. First come, first served.

1199SEIU RMD, 330 West 42nd Street, 9th Floor



President’s MessageMensaje de la Presidenta


As we enjoy these wonderful summer months with family and friends, I want to begin by thanking each and every one of you for your commitment to helping our retirees – and each other – by remaining “Retired but Active!” I am especially proud of all of you who volunteer at our local chapters and in our Retired Members Department. Volunteerism is a rewarding way to stay alive and well – and I am continually inspired by the spirit of cooperation and unity among our 1199SEIU retirees.

I know the warm temperatures can make it tough for many of us to stay active outdoors, but another great way to get moving, keep in touch with fellow retirees and even make some new friends is by visiting our Retired Members Department at the Fund’s Manhattan Headquarters. Inside the cool confines of the ninth floor, you’ll find a variety of activities Monday through Friday, including dance, drama, arts and crafts, quilting and photography, to name a few. There are also yoga, Chi Gong and Tai Chi classes in Manhattan and at our Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island and Long Island chapters to help keep your body – and mind – healthy.

Please save this bulletin or check the schedule at www.1199SEIUBenefits.org for a list of classes, and remember, even one new activity can be that all-important first step toward a healthier, fuller life. Of course, to properly care for ourselves, I urge any of my sisters and brothers who have yet to see their healthcare provider this year for an annual wellness visit to schedule an appointment. Remember, the way to stay healthy is through a nutritious diet, an active lifestyle and regular check-ups and preventive screenings that can spot a warning sign before it becomes something more serious.

In closing, I’d like to thank all of you who have stayed current with your Union dues and ask those of you who have lapsed to please restart your contributions. Paying your dues is an important part of helping to keep our organization strong and expressing our commitment to the future generations of 1199SEIU members.

In solidarity, Lena Hayes


A medida que disfrutamos de estos maravillosos meses de verano con la familia y los amigos, quiero comenzar por agradecer a cada uno de ustedes su compromiso en ayudar a nuestros jubilados, y entre sí, al mantenerse “Jubilados pero Activos”. Estoy especialmente orgullosa de todos los que se ofrecieron como voluntarios en nuestras agrupaciones locales y en nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados. El voluntariado es una forma gratificante de mantenerse vivos y con buena salud, y me siento continuamente inspirada por el espíritu de cooperación y unidad que existe entre nuestros jubilados de 1199SEIU.

Reconozco que las temperaturas elevadas pueden hacer que para muchos de nosotros sea más difícil permanecer activos al aire libre, pero otra gran forma de estar activos, de mantenerse en contacto con compañeros jubilados e incluso hacer nuevos amigos es visitando nuestro Departamento de Miembros Jubilados en la sede de los Fondos en Manhattan. Dentro del ambiente fresco del noveno piso, encontrarán una variedad de actividades de lunes a viernes, incluidos baile, teatro, artes y manualidades, elaboración de colchas y fotografía, solo por nombrar algunos. También se ofrecen clases de yoga, Chi Gong y Tai Chi en Manhattan y en nuestras agrupaciones locales de Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island y Long Island para mantener saludable su cuerpo y su mente.

Guarde este boletín o consulte el horario en www.1199SEIUBenefits.org para obtener una lista de clases, y recuerde, tan solo una nueva actividad puede ser ese primer paso muy importante hacia una vida más saludable y más plena. Por supuesto, para el debido cuidado de sí mismos, rogaría a todos mis hermanas y hermanos que aún no han visitado a su proveedor de atención de la salud este año para una consulta anual de bienestar, que programen una cita lo más pronto posible. Recuerden, la forma de permanecer saludable es a través de una dieta nutritiva, un estilo de vida activo y chequeos regulares y evaluaciones preventivas que puedan detectar una señal de advertencia antes de que se convierta en algo más grave.

Para terminar, me gustaría agradecer a todos ustedes que se han mantenido al día con sus cuotas del Sindicato y pedirles a aquellos que se hayan retrasado que por favor reinicien sus contribuciones. Pagar sus cuotas es una forma importante de ayudar a mantener sólida nuestra organización y expresar nuestro compromiso con las generaciones futuras de miembros de 1199SEIU.

En solidaridad, Lena Hayes

As a result of a historic Supreme Court decision holding that the federal law restricting the definition of “spouse” to opposite-sex couples was unconstitutional, the trustees amended the Plan to recognize same-sex spouses married under state law.

1199SEIU HEALTH CARE EMPLOYEES PENSION FUND SUMMARY OF MATERIAL MODIFICATIONS

This Summary of Material Modifications describes changes that affect your pension plan and updates the Summary Plan Description (“SPD”) that was previously distributed to you. You should keep this summary with your current SPD until the booklet is updated to reflect the changes discussed herein.

The 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund (“Plan”) is amended by adding the following underlined language and removing the following stricken language:

SECTION 1 DEFINITIONSPg. 141 1.42 Wherever used in this Plan, the term “spouse” means the person of the opposite gender to whom a Participant is legally married, as recognized under applicable law, (as determined in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which he resided) and the term “marriage” shall refer to the marriage of a Participant and his or her “spouse.” A former spouse may be treated as a Participant’s spouse to the extent required under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, as defined in Section 414(p) of the Code.

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The SPD is hereby amended by adding the following underlined language and removing the following stricken language:

SECTION VI. B RULES REGARDING ALL BENEFIT OPTIONS Pg. 69 ABOUT YOUR SPOUSE For Plan purposes, your “Spouse” is a the person of the opposite gender to whom you are legally married, as recognized under applicable law, (determined in accordance with the laws of the jurisdiction in which you live) when your pension begins.

A former Spouse may be treated as your Spouse if required by law (for example, under a court Qualified Domestic Relations Order (QDRO), as defined on page 91). A former Spouse can be assigned a portion of your pension as an “Alternate Payee” in accordance with a QDRO.

SECTION XII KEY TERMS AND DEFINITIONSPg. 126 Spouse A person of the opposite gender to whom you are legally married, as recognized under applicable law (determined in accordance with the laws of the state in which you live). For Plan purposes, a former Spouse may be treated as your Spouse to the extent required by law (for example, under a Qualified Domestic Relations Order, as defined in the Internal Revenue Code.)__________________________________________________________________________

This summary only highlights the key changes made to the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund. Summaries of material modifications together with the Summary Plan Description make up your official plan descriptions; please keep them together and refer to them as necessary. We have made every attempt to insure the accuracy of the information in this summary and the Summary Plan Description. However, if there is any discrepancy between them and the plan document or other legal documents, the plan document and other legal documents will always govern. If you would like to review the plan document or have any questions, please contact the Fund’s Member Services Representatives at (646) 473-9200.

The plan sponsor of the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the 1199SEIU Health Care Employees Pension Fund, or any part of it, at any time.

If you currently receive 55/10 Early Retiree benefits, you will have a onetime option to change from your current prescription and vision plan to the hospital indemnity, dental and vision plan described below. You will receive more details in the mail in the next several weeks.

1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health and Human Service EmployeesSummary of Material Modifications

This Summary of Material Modifications describes changes that affect your welfare benefit plan and updates the Summary Plan Description (“SPD”) that was previously distributed to you. You should keep this summary with your current SPD until the booklet is updated to reflect the changes discussed herein.

The following changes to the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees (“Benefit Fund”) SPD apply:

Effective October 1, 2014, to establish for certain Early Retirees who retire with Wage Class I benefits a non-minimum essential coverage benefit package for members and spouses only, Early Retirees between the ages of 55 and 64 with at least 10 years of Pension Fund Credits (SPD Section VI.F) and their spouses and the benefits for eligible pre-Medicare spouses of Medicare-eligible members as described in Sections VI. C, D and E of the SPD (together, “Early Retirees”) may choose either the benefit package they are entitled to under the Current SPD or the following benefit package:

1. Vision Care as described in SPD Section VI.F. 2. A per diem “hospital indemnity” benefit, with the following limitations: a. Payable to members and spouses admitted to a hospital; b. Limited to $200 per day of hospital admission; and c. Limited to a maximum of 10 days per hospital stay. 3. Member Choice dental benefits described in Section II.K of the Current SPD. 4. Upon the Early Retiree becoming eligible for Medicare, benefits revert to the retiree health benefits described in the Current SPD as applicable.

Effective April 1, 2014, SPD Sections VI.B, C and D shall (i) provide that if you live in New York City, Nassau County, Suffolk County, or designated counties in Florida, you must enroll in the Benefit Fund Medicare Program in order to receive retiree health benefits through the Benefit Fund, and (ii) clarify that retirees who retired with Wage Class ll or III coverage are excluded from the Benefit Fund’s Medicare Program.

Effective April 1, 2014, (i) any Wage Class III benefits that would qualify as “minimum essential coverage” under regulations pursuant to the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act and are not otherwise excepted under the law are hereby eliminated; (ii) Wage Class III shall be eligible for the Member Choice dental benefits described in Section II.K of the Current SPD (for members only); and (iii) Wage Class III benefits shall include a per diem “hospital indemnity” benefit (for members only), payable to members admitted to a hospital, limited to $200 per day of hospital admission up to a maximum of 10 days per hospital stay. Coverage shall be extended for an additional thirty days for Wage Class I and II participants who, due to a reduction in earnings, would otherwise be reduced to Wage Class III benefits under the terms of the Current SPD.

Effective May 1, 2014, prior authorization is required for molecular and genomic laboratory tests. Please note that admissions to Partial Hospitalization and Intensive Outpatient Programs also must be pre-certified.

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This summary only highlights the key changes made to the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees. Summaries of material modifications together with the Summary Plan Description make up your official plan descriptions; please keep them together and refer to them as necessary. We have made every attempt to insure the accuracy of the information in this summary and the Summary Plan Description. However, if there is any discrepancy between them and the plan document, insurance contracts or other legal documents, the legal documents will always govern. If you would like to review the plan document or have any questions, please contact the Fund’s Member Services Representatives at (646) 473-9200.

The National Benefit Fund believes it is a “grandfathered health plan” under the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act (the Affordable Care Act). As permitted by the Affordable Care Act, a grandfathered health plan can preserve certain basic health coverage that was already in effect when that law was enacted. Being a grandfathered health plan means that this plan may not include certain consumer protections of the Affordable Care Act that apply to other plans, for example, the requirement for an external review process for claims appeals. However, grandfathered health plans must comply with certain other consumer protections in the Affordable Care Act, for example, the elimination of lifetime limits on benefits. Questions regarding which protections apply and which protections do not apply to a grandfathered health plan and what might cause a plan to change from grandfathered health plan status can be directed to the plan administrator at (646) 473-9200. You may also contact the Employee Benefits Security Administration, U.S. Department of Labor at (866) 444-3272 or www.dol.gov/ebsa/healthreform. This website has a table summarizing which protections do and do not apply to grandfathered health plans.

The plan sponsor of the1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees reserves the right to amend or terminate the 1199SEIU National Benefit Fund for Health & Human Service Employees, or any part of it, at any time.


Documents

1199SEIU Benefit and Pension Funds nd Non-Profit Org. U.S ......¡Esperamos verlo pronto en una de las reuniones de agrupación o en las clases! Atentamente, Este número del Boletín