The view from the windows of Captain Bill’s Restaurant in Bay Shore was hazy and smoke-filled due to the Canadian wildfires, but the atmosphere inside a roomful of retirees was spirited and happy. Retiree Council 23 (RC 23) held its spring luncheon there June 7. Much was discussed and brought to our attention, including:  NYSHIP changes (recently published and distributed in the Empire Plan Special Report), Medicare, the need for continued VOTE-COPE donations, the state of Tier 6 employees in terms of pension and contributions, and how far we have progressed as a union over the years.

A special guest was recognized as well, as the RC 23 COMMUNITY SERVICES award-winner ~ Christine Pendergast, wife of deceased R-UTN member, Chris Pendergast. She offered us words of wisdom and much gratitude for supporting Chris’s legacy, the ALS Ride for Life.

It was an informative, enjoyable couple of hours! The next luncheon will be held in October, and the Retiree Conference will also take place that month at the Marriott on Route 110. Stay tuned for details later in the summer.