By BOB DEMARCO, 1 AUG 2017
The midway point of the 2017 VOTE COPE campaign has arrived and as of June 30, the Capital Region continues to do well. Contributions by active members are up 4.41% on June 30, 2017, as compared to June 30, 2016. Statewide contributions are up 4.35% for that same period.
Retiree contributions are calculated two different ways. Some locals, such as the Albany TA, include retirees in their local and the local has the responsibility of contacting their retirees to encourage them to contribute. It is difficult to calculate the progress of this group. Those retirees who are not included in their local receive their contribution information from NYSUT, usually in the fall. As of July, contributions by retirees are down 16%. Hopefully, this will change once 2017 contribution materials are distributed by NYSUT.
When you receive your contribution information please consider contributing $5 per month or increasing your current contribution. As you know, it is one of the most selfish things you can contribute to.