Congratulations on completing a safe summer and insuring the protection of the residents and guests of the New York State Parks and the Department of Environmental Protection. We all do a great job of Lifeguard and First Responder work and it is appreciated. The following is an update on issues being addressed.Negotiations:We have been in communication with UUP, our parent Union, about our needs for the upcoming contract.Our first issue is to complete a salary package that will reflect the current economic needs of our members with an increase in pay. Members have asked if the summer of 2016 will be included in an increase. This, as well as all salary items, are subjects of negotiations. I can say that based on passed policy in order to receive a payout you will need to be actively working in our bargaining unit to qualify.We have also requested that discussions take place to initiate some form of a partial college tuition waiver for S.U.N.Y. Schools.Our intention is to keep the current language for our work rules and local Agreements.Election:We have concluded the 2016 Elections and the results are posted on the New York State Lifeguard Website.The Union is also currently examining a question presented by a member on the election process and what has been agreed on, and what is appropriate procedures according to U.U.P.Staffing:We encountered challenges with end of season staffing across the entire State Park System and the Department of Environmental Conservation. These concerns will be discussed at length this winter with the N.Y. State Water Safety Director and with Agency in the local regions.Grievance Activity:We resolved a problem with vacation time with one of our 12 month part time full year Lifeguards, and will be meeting with the Regional Director for the N.Y. City Region to put in place a policy for those members. We are also pursuing a problem in Staten Island Connolly Pool O.P.W.D.D. with appropriate staffing and scheduling of Union Lifeguards.Equipment:We are having open discussions with the N.Y. State Water Safety Director about purchasing and improving lifeguard equipment. This summer the Long Island Region (Jones Beach Lifeguard Corps) received new stand up paddlers for still water beaches at the expense of the Water Safety Department . We are looking to improve wing-stands in Montauk for the 2017 season. If you have any concerns on equipment let your local Regional Delegate know or you may reach out to me.Train Learn Compete:We were once again supportive of the Central Region Lifeguard Tournament with a grant to cover all the operating expenses and supporting our members going. If you are looking for grant support from an event you attended this year you can apply through the TLC Grant Application posted on our Web site.Upcoming meetings:The N.Y.S.L.C. will host it's winter meeting in Saratoga inJanuary or February. The date will soon be determined.JBLC hosts a Beach Representative meeting monthly. October meeting will be 10/11 in Woodbury N.Y.Contact President Derek Angermaier for details.In closing:We have had a successful summer and look forward to the challenges of continuing to build our Union.