Next Monthly Union Meeting, May 8, 2012 at 4:15 p.m. 

During the week of February 12 thru February February 15, 2012, members of the E-Board attended the 2012 AFGE Legislative Conference in Washington D.C. The E-Board met with staff and even the Congressmen themselves during the conference. The following Congressman and Senator Offices were visited during the week.

Monday February 13

Congressman Leonared Lance
Congressman Rodney Frelinghuysen
Congressman Rush Holt
Congressman Steve Rothman

Tuesday February 14

Senator Frank Lautenburg
Senator Robert Menendez
Congressman Chris Smith
Congressman Bill Pascrell

Wednesday February 15

Congressman Mike Fitzpatrick
Congressman Frank LoBiondo
Congressman John Runyan
 

Photo Left to Right: Michael Smith, Glen Greve, V.P. Michelle Fischer,
Congressman Runyan, President Brian Kokotajlo, V.P. Ray Price

Among some of the topics discussed: We ask for support for HR 1175, which would allow a pilot program to be introduced to allow pepper spray to be used by Correctional Officers, We asked for Congress to Stop the attacks against Federal Employees and our pay and pension, Support to correct the continued Pay Parity issue that continues to exhist at the Joint Base for wage grade employees.

Congressman Tours FCI Fort Dix

Congressman Runyan (center), Richard Figueroa, Union President, (center, left)
and Donna Zickefoose, Warden (center, right)

On Thursday, April 21, the Honorable John Runyan, U.S. Representative for the 3^rd District of New Jersey, along with three staff members visited FCI Fort Dix. The group met with Warden Zickefoose, the executive staff and local union officials before touring the facility.

They were particularly interested in institution operations and to see first-hand how staff interacts with inmates. The group was impressed with the size of the facility and the numerous programs offered through UNICOR, Psychology Services, Education and Recreation, Food Service and the Health Services Departments. They were equally impressed with the cleanliness of the facility and the professional and hospitable staff.

A special thanks goes out to AFGE Local 2001 Legislative Coordinator Michael Smith for his persistence with communicating with the Congressman's office for making this visit happen.