FA call for increased member participation: In last year’s negotiations surveys, we were thrilled to see that a good portion of our members—both full time (42% of respondents) and adjunct (29% of respondents)—“somewhat” or “strongly” agree that they are willing to become more involved in FA activities. Since our negotiations surveys are completely confidential, however, we have no way of knowing which of our members responded in the positive.

Thus we are asking that everyone who does feel ready, willing and able to get involved and/or to join a committee to let us know. There is much to do, with so many things changing at the college. You can email info@fascc.org or cynthia@fascc.org and indicate what kinds of contributions interest you most. We have a number of committees called into being in the contract and in our Constitution & Bylaws as well as several ad hoc committees, including the following:

Election committee
College personnel committee
Conflict mediation
Communication committee
Professors on Wheels
Making Strides Against Breast Cancer
New member committee
Health & safety committee
Political action committee
JEDI Institute/social justice
Member excellence awards committee



Did you know? You could lose your Benefit Fund benefits if you're not an active member for ten years before retirement: To address member concerns in our post-Janus environment about the possibility of supporting free riders, the FA Benefit Fund passed the following resolution—and we want to make sure all members are aware:



Eligible members who retire may elect to continue coverage for the package of benefits offered by the Fund for retirees and their eligible family members for as long as the applicable self-pay contributions set by the Fund are paid. The retiree must also have maintained active membership in the Union, as defined by its Constitution, for the ten years preceding retirement. At the time of retirement, the retiree must be an active member in good standing of the Union or if on approved leave, a member in good standing, and thereafter must maintain membership in the Union and pay the required union dues.

• Doctors' visits 24/7 and on the go: With the ongoing uncertainty of the pandemic, we remind you that eligible FA members are encouraged to try the telemedicine service provided by our health plan. Board-certified doctors, including pediatricians, can consult with you about a variety of common conditions (non-emergency medical issues) over the phone or by secure video or app—and can send any necessary scripts to your local pharmacy. This helps you avoid the inconvenience of waiting in the doctor's office for relatively minor concerns.
  
  Give it try! Call 800-709-8390. Help is available 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year.

• Check your accruals: The FA reminds members to periodically check the number of their accrued vacation and sick days in MySCCC.