Polar Plunge 2019

27 degrees was no big deal for CSEA members who participated in the 19th Annual Rochester Polar Plunge at Ontario Beach Park on February 10th. Over $250,000 was raised for this annual event. Prior to the plunge CSEA Region 6 was presented with a plaque honoring the late Flo Tripi who was a generous donor of the Special Olympics. In the future the award going to the largest donor will be named the “Flo Tripi Top Fundraiser” award. CSEA Region 6 President Kathy Button was on hand to receive the award in honor of Flo and to also award a check for $2,000.00 to go toward the Special Olympics which was raised by CSEA members.

Accepting Scholarship Applications for 2019

Since 1993, CSEA Monroe County Local 828 and its major Units have awarded over $125,000 in scholarship prize money. In 1994, the Monroe County Employees Unit 7400, the largest Unit in the Local, created their own scholarship program and has distributed more than $26,000.

Mr. Growney was a long time labor leader and activist who was employed as a probation officer with Monroe County. He served as local president for nearly two decades before his retirement in 1995. George had a passion for kids to succeed, and would be proud that his union brothers and sisters have carried on his legacy of love and commitment to youth. George M. Growney died on August 10, 1997. The scholarship program was named in his honor the following year after his death.

“Giving out scholarships to our members children is one of my favorite things to do as Local President.” said Bess Watts, President of Local 828. She added, “It’s very rewarding to know we are helping our young people succeed in life and giving back to our community. Furthermore, they learn about the value of belonging to a Union. ”

CSEA Local 828 Scholarships are open to graduating high school seniors whose parents and caregivers are CSEA members of Monroe County Local 828. The scholarship committees have reviewed thousands of applications in the past 26 years, demonstrating a significant need of financial resources for young adults continuing their formal education. Scholarship applicants are judged on academic achievement, a written essay, financial need and potential.

George M. Growney Memorial Scholarships Local 828 and Unit 7400 applications are available by contacting your workplace CSEA representative or by downloading the application and other materials here:

Eligibility and Requirements Checklist

High School Transcript Request

Scholarship Application

For more scholarship information, you can go to our Voice Reporter Scholarship page or call Barbara at HQ 585-328-5250.   

Our Hearts Are Broken

We are mourning the loss of CSEA Monroe County Unit member Jeffrey Farrell, who passed away while doing his job for the county’s Pure Waters Division on Friday, Jan 18. Our deepest condolences go out to Jeffrey’s loved ones, including his county co-workers and our CSEA Local 828 Monroe County members.

County Executive Cheryl Dinolfo has ordered flags to half-staff through Thursday in honor of CSEA member Jeffrey Farrell.

“Like many across our community, I am heartbroken by the recent passing of Jeffrey Farrell, a member of our Monroe County Pure Waters division," Dinolfo said. "Jeffrey is one of 4,500 dedicated County employees who go to work each day in service to their fellow neighbors throughout Monroe County. His passing while on the job is tragic and the depth of his loss will be felt within the family of Monroe for years to come."

Jim D’Amico, CSEA Monroe County Unit President “the loss of Jeff in such a tragic accident reminds us all of how vulnerable public employees can be.  My thoughts and prayers go out to his family in their time of sorrow”.  Calling hours are scheduled for Wednesday, January 23 from 4-7 pm at the Leo M. Bean and Sons Funeral Home at 2771 Chili Avenue. A funeral mass is scheduled for Thursday, January 24 at 10 am at St. Helen’s Church, located at 310 Hinchey Road.

In lieu of flowers, the family asks that donations be made to the Ronald McDonald House.

Wreaths Across America

Each December the National Wreaths Across America coordinate wreath-laying ceremonies across the country.   CSEA members took part in this ceremony at Bath National Cemetery.   It was a very moving experience that we will continue to do annually.   It is an honor to remember those who served in our Armed Forces.

Next year the ceremony will take place on December 14, 2019 if you would like to volunteer.

Happy Holidays From CSEA Local 828