The 38th annual legislative caucus sponsored by the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican and Asian Legislators in mid-February highlighted the state budget, civil and labor rights in the workplace, student achievement and immigrant-family reunification. Raul Huerta of the UUP chapter at SUNY Morrisville, gave a presentation on workforce development for Latinos and African-Americans. UFT Vice President Michael Mulgrew participated in the "Securing Our Future" panel. NYSUT hosted a booth at the event, which also included exhibits on business and careers, a craft exhibition and information from different state agencies. Photo by El-Wise Noisette.

Unionist stricken at caucus event

Participants at the New York State Association of Black, Puerto Rican and Asian Legislators caucus were shocked when longtime activist Amando G. Blasse was stricken early in the proceedings. Blasse, the District 13 representative and Brooklyn political action coordinator for the United Federation of Teachers, was preparing for a full day of seminars and meetings with elected officials when he collapsed. He was taken to an Albany hospital where he later died. See full obituary.