Dear ,

As we immerse ourselves in the festive spirit of this holiday season, we at GFT wish to extend our heartfelt greetings to each of you and your loved ones. This period of reflection and celebration offers us an opportunity to look back on our achievements and the challenges we've overcome together.

A Year of Strength and Solidarity: Your unwavering dedication and commitment throughout the year have been pivotal in our collective efforts. We're truly grateful for your contributions across various government agencies on our island, and we proudly acknowledge the difference you make in our community.

Warm Holiday Wishes: In the midst of these celebrations, we send you our warmest wishes for a joyous Christmas and a prosperous New Year. May this season bring you peace, happiness, and well-deserved rest.

Exciting News from the Civil Service Commission: We want to share with you some recent developments from the CSC that reflect our ongoing commitment to fairness and justice:

1. LM vs. DOE: LM appealed against the Department of Education and won. As a result, LM was reinstated with full back pay and benefits after waiting for three years.
2. JG vs. OAG: JG won her appeal against the Office of the Attorney General. Though she chose not to return to the OAG, the adverse action will be rescinded, and she will receive all back pay and benefits.
3. CI vs. GPD: CI and GPD reached a settlement in a dispute over differential pay, resulting in a positive outcome for CI and including back pay.
4. JC vs. CQA: JC's grievance for the inclusion of CQA in the 24% recruitment and retention pay for officers, highlighting a critical staffing shortage at CQA and the support from both CSC and CQA management.

These outcomes are a testament to our collective strength and the importance of standing together for fair treatment in our workplaces. The importance of being a union member means that you do not have to face adverse actions on your own. Taking legal action for wrongful termination or unfair treatment at work can be very expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars. Fortunately for GFT members, you may receive legal representation until you win your case.

Retirement Planning - The Defined Benefit 1.75 Plan: Looking ahead, we encourage you to consider the Defined Benefit (DB) 1.75 Plan, especially if you have been or plan to be with the government for over 10 years. This plan offers several benefits, including a guaranteed lifetime income, potentially higher benefits, earlier retirement options, and disability and survivor benefits. However, it also means a shift from a portable account balance to a service-based plan and a commitment to a longer government service career. We advise you to review these options carefully as the election window for this plan closes on December 29, 2023. If you do plan on making the switch, bring an ID to the Government of Guam Retirement Fund.

We're Here to Help: If you have questions or need assistance regarding these updates or the DB 1.75 Plan, please don't hesitate to reach out. Our team is ready to support you in making informed decisions about your future.

In Closing: As we step into 2024, let's continue to work together for the betterment of our community. Your role in our union is invaluable, and we look forward to another year of growth and achievement.

Thank you for being an integral part of GFT. Merry Christmas, Happy New Year, and here's to a bright and successful year ahead!

Warm regards,

GFT Staff and Executive Council

Sick Leave Donation

Richard Bossy, a long-standing and dedicated member of our union since January 2012, is currently dealing with a difficult health situation since September. Richard has always been there for us, contributing his time and efforts for the betterment of our union. Now, it's our turn to stand with him in his time of need.

We are calling for sick leave donations to support Richard during this difficult period. The power of our union lies not just in our collective bargaining or in standing up for our rights, but profoundly in how we take care of each other. In moments like these, our collective strength is more than just a concept—it's a lifeline.

Your donation of sick leave can make a significant difference in Richard's life, providing him the much-needed time to recover without the added stress of financial strain. This act of solidarity is what makes our union not just a collective, but a community.

To donate, please contact thelma@gftunion.com or call (671)735-4390. Every contribution, no matter how small, counts. Your generosity in these times is a testament to the compassion and unity that defines us.

Let us remember that our union is at its strongest when we support each other. Today, it is Richard who needs our help; tomorrow, it could be any one of us. Let's show the true power of our solidarity.

Thank you for considering this urgent request. Your support can truly make a difference in a fellow member's life.

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