Nurse says he was nearly killed by patient on Staten Island: ‘I don’t remember the day that changed my life’
Staten Island Live interviewed PEF nurse administrator Peter Shiffman, who was attacked by a patient at South Beach Psychiatric Center on Sept. 17, 2024, and will never fully recover. Peter’s case, and others around the State, were the reason PEF launched its anti- Workplace Violence campaign. The Shiffman family has set up a GoFundMe page to help offset the cost of Peter’s care.
Governor’s SUNY Downstate announcement
amNY quoted President Wayne Spence in its article on the $1.1 billion investment in SUNY Downstate Hospital, recognizing the efforts of labor leaders, the clergy, community members, and legislators to keep this vital public health institution in Brooklyn.
“Downstate has endured decades of disinvestment and neglect. That ends today,” Spence said at the press conference inside the hospital with Governor Hochul. “We started with the slogan ‘Brooklyn needs Downstate.’ Now… Brooklyn HAS Downstate!”
Bringing PEF’s anti-Workplace Bullying & Violence message nationwide
VP Randi DiAntonio joined fellow public employee leaders for a panel discussion on mobilizing and building power at the AFT Public Employees Professional Issues Conference May 29 to 31 in Denver, Colorado.
DiAntonio shared how the union stepped up to support members at Buffalo Psychiatric Center after three workers there were stabbed on the job in April 2024. The attacks launched a statewide public awareness campaign, with PEF leaders and staff informing members of their rights and what to do in the event of workplace violence.