Association of Former New York State Troopers, Inc.

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- In Memoriam: Todd J. Skala, Family Member
Todd James Skala Todd Skala is the brother of Long Island Chapter Member Keith Skala. Todd James Skala June 6, 2026 Todd Skala passed away peacefully at his home surrounded by the love of his family on June 6, 2026, at the age of 58 years old. Todd grew up in Smithtown, New York, raised by his selfless mother alongside his older brother and younger sister. He enjoyed spending time with his grandparents and playing outdoors with his cousins. He attended Smithtown East High School. He received his bachelor’s degree from Wagner College, NY, with a major in History and a minor in Education. During his time at Wagner College, he was a Division I baseball athlete – living out his dream playing the sport he loved since he was little. He was also a leader and member of the Theta Chi Fraternity, where he met many of his lifelong friends. He later went on to receive his master’s degree at Stony Brook University. In 1993, Todd met the love of his life and his true companion in Las Vegas. They were married within a year and began building their life and raising their family in East Quogue, New York. Throughout his educational journey, Todd found his passion for teaching and coaching, a career which ultimately stretched over 30 years at Eastport South Manor School District. Todd taught History and AP Psychology, and coached Varsity Golf and Baseball – positively impacting the lives of thousands of young students and athletes for decades. Most of all, Todd will be remembered for the love that he provided for his family and loved ones. Todd was a devoted son to his mother, Arlene Skala, a supportive brother to his siblings, Keith Skala and Jill Richer, and a loving husband of 32 years to his wife, Gina Skala. He was a constant role model and an everlasting inspiration to his five children– Kennedy Koonce, Madison Campbell, Tyler Skala, McKinley Skala, and Grant Skala. Todd was also a grandfather to his grandson, Hudson Koonce, a caring uncle, and a dedicated friend. Throughout his fulfilling life, Todd gave everything he had to his family. He always led by example, and showed those who surrounded him how to live a life worth living. He shared his favorite hobbies with his family, including going to Mets games, golfing, camping, going to the beach, boat rides, fishing, and playing wiffle ball games in the backyard. Todd traveled with his family throughout the U.S. and parts of Europe, creating memories and cherishing the moments he would forever remember. Todd’s hard-fought battle against grade 4 brain cancer does not define who he was. Todd will always be remembered for his kind soul, his sense of pride, his competitive spirit, his ever-lasting faith in the Mets, his love for storytelling, his loyalty to his family, and his joy for living a blessed and perfect life. Todd was the leader of our family, and he demonstrated what courage, strength, and commitment looked like on a daily basis. Todd’s journey marks the life of a man who showed what it meant to be kind, love others, and appreciate life—values he instilled in his family and everyone who surrounded him. Words cannot describe how much our family will miss him, but we are forever grateful to God for placing the greatest man anyone could ever ask for in our lives. Not a single day will pass that we won’t miss him, but we will forever find comfort in the love he will continue to bless us with from heaven and with the angels who share in his eternal happiness. With all our hearts, we miss and love you Todd, forever and ever. “Any man can be a father, but it takes a special man to be a dad.” The Skala family has requested a few foundations that are close to their hearts in lieu of flowers: Stache Strong StacheStrong is a is a 501(c)3 nonprofit devoted to raising funds and awareness for brain cancer research. Please dedicate your donation in memory of Todd Skala, and use the following recipient information: Gina Skala ginaskala5@gmail.com ROBERT J LONG JR SCHOLARSHIP FOUNDATION INC Robert Long was the longtime principal at East Quogue Elementary School, a place that left a large, positive impact on Todd’s children and the entire Skala Family.
- Final Patrol: Trooper Paul C. Endersbee (Ret.)
Paul Cornelius Endersbee April 2, 1938 – June 1, 2026 OBITUARY Paul Cornelius Endersbee April 2, 1938 – June 1, 2026 Paul Cornelius Endersbee passed on June 1, 2026, at the age of 88. Born on April 2, 1938, in Massena, New York, Paul lived in The Villages, Florida. From: David M. Endersbee Date: Fri, Jun 5, 2026 at 12:10 PM Subject: death announcement To: admin@afnyst.org Good afternoon, I do not know if your groups provide death announcements; if so, I would like to report one. My father, Paul C. Endersbee, of The Villages, Florida, passed away on June 1, 2026, at the age of 88. He was a Trooper from January 2, 1962, to October 10, 1987, and for a period of time was a firearms and Emergency Vehicle Operator Course instructor at the Academy. He spent most of his career in Troop B; as I recall (at least from the mid-late '70s) in the Wilmington substation, then Plattsburgh, and finally Ray Brook. I do know that he started out in Troop D in 1962. I have also attached a photo that he always found amusing. As a very "green" Trooper, he was investigating this accident, and this photo was published in a Syracuse newspaper. My father's sergeant saw it in the paper and chewed him out because his Stetson was tipped back (hence, he was out of uniform). It might have been because he was using a camera to document the crash scene; I can't recall. Anyway, it always made Dad chuckle. My father was immensely proud of his service and for his entire life kept his folder of letters of commendation and citizen letters, which I now have and treasure. Sincerely, David
- President Labuda's Weekly Video Update - June 5, 2026
NYSPIA Weekly Update Mental Health Response Discussion & Upcoming Podcast NYSPIA provided comments to New York NOW for an article examining law enforcement responses to mental health incidents following passage of the State budget. The discussion parallels topics covered in President Mike O’Mara’s recent appearance on the “Candid Minds” podcast hosted by Dr. T. and Mindful Care. The podcast focuses on mental health, law enforcement response, officer wellness, and opportunities for improvement. Members can expect the podcast to be released in the near future. Daniel’s Law Under Discussion Leadership also addressed proposed legislation known as Daniel’s Law, which seeks to expand specialized mental health response teams. While acknowledging the intent of improving mental health services, concerns were expressed about removing law enforcement from crisis response situations. NYSPIA's position remains that law enforcement plays a critical role in crisis intervention and public safety, and that enhanced training, de-escalation skills, crisis negotiators, and partnerships with mental health professionals may be more effective than replacing police response entirely. Members with ideas or recommendations regarding mental health response are encouraged to share them through Planning & Research channels or with NYSPIA leadership. Body-Worn Camera Policy Finalized The new BCI Body-Worn Camera Policy (Article 28-C) has now been released. NYSPIA's Body-Worn Camera Committee, along with legal counsel, worked extensively with Division leadership to review, revise, and improve the policy before implementation. Leadership thanked committee members and emphasized that the goal throughout the process was to create the strongest possible policy to protect investigators while addressing the realities of body-worn camera deployment. Medical Group Resources Remain Available NYSPIA continues expanding support through its Medical Group initiatives. Members and their families who encounter medical issues, treatment concerns, or difficulties navigating healthcare resources are encouraged to contact: Their delegate The NYSPIA office Medical Group representatives Constructive feedback regarding medical resources and services is also welcomed as the program continues to develop. Support Letter in Trooper Christopher Baldner Case NYSPIA leadership recently issued a public letter supporting former Trooper Christopher Baldner and the PBA’s efforts regarding his case. The statement emphasized that while legal proceedings continue, the tragic death of 11-year-old Monica Goods remains at the center of the matter and should not be forgotten. Leadership noted concerns about broader implications for law enforcement response, liability, and decision-making during critical incidents. Contract Negotiations Continue With the State budget now finalized, contract activity across New York State continues to accelerate. Recent developments include: CSEA reaching a tentative agreement with the State. Reports that another major state union has also reached a tentative agreement. Ongoing communication between NYSPIA legal counsel and the Governor’s Office. Continued work by the NYSPIA Contract Committee to finalize proposals based on member priorities. Leadership remains focused on preparing the strongest possible contract package and positioning NYSPIA to move quickly as negotiations advance. Looking Ahead As summer begins, members were reminded to remain safe, professional, and engaged. NYSPIA continues to focus on contract negotiations, wellness initiatives, healthcare resources, and policies that directly affect investigators and their families.
- Niagara Frontier Chapter Newsletter May 2026
Niagara Frontier Chapter MAY 2026 Newsletter The Regular Monthly Meeting of the Niagara Frontier Chapter of the Former New York State Troopers was held on Wednesday May 20, 2026 at Dennys Restaurant located at 4757 Transit Road in Depew. Meeting was called to order by Secretary Kathleen Pawlak at 10:30 AM. Followed was the Pledge of Allegiance to Our Flag. Then a Moment of Silence for Our Sick and Departed Members especially Remembering Edward Young. Plus Blessings to Those Brave Men and Women in Our Armed Forces Serving Our Country. Notes: President Chad Juenker, Vice President Eric Weinreber, and Treasurer Daniel Lyons were unable to attend the meeting. 46 members present at the meeting reported by Mark Hufnagel The monthly donation for May was a purchase of 2 (two) $100 raffle tickets for the Moon Brook Charity Classic Golf Tournament. A second $100 donation was made to the Fraternal Order of Eagles to Sponsor a Golf Whole in the Golf Tournament. The Annual Chicken Barbecue is scheduled for Wednesday July 15, 2026 commencing at 4 PM at the Buffalo River Groove. Tickets are available at the monthly meetings or through the postal mail. Flyers were sent out to members via email. $25 per person prepaid reservations only by June 26, 2026 The SW Florida Former Troopers Luncheons meetings are over until the fall. The next meeting will be held on Wednesday October 7, 2026 Batavia Chapter 24th Annual Law Enforcement Golf Outing will be held on Thursday September 10, 2026 Thank You to Kevin Barnas for collecting the tip funds at the meeting. Thank you to Tony Domagala for assisting with the Limited 250 drawings Limited 250 Club: Five Weeks of Limited 250 Numbers were drawn. Congratulations to the Winners!! May the Odds Ever Be in Your Favor Checks are in the Mail! Unpaid Tickets: 59, 143, 145, 152, 168, 177, 208, 214, 243, 245 Ticket Numbers Available for Purchase: 28, 129, 181 WEEK #11 $25 018 John Munch $15 062 Maureen Black $10 022 Timothy Howard WEEK #12 $25 008 Joseph Casiano $15 026 Rick Sutton $10 146 Batavia Chapter WEEK #13 $25 040 Salomon DeJesus $15 171 Alexander Jablonski $10 001 Andrea Monkelbaan WEEK #14 $25 186 Bruce Moritz $15 225 Frank Broderick $10 177 Unpaid WEEK #15 $25 060 Michael Gavin $15 182 John Lubecki $10 063 James Pauly Helping Hands: Bill Curtin gave a report of a young man who is extremely ill with cancer. He was provided with an Xbox, screen, and video gaming for his man cave. Good and Welfare: Thank You to Marya Kopacz our correspondence secretary who has been sending cards to our sick and deceased member's families. Please keep Ronald Spink and his family in your prayers who has recently passed away. Please keep Edward Young and his family in your prayers who has recently passed away. Please keep William Hubert and his family in your prayers who has recently passed away. Please keep Pete Vera in your prayers who has had months of hospitalization and rehabilitation following a spinal infection. Motion to Adjourn the meeting was made by Tony Butera and seconded by Jeff Kujawa Happy Birthday: The following members will celebrate another year during the month of June: Please Take Time to Wish Them All a Very Happy Birthday!! Michael Ballow 61, Anthony Domagala 78, David Forsyth 65, Daniel Golinski 62, Scott Little 67, John McGee 68, James Mohart 70, Phillip Murray 88, Thomas O'Brien 89, Charles Richardson 69, Merle Schreckengost 58, Jay Welsted 50 Dates to Remember: Wednesday June 17, 2026 The Next Regular Monthly Meeting of the Niagara Chapter will be held at Depew Lancaster Moose Lodge, located at 5437 Broadway Avenue, in Depew at 7:00 PM Wednesday July 15, 2026 Annual Chicken Barbecue Buffalo River Grove, 2299 Clinton Street, Buffalo 14227 $25 per person. Guests welcome Festivities start at 4:00 PM including horse shoes, corn hole, lawn jarts Dinner served at 5:00 PM For Tickets mail checks payable to: Niagara Frontier Chapter Former Troopers Mail to: Daniel Lyons 3 Butler Drive Lancaster, NY 14086 Checks must be received by June 26, 2026 QUESTIONS?? Contact Chad Juenker @ 716-440-4193 MENU: Chicken Barbecue, potato salad, corn, salad, rolls, butter, cake, coffee, soda, beer. Cash bar available for wine and mixed drinks Cash Door Prizes Week #20 drawing for the Limited 250 Club XCI Final Patrol: Tpr James K. Hogan 82, Tpr Russell J. Gritsch 93, Inv Everett LaPlante 89, Tpr Nancy Clark 71, Sgt Matthew W. Barrett 37, Tpr Stanley W. Winston Sr 72, Tpr Ronald J. Spink 86, Z/Sgt Robert E. Wood 88, Tpr Richard G. Wells 100, Tpr Philip J. Lanzatella 86, Inv Paul K. Cituk 56, Tpr Hubert J. Boudreau 87, Tpr Edward J. Young 60, Maj Richard E. Boland Sr 94, Inv Nelson Joseph Fadden 87, Tpr Robert McAlister 86, Sgt/SC Douglas L. Lippert 80, Cpt Richard C. Day 98, FSgt Raymond E, Saunders Jr. 57, Tpr William J. Hubert 82 May They All Rest in Peace. Respectfully Submitted, Kathleen M. Pawlak Secretary
- Batavia Chapter May Minutes
Minutes from the Batavia Chapter of the AFNYST May 20, 2026, Meeting The meeting was called to order at 3:36PM, by President Gary Hammond. He started the meeting with the Pledge of Allegiance and a moment of silence for all 1st. responders, and troops in harms way, serving over 130 countries. President Gary Hammond: a. Welcomed Helena Mulkawa NYSP EAP program. (EAP) b. Gary said that you are to make sure that you are enrolled in the WTC programs, the paperwork deadline is September 11, 2026. You must be enrolled to take advantage of the monitoring program and the VCF (victim compensation board). Medical monitoring phone is (888) 982-4748. The VCF (victim compensation fund) is (855)885-1555. Or vcf.gov. Contact Retiree Liaison Make Darby at mcdarby694@gmail.com. For further info. c. Niagara Chapter BBQ is set for Wednesday, July 15, 2026, at the Buffalo River Grove, 2299 Clinton ST., West Seneca. $25.00 p/p. d. Troop “A” HR-218 shoot is scheduled for July 10 and 17, 2026, at 9:00AM. Contact the F/Sgt. e. Tim Roof retirement June 4, 2026, at 6PM, contact F/Sgt. Wilkinson at (716) 289-7260, RSVP by May 27. f. WEB Seminar: Nicole Mutignani an Attorney specializing in wills and trusts will hold a WEB seminar tonight, May 20, 2026, at 6PM. She will be addressing wills, trusts, health care proxy and many other subjects. https://zoom./j93479959984?pwd83Q1kW1Spe8NbzCsWW11XsUwsgBw7X.1 Meeting ID 934 7995 9984 Passcode 989309 g. Thank you to Kathy Hartman who provided the meal. State Meeting info: 1. WTC – glandular stuff not showing, studying thyroid and liver. Ask to have a test of both. 2. Health issues with chemicals used to dry clean uniforms may be responsible for some illnesses. 3. Nothing new on the Lapel Pins. 4. A vote to create a “Gray Rider Award”, to be presented by the State Board or a chapter to an individual for recognition of service, commitment and contributions to the Association and its members. Chapters to submit nominations to the State Board for Approval. 5. They also discussed about the proposed changes to the HR-218 to extend the qualification from annual to every three years and expand locations where concealed carry is permitted. Treasurer Mike Bruggman: Absent Motion made by Mick Schrader to accept report as given, Bob Doe 2nded it and passed. Secretary Kathy Hartman: Motion made by Dave Wagner to accept minutes as emailed, 2nded by Ray Motyka and passed. The Golf for four with cart drawing was held and Associate Jim Wagner’s wife Pati won it. Thank you all who supported it. Golf Tournament: Update on golf tourney, 6 more teams have signed up and paid. Old Business: None. New Business: A thank you to Helena Mulkawa for her presentation, she informed the Chapter of what her job was and that if they had any problems to contact her. She advised that the EPA (Employee Assistance Program) is available to retirees. 50/50: Won by Mark O’Brien and donated to Crossroads House. Next Meeting: June 17, 2026, 6:00PM. Notice time change. Close: Motion made by Dave Wagner to adjourn the meeting, 2nded by Howie Hartman, and passed. Meeting adjourned at 4:35PM.
- Line of Duty Death Anniversaries - JUNE
NEW YORK STATE POLICE ______________ OFFICE OF THE SUPERINTENDENT MEMORANDUM Date: June 1, 2026 To: All Personnel From: Superintendent Steven G. James Subject: LINE OF DUTY DEATH ANNIVERSARIES - JUNE During the month of June, we recognize and honor the memory of New York State Troopers who have made the ultimate sacrifice while performing their sworn duty to serve, protect and defend the people of this State. Please remember the following members who died this month throughout Division’s history: T/Sergeant Scott C. Norcutt Aviation June 20, 2023 Captain Christopher J. Garrow Troop B June 12, 2023 Sergeant/SC Charles R. Salaway Troop G June 09, 2018 Trooper Robert G. Dunning Troop K June 14, 1987 Zone Sergeant Gerald A. DeGroot Troop D June 24, 1978 Sergeant Stanley A. Bunner Troop T June 30, 1965 Corporal Arthur M. Diffendale Troop C June 14, 1951 Trooper Charles E. Hover Troop G June 05, 1945 Trooper Thomas C. Lynes Troop K June 03, 1935 Sergeant Homer J. Harrison Troop A June 19, 1933 Trooper Charles M. McGinn Troop D June 20, 1927 Additional information regarding all members who have died in the line of duty can be found on the Division’s website at: https://troopers.ny.gov/wall-honor
- 06-04-2026 APPOINTMENTS AND REASSIGNMENTS
FILE 14 SP ALBANY JUNE 1, 2026 TO: ALL TROOPS AND STATIONS THE FOLLOWING APPOINTMENTS AND REASSIGNMENTS ARE EFFECTIVE JUNE 4, 2026: STAFF INSPECTOR ANDRE J. RAY, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, FIELD COMMAND – EAST, IS APPOINTED TO ASSISTANT DEPUTY SUPERINTENDENT, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, ALBANY, NEW YORK. MAJOR ANDREW M. FOWLER, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, FIELD COMMAND, IS APPOINTED TO STAFF INSPECTOR, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, EMPLOYEE RELATIONS, ALBANY, NEW YORK MAJOR DANIEL P. SMITH, TROOP K, IS APPOINTED TO STAFF INSPECTOR, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, FIELD COMMAND – EAST, ALBANY, NEW YORK MAJOR BRIAN T. FERRONE, TROOP T, IS REASSIGNED AS TROOP COMMANDER, TROOP K, POUGHKEEPSIE, NEW YORK MAJOR BERNARD V. DAVIS, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, PLANNING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, IS REASSIGNED TO TROOP H, ACADEMY, ALBANY, NEW YORK CAPTAIN KYLE J. KROEGER, TROOP F, IS APPOINTED TO THE RANK OF MAJOR AND ASSIGNED AS TROOP COMMANDER, TROOP T, ALBANY, NEW YORK CAPTAIN NICHOLAS E. LOMBARDI, TROOP G, IS APPOINTED TO MAJOR, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, FIELD COMMAND, ALBANY, NEW YORK LIEUTENANT SARA L. VANDUSEN, DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS, IS APPOINTED TO THE RANK OF CAPTAIN AND ASSIGNED TO DIVISION HEADQUARTERS, PLANNING RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, ALBANY, NEW YORK AUTHORITY: SUPERINTENDENT STEVEN G. JAMES LETTERS AND ORDERS TO FOLLOW
- Letter on Cancer Screening
Below received from Shannon Scheidt, CD Chapter WTC Advisor.
- President Labuda's Weekly Video Update - May 29, 2026
NYSPIA Weekly Update State Budget Finally Approved After nearly two months of delay, New York State has adopted its approximately $268 billion budget, the latest budget passage in 16 years. Several provisions within the budget will directly affect NYSPIA members and law enforcement operations. Tier 6 Retirement Improvements While not as extensive as many members hoped, the budget includes meaningful Tier 6 reforms effective October 1, 2026: Reduced Employee Contributions $75,000–$100,000 salary range: reduced from 5.75% to 4% $100,000–$125,000 salary range: reduced from 6% to 5.25% Over $125,000 salary range: reduced from 6% to 5.75% Overtime Pension Cap Increased Pensionable overtime cap increases from 15% to 25% Leadership noted that the overtime change may ultimately provide the most significant retirement benefit for many members. Other Budget Items Affecting Law Enforcement Several additional provisions within the budget are expected to impact law enforcement operations: New laws addressing 3D-printed firearms and ghost guns Development of a statewide drone strategy Mandatory extension of temporary Orders of Protection when defendants fail to appear in court Implementation of the State Police Critical Incident Leave program New restrictions related to civil immigration enforcement Creation of a 50-foot protest buffer zone around places of worship Expanded efforts targeting insurance and financial fraud Members are encouraged to review these provisions and stay informed on how they may affect future operations. Disciplinary Penalty Guidelines Under Review NYSPIA, the PBA, and Division representatives met this week regarding proposed disciplinary penalty guidelines. The goal is to establish: Greater consistency in disciplinary outcomes Increased transparency in the process Clearer expectations for members and supervisors Leadership reported that Division has been receptive to union input and that both NYSPIA and the PBA have been actively involved in shaping the proposal. Contract Negotiations Update With the State budget now approved, attention turns to contract negotiations. Reports indicate that CSEA may have reached a tentative agreement with the State, which would represent an important step toward opening negotiations for other bargaining units. NYSPIA leadership and legal counsel remain in active communication with the Office of Employee Relations (OER) and continue developing contract proposals based on member priorities identified through recent surveys. While no formal agreement discussions have begun, passage of the budget removes a major obstacle and should allow contract negotiations to move forward. Looking Ahead The legislative session remains scheduled through June 4, and NYSPIA continues to monitor legislation, contract developments, retirement issues, and operational changes affecting investigators across the state. Members are encouraged to stay informed, remain engaged, and continue practicing professionalism and wellness as the organization advances these priorities.






