The department also reported that union contracts settled in the first quarter gave workers a 3 percent average annual raise over the life of the contract.

The annual raise, also something of a tradition, is under attack as well.

The annual raise, however, has been restricted to the 3.5 percent awarded in 2000 and 2001.

The annual raise for this year was set at 1.7 percent, about $2,760.

The contract calls for an annual raise of 4 percent and improved health care benefits.

A teacher who achieves a higher level of education receives a raise in step pay and then the annual raise, as well.

The initial salary was $145,000 with an annual raise of 5% at minimum.

When the last three-year contract expired in 1991, building workers received an annual raise of about 3.5 percent.

As a part of the contract teachers were to receive an annual 3.7% annual raise for three years.

Pamela Luke, a nursing aide at the home, did not get the annual raise she expected this year.