Checkout December 2007 by UFCW Locals 175 & 633

THE NEWS MAGAZINE FOR MEMBERS OF LOCALS 175 & 633 UFCW CANADA

C H E C K O U T

VOLUME XVI NO. 6 DECEMBER

2007

CONTENTS

President’s Message: Union membership offers many tangible benefits, including support when you need it the most................................................... 3 Secretary-Treasurer’s Message: You can help us bring Union benefits to unorganized workers................................................................................. 4 Negotiations Industry Update: Car Rental Sector.................................... 5 More than 800 members at The Barn ratify new contract.... 7 Other Negotiations.......................................................... 7

Health & Safety

People Outstanding member achievement award recipients chosen for 2007.............. 10 President Hanley announces staff appointments.............................................. 11

Workplace News Workers at Maple Lodge Farms process 400,000 chickens every day.............. 12

Conferences ORGANIZING is a key theme for the 2007 & 2008 Series of Stewards’ Seminars ............. 14 North West and South West Region Seminars... 14 Fundraising Members raise even more money for leukemia research at latest events....... 16

Youth

LOCAL 175 President Wayne Hanley Secretary-Treasurer Shawn Haggerty Recorder Betty Pardy Executive Assistants Jim Hastings, Teresa Magee UFCW Local 633 President Dan Bondy Secretary-Treasurer Marylou Mallett Recorder Neil Hotchkiss Benefits Representatives Sherree Backus, Roy Etling, Joanne Ford Benefits Intake Representative Orsola Augurusa Legal Counsel Victoria Shen Communications Representatives Cheryl Mumford, Jennifer Tunney Servicing Representative Lien Huynh Health & Safety Representative Janice Klenot Senior Legal Counsel Naveen Mehta Legal Counsel Marcia Barry, Michael Hancock, Rebecca Woodrow, Natalie Wiley Legal Representative Fernando Reis Organizing Representatives Rick Hogue, Steve Robinson CENTRAL EAST REGION Director Luc Lacelle Union Representatives Jehan Ahamed, Mona Bailey, John DiFalco, Anthony DiMaio, John DiNardo, Paul Jokhu, Emmanuelle Lopez, Rob Nicholas, Dave White SOUTH CENTRAL REGION Director Sylvia Groom Union Representative Judith Burch Servicing Representatives Angela Mattioli, Brenda Simmons, Mark Stockton, Mario Tardelli TRAINING & EDUCATION CENTRE Director of Education Victor Carrozzino Education Representatives Georgina Broeckel, Gail Carrozzino, Derek Jokhu, Kelly Nicholas, Ashleigh Vink cep local 571

Provincial Office 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga L5N 2K7 905-821-8329 Toll free 1-800-565-8329 Fax 905-821-7144 CENTRAL WEST REGION 412 Rennie Street Hamilton L8H 3P5 905-545-8354 Toll free 1-800-567-2125 Fax 905-545-8355 Director Harry Sutton Union Representatives Matt Davenport, Tim Deelstra, Joe DeMelo, Linval Dixon, Fernando Reis, Dan Serbin, Kelly Tosato Servicing Representative Sam Caetano EASTERN REGION 20 Hamilton Avenue North Ottawa K1Y 1B6 613-725-2154 Toll free 1-800-267-5295 Fax 613-725-2328 Director Dan Lacroix Union Representatives Simon Baker, Chris Fuller, Paul Hardwick, Marilyn Lang, Daniel Mercier Servicing Representative Jacques Niquet SOUTH WEST REGION 124 Sydney Street South Kitchener N2G 3V2 519-744-5231 Toll free 1-800-265-6345 Fax 519-744-8357 Director Ray Bromley Union Representatives Wendy Absolom, Kevin Dowling, Mike Duden, Julie Johnston, Angus Locke, Roy Reed, Rick Wauhkonen NORTH WEST REGION Lakehead Labour Centre 21-929 Fort William Road Thunder Bay P7B 3A6 807-346-4227 Toll free 1-800-465-6932 Fax 807-346-4055 Director Shawn Haggerty Union Representatives Colby Flank, David Noonan

President’s Message

Published six times yearly. ISSN no. 1703-3926 CHECKOUT is an official publication of Locals 175 & 633 of the United Food & Commercial Workers. Web site: www.ufcw175.com E-mail: membership@ufcw175.com

Union membership offers many tangible benefits, including support when you need it the most As we near a season of family get-togethers, gift exchanges and other festivities, I wanted to have a Checkout cover that reflected the many faces of Locals 175 & 633. I hope it reminds us all to recognize the equality, and respect the cultural differences, of every member of our great Local Union. Whether we belong to Local 175 or 633, we all share a common bond, which is that we are Union members because someone had the courage to stand up for the rights of the workers at your workplace. Someone took it upon themselves to make things better. They invested their time and effort to fight for the wages they deserved and to gain better benefits and more secure pension plans. These people are courageous. It’s no small feat to stand up to the managers at your place of employment and tell them that you won’t put up with their lack of respect any longer. It takes real courage to tell these people that you’re going to do something about it, even though you know you have to continue working for that employer whether you win or lose the Union vote.

WAYNE HANLEY

As a strong Union – built from the drive and determination of the many who preceded us, it's our job to continue their fight and to reach out to non-unionized workers across the province

Union members and stewards are powerful allies when it comes to organizing new members. Stewards, especially, have extensive knowledge of the benefits of being a member of Locals 175 or 633. It’s one thing to hear how great Unions are from someone who works for one. I think it means more to hear it from someone who participates in their Union, gains from their contract and in the case of the stewards and leaders in our units, enforce the provisions of those contracts every day. It means more to know that the benefits of belonging to Locals 175 & 633 are tangible. Not everyone needs all the resources we provide on a regular basis but many people’s minds have been changed once they do need those services. Some don’t recognize the good of the Union until they have a bad experience with the employer. Job security, seniority, wage increases, a pension plan, health benefits and grievance and arbitration are just some of the benefits of belonging to a Union. There are workers who don’t get regular wage increases; who don’t have health benefits to go to the dentist or get glasses if they need them. Many lack coverage for prescription medications and struggle to get by without either short or long-term disability benefits. A large number of Ontario’s workers don’t even have a workplace pension plan to provide an extra degree of security in their senior years. Maybe you have friends or family who are concerned for their health and safety everyday they go to work. We all know someone who has been harassed or threatened by management. Sometimes we try to let these things roll off our backs as though that . . . continues on next page

DECEMBER 2007

Secretary-Treasurer’s Message

You can help us bring Union benefits to unorganized workers Last year, Local 175 President Wayne Hanley announced a new initiative to tackle Union Organizing across the province with a fresh SHAWN HAGGERTY strategy. This plan is well underway and I am proud to say we have one of the most diverse team of organizers in the country. In the last year, we’ve organized a total of 694 new members across the province. Our organizing team reflects the diversity of our membership and that of Ontario’s workers. They are able to communicate in different languages and come from Union backgrounds. They are knowledgeable and work very hard every day to ensure that non-unionized workers get the chance to vote and exercise the rights guaranteed to them under Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms. This organizing strategy will better help us grow our membership in the core sectors that make up Locals 175 & 633, such as industrial manufacturing and distribution, health care and retail grocery. It will also help us better reach out and build our membership in our traditionally smaller sectors. We are always looking for ways to develop each and every sector of the Union’s membership.

As you speak to your friends and neighbours let them know that there is a better way to go to work every day. A way where workers can feel safe knowing their jobs are protected, their wages are guaranteed and that their rights, safety and health are respected. It can be a scary prospect to challenge an employer – and sometimes it’s not just a boss but a large, powerful corporation. Workers can feel better, however, knowing that they are not alone in this difficult challenge. The Union is here to support all workers and provide necessary resources throughout the process. We guarantee that all conversations regarding the Union drive are kept confidential and that we will fight to ensure employers do not break the law by trying to intimidate or harass workers. Today workplace organizers must work even harder than ever. In the last issue of Checkout we explained why Local 175 is spearheading a campaign to bring back card-based certification for workers in Ontario, so that employers are less able to intimidate workers in the period leading up to a vote. We already have thousands of signatures – but we need more. If you haven’t seen this petition at your workplace, please print a copy from our Web site and circulate it among your co-workers. By signing this petition you can help those who want to organize their workplaces do so in a much more democratic way than the current votebased method. And the more unionized workers there are, the better the standard of living will be for all workers in our communities.

SPresident’s Message

. . . continued from previous page

behaviour is harmless, but all that does is tell the employer that they can do it again the next time. Ontario’s Employment Standards Act sets out minimums for many aspects of the employer-employee relationship and yet far too many employers ignore these laws. And the problem is – many workers don’t know their rights or are afraid to challenge their employers. We all know these people. It’s our responsibility to talk to them – encourage them to learn more about our great Union

and the labour movement. As a strong Union – built from the drive and determination of the many who preceded us, it’s our job to continue their fight and to reach out to non-unionized workers across the province. Speak to your neighbours, your family and friends. Let them know the improvements you’ve experienced in your own workplace and in your own life.

Industry Update: Car Rental Sector 11-week strike ends with a new contract for Dollar Thrifty workers The 61 unionized workers at the Dollar Thrifty Pearson Airport Terminal 1 facility ended their 11-week strike after ratifying a negotiated settlement on November 9, 2007. Workers achieved more substantial wage increases and a number of other improvements over the last company offer, which was turned down by a vote of 90 per cent, prior to beginning legal strike action on September 2. “These men and women were committed to this strike action,” says President Wayne Hanley. “Their perseverance won out. Their new contract better reflects their hard work and better protects their interests.” Wages increase by between $2.50 and $3.10 per hour correlated to job classifications, which include Rental Service Agents, Cleaners and Drivers. In addition, there is a new handheld premium of $1 per hour for workers assigned to carry an electronic check in/check out device. Workers maintain the right to grieve with respect to the incentive plan – a right that the employer tried to take away previously – and benefit from strong language on drivers being asked to clean. The members also gain religious holiday rights with an extra floater holiday. Bereavement leave entitlement increases to five days, up from the previous three. There is new shift bid language and a new sunset clause removes discipline after 24 months. Health and welfare benefits remain status quo as in the previous contract despite the employer trying to have workers pay for their own Long Term Disability premiums. Vision care coverage, however, improves to $175 per year, up from $100 every two years. Enhanced sick pay language provides workers with unused sick day pay out at a rate of up to 200 per cent. Additionally, workers maintain their shoe allowance of $80 per year, which the employer was also trying to eliminate.

Local 175 welcomes additional car rental members On September 19, 2007, counter agents at Dollar Thrifty Pearson Airport Terminal 3 voted to join Local 175. They are seeking the many benefits of Union membership and are hopeful of getting a first collective agreement shortly.

DECEMBER 2007

NEGOTIATIONS

For all the most recent UFCW news, visit our Web site: w w w. u f c w 1 7 5 . c o m

NEGOTIATIONS

For all the most recent UFCW news, including more up-to-date and detailed

Industry Update: Car Rental Sector Budgetcar workers ratify The 35-member bargaining unit at two Budgetcar locations at Pearson Airport achieved a new three-year agreement. The workers ratified the contract, which contains wage and other improvements, at a meeting held September 13, 2007. It includes: • Wage increases for Counter Service Reps (CSR) and Rapid Return Agents (RRA) of $1.60 per hour.

• New language provides two annual floater holidays for religious holidays and up to five shift changes per month. • A superior health and welfare plan, which is 80 per cent paid by the company. Workers with one year of service get 10 sick days per year with any unused days paid out at 150 per cent of their current wage rate. Vision care coverage for prescription eyewear or contact lenses

is now $225 per family member per 24-month period. • Full-time eligible employees receive $80 per year for safety footwear, part-time receive $48 plus each CSR and RRA receive a monthly dry cleaning allowance of $45, with no receipt necessary. Union Negotiating Committee: Abdi Khayre, Shailendr Prasad, Union Rep Jehan Ahamed and Central East Director Luc Lacelle.

Avis workers gain good new agreement More than 175 unionized workers at four Avis locations in Toronto, including Pearson Airport, secured a new three-year contract at a meeting held Wednesday, September 12, 2007. Numerous improvements include: • Wage increases up to $1.55 per hour plus a signing bonus of $150 for full-time and $75 for part-time and new 25-cent shift premium language. • Two floater holidays per calendar year for

observance of religious holidays not provided for under the Employment Standards Act, plus more employees can take vacation days at one time and workers are now able to switch their shifts, up to five times per month. • Workers with 18 years of service gain a fifth week of vacation on their anniversary date. • New language provides part-time workers with a shoe allowance of $48 and CSRs with a monthly dry cleaning allowance of $45, with

no receipt required. Job posting language now states that bargaining unit vacancies will be posted for a minimum of seven days. The company agrees to hire one new full-time “shuttler” in each of the next three years. Union Negotiating Committee: Brian Grummett, Yonis Jama, Tony Lee, Haile Muhammad, Union Representative Jehan Ahamed and Central East Director Luc Lacelle.

National and Alamo Car Rental negotiations The current contract for 70 members who work in the service centre for the National and Alamo Car Rental company expired on November 30, 2007. Members attended a proposal meeting early in October. Negotiations were scheduled to begin in November.

NEGOTIATIONS CONFERENCES CONFERENCES

information on negotiations, visit our Web site: www.ufcw175.com

More than 800 members at The Barn ratify Workers at The Barn locations in Dundas, Hamilton and Oakville achieved a new fouryear collective agreement at meetings held September 16, 2007. The negotiating committee, who met in nine bargaining sessions with the company over six months, secured the following improvements: • Full and part-time workers at the end rates receive wage increases totalling $1.15 per hour, with the first increase retroactive to September 24, 2006. • All full-time workers receive a signing bonus of $300 following ratification and an additional $200 in both the second and third year. • Part-timers with three years of service receive a bonus based on regular hours worked dur-

ing the year prior to the bonus’ effective date. • Night shift workers receive a premium of $1 per hour. • Those assigned to be “in charge” for more than four hours between 8 a.m. and midnight, receive a shift premium of $2 per hour and those part-time workers assigned to relieve the Head Cashier after 5 p.m. receive a premium of 50 cents per hour. • Eligible part-time staff now have 100 per cent prescription drug coverage to an annual maximum of $1,000. • Eligible employees receive improved vision care coverage of $200, up from $125. • In the event a store closes and is not replaced, full- and part-time members

receive severance pay of one week paid at two times the employee’s regular weekly rate for each year of service to a maximum of 26 weeks. • The company will contribute a lump sum payment of $300,000 toward the workers’ pension plan on each of October 1, 2007, January 1, 2008, January 1, 2009 and January 1, 2010. Union Negotiating Committee: Bill Adair, Cindy Chick, Louise McGilton, Nancy McKay, South Central Regional Director Sylvia Groom and Executive Assistant Jim Hastings.

Cargill Foods workers vote for three-year deal Following nine days of negotiations, the approximately 690 members of Local 633 working at Cargill Foods in Rexdale approved a new collective agreement. The contract, which was unanimously recommended by the bargaining unit’s negotiating committee, included the following: • Wages increase between 20 cents and 55 cents per hour correlated to the workers’ job level. • Workers performing Production Tote Off/Heavy Lifting receive a new shift premium of 50 cents per hour. • Company contributions to the workers’ pension plan improve. • Short-Term Disability benefits increase by 22

per cent for non-maintenance workers and 50 per cent for maintenance employees. • Members benefit from increases to the boot and meal allowances. • Important new language provides assurance of full-time status for all full-time employees as of September 21, 2007. This assurance applies to all departments for the first time. • Scheduling language now states that no employee, other than maintenance continental shift workers, shall be scheduled on both Saturday and Sunday as part of their regular workweek. • Additionally, no worker – other than the

maintenance continental shift workers – shall be scheduled to work more than 10 hours per day as part of their regular workday. • Other language improvements address seniority, vacation requests, benefits, an increased number of plant stewards and also an increase in the number of negotiating committee members. Union Negotiating Committee: Olive Burke, Tapan Dave, Ralph Hogan, Eugene Jurewicz, Adebayo Mufutau, Tony Nigro, Mireku Obeng and Union Rep Anthony DiMaio.

Hertz Canada members approve new contract Members working at Hertz Canada locations across the GTA, including Pearson International Airport, ratified a new collective agreement on October 4, 2007. The 120-member bargaining unit, which includes the service centre, achieved a three-year contract that provides numerous improvements, including: • Increases in wage rates for eligible CSRs, Service Agents and Hand Held agents up to $1.55 per hour, retroactive to the date of the

previous contract’s expiry. • A signing bonus of $150 for full-time and $75 for part-time. • Language providing fixed dates for shift bids and full recognition for overall company seniority, as well as provisions for emergency leave. Union Negotiating Committee: Ahmed Hussein, Kapilan Savarimuthu, Ruddy Velupillai and Union Rep Jehan Ahamed.

DECEMBER 2007

CONFERENCES NEGOTIATIONS

For all the most recent UFCW news, visit our Web site: w w w. u f c w 1 7 5 . c o m

Minute Maid members ratify Approximately 150 members in Peterborough secured a new threeyear agreement on August 26, 2007, which includes: • Wage increases of $1.95 per hour for all classifications. Journeymen receive an additional increase of $1 per hour and those Journeymen with a “B” license will have their $2 premium rolled into their wages. • The pager-carrying premium increases to $25, up from $20. • Dental coverage improves with an increased yearly cap of $3,000, up from $2,000, and orthodontic coverage of $3,000, also up from $2,000. • Company contributions to the workers’ pension plan increase by 20 cents. • Workers benefit from an improved Short Term Disability (STD) weekly cap of $1,000, up from $500 and Long Term Disability (LTD) payouts of 66 2/3 per cent, increased from 50 per cent. Additionally, the employer agrees to pay premiums to maintain insurance coverage for those employees on WSIB, STD or LTD leave. • Vision care coverage increases to $300, up from $250. • Temporary workers receive an additional sick/personal day. • Allowances increase for tools, $250 up from $200, freezer wear, $135 up from $125, and safety footwear, $135 up from $125. • Additional language stipulates that the employer cannot mandate workers in any department with respect to overtime with the exception of the maintenance department, in which they can only mandate overtime to provide minimum coverage. Union Negotiating Committee: Marc Duquette, Tom Hughes, Doug Morris, Mike McCormick and Union Rep Chris Fuller.

Members at Norseman Plastics vote for new deal Approximately 160 members at the Norseman Plastics facility in Etobicoke have a new collective agreement, which was ratified on July 8, 2007 and includes: • Hourly wage increases of 30 cents retroactive to April 1, 2007, 35 cents in the second year and 40 cents in the third year. • New language ensures steward representation at disciplinary meetings. • Company contributions to the Local 175 Training & Education Fund increase to $225 per month.

• The employer will increase its contributions to the health and welfare plan to reach $146 per month by the end of the contract, up from $119 at the end of the previous agreement. • Workers benefit from a new second break. • The safety shoe allowance increases to $100, up from $90. Union Negotiating Committee: Kuldeep Singh Heera, Dhansukh Gandhi, Bharti Sharma and Union Rep Paul Jokhu.

Sara Vista staff vote in favour of new contract The approximately 60-member bargaining unit at Elmvale’s Sara Vista Nursing Home achieved a new three-year collective agreement. The ratification vote, held August 23, 2007, secured the following improvements for the staff and Registered Nurses at the facility: • Wages increase by 2.5 per cent in each year of the agreement, with the first increase retroactive to May 1, 2007. • Registered Practical Nurses (RPNs) receive an additional wage adjustment of 50 cents per hour in each year of the contract. • Company contributions to the Canadian Commercial Workers Industry Pension Plan (CCWIPP) improve by a total of 14 cents per hour over the course of the collective agreement. • Employer contributions to the group insurance plan increase by a total of .5% over

the duration of the contract. • Vacation entitlement improves effective May 1, 2009, to provide five weeks at 10 per cent pay for those with between 12 and 23 years of service and six weeks at 12 per cent for those with more than 23 years of service. • Improved language covers grievance procedure and the contract contains new language providing four days of training per year for each of the union committee members. • The company will make an annual contribution to the Locals 175 & 633 Training & Education Fund of $400, up from the previous $300 per year. Union Negotiating Committee (from left in photo below): Pauline James, Shannon McCaig and Tammy Courvoisier. Absent from photo: Union Rep Rob Nicholas.

Thanks to the efforts of Local 175 – and other likeminded workplace safety advocates – health care workers will be better-protected from needlestick injuries at work. A new regulation under The Occupational Health and Safety Act mandates safety-engineered hollow-bore needles, or needle-less systems, in all hospitals as of September 1, 2008. The government also said, in its August 23, 2007 news release, that it would require the use of these devices in long-term care homes, psychiatric facilities, laboratories and specimen collection centres in 2009 and other health care workplaces, such as home care, doctor’s offices and ambulances in 2010. Local 175 has already negotiated the use of safety-engineered sharps in some of its workplaces, far ahead of the 2009 anticipated deadline. These include Maplewood Nursing Home in Brighton and Birchwood Terrace in Kenora. These legislative changes are expected to prevent more than 33,000 injuries per year and save Ontario taxpayers, literally, millions of dollars. Ontario currently spends some $66million every year on workers who have suffered needlestick injuries. This doesn’t include WSIB costs associated with losttime claims or the emotional cost of the months of testing that workers and their families must endure. Former NDP Member of Provincial Parliament (MPP) Shelley Martel, who originally introduced this legislation said: “Needles pose a danger to everyone who comes into contact with the instruments until they are safely destroyed or buried. That includes all hospital staff, refuse collection personnel and even members of the public.” There are currently at least 33 known blood-borne pathogens that can be contracted from a used syringe. These include acquired immune deficiency syndrome (AIDS) and the human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) as well as hepatitis A, B and C. In addition to the legislation pertaining to needles, the government has implemented other initiatives. These include: stockpiling 55 million better face masks, known as N95 respirators, to provide protection against potentially infectious disease such as SARS or Avian Flu, purchasing 19,000 bed lifts and hiring 200 new workplace health & safety inspectors.

One member ’s story Darlene Papst had always dreamed of a career in geriatric nursing – but the dream became a nightmare after she punctured her hand with a dirty needle. In the instant it happened, her life changed. As a health care worker, she immediately knew she was at risk of contracting, and possibly dying of any number of diseases, including Hepatitis A, B or C, as well as AIDS and HIV. She fretted about her responsibilities as a single parent, and the future of her relationship with her fiancé. “We were all a bit crazy, with worry,” she said. “Anyone would be.” The dirty needle that punctured Darlene’s hand should have been safely disposed of before it could do any damage. But an inexperienced, recently hired worker at the nursing home where Darlene worked had made a serious error. Instead of following the proper procedure, she had inexplicably recapped a dirty needle. So when Darlene pulled on the device to uncap what she thought was an empty needle holder, the pressure caused it to jump back, puncturing her skin. The result could have been tragic. Fortunately, however, Darlene survived the ordeal with her health, relationships and dream intact. Both her family and doctor were extremely supportive. She was given regular testing to monitor her health and the resident’s family gave their permission to test the resident for disease, so that Darlene and her doctor would both know what they were up against. Now Darlene, who already has a diploma in Gerontology and a Registered Practical Nursing certificate, is making plans to return to school. She wants to continue her career with a Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing Science. After months of worry and uncertainty, her dream is back on track.

DECEMBER 2007

HEALTH & SAFETY

At last . . . Ontario government legislates safer w o r k i n g c o n d i t i o n s f o r h e a l t h c a r e w o r ke r s

PEOPLE CONFERENCES

Outstanding member achievement award recipients chosen for 2007 President Hanley has announced the winners of the second annual achievement awards. In recognition, each recipient receives a $500 cheque, which is made available through partnership with American Income Life (AIL) insurance. The 2007 winners are: Linda Brooks, Charito Drinkwalter, Cliff Hounsell and Judith Moore. Linda Brooks of Compass/ Eurest in Tiverton was chosen for her outstanding contribution to Leukemia Fundraising. Linda is a steward at the Bruce Power plant, working in food service for the past seven years. The former employer, Lewis Foods, did not allow its workers to accept tips so the workers started a donation can for leukemia research instead. The tradition has continued, with all contributions from happy customers earmarked for leukemia. Additionally, Linda has helped organize several 50/50 draws and sold merchandise to raise even greater amounts of money. “Linda is amazing,” says South West Union Rep Roy Reed. “Every time I visit the cafeteria, she has a few more dollars – sometimes even several hundred more – to give me for leukemia. It’s all the more astounding when you consider that all this money is raised by a bargaining unit that is only about 30 members strong.”

Charito Drinkwalter of Birchwood Terrace in Kenora was chosen for her outstanding contribution to the Community. She has been a Union steward at the Birchwood Terrace Nursing Home for the past 19 years and an active member of the Kenora & District Labour Council for about six years. Charito also volunteers her time with the Kenora-Rainy River New Democratic Party (NDP) Riding Association and is a Vice-President with the NDP Provincial Riding Association. As a member of the Kenora Toastmasters Club, she received both a Competent Communicator and Competent Leader Designation from the well-respected international organization.

Cliff Hounsell of Dresden Industrial in Stratford was chosen for his leadership and contribution to the Advancement of the UFCW. Cliff is a lead hand at the Dresden plant, an automotive parts company that makes gas and brake peddles. He has been an elected Union steward for most of the nine years that he’s worked there and chief steward for six years. Cliff has also participated in two or three sets of negotiations. “Cliff is a wonderful steward and always a supportive co-worker,” says South West Union Representative Angus Locke. He notes that Cliff, who migrated to Ontario from Newfoundland, has an easy-going personality that puts people at ease – but at the same time, he’s tenacious in getting to the root of the problem. When it comes to grievances and other concerns of members, Angus says Cliff’s impressive ability to listen to all sides enables him to resolve issues before they create greater problems in the workplace.

Charito was also instrumental in the creation of the Recreation Centre in Kenora, and when that was completed . . . she ran for local government and is now a city councillor.

Angus says: “If his commitment and loyalty to his members and his Union could be viewed as a dart board, Brother Hounsell would certainly make his mark as a direct bull’s-eye!”

“Charito is an outstanding member and asset to our Local Union and the community,” says Local 175 SecretaryTreasurer and North West Regional Director, Shawn Haggerty.

Judith Moore of Pinty’s Premium Foods in St. Catharines was selected for her exceptional contribution in the area of Health & Safety. . . . continues on next page

Judith has worked to improve Health & Safety in her workplace for the past 19 years. She was a recipient of a 2005 H&S Activist of the Year Award from the Workers Health & Safety Centre and is also an H&S instructor with Local 175 as well as for Mohawk College. Darlene Lorrain, the co-worker who nominated her writes: “She’s been the voice for many of us who were afraid to speak up for ourselves. Helping us understand the Occupational Health & Safety Act is one of the many things she does so well. She’s always taking more courses to better her knowledge to assist others at work and in the community.” One thing Judith says she’s learned as an instructor is always to “expect the unexpected,” as she found out the day she had to come to her daughter’s assistance and deliver her own granddaughter.

President Hanley announces staff appointments Union Representative Sylvia Groom becomes South Central Regional Director. Sylvia has been a Local 175 member for almost 30 years, since she first started working as a cashier at A&P in Dundas. Sylvia had extensive experience as a Union steward, negotiator, fundraiser and Executive Board member before becoming a staff rep in 1997. “Sylvia’s knowledge and experience, combined with her dedication and caring nature will make an outstanding addition to our Local Union’s leadership team,” says President Wayne Hanley.

Emmanuelle Lopez, who has been a Local 175 Benefits Representative for about four years, has moved to the Central East Region as a Union Representative. Executive Assistant Teresa Magee says, “We will certainly miss Emmanuelle’s contribution to the Benefits Department. I am pleased, however, that she will now be taking on even greater responsibilities as a Union representative – and of course her Benefits expertise will certainly be useful in her new role.” Union Representative Judith Burch has moved from the Central East Region, and now returned to the South Central Region. Roy Etling is now a Local 175 Benefits Representative. He has been assisting in the department for the past 12 months, on loan from the UFCW Canada National Office. Roy originally became a UFCW member in 1979 when Local 452P merged with Locals 175 & 633. He was working at Archer Daniel Midland Flour Milling (ADM) (formerly Maple Leaf Mills) in Port Colborne. As an injured worker, he

has first-hand experience with the complexities of the Workplace Safety & Insurance Board (WSIB). Roy certainly has the empathy and knowledge to advocate for injured members. Joanne Ford also joins the Benefits Department to represent members at hearings and tribunals. Joanne has almost 17 years experience as a Local 175 steward at A&M Cookies in Kitchener and participated in three sets of negotiations. She also served as the WSIB liaison in her workplace, assisting with mediation and accommodation of injured workers. Derek Jokhu is now an Education Representative with the Local’s Training & Education Centre. He became a member in August 2004 while working as a “Floater,” combining the dual role of counter representative and car jockey with Budgetcar in Mississauga and Brampton. Derek is an experienced Union steward who has also participated in various training courses, such as Steward Level I and II, Health & Safety and the Youth Internship Program with both the Local Union and UFCW National Office.

DECEMBER 2007

CONFERENCES PEOPLE

. . . Outstanding member achievement award recipients continued

WORKPLACE NEWS

Workers process 400,000 chickens every day

If you dine at Swiss Chalet, it’s likely that the chicken you enjoy will have been processed by a Local 175 member from Maple Lodge Farms Fern Reis, Union Rep

Nelson Vidinha, Shunter – Backyard

At Maple Lodge Farms in Brampton, Local 175 members prepare chickens for retail food stores and restaurants. If you dine at Swiss Chalet, it’s likely that the chicken you enjoy will have been processed by a Local 175 member from Maple Lodge Farms, which is a primary supplier to Swiss Chalet. Additionally, you may be served by a member of UFCW Canada Local 206, which has organized the wait staff at more than 60 locations of this chain.

Fernando De Jesus, Driver – Live Haul

Jose Farias & Alberto Camacho, Live Receiving

John Carvalho, Live Receiving

Maple Lodge Farms is still run by the May family, who started farming, in the Norval area of what is now Brampton, in 1834. During the Great Depression of the 1930s, Lawrence May began selling eggs door-to-door in the city, from the back of his truck. By 1955, Maple Lodge Farms was established as a company. Today it is a large, successful enterprise that encompasses several buildings and operations. It employs approximately 2,200 people who ship, prepare and market quality chicken products for Canada and the world. The bargaining unit has about 1,200 members who pick up chickens from the farm, deliver them to the plant, ship the finished products back out to customers, and perform just about every job in between. Brampton members, together with those in St. Francois, New Brunswick, process 400,000 chickens every day. They ship 2.5 million kilograms of poultry products each week. Thanks to the dedicated members, Maple Lodge Farms continues to thrive and perpetuate Lawrence’s vision of producing the best quality chicken products at the best price.

WORKPLACE NEWS CONFERENCES

Albano Pacheco, Tying & Union Steward

Grace Cabral, Cut 9

Sharnjit Kaur Brar, Cut 9 Helena Xavier, Eviscerating

Jin Yun Lin, Coning

Mirjeta Abdulovska, Coning

Michael Akukwe, Coning

Gloria Damaso, Coning

Maria Raposa, Coning

Maria Dias & Rita Melo, Breast Deboning

Alex Banaag, Retail Shipper

Luan Zhang, Coning

Joe Pereira , Chief Union Steward

Huy Hua Luu, Shipper

Glen Avila Retail Shipper & Union Steward

Ryan Muscat, Shipper & Union Steward

DECEMBER 2007

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CONFERENCES

ORGANIZING i s a ke y t h e m e for the 2007 & 2008 Series of S t e w a r d s ’ Seminars Every year nearly 1,000 Stewards attend Re g i o n a l S e m i n a r s , t o learn how to better represent members in the workplace Each year, Locals 175 & 633 recognize the vital contributions of our Union stewards, at a series of regional seminars. These important meetings cram several hours of education into two short days.

Shawn Haggerty, in his dual role as Secretary-Treasurer & North West Regional Director, addressed Stewards at both the London & Thunder Bay Seminars . . .

Topics range from basic “how to” for new stewards to more advanced courses covering Arbitrations, Health & Safety, Collective Bargaining and WSIB Rights & Obligations. Between the classroom sessions and informal networking over the weekend, stewards gain vast amounts of knowledge and insight into how to better represent their co-workers. Union stewards are essential to upholding members’ rights in their workplace. This annual series of seminars provides the resources to enable them to do just that. The importance of organizing new members is a key theme presented by the leadership during the 2007-2008 series of seminars. Photographs on these two pages are from the North West Stewards’ Seminar, on September 22 & 23, 2007 in Thunder Bay, and the South West Stewards’ Seminar, in London, on October 13 & 14. Stewards and staff who attended these seminars raised an astounding $13,500 for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society of Canada. The donations were generated through prize draws and merchandise sales at these two seminars. The money is used to fund Canadian research to find a cure for leukemia and other blood-related cancers.

. . . while South West Regional Director Ray Bromley reported on that region at the London Stewards’ Seminar.

CONFERENCES

North West Region

South West Region

DECEMBER 2007

15 1

FUNDRAISING

Members raise even more money for T HE

WINTER HOLIDAY SEASON IS TRADITIONALLY A TIME TO GIVE THANKS AND GIVE TO OTHERS .

L OCALS 175 & 633

MEMBERS , STAFF, FAMILIES , FRIENDS AND OTHER VOLUNTEERS DONATE THEIR TIME AND MONEY ALL THROUGH

THE YEAR TO HELP FUND RESEARCH FOR LEUKEMIA AND OTHER BLOOD - RELATED CANCERS .

N ET PROCEEDS FROM ALL EVENTS ARE L EUKEMIA & L YMPHOMA S OCIETY OF C ANADA (LLSC), WHICH IS THE OFFICIAL CHARITY OF UFCW C ANADA . L AST YEAR ’ S TOTAL COUNTRY - WIDE CONTRIBUTION WAS $1,424,000. T HAT RECORD - BREAKING CAMPAIGN MAKES THE UFCW C ANADA MEMBERSHIP THE LARGEST ANNUAL SUPPORTER OF LLSC’ S RESEARCH TO FIND A CURE . . . AND THANKS TO YOUR HELP, WE ' RE GETTING CLOSER EVERY DAY. I N ADDITION TO THE LLSC, MEMBERS & STAFF GENEROUSLY DONATE TO OTHER CHARITIES . DONATED TO THE

NETS NEARLY $5,400 On Saturday, August 18, Windsor-area members participated in their 8th Annual Golf Tournament. The 70 golfers raised $5,387 for the LLSC. Locals 175 & 633 Executive Board members, in photo, from left: Bryan Braithwaite, Tim Kelly, Dan Bondy, Jeff Aldworth and Brad Wigle, supported the event. Jeff drove approximately six hours from his home in Brighton to participate in the tournament. The event was organized by Neil Hotchkiss, A&P store # 341, Dan Bondy, A&P store #141 and Union Rep Julie Johnston.

W INDSOR G OLF

B ICKS

T ICKET SALES GENERATE THAN $2,000

Members across the province raised $2,300 for the LLSC by purchasing draw tickets to win an autographed Jason Spezza hockey jersey. The winner Gerald Longo (on left) from Loeb St. Laurent in Ottawa received the framed Ottawa Senators’ jersey from the store’s Union steward, Gaetan Quesnel.

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MEMBERS

DONATE $1,030 On August 23 and 24, 2007, members at Bicks Pickles in Dunnville enjoyed a fundraising BBQ, which raised $1,030 for leukemia research. MEMBERS COLLECT $400 Earlier this year, Betty Berryhill and Bette Reed organized a leukemia fundraiser at Trent Valley Lodge, and collected $400 after raffling off a gift basket.

N URSING H OME

The contents of the basket were donated by Local 175 and won by Nancy Jessup, who is also a member at the home. A month later, after Nancy’s mother was diagnosed with cancer and lost her hair, Nancy and her family shaved their heads as an expression of solidarity.

FUNDRAISING CONFERENCES

leukemia research at latest events H IT

FOR A

C URE

CATCHES

$1,543 LLSC

NEW DONATIONS FOR THE Saturday, September 1 was a beautiful day for the 4th Annual Barrie Mixed Slo-Pitch Tournament, which is now held at Base Borden. With six teams coming from as far away as Brampton, Hamilton and Woodstock – the day proved to be a big success. The prize table was full and the BBQ was fired up with the help of staff and volunteer members Angela McDonnell and Renee Menard.

The “A” Champs (photo on right) proved to be Maple Lodge Farms (MLF) in a close game over the “A” Runner-up team, Quality Inn. The MLF team was captained by Joe Meszaros, a steward in the sanitation department. The “B” Champs team was the Black Sox and Locals 175 & 633 was the “B” Runner-up team. Thanks to all who helped and we hope to see everyone back next year. We have a tentative 2008 date of August 23rd.

“T ERRY F OX S HAVE -T HE -H EAD W ORKDAY ” $1,230

PULLS IN

Members from A&P Store #422 in Thunder Bay raised more than $1,200 from a “Head Shave.” The money is allocated for cancer research in the North West Region. The members are, from left: Richard Dolph, Derek Antoniszyn, Ron Brown, Larry Hyder and Connie Ilczyszyn, in front. Assistant manager, Colleen Swiderski (with razor in hand), provided the shaves. Absent from photo: Matt Kowalchuk.

RAISES $20,100 On September 7 and 8, 2007, members participated in the 10th annual Locals 175 & 633 Skate For A Cure in Oakville, which raised $20,100. The money was collected thanks to the involvement of numerous sponsors and volunteers as well as the approximately 200 players who played for the 16 teams participating in the weekend event. The winning team was The Hamilton Funeral Homes. It was victorious for the second time in the many years that it has supported the tournament. The runner-up trophy went to Bicks of Dunnville.

H OCKEY T OURNAMENT

DECEMBER 2007

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FUNDRAISING

For more photos and details, and all the latest fundraising news, visit our Web site: w w w. u f c w 1 7 5 . c o m

G OLF E XTRAGANZA

NETS MORE THAN

$26,000

W ALKERS COLLECT ALMOST $30,000 TO SUPPORT L EUKEMIA RESEARCH

One hundred and forty-seven golfers teed it up at the 5th Annual Local 175 Golf Extravaganza held September 17, 2007, at the Innisbrook Golf & Country Club in Barrie. The goal was to raise $25,000 for the LLSC. Former Local 175 Secretary-Treasurer and Tournament Organizer Jerry Clifford said: “When the day was finished, we surpassed our goal and reached an unbelievable $26,318.10!” Horizon Plastics member Dave Moore enjoyed a golf day with friends, including Andrea Elliot

Avid golfers – and others too – should mark their calendars for next year’s tournament scheduled for September 13, 2008.

On Sunday, September 16, nearly 50 walkers turned out at Confederation Park in Ottawa for the First Annual Walk of Hope to help raise money. The event, organized by our own Local Union, was particularly poignant because of the involvement of seven-year-old Shane Bernier. He was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) at the age of five and came out to support the day’s events. Dan Lacroix, Local 175 Eastern Regional Director, said: “It was encouraging to see Shane here. He’s an inspiration to all of us and a very big part of why we raised almost $30,000 today.” Funds raised by events like this Walk of Hope fund much needed research and clinical trials to create more effective treatments and one day – a cure.

Z ELLERS C ORNWALL

RAISES

$1,600

FOR

CANCER RESEARCH For the second year in a row, members at Zellers store #006 participated in the Relay for Life at Farran’s Park in Cornwall. They organized two teams and raised $1,600.

YOUTH

Youth are enthusiastic about Local 175’s 3rd Annual Youth Leadership Development Program Thirteen young people attended the 3rd annual Locals 175 & 633 Youth Leadership Development Program (YLDP). It ran from September 23 - 28 at the Training & Education Centre (TEC) in Mississauga. The week-long course is designed to educate and involve young members in their Union. Content included Union information – what, why, where & how – plus organizing, globalization, political awareness and youth activism. Participants were extremely enthusiastic about the opportunity. Watch for information on next year’s program, which will be distributed next August. Plan to apply if you’re a member who is 29 years of age or younger and want to learn more about your Union. If you know young members who you feel could benefit from this program, please encourage them to apply.

Kathleen Harper from Loblaws in Gloucester heard about the program through her store’s Union steward. She says: “The course was very educational in the broadest sense. I learned a lot in many areas, such as Health & Safety and the importance of Unions in our society. I was really impressed to learn about the Union’s ability to train workers and their families and prepare them for better jobs.”

John Aird (on immediate right), who works at Maple Leaf in Brantford, receives his graduation certificate from Local 175 Secretary-Treasurer Shawn Haggerty. John says: “The course was excellent. I learned a lot about Health & Safety and how to handle difficult situations. I would definitely recommend eligible youth members to apply for the next year’s course.”

Front row, from left: Jeff Zuback, Aeroguard; Graeme Steele, Homewood Health Centre; Second row: Mark Stockton, Local 175 Instructor; Scott Switzer, Loblaws #1051; Nenard Leuko, Comfort Inn; Kathleen Harper, Loblaws #1051; Darley Alcine, Belfast Fruit; Back row: Phillip Johnson, Dresden Industrial; John Aird, Maple Leaf Poultry; Scott Molnar, Westin Hotel; Wayne Hanley, President Local 175; Meghan Tudor, Friendly Manor; Candice Widdifield, Loblaws #1050; Michael Mattioli, RCSS #2806; Jason Hanley, Local 175.

DECEMBER 2007

Return postage will be paid by: United Food and Commercial Workers Locals 175 and 633 2200 Argentia Road Mississauga ON L5N 2K7

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