OCEA Employee — Vol. 70, Issue 1 by OCEA Employee magazine

OCEA EMPLOYEE VOLUME 70, ISSUE 1 • January–March 2017

STANDING TOGETHER TO TAKE ON THE CHALLENGES OF 2017 PG. 3

A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Orange County Employees Association

FREE MOVIE TICKETS WHEN YOU REFER A FRIEND TO VELECE INSURANCE! auto • motorcycle • classic cars • watercraft • recreational vehicles • home • condo • renters • mobile home • earthquake • umbrella • commercial • mexican insurance

VISIT US ONLINE AT VELECE.COM OR CALL (714) 558-1034 TO SPEAK TO AN AGENT TODAY! We use our resources to provide the best services to our customers, and we rely on our members to recommend us to their friends and family. To help encourage our clients to make those recommendations, you will receive TWO FREE MOVIE TICKETS* when you refer a friend. Your name will also be entered into a quarterly drawing for additional prizes. * Limit six (6) tickets per calendar year.

OFFERING POLICIES FROM

OCEA EMPLOYEE VOLUME 70, ISSUE 1 • January–March 2017

Star Wars villain Kylo Ren makes a visit to the Long Beach Children’s Hospital

That’s actually Yuri Williams, Deputy Juvenile Correctional Officer II, who makes it his mission to brighten the lives of seriously ill children, the homeless and anyone else who needs it.

FEATURES 5 PSU chooses new leaders PSU Executive Committee welcomes new members Bryan Rollon and Remy Chang

7 OCEA stewards honored Stewards are recognized for their commitment to workplace rights

9 Civic Center clean-up continues

10 OCEA’s annual Veterans Day celebration draws thousands The event included the ribbon cutting for a museum honoring veterans

13 A look back at 2016 It was a year of challenges and achievement at OCEA

16 Get involved in OCEA

OCEA members keep up the pressure on the Civic Center clean-up

Meet OCEA Board members John Leos and Pam Waters

NEWS & UPDATES 2 3 4

President’s Message General Manager’s Message OCEA News Briefs

4 18 19

OCEA Calendar OCEA Tickets OCEA Discounts

On the cover: OCEA Stewards Michael Williams and Patty Hernandez on the campaign trail. Working people scored many victories in state and local elections. Nationally, it is likely attacks on our rights and retirement security will continue. See the General Manager’s Message on pg. 3 for perspective. OCEA EMPLOYEE

President’s message

Lezlee Neebe OCEA President

Community partnerships make Veterans Day a success Thousands of veterans, workers and community members turned out this year for our annual Veteran’s Day event. The celebration at the OC Fair & Event Center provided a day of fun for the whole family, and an opportunity to connect veterans to good jobs and the services they need now that they have come home. This year’s Veterans Day was particularly special because it marked the dedication of Heroes Hall, the County’s first ever museum honoring veterans. Conceived by former OCEA General Manager Nick Berardino, who is now President of the Heroes Hall Foundation, the museum demonstrates what is possible when workers and the community unite for a common purpose. Along with Nick, I have the privilege of serving on the Foundation Board to help raise money and steer the vision of the museum, which was 100% constructed by union workers. The event also included a special recognition of Vietnam War Veterans. The conflict in Southeast Asia (1965-1975) divided the nation, and our returning service men and women were often treated disrespectfully when they came home. The Veterans Day celebration provided an opportunity for working men and women to say “thank you” and “welcome home” to these veterans. We also collected a record-breaking haul of food for veterans in need! Thank you to every OCEA member who donated food at your work site. Ironworkers Local 416 in Norwalk collected more than 2 tons of food and goods alone, and Orange County Firefighters also joined in the pre-Veteran’s Day collection efforts. On Veterans Day morning, televised calls for donations on KTLA 5 led to a steady stream of people wanting to help. Ultimately, the food drive brought in more than 5.6 tons of food, surpassing last year’s 4-ton record. The food and supplies were distributed through Disabled American Veterans, which provides free, professional assistance to veterans and their families in obtaining benefits earned through military service. There is no better feeling than to see the pantries at veteran’s homes fill up with needed items. As many of you know from reading our email blasts or from 2

OCEA EMPLOYEE

the many partnerships we struck to promote the event in the newspapers, our nation’s veterans too often don’t receive the support or the services they need when they return home. OCEA has been part of a massive statewide effort among California labor unions to change that. The Veterans + Labor: Partners in Service project began four years ago, to help ensure that we all give back to veterans just as they have given so much to us. The Labor Movement is leading the effort, but we also have the help and support of the community including businesses, non-profits and individuals who care about our servicemen and women long after the parades and welcome home ceremonies are over. Our Veterans + Labor: Partners in Service event creates a bond between our movement and the veterans we serve. And it also creates a bond between the many unions and community members who put on such an ambitious event. Working shoulder-to-shoulder, we helped to make Heroes Hall a reality and provide veterans with a voice they can use to teach our children about their service. Standing together, we made it all happen because that’s what working people do. In solidarity,

Lezlee Neebe OCEA President

General Manager’s message

Jennifer Muir Beuthin OCEA General Manager

Standing together to take on the challenges of 2017 Another national election has come and gone. The future feels uncertain, as it naturally should following an election with such a sea-changing outcome.

At OCEA, we have lived by a motto that has helped us grow in strength and numbers, even during the most hostile times: The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war. This time is no different.

But there are some things that are certain. First, at the heart of many of our polarizing national issues is a sense of fear and anger that we are living in a time when working people like you and I get left behind when it comes to sharing in our nation’s economic growth. Too many struggle to make ends meet and to support our families, while those at the top continue to see their wealth grow exponentially. This is an issue we have been fighting to correct both in our day to day contract negotiations, and also as part of a broader labor movement whose efforts include protecting retirement security, workplace rights, and fair benefits for working people. It’s an issue that drove people to vote, and also kept them away from believing in the system. It’s something we must redouble our efforts to confront and to overcome. Secondly, this election has exposed deep, underlying divisions in the thoughts and beliefs of the American public. When we feel left behind, or not heard or misunderstood, it can be easier to turn on each other than to stand shoulder to shoulder in the face of adversity. We must never forget we have more in common than our differences suggest. And finally, you can count on OCEA, your union, to be there when you need us and to stand with you against unfair attacks on you and your families, whether those attacks are aimed at your paycheck, your race, your sex or any of your rights. You all belong to an organization comprised of 18,000 working people who are unwavering in our commitment to fairness and justice. We know some of those attacks are coming. Already, the new president has discussed taking away pensions for federal government employees and moving them to risky 401k retirement plans. Already, close advisors to our new President have indicated they will initiate nationwide programs that would undermine your rights in the workplace, your ability to stand together in a union, or the ability of your union to raise and spend the funds necessary to protect your family’s financial security. Already there are discussions about policy initiatives that could split up some working families, or that have left many in fear.

Your OCEA Board of Directors has spent the past several years investing in improvements to prepare us for any challenges ahead, and our work together will continue this year, particularly in our efforts to recruit and educate more leaders among our ranks. There is no better antidote to injustice than working people standing together. We are also part of a broad labor movement that is committed to the principles of fairness and dignity for working people, and I have been participating in strategy meetings across the state aimed at locking in the benefits and rights we have today. Additionally, this year, I am participating in the National Labor Leader Initiative program at Cornell University, a high-level program for national labor leaders where we develop organizational leadership skills and collaborate on projects that make our own unions stronger and better prepared for the challenges and opportunities in our future. There is no doubt 2017 will be filled with big challenges and big opportunities. It’s up to us to stand together to stand together in commitment to our values—to promoting fairness on the job and in our community and to ensuring working people have a seat at the table every step of the way. I am confident we will succeed. If you would like to become more involved in our efforts, or to learn more about how to help, please sign up at www. oceamember.org/getinvolved. In solidarity,

Jennifer Muir Beuthin OCEA General Manager OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA news briefs Scholarships available from OCEA, PORAC Paying for a college education can be a barrier to success for many working families. The OCEA Board of Directors offers a scholarship annually and so does PORAC, the Peace Officers Research Association of California.

E M P LOYEE Orange County Employees Association

OFFICERS Lezlee Neebe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1st Vice President

OCEA Board of Director Scholarship OCEA awards scholarships exclusively available to OCEA members. Only children or stepchildren of OCEA members—including those applicants whose legal guardian is an OCEA member—are eligible. Students must also be enrolled, or intending to enroll, in an accredited community college, college or university for the Fall 2018 quarter or semester to qualify. We will be announcing the application date soon so keep an eye for that. These scholarships are another way OCEA members can stand together to prepare young people for the future.

Judy Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2nd Vice President Chris Prevatt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer Maria Corona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insurance Officer

COMMITTEE CHAIRS Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Legislative Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Budget/Finance

BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sharron Anderson . . . . . . . . County Executive Office

PORAC Scholarship The PORAC scholarship is available to the dependents of active and retired members and the spouse or dependent of an active member who died in the line of duty. Members who have medically retired from a regular PORAC association are eligible for the scholarship as well. PORAC’s Scholarship Program provides financial assistance to applicants who are attending or will be registering for college. Scholarships are not restricted to applicants considering law enforcement as a career, but PORAC hopes the program encourages young people in that direction.

Russell Baldwin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Dan Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Judy Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Defender Rick Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superior Court Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Defender Liza Cooper-Butler . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Defender Maria Corona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Dea Evans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Probation Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Ian Foster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Works Robert Hendricks . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superior Court

OCEA members who also belong to PORAC can apply now through the application deadline of March 31, 2017. You can download the application here: http://porac.org/wp-content/ uploads/Scholarship-App-2016-revision12-19-2016-textbox.pdf. Take advantage of these opportunities to help pay for a college education students need to compete in the 21st century job market.

OCEA calendar Feb. 13

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Political Action Committee meeting

Feb. 14

Noon–1 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

County Steward meeting

Feb. 16

Noon–1 p.m.

OCEA Members Only: Home Buyer Orientation

Feb. 21

3 p.m.

OCEA Board of Directors meeting

Feb. 28

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Legislative Committee meeting

Mar. 13

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

OCEA Members Only: Planning for your retirement

Mar. 13

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Political Action Committee meeting

Mar. 14

Noon–1 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

County Steward meeting

Mar. 16

10 a.m.–1 p.m.

OCEA Annual Holistic Fair.

Mar. 20

11:30 a.m.–1 p.m.

OCEA Members Only: Planning for your retirement

Mar. 21

3 p.m.

OCEA Board of Directors meeting

Mar. 28

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Legislative Committee meeting

April 10

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Political Action Committee meeting

April 11

Noon–1 p.m.; 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m.

County Steward meeting

April 18

3 p.m.

OCEA Board of Directors meeting

April 25

5:30 p.m.

OCEA Legislative Committee meeting

Unless otherwise stated, all events will occur at OCEA, 830 N. Ross St., in Santa Ana. Visit www.oceamember.org for an updated events listing.

OCEA EMPLOYEE

John Leos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Probation Paul Nguyen . . . . . . . . . . . . . Social Services Agency Lezlee Neebe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superior Court Chris Prevatt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Ryan Ramos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Evelyn Reyes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Probation Pamela Waters . . . . . . . . O.C. Community Resources

The OCEA Employee magazine (USPS 004330) is published quarterly (January-March; April-June; July-September; and OctoberDecember) by the Orange County Employees Association, 830 N. Ross St., P.O. Box 177, Santa Ana, CA 92702; telephone (714) 8353355. Periodical postage paid at Santa Ana, California. Subscription prices: members, $3.00 per year; non-members, $6.00 per year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Orange County Employees Association, P.O. Box 177, Santa Ana, CA 92702-0177. Advertising in the OCEA Employee magazine does not constitute OCEA endorsement of the products or services advertised. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the OCEA unless specifically so stated. Contributions in the form of articles, photographs, human-interest incidents, retirement news, etc., are welcomed and encouraged. Association office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except public holidays. OCEA reserves the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. Photographs will be returned only upon request. Copyright 2016 by the Orange County Employees Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion or contents prohibited by law. Printed by Anchor Printing, Tustin, CA.

Editor: Gus Castellanos Design & Production: Kevin Rush 830 N. Ross Street Santa Ana, CA 92701 (714) 835-3355

OCEA news briefs Now accepting applications for the OCEA Health & Welfare Trust Want to increase your involvement at OCEA in a way that impacts every one of your co-workers? Consider running for election as a trustee of the OCEA Health & Welfare Trust. Trustees are responsible for the administration of the trust, which oversees OCEA Basic and Supplemental Benefits, including dental, vision, disability and life insurance programs. One trustee seat will be up for election this spring, so now is your opportunity to get involved in an important and worthwhile OCEA benefit. If you are interested, go to www.oceamember.org/trustapp for eligibility requirements and an opportunity to submit an application to become a candidate for election. Applications are due by March 3, 2017.

Members only: Tell us what you think One of the benefits of being an OCEA member is exclusive access to seminars and events where we provide information to help you and your family at work and at home. And when we asked you if you wanted our “Members Only” events brought closer to your workplace, you gave us a resounding “Yes!” Since then, we have presented seminars such as “Tackling Financial Stress” at the Manchester Office Building and “Wills and Trusts” at the Social Services Agency Regional Center. Now we want to hear from you about what kinds of seminars you would like to see presented at OCEA or at your work site. Please email your ideas to Joanna Nachurski at joanna@oceamember.org and tell us what you think. This is your opportunity to help us present the seminars you and your coworkers want to hear. Thank you for taking the opportunity to make your voice heard. We will continue scheduling “Members Only” events in work locations throughout the County. If you would like us to bring an event to your workplace, let Joanna know. See you soon at an upcoming “Members Only” event.

Probation members stay the course Members of the Probations Services Unit hold elections every two years to choose who among them will serve on the Executive Committee. Every PSU member is eligible to run for a seat on the 10-member committee, which is divided evenly between Field and Institution units. These leaders field questions and concerns from Probation membership, and along with OCEA staff, bring those issues to County management.

Executive Committee members also selected their leadership team. The nominations of Chair Denise Hernandez (DPO II) and Vice Chair Chris Raahauge (DJCO II) were unanimously approved. The two replace outgoing Chair Francisco Ochoa (DJCO II) and Vice Chair Connie Schonert (DPO II). Thanks to both for their fine Stewardship and for standing shoulder-toshoulder to protect the rights of workers serving with them.

This election, there were two vacancies on the Executive Committee. We are pleased to announce two PSU members have stepped up to take on the job. Both ran unopposed as did the rest of the Executive Committee.

We also want to congratulate DJCO II Ochoa. He has accepted a temporary promotion to Probation Services Supervisor. This opens a vacancy among the DJCO Executive Committee membership. Interested PSU members should contact Charles Barfield via email at cbarfield@oceamember.org.

DJCO II Bryan Rollon from ACP (Accountability and Commitment Program) and DPO II Remmy Chang of the Field Unit were officially welcomed to the Executive Committee at its Jan. 5, 2017 meeting.

The Executive Committee plays an important role in representing PSU’s sworn members. Standing together, we will continue to fight for the wages, working conditions, rights and benefits PSU members and their families deserve.

2017/2018 PROBATION SERVICES UNIT EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE FIELD

Connie Schonert DPO II

Denise Hernandez DPO II

Michele Smith DPO II

Lisa Tafua DPO II

Chris Raahauge DJCO II

Yuri Williams DJCO II

Bryan Rollon DJCO II

Remmy Chang DPO II

INSTITUTION

Marco Perez DJCO II

OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA news briefs

OCEA chooses its 2017 executive leadership Congratulations to our 2017 OCEA Board of Directors on their re-election and on the selection of the Board’s executive leadership. Last December, the 19-member body named officers for the coming term re-electing President Lezlee Neebe, 1st Vice President Alan Dean Clow, 2nd Vice President Judy Bowling, Treasurer Anjali Essoe, Secretary Chris Prevatt and Insurance Officer Maria Corona. Your Board is made up of OCEA members who determine the policies and general direction that guide OCEA and its staff. Cumulatively, your Board of Directors has many decades of experience in guiding our union. Standing together with you, the current Board presided over the successful 2015 County

contract negotiations and an organizing campaign that is making OCEA even stronger. The Labor Movement has faced many challenges over the years. Throughout our history, we have fought anti-worker politicians attacking your retirement security, your wages and benefits and your right to bargain with your employers. Standing together, we have prevailed and today our union is in the best possible position to fight for your rights and the pay and benefits you and your family deserve. With the guidance of your co-workers serving on the Board of Directors, 2017 is going to be an exciting year.

Working on your taxes? OCEA payroll deduction amounts for membership dues, voluntary insurance plans, other benefit programs, OCEA POPL, and agency fees for 2016. OCEA Annual Membership Dues Full-Time: $287.82

(County & Court) Note: Members of OCEA affiliates or contract associations should contact OCEA benefits staff.

Part-Time or Extra-Help: $144.04

Dental DHMO—DeltaCare CAM 42

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 1)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 2)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 3)

Non-Health & Welfare Enrollee

Retiree

Member only

$85.80

$262.34

$262.32

Member plus 1 dependent

$119.60

$497.64

$497.52

Member plus 2 or more dependents

$319.80

$732.94

$732.84

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 1)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 2)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 3)

Non-Health & Welfare Enrollee

Delta Dental DPO Plan A+

Member only

$345.02 $345.02 $471.90 $728.00

Member plus 1 dependent Member plus 2 or more dependents

$917.54

$1,044.42

$1,300.52

$1,740.18

$1,867.32

$2,123.16

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 1)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 2)

Health & Welfare Participants (Option 3)

Non-Health & Welfare Enrollee

Retiree

Vision Service Plan Insurance

Member only

no charge

$61.20

$110.64

$110.76

Member plus 1 dependent

$49.68

$110.88

$160.32

$160.44

Member plus 2 or more dependents

$176.64

$238.08

$287.52

Pre-Paid Legal Insurance: Basic Plan: $179.52 Basic Plan with 24-hour coverage: $191.52 Fairshare fee payers: Full-Time: $173.68 Part-Time: $86.84 OCEA Peace Officer Protective League members: $396 (in addition to OCEA dues deduction)

Extended Plan: $287.52

What’s going on in your workplace? Contact OCEA Organizing Director Tim Steed at tsteed@oceamember.org if you would like to submit a workplace story idea for OCEA Employee magazine. 6

OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA’s 2016 President’s Award honorees (left to right): Jose Gomez, Teresa Garcia, Dionne Moffatt, OCEA President Lezlee Neebe, Michael Williams, Darrell Chin, and Patty Hernandez.

OCEA stewards celebrate 2016 achievements OCEA stewards—your member-representatives and workplace leaders—were honored in December for their commitment to standing together and making OCEA strong. Congratulations to all stewards who received an award. We thank you for your dedicated service! President’s Award: Michelle Boyd, Darrell Chin, Teresa Garcia, Jose Gomez, Patty Hernandez, Dionne Moffatt, Jennifer Morgan, Ronald Robles, Scott Smith, and Michael Williams Distinguished OCEA Board of Directors Service Award: Judy Bowling (2nd year in a row) and Rick Burns

Distinguished Board member Award honorees Judy Bowling and Rick Burns with OCEA President Lezlee Neebe.

Perfect Attendance Award (left to right): Jose Gomez, Michael Williams, Robin Fiddler, Deá Evans, Ryan Ramos, Pamela Waters, John Sincock, and Robert Brown. Not pictured: Butch Garcia, Jerry Suclla, and Rick Zakir.

2016 Perfect Attendance Award honorees OCEA EMPLOYEE

Yuri Williams—The man behind the mask Deputy Juvenile Correctional Officer II Yuri Williams began his career with Orange County in 1999 and has spent those 17 years helping young people get back on track at Juvenile Hall. “I started as a probation night counselor and switched to days when I became a DJCO II,” says Yuri. He takes his work seriously, having been recognized as Employee of the Month and as a Chief’s Award winner for his work on the Peer Support Team. “I have worked with high security risk boys and girls and I am currently assigned to the unit helping mentally ill youth,” says Yuri. “By showing them that someone cares, you can really make a difference.” Yuri is also an OCEA member and he takes his union work seriously serving as a Steward and member of the PSU Executive Committee. Standing with coworkers to make sure they are treated with respect in addition to counseling youth on the job can take up a lot of time. And with all that, Yuri has a secret: He’s a County employee by day and avenging super hero on nights and weekends. Yuri dons the costumes of movie and comic book heroes, but not to go after crooks. He does it to brighten the days of underprivileged and seriously ill children at local hospitals. Even dressed as Star Wars villain Kylo Ren, Yuri gets huge smiles from patients in pediatric cancer wards. “It’s hard to explain but kids react to these larger-than-life characters,” says Williams. “When Kylo Ren shows up at a youngster’s bedside with a bag full of gifts, it’s a big deal.” Williams is a big guy. He stands 6 feet 3 inches tall. He has invested the money needed to come up with screenaccurate costumes because, he says, that’s what you need to pull off the gag. “These kids aren’t fooled with a cheap knock-off,” says Yuri. In a recent visit to Long Beach Memorial, Yuri was told by caregivers that a 7-year old little girl—a patient in the pediatric ward—hardly spoke to anyone. That changed when Kylo Ren stopped by her room. The towering villain even spoke like the Star Wars character thanks to an electronic voice box Yuri uses. “She just lit up,” says Yuri who spent more than a half-hour with the child. “It just made her day and mine too because you feel so much more human when you are doing something good.” Yuri came up with the idea to help ill children after his own mother, Lynda Hubbard, passed away from cancer in 2009. It took about 5-years for Yuri to get over the loss. “She was 8

OCEA EMPLOYEE

my mentor and teacher and when she died, it just really took a lot out of me,” Yuri says. Lynda was a 30-year veteran of the Los Angeles County Probation Department and inspired Yuri to go into County service. “She is one of the main reasons why I became a Peer Support Counselor so I could help others dealing with work and family issues.” Yuri has visited three hospitals so far but has also gone to convalescent homes, community centers and homeless shelters wearing different costumes. Yuri says he gets more out of it than the people he sees. You can follow him on Instagram under @afuturesuperhero, hash tag #dosomethingkindchallenge. He’s also looking for some help in defraying the cost of the outfits. You can help Yuri reach out to children in need by donating to www.gofundme.com/arealhero or www.booster.com/ afuturesuperhero1. “I think that doing this work really does inspire people to do a kindness to others,” says Yuri. “The opportunity to make the lives of children just a little bit happier—even if it’s just for a few minutes—is well worth the effort.”

After months of activism by OCEA members, the Transitional Center for Civic Center homeless opened last October.

OCEA pushes to clean up the Civic Center Decades ago, the Civic Center was an area of pride in our community, where workers could gather at lunch or take a walk to enjoy some fresh air. Last year, the area was unrecognizable in contrast to the past. A swelling encampment of makeshift tents and belongings took up nearly every patch of grassy space stretching from the Hall of Administration down past the Orange County Superior Courthouse and onto the Plaza of the Flags. There are so many reasons for the change—economic, political, legal, and societal—too many to name in these pages. But OCEA members know one thing for certain. The conditions in the Civic Center have not been safe—not for workers, for the community or for the people living in the streets. So we took action, simultaneously using provisions in our Memorandum of Understanding and our voice in the media and at the workplace. We spoke out about how a lack of basic sanitation led to filthy conditions around County buildings, Santa Ana City Hall and the Courthouse. OCEA members stepped up to tell their stories in the media of harassment and assaults while walking through the Civic Center. The stories in the newspapers, on radio and TV plus a looming election put a lot of pressure on officials to act in a meaningful way. We demanded a safety inspection, which has come back illustrating even greater risks, including threats to homeland security for allowing the encampments to persist. We demanded the area be cleaned up and helped advocate for solutions to the homeless crisis.

That work is now paying off. The Courtyard Transitional Center in the old OCTA bus terminal opened late last year, providing a place away from the Civic Center where homeless residents can find food, services, and a safe place to sleep. The City of Santa Ana officially declared a public health and safety crisis in the Civic Center. The County increased power washing of stairwells, parking structures and walkways, added fencing and security. OCEA demanded that as employers, the City, County and Courts cause camping laws to be enforced in the Civic Center area to address the safety concerns outlined in the safety inspection. So far, the County has complied, and we are continuing our advocacy with Santa Ana officials and the Courts. Our work is not done. There is still a large encampment outside the courthouse and in the Plaza of the Flags. Safety issues also remain related to the newly opened Courtyard Center and nearby parking structures. There is still a great need for permanent affordable housing for so many homeless residents living on the streets outside the courthouse and in the Santa Ana riverbed. There is a huge need for further investment in the services required to deal with this complex challenge—services that OCEA members are the very best at providing. If you would like to get involved in our ongoing efforts to address these challenges, please join us at www.oceamember.org/getinvolved. OCEA EMPLOYEE

Community volunteers like these Cub Scouts show their patriotism.

Swing dancers were part of the entertainment at the Veterans + Labor: Partners in Service celebration at the fairgrounds.

The Swing Cats brought th the Veterans Day Celebra

V E T E R A N S D AY B

Food donated: A record

Attendance: Estimated 7,0

Unions and commun funds and in-kind Community

Veterans Servi OCEA Veterans Day Food Drive set a record and those dropping off their donations the day of the event got a free KTLA 25th Anniversary T-shirt. Left to Right: Sr. Labor Representative Bridgette Washington, a young volunteer, OCEA Gen. Counsel Don Drozd another young volunteer and Sr. Labor Representative Llesena Ontiveras.

A new stamp commemorating the Distinguished Service medals from each branch of the United States armed forces is unveiled during the celebration. Left to Right: Heroes Hall Foundation President Nick Berardino, OCLF Exec. Dir. Julio Perez, LA/OC Building and Construction Trades Council Representative Ernesto Medrano, OCEA Gen. Mgr. Jennifer Muir Beuthin and USPS Representative Vencent Quaglia. 10

OCEA EMPLOYEE

4th Annual Veterans Day Ce

The Heroes Hall building is a former WW II Army barracks that was part of the old Santa Ana Army Base. The renovation and construction of the new museum was done with 100% union labor.

heir big band sound to ation.

Vietnam Veteran Nick Berardino recognizes the heroes of a war that divided the country by presenting each a Vietnam Veterans Lapel Pin.

There was lots of fun for kids at the celebration and also a chance to say “thank you” to veterans by making a special card.

BY THE NUMBERS

d 5.6 tons (or 11,200 lbs.)

000 over course of the day

nity partners pledging d contributions: 27 Sponsors: 6

ice Booths: 70

elebrations a huge success.

OCEA Gen. Mgr. Jennifer Muir Beuthin and KTLA’s Gayle Anderson were on the air starting at 6:15 a.m. promoting the food drive.

OCEA Gen. Mgr. Jennifer Muir Beuthin along with OCEA Board members and staff at the dedication of Heroes Hall, the county’s first museum honoring veterans.

Dignitaries cut the ribbon on the new museum designed to teach one simple lesson: freedom isn’t free. OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA EMPLOYEE

2016 YEAR IN REVIEW “OCEA members did not rest on their laurels after last year’s successful County contract negotiations. We went to work organizing our members, recruiting Stewards and making sure our labor representatives are visible in the workplace. 2016 will be remembered as the year we strategically prepared for the battles ahead. ‘The more you sweat in peace, the less you bleed in war,’ is a time-honored principle at OCEA.” - OCEA President Lezlee Neebe

March 10: OCEA Steward and PSU executive committee member Chris Raahauge and OCEA General Manager Jennifer Muir travel to Sacramento to talk to lawmakers about probation issues including AB 2165. The bill allows probation officers to buy and use non-roster firearms—which every other peace officer can do—and was signed by the Governor in September. Jan. 1: OCEA and the OC Labor Federation begin the year as members of the California Labor Federation Executive Board, representing 2.1 million workers statewide and providing a voice for Orange County. Jan. 18: Backers of the Reed-Demaio Act shelved their attack on public worker pensions after Attorney General Kamala Harris wrote a scathing official summary for the state voter guide. The resulting polls showed a big “thumbs down” from likely voters. Harris is now a U.S. senator.

Feb 3: Standing together, Orange County Water District workers vote to adopt a modified agency shop. The result comes after a four-year battle for the right to democratically determine their own union’s future. Pictured: OCEA member Jeremy Jenkins.

March 14: OCEA Board members and staff attend the California Labor Federation’s 2016 Legislative Conference. They joined dozens of other unions in Sacramento to advocate for pro-worker legislation including “Fight for $15”—the state’s new minimum wage law. That battle was won.

April 13: Stewards and OCEA staff mobilize to educate decision makers about the value of OC animal care services after a move by some cities to cancel County contracts. Leaders in the key cities of Anaheim and Stanton voted to stay with OC Animal Care. Pictured: OCEA member Kyle Werner. OCEA EMPLOYEE

May 25: OCEA initiates research using focus groups and polling to identify even more programs and intiatives to add to the value of OCEA membership. June 10: OC Information Technology wins a “Golden Hub of Innovation” award for the creation of Expediter, an app that streamlines purchasing and contract management. While the County spends millions outsourcing IT services, dedicated County staff are the ones producing savings. June 20: OCEA stands shoulder-to-shoulder with Sheriff’s Special Officers in court for a dispute regarding the Sheriff’s unfair removal of their peace officer status. The SSO executive committee, OCEA’s attorneys and staff remain committed to the fight. July 17: OCEA demands a County health and safety inspection of the Civic Center. The action is the latest step in addressing the dangerous working conditions faced by OCEA members. Improvements in Civic Center cleanliness and safety began after OCEA put pressure on County, City and Court officials.

Sept. 13: The annual Health Fair and Farmers Market draws thousands to OCEA headquarters for health screenings, exercise demonstrations, stress testing and much more. Pictured are Stewards Rick Zakir (left) and Angelo Lugo. Sept. 14: The Health and Welfare Trust debuts an improved vision benefit, KidsCare, which adds one additional vision exam for each child every calendar year (instead of one); and new frames for each child annually (instead of every other year). KidsCare is available exclusively to OCEA members.

July 29: County workers receive a 2.5% increases following a 4.5% increase received when the threeyear contract was approved in January. Standing shoulder-to-shoulder, we raised general wages a total of 7% the first year! Workers also receive a $500 holiday bonus each year of the contract. Aug. 8: When asked if you wanted OCEA’s “Members Only” seminars brought closer to where you work, you overwhelmingly voted “Yes.” Our first “Members Only” event to hit the road was titled “Tackling Financial Stress,” at the Manchester Office Building.

Sept. 3: Working families enjoy Labor Day fun in Santa Ana. OCEA joins its Labor brothers and sisters in celebrating the American Dream built brick-bybrick by our parents and grandparents: Rewarding jobs, safe workplaces, fair and equitable wages, and a seat at the bargaining table. 14

OCEA EMPLOYEE

Oct. 12: Great news! Longtime OCEA leaders Russell Baldwin and Frank Eley join Chris Prevatt on the OCERS Retirement Board. Baldwin, a forensic scientist, ran unopposed for the open member representative seat, and Eley ran unopposed for the open retiree seat. Congratulations! Nov. 8: In California and locally, candidates sharing our values take office thanks in part to OCEA support.

Nov. 11: Thousands attend a Veterans Day celebration at the fairgrounds sponsored by Labor and led by OCEA. The day included the dedication of Heroes Hall—Orange County’s first museum honoring veterans. The annual food drive brought in a record 5.6 tons of donated food for needy veterans. Nov. 21: OCEA applies for and earns a coveted training slot offered by the National Labor Leadership Initiative at Cornell University. The intensive year-long leadership development program is designed for top-level national leaders in the labor movement. The program is offered through the university’s internationally recognized Institute of Labor Relations (ILR).

Dec. 16: Happy Holidays! OCEA negotiated a $500 bonus for County workers each year of the threeyear contract signed last January. The bonus is included in the Dec. 16 paycheck just in time for last-minute shopping. Dec. 20: Increasing the visibility of our labor representatives, communicating effectively on the issues affecting our members in the workplace, recruiting new workplace leaders and Stewards— OCEA has completed 10 months of work on an organizing campaign that is making our union stronger.

STANDING TOGETHER, OCEA’S 2016 ORGANIZING CAMPAIGN RESULTED IN:

29 NEW COUNTY STEWARDS 7 NEW COURT STEWARDS

9 CONTRACT NEGOTIATIONS IN CITIES AND SPECIAL DISTRICTS

414 SITE VISITS and 133 AGENCY SPECIFIC COMMUNICATIONS

THE MORE YOU SWEAT IN PEACE, THE LESS YOU BLEED IN WAR OCEA EMPLOYEE

Get involved: OCEA Board Member John Leos

Bryce Leos, John’s son, gets introduced to the Labor movement at the California Joint Labor Conference. Also featured (from left to right) OCEA President Lezlee Neebe, and OCEA Board members Sharron Anderson and Pamela Waters.

John Leos Deputy Juvenile Correctional Officer II Orange County Probation Department

What was your first exposure to the Labor Movement? My dad was a union man working out of the Laborers 952 in Santa Ana. He was a hard worker and a union supporter. When I was a kid, some of my favorite memories were of going to the union hall to pick up our Christmas tree and Thanksgiving turkey. We knew early the value of the union and how it allowed for us to have a good life. How did you get involved with OCEA? When I was new to the department I immediately started asking about the union. Since I was so used to it from my dad, it was something I wanted to learn about quick. At the time, there were not too many active worker leaders. Me and a handful of co-workers got active and we wanted to see some changes. Primarily, we wanted to be treated like law enforcement officers. About 15-years ago, things were very different. We weren’t thought of as law enforcement. For instance, we were called “Counselors” and not “Officers.” What were some of the first issues you addressed? It wasn’t just about a job title, it was about making sure we had the rights that all law enforcement officers are entitled to. One of our first items was to make sure the Department 16

OCEA EMPLOYEE

Court employee since 1996 OCEA member since 1997 OCEA Board member 2008–2009; 2011–present

applied POBR (Peace Officer Bill of Rights) protections to workers in our classification. This is important because it protects our privacy as officers, and reaffirmed to the Department that we had all the rights afforded to us under the law. Next up was making sure all officers had their own equipment. For years, officers had to share belts, pouches and vests. We negotiated equipment for each officer. We also made sure that officers had badges. Before that officers had essentially a library card. It didn’t have any indication that we were sworn officers. If an officer needed a badge, they would check out the “community badge” and return it when they were done. What would you say to a new Officer about getting involved with OCEA? Don’t take anything for granted, and learn your history. Being called counselors, not having badges, not having POBR protection wasn’t a generation ago. These things are relatively recent. We he had to fight for things that many officers now take for granted. Sure, we have a law enforcement minded Chief today, but the Board of Supervisors can decide to go in a very different direction and that could jeopardize our progress. Being educated and involved in your union is the only way to preserve our rights, and to make sure we continue to improve our working conditions.

Get involved: OCEA Board Member Pamela Waters

Pam (center) with retired OCEA Board member Alicia Hernandez (left) and OCEA Steward Teresa Garcia at the Veterans + Labor Veterans Day celebration at the OC Fair & Event Center.

Pamela Waters Secretary II Orange County Community Resource (Public Library)

County employee since 1987 OCEA member since 1989 OCEA Board member since 1993

What was your first exposure to the Labor Movement?

during your 28-years at OCEA?

I grew up in a household where Labor wasn’t looked at in a good way, and even now I am told that we “don’t talk about unions in this house.” My dad worked for Kodak, and he was very loyal to the company. Looking back, I wish I had some representation when I worked for a heavy equipment company. I was earning minimum wage, but I had to learn to drive a forklift in case the guys I worked with went to lunch and I had cover them when customers would come in for supplies.

OCEA has your back. That was really shown during the County bankruptcy in 1994. I remember getting a call that the Supervisors and everyone were in these emergency talks because the County investment pool lost all its money. I had to get up from Christmas dinner with my mom to come down to OCEA. Massive layoffs were coming and I was so proud that OCEA could fight back and show the managers and everyone that there were other ways out of the mess they had made. OCEA really saved some jobs and helped to keep the County going for workers and the citizens. That’s why I tell new employees that OCEA is there to protect you in so many ways.

How did you first get involved with OCEA? I was already working at the County and not really interested. It wasn’t until my library coworker Eleanor Henry’s car broke down that I got introduced to OCEA. I offered to take Eleanor home from work but she first had to make a stop which turned out to be a Steward meeting at OCEA. I figured I would go in and listen. Once I began researching the history of unions, I thought, this is something I need to get into. I never knew that people use to have to work seven days a week if that’s what the bosses wanted. It was the unions that stepped up to say “no” and established the eight-hour day. It was unions that brought working people a seat at the bargaining table. Is there a special moment that made a big impact on you

What part of your OCEA experience has been the most rewarding for you? The most rewarding thing for me has been the friendships that I have found serving as a steward at the library and helping my coworkers. The labor movement opened a big world to me. Learning about the Orange County Labor Federation and how that works—meeting all the people who are of a like mind. Getting to work with all the board members and on the bargaining teams—OCEA is a family to me. It’s a family where I can not only talk about unions, but fight for people as a member. Friends and family—that what OCEA means to me. OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA tickets

Special savings for OCEA members! Check OCEA’s website, www.oceamember.org, for full details. PRICES SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE. AMUSEMENT PARKS CASTLE PARK: $12.99/person 36” and above (Reg. $19.99). All-day unlimited rides, unlimited miniature golf and Buccaneer Cove (when in season). No blackouts. Tickets expire Dec. 31. Tickets only available online. KNOTT’S BERRY FARM: $42/adult, $39/ages 3-11 and seniors 62+ ($72 & $42). No blackouts. Tickets expire Dec. 31. Tickets also available online. LA ZOO: $16/adult; $12/ages 2-12 (Reg. $20 & $15). No blackouts. LEGOLAND CALIFORNIA RESORT: 2017 Limited Time Season Offer: LEGOLAND Resort Hopper Oneday admission, plus 2nd day free (LEGOLAND, SEALIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park*): $69.99/ages 3 & up (Reg. $122 & $116). Promotion ends March 15. First visit must occur by April 30. 2nd day must be used anytime between first visit and the expiration date. *Water Park is seasonal and requires same-day use as LEGOLAND visit.. Tickets only available online. SAN DIEGO ZOO: $43/adult; $35/ages 3-11 (Reg. $52 & $46). No blackouts. Tickets expire July 18. Tickets also available online. SAN DIEGO ZOO SAFARI PARK: $43/adult; $35/ages 3-11 (Reg. $52 & $46). No blackouts. Tickets expire Aug. 1. Tickets also available online. SEAWORLD SAN DIEGO: Single-day admission, plus 2nd day free: $65/ages 3 & up (Reg. $93/adult; $87/ ages 3-9). Tickets expire Dec. 31. Fun Cards: $77/ages 3 & up (Reg. $93/adult; $87/ages 3-9). No blackouts. Free parking Jan. 1–Mar. 31! Tickets expire Dec. 31. Tickets also available online. SIX FLAGS MAGIC MOUNTAIN: $50/ages 3 & up (Reg. $85.99). No blackouts. Tickets expire Sept. 17. Tickets also available online. UNIVERSAL STUDIOS HOLLYWOOD: Single-day admission: $95-105/adult; $84-99/ages 3-9. Ticket prices depend on the day of the week (Reg. $105-110); Tickets expire on the day of visit. No refunds or exchanges. Front-of-Line and annual passes are also available online. NOTE: Prices and tickets options change frequently and without notice. Please visit USH e-ticket program for most current ticket information. Tickets only available online.

DINNER ENTERTAINMENT MEDIEVAL TIMES DINNER & TOURNAMENT: $42/adult; $32/ages 12 & under (Reg. $57.95 & $35.95). Reservation required. Tickets expire Dec. 30.

MOVIE THEATERS

SO CAL ATTRACTIONS

AMC THEATRES (LOEWS & CINEPLEX ODEON): $10.25/person (Reg: $13.50). No movie restrictions. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX, or 3-D. Valid nationwide.

AQUARIUM OF THE PACIFIC: $20/adult; $15/child ages 3-11 (Reg. $30.95 & $19.95). Blackouts: April 7–9; Dec. 25. Tickets expire Nov. 30. Tickets also available online.

CENTURY CINEMA: $8.50/person (Reg. $14). Unrestricted admissions. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide.

BATTLESHIP USS IOWA: $13.50/adult; $7.50/ages 6-11; $10.50/ senior 62 and up (Reg. $19.95, $11.95 & $16.95). Max. 20 tickets per transaction. Tickets expire one year from the day of purchase. USS Iowa is located at the Pacific Battleship Center at 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731; for more information, visit website www. pacificbattleship.com. Tickets only available online.

KRIKORIAN PREMIERE THEATRES: $7.50/person (Reg. $12.50). Unrestricted admission. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide. REGAL ENTERTAINMENT GROUP: $8.50/person (Reg. $14.50). Unrestricted admission. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide.

ONE-TIME EVENTS SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Tickets start at $28. OCEA promo: 28535. Finding Neverland, Broadway: 7:30 p.m. March 24 and 7:30 p.m. March 28; 6:30 p.m. April 2; offer expires Feb. 17. An American in Paris, Broadway: 7:30 p.m. Apr. 28 and 7:30 p.m. May 2; 2 p.m. May 6; offer expires March 24. The Bodyguard, Broadway: 2 p.m. June 3; 7:30 p.m. June 9 and 6:30 p.m. June 11; offer expires Apr. 21. Red Giselle, Eifman Ballet of St. Petersburg: 7:30 p.m. June 17; offer expires May 12. Cinderella, Teatro Alla Scala Ballet Company: 7:30 p.m. July 29; offer expires June 30. Fun Home, Broadway: 7:30 p.m. Aug. 4; 7:30 p.m. Aug. 5 and 6:30 p.m. Aug. 6; offer expires July 7. The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time, Broadway: 7:30 p.m. Sept. 15 and 2 p.m. Sept. 16; 6:30 p.m. Sept. 17; offer expires Aug. 11. SHEN YUN PERFORMING ARTS: More ticket information coming soon! April 5-9 at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts, Costa Mesa. Tickets only available online.

OUT OF AREA ORLANDO EMPLOYEE DISCOUNT: Save up to 35% on Your Orlando Vacation! Orlando Employee Discounts offers Exclusive Pricing on Hotels & Vacation Homes in or nearby Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando as well as Discounts on Tickets for All Orlando Area Theme Parks and Attractions. Look for more information on www.oceamember.org. TICKETS AT WORK: Take advantage of exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment and travel nationwide! Offers only available online include 25% off regular car rental rates; hotels; Las Vegas shows and attractions; New York and Broadway specials; South Florida attractions; ski resorts tickets; Six Flags theme parks; and more. Check for more information on www.oceamember.org.

BOOMERS! (FAMILY FUN CENTERS): $17/ages 3 & up (Reg. $39.95). 4-hour unlimited attractions and miniature golf passes, excluding arcade games, batting cages and food. No blackouts. Tickets expire on the day of visit. Tickets also available online. CATALINA FLYER: $54/adult; $40/ages 3-12 (Reg. $68 & $51). Reservation required. Tickets expire Dec. 31. CATALINA EXPRESS (LONG BEACH, SAN PEDRO, DANA POINT): $61/adult; $52/child ages 3-12 (Reg. $73.50 & $58). All fares are round-trip. Blackout dates: May 27-29; July 3-5; Sept. 2-4. Tickets expire Dec. 31. MADAME TUSSAUDS WAX MUSEUM, HOLLYWOOD: $20.99-$26.99/person depending on the date and time of entry (Reg. $29.95). For more price information please refer to OCEA website www.oceamember. org; blackouts: Oscar Day; tickets expire on the selected date and time of entry. Tickets only available online. NEWPORT LANDING SUNSET CRUISE: $13/adult; $10/ages 2-12 (Reg. 25). Unlimited Drink Package: $13/person (Reg. $25). Offer based on availability. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www.cruisenewportbeach.com. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31. Tickets only available by phone. NEWPORT LANDING WHALE WATCHING: $15/adult; $10/ages 3-12 (Reg. $25). Based on availability. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www.newportwhales.com. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31. Tickets only available by phone.

SWEET REWARDS

SPORTS ANGELS BASEBALL: Save $5-$15 per ticket! Tickets are available on pre-paid basis only. Seattle Mariners, Opening Day! 7:07 p.m. Fri, Apr. 7. K1 SPEED: $15/person (Reg. $25.95). Price includes one standard 14-lap race and 1-year K1 Speedway license for new drivers. Junior drivers must be at least 48”; adult drivers must be at least 4’10” to drive. No blackouts. LA CLIPPERS: Save up to 12% per ticket, plus no sales taxes and online processing fees! Promo code: OCEA. Atlanta Hawks: Wed, Feb. 15, 7:30 p.m. San Antonio Spurs: Fri, Feb. 24, 7:30 p.m. Charlotte Hornets: Sun, Feb. 26, 6:30 p.m. Houston Rockets: Wed, Mar. 1, 7:30 p.m. Boston Celtics: Mon, Mar. 6, 7:30 p.m. Philadelphia 76ers: Sat, Mar. 11, 12:30 p.m. Milwaukee Bucks: Wed, Mar. 15, 7:30 p.m. Cleveland Cavaliers: Sat, Mar. 18, 5:30 p.m. New York Knicks: Mon, Mar. 20, 7:30 p.m. Utah Jazz: Sat, Mar. 25, 12:30 p.m. Sacramento Kings: Sun, Mar. 26, 12:30 p.m. Washington Wizards: Wed, Mar. 29, 7:30 p.m. Los Angeles Lakers: Sat, Apr. 1, 12:30 p.m. (no discount). Dallas Mavericks: Wed, Apr. 5, 7:30 p.m. Houston Rockets: Mon, Apr. 10, 7:30 p.m. Sacramento Kings: Wed, Apr. 12, 7:30 p.m. Tickets only available online. NEWPORT LANDING SPORTFISHING: ½-day trip: $26.50/adult; $21/ages 2-12 (Reg. $41.50-$34); ¾-day trip: $45/adult; $40/ages 2-12 (Reg. $71-$61). Offer based on availability. Rod and tackle packs available at the additional charge. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www.NewportLanding.com. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31. Tickets only available by phone.

WINTER FUN MAMMOTH MOUNTAIN RESORT 2 out of 4 days: $175/ages 23-64 (Reg. $134 per day). Blackouts: Feb. 18-20. Tickets expire at the end of ski season. SNOW VALLEY MOUNTAIN RESORT Anytime: $45/adult; $35/ages 13-17; Weekdays only: $28/ages 3 & up. (Reg. $71 & $61). Blackouts: All weekends and Holiday periods. Tickets expire at the end of ski season. SNOW SUMMIT BIG BEAR MOUNTAIN RESORT: Off-peak: $50/adult; $39/ages 13-22 (Reg. up to $80). Blackouts: Feb. 4-5, 11-12, 18-20, 25-26; March 4-5, 11-12. Anytime: $61/adult; $48/ages 13-22). Blackouts: Feb. 18-19. Tickets expire at the end of ski season.

SEE’S CANDY: $16/1-lb. candy gift certificate (Reg. $21.95). NO EXPIRATION. VIP PERKS BY ENTERTAINMENT $10 per card. Over 365,000 discounts online!

PIRATE’S DINNER ADVENTURE: $37/adult; $29/ages 3-12 (Reg. $65.15 & $41.15). Reservation required. Tickets expire Dec. 2.

OCEA e-ticket programs For up-to-date listings on all available tickets, go to www.oceamember.org/etickets. 18

OCEA EMPLOYEE

OCEA discounts

Special savings for OCEA members! Check OCEA’s website, www.oceamember.org, for full details. AUTOMOTIVE & CAR RENTALS A-Z Tech Automotive: 20% off mechanical repairs. We are located at 23672 Via Fabricante, Mission Viejo, CA 92691. For details call (949) 472-8111, Mon-Fri 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Avis: Up to 25% savings on selected cars through corporate program. OCEA corporate code T815000. (800) 331-1212. Budget: Up to 25% savings on selected cars through corporate program. OCEA corporate code X627900. (800) 455-2848 Dollar Rent-A-Car: Call (800) 800-3665 to find out more! Corporate code: CH0415. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 10% off regular price! Call (800) 736-8222. Corporate code: 32E8228. EZ Auto Test Only: Smog all vehicles including motor homes, change of title, out of state, and gross polluters! We are located at 2208 N. Main Street #B, Santa Ana, CA 92706 (at the corner of Main and Buffalo Street; near School First Credit Union). For details please call (714) 542-9400. Hertz: 5% off daily and weekly rentals! Join Hertz #1 Gold Club online and save more! Corporate code: 1335448. Call (800) 654-8216. The Red Book: New cars at fleet prices! For details, go to www.redbook4autos.com or call (800) 422-4561.

BANKING Orange County’s Credit Union: Receive a $100 bonus with a new checking account. Present this offer at the Ross Branch of Orange County’s Credit Union by April 30, 2017 to receive the offer. Normal approval standards apply. Offer is available to “new” Members only. Must open a personal checking account, enroll in e-Statements, sign up and qualify for a Debit MasterCard, and either set up and receive Direct Deposit or make 5 Debit Card purchases within 60 days. Bonus typically paid within 90 days. Bonus represents dividends deposited into your account and may be reported to the IRS. Any taxes are your responsibility. The new checking account must remain open for 90 days or bonus may be reversed. Min. opening deposit is $25 for all accounts except Better Than Free which has no minimum. Membership fee is $5. Federally insured by NCUA. Promo code OCEA100 (888) 354-6228 www.orangecountyscu.org

EDUCATION University of Phoenix delivers rigorous coursework in a flexible format to allow students to balance work and home life while earning their degrees. OCEA members are eligible to receive a 10% savings on the cost of tuition among other benefits such as access to innovative technologies including electronic textbooks and course materials, online library and more. For more details visit www.oceamember.org

CANDIES, FLOWERS & MORE Cherry Moon Farms: 20% discount on hundreds of orchardfresh gifts that make every occasion special. For more information call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA. GiftBloom.com: 15% discount on all gifts and products for local, same day and international deliveries. To place your order contacts Preferred Rate Coordinator, Ujwal Patel, (224) 999-0089. Personal Creations: 20% discount on a variety of personalized gifts, perfect for any occasion. For more information call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA. ProFlowers.com: 20% discount on a variety of gifts for all your personal and corporate occasions! Same-day delivery available! Call (800) 210-2279 to place your order. Corporate code: OCEA. Red Envelope: 20% discount on a unique and wide-ranging collection of thoughtful gifts for every occasion. To order by phone, call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA.

Purchase tickets: To order by mail, please include: 1) name and phone number, 2) letter stating your ticket order, and 3) check payable to OCEA for the full amount of the ticket order plus $6.40 for shipping and handling. Send orders to: Special Events, OCEA, 830 N. Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA

Shari’s Berries: 20% discount on high-quality handdipped berries, luxurious cheesecakes and gourmet baked goods. Call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA.

HOLISTIC Essential Oils: Free 15-minute holistic consultation or 10% off Raindrop treatment. Restore your energy with the highest quality natural plant oils. Improve mood, sleep, skin issues, mental focus, immunity and shed discomfort naturally. To schedule your appointment call (310) 9202177 or email carlasgreatoils@gmail.com. www.carlacohen.com; www.carlasgreatoils.com Feng Shui your office or home: Free 15 minute phone consultation and 25% off your appointment! Enhance or transform the energy of your environment with the ancient art of Feng Shui Space Clearing. Lift energy and health and increase prosperity, balance, ease and flow in your areas. To schedule your free phone consultation and your onsite appointment call or text Master Dawn Lane at (714) 476-2245. www.Fengshuimyhome.org Integrative Nutrition: Free discovery consultation, 20% off Health Needs & Goal Assessment, free e-book “The Working Woman’s Secrets to Healthy Eating.” Discover your blueprint for food, weight issues, cravings and more! To schedule your online, phone, or in person appointment call (949) 735-9173 or email kat@behealthybydesign.com. www.Katmaeda.com Intuitive Healing Therapy (Massage or Energetized Crystals): 25% off your first session, plus additional 15 minutes added to your 60 or 90 minute follow up massages FREE! Call (714) 658-7127 or email mobilehealingartsmassage@gmail.com for more information. Located inside EvolMotion in Irvine at 17915 Skypark Circle Ste. D Irvine, CA 92614. www.thehiddengem.center Mindfulness, Reiki & Meditation by Open Ended Circle: Receive 15% off private mediation or Mindfulness counseling session, $20 personal Reiki Therapy session, or $30 off Transformative Reiki Attunement class. To schedule your appointment call Reiki master Teacher and Holistic Health Practitioner Linda Lee Sheldon at (714) 281-6833 or email info@openendedcircle.com. Tobin Acupuncture & Holistic Medicine: Attend either “Healthy Body Shape” or “Truth About Cancer” free class and receive a consultation and mini evaluation FREE ($225 Value). Information on stress, hormones, auto immune, cancer, and body shape. Call Diane or Dr. Mary Tobin at (714) 256-2287 to schedule. 710 N. Brea Blvd. Brea, CA 92821. www.Tobinwellness.com

HOTELS Great Wolf Lodge: 30% off an overnight guest room with waterpark passes. Some restrictions apply. Discount available at all 14 lodges throughout the USA and Canada. Corporate code: OCEA927A. Must present valid membership card at check-in.For more information or reservations please visit www.GreatWolf.com or call (866) 925-9653.

OUTDOORS Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: OCEA members save 15% on regular adult and child Tram admissions and 10% at gift stores and restaurants. Restrictions apply. The Alpine Club cards are available at the OCEA Special Events office free of charge. Card valid through Dec. 2020.

PARTY RENTALS OC Fun Party Rentals: Looking for a jumper rental company that offers safe, clean, affordable and great-looking jumpers? OCEA members receive $10 off per hour of entertainment, per rental item booked! This offer excludes additional concessions servings and all helium tank rentals. For more information call (714) 914-7159, email ocfunpartyrentals@ gmail.com or visit their website www.ocfunrentals.com.

92701. Checks for over $500 not accepted. Ticket sales are final. Sorry, no refunds or exchanges. Please allow sufficient time! Mailed ticket orders are generally processed within five business days of receiving the order. OCEA makes no guarantees on mailed orders. Shipping and

TIRED OF PAYING FOR OVERPRICED INSURANCE? OCEA MEMBERS RECEIVE A FREE PERSONALIZED POLICY REVIEW ON YOUR HOME AND AUTO INSURANCE POLICIES TO ENSURE YOU’RE PROPERLY COVERED AND AREN’T OVERPAYING!

WHY VELECE? LOW RATES | PERSONALIZED SERVICE | CONVENIENCE

CONTACT AN AGENT TODAY!

(714) 558-1034 PHOTOGRAPHY & ART

WIRELESS

Artistic Bridals & Portraits Studio: 15% off wedding photography and event plans from their already low prices. OCEA member-only plan is also available plan is also available. Visit www.nemo4u.com to view samples of work. Call Mike Nemeth at (949) 496-4559 today!

Please note: Wireless discounts are applicable to all Orange County and City employees. Proof of employment is required.

Sketches and Clay Molding: Local artist draws realistic sketches from photos creates statues and figures out of clay. References and work samples are available upon request. View my portfolio at http://bit.ly/XnBC8V. Christine, (714) 653-5172; http://bit.ly/XnBC8V S8ved Photography: For your next Kodak-moment call George Reyes at (714) 609-0039 or email him s8vedpic@yahoo.com. Save 20% on any order. Visit www.s8vedphotography.com.

SERVICES ADT Security Services: Residential and Business Security that include Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide, Online Access, Video, and Home Automation Features. 24 Month monitoring agree required, Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Offer subject to change. CA ACO7155. Please contact Jeff Spatz at (714) 907-2995 or by email jspatz@adt.com

WELLNESS

AT&T: County of Orange Employees receive up to 15% discount off their monthly service fee for rate plans with minutes or data usage included. Existing and new users qualify for the discount! For more information please contact Jeannie Acosta, (310) 990-1262 or ja0590@ att.com. Sprint: Save 18% off select regularly priced monthly service plans. Plus, activation fee waived for new activations (up to $36 value; requires a new twoyear agreement). This discount is available to all employees working at the state or local level within the State of California. Mention this code to claim 18% discount: GLSCA_COO_ZZZ; To order by phone: (866) 639-8354; To order online: www.sprint.com/ californialocalgovernment; To add 18% discount for existing Sprint customers: www.sprint.com/verify and click on the “Existing Customers” tab or call (866) 6398354. T-Mobile: 15% discount on qualifying monthly recurring phone charges. Promotion code: 13302TMOFAV. Discount Contact: Betty Chacon at (714) 850-6633 or Beatriz.Chacon@T-Mobile.com. Verizon: Save 15% on select monthly plans. Apply online using Government Employee Program E-Code EMD70. Discount Contact: Brian Sulton; (888) 457-6294 or brian@evpdiscount.com.

Between the Ropes Boxing: Discover personal fitness through boxing, calisthenics and nutritional guidance. Let Orange County boxing legend Raul Franco help whip you into shape! OCEA members receive a discount: Individual sessions are $35 per hour and group classes are $20 per person! Additional charges may apply. Contact Raul at (714) 333-7405 or raulfranco1220@yahoo.com for details. CKO Kickboxing: Free trial class or 25% off yearly membership for OCEA members! Gym is located at 2201 N. Tustin Ave., Suite 120, Santa Ana, Ca 92705. For details call Alissa Abbey at (949) 467-4979.

handling charges cover costs of certifying and insuring mailed tickets. For further information, contact Joanna Nachurski at (714) 835-3355 or at joanna@oceamember.org. Ticket hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.

You can now purchase certain tickets online at www.oceamember.org/etickets OCEA EMPLOYEE

HOLISTIC LIFESTYLE MINI FAIR Sponsored by One Source Wellness and The Holistic Chamber of Commerce

10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Thursday, March 16, 2017 OCEA, 830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, CA 92701 Massage | Essential Oils | Stress Relief | Reiki Body and Skin Care | Pain Relief | Art Therapy Acupressure/Acupuncture | Holistic Medicine Nutrition | Chiropractic | Energy Work RAFFLE PRIZES, GOODIE BAGS, DISCOUNTS AND MORE! Come see, taste, touch, hear and smell what natural holistic lifestyle solutions are all about!

Please RSVP by emailing Joanna Nachurski at joanna@oceamember.org. Lunch will be provided. Complementary parking available in the Diamond Parking lot in front of OCEA but is limited so please carpool.

DISCLAIMER: The Holistic Lifestyle Mini Fair is provided by the Orange County Employees Association as a service to its members with the understanding that OCEA makes no warranties or representations, either express or implied, concerning the accuracy, completeness, reliability, or suitability of any information, product or service offered by fair vendors. OCEA does not endorse any commercial provider, or their products or services. The use of any information, product or service by any OCEA member or other person is strictly voluntary.

OCEA EMPLOYEE

ORANGE COUNTY EMPLOYEES ASSOCIATION 830 North Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701

Want to be part of something greater than yourself?

BECOME A WORKPLACE LEADER! There are many ways to get involved: • Become a workplace leader or an OCEA steward • Join OCEA’s Political Action Committee or Health and Welfare Trust • Represent your co-workers on an OCEA bargaining team and more!