VOLUME 56, N0. 1 – SPRING 2016

Harvey Whille IN THIS ISSUE PRESIDENT President’s Message ...... 3 Matthew Molinaro SECRETARY-TREASURER Secretary-Treasurer’s Message ...... 5

John Colella Colleen Pagano: A Local 1262 Shop Steward RECORDER and A “Steward” for Veterans Lives, Too...... 7

EXECUTIVE BOARD VICE PRESIDENTS Dearborn Market Is The Newest Company Ronald Bennett, Stop & Shop Dolores Jackson, ShopRite To Employ Local 1262 Members...... 8 Ruby Boston, ShopRite Michael Kantor, Local 1262 Richard Brock, Stop & Shop Richard Madore, ShopRite MAP Corner...... 11 Robert Brozowski, ShopRite Karen McManus, Local 1262 Joseph Cahill, William McNeill, ShopRite Local 1262 Salutes Our Shop Stewards...... 12 Gerry Callan, ShopRite Donald Merritt, Local 1262 James Cullen, ShopRite Irene Pereira, ShopRite Field Director’s Report...... 14 Michael DeMartino, Local 1262 Michael Piccicacco, Local 1262 Michael Ebbe, Local 1262 Stephanie Pieper, ShopRite New Foodtown Opens in Jeanette Galante, ShopRite Richard Taylor, ShopRite Bloomfield’s Glenwood Village...... 16 Pam Germain, Stop & Shop Darlene Walaszek, Stop & Shop Frances Green, ShopRite Kathy Wilder, ShopRite Snapshots ...... 17

EXECUTIVE STAFF Michael Kantor John Colella Executive Vice President Recorder & Field Director THIS SUMMER – AND ALL YEAR – Michael DeMartino, Director Contract Administration & Internal Operations SHOP UNION STORES & BUY Sal Colarieti, Assistant Field Director UNION-MADE PRODUCTS Elizabeth Laughery, Assistant Field Director Local 1262 President Whille reminds our members to shop Donald Merritt, Assistant Field Director Michael Piccicacco, Assistant Field Director UNION stores and buy UNION-MADE products whenever Anthony Yodice, Organizing Director possible. represented by Local 1262 include: Cynthia McCarthy, Communications Director ACME DEARBORN MARKET

UNION REPRESENTATIVES FOODTOWN SHOPRITE STOP & SHOP Steve Blaho, Jr. Christopher Molinaro For a list of other Union retailers and UFCW Made Products visit www.unionplus.org. Michael Ebbe Tom Mount Rich Ebbe Nancy Miller John Faulhaber James Mulholland The 1262 Banner (ISSN-0190-4744) is If you have comments, suggestions, James Feimster Rich Pena published quarterly by United Food & information or news you would like us to Kenneth Hassett Carmen Pizzi Commercial Workers Local 1262 consider for publication, please send to: for its members. Margaret Hreha Gary Sague E-mail: [email protected] President: Harvey Whille Fax: 973-777-3430 Richard Janssen David Uczen Secretary-Treasurer: Matthew Molinaro Mail: 1389 Broad Street, Clifton, NJ 07013 Ed Magierowski Thomas Whille Recorder: John Colella Periodical Postage paid at Clifton, NJ and Editor: Cynthia McCarthy Karen McManus additional offices Volume 56, No. 1 – SPRING 2015 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: The Banner EXECUTIVE SECRETARIAL STAFF 1389 Broad Street, Clifton, NJ 07013 Christine Connery Gladyz Feimster Valerie Morano UFCW LOCAL 1262 PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE Solidarity Is Alive and Well abor union leaders, myself included, often talk about the importance of “solidarity.” But what does solidarity really mean to each of us in the L Harvey Whille labor movement and why is it so important?

Merriam-Webster defines “solidarity” as follows: helped Local 1262 obtain – years ago – the fine contracts Solidarity -- noun sol·i·dar·i·ty \ˌsä-lə-ˈda-rə-tē -- a feeling we still benefit from today. of unity between people who have the same interests, The New England negotiations got underway in goals, etc. December with the company looking for massive conces- But solidarity is more than just a “feel good” word, sions from New England members. The five New England especially when it’s put into action. locals – assisted by all of the locals that represent more Local 1262 recently had the privilege of being part of than 55,000 members employed by Stop & Shop and “solidarity in action” through the sup- other Ahold-owned stores along the port we provided our brothers and sis- Eastern Seaboard – stood up to the ters in New England during their con- company – in solidarity – and said “No!” tract negotiations with Stop & Shop. Solidarity“ is Solidarity came to life in our Union, Our support began when I was in the stores and in the community. asked by UFCW International President more than just Solidarity came to life when Local Marc Perrone and Region One Director 1262 and our sister Locals provided Tom Clarke to come to New England a “feel good” support by sending our own seasoned and address the Presidents of the five Union Representatives to work with the locals involved in the negotiations. I word, especially New England Union Representatives. drove to Rhode Island and had the when it’s put Together, side by side, they visited privilege of not only addressing the stores to talk to members and to cus- presidents, but also all of the rank-and- into action. tomers. Our Union Reps (Local 1262’s file members who were serving on the Tom Mount, Steve Blaho and Ed Contract Negotiation Committee. I Magierowski among them) stayed in spoke of the importance of solidarity New England for weeks and played a and how well it had served Local 1262 in the past. I also” major role in the campaign. made the commitment right then and there to provide Solidarity came to life when other unions, elected whatever support and whatever action was necessary to officials, community allies and customers came together help them get through what promised to be some very – often arriving by the busload – to attend numerous difficult and contentious negotiations. Rallies held in New England to support our members and I made this commitment not only because it was the their families. In addition to our Union Reps already on right thing to do, but also because it was an opportunity the ground in New England, Local 1262 sent other staff for Local 1262 to repay all the fine Local presidents and members (Don Merritt, Mike Piccicacco, Tom Whille, members in that Region for the assistance and support Mike Kantor and others) to the rallies where they showed they provided to our members many, many years ago there is strength in numbers and voices to be heard. when we were in the same boat here in our area. It was Solidarity came to life when UFCW members – Local an honor to be able to now come to their aid and help 1262 included – reached out to customers in New this outstanding group of hard-working people who (Continued on page 18)

SPRING 2016 1262 BANNER 3 United Food & Commercial Workers Local 1262 Nomination Of Officers The offices of President, Secretary-Treasurer, Recorder and active member being nominated, the specific office for which Vice Presidents 1 through 24 inclusive are open for nomination that member is being nominated and valid, verifiable original for election to three-year terms of office commencing January signatures. No less than (564) active members in support of 1, 2017 and ending December 31, 2019. The nominations said nomination are required. Petitions are available from James shall be conducted by petition. Each of the 24 vice presidents Mulholland, General Chairperson, UFCW Local 1262, 1389 Broad is numerically designated for nomination and election pur- Street, Clifton, NJ, 07013. The nominating petition will contain poses. For example, Vice President Number 1, Vice President information sufficient to permit the General Chairperson to verify Number 2, etc. the identity of the signatories thereto, for that purpose, in addi- This shall serve as official notice to the active membership of tion to their signature, each member should print their full name UFCW Local 1262 that nomination petitions for any of the above and address and last four digits of their Social Security number. offices must be submitted in person, by U.S. Mail or other carrier Only active members of UFCW Local 1262 shall be permitted to no later than 4:30 p.m., Friday, July 1, 2016 at the main office of solicit and obtain nomination signatures from active members. UFCW Local 1262, 1389 Broad Street, Clifton, NJ 07013 to the Each page of the petition must contain verification that all the attention of General Chairperson. signatures on the petition page were solicited and obtained by Each page of the petition will contain the name of the an active Member of UFCW Local 1262.

ARTICLE X I I -- Elections the Local Union, for a continuous aggregate 3. Petitions shall be filed at the Local Section A. All officers shall be elected of at least 12 months immediately preced- Union office by mail or in person. The by secret ballot of the membership, and ing the month in which the deadline for the original signatures are required to be filed, their term of office shall be for three years, receipt of nomination petitions occurs, or; and transmission by facsimile, computer, or commencing January 1, 1978. Terms of 2. An active member in the Local other form of electronic transmission shall office shall expire on December 31, and the Union who has been an active member in not be valid. terms of newly elected officers shall com- the International Union continuously for at 4. If a signature on any petition is mence on January 1. least 24 months immediately preceding the not accompanied by a printed name or the Section B. Nominations and elec- month in which the deadline for the receipt other identifying information required by tions shall be conducted during the last of nomination petitions occurs. the general chairperson, but the identity of six months preceding the expiration of the Any member satisfying the eligibility the member can be determined from the term of office. Date(s), time(s), places(s), requirements of this Section must maintain signature, the signature shall be deemed and rules for the election shall be estab- continuous active membership in the Local valid and shall be counted. lished by the General Chairperson of the Union to remain eligible to run for or hold Section F. No member may run for election. elected office. more than one office in any election and no Section C. Not less than 30 days prior Section E. 1. Nominations shall be member may hold more than one elected to the deadline for the receipt of nomina- conducted by petition. Nomination of a office at any one time. The regular employ- tion petitions, notice shall be mailed by member for a specific office shall require ees of the Local Union shall not constitute the Local Union to each member at the the signatures of two (2) percent of the more than 50 percent of the membership of member’s last known home address, set- average monthly active membership of the the Local Union Executive Board. ting forth the manner for conducting the Local Union, based on the number of active Section G. Any active member in the nominations, the actual number of signa- members on which the Local Union pays Local Union, as defined in Article 4(B) of the tures required for nomination petitions, the per capita tax to the International Union, International Constitution, shall be eligible deadline date for the receipt of petitions, for the twelve-month period ending with to vote in the Local Union’s elections. and all other relevant requirements for the the next to last month prior to the month Section H. 1. The elections shall be filing of petitions, including what each peti- in which the notice of nominations is conducted at such times and places as will tion is required to contain. mailed to the membership. afford all active members a reasonable Not less than 15 days prior to the elec- 2. Each petition shall indicate the opportunity to vote. tion, notice shall be mailed by the Local member who is being nominated and the 2. The President shall select a general Union to each member at the member’s specific office for which he or she is being chairperson, who shall be a member of the last known home address, setting forth the nominated. If a member is being nominat- United Food and Commercial Workers, to times, dates, and places for conducting the ed for a Vice President position, the peti- supervise the conduct of the nominations election. tion shall specify the numerically designat- and election and not less than three mem- Notice of nominations and elections ed Vice President position for which he or bers to act as election judges to assist the may be combined into a single notice, she is being nominated. Any petition may general chairperson. The general chairper- which shall be mailed in accordance with nominate more than one (1) member for son and election judges, who together shall the time requirements specified in the first office, provided that each member is being constitute the election committee, shall paragraph of this Section. nominated for a different office and that not be candidates for Local Union office. Section D. No person shall be eligible the office for which each member is being The general chairperson shall establish the for nomination or election to any office nominated is specifically indicated. Each applicable dates, times, places, manner, and unless such person is: petition shall contain the signature, printed procedures for the nominations and elec- 1. An active member in the Local name, and other identifying information, as tion. The election committee shall main- Union, who has been an active member in determined by the general chairperson of tain custody of all ballots and election reg- the Local Union, or who had been a mem- the election, of each member signing the isters during the conduct of the elections. ber of another organization merged with petition. (Continued on page 6)

4 1262 BANNER SPRING 2016 UFCW LOCAL 1262 SECRETARY-TREASURER’S MESSAGE Local 1262 Paid Nearly $160 Million in Benefits To Our Members Last Year

t is that time of year when people, businesses and organizations like ours crunch the numbers to assess Matthew Molinaro I their financial situation. I am pleased to report that Local 1262 is on During 2015 we paid more than $81 million solid financial ground, ending our fiscal reporting in medical claims, more than $29 million in pre- year with more than $11.4 million in scriptions, nearly $6 million in dental net assets. benefits and nearly $1 million in vision Additionally, our pension funds con- A union“ benefits, $1 million in pre-paid legal tinue to remain strong and healthy and contract means benefits. We also paid more than $41 are expected to continue to do so. much more million in pension benefits, proving that I am also pleased to report that, than good the benefits of a union contract stretch despite the bankruptcy last wages and job far beyond your work days in the store. year and its subsequent store closings, security. (Please see the chart on the back our membership remains steady -- hov- page for a complete guide to benefits ering around the 30,000 mark. ” paid in the past five years.) And last but not least, I am happy to report that The proof is in the numbers! A union contract Local 1262 continues to provide benefits, negoti- means much more than good wages and job secu- ated for our members via our contracts with your rity. It means ongoing benefits for our members employers. while they are working and after they retire.

Have You Recently… Let Us Know. See Your Union Representative …Changed Your Address? or call Local 1262 and ask for the appropriate form. …Married or Changed Your Name? From NJ 1-800-562-6913

…Changed Beneficiaries? From Other States 1-800-526-7814

SPRING 2016 1262 BANNER 5 ballot and one envelope bearing the words Where the election for an office other than Nomination Of Officers “Secret Ballot,” with no identifying number President or Secretary-Treasurer results in (Contiuned from page 4) or marks; and (3) a ballot return envelope, a tie or where no nominee for Local Union which shall either contain a label with the President or Secretary-Treasurer receives Where multiple polling places are used, member’s name and address or clearly ask a majority of votes cast, a runoff election at least one election judge or the general the member to print his or her name and between the two nominees with the higher chairperson shall supervise the election at address, and which shall be pre-addressed number of votes shall be conducted. each polling place. to a post office box obtained solely for the Section L. When nominations have 3. Each eligible member desiring to purpose of the mail referendum. been completed and there are unopposed vote shall sign an election register autho- b. The Local Union election general candidates, such unopposed candidates rized by the general chairperson of the chairperson shall establish a deadline for shall be deemed elected by acclamation. election. The voter shall be given a ballot the receipt of return mail ballots, which Section M. The ballots and all other authorized by the general chairperson and shall be no earlier than 15 days or later records pertaining to the nominations shall be provided an opportunity to vote than 30 days after the date upon which the and elections, including the membership the ballot in secrecy. Ballots shall bear no ballots are mailed to the members; pro- mailing lists which were used to send the number or marks which might identify the vided that, if separate notice setting forth notices of the nominations and elections, voter. After marking his or her ballot, the the manner and the dates that the ballots shall be preserved for not less than one voter shall fold and place it in a secured will be sent to the membership and that year by the President. ballot receptacle provided by the election the return mail ballots must be received has Section N. A copy of the results of the committee. Alternative procedures for not previously been mailed to each member election shall be immediately mailed to the voting by machine, adequate to ensure at his or her last known home address, the International President. the secrecy of the ballot, may be provided. receipt deadline shall be no earlier than 20 Section O. Formal installation of the Candidates may have observers, who shall days after the date upon which the ballots newly elected officers may be either before be active members of the Local Union. are mailed to the members. If only a por- or after the start of their term of office to Adequate safeguards to ensure a fair elec- tion of the election is conducted by mail suit the convenience of the Local Union, tion shall be provided by the Local Union ballot, the receipt deadline shall be within but in any event, during either the month officers and election officials. the limits provided above and, in addition, preceding or the two months following 4. Where the election is conducted the same as the date established for the the start of their term of office; provided, at a single polling place, the results shall close of voting in the non-mail portion, if however, that no officer shall be deemed to be tallied and recorded by the general any, of the election. be in office unless bonded where required chairperson of the election and the election c. On the day of the receipt deadline, by the Constitution and laws of the judges at the close of the voting. after 12:00 noon, at least two members International Union. 5. Where the election is conducted of the election committee shall together Section P. 1. Not more than 15 days at multiple times or polling places, the pick up the mail ballots and return them subsequent to the election, all challenges general chairperson of the election and not unopened to the place specified by the to the election shall be submitted to the less than three election judges designated general chairperson, and thereupon the general chairperson of the election. The by the general chairperson shall meet not election committee shall open and count Local Union general chairperson and elec- later than the second day following the last the ballots. The general chairperson and tion judges shall consider any such chal- day on which the election was held and the election judges shall remove the Secret lenge and take such remedial action as at a time and place to be specified by the Ballot envelope containing the ballot from they deem appropriate. Not more than general chairperson to tally and record the all ballot return envelopes verified to have 15 days subsequent to such decision, an results of the election. As may be deter- been sent by eligible voters. After all the aggrieved party may appeal such decision mined by the general chairperson prior to Secret Ballot envelopes have been sepa- to the International President. Where the the balloting, the ballots may be counted rated from the return ballot envelopes, they general chairperson of the election and the at the close of each polling place, provided shall be opened and the votes tabulated election judges fail to render a decision that, the general chairperson or at least one by the general chairperson and election within 30 days of the Local Union election, election judge is present, and provided fur- judges. If only a portion of the election the challenging party may appeal to the ther that the general chairperson and not is conducted by mail ballot, the election International President not later than 15 less than three election judges designated committee shall open and count the mail days thereafter. by the general chairperson shall tally and ballots following the close of voting in the 2. The decision of the International record the final results of the election as non-mail portion that day. President may be appealed to the provided above in this paragraph. d. Adequate safeguards to ensure International Executive Board not later Section I. 1. In lieu of or in addition the secrecy of each voter’s ballot and the than 30 days after such decision has been to the election procedure provided for fairness of the mail referendum shall be rendered. above, the general chairperson of the elec- provided by the Local Union officers and 3. Any challenge or appeal which tion may determine to conduct the election election officials. could have been presented in compliance by a mail referendum in its entirety or in e. In all other applicable respects, the with these filing requirements, but was not, outlying areas. provisions of the International Constitution shall be deemed to have been waived. 2. An election by mail referendum and these bylaws relating to the election of shall be conducted as follows: Local Union officers shall govern. a. The election general chairperson Section J. Write-in candidates and and election judges will send by first-class proxy voting shall not be permitted. mail to each active member of the Local Section K. A plurality of votes cast Union eligible to vote by mail ballot the shall be required for election except as to following: (1) instructions as to the proce- the offices of Local Union President and dure to be used by the members in casting Secretary-Treasurer, where a majority of their secret ballots by mail; (2) one official votes cast shall be required for election.

6 1262 BANNER MAYSPRING 2013 2016 Colleen Pagano: A Local 1262 Shop Steward and A “Steward” for Veterans Lives, Too.

hen it comes to our nation’s veterans, Colleen Pagano says that Americans just Wcan’t do enough for the men and women who fought to defend our nation and our freedom.

And she puts those words into action every day of the “It’s the little things that add up,” she says. “A single small year. action by each of us is what can make such a huge difference In November and December she’s running any number of in their lives.” food and toy drives. In February there is the Valentines Dance Colleen, who serves as Spokeswoman for at the Veterans Home in Menlo Park. In May, you will find the American Legion and was named the American Legion’s Colleen serving as Chairperson of her hometown’s Memorial National Woman of the Year in 1993, extends her volunteer Day Parade in Piscataway and handing out 5,000 hotdogs to efforts beyond the veterans themselves, with several events veterans and their families and the community members who each year aimed at improving the lives of veterans’ families have gathered to pay tribute to them. too. For example, last December there was a coat and toy In June, there is the “Picnic on the Hill” at the Veterans drive to help 14 homeless veterans and their families who are Home in Menlo Park which provides the veterans, many of living in shelters. And last spring, there was a Prom Dress them bed-ridden, with a chance to salute Old Glory as part of Drive where veterans’ daughters were able to “shop” for prom Flag Day events. And the list goes on and on. dresses at the American Legion Hall in Piscataway. Even food Colleen, a Shop Steward at the Stirling ShopRite and a drives often include collecting pet food for veterans’ cherished member of Local 1262 for nearly 30 years, has always had four-legged companions. a special place in her heart for Veterans, after all her own “I couldn’t do any of this without the support I get from father – Dominick DeVico -- was a veteran of World War II. ShopRite and from our wonderful customers who are so quick She wears her dad’s dog tags around her neck every day and to donate to our veterans in whatever way they can through- proudly recalls how he used to bring the American Flag to out the year.” schools and teach children about the flag’s history, as well as But, veterans aren’t the only thing Colleen is passionate how to properly handle it, fold it and care for it. about. In 2012, Colleen and her ShopRite co-worker Tammi Colleen’s mother, Mary Elsie Egan who hailed from Ireland Buchman combined their love for motorcycles with helping the and was dubbed the “First GI Bride” and recently featured in hungry and launched the Annual Motorcycle Ride for Hunger. a book on Ellis Island, was, although not born in America, just Every September (this year’s event will be on September 17, as dedicated to its America and its soldiers. 2016, for more information visit ShopRite of Stirling’s face- “My father and my mother loved this country,” she recalls. book page) hundreds of riders roar out of the Stirling ShopRite “He was always quick to say how privileged he felt to be able parking lot traveling from Long Hill Township to Piscataway’s to defend it and my mother was proud that she was able to American Legion Post 261, with police escorts joining from raise a family here. Their sentiment was ingrained in me from every town they pass through. Colleen, who shys away from a very early age and now I carry on their spirit the best way I the spotlight and will quickly direct the conversation from her- know how – by helping those – like my dad -- who fought for self to the veterans and their needs, was recently honored by our country.” the Piscataway PBA for her work on the event. Hardly a day goes by when you won’t find Colleen vol- And Colleen being – well Colleen – quickly adds that it unteering her time to help veterans, whether its collecting is Village Supermarkets, the owner of the Stirling store, that donations or money, running fundraisers or spending time on deserves the recognition for supporting the event as part of site at the Veterans Homes in Basking Ridge and East Orange National Hunger Awareness Month activities. where, as just one example of hands-on caring, volunteers “It’s an amazing place to work -- from my co-workers to “adopted” a blind veteran who had no family and visited him the customers, it feels like family here, especially when we are with Christmas gifts that included books on tape. all pulling together to help those who need it most.”

SPRINGMAY 20132016 1262 BANNER 7 Dearborn Market Is The Newest Company To Employ Local 1262 Members

earborn Market doesn’t look like most of the stores where Local 1262 members work. In fact, it looks more like a barn or greenhouse – which technically it is – in addition to being a spe- Dcialty food store. Saker ShopRite recently purchased Saker ShopRite, which has been in add Dearborn to our family of stores,” Dearborn Market which has been oper- the business for nearly a Richard Saker, president and CEO of ating in the same location on Route century, said they purchased Dearborn Saker ShopRites, said in announcing the 35 in Holmdel since 1955. Market with a strong belief in the purchase. “Both the Saker and Luccarelli started out as a roadside fruit and veg- products, recipes, traditions and team families have a history and background etable stand operated by the Luccarelli at Dearborn and says it plans to grow in fine groceries and delicious prepared Family. In 1982, the family expanded the business while maintaining the dis- foods, and we think this is a great way the roadside farm stand by building tinctive red barn specialty food market, to pass the baton from one local, fami- the red barn and garden center that garden center and farm. ly-owned business to another.” stands today amidst farm fields that Saker ShopRite also asked the The Saker family has been operating yield goods sold in the store through- employees to stay on and now most grocery stores since 1916, when Richard out the year. are members of Local 1262, with Local Saker’s great-grandfather first opened a The local landmark is host to 464A representing the meat and deli small mom and pop grocery in Freehold, events beloved by the community such workers. NJ. The Luccarellis also have roots in the as an annual apple festival, pumpkin “Little will change at Dearborn area. Frank Luccarelli founded Dearborn picking and scarecrow stuffing. They Market, where we intend to maintain Farms in 1925 and grew fruits and veg- also host an Annual Orchid Festival everything customers love about the etables that were sold at markets in New each February which drawers thou- market – including the Dearborn name. York City. His son Dominick took over sands of people from throughout the We also love the traditions, recipes and the business in 1955 and moved it to the region. people of Dearborn and are proud to current location on Route 35.

Dearborn Market Members Rich Morello and Mike Paduano in the produce department. Pictured here with Union Representative John Faulhaber and Assistant Field Director Mike Piccicacco.

Union Rep John Faulhaber and Asst. Field Director Mike Piccicacco with Dearborn Market Member Heather Mowery who works in the grocery department.

8 1262 BANNER MAYSPRING 2013 2016 Dearborn Market Member Cashier Suzanne Araneo.

SPRINGMAY 20162013 1262 BANNER 9 FROM PEDIATRICS TO PASTRY Zhanna Kobesova has a very interesting job that she absolutely loves coming to each day. And the Local 1262 member, who heads up the bakery department at Dearborn Market, has a pretty interesting life story too. Trained at the French Culinary Institute, among and glamour to take a job in a barn – literally – in the other prestigious schools, Zhanna was a Pediatrician bakery at Dearborn Market where she has been baking in her native Russia until a trip to the 20 up unique pastries, cakes, cannoli, and a slew of other years ago changed her life – or more accurately saved goodies daily for the past nine years. her life. Zhanna, who became a member of Local 1262 when It was two decades ago when Zhanna was diag- Saker ShopRite purchased Dearborn Market, said she is nosed with cancer and had to travel from her home thrilled to be in the union. “Being in a union makes you in Russia for treatment at a hospital in the Freehold feel human,” she said. “There is great comfort in know- area. Although she could not speak English at the time, ing you have a contract which provides you with good Zhanna fell in love with the United States – and in love wages and benefits.” with Kevin Greene, who has been her husband for the She is also pleased to be working for a family-owned past 17 years. company where the owners know her by name and just Now fluent in English and cancer-free for 20 years, happen to be frequent visitors to the bakery depart- Zhanna talks enthusiastically about her life and her ment. That might also be because Zhanna routinely “new” career. creates one-of-a-kind new desserts – like Passion Fruit “After my bout with cancer I felt like I wanted to Cheesecake – for the shoppers who frequent the bakery. pursue something different from medicine,” she says. “I “I am a very lucky person in so many ways and espe- always loved to bake so I enrolled in the French Culinary cially because I can say that I love my job and I love Institute and the rest is, as they say, history.” coming to work every day. It doesn’t feel like “work” to Zhanna worked for many years as a private chef to me because it is my passion and I’m thankful I have the Wall Street Moguls and entertainers. However, want- chance to do it every day – and to get paid for it too? ing to be nearer to home (Freehold), she left the glitz That’s just a bonus,” she says with a smile

10 1262 BANNER SPRING 2016 MAP CORNER By Nancy Miller, Local 1262 MAP Coordinator

Local 1262 is unique in that we have a full-time Member Assistance Program (MAP), that helps our members with “off-the-job” issues, often during times of an emergency, an illness, etc.

From time to time, we feature topics that we believe That’s exactly what happened to one Local 1262 mem- will benefit our members. Today, we would like to discuss ber who, using the Internet, obtained coverage in less Renters Insurance. than 20 minutes. Anyone who owns a home most likely has “I went online and checked out three or four insurance Homeowners Insurance because their mortgage company companies that provided renters policies in New Jersey. requires it. However, many people who rent – whether it Most of them even have calculators on their web sites is in a stand-alone home or an apartment complex – don’t that walk you through a brief process to help you decide realize that they should have Renters Insurance. what level of coverage you want and how much you want MAP has worked on several situations where members to spend. Because I have a dog, I also had to make sure have lost possessions and housing as a result of fire or my policy would cover him too. In less than 20 minutes other damage to their apartments. Unfortunately, in each I was able to compare prices, select a company and I had case, the member did not have renters insurance, adding my coverage in place the very next day. The cost is about untold expense to their loss and displacement. $20 a month which I have automatically deducted from my Basic renters insurance in New Jersey can run as low as debit card so that I never have to worry about missing my $14 a month or $172 a year -- depending on deductibles, payment. The peace of mind knowing that my insurance the level of replacement cost and other options. Besides will not only replace my belongings but also provide funds property loss, some policies can provide temporary living for temporary housing should anything happen to my expenses if your apartment is uninhabitable, protection apartment is well worth what amounts to the same price against theft, and even coverage if your dog bites some- as a few cups of coffee a month.” one. The New Jersey Department of Banking and Insurance So think about it. What would it cost you to replace has a brochure that provides useful information even if your television, computer, furniture, clothing and all those you don’t live in New Jersey. Visit www.dobi.nj.gov and electronic gadgets we have all become so dependent on? click on Renters Insurance. A PDF of that brochure can You might be surprised to learn that renters, on average, also be found on Local 1262’s website – www.ufcw1262. have more than $20,000 in belongings! That shocking org – by clicking on the MAP link at the top right of the figure might make you decide you can’t afford not to have home page. renters insurance.

SPRING 2016 1262 BANNER 11 Robin Marinelli, Bonnie Flowers, Ray Rusay, Michelle Bopp, Union Stop & Shop Newark ShopRite Neptune ShopRite Aberdeen ShopRite

Edwina Mignone, Dennis Odom, Toms River Raritan Stop & Shop ShopRite, who serves with long-time Steward Evelyn Local 1262 Salutes Comer Our Shop Stewards Local 1262’s Shop Stewards are a very unique group of people. They are your co-workers who volun- teer their time to make sure your rights are protected on the job and that your contract is being followed. Each year Local 1262 hosts our Shop Steward Appreciation Day. The event provides us with an opportunity to bring your Shop Stewards up-to-date on the Union and its activities, finances, etc. But most importantly, it is our chance to say “Thank You” to this very special group of people. If you don’t already know your Shop Steward, why not take a minute to say hello – and thank you. The names of your Shop Stewards are posted in your break room along with a copy of your Weingarten Rights.

Linda Johnson, retired Shop Joseph Wallington, Jr. , Rebecca Kuebler, Ron Herzog, Steward, Pathmark Kinnelon Stop & Shop Freehold ShopRite Spotswood ShopRite

12 1262 BANNER MAYSPRING 2013 2016 Tina Galante, Executive Edward Sottile, Judy Cruz, Mildred Yakman, Board Member & Shop Monroe ShopRite Berkley Heights Stop & Shop Fairview Plaza ShopRite Steward at So. Livingston ShopRite

Nicole Carson, Carolanne Romeo-Grazul, Karen Sebastiano, Mitchell Fennik, Bayonne Stop & Shop Clark ShopRite Metro Plaza ShopRite Parsippany ShopRite

Richard Brock, Executive Nicholas Krutz, Darrell Stewart, llen Youmans, Board Member & Shop Clinton ShopRite Metro Plaza ShopRite Nutley Park ShopRite Steward at Clifton (Broad St.) Stop & Shop

SPRINGMAY 20162013 1262 BANNER 13

Field Director’s Report By John Colella, Recorder & Field Director

am pleased to report that Local 1262’s Union Representatives continue to be among the most hard-working in the nation. Our Union Representatives made nearly 10,700 Istore visits in 2015 and resolved more than 2,300 grievances. These resolved grievanc- es reflect actual “physical” grievances resolved (meaning meetings and actions other than telephone calls by Union Representatives) that did not have to proceed to the Grievance Review Committee (GRC). Our Union Reps also obtained nearly $135,000 in back wage claims for our members last year alone and handled health & welfare questions, too.

I want to thank our Union Reps and our Assistant non-union supermarket sites. Team members post Field Directors for their dedication to our members. informational picket lines to persuade customers to I also want to thank them for the work they are put- shop in nearby “union stores” and urge workers to ting forth in helping us stem the tide on non-union come together for benefits, good wages and other operators trying to open in our region. These non- rights under a union contract. union operators not only include giants like The pilot program for the GO! Team was but smaller companies as well. launched earlier this year with former Pathmark Because of this Local 1262 continues to commit the members. Based on the success of their efforts and resources necessary to stem this tide – including lend- positive feedback on the pilot program, we are now ing support to our members in other districts and out- ready to expand the GO! Team Program to all Local of state when needed. Local 1262’s Union Reps and 1262 members! staff members have been manning picket lines, leaflet- See page 19 for more information on joining the ing consumers and participating in other organizing GO! Team. We also encourage you to urge any fam- activities throughout the region. This includes posting ily members or friends who are pro-union to join the a picket line since January at that Team as well. All Team members who participate opened “non-union” in Freehold, NJ and picketing and on the picket lines will receive a stipend for their leafleting at the Whole Foods in Wall Township. time. Now Local 1262 members can help us increase If you have any questions regarding this pro- the impact of our organizing efforts by joining The gram, please contact your Union Representative. Local 1262 GO! Team. In the meantime, I thank you in advance for your The GO! (Get Organized) Team is Local 1262’s anticipated support and for standing with us to help new “army of organizers” who are on the ground at protect union jobs. Local 1262 Staff mem- bers Mike Kantor, Mike Piccicacco, Don Merritt and Tom Whille at a Stop & Shop Rally in New England.

14 1262 BANNER MAYSPRING 2013 2016

Local 1262 Organizing Director Anthony Yodice (in the yellow hat) with members of Local 1262 and Local 464A on the Informational Picket Line at Fresh Market in Freehold, NJ.

Like father, like son. Union Representative Mike Ebbe joins his son Rich Ebbe on the Local 1262 Union Reps Steve Blaho and Ed Magierowski with New Informational Picket Line in front of Whole England Stop & Shop Member Linda Pacheco in Westerly, Rhode Island. Foods Market in Wall, NJ.

Local 1262’s staff on the Informational Picket Line outside Whole Foods in Wall, NJ.

SPRINGMAY 20162013 1262 BANNER 15 New Foodtown Opens in Bloomfield’s

Local 1262 Member Cashier Michele MacVicker Glenwood Village

he new Foodtown in Bloomfield, NJ is a textbook example of what an urban super- Tmarket can bring to a neighborhood. The new store – Jack’s Super Foodtown –is located in the new Glenwood Village mixed-use residential and commercial development on Glenwood Avenue across from the train station. The store’s interior features an Industrial-Chic design with departments defined by murals and other design features to create a street-like feel. Aiming to please with the young families who are moving into the new apartments in the high- rise above, the store features a hot foods bar, sushi department, deli and bakery in addition to the standard supermarket staples. And, of course, serving up the fancy – and everyday -- fare are the friendly faces of Local 1262 members.

Local 1262 Member Michael Soules works in the Customer Service Dylan Conley works full-time in Khyree Jones works in customer Department. the Produce Department. service and as a cashier.

Local 1262 Union Representative Karen McManus and Assistant Field Director Don Merritt with Local 1262 Member David Abascal. David works full-time in the Dairy Department.

16 1262 BANNER SPRING 2016 SNAPSHOTS

Local 1262 Welcomes Newest Executive Board Member Ronald Bennett

Ron Bennett, a member of Local 1262 for more than 37 years, was recently nominated and unanimously endorsed to serve on Local 1262’s Executive Board. Brother Bennett, who works in the produce depart- ment at the Stop & Shop in Jackson, NJ, began his term in March. Brother Bennett has been a Shop Steward for many years and has also served on sev- eral Contract Negotiation Committees. He replaces long-time Executive Board Member Kevin Ireland who recently retired from Stop & Shop.

John Zisa (right) President Harvey and Luis Cosme Whille bids well pictured at the wishes to Rose ShopRite in Moccio who Ramsey on John’s retired from the last day of work. Montgomery John, who became ShopRite. Rose a member of was a member Local 1262 in of Local 1262 1966 working in for more than Market, 45 years and recently retired. served as a Shop John served as Steward up until Shop Steward her retirement. at the Ramsey ShopRite and also served on sev- eral Negotiation Committees.

85 Years Young! Eleanor “Ellie” Giordano (seated) is joined by President Harvey Whille, Union Representative Karen McManus and her co-workers and managers at the Stop & Shop on Broad Street in Clifton. Ellie’s co-work- ers arranged a surprise for her 85th Birthday including a cake and decorating her register with flowers and bal- loons. Ellie has been a member of Local 1262 since 1968 when she began working for Grand Union. Ellie says her secret to staying young is having good friends, working and staying active, which she does by watching her eight grand-children and two great-grandchildren. Ellie says being able to work part-time all her life allowed her the flexibility to raise her four (now grown) children while earning a good income thanks to her union contract.

SPRING 2016 1262 BANNER 17 UFCW Local 1262 President’s Message the people who help the friends and neighbors who shop (Continued from page 3) in your stores, day in and day out and who go the extra mile to make sure they are served properly. England and in other regions by leafleting, wearing union Don’t ever underestimate or take for granted the grati- buttons and talking to customers about the issues. tude and respect your customers have for you because of The “Solidarity Campaign” continued to gain momen- the way you care about them. Because when push came to tum as the contract expiration date came and went. shove, it was the people in the community – those outside Thanks to the support – and solidarity – demonstrated by of the union – that made the difference in New England. It their UFCW sisters and brothers, the New England UFCW was the support from thousands of Stop & Shop customers members stood strong and united. in New England and elsewhere that ultimately helped turn As a result a tentative agreement with the company the tide, forcing the company to wake up and see which was reached on Saturday, April 9 and was ratified with way the wind was blowing. near unanimous approval soon after. The resultant con- Local 1262 members and the UFCW have a long and tract for UFCW’s New England Stop & Shop members proud history of sticking together and supporting each included good wage increases, improved scheduling other whether it be during difficult negotiations or disas- language, benefit and pension protections and no conces- ters such as fire or flood. We stand together – in solidarity sions. – as a family. Brothers and sisters united to fight for and Thanks to the support from Local 1262 and all of our protect the things we value as working families. sister locals, the members in New England were able to dig So the next time someone tells you the Labor in and stand strong and fight for what they deserved. Movement is dead, look them in the eye and ask them There is another lesson to be learned from what hap- if they want to know what happens when we all come pened in New England: never underestimate the value of together. Let them know that you are proud to be part customer loyalty. of “solidarity in action.” Let them know that the Labor Those of you who know me often hear me say that Movement is very much alive and kicking and ready to take YOU – our members – are the “face” of this union and on any challenge that comes our way. that YOU are the people who ultimately make your com- As always, I consider it an honor and a privilege to rep- pany successful, whether that company is Stop & Shop, resent you. ShopRite, Acme, Foodtown or any other store. YOU are

SHOP UNION, BUY UNION Buying products that are made in America is not You can even help support your own brothers just a matter of national pride, it is a matter of and sisters in the UFCW who work in food pro- national survival. As workers – especially work- cessing facilities that put the products we buy ers who belong to a union – it is important for us on the shelves in our supermarkets. to make a special effort to support companies who manufacture products here in the USA and So while you are shopping for your weekend especially those companies that employ union cook-outs or other events this summer, make members. a special effort to purchase products manu- A shot of Economic Patriotism – buying factured by union members and shop in Union American-Made and buying Union-Made – has Stores. never been more important than now! And talk to your family, friends and neighbors When you buy products that are American- and urge them to do the same. Made – and even better Union-Made prod- For a list of companies that manufacture ucts – you are supporting American workers Union-Made foods and beverages, visit www. and the companies that employ them. You are helping the middle-class gain a foothold unionplus.org. The site offers special dis- in an era when the middle-class is shrinking counts and programs for Union members as every day thanks to companies that ship jobs well as provides a large selection of union- overseas or who continue to pay their workers made products ranging from cars to beer and substandard wages and benefits. everything in between.

18 1262 BANNER SPRING 2016 NEWS FROM

JOIN LOCAL 1262’S GO! TEAM

GO! Team Members:

• Post informational picket lines urging Local 1262 is proud to customers to shop in GOannounce a new one- nearby “union stores” of-its-kind program • Tell workers about the benefits, good wages – The GO! Team. and other rights that The GO! (Get Organized) Team YOU have under YOUR is Local 1262’s new “army of union contract. organizers” with boots on • Are paid for each the ground at non-union shift they work. supermarket sites.

From NJ Call 1-800-562-6913 From Other States Call 1-800-526-7814 Tell the operator you want to register for the GO! Team.

Do you have a family member or friend who is pro-union & would like to join our team? Contact your Union Representative to enroll them too! PROTECT UNION JOBS & EARN MONEY TOO!

SPRING 2016 1262 BANNER 19 Periodical Postage Paid

1389 Broad Street • Clifton, NJ 07013 UFCW LOCAL 1262 BENEFITS REGARDING AVAILABILITY OF PAID 2012 TO 2014 PENSION BENEFIT STATEMENT

UFCW LOCAL 1262 BENEFITS PAID 2012 to 2014 Local 1262 Benefits 2015 2014 2013 2012 Medical and Hospital $81,295,623.45 $81,580,847.64 $76,287,413.88 $70,467,019.13 Prescription Benefits $29,117,282.38 $25,660,093.43 $24,158,625.60 $23,867,947.66 Dental Benefits $ 5,955,207.42 $ 6,177,436.90 $ 6,588,085.60 $ 6,664,951.67 Vision Benefits $ 949,586.65 $ 1,034,489.08 $ 1,072,665.02 $ 1,067,170.25 Prepaid Legal $ 993,731.25 $ 1,000,591.25 $ 750,844.50 $ 863,471.95 Pension Benefits $41,328,573.89 $38,717,236.36 $35,740,226.99 $32,370,993.40 Death Benefits $543,856.04 $ 611,250.00 $ 521,250.00 $ 675,000.00 Back Wage Claims $ 134,322.81 $ 106,649.21 $ 180,372.48 $ 389,341.47 Store Visits 11,234 12,027 10,649 10,684 Grievances Resolved 2,359 2,537 2,446 2,124

President Whille would like to thank all of 1262 STAMPS OUT HUNGER our members and their families who partici- pated in the Stamp Out Hunger Food Drive sponsored by the UFCW and the National Association of Letter Carriers on May 14. People all over the country left bags of non- perishable foods for their mail carriers to collect. Approximately 1 in 6 Americans, many of whom are in households with at least one person working, do not have an adequate supply of food for them or their families. As workers in the food industry we Brookdale ShopRite Shop Steward Jolene are in a unique position to help our friends Marshall, Local 1262 Asst. Director/Benefits and neighbors by joining together with our Betty Laughery and Local 1262 Member Local 1262 Member Sean Assistance Coordinator Nancy Miller with a brothers and sisters of the Letter Carriers Quinlan helped us shop, sampling of the groceries purchased for the Union in this food drive. bag and pack up the van. Stamp Out Hunger Program.