Industrial Policy – Auto Strategy Or Bust

BuildingTHE our Union 444 – Strengthening NEWS Our Communities EDITION NO. 423 WINDSOR, ONTARIO DECEMBER, 2014 Industrial Policy – Auto Strategy or Bust

always rose to the to the occasion. capitalizing on the By With Windsor leading the way, differ- labour of their DINO CHIODO ent cities across the country were able employees. This PresIDeNt, to make gains, improve their working was true for the Unifor Local 444 conditions, and provide opportunities traditional Big Three for their workers who might otherwise (Chrysler, Ford and GM) and have had nothing. Even with the gains although we never entered a Honda, being won in the past, days were long Toyota or Kia facility, it was under he Windsor region is overflow- and the work was tough; but people stood that the same was also occurring ing with a long and robust his- were recognized for a hard day’s work, there. TTtory of automotive assembly, and through the work of the union they As the years have gone by, and unionization, and other benchmarks were compensated in a way that competition has grown fierce, there has across the industry. Once known as the allowed a degree of comfort, and the been a more deliberate drive to capital- automotive capital of Canada, ability to raise a family. ize on the automotive sector through Windsor’s automotive footprint is slow- Over the years, we have fought to improved productivity numbers, and by ly diminishing to an unrecognizable change some of the perceptions in the further enhancing already achieved effi- state. In fact, our history suggests that automotive industry. The jobs we do ciencies. Unlike those who lived factories were not only looked upon as today are not the simplistic tasks they through the industrial revolution, we’ve a respectable way to earn a living, but once were. Cutting-edge robotics and come to understand that this is a never- were a true definition of progress. precision measurements in our day-to- ending cycle that we must constantly This is especially true when we day work have become the norm. battle, as manufacturers will do any- consider gains in health Canada is now known to be a cutting- thing to continue to increase profits for safety, wages, benefits, and edge research and development hub in their shareholders. human rights and equity the industry. Work rules have become Although the landscape in Windsor (particularly as it relates very stringent, and “change” has has changed, the manufacturing busi- to women in the work- become a commonplace word which ness plan and direction has not. place and equal rights for everyone must attempt to adapt and live Corporations continue to try to scrape workers of colour). by. The reinvention of the same operat- the ceilings of profit. Workplaces are These were difficult ing system, by utilizing a different being challenged and pit one against and challenging times name, has become routine; almost tak- another in their quest to improve the but Windsor ing on a ‘flavour-of-the-month’ kind of process, and drive to reduce or elimi- mindset. Workers have come to recog- nate the so-called wasted, non- nize these ‘flavours’ as manage- value added work in each cycle. ment and administration’s way of . . . cont’d on page 3 Inside

Industrial Policy/Auto Strategy or Bust . . Dino Chiodo, pgs. 1, 3-4 “Whew, What A Year” . . Dave Cassidy, pg. 5-6 Continuing to Make Gains . . . James Stewart, pgs. 7-8 Casino, Sterling, Northstar, Choice Nutritional Foods . . . Fran LaSorda, pg. 9 We Need an Auto Straregy . . . Mike Lovric pg. 10-11 Windsor Assembly Plant . . . Tony Greco, pg. 12 Skilled Trades Report . . . Paul Renaud, pg. 13 seen recently at an Independent Parts supplier Council (IPs) held in toronto are Benefits Report . . . Local 444 Unifor Officers Dino Chiodo and Mike Lovric along with plant Ken Kwiatkowski, pg. 14 Chairpersons Bill ross, Jen Allard, Armand Gervais, Dave simone, Jerry Logan Caesars Report . . . and John Biekx. Dana Dunphy, pg. 15-16 Recreation Report . . . Scott Richardson, pg. 17-18 County Units Report . . . John Biekx, pg. 19 . . . 444 Picnic Pictorial pg. 20-21 Labour Day Pictorial . . . pg. 22-23 Affirmative Ac/Human Rights . . . Alfred Nari, pg. 24 Dakkota Report . . Armand Gervais, pg. 25 Integram . . . Dave Simone, pg. 25 TRW Report . . . Jerry Logan, pg. 26 Sterling Fuels . . . Michael Merry, pg. 26 CGAT . . . Dave Skidmore, pg. 27 AWC Chrysler . . . Mark Boudreau pg. 27 TransAlta Report . . . Unifor Local 444 President Dino Chiodo helps announce the 2×4 Patient safety Campaign Rick Lalonde, pg. 28 at Windsor regional Hospitals. the new campaign aims to lower patient harm rates of Oakley Report . . . Bill Ross, pg. 30 infections. the focus will be on those who are entering and exiting the facilities to simply HBPO Report . . . Jennifer Allard, pg. 30 start by washing their hands. Northstar Report. . . Kevin Lander, pg. 30 Women’s Committee . . . Sue McKinnon, pg. 31 Education Report . . . Wayne MacLean, pg. 32 Union in Politics . . Ray Hachey, pg. 33 Environment Committee . . . Richard Labonte, pg. 34 Employee Family Assistance . . . Bruce Malcolm, pg. 35 Charlie Brooks Award . . . pg. 36 Tribute to Keith Boles . . . pg. 37 Retiring Members . . . pg. 37 Obituaries . . . pg 37 Retirees’ Report . . . Gerry Graham, pg. 38-39 Community Services . . . Sue Najem, pg.40 Unifor Local 240 support staff Jen Hansen, tena MacLean and Debbie rawlings enjoyed Website: www.uni444.ca dumping ice water on Dino Chiodo and Gord Gray for the Ice Bucket Challenge in support of amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALs) or also known as Lou Gehrig's disease. 2 – 444 President’s Report to accommodate the many challenges and conviction with the members at this we see. We are also in demand by facility to do what the members have . . . cont’d many who decide to unionize, or those discussed with us and we are currently simply wanting to transfer to our union. working hard to understand the con- The constant fear to “make sure it is This doesn’t happen by accident; this is cerns. It is through the commitment of built right the first time or suffer the a testament to the hard work and dedi- our combined local that we are able to loss of your product to another work- cation of our Local officers and the meet this responsibility as we balance place” is the weapon used against us. staff we employ. the other workplaces we represent. We have seen this weapon wielded The newest addition to our union Congratulations in Order more than once in this industry by cor- comes as a result of a successful vote at porate giants who want to keep us in Windsor Machine and Stamping with a I would like to express my appreci- line. The constant threat of moving re-certification and an outpouring of ation and recognize the hard work pro- their product to a cheaper jurisdiction requests to come to Local 444. 89% of vided by Mike Lovric who was elected hangs over our heads daily. It is a people voting agreed to come to Unifor Vice President of the Unifor National global battle that will never stop dri- because of our involvement in the com- Recreation Committee for Canada at ving wages, benefits, and work stan- munity, our profile, and our success at their recent convention. dards to the lowest denominator; all in negotiating fair, equitable and progres- Also, I want to congratulate Dave the name of gaining more profit -- sive agreements. The second addition Cassidy for being elected President of unless we stand up against it! is Medex, an organization that has been the Unifor National Skilled Trades at So now, today we need to make a transformed many times over, creating the recent Skilled Trades Conference. decision. Do we continue down a path more difficulties for workers, challeng- He has been given the respect and where we are driven further and further ing work standards, and fighting to sim- endorsement of his peers to lead the into the deep, or do we create an envi- ply keep what they currently have. issues important to all trades groups. ronment that will help us flourish as we Lastly, Point Edwards Casino; this Further recognition goes out to Paul once did? At one time, Canada was request came to us from the National Renaud, currently the chairperson of one of the greatest nations in the auto- Union, for us to represent this work- WAP Skilled Trades, who has gained an motive sector and today we are merely place because there were no other additional responsibility since being a shell of that distant memory. No one Locals that were licensed to represent elected to the position of Trustee of the party or politician is going to make this these workers under the OLG (Ontario National Skilled Trades Council in better; this will have to be driven from License and Gaming). At this time we Canada. Congratulations to each of the grass roots, from the shop floors will continue to work with dedication . . . cont’d on next page everywhere, and this is only going to be accomplished if we stand together and fight back. This is not a ‘union thing’ or a ‘union issue’ this is an “every- body’s issue”, because without automotive and industrial policies, we will continue to decline until we go the way of the dinosaur. Growing Strong

Over the last three years, we have recognized many processes that need improvement in order to meet the demands placed on the Local Union today. We continue to review items, directives, and procedures to ensure they meet our never-ending changes, especially when looking at communica- tion and/or when connecting with members who rely on us as representatives. Unifor Chrysler Master Bargaining Chairperson Dino Chiodo is seen addressing The Local Union office has and contin- Chrysler Council at its annual meeting where all issues and concerns from all the ues to go through major transformation workplaces throughout Canada were discussed. 3 – 444 President’s Report dedication over the last thirty (30) years supply base. The Local and In-plant as the chairperson of the TransAlta Committee have been working on mak- . . . cont’d facility. Rick has always been an active ing this transition as seamless as possi- trade unionist, passionate about his ble. you, and my continued support in the work and desire to improve the lives of With that said, I wish all the mem- work you each provide to our member- his membership by raising the standard bership and retirees of Local 444 a ship. of living for all. Rick, we salute you Healthy and Safe Holiday season. You Contracts – for your dedication to TransAlta and have all earned a well-deserved break. Getting It Done Local 444, and a job well done. We Although Caesars Windsor, Sterling wish Rick and his wife Linda years of Fuels and Southgate Residence mem- continued health and happiness in their Each time you enter into bargain- bers may not share the same holiday ing, it can be nerve racking, challeng- retirement years. Holiday Cheer shutdown as our other workplaces, we ing, disruptive, frustrating, time-con- send our greetings and wishes and trust suming, and sensitive all at the same There is certainly going to be many that the limited time you have with time. It is very difficult to explain the changes in the New Year; especially for your families is filled with warmth, feelings until you go through it. Most the Windsor Assembly Plant and their will never experience this whirlwind of love and happiness. so many emotions, but if you ever have the opportunity, I recommend you do. It is certainly an eye-opener on how real and personal our members are, and the information they can provide with a true understanding of what motivates the employer and what their needs are I want to congratulate James Stewart, John Biekx and Maria DaParteira on their very successful negotiations with Etna Foods. The tentative agreement they presented to the members, received 100% acceptance as it will provide enhancements over the next three years. Unifor Ontario regional Council (OrC) Chairperson and President of Local 444 Dino Chiodo is seen addressing over 800 delegates and Also, I want to congratulate Dave observers at the most recent Annual 3rd OrC meeting which was held in Cassidy, Rick Lalonde and Murray toronto. Bourque on a successful ratification at TransAlta. The membership voted in support of the tentative agreement that was reached (before the deadline) and included improvements to most of the sections that were highlighted by the members. A special recognition goes to Rick Lalonde for his hard work and Raising the Community Standard of Living

We would like to take this opportunity to thank the membership and their families for patronizing the facilities we serve and buying the products we build. Buying Unifor unionized products re-inforces our commitment to our community. 4 – 444 By DAVE “Whew, What A Year!” CASSIDY Secretary Treasurer TransAlta Unifor Local 444 toric trade-off in which workers gave E-mail: up the right to sue their employers for [email protected] Passion, dedication, longevity, and a guaranteed protection from loss of stability are a few words to best income, regardless of fault. describe our longest elected chairper- rolling in his grave. This system is son in our Local, Rick Lalonde, who at WSIB is based on five principles: flawed, continues to be flawed, and it is only getting harder and harder to get the end of the year will retire after 30 1. – No Fault Compensation - In claims allowed. WSIB had a two year plus years with TransAlta. Rick has which workplace injuries are compen- policy review process and now effec- been such a pleasure to work alongside sated regardless of fault, and the work- tive November 1, 2014, new policies as the liaison to that workplace. His ers and employers waive their right to and revised policies came into effect. knowledge and work ethic is second to sue. none, and his history and guidance The new policies are on: Pre-exist- 2. – Collective Liability - will sure be missed. I, along with the So that the ing Candidates and Determining rest of the membership, wish him total cost of the compensation system Permanent Impairment. The revised nothing but the best in his golden is shared by all employers. policies are on: Determining the years. 3. – Security of payment - With a Degree of Permanent Impairment, Apprenticeship fund established to generate a compen- Recurrences, Work Disruptions, sation fund that will be available for Aggravation Basis, and NEL By the time you get this edition, injured workers when they need it. Redeterminations. I can tell you all all of the skills test battery will have 4. – Exclusive jurisdiction - With all that these revised and new policies, in been completed and we will be audit- compensation claims directed solely to my opinion, will not benefit workers. ing the results. Significant dates as we the compensation board. Why? . . . Because of the unfunded lia- move forward are that all scores from bility that continues at WSIB in 5. – Independent board – That this Ontario. the GTA and Windsor will be into the board be autonomous and financially Unifor National Committee by December 18, independent of government or any spe- Scholarships 2014. We will then go through all of cial interest groups. the scores and notify the selected candidates for their interview. On January Well, I can tell you without a shad- To assist in making education more 12, 2015, interviews will start and ow of a doubt, that Sir William accessible, we’ve established 28 once they are finalized and completed, Meredith would be and probably is . . . cont’d on next page we will get the first batch (20) of apprentices signed up with the Ontario College of Trades, and the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities. I can tell you that I am extremely proud and excited to have been able to bargain this program and will continue to be involved directly. I feel it is a great opportunity for people who might not have ever had a chance to become a certified Trades Person, to finally become one. Workers Compensation seen are the newly elected National skilled trades executive Board, front row: Jacques Ouimet, Member-at-Large; Dave Cassidy, Chairperson; In 1913, an Ontario Lawyer, politi- Nelson Gagné, Vice-President; Paul renaud, trustee: back row: ray cian and Judge, Sir William Meredith, Hamel, recording secretary; Ashok Venkatarangam, sergent-at-arms; Bill tabled the Meredith Canada – a his- Dickson, trustee and Joe elworthy, secretary-treasurer. 5 – 444 Secretary Treasurer . . . cont’d scholarships worth $2,000.00 each. They are for entry into the first year of post-secondary education at a Canadian public institution (trade school, college, or university). For applications, please check on the National’s website, www.unifor.org. The deadline for applications is April seen leading the Bargaining Committee for transAlta from Local 444 is 30, 2015. Dave Cassidy, secretary-treasurer, Chairperson rick Lalonde, along with Closing committee members David Chauvin and Murray Bourque in which the membership ratified their collective agreement by 76%. As I reflect on 2014 and what has been a whirlwind of a year, I cannot believe how fast it went by. I wake up every day and feel privileged that you, the membership, have instilled your faith and trust in me; to allow me to represent each and every one of you. Whether it was through my social media connection on Facebook, or more importantly on the workplace floor, I thank you. I look forward to representing you in the future. I wish you and your families a Merry Christmas, and a safe and prosperous New Year. Local 444 President Dino Chiodo and secretary-treasurer Dave Cassidy are seen welcoming a class of potential skilled trades members, in which 60 will be hired into the program. “Merry be your Christmas, Peaceful be your home, Joyful be your family, Blessed be each one…”

P.S. – And if you want it built right … “Build it in Windsor”... BOOM! it's what we do... With Respect and Friendship, DAVE Members from Local 444 are seen at a rally at Queen’s Park denouncing health care cuts across the province. 6 – 444 By JAMES Continuing to Make Gains STEWART Vice President Unifor Local 444 Email: nother year is coming to a aging skilled trade workforce continues [email protected] close, and as always we hope to see an increase in retirements. AAthe New Year brings in more Saturdays and O/T have been the prosperity and happiness than the past norm at WAP and we don’t expect that parted ways we were able to convince year. 2014 has been a busy year around to change much as the company is try- Chrysler to start a new car hauling your local union. We’ve ratified agree- ing to build every possible vehicle it operation based out of Windsor to fill ments at Caesars Windsor, TransAlta, can in order to make sure our cus- the gap. That came with a cost and as a ElringKlinger, Peterson Spring, Rims tomers don’t shop anywhere else when result the new agreement isn’t the same Trucking and lastly, Etna Foods with our plant is down in the spring. more on the horizon. one our drivers had at Allied. Windsor Assembly Plant We recently met with our CGT Obviously there have been some real members and had an opportunity to challenges during this time. We have Things are still moving smoothly hear some of the unique challenges that had some success in convincing the towards a mid-February 2015 shut- face our truck drivers who keep the company to change a few aspects of down at WAP. The plant is still slated plant supplied with parts. We are plan- the collective agreement on a trial to be down approximately 14 weeks as ning a follow-up meeting soon and basis. The changes are small but in we retool to build a new style mini- hopefully we can resolve some the essence they give our drivers a way to van/people-mover. When the plant issues that were raised. be paid in a more realistic and fair way reopens in May the expectation is that All in all, the future looks bright in while giving the company increased we will continue building our current the foreseeable future at WAP. loads. When the trial period is over we version of minivan and slowly intro- Chrysler Group Auto Trans will be meeting with the company to duce pilots of the new product that will review the results and hopefully we We are right in the midst of change officially launch in early 2016. The can report good news to our drivers at at our CGAT operation. Our former plants manpower is slowly improving that time. as the company has slowly started to Allied (now CGAT) drivers have had ETNA Foods hire people. some difficult times over the last three or four years. After basically losing Many of our members are reaching We just finished ratifying a new their jobs when Chrysler and Allied . . . cont’d on next page 30 plus years seniority and we don’t expect that retirements will slow down over the next few years. We are still a far cry from where we need to be in terms of manpower numbers but now we finally see light at the end of the tunnel. Congratulations to those new hires and welcome to Windsor Assembly Plant. The apprenticeship program has also finally started to move forward and we are now in the second step of the test procedures. We are still on course to have our first 20 apprentices in place by the shutdown of WAP in February of 2015. Our skilled trades workforce is also in desperate need of help in terms of Unifor Local 444 officers and the Peterson spring Bargaining Committee manpower and this will only continue give details of their new collective agreement to the members at a ratifica- as, like our production members, our tion meeting and was ratified by 85%. 7 – 444 James Stewart Report . . . cont’d

collective agreement with our ETNA Foods members. This agreement was way past due as the owner fell seriously ill and ultimately passed away. Our members were very patient, understanding that the family who owns and runs the operation were grieving their loss. After a long difficult round of bar- Unifor Local 444 officer James stewart is seen addressing members from gaining our members finally had a etna Foods about the details of their collective agreement at a ratification chance to review a tentative agreement meeting which was passed by 100%. and ratified it at 100%. Congratulations to our ETNA foods members. ElringKlinger

We finally had an opportunity recently to tour this facility following our last round of collective bargaining. The plant has been awarded a new state-of-the-art technology program that is going into the old building. This new process is called Hybrid Injection Molding and is capable of hydro-form- ing thermoset plastic with aluminum. Unifor Local 444 officers James stewart and Mike Lovric are seen with This is the first of its kind in North others as they donated a Windsor-built minivan on behalf of the member- America and is a testament to the ship to the Life After Fifty which is a not-for-profit organization. the van amazing work our members do at that helps nearly 300 seniors get to medical appointments, grocery stores and social activities. facility. This investment is great news Southgate Residence for the town of Leamington and our myself . We have raised the issues with members. the Vice President of Operations at The bargaining process has begun Auto Warehousing Corp AWC and we will continue to work at Southgate Residence. We met with with the company to resolve them. the Bargaining Committee and went Being so closely tied to the WAP Peterson Spring over all the demands our members operation, we are seeing a lot of over- have put forward. We are now working time and weekend work. The new com- Peterson Spring has just celebrated with the National Staff Representative mittee has been elected and I’d like to their 100th anniversary as a company. and are setting up bargaining dates with the employer. Hopefully we can congratulate Andy Cizek from the Our members in Kingsville have recently ratified a new agreement that get an agreement sooner than later and Chute operation, Thomas Ghebru form move forward with gains our members is proving to attract new work into that our Drive-Away operation and Chris can appreciate. facility. Select work has increased and Boychuk from our rail operation on In closing, I’d like to thank you all we are now seeing EATON work being being elected. Each of these newly for all the support you have shown me. elected committee people have been transferred to our operation as a direct I hope next year is better for you than doing a great job of raising the individ- result of our bargaining. Hopefully this the past year was and I wish you all a ual issues that arise in each of these trend continues and our members will very Merry Christmas and a Safe and divisions with Mark Bourdeau and have the job security they deserve. Joyous Holiday Season. 8 – 444 I would like to caution the members about the use of electronics (smart Casino, Northstar, Sterling Fuels, phones, tablets) while at work. The company has made it clear that you are not allowed to have them, and disci- Choice Nutritional Foods, pline will be issued. Choice Caesars Windsor Nutritional Foods By BE CAREFUL when using social FRAN We have seen the vending business media! We all know that Facebook and LASORDA grow in some areas. The Company has Twitter are becoming more widely used Vice President started using the vending machines for today than ever before. Anything post- Unifor Local 444 other items such as safety glasses, ed on social media becomes available [email protected] gloves, high lighters, etc. We had a for public viewing and can be used vacation replacement member laid off against you at your workplace. For recently and we have put the Company instance, companies are utilizing social can be done on the equipment as well on notice that no one in management media to determine whether your as the pipes to prevent them from blow- will be doing the work of our unionized absences are valid or falsified. (For ing open again. members. We are watching this very example, if you are off work on a med- Northstar closely. ical leave and you are working at Point Edward another job (which is against policy at As of this writing, we have seen Caesars Windsor) it may result in disci- increased hours of work resulting from Casino pline up to and including termination. the high demand from customers. The As of this writing, an election for This brings up another growing cell system is now in full production the Bargaining Committee is currently issue and that is the use of private and the Company has started cross underway at the facility. We will be investigators by management to investi- training the membership on other having a meeting with the newly elect- gate you while you are off work. They machines. The cross training is ed committee on November 26th and are trying to determine whether you are designed to help reduce the overtime 27th to go over strategies for bargain- working elsewhere, or working within that is needed within the facility. The ing. I will also be working closely with your restrictions. The Company will Company has recently done some them to outline the process for negotia- continue to utilize all means to verify upgrades around the facility and are tions which will begin shortly after leaves and absences from work. We waiting for word from customers to see these meetings. We will be distributing continue to challenge the Company on if we are going to produce the parts for priority sheets throughout the facility the surveillance process they have in them. for the membership to complete. This place. I would ask the membership to information will then be collected and be cautious while you are off work. utilized in bargaining. We have had a Sterling Fuels few meetings with the members and we were able to answer questions in regard The winter months are fast approach- to the process of the elections, and ing, and the Company will soon be giv- runoff elections. We also heard about ing us notice as to when the seaway issues regarding the scheduling, shift will be closing. We know that this will picks, shift switch, wages etc. These are likely lead into temporary layoffs. We just some of the issues that we will are seeing the business continue to have to deal with in negotiations. We grow in land sales which is a positive will continue to meet with the workers for our members. to help them with questions and issues As in the past, training will be done until we get through negotiations. throughout the winter months. I would On a personal note – I would like to ask the members to continue to be cau- Actively engaged are the Women's thank the membership for your contin- tious when it comes to your positions as Committee who are seen planning ued support. From my family to your I know how dangerous it can be. We upcoming events trying to make a family, have a Very Happy and Safe can hope with the slower shipping sea- difference in our workplace and son coming in that proper maintenance the community. Holiday Season!! 9 – 444 By MIKE LOVRIC We need an Auto Strategy Vice President Unifor Local 444

E-mail: [email protected] hile writing this article, I directly support community organi- W can't help but think how zations such as the United Way, Whard everyone has been women's shelters and food banks. working lately. With demand for Most auto workers own homes, and the minivan at a high, the entire based on average rates, Windsor workforce has been working a lot auto workers supported $56 million HBPO, Oakley and TRW are of overtime. Overtime means extra in municipal revenue in 2011 help- months away and we are already money but it also means extra wear ing to pay for local services. The strategizing on how we should han- and tear on the body. However, we auto industry is vital for us all. The dle it this year because the contract will soon be getting time to rest Southern U.S. States and other deadline falls in the middle of the through the Christmas holidays countries understand the benefits of layoff weeks. When the bargaining and then the long layoff shortly automotive investment and have committee meets and comes to a after they retool Windsor Assembly proven that they are willing to do consensus on the right time to which will give us ample time to just about anything to attract an begin negotiations we will notify rest those aches and pains. auto plant in their communities. the respective members. Windsor Assembly is not the Canada/Ontario needs to step Remembrance Day only facility that will be seeing up and protect what we have with changes during the downtime. Most an Auto Strategy now! Contact Remembrance Day is a day of the feeder plants will be under- your member of parliament to dis- when we reflect on the members of going some big changes at the same cuss your concerns that the the armed forces who died in the time, which is great news for our Canadian government is willing to line of duty. Remembrance Day is employees and our community in potentially lose this crucial indus- observed on the 11th hour of the general. The community benefits as try. a whole from the indirect jobs that Feeder Plants 11th day of the 11th month because are created with a major investment this day marks the official end of in the Windsor Assembly Plant. For Negotiations for Dakkota, . . . cont’d on next page example, there are increases in tool and die job opportunities and small businesses opportunities that in turn create a greater need for schools, teachers and health care workers, which is badly needed in the Windsor/Essex region. More jobs also creates more tax dollars for the community supporting infrastructure improvements and other projects. Here are some stats on how the Auto Industry supports our communities... In 2011, Windsor auto workers paid $216 million in income, payroll and sales tax. These funds support vital public services like health care, education, employment insurance, public pen- With many in attendance at Windsor cenotaph on Remembrance Day, sions and social services. Auto seen are Unifor Local 444 officers James Stewart and Mike Lovric laying workers' fundraising efforts also a wreath on behalf of the 444 membership. 10 – 444 Mike Lovric Report . . . cont’d

World War 1. We observe a moment of silence and participate in ceremonies lest we forget the sacrifices these war veterans made in order to ensure our freedom and civil liberties. Unifor Local 444 will never forget, unlike the Harper Government. The government is showing its disrespect by closing the Veterans Affairs Offices across the country. Clearly, this is not the way our war Vets deserve to seen at the Windsor Cenotaph is Local 444 Unifor retiree and Korean War be treated. . . Remember this in the veteran Marty Vermeer, now 81. He is seen with his wife Anetta and daughter Mary McNorton who works at the Windsor Assembly Plant. Marty joined the next Federal Election. army at 18 and went to war at the age 20, and was stationed on Hill 355 where Best Workforce he and others were engaged in fierce combat.

Congratulations to all of the ate numerous vehicles by exten- workers who directly or indirectly sively testing all major models. C.P.P. & E.I. build the Chrysler Minivan. Since According to Consumer Guide 2011, the Chrysler Minivan has Automotive, a vehicle does not CONTRIBUTIONS been rated the "Best Buy" of all become a Best Buy based solely on minivans. This rating shows the objective ratings; Best Buys also 2015 world that our workforce puts a distinguish themselves as good val- C.P.P. – $2,479.95 great amount of pride in our work ues compared to other vehicles in and that we want our customers to their class. Once again, congratula- E.I. – $930.60 have full confidence that it is the tions to all for a job well done! 2014 very best minivan they can buy. As this is the last 444 News for 2014, I'd like to take this opportuni- C.P.P. – $2,425.50 Consumer Guide Automotive ty to wish everyone a safe and editors analyze, compare and evalu- happy holiday season! E.I. – $913.68

At a special Auto Council held in London delegates listen intently to Vice President Mike Lovric pertaining to the updated bylaws which were passed by the new Pulling 80,000 lbs, Local 444 members are seen par- council. ticipating at the 2nd Annual United Way truck Pull. 11 – 444 our member's ergonomic needs. This technology does seem to pro- Windsor Assembly Plant vide a platform to help with many ergo issues we are currently experi- encing and the committee believes this technology is a major step in the right direction for our members. By hese are exciting times at The company announced in TONY August that they would be hiring Windsor Assembly. As the GRECO TTholidays are fast approaching new members from the street using Chairperson, the referral system. New members more is being asked of our mem- Windsor bership in regards to production of Assembly Plant were identified using applications, the best built minivan in the world. E-mail: interview and physical abilities anthony.greco@ We have seen the company can- fcagroup.com tests and are being dispersed vassing for production on tradition- throughout the plant to fill jobs al non-production days in order to where needed. While the commit- build up inventory for the upcom- only after the retooling with RU tee realizes this will not totally fix pilots worked into the build. This ing retooling. It's important for our issues regarding manpower in the launch will be the most aggressive membership to understand the rea- plant, it is a move in the right direc- WAP has had in that the build curve son for the need for these units. tion and we will continue to argue is very steep with the company The company would like to have to have the company hire more. inventory on the lots as of the wanting to be back to full produc- With the upcoming downtime February shutdown to ensure ample tion of 1490 RT units per day with- we as a committee understand supply for potential customers. If in 45 days of the re launch. there will be a great deal of con- customers are not able to find our Your in-plant committee and co cerns and questions in regards to product they may go to a competi- pillar leads had the opportunity to benefits, EI claims, etc. If you tor thus Chrysler losing them for visit Toledo Assembly Oct 28, 2014 have a question in regards to the possibly 10 years or indefinitely if in order to review some of the new down time please direct them to they like our competitor's product technology which is coming to your representative so they can once they own it. So these units are WAP with the RU retooling. The relay them to the committee. We about protecting market share dur- skillet line was our main focus in will be capturing these issues and ing the extended retooling at WAP. order to see exactly what benefits will be putting a leaflet together to Currently the plan of action is this technology would provide for provide answers and information for WAP to be down for RU retool- our members. The skillet line is an in order to ensure there are no ing mid February 2015 coming assembly line which allows the issues for our members during the back up at the end of May 2015. vehicle to be raised or lowered in extended downtime. The plant will continue to build RT the workstation to accommodate I would like to take this opportunity to remind our members that we have a unique opportunity at WAP in the use of the PFS screen for in plant information. We do our best to update the screen on a weekly basis of upcoming events and issues which we feel are rele- vant to our members’ needs. Please take the time to refer to this screen on your station computer to see if there are any events you may like to participate in. seen are the United Way canvassers from the Windsor Assembly Plant. A On behalf of the entire Steward big thank You goes out to all those who gave in this year’s campaign. Body have a safe and happy holi- You are truly “Community Partners Making A Community Difference.” day season. 12 – 444 few. BIW has the most Trades involved as they are a little further ahead than the SKILLEDSKILLED other two divisions at this point. We have seven people at the build shops TRADESTRADES daily and others going over from time to time. The input from the Trades has REPORT been incredible and will be a definite REPORT asset in ensuring the tooling comes in to

E-mail: [email protected] By PAUL RENAUD the plant with maintenance in mind, not Skilled Trades Chair just the ability to build cars. Our Trades look at things from a maintenance per- he Skilled Trades population is is continuously pressing the company to spective, – how can we fix and main- T currently 558, plus we have three hire and will continue to keep the pres- tain the equipment easier and quicker to Ttemporary licensed mechanics, sure on. get it up and running with less down- two at VCC and one at R&D, and two We have been discussing Christmas time? temporary licensed toolmakers out of shutdown work with management and it Apprenticeship update - 197 appli- production. There is a possibility that looks like there will be some work to be cants attended the eight hour training we will need more mechanics to help done during the Holidays. We have course at the local to help prepare for out at R & D in the future, so if you been pushing to get any early opportuni- the Skills Test Battery at St. Clair know of anyone that is currently work- ty work to help alleviate some of the College which is ongoing and will be ing in production that holds a C of Q as pressure during the downtime. TCF, completed by November 24th in an auto mechanic, have them submit BIW, Paint and Facilities are putting Windsor. All test results will be submit- their qualifications to Hourly their plans together to be presented to us ted by December 18/14 to the Company. Employment on Grand Marais Rd. soon. The TMS canvass for the The top 80 in Windsor will move to the Manpower continues to be an issue Christmas shutdown availability was interview stage which will begin the with many Trade groups working 12 opened on November 8th and closes on week of January 12/15 and is expected hour days just to run the plant. December 5th at midnight, so don't for- to last approximately three weeks. The Although we are running 12's, spare get to put your answers in. top 70 from the interviews will be put parts and material to do our jobs, are Kim McMaster and I recently went into the apprentice pool. In early hard to get. We understand that most of to SHAP and Toledo to view their February of 2015, apprentice contracts the equipment is going to be demol- Metrology Labs and talk to the will be signed with the successful candi- ished in February but we still need to Tradespeople in the labs. The common dates and they will be registered as build vans until then. PM's are extreme- message from both plants was to ensure apprentices. Mid February to early ly important and must be completed that there is enough training for the March is when the first 20 apprentices right up until we shut down. The equip- Trades that will be staffing the room, – will start work on the shop floor. ment that will be carried over after the management also echoed the fact that I would like to congratulate Dave shutdown must have special attention training is essential. We are addressing Cassidy for being re-elected as the paid to it, as it will be needed to contin- this issue for all Trade groups and the Chairperson of Unifor Skilled Trades ue running during the launch and company has a very aggressive training Council. It is a great honour to be able beyond. plan from now through the shutdown. to represent nearly 60,000 Skilled There have been many rumours fly- We are continuously pushing to Trades across the country and Dave has ing around the plant in regards to bring in licensed Tool and Die makers carried out his duties to the Skilled Skilled Trades hiring. Until something from production to help in the CMM Trades with class and dignity. Well done concrete comes from the Company department, which will allow people to Dave! I was elected to the executive regarding hiring, we are still in the same be released for training while we contin- board as a trustee for Unifor Skilled position as we were a couple years ago ue to keep the plant running on a daily Trades Council and am excited to be when the plant put in a requisition to basis. When the Metrology Lab working on behalf of all Skilled Trades hire and it was turned down at the top becomes operational we will need across Canada. Kim McMaster was level of the corporation. The plant rec- approximately six more people in the elected to the Apprenticeship committee ognizes the need to hire but Corporate department, as of now. and Louie Ferrari was elected to the cre- needs to be on the same page. As we The Trades have been involved in dentials committee - congratulations. move towards the downtime manpower many launch related activities including The Skilled Trades committee would is a major issue and coming out of the training, build shop visits, reviewing like to wish everyone a safe and enjoy- downtime it will be even more critical prints for new equipment, and demoli- able holiday. Merry Christmas and for a successful launch. The committee tion in the old Paint shop, to name a Happy New Year. 13 – 444 you return to work and contact the benefits office to assist with your BenefitsBenefits ReportReport reports. If you have any questions or concerns regarding this report Windsor Assembly Plant please contact the benefits office at: 519-973-2845 or 519-973-2664. Benefit Report By KEN KWIATKOWSKI The Benefits Office would like to congratulate Joe Domarchuk on With the upcoming February E-mail: [email protected] his new position as World Class layoff fast approaching, we are cur- Manufacturing Facilitator and wish rently working with the reps to cap- Insurance illness benefit. him well on his new endeavours. ture frequently asked questions per- To use your WSIB or S&A to His wealth of knowledge will be taining to the layoff. Once we have start a new Employment Insurance greatly missed! all the information we will be claim it is recommended to apply to Have a Safe and Happy Holiday putting a leaflet on the floor. As Service Canada immediately when Season. well, we are having conversations with Service Canada to provide us with a reference number when applying for Employment Insur- ance benefits. A benefit bulletin to assist in the application/reporting process with Service Canada will be provided in the New Year. Holiday Travel

It is wise to carry your Green Shield card when travelling out of town. For assistance before or while traveling outside of Ontario, contact Green Shield Emergency Assistance at 1-800-936-6226 or collect at 519-742-3556 (these numbers are located on the back of your Green Shield Card). Also, it is advised to make sure that all dependents have their own “sharing the Warmth” - the sleeping bag donation campaign Green Shield card, especially if in memory of Matt rawlings. they are travelling abroad without you. You can attain additional After Matt’s death in 2012, donated to Street Help 7, a local cards by contacting Green Shield Matt’s parents discovered his organization dedicated to providing customer service at 1-888-711- “Bucket List,” which included the services to our local homeless. 1119. item, “Help a homeless person.” On behalf of the family and Inspired by Matt’s wish, the family S&A/WSIB and plant representatives, a big thank moved forward and to help his Employment Insurance you goes out to the entire Windsor goal, is to provide a little warmth Assembly Plant for their donation If you do not qualify for S&A this winter to Windsor’s most vul- of 80 sleeping bags and $7, 800.00 from Chrysler, or if you served a nerable. Sharing the Warmth is a towards Matt’s wish at the recent five-day waiting period on an ill- sleeping bag drive with a goal to ness claim, you can apply and may collect as many new or gently used gate collection. You are all totally be eligible for an Employment sleeping bags as possible to be Awesome! 14 – 444 Table Games CAESARS There was an issue with the department scheduling six hour shifts for part time workers and then asking REPORT for overtime. The six hour shifts being scheduled on Saturdays 8 By DANA DUNPHY, Chairperson p.m.to 2 a.m. have now been changed to 8 hour shifts 8 p.m. to 4 a.m. E-mail: t the time of this writing the [email protected] Craps training is now being offered to dealers. It is scheduled to com- Casino membership is 2334 to come up with a solution that gives AAwith 25 members on layoff. mence January 5, 2015. The shifts more power to the department to being offered are 10 a.m. to 1:45 p.m. Over the last 6 months since the shift schedule actual positions, which or 2:15 p.m. to 6 p.m. on Monday, and vacation picks each of the com- should alleviate the extras that are Wednesday and Friday. Crew train- mittee people have met numerous currently on the floor. With the ing is being offered to current craps times with directors and Labour inclement weather approaching jack- Relations to try and gain back some ets may now be worn at the door dealers to help with the training. of what was lost. I really think the positions. However, the jackets must Dealers will be paid an additional company at this point is attending the be worn and not hung on the back of $4.00/ hour on top of their base rate meetings just to say they are meeting the chairs or placed inside the podi- to train. Day shift continues to be with us but with no real regard for um. short dealers, and the department has our workers home life at all. In say- no intention of fixing the problem. ing that we are continuing to try and Slots Ushers push them to give back what was Currently we are still catching lost. management doing unionized work at The department is holding quarter- Attendance Policy certain periods of the day when there are only two attendants and one is on ly meetings for the casual workers to As everyone is aware the compa- break. We have a meeting set up to allow them to bring their concerns ny introduced three new attendance address this ongoing issue. The EOS forward. The Union will be attending policies effective April 27, 2014. At is underway and the slot department these meetings to ensure all concerns this time the innocent absenteeism was writing down the names of the brought forward are addressed. Due policy seems to be the most problem- workers who have refused to take the to the allotment reduction for planned survey. We have put a stop to this. atic so far. Since this policy now time off multiple classifications have incorporates your 10 ESA days, we The survey is supposed to be confi- initiated changes to their lieu and feel it's far too strict. For example, if dential so there is no reason to track . . . cont’d on next page a part time worker has surgery in who is or who isn’t taking the survey. January of 2015 and all ESA are used as a result of the surgery that part time worker now can only have one more absence for the remainder of 2015 and if they happen to have a 2nd absence they are now tied up in the innocent absenteeism policy for a year from the day of the actual innocent absenteeism meeting. We have sent this policy to Unifor Legal Department for review and hope to make sufficient changes to better suit our membership. Security seen are members from Unifor Local 444 taking a moment for a photo-op We are still having meetings over at the kick off campaign for Violence against Women Conference which scheduling concerns. We are trying was held at Caesars Windsor. 15 – 444 Caesars the Federal Government which is a benefit cuts after the 12 month clause proposed law that would open up which says the new owner will retain Casino Vegas style sports gambling in current workers for up to a year. . . . cont’d Canada and after 2 years it has still There is a lot of uncertainty as to not been brought to a vote despite it what will happen after the 12 months commitment day picks. Some classi- receiving all party approval. We as a lapses. fications have been successful Union are committed to continue the If you know anyone who works in through a departmental vote process push to try and get this bill passed so Casino Rama please reach out to to change how the books roll out that our casino can introduce single them and encourage them to sign a while others have opted to stay the game betting. We encourage each union card. Just so my message is same. and every member to send a letter or clear we do not have the same wor- GSRs email to your MP or stop by the ries as the Casino Rama workers union office and sign the petition. because we have a collective agree- Guest services are having some Together we can send at strong and ment that has to be followed no mat- issues with scheduling and rotation. clear message. ter who operates our casino. We are currently working with the department to try and resolve these Casino Rama On behalf of myself and the entire issues. At this time we do not feel Union Office, I would like to wish that this is a true amalgamation of the Over the last couple of months everyone and their families a very two departments. there has been an organizing drive Merry Christmas and a safe and Global happening at Casino Rama in Orillia, Happy New Year! Ontario. I have had the privilege on Vinny has worked relentlessly two occasions to go to Orillia for a Change of Address since we have returned from bargain- meet and greet with the workers at ing trying to address all of the con- We have been getting mail Casino Rama. At these meetings I cerns that have been brought forward returned to the union hall and if you over the global schedules for part have learned a lot about the OLG's have changed your address please time outlet servers. He has made modernization plan. The plan is to contact your employer and the union tremendous strides in this area. Is it sell off all the OLG properties and hall immediately of your new contact information. This will help alleviate perfect? No, but he will continue to have them owned privately. In saying this, the workers are feeling inse- any delays of your payments, bene- address each and every issue brought fits, and general information that is cure in their future employment. to him. required to be sent out on behalf of Bill C-290 They currently are not covered by a your employer and your Union. union and are at risk of losing their (519-258-6400) Bill C290 is single game betting jobs or receiving pay cuts as well as legislation that has been put forth to

2 0 1 4 P I C N I C V O L U N T E E R S

16 – 444 By SCOTT RICHARDSON Recreation Chairperson E-mail: [email protected]

• UNIFOR REGIONAL ach year the Recreation Committee works hard to ensure we host first 10-Pin BOWLING rate events that our membership will enjoy with their families. The year TOURNAMENT EE2014 was no exception as the committee once again put forward another Sunday, January 25, 2015 year of well-organized and well attended events. Thanks to all our members Superbowl Lanes, Windsor who participated throughout the year and enjoyed these events hosted by the Recreation Committee. • UNIFOR MOONLIGHT The members of the Recreation Committee deserve a great amount of grati- BOWLING TOURNAMENT tude for their continued countless volunteer hours in making events such as the Brooks Golf Tournament and the Family Picnic very enjoyable for our mem- Saturday, February 21st, 2015 bers during the course of the 2014 year. The success of all our events relies on Rosebowl Lanes the dedication of the committee members. The Recreation Committee would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a safe and joyful holiday season. • UNIFOR CRIBBAGE & CHRISTMAS ICE Visit the website: www.uni444.ca click EUCHRE TOURNAMENT SKATING FESTIVITIES the “About” tab on the left and follow Sunday, March 1, 2015 through to the Recreation Committee’s Canadian Legion Br. 143, On December 30th, the Recreation tab. Just give your name and email Committee will be hosting the ice skat- address and you will receive email noti- • UNIFOR RETIREE ing event at the WFCU Centre. This is fication of any recreation event posted EUCHRE TOURNAMENT our annual family Skating event. Hot to our website. chocolate and timbits will be served March 18th, 2015 and everyone will have a chance to Congratulations to Unifor Canadian Legion Br. 143, skate and take pictures with Spitfires Local 444 Mike Lovric who was Mascot “Bomber” on the Spitfires elected the Unifor National Watch your Union bulletin boards for home rink. This event provides all of Vice President and Chairper- more details on these events and others our members an opportunity through son to SWORC. In addition, or visit the website: www.uni444.ca Scott Richardson was elected (under the Postings Tab). the holiday season to take a break from to SWORC as Secretary – the incredible pace of everyday living Treasurer. to enjoy some time skating with family. SPITFIRES TICKETS

The Windsor Spitfires are offering to our members a discounted ticket price of only $16.00 for selected games. The games are: December 31st vs Plymouth Whalers, “Hockey Day in OHL” January 25th vs Sarnia Sting, February 15th vs Mississauga Ice Dogs and March 8th vs Oshawa Generals. The tickets are available online at . . . www.windsorspitfires.com or at the Local Union Hall. STAY CONNECTED Sign up to receive e-mail alerts At a recent Unifor National recreation Committee meeting held in Windsor, Local 444 Vice President Mike Lovric is photographed along for all recreation events. with the National recreation Committee. 17 – 444 RecreationRecreation ReportReport . . . cont’d Local 444 Slo Pitch Season Wrap up

Another great year in the books ! We made the move to the Vollmer Centre diamonds this year and we were not Sadly, we lost another fund the girls’ future edu- great member of our Slo cation needs and we disappointed. The diamonds were well taken care of, and Pitch fam- r a i s e d everyone was happy playing there. This year Scott i l y . John $ 1 5 0 0 , Arquette and Jeff Rusnak's, "Select Few" captured the "A Denaploi, a thanks to Division" title defeating Jae Heron's team from "Average player with the great Joe's". In the "B Division" Randy Lambiers "Ball T i l b u r y people in Busters" repeated as champs defeating Constantine C h r y s l e r , our league. p a s s e d John's wife Iatridis's "Balls in Play" in a great 8-6 game. We capped away this Sonia wants off the season with our Award Banquet November 8th year leaving to express and were pleased to recognize Vic Bodnar as this years his wife and three little her deepest gratitude to "Paul Craik Sportsmanship Award" winner. Thanks to girls. At our banquet we the league John loved to Julie for coming out and presenting Vic with the award. had a fundraiser to help play in. We hope everyone had a great year and hope to see everyone back next year. Darryl Desjarlais & Frank Harshaw

seLeCt FeW BALL BUsters

AVerAGe JOe’s BALLs IN PLAY 18 – 444 one from the 6,500 young people whot participated in United County Units Way after school programs to the 6,000 individuals who received United Way funded counselling and supports in the Reports last year alone. How is this helping with poverty? After school programs play a vital role for those who may not have anywhere to go when the school day is finished, and by investing in after school programs; children are receiving By John Biekx, County Units Representative help with homework, gaining leadership and self- esteem

E-mail: [email protected] skills that will help them succeed later in life. Mental Health is also a growing concern in our community and has a cost associated with it. United Way is not only funding mental s United Way rolls out the health supports but is also taking the steps to ensure that our 2014 Campaign this year, I community responds in a timely fashion by providing essen- AAhave learned the issues surrounding our community tial services like a walk-in clinic for residents in crisis right in and they are astounding. Currently Windsor-Essex County Leamington as well as other locations across Windsor and has the highest poverty rate at 18.3%, well above the Essex County. National rate of 14.3% and Provincial average of 13.9%. If there is anything to take from this article is this; United Currently we have the unfortunate distinction of having the Way is funding programs that help our community and it is highest number of low-income residents living in low- important that we all find a way to get involved in changing income neighborhoods. Two questions come to mind as I our community for the better. United Way provides funding have digested this information; what does this mean to us as taxpayers? And what is United Way doing about it? to a long list of community partners. It is a fact that without United Way and its donors OUR communities would look The cost to us taxpayers according to the Cost of Poverty completely different. So with the Holiday Season fast Report are this: 450 million dollars a year! How is that cost approaching and so many in need it is imperative that we all measured? Through health care, criminal activity, and pro- team up in a show of solidarity and give back by taking part ductivity concerns. Basically stating; as poverty continues to in the wonderful things United Way and its community part- grow in our community it takes a significant amount of our ners do with the true meaning of this Holiday Season in resources to maintain it at a cost to us all. mind. What is the United Way doing about it? Just this; they are funding programs that seek to move people out of poverty In closing I would like to thank the members and their and are giving residents the tools to be successful. Over families for their continued support and generosity, as well as 47,000 people were helped in our community alone and over wish all a safe and Happy Holiday Season and a Happy New 10,000 were county residents. United Way is helping every- Year!

“Congratulations are in order for all those Union members and Management personnel of Peterson Spring. For over one hundred years, you have made a difference in your communities.”

19 – 444

BETH ADAMS • HAROLD ADAMS • KATIE ADJIN • BOB ARNOLD • JOHN BACON • DAVE BAKER • STACEY BAKER • KEITH BENNETT • LESLI BENNETT • MAURO BERTOZZI • DAVE BLAIS • JOEL BLAIS • CELINE BLAIS • MADELEINE BLAIS • MARCEL BLAIS • EMKLY BOICE M • MAILYN D’CRUS • JOHN DELUCA • MIKE DENUNZIO • DARRYL DESJARLAIS • KIM DEVOCHIE • MIRANDA DEVOCHIE • CARLO DILUCA • NICK DIMITRIOV • JAMIE DIMITROFF • MIKE DOE • SANDRA DOMINATO • ROGER DONAIS • RICH DOWNES • RENE DROUILLARD • HARSHAW • SHARRON HENDERSON • DAIVD HOLJECVAC • BRENT HUGHES • ALLEN HUGHES • TIM JARROLD • JEN JEWELL • GREG KIPPING • DEWEY KNIGHT • SUSAN KOVOSI • KEN KWIATKOWSKI • LEO LABBEE • JULIE LAFRENIERE • TOM LALIBERTE • TED PAQUETTE • RICHARD PAQUETTE • TARA PATRICK • RAPHAEL PEZEZ • CASSIE PINARD • RAE POWER • PAUL RENAUD • SCOTT RICHARDSON

A Special Thank You to Ou STEVE MORGAN • MARK MORIN • MIKE MORRIS • FRANK MOSEY • SUSAN NAJEM • ZEANA NANTAIS • ALBERT NARI • TIM NORMAN •

• ALLISON MACDONALD • LUCINDA MACHAN • ALDAN MACLEAN • WAYNE MACLEAN • TODD MACV • ANGIE MAHEUX • SCOTT MANNING • CHUCK MARSHALL • MIKE MCGOWAN • RICK MCKINNEY • SHIRLEY MCLEAN • TERRY MCLELLAN HEATHER GOSLING • ROBERTO GOYEAU • SARAH GRAHAM • JOSH GREBER • TONY GRECO • LAURIE GREEN • HACHEY RAY • FRANK • STEVE DZUDZ • SHIRLEY EGAN • ASHLEY FARLEY • FRANK FAVOT • LOUIE FERRARI • CRAIG FOWLER • MADISON FRANCIS • JOANNE FRANCIS • DAVE FRENCH • RICK GALLION • TOM GAUDETTE • SUE GIBBONS • NAZIRE GJINNAJ DAWN CLARKSON • PAT CLOUTIER CLARKSON DAWN • • RACHELLE PAT COHOE • DENIS CUNNINGHAM COLASANTI • • JAMES PAT DAEHN • DAEHN PAUL • CHERYL DAGENAIS •

• MACEY CAIXEIRO • BILL CAIXEIRO • GAVIN CARDOSO • LIAM CARDOSO • LOGAN CARDOSO • MANNY CARDOSO • DAECA CARDOSO • RYLEIGH CARTIER • DINO CHIODO • FELICE CHIODO • HUSSAM CHREIDAH • ANDY CIZEL

20 – 444

SLI BENNETT • MAURO BERTOZZI • DAVE BLAIS • JOEL BLAIS • CELINE BLAIS • MADELEINE BLAIS • MARCEL BLAIS • EMKLY • BOICECAIXEIRO ALEXANDRIA • CADETTE DESTINY • BUTLER GENE • BROWNING KARA • BOXALL ABBET • BOURDEAU DIANNE • BOURDEAU MARK • • NICK DIMITRIOV • JAMIE DIMITROFF • MIKE DOE • SANDRA DOMINATO • ROGER DONAIS • RICH DOWNES • RENE DROUILLARD • H EG KIPPING • DEWEY KNIGHT • SUSAN KOVOSI • KEN KWIATKOWSKI • LEO LABBEE • JULIE LAFRENIERE • TOM LALIBERTE • • DUNPHY STEPHANIE • DUNPHY DANA • DUFOUR MARK • DUFOUR • ALISHA DUFOUR MARK • DUFOUR LISA • DUFOUR • ASHLEY DUFOUR AMANDA T • CASSIE PINARD • RAE POWER • PAUL RENAUD • SCOTT RICHARDSON • MAZZONE DIEGO • LOVRIC MIKE • LOVRIC BECKY • LOGAN GERRY • LITFIN BRAD • LEMAYPAULLENCA ROB • • LAPETRAE ROSARIO

ur Family Picnic Volunteers! S SCOTT MANNING • CHUCK MARSHALL • MIKE MCGOWAN • RICK MCKINNEY • SHIRLEY MCLEAN • TERRY MCLELLAN • STEVE DZUDZ • SHIRLEY EGAN • ASHLEY FARLEY • FRANK FAVOT • LOUIE FERRARI • CRAIG FOWLER • MADISON FRANCIS • JOANNE FRANCIS • DAVE FRENCH • RICK GALLION • TOM GAUDETTE • SUE GIBBONS • NAZIRE GJINNAJ • DAECA CARDOSO • RYLEIGH CARTIER • DINO CHIODO • FELICE CHIODO • HUSSAM CHREIDAH • ANDY CIZEL

21 – 444 LabourLabour DayDay 20142014

22 – 444 LabourLabour DayDay 20142014

23 – 444 I strongly advise them to consult with our Unifor to devise one for them. Affirmative Action Steven Harper and Human Rights In 2006, with a minority government, Harper had & Human Rights openly criticized the Chinese government for failing to By ALBERT NARI, Chairperson respect human rights. I quote “I think Canadians want Email: [email protected] us to promote our trade relations worldwide, and we do that, but I don’t think Canadians want us to sellout important Canadian values. They don’t want us to sell Building Bridges, that out for the almighty dollar”, Harper said then. Breaking Barriers In 2014, whether or not he’s now selling out to the On Nov. 10th, 2014 I joined almighty dollar, Harper has been muted with his public with many other community criticism of China abuses of human rights. On the other activists, three temps. migrant side we see the White House openly criticizing China’s workers – a live In – Caregiver, a Farmworker, and a records on human rights before president Obama visits Restaurant worker in an information session at our China. local. With the holiday season approaching, our commit- What we heard and learned was heart breaking. tee members and I wish you a Happy Holiday and to From their living conditions to work atmosphere, low those celebrating Christmas a very Merry X-MASS wages, broken promises and on top of that no benefits, and a Happy New Year to all of you. Please remember no rights, no whatsoever. those in need and be generous. These things are taking place right here in Canada in the 21st century. We Canadians who champion democracy, human rights and equality, have closed our ears, eyes and mouths of all these abuses by the employers. I haven’t seen or heard a politician who spoke about the plights of these temps. migrant workers as if they don’t exist. I believe, we should all stand tall and start taking action and demand that these workers should be treated fairly and equally, paid same wages, and covered by health care, same as of any resident of Canada. Human Rights and Community Activists are seen at Harassment Free Workplace the Building Bridges - Breaking Down Barriers infor- I would like to commend the Honorable Justin mation meeting which was held at Unifor Local 200- Trudeau for taking immediate action and suspend two 444 Union hall. They heard and learned lot about male Liberal MPs from his caucus, after receiving a Temporary Foreign Workers about their struggles, sexual harassment complaint from two female NDP their rights, and the laws that impact them. MPs pending further investigation. Even though it Change of Address amazes me that we as Unifor and before as CAW have made it now. One issue that our workplaces are harass- We have been getting mail returned to the union hall and if you ment free and put a policy in this regard and how to have changed your address please contact your employer and the deal with it if it happens, we see our law makers on union hall immediately of your new contact information. This will Parliament Hill are struggling to deal with this issue help alleviate any delays of your payments, benefits, and general because they have no policy to guard against such information that is required to be sent out on behalf of your employer and your Union. (519-258-6400) behaviour. 24 – 444 INTEGINTEGRARA MM

By DAVE SIMONE DAKKOtA INteGrAteD sYsteMs Chairperson, Integram Seating By ARMAND GERVAIS E-mail: [email protected] Chairperson,

E-mail: [email protected] he current plant population is 714 with no one on lay-off and 23 TTmembers on modified duties. The lant population is at 167 with no one on layoff and upcoming down time is still tentative and PP16 on various leaves. I would like to take a is presently scheduled to begin Feb 16 and go until May 24, moment to thank everyone who contributed to our 2015. Since we have two customers at Integram ( Chrysler and United Way Campaign. Your generosity is much G.M.), Integram will be running production in our foam depart- appreciated. ment the entire time that the Windsor Assembly Plant is down. There have been some questions on the floor that I We are trying to get the official number of members that will be hope I can clear up. Shutdown next year is right in the needed to work in all departments and shifts so we can start to middle of contract negotiations. People were wonder- coordinate any bumping that will take place. During this down ing when we are going to bargain. No dates have been time the company will be installing three new production lines in set yet, before or after the layoff. As soon as this infor- our assembly department. These lines are called Automated mation becomes available it will be passed on to the Guided Vehicle or (AGV). Integram received the approval for membership. investment in these lines last month. The hope is that there will In regard to our Green Shield benefit plan during be an improvement in ergonomics for our members as these the layoff, all members on the seniority list will be cov- vehicles can move up and down to adjust to the optimum work ered for the entire shutdown period of February 16, zone height for our assemblers and inspectors. Integram is the 2015 to May 14, 2015. Also, January 2, 2015 will be a first Magna seating plant to get this line technology. paid holiday during our Christmas shutdown. Our Foam department will not see any new changes until Just an update on the RU program. The prototype approximately Oct of 2015, as the new racetrack system project program is on track for early in the New Year. We will start then. The company is still trying to work out the offi- should start seeing parts in our plant around that time. More details on the RU will come at a later date. cial placement of the new line. There will be some members reduced from the foam department when the new line is up and We have one more visit to the Downtown Mission running. This will be done in stages as both RT and RU will on December 19th. We will be buying and serving overlap, thus the carousels and the new track will run together lunch that day. The membership at Dakkota has taken part in many charity events throughout the year. for a period of time. When the RT project ends, the true number Everyone should be proud of doing our part to help of members displaced around the plant will be clearer. We are better our community. figuring that between approximately 40 and 50 members will leave the foam department, but they will be absorbed elsewhere In closing, on behalf of the committee. We want to wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. We all in the plant. Due to the RU, presently we do not believe that need the well-deserved break. Cheers! there will be any permanent lay offs. On Nov. 6 we received our 2nd lump sum bonus of Unifor Local 444 Apparel $1200.00. As of the Oct. 31 deadline, we have 19 members Just in time for Christmas, with men’s and women interested in retiring in 2015 and obtaining the incentive pack- union swag will be arriving daily at age. The Tuck Shop I would like to wish everyone a Merry Christmas and Happy Upstairs at the Union Hall New Year and to have a safe and enjoyable holiday break. This Hours of operation are Fridays ONLY from 8:30 am membership works very hard day in and day out to supply our to 4:00 pm. customers with a quality product. The time off is needed and CASH ONLY! well deserved. 25 – 444 By TRW GERRY LOGAN Chairperson E-mail: irst and foremost, I want to going a long way. One stat that I [email protected] thank the membership for think is important to know is that FFtheir hard work and dedica- one in six kids in our area lives in tion, with working six days most poverty We can do better WE voice in our union’s direction, the weeks. I know many of you were MUST DO BETTER! youth know the struggles they face looking forward to the Remem- WCM light is in full swing and more than anyone, so come out and brance Day holiday. Lots of the I also want to thank the members have your say. This is a great way to members worked 12 hours on this who have signed to join one of the become active and fight back with day to support our customers’ pillars. I have always said the youth unemployment at record lev- demand for production, thankfully workers know the jobs and the plant els. This committee is very impor- we were able to do this on a volun- the best! With the suggestion pro- tant. tary basis and the company did not gram and other pieces of WCM we As the year comes to an end on have to force overtime which would should finally have a great deal of behalf of your representatives and have turned into a battle. We defi- say in how our jobs are done. This myself, we wish everyone a Safe antly never want to be the supplier should lead to many improvements and Happy Holiday Season. that tells the customer they can't in our day to day working condi- run, so a huge thanks to all those tions. UNIFOR LOCAL 444 who volunteered. We had a meeting on the youth By the time this is published we committee at our Local on EXECUTIVE BOARD will have finished our United Way November 9th. We only had three- drive and I want to thank all who workers attend a follow-up meeting DINO CHIODO ...... President participated in the 50-50 draws and which will be held in January. DAVE CASSIDY ...... Secretary Treasurer through payroll deduction, together JAMES STEWART ...... Vice President Several members have expressed FRAN LASORDA ...... Vice President we are making Windsor/Essex a interest in this, so watch the Union MIKE LOVRIC ...... Vice President better place. Our area has been hit Board for more info. This will give SANDRA DOMINATO ...... Recording Secretary very hard, so your donations are the youth 35 years and under a SANDOR KAPASI ...... Trustee WAYNE MACLEAN Trustee, Chair, Education Com. SUSAN McKINNON Trustee/Chair, Women’s Com. FRANK HARSHAW ...... Sergeant-At-Arms Sterling Marine Fuels DOUG BOUGHNER ...... Guide MARK ANDERSON ...... Member-At-Large MICHAEL MERRY, Chairperson SCOTT PLUIMERS ...... Member-At-Large Email: [email protected] ZORAN STOJKOVSKI ...... Member-At Large he cold is here! At Sterling ing more com- TONY GRECO ...... Chair, W.A.P. PAUL RENAUD ...... Chair, Skilled Trades we are still very busy mov- munity involve- T DANA DUNPHY ...... Chair, Caesars Windsor Ting into the winter. Usually ment. We are DAVE SIMONE ...... Chair, Integram business is very steady up until putting together JOHN BIEKX ...... County Units Representative Christmas. This year however, it a Food Bank drive for the ARMAND GERVAIS ...... Chair, Dakkota seems we might see more business Downtown Mission and we are also JERRY LOGAN ...... Chair, TRW in the first quarter of 2015. This is collecting coats. Finally, I am hope- JENNIFER ALLARD ...... Chair, H.B.P.O DAVID SKIDMORE ...... Chair, CGAT due to the acquisition of the Sarnia ful to put together a work day at the KEVIN LANDER ...... Chair, Northstar Imperial Oil Dock and Sterling downtown mission. Hopefully we BILL ROSS ...... Chair, Oakley Hamilton that has diversified our can continue this trend into 2015! MARC BOUDREAU ...... Chair, AWC company’s business strategy. I am RICK LALONDE ...... Chair, TransAlta Energy very hopeful that we can keep more Moving into the holiday season, MICHAEL MERRY . . . .Chair, Sterling Marine Fuels employees working after the holi- I am looking forward to Ornament GERRY GRAHAM ...... Chair, Retirees Chapter SCOTT RICHARDSON...... Chair, Recreation day season instead of our general Making Day as well as skating at layoff schedule. the WFCU. I would like to wish Another big positive moving everyone a Merry Christmas, and a GORD GRAY ...... Editor / Public Relations into the cold is our facility develop- Safe and Happy Holiday! 26 – 444 CGAT AWC of Windsor CHRYSLER

By MARK BOUDREAU By DAVE SKIDMORE AWC Chrysler Operations Chairperson, CGAT of Windsor Email: [email protected] E-mail: [email protected] t Auto Warehousing Company 2014 has been a urrently there are 48 drivers A prosperous year for both the employees and operating 33 trucks at CGAT Aemployer and thanks to a great effort by every- CCwith a freeze on hiring any one. In March of this year AWC was awarded the drive additional drivers, until upper away operations which resulted in negotiating a good Chrysler management is convinced contract for the drive away employees. Since the col- this is a beneficial business venture for them long term. lective agreement we have been able to negotiate a few In an effort to prove out our argument that, if you extras benefits for them. Thanks to our Local 444 Union Officers and the company. pay the drivers more fairly they will do more work, we agreed to a trial run on being paid overtime on our In June, AWC was awarded a rail loading operation incentive hours. for Chrysler. With all of our collective efforts we man- aged to put in place a temporary agreement and com- Since it was implemented back in late September, menced work until we signed the collective agreement productivity has risen by 20% to 30% depending on the in September. Since the signing of the agreement the day and work availability. We have acquired additional company has added some extra benefits. Both opera- work, as back haul loads, from Warren Assembly Plant tions have been busy and the employees have been to the Windsor rail head. Many days there are still not enjoying overtime. enough loads to satisfy driver demand, which would Our pension plan members are feeling frustrated make the productivity numbers even better. still waiting for OSFI to approve the asset transfer to I think what we've said all along has definitely hap- the current CACL Plan. Lastly, on Tuesday, October pened. As part of the trial period, we convinced the 28th we attended Mediation for the ECCCPP Pension company to hire one of our former experienced Allied Lawsuit and could not come to a resolve. On dispatchers to help with a more structured dispatch by November 4th our lawyer attended upon Justice seniority process that works for both sides. Conway for a briefcase conference. Her Honour The company insisted on evening out the number of ordered that the parties exchange affidavits of docu- drivers on day and night shifts which was painful for ments by November 30, 2014 and to conduct those who were forced to a night shift or a different Examinations for Discovery by the end of April 2015. Once we have completed the Examinations for start time. Discovery we can set the action down for trial and the As of this writing we still have some philosophical presiding judge will fix a trial date. On a positive note, differences with management on dispatch and other our lawyer is cautiously optimistic that we can come to issues that need to be worked out. James Stewart, Dino a settlement prior to a trial. Chiodo and myself continue to meet with the company I would like to wish everyone one a Merry on outstanding issues and try to persuade the company, Christmas and a Happy New Year. at all management levels, that we need an all-encom- passing, over the road rate negotiated, to move forward Your Unifor Legal Services and grow the operation into a viable car haul company. For Chrysler members: The corporate gears turn painfully slow at Chrysler Did you know that your legal service plan covers Corporation, so who knows how long that process will a variety of services such as Power Of Attorney, take! I'd like to thank all the drivers for their patience Wills, Purchase and the Sale of a Home/Property since the startup of this company, as it's been a real test and Mortgages Etc. Please don’t hesitate to contact the office at . . . for everyone trying to work through all the issues. 5 19-944-5222 Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to all. 27 - 444 • The current complement of 14 operators and 5 specialists was secured to 2016 and the letter securing 14 remains for TransAlta the life of the agreement. • Drug copay does increase to $2.00 per script • Paramedical services per visit maximums are removed and REPORT caps remain the same. • While there were no changes to the pension agreement, it's By RICK LALONDE, important to note that PCOLA was maintained for retirees. Chairperson, TransAlta Semi private hospital stays are no longer covered, reps E-mail: [email protected] saw this as not adversely affecting members since most hospital accommodations are semi or private. If and when being lant membership remains at 19 admitted, it is strongly recommended to not ask for semi pri- with no one on layoff. Plant vate and it will most likely be so without being billed as PPgeneration is scheduled for 24/7 such. operation through to the spring with a Last Shop Report short maintenance outage scheduled for early December. Time sure does slip away and so with that, I find myself United Way Campaign typing out my last shop report before my year end retirement. United Way campaign wound down the last week of Lots of water has flowed down the Detroit River since October, while total donations are down a bit, the pledge TransAlta members became among the first of the amalga- numbers are still an impressive $16170.00, the "Wine mated workplaces at Local 444 back in the fall of '96. Today Survivor "game is always fun and it added another $140.00. there are many more workplaces who enjoy the same advan- This amount is once again matched by TransAlta for a total tage. In my time on the Board there has been a great many of $32620.00. Thanks go to Rick Wieczorek for spearheading changes of officers. It's amazing the quality of candidates our campaign, breakfasts and Wine Survivor events. each time stepping up to fill the void and I feel privileged to Our members are most supportive of community needs have interacted with some of the finest. But the Local's great- and the United Way Campaign is by far our most important est strength is its committees and the active members dedi- and effective event in large part due to Trans Alta's generous cated to organizing events that benefit members as well as matching the pledge and I thank both for their continued gen- the many community needs. They truly are the backbone of erosity. our local union. In our workplace, I had the good fortune of a 2014 Bargaining satisfying job both in operations and as a rep, plus the back- ing and confidence of bargaining group members throughout Armed with a strong strike mandate bargaining began the years. I am ever grateful to each and every one for that October 14th with a tentative 3 year deal reached late after- support. noon on the 16th and I am pleased to report the agreement Happy Holidays! was ratified at a membership meeting on the 17th with a 76% approval. I am ever appreciative of our members' confidence. As another year comes to a close, on behalf of members I'd also like to thank Local officers Dino Chiodo, Dave and reps at TransAlta, I'd like to wish everyone a safe, happy Cassidy, my steward Murray Bourque for their help in bar- holiday and a most prosperous New Year. gaining and the support staff that made this all happen in the short four day stretch. Highlights of improvements include: • .30 cents beginning of year one, .45 cents in year two and .45 cents in year three. With projected COLA of 1.9% it gives a total of 2% at the end of year one, 2.3% at the end of year two and 2.3% end of year three. • $1200 signing bonus. • 2X overtime pay for maintenance on Saturdays • VETEP improvements of $1000 for members with 5-10 service, $2000 with 10-20 years and $3000 with 20 plus years of service. • Relocation allowance was increased by $500 TransAlta Chairperson Rick Lalonde addresses the mem- • Dependant tuition was increased from $1500 to $1750 bership at his last membership meeting and we wish Rick • Bereavement language broadened and his wife Linda all the best in his golden years. 28 – 444 New Owners . . . New Attitude!

Your Only Fully Unionized Chrysler Dealership

WALKER AT TECUMSEH 519519 -- 256256 -- 23032303 29 – 444 Oakley Northstar

By BILL ROSS KEvIN LANDER Chairperson, Oakley Sub-Assembly Chairperson Email: [email protected] Email: wunion@nsaero s of today we have 47 members with no one on layoff. Things After working a lot of Saturdays and AAhave been quiet at Oakley, while he Current some Sundays, members are looking contractors are still quoting on work to forward to the Christmas shutdown to Tplant popu- be done during the shutdown in antici- spend time with family and friends and lation to pation of the R/U contract. some time off which is well deserved. date is 61 employees with We started our United Way cam- I also would like to congratulate Joe three off on vari- paign and I am hoping to surpass last Comartin on receiving the Charlie ous leaves. Work year's total. We ran our Coats for Kids Brooks Labour Service Award. He will is steady in the plant as well as over- drive and we did fairly well for our first be missed by the Labour force after his time in most areas. The company time but there is still a great need for retirement from politics. winter clothing. So if anyone else has tried to implement a 4-10 hour shift In closing, I would like to wish the coats to donate, please bring it to and 3-12 hour weekend shift with member a safe and happy holiday sea- myself or a committeeperson and we union approval but there was no com- son. will drop it off. promise due to the unwillingness by the company to meeting in the middle. The company will now be looking at a three shift rotation but have HBPO not said they will be hiring new employees. This gives the impres- By JENNIFER ALLARD sion that they will be looking for Chairperson, HBPO Canada multi-machining in the new year Email: [email protected] which the membership is not looking forward to. he current plant population is at 86 with everyone getting involved this year members. It has been a very busy we had nearly doubled our numbers and Tension seems to be high on the TTyear with working every Saturday, we were able to raise $10,000.00. So shop floor as well as morale being at and with construction going on parking thank you all again and the company to an all-time low even though the over- has been terrible, but hopefully the new help make this happen. We truly will time is not as high as it was six edition will be done sooner than later. change the lives of others in a great way. months ago. We recently had surveys WCM LITE Also I would like to thank everyone who by the company on how to improve helped out by donating cans for our can and it seemed the responses were not drive. The WCM lite has been moving very Special Events positive from member feedback. It is quickly, back at the Calvary machine they my hope that we can turn things had a cleaning company in and also a We will be having a bake sale on Dec. around with the upcoming new year painting company in to clean up that area to get Northstar back on track as well and now it almost looks brand new, with 1st and all money raised will be going to the kids we will be helping out this year at as improve our members’ lives in and some more changes to come through sta- out of the plant. tion #5 to #8. In the end with everyone Christmas time. HBPO is having a kids being involved WCM lite should be a suc- Christmas party on Dec 7th at 10 a.m. to On behalf of the Unifor cess and hopefully secure our business 2 p.m. so if you have any kids, please Representatives and myself I hope with WAP. come out and enjoy the day with Santa you all have a Merry Christmas. United Way Just let the union or Josie or Brianne know if interested. I would like to thank all the members In closing, with the holidays approach- who participated. With the pasta lunch ing us fast, the committee and I would and also with the weekly donation, our like to wish everyone safe and happy holi- goal this year was to hit $7000.00, but days 30 – 444 Women’sWomen’s CommitteeCommittee By SUSAN McKINNON Chairperson, Women’s Committee E-mail: [email protected] Shine the Light on Woman Abuse Prevention Month

This campaign was launched October 15, 2010 in London, Ontario. The campaign runs each November throughout the entire month. The goals of the campaign are to raise awareness of the issue of women abuse, men’s violence against women and its impact on society by turning the city, province and country purple. Purple symbolizes our fight against domestic violence. Caesars Windsor and Hiatus House have Windsor Assembly Representatives are seen pur- turned the building purple for the month. The City of chasing scarfs in support of "Shine the Light" cam- Windsor hosted a purple tree lighting ceremony. Unifor Local paign. 444 Secretary-Treasurer Dave Cassidy addressed 200 delegates Violence against Women Coordinate Conference along with many other guest speakers. Women’s Committee will be standing up and speaking in solidarity and supporting them in the quest for life free from abuse and violence. 25th Anniversary - National Day of Remembrance and Action to End Violence against Women 4150 Sandwich Street, Windsor, ON

On December 6th, the National Day of Remembrance and Action to End Violence against Women, the Local 444 Women’s Committee on this day will be doing a vigil for MaryLou from Plant 6 -1998 and 1989 École Polytechnique massacre, in which fourteen women were singled out for their gender and murdered. Lori Dupont a nurse at Hotel- Dieu Grace Hospital who was murdered by a man with whom she had former relations with. Everyone is welcome to attend. Location: Chrysler Plant 3 at MaryLou’s Memorial NEW! DAILY E-WASTE DROP-OFFS at Stone, At the Green space across from Centre Gate, (corner of Ypres and Chrysler Centre) at 11:45 a.m. There are about 100,000 reported incidents of spousal or dating abuse. Every night about 3300 women along with & 2500 children sleep in emergency shelters to escape violence. 2547 County Rd. 20 E., Every six days a woman in Canada is killed by a person she Harrow West Parking Lot is dating or to whom she is married too. We need a concrete “National Action Plan to End Violence Against Women.” We need everyone to speak out and write letters to our MPP and MP. You will make a differ- WE OFFER FREE PICK-UP FOR CORPORATIONS AND BUSINESSES ence! Happy Holidays to Everyone! – On behalf of the Women’s Committee. 31 – 444 By offerings. If there are certain WAYNE courses that you would like to see EducationEducation MacLEAN here in our area, then please don't Education hesitate to contact me and I will Committee contact the National Education ReportReport Chairperson Department and inquire about E-mail: scheduling it. [email protected] Regular Education Meetings High School Program the Richard Montague Memorial Once per month the Education Bursary. Rich was a representative, Committee meets at the Local The Education Committee con- activist and member of the tinues to work hard on the High Union to discuss the ways we can Education Committee who was School Presentation program, get- assist the membership. If you have taken from us far too soon. Every ting into schools and delivering a ideas or would like to be a part of year we honour his memory with module that highlights the work this committee we would ask that this bursary given out to a student that unions do in the community. you keep an eye on the posting that has participated in our High There are many volunteers who boards and come to a meeting. We School Presentation Program and work hard to make this program a are family friendly and have an applies to us for it. This year's success, whether it be from the open door policy, anyone that wish- recipient was Taylor Cabana of standpoint of putting the program es to participate is encouraged to Walkerville High School who has material together, logistics, plan- come and check us out and see since started studying at Redeemer ning and training or our presenters, what we do. We would also like to University. Congratulations Taylor everyone does their part and they remind everyone that during the do it very well. Thank you to all and family. Windsor Assembly Plant layoff in the volunteers who dedicate their Area Schools 2015 the Education Committee will own time to make this a success. If As we come into the New Year still be meeting monthly. You will you are interested in getting there will be new courses offered involved in this program, please be able to find our schedule on the through our one-day training pro- don't hesitate to drop me an email Local 444 website. gram. These classes, run by the to discuss it. Happy Holidays National Union, usually take place McMaster Labour Studies on a Saturday and do not involve As we round yet another corner lost time. They run from 8 a.m. to bringing us into another year the Recently the committee was 4 p.m. and include a lunch. Keep Education Committee members approached by members of Caesars would like to wish everyone a an eye on the posting boards in the Windsor who wanted to participate Happy Holiday Season and joyous New Year for the latest course in the McMaster Labour Studies New Year. Program that is currently offered to Chrysler members. We are having discussions with the Casino on this issue and seeing what tuition can be covered through their collective agreement. Inquiries on course con- tent or general registration questions should be directed to Rick Labonte at local444environment- [email protected]. Richard Montague

Memorial Bursary Wayne MacLean, Education Committee Chairperson is seen surrounded by Unifor Local 444 officers who presented Taylor Cabana the Richard Every year, the Education Montague Memorial Bursary along with her parents Geraldine and Ken Committee selects a recipient for who work at the Windsor Assembly Plant . 32 - 444 By Union In Politics RAY U HACHEY PC COMMITTEE Chairperson Email: rayj2001@ ell the municipal elections are ment charged you $50.00 just to get your hotmail.com now over and the results were ballot in an election. I'm sure either way WWsurprising. Only 37.46% of the people would likely be outraged! eligible voters in Windsor actually went With the next Federal elections coming those who fought and gave their lives for to the polls. Every day we hear com- us to have this freedom to be able to vote. plaints about our roads being in disrepair, in October or sooner, I hope that people our basements flooding, the cost of our will keep these numbers in mind. If you We must never forget that or them! taxes and what is the city doing with all of voted, thank you very much. If you did Please take advantage of that right that's our money they are collecting in taxes, not vote, then why didn't you vote? been graciously given to you. Voting is a privilege that many people in parking, fines, not to mention the bonus Have a Merry Christmas and a Safe different countries do not have. On money they get from the Casino. and Happy New Year! November 11 every year we remember Yet one day every 4 years now, people are asked to get out and place an X on a Urge the Canadian Government to Invest in Good Jobs in ballot for the candidate of their choice Windsor-Essex County with Ford Motor Company who will best represent their thoughts and ideas about how this city should be run. Petition by Heather MacDonald Ellis and Jessica John And only about 1/3 of us take advantage Our Community, Windsor-Essex County has one of the highest unemployment rates in Canada. Recently, of that democratic right. Ford Motor Company was considering Windsor, Ontario as a potential site for a new global engine that would create 1,000 new jobs for our Community with spin-off jobs resulting in approximately 7,000 new Let me show you how bad it is in jobs for Windsor-Essex County, thereby adding millions back into our economy. Ford considered Windsor some wards. It may surprise you what the because its Windsor Operations have consistently out-performed the company's benchmark for quality, percentages were in certain areas. cost and productivity. A condition of Ford building in Windsor is Federal and Provincial Government investment. Our Governments have decided that this investment does not suit their platform or benefit tax- Ward 1 - 47.5% Ward 6 - 42.77% payers. We, the tax-payers, disagree. Ward 2 - 28.07% Ward 7 - 42.55% We are here to implore both Governments to reconsider their decision and re-open talks with Ford. This is Ward 3 - 27.53% Ward 8 - 32.89% critically important to the economic health of Windsor-Essex County as well as to the export and manufac- Ward 4 - 35.45% Ward 9 - 28.71% turing sectors. Ward 5 - 33.5% Ward 10 -42.77% Our Community needs decent jobs that pay a living-wage and are productive like those offered by Ford. Trustee English Public These jobs will give us the opportunity to support local businesses and contribute more tax dollars to our municipalities allowing our landscape and infrastructure to improve and grow -- giving our children a hope- In 1, 2, 9 the vote was 48.95% ful future. In 3, 4, 10 the vote was 46.58% Embracing the development of new jobs is imperative for Windsor-Essex County to thrive and prosper In 5, 6, 7, 8 the vote was 47.04% and will benefit everyone: Citizens, Government and Corporations. Trustee English Separate Working together and re-evaluating their positions we would like to urge our Government and Ford Motor In 2, 9 the vote was 11.83% Company to re-open talks, reach an agreement regarding their respective investments. This would result In 3, 4 the vote was 7.9% in increased profit, quality production, additional tax dollars, reduced unemployment and a thriving In 5, 8 the vote was 11.17% Community. We believe taking action and re-opening talks is the key to the success of our future. In 6, 7 the vote was 15.48% TAKE ACTION, PLEASE SIGN THIS PETITION www.tinyurl.com/bethechangepetition Even with the school closures there was very low turnout in the separate system. That alone should have demanded higher voter turnout for selecting trustees. Wikipedia defines apathy as a state of indifference. Is this what it has come to? Sadly those who will not vote will gener- ally complain the most. I wonder what would happen if the government enforced mandatory voting. If you don't vote in an election, you would be charged $50.00 the next time Unifor Local 444 Local officers and members from the Union in Politics you renew your license, or if the govern- Committee (UPC) are seen at their regular monthly meeting having open dia- logue on the issues that affect 444 members, community and the country. 33 – 444 change. I wonder what the Federal government of Canada will commit Environment Committee to? Will a demonstration in Ottawa influence the Harper's government? By RICHARD LABONTE Environment Committee Chairperson VIDEO CAMPAIGN

[email protected] Our committee is developing a "DID YOU KNOW?" video series where we present videos of hard facts on the environmental issues. Global Climate Change Commitment Each video would have a different theme that affects us and our envi- THERE HAVE BEEN some inter- at U.N. climate talks next year in ronment such as water issues, cli- esting developments in the global Paris. mate change, green jobs, and pollu- climate change commitment lately Less than two months later after tion, etc. It will be very similar to that I would like to share. On the demonstration, United States "The Story of Stuff" series that is Sunday, September 21, more than and China made an announcement available on You Tube. We planned 300,000 people marched through of new carbon emission targets. on making many videos to put on the streets of New York City in The United States agreed to reduce You Tube and use social media to what organizers called the largest its carbon emissions by up to 28% share our educational videos with climate-change demonstration in over the 20 years beginning in the world. history. Many people from all 2005. China agreed to begin reduc- For example, "DID YOU walks of life and from many places ing its emissions by 2030 or sooner, KNOW?" that every eight seconds in the world came with banners, and to increase its use of non-fossil a child dies from drinking contami- flags, floats and drums, and the fuels to at least 20% of its total nated water. Our goals are to create protesters overwhelmed midtown consumption over the same time. awareness of the problem and offer Manhattan demanding action ahead This agreement is not legally bind- solutions to the problem as well. It of the United Nations Climate ing agreement but in principal, it will demonstrate that these issues Summit later held that week. U.N. was agreed upon that both nations' can be addressed if there is political Secretary-General Ban Ki Moon, reductions of carbon emissions will will. There will be no political former U.S. vice president Al Gore, be made. After all, the United movements if we do not join the New York City Mayor Bill de States and China are the world's global environmental activism and Blasio, and famous actors such as two biggest sources of carbon pol- demand change. These videos will Mark Ruffalo and Leonardo lution, which scientists say is the be launched quarterly starting in DiCaprio joined thousands of pro- biggest contributor to climate 2015. testers at the march. The march shone a spotlight on global warming, the United Nations summit where President Obama and world leaders from government, finance and business were to discuss initiatives that meant to move the world toward limiting global warming. One hundred and twenty-five nations were represented. It was the first time in five years that world leaders have gathered to discuss climate change. The summit aimed to get world leaders to pledge emission cuts that could become part of More than 35 of Local 444 members and their families came out to help with our JWeC 7th tree planting event. to date they have planted 387 trees in our communi- a global agreement to be approved ty thanks to their efforts. together they are making a difference in our environment. 34 - 444 Employee Family By BRUCE MALCOLM E.F.A.P. Substance Abuse Representative Assistance Program [email protected] 519-258-3481

ell, the holidays are very similar to impaired driving. such practices because there is evi- upon us again, school Impaired doesn't necessarily mean dence that shows even hanging WWwill be out for Christmas "drunk", it means something is onto a cellphone with your hands break, the shopping lists of things impairing you to drive properly. while driving distracts your ability to buy just keeps getting longer. We Drinking, texting, talking on the to drive in a variety of ways: it dis- will be spending a lot of time in our phone, eating, and even smoking all tracts drivers cognitively because cars going from store to store to impair your ability to drive the best their minds are no longer solely on find just the right gift. you can. We do not take texting the task of driving, it distracts the Unfortunately we are all too often, seriously enough until it affects us driver visually because their eyes busy on our phones relaying infor- or a loved one. Personally I see the may be off the road, and it distracts mation about what to buy, who act of texting/talking, holding your physically because drivers talking likes what, and where to find it. phone in your hand, or between on their phones only have one hand This brings me to my topic for the your shoulder and your ear while on the wheel. holidays, "distracted driving". driving a very serious offence. Recent statistics show while Did you know that "Hands- These offenders have no respect for free" use means that apart from impaired driving remains a danger, our justice system or their fellow "distracted driving" has eclipsed it activating or deactivating the drivers on our roads. Offenders device, it is not held during use and when it comes to causing chaos and should be treated similar as some- death on Ontario's highways. the driver is not physically interact- one receiving a 12 hour suspension ing with or manipulating it? While Before I go much further I will for being under the influence as there are a lot of hands-free driving tell you that I was as guilty as the they are equally impaired. options out there, I cannot empha- next person but I have made a com- According to the statistics tex- size enough the fact that talking on mitment to stop. Some of us might ting and driving stands ahead of the phone with someone while dri- not realize it, but distracted driving drunk drivers as far as fatalities are ving is still distracting because the is a huge issue on Canada's roads. concerned. So I pose this question, driver's mind isn't on the road but This includes eating, drinking, per- why is texting and driving so texting and driving is by far worse. sonal grooming and most notably socially acceptable when there Ensuring our roads are safe, not just texting/talking on the phone. Most tends to be outrage for drinking and during the holiday season but of us probably think nothing of driving? We should be equally always is not just for the police, we sending a few text messages or upset. can all do our part and not text and talking on the phone while driving, drive. even though doing so is illegal I feel the problem is that a vast under the Highway Traffic Act. majority of us, not just our chil- I would like to wish everyone a dren, over-estimate our skills safe and enjoyable Holiday Season. Ontario Provincial Police say behind the wheel and under-esti- Be responsible out there folks don't distracted driving was the number mate the risks of distracted driving. drink and drive or text and drive. one cause of death on roadways in We have all seen it. Drivers often Your life, your child's life or some- 2013. A new report published by handle their phone low in their car - one else's depends on it. the OPP shows 78 people died in distracted driving-related collisions since texting while driving is ille- in Ontario last year. That's com- gal – and for their eyes only to see pared to 57 impaired driving deaths that phone. Unfortunately they have and 44 speed-related deaths in the to remove their eyes from the road same year. for a much longer period. To me "distracted driving" is The Province of Ontario banned 35 – 444 37th Charles E. Brooks Labour Community Service Award ongratulations to Local 444 mem- Joe's long-standing relationship with ed throughout Ontario (over $200 million ber Joe Comartin, who was named the Labour Community began in 1968 of capital investment into Co-op and Non- 37th Charles E. Brooks Labour with his involvement in Pollution Probe Profit Housing). Community Service Award winner on and the Canadian Environmental Law Joe also played an instrumental role in CNovemberC 14th. Joe is current Deputy Association, as an advocate for a cleaner the 1980-1982 Mayor's Committee on the Speaker of the House of Commons, has environment in partnership with the Unemployed. Through this initiative, the held various parliamentary roles since UAW. Decades later, Joe is still leading Unemployed Help Centre was founded. 2000 including critic portfolios for the the way and collaborating with labour for Today, the Unemployed Help Centre is a environment, natural resources, justice, the betterment of the community. full-service, state of the art operation ben- public safety, and democratic reform. He Among countless other projects, Joe efitting those facing unemployment and was also the Official Opposition House played an integral role in the CAW's Co- poverty issues. Leader. A three-time winner of Operative Housing Initiative. It has pro- As Regional Director of Canada's first Parliament's "Most Knowledgeable MP", vided union members with not-for-profit and only workers legal services plan, Joe he became the standard for cross-party plans for quality child care and housing helped to enhance the amenities available partnerships, including teaming with his services, – plans that were later emulated to CAW members beginning in 1985. Joe parliamentary colleagues to produce the across the nation. For the past 20 years, remained as the Director until he was landmark study into reforming Canada's Labour Sponsored Community elected as a Member of Parliament for palliative care regimes. Married to wife Development has facilitated the planning, Windsor-Tecumseh in 2000. Today, the Maureen since 1969, he is the proud development and construction of 23 Non- Unifor (formerly CAW) Legal Services father of three married children, and profit & Co-op Housing Developments Plan is the largest pre-paid legal services grandfather to seven. amounting to more than 2,570 units locat- program in Canada serving many Unifor members and their families. Recently, Joe was asked about his proudest career achievement - without a doubt he noted the overwhelming support he has received from the labour community in his many election victories. Over the past 14 years of his parliamentary career, Joe has repeatedly pointed out how labour activists in our community have risen to answer the needs of the unemployed, homeless and those living in poverty. Joe is proud to have worked alongside the labour community to build a better city, province and country. Joe is especially proud of his honorary member- seen are Joe and his wife Maureen Comartin, Ken and Laurie Lewenza and the ship of CAW/Unifor Local 444, which Brooks Family at the Charles e. Brooks Labour Awards night. was bestowed upon him in 1991. Joe has been involved in an incredible amount of community initiatives over the years. His passion for the community is grounded in the fact that Windsor-Essex is known for its compassion and caring nature. He has always been inspired by the labour community's unique and pow- erful efforts to support their community through donations to several initiatives, such as United Way's annual fundraising campaign and local food banks. Joe is an honest and dedicated member of our community, who is universally recognized for his integrity and passion during his many years of laudable public service. 36 – 444 A Tribute to Keith Boles Obituaries Unifor Local 444 was sad- strength and culture of our We are sorry to report the passing of dened when it heard the news Union, and literally, countless the following members since the last that Keith Boles sud- of workers have bene- issue. denly passed away. fited as a result of his The Executive and Membership of Keith was retired for representation skills. CAW Local 444 extend their heartfelt 12 years and dedicated We will miss Keith but condolences to the bereaved families. to representing the his memory is entren- Adeflino Pennesi ...... Retired membership of Local ched in the foundation Andjelko Korac ...... Retired 444 at the Windsor of our Union. To his Arthur Durocher...... Retired Assembly Plant in the best friend and wife Bruno Garant ...... Retired Paint andTrim Ruth and father to Charles Micallef...... Retired Departments. He was a col- Paula along with the entire Daniel Dibbley...... Chrysler league, a friend, a mentor to Boles family, we offer you our Daniel MacNeil ...... Retired many young representatives to condolences and friendship. David Gibson ...... Retired whom they leaned on him for Sincerely, Denis Ouimet ...... Retired advice and counsel. Keith, like Donald Robinson ...... Retired many before him, has made an Dino Chiodo, President enormous contribution to the Unifor Local 444 Dragoljub Kovacevich . . . . . Retired Edwin Pask ...... Retired Fortunato Bossio ...... Retired Francis Mayea ...... Retired Francis Renaud ...... Retired Retiring Members Irene Taylor ...... Retired Ivan Trahan ...... Retired The following members retired from the workplaces. The Executive & Membership of Jack Shinkak ...... Retired 444 wish these members the very best in their new life. James Walsh ...... Retired This list of Retirees includes inactive members (S&A and EDB) Joao Furtado...... Retired John Denapoli ...... Chrysler July. 01, 2014 Lapointe, Elaine...... Chrysler Joseph Belanger ...... Retired Carlini, Tony...... Chrysler Laroche, Rhona...... Chrysler Joseph Gallant ...... Retired Keith Boles ...... Retired Eisenkirch, Michael...... Chrysler Stewin, Eugene ...... Chrysler Kosta Milanis...... Retired Geary, Robert...... Chrysler Stone, Richard H...... Casino Lawrence Damphouse . . . . . Retired Jahn, Daniel ...... Chrysler Lawrence Meloche...... Retired Kondovski, Pando...... Integram October 01, 2014 Leo Parent ...... Retired Lauko, Leszek...... Integram Baker, Jane P...... Casino Leonard Dalpe ...... Retired Loreto Restaino ...... Retired Lavery, Grant...... Chrysler Bested, Pamela...... Chrysler Ouellette, Ronald...... Chrysler Mario Di Ponio ...... Retired Cournoyea, Robin...... Chrysler Maurice Lamoureux...... Retired Perez, Santiago...... Integram Faucette, Robert...... Chrysler Mitchell Bourque...... TransAlta Reed, Christopher ...... Chrysler Holden Robert...... Chrysler Paul Soulliere...... Retired Swietochowski, BogdanIntegram McDonagh, Heather...... Chrysler Paul Zeiter ...... Retired Peter Williams ...... Retired Vokoun, Jaroslava...... Integram Nespolon, Roger ...... Chrysler Wasylyk, Harry...... Chrysler Raymond Strange...... Retired Nestorovski, Zarko ...... Chrysler Richard Brian Bodchon . . . . Retired White, Linda ...... Chrysler Paolini,Gino...... Chrysler Robert Barry ...... Retired Roger Goudin...... Retired August 01, 2014 Ridgewell, Joseph...... Chrysler Stannard, Madelyn ...... Casino Roman Gawadzyn ...... Retired Hachey, Ray ...... Chrysler Ronald Ducharme ...... Retired Khamvongsa, Vong.....Integram Stefano Lombardo ...... Retired November 01, 2014 Klassen, Issac ...Peterson Spring Stephen Veres ...... Caesars White, David...... Chrysler Baillargeon, William...... Chrysler Steven Cipkar...... Retired Fortino, Marcella ...... Chrysler Thomas Digou ...... Retired September 01, 2014 Korovitsch, Victor ...... Chrysler Thomas McCarthy ...... Retired Crew, Terry ...... Chrysler Lavric, Andelko...... Chrysler Timothy Laforet...... Retired D’Agnillo, Deni...... Chrysler McNeil, Raymond ...... Chrysler Tracey Curtis ...... Chrysler Farrow, Mark ...... Chrysler Travis, Susan...... Chrysler Wadih Daher ...... Retired Gatti, Tom...... Chrysler Undey, Mehmet ...... Chrysler Wilfred Randall ...... Retired Winston MacQuarrie ...... Retired 37 – 444 Harper And Our Pensions By GERRY Retirees, Stephen Harper is Retirees’ GRAHAM no friend of labour nor seniors Chairperson, and retirees. We all remember his Retirees’ pooled pensions plan replacing Chapter Chapter defined pensions well that Bill is still on the shelf and now he is Christmas Dinner talking about targeting pensions next U.S. President. If it's a for public workers. If that should Our annual Christmas Dinner Republican and a Conservative happen it will affect all public at the Caboto Club will soon be Government in Canada, it will be sector workers with defined pen- upon us on December 11th and like the old days all over again – sion plans and if you are a retiree in advance, we hope you enjoyed Brian Mulroney and Ronald the same will happen to us. If yourself with the fine food and Regan. you don't know, a defined pen- music. Your Executive Board put Remember the Days of sion is a set amount corporations a lot of work in this and we are Action and the statement that pays to a retiree even when the now starting to plan for the 2015 Canada was open for business. stock market goes down. The Luncheon, so save this date for We had 13,000 union members company has to make up the dif- May 27th, 2015. Also we have in the Chrysler plants at one time ference. had meetings with the Windsor then and now have 5,000. The Under the target pension plan, Essex Health Unit for our 2015 only person missing is Margaret if the stocks go down so will Wellness Day scheduled June Thatcher. Your Union did every- your pensions. Defined Pensions 12th. thing possible to stop NAFTA Politics Has No Borders is something the UAW, CAW and look what happened, – 1,000 and now UNIFOR always bar- new Ford jobs gone to Mexico. Governor Snyder, a Republican gained for. Charley Brooks said has won another term as Ford was not even in the race, . . it best. No matter how hard we Michigan Governor and . they just ripped and sawed us bargain for gains at the table, it although he supports the new up and picked Mexico as planned can all be taken away by a stroke bridge, this is the same guy who with all kinds of incentives and of a government pen. Steven turned Michigan into a work for workers receiving $5 an hour. Harper has to go, he just doesn't less state. Now we have to wait What happened? Harper stalled. listen and any Conservatives out two years to see who will be the Those jobs are lost for ever. there paying attention Harper to agenda – not ours. Health Care Trust Fund (HCT) Update

Last year our plan was at 107% and that was great but recently it slipped to 91% and we have been assured by HCT trustees we are still on solid rock. So what happened! Retirees are living 2.2 years longer whether at home or Long Term Care (LTC), – it doesn't sound like sID rYAN OLDer PersON DAY – In a moving and compassionate speech Ontario Federation of Labour President sid ryan address much but it does make a differ- ed the retirees at their monthly meeting about the importance of ence. Also, there was a dip in the their union and for them to continue to be active in all social caus- stock market and the drug cost is es such as the “International Day Of Older Persons”. . . . cont’d on next page 38 – 444 RETIREES CHAPTER . . . cont’d going up. Dino Chiodo has invit- ed two Executives from our Retirees’ Chapter and from each Chrysler chapter to go to Chrysler Council the week of November 17th for one day meeting in Toronto and meet with the HCT trustees. This way we will have a better understanding so we can get some solid answers on behalf of retirees. retIrees At rALLY – seen are Unifor Local 444 retirees ron & Are we concerned, not yet but, Deb Moisenko, Dusanka Zarin and David Herrera engaged the we just want to stay on top of it recent Day Of Action Health Care rally held in London, ON. they and like RRSPs, they go down are retired from the job, but not the fight! and up and return to normal, not Remembrance Day to mention OAS and GIS is still crowd singing the Star Spangled on our radar. This year was special as our Banner, O Canada and God Save For Profit Health Care thoughts were with the families the Queen. We raised our right of Corporal Nathan Cirillo and hand and word for word swore Private Health Care must be Warrant Officer Patrice Vincent the oath of being a Canadian. It stopped in its tracks currently and all the other War Vets who was inspiring to see and be a part Leamington is chopping their served our country in the past of and made us proud to be maternity ward and with a loss of and current. To say the least, it Canadian. 16 nurses which is a vital part of was moving at the cenotaph at From your Retirees’ Executive service in the county. The CCAC Windsor City Hall with a very Board, have a Merry Christmas is chopping 33% of home care large crowd. All the veterans in and Happy New Year and Drive visits and then we have the Bank full colour and three bus loads of Safe. We are retired from the job, of Canada Governor Stephen children singing and leading the but not the fight! Poloz saying our kids should work for free. Can you believe that! The real question should be the race to the bottom never stops coming from these types of right wing wackos, always attacking the average hard working Canadian but never attacking the 1%. I'm sure 2015 will be busy all year so get ready for some ral- lies. We are the largest Union in Canada and our Local is the most progressive. Steven Harper, your time is up – please step down so Vice President James stewart addresses the retirees on the poor voter we can have a truly Canadian turnout throughout Windsor / essex County in the last municipal election. democracy. “If things are to change, voter apathy must change also.” –James Stewart 39 – 444 Community PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 41456533 RETURN UNDELIvERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: CIRCULATION DEPT. CAW LOCAL 444, 1855 TURNER ROAD RECYCLED Services WINDSOR, ON N8W 3K2 PAPER

Sue Najem [email protected]

ou just can't put a price on a smiling face knowing all of us are making a difference in someone else's life. Once again the Community Services Committee and friends have Our Annual Pasta Fundraiser was successful YcomeY together like never before in making a positive and we held Bikes for Kids campaign this year. change for people throughout Windsor and Essex This program was an event that was held every two County. In February our committee cooked up and years but for the past few years, thanks to Ruth and donated a luncheon to Street Help Unit 7. In May Glen McFarlane, better known as the "Bike we donated almost $1,000 worth of groceries to The Doctors". We have been able to collect, fix and dis- Welcome Centre Shelter for Women for their food tribute bikes to kids in need every year. This year bank. we donated 100 bikes to F. W. Begley grade school and each bike had a brand new helmet to go with it. That's 100 Smiles and changing lives in a small but good way. We are now looking at donating some new boots to some kids in need at this school as well. Our Committee is working on a few projects for this winter. We are looking to do more with the homeless or near homeless in our community and this is a work in progress as I type this report but we will keep you all informed once we have a plan in place. Ornament day is being held on November 30th at the union hall and this is always a lot of fun for all. Come on out with your little ones and enjoy this sparkle and sprinkle filled day! I ask that we all keep in mind that the holiday season is a joyous time of year for most, however it is a tough time of year for some. A positive gesture regardless of how big or small could make a huge impact in the life of someone who is suffering. A smile is simple but can be contagious and make a world of difference for someone.

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On behalf of the Community services Committee and myself, I would like to wish everyone and their families a Happy and safe Holiday season. visit our new Website: www.uni444.ca 40 – 444