http://www.afscmelocal34.org/ AFSCME Council 5, Local 34, Hennepin County Social Services and Related Employees

Local 34 Banner September 2008 -1-

Local 34 Delegate Monica Jochmans This is a very busy month for AFSCME and for celebrates at the International Convention this newsletter. L 34 Banner – 09/2008 Issue Contents: In September: Page 2 – Local 34 Officer & Steward List and Notes from the August 2008 General 1. Primary Election Day – Assembly Meeting September 9 – please vote if Page 3 – Ad for those who Missed Out on Stability Pay and Notes – August E-Board, you have a primary contest Calendar, Contacts, Upcoming Council 5 2. AFL-CIO State Convention – Training Page 4 – New?, Sign-Ups; August Meet & September 14 – 16 – in Confer Summary September 2008 Duluth; Local 34 is sending 6 Page 5 – Q&A About Lay-Off Procedures in General Assembly the County; Good & Welfare; Commentary delegates on Performance Reviews 3. Council 5 Convention – Page 6 – Unions & Politics – Thoughts Wednesday, from Cliff Robinson; PEOPLE; National September 10, 2008 September 25 – 27 – in Union Political News; Hennepin County 5:15 pm Bloomington; Local 34 can Commissioner Races Pages 7 & 8 – Labor Day 2008; Article on Health Services Bldg, Room 110 send up to 34 delegates Employee Free Choice Act; Legal News – Please note the date and room 4. Reports from Delegates to the Court Decisions in Minnesota in 2007- 2008; CP Brown Bag – 9/9/08 changes – the meeting is delayed AFSCME International one week due to the disruptions of Pages 9-14 – Coverage of Days 1-4 of the AFSCME International Convention from the Republican National Convention Convention in San Francisco, July 28 - August 1 San Francisco Special accommodations will be made . From the AFSCME Greenline Blog – Daily for our physically challenged members. Reports on Convention Highlights : Addresses by Gerald McEntee, William Lucy, Al Gore, Please call 596-1003 or 348-0266 if Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama; Protest arrangements need to be made. Marches Against California State Worker Cuts; Activism . Thoughts from Delegates Lindsey Schwab and Wes Volkenant . Photos 5. Report from our Delegates to . Resolutions and Elected Officers . Page 12 – Ester Killion’s Review of the 2008 the Midwest School for Women Midwest School for Women Workers in St. Louis Workers in St. Louis, . Pages 13-14 – President Diederich’s Report July 10 - 13 on the Convention – and Two Important October 2008 Notices from HealthPartners General Assembly 6. Barack Obama vs. John Management Health Care Committee Mtg McCain – the battle officially Page 14 – Homelessness, Unemployment, New Health Initiative, Amy Ryan Leaves, Wednesday, begins with the completion of HCMC’s New Clinic – HSPHD’s New Hub October 1, 2008 (HSB 112) the Republican National Page 15 – VP Volkenant’s Column; Duluth; Presidential Race – Why Obama; Note change of date and Convention in St. Paul, room location Treasurer’s Report September 1 - 4 Page 16 – President Diederich’s Report and Thank You Letters

Local 34 Officers & Cliff Robinson 348-7542 – 961 Cathy Cowden 543-0301 – L890 8/1/08 Stewards Recording Secretary: President: Rita Salone 596-1003 – L890 Jean Diederich 348-0266Treasurer – : 880 Patrick Regan 348-8760 – L890 Vice Presidents: Membership Secretary: Mary Kay Windels 348-Katie Farber 543-0306 – L890 7546 – 961 Sergeant-At-Arms: Wesley Volkenant 348-Chalmers Davis 521-3056 – N704 9592 – 630 Members-At-Large: Chief Stewards: Andrea Lazo-Rice 348-2249 – 959 Local 34 Banner September 2008 -2- Ibrahim Adam 348-2313Note: – Submissions for the October 2008 newsletter should be sent to the 961 Editor by Friday, September 12. Submissions for the November newsletter Angel Alexander 596- should be received by October 16. 1863 – 630 News from the August General Assembly—August 6, 2008 Betty Pharr 348- Officers attending were: Jean Diederich, Wes Volkenant, Clifford Robinson, Patrick Regan, Rita Salone, Chalmers Davis, Alex Gordon, Andrea Lazo-Rice, Jacquelin Poole, Angel Alexander, Katie 8263 – 630 Farber and Cathy Cowden Jacquelin Poole 348-4246 – Excused Absence: Betty Pharr, Ibrahim Adam, and Mary Kay Windels 956 Alex O. Gordon 348-6910 – Delegates to the September 14-16 AFL-CIO Convention in Duluth were elected: Jean 961 Diederich (automatic), Jacquelin Poole, John Herzog, Cathy Cowden, Katie Farber, Angel Alexander, and Rita Salone. Sister Salone was originally elected an alternate, but Local Stewards: 34 was found to have seven delegate slots available. Zachary Rice 348-2274, Delegates to the September 25-27 AFSCME Council 5 Convention in Bloomington were Century Plaza 1 also elected. Local 34 had 34 delegate slots to be filled – the President was empowered Ester Killion 596-7858, to fill slots to the full 34. As of the completion of this Newsletter in late-August, the Local Century Plaza 1 34 delegates were: Jean Diederich (automatic), Chalmers Davis, Lindsay Schwab, Ed Miguel Salazar 596-7465, Century Plaza Kusleika, Patrick Regan, Wes Volkenant, John Herzog, Katie Farber, Vicki Moore, 2 Jacquelin Poole, Betty Pharr, Andrea Lazo-Rice, Angel Alexander, Bob Velez, Cathy Nancy Scarlotta 348-9452, Century Plaza Cowden, Cliff Robinson, Rita Salone, Terry Grace, Phillip Gray, and Alex Gordon. Several 2 others have sent their names to President Diederich, and the final 14 slots will be drawn. Fatuma Kassim 596-8457, Century Plaza Local 34 renewed its membership in the NAACP for one year at $30.00. 2 Two new Stewards were appointed – Martha Dille at the County Home School and James Kela Williams 596-0949, Edin in Sentencing to Serve. Century Plaza 2 Business Agent Matt Nelson reported that MHP notified staff that it would be laying off 30 Jamoda Williams 596-8948, Century Plaza persons, would be notified as of August 15 that layoff would occur September 2 nd. We 4 subsequently learned that 21 of the 30 were from non-bargaining-unit positions, primarily Diane Fossen 302-4704, North Point I.T., but four of those laid-off were from Local 34. County Budget Levy meetings with Dental County Commissioners are being planned between August 22nd and September 8th. Matt Shawnice Watson 302-4638, North Point noted the good work of the Local 34 delegation to the International Convention, and nd Medical complimented Lindsey Schwab for finishing 2 in the PEOPLE Fun Run. In the event of Edgar Kusleika 348-3633, Msgs, Home possible lay-offs, Matt noted the significant number of persons the County employs as Monitring Planning Analysts, some of whom have Supervisory responsibilities. Matt discussed an James Stevenson 596-9220, STS issue raised by Chief Steward Cathy Cowden – should fewer Supervisors be responsible James Edin 596-9220, STS for supervising larger numbers of staff; in her 28 years with the County, Cathy noted that Phillip Gray 348-5771, Supervisors have generally had 10 staff to supervise. Before pursuing layoffs, Matt wants Juvenile Justice Ctr to encourage the County to look at a new buy-out or use of SLWOP (Matt raised these Terry Grace 348-7308, issues in HSPHD Meet & Confer, and as noted elsewhere, there is no consensus for a buy- Juvenile Justice Ctr out, and there are long-term negatives for using SLWOP.). Finally, Matt noted that Aboubker Ouassaddine 543-0373, Family arbitration was approved for the STS worker fighting issues resulting after being shot at Justice Ctr while on the job, and two possible arbitrations which were dismissed will be appealed to the Local 34 Executive Board for further action at Council 5. Bob Velez 348-4869, Family Justice President Diederich noted that she would be meeting with Richard Johnson on August Ctr st Susan Frame 348-0293, Govt 21 , and encouraged buildings, such as the GC and HSB, to set up membership informational meetings such as FJC recently held. She commented on having a blast at Center A15 the International Convention, on being proud of Lindsey Schwab’s finish in the PEOPLE Brian Arneson 348-7641, Govt Center Fun Run, and on having attended the “Next Wave” forum that looks at ways of attracting A16 the younger, next generation of union leaders (“Next Wave” started in Oregon.). Maureen Glover 348-4492, Govt Center VP Volkenant discussed his Convention experience (and shared photos), noted the close A16 of choice for HCSP vs. ERHIP, and summarized discussions at the July Meet & Confer. Carolyn Johnson 348-8586, Govt Center Brother Volkenant offered a motion, which was approved, for the Local to reimburse him A16 half the cost of tuition – up to $75 – to attend an Employment Law seminar at North Monica Jochmans 348-4192, HSB 5 Hennepin Community College. Penny Wile 348-7133, HSB Membership Secretary Farber talked about the work of the new Membership Committee, 9 th and updated us on recent Orientation sessions she’d delivered. Sister Farber requested – Elena Izaksonas 821-4539, 4 Precinct and it was approved – a $53 reimbursement for the Canadian International Labour Station conference to cover additional expenses for transportation, food/beverage and fees. Dennis Moore 879-3560, 1800 Chicago Vern Wagner proposed receiving up to $200 to use on incentives/gifts (such as AFSCME Jeff Meyer 348-5880, 1800 Chicago lanyards) for the Membership Committee to use in random draws for persons who Martha Dille 596-0622, Cty complete a survey about why they’ve chosen to be members. In a related motion, John Home School Herzog made a motion – which was approved – to spend up to $200 for a full one-year Trustees membership (beginning September 1st) with Survey Monkey, which we’ll use as the tool to Jim Evans, Audie Lussier, Osman Aweis conduct the survey. Delta Dental Trustee Serious discussion took place on the topics of Children’s Redesign, Social Worker licensure, potentially unassigned Program Managers, lay-off process, revised performance Monica Jochmans standards as workloads increase, and concerns about acting supervisors involved in Local 34 Banner September 2008 -3- performance reviews – and co-workersFinancial giving Responsibility Training – Council 5 Duluth Office – feedback for colleagues’ reviews. October 22, 2008 these issues were addressed in Meet & Confer or in articles submitted by Cliff Robinson. Council 5 Business Who We Are Representative: AFSCME’s 1.4 million members provide the vital services that make Matt Nelson 651-287-0578 America happen. With members in hundreds of different occupations — from nurses to corrections officers, child care providers to sanitation e-mail Matt at: workers — AFSCME is the voice of the dedicated workers who take care of [email protected] America, and is a leading advocate for all working families. Council 5 Contact Information: 300 Hardman Avenue South, South Saint Paul, Minnesota 55075- This ad has been commissioned by your Local 34 Executive Board! 2469 Your Executive Board Needs to Talk With You! (651) 450-4990 Fax: (651) 450- 1908

To Contact the Newsletter Editor: Call or e-mail— Did you ever leave Hennepin County employment… and Wesley Volkenant - 612-348- 9592 then returned? If you did, do you have 5 or more years of total service with Hennepin County? Did you not For Distribution concerns, receive a Stability Pay Adjustment last December? contact: Rhonda Griffin at 612-348- Here’s what’s going on. We are in the middle of a grievance over failure to 8328 pay Stability Pay to members who left – and came back. We think there are about 50 more of you – maybe a couple hundred more – and we need to find Internet Web Site Developer: you. Right away! John Herzog – 952-492-5233 Please contact Jean Diederich, Matt Nelson or Cliff Robinson! UPCOMING LOCAL 34 News from the August E-Board Meeting—August 20, 2008 MEETING SCHEDULE Mike Traynor, President of the Pediatric Brain Tumor Foundation sent the September Local a thank you letter for the $100 gift sent by Local 34. 10th General Assembly - HSB The E-Board passed a motion – see above – to seek staff who are not receiving stability pay now, or too small of stability pay, because they left the County, 110 then returned, and have not gotten full credit for their total years of service in the 17th E-Board - HSB 917 County (two persons filed a grievance which the County is willing to settle, but at the expense of 50 others it has identified who did not file a grievance - or perhaps others - October who are already receiving stability pay, but missed out after returning to the County). st The E-Board wants to pursue this issue further, citing language in Article 24 of the 1 General Assembly - HSB contract, which does not refer to continuous service, unlike Article 23, which specifies 112 continuous service. 15th E-Board - HSB 917 President Diederich acknowledged she will be writing a letter to the County Board insisting that it return contracted-out work to the County first, before initiating September 2008 October 2008 the lay-off process. She also noted the final Seniority Report is out at the Labor S M T W T F S S M T W T F S Relations’ site, and several corrections were made, especially for persons who came 1 2 3 4 5 6 1 2 3 4 from the JDC. 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 As a follow-up to the August 15 officer retreat, discussed power of 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 121314 15 16 17 18 Committee Chairs (At-Large officers) to appoint Committee members – Standing Rules will reflect their power to solicit members, who will be confirmed by the General 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 192021 22 23 24 25 Assembly. 28 29 30 262728 29 30 31 As a follow-up to the first Officer Retreat, Cliff Robinson and Cathy Cowden Upcoming AFSCME Training will report to the October E-Board meeting about what the process of adding new Basic Steward Training – Council stewards might look like. 5 Office – October 7-8, 2008 In discussing the possibility of a Local 34 Credit Card to make travel arrangements easier, Treasurer Pat Regan’s motion was Referred to the Credit Card

Local 34 Banner September 2008 -4- Committee, chaired by Andrea Lazo-Rice,page? If for so, go to the website address listed on the front page. Click on “Tools” further discussion and a reportin back the menu in bar at the top of your page. Select “Internet Options.” Under the October. “General” tab, find the option for Home Page, and copy the Local 34 address there. The next time you bring up your Internet connection, the website will be The E-Board approved a $100 your new Home Page. donation to Tubman Family Alliance/Chrysallis. Do You Have Friends Who Would Like to Receive Our In early discussions for the 2009 Contract Negotiations, VP Volkenant agreed to Newsletter? act as a point person for collecting ideasThere for is now a quick and simple way for you to become informed on a wide the membership contract process, whichvariety may of issues concerning AFSCME Local 34. Just sign yourself up for our free include the interactive Survey Monkey tool. on-line newsletter! Please follow the directions below… > Send an e-mail to the following address: [email protected] We continued discussion of the > In the Subject Line or Text, state “Subscribe to 34 Newsletter”, identify who Social Worker licensure issues and VP you are, and send it off. Volkenant submitted a written summary> You of the will receive a confirmation e-mail within a week; you should have the latest Meet & Confer, much of whichissue appears attached, so you can determine if you will be able to receive – and read – the e- elsewhere. mail newsletter attachments. Business Representative Matt Note: if at any time you want to stop receiving these updates, all you have to do is Nelson updated that Council 5 willsend arbitrate an e-mail to the address listed above, state “Unsubscribe” in the Subject Line the STS Crewmember’s discipline, and the E- or Text, and your name will be removed from our list. Board voted to appeal to the ** Council You 5 can also access us from our Local 34 Website at: Executive Board two other grievanceshttp://www.afscmelocal34.org that were dismissed. For Netscape users, you may need to press “Reload” to get the most current version.

Notes from: AFSCME/HSPHD MEET AND CONFER - August 20, 2008 New to the County? 1. 2009 Budget Update/Hiring and Layoffs Update/Impact of Federal TCM Moratorium Just transferred into Local Update/Redesign Projects □ Current version of the HSPHD budget is cutting @125 FTEs – about 85 in Children’s, 34? and about 40 in the rest of HSPHD; County Administrator Richard Johnson does not make the official presentation until September 23; estimates are that only about 85- To sign up as a union member, to 90 positions will be actual lay-offs; Department will eliminate Grant & Limited receive Delta Dental Insurance Duration jobs first; there is no plan in sight for early buy-out; President Diederich information, or to get answers to reminded that the Local’s position remains that we expect equitable contract questions about AFSCME and reductions, not just operations reductions… membership benefits, please □ Reminder from Rex Holzemer that DRA is still in effect, with both time-reporting and complete this form and send it to: claiming changes; the County is waiting for direction from the State as the TCM Moratorium simply stops steps that went beyond the DRA changes… Katie Farber, Membership □ Children’s Service Area is being restructured – several Service Areas go away in favor Secretary of one large Department; Adult Redesign time-table was moved up quickly… FJC – mail code L890 – 612-543- □ Contract Redesign will follow Adults’ – will look at how to be more efficient, reduce 0306 FTEs, use fewer contract managers Name 2. Century Plaza/Village Social Services Security □ Update – conversations are continuing with the Sheriff’s Dept.; HSPHD has a model ______that is prepared to reduce costs (6-digit figures) but maintain visibility Job Title 3. HCMC Clinic in Brooklyn Park - any HSPHD involvement? ______□ See the article on page14 of this newsletter… 4. GOP Convention Work Location □ See Mark Lee’s e-mail of 8-19-08. Management continues to talk about options like ______working at home that week, but it is really in the hands of the Supervisors; line staff can ask Supervisors to work from home – should have conversations – Supervisors Mail Code ______have received the message to make accommodations that week; Business Agent Steve Marincel asked for some arrival leeway that week – no Supervisor “gotcha” Phone ______games - for staff who get caught in possible traffic jams. I’m especially interested: 5. Concern re: length of HSR client interviews □ Wes Volkenant raised a concern from HSR staff that Supervisors have set □ I want to sign up as a member performance standards that urge staff to reduce the time spent in interviewing clients, □ I want to sign up for Delta at same time that new Combined Application Forms (CAFs) have been introduced that Dental take some staff longer to use; ES management did not find substantiation that Council 5 Contact for Delta Dental Supervisors expect workers to process interviews faster; PM Tom Pingatore stated Questions: that FAD Managers rejected having that objective at all – they state that their concern Cindy Pince – 651-287-0564 is that workers are not taking long enough – that there are too many shortcuts. Pingatore stated that he encourages staff to bring such concerns to his “open door…” Are you interested in setting the Local 34 6. Social Worker Licensure website as your Microsoft Explorer home Local 34 Banner September 2008 -5- □ Chris Yates of Labor Relations member,sent Matt immediate family member or significant other – as defined in the Nelson & Wes Volkenant e-mails Contract.defending the Employer’s right to change job expectations, and warning usIn the off case of of surgery or prolonged illness, or for the birth or adoption of a child, addressing some topics in Meet &flowers Confer or – plants can be sent to a member. such as what the Department might do to assist non-licensed SWs with In education situations involving the death of a member or a death in the family of a requirements, time, supervisionmember etc. to, memorials can be sent. (“Family” is defined the same as in Article 16 – meet and maintain licensure. WeFuneral will need Leave – in our contract; it includes: to schedule bargaining on thisspouse, before March. child, □ Licensure Numbers: in a 2005significant Augsburg other, study, 209 of 776 SWs at that aunt/uncle,time were licensed; in data from 2007 andfather/mother, 2008, 22 out of 50 ABH SWs (from sister/brother, five case management units) were licensedgrandparent/grandparent-in-law, in 2007; grandchildren, in Spring 2008, 68 out of 329niece/nephew, Child Protection Workers were licensed;or a person Rex regarded as a member of the member’s immediate family). Holzemer categorized licenses as about 30%. In the event of members getting married, retiring, gaining U.S. citizenship, or for a □ As to the possible impact ofdeath having in the family of a member or in the case of the death of a member, a card licensed, but less-senior staff in cana time be sent of to the family. lay-offs, Chris Yates referred us to an e-mail from Lori Olsen in HR: A. When Pleaselooking send to all requests for remembrances to the Chairs for the Good and Welfare exempt a less senior employee fromCommittee layoff, - Lisa Durkot (MC 965), Marcia Dietz (MC L890) and Cathy Cowden (MC we would expect the departmentL890). toThe referrals must include the name of the member and the reason for consider distributing the work your to others, request. If the request is for a plant or flowers, you will also need to include more senior, who have the qualificationthe person’s home phone number for delivery purposes. they're needing - if that is possible. If there is so much work that the less seniorLay-Offs… At the June and July GA meetings, Membership Secretary Katie Farber employee is needed to perform the work,introduced a “Layoffs FAQ” document, which she compiled with the assistance of our and it cannot be distributed to others withBusiness Agent, Matt Nelson. Again, we share a sampling of those questions and the qualification, the department'sanswers. These continue to be unofficial interpretations, and should be read in argument to exempt that less seniorconjunction with the official information we expect to be put out by Human Resources employee is much stronger and they mayand Labor Relations at the HR web site soon. And, please refer to the Local 34 contract be successful in doing so. – the Seniority section – Article 6, Section 3, page 7. In example 2 below, HSR and CSO □ Rex is recommending that SWs getserve as representative classification examples – SSW/CPSW or CMA/FCA could be licensed; they’ll work with Staffused instead. For more questions/answers, refer to our previous issues (July & August). Development on providing educational offerings that meet CEU requirements; staffQ. How will I be informed that I will be laid off? will need to look at the emerging trends (i.e. Health Plans) ; simply reporting underA. By certified mail at your home address as listed in the employer’s a Supervisor’s license will not be goodrecords, or in writing delivered to you at your work site. enough under the new scrutiny because the trend is for licensed SWs. Q. If I bumped an HSR III out of their job, would I have their salary rate, Working Partnerships – Can You Help? or would I have the salary rate I had when I left being an HSR III, or The Local has approved a donation to would I automatically be at the top of the HSR III salary range since I Working Partnerships – affiliated with make more than that now as a Senior Child Support Officer? the Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, an affiliate of the AFL-CIO. A. Normally it will be at the top of the new schedule, per HR rules 5-2. This agency gives $25 Cub Foods discount cards to union brothers and Q. The contract says “unless senior employees cannot do the job.” I sisters in need. http://www.unitedwaytwincities.org/ourpart speak two languages other than English and have a caseload with ners/union.cfm clients who need an interpreter. Does that mean I won’t be laid off, even though I am low on the seniority list, because nobody else can work on Good and Welfare my caseload?

The Good and Welfare Committee was A. Yes – if no one with more seniority can do the job established to send remembrances to dues paying members at times of happiness or sorrow. This includes marriages, the birth or adoption of a Whose Performance Review is this Anyway? child, prolonged illness or by Local 34 Chief Steward Cliff Robinson hospitalization, or the death of a Local 34 Banner September 2008 -6- At $4.00 per pay period, a contributor receives an AFSCME green jacket. Most members take annual Please contact Jean Diederich at performance reviews very 348-0266 to sign up now! seriously. For many, a salary increase is dependent uponUnions the and Politics – Cliff Robinson If you haven’t yet, you may soon be approached by another union member and who will annual performance rating.ask you For to contribute to the Union’s PEOPLE fund. This fund of voluntary contributions all, the content ofis the the money that your union uses to support our friends and oppose our performance reviewenemies is a at the local, state and national level. If you ever wonder why your union permanent record, whichleaders may are always talking about politics and asking you to contribute your time, effort and money on political activities keep in mind that your job as a public employee is the result have a positive or of negative a political decision. When those we elect make good decisions, we prosper. When those impact on career advancement.we elect make bone- headed decisions, we suffer. At the August General AssemblyThe pending lay-offs at Hennepin County are proof of that. Further evidence can be found meeting, several membersin the experience of the public employees in the state of Missouri. In 1945 the Missouri Constitution was amended to read,” Employees shall have the right to organize and to expressed concern thatbargain their collectively through representatives of their own choosing.” This constitutional supervisors were solicitingamendment their didn’t happen by accident. It was the result of determined political action by peers for comments regardingorganized labor. However in 1947 a conservative state supreme court ruled that the language applied only to private sector employees. In 2001, Democratic governor Bob their work. Holden issued an executive order that sanctioned collective bargaining for state employees and permitted dues check-off for union members. In 2005, the new Republican Unit Supervisors are supposedgovernor, to Matt Blunt, revoked both executive orders of his predecessor citing the 1947 have the training and experienceSupreme Court decision. In May, 2007 the Missouri Supreme Court overturned the 1947 court decision. In explaining the reversal and commenting on the constitutional language to evaluate the performancethe Chief of Justice said, “‘Employees plainly means employees,” he wrote. “There is no their staff. The HR Rulesadjective; places there are no words that limit ’employees’ to private sector employees”. The that responsibility ondecision them. also overturned a 1982 decision that governments were free to disregard Peers, on the other hand,agreements are not made with employee unions. The five Supreme Court justices who voted in the affirmative were appointed by Democratic governors. The two justices that dissented in a position to fairlywere appointed and by Republican governors. adequately evaluateThat eachis why you may be approached and asked to contribute. If you survive the layoffs it other’s work. will be because your union negotiated strict seniority language to prevent the employer from picking who will be laid off and who will stay. Your union is working very hard to turn out of office the right wing ideologues whose mismanagement of the It was the consensusgovernment of the has resulted in these layoffs and to help elect politicians who will group that our membersprotect should the rights of working people. You don’t have to wait to be asked. Talk to any protest such a practicesteward to their or officerHennepin and ask for aCounty PEOPLE contribution Political card News so that you can do your part in supervisor and protecting program your future. manager, and respond to it withBelow is a list of candidates who have filed for the three Hennepin County Commissioner a written rebuttal to be attachedraces in 2008. Last month’s newsletter focused on the District 6 race, and noted candidacies to the performance review. Theyby Peyton Robb and Kim Crockett. Note that neither one filed for office. There will be no also recommended that allprimary in District 6. Jan Callison is AFSCME’s endorsed candidate over John Cooney. Incumbent Randy Johnson, who is endorsed by AFSCME, does have a District 5 primary race members refuse to respond toon September 9th. The open seat vacated by Penny Steele in District 7 has five contestants inquiries regarding each other’sfrom the Plymouth/Maple Grove/Champlin area. While Jeff Johnson is favored in the primary work. election, AFSCME has chosen not to endorse any of the contestants.

County Commissioner - District 5 □ RANDY JOHNSON Address: Sign Up for the PEOPLE 2635 Cleveland St NE, Minneapolis MN 55418 (campaign address) Phone: 612-791-1800 Fund □ DAVID J. NYBERG □ CARLAN LESCH The AFSCME People Fund is Address: 9401 Lyndale Ave S #121, Bloomington MN 55420 AFSCME’s political action fund, Phone: 952-888-7526 and is used to support our County Commissioner - District 6 endorsed candidates. If many □ JAN (JANIS) CALLISON members pledge as little as $2.00 Address: 14429 Stewart La, Minnetonka MN 55345 a payroll period, our ability to get Phone: 952-935-7010 our endorsed candidates elected □ JOHN COONEY will be greatly enhanced. Address: P.O. Box 97, Wayzata MN 55391 (campaign address) Phone: 612-578-1976 Local 34 Banner September 2008 -7- County Commissioner - District 7 existing retirement plan vendors with a single vendor. Education □ JEFF JOHNSON Minnesota-Osseo sued claiming the District was required to meet and Address: 4620 Minnesota La,negotiate Plymouth MN vendor 55446 selection. Both the trial court and court of appeals ruled Phone: 763-550-7904 for the school district, affirming that a school district’s selection of □ JOE LACHNER supplemental pension plan or deferred compensation plan vendors is not a Address: 6740 Empire Ct N, Maplesubject Grove of MN mandatory 55311 negotiation under PELRA. Phone: 612-309-2678 □ KEN WILSON PELRA: In the Matter of Arbitration Between Indep. Sch. Dist. #182, Address: 17015 13th Ave N, PlymouthCrosby-Ironton, MN 55447 Minn. V. Education Minn. Crosby Ironton, AFL-CIO Local 1325 Phone: 763-350-4718 (2008 WL 933495) – Minnesota Court of Appeals, April 8, 2008 □ JOAN MOLENAAR Address: 11711 Douglas Dr N,Public Champlin employerMn 55316 waived inherent managerial right to select Phone: 763-323-7827 personnel by entering into anti-reprisal agreement after strike… □ STEVE GILL Maureen Morrow, a Crosby Ironton teacher participated in a teacher strike. Address: 7136 Merrimac La N, Maple Grove MN 55311, Phone: 763-657-0547 Despite a post-strike agreement for no reprisal, punishment, or action to be National Political News taken against any teacher’s lawful participation in the strike, Morrow, a Obama Stresses Importance of Unionsprobationary - New teacher, was not hired to continue as the high school Spanish England Cable News, Barack Obamateacher. held In a the grievance that followed, the arbitrator ruled in Morrow’s discussion on the economy at Patrickfavor, citingHenry a breach of the anti-reprisal agreement, and the court of Community College in Martinsville, VA, appealsand reinforced upheld the arbitrator’s decision. the fact that he is a strong supporter of the Employee Free Choice Act. The legislation would allow labor organizations to unionize workplaces without secretEmployee Benefits: Lee v. Fresenius Medical Care, Inc. (741 N.W. 2d ballot elections. The bill was co-sponsored117) by – ObamaMinnesota 2007 and opposed by his Republican rival John McCain. Unions Take the Lead at DemocraticEmployers National may set conditions that employees must meet to be Convention - by Seth Michaels, AFL-CIOcompensated Now blog, for unused vacation time… Lee, who was terminated for The presidential race kicks into high gear as the 2008 Democratic National Conventionmisconduct begins in by Fresenius Medical Care, sued to recover unused vacation Denver. The union movement will taketime. the lead The in employer declined to pay due to a provision in the employee defining the race and making sure Barackhandbook Obama stating that termination due to misconduct made the employee can win this fall. On the second night,ineligible AFL-CIO for earned – but unused – vacation time. After the Court of President John Sweeney addresses theAppeals convention reversed in that ruling due to Minn. Statute #181.13 (a), the Supreme a high-profile speech, scheduled for between 7 p.m. and 8 p.m. Court reversed the Court of Appeals, holding that employers can set AFSCME Takes Largest AFL-CIO Delegationconditions to the such as requiring employees to be compensated for unused Democratic National Convention / Uniontime. Sets Plans for Its Biggest Mobilization Program Ever - AFSCME News Release What is the Employee Free Choice Act and Why Does the The American Federation of State, CountyPolitical and Right Hate It So? Municipal Employees (AFSCME) is taking the largest delegation in the AFL-CIO to the Democratic NationalBy now you have seen the TV add several times: A mafia type hood talks about how he Convention in Denver next week. More thanand 150 his “friend” Al Franken want to get the Employee Free Choice Act passed in AFSCME members from across the country willCongress. serve He pretends to dislike that great “friend” of labor, Norm Coleman for as delegates, alternates and committee members.opposing this bill. The ad falsely claims that this bill is just another attempt by “big AFSCME, widely regarded as America’slabor most bosses” to deny employees the right to a secret ballot in order to decide if they politically active and powerful labor union, willwant host union representation. An equally scurrilous radio ad claims that” big labor bosses” daily caucuses and events for its membersare that trying to get their hands on employees’ pension funds. These ads are broadcast all include governors, members of Congress andover other the country at a cost of millions of dollars. They are targeted at Democratic special guests. The AFSCME caucus meetings will be Laborheld Unions daily beginning & Legal Sunday, News August 24, throughcandidates for Congress who support the Employee Free Choice Act. Thursday, August 28. AFSCME President GeraldWhen W. any organization is willing to spend that kind of money to defeat a bill you know McEntee chairs the AFL-CIO’s Political Committee.that their motivation is not fired by altruism and the love of the American workingman Court Decisions in Minnesota, 2007- and woman. The organization in question is, ironically, called the Coalition for a 2008 Democratic Work Place. This is a front group for a huge collection of anti- union . PELRA: Education Minnesota- organizations and employers such as the US Chamber of Commerce, Retail Industry Osseo v. Indep. Sch. Dist. 279 (742 N.W. Leaders Assoc. (read Wal-Mart), Associated Builders and Contractors and the 2d 199) – Minnesota Court of Appeals, Minnesota Restaurant Association. Look at their web site and you will see a list of well 2007, rev. denied February 19, 2008 over two hundred associations and employers who contribute to this effort. A notorious Washington lobbyist named Richard Berman put their current campaign together. He Public employers may replace has been involved in other anti-union campaigns as well as the liquor, tobacco and fast retirement-plan vendors without food industries. He is very good at what he does. negotiating…. Osseo School District unilaterally replaced twenty-four To understand what has got this group so fearful and worked up you have to remember a little labor history. Organized labor came into its own during the dark days of the Local 34 Banner September 2008 -8- Great Depression of the 1930’s.Labor All of Day the rights that you enjoy in your job such as the st forty hour work week, paid (Monday, holidays and September 1 in 2008) vacations, employer paid sick leave, the right to organize and to bargain collectivelyLabor Day were honors all working men and women in the United States. Workers paid for by the blood and sacrificein New of millions York City came up with the idea for this holiday in 1882. of workers before you. During World Two and the three decades following, organizedThe workers’ labor idea soon spread across the country. In the next few years, was at the height of its powermore and politicalthan 20 states adopted Labor Day. In 1894, Congress made the first influence. Wages and benefits forMonday millions in Septemberof a federal holiday. the organized were never higher. The forces of the moneyed classLabor were Day not is still a day for picnics, parades, and speeches honoring American about to let that continue. They workers.devised plans For many people, this holiday also marks the end of summer to recapture the initiative from laborvacation. and they Many schools start their new year right after Labor Day. chose as their first standard-bearer, Ronald Reagan. Unfortunately during the latter part of this period too many members Samuelof organized Gompers on Labor labor were too comfortable with their Day economic success and forgot how they achieved that success. Thus the Laborphenomenon Day differs in every essential way known as “Reagan Democrats”from identified the other a holidays of the year in group of workers who voted againstany theircountry. own All other holidays are in a economic interests by supportingmore Reagan. or less degree connected with Most notorious of this group was the conflicts and battles of man's prowess Professional Air Traffic Controllers Association (PATCO), one of three labor over unions man, that of strife and discord for greed supported Reagan in 1980. Theirand reward power, was of glories achieved by one to have all their members firednation and over their another. Labor Day...is organization decertified. That wasdevoted just to the no man, living or dead, to no beginning of what has come to sect,be known race, as or nation. the political right’s efforts to - weaken Samuel andGompers, founder and ultimately destroy the organized labor longtime president of the American movement in this country. Presidents hostile

to organized labor filled theirFederation cabinets, of Labor especially the Departments of Labor and Justice with people who heldTyson the same Plant Drops Labor Day for Muslim Holiday political philosophy. Rules wereFOX changed News - Tuesday to , August 05, 2008 make it more difficult to organize workers. Unfair labor practices by employersWorkers wereat a Tyson Foods poultry processing plant in Tennessee have opted ignored and disputes were settledto tradein favor a paidof Labor Day holiday for the Muslim celebration of Eid al-Fitr. A the employers. 5-year contract approved by members of the Retail, Wholesale and Department Store Union at the Shelbyville, Tenn., plant last November The difficulty experienced by Council 5 in includes the change to accommodate Muslim workers. organizing the Walker Health Care Center in Minneapolis is a case in point."The It tooknegotiating our committee made the holiday a top priority in contract talks," council over five years to organizethe a union'sgroup of Alabama and Mid-South Council Representative Randy Hadley workers that should have taken saidno more in a thanstatement issued in June. "And we were able to get management to a few months to organize. Activistscommit were tofired it." The change, which does not affect the company's 118 other with impunity. When the workersplants, finally exchanges had Labor Day for the Muslim holiday that marks the end of the opportunity to vote and votedRamadan. for union The new contract, negotiated last fall, also gives Muslim workers a representation the employer simplyprayer ignored room. the result of the vote. Unfair laborhttp://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,397645,00.html Practice appeals were filed in vain. We were finally able to gain recognition for these workers by hard- nosed political action and publiclyCommentary continued from the previous page…. embarrassing the employer. This kind of employer action takes place all overThe the heady wine of success enjoyed by the political right when a conservative supreme country. A whole industry of anti-unioncourt crowned George W. Bush in 2000 has begun to turn to vinegar. Nearly eight years consultants has developed over the last ofthirty the ideological excesses of right wing policies has left the country morally and years to assist employers in defeatingfinancially bankrupt. Basic civil rights have been eroded or ignored and the country is organizing efforts. broke and deeply in debt. At the end of the second term of this administration there Continued on the next page, on the right-handseems to be no discernable economic policy except to further enrich the rich at the column….. expense of the working class (you and me) and the poor. The people are getting Local 34 Banner September 2008 -9- restless and the winds of political changeBut are all kidding aside, the historical significance of this election is that the middle class stirring. George Bush’s popularity is aboutand as the democracy that depends on it are at stake. Democracy cannot exist in any low as it can get without going into negativecountry without a strong middle class to support it. And a strong middle class cannot numbers. Dick Cheney is in hiding. Republicansurvive without a strong organized labor movement. The reason we are not building senators and congressmen runningfences for to keep poor Canadians from crossing our borders is that our neighbor to the election are running away from Bush north in a has an organized labor movement stronger than ours and a higher standard of desperate effort to escape the shadow ofliving his than we enjoy. They also have a more rational government. We are building record. For the past few months Normfences across the Rio Grande because Mexico is run by an oligarchy of rich families, Coleman has sounded like a clone ofhas Amy no independent labor movement, and has only a tiny middle class and a huge Klobuchar. The political right sensesunderclass. this I don’t want to see the United States slip into third world status and I don’t change and it scares them to death. think you do either. That is why this year, of all years, we must each make a The AFL-CIO, on the other had has sensedcommitment an to become a political activist. opportunity to redress the excesses of the last This labor and political commentary was submitted by Chief Steward Cliff Robinson. thirty years and once again give workers a fairer opportunity to organize and negotiate forBetty Pharr, Local 34 At-Large Officer at Century Plaza invites you to decent wages, benefits and job security. Theyattend an upcoming “Brown2008 Bag” AFSCME lunch on International September 11, 2008, Convention from wrote a bill to change labor law to bring 12:30 - 1:00pm in the Century Plaza cafeteria. A short film titled balance once again in national labor/management relations – theAFSCME Employee in San Francisco – Convention Business Free Choice Act. Here is what it does: August 1st, 2008 amends the National Labor Relations Act to enable workers to form unions when a Resolutions majority signs union authorization cards. It establishes mediation and binding arbitration when the employer and workers cannot agree on a first contract. It strengthens penalties for companies that coerce or intimidate workers. Workers can still vote by secret ballot if thirty percent of the workers want an election. Under current law the employer can demand an election even if a majority of workers have signed union authorization cards. It is in the period before an election thatDelegates employers to AFSCME’s 38th International Convention adopted several resolutions, create mischief by harassing and intimidating among them were these calling on AFSCME to: workers. This bill takes away the employer’sprovide each council and large, unaffiliated local with assistance to facilitate right to demand elections. strategic planning work and implementation (#12) The House of Representatives votedenhance 241 to member communications and activism through the use of new 185 on March 1, 2007, to pass the mediaEmployee (#24) Free Choice Act (HR800). A companionreform billgovernment contracting to protect against privatization problems (S1041) was defeated by a determined(#51) group of right wing senators. That is onepromote of the public service workers and the public services that keep our families reasons why this election is so important.safe and The make our communities strong (#84) right wing power structure feels politicalprotect power deserving homeowners from bank foreclosures (#87) slipping from their grasp and they will stop at fight for passage of the Employee Free Choice Act (#7) nothing to retain their advantage. That is why you are seeing the distorted politicalseek attacks neutrality agreements during organizing campaigns (#16) against Al Franken. Norm Coleman providehas been resources to develop the union’s “Next Wave” program(#59) hiding behind Amy Klobuchar throughoutlead the the fight to defeat Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger’s (R) efforts to slash the campaign but this is one issue in whichsalaries he has of California’s state workers (#98) to part company with her. She voted forfight S1041 for universal health care (#19 and #81) but he doesn’t dare support it for fearbuild of losing member activism (#77) his conservative base. It is ironic thatredouble when he efforts to raise PEOPLE dollars (#83) was Mayor of St. Paul, Norm signed a and support our troops and veterans, and urge the quickest possible proclamation passed by the city council whose withdrawal consistent with troop safety (#84) content is almost identical to that of the http://www.afscmeblog.org/ Employee Free Choice Act. In 1997 it was politically convenient for him to be for it, today it is politically expedient for him to be against it. Such political pandering is really obscene and that is no joke.

Local 34 Banner September 2008 -10- raised a lot of money for the PEOPLE fund as each participant had to raise at least 100 dollars to enter the 5k.

The whole week was very impressive. There were around 4000 delegates. The convention was super-organized and green! For example, we received flash drives instead of handouts and safe water bottles to re-fill instead of disposable bottles. Everyone was so nice, even through the debates on the convention floor. It was great to see other young people involved in the union. Many are involved in the “New Wave Generation” group for people under age 35. I am now on their email list and hope to learn more about it soon. International Thank you again and don’t hesitate to contact me if you want more information Convention Reportfrom me. – Lindsay Schwab AFSCME in San Francisco – McEntee: First of all, thank you so much for electing“Together we will fight for a new me to attend my America!”first AFSCME InternationalJuly 28th, 2008 Convention in San Francisco. I really appreciate Day the 1 of AFSCME’s 38th International opportunity that was given to me. It wasConvention: a President Gerald W. McEntee got wonderful experience. We stayed delegates jumping to their feet when he asked busy. I was exhausted by the time we themleft. to, “stand up if you’re ready to make a I learned that the big chunk of businessbetter is America happen!” going through amendments In and his keynote address, McEntee told the resolutions to the Internationalcrowd of nearly 6,000 that, “Together we will Constitution. In addition, I participatedbuild in an even more powerful union! Together all the workshops and caucuses offered.we will reach out and organize the unorganized! We will negotiate contracts that make our families strong! Together we will fight for a new America!” My first workshop was about health care reform. AFSCME International is not International Convention Report – Wes endorsing any sort of plan at this point but is focusing on Volkenant the following: guaranteed, I’d like to echo Lindsay in extending my thanks to the quality, affordable Local for sending me to the International Convention in healthcare for all. My San Francisco this year. In addition to the sights and second workshop was about sounds of the Convention, I was able to bring my wife Labor History. I also attended a Child and mother-in-law with, at our expense. Visiting the beautiful city of San Support caucus with child support officers Francisco and parts of Northern California afforded us a chance to celebrate from around the country and Puertoth Rico. th We talked about what we lovean about 80 birthdayour a few months after-the-fact, and an early 10 Wedding job, about the challenges thatAnniversary. facing us, They both appreciated it, too. and more importantly, how toLocal present 34 our had a great presence in the Minnesota delegation this year. I’m challenges to the public in orderproud to to get have been at the International with Sisters Diederich, Jochmans, public support. We need toLazo-Rice break the and Schwab, and my brother officer Davis. One very moving stereotypes that public employeesmoment have. came In the last morning as President Diederich stood up with Council other words, relay the values that5 leaders our work to acknowledge the one-year anniversary of the collapse of the 35W supports, determine how our workBridge benefits in Minneapolis to the full Convention hall. I will also treasure a night the community, and decide whatout that unique the Local 34 delegates had with each other, and our guests – it was a role we play in promoting thenight common of fun, social bonding. We all delighted in Lindsay Schwab’s 2nd place good. finish in the PEOPLE Fun Run. The highlight of the convention was AFSCME International puts on a fine Convention – from the welcoming dinner, hearing Al Gore and Hillary Clinton speak to the many booths at the Center, to the many microphones and video to us in person. Barack Obama spoke to displays around the Hall. Political figures – superstars – were heard; officers us via simulcast because he could not be there in person, unfortunately. were elected – President McEntee, Secretary Treasurer Lucy and the International Vice Presidents, including Council 5 Executive Director Seide. I ran in the PEOPLE Fun Run. I’mMany happy resolutions to were considered; my own submission (on providing say I finished 2nd among the women!AFSCME-specific We legal opinions on the Web in simple, easy-to-understand Local 34 Banner September 2008 -11- language) was one of about 25 that were delegates today. In his speech, Lucy called the fight against privatization nothing passed on to the International Executive less than a fight to save our nation. Board. It was good to see diversity of Lucy also spoke movingly of the long history that led up to June 3rd, the day opinion in the Convention Hall; the state Barack Obama won enough votes to secure the nomination of the Democratic of Washington has a Conservative Party for President of the United States. Said Lucy: AFSCME organization, and others from “ To understand Tuesday night, June 3rd, you have to understand the journey from Oregon and Washington took strong, Goree Island to Charleston, South Carolina, crossing over five thousand miles of ocean liberal stances on issues. Council 5 and chained in the bottom of a ship… To understand Tuesday night, June 3rd, you have to Council 65 were at the center of a understand the sacrifice of Fannie Lou Hamer, Viola Liuzzo, Rosa Parks, James Constitutional Amendment struggle over Chaney, Andrew Goodman and Michael Schwerner, Jimmy Lee Jackson, Medgar Council 65’s inappropriate support for Evers, E.D. Nixon, the walkers in Montgomery and the marchers in Selma, and the four Attorney General Swanson during the little girls in a church in Birmingham… And as we look toward the future we do so Council 5 organizing campaign for the understanding that nothing is certain but all things are possible.” Assistant AGs – our Council had the clear support of the Convention with us. Much AFSCME in San Francisco – Making America Happen was accomplished; some things were left July 30th, 2008 undone; the Convention has prepared us Day 2 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: In addition to a stirring speech for the fall elections and the two years by Secretary-Treasurer William Lucy, the important work of public service workers ahead. across the nation was featured during a special “We Make America Happen” AFSCME in San Franciscoprogram – on Tuesday. The program was led by Jim Howell, executive director of Unity & Victory Connecticut Council 15. July 29th, 2008 Through a blend of video and live member testimonies, delegates learned about Day 1 of AFSCME’s 38th Internationalthe different ways AFSCME members make America happen as workers in the Convention: Unity and Victory was public the sector, and as activists in politics and grassroots organizing. theme as Alice Goff, president of CaliforniaAFL-CIO Exec. Vice Pres. Arlene Holt Baker, a former AFSCME International Union Council 36 and an International area vice director in California, also addressed the Convention. president welcomed the nearly 6,000 AFSCME in San Francisco – delegates, alternates and guests to her home state, reminding us of the great Final Election Results importance of the November 2008 August 1st, 2008 elections. “We must come together,” From AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: Congratulations to declared. International President Gerald W. McEntee and International Secretary- President McEntee, in his keynoteTreasurer address, William Lucy who were both re-elected by delegates to another called for members to work four-year together term. to meet our biggest challenges: to elect pro- worker candidates across the country and build public support for the vital public services that make our communities a better place to live, work and raise a family. The day’s program, which was chaired by former International Vice Pres. Russell Okata and included testimonials from The following International Vice Presidents were elected by Convention members from CA, HI, NY, OH, OR and IL, underscored our common commitmentdelegates: to make this country a better place for working families. California – George Popyack and Lakesha Harrison Capital – Glenard Middleton Central – Dave Warrick AFSCME in San FranciscoCSEA – Danny – Donohue, Mary Sullivan Lucy: “Our fight is and to George slay Boncoraglio Eastern – Sherryl Gordon privatization and to saveHawaii this – Randolph Perreira nation!” Illinois – Henry Bayer and Roberta Lynch July 29th, 2008 Michigan – Albert Garrett Midwestern – Day 2 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: AFSCME Secretary-Treasurer William Lucy delivered the main address to Local 34 Banner September 2008 -12- Danny Homan yesterday by adopting Resolution 84, which calls on the union to run various New York City – Eddie Rodriguez programs to promote public services. and Veronica Montgomery-Costa New Legislative District: On Wednesday, delegates adopted Amendment Number New York State – Raglan George Jr. 7, establishing the United Domestic Workers District, consisting of California North-Central – Eliot Seide Locals 3930 and 4034, formerly of the NUHHCE/1199 District. The 57,000 Northern New England – Anthony Caso members of the newly created UDW District are home care workers throughout Northwestern – Greg Devereux and Ken the state of California. Allen NUHHCE/1199 – Henry Nicholas and Kathy Sackman AFSCME in San Francisco – Al Gore Goes Green Ohio – John Lyall July 31st, 2008 OAPSE – Joe Rugola Day 3 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: Former Vice President, Nobel OCSEA – Eddie Parks Prize Laureate and winner of the 2002 presidential election Al Gore addressed Pennsylvania – David Fillman and Mike AFSCME’s 38th International Convention, where he was warmly and Fox enthusiastically welcomed by the Green Machine. Gore spoke of his long history Puerto Rico – Braulio Torres with AFSCME, the importance of public services, the environmental crisis the Southeastern – Jeanette Wynn world faces and our ability to save the planet through the use of renewable Southern New England – Salvatore resources. Luciano And he talked of the need for change in Washington, saying, “The only obstacle to Southwestern – Greg Powell accomplishing change is political will, but in the United States of America political United Domestic Workers – Douglas will is a renewable resource.” On AFSCME’s role in making that change happen he Moore said, “Over the years, I’ve repeated the slogan that I learned from my father and Wisconsin – Michael D. Murphy you’ve heard this so many times before: ‘Early to bed, early http://www.afscmeblog.org/ to rise, work like hell and organize.’ That is a big part of what we count on you all to do and what I want to help you do.” AFSCME in San Francisco – Two Marches… One Fight! July 31st, 2008

Day 3 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: AFSCME members chanted “No Contract, No Peace!” and AFSCME in San Francisco“Stand – up, Fight back!” in front of UCSF Medical Center at Promoting the Services ThatParnassus to support Local 3299’s fight for a fair contract Make America Happen and an end to poverty wages. July 30th, 2008 Hundreds more marched outside of Moscone Center to protest Gov. Arnold Day 3 of AFSCME’s 38th InternationalSchwarzenegger’s threat to cut the wages of more than 200,000 state workers, Convention: Inspired by Pres. Geraldinstead W. of pursuing a responsible solution to the state’s budget crisis. McEntee’s call “to tell our story about theMidwest School for Women Workers: tremendous value of the services we provide in each and every community St. Louis, Missouri across this country,” delegates July 10-13, 2008 enthusiastically participated yesterday in Local 34 Representatives: the first-ever Special Caucuses on Promoting Public Services. Members from Jacquelin Poole and Ester Killion across the nation who are Sister involved Killion in shares thoughts from experiencing this year’s Midwest School similar work came together infor 21 Women unique Workers: caucuses to address common concerns and strategies. My experience in St. Louis with so many sisters from different locals and Saul Schniderman of the walks Library of life of is, and always will be unforgettable. Just being in the presence of Congress Professional Guild women Local 2910 that really struggled to get there made me feel very humble. Even (Federal Employees Council 26)though put it thethis special guests (a group of six union women from Iran) were way: “Our jobs are at risk detained because at of Jordan's airport (there were supposedly discrepancies with their privatization. We need topassports) fight the and did not get to make it for the conference, it still was exciting privateers with a message thatto bewhat’s a part at of the ones that did make it. stake is not our union butThe the highlight public of the conference for me was coming together with a group of interest.” Delegates affirmedyoung this pointhigh school girls and interacting with them. I felt really confident in Local 34 Banner September 2008 -13- seeing the part of our backstage. She had another idea, and headed to the throngs of AFSCME members future that we should so she could shake their hands and thank them personally. be preparing to pass the baton on to. The AFSCME in San Francisco – Obama! majority of those young women were July 31st, 2008 from union families, and to hear their Day 4 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: Hope was in the air when U.S. stories about what they intend to have Senator Barack Obama spoke to thousands of cheering AFSCME activists today. their future labor force be like, let me Even though he spoke via satellite, we could feel the energy of his words as he know beyond all shadows of doubt that called for “jobs for the jobless and hope for the hopeless.” somebody, somewhere, is really raising Obama told the inspiring story of Shirley Brown, a housekeeper at Resurrection up some very strong leaders of Health Care’s Westlake Hospital in Illinois, and a leader in workers’ efforts to win a tomorrow. voice and dignity on the job with AFSCME. Senator Obama has been an active supporter and has spoken at two rallies in support of Resurrection workers. He also My most humbling experience was signed a letter to Resurrection CEO Joseph Toomey urging him to dialogue with hearing stories from other women about employees. In addition, Senator Obama renewed his commitment to make sure how they don't have the strength and the Employee Free Choice Act becomes law. The Employee Free Choice Act would solidarity in their locals such as what we allow employees to form a union without employer interference and intimidation. have with Council 5's Local 34 (or even being a part of AFSCME as a whole), and AFSCME in San Francisco – Homage to Memphis how some of their co-workers even lose August 1st, 2008 their lives when they begin to step out Day 4 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: This day was about activism, so, into leadership areas of organizing and fittingly, we also honored the 40th anniversary of AFSCME Memphis sanitation attempting to solidify their organizations. workers’ strike and the tragic assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Ruth I'm a very Davis, proud President of Local 1733, introduced a special video saying, “The video privileged person honors Local 1733’s fight, determination and their victory that underlies not only to be a part of Local 1733, but all of AFSCME and the House of Labor.” such an energetic entity as AFSCME in San Francisco – Celebrating Activism AFSCME. August 1st, 2008

Wedge Issue Class at 2008 MSWW Day 4 of AFSCME’s 38th International Convention: Activism was celebrated on day http://picasaweb.google.com/jancel46/MSWW2008 4 with an inspiring program emceed by Lamont Wilkerson of New Jersey Council 1, Local 2209), and a Volunteer Member Educator since 2002. Things got cooking when Deborah Jeffers, the head cook for a school in Salem, MA told how she helped build a partnership of parents, workers, principals, teachers, I'm also grateful that I was given the school committee members, and students to fight to keep freshly cooked meals opportunity to go and be a part of the prepared by skilled AFSCME workers. Not only did they win, they’ve now been Midwest School for Women Workers. My selected to run the food service program in 2008-2009, and Jeffers is taking a year husband, grandson and our pooch, "Miss leave of absence to become interim Director of the program. Natasha Pranger, a Sweetie" thanks everybody as well! Forensic Scientist and a member of Local 304, Council 28 in Washington State went from fee payer to Next Waver. And now she’s helping organize the Next Wave of AFSCME members 35 and under. And Janet Ramsey (Wisconsin Council 24), a HealthMedical CareLab Tech News for almostand 30 years at the University of Wisconsin Hospital, AFSCME in San Franciscoattended –Information an AFSCME women’s leadership training in San Jose, California where Hillary! she learned how to organize – and hasn’t stopped organizing since. July 31st, 2008 Save on your prescriptions Day 4 of AFSCME’s 38th Internationalyou choose generic over brand, you will instantly Convention: Hillary Clintonsave arrived money! at Your pharmacy co-pay is $23 for a AFSCME’s Convention to loudbrand cheers drug and and $12 for a generic drug. If you warm applause from the delegates.switch to Shea generic alternative, you’ll save money was smart, compelling, and gracious.every time She you refill your prescription. Generic thanked AFSCME for being such an drugs are identical to brand name drugs – they important part of her campaign. “From the meet rigorous FDA quality standards and perform very beginning, I counted on you and you the same as brand names. never let me down.” And she promised not to let us down – to continueTo to see fight if there for is a generic medication for you condition, ask your doctor or working people and the publiclog services on to that healthparthers.com/Hennepin. After you log into your personal make our nation strong. At theaccount, close of underher “Pharmacy”, click on “See if my medications are covered” and speech, her escorts started use to lead the online her Drug Cost Calculator to find generic alternatives. Or call Local 34 Banner September 2008 -14- HealthPartners Mail Order Customer Sunday and convention business the remainder of the week. Your delegation – Andrea Lazo-Rice, Service at 952-833-0497 or 1-888-356- Chalmers Davis, Lindsay Schwab, Monica Jochmans, Wes Volkenant and myself - were on the floor every morning when the business began and at the end of each day when the convention 6656. recessed. We attended workshops and caucuses as well as rallies and receptions. Tuesday evening we all enjoyed supper at Lefty O'Douls, a cafeteria style restaurant across the street from Announcements: our hotel, along with our guests - my sister, Mary; Monica's friend, Bernie, and Wes's wife, Cheryl, □ ERHIP Opt-Out Results: Out of 5622 and her mother, Lillian. I think that we represented you well. employees in bargaining units who I was honored by an appointment to the Resolutions Committee by President McEntee. It was a were eligible to opt out, 809 (14%) very interesting experience as I was able to see first-hand the dedication of members as they chose to do so. In Local 34, 249 spoke to their resolutions and explained why they felt a change in the wording of that resolution chose the HCSP option. In the might change their intent. Some members were adamant about the wording or about the Clerical local (2822) 335 opted out of integrity of the resolution and spoke vigorously against combining the one they put forward for ERHIP. The County had expected consideration with any other resolution, even when it was clear that both resolutions had the about 10% to make the choice. same intent – often using the same verbiage. I have to admit, it was truly empowering to see □ A new contract benefit – selling back some of the wording changes I suggested make it to the amendments read in front of the Vacation time will have open convention for the delegates to consider. My favorite word change was to change “Blue-ribbon commission” to “Green-ribbon commission” in recognition that AFSCME is Green! Of course, an enrollment between October 1 and AFSCME convention would not be a convention without at least one demonstration. Both November 30 this year, and will take President Gerald McEntee and Secretary-Treasurer Bill Lucy were re-elected to their offices, effect on February 20, 2009. although President McEntee had an opponent for a brief period. Both gave fact-filled speeches Employees can “sell back” up to 40 about the many accomplishments of AFSCME since the last convention - the numbers of newly hours of vacation time, with organized locals, the elected races we have won and the effects those wins have had in the lives Supervisor approval, and either take of people across the country, as well as the fights we continue to face - privatization proposals at the sum in cash or convert it as a every level of work we do, contract fights facing us in the coming years in light of tight budgets deposit into a Deferred due to funding cuts, constant barrages from conservative right wing politicos and Big Business Compensation account. who want to shrink the work done by government employees as well as reduce the protections □ After receiving seven RFPs from under the law for those who provide those services - and that was just the tip of the list. Both vendors interested in providing our stated very clearly that we are up to the challenges we face and all the resources of AFSCME will 2009 Flex Spending Account, the be available to any local facing those challenges. County has chosen to continue with On Wednesday, we had the choice of taking a bus to the University of California, Berkeley to HealthPartners (5-year contract), march in solidarity with our sisters and brothers who have been working without a contract or to and three new options will be march with our sisters and brothers to protest Governor Schwarzenegger’s proposal to reduce their wages to minimum wage, $6.55 per hour, because the State Legislature could not approve available – paper, automatic cross- a budget for 2008. I chose to go to that protest as it is clear to me that if the “Governator” can over and debit card. ignore a contract and impose wage cuts there, it can happen anywhere. The march to the rally was especially moving as you could see a line of green snaking its way down one block and up Save Money with the next while drivers honked their horns in support. We filled the park across the street from the Moscone Convention Center to listen to our fellow AFSCME members describe the adverse effect Convenient Mail Order the proposed change would have on their ability to provide services to the citizens for California. As of this writing, the Comptroller of the California, John Chiang, has indicated that he has the Pharmacy authority to continue paying the contractual wages to employees (check out the web site, Save on co-pays when you use Mail http://www.sco.ca.gov/eo/fiscalissues/payments.shtml, for more information). We heard moving Order Pharmacy. For most medications, speeches from members across the country who’ve organized to join AFSCME in spite of you’ll receive a three-month supply of opposition from their employers, often taking such a huge step because of threats from the medications for two co-pays. Plus, employer to reduce benefits and wages or to make it harder for them to do their work. We heard stories from members about how they have become more active in their union - from creating a HealthPartners Mail Order Pharmacy is partnership with parents and community organizations to provide healthier meals to children in the convenient way to fill your school to going from fee payer to members and signing up other fee payers to become member prescriptions. No driving, no waiting in to attending one workshop on organizing to become a lead organizer for the local. line and no shipping charges! We enjoyed a rousing speech from Senator Hilary Clinton, thanking AFSCME for our support for her endeavor to win the DFL nomination for U.S. President and asking us to all get behind Barack Switching to Mail Order Pharmacy should Obama's campaign to win the election this fall. She stated quite simply that it would take all of be quick and easy! Transfer your us working together to help him win and move into the White House in January 2009. That was prescriptions by logging on to followed by an interactive video appearance by Senator Barack Obama thanking us for our healthpartners.com/Hennepin. After endorsement and speaking about how important it is for a change in the administration. He you log into your personal account, click asked us to commit to working towards that end by getting out and talking to everyone about the need to become involved in the process and to vote. My favorite speaker, however, was Governor on “Mail Order Pharmacy” and follow the Jean’sMartin Convention O'Malley, from Trip Maryland who showed us what a Governor should be – step-by-step instructions. Or call Continued on the next page – left column HealthPartners Mail Order Customera governor of the people who listens to the people and acts on his beliefs. He Service at 952-833-0497 or 1-888-356-is working with the members of AFSCME in that state to change the tide - to 6656. protect public services and to better the lives of the citizens of the state - without waiting for legislation to enact some basic changes. When he came to International Conventionthe Report podium – you could see the Maryland delegation jump to their feet as they Jean Diederich enthusiastically cheered him on. Quite frankly, he received one of the loudest Thank you so much for allowing me toapplauses represent youof the convention! at the AFSCME Convention in San Francisco.For me, Itthe was most exciting part of the convention was a workshop I attended an event packed week – beginning withtitled registration "Next Wave." The workshop was geared towards identifying ways of on Saturday, followed by the delegatebringing reception our on newer members, those below the age of 35, into the role of activists Local 34 Banner September 2008 -15- in the union as they are the future of the The following news is of interest because HSPHD has been discussing connecting an union. Since this is a topic I have HSPHD service location in the northwest part of Hennepin County in conjunction with discussed and pushed over the years, I jumped at the chance to attend and learn. the new HCMC clinic. A Maple Grove location had long been considered possible. And did I learn!!! I found out that there is HCMC Picks Brooklyn Park for New Clinic a real "us versus them" mentality when we BY NATALIE SPRAY  SUN NEWSPAPERS (Tuesday, August 12, 2008) should have an "us" mode of thinking. A lot of the younger members voiced their Hennepin County Medical Center plans to build its newest clinic in the Village Creek frustration with being viewed as redevelopment project, and many are hoping the development will renew interest in the unseasoned and unable to be an active and area. The Brooklyn Park Economic Development Authority changed the Village Creek plan viable participant, that they hear a lot of to accommodate HCMC at a meeting Monday. "This is an area we identified as a "we have always done it this way" or community that needs more access to healthcare and it's a good fit for us," HCMC Chief "when I started with the county/state/city" Clinic Officer Steve Sterner said. The 12,000-square-foot clinic would house primary care which seems to keep the old tapes playing physicians, said Deborah Sweetland, HCMC senior director of strategy management. over and over, and that their ideas are "There would be no extraordinary services," she said. "It would be you and me going to a often discounted since they are too young clinic in your neighborhood." and don't know the ropes. Many of them stated that they would jump at the chance Redevelopment of the 133-acre site at the southeast side of the Brooklyn Boulevard and to be a leader and to learn the ropes if Zane Avenue intersection began in 2000. The location of HCMC in Village Creek provides they would just be given the chance. They an opportunity to combine service and retail, creating the mixed use the development was also stated that they would like to be designed for, Beard Group Development Principal Ron Mehl said. Right now there isn't a listened to as they do have tons of good lot of daytime activity, but if built, HCMC would drive the foot traffic and be a big plus, ideas. I took a lot of their comments to President Steve Lampi said. While the original plan for the building fits HCMC's needs, the heart as they have been made by many of parking planned for the area does not, Economic and Redevelopment Director Jason our younger Local 34 members. Since we Aarsvold said. The new contract for development will likely be before the EDA in were all the "Next Wave" at some point in September. The revised building plans will then go through the city's site plan review our lives, my hope is that we can recognize before the Planning Commission and the City Council. the value of always learning and moving http://www.mnsun.com/articles/2008/08/12/local_news_update/1hc21bpmedcenter.txt forward. I plan to attend this workshop at * At the August HSPHD Meet & Confer, Rex Holzemer addressed the Department’s role; at the Clinic the Council 5 Convention so that I can location, HSPHD will simply provide limited intake services. Instead, a new HSPHD regional hub site continue to learn how to bring ideas back is being planned to open by the end of 2009 at 72nd & Brooklyn Blvd. where HSPHD will be co-locating to our local and engage our newer with CEAP and the Osseo School District Adult Education. This location will provide ample parking members as I believe so strongly that and is on the metro transit bus lines. As a hub site, HSPHD is looking at staffing of 150-200 persons failing to do so would be irresponsible and by the end of next year. shortsighted. Hennepin's Homeless Family Numbers The following news is of interest because Amy Ryan has been the library system boss Soar to our AFSCME brothers and sisters in Local 2864, and the library system will be a By David Brauer | Tuesday, Aug. 12, 2008 major recipient in the 2009 budget process that the County Board begins public Hennepin County family homelessness is up 27 hearings on in September. percent in this year's first six months over a year ago, the StarTribune’s Mary Jane Smetanka reports. Library Hires Librarian from Minn. as New Chief The raw numbers: 641 families in '08 versus 503 in By Donovan Slack, Globe Staff | August 15, 2008 '07. Lost jobs, apartment building foreclosures and The Boston Public Library board of trustees has chosen Amy E. Ryan, a welfare eligibility limits are all factors. County librarian from suburban Minnesota, to take over as president of the city's officials are optimistic enhanced one-on-one library system. The eight trustees unanimously selected Ryan, director of casework developed in the last few years will pare the library system in Hennepin County, Minn. Ryan told the Globe earlier rolls, but the macroeconomics seems bad. this week that she loved her job in Hennepin County but that the Boston  http://www.minnpost.com/dailyglean/2008/0 8/12/2922/daily_glean_hennepins_homeless_family_num post was "too compelling an opportunity to not explore." Ryan spent 28 bers_soar years working at the Minneapolis Public Library before taking her current  http://www.startribune.com/local/26852669. job in 2005. In Minneapolis, she held leadership posts overseeing html?page=3&c=y community branches, fund-raising, and administration. "The community Minnesota Unemployment Hits Recent library system is something that I'm just passionate about," Ryan said earlier this week. Record; Will it Cost Pawlenty a Job? "It's a loss for us," said Hennepin County Commissioner Gail Dorfman. "She was By David Brauer | Friday, Aug. 15, 2008 instrumental in getting us through the merger process. ... I wish she had been in a position Minnesota posted its highest jobless rate to stay longer." Ryan will be hard to replace because she has a rare combination of high- since 1986 in July — the fifth time ever above the level administrative experience in both the city and county systems, said Jan Feye-Stukas, national average, the StarTribune’s Mike Meyers a library consultant from Minneapolis. Robert Rohlf, who headed county libraries for 25 writes. The state lost 8,600 jobs last month; the years, said he wouldn't be surprised to see commissioners turn to Kit Hadley. She headed 171,500 unemployed is the most since 1983. Last Minneapolis libraries until the merger. But there are three potential problems. First, the law year, 40,000 fewer people were officially jobless. requires the library director to hold a graduate library degree, which Hadley lacks. Second, Construction and manufacturing accounted for there could be hard feelings left from last year's attempt by County Administrator Richard more than half the annual losses. The Pioneer Press's Julie Forster says the government sector Johnson to appoint her his deputy. Third, some commissioners were harshly critical when lost the most jobs from June to July. the cost of merging the libraries turned out to be more than expected. http://www.minnpost.com/dailyglean/2008/08/15/2982/dail http://www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/08/15/library_hires_librarian_from_minn_as_new_chief/ y_glean_minnesota_unemployment_hits_recent_record_will http://www.startribune.com/local/west/27054424.html?elr=KArksD:aDyaEP:kD:aUg:oaEQDUiD3aPc:_Yyc:aUU _it_cost_pawlenty_a_job From the July 2009 Treasurer’s Report: June 2008 Full Members 1638 (+67!!!) Local 34 Banner September 2008 -16- June 2007 Full Members 1571 worker solidarity on the job, many union members have a visceral understanding of June 2008 Fair Share 301how (- and why Obama opponents are subtly and not so subtly seeking to attack him. 74!!!) The bottom line, says Trumka, is nothing less than the future of our nation. If they care June 2007 Fair Share 375 about creating good jobs with clean energy, child care, pay equity for women workers, Total Yearly Budgetthere's only going to be one candidate on the ballot this fall who's on our side, only one candidate who's going Forto stand Wes’s upreview for ofour the families, International only Convention,one candidate who's $152,000.00 see page 10. Year-to-Date Expensesearned our votes...and his name is Barack Obama! $103,496.67 = 68% Save Duluth - Wes Volkenant Services!

July and August were highlighted for me with the International Convention and vacation time spent in-and-around San http://afscmemn.org/ Francisco. During the week, my guests went off on their own Duluth Mayor Ness has sent layoff notices sight-seeing excursions, but together we visited, ate and effective September 2 to 169 employees, shopped in Chinatown and out at Pier 39. Post-convention, we including 26 AFSCME members, in order to visited Alcatraz, which I found depressing, we visited relatives in Sacramento, and we crossed balance the city’s budget before the end of the Golden Gate Bridge to delightful Sausalito, the cold and blustery Point Reyes, and the the year. The cuts will close two libraries, magnificent Muir Woods. Those redwood trees are spectacular! end park programs, and diminish other city services that residents need and want. Back to the business at hand. At Century Plaza, I met with CP officers and stewards in early- AFSCME Local 66 leaders held a news August. We discussed a termination grievance and an employee dealing with Fitness for conference at City Hall on August 18 as part Duty concerns. I noted that Management rejected a Meet & Confer request to give CP of their campaign to stop the layoffs and stewards a chance to introduce themselves at unit meetings throughout the building, and save the services. Angel Alexander described a project she’s involved with – developing New Officer packets. Elsewhere, you can read notes from the Labor-Management Health Care Committee meeting In This Election, It’s The Economy — in August. This continues to be one of the most interesting Committees I get to serve on for And Race the Local. From both a financial and lifestyle perspective, this area is the cutting edge for By: Tula Connell, AFL-CIO, Thursday August 21, 2008 union-management negotiations in the coming decade. Dean Enge of Local 1719 shared an http://firedoglake.com/2008/08/21/in-this-election-its-the- interesting article with me, concerning the State of Alabama’s efforts to address overweight economy-and-race/ state employees: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/26337794/ . The issue of race in this presidential campaign John Thorson and Tigger Lunney joined the Hennepin County Policy Committee for a lunch is one we talk around, or whisper about, or meeting in August. We discussed the upcoming County Commissioner elections – AFSCME don't discuss publicly at all. But AFL-CIO has endorsed Randy Johnson in District 5 and Jan Callison in District 6, and pledges to work Secretary-Treasurer Richard Trumka is taking with Jeff Johnson after his inevitable election in District 7. We also discussed the likely 8% the issue head on. Beginning with a recent levy proposal that the Administrator will present to the Board, our efforts to support that Levy, speech to the United Steelworkers, Trumka and its implications for homeowners and commercial property owners beginning in 2010. directly addressed how working people can, and must, combat the racism of those who I’ve been making time to attend the monthly SAC meetings this summer, which are facilitated by Pamela Dupree-Esaw on the second Thursday of each month (September 11, say they will not vote for a black man as October 9 coming up). I’m impressed with the turnout of staff, the good questions being president. In addressing union leaders, asked, and the opportunity to get very germane information from Rex Holzemer in these Trumka also speaks to all of America's forums. I really encourage each of you to consider attending – especially as they rotate workers: meeting locations to give more of you an opportunity to attend. At the August 14 meeting, There’s not a single good reason for any questions for Rex included what the Adult Mental Health Redesign may look like, how Child worker—especially any union member—to Support Officers might be impacted by upcoming lay-offs, what 2009 hiring could look like, vote against Barack Obama. There’s only and why only Managers & Supervisors got e-mail about planning to work around the one really bad reason to vote against him: Republican Convention week. because he’s not white. A lot of good union people just can’t get past the idea that I’ve also attended both Ridgedale presentations for Children’s Redesign (Phases 2&3) this there’s something wrong with voting for a summer. I strongly encourage you to read the Phase 3 report if you have not yet done so: black man. Well, those of us who know http://drum/images/HSPHDIntranet/Reports/HSPH%20Reports/Childrens_Redesign_Phase3_Rpt_Rev_Aug2008.pdf. better can’t afford to look the other way. Approximately 91 reductions are to result; many staff will be uprooted and reorganized. [There’s] no evil that’s inflicted more pain Please share your thoughts with your union representatives on how this is impacting you and and more suffering than racism—and it’s those around you, what your reactions are to the proposed organizational plan – in particular something we in the labor movement have what feels like a return to the 1990s, as all children’s services fall under one Area Director – a special responsibility to challenge. Deborah Huskins. What are your thoughts concerning the Area Manager structure and the His initial speech was greeted by surprise— implementation timetable? We look forward to your insights. surprise that someone of his rank took on the The hot issue for many of our staff right now is Social Worker Licensure. I invite you to read issue—and praised as the opening of a long- the discussion of that topic that we had at the August 20 Meet & Confer with HSPHD needed dialogue. Yet, in experiencing Management and the Labor Relations & Human Resources representatives. I’m personally firsthand how divisions of race and ethnicity frustrated by roadblocks put up in the name of bargaining rules that are preventing us from have been used by employers to undermine discussing options the Department may put forward to assist its non-licensed staff in Local 34 Banner September 2008 -17- obtaining those licenses, which is theStreet very NW,thing Washington, DC 20036… deadline is December 31, 2008… Administrator Holzemer is telling Socialwinners Workers announced by March 31. they should be doing. We’ll follow the proper steps, but that shouldn’t stop any Social WorkersChina Earthquake: Council 5 recommends for your from advising us of your needs and considerationconcerns, nor a request from Jie Hu of Local 668 to donate to survivors should it prevent you from discussingof the Chinese those earthquake… Personal Checks, Money Orders or Cashier concerns in a public forum – our BrownChecks Bags, SACpayable to “CAMM” (China Earthquake School Reconstruction meetings, etc. Wes Fund), mailed to CAMM, PO Box, 582584, Minneapolis, MN 55458 – or online at: Thank You Letters www.minneapolisfoundation.org/contribute/contributionform.asp? Thank You… fund=2816. The American Lung Association of Maine expresses its appreciation for your gift of $50.00 in memory of Frances Kathryn Leavitt Flanders. Dear Jean, Hello and welcome to less humid days and cooler nights. You can tell that it is time for the school season - especially if you happen to be in any store with the shelves of school supplies rapidly Thank you so much for your gift of dwindling. Local 34 once more participated in the Backpack Challenge. We filled 6 backpacks with $400 to our Emergency Assistance supplies - three for high school females and three for high school males. From all reports, the Fund. It is very much appreciated. Backpack Challenge program was a big success with Hennepin County employees from across the This year is proving to be a difficult one county contributing backpacks and supplies. Since this program is coordinated by the Volunteer Coordinators - our members - it is wonderful to see so many of us pitch in to help make it a success. for many of Minnesota’s working One of our members asked why it is important to keep giving these donations to different causes families. Between the soaring cost of around the community such as the Backpack Challenge. We make those contributions because we food, fuel and the home mortgage see it as an extension of the work that Local 34 members do as well as enriching the lives of the crisis, the calls to Working Partnerships clients we serve. As an example, we recently donated $500.00 to the Festival for Fathers Annual for emergency assistance have Fair. This program seeks to strengthen the positive roles and perception of fathers in their families and communities as well as the essential impact in their children(s)'s lives. That goal is right in line increased dramatically. It is because of with the work of our Child Support Officers. We contribute each year to the Alliance of the Streets generous contributions like yours that annual spaghetti dinner with an ad in the dinner program as the monies raised goes directly to Working Partnerships is able to services for homeless shelter programs, many of them used by clients of our Social Workers. We pay membership fees to organizations such as the NAACP, ACLU, and Fair Trade Coalition as they continue serving working families in espouse justice and equality causes similar to those of our union. We contribute towards the cost of the West Metro region. Thank you for the on-line labor news site, www.workdayminnesota.org, as it provides daily updates on labor events being our partner and one of many who and actions that affect all of us. Both John Herzog, our web site developer, and Wes Volkenant, our are providing leadership in our newsletter editor, review that site regularly for their respective publications. community. The members elected to represent you at the Minnesota State AFL-CIO Convention held in Duluth on In Solidarity, September 14 - 16, 2008 are Angel Alexander, Cathy Cowden, Jean Diederich, Katie Farber, John Herzog, Jacquelin Poole, and Rita Salone. Look for reports from them in the October newsletter Doug Flateau, Executive Director and regarding the workshops and convention business. The following members were elected to Betsy Hunter, Community Services represent you at the September 25 - 27, 2008 Council 5 Convention held at the Sheraton in Liaison/ Community Organizer Bloomington, MN: Angel Alexander, Cathy Cowden, Chalmers Davis, Jean Diederich, Katie Farber, Working Partnerships Alex Gordon, Terry Grace, Phillip Gray, John Herzog, Ed Kusleika, Andrea Lazo-Rice, Vicki Moore, Betty Pharr, Jacquelin Poole, Patrick Regan, Cliff Robinson, Rita Salone, Lindsay Schwab, Bob Velez and Wes Volkenant. The remainder of the 34 member delegation will be filled with members who Other Correspondence have contacted me before September 8, 2008. If more than 14 members have expressed an  From the Resource Center of interest in serving as a delegate to the convention, their names will be placed in a hat and the first 14 names drawn will serve as delegates. I am heartened so far by the number of members who the Americas… “The Resource Center have contacted me expressing their desire to attend the convention as it will be their first one. is back! The Board is pleased to The Labor/Management meetings continue. We completed the review of the actual experience for announce the hiring of Jason Stone as 2007 HealthPartner's usage by Hennepin County with no surprises. We, as a body, continue to have Organization Administrator. high utilization of services for preventive care. In my opinion, that is a good thing as it means that  AFSCME Announces the 2009 we take care of ourselves and our families. It also means that potential health problems can be AFSCME Family Scholarship… identified at an early stage so that they can be dealt with in a timely and more cost-effective manner as the earlier a health concern is caught, the easier it is to address. The Presidents and Thirteen $2000 scholarships will be Business Representatives met with County Administrator Richard Johnson who gave us an update of awarded to children of AFSCME the 2008 budget status and the process for presenting his budget to the County Commissioners. members… applications can be There is currently a county wide hiring freeze. Any positions vacated need to be reviewed on a case downloaded from the AFSCME by case basis to determine whether or not it will be filled. When we asked what positions would most likely be filled, the one that was mentioned was the Hennepin County Library Director's website… or mail requests to position that is being vacated by Amy Ryan. His comment was that we would need to fill a position AFSCME Family Scholarship Program at that level due to all the budget and personnel responsibilities assigned to that person. He also c/o Education Department, 1625 L stated that, even though the majority of budget shortfalls for 2009 are being experienced by HSPHD, he still does not expect that department to bear all of the budget cuts - that they will be spread out amongst other areas. The levy limit is going to be an even more aspect of the budget Local 34 Banner September 2008 -18- this year than usual as he has to balance the mandated levy increases for the library with all of the other county needs. The State Legislature included a number of exceptions to the levy limits set in the bills passed this spring but there is not a lot of wiggle room. It is going to be very important for all of us to contact our Commissioners when needed to explain how important it is to maintain an adequate level of services so that the citizens of Hennepin County are not hurt by cuts. We need to speak up for the people we serve as they often cannot speak for themselves.

“A turtle travels only when it sticks its neck out." - Proverb Jean For Jean’s review of the International Convention, see pages 13 & 14.

Local 34 Banner September 2008 -19-