d e c / 2 0 0 7 n o v

www.atu.org Official Journal of the Amalgamated Transit Union AFL-CIO/CLC

g from S theeasons International G reetinOfficers ands Staff AMALGAMATED TRANSIT UNION MESSAGE DU PRÉSIDENT INTERNATIONAL PAR WARREN S. GEORGE INTERNATIONAL OFFICERS Vous Avez Choisi Hillary

WARREN S. GEORGE Comme je l’avais promis à la Convention Internationale de l’ATU en Septembre, l’ATU vient de faire une enquête auprès de nos membres International President aux Etats Unis pour identifier qui vous voudriez avoir pour prochain Président. Vous avez exprimé votre soutien enthousiaste pour le MICHAEL J. SIANO Sénateur Hillary Rodham Clinton. International Executive Vice President Les officiers et moi-même pouvons dire avec une assurance absolue que la personne que vous avez choisie est la bonne candidate pour l’ATU. OSCAR OWENS Hillary Rodham Clinton est une personne passionnée ainsi qu’une championne expérimentée pour tous les sujets qui importent le plus à International Secretary-Treasurer nos membres et c’est clair que nos membres le reconnaissent aussi. Seule candidate avec un plan précis pour les transports en commun International Vice Presidents TOMMY MULLINS Le Sénateur Clinton est le seul candidat qui a publié un plan précis sur ses intentions d’améliorer les transports en commun dans notre Roanoke, VA – [email protected] pays. Elle est la seule candidate qui aborde régulièrement le sujet du financement des transports en commun dans les débats et autres réunions publiques. JOSEPH WELCH Syracuse, NY Durant les sept ans pendant lesquels elle a été Sénateur, elle s’est battue pour augmenter le financement des transports en commun, pour la continuation de notre Section 13(c) sur la protection des travailleurs dans les transports en commun, pour l’amélioration et une plus RODNEY RICHMOND grande facilité d’accès de la couverture médicale et, pour la protection de la retraite. New Orleans, LA – [email protected] En temps que Président et avec une majorité démocratique dans les deux chambres du Congrès, elle proposera, signera et fera passer des lois DONALD T. HANSEN et les fera respecter telle que celle sur la santé pour tous, pour laquelle elle s’est battue avec acharnement au Sénat. Tenino, WA – [email protected] ROBERT H. BAKER Une combattante Washington, DC – [email protected] Sénateur Clinton est une combattante qui non seulement est motivée mais qui est aussi engagée, qui est passionnée et qui est capable LARRY R. KINNEAR d’accomplir des choses pour les travailleurs américains des transports en commun Ashburn, ON – [email protected] Je suis fier de votre décision et fier d’annoncer que l’ATU soutien la candidature d’Hillary Clinton comme Président. RANDY GRAHAM Gloucester, ON – [email protected] Hillary Clinton comme Président.

JAVIER M. PEREZ, JR. J’espère que vous allez soutenir notre choix et que vous travaillerez avec l’ATU pendant les 11 prochains mois pour envoyer le candidat choisi Kansas City, MO – [email protected] de l’ATU à la maison blanche. C’est notre responsabilité de s’assurer que le reste de l’Amérique choisisse Hillary comme prochain Président. RICHARD M. MURPHY Braintree, MA En attendant, au nom de ma femme Janice et des autres membres de la Famille George, je vous souhaite de très bonnes fêtes, paix et succès pour la nouvelle année. BOB M. HYKAWAY Calgary, AB – [email protected] Que cette nouvelle année soit l’année où l’on élit un Président, un Sénat et un Congrès qui sont à l’écoute des travailleurs! CHARLES COOK Petaluma, CA – [email protected] UN MENSAJE DEL PRESIDENTE INTERNACIONAL POR WARREN S. GEORGE WILLIAM G. McLEAN Reno, NV – [email protected] Ustedes Seleccionaron a Hillary RONALD J. HEINTZMAN Mt. Angel, OR – [email protected] Según prometí durante la Convención Internacional de ATU en Septiembre, la ATU recientemente llevó a cabo una encuesta hecha al azar entre nuestros miembros de Estados Unidos para determinar quién ustedes preferirían que fuera el próximo Presidente de nuestro país. Ustedes JANIS M. BORCHARDT llegaron a una conclusión, y han expresado un apoyo entusiástico por la Senadora Hillary Rodham Clinton. Madison, WI – [email protected] Los dirigentes ejecutivos de la unión y yo podemos declarar con absoluta certitud que la persona que ustedes han seleccionado es el candidato PAUL BOWEN correcto para la ATU. Hillary Rodham Clinton es una persona compasiva, atenta, considerada y una campeona de gran experiencia sobre los Canton, MI – [email protected] temas que más les importan a nuestros miembros – y es bien claro que nuestros miembros han reconocido esas extraordinarias cualidades. LAWRENCE J. HANLEY El Único Candidato Presidencial que Propone un Detallado Plan de Transporte Público en su Plataforma Staten Island, NY – [email protected] KENNETH R. KIRK La Senadora Clinton es el único candidato que dado a conocer públicamente un detallado plan sobre como ella intenta mejorar el sistema de Lancaster, TX – [email protected] transporte público en este país. Ella es el único candidato que regularmente introduce el tema de financiamiento para el transporte público en los debates y en otros eventos públicos. GARY RAUEN Clayton, NC – [email protected] Durante sus siete años como Senadora de los Estados Unidos, ella ha luchado arduamente por el aumento del financiamiento para el transporte publico, por la continuación de nuestra Sección 13 (c) de protección laboral en el tránsito, un mejor sistema de salud y un acceso más amplio al seguro para el cuidado de la salud a precios asequibles, y seguridad en la jubilación. International Representatives Como Presidente, ella hará propuestas y con una mayoría Democrática en ambas cámaras del congreso, firmara la promulgación de legislación GARY MAURER que obligue el cumplimiento de temas vitales, tales como cuidado de la salud para todos, algo por lo cual ella ha luchado tan arduamente en Atlanta, GA – [email protected] el Senado de Estados Unidos. RAY RIVERA Lilburn, GA– [email protected] Una Luchadora MARCELLUS BARNES La Senadora Clinton es una luchadora, quien no solamente tiene la motivación, pero también el inflexible compromiso, la pasión y la Flossmoor, IL – [email protected] capacidad de hacer realizaciones de beneficio para los trabajadores del tránsito de América, así como también para todos los hombres y mujeres YVETTE SALAZAR trabajadores en los Estados Unidos. Thornton, CO – [email protected] Yo estoy muy orgulloso de la decisión que ustedes han tomado, y con gran orgullo anuncio públicamente que la ATU con gran entusiasmo endosa la candidatura de Hillary Clinton para Presidente. Canadian Council Yo espero que ustedes apoyarán nuestro endoso y que trabajarán con la ATU durante los próximos once meses para enviar a la Casa Blanca al ROBIN G. WEST candidato endosado por la ATU. Es nuestro trabajo ahora asegurarnos que el resto de América también selecciona a Hillary para ser nuestro Canadian Director próximo Presidente. 61 International Boulevard, Suite 210 Rexdale, ON M9W 6K4 Mientras tanto, a nombre proprio, de mi esposa Janice, y del resto de la familia George, ¡yo les deseo a todos ustedes las más felices fiestas [email protected] navideñas y un Año Nuevo lleno de éxitos y de Paz! ¡Qué sea este nuevo año, el año en que nosotros elegimos a un Presidente, un Senado y una Cámara de Representantes que sean amigos de los trabajadores!

2 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT You chose Hillary As I promised at the ATU International Convention in September, ATU recently conducted a random survey of our U.S. membership to determine who you would like to see as the next President. You have spoken and expressed enthusiastic support for Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton. The executive officers and I can say with absolute certainty that the individual you chose is the right ‘she is the only candidate for the ATU. Hillary Rodham Clinton is a compassionate, thoughtful, and experienced champion for the issues that matter most to our members – and it is clear that our members recognize that. candidate who regularly raises ONLY CANDIDATE WITH A DETAILED MASS TRANSIT PLAN the issue of mass Senator Clinton is the only candidate who has released a detailed plan on how she intends to improve mass transit in this country. She is the only candidate who regularly raises the issue of mass transit transit...’ funding in debates and other public appearances.

In her seven years as a U.S. senator, she has fought for increased funding for mass transit, the continuation of our Section 13(c) transit labor protections, improved and increased access to affordable health care, and retirement security.

As President, she will propose and with Democratic majorities in both houses, sign legislation into law that enacts and enforces the issues, like health care for all, that she has fought so hard for in the U.S. Senate.

A FIGHTER

Senator Clinton is a fighter, who not only has the drive, but has the commitment, the passion and the ability to get things done for America’s transit workers and all working men and women in the U.S.

I am proud of your decision, and proud to announce that ATU enthusiastically endorses Hillary Clinton for President.

I hope you will support our endorsement and will work with the ATU over the next 11 months to send the ATU-endorsed candidate to the White House. It’s our job to make sure the rest of America chooses Hillary their next President.

In the meantime, on behalf of myself, my wife Janice, and the rest of the George family, I wish the happiest of holidays and a peaceful and successful New Year!

May this new year be the year we elect a worker-friendly President, Senate and House!

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 3 n o v / d e c 2 0 0 7 www.atu.org Vol. 116, No. 6

Contents 8 2 International Officers & General Executive Board International President’s Message in French & Spanish Story on Page 10 3 International President’s Message You Chose Hillary 4 Magazine Index 5 International Executive ATU, Unions Win Big in 2007 Elections Vice President’s Message 8 This Woman’s Place is in the Home on Pennsylvania Avenue ATU, NDP Renew Call for Enhanced 6 International Secretary- Transit Worker Protection Treasurer’s Message 11 11 Why Should the ATU Support the A. Philip Randolph Institute? Legislative Report: 7 News from the Front Lines Louisiana - The Never Ending Storm A Banner Year for Organizing 12 8 ATU, Unions Win Big in 2007 Elections 9 Polls Find US ATU Members Favor Hillary, Legal Notice for Fair Share Fee-Payers Clinton, Feel Very Positive About Union, 24 Want to Volunteer 10 ATU Endorses Hillary Clinton for President Bill Seeks Crackdown on ADA Violations 11 Canadian Agenda: by Over-the-Road Bus Companies ATU, NDP Renew Call for Enhanced 26 Transit Worker Protection 12 Legislative Report Louisiana - The Never Ending Storm 14 GEB Minutes: Excerpts, September 11-15, 2007 22 Focus on Wellness: Stay Fit this Winter 23 Know Your Rights: Whistleblowing 24 Legal Notice for Fair Share Fee-Payers 26 Bill Seeks Crackdown on ADA Violations by Over-the-Road Bus Companies 12 26 27 Local News 29 Coming ATU Training and Events Subscription: USA and Canada, $5 a year. Single copy: 50 cents. All others: $10 a year. Published bimonthly by the Amalgamated Transit Union, Editor: 30 In Memoriam Shawn Perry, Assistant: Paul A. Fitzgerald. Editorial Office: 5025 Wisconsin Ave., NW, Washington, DC 20016-4139. Tel: 1-202-537-1645. Please send all requests for address changes to the ATU Registry Dept. ISSN: 0019-3291, USPS: 260-280. 32 Proud to Be ATU PUBLICATIONS MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40033361. RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO: B&M Mailing Service Limited, 35 Van Kirk ATU Financial Secretary Seminar Drive, Unit 15, , L7A 1A5, [email protected] The objects of this International Union shall be to organize Local Unions; to place our occupation upon a higher plane of intelligence, efficiency and skill; to encourage the formation in Local Unions of sick and funeral benefit funds in order that we may properly care for our sick and bury our dead; to encourage the organization of cooperative credit unions in the Local Unions; to establish schools of instruction for imparting a practical knowledge of modern and improved methods and systems of transportation and trade matters generally; to encourage the settlement of all disputes between employees and employers by arbitration; to secure employment and adequate pay for our work, including vacations with pay and old age pensions; to reduce the hours of labor and by all legal and proper means to elevate our moral, intellectual and social condition. To engage in such legislative, political, educational, cultural, social, and welfare activities as will further the interests and welfare of the membership of the Organization. To seek the improvement of social and economic conditions in the United States and Canada and to promote the interests of labor everywhere.

4 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

This Woman’s Place is in the Home on Pennsylvania Avenue

All my life, I have been surrounded by women.

Growing up in New Jersey, I had three sisters and was my parents’ only son. Once in a while, I was lucky enough to get a word in edgewise. Sometimes I was even able to gain access to the restroom.

Then I got married to a wonderful lady and we were blessed with four beautiful, smart, and strong-willed daughters. When they were very young, I always told the girls that here in America, ‘this is a u.s. if they put their minds to it, they could grow up to be anything they wanted to be. I must admit however, in those days, President of the United States was not in my thoughts. senator who From my own personal point of view, that is one of the most exciting aspects of Hillary holds the same Clinton’s campaign. We need to break the 231-year cycle of men leading our country. It’s time to put a woman in the White House. beliefs and values as ATU NOT JUST ANY WOMAN members!’ But of course, we are not talking about just any woman here. This is a U.S. senator who holds the same beliefs and values as ATU members. She supports increasing public transit funding, making health care affordable and accessible to every American, and strengthening the middle class.

Hillary understands that union workers earn 30% more than non-union workers, and that for women and workers of color, the union wage advantage is even higher. With that in mind, she knows that making it easier to organize is the key to the long-term strength of unions, so she, of course, is one of the leading advocates of the Employee Free Choice Act.

If Hillary had been President in 2005 when Hurricane Katrina destroyed the Gulf Coast, I would have bet my last dollar that millions of African Americans who had nowhere to turn for help would not have been tossed aside like an old cell phone.

And if Mrs. Clinton is elected President in 2008, she will work to end this horrible, out-of-control war in Iraq in which nearly 4,000 Americans have lost their lives for a cause that has yet to be determined. As I write this, it is day 1,652 since George W. Bush declared “Mission Accomplished” in Iraq. What a joke. It is going to take years to get our credibility back across the globe, and Hillary Clinton is the best person to get that job done.

The fact that she is a woman is just a bonus.

On behalf of my wife Judy and all the women in my life, I wish you a peaceful 2008. Let’s make it a historic year.

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 5 A MESSAGE FROM THE INTERNATIONAL SECRETARY-TREASURER

Why Should the ATU Support the A. Philip Randolph Institute?

For many years, the labor movement in the United States echoed the segregation of the country. Many unions, including some of the ATU locals in the South maintained segregated locals and permitted racism in the workplace. Decades later, the labor movement is at the forefront of civil rights and human rights whatever our color, nationality, sex, or sexual orientation. The ATU and the entire labor movement owe much of the credit for this to the A. Philip Randolph Institute (APRI).

APRI was founded in 1968 by A. Philip Randolph and Bayard Rustin, to continue the struggle started during the civil rights movement for social, political and economic justice for all working Americans. ‘the ATU fights Bayard Rustin, one of my personal heroes, was already a civil rights leader and strategist, and the chief organizer of the historic 1963 March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom (best known as the for worker event at which Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., delivered his historic “I have a dream” speech).

justice and so EVENING THE PLAYING FIELD does the APRI.’ The legendary A. Philip Randolph, the greatest black labor leader in American history, organized the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters, the first black labor organization. Both men dedicated their lives to evening the economic playing field for minorities.

I am proud and honored to sit on the Board of the APRI. On that Board we create the programs that fight for the causes all workers believe in:

• Civil rights, strong anti-discrimination measures and affirmative action • Policies to promote a decent wage, high growth, full employment economy • Labor law reform and worker health and safety protections • Decent minimum living standards for all, including anti-poverty programs, a fair minimum wage and a comprehensive “safety net” • Universal, affordable health care • Family leave and child care • Progressive and fair tax policies • International workers’ rights and fair trade • Education and training programs

EDUCATION IS THE KEY

As it always has been, education is the key to justice for all workers. APRI spends a great deal of time working with minority youth. A perfect example is the work APRI is doing nationwide to train our young adults to register voters.

The labor movement and the civil rights movement work hand in hand. I am proud that the ATU lends its hand in support of this. The ATU fights for worker justice and so does the APRI. A. Philip Randolph’s words continue to ring true: “The overwhelming majority of blacks are workers, and organized labor is the home of working men and women . . so blacks and labor are natural allies.”

Happy Holidays to all ATU members and their families and wishes for a prosperous 2008!

6 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org EDUCATE. AGITATE. MOBILIZE. ORGANIZE NEWS FROM THE ATU FRONT LINES A Banner Year for Organizing

2007 was a banner year for the Amalgamated Transit Union – and “As a small local, I always thought we could never spend any time organizing proved to be no exception. In its first year of operation the organizing. But, I was wrong. The key is identifying and developing ATU Organizing Department made significant gains. leaders from the worksite,” Anderson explained.

Many local unions participated in the new organizing drive. While some Dale mentioned that the hardest challenge is overcoming employees’ fear. of the participating locals have organized for years, for others, the foray “Workers have to see their co-workers – especially the most respected ones into member organizing was a first. – stand together. Then everyone feels the unity and the strength of the Union. This is what overcomes fear and leads to victory,” he asserted. Working with the International, these locals collectively brought over 1,000 new members into the ATU from across North America. Over 100 rank and file member-organizers and officers took union leave to staff campaigns A TOP PRIORITY in their regions during the year. Local President Stan Dera, 1573-Brampton, ON, says his local is Even though this first year yielded great success, ATU still has a long committed to organizing. Due to the growth in transit in his area, road ahead. International President George stated at the 55th Stan’s local has increased in size year after year. Nevertheless, organizing Convention that we must continue to emphasize organizing — and will be a top priority for the local. “We will start aggressively targeting organizing at a larger scale. and organizing other properties in my region,” he said.

NON-UNION COMPETITION ‘IF YOU DON’T, ANOTHER UNION WILL!’

Local President Patricia Carfagna, 1729-Pittsburgh, PA, understands The Canadian Council has pledged to support all organizing by Canadian the challenges of organizing all too well. Her school bus and paratransit locals. After hosting an organizing strategy session for several locals in local must always worry about competition from non-union properties. the Greater Region, Canadian Director Robin West urged local officers to go out and start organizing the unorganized, warning, “If we In order to stem the tide of losing routes or work to these operations, don’t, another union will!” Local 1729 began aggressively organizing non-union companies in its area. As a result, the local welcomed numerous new members this year. Organizing school bus, paratransit and traditional public transit services, ATU will continue to grow into the future. Contact the International Carfagna issued a challenge of her own, urging all ATU school bus locals Organizing Department if your local has plans to organize. to adopt a plan to organize at least two unorganized properties per year.

Pat admits, “It is a lot of work, but it needs to be done. We can not change the school bus industry when we only represent a handful of operations across the country.” She predicts, however, “We can organize 1,000 school bus drivers and monitors if we all work together and commit the necessary people from our locals.”

THE KEY IS IDENTIFYING LEADERS Local 819 After helping Local 1005-Minneapolis/St. Paul, MN, win an organizing Irvington, NJ campaign for nearly 50 Rochester drivers, Local President Dale Anderson, Local 448 519-La Crosse, WI, has been involved in a campaign a little closer Local 685 Springfield, MA to home. Brantford, Ontario www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 7 ATU, UNIONS WIN BIG IN 2007 ELECTIONS

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Working families made huge gains on Virginia has been trending Democratic in recent years – with November 6, as voters across the country Democratic Governor Kaine’s victory in 2005, U.S. Senator Jim Webb’s delivered wins for union-endorsed election in 2006, and the recent gains in the state legislature. Virginia candidates in state and local races. These is a target state for the AFL-CIO for the presidential contest great successes were due in no small in 2008. The Democrats also believe they can pick up the U.S. Senate part to the hard work of union members, seat being vacated by John Warner, where popular former Governor including ATU members, who pounded Mark Warner has already announced his candidacy for the seat. the pavement and turned out the union vote. NEW JERSEY KENTUCKY In New Jersey, union-member candidates claimed victory in an astounding In Kentucky, Democratic gubernatorial challenger Steve Beshear 33 races — including mayoral, city council, and assembly races. blew out sitting Republican Governor Ernie Fletcher by 18 points. Democrats extended their lead in the senate, 23-17, and maintained a Seventy-seven percent of union voters supported Beshear. With 49-31 majority in the assembly. ATU members throughout the state union members and their families making up a quarter of all voters were critical in delivering these victories. in the state, there is no doubt that Beshear would not have won without the work of organized labor. Similarly, in Ohio, Mississippi, Pennsylvania, and elsewhere, numerous union-endorsed candidates won state and local races with the help of In the week leading up to election day, a proud ATU member from the ATU and other AFL-CIO affiliates. Louisville (1447) drove the bus for the Bluegrass Worksite Leaflet Tour that criss-crossed Kentucky in support of Beshear.

More than 22 international unions, including the ATU, participated in the tour which went to 25 counties. 400,000 leaflets were distributed to union members and more than 7,000 union members knocked on doors and made phone calls to union households.

VIRGINIA In Virginia, a worker-friendly majority was elected to the state senate. With the help of ATU and other union volunteers, the Democrats took four seats to gain control of the state senate for the first time since 1999.

Democrats also increased their number of seats in the state house by four. ATU members in Norfolk (1177) and Northwern Virginia (689) made phone calls and knocked on the doors of union members to ensure we got the labor vote out.

8 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org Polls Find US ATU Members Favor Hillary Clinton, Feel Very Positive About Union, Want to Volunteer

H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H

Senator Hillary Clinton, D-NY, is the favorite of ATU’s U.S. members Among the small number of ATU Republican primary voters, among a crowded field of contenders for the Democratic nomination Rudy Giuliani leads, followed by Fred Thompson, Mike Huckabee, and for president. In two scientific polls conducted in August and Mitt Romney. November, the senator from New York was preferred by the greatest number of American members in her bid for the White House. THE ISSUES The August poll discerned that members have a wide array of strong MEMBERS FEEL VERY POSITIVE ABOUT ATU concerns, but are mainly worried about pocketbook issues. When asked to In addition, the August poll revealed that ATU members feel very positive rate issues on a scale from 10 to 1, with a 10 meaning it is extremely toward their Union, both at the local and national level. Nearly four out important the next president acts on this and 1 meaning it is not important of five members are favorable toward their local union (78% favorable, at all, every issue tested was rated “10” by a majority of members. 37% very favorable) with only 17% unfavorable. The positive image remains high when members are asked about “your national union” (68% The top tier includes retirement and Social Security (69% rate 10), health favorable with 30% very favorable), and is slightly stronger when asked about care and prescription drugs (68%), and then the economy and jobs (67%). “the Amalgamated Transit Union” (79% favorable, 39% very favorable). The war in Iraq, a top concern nationally, comes in fourth place (63%), followed by two issues important to ATU members: federal funding for transit (59%) and labor and workplace safety issues (57%). MEMBERS EAGER TO VOLUNTEER Members care strongly about union and workplace issues, but also about In fact, U.S. ATU members feel so positive that they are eager to do volunteer the personal qualities of the candidates. Nearly 40% say a candidate’s work for the Union. A majority (58%) say they would volunteer for two position on working issues (29%) or a union endorsement (10%) are most hours per month in specific union activities (17% definitely, 41% probably). important in deciding their vote, followed by 20% for personal character Almost a third of members would participate – but have not been asked. and values, 17% for positions on non-working issues, and experience (11%).

By far, most would be willing to volunteer for community charities (75% total likely, 34% very likely). But in what may portend unprecedented NEARLY ALL MEMBERS SAY THEY WILL VOTE ATU participation in the coming election, most say that they are willing to In what may be the best news of all, nearly all members (94%) say they distribute literature to other members (69%, 26%). are likely to vote in the 2008 general election (85% almost certain, 9% probably). Among those likely voters, 89% are planning to vote in their There’s good news for organizers too. Most members would be willing to state’s primary (74% almost certain, 15% probably) – with most planning talk to workers who are not members (59%, 28%). to vote in the Democratic primary (62% Democratic, 13% Republican, 25% not sure). Politically, these members are very anti-Bush as his personal rating is only 18% favorable and 73% unfavorable – well below his national ANOTHER FIRST FOR ATU rating among all voters. The polls initiated by International President Warren S. George mark the first time scientific surveys have been used to ascertain the opinions of COMMUNICATION ATU members. Each poll conducted by Lake Research Partners randomly surveyed 600 ATU members nationwide. The margin of error is +/- 4.0%. The poll also showed that the most effective union communication still takes place at the local level. Nearly three quarters of members say The November figures confirmed the results of the August poll, which communication with their shop steward is an important source of indicate that most members’ views of the Democratic candidates follow information on issues (70% important, 35% very important), followed national trends: by their local’s newspaper or magazine (68%, 28%). Other important forms of communication include the In Transit (70%, 26%), and In the Democratic primary, Hillary Clinton leads with 38% of the ATU other union communications (66%, 27%). Internet usage lags behind vote (4% higher than her August total), followed by (25%), the printed word in the ATU, however, a significant number – 37% and John Edwards (11%), with no other candidate above 3%. Nineteen – say the ATU website is an important source of information (14% percent are undecided. very important).

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 9 —ATU ENDORSES— Hillary Clinton President

On November 29, the Amalgamated Transit Union joined the growing ranks of unions which have endorsed Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton in the race for the Democratic nomination for president. The endorsement was approved by the ATU General Executive Board after careful consideration of the results of two random polls of the ATU’s U.S. members (see page 9), as well as a review all of the forcandidates’ positions on ATU priority issues. The results of the polls, the most recent of which shows that U.S. members prefer the New York senator by 13 points over her nearest competitor, indicate a recognition by ATU members that her experience, intelligence and commitment make her uniquely qualified to represent the interests of transit workers, and all working men and women in America – especially at this critical moment in our nation’s history.

STRENGTH AND EXPERIENCE “On transit issues, as well as the basic pocketbook issues that most matter to our members, there is no doubt that Senator Clinton is the best candidate to address the needs of ATU members,” declared International President Warren S. George. “And, as her record shows, she has the strength and experience to achieve the changes that the workers of this country need and deserve.” In accepting the ATU endorsement, Clinton stated that she is “honored to receive the support of the men and women of the Amalgamated Transit Union,” and pledged “When I’m President, America’s working families will again have an advocate in the White House.”

POWERFUL RECORD Clinton’s record on working family issues is a powerful one. She has a 35-year record of advocacy and real results. She has been a champion for women’s rights and human rights around the world, an advocate for seniors and children, and a fighter for middle class families. As the senator representing New York after 9/11, she has fought to strengthen our homeland security and has been a leader in the fight to enhance security in our nation’s rail and transit systems. With the first primaries just over a month away, International President George made a commitment to Senator Clinton that the ATU would quickly move to educate ATU members about the senator’s positions on transit and labor and would mobilize its U.S. members and their families in the early primary states in support of her nomination. H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H Clinton on ATU Priorities Guaranteeing universal health care – Hillary’s health care plan, the American Health Choices Plan, will provide quality, af- fordable health care to all Americans. Under her plan, people enrolled in a health care plan can keep their plans if they want to. But people who want to change plans or don’t have any coverage can choose from the same plans available to Congress or opt into a public plan option like Medicare. Helping Americans save and build wealth for their future – Hillary has a plan to give every American the chance to save and invest in a new American Retirement Account, which will offer millions of middle-class families generous matching tax cuts of up to $1,000. In essence, the plan will provide universal access to a completely portable and generous 401(k). Giving workers a fair chance to join a union – Hillary will sign the Employee Free Choice Act into law so workers can choose to form a union free from employer coercion and bargain collectively. Providing families resources to better balance work and family - Hillary has a plan to expand access to paid leave through a new State Family Leave Innovation Fund, extend the Family and Medical Leave Act to cover 13 million additional workers, and guarantee at least seven paid sick days per year. Investing in America’s transit systems – Hillary has proposed an 11-point infrastructure plan that includes allocating an additional $1.5 billion per year in federal funding for public transit. She also supports increasing the amount of tax-free transit benefits that employers can offer to their employ- ees to equal the amount allowed for parking. Confronting global warming and moving our country toward energy independence – Hillary has a plan with three goals: to reduce greenhouse gas emissions 80 percent below 1990 levels by 2050; to cut foreign oil imports by two-thirds from projected levels by 2030; and to transform our carbon- based economy into an efficient green economy, creating millions of new jobs through major investments in alternative energy. Ensuring that trade policies work for Americans – Hillary believes that trade policies must have strong protections for workers and the environment. To that end, Hillary will appoint within the office of the U.S. Trade Representative a trade enforcement officer – who will be responsible for making sure that our trade agreements are vigorously enforced – and double the size of the enforcement unit.

10 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org canadianagenda

ATU, NDP Renew Call for Enhanced Transit Worker Protection

At a press conference on November 13, ATU Canadian Council ranges from verbal abuse to spitting, sexual harassment and assault, Director Robin West joined NDP Trade Critic and MP Peter Julian and even deadly physical assault. Virtually every day bus drivers (Burnaby–New Westminster), along with NDP Transport Critic and public transit operators are assaulted in one of Canada’s urban and MP (Windsor West) and a representative of the centres. Canadian Auto Workers Union, to highlight the importance of a new Private Member’s Bill, C-473, tabled by Julian in the House Since January 2007 alone, one bus worker was shot, while another of Commons earlier that day. bus worker was so severely beaten that she has not been able to return to work four months later. The bill, which follows Julian’s Motion M-358 from last spring, responds to a serious need for stiffer penalties for those who assault “Bus workers and transit operators deserve safety in the workplace,” bus drivers and transit operators by establishing a separate offence said ATU Canadian Director West, “Bill C-473 sends a clear in Canada’s Criminal Code that carries with it a maximum sentence message that Canadians will not tolerate attacks on these important H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H H of 20 years. This is similar to the separate offence for assaulting public workers.” police officers.

AGGRESSION INCREASING

“Statistics clearly show that the number of aggressions against public transportation workers is increasing,” said Julian. “Canadians need to ensure that public transportation workers are safe as well as able to maintain the maximum safety for their passengers.”

“Bus workers and transit operators are particularly vulnerable to aggression,” said Masse, “and so far there has been no response at the federal level to the NDP’s call for increased protection for these workers.”

In further support of the bill, almost 5,000 Canadians have already signed petitions stating that they want to see additional protections for bus drivers and transit operators.

OPERATORS ASSAULTED EVERY DAY

Unfortunately, Canadian transit workers have faced serious and increasing violence and assault in the workplace. The violence

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 11 LEGISLATIVE REPORT: LOUISIANA THE NEVER ENDING STORM

We all remember the horrifying pictures on our television screens. The federal response, led by President Bush, has remained painstakingly Water was everywhere. Millions of homes were destroyed. Helpless slow. The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) has people were standing on their rooftops with their children and pets been using very old buses with high mileage donated by transit pleading for help. And they were the lucky ones. Others died while agencies across the U.S. in an effort to keep some service on the street. waiting for help at the Superdome, their bodies abandoned on the sidewalk as if it were trash day.

This was New Orleans, LA, in the days after Hurricane Katrina, one of the worst human tragedies in modern history. ‘You can’t ask people to come back when they have no way of getting around.’ GOVERNMENT FAILED -Local President Donnie K. Small, Sr., 1535-Harahan, LA Federal, state, and local government failed the residents of New Orleans on that day. When the University of New Orleans surveyed the city’s residents about their personal hurricane evacuation plans a full year before the storm, it found that many people had no plan at all. An estimated 100,000 New Orleans residents had no means TRANSIT IS ESSENTIAL to evacuate: no car, not enough money for airfare or a bus ticket, no friends or family to help them leave town. Although the city’s population has increased moderately in recent months, it is nowhere near what it was prior to the storm. The Why then, were the majority of the city’s transit buses – which majority of the area’s poorest residents have not returned. Many provided the only means of escape in the event of an evacuation – left have relocated to nearby Jefferson Parish, LA, just minutes like sitting ducks to be swept up by the waters of Lake Pontchartrain? from downtown New Orleans and the home of Local President Why weren’t the hundreds of ATU members employed by the area’s Donnie K. Small, Sr., 1535-Harahan, LA, a longtime president of the three transit agencies asked to help get people out? ATU Louisiana Legislative Conference Board.

“You can’t ask people to come back when they have no way of getting NOT A SOUND around,” insisted Small, “Transit is essential to helping our citizens get access to jobs, health care, groceries, and other necessities of life. There are many questions to ask about what happened that day, Since the storm, their options have been limited.” and even more about what has happened in the 27 months since the storm. Even now, there are entire sections of the city that look just In early 2006, Small flew to Washington, DC, to lobby Congress as they did when the flood waters first started to recede. Not a sound and the Federal Transit Administration for additional transit money. can be heard for miles. While the extra funding did not come through, the conference board was able to secure language in a bill to allow Katrina-affected areas Local President Joseph Prier, Jr., 1560-New Orleans, LA, recalled to use their existing federal transit funds to pay for operating how transit service in the city was cut by 80% after Katrina. “We lost expenses until 2008. Normally, such funds can only be used to pay over 700 members. We lost 350 buses. We used to pick up 197,000 for equipment. people a day. We’re doing 30,000 - 40,000 a day now,” Prier lamented, “But it doesn’t have to be that way.”

12 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org LEGISLATIVE REPORT: LOUISIANA THE NEVER ENDING STORM

‘IT’S A LONG BATTLE’ MEETING PAID OFF

While Jefferson Parish has been overflowing with new residents, the That meeting paid off, as the governor later recommended to the local government has been unwilling to put new bus service on the legislature that it increase funding for public transit in an effort to street. In fact, it is running fewer buses than it was prior to the repopulate the region. Throughout the spring, the conference board storm. Small has been outspoken on this issue, working with the local orchestrated a postcard campaign with bus riders in support of community in an effort to put pressure on elected officials. “It’s a long increased transit funding. In some cities, local officials actually battle,” explains Small, “We’re getting there, but there is still a lot prohibited ATU members from conducting the campaign on the of work left to be done.” buses. Nevertheless, the conference board distributed thousands of letters to transit customers and delivered them to members of the legislature.

The end result was a strong 20% increase in funding that will be used to increase service throughout the state. “It’s a good start,” said Small, “Not as much as we asked for, but you’ve got to start somewhere. Next year we are going after dedicated funding so that no matter who is in office, transit will get its share.”

More than two years after the storm, most Americans have stopped thinking about New Orleans. They have moved on, focusing on their own problems. ATU members in the New Orleans area are not afforded that luxury. They see the heartache caused by Katrina every day. Even today, some transit passengers in the New Orleans area have to wait more than two hours for a bus, and some 300 people a week are turned down from much-needed paratransit service.

In 2005, ATU members in the Big Easy lost their loved ones, their The Louisiana Conference Board, from left: Sam Maclies, Jr., Local1535 - Harahan; Kathy Patterson, 1546-Baton Rouge; Donnie K. Small, Sr., 1535; pets, and their personal belongings. But they never lost hope, or their Lawrence C. Green, 1400-New Orleans; Joseph A. Prier, Jr., 1560-New love for the city’s residents. Orleans; Deotis Pruitt and Damian D. Armstrong, 1160-Monroe. “I fight everyday because it’s about the people we pick up,” said Prier. In January, 2007, Small led a delegation of ATU members from across the state to meet with the staff of then-Governor Kathleen Blanco, D, to secure more money for public transit statewide. The conference board noted that even before Katrina, Louisiana’s state transit funding was extremely low. Other southern states such as Tennessee and North Carolina – which have less transit than Louisiana – have been providing much more.

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 13 EXCERPTS FROM THE MEETING OF THE General Executive Board BALLY’S LAS VEGAS, NV — SEPTEMBER 11-15, 2007

FIRST SESSION - the members of Local 1181 (New York, NY) employed by the jointly bargaining Atlantic Paratransit, Maggie’s Paratransit, MV Paratransit The meeting convened at 9:00 a.m. on Monday, September 11, 2007. and TFM Paratransit, and General Executive Board Members present were Tommy Mullins, Joseph - the members of Local 1181 (New York, NY) employed by GBC, Inc. Welch, Rodney Richmond, Donald Hansen, Robert Baker, Larry Kinnear, Randy Graham, Javier Perez, Jr., Richard Murphy, Bob Hykaway, Charles Upon the request of International Vice President William McLean, the Board Cook, William McLean, Ronald Heintzman, Janis Borchardt, Paul Bowen, granted strike sanction to: Larry Hanley, Kenneth Kirk, and Gary Rauen. International President Warren George presided. Also present were International Executive Vice President - the members of Local 1704 (San Bernardino, CA) employed by Omnitrans. Michael Siano, International Secretary-Treasurer Oscar Owens, Chief of Staff Benetta Mansfield, General Counsel Leo Wetzel, and Executive Assistant - the members of Local 1704 (San Bernardino, CA) employed by to the International President Beth Petrusic. Laidlaw Transit. Canadian Council Director Robin West attended as a guest. Upon the request of International Vice President Larry Kinnear, the Board

granted strike sanction to: INTRODUCTORY REMARKS - the members of Local 508 (Halifax, NS) employed by the Halifax Regional Municipality. After briefly discussing elements of the program for the upcoming 55th Convention, International President George outlined the matters which Upon the request of International Vice President Kenneth Kirk, the Board would be put before the Board for its consideration in the coming days, noting granted strike sanction to: in part that no appeals pursuant to Section 22.10 of the Constitution and General Laws were to be presented. - the members of Local 732 (Atlanta, GA) employed by Veolia (Cobb Transit).

REIMBURSEMENT OF HOTEL INTERNET CHARGES AUTHORIZED APPROVAL OF LONGER TERM CONTRACT TERMS

Upon a motion of International Vice President Cook which was duly Acting pursuant to Section 32.1 of the Constitution and General Laws and seconded by International Vice President Perez, and following extensive upon the request of International Vice President Tommy Mullins, the Board discussion, the Board determined, in opposition to the expressed views of authorized Local 1181 (New York, NY) to enter into a 5-year collective International President George and International Secretary-Treasurer Owens, bargaining agreement with Atlantic Paratransit, Maggie’s Paratransit, MV that when International officers are in active service of the ATU and on the Paratransit and TFM Paratransit. road, any hotel charges incurred for computerized internet service shall be considered an allowed, authorized and reimbursable expense. Acting pursuant to Section 32.1 of the Constitution and General Laws and upon the request of International Vice President Larry Kinnear, the Board authorized Local 1320 (Peterborough, ON) to enter into a 5-year collective GENERAL DISCUSSION bargaining agreement with the Corporation of the City of Peterborough. Several members of the Board commended improvements recently made to the ATU’s website and praised its increased utility. International President REPORT OF THE INTERNATIONAL SECRETARY-TREASURER ON George briefly discussed a variety of other and similar initiatives undertaken by ATU-COPE, ATU SCHOLARSHIP, AND MS RESEARCH FUNDS newer members of the International staff. ATU-COPE MINUTES APPROVED The Amalgamated Transit Union Committee on Political Education (ATU- The minutes of the previous General Executive Board meeting were COPE) program collects voluntary contributions from ATU members for approved with a modification to correctly identify, as Laidlaw Transit Ltd. the purposes of making contributions to and expenditures for candidates for (Barry Transit), the involved employer in the initial strike sanction granted to federal, state and local offices and addressing federal, state and local political members of Local 1415 (Toronto, ON) at its spring 2007 session. issues.

The highlights of the contributions paid from the various funds (combined) for AUDIT COMMITTEE APPOINTED the six-month period ending June 30, 2007, were reported as follows: Appointed to the Audit Committee were International Vice Presidents Local Javier Perez, Jr., and Richard Murphy, Bob Hykaway. International Vice Mayoral Campaigns $ 5,900.00 President Perez, further, was appointed as Chair of the panel. Councilperson Campaigns $11,900.00 Other $ 9,850.00

STRIKE SANCTIONS APPROVED Between January 1, 2007, and June 30, 2007, ATU-COPE took in contributions totaling $415,906.42. As of June 30, 2007, the funds had a combined available Upon the request of International Vice President Tommy Mullins, the Board balance of $235,455.53. granted strike sanction to:

14 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org ATU SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAM RESULTS OF MEMBER SURVEY REVIEWED The selection process for the 20th annual ATU scholarships, named in memory The Board reviewed a preliminary summary of the results of a membership of Melvin Schoppert, former International Vice President, was completed survey which was commissioned by the executive officers and undertaken during this period by the Scholarship Selection Committee. The committee by Lake Research Partners of Washington, DC, in late August of 2007. was chaired by James Kennedy, Jr., senior vice president of ULLICO. The other Conducted among a representative sample of 600 active ATU members in committee members were John W. Harrison III, president of Eberts& Harrison, the United States, the poll was designed to test member views of the ATU, and Trip McLaughlin of the Anthony, McLaughlin & Offen Group. levels of involvement and activity, methods of communication, and the political context heading into the 2008 U.S. Presidential election. After A total of 80 applications (63 from the U.S. and 17 from Canada) met all of the initially examining data produced from the survey, the Board heard a telephonic program’s requirements. These were reduced to 16 finalists. presentation about the survey by David Mermin, a partner in the retained polling firm, who thereafter responded to a series of questions from members This year’s winners were reported to the Board as follows: of the Board. International President George confirmed that members of the Board would be provided with copies of the ultimate and more extensive Tuan A. Trinh, son of Local 819 (Newark, NJ) member Nhung Trinh, who is survey report that Lake Research Partners is to prepare. interested in pursuing a career in biochemistry.

Kevin M. Rabichow, son of Local 308 (Chicago, IL) member Robert Rabichow, REQUESTS FOR FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE who plans to pursue a career in mathematics. Daniel Duckworth, son of Local 1225 (San Francisco, CA) member David LOCAL 174 (FALL RIVER, MA) Duckworth, who plans to obtain a degree in computer science. Eva Marie Silva, financial secretary of Local 174, requested financial assistance Yasmin S. Aranda, daughter of Local 265 (San Jose, CA) member David in the amount of $7,016.41 for an arbitration bill from the Labor Bureau Aranda, who is interested in obtaining a degree in psychology. which the local union incurred during a contract dispute with the Union Street Bus Company that also involved Local 1037 (New Bedford, MA). Sukhman K Sandhu, daughter of Local 583 (Calgary, AB) member Gurlal Sandhu, who plans to pursue a degree in kinesiology. Following careful review and consideration of the facts, the General Executive Board voted to grant Local 174 financial assistance in the amount of $2,000. The vocational/technical scholarship was not awarded as no applications for it were received. LOCAL 1037 (NEW BEDFORD, MA)

ATU MS RESEARCH FUNDS Linda L. Pierce, financial secretary of Local 1037, requested financial assistance in the amount of $7,016.41 for an arbitration bill from the Labor Bureau It was reported that the 22nd annual golf tournament for the benefit of which the local union incurred during a contract dispute with the Union Street multiple sclerosis research is scheduled for October 22, 2007, at the Norbeck Bus Company that also involved Local 174 (Fall River, MA). Country Club. Following careful review and consideration of the facts, the General Executive Plans have been made to invite a representative from the National Multiple Board voted to grant Local 1037 financial assistance in the amount of $2,000. Sclerosis Society to share updates regarding any advancements in medical research. In addition, this year we hope to increase our revenue by encouraging increased participation from our vendor sponsors. LOCAL 757 (PORTLAND, OR) The Board was also advised of plans for the second ATU Idol talent show for Jonathan J. Hunt, president/business agent of Local 757, requested financial the benefit of multiple sclerosis to be held at the 55th Convention. Because assistance due to the incurred expenses by the local union relative to the AMR this contest proved to be a huge success at the last Convention, a decision decertification by NEMSA which amounted to approximately $13,801.76. was made to raise the ticket price. In addition, plans to sign up “boosters” (based upon a minimum $5 contribution) during the Convention registration Upon discussion regarding the nature of the expenses incurred by the local and throughout the Convention week were detailed. union, the General Executive Board denied the request for financial assistance as submitted on the basis that, subject to final determination by the executive Financial Statements for the period of January 1, 2007, through June 30, officers, the expenses should be eligible for reimbursement under Section 19.1 2007, for both the US and Canadian MS Research Funds were provided to the of the Constitution and General Laws. General Executive Board members.

LOCAL 812 (CLARKSBURG, WV) GENERAL DISCUSSION Jerry Reel, president/business agent of Local 812, requested financial assistance International President George brought to the Board’s attention the most in the form of a one-year per capita tax waiver to offset financial hardships recent media reports pertaining to the substantial allegations of organized incurred by the local union, including noteworthy payments of lost time to crime involvement in the affairs of Local 1181 (New York, NY) prior to officers for attendance at meetings and training seminars. the trusteeship of that subordinate body which was initially imposed in late 2006, as well as newspaper accounts of financial improprieties by the Following careful review and consideration of the facts, the General Executive former financial secretary of Local 1593 (Tampa, FL). Several members Board voted to grant Local 812 a waiver of its per capita tax obligations for six of the Board commented on the adverse impacts of the Local 1181 saga in (6) months and to otherwise extend the local union financial assistance in the organizing campaigns, particularly as promoted by the New York-based labor amount of $1,000. organization known as the United Service Workers. A discussion ensued about that entity’s activities and the need to counter its interjections into ATU organizing efforts and raiding of established ATU bargaining units. LOCAL 1119 (WILKES-BARRE, PA) The Board also discussed the perceived increased frequency of financial wrongdoing at local unions and explored potential means of uncovering Darrell Ramos, president/business agent of Local 1119, requested financial and preventing abuses of the membership’s trust, including suggestions assistance in light of legal expenses incurred in connection with the pursuit that the period audit report required of locals be updated to require unfair labor practice charges initially filed with the National Labor Relations disclosure of greater information relative to financial liabilities and details Board in February of 2002, challenging the unilateral implementation of a about lost time payments. safety policy by the Frank Martz Coach Company, Inc. A decision was not rendered in the case until April 2004, by which time the local union was faced with an outstanding legal bill of $13,362.70. www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 15 Following careful review and consideration of the facts, the General Executive On Friday, May 25, 2007, the striking members ratified a two-year tentative Board voted to authorize a payment of $7,000 on behalf of Local 1119 to agreement by a vote of 451 to 433, thus ending the one-week strike. Marenze & Katz, PC, the law firm of the local’s attorney, Bernard Katz.

Local 1560 (New Orleans, LA) LOCAL 1356 (SIOUX FALLS, SD) On Friday, May 4, 2007, the members of Local 1560 employed by Transit Terri Dunkelberger, financial secretary of Local 1356, requested financial Management of Southeast Louisiana shut down the bus operations of the assistance in response to legal fees incurred by the local union during New Orleans Regional Transit Authority by initiating a one-day sick out after negotiations for a new collective bargaining agreement with Laidlaw Transit. rejecting management’s final offer. Following careful review and consideration, the General Executive Board On Saturday, May 5, 2007, after the company announced they will pay the voted to authorize the executive officers to further investigate the negotiated wage rate, all operators returned to work. circumstances presented and to afford to Local 1356 such financial assistance as they might determine, in the exercise of their discretion and judgement, to be appropriate. EXPENSES

Approximately $448,313.09 was spent during this report period on organizing, LOCAL 1722 (KELOWNA, BC) as well as other costs such as materials, mailing lists, and full-time international representatives’ salaries and expenses for those who assisted in these organizing Brent Kotelmach, financial secretary of Local 1722, requested financial campaigns. Local union officers and members assigned to assist with these assistance due to expenses incurred during prolonged contract negotiations drives were reimbursed by the International for their wages and expenses with Farwest Transit Services. incurred.

The General Executive Board, after careful review and consideration of the facts, voted to deny Local 1722’s request. DUAL UNIONISM CHARGES AGAINST THREE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 1179 (NEW YORK, NY) REVIEWED

REPORT OF THE INTERNATIONAL EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT International President George reviewed a set of charges filed with the General Executive Board through correspondence of August 27, 2007, by Local 1179 ORGANIZING CAMPAIGNS President/Business Agent John Longo against Local 1179 members alleging that each affirmatively engaged in the promotion and support of TWU During this report period, we were involved in 35 campaigns and out of those Local 106 with the purpose and intent of supplanting the ATU as the we won eight (accounting for a cumulative total of approximately 375 new recognized collective bargaining agent for certain supervisory employees of members) and lost five; two were withdrawn for various reasons and 20 were the MTA Bus Company. International President George summarized the pending at the close of this period: chronology of events. It was further noted that under Section 22.2, such Won charges are in the first instance properly filed exclusively with the Board and : processed as provided under Sections 12.4 and 12.5 of the Constitution rather than by the interested local union. - Bend Public Transit System MV Transportation, Inc. International President George concluded by advising of his intent that - Regional Transportation Program (RTP) (West Palm Beach, FL) the Board formally act upon the submitted charges upon reconvening on Tuesday, September 12, 2007. - Battle’s Transportation (Metro Access) The meeting thereupon adjourned at 4:05 p.m. - Canby Area Transit (CAT) - WHEELS City of North Bonneville, OR SECOND SESSION

- Laidlaw Transit, Inc. (Allentown, PA) The meeting convened at 9:00 a.m. on Tuesday, September 12, 2007. General Executive Board Members present were Tommy Mullins, Joseph - Veolia Transportation, Inc. (Charleston, SC) Welch, Rodney Richmond, Donald Hansen, Robert Baker, Larry Kinnear, Randy Graham, Javier Perez, Jr., Richard Murphy, Bob Hykaway, Charles Cook, William McLean, Ronald Heintzman, Janis Borchardt, Paul Bowen, RAIDS Larry Hanley, Kenneth Kirk, and Gary Rauen. International President Warren George presided. Also present were International Executive Vice President Local 1179 (New York, NY) Michael Siano, International Secretary-Treasurer Oscar Owens, Chief of Staff Benetta Mansfield, General Counsel Leo Wetzel, and Executive Assistant In February of 2007, TWU Local 106 filed a petition to represent all the to the International President Beth Petrusic. supervisory workers at MTA Bus, including the group of 51 supervisors represented by Local 1179. On June 16, 2007, the ATU filed an Article XX Canadian Council Director Robin West attended as a guest. with the AFL-CIO against the TWU. At the close of this reporting period, this matter was still pending. INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT’S REPORT ADOPTED

STRIKES The report of the International President for the six-month period ending June 30, 2007, was approved with a correction to page 7 of the printed report Local 1374 (Calgary, AB) to properly identify the charter city of Local 1235 as Nashville, Tennessee.

On Friday, May 18, 2007, the members of Local 1374 employed by the Greyhound Canada Transportation Corporation (Western) went on strike DISCUSSION OF FINANCIAL STATEMENTS at 12:01 a.m. after rejecting the company’s final offer. This group includes approximately 1,050 bus operators, mechanics, clerical workers and owner International President George and International Secretary-Treasurer Owens operator couriers. responded to a number of inquiries from several members of the Board who sought to clarify and better understand elements of the financial

16 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org statements of the ATU for the year ended June 30, 2007, as prepared by the Ethical Practices Code for ATU International Officers and Staff independent auditors, Calibre CPA Group PLLC. 1. This Code applies to the International President, International Executive Vice President, International Secretary Treasurer, International Vice REPORT ON LOCAL 1181 TRUSTEESHIP Presidents, International Representatives and staff of the Amalgamated Transit Union (ATU). International Vice President Tommy Mullins provided a comprehensive report of the Local 1181 (New York, NY) stewardship. He advised members 2. Every ATU officer and staff member of the ATU, whether elected or of the Board that a forensic audit of the local union’s financial records, appointed, has a high fiduciary duty and sacred trust to serve the best which included a review of each individual bank draft drawn on the union’s interests of the members honestly and faithfully. The ATU shall maintain checking account and the supporting documentation for such, had disclosed adequate safeguards for the prevention of corruption, discrimination, no improprieties or anything that the auditor, Jerry Levy of Investigative anti-democratic procedures, and the association of any officer or staff Services, would characterize as “disturbing.” International Vice President member of the ATU with organized crime figures or anyone that would Mullins further indicated that he and co-trustee International Vice President bring disrepute to the union. Robert Baker had implemented all of the auditor’s recommendations for changes in record keeping. 3. Financial Practices. No ATU officer or staff member should own or have a personal financial interest which conflicts with the full performance of Members of the Board were informed that the local is current in the his or her duties. In particular: processing of all grievances, is proving successful in more than 70% of its arbitrations, and had recently prevailed in two significant arbitrations, one (a) No ATU officer or staff member shall have any substantial financial involving the protections afforded to those who move from one service interest in any firm which bargains collectively with the ATU or any contractor of the New York Department of Education to another and the chartered local union of the ATU. second affording retirees a reduced premium for COBRA coverage from the local’s Welfare Fund. (b) No ATU officer or staff member shall own or have a substantial financial interest in any firm which does business or seeks to do The Board was also briefed on the status of the local’s welfare and pension business with the ATU or any chartered local union of the ATU. funds. International Vice President Mullins reported that the Pension Fund is actuarially sound to the extent that an increase in the monthly benefit (c) For the purposes of these rules a “substantial interest” is one which was approved retroactive to March of 2007, while the Welfare Fund has either contributes significantly to an individual’s financial well-being accumulated a four-month reserve available to pay benefits and for the or which enables the individual to affect or influence the course of first time in five years had sufficient excess funding to enable a transfer of corporate decision making. A substantial interest does not include stock $500,000 into the investment account. He further explained that Investigative in a purchase plan, profit sharing plan or ESOP. Services, Independent Fiduciary Services, and the actuarial firm known as (d) An ATU officer or staff member shall not be deemed in violation of FACT are in the process of completing investigations of the Welfare and these prohibitions with respect to investments which are held in a Pension Funds aimed at evaluating their relationships with retained consultants, mutual fund or a blind trust. money managers, investment managers, and vendors. International Vice President Mullins advised that preliminary reports from those firms (e) No ATU officer or staff member shall accept any personal payment or revealed only one area of concern, specifically indications that the Welfare gift, lavish entertainment, with a value greater than $250, other than Fund incurred excessive costs for the third party administration of hospital regular pay and benefits for work performed, from an employer that and prescription drug payments. The General Executive Board was informed bargains collectively with the ATU or with any ATU local union or that in response to the initial conclusions of FACT in this regard, the union joint bargaining council, or from a business or professional enterprise and employer representatives on the Fund’s board of trustees promptly which does business or seeks to do business with the ATU or any elected to solicit bids for a new third party administrator. Final reports from local union of the ATU. Nor shall any ATU officer or staff member each of the investigatory firms [is] slated for submission to a scheduled meeting accept personal profit or special advantage from a business with [of the] Fund board of trustees on October 22, 2007. which the ATU or any ATU local or joint bargaining council bargains collectively. Following the presentation of International Vice President Mullins, members of the Board and the executive officers engaged in discussions regarding issues 4. No ATU officer or staff member shall provide any personal payment or anticipated to develop as the co-trustees move toward the termination of the gift, discount or lavish entertainment, with a value greater than $250, to stewardship and restoration of Local 1181’s autonomy. an employer that bargains collectively with the ATU or with any ATU local union or joint bargaining council, to an ATU local union, joint bargaining council, retiree chapter, or legislative conference board, or to a ISSUANCE OF FORMAL COMPLAINT AGAINST THREE MEMBERS business or professional enterprise which does business or seeks to do OF LOCAL 1179 (NEW YORK, NY) BASED UPON SECTION 22.2 business with the ATU or any ATU local union of the or joint bargaining CHARGES AUTHORIZED council, or to an employee of such a business or professional enterprise other than an immediate family member of the ATU officer of staff. At the urging of the local’s president/business agent and based upon charges he filed on behalf of the local union, the Board unanimously voted to authorize 5. The International Union shall not permit any of its funds to be invested the issuance of a complaint charging Local 1179 members with engaging in in manner which results in the personal profit or advantage of any ATU dual unionism activities in violation of Section 22 of the Constitution and officer or staff member. General Laws. 6. The International Union shall not make loans to its officers, representatives, employees, or members, or members of their families. ETHICAL PRACTICES CODE ADOPTED 7. No ATU officer or staff member shall receive compensation of any kind from a fund established for the provision of retirement, health or welfare Upon presentation of a draft ethical practices code prepared by the Ethics benefits for service as an employee representative or labor-designated Committee, a panel chaired by International Vice President Tommy Mullins trustee on such employee benefit fund or plan, except for reasonable and otherwise consisting of International Vice Presidents Ronald Heintzman reimbursement of expenses provided uniformly to such representatives or and Janis Borchardt, members of the Board discussed the suggested provisions trustees. A benefit “fund” or “plan” for the purposes of this provision means at length. A series of amendments moved by International Vice President a fund or plan sponsored by the ATU or an affiliated local union of the Richard Murphy were debated. Each was individually defeated. Upon a roll ATU, or in which the ATU or an affiliated local union of the call vote which showed 13 in favor and 5 opposed, the Board approved and ATU participates. adopted the code as follows: www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 17 8. No ATU officer or staff member shall sell, donate or otherwise provide (f) All charges and investigations shall be kept confidential unless and award air miles or any other travel awards (e.g. hotel, car rental, etc.) until the Ethics Committee finds reasonable cause to bring the matter to any officer or member of theTU A or any family member of such an to a hearing. officer or member, or to any ATU local union or joint bargaining council, retiree chapter, or legislative conference board. Under exceptional (g) Fundamental due process shall be afforded to the individual charged circumstances, and with prior approval of the International President, in connection with any such hearing. such awards may be donated to an ATU related cause (for example, a member’s sick child) or ATU related charity. ATU officers or staff (h) The G.E.B. shall permit the individual charged a easonabler members are permitted to donate or otherwise provide award air miles or opportunity, upon request, to present his or her position to the G.E.B. other travel awards to friends who are not members of the ATU and to prior to rendering a final decision, which shall be subject to appeal family members. Under no circumstances, shall an ATU officer or staff to the ATU Convention within 90 days after the G.E.B. has decided member sell such awards earned as a result of ATU travel. the case. The decision of the G.E.B. shall be placed into effect immediately upon receipt of the ruling by the G.E.B. notwithstanding 9. No ATU officer or staff member may engage in the following any pending appeal to the Convention. prohibited conduct: (I) There shall be no retaliation against any ATU officer or staff member, (a) knowingly associate with any member or associate of any criminal group; or member for filing a charge alleging a violation of this Code.

(b) knowingly permit any member or associate of any criminal group to exercise any control or influence, directly or indirectly, in any way REPORT OF THE GENERAL COUNSEL or degree, in the affairs of the ATU or its affiliated local unions. Several legal developments in the six-month period which ended on June 30, 10. As used in Paragraph 9 above, the term “knowingly associate” shall mean 2007, were highlighted and discussed at some length. that: (a) the party knows or should know that the person with whom he or she is associating is a member or associate of any criminal group; and (b) the Members of the General Executive Board were advised that the union witnessed association is more than fleeting. a flurry of rather disturbing developments relative to Section 13(c) employee protections, issues of interest dispute resolution and a blurring of the distinction 11. ATU officers and staff members have an obligation to immediately report between public and private sector employee bargaining. their knowledge or suspicion of the activities set forth in Paragraph 9 to the International President. In light of the parties’ negotiated settlement of a new labor contract, we had asked the state court dismiss the previously reported lawsuit filed by the City 12. ATU officers and staff members shall comply with the provisions set and its current management contractor seeking to enjoin interest arbitration as forth in the “ATU Anti-Discrimination and Anti-Harassment Policy and requested by Local 1164 (Knoxville, TN). More recently, however, the public Procedure” appended to this Code, except that complaints about the body and the employer have instead pressed for the case to go forward, in officers ornternational I Representatives will be referred to the Ethics part because the U.S. Department of Labor has declined to act on their claim Committee rather than the process outlined in Section B of the because interest arbitration is unconstitutional under state law for public sector appended procedure. workers it should be unlawful for the private sector workers on the Knoxville system financed by the City. 13. This Code shall be enforced by the following process: (a) The current Ethics Committee of three International Vice Presidents It was reported that we are confronted with a similar claim against Local 1356 shall be the standing Ethics Committee for a period of three years, at (Sioux Falls, SD), where initial indications that the system’s private sector which time the International President shall appoint three other management company would arbitrate new contract terms, the employer members of the General Executive Board (G.E.B.) for a three-year term. reversed course entirely. The Board was advised that a state court judge heard more than hour of oral arguments on the company’s claim that it cannot (b) Any ATU officer or staff member may seek an opinion letter as to properly be bound to the interest arbitration clause in the Section 13(c) whether anticipated conduct may violate this Code. Any request for Agreement executed by the City of Sioux Falls and its original system manager such an opinion shall be made in writing and be forwarded with a because the third-party determination of labor contract terms for public sector complete description of the anticipated action to the International workers by a politically-unaccountable individual contravenes the South President, who shall promptly refer it to the Ethics Committee. Dakota constitution. The Committee will send a written esponser to the request within 30 days from the Committee’s receipt of the request. In Colorado Springs, we are faced with the same contention, as well as quite a bit more. The Board was reminded that when Professional Transit Management (c) Charges of violations by those covered by this Code may be filed only refused to interest arbitrate with Local 19 (Colorado Springs, CO) in 2006, by a member in good standing or staff member of the ATU and must in part based on a claim such was unconstitutional for public employees, we be accompanied by substantiating documentation. The charges sued to enforce our a rights under the Section 13(c) Agreement applied to the should be referred directly to the Committee Chair, who will refer it City’s federal funding but lost our state court suit because it developed that the to the full Ethics Committee for review and recommended disposition. public body’s service contract with the private management company provided (d) The thicsE Committee shall have the authority to investigate and, that PTM would not be bound by any other pre-existing agreements. We then where the Ethics Committee finds reasonable cause to believe that a proceeded against the City itself but in this reporting period a second state violation of the Code has occurred, it shall refer the matter to the court dismissed our litigation to compel arbitration of a Section 13(c) claim International President. In the case of an ATU staff member, the against the public body, finding that the negotiated protections failed to name International President shall decide the appropriate action to take. the City as a potential party to arbitration. The judge, further, refused to hear In the case of an ATU officer, the International President shall our alternative suit alleging a breach of contract, holding that our allegation of impanel a three-member hearing panel of G.E.B. members to conduct monetary damages based on what would have happened if the City had required a hearing, if the matter is not otherwise resolved. That panel shall PTM to accept the Section 13(c) Agreement and its interest arbitration clause not include any members of the Ethics Committee, the accused or the was too “speculative.” charging party (if such are members of the G.E.B.). The Board was informed that while the Legal Department is appealing the latest (e) The three-member panel will meet and conduct a hearing with the adverse Colorado court decision, the City has gone on offensive and has sued assistance of a member of the ATU Legal Department. Within 30 the U.S. Department of Labor for failing to explain why it refused to order the days of any hearing on the matter, the three-member panel will parties to renegotiate their Section 13(c) Agreement in response to the stated refer written Findings and Recommendations to the full G.E.B. objection of Colorado Springs to the arrangement’s interest arbitration clause. Where a violation is found, the recommendations shall include We are looking to intervene in that case because it represents such a serious an appropriate disposition up to an including removal from service or threat to Section 13(c) program; essentially the City is maintaining that DOL employment. needs to sustain any objection to terms that exceed requirements of the Act.

18 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org On a related note, the Board was also informed that the Capital INTERNATIONAL SECRETARY-TREASURER’S REPORT ADOPTED Metropolitan Transportation Authority has undertaken a campaign to transfer the workers represented by Local 1091 (Austin, TX) who are The report of the International Secretary-Treasurer for the six-month period currently employed by a private sector management company – that was ending June 30, 2007, was approved as printed. established specifically to protect the National Labor Relations Act bargaining rights the employees had when the transit system was first acquired with federal funds some decades ago – to direct, public sector, employment with no more AUDIT COMMITTEE REPORT ADOPTED that “meet and confer” rights under state law. The previously appointed Chair of the Audit Committee, International Vice Other litigation matters reviewed included our efforts on behalf of Local President Perez, reviewed at some length the activities of the panel in its study 1182 (St. John, NB), aimed at facilitating transit worker participation in of the financial records made available to it. The formal report of the Audit the pension fund of the City of St. John. During these six months, a three- Committee for the six-month period ended June 30, 2007, was thereupon judge panel of the denied a management approved as written. application for leave to appeal the favorable decision we previously won at the intermediate court, which confirmed that the provincial Superintendent of Pensions has the lawful authority to decide if those staffing services of CHANGE IN VISION BENEFITS FOR OFFICERS the St. John Transit Commission are de facto employees of the City. With AND STAFF AUTHORIZED the matter finally before the pensions agency for a decision on the merits of our substantive position, we supplemented our original briefs through Upon a duly seconded motion of International Vice President Cook, the the filing of an updated statement of views and are now awaiting a final ruling Board authorized the executive officers to review the experience of those by the Superintendent of Pensions on the merits of our position. covered by the current vision plan benefit afforded to officers, staff and their beneficiaries through VSP, to investigate the feasibility of equivalent coverage The Board was briefed on legislative matters of particular significance, through alternative insurance carriers, and, to change carriers or otherwise self- including the status of the U.S. federal transit appropriations legislation for insure vision benefits if they should, in the exercise of their discretion and best fiscal year 2008 that was passed by the House of Representatives in late July judgment, determine such to be advisable and appropriate. but is unlikely to be finalized until end of the year. Notation was also made of the comprehensive transit and over-the-road bus security funding legislation that was signed into law on August 3, 2007. REVIEW OF PROPOSED LAWS CHANGES Finally, members of the General Executive Board were informed the Legal Department had just learned that within a matter of days the U.S. Department At the request of International President George, the general counsel summarized of Labor would be publishing for public comment proposed revisions to its each of the proposed changes to the Constitution and General Laws which the regulations governing the Section 13(c) processing of federal transit grants. International President would be recommending for adoption by the delegates On the alleged basis that changes were required on light of the 2005 Safe, to the 55th Convention to be conducted September 17 - 21, 2007, as well as Accountable, Flexible, and Efficient Transportation Equity Act – A Legacy for those urged in local union-approved resolutions submitted for Convention’s Users (“SAFETEA-LU”), which authorized transit funding programs through consideration in accordance with Section 6.16 of the Constitution. fiscal year 2009, the Bush Administration is looking to implement a number of alterations obviously tailored to do little more than adversely impact the interests of organized labor. The limited information available about the specific REPORT ON LOCAL 639 (LEXINGTON, KY) TRUSTEESHIP changes to be proposed was summarized. International Representative Marcellus Barnes provided an extensive report on the temporary trusteeship of Local 639 (Lexington, KY) that was imposed on REVIEW OF CONVENTION MATTERS July 9, 2007.

International President George appraised the General Executive Board of the It was noted that the findings and recommendations of the hearing officer who most current schedule of guest speakers slated to appear before the delegates heard testimony relative to the trusteeship in early August were expected to to the 55th Convention. He also identified the delegates whom he intended issue within a matter of days and that the Board would then be called upon to to name to chair or act as the secretary of each Convention committee and determine if the trusteeship should continue. otherwise advised the International Vice Presidents of the panel each would be assigned to assist. REVIEW OF 55TH CONVENTION PROGRAM The meeting adjourned at 2:35 p.m. International President George reviewed with the Board members the schedule THIRD SESSION of activities for the week of the 55th Convention.

The meeting convened at 9:00 a.m. on Friday, September 14, 2007. General The meeting thereupon adjourned at 2:45 p.m. Executive Board Members presentwere Tommy Mullins, Joseph Welch, Rodney Richmond, Donald Hansen, Robert Baker, Larry Kinnear, Randy Graham, Javier Perez, Jr., Richard Murphy, Bob Hykaway, Charles Cook, FOURTH SESSION William McLean, Ronald Heintzman, Janis Borchardt, Paul Bowen, Larry Hanley, Kenneth Kirk, and Gary Rauen. International President Warren The meeting convened at 11:45 a.m. on Friday, September 21, 2007, following George presided. Also present were International Executive Vice President the adjournment of the 55th Convention. General Executive Board Members Michael Siano, International Secretary-Treasurer Oscar Owens, Chief of Staff present were Tommy Mullins, Joseph Welch, Rodney Richmond, Donald Benetta Mansfield, General Counsel Leo Wetzel, and Executive Assistant to the Hansen, Robert Baker, Larry Kinnear, Randy Graham, Javier Perez, Jr., Richard International President Beth Petrusic. Murphy, Bob Hykaway, Charles Cook, William McLean, Ronald Heintzman, Janis Borchardt, Paul Bowen, Larry Hanley, Kenneth Kirk, and Gary International Representatives in attendance were Gary Maurer, Ray Rivera, Rauen. International President Warren George presided. Also present were Marcellus Barnes, and Yvette Salazar. Canadian Council Director Robin West International Executive Vice President Michael Siano, International Secretary- was also present. Treasurer Oscar Owens, Chief of Staff Benetta Mansfield, and General Counsel Leo Wetzel. Attending as invited guests of the Board were Retired International President James La Sala, Retired International Executive Vice President Ellis B. Franklin, International Representatives Ray Rivera, Marcellus Barnes, and Yvette Salazar Retired International Vice Presidents Charles Pettus, Karen Simmons, Stuart attended as guests, as did Canadian Council Director Robin West. Snowdon, Wilford Spears, and Robert Saarinen, and Retired Canadian Director Ken Foster. www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 19 HEARING OFFICER’S REPORT ON THE TRUSTEESHIP OF 4. TERMINATION OF PREVIOUSLY IMPOSED TRUSTEESHIP LOCAL 639 (LEXINGTON, KY) ADOPTED OF LOCAL 1235 (NASHVILLE, TN)

The Findings and Determinations of the Hearing Officer in the matter of the …on January 29, 2007, the General Executive Board voted to terminate the trusteeship of Local 639 (Lexington, KY) were put before the General Executive trusteeship of Local 1235 effective March 1, 2007. Board pursuant to Section 12.6 of the Constitution and General Laws. Upon 5. STRIKE SANCTION GRANTED TO MEMBERS OF LOCAL 757 a motion duly made and seconded, the Board unanimously voted to adopt the (PORTLAND, OR) EMPLOYED BY CORVALLIS-LAIDLAW Hearing Officer’s Report, to ratify the temporary stewardship, and to continue EDUCATIONAL SERVICES, INC. the trusteeship of the local union. …on February 1, 2007, strike sanction was granted at the request of International Vice President Ronald Heintzman to the members of Local 757 employed by Corvallis-Laidlaw Educational Services, Inc. MOTION PERTAINING TO NEW ORGANIZING FUND ADOPTED

The Board adopted a duly seconded motion offered by International Vice 6. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1324 (SAVANNAH, GA) President Murphy specifying that the per capita tax funding that is to be TO ENTER INTEREST ARBITRATION dedicated to organizing and other membership activism activities under Section 18.1 of the Constitution and General Laws as amended by the 55th …on February 1, 2007, Local 1324 was authorized to enter interest arbitration Convention be maintained in a distinct Fund. with the Chatham Area Transit Authority.

7. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 398 (BOISE, ID) GENERAL DISCUSSION TO ENTER INTO FACT-FINDING

The remainder of the session was devoted to general discussion among members …on February 1, 2007, Local 398 was authorized to enter fact-finding with of the Board the executive offices regarding a variety of issues pending before Valley Regional Transit. the union.

The meeting adjourned sine die at 12:15 p.m. 8. ADOPTION OF HEARING OFFICER’S REPORT ON THE TRUSTEESHIP OF LOCAL 1181 (NEW YORK, NY)

…on February 2, 2007, the General Executive Board adopted the Hearing Officer’s Report as its Findings and Determinations ratifying and continuing the trusteeship of Local 1181.

Oscar Owens 9. STRIKE SANCTION GRANTED TO MEMBERS OF Secretary LOCAL 757 (PORTLAND, OR) EMPLOYED BY AMERICAN MEDICAL RESPONSE

…on February 13, 2007, strike sanction was granted at the request of International Vice President Ronald Heintzman to the members of Local 757 employed by American Medical Response.

10. AUTHORIZATION FOR INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT TO PLACE LOCAL 757 (PORTLAND, OR) IN TEMPORARY INTERIM ACTIONS AND RULINGS TRUSTEESHIP

BY THE GENERAL EXECUTIVE BOARD …on February 15, 2007, the General Executive Board authorized International President George to place Local 757 in temporary trusteeship, effective FOR THE PERIOD JANUARY 1, 2007, immediately. THROUGH JUNE 30, 2007 11. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1729 (PITTSBURGH, PA) 1. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1005 (MINNEAPOLIS/ TO ENTER FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT ST. PAUL, MN) TO ESTABLISH A LOWER DUES STRUCTURE …on February 15, 2007, Local 1729 was authorized, through International … on January 9, 2007, Local 1005 was granted permission to establish a lower Vice President Joseph Welch, to enter a four-year agreement with Laidlaw dues structure. Transit, Inc.

2. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 690 (FITCHBURG, MA) 12. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1607 (DERBY, CT) TO ENTER FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT TO ENTER FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT

…on January 12, 2007, Local 690 was authorized, upon the request of …on February 22, 2007, Local 1607 was authorized, upon the request of International Vice President Richard Murphy, to enter a five-year agreement International Vice President Richard Murphy, to enter a four-year agreement with Laidlaw Transit, Inc. with the Valley Transit District.

3. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 788 (ST. LOUIS, MO) 13. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1624 (PETERBOROUGH, ON) TO ENTER FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT TO ENTER INTEREST ARBITRATION

…on January 23, 2007, Local 788 was authorized, upon the request of …on March 20, 2007, Local 1624 was authorized to enter interest arbitration International Vice President Javier Perez, to enter a five-year agreement with with the Coach Canada. Page-Dale.

20 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org 14. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 587 (SEATTLE, WA) 24. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 639 (LEXINGTON, KY) TO ENTER SIX-YEAR AGREEMENT TO ENTER FACT-FINDING

…on March 23, 2007, Local 587 was authorized, at the request of International …on May 8, 2007, Local 639 was authorized to enter interest arbitration with Vice President Ronald Heintzman, to enter a six-year agreement with MV the Lexington-Fayette Urban County Government (LexTran). Transportation, Inc.

25. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1603 (BETHLEHEM, PA) 15. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 757 (PORTLAND, OR) TO ESTABLISH A LOWER DUES STRUCTURE TO ENTER FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT …on May 9, 2007, Local 1603 was granted permission to establish a lower …on March 30, 2007, Local 757 was authorized, at the request of International dues structure. Vice President Ronald Heintzman, to enter a four-year agreement with the Rogue Valley Transportation District. 26. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1027 (FRESNO, CA) TO ENTER FIVE-YEAR AGREEMENT 16. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 441 (DES MOINES, IA) TO ENTER FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT …on May 11, 2007, Local 1027 was authorized, at the request of International Vice President Charles Cook, to enter a five-year plus agreement with MV …on April 19, 2007, Local 441 was authorized, at the request of International Transportation, Inc. Representative Marcellus Barnes, to enter a four-year agreement with the Des Moines Regional Transit Authority (DART). 27. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 732 (ATLANTA, GA) TO RETAIN LOWER DUES STRUCTURE 17. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 398 (BOISE, ID) TO ENTER INTEREST ARBITRATION …on May 17, 2007, Local 732 was granted permission to retain its current dues structure. …on April 19, 2007, Local 398 was authorized to enter interest arbitration with Valley Regional Transit. 28. REFERRAL OF CHANGES FILED AGAINST LOCAL 1384 (OLYMPIA, WA) EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBER 18. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1741 (LAFAYETTE, IN) TO ENTER INTEREST ARBITRATION …on May 17, 2007, International President George referred to Local 1384 a set of charges which had been filed with the Board against one of the local …on April 19, 2007, Local 1741 was authorized to enter interest arbitration union’s executive board members with a direction that such be processed in with the Greater Lafayette Public Transportation Corporation (CityBus). accordance with Section 22 of the Constitution.

19. REQUEST TO RETAIN LOWER DUES STRUCTURE 29. ANNULMENT OF LOCAL 784 (MERIDIAN, MS) CHARTER LOCAL 1742 (CHARLESTON, WV) …on May 24, 2007, International President George annulled the charter of …on April 27, 2007, Local 1742 was granted permission to retain its current Local 784 (Meridian, MS) in accordance with Section 12.3 of the Constitution dues structure. and General Laws upon determining that its failure and effective refusal to transmit per capita tax obligations owed to the International stood as evidence 20. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1742 (CHARLESTON, WV) that the subordinate body ceased to function as a working local of the Union. TO ENTER FOUR-YEAR AGREEMENT

…on May 8, 2007, Local 1742 was authorized, at the request of International 30. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 1729 (PITTSBURGH, PA) Vice President Richard Murphy, to enter a four-year agreement with the TO RETAIN LOWER DUES STRUCTURE Kanawha Valley Regional Transportation Authority. …on June 15, 2007, Local 1729 was granted permission to retain its current dues structure. 21. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCALS 281 (NEW HAVEN, CT), 425 (HARTFORD, CT), AND 443 (STAMFORD, CT) TO ENTER 39-MONTH AGREEMENT 31. TERMINATION OF PREVIOUSLY IMPOSED TRUSTEESHIP OF LOCAL 1755 (DENVER, CO) …on May 8, 2007, Locals 281, 425, and 443 were authorized, at the request of International Vice President Richard Murphy, to enter a 39-month agreement …on June 20, 2007, the General Executive Board voted to terminate the with HNS Management Company, Inc. (First Transit). trusteeship of Local 1755 and to contemporaneously merge that subordinate body into Local 1001 (Denver, CO) effective July 1, 2007.

22. STRIKE SANCTION GRANTED TO THE MEMBERS OF LOCAL 583, CALGARY, AB) EMPLOYED BY THE CITY OF CALGARY 32. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 694 (SAN ANTONIO, TX) TO RETAIN LOWER DUES STRUCTURE Under authority vested in International President George by action of the General Executive Board and pursuant to Section 20.2 of the ATU Constitution …on June 28, 2007, Local 694 was granted permission to retain its current and General Laws, on May 8, 2007, strike sanction was granted at the request dues structure. of International Vice President Bob Hykaway to the members of Local 583 employed by the City of Calgary (Calgary Transit).

23. AUTHORIZATION FOR LOCAL 998 (MILWAUKEE, WI) TO ENTER INTEREST ARBITRATION

…on May 8, 2007, Local998 was authorized to enter interest arbitration with Milwaukee Transport Services, Inc.

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 21 STAY FIT THIS WINTER According to the National Institute of Health, the average American gains about a pound of weight over the winter holiday season – this weight gain over several years can be a major contributing factor to obesity.

In addition to tempting holiday meals and treats which lead to overeating and weight gain, the cold weather at this time of year makes it more difficult to exercise.

But, as it turns out, the cold weather can actually help with weight loss. Dressing warm and adhering to a regimen of regular outdoor activity while in the cold can actually prove more beneficial than outdoor exercise in the warmer months. While exercising in the cold, the heat that the body generates during a workout dissipates more quickly, keeping you comfortable at higher intensities. Accordingly, the body burns more calories, and you’ll slim down quicker.

If the cold weather is just too much to bear, there are plenty of ways to exercise within the cozy confines of the house or in other indoor venues. Here are just a few suggestions: JUMP ROPE This can be done almost anywhere since it requires very little space. WALK UP AND DOWN AN INDOOR SECTION OF STAIRS

JOIN A HEALTH CLUB Often, great deals are available at this time of year. GO TO AN INDOOR POOL Many community pools offer lap swimming hours or even water aerobics classes at an affordable price. WALK AT THE MALL A quick stroll around the mall a few times will go a long way in eliminating weight gain throughout the winter. INVEST IN HOME EXERCISE EQUIPMENT Refurbished equipment can often be found on the cheap.

For many people, the winter holidays are a time to take respite from the often tedious exercise routines during the warmer months. Unfortunately, while the mind may need a break, the body cannot afford to take three months off. Staying healthy and active during the winter now will ensure many more enjoyable holidays to come.

This is the last in a series of articles on health and fitness issues facing ATU members. For more information on these issues, or to view previous Focus on Wellness articles, go to www.atu.org

22 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org KNOW YOUR RIGHTS: Whistleblowing

Following six years of ATU advocacy, Congress finally enacted the National Transit Systems Security Act (NTSSA), providing comprehensive transit and over-the-road bus security. Included in the law is new retaliation protection for employees of public transportation agencies, their contractors, and subcontractors ensuring the employee’s right to report on safety or security risks, also known as “whistleblowing.”

A whistleblower is an employee who, in good faith, discloses information that the employee reasonably believes evidences that the employer committed an illegal act.

THE PROTECTIONS

n The protections for transit employees prohibit an employer from discharging, demoting, suspending, reprimanding, or in any other way discriminating against an employee if based on any of the following acts lawfully done or perceived by the employer to have been done or about to be done by the employee in good faith: n Providing information to a supervisor or a federal, state, or local body about any conduct that the employee reasonably believes to be a violation of a federal law, rule or regulations, or information relating fraud or misuse of grant funds; n Refusing to violate any federal law, rule or regulations relating to safety or security; n Filing a complaint in connection with these protections; n Cooperating with an investigation by the Department of Transportation (DOT), the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), or the National Transit Safety Board (NTSB); n Furnishing information to certain enforcement agencies relating to an accident or incident resulting in injury or death; n Reporting a hazardous safety or security condition; n Refusing to work when confronted with a hazardous safety or security condition that a reasonable person believes would present imminent danger of death or serious injury; and n Refusing to authorize the use of safety- or security-related equipment, if the employee is responsible for the inspection and repair of the equipment, when the employee believes the equipment is in hazardous repair. n Where possible, employees must notify the public transportation agency of the existence of a hazardous condition and the intention not to perform further work, or not to authorize the use of the hazardous equipment.

FILING A COMPLAINT

Employees who believe they have been discharged or discriminated against in violation of the Act may file a complaint with the Secretary of Labor no later than 180 days after the date on which such violation occurs. Further details can be found on the Department of Labor’s website: http://www.osha.gov/dep/oia/whistleblower/acts/ntssa.html

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2007 23 LEGAL NOTICE TO: Employees Represented by ATU Locals in U.S. Bargaining Units Who Are Subject to Union Security Arrangements

Employees working under collective bargaining agreements which contain a union security clause are required, the formation of ATU bargaining demands; the right to vote on contract ratification questions; and the right as a condition of their employment, to pay monthly dues or fees to the union. Regardless of the specific wording to enjoy the many benefits of the Union Privilege Benefits Program, which offers low-interest credit cards, legal used in such a clause, however, formal union membership cannot be, and is not, actually mandated. Those who and travel services, prescription drug cards, and life insurance. are members of the ATU pay monthly union dues. Nonmembers, or “agency feepayers,” meet their obligation The Notice of Statement of Law and Procedures which appears below sets forth the specific means by which through the payment of an equivalent “agency fee.” an individual who decides to become a nonmember agency feepayer notwithstanding the above considerations Nonmembers subject to a union security clause also have the additional legal right to file objections to their may lodge and perfect a request for a reduction in the amount of his or her monthly International per capita fee funding of certain expenditures with which they may disagree. More specifically, in a series of judicial and obligation. (This notice applies only to the International Union expenditures and to the per capita tax portion agency decisions it has been determined that objecting nonmembers may not properly be charged for union of local union dues except where – as is typically the case – the local union has, by voluntary and affirmative activities and expenditures which are “unrelated to collective bargaining, contract administration, or grievance action, adopted this Notice and Statement for application to the local union’s total fees in order to comply with adjustment” and/or are otherwise “nongermane to the collective bargaining process.” the dictates of the applicable law in this area.) First implemented two decades ago, this detailed process has When considering these matters, individuals should remember that the union security clause included in been carefully tailored to satisfy the objectors’ rights to not financially support “nongermane” activities while their labor contract was negotiated and ratified by their fellow employees based upon the principle that everyone still requiring them to share in the full costs of union representation. who benefits from the collective bargaining process should share in its costs. Simply stated, the well-being of As noted, these procedures have been effectively imposed upon us. It remains our opinion that all of our all bargaining unit employees is improved immeasurably when the union obtains higher wages, better health organizing and all the legislative, litigation, and similar activities undertaken by the ATU – some of which tribunals care and retirement benefits, fairness in the discipline system, and the many other improvements realized in have indicated may in part be ideological and, therefore, nonchargeable – are essential to improving the working contract negotiations. But it would be difficult to provide such effective representation at the bargaining table conditions of all the employees we represent. Still, as a democratic and law-abiding union, we acknowledge and without the influence earned through the “nongermane” political and ideological activities of the trade union stand fully prepared to honor an individual’s freedom to choose not to participate as a full member of the ATU movement. If the ATU and other labor organizations did not express the workers’ views on the important is- and to not support these essential union endeavors. sues facing our nation and communities, one can only imagine how much more damage might be done to the The rights are, of course, yours. But for only pennies more per day, you can enjoy the many advantages of rights and interests of American working men and women by anti-Labor forces in Washington, DC, and in union membership in the ATU. statehouses across the country. Any individual thinking of electing objector status also needs to keep in mind the considerable benefits of union membership that must first be surrendered. As a nonmember, a fee objector relinquishes many valu- able privileges, including the right to attend and participate in union meetings; the right to run in local union Warren S. George elections and to otherwise nominate and vote for any candidates for union office; the right to participate in International President

The following ATU Statement of Law and Procedures concerning union security i. All strike fund expenditures and costs of group cohesion and economic who should be notified of the proceedings. objections applies only to the International per capita tax charged to objectors action, e.g., general strike activity, informational picketing, etc.; a. All appeals filed within any given forty-five (45) day period shall as part of local union fees (unless this Notice and Statement has been adopted j. All funeral or dismemberment benefits; and be consolidated. Appeals shall be heard as soon as the AAA can schedule by the local union for application to the local union’s total fees). k. A proportional share of all overhead and administrative expenses. the arbitration and shall be at a location selected by the AAA to be the 1. Any ATU-represented nonmember employee, whether publicly or 4. Each December, the International Union shall publish these policies most convenient for those involved in the proceeding. privately employed, who is subject to a union security clause condition- and procedures in the In Transit to provide to ATU-represented employees b. Each party to the arbitration shall bear its own costs. The chal- ing continued employment on the payment of dues or fees has the right notice of their right to object and of the procedures for objecting. The lengers shall have the option of paying a pro-rata portion of the arbitra- to become an objector to expenditures not related to collective bargain- International shall also send a copy of these policies and procedures to tor’s fees and expenses. The union shall pay the balance of such fees and ing, contract administration, grievance adjustment, or other chargeable each person who objected the previous year to inform the person of his expenses. expenditures. A current ATU member who chooses not to tender the or her right to renew the objection for the current year. c. Challengers may, at their expense, be represented by counsel or full periodic (monthly) dues and assesments uniformly required for the 5. The International retains an independent auditor who submits an an- other representative of choice. Challengers need not appear at the hearing acquisition or retention of full membership in the union, but who instead nual report for the purpose of verifying the percentage of expenditures and shall be permitted to instead file written statements with the arbitrator opts to become an objector, must assume nonmember status prior to filing that fall within the categories specified in Section 3. Similarly, if the local no later than the beginning of the arbitration hearing. Post-hearing state- an objection through these procedures. An objector shall pay reduced fees union has adopted these procedures for application to its total fees, the ments may be filed in accordance with the provisions of Section 8(g). calculated in accordance with Section 5. local union arranges for the audit of the records, enabling the local union d. Fourteen (14) days prior to the start of the arbitration, challengers 2. To become an objector,1 an ATU-represented nonmember employee to verify annually the percentage of its total expenditures other than the shall be provided with copies of all exhibits or a list of all such exhibits shall notify the International Secretary-Treasurer in writing of the objection International per capita tax that is chargeable to objectors. The amount intended to be introduced at the arbitration by the union and a list of transmitted during the month of January each year or within thirty (30) days of the International and local union expenditures falling within Section all witnesses the union intends to call, except for exhibits and witnesses after assuming nonmember status. Employees who were not subject to an 3 made during that fiscal year which ended in the previous calendar year the union may introduce for rebuttal. Where a list of exhibits has been ATU union security clause as of January in any given year must forward an shall be the basis for calculating the reduced fees that must be paid by provided, challengers shall have a right to receive copies of such exhibits by objection within thirty (30) days after becoming subject to union security the objector for the current calendar year.2 For each objector, an amount making a written request for them to the International Secretary-Treasurer. obligations and receiving notice of these procedures or within thirty (30) equal to the reduced fees paid by the objector shall be placed in an interest- Additionally, copies of all exhibits shall be available for inspection and days after assuming nonmember status. The objection shall be signed and bearing escrow account. copying at the hearing. shall specify the objector’s current home mailing address, name the objec- 6. The report(s) of the independent auditor(s) shall be completed prior to e. A court reporter shall make a transcript of all proceedings before tor’s employer with which the applicable union security arrangements have the publication of these policies and procedures in December. The report(s) the arbitrator. This transcript shall be the only official record of the -pro been entered into, and identify the ATU local union number, if known. shall include verification of the major categories of union expenses attribut- ceedings and may be purchased by the challengers. If challengers do not All objections should be mailed to the International Secretary-Treasurer, able to chargeable and nonchargeable activities. Local unions which adopt purchase a copy of the transcript, a copy shall be available for inspection 5025 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20016-4139 or transmitted these procedures shall provide a copy of their independent auditor’s report by challengers at the International headquarters during normal business by facsimile to 202-244-7824 with a separate cover page directing such to each nonmember employee represented by the local union. hours. to the attention of the International Secretary-Treasurer and specifying 7. In the absence of an exclusive statutory review procedure,3 each ob- f. The arbitrator shall have control over all procedural matters affecting the subject thereof to be the “Election of Fee Objector Status.” A person jector may challenge the legal and arithmetical bases of the calculations the arbitration in order to fulfill the dual needs of an informed and an who wishes to continue an objection in a subsequent twelve (12) month contained in the independent auditor report(s) by filing an appeal with expeditious arbitration. The arbitrator shall set forth in the decision the period shall so provide notice of objection each January. the International Secretary-Treasurer. Nonmember objectors in bargain- legal and arithmetic bases for the decision, giving full consideration to 3. The following categories of expenditure are chargeable to the extent ing units covered by the National Labor Relations Act shall also have the the legal requirements limiting the amount objectors may be charged. permitted by law: right to seek a determination of any issues relating to these procedures g. The parties to the arbitration shall have the right to file a post-hearing a. All expenses concerning the negotiation of agreements, practices by invoking the jurisdiction of the National Labor Relations Board. If statement within fifteen (15) days after both parties have completed sub- and working conditions; such an objector chooses not to invoke the Board’s jurisdiction, or if the mission of their cases at the hearing. Such statements may not introduce b. All expenses concerning the administration of agreements, practices Board defers to these appeal procedures, the nonmember objector’s appeal new evidence nor discuss evidence not introduced in the arbitration. and working conditions, including grievance handling, all activities related shall be filed exclusively with the International Secretary-Treasurer. Any The arbitrator shall issue a decision within forty-five (45) days after the to arbitration, and discussion with employees in the bargaining unit or such appeal must be made by sending a signed letter to the International final date for submission of post-hearing statements or within such other employer representatives regarding working conditions, benefits and Secretary-Treasurer postmarked or transmitted via facsimile no later than reasonable period as is consistent with the applicable AAA rules and the contract rights; thirty (30) days after the International Secretary-Treasurer has forwarded requirements of law. c. Convention expenses and other normal union internal governance a letter to the objector acknowledging receipt of the objection or the date h. The decision of the arbitrator shall be final and binding on all and management expenses; the National Labor Relations Board affirmatively declines to assert its findings of fact supported by substantial evidence on the record considered d. Social activities and union business meeting expenses; reviewing jurisdiction, whichever is later. as a whole and on other findings legally permitted to be binding on all e. Publication expenses to the extent coverage is related to otherwise 8. Except where state law provides an exclusive statutory review procedure parties. chargeable activities; as discussed in Note 3 below or when an objector proceeds before the i. Upon receipt of the arbitrator’s award, any adjustment in favor of f. Expenses of litigation before the courts and administrative agencies National Labor Relations Board as set forth in Section 7, all such appeals the challenger will be made from the escrow account. related to contract administration, collective bargaining rights and internal received by the union within the time limits specified above shall be de- 9. Under Section 18.1 of the ATU Constitution and General Laws, each governance; termined by expeditious referral to an impartial arbitrator appointed by local union will be responsible for collecting and transmitting to the In- g. Expenses for legislative, executive branch and administrative agency the American Arbitration Association (AAA) under its rules for impartial ternational Union each month from those who have made an objection representation on legislative and regulatory matters closely related to determination of union fees and these procedures. The International the amount of the per capita tax certified as due under these procedures. contract ratification or the implementation of contracts; Union will notify the AAA that challenges of its fees, which have been In addition, each local will be responsible for developing a system cover- h. All expenses for the education and training of members, officers, received from one or more individual employees, are to be determined ing local union fees that will meet the legal requirements relative to the and staff intended to prepare the participants to better perform chargeable by an impartial arbitrator and will include the names and addresses of the objectors in the local. If the local union affirmatively opts to adopt the activities; individuals who have filed the appeals challenging the union’s fees and International procedures concerning fee objections on a integrated basis,

24 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org no multiple notice (other than providing its independent auditor’s report to nonmember employees represented by the local union), objection, challenge or appeal procedures will be necessary. If, however, the local union Amalgamated Transit Union Analysis of Objectors’ Expenses Year Ended June 30, 2007 adopts an independent system covering local union expenditures other than per capita tax, such arrangements must, by law, be included in the local’s procedures. The local’s procedures must, further, at a minimum: (1) establish record-keeping methods sufficient to permit an accurate calculation of the percentage of the local’s total expenditures that are chargeable to objectors; (2) provide for an independent audit which will enable the local union to verify annually the chargeable portion of the local’s total expenditures, the amount of the reduced fees payable by objectors, and the appropriate escrow amount; and (3) provide objectors a single, expeditious review of the calculation of the chargeable expenditures before a neutral person not selected by the local. Under either an integrated or independent local system governing local union fees, each local union is responsible for collecting only those fees as may be certified as properly due to the local union. 10. The provisions of this procedure shall be considered legally separable. Should any provision or portion hereof be held contrary to law by a court, administrative agency or arbitrator, the remaining provisions or portions thereof shall continue to be legally effective and binding. If, after consultation with each other, the International President or the local union business agent determines that modifications in this procedure are necessary to maintain compliance with applicable law, such modifications may be made in accordance with the Constitution and General Laws of the International Union or the bylaws of the local union, as applicable.

NOTES 1. ATU-represented public employees in Illinois, Minnesota, Montana, or Oregon who are not members of the union are automatically considered objectors and are not required to make a filing under the provisions of Sections 2 and 4 of this Statement of Law and Procedures. The collective bargaining statute applicable to New Jersey public employers (with the significant exceptions of New Jersey Transit and NJT-Mercer) has the same impact. Similarly, except where a more stringent union security arrangement was in place on January 1, 1970, and has been continued in accordance with the “grand fathering” provisions of state law, the Pennsylvania public employee bargaining statute only permits a fair share union security clause under which every nonmember is obligated to pay only a reduced fee based upon prior chargeable expenditures. Local unions representing such members shall forward the names of all such nonmember objectors to the International Secretary-Treasurer, including the objector’s current home address and employer. 2. In accordance with applicable state laws, the reduced per capita tax owed by nonmember public employee objectors in Minnesota and New Jersey (except those working for New Jersey Transit or NJT-Mercer) shall be computed utilizing either the percentage of chargeable expenditures as verified by the report of the independent auditor retained by the International or eighty-five (85%) percent, whichever is lesser. 3. State statutes covering public employees in Minnesota and New Jersey (again, other than those workers employed by New Jersey Transit or NJT-Mercer) require that any person wishing to challenge the fees file an action with the state public employment board (Minnesota) or with a three-member board appointed by the governor specifically to hear fair share challenges (New Jersey). Where these statutes are applicable, any local union procedure must provide that the binding expeditious review be through the applicable state process. Amalgamated Transit Union - Analysis of Objectors’ Expense for the Fiscal Year Ended June 30, 2007

To the Chair and Members of the General Executive Board of the NOTES TO ANALYSIS OF OBJECTORS’ EXPENSES D. Expenses are analyzed to identify chargeable and non-chargeable Amalgamated Transit Union YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 2007 amounts using the following criteria: NOTE 1. SUMMARY OF SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES 1. Chargeable expenses include: We have audited the accompanying Analysis of Objectors’ Expenses of Method of Accounting - The Analysis is presented using a modified • All expenses concerning the negotiation of agreements, the Amalgamated Transit Union (the Analysis) for the year ended June 30, cash basis of accounting. Generally, expenses are recognized when paid practices and working conditions; 2007. The Analysis is the responsibility of the Union’s management. Our rather than when the obligation is incurred. However, accruals of expenses • All expenses concerning the administration of agreements, responsibility is to express an opinion on the Analysis based on our audit. are recorded for certain transactions with local unions, funeral benefits, practices and working conditions, including grievance handling, all activities related to arbitration and discussion We conducted our audit in accordance with auditing standards generally accrued compensated absences and other items. with employees in the bargaining unit or employer accepted in the United States of America. Those standards require that we Depreciation - Depreciation of property and equipment is charged to operations over the estimated useful lives of the assets using the representatives regarding working conditions, benefits and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether contract rights; the Analysis is free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, straight-line method. Benefit Payments- The Union’s Constitution and General Laws • Convention expenses and other normal Union internal on a test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the provide for the payment of a $1,000 funeral or dismemberment benefit governance and management expenses; Analysis. An audit also includes assessing the accounting principles used on behalf of members and fee payers in good standing with one or more • Social activities and Union business meeting expenses; and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the years of continuous membership or fee payment at the time of their • Publication expenses to the extent coverage is related to overall presentation of the Analysis. We believe that our audit provides a death or dismemberment. An expense is recognized for the benefit for chargeable activities; reasonable basis for our opinion. life members at the time they become life members. The costs associated • Expenses of litigation before the courts and administrative As described in Note 1, the Analysis was prepared on a modified cash with this benefit for other members and fee payers are accounted for upon agencies related to contract administration, collective basis of accounting, which is a comprehensive basis of accounting other disbursement of the benefit. bargaining rights and internal governance; than generally accepted accounting principles. Estimates - The preparation of this Analysis requires management • Expenses for legislative, executive branch and administrative agency representation on legislative and regulatory matters The total net (U.S.) includable expenses presented in the Analysis agree to to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts closely related to contract ratification or the implementation the expenses in the audited financial statements of the Amalgamated Transit of expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from those estimates. of contracts; Union for the year ended June 30,2007, as modified as discussed in Note 3. • All strike fund expenditures and other costs of group The allocations of expenses between chargeable and non-chargeable are based NOTE 2. PURPOSE OF ANALYSIS OF OBJECTORS’ EXPENSES cohesion and economic action, e.g., demonstrations, general on the descriptions and the significant factors and assumptions described AND SIGNIFICANT FACTORS AND ASSUMPTIONS USED IN strike activity, informational picketing, etc.: in Note 2. The accompanying Analysis was prepared for the purpose of DETERMINING CHARGEABLE AND NON-CHARGEABLE EXPENSES • All expenses for the education and training of members, determining the amount of the Union’s expenses that are chargeable or non- The purpose of this Analysis is for the determination of the percentage officersand staff intended to prepare the participants to chargeable to fee objectors. The accompanying Analysis is hot intended to of fee objector dues (or their equivalent) expended by the Union for better perform chargeable activities; be a complete presentation of the Union’s financial statements. chargeable activities. Expenses for chargeable activities are those deemed • All funeral and dismemberment benefits; and “necessarily or reasonably incurred” to execute the representational duties In our opinion, the Analysis referred to above presents fairly, in all material • An allocable amount of all net building expenses. of the Union. The percentage of Union expenses deemed not chargeable 2. Non-chargeable expenses include all other expenses. respects, the includable expenses of the Amalgamated Transit Union for is used for determining advance dues (or their equivalent) reduction for the year ended June 30, 2007, and the allocation between chargeable and E. For those expenses which have both chargeable or non-chargeable fee objectors for the subsequent calendar year. aspects, allocations are made using certain ratios. Significant ratios non-chargeable expenses, on the basis of accounting described in Note 1 The procedures followed in the preparation of this Analysis include used for these allocated expenses include ratios based on salary and significant factors and assumptions described in Note 2. categorization of each classification of expenses by chargeable and non- costs supported by time records and other ratios such as student This report is intended solely for the infonnation and use of the chargeable activities. This is accomplished by analyzing each classification days ratios for allocation of seminar costs and printed line ratios Amalgamated Transit Union and its fee objectors and is not intended to of expenses and identifying amounts which are either chargeable or for allocation of certain publication costs. be and should not be used by anyone other than these specified parties. non-chargeable. The Union engaged professional assistance to detennine criteria for NOTE 3. RECONCILIATION OF ANALYSIS TO AUDITED identifying chargeable and non-chargeable expenses. The procedures and FINANCIAL STATEMENTS significant factors and assumptions used in this Analysis in detennining The expenses included in this analysis are based upon the total expenses these expenses are as follows: of $22,434,084 reported in the audited financial statements of the A. All expenses are identified by fund and reconciled to the Union’s Amalgamated Transit Union modified for the following: annual financial statements. $2,251,050 in Canadian expenses has been excluded from this analysis. Washington, DC B. Canadian expenses within each fund are eliminated. Dated: August 29, 2007, except for the allocation of expenditures C. Certain interfund transfers are recorded to more accurately reflect $138,591 relating to various expenses which have been offset by described in Note 2 as to which the date is November 20, 2007 the Union activity for which certain expenditures were made. corresponding revenue items have been excluded from this analysis.

www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 25 Bill Seeks Crackdown on ADA Violations by Over-the-Road Bus Companies

Responding to a refusal by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety rules. Similarly, FMCSA can refuse to grant operating authority to a Administration (FMCSA) to revoke the operating authority for carrier who is not in compliance with the ADA. intercity bus operators who refuse to comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), the bipartisan leadership on the House The ATU asked the committee to introduce this legislation as a way Transportation and Infrastructure Committee introduced H.R. 3985, of cracking down on blatant violations of ADA rules by curbside the Over-the-Road Bus Transportation Accessibility Act of 2007. bus operators. Numerous fringe bus companies, operating primarily in the Northeast corridor of the U.S., have been operating in violation The bill was introduced on Monday, October 29, by Highways and of the ADA and other rules governing intercity bus operations — Transit Subcommittee Chair Peter DeFazio, D-OR, along with the full resulting in unfair competition to more legitimate bus companies like committee Chair Jim Oberstar, D-MN, and Ranking Members John Greyhound and Peter Pan. Mica, R-FL, and John Duncan, R-TN. The bill was unanimously passed out of the full committee on Wednesday, October 31. The ATU will continue to work to pass this legislation before Congress adjourns for the year. If enacted, the bill would require FMCSA to investigate ADA complaints and to revoke operating authority from a carrier who violates ADA

26 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org LOCAL 168 - Scranton, PA County of Lackawanna Transit System Authority (COLTS) Local President Arthur Levandoski and International Vice President Larry Hanley report settlement. TERM: 4 years 7/1/05 - 6/30/09 WAGES: Top Operator 7/1/05 - 504 - 2.9% - $17.55 (was $17.05) 7/1/06 - 504 - 2.8% - $18.05 7/1/07 - 504 - 2.8% - $18.55 7/1/08 - 504 - 2.7% - $19.05 Top Mechanic AAA 7/1/05 - 504 - 2.8% - $18.45 (was $17.95) 7/1/06 - 504 - 2.7% - $18.95 7/1/07 - 504 - 2.6% - $19.45 7/1/08 - 504 - 2.6% - $19.95 H & W: Employee contribution $25/month, then to 4.25%/month in 2nd year and beyond S & A: $400/week (was $250) PENSION: Employer contribution $73.85/bi-weekly Employee contribution $76.00/bi-weekly UNIF. ALLOW.: $90, to $110 by end of agreement SHOE ALLOW.: $80, to $100 by end of agreement

LOCAL 241 & 308 - Chicago, IL Chicago Transit Authority Local Presidents Darrell Jefferson & Rick Harris along with International Vice President Bob Baker report interest arbitration.

TERM: 5 years 1/1/07 - 12/31/11 WAGES: Top Operator 1/1/07 - 764 - 3.0% pending legislative action - $26.09 (was $25.33) 1/1/08 - 784 - 3.0% - $26.87 1/1/09 - 814 - 3.0% - $27.68 1/1/10 - 974 - 3.5% - $28.65 1/1/11 - $1.00 - 3.5% - $29.65 Top Mechanic 1/1/07 - 794 - 3.0% - $26.98 (was $26.19) 1/1/08 - 814 - 3.0% - $27.79 1/1/09 - 834 - 3.0% - $28.62 1/1/10 - $1.00 - 3.5% - $29.62 1/1/11 - $1.04 - 3.5% - $30.66 H & W: Hospitalization stays the same as current contract for 5 years PENSION: One time adjustment for current retiree not to exceed $2.5 million contributions to 6% employee, 12% employer

Local 313 - Rock Island, IL Rock Island Metropolitan Mass Transit District Local President John Ridenour and International Vice President Paul Bowen report settlement. TERM: 4 years 3/1/07 - 2/28/11

allow = allowances hr = hour S&A = sickness & accident COLA = cost-of-living allowance ins = insurance SL = sick leave d/b/a = doing business as max = maximum svc = service ’ee(s) = employee(s) med = medical unif = uniform eff = effective mi = mile yr = year ’er = employer min = minimum wk = week eve = evening mo = month w/=with FMLA = Family Medical Leave Act PT = part-time @=at FT = full-time pmt = payment +=plus H&W = Health & Welfare prem = premium x=times

ABBREVIATIONS CDL = Commercial Driver’s License mgt = management SB = school bus LI = Life Insurance reg = regular OT = overtime www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 27 WAGES: Top Operator Top Mechanic - Master Technician 7/1/07 - 684 - 3.5% - $20.18 (was $19.50) 6/1/07 - _ - _ - $20.41 3/1/08 - 714 - 3.5% - $20.89 6/1/08 - 824 - 4.0% - $21.23 3/1/09 - 734 - 3.5% - $21.62 6/1/09 - 854 - 4.0% - $22.08 3/1/10 - 764 - 3.5% - $22.38 6/1/10 - 884 - 4.0% - $22.96 BONUS: Signing bonus up to $350 H & W: Multiple plans offered. Employee contributions range from $0 to $24.48 (bi-weekly) for single; $46.30 to $202.44 for family. Employer pays PROBATION: 120 days balance plus between $400 - $800 yearly per employee if they choose H & W: Employee contribution 7%, to 12% by end of agreement HSA plan. PART-TIME: Delete all references to part-time in contract PART-TIME: Maximum 69 part-time=s (was 63) NOTE: Labor-Management committee (New) TOOL ALLOW.: to $350 maximum (6/1/08) Accident/incident report pay (15 minutes) (New) UNIF. ALLOW.: to $300 maximum (6/1/08)

Local 416 - Peoria, IL Local 448 - Springfield, MA Greater Peoria Mass Transit District Lecrenski Brothers, Inc. Local President Ronald Cox and International Vice President Local President Ross Kiely and International Vice President Janis Borchardt report settlement. Larry Hanley report settlement. TERM: 3 years 12/1/06 - 11/30/09 TERM: 3.75 years 11/12/04 - 6/30/08 WAGES: Top Operator WAGES: Top Operator 12/1/06 - 214 - 1.0% - $20.96 (was $20.75) 9/1/04 - _ - _ - $15.65 12/1/07 - 234 - 1.0% - $21.19 1/1/05 - 354 - 2.2% - $16.00 12/1/08 - 284 - 1.3% - $21.47 9/1/05 - 404 - 2.5% - $16.40 Top Mechanic - 103% of top operator 1/1/06 - 354 - 2.1% - $16.75 9/1/06 - 354 - 2.1% - $17.10 PROGRESSION: 2nd 12 months 72% (was 70%) 1/1/07 - 404 - 2.3% - $17.50 H & W: Employee contribution - $98/month - single 9/1/07 - $1.00 - 5.7% - $18.50 $129/month - single + 1 1/1/08 - $1.00 - 5.4% - $19.50 $147/month - family BONUS: - $50 for working on birthday SICK LEAVE: Buy back @ separation 50% up to 130 hours (was 120 hours) - safety and attendance bonus Up to 10 days unpaid year UNIF. ALLOW.: $250 (was $230) SICK LEAVE: (3) days - spouse, child, parent, step-child, SHOE ALLOW.: $105 (was $100) BEREAVEMENT: grandparent & grandchild NOTE: The contract was ratified by a vote of 78 to 7. LOCAL 448 - Springfield, MA LOCAL 416 - Peoria, IL Springfield Area Transit Company, Inc. MV Transportation, Inc. Local President Ross Kiely and International Vice President Local President Ronald Cox and International Vice President Larry Hanley report settlement. Paul Bowen report settlement. TERM: 3 years 7/1/05 - 6/30/08 TERM: 3 years 9/1/06 - 8/31/09 WAGES: Top Operator WAGES: Top Operator 7/1/06 - 104 - .5% - $19.65 (was $19.55) 9/1/06 - _ - _ - $12.25 10/1/06 - 104 - .5% - $19.75 1/1/07 - 154 - .8% - $19.90 BONUS: Signing bonus $100 4/1/07 - 154 - .8% - $20.05 H & W: Employer contribution $230/month, to $290/month by end of agreement 7/1/07 - 254 - 1.2% - $20.30 1/1/08 - 254 - 1.2% - $20.55 SICK LEAVE: 3 days/year (was 2) 6/30/08 - 254 - 1.2% - $20.80 NOTE: Changes in grievance procedure. The contract was ratified by a Top Mechanic - AA@ - (110% top operator) vote of 22 to 4. 7/1/06 - $21.62 (was $21.51) 10/1/06 - $21.73 1/1/07 - $21.89 LOCAL 441 - Des Moines, IA 4/1/07 - $22.06 Des Moines Regional Transit Authority 7/1/07 - $22.33 1/1/08 - $22.61 Local President Jeff Welter and International Vice President 6/30/08 - $22.88 Marcellus Barnes report settlement. COLA: Frozen TERM: 4 years 6/1/07 - 5/31/11 PROGRESSION: Effective 7/1/06: WAGES: Top Operator 1st year - 75% (was 65%) 6/1/07 - 524 - 3.0% - $17.81 (was $17.29) 2nd year - 80% (was 70%) 6/1/08 - 534 - 3.0% - $18.34 3rd year - 85% (was 75%) 6/1/09 - 554 - 3.0% - $18.89 4th year - 90% (was 80%) 6/1/10 - 634 - 3.3% - $19.52 5th year - 95% (was 90%)

28 IN TRANSIT www.atu.org TOOL ALLOW.: Tool & shoe allowance $600, to $650 on 1/1/08 2/17/07 - 284 - 1.5% - $19.25 2/16/08 - 294 - 1.5% - $19.54 SHOE ALLOW.: $150/year for those not eligible for tool/shoe allowance Top Mechanic 2/18/06 - _ - 2.5% - $20.44 2/17/07 - 314 - 1.5% - $20.75 LOCAL 587 - Seattle, WA 2/16/08 - 314 - 1.5% - $21.06 Clallam Transit System H & W: HMO : 100% paid by employer - employee only Local President Lance Norton and International Vice President Employer contribution $26/month - employee + 1 Ron Heintzman report settlement. Employer contribution $24.26/month - family TERM: 3 years 1/1/04 - 12/31/06 POS: Employer contribution $52/month - employee only, $74/month - WAGES: Top Operator employee + 1, $97/month - family 1/1/04 - 494 - 2.7% - $18.47 (was $17.98) PART-TIME: Capped @ 29.165% of bus operators 1/1/05 - 514 - 2.8% - $18.98 1/1/06 - 524 - 2.7% - $19.50 TOOL ALLOW.: $200 Top Mechanic NOTE: Training pay - $1.00/hour 1/1/04 - 534 - 2.8% - $19.67 (was $19.14) 1/1/05 - 544 - 2.7% - $20.21 1/1/06 - 564 - 2.8% - $20.77 LONGEVITY: 5th year - 104/hour 10th year - 154/hour 15th year - 204/hour 20th year - 254/hour 25th year - 304/hour

LOCAL 587 - Seattle, WA Jefferson Transit Authority Local President Lance Norton reports settlement. TERM: 3 years 1/1/05 - 12/31/07 2008 WAGES: Top Operator 1/1/05 - _ - _ - $18.30 ATU Training 1/1/06 - 504 - 2.7% - $18.80 1/1/07 - 524 - 2.8% - $19.32 and Events Top Mechanic 1/1/05 - _ - _ - $20.02 1/1/06 - 554 - 2.7% - $20.57 1/1/07 - 574 - 2.8% - $21.14 January 22 – 25 Maintenance Seminar HOLIDAYS: Add floating holiday New Orleans, LA TOOL ALLOW.: $450/year February 5 – 10 Eastern Regional Conference SHOE ALLOW.: $100 Orlando, FL NOTE: Instructor pay - 110% of current wage February 20 – 22 Veolia Western Labor-Management Seminar LOCAL 587 - Seattle, WA Phoenix, AZ Seattle Personal Transit Local President Lance Norton reports settlement. March 8 – 12 ATU Legislative Conference TERM: 3 years 2/1/05 - 1/31/08 Washington, DC WAGES: Top Operator 6/1/05 - _ - _ - $15.52 March 18 – 20 Veolia Eastern 6/1/06 - 474 - 3.0% - $15.99 Labor-Management Seminar 6/1/07 - 484 - 3.0% - $16.47 Chapel Hill, NC BONUS: $200 signing bonus April 4 – 9 Western Regional Training Seattle, WA LOCAL 732 - Atlanta, GA MARTA May 5 – 10 Canadian Training Local President Ernest Brooks and International Vice President Vancouver, BC Kenneth Kirk report interest arbitration. TERM: 3 years 2/24/06 - 2/23/09 May 17 – 22 Mid-West Regional Training Minneapolis, MN WAGES: Top Operator 2/18/06 - _ - 2.5% - $18.97 www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 29 In Memoriam Death Benefits Awarded October - November 2007

1 - MEMBERS AT LARGE JOHN DEVINE 569- EDMONTON, AB EDMUND C. NUSSEAR JR 847- ST. JOSEPH, MO ROLAND L. REXROTH ERNEST C. BUZZELL FRANK L. DREWREY LIONEL P. BANDCROFT OSSMAN BUHL ORNDORFF JAMES G. NUNLEY JAMES H. TIBBS ALMA R. CASSINELLI CAROL L. GRAHAM FRED F. LE BLANC JOHN K. RANDALL RICHARD PAUL URCIOLO CLYDE W. CHRISTIAN EDWARD P. HENRY ARNOLD E. LEACHMAN THEODORE C. ROBERTS 880- CAMDEN, NJ LYMAN C. CRAFT JAMES M. JARVIS BRUCE A. PUDWELL JAMES SMITH HUBERT M. CONNELL 1309- SAN DIEGO, CA CHARLES R. FAIRLEY WILLIAM O. DORN ROBERT J. KANTOR WALTER L. TALLY WILLIAM HAROLD THAMES JOHN DONNELLY ALBERT J. JONES VALENCIA LANGFORD STEVE EVANS LOUIS MICHAEL PISONI GARNETT B. WEATHERFORD SR WALTER E. THORNTON WALTER EDGAR NEWTON GISELA R. MOLINA 580- SYRACUSE, NY KENT J. WOOD GUY HARRIS ANTHONY PIETRANGELO LARRY D. MORRIS LEONARD JOSEPH EGBERT HOWARD F. MACRI CHARLES V. POYNTER RONNIE RENTAS ROGER H. JEWITT LEONARD ALBERT MOORE 1321- ALBANY & TROY, NY 694- SAN ANTONIO, TX HAROLD BACHELDOR HEODORE G. RATH THADDIEUS M. ROLARK STEPHEN T. PEAKER DONALD L. LAUNER THOMAS JOSEPH KELLY MARVIN EUGENE RAYMOND ROBERT J. SALMEN 583- CALGARY, AB TIMOTHY S. SMITH VINCENT P. SHAYER HARRY ASHTON WINSTON WILSON 704- LITTLE ROCK, AR 1338- DALLAS, TX 26 - DETROIT, MI EMMA M. SIMPSON KEITH BRUCE JOSEPH PHILIP AGNEW ERNEST DAVID GROSE JOE S. ROGERS MOSES SANDERS ROBERT W. STOFER 956- ALLENTOWN, PA JOHN E. THURMAN CALDWELL DIXON JOHN J. VIOLLT MELVIN GORDON MC RAE ARTHUR S. KEICH NORVAL FORTUNE DONALD K. MULROONEY 713- MEMPHIS, TN EARNEST WALLS FRANK W. MORRIS 1342- BUFFALO, NY PAUL MORONI DMITRIY TOPORKOV RAYMOND W. LIMING THURMAN H. WRIGHT ROBERT F. ZIEGLER HENRY BASZCZYNSKI JOHN T. PRYOR MARGARET KANE 256 - SACRAMENTO, CA 587- SEATTLE, WA 717- MANCHESTER, NH 998- MILWAUKEE, WI RUTH MISENER 85 - PITTSBURGH, PA RENE JEFFERSON FRANCISCO GERONIMO JOSEPH F. WOLF DONALD J. AHLBORN ANDREA SANTIAGO ANTHONY DI CIERO RONALD W. HARWOOD CARMEN BACKHAS ROY E. DINGELDEIN 265- SAN JOSE, CA AKIRA HIGASHI 725- BIRMINGHAM, AL ANTHONY H. JANUCHOWSKI 1345- READING, PA DANA R. FRANCIS ADOLPH BROWN JR. JAMES BUFORD COLLEY FRANCIS J. LAUMANN MELVIN L. STETLER JOHN P. GLASKO LUCY J LOHREY 589- BOSTON, MA MORGAN HUMPHREY EDWIN J. MYLES JR MILDRED L. HALKO CLARENCE E. ANDERSON SAMUEL C. WILLIAMS ROBERT H. JACKSON JOHN N. SIGWART 1374- CALGARY, AB FREDERICK HERRINGTON ARNOLD G. BARCHARD ROBERT FRED BATES FLOYD JOHNSON MARLENE R. BARRETT 268- CLEVELAND, OH 726- STATEN ISLAND, NY 1001- DENVER, CO RODERICK E. BELL DAVID T. JONES KENNETH R. CLARK DONNA M. BLANCY JAMES B. CROWDIS FRED H. CURVEON BEVERLY J. KENNEDY LEO B. BUTTS LAWRENCE MITCHELL RALPH HOLLOWAY MELVIN L. SHEPARD WILLIAM KREVENCHUK WILLIAM K. KRUGH CHARLES J. CABRAL CORNELIUS H. YOUNG JOSEPH LOVAS JOHN J. CARROLL 732- ATLANTA, GA 1005- MINNEAPOLIS & 1447- LOUISVILLE, KY JOHN NOVAK CARTER CROSBY MARTIN PERRY BURDINE LEWIS W. GOSSETT 272- YOUNGSTOWN, OH ST. PAUL, MN DAVID T. PETERS GEORGE A. DOHERTY HAL A. TERRY JACK E. TRENT JOHN T. SPENIL JOHN H. CLINE FRANK J. REINHARDT ARTHUR FINSTEIN GERALD B. DANIELS MICHAEL SAN MARCO CHARLES R. GALLAGHER 757- PORTLAND, OR 1462- ST. JOHN’S, NF 279- OTTAWA, ON FRANK N. FRAZER FREDERICK R. SLANEY JOHN E GANNON STEVEN L. PETTIFORD WILLIAM RYAN DARCY BOULAY DANIEL F. JOHNSON MARVIN J. SMITH CHARLES J. HENWOOD SR ALLAN J. BOYD EVERETT L. PHIPPS JAMES E. PUYPE GROVER L. TAYLOR WILLIAM F. HUGHES 1493- RALEIGH, NC MICHEL D. GRAVELLE JAMES R. STEELE ROBERT E. SCHULTZ ALBERT J. TEXTER EDWARD L. LYNCH EVVARD WEST ROGER T. HEDGEPETH RONALD A. TORRANCE DALE C. JACKSON JOHN J. McCARRON JEAN GUY JEANVEAUX 1160- MONROE, LA 1505- WINNIPEG, MB WILLIAM R. WAGNER EDWARD M. O’CONNELL 758- TACOMA, WA REGENT LEDUC JUSTIN JOSEPH PHINNEY MCARTHUR BROOKS JACQUES COULOMBE VERNELLE C. HUDSON 103 - WHEELING, WV ARMAND ROCHON KEITH W. PRATT DANIEL CUDDY DAVID J. DORAN VINCENT SALVI 1177- NORFOLK, VA STANLEY J. DUDZIC 281- NEW HAVEN, CT HAROLD M. SIEGEL 788- ST. LOUIS, MO LOYD I. BOWEN KENNETH JAMES GRAHAM 113 - TORONTO, ON DAVID NELSON LOIS M. HANNER GEORGE COREY JR. JOHN GLEN McCANN SAMUEL J. APPLETON JOSEPH SHOWL 615- SASKATOON, SK DONALD W. TRESSLER LEONARD MONATSBERGER ISAAC PENNER FELIX BACH LEONARD GUDMUNDSON ROBERT VERHEY ANDREAS SCHUETZMANN ARCHIE MURRAY WAGNER SAM JOHN CUSIMANO 308- CHICAGO, IL WINSTON L. JARRETT 1179- NEW YORK, NY MARIO D’ALESSANDRO ROBERT H. AUGUSTIN 819- NEWARK, NJ LANGLEY JOHNSON 1572- MISSISSAUGA, ON DOMINIC DI PAOLO ELMER H. BROWN 618- PROVIDENCE, RI BREMAN S. BOOKHARDT NORMAN S. ROBERSON JOHN D. DORAN ARTHUR O. ECCLES CHARLES A. COOKE BENJAMIN DI SANO MARIE T. DEEHAN ERSIE R. FOSTER 1181- NEW YORK, NY DOMENICO GARITO GERALD O. LANGLOIS CHARLES HENRY 1575- SAN RAFAEL, CA THOMAS CROOKS GOURLEY CLIFTON GRAHAM WILLIAM P. MERANDI RICHARD W. MORGAN ANTHONY DE MAIO JEAN F. JACKSON HUMBERTO A. ALVARADO KENNETH AUSTIN MAY JOHN K. WILLIAMS LLOYD F. DINWIDDIE JOHN H. LEWIS 1267- FT.LAUDERDALE, FL FINTAN MOORE 627- CINCINNATI, OH MARY J. WRIGHT WILLIAM R. OMLOR AURELIO MOSCARIELLO WILLIAM A. MULWEE PAUL A. EASTER ELIJAH L. MOBLEY CARLOS J. RAMIREZ MICHAEL GERALD MULLAN LINDA M. WALLACE 821- JERSEY CITY, NJ 1587- TORONTO, ON JOHN MURRAY NICKS ELIZABETH A. RUSSO 1277- LOS ANGELES, CA JOSEPH MICHAEL KILIAN MARGARET E. FINCH THOMAS PAINTER WILLIE D. SUDDUTH 689- WASHINGTON, DC LUCAS HERNANDEZ RICHARD J. PEDDER THOMAS A. TEUSCHER JOHN T. BLACKNALL RUDOLPHO VALENZUELA 824- NEW BRUNSWICK, NJ 1625- BUFFALO, NY HORACE H. SAMBRIDGE EARNEST CANTY JAMES CURETON WALTER KEITH SWANSTON 425- HARTFORD, CT NORMAN H. COLLINS III LEONARD KRUSHINSKI 1287- KANSAS CITY, MO LEWIS ROY TUNBRIDGE CHRISTOBAL BURGOS JOSEPH C. DREW EDSEL PONICSAN JEWELL WADE 1700- CHICAGO, IL LEOPOLD GUERTIN RICHARD V. EOFF EUGENE A. FURST 241 - CHICAGO, IL JOE LOUIS JERRY JR 825- ORADELL, NJ 1300- BALTIMORE, MD WILLIE RAY HAMM SYLVESTER BLAYLOCK 448- SPRINGFIELD, MA WARNER H. LONG ANNIE F. THOMAS PAUL THOMAS GREB ROBERT W. REES HAROLD W. CHILDERS JEAN C. BELANGER MEIGS A. NEWKIRK RICHARD WERNLI ALVIS C. MC LEAN ARTHUR C. TOLAR

3030 IN IN TRANSIT TRANSIT www.atu.org www.atu.org New Year’s Resolutions 1. Exercise 2. Finances Resolve3. Connections To ring in the New Year with union member savings! IT’S RESOLUTION TIME… the perfect time to take control and get your life into better shape.This year,resolve to take full advantage of your union’s benefits.There’s no better way to stretch your hard-earned paycheck and enrich your life both on and off the job.Check out the special savings and customized services available only to union members. Here are some of the ways your union benefits can help you make a strong start this New Year.

SHAPE UP FIX your finances IMPROVE your body and mind • Get FREE credit counseling your connections • Shed holiday pounds and budget advice • Take an additional 10% and high rates with union from professionals off the regular rate of any individual discounts at more carefully chosen to or family calling plan purchased at a than 1,500 protect the interests AT&T Wireless store. The union discount is ONLY available at AT&T stores, NOT health clubs of union workers. available through the phone, at any authorized AT&T dealer nationwide, or kiosk. (If you call any AT&T customer service phone num- • Save 15% on all ber, they cannot apply the discount.) including Bally Total Fitness, myFICO credit score products, • Get high-speed dial-up Internet select Gold’s Gyms and other including credit reports and service that’s 5 times faster top fitness centers. personalized score explanation. than 56K for only $14.95 a month. • Save up to 40% on • Check our easy-to-use loan payment • Use Union Plus Voice with movie tickets. calculators and other financial tools your existing broadband connection • Get discount DVD to get out of debt faster and make and save 85% on your phone bill. rentals at Blockbuster. smart decisions about • Read about something your financing your new. Find great selec- mortgage, cars and tions and bargain lifestyle choices. prices at Powell’s • Find out how to raise your credit Book Store, the score, correct errors on credit largest unionized reports and qualify for lower rates Internet bookseller. on credit cards and loans. • Apply for a low-rate loan or credit card.

To learn more about the benefits, and savings available to you visit, www.UnionPlus.org EdMail-10/07 www.atu.org NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2007 31 PROUD TO BE ATU Moving the U.S. and Canada Safely ATU Financial Secretary Seminar October 28 - November 2, 2007 Silver Spring, Maryland

Walter P. Barrington Paul Boie Brian Chamberlain Edward A. Dustman Stephanie Dyson Evette Farra Becky Gardner LOCAL 1462 LOCAL 1363 LOCAL 1624 LOCAL 697 LOCAL 1546 LOCAL 757 LOCAL 1192 St. John’s, NL Providence, RI Peterborough, ON Toledo, OH Baton Rouge, LA Portland, OR Waterloo, IA

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Amalgamated Transit Union NON-PROFIT ORG. AFL-CIO/CLC U.S. POSTAGE 5025 Wisconsin Ave., NW PAID Washington, D.C. 20016 WASHINGTON, D.C. www.atu.org PERMIT NO. 2656

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