COPE REPORT IT’S PICNIC TIME! NORTHWEST CONFERENCE JULY 2002 TRANSPORTATION PLANS BE THERE / VOLUNTEER VP REPORT Inside This Issue… Page 3 Page 5 Page 7

Check out our Web site: www.atu587.com VOL. XXV, NO. 7

The President’s Report Contracts and Ordinances

by President Lance Norton

cludes guaranteed wage increases am proud to serve them. on Proposed Ordinance 2002-243. for each of the three year con- This ordinance spells out the use tract, two additional paid holi- King County Ordinance agreement between King County, days, five months retroactive pay, Sound Transit and the City of as well as improvements in work- 2002-243 Seattle, that will establish joint ing conditions throughout. The Transportation Committee rail/bus operations in the Down- There were several times of the King County Council met on town Seattle Transit Tunnel. when the negotiations were June 5, 2002, to consider and vote continued on page 6 rather touch and go, and a couple of tense spots. I wish to express my gratitude to Executive Board Officer Ninus Hopkins, and SPT members Ed Taylor and Roscoe Seamon, who provided me ca- ATTENTION pable and patient assistance during these negotiations. Lance F. Norton I also wish to thank all of our ALL MEMBERS! members at Seattle Personal N SATURDAY, JUNE 15, Transit for their patience, un- The cycle of meetings for July have 2002, Local 587 mem- derstanding and professional- been set forward one week due to the O bers employed by Seattle ism. Even those who expressed Personal Transit met to review, concerns or opposition conducted Fourth of July holiday. discuss and vote on a proposed themselves with professionalism The Charter meeting will be held July three year contract. I am pleased and dignity and treated each to announce that the members other with the courtesy deserv- 11th, with the remaining meetings to present at that meeting voted to ing of a fellow union member. follow in the customary manner. accept this offer by a two thirds They are a hardworking, dedi- majority. The new contract in- cated group of individuals and I

AMALGAMATED • TRANSIT • UNION NON PROFIT U.S. POSTAGE 2700 1st Avenue, Room 204 PAID Seattle, WA 98121 SEATTLE WA PERMIT NO 1471

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED 2 July 2002 The Month at a Glance Business of the Executive Board Membership Report

At the June 2002 cycle of mem- for arbitration was tabled to the June 25, 2002 bership meetings, the following July cycle of membership meetings. business was conducted: The following members were The following officers were Mangiameli was out to due an • Motion made at the JTA meet- June pot draw winners: Bill present: The following officers injury. ing to contribute $500.00 to the Adams at the Charter meeting, were present: President Lance Jefferson Transit Employees As- John Reardon at the morning Norton, Vice President Glen The following business was sociation to help provide awards meeting, Pam Thompson at JTA. Travis, Financial Secretary Paul conducted: for the first bus rodeo held since I- CTS pot draw winner was Teri Griffin, Recording Secretary • Motion by David Magidman 695. Motion will be continued Acorn. Rolling CTS pot draw of Jennie Gil, Linda Anderson, to donate $200 to King County through the Charter and Morning $150.00 was lost by Claudia Marc Auerbach, Paul Bachtel, Labor Council for their Labor meetings. Girrand. Next month’s pot will be John Bellinger, Lisa Carter, Day celebration. Sister Karen Rispoli’s request $175.00. Katherine Eckhardt, John • Motion by Dee Wakenight to Farrell, Ninus Hopkins, Dan recommend taking Patricia Linville, David Magidman, Mike McWilliams termination griev- Rochon, Brian Sherlock, Dee ance to arbitration. Tentative Agenda Wakenight, Shirley Walker, • Motion by Dan Linville to Mike Whitehead. re-do the shop steward election Membership Meetings: Chris Daniels was absent, Joe at Ryerson Base. CHARTER MEETING JEFFERSON TRANSIT Thursday, July 11, 2002 Monday, July 15, 2002 8:00 p.m. 8:00 p.m. In Loving Memory… IBEW Hall Auditorium Port Townsend Rec Center 2700 1st Ave., Seattle, WA Port Townsend, WA As a well spent day brings happy sleep, so life MORNING MEETING CLALLAM TRANSIT well used brings happy death. Friday, July 12, 2002 Tuesday, July 16, 2002 — Leonardo DaVinci 10:30 a.m. 7:00 p.m. IBEW Hall Auditorium Vern Burton Memorial Martin Works, passed away of a great union leader. ATU 2700 1st Ave., Seattle, WA Building, Port Angeles, WA June 17, 2002, after a valiant International Vice President battle against cancer. Marty Melvin E. Schoppert passed Among topics to be discussed: joined Local 587 in May of 1979 away May 28, 2002. Mel was the as a full time Transit Operator. ATU’s senior IVP. He joined SPT contract ratification, joint use agreement for the downtown He was an avid outdoors enthu- Portland’s Local 757 in 1952, fol- tunnel, arbitration updates. siast, taking on daring adven- lowing service in the U.S. Ma- Sister Karen Rispoli’s request for arbitration which was to be tures such as sky diving and rine Corps. He served as the presented at the June membership meeting, was postponed until the rock climbing and arguing union local’s Business Representative July cycle and will be presented beginning at the Charter meeting. philosophy with former and cur- from 1960 to 1972 and was Sister Patricia McWilliams request for arbitration will also be pre- rent officers in the bull pen. He elected to International Vice sented at this meeting. was an active member at the President in 1972. Members of time of his passing, working out the Amalgamated Transit Union of North Base. He will be deeply and transit workers around the Unfinished Business: missed. country and Canada, owe Mel • Motion made at the JTA meeting to contribute $500.00 to the Schoppert a debt of gratitude for Jefferson Transit Employees Association, to help provide awards for Russell P. Tremain, retired, a lifetime devoted to the better- the first bus rodeo held since I-695, will be finalized at the Charter passed away June 17, 2002. ment of our working conditions and Morning meetings. Brother Tremain joined Local and our lives. 587 in February of 1941. No further information available. Harry F. Myers, retired, Arbitration Update passed away May 9, 2002. Jonathan H. Meier, retired, Brother Myers was father of Sis- passed away June 2, 2002. ter Monica Rose, a Part-time 1. Kenny McCormick: retention agreement. Arbi- Brother Meier joined Local 587 Operator out of Bellevue Base, Grieved failure to follow tration held April 24 and 25, in December of 1939. No fur- and North Base Chief Mary FLSA requirements for 2002. Decision pending. ther information available. Collins. Brother Myers joined travel time for board/report/ Local 587 in July of 1941, hiring ATL operators. Schedule 3. Surronal Frank Tanner: Local 587 officers wish to on to Seattle Transit. He was 84 pending. Potential resolu- Grieved termination due to make special mention of the loss at the time of his passing. tions being discussed. customer complaint and alle- gation of physical contact. Ar- Please notify the union office of any member’s passing so that this information may 2. Willie Fallis: Grieved ter- bitration scheduled for July be shared with the rest of our union family. mination due to violation of 17 and 18, 2002.

OFFICERS OF THE AMALGAMATED TRANSIT UNION, LOCAL 587: Letters to the editor LANCE F. NORTON Pres/Business Representative Minority Affairs Officer SHIRLEY WALKER Letters/contributions must include sig- email – [email protected] Transit Operator Position No. 1 MARC AUERBACH Transit Operator Position No. 2 LINDA R. ANDERSON natures, work ID number, addresses Transit Operator Position No. 3 DEE WAKENIGHT GLEN A. TRAVIS Vice President/Assistant Transit Operator Position No. 4 BRIAN SHERLOCK and telephone numbers that can be veri- Business Representative Transit Operator Position No. 5 DANIEL T. LINVILLE Transit Operator Position No. 6 PAUL BACHTEL fied during office hours. Letters that email – [email protected] Transit Operator Position No. 7 JOHN FARRELL cannot be validated will not be pub- Transit Operator Position No. 8 KATHERINE ECKHARDT Published monthly at Seattle by PAUL L. GRIFFIN Financial Secretary Vehicle Maintenance Position No. 1 MIKE ROCHON lished. All articles/letters are subject to Vehicle Maintenance Position No. 2 MIKE WHITEHEAD Seattle Local 587 Amalgamated email – [email protected] Vehicle Maintenance Position No. 3 JOHN BELLINGER editing and should be limited to 350 Transit Union, AFL-CIO. Facilities Maintenance LISA CARTER words or less. Not all letters can be JENNIE L. GIL Recording Secretary/ Special Classifications CHRIS DANIELS Editor 587 News Review Supervisors DAVID MAGIDMAN published due to space limitations. Cut Clallam/Jefferson County JOE MANGIAMELI email – [email protected] off date is the 15th of each month. Official publication of the Seattle Local SPT NINUS HOPKINS 587 Transit Union representing em- Web site: http://www.atu587.com ployees of Metro Transit, Clallam Tran- Send letters to: sit and Jefferson Transit. 2700 First WEINGARTEN RIGHTS STATEMENT Avenue, Seattle, Washington 98121. Jennie Gil, Editor Telephone: 448-8588. I request to have a union representative present on my c/o ATU Local 587 behalf during this meeting because I believe it may lead to News Review Affiliations: Washington State Labor Council, disciplinary action taken against me. If I am denied my right to King County Labor Council, Northwest Joint 2700 First Avenue, Rm 204 Conference Board, ATU Legislative Council, have a union representative present, I will refuse to answer Olympic Labor Council. accusational questions and any I believe may lead to discipline. Seattle, WA 98121 July 2002 3 A COPE Committee Report… The Transportation Plans By Marc Auerbach, Executive Board Officer

HE NOVEMBER BALLOT MAY The final shape of the plan is ing of I-405, should be paid for Woodinville is an underutilized be chock full of transpor- still being ironed out and will have with ‘user-fees:’ vehicle license transportation corridor that could Ttation funding measures to be approved by the three county fees, excise taxes and tolls; be used for low-cost regional tran- that will impact our jobs and com- councils. It is still possible there 3. Purchase and preserve the sit service. munities for decades to come. Lo- could be no regional transporta- BNSF right of way for High Ca- For more information, please cal 587 officers and our Commit- tion plan on the November ballot. pacity Transit (HCT): The go to www.transportation tee on Political Education The Transportation Choices Burlington Northern Santa Fe choices.org. (C.O.P.E.) are monitoring the fol- Coalition is lobbying hard to re- railroad from Tukwila to lowing transportation funding duce the bloated road funding in measures but have not recom- this proposal before it gets to the mended endorsements, pro or con, ballot. In King County, the pack- at this time. age would be financed though a .3% sales tax increase, an annual Upcoming at ATU… Referendum 51 – Ten-year $7.7 $75 vehicle license fee, and Sound billion State Transportation Package Transit MVET money. JULY 8 and 9 – Vehicle AUGUST 13 through 18 The package includes $1.2 bil- Complicating matters a bit, Maintenance Mechanics’ re- (TENTATIVE) – Full-time lion (about 15%) for transporta- King County Councilmen Rob pick. Please watch your Operator preview, Central/ tion “choices” (i.e. non-roads McKenna and Dwight Pelz have bulletin boards for more Atlantic Base, upstairs in the items), including $450 million for each announced their own pro- information. classroom, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 transit agencies around the state. posals for a regional transporta- p.m. It is funded primarily by a 9¢ gas tion package. McKenna’s plan cuts JULY 11 - *REMINDER!* tax increase and a 1% sales tax on down on transit improvements in The cycle of meetings for July AUGUST 17, 18, 24, 25 (TEN- cars. Environmentalists are still order to put more money into I- have been set forward one TATIVE) – Part-time pick working to win commitments from 405. Pelz’ plan is smaller overall week due to the Fourth of July Operator, Central Atlantic Governor Locke and Secretary of than the County Executives’ pro- holiday. The Charter meeting Base, upstairs in the quiet Transportation Doug McDonald posal and contains a somewhat will be held July 11th, with the room. Please make sure you for transit-friendly improvements improved balance of public trans- remaining meetings to follow check the seniority list for your in the package. portation and road improvements. in the customary manner. pick time, you may enter the room twenty minutes ahead of Puget Sound Regional Transportation ATU 587 Supports Call for JULY 23 – Executive Board your pick time. On the 11th Package – $11+ Billion Improvements to Regional Plan meeting. and 12th, please allow extra The State Legislature gave us At our June membership meet- travel time for the Mariner a lemon with their anti-transit ing Local 587 voted to endorse the JULY 27 – ATU Local 587’s traffic. regional transportation bill. King Transportation Choices Annual Picnic, Lincoln Park, County Executive Ron Sims Coalition’s three point program Shelter 5, 11:00 to 4:00 p.m. AUGUST 19 through 29 worked hard to make lemonade for improving the Executives’ Re- Volunteers would be greatly (TENTATIVE) – Full-time out of the bill. Largely as a result gional Transportation Plan: appreciated, please contact Operator pick, Central/Atlantic of Sims’ leadership (and lobbying 1. Fund “TWO NOT FOUR” new Dee Wakenight at South Base, upstairs in the class- by the Transportation Choices lanes on I-405: Direct I-405 road- Operations, Lisa Carter at room. Please make sure you Coalition and 1000 Friends of way funding to two new lanes be- South Facilities Maintenance, check the seniority list for your Washington) the regional trans- tween Tukwila and Woodinville, or leave a message for either at pick time, you may enter the portation package being proposed rather than four to six new lanes the union office. room twenty minutes ahead of by the King, Snohomish and in the south-end only; your pick time. Pierce County executives con- 2. Eliminate the 0.3% sales-tax AUGUST 12 through 16 tains a lot of additional financing for roads: Funding highways with (TENTATIVE) – Part-time AUGUST 29 – Facilities for major public transportation the sales tax reduces funding ca- Operator preview, Central/ Maintenance pick, locations to investments. These include Bus pacity for transit and other gov- Atlantic Base, upstairs in the be posted. Rapid Transit, Light Rail and ernment programs. Regional quiet room, 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 Commuter Rail. mega-projects, including widen- p.m. Phone Calls and Tidbits …from the desk of the Recording Secretary

• In the feedback department, were unable to place a date on The picture in question must well. Brother Smith could not (yes, sometimes we do get some), that picture. While I did expect have been taken during the 1956 stay out from behind the wheel, Vehicle Maintenance Supervisor feedback from someone, possi- work action. he has moved on to driving for Mike Voris sent some informa- bly a retiree, I got emails from • Retiree FC Smith called and Carey limo service here in Se- tion about the picture of former three eagle eyes who spotted the left a message on my voice mail. attle. He said he was enjoying President/Business Agent Augie vehicle behind our picketers. I FC wanted to send greetings to every minute of retirement, and Antonino that was run in the am told that the vehicle in ques- the membership, asked me to sends his hellos to all his co- May News Review. Mike informs tion is a Buick circa 1952-54. pass on to all that he was doing workers. me that the fare information card on the fare box dates the picture to the period between Nov. 20, 1952, and Nov. 15, 1955, when the fare was .20¢ or 6 tokens for a dollar. The bus is one of the 1940 Twin Coach trolley buses, which were numbered 800 – 934 at that time. I think it is so cool that somebody knows this stuff! • And more feedback…last month the President’s Report ANTONINO. ROSE TED BY carried a picture of two mem- bers waling the picket line at the old Central/Atlantic barn dur- ANTONINO. ROSE BY PICTURE DONATED

PICTURE DONA Two members of Local 587 walk the picket line at the ing a strike against Seattle Tran- This picture of Auggie contained no date, but I think I old Central/Atlantic barn during a strike against sit. Both Mrs. Antonino and I saw that defroster fan on a trolley I rode last week… Seattle Transit. 4 July 2002 Letters to the Editor…

stressful to make announcements of service we provide. The Burdens of ADA over the P.A., other than maybe Pride or Prejudice Over the years, I have consis- just a short calling of a cross-street. tently been in awe of the managers Dear Editor: These Operators are good, safe, We have a growing problem at who have the insight and skill to efficient, conscientious, reliable and Metro: A problem of corporate cul- cooperatively deal with troubled I am writing in protesting of the otherwise excellent Transit ture which ignores our shared hu- employees. In return those employ- increasing burden of the current Operators, yet their job may be in manity and treats employees with ees have made changes that I would ADA policy instituted by Metro. jeopardy because of their failure to increasing disdain. More and more not expect to be possible in order Why can we not take the burden of comply with the ADA require- problems are handled in a knee that they would not have to admit extensive ADA requirements of ments. For the part-time driver or jerk, “by the book” fashion with to a now-revered manager that they announcing landmarks off the Op- regular Operator working the same little concern for the outcome. Dis- had let him or her down. This ‘go- erator? Why are transit properties assignment everyday, it shouldn’t cipline is becoming the sole means the-extra-mile’ mentality on both not required to mechanically equip be that much of a problem espe- of obtaining cooperation where sides is what is required to have an their buses with voice automated cially if they do not suffer from any mutual respect is so much more excellent agency. Living instead systems? of the “afflictions” listed above. But effective and dramatically im- with long term labor unrest balanc- Being a night Report Operator I believe there are numerous Op- proves our quality of life. With the ing what is perceived as hostile and an aging baby-boomer, it’s quite erators who, in some degree, do fit large percentage of management management leads to decay, not a safety hazard for me to try to read those categories and might also be retirements coming in the next excellence. off a card announcements on a route extra board or report Operators. few years, this problem is certain None of us feel comfortable with which I am unfamiliar with. When All the above reasons, plus con- to worsen. It takes experience and the direction being taken by the its dark, I have to put on reading sideration for extra board and re- intelligence to learn how to use agency we give our working lives to. glasses, turn on the driver’s light port Operators, who have to oper- rules and policy with imagination What is needed instead is a cul- and read the card, all while at- ate routes which may be unfamil- and not just manage through the tural change which must come from tempting to safely maneuver the iar to them under the conditions lowest common denominator pu- the top down, giving praise to those bus down the road…sometimes in of darkness and poor visibility, nitive options. The difference is who have the imagination, intelli- heavy traffic and in poor visibility add fodder to the argument that that a doctrinaire manager will gence and skills to demonstrate conditions due to the weather. Metro should automate this pro- never gain the trust and loyalty of leadership which inspires loyalty. We need to take the majority cess with something such as employees and in its place will be Punitive management must be seen of burden off the Operator and put the Intellibus technology. This growing resentment and the in- for the failure that it is. Hire the it on an automated system. Many of solution is not only fair and equi- evitable unrest and organizational right people, assist them in perfect- the ADA requirements are table for the Transit Operators deterioration which follow. Per- ing skills in which we can all find unfair and/or ineffective for some. but also is beneficial for the riding haps most important and least pride, and reward that effort with Some Operators have speech im- public and especially those riders considered is the effect on the qual- real respect. This is the only path to pediments such as stuttering prob- who fall under the ADA protec- ity of life for both management inspiring dedication, and only dedi- lems. Some of these Operators tions. I mean, how beneficial is it and employees; over half of our cation will inspire the quality of life find it embarrassing and stress- for a bus rider to hear an unintel- waking hours are spent in an en- and service we all seek. ful to call the required ADA an- ligible announcement made? Or vironment which can be either Brian Sherlock nouncements. to be delayed by an accident in- convivial or conflicted and that Executive Board Officer We have many Operators who volving the bus they are riding, will reflect directly in the quality North Operations speak with thick foreign accents. caused by the driver fumbling A friend of mine from Iran refuses around with cards to read while SEND IN YOUR OPINIONS NOTICE TO ALL READERS to make announcements on the P.A. pushing buttons and adjusting a not only because of the embarrass- microphone to make an announce- Letters/contributions must include sig- Views and ment of speaking with a thick ac- ment?! The Intellibus technology natures, work ID number, addresses and telephone numbers that can be verified cent, but also because it calls atten- makes the most sense for every- during office hours. Letters that cannot be opinions expressed tion to the fact that he’s Middle body involved ...Operators, man- validated will not be published. All ar- in News Review Eastern. He tells me that when he agement and the whole range of ticles/letters are subject to editing and should be limited to 350 words or less. Not articles are those has tried using the P.A., passen- the riding public. In my opinion, all letters can be published due to space gers will often come up and ask him this should also be subsidized by limitations. Cut off date is the 15th of each of the authors and what he said for the announcement the Feds who enacted this legisla- month. Send letters to: seems unintelligible to them. tion in the first place. Jennie Gil not necessarily the News Review Editor Further, many Operators are so c/o ATU Local 587 official position of introverted, shy or self-conscious to Hal Hirabayashi, #1177 2700 First Avenue, Rm 204 Local 587 the point that they find it very Bellevue Base Seattle, WA 98121 Are you a good consumer? By Executive Board Officer Dee Wakenight

HEN I SEE THOSE ADS ON all we do is help to maintain a very With the upcoming changes to that many of the newest drugs TV with people run- nice lifestyle for those who make, our medical plans on the horizon, marketed actually have no im- W ning in the fields of flow- supply, develop, or sell pharmaceu- we may want to re-think this posi- proved medical effects over current ers looking so happy, and the an- ticals. One doctor who appeared on tion. Open enrollment is coming up non-prescription, over-the-counter nouncers saying to try this newest the show said something that stuck in October. There are many signifi- drugs. The drug companies only get whiz bang drug, I WANT TO. There in my mind. He said to never pre- cant changes anticipated, includ- the big pots of money when they get is rarely any indication of what the scribe a brand new drug for a pa- ing a different way of handling pre- the American consumer by the new drug is for, but those people tient. He advised waiting a mini- scription medications. There will purse strings and reel us in by con- depicted look so happy and healthy mum of 5 years to give a new drug be a sound financial reason to con- vincing us that this product can, and alive, I kind of want to take it to your patients, 10 years if it is for sider becoming more conservative and will, change our lives. too. What difference does it make family. It takes time for all the in our approach to the usage of the Don’t fall for it. Your doctor that I have no clue what disorder it possible side affects to become newest pharmaceutical offerings on should be the best judge of what treats? I want to be happy too! known, and to determine whether the market. Coming soon to a medi- medications you need, not the mar- A couple months ago there was there is really any advantage over cal plan near you will be the dreaded keting department of a drug com- an evening news type show on one the current medication that is al- 3 tier prescription co-pay. Generic pany interested only in raising their of the major networks attempting ready on the market. The implica- will be $10.00; name-brand pre- profit. When my doctor wants to to demystify the aura around some tion is clear, do not use your pa- ferred, meaning the name brand try something brand new on me, I of the newest pharmaceuticals. It tients or family for guinea pigs. prescription preferred by the pre- ask him if there isn’t a standard, stated the number one money mak- Why do we, the American public, scription plan, will be a $20.00 co- already available generic to use ing industry in America is pharma- want to pay for the honor of finding pay; name-brand non-preferred, instead. Then if it performs below ceuticals. Better living through out that there is some horrible side meaning anything else, will be a expectations, we can escalate to chemistry. When we, the Ameri- affect, or possibly no real advan- $30.00 co-pay. How’s that for a another, newer level of treatment. can consumer, get sucked into the tage, to some brand new, high priced motivating influence towards con- The choice is yours. Are you a good latest greatest drug for allergies, drug? servatism? Reports seem to show consumer? July 2002 5 Lack of Information Leads to Angry Riders: Commuter Revolt Imminent!

By Carl C. Jackson, Atlantic Base Operations

Author’s Note: I submitted this be done that will close streets to Portland, Oregon has a system flow of information in both di- article a couple of years ago dur- transit service. In both cases, installed at select bus stops in rections. Operating department ing a particularly bad winter. the transit riding public, as well the downtown area that displays personnel must pass information Not much has changed in the as the operations department current bus arrival information. concerning delays to passengers way Metro Transit does business. employees should be alerted to If a patron knows the regular in an appropriate and sensitive Since we have many new super- potential transit problems. bus is late, or has developed op- manner. visors, a new Operations Man- Bitter complaints are often erational problems that will pre- The news media is also a good ager, and lot’s of new drivers, I registered about a distinct lack vent it from showing up at all, outlet for information; it can be thought I’d put this article out of on-time performance. Noth- he/she might be able to revise used to facilitate public relations for your reading pleasure and ing upsets transit patrons more their travel plans and use an “damage control” in cases where hope that the right people read than missed connections. Espe- alternate means to get home or the transit agency is not directly this and make some positive cially if the connection has to be get to work in a timely manner. responsible for service interrup- changes in the way the transit made during off-peak hours, and Bus drivers and train crews tions and delays. If it appears system is managed. Thanks for in bad neighborhoods. Any tran- should be specially trained to that construction or bad weather your attention. sit agency that values its repu- tell customers what is happen- is going to delay bus operations, tation should have objective on- ing, the cause of any problems it should be announced in the RECENTLY HEARD ABOUT A time performance information and how long it is likely to inter- newspapers and on radio and “Meeting from Hell” that re- readily at hand. It should report fere with normal operations. television broadcasts. I minded me about some of publicly the on-time performance With two-way radio commu- It is impossible to keep all of the Sound Transit meetings that facts as a regular course of busi- nication common in transit to- the customers happy all of the have been so entertaining, in a ness and certainly at a meeting day, there is no excuse for dis- time. But people who are well sort of “Springer-esque” fashion. with the riding public that is patchers to not tell drivers and informed are usually much hap- The gist of the meeting between likely to turn ugly. Lack of infor- operators what is going on. Con- pier about transit then those who a fictional transit agency and mation is certainly a major versely, in cases of extreme find themselves stuck without the riding public goes something source of public complaints. weather conditions, district su- ANY forewarning. As we move like this: There is nothing more disquiet- pervisors should be stationed at through the 21st century, tran- The manager of the agency’s ing then being stuck on a bus or relief points around the system sit managers and operations “Public Relations Department” on a train with no indication of to inform road relief drivers and employees must be made aware decided to hold a meeting to hear why the delay has occurred or train crews as to any changes in of operating rules and practices passenger’s complaints. The how long one is likely to be ma- service routings. This can go a that have been in place over agency’s ability to deliver timely, rooned. Most anyone will tell you long way to insure the best pos- much of the last century and go efficient service had been se- that information is power, and sible operations under adverse forward with creative, flexible verely impacted by a bad winter, power allows for control of al- conditions. Managers should thinking. This will ensure that a aging equipment, service failures most any situation! ensure that ALL transit depart- transit system that everyone can and late runs. The best way to head off com- ment vehicles are equipped with be proud of and rely on will exist The outraged audience pro- plaints is to provide as much up- radios to allow for the seamless in the new millennia. ceeded to break the hapless man- front information as possible. agement team into tiny little pieces. The rising crescendo of anger fed on itself with state- ments of indignation such as, “…and in the whole 40 years of MARK YOUR CALENDARS! your existence, have you EVER operated on time?” “Do ANY of you people ever ride on the same Saturday, July 27th buses and streetcars that we do?” And finally,“ “My trash cans are Lincoln Park, Shelter 5 cleaner then the interior of this bus!” (by the wading pool) While it may not dampen the attitude of the patrons, the best way to handle such complaints is to provide facts up front. THE ATU LOCAL 587 ANNUAL PICNIC! For example, it’s one thing to try and deal with a small amount of cold or hot weather extremes Food, fun, games, member raffle. and blame poor operations on Mother Nature. But, if a severe Bring the whole family! winter storm is predicted, the public should be alerted that the Food will be served beginning at 11 a.m. storm could cause service inter- ruptions. If snow is the issue, the public should be told that the responsibility for plowing city streets, in most cases, falls on the city, NOT on the transit agency! Another valid factor that can disrupt operations is major road- work that forces route changes, perhaps for a long time. In this, the later part of the 20th century, it is possible to pre- dict, with fair accuracy, when the weather will be bad. Unless it is an emergency, most cities Be part of the party! Volunteers still needed. Contact Executive Board Officers will usually provide information Dee Wakenight and Lisa Carter at the Union office for more information well in advance when work is to 6 July 2002

President’s Report, Contracts and Ordinances, continued from page 1

After careful review of the is- agreement, and routes from all years. The cost sharing formulas vices and support systems. We sue and discussion with many who three sub areas of King County that are contained in the agree- have the expertise in the opera- have been involved in one facet or will continue to use the tunnel. ment seem fair and are flexible so tion of the tunnel, starting with another, this office will stand in Second, the agreement paves that they can shift over time to the operators who drive through support of this ordinance. Since the way for the long-anticipated reflect each agency’s use of the it, and encompassing service su- the institution of the RTA, which initial segment of the light rail tunnel. pervisors, tunnel control center later became Sound Transit, one line. Sound Transit requires ac- Fourth, the agreement antici- personnel, trainers, mechanics, of the chief concerns of this local cess to the tunnel for the light rail pates that King County will be electronic technicians, mainte- has been the operation of any light line. The tunnel will be retrofitted the operator of the light rail sys- nance workers, maintenance of rail or other transit service that for low floor light rail cars and for tem. A single rail and bus opera- right-of-way, schedulers, line might result from this move to- low floor buses. Usage of the facil- tor will maximize the safety of the crew and electricians as well as wards regional transit. ity will greatly increase. The tun- transit system and insure that signal system. I appeared before the Trans- nel also provides additional ca- the scheduling of the bus and rail In short, this agreement moves portation Committee to express pacity that will be available as system will be coordinated. Hav- us one step closer to building the our support of the ordinance be- light rail is extended to the north ing King County as the operator vitally needed light rail line, while cause it lays the groundwork to and south. also means that Sound Transit preserving access to the tunnel create a high quality public trans- Third, the agreement repre- does not have to build an operat- for thousands of current bus pa- portation system for the commu- sents a fair deal for both Sound ing arm from scratch and can in- trons, and being directly involved nity and ensure a safe operating Transit and King County and a stead concentrate on the design in providing this service. I urged environment for transit operators, good deal for the taxpayers of the and construction of the rail sys- the committee to fulfill the vision as well as all employees and the region. Under the proposal Sound tem and the tunnel retrofit im- established for the tunnel when it people they serve. Transit will no longer have to buy provements. was built and approve this agree- First, the ordinance preserves the tunnel outright, saving the Light rail success depends on ment. The expertise and profes- access to the tunnel for thousands agency in the vicinity of $85 mil- the successful integration with bus sionalism of the employees of King of bus patrons who have come to lion in debt service payments services, which ultimately will County Metro Transit assure us rely on its comfort, and the speed alone. King County will no longer provide better service for our rid- of continued excellence in public and reliability it brings to routes be responsible for paying the en- ers. This agreement ensures that transit now and in the years through downtown Seattle. tire debt service, saving the integration. ahead. Eighty-five percent of the current County over $100 million in debt The Local 587 members pro- Be safe, bus capacity is retained under this service costs over the next 15 vide excellent transportation ser- LFN The Recording Secretary’s Report Proud By Recording Secretary Jennie Gil

around the western states and through the tunnel. over and escorted our guests western Canadian provinces were Walt impressed me, not only through the shop and discussed Jennie Gil in town. As seems to be natural for with his friendliness and hospi- brakes and inspections and paint all of us in this industry, we tend to tality, but with the amount of in- and body work, and all those To: Metro Transit General Man- visit each other’s worksites to com- formation he possessed. The ma- things a simple bus driver may ager Rick Walsh pare and contrast notes and see jority of my group were mechan- have omitted in a walk through From: ATU Local 587 Record- how its done in other places. A ics. Walt gave them mechanical the shop. They were perfect hosts. ing Secretary Jennie Gil small group of delegates expressed specifics about the Breda he was My good fortune continued Subject: Commendations interest in visiting a Metro base. driving that I would never have when I walked my group across As I was inundated with other been able to do. He drove us the driveway to Atlantic to show KNOW YOU WILL READ THIS AS I details, I did not foresee and pre- through the tunnel and explained them what a trolley maintenance deliver the paper to your arrange such a trip, and instead some of the more technical as- base looked like. Atlantic Base Iloyal and trusty admin spec, had to do it rather last minute. But pects of the facility that again, I Mechanics Art Warner and Kerry Marcella Hale, every month. I I did want them to be able to visit would have been unable to ex- Leaf immediately stepped forth to would like to submit a commen- a Metro/King County worksite, as plain. He took us on to Central/ escort the group through the shop dation for the following people and/ I am very proud of where I work Atlantic Base and waited patiently and again were a wealth of infor- or departments: the Firstline Su- when I am not Officer-ing. while we toured both Operations mation. After a satisfactory trip pervisors on shift in the Control I initially contacted Dave Jolly and Maintenance, and then safely through the shop they referred us Center the evening of June 8, 2002; to gain permission to take my out transported us back to our start- to Lead ET Donovan O’Brien, who Central Maintenance Mechanics of town guests onto County prop- ing place. I could not have asked talked fareboxes and other elec- Fred Love and Georgy erty and ask how to go about set- for a better representative of our tronic gadgetry with us. Aleshchenko; Atlantic Mainte- ting this up. Not only did Dave Transit Operators. All in all, Rick, the members I nance Mechanics Art Warner and agree this was a positive show of When we arrived at Central encountered were knowledgeable, Kerry Leaf and Atlantic Lead ET King County hospitality, but it Operations, Bill Laird was work- friendly, and willing to show what Donovan O’Brien; Central Base would be a nice show of pride in ing the window. He graciously we do and how we do it here at Dispatcher Bill Laird; and East our workplace and work practices. explained to the dispatcher in the Metro/King County. Each one of Base Operator Walt Wagner. And He ended up making all the ar- group what he did at the window them made me proud when they just for good measure, please add rangements for transportation. I and they compared notes on their stepped up and greeted our guests Planning and Technical Support was given my instructions and respective duties. He took time and made them feel welcome, Supervisor Dave Jolly to the list. assured all would work out de- out of his evening to extend a proud of my members and fellow While I recognize Dave is from the spite the last minute nature of the welcome to our guests and share co-workers friendliness and hos- Dark Side (management), credit request. some of his knowledge and infor- pitality, proud of the place where must go where credit is due and I contacted the Coordinator’s mation. I greatly appreciated his I work. Those who worked behind he was instrumental in making office to request that transporta- contribution to our impromptu the scenes responded quickly and sure the event in question hap- tion as soon as the conference con- tour. efficiently to make sure all was pened. I trust once you read this vened for the day. Not only did We then proceeded to Central taken care of. The fellows from you will forward my commenda- they already know what was go- Maintenance. Upon entering the Minneapolis were pleased and tions on to the appropriate super- ing on, but within five minutes shop, I encountered Fred Love and impressed, and said they had visors/chiefs so that each member the Coordinator snagged a coach Georgy Aleshchenko. I explained never been made to feel so at home. may be contacted and have it returning to the base who was our purpose for being on the pre- I hope you can share in my pride of placed in their file. willing to stay out a little longer mises and asked if there was any- these employees and all of those Over the weekend of June 7, 8 for escort purposes. Within twenty one around who could take us they represented that afternoon, and 9, 2002, Local 587 hosted the minutes, East Base Operator Walt through the base and explain its who deliver or support the deliv- Northwest Conference and numer- Wagner appeared in a Breda to various functions to our guests. ery of public transportation to the ous union officers from ATU locals escort the small group of visitors Both of them immediately took citizens of our region. July 2002 7

The Vice President’s Report Northwest Conference

By Glen A. Travis

participated and close to 100 del- ceived, and as usual Ron egates were present. was charismatic and in- This local has always taken spiring with his delivered great pride in hosting and doing message supporting tran- all we can to advance the labor sit, labor and the work- Glen A. Travis movement for the transit indus- ing family. N J UNE 6, 2002, LOCAL 587 try. This year was no exception. President Norton was had the honor of hosting Hosting a conference is a huge privileged to introduce Othe ATU Northwest Con- endeavor and it would not have the man who has been one ference. The Northwest Confer- been so successful if it were not of Local 587’s most long ence consists of the ATU locals for the dedicated and very fo- time and avid supporters, throughout the western states cused effort of the team that put Seattle Mayor Greg Nick- Lisa and Ed Carter and Shirley Walker made (minus California), and the west- it all together. Led by our Re- els. Mayor Nickels has sure the registration process went smoothly. ern Canadian provinces who cording Secretary Jennie Gil, a been there whenever we have gathered to form a coali- hard working group of Local 587 have asked for his help. He in giving detailed examples of how tion for the purposes of informa- members put together work- turn thanked 587 for the sup- arbitration works. He covered tion sharing and improved rep- shops, excursions and activities port we have given him. He re- how most arbitrators make deci- resentation revolving around the that brought kudos and sincere counted his very first run for sions and what those decisions issues particular to our region. comments of appreciation from public office. He was the under- mean to unions and manage- The Conference meets every year all the attending delegates. dog, by 60+%. Mayor Nickels re- ment. Past practice was dis- to network and participate in The conference opened with counted for the group that at cussed in detail. Mr. Beck’s ex- workshops and seminars, and invited dignitaries from state that time Local 587 leadership perience as an arbitrator was sometimes band together politi- and local government. Due to were the ones that encouraged very helpful for local officers that cally to assist in passing legisla- schedule conflicts Governor Gary him to run and contributed to have yet to enter into the arena tion pertinent to our industry. Locke was unable to attend. In his campaign via COPE dona- of arbitration. Even for the larger This year’s conference was very his place was Mr. Gary Moore, tions to bring about what was locals that have experienced ar- successful. Twenty-two locals with the State Labor and Indus- seen as a big upset when he de- bitration and its court like pro- tries Depart- feated his opponent. Mayor Nick- cess, new and useful informa- ment. Mr. Moore els was very well received by the tion was presented. welcomed the conference delegation. Northwest Conference officer delegation and Three distinguished Metro elections were also held. Terms spoke on the managers addressed the group, of office for the Conference are Washington Director of Transportation, Harold every two years, and this year State’s dedica- Taniguchi, Metro Transit General we were pleased to re-elect, with- tion to worker Manager Rick Walsh and Man- out opposition, Rick Sieppert safety and wel- ager of Transit Operations, Curtis from Local 987 in Lethbridge, fare. King Robinson. Their contribution to Alberta to Conference President, County Execu- the opening day of our session is Tom Wallace from Local 757 in tive Ron Sims greatly appreciated. Portland to Conference Vice then addressed President, and Mike Mahar from the group. Execu- Workshops Local 583 in Calgary, Alberta, to tive Sims was Three workshops were pre- Conference Financial Secretary. Local 587 President Lance Norton welcomes the very well re- sented to the delegates. Cliff Many Thanks Due delegation to our fair city. Freed from Frank Rosen Freed Roberts, the law firm that does The entire conference was en- the bulk of our representation, joyed by all. I want to thank all led a very good discussion on the of our members that helped make challenges for locals regarding it possible. It is always a danger member-to-member disputes. to mention names as someone The focus was on DFR, the duty may be forgotten, but I will do of fair representation. This legal my best. Rick Sepolen led the obligation, in relationship to pack by being the lead man be- member-to-member issues, is al- hind the scenes, the Recording ways challenging and has many Secretary’s ace in the hole. He potential ramifications union of- assembled and directed most of ficers need to be mindful of. the events and worked very Jon Rosen did a review on the smoothly with Executive Inn topic of drug testing policies with staff to make sure all details International Vice President Don Hansen swears in the re-elected officers. time for questions and answers. were covered. He coordinated the From left to right: Northwest Conference President Rick Sieppert (Local Long time arbitrator Michael volunteer’s efforts and filled in 987, Lethbridge, Alberta); Financial Secretary Treasurer Mike Mahar Beck presented our third work- all around to make sure our Re- (Local 583, Calgary, Alberta); Vice President Tom Wallace (Local 757, Portland, Oregon); IVP Don Hansen. shop. Mr. Beck spent 90 minuets continued on page 8

Delegates report on the happenings at their locals and update each other on contract and arbitration settlements. 8 July 2002

Retirees’ The View Corner from the Buses

By John D. Love

HAD JUST MAILED MY LAST AR- I received a note from Joe in Charleston, South Carolina, be settled in back on Whidbey ticle in, and wouldn’t you Kramer. Joe will be heading this visiting a museum where they Island. Iknow it, I received two notes way sometime in June to spend a have had a Confederate sub and from a couple of snowbirds. The few days here in the Seattle area. other artifacts on display. I re- For Your Information first was Tom and Mary Lile. I received a note from Myra ceived a phone call from Louise Those folks that want to They were leaving Hemet, Cali- Clarke, who had just returned Etheridge on May 6th and she share your news with other fornia for the Northwest, had from a trip to the southeast to informs me that Jim came home retirees in the next edition, various stopovers planned along visit family. During the trip she from the nursing facility he’d you must submit it to me on or the way and expected to get to learned that Ann and Pete been at for four months. He is before next August 6, 2002. Whidbey Island around April Cameron were going to visit recuperating from his aneurysm (July/August issue) That is the 23rd. They were looking forward their family in Arizona, so they at home now. He is able to walk deadline for me to submit any to seeing the gang again. arranged a get together. Myra and is regaining the use of his news that I want to appear in The next snowbird to send me said that it must have been ten facilities. I received an e-mail the next edition. There is a a note was Mel and Shirley years since they had seen Pete from Arlene Tupper. She and move on at Metro to establish LaBoyne. Mel has been winter- and Anne. Myra promised me a Hubby are in Mexico and enjoy- a Transit Museum. If you have ing in Yuma, Az. Mel has run picture of the three of them. Myra ing the holidays that seem to be any old memorabilia that is into several transiteers. He has has been to Mexico and the every other week. When I heard just lying around, and you seen Dick Heil and Jim Southwest United States, and from her she was in the middle of want to share it with others, Vaughn. He reports that Jim spent some time in San Diego two holidays, Labor Day, and please leave me a message at Vaughn is driving a tour bus for exploring Balboa Park. It ap- children’s day, followed by Cinco the Union office. a local company. While Mel was pears that Myra is really enjoy- de Mayo. Arlene plans on being in Mexico he ran into Bernie ing this leisure phase of life. back in the Northwest sometime TAPS Fisher. Mel and Shirley will be I received a note from Curtis in July. I also heard from Ted I received a note from re- leaving Dewey, Az. in late June Hicks informing me that he is Mohr. He and Angela are en- tired Service Supervisor and will be heading North for back in the Pacific Northwest. joying traveling in Canada and Roger Renando that the summer. Curtis and Sara spent some time Alaska. Elleott(Zero) Horsmann I have a note from Pete passed away April 19, 2002. Photos from the Retiree Picnic… Cameron. Zero had a heart attack, and While visiting did not recover. Services were with Myra held at the Calvary Temple in Clarke he had the Erickson Chapel. I found a visit with Dale Hyldahl’s obituary in Gene Koons. the P.I. Dale retired in 1995 Gene is con- and was 69 years old when he fined to a passed away. I have received wheelchair, notice of the passing of James but he is in R. Kinman. Jim retired Au- good spirits. gust 23, 1984, and passed away Pete also in- last December. He was 77 formed me that years old. Harry Meyers, fa- he had an in- ther of North Base Chief Mary fection and was Collins and Monica Rose, laid up for a passed away May 9, 2002. while. After Harry was an old Seattle Tran- two months of sit driver. I remember break- Retiree Chapter President Dave Carter Gary Pilcher shares a North Base moment with President care he is back ing in on the Sunset Hill route chats it up with Mrs. Merkle. Norton. to full strength. with Harry. He was a very Myra Clarke also informed me good Operator. Our sympa- that she has made contact with thies go out to those families Vice President’s Report, continued from page 1 two former employees, Perry that have lost loved ones. We Miller and his brother Warren should remember that the sur- cording Secretary was not over- Miller. vivors need support in their burdened with details. He was time of sorrow and we should an invaluable asset to the over- Binnacle List extend that support to the best all success of the conference. Ben I received an e-mail from of our ability. Apo and Carl Jackson were in- Chuck Taulbee recently. He Keep in mind, if you have strumental in courteous and has had some medical procedures news you want to share with friendly greeting of the delegates recently and is doing fine. He others E-Mail me at as they handled most of the stated that early detection was [email protected]. transportation and played right the key to a successful treat- hand men to Brother Sepolen. ment. Vic Kaufman, the latest That’s all for now. Kim Rochon and Cathy Donalds to retire, had an open were the best of hostesses to the Executive Board Officers Paul house on May 11. I delegates’ spouses and signifi- Bachtel, John Farrell and Brian received a note on the Sherlock clown around during a 22nd of May from the cant others, taking them break. around town to see the sights, Lile’s and they are showing them the best this back in the Pacific area has to offer. Ed Carter, down to help out. All in all there Northwest. While Jan Stafford, Shirley Walker, were so many helping hands that they were on a fish- Mike Rochon, Dee Wakenight, I am sure I have forgotten some- ing trip to Eastern Lisa Carter and John Farrell one. But for all of you that Washington, Mary were on hand to greet folks stepped forward, you carried on came down with and work with NW Confer- the legacy that Local 587 always pneumonia and had ence Financial Secretary puts forth, that of good host and to spend some time Mike Mahar to assemble and strong voice for all the ATUs in getting well in the run the registration process. our region. hospital in Omak. Andy Gilmore, Dan Linville, Lisa Thanks for making us all look Hopefully when you Milt Merkle, Bob Burston and John Sisk smile Biddle and John Bellinger came good. read this they should nicely for the camera.