THE NION DVOCA E ULocal 987 ProudA to make America work JJan.an. 221,1, 22021021 Five webinars part COVID challenges will continue

of AFGE January By HENRY BROWN providing dynamic represen- local has been challeng- Executive VP, AFGE Local 987 tation to our diverse mem- ing and breaking employ- [email protected] bership, which crisscrosses ment norms on behalf of the breath and width of the our members and it has not training opportunities et us not seek Robins community. been easy. We have lost too the Republican Inevitable, uniting and many members of our local From reports Representation: “Lanswer or the representing a broad mem- to this pandemic. Grievance handling Democratic answer, but the bership is challenging, but However, there is great AFGE has scheduled Jan. 23, 1-5 p.m. right answer. Let us not we are winning in the courts news on the horizon in the a number of webinars to Synopsis: This new and seek to fix the blame for as well as having great suc- form of a vaccination. Along close out January and popular four-hour webi- the past. Let us accept our cess in the grievance process. with the great news of a begin February. All are free nar teaches local stewards own responsibility for the There has been a unity of vaccine there is ambivalence to members. Visit afge.org specific skills and strate- future.” – John F. Kennedy purpose with so many of our and a skepticism with tak- to sign up. gies for filing and process- As we continue our matu- stewards; I will admit that ing the shot; there is a great The webinars are as fol- ing grievances effectively, ration both as a local and the many of us that will take Henry Brown there is room for growth in lows: including identifying leadership of the union, this the process but there is no the shot. I would also be grievances, interviewing is an opportunity to reflect succinctly captures some of shortage of dogged determi- remiss if there was no men- Reopening amidst a employees, and sources of on the challenges that we tion of the number of recov- the challenges facing your nation. global pandemic evidence. will face as COVID contin- The rising figures on infec- eries from the pandemic. local as we challenge man- Jan. 22, 4-6 p.m. The prerequisite for ues to ravage our local. tions suggest that the pan- However, it is not all Synopsis: This training this webinar is the basic COVID is changing the agement on behalf of the demic has not yet reached good news obviously. The provides an overview of the Stewards Orientation workforce, some for the good membership. There is the its peak on the installation. death rates have more than phases of reopening agency webinar which overviews of our membership, which inherent responsibility of Since March 2020, your See BROWN, page 4 offices and worksites. the role of the Steward, Participants will learn Structure of AFGE, and about their rights, roles, one of the most impor- and responsibilities, as well tant laws that outlines the as management responsi- rights of union representa- bilities, during this three- tives - 5 USC Chapter 71. AFL-CIO holds Dr. Martin Luther King phased process. Participants can also Topics to be discussed take the self-paced basic include: requirements for stewards trainings found worksite hygiene, mask in the Stewards Toolkit on Jr. Civil, Human Rights Conference wearing, and ventila- AFGE Learn to complete tion, and what to do if an the prerequisite. employee becomes ill from Participants should By DON MONCRIEF exposure to COVID-19. See WEBINARS, page 4 Editor, The Union Advocate [email protected] The 2021 AFL-CIO Dr. Martin In memory ... Luther King Jr. Civil and Human Rights Conference was held – virtu- ally – Jan. 15-16. Eric Brady The two-day event featured a num- Passed away December 2020 ber of guest speakers. Those includ- ed AFGE National President Dr. Member since November 2005 Everett Kelley (his remarks are tran- scribed and included in a separate article), AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka (his remarks also includ- ed), AFL-CIO Vice President Gebre and Steelworkers International Vice President Fred Redmond (they wel- comed attendees via a back-and- forth script), AFL-CIO Secretary- Treasurer Liz Shuler (her comments FROM PROTEST TO POWER also in a separate story) and NAACP President Derrick Johnson (as mod- Membership meeting erated by Washington State Labor Local 987 will have a membership meet- Council Secretary-Treasurer April Sims). WHEN WE FIGHT, WE WIN! ing Feb. 18 at 5 p.m. It will be held It also included a number of break- via Zoom. Membership will be verified out sessions. They included: “We are all essential: Coronavirus and “Covid-19 vaccines: What you need A virtual awards ceremony honor- before you are admitted into the meet- its impact on frontline workers,” to know”, “Big flipping deal: Field ing Stacey Abrams, Helen Butler, ing/teleconference. To that end, you must “Building the beloved community notes from Arizona and Georgia” Rebecca DeHart, AFT Secretary- ensure you have a current email on file within the labor movement” (see and “Not all heroes wear capes: Treasurer Emeritus Dr. Lorretta or you will not be able to call in. You can separate story), “Building power Black women saved our democracy Johnson, Deborah Scott, Nse’ from the ground up: What to know and how all women can help carry Ufot and the Labor Coalition for make updates by calling Union Hall at about the census and redistricting,” the load” (see separate story). Community was also held. 478-922-5758 or by emailing Linda Baxter at [email protected] or Jeanette McElhaney at [email protected].) Reflection ‘Building community within ‘Black women saved the labor movement’ Official Notice: By DON MONCRIEF AFGE Local 987 is now accepting bids our democracy’ Editor, The Union Advocate on the replacement of 15 windows for [email protected] By DON MONCRIEF “Radical progress: Building the beloved community the property located at 1764 Watson Editor, The Union Advocate within the labor movement” was one of the sessions Blvd., and bids for A/C modifications [email protected] offered during Jan. 15-16’s virtual 2021 MLK Civil (adding a dehumidifier to the current Reflection. That was part of the message AFL-CIO and Human Right conference. system). Contact Linda Baxter at Secretary-Treasurer Liz Shuler had for those attend- Panelists for the segment were Jeremy Lannan, AFGE ing the AFL-CIO’s 2021 MLK Civil and Human Rights National Vice President for Women and Fair Practices, 478-922-5758 to make an appoint- conference Jan. 15 and 16. Montserrat Garibay, Secretary-Treasurer of the Texas ment to view the property and system. Shuler reflected on losses this past year: “The tre- AFL-CIO, Claude Cummings Jr., Communications mendous loss of lives, of jobs, threats to our commu- Workers of America District 6 Vice President Claude nity, our economy and democracy.” Cummings, Will Sullivan (title unknown) and mod- She also reflected on gains: “The incoming admin- erator Tracy Lai, AFL-CIO Vice President of Human istration. And Georgia. And the U.S. Senate (seats Rights. won).” They addressed a number of questions – many from GA PAID She also reflected “specifically”, she said, about those listening in during the question and answer ses- U.S. Postage Non-Profit.org Permit No. 100 Warner Robins, Warner what is “owed to black women.” sion. One was to talk about what steps their See REFLECTION, page 3 See COMMUNITY, page 3 Women, Fair Practices division to hold EEO and ADAAA training By JEREMY LANNAN and others on ADAAA and ■ Feb. 8: noon-2 p.m. and AFGE National Vice President EEO issues in the wake of 6-8 p.m. Women and Fair Practices the COVID-19 pandemic. ■ Feb. 9: 8-10 p.m. Our robust training sched- ■ Feb. 11: 6-8 p.m. As the COVID-19 pan- ule is below. All are Eastern All trainings can also be demic continues into the Standard Time. found on AFGE’s events new year, we are proud to ■ Jan. 25: noon-2 p.m. webpage at: www.afge. offer training on your Equal and 6-8 p.m. org/events. If you have Employment Opportunity ■ Jan. 28: 9-11 a.m. and any questions or concerns, and Americans with 8-10 p.m. please contact Women’s and Disabilities Act Amendments ■ Jan. 30: 10 a.m.-noon Fair Practices Departments Act protections in the face attendees with the skills ■ Feb. 1: 6-8 p.m. Program Specialist Denver of COVID-19. and insights needed to be ■ Feb. 2: 8-10 p.m. Supinger at Denver. AFGE Local 987 Blvd 1764 Watson 31099 Robins, GA Warner This training will provide advocates for themselves ■ Feb. 6: 10 a.m.-noon [email protected]. PAGE 2THE UNION ADVOCATE JAN. 21, 2021 NDAA expands benefits BBB offers tips for trusting for federal workers your tax preparer By AFGE LEADERSHIP 5 who were inadvertently force, and fully burdened ost people get help filing their tax preparer credentials excluded from 2019 legisla- costs. taxes, either from computer soft- on the IRS website. ■ Thanks to our union’s tion, including workers at ■ Protecting military Mware or a professional tax pre- Keep a watchful grassroots mobilization the Department of Veterans medical treatment facilities parer. In addition, some filers may have eye for promises. Be and support from mem- Affairs, Transportation Before DoD can downsize questions regarding COVID-19’s impact on wary of any tax prep- bers of Congress on both Security Administration or realign military medical their personal taxes. aration service that But horror stories in the media about promises larger refunds sides of the aisle, AFGE (non-screener work- treatment facilities, they tax service rip offs and scams have some than their competition members governmentwide force), Federal Aviation are required to provide consumers concerned about who they can and avoid tax prepar- will get to enjoy new ben- Administration, and D.C.’s patient safety metrics to be trust with their financial data and private ers who base their fee efits as the 2021 National Courts and Public Defender approved by Congress before Kelvin Collins information. on a percentage of the Defense Authorization Act Service. shifting work to TRICARE. A paid tax return preparer is primar- refund. Also be wary of “refund anticipa- has become law following a The 2019 law, which took ■ Commercial product ily responsible for the overall, substantive tion loans,” which can take a hefty chunk broad bipartisan override of effect Oct. 1, 2020, provides determinations 12 weeks of paid leave for The law requires con- accuracy of your tax return(s). If there of your refund in commission. Refunds the president’s veto of the are processed quickly these days, so it’s a federal workers who are tracting officers to consult is a problem with your return or you are measure. audited by the Internal Revenue Service, better bet to just wait for the real thing new parents – both men with the Defense Contract On Jan. 1, the Senate, fol- the tax preparer can help you address the rather than pay a premium to get it now. and women – to care for a Management Agency and lowing in the footsteps of the issue and can often represent you. Refund Anticipation Loans also created House, overrode President newborn or an adopted or the Defense Contract Audit fostered child. The preparer is required to sign your some delays for many individuals receiving Trump’s veto to enact the Agency and consider the Finally, new parents don’t tax forms (paper or electronic) and provide stimulus payments within the last year. NDAA, a budget blueprint views of public- and private- have to choose between their preparer tax identification number, a ■ Search for free tax programs. for the Department of sector entities when docu- their jobs and their families. number assigned by the IRS. There are several free government pro- Defense with several provi- menting a product or ser- This is the same benefit ser- Better Business Bureau advises taxpay- grams that prepare taxes free of charge sions that benefit federal vice as a commercial item. vice members have received ers to be extra cautious when choosing a if you meet an income requirement; go to workers governmentwide. ■ Merging Commissaries since 2016 under a separate tax preparer, since that person or company the IRS’s Free File page for more informa- Meanwhile, federal work- and Exchanges military policy. will have access to your personally identifi- tion. Most will also file your state return. If The law requires DoD ers will receive a 1 percent ■ Enhanced protections able information. Here are some BBB tips not, check with your state’s Department of to perform a new business pay raise in 2021. Locality from discrimination and to help you find a tax preparer you can Revenue to find out about their programs. case analysis for consolidat- pay, however, will remain at retaliation trust. ■ Tax software and apps. If you plan ing military exchanges and 2020 levels. Each federal agency is ■ Get referrals. To find a tax preparer, to file yourself, use tax software or an app Here are some of the high- commissaries and prohibits now required to establish a start by asking friends and family for rec- that provides both excellent data security lights of the new benefits in DoD from proceeding with model Equal Employment ommendations, then check BBB Business and good customer service. NDAA: any consolidation of DoD’s Opportunity program that is Reviews at bbb.org. Look beyond the let- Some of the top names in tax prep soft- resale entities until the independent of the agency’s ter grade; complaint details and Customer ware are BBB Accredited Businesses, so Governmentwide pro- House and Senate Armed human resources or general Reviews will tell you about others’ experi- check with bbb.org first. visions: Services committees have counsel offices and estab- ences. New tax laws can help create confusion ■ Annual leave carryover reviewed and approved the ■ lishes requirements related Make sure they are properly regis- that dishonest preparers will capitalize on, Federal employees under updated analysis. to complaints of discrimina- tered. A tax preparer must obtain a PTIN so taxpayers should always review their Title 5 will be permitted “This critical legisla- from the IRS. Never let someone work on tion and retaliation in the return before signing, ask questions on to carry over an additional tion recognizes the invalu- your taxes unless they have this number. workplace. entries they do not understand. 25 percent of annual leave able role that federal and Don’t be afraid to ask about this or other Also be sure to get a copy of the return into 2021 in recognition of DoD-specific provi- D.C. government workers qualifications; a capable professional does our dedicated service during perform in service to the not mind questions. for your records. Finally, do not ever sign a sions: blank tax form or one filled out in pencil! the pandemic. The Office of ■ Restriction on DoD nation and includes many ■ Look for credentials. Anyone with Personnel Management has provisions that our union a PTIN can prepare your tax forms for ##### workforce cuts Kelvin Collins is President/CEO of the just issued guidance on how We successfully restricted strongly supports,” said you, but some tax preparers have more Better Business Bureau serving the Fall agencies can implement the workforce cuts at DoD. The AFGE President Everett training and qualifications than others. Line Corridor, serving 77 counties in East law. Secretary of Defense is pro- Kelley. “On behalf of the Enrolled agents, certified public accoun- Alabama, West Georgia, Southwest Georgia, The additional leave must hibited from reducing pro- 700,000 employees repre- tants and attorneys have unlimited rights Central Georgia, East Georgia and Western be used in calendar year grammed funding levels for sented by AFGE, I thank to represent their clients to the IRS on all 2021. the civilian workforce unless members of the House and matters. South Carolina. Questions or complaints ■ Paid parental leave the department assesses the Senate for their hard work Other preparers can help you with forms about a specific company or charity should extension impact of such a reduction on this legislation and their and simple IRS matters, but are limited be referred directly to them at 1-800-763- Congress extended paid on workload, military force commitment to supporting otherwise, and they can’t help you if they 4222, website www.bbb.org or via email at parental leave to approxi- structure, lethality, readi- our dedicated employees in didn’t prepare your form. Learn more about [email protected]. mately 100,000 federal ness, operational effective- the Department of Defense employees outside of Title ness, stress on the military and governmentwide.” Will asking questions about an Overcoming the mask Tips for communication old debt make it active again? Dear Consumer Ed: If I ask questions about an old debt that through COVID-19 might have expired, will that make it active (Family Features) It can again? I’m not sure be challenging to communi- what the original debt cate through masks, 6-feet was for before it was of social distance, physical sold to a debt collector, barriers and other factors and I need to find out debt that would otherwise their initial communication due to COVID-19 that have the date the debt was be time-barred. to collect on a debt, if not changed daily life. incurred. If you’re curious as to what included in the initial com- For people with hearing Consumer Ed says: the original debt was for, munication. loss, this is an especially Old debt that has reached consider reviewing a copy of The notice must include challenging time. In a tell- the statute of limitations your credit report from one the amount of the debt, the ing sign of increased hear- is considered time-barred. ing difficulty, usage of online Time-barred doesn’t mean of the three credit reporting name of the creditor, and hearing tests increased 500 the debt can’t be collected, agencies (Experian, Equifax a statement notifying the percent since the pandemic only that the person who and TransUnion). consumer of his/her 30-day began. incurred the debt cannot be In consideration of the right to dispute the debt. “It’s a triple threat because sued for it. COVID-19 pandemic, You also have the right masks reduce the loudness Be cautious inquiring Equifax, Experian, and to request within this 30- of the voice, muffle pronun- about potentially time- TransUnion are now offer- day period, the name and ciation and eliminate visu- Photo courtesy Getty Images barred debts. Typically, ing free weekly online address of the original cred- als like facial expressions simply acknowledging a reports through April 2021. itor. ple with hearing loss are and lip reading,”said Bill can muffle sound too much debt can toll the statute of To access your free credit A written request to dis- Schiffmiller, a lifelong hear- for some. facing now. If communica- report, go to annualcre- pute a debt, so long as it is tion becomes too challeng- limitations, or restart the ing aid user and founder According to audiologist clock. ditreport.com. stated as a dispute and not and CEO of Akoio, a hearing Dr. Shivani Patel, high-fre- ing through a mask, have a You have one addition- an acknowledgment, stops backup plan such as pen and Georgia law, however, wellness company. quency hearing loss is com- gives enhanced protections al avenue available to you debt collectors from further Data shows people who mon, making female voices paper or a smartphone note- if the debt collector con- attempts to collect until the taking app. for consumers by providing can’t hear others begin to difficult to hear. In this situ- tacts you. The Fair Debt debt is verified. When you’re having a statutory written require- stay away from other people, ation, research has found Collection Practices Act Failure to respond to a trouble hearing ment whereby you as the and social isolation can lead standard medical masks give you the legal right to notice of a debt on the part Talk to your friends and debtor, or someone autho- to anxiety and depression. tend to transfer sound best. rized by you, would have to what is called “debt valida- of the consumer does not People who have trouble Try different masks to see family. Tell them what you’re experiencing and be clear provide a written acknowl- tion.” imply an acceptance of the hearing also tend to have what works for you. edgement sufficiently rec- The law requires debt col- debt and therefore has no higher hospitalization rates Minimize background and direct in expressing your thoughts and feelings. Ask ognizing the debt in order lectors to provide a notice effect on the statute of limi- and longer hospital stays, noise. Music, construction, for a creditor to collect on a of debts within five days of tations. according to research other conversations, heat- whether they have noticed published in “JAMA ers and fans can make it your hearing troubles and Otolaryngology.” challenging to communicate listen to their feedback. Among those 55 and older when wearing a mask. Describe specific instanc- who have hearing loss, 58 Avoid “cavernous” rooms. es and circumstances when percent don’t use hearing An environment with most- your hearing is affected most. aids. In the past, statistics ly hard surfaces, such as Armed with this knowledge, have shown people waiting a large meeting room or friends and family can help you manage various situa- up to seven years before get- gymnasium, offers minimal Published by the American user or patron. ting a hearing aid from the sound dampening and can tions. Federation of Government Publisher Editorial content is edited, time of diagnosis. make hearing comprehen- Determine a plan of action. Employees Local 987, Warner Judd Publishing prepared and provided by AFGE However, the communica- sion more difficult. Set an appointment to have Robins, Georgia. Company Local 987. Submitted news and tion challenges posed during Maintain eye contact. Look your hearing checked by an Contents of The Union Editor/layout and design editorial content/photographs COVID-19 are driving some directly at the person you’re audiologist. If you wear a Advocate are not necessarily Don Moncrief are welcome - applicability to to address their hearing speaking to and speak clear- hearing aid, be sure to carry the official view of AFGE Local AFGE Local 987’s mission to sooner than they may have ly, helping him or her read extra batteries. Notice ways 987, or endorsed by the U.S. Everything advertised in be determined by the discre- otherwise. some of your facial expres- to adjust your environment Government, the Department of this publication shall be made tion of the editor and/or presi- the Air Force or The Document dent. Help someone hear you sions. When using video to reduce background noise. available for purchase, use or better conference services, look Make hearing wellness a Company. Please submit arti- The appearance of advertis- patronage without regard to cles, photos, etc to don. Consider the mask you’re directly into the camera in a priority. Data shows hearing ing in this publication, includ- race, color, religion, sex, nation- moncrief@afgelocal 987.org. wearing. Clear masks pro- well-lit room and ensure you is important to a person’s ality, age, marital status, physi- mental and physical well- ing inserts, does not constitute For questions about story con- vide a visual difference, have clear picture quality to endorsement by The Union cal or mental health, political tent, to pass on story ideas helping with lip reading and help with lip reading. ness, and untreated hear- Advocate, AFGE Local 987 or affiliation, or any other non- or to request coverage, please facial expressions. The plas- Be patient. Remember the ing loss can have multiple the Department of Defense. merit factor for the purchaser, contact the aforementioned. tic in clear masks, however, increased challenges peo- health consequences. JAN. 21, 2021 PAGE 3 Top leaders speak at Civil, Human Rights Conference AFGE National ones. AFL-CIO President on strike. President Dr. Everett We who have devoted our- Richard Trumka: Fifty-three years ago, Dr. Kelley selves to the labor move- o the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., lthough this week- ment, to the deep bonds of King. From his went to Memphis. He spoke end is a celebra- solidarity, feel the loss of Twords to his char- to the sanitation workers Ation of the life and our brothers and sisters in acter, are in each of us. In who went on strike and work of Dr. Martin Luther this cruel pandemic virus our solidarity, our service those who were with them King Jr., today we pause to very deeply. and our spirit. in solidarity. We know Dr. remember the three hun- Now we know that it has And that’s how we know King told them that he had dred thousand lost in the fallen more heavily on peo- Dr. King’s legacy is still been to the mountaintop. U.S. (to Covid). And more ple who have had no choice shaping us. The ones who That he had seen the prom- than two million lost around but to expose themselves to came after him. ised land. And he assured the world. I ask you to pray, infections by going to work. We have a moral respon- them that they would all but start with moment of Whether it was in a sibility to carry forward the get there, even if he was silence. slaughterhouse where some torch that he lit. Dr. King not there. Now we all know that Kelley of my members were expect- told us that. And he told Trumka Now let us not forget ed to work. Whether it was why Dr. King was moved Martin Luther King was of any minister is to console us why. You see, in 1968, not just a brave and bril- in the hospital or nursing Memphis sanitation work- tions. Their trucks were to go to Memphis. Why he the grieved, the bereaved. liant writer and strategist homes or the restaurants, ers Echol Cole and Robert dilapidated. They earned was motivated to join the and speaker, he was also It’s as much a part of our schools, airports or other Walker were crushed to wages so low many were striking sanitation work- an ordained minister in the lives as death is. All of us places where essential work- death by a malfunctioning on welfare. And they had a ers. You see, he told them Baptist church. And, I’ll tell here have lost someone dear ers had to report. truck. The workers were mayor who refused to rec- about the good Samaritan. you that one of the most to this terrible pandemic. Now these essential rightfully furious. They did ognize their union. They A parable about a important responsibilities I, myself, have lost loved See KELLEY, page 4 their jobs with few protec- had enough and they went See TRUMKA, page 4

reinforced generation after As reflection on Dr. King’s REFLECTION generation, year after year.” legacy and his powerful words From page 1 Shuler went on to say “we” “that keep us fighting and need to have some difficult organized,” Shuler said it’s For starters, she said, conversation. That’s how we important to reflect, among “recognition” is owed them. make our democracy stand, other reflections on his legacy, Women, she said, like Stacey she said. “And as we often say on the day he was in Memphis Abrams – politician, lawyer, in the labor movement: ‘We to help rally 1,300 sanitation voting rights activist, author, are a counterforce to racism workers who had gone on et cetera – as well as AFL-CIO and sexism and hate.” strike. Secretary-Treasurer Yvonne That’s why in 2020, she “And he said, and I quote, Robinson … “for mobilizing said, despite the pandemic, ‘Our society must come to stunning electoral wins in the pain, the loss and the chal- respect the sanitation worker. Georgia …” lenges, labor marched and He is as significant as the phy- Shuler continued that “sup- organized for racial and eco- sician. For if he doesn’t do his port” is owed to black women. nomic justice. “And we cara- job disease is rampant.’ Like Dr. Timnit Gebru, whom vanned in our cars for Covid Think about the Covid pan- she said stood up to Google relief. And mobilized record demic and how true that is and spoke out about the harm numbers of working people today, she said. “Now let’s add algorithms could cause com- to vote. And in 2020, women ‘she’ and ‘they’ to that state- munities of color. Gebru, she of color were again the most ment. Because women, espe- said, also inspired union orga- reliable voters for pro-worker cially women of color are the nizing. candidates.” frontline essential workers, in She also said “justice” was Not only that, but now 144 the low-wage jobs, care, retail owed to black women. Like women of color are now serv- and of course healthcare and Breonna Taylor, she said, ing in Congress, Shuler said. education. who “had her life in front of That, she said, is the highest “They are getting us all her until it was robbed - and number ever. Added in, she though this pandemic. What everyone she loved. said, is the fact we now have in is owed to women of color is “So much is owed to black Kamala Harris the first Black the full power and force of women because they’ve been woman and first Southeast their participation and leader- carrying this country from Asian woman in the second ship. before America was a coun- highest office in the country. “So let’s start the conversa- try,” she said. “While the U.S “She will be the first, and tion on how we do that, here, was founded on principles say it with me, she won’t be right now, today but also every like equality, it was built on the last. The labor movement day. And a year from now I the backs of enslaved people. will make sure of it. Because want us to be discussing our By labor stolen from black women of color belong in the progress. It’s possible. We’re women and men. House and the Senate and capable of it so let’s get to She continued: “Systemic the White House, in the union work making the real change - racism exists at every level and at every table of leader- in our labor movement, in our of American society. And it’s ship and power. economy and in our world.”

call it out any time we see with adequate resources to COMMUNITY it.” address racism at all levels. From page 1 Switching gears a bit, Sullivan agreed and added Lannan added: “I’ll just kind an anti-racist union/move- organization took prior to of leave off: At the end of the ment simply put, was one that the pandemic as groups like day, black and brown helped “lived its values. A lot of times Black Lives Matter and the build labor to what it is today. we hear in trade unions about like formed in relation to the And we owe it to them, to fig- solidarity and justice. And a George Floyd shooting, et ure it out and to do it togeth- lot of times that just doesn’t cetera. They also talked about er.” apply in practice.” strategies they took take to He also added that he was He also emphasized educa- increase diversity and leader- proud to see the Black Lives tion – get people to under- ship. Matter rallies and protests stand the “ideology” – as well One of the most discussed because he said it was good as to think “big picture. This was: What does an anti-racist to finally see people from all is an international struggle. union/movement look like? walks of lives come together. We need to make it a common For starters, Lannan said, “And that’s the epitome of cause internationally. “We’ve got to get uncomfort- what labor is about. We all “It doesn’t play out that way able. That means we’re going come together for change. when our governments are to have to have discussions And I saw people doing that doing things in other countries within AFGE.” this summer. And it made me that are clearly racist. It’s not In particular, Lannan point- proud. We finally saw some of a case of it just happening in ed out the fact AFGE repre- our younger generations say- our own back yard. Racism sents “a lot” of law enforce- ing ‘no way. We’re not going is happening elsewhere and ment agencies: Bureau of to make the same mistakes undermines happening in our Prisons, border patrol, ICE, our generation made. We’re local communities. It’s a glob- etc. going to stand up for what’s al struggle.” “Sometimes the work they right and we don’t care what Garibay said: “We need to do is oftentimes ostracized or it takes to make that hap- be courageous and unapolo- even kind of presented with pen.” getic.” She also said this a negative connotation to Cummings said there need- could/would look different in it,” he said. “So I think what ed to be “tough discussion” every state. “That’s impor- we’ve had to do is figure out but “necessary” discussion. tant for us to look at.” how we can pull law enforce- Unions also have to look She also indorsed having ment into these discussions internally to address issues of a code of conduct and safe and get them to be part of the race and racism, he said. places, “but I honestly think movement and to get them to “In most cases we don’t have building relationships and recognize what racial injus- to look far (for solutions),” he having conversations with tices consist of and how they said. “We just simply have to people that don’t look like me can stand in real unity and enforce the policies we have in or you is really imp. solidarity with AFGE.” place now.” “And one of the things I love He offered it had been a However, he added, “Simply about the labor movement is challenge because he thought having them on paper is not we’re kind of like a rainbow some of AFGE’s law enforce- enough. We have to take con- of people within our move- ment officers were taken back crete steps to strictly enforce ments. that they got lumped into this them throughout our union “And many times we don’t category … “You know, some and every local and every know the stories of our union of them support Black Lives place.” members and our leaders. Matter, not just the move- In addition, he said, there And I think one of the things ment but the organization. exist “multiple” avenues for is we need to do is listen to And some may not. But at the members and staff to report their stories: ‘What do you end of the day we still have to racism and discrimination need?’ ‘How can I help?’” pull them in because every- when it happens. She also stressed the need body has the right to belong “We also have to internal- to include those in the labor to the union. ly create open space to cre- movement who have been “Now with that being said, ate dialogue to address these around a long time – gaining we also have to make it clear issues,” he said. “That’s the experience in all things as a we will not tolerate racism first step toward progress I result – as well as mentor- from anybody. We have to hold think. It must be.” ing other so that they could each other as leaders, as well Cummings also said educa- be at the table making deci- as our members accountable. tion and training of members sions regarding these types of Make sure we don’t allow rac- needed to be a part of the pro- issues and “not just be in the ism within the union, and we cess as well as providing them background.” PAGE 4THE UNION ADVOCATE JAN. 21, 2021

necessary. Wash your hands on. do the right thing. There BROWN and above all, when there We need to reflect intensely has, however, been a con- From page 1 is a case of COVID in the on the lessons learned in the certed effort by, Brig. Gen. 78th Force Support workplace employees must last few months. In particu- Jennifer Hammerstedt, doubled, the death rate now be removed from the affect- lar, COVID-19 has exposed Warner Robins Air Logistics Squadron stands at 406,244 citizens ed area and the area must be some of our management as Complex commander, to have lost their lives to this cleaned and disinfected. This weak when it comes to the hold managers account- Calendar of events/activities scourge. Your local has the is nothing more than cater- care and feeding of our mem- able for their actions. More inherent responsibility to ing for essential needs of our bers and the negative impact importantly, she has been challenge conventional wis- members. While we appear of their actions. There are a resiliency champion. The Jan. 22 Jan. 23 dom by ensuring your safety to be facing the storm of some leaders in the arena signing of the new Diversity, and holding management management apathy, we are fighting for their employees. Inclusion Counsel charter Friday Saturday accountable for the safety here to hold them account- That should in turn raise the offers us with the best oppor- of every employee on the Family nights Casino trip able for their actions or lack need for us to work through tunity for a real partnership. Bowling center. Glow-in-the- Outdoor Recreation. Wind Creek. installation. thereof. those issues and the conse- We are excited about the dark. 9-11 p.m. 12 and under, $30 per person. Limited spots In the installation response The lifting of restrictions quent challenges to achieve counsel and the promise and $5; 13 and older, $10. All games available. Email robinsitt@gmail. to the crisis of COVID-19 a and the return to work when member safety and reliance hope of a brighter future for you can bowl in two hours. com for more or to sign up. number of important lessons the coronavirus is still pres- in the provision of essential our members. have emerged for those who ent clearly means that the respect for the employee. I firmly believe that this care to learn. base cannot simply return to Robins and its resilience, I is a great opportunity to Jan. 24 Jan. 25 The first major lesson the old way of doing things. recently had an opportunity address a number of issues is that masks are an inte- We are simply confronted to speak on perspective and influencing our Wage Grade Sunday Monday gral part to mitigating the with the situation of a new resilience. Notwithstanding, employees with the center- Mid-Ga USBC All-Star tourney Membership dinner to go spread. And we are our normal. Life and work must the poor state of prepared- piece being the charge of Bowling center. 9 a.m. 12-game Heritage Club. 4-5:30 p.m. Menu: brothers and sisters keepers go on side by side with the ness in which the pandemic identifying inequalities and qualifier. Top-ranked represent Asian Fusion. RSVP on Member in that regard. Maintaining coronavirus. Knowledge of found us, many of our lead- inconsistencies in the appli- Mid-Ga. Visit bowling center for Planet or call 478-926-2670 by 4 a distance of six feet while the virus, however, grows ers’ perspective of the chal- cation of organizational poli- more details/entry form. p.m., Jan. 22. working in your respective and we learn better by the lenges being faced lacked the cies by giving a voice to the areas where possible is also day how to fight it and live resilience to move out and voiceless. Jan. 26 Jan. 27 the federal level and far too vaccines are distributed fair- horrendous thing that hap- Tuesday Wednesday KELLEY often, on the state and local ly and that sick aren’t buried pens in this life. So many of From page 3 level ... as union brothers under the unpayable medical us avoid those who have lost Tips from the Pro/Closest to Pin Initial safety training and sisters, I ask that you bills and that work centers a loved one because we don’t Pine Oaks Golf Course, Tips: 4-5 Auto Crafts Club. 4 p.m. (Note: workers were too often treat- continue to practice solidar- are required to provide every know what to say. But here’s p.m. All the range balls you can Every Wednesday). Email racc. ed as expendable, and the ity by helping the one in your safe precaution. a secret. You don’t have to hit for $5. Closest: 11 a.m.-12:30 [email protected] for more p.m. Pay $5 for two shots to win. information. numbers bare witness of the local. Anyone in your local We must organize to say anything. Just: “Hello. change. African-American union or another union who ensure that government on How are you doing?” “Hello. and Latino workers were has suffered a loss. every level is doing all it can Can I help? What’s on your Jan. 28 Jan. 29 disproportionately affected Far too often we don’t do to plan to take care of the mind?” because they are dispropor- know what to do in the face next pandemic, so that hun- That’s all you have to say. Thursday Friday tionately of the weight scale of death. We can say mourn dreds of thousands of people Because in doing so you’re where essential workers live. the dead but finally hail for don’t die lonely, unnecessary really saying is I’m still your National Croissant Day Now we mourn these loss- the living. And don’t mourn. deaths ever again. friend. I’m still your union Fairways Grille, Pine Oaks Golf es and we have asked our- Organize. We must follow Everyone feels awkward brother or sister. I’m still Course. 7:30 a.m.-1 p.m. Buy selves why our government the age-old wisdom. We must after death. Death is the here for you. I know you’re one croissant sandwich, get the second 50 percent off. failed to protect them. On organize to make sure that most awkward, the most in pain.

vated by the righteous call of their praises and said “I love forward the torch that Dr. Jan. 30 Jan. 31 TRUMKA working people demanding you.” Now we know why this King handed us. Not just on From page 3 dignity and a union. happened. Because they were one weekend each year, but Saturday Sunday The question that the good white. You see we’re suffer- on every day. In every corner Axe thowing traveler on the road to Samaritan posed. The ques- ing. Suffering under the lash of this country. Outdoor Recreation. Jerusalem who was beaten. tion that guided Dr. King of economic injustice and You see, that’s our moral Transportation provided. $15 per And left suffering alongside must guide us, too. You see white supremacy. Systematic obligation. To make Dr. person. Limited spots available. of the road. we’re living through a time racism and political malprac- King’s dream is our future. Email [email protected]. Dr. King recalled how a of crisis, division and aid. A tice. In our workplaces. In Change is coming in priest and a Levite looked pandemic that’s killed over our communities all across America. I can feel it. In elec- over at that man laying on 380,000 Americans. Millions this country. tions won. In a democracy Feb. 1 Feb. 2 the ground and wondered if have been denied healthcare And we must not turn our saved. In a movement that’s the robbers were still around. and a paycheck. Black and heads. We must not become growing more popular and Monday Tuesday You see the first question brown Americans have been numb to pain. Whether it’s militant by the day. Teen Book Bash they asked was: “If I stop disproportionately harmed our pain, or the pain of our But we can’t settle down Library. Crafting, book-talk and to help this man what will and the cancer of racial neighbors. Because we should or slow our roll. We can’t refreshments (all supplied free of happen to me?” But then injustice continues to thread all feel it. All of us or none of find comfort in complacency charge) 4-5 p.m. (Note: Every first the good Samaritan came by through society. us. The labor movement’s or normalcy. We must push. Tuesday of the month.) and he reversed the ques- Look no further than the ready to help. To address rac- Push ourselves and push our tion: “If I do not stop to help attack on the U.S. Capitol. ism in America. In whatever society forward. this man, what will happen When domestic terrorists form it may take. To stop the Because we won’t be in Feb. 3 Feb. 4 to him?” carried out an act of insurrec- inequality of income, oppor- the middle of the pack. We That’s why king went to tion, a modern day coup, they tunity and power. To beat will be the tip of the spear. Wednesday Thursday Memphis. He was not moti- were by and large allowed to Covid-19 and keep everyone Because we’re the American Initial safety training Against the grain vated by his own self inter- walk away. They were told to whole. To grow America’s labor movement. We will not Auto Crafts Club. 4 p.m. (Note: Robins Expressions. ests. Rather he was moti- go home. The President sang labor movement. To carry be denied. Every Wednesday). Email racc. $10 per person. Email [email protected] for more [email protected] for information. more. COVID-19 outbreak management Whistleblower protections. WEBINARS Jan. 25, 4-5:30 p.m. From page 1 Synopsis: As workplace outbreaks Cultivating resilience: A path continue to boom, this 90 minute class forward already be a steward at their Local. teaches local and national leaders how Jan. 26, noon-1:30 p.m. to respond to complaints about unsafe Synopsis: This 90-minute virtual Local officer orientation working conditions and apply pressure workshop is designed for AFGE mem- Jan. 25, 3-7 p.m. to federal agencies that neglect proper bers, leaders and staff looking for prac- Museum of Aviation Synopsis: This four-hour overview safety and OSHA regulations. tical tools and strategies to increase for new local officers covers legal, fidu- We’ll cover: communication with resilience and practice self-care. Events: ciary, and reporting requirements of affected and at-risk workers, fil- Participants will assess their current “The Return” Beatles Tribute Band local officers. Planning and budgeting ing OSHA and CDC complaints, capacity for resilience and create a Feb. 6, 5:30-8:30 p.m. for a strong, effective local are also contacting government officials, personalized action plan for cultivating Synopsis: The Museum of Aviation Foundation will present discussed. Workers’ Compensation claims, and resilience and wellbeing in daily life. “Century Showcase Theater” featuring the “The Return” Beatles Tribute Band on this date. The “Return,” one of the greatest ■ Armstrong ■ Arbor Mist Atlanta tribute bands is considered talented enough to perform ■ Black & Decker Tools ■ C.K. Mondavi in front of a national audience. ■ Channellock ■ Chateau Ste. Michelle What makes a Return show so enthralling is the way in which ■ Craftsman ■ Cook’s champagne they have so meticulously recreated the complete Beatles image on stage. The boys feature authentic vintage instruments, hair- ■ Cutco knives ■ Gallo Estate wines cuts, and custom made clothes and boots. Their unmistakable ■ Klein Tools ■ Gallo of Sonoma Liverpool accents and Beatlesque antics truly bring out the ■ Ridgid ■ St. Supery charming, charismatic personas of the original four lads we all adore. In being true to the original Fab Four, The Return derives ■ SnapOn Tools ■ Tott’s champagne their song list from a specific part of the Beatles catalog, primari- ■ Stanley Hand Tools ■ Turning Leaf ly performing material that the Beatles played in live concert set- ■ Union Tools tings. This long and wonderful list of songs spans material from Beer the early cover songs they played at Liverpool’s Cavern Club, to ■ Warwood Looking for that perfect gift ■ Memory ■ Bass Pale Ale Lennon-McCartney numbers performed on the last Beatles tour of America in 1966. for your Valentine, etc? Why not ■ Mousetrap ■ Beck’s consider these Union-made, Stocking stuffers ■ Mr. Potato Head ■ 25th Annual Museum of Aviation Foundation Marathon, American-made products: ■ Rayovac batteries Blue Moon Half-Marathon and 5K Run/Walk ■ My Little Pony ■ Bic lighters ■ Budweiser Feb. 13 Apparel and accessories ■ Operation ■ Allan Traditional Candy ■ Busch Synopsis: The 25th Annual Museum of Aviation Foundation ■ Carhartt ■ Play-Doh Canes and other candies ■ Killian’s Marathon, Half-Marathon and 5K Run/Walk will be held at the ■ Filson clothes and bags ■ Rubik’s Museum of Aviation on this date. The races are sponsored by the ■ Boyer Mallo cups and other ■ Kirin ■ Museum of Aviation Foundation and the Robins Pacers Running/ Garnier Fructis hair care ■ Sorry candies ■ Labatt Blue products Walking Club. ■ Strawberry Shortcake ■ Brown & Haley holiday gift ■ Land Shark Lager ■ Joseph Abboud The three races are part of the 2021 Run and See Georgia ■ Tinkertoy boxes, baskets and packages ■ Michelob Grand Prix Series. The marathon course is USA Track and Field ■ Nunn Bush shoes ■ Tonka ■ Dare Foods Limited variety ■ Mickey’s certified (Boston Marathon qualifier). The half marathon is also ■ Phillips-Van Heusen USA Track and Field certified. Proceeds from the growing annual ■ Transformers of gums, jellies, hard candy ■ Miller ■ Red Wing Shoes event benefit the Museum of Aviation. The overall top three ■ Trivial Pursuit ■ Frankford Candy & ■ Molson Canadian male and female finishers in each race, the overall top three ■ Winston Leather Chocolate holiday candy toys, ■ Twister ■ O’Doul’s male and female masters in each race, the top active duty mili- ■ Wolverine boots gift baskets, tins boxes tary male and female in the marathon and the top three finishers ■ Weebles ■ ■ Ghirardelli chocolates Olde English 800 in age categories will receive an award. Six-person relay teams Games and toys ■ Yahtzee ■ may also enter the marathon. ■ Hershey chocolates Pabst ■ Boggle ■ All participants receive a colorful shirt. Those who register by Sports equipment ■ Jelly Belly Red Stripe ■ Candy Land ■ Jan. 30 will receive their shirt on race day. All runners will receive ■ American Athletic gym ■ Jordan Almonds Rolling Rock a finisher’s medal. Visit museumofaviation.org for additional, ■ Clue ■ equipment ■ Laffy Taffy Sam Adams important, details. ■ Connect Four ■ Bell Sports ■ Linette Quality Chocolates ■ Schlitz Hours of operation: ■ Cranium ■ Ebonite Bowling Balls ■ Nestle chocolates ■ ShockTop Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-4 p.m.; Sunday, noon-4 p.m. ■ Easy-Bake ■ Louisville Slugger ■ Pearson’s Candy Company - Maintain 6 foot social distancing ■ The Game of Life Automobiles ■ Remington Arms ■ Sconza Candy Company - Masks “recommended” but are “required” if 6 foot social dis- ■ G.I. Joe ■ Cadillacs tancing cannot be maintained ■ Standard Golf Company ■ ■ See’s Candies ■ Ford Mustangs - Wash hands often Heroscape ■ Wilson Sporting Goods ■ Marvel and Disney toys and Wine and spirits ■ Jeep - Stay home if sick games made by Hasbro Tools ■ Andre champagne - Source: AFL-CIO JAN. 21, 2021 THE UNION ADVOCATE PAGE 5

STATEPOINT when he’s done 72. Surfer’s stop CROSSWORD 73. Past tense of “be” THEME: Famous 74. Mouthlike opening pets DOWN 1. Morse T ACROSS 2. Footnote word 1. Can become herniated, 3. Songs for one pl. 4. Like a potato chip 6. Jump key 5. The Brady Bunch chil- 9. Popular last name in dren, e.g. East Asia 6. Wedding cake layer 13. “I love you” or “J’____” 7. “____ the President’s 14. International workers’ Men” group 8. Very successful 15. Like famous rock-n-roll 9. Intersection of two arcs shoe 10. Great deal 16. DNA half 11. Drop-off spot 17. Will Ferrell’s Christmas 12. ____-do-well character 15. Bachelor on “The 18. Item on a cell phone Bachelorette,” e.g. bill 20. Historical period 19. *Ed’s title 22. Skedaddle 21. *TV dolphin 24. Renewable energy 23. Coach’s talk source 24. Gravy holder 25. *Sea World’s long-run- 25. Hot tea amount ning attraction 28. Serengeti antelope 26. Des Moines native 30. Single-celled microor- 27. Yoga class core exercise ganisms 29. *Punxsutawney seer 35. Call status 31. Persian backgammon 37. Karate blow 32. “Bye” to Banderas 39. Marconi’s wireless 33. Popular ‘70s music telegraphy genre 40. Opposite of home 34. *The Clintons’ cat 41. High fidelity sound sys- 36. Unit of force I had a joke about music but I tems 38. Leaning Tower city 43. CISC alternative 42. Parallel grooves forgot my notes somewhere. 44. Edible biblical rain 45. App alternative 46. One of deadly sins 49. Driver’s aid 47. Ship’s final destination 51. Court figures 48. Like broken promise 54. Off kilter The annoying derma- 50. Bring home the bacon 56. German destroyer 52. Message in a bottle? 57. Tea servings tologist was beginning to 53. Sound of laughter 58. Tangerine-grapefruit get under my skin. 55. Promise to pay hybrid 57. *Michael Jackson’s 59. *Gromit of “Wallace chimp and Gromit” 61. *Marlon Bundo 60. “Good” to Sophia 64. Be of one mind Loren 65. Author of “The Star- 61. Whiskey grain, pl. Spangled Banner” 62. “He’s Just Not That 67. Opposite of gregarious ____ You” one 63. Swarm like bees 69. Flash of light 66. ____ of Good Feelings 70. Bard’s before 68. Genetic initials 71. *Like Garfield’s lasagna

RUG PHOTO MIRROR SHELF SHEETS TEDDY BEAR DUVET NIGHTSTAND CURTAINS WARDROBE RADIO ALARM CLOCK BED PILLOW LAMP SLIPPERS CLOSET A little humor ... A woman walked into a pet ple set up a clock that had thirsty, popped into a bar. the street. Ambling in, he sat head. “I’m sure my boss said store and, after looking up belonged to, they were told, “Excuse me,” he said to the himself on a stool and asked The two men drove up to four-by-fours.” and down the aisles, asked the late President Truman. bartendar in his high, rope the bartender for a beer. the lumberyard, but only one “Is that him in the car,” the the proprietor for help. After tinkering with it for a voice, “but I’d like a beer.” “Hold on,” said the bar- of them got out. He was an clerk said. The apprentice “I like a box of birdsee,” while, the wife sat back and The bartendar looked at tender, “aren’t you - a rope?” apprentice builder and was said the lady. looked despondently at her him oddly. “Say, are you ... “Yes, but I can pay ...” making his first buy on his nodded. “Do me a favor and “For which kind of bird?” he husband. a rope?” “Forget it,” snapped the own. ask him exactly how long you asked helpfully. “It may be beautiful,” she “Yes sir, I am.” bartendar. “We don’t cater to He walked up to the clerk want them.” “Oh, I dunno,” the woman said, “but now I know why The man’s features cloud- ropes in this establishment.” and announced, “I’d like Shrugging, the novice went replied, “Whichever will grow he was late.” her age, she ed. “Then get out! I’m not some four-by-fours.” Mortified, the rope left. over to the car. When he the fastest.” balked. going to serve beer to a Noticing yet another bar “The clerk eyed the young rope!” down the road, the rope was man suspiciously. You mean returned, he said to the clerk, Upon arriving home with The rope was walking down Dejected, the rope left and determined not to be turned four-by-fours, don’t you?” “We’re building a house; we their new purchase, the cou- the street and, feeling a bit spotted a second bar down away again. Tangling himself The apprentice shook his want them forever.” up and vigorously rubbing STR8TS both of his ends on the con- crete, he boldly strode into No. 510 Medium Previous solution - Easy the bar. 2341 8976 “Wait a minute,” said the 78 41236 98 54 bartendar. “Aren’t you a 423 675 rope?” 3 5 2134 8 “No,” the rope replied, “I’m 798 645 3 a frayed not.” 517 679 54 132 56437 21 You know you’ve lived a 3 867 2534 good, long life when they put 98 56 21 the cake ingredients in the pan, light the candles, and 15672 How to beat Str8ts – the cake cooks itself. Like Sudoku, no single number can repeat in any row or column. But... 91rows and columns are divided by black The man walked over to squares into compartments. These the perfume counter and told 7 4 QHHGWREH¿OOHGLQZLWKQXPEHUVWKDW the clerk he’d like a bottle of complete a ‘straight’. A straight is a set Chanel No. 5 for his wife’s of numbers with no gaps but can be in birthday. any order, eg [4,2,3,5]. Clues in black “A little surprise, eh?” cells remove that number as an option 42 in that row and column, and are not part smiled the clerk. © 2020 Syndicated Puzzles of any straight. Glance at the solution to “You bet,” answered the