Investing in Public Workers Labor to the Polls 2016 Strong Infrastructure, Strong Economy

OHIO Civil Service Employees Association AFSCME LOCAL 11/AFL-CIO Volume 72, No. 4 • Fall 2016 Investing in public workers Labor to the polls 2016 Strong infrastructure, strong economy,

“World-class infrastructure is how we move goods across the country and how we export. It’s how we attract businesses and workers into Ohio. Supporting infrastructure projects secures existing jobs, creates new jobs, and keeps communities safe.” ~ Ohio Senator Sherrod Brown hile the debate have to cut corners, because In an article entitled, “Don’t our interstates, highways and isn’t whether we’re not in it for profit. It’s Lowball the Upside of Fixing bridges, can’t be overestimated. W policy makers good for the bulk, as they say,” Roads and Bridges,” author “…Transportation networks should invest in the country’s he said. Noah Smith says that the benefit aren’t like other forms of cap- infrastructure; most agree the Scholtz says the biggest obsta- of investing in even the most ital. They’re not like factories, investment needs to be made, cle he faces is crumbling infra- basic of infrastructure, like or machine tools or office whether it’s crumbling bridges structure. “We’re just keeping or a transportation system that our heads above water. Some hasn’t kept up with technology. roads and bridges are decades Rather, it’s a question about without repair,” he said. “Drastic what the policy framework action is required, not another “Where the should look like for our infra- Band-aid. Somebody needs to structure, where investments step up and do something, infrastructure need to be made and the role think outside the box. And it’s of government and the private going to be hard, for whoever is is, is where sector in those investments. elected, especially in this evolv- Errol Scholtz, an OCSEA ing world,” he said. the jobs are.” member who works as an Ohio Currently, Ohio’s road and Department of Transportation bridge repair is mostly funded ~Errol Scholtz Engineer 2 in northern Ohio, by the federal gas tax, which knows the benefits of investing has been at a fixed rate for 20 in our nation’s infrastructure years despite rising gas prices, and in the public employees inflation, and material and labor who do the work. costs. As a public sector engineer, One myth that’s kept politi- Scholtz works with local govern- cians from supporting gas tax ments to get transportation proj- increases to pay for improve- ects approved, rolling and up to ments is that it’s a bad move standard. This union leader with politically. But a recent study by Ashland Chapter 300 is new to the American Road and Trans- public service, but he’s learning portation Builders Association the benefits of public employee dispels the myth, saying voters experience and expertise for want leaders with solutions to the public good. “Our work is reduce traffic, improve safety continuous. We work until the and grow the economy—and job is completed instead of they’re willing to pay for it. getting it done quickly. We don’t 2 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 buildings, because they have elements of what economists “Whether it’s expanding telecommunications consider a ‘public good,’” Smith or modernizing the outdated electric grid wrote. “This is something that the private sector, left to its own system, we must invest in infrastructure. devices, can’t or won’t provide enough of.” He continued that ~ Chris Cassady the government is a “big player in road- and bridge-building almost everywhere” and that Democratic Presidential there’s “almost certainly a reason candidate Hillary Clinton says for that.” her infrastructure plan will Ohio’s public employees invest $275 billion over five have a lot to gain from a serious years in a broad range of proj- investment in infrastructure, ects including highway, rail, sea, particularly a plan that values air, and broadband expansion. public workers and the eco- Her plan would establish an nomic benefits of investing in infrastructure bank that offers good, union, public-sector jobs. infrastructure loans to state and This includes those employees local governments and private keeping our roads safe, regu- investors. lating our utilities, maintaining “In my first 100 days as water and sewer treatment president, I will work with both plants and more. parties to pass a comprehensive “Where the infrastructure plan to create the next genera- is, is where the jobs are,” said tion of good jobs,” said the Scholtz. AFSCME-endorsed candidate. “It’s not just a question of Her plan would be funded investing in infrastructure, we by eliminating corporate tax also need policy makers who breaks. Hillary Clinton’s value public services and the Clinton’s opponent, Donald men and women who provide Trump has a plan that nearly infrastructure plan those services,” said Chris Cas- doubles her investment figures, sady, a compliance customer but how he plans to pay for it • Repair and expand our roads service representative with the is still a mystery. “It’s most cer- Public Utilities Commission of tain that the middle class and and bridges. Ohio. workers will feel the brunt of PUCO reps like Cassady his plan. One of the most signif- • Lower transportation costs and educate consumers about their icant beneficiaries of the Trump unlock economic opportunity by utility rights, hold utility compa- tax plan and any infrastructure nies accountable and advocate deals will be Trump’s own com- expanding public transit options. on behalf of smart infrastructure panies,” says OCSEA President investments. Christopher Mabe. If Trump • Connect all Americans to “Whether it’s expanding is worth what he says he is, his the Internet. telecommunications or modern- family stands to benefit to the izing the outdated electric grid tune of about $4 billion if his • Invest in building world-class system, we must invest in infra- tax plans are implemented, says American airports and modernize structure,” said Cassady. “PUCO CNN. makes sure that the public inter- “Clinton’s first economic our national airspace system. est is taken into consideration priority will be the biggest and that reliability, efficiency investment in good-paying jobs • Build energy infrastructure for and safety are first and foremost,” since World War II—with bold the 21st century by modernizing said Cassady. infrastructure projects, union These services will be invalu- apprenticeship and job training infrastructure like dams, levees, able if promises to invest in programs, and clean energy and wastewater systems. infrastructure are kept. jobs,” said Mabe. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 3 Standing with Hillary

“It’s important for those in public service to support candidates like Hillary, who know the importance of government in people’s lives.” ~Matt Wittekind, Commerce

Matt Wittekind

or OCSEA Chapter “Even though she is vilified importance of government in 2501 Commerce on the other side, Clinton has a people’s lives,” he said. F member, Matt Witte- history of reaching across the Wittekind says he will work guaranteed win. We have to kind, supporting Hillary Clinton aisle to get things done,” said hard to engage in conversations work hard. We need to make for president is a no brainer. Wittekind about one of the rea- with people and paint clear sure we get people out there to Matt says he’s supported sons he has confidence in her distinctions between Hillary vote for her in November,” he Hillary since 2008 and has ability to be president. and her opponent. “It’s not a said. always admired her. “When I “As a member of the LGBT was a young college kid becom- community, I know many of my ing politically aware, she was friends in the community have a new kind of first lady. She always felt she has been fight- was tough, ruffled feathers, and ing for us. I think if you look didn’t back down from a fight,” at the groups that are strongly said Wittekind. backing Clinton, you see groups He describes her as much that come together to make the more qualified and says she fabric of American society,” said demonstrates a greater under- Wittekind. standing of how the agencies “It’s important for those in that fall under the executive public service to support candi- branch work together. dates like Hillary, who know the

4 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 “Hillary can relate to the middle class as a whole and will make good decisions on programs that would support the working poor and middle class.” ~ Helen Carter

Helen Carter and Marsha Moore

elen Carter and to have the kind of services Moore is the mother of young Marsha Moore are we offer. He’s not like us,” said twins and thinks it’s a scary elec- members of Mont- Carter. “He doesn’t know what tion this year especially given H “I think Hillary is going to gomery Chapter 5700 and both it’s like to be a paycheck or two Trump’s temperament and his work for the Office of Work- away from financial hardship. anger towards so many groups. make this a better world for my force Development, a division of He can’t understand what it’s “As a mother, I want this coun- children and other children,” the Ohio Department of Job and like to need assistance or help,” try to be a better place, because said Moore. Family Services, in the Dayton she said. I have two children who are “Part of the problem with this area. For them, the choice this growing up in it,” Moore said. election is about knowledge. I election is an easy one. don’t think people know the Both believe that as a mother importance of this election. and as a public servant all her I think Hillary is going to make The things at stake are what we life, Hillary Clinton understands “ need to communicate to our how important the services families and colleagues and our are that ODJFS and other state this a better world for my children communities,” said Carter. agencies provide, especially for As the mother of an active women and children. Trump, on and other children.” duty servicemen, Carter also the other hand, has never had to ~Marsha Moore says it’s important to keep an seek the kind of assistance state open mind and to really look workers give day in and day “Hillary can relate to the “But what good is it to bomb at the issues, not worry about out and doesn’t understand the middle class as a whole and will everyone and have this country political party loyalty. value that ODJFS workers bring make good decisions on pro- all to ourselves? What good is it “I think Hillary would do to the table. grams that would support the to make us the greatest country a great job for our nation no “Trump doesn’t get it. He’s working poor and middle class,” if we’re the only ones left?” she matter what side of the aisle a billionaire. He’s never had said Carter. asked. you’re on,” said Moore. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 5 Our work is never done: Vote! CHRISTOPHER MABE President LOCALLOCAL AFL-CIOAFL-CIO OhioOhio CivilCivil ServiceService EmployeesEmployees AssociationAssociation home or long-term care, receive unemployment compensation, depend on safe communities “Anti-worker President Christopher Mabe Vice President Kelvin Jones and safe roadways, and receive Secretary-Treasurer Kathleen M. Stewart state legislators other services from our state Board of Directors: employee members. Millions of quickly pushed a ordinary Ohioans would be put District 1: Bret Pitts (ODOT), Shawn Gruber bill through the (DR&C), Jerry Lugo (ODJFS), at risk as well as thousands of District 2: Carrie Johnson (MH) state workers who take pride in Ohio Senate that Jerry Brown (DR&C) the effective and, often, difficult District 3: Doug Mosier (DR&C), no one was Michelle Smith (ODJFS) job they do. The result would be District 4: Bruce Thompson (DYS), chaos. expecting and that Eric Kusky (DR&C) know you’re probably SB 329 has dangerous impli- District 5: Doug Korba (DR&C), has the potential Peggy Joseph (ODNR) tired of hearing me cations for the way government District 6: Matt Tyack (IC), Debra King Hutchinson say this: but I can’t say would work (or wouldn’t work), for eliminating (ODJFS), Gerard "Rocky" Jolly (School for Blind), I Tim McAllister (BWC), Scott Dye (DRC), enough how important this since it could be used as a way Karen Ryther (OOD), Carol Boyes (FCJFS), election is. Just this week was entire state agencies Cathy Deck (Public Safety), Sherry Webb-Greer to hold the government hostage (Education), Amy Turner (ODOT) a stark reminder of why. Anti- like what we see with the fed- overnight!” District 7: James LaRocca (Lottery), worker state legislators quickly eral government. Deborah Weaver (DODD) pushed a bill through the Ohio Plus, our members in state ~Christopher Mabe District 8: A.J. Frame (DR&C), President Jason Underhill (MH) Senate that no one was expect- agencies are already doing more District 9: Charlie Johnson (ODOT), ing and that has the potential for with less. We are running more Charlie Williamson (DR&C) eliminating entire state agencies than efficiently already. We have just like Senate Bill 5—and Retiree Representative: Ron Alexander overnight! fewer state employees today that’s all the motivation we OCSEA Headquarters: 390 Worthington Road, Ste. A, Senate Bill 329 is sweeping, than we have had in the last need. Westerville, Oh 43082 dangerous legislation that would four decades. Our members are We typically see these really Live Operator: 614-865-4700 or 800-969-4702 Automated Dial: 614-865-2678 or allow select committees of the engaged in numerous processes horrible and disastrous bills 800-266-5615 Fax: 614-865-4777 state legislature—and it alone— at their worksites and at the during a legislative “lame duck” Web site: ocsea.org to shut down whole agencies if administrative level that make session in November and Customer Service: 888-OCSEA-11 (888-627-3211) they don’t meet certain criteria. government more effective, December when new leaders OCSEA Public Employee Quarterly (USPS The bill could also eliminate more efficient and more respon- are taking office and the old 010-112) is published quarterly for $6 by the Ohio Civil Service Employees Association, departments if committees fail sive. Check out some of their ones are on their way out. But 390 Worthington Road, Suite A, Westerville, to act. The bill would make state stories on pages 12-13. as one person said, this lame OH 43082. Periodicals postage paid at Westerville, OH and additional mailing offices. agencies justify their existence Besides that, the General duck session began the day SB POSTMASTER: Send address changes to the every four years, as well as jus- Assembly has plenty of tools at 329 dropped. Ohio Civil Service Employees Association, 390 Worthington Road, Suite A, Westerville, OH tify all rules and procedures, their disposal already that allow We are asking ALL OCSEA 43082. OCSEA Public Employee Quarterly is produced do a multi-year analysis of cost them to evaluate the effective- members to contact their state by the OCSEA Communications Department: effectiveness and benchmark all ness of state agencies. There’s a representatives at 800-282-0253 Sally Meckling, Director; Deirdre O’Neill-Wedig, Pattie Boy, Brittani Vogt, Associates. regulations against other states. state budget process that hap- now and tell them that this To update email and other contact information It’s a process that would clearly pens every two years as well as legislation is dangerous, go to: ocsea.org/update or call 800-969-4702. be a burden on state agencies a mid-biennium budget process redundant and unnecessary. LAKE WILLIAMS FULTON LUCAS ASHTABULA OCSEA OTTAWA DISTRICT 7 GEAUGA already strapped for staff and Tell them we don’t need a state WOOD CUYAHOGA during the off-budget years. HENRY DEFIANCE SANDUSKY ERIE TRUMBULL LORAIN PORTAGE OCSEA PAULDING DISTRICT 1 HURON MEDINA OCSEA SENECA SUMMIT DISTRICT 4 OCSEA resources. And no one knows This bill is so obviously government held hostage like PUTNAM HANCOCK DISTRICT 3 MAHONING ASH- VAN WERT WYANDOT CRAWFORD LAND WAYNE STARK ALLEN RICHLAND COLUMBIANA that better than you. the federal government. Tell HARDIN redundant, one wonders what CARROLL MERCER AUGLAIZE MARION HOLMES MORROW JEFFER- LOGAN KNOX TUSCARAWAS SON SHELBY UNION HARRISON Even worse would be the the Senate’s true motivation them millions of Ohioans are DELAWARE COSHOCTON OCSEA DARKE CHAMPAIGN OCSEA DISTRICT 6 DISTRICT 5 LICKING MIAMI GUERNSEY BELMONT MUSKINGUM FRANKLIN CLARK havoc it would wreak on mil- is. Regardless, it is an obvious depending on state services. MADISON MONT- FAIRFIELD NOBLE PREBLE GOMERY PERRY MONROE

GREENE MORGAN OCSEA FAYETTE DISTRICT 2 HOCKING WASHINGTON lions of Ohio citizens who major swipe at state workers And when you’re finished, BUTLER OCSEA WARREN CLINTON DISTRICT 8 ROSS VINTON ATHENS HAMILTON HIGHLAND MEIGS PIKE go to school, receive nursing and at government services— make sure you go vote! JACKSON CLERMONT OCSEA DISTRICT 9 BROWN GALLIA ADAMS SCIOTO

LAWRENCE 6 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 AFSCME for HILLARY

Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 7 PEOPLE IN PUBLIC SERVICES DESERVE RESPECT AND A PRESIDENT WHO VALUES THE WORK WE DO.

Hillary Clinton values public services and the men and women who provide those services. She shares our commitment to strong public services that make for strong communities.

services and infrastructure. She will fight to invest in public

Hillary Clinton believes that corporations and the wealthy must pay their fair share in taxes so we can build an economy that works for everyone, not just those at the top. Hillary Clinton is a proven champion for working “I work hard to make families. my community better, She shares our belief that and I deserve to have a unions are critical to providing president who respects safe and good paying jobs. In who I am and what I do.” fact, she often says, “when unions are strong, America is strong!”

Get your AFSCME Election Toolkit

at OCSEAVotes.org/Resources AFSCME for HILLARY

8 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 HILLARY CLINTON & DONALD TRUMP ON THE ISSUES THAT MATTER TO YOU

Sec. Hillary Clinton Donald Trump

• Hillary Clinton proudly states, “When unions • Donald Trump says he’s “100 percent” for ON UNIONS are strong, America is strong!” She understands so-called “right to work” laws that studies that the right of working people to come show lower wages, and that weaken benefits together to bargain is essential for building and retirement security. the middle class. • His Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas • Clinton has earned the endorsement of nearly hired a “union avoidance” firm to intimidate every labor union in America because of her workers who were attempting to organize track record for working families. with the Culinary Workers Union. To this day, he has failed to recognize the union there.

• Hillary Clinton has a detailed to plan to • Experts predict Donald Trump’s economic ON THE improve incomes for everyone, not just those plan would send America into a recession at the top. and cost the country 3.5 million jobs. ECONOMY • She believes corporations, special inter- • Donald Trump believes in the same tax ests and big Wall Street banks have gone too policies that created the Great Recession of long without paying their fair share of taxes. 2008, and his tax plan is an unprecedented • Her first economic priority will be the biggest handout to the super wealthy. investment in good-paying jobs since World • His own family stands to benefit to the tune War II—with bold infrastructure projects, of about $4 billion if his tax plans were union apprenticeship and job training pro- implemented. grams, and clean energy jobs, just like those performed by OCSEA members!

• She would make paid leave the law of the land, • Donald Trump, a wealthy real estate devel- requiring employers to provide paid sick leave. oper who grew up the son of a wealthy real ON WOMEN & • Some families spend more on child care than estate developer, does not understand the WORKING rent. Child care costs represent about 30% of struggles working families face every day. a low-wage worker’s income, and quality child • That’s reflected in his total lack of a FAMILIES care is often out of reach for families of all detailed agenda to make a difference in incomes. Hillary has a plan to make child care their lives. He has no plans for paid sick affordable for all working families, by capping leave, no plans for affordable child care the cost of child care at 10% of household and no plans to help families put their kids income. through college.

• Hillary Clinton has a plan for families making • Donald Trump’s official campaign website less than $125,000 to go to public colleges has no plan listed to help families afford and universities at no cost, and for all students college. ON COLLEGE to leave public schools debt-free. • Donald Trump is the founder of “Trump AFFORDABILITY University,” a scam enterprise that bilked victims out of tens of thousands of dollars and offered them useless information on real estate investing. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 9 It starts at the Statehouse… Cutting Right to Work off at the source

hile the media spotlight is on national elections, Right to Work legislation, once again, has reared its ugly head in OCSEA members mustn’t forget the impact of state Ohio (see more at OCSEAVotes.org/RTW). But we can cut it off at W races in the true battle to preserve workers’ rights the source by electing labor-friendly local candidates who support and the middle class. public employees, their services and their right to bargain collec- Job-killing attacks are at our doorstep. With Right to Work in tively. nearly every state surrounding Ohio, the battle is on. And the Avoiding another Senate Bill 5 starts with electing Statehouse Ohio Statehouse is where the fights are mounting, and anti- representatives who oppose Right to Work and who understand worker politicians who control it are leading the brigade. From that unions grow the middle class and benefit all workers. attacks on collective bargaining and state agencies (see page 6) Check out these local OCSEA-endorsed candidates and more at to budget cuts that harm working people and public services, OCSEAVotes.org/endorsements. anti-worker politicians must be stopped at the local level as well.

Sen. Lou Gentile, 30th Ohio Senate District Tommy Greene, 16th Ohio House District

A friend of OCSEA, Tommy Greene from the Senator Lou Gentile from Cleveland area is the proud Steubenville has fought son of a steelworker and a many battles with the union, teacher’s aide. He knows including opposing the how important unions privatization of prison food and public services are to service and the increased growing the middle class. violence against prison As a legislator, he says he staff. He has fought for local will stand with workers jobs, education funding and advocate for their right and against budget cuts to to collectively bargain at public services. He voted any cost. He opposes the against Senate Bill 5 and says contracting out of public he will always defend union services that benefit members’ right to organize. This includes voting against Right to corporations and put profits before employees and communities. Work legislation and policies like it. He says he would publicly He strongly believes that public employees should be able to campaign against any effort to restrict collective bargaining. utilize their American right to take part in politics without fear of repercussions from their employer. Brigid Kelly, 31st Ohio House District

Brigid Kelly is an employee of the United Food and Commercial Workers Local 700 and a proud union supporter from the OCSEA’s political endorsements are made based Cincinnati area. She believes on screening questions regarding a candidate’s in putting families first and politics last. She wants to views on: hold accountable anti-worker • ●Collective bargaining state representatives who • ●The role of public service restrict voting rights, attack • ●Outsourcing and privatization working families and give • ●Voter rights corporations a free pass. • and other issues relevant to OCSEA members. She will fight to relieve local governments from the financial burden the present administration WEB EXCLUSIVE: has improperly imposed on them and strongly believes in reinvest- See all OCSEA endorsements at ing in quality, public education. OCSEAVotes.org/endorsements 10 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 Unchartered territory: Going back to college Pat Austin and Richard Anderson Ohio State Penitentiary “Eastern Gateway was a godsend and I’m glad the union was able to ichard Anderson An Eastern Gateway counselor made offer free college.” from the Ohio State ~ Pat Austin R Penitentiary is already the whole process taking advantage of OCSEA’s of getting online, free college benefit with Eastern registering and Gateway Community College. everything a breeze Now he’s recruiting his col- for him. “He even leagues to do the same. helped me get my Anderson’s fellow Correc- school deferment tion Officer,Pat Austin, began for the college loans Correction officers Pat Austin (left) and Richard Anderson (right). attending Eastern Gateway two I already had, which “You take that to a four-year 9-year-old son it’s never too semesters ago and is thrilled was awesome,” he said. “Now college and you already have late to go back to college,” said with how easy the process I can just concentrate on my two years paid for,” he said. Anderson. was for getting signed up. “The college and getting my prerequi- “Eastern Gateway has gone “Eastern Gateway was a god- amount of help they’re willing sites knocked out.” out of its way to make 30-year- send and I’m glad the union to give someone who hasn’t Like Anderson, Austin is also olds feel they’re important and was able to offer free college. been in school for more than a reaching out to his fellow DR&C that we can learn again,” said You can’t beat free college,” said decade is amazing,” said Austin, colleagues about signing up. Austin. Austin. For more information who is studying business man- Part of his pitch is that taking “I commend Eastern Gateway on OCSEA’s free college benefit, agement at the college. a two-year degree to your local and our union for making this visit OCSEAEducation.org. “Customer support and tech four-year college and turning happen. I’m going to show my support from Eastern Gateway it into a four-year degree is like WEB EXCLUSIVE: is out of this world,” said Austin. money in the bank. See videos at ocsea.org/collegestories Dennis Clary Hocking Correctional Institution o one in Dennis Clary’s yes it’s hard, but it’s totally worth it, and family has ever had a col- that without the union, it would have N lege education, until now. been impossible. Clary, a Correction Officer at Hocking “People need to realize that the Correctional Facility, is breaking from union does provide you those types of family tradition and getting an associate benefits. Without the union, I wouldn’t degree in criminal justice from Hocking have been able to do it,” he said. College using OCSEA’s Union Education Although he doesn’t yet know how “Without the Trust benefit. he’ll use his degree, he says he’s proud union, I wouldn’t “When I graduated from high school, of it. “I’m going to be able to look at my I didn’t have the money to go to college. kids, and say look, I’m not just some have been able I had to go to work,” Clary explained. high school graduate.” Clary graduated from high school The OCSEA Union Education Trust to do it.” 27 years ago and said time has been provides $3,500 annually to OCSEA ~ Dennis Clary another factor that’s made it difficult to State of Ohio bargaining unit members go back to school. to attend college credit courses and “I have to work to feed my family. vocational training. An additional $750 Besides the money, it’s hard to juggle is available to members for non-college your time as both a full-time student credit computer training courses and and a full-time employee,” he said. another $1,000 for non-college credit, Asked if it was hard work to go back short-term training. uedtrust.org to school after all this time Clary says Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 11 Shared Services employees know TEAM WORK “We can do a lot of the financial transaction work and streamline those processes that allow state agencies to focus on what they do best.” ~ Andy Wood, Ohio Shared Services

ndy Wood is a The idea made sense and had An added benefit when OSS Wood has also helped lead Shared Services Asso- some clear advantages. Fiscal first began was “skill block pay” teams in continuous improve- A ciate in the Office of employees went from agency that allowed associates to earn ment processes. This year, the Shared Services (OSS) as well as jobs where they sat isolated in additional money as they devel- office helped sponsor a camo a union steward. He was one of cubicles and didn’t have a lot in oped certain skill sets. Now, skill belt training where he got to the first employees to join the common with their colleagues, block pay has been replaced learn process mapping. “Process team when OSS got underway to a whole new environment with a metric based system that mapping is what I find most back in 2009. called a pod farm. The pod farms looks at individual quality, team valuable,” said Wood. “Making OSS was created in an effort are open environments where quality and ensuring work is sure your area is organized. It’s to allow state agencies to focus you can talk to your neighbor done on time. Associates can really good. I also want to go on their core missions and leave and help to facilitate a high per- receive up to $1.50 more per ahead and get my green belt,” some of the financial dealings formance workplace and self-di- hour on top of their base pay. he said. to an agency dedicated to doing rected teams. “We pretty much Wood said one of the most As if Wood doesn’t stay busy just that. “We can do a lot of the work in teams, instead of each rewarding things about the OSS enough at work, he was one of financial transaction work and individual doing their own thing job has been the way you can a handful of stewards picked for streamline those processes that now,” said Wood. move around to other teams OCSEA’s prestigious Stewards allow state agencies to focus But there were also some as well as the opportunity to Academy this year: “Stewards on what they do best,” said challenges and bumps along participate in LEAN Processes Academy was outstanding and Wood of the OSS mission. “So, the way. “When we first went and Continuous Improvement. eyeopening. It opened me up if you’re the Ohio Department there we had this melting pot of Because the employee structure to building a grievance case and of Natural Resources, you can personalities, educational back- is flat, Wood has had the oppor- what to look for in terms of wit- care about the parks more or if grounds and experiences from tunity to be a team captain in nesses and documentation. The you’re DR&C you can focus on all different state agencies,” said other areas such as “Travel and staff was tremendous.” securing prisons and inmates, Wood. “It was a challenge, but Expense,” which handles all not whether or not a vendor got we were able to come together financial transactions dealing paid,” he said. and make it work. We made a with travel for state agencies. true team,” he said. 12 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 Tapping into public employee potential

ublic employees are proud of the ser- P vices they provide. They want to do their jobs and do them well. They want to improve their work and processes, bring safety to their jobs, and have a voice and integrity in the workplace—all union values. When union and management work together great things happen. Workers are safer, public work is more efficient and taxpayers win. Team Up ODOT, a 20-year labor and management tradition, is a prime example. The annual event spotlights innovation and process improvement and awards (From left) Mechanics Tim Wood and Tim Rogers thought outside the box to develop a snow-and ice- employees for giving back and free truck step that has virtually eliminated slips and falls for snowplow drivers in their county. working hard (see more on page 23). “It’s innovators like these men who are proof that ODOT Dist. 4 mechanics in Ashtabula are using engine heat to public employees do it well, and they do it best.” make snowplow cab steps safer. ~ Christopher Mabe

When Ohio Department of With the support of their Transportation mechanics Tim manager, they worked to make Wood and Tim Rodgers from the innovation a reality for just Ashtabula County faced an ice over $300 per truck, a small hazard during the harsh winter price to pay for safety. With no months, they thought outside more snow and ice build up, the the box. They created a heated slip hazard has virtually been truck cab step to help improve eliminated in the county. safety for drivers exiting and “It’s innovators like these entering the trucks. A build up men who are proof that public of snow and ice while plowing employees do it well, and they had resulted in numerous slips do it best,” said OCSEA President and falls. Christopher Mabe. “We must What was the simple solution build upon the connection that to this dangerous problem? public employee values ARE The mechanics added a heat union values. It is this common exchanger to the bottom of the thread that will mean the step using coolant from the preservation of good jobs, the engine as a heat source. middle class and the American dream.” Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 13 AFSCME teens teach warning signs of

pril Patterson, an tion” is headed up by Cornelius tance and tolerance towards their peers and others how to OCSEA member who McGrady, a former OCSEA Modern Day Slavery, to a culture detect the early warning signs A works for the Ohio activist and retiree as well as a of eradication and intolerance of human trafficking and what Department of Job and Family former Reynoldsburg City Coun- through education, intervention questions to ask: “Is she not Services is proud of the young cil member. McGrady started the and risk reduction.” talking to her parents? Has she man her son has become. In teen peer-to-peer after-school Moore’s mother, Darlene changed friends? Does she have this day of rampant drug use program as a way to bring early Drake, is a bus driver for the a boyfriend with no time for her and violence, Patterson’s son, awareness and prevention to the school district and an AFSCME friends? Is she hiding scars or Joshua Myers, could have been problem of human trafficking member with the Ohio Associa- do you stop hearing from her an at-risk teen. But instead, her and prostitution. It also helps tion of Public Schools Employ- altogether?” son, now a senior in high school, teens focus on aiding others. ees, OCSEA’s sister union. She Meyer has been involved in chose a different path. “People don’t think it affects our says the program her daughter the coalition for three years, and Myers and fellow student community here in Reynolds- is a part of is about spreading Moore has been involved for Qunaya Moore attend Reynolds- burg, but it does. It affects all of awareness and telling the truth two years. burg High School and are part our communities, and it begins about what’s happening. “I “I was skeptical about how of a group of teens dedicated to with children, unfortunately,” never knew what was really a guy is going to teach about teaching other teens about the explained McGrady. going on, but now I ask ques- human trafficking, when it’s warning signs of human traffick- According to the group’s tions. Who are our children tex- the majority of women who ing. literature the “Break Every ting, for example,” she asked. are being trafficked,” said Pat- The group, “Reynoldsburg Chain” coalition is “committed Moore says the group of terson about her teenage son’s Youth Human Trafficking Coali- to changing a culture of accep- 22 high school students teach involvement with the group. “But I came to the first meeting and saw a video about children Proud AFSCME members and their kids are raising awareness about human trafficking. From left to right: Qunaya Moore and her mother Darla Drake (OAPSE); Cornelius McGrady (OCSEA being trafficked. It was very edu- retiree); April Patterson (OCSEA) and her son Joshua Myers. cational. But it’s not just about children, it’s about everyone,” she said. “I was very glad my son wanted to be involved in this,” said Patterson. “At first I thought it was just going to be something for my son to do a couple days after school, but he’s really taken an interest,” she said. Over the last year, the two have held “Break Every Chain” assemblies at their respective schools to educate peers and recently visited the Governor’s Mansion with a group of coalition members. For information on the group’s activities, contact Cornelius McGrady at [email protected] or visit Facebook.com/RYHTC. 14 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 Indian River comes together to solve issues

n employee appreci- respect staff and involve all ing issues. Seventeen of the ation cookout on all parties,” said Chris White, positions are full-time perma- A three shifts rounded steward. nent. out weeks of hard work by Both sides have recently Additionally, three commit- labor and management to had a chance to sit down and tees have been formed to take address some of the challenges put in place some operational on issues moving forward, at Indian River Juvenile Cor- and procedural changes meant including groups on youth rectional Facility. to keep both employees and sanctions and accountability; With more than a dozen youth safe. youth meaningful activities; staff injuries and as many staff A major reset on what hap- and school reform that aims to out on leave, both sides of pens after a youth is secluded keep youth in schools. All com- the table knew they needed is just one of the new pro- mittees have labor at the table. to work together to come up cesses the facility will undergo. New goals are also being with a plan that would take In addition, management has established, including one to serious problems, like staff agreed to deploy senior staff reduce staff turnover by 13 injuries, head on. during peak hours in areas percent. Under staffing has plagued where there are consistent “We know it’s not perfect the facility and a new manage- problems with youth acting and the proof will be in the ment team has meant some out. reduction of staff assaults and major adjustments in terms of Most importantly, OCSEA decreases in behaviors, but at working together. has helped secure, and man- least labor is at the table this “We have some serious agement has agreed on, 26 time,” said White. issues and we need realistic new youth specialist hires to solutions that protect and help alleviate the under staff-

An employee appreciation event, coinciding with serious labor/management talks about issues at Indian River DYS, let members know their union is fighting hard for them.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: See the DYS photo gallery at ocsea.org/DYSevent.

Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 15 Community service! Medical Center chapter volunteers for families in need n July, union activists from Franklin Medical Center Chapter 2578 served lunch to the families lodged at the Ronald McDonald House in Columbus, Ohio. I Families being housed by the Ronald McDonald House Charities of Central Ohio find the comforts of home, both short-term and long-term, while their sick child is being treated for a serious illness at Nationwide Children’s Hospital. The Columbus Ronald McDon- ald House is the largest in the world with 137 rooms. “The families were so grateful and the experience very humbling,” said FMC Chapter treasurer and steward Tammy Milner. The bargaining unit volunteers are all members of FMC chapter’s Women’s Committee.

FMC Chap. 2578 volunteers included Vice Pres. Shelly King, Sec. Patricia Williams, Treas. Tammy Milner, E-Board member Shalonda Smith, steward Monjula Crisp and members Tina Barber, Christiana Iwuafor, April Moore, Mary Preece and Alexandra Wright. SEIU union sisters and exempt co-workers also participated in the charitable giving.

16 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 OCSEA members at GDC push back on downsizing ore than a hundred Gallia County Commissioners, OCSEA members, the county Treasurer and Sheriff M community leaders, and Gallipolis City Council mem- parents and others who care about bers all spoke out in support of the Gallipolis Developmental the staff and services. State of Ohio Center took part in a community Representative Ryan Smith spoke rally to protest the downsizing and last at the event and said that the recent announcement of layoffs. people of Southeastern Ohio never This will be the third round of quit. “That’s because we’ve never layoffs the center has seen in six had anything given to us.” He said years, in all a loss of 150 jobs for he’s not about to quit now. that small town. OCSEA President Christopher Family members, staff and local Mabe had the crowd pull out their elected leaders came out in sup- phones and call the Governor’s port to the Gallipolis City Park office to demand an end to the along the Ohio River. One family downsizing and layoffs. member drove all the way from “They told us that there would Atlanta, Georgia to participate in be no layoffs and now they’re the rally and support her sister going back on their word,” said who lives at GDC. “Many people OCSEA Staff Representative Monty are not good for the community. Blanton. “They lied. It seems like My sister is one of them,” said Sally anything south of I-70 doesn’t Mykel Carpentier to the rally goers. exist,” he said. “If they could annex “Her second family at GDC with us into West Virginia, they would.” their multiple years of experience Go here to see videos of the give her the maximum enjoyment rally: Facebook.com/ WEB EXCLUSIVE: See the photo gallery at of life that I think she will ever get, galliahometownherald. ocsea.org/GDCrally. and the maximum security,” she said. GDC Chap. 2710 Vice Pres. Rosetta Wells gets emotional talking about the individuals she and her colleagues take care of every GDC and day at GDC. OCSEA staff feed more than a hundred State Rep. Ryan Smith tells staff and concerned community supporters members not to give up. who turned out for the rally for GDC.

Families from around the area showed their support for GDC staff and residents. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 17 Subordinate Body Meeting and Election Notices – WInter 2016/2017

ASSEMBLIES CHAPTERS DISTRICTS

ODOT Nov. 19, 2016 OCSEA, 390 Chapter Nov. 15, 2016 & The Village District 2 Nov. 12, 2016 Golden Corral, Meeting 10 a.m.-12:30 p.m. Worthington Rd., 8320 Dec. 13, 2016 Family Inn 144 Meeting 12 p.m.-2 p.m. Large Party Room, Westerville Meeting 6 p.m.-8 p.m. South Main St., 3350 Village Dr., Waynesville ODJFS Dec. 03, 2016 OCSEA, 390 Franklin Meeting 10 a.m.-1 p.m. Worthington Rd., Chapter Nov. 15, 2016 Hampton Inn, 142 Westerville 8700 5:30 p.m.-6:30 p.m. Campbell Hill Rd., Meeting Bowling Green ODNR Nov. 05, 2016 OCSEA, Room 188, Meeting 9:30 a.m.-1 p.m. 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville CHAPTERS ELECTIONS Chapter Dec. 06, 2016 IBEW Local 32, Chapter 2580 Nominations: Nov. 09, 2016 - 4 p.m.-4:15 p.m. President, Vice President, 200 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. 1975 N. West St., Election at OPOTA Cafeteria, 1650 St. Rt. Sw, London Treasurer, Secretary, (3) Meeting Lima & 6 p.m.-6:15 p.m. at SOT, Lobby Hearing Room, Executive Board, District 30 E. Broad St., Columbus Delegate Chapter Nov. 17, 2016 Golden Dragon 900 Buffet and Grill, Voting: Nov. 16, 2016 - 4 p.m.-4:30 p.m. E-Board 6 p.m.-6:45 p.m. 86 N. Brookwood at OPOTA Cafeteria, 1650 St. Rt. Sw London Ave., Hamilton Meeting 6:45 p.m.-7:45 p.m. & 6 p.m.-6:30 p.m. at SOT, Lobby Hearing Room, 30 E. Broad St., Columbus Chapter Nov. 16, 2016 & Northeast 1835 Dec. 21, 2016 Reintergration Run Offs: Nov. 17, 2016 - 4 p.m.-4:30 p.m. E-Board 1:30 p.m.-2 p.m. Center, 2675 East at OPOTA - Cafeteria 1650 St. Rt. Sw London 30th St., Cleveland Meeting 2 p.m.-3 p.m & 6 p.m.-6:30 p.m. at SOT, Lobby Hearing Room, 30 E Broad St., Columbus Chapter Dec. 12, 2016 Golden Corral 2320 6:30 p.m.-7:30 p.m. Restaurant 2300 District 3 Jan. 05, 2017 President, Vice President, Meeting North Memorial Meeting & Nominations: 6:30 p.m.-6:45 p.m. Treasurer, Secretary, (3) Dr., Lancaster Election Voting: 6:45 p.m.-7 p.m. Executive Board, District Run Offs: 7 p.m.-7:15 p.m. Steward for ODOT District-3 Chapter Nov. 23, 2016 & Dept. of 2565 Dec. 28, 2016 Education, B-004, Meeting: 7:15 p.m.-8:15 p.m. Meeting Noon-1 p.m. 25 South Front St., Columbus IAM Local Lodge #1297 930 Grove Ave., Ashland Chapter District 4 Nominations: Nov. 7, 2016 - 7 p.m.-8 p.m. President, Vice President, 2599 Election Treasurer, Secretary, (3) E-Board Nov. 17, 2016 OCSEA 390 Elections: Nov. 11, 2016 Executive Board, District 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Worthington Rd., Voting: 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Steward For ODOT District-4 Westerville Run Offs: 9 p.m.-9:30 p.m. CWA Hall 4140 Meeting Nov. 22, 2016 E. Broad St. Amen Corner Restaurant, 20 West Main St., Girard 6 p.m. - 7 p.m. Columbus District 6 Nominations: Oct. 3, 2016 6:45 p.m.-7 p.m. President, Vice President, Chapter Dec. 21, 2016 Ryan’s Restaurant Nominations Treasurer, Secretary, (3) 3510 1095 N. Shoop & Election Elections: Nov. 7, 2016 Executive Board, District E-Board 6:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Ave., Wauseon Voting: 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Steward For ODOT District-6 Run Off: 8:30 p.m.-9 p.m. Meeting 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Chapter Dec. 13, 2016 Medina County OCSEA, Bowman Hall, 390 Worthington Rd., 5200 6 p.m.-7:15 p.m. ODOT - Lunch Westerville Meeting Room 3220 Medina Rd., Candidate Eligibility: Medina Submitting A Meeting Notice To have an event notice published online or in the OCSEA magazine Per the subordinate body Constitution Article Chapter Dec. 12, 2016 Korner Kafe, 7995 or to request a direct mailing postcard, go to ocsea.org/meeting- VI, Section 8: “Circumstances such as receipt 5410 5:15 p.m.-6:15 p.m. S.R. 119, Maria notices OR email [email protected]. Only authorized of workers’ compensation benefits, disability Meeting Stein leaders can request an notice or add events online. A MyOCSEA benefits, assignment to project staff, etc. may Chapter Jan. 19, 2017 & Briarwood Estates, account is required to publish an event. affect your eligibility to run for office in this 7000 Feb. 16, 2017 1835 Springmill election. If you are considering running for any Meeting 7 p.m.-8 p.m. Rd., Mansfield 2017 PEQ Deadlines office, executive board, or a delegate position, please contact OCSEA central office prior to Chapter Nov. 22, 2016 Days Inn, 400 To have a notice published in the Public Employee Quarterly, please the nomination date.” 7500 Folkerth Ave., adhere to the following deadlines and guidelines: E-Board 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. Sidney Winter 2017 Deadline: Jan. 9, 2017 - Meeting must take place ON or AFTER March 11, 2017. Election notification requirements: Meeting 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Spring 2017 Deadline: April 3, 2017 - Meeting must take place ON Per the subordinate body Constitution Article Chapter Nov. 09, 2016 & Giant Eagle or AFTER June 3, 2017. VI, Section 3: “All active members shall be 7700 Dec. 14, 2016 Market District - notified of the nominations and election by 2nd. Floor 1700 Summer 2017 Deadline: June 26, 2017 - Meeting must take place mail at least fifteen (15) days prior to the date E-Board 5:30 p.m.-6 p.m. ON or AFTER Sept. 2, 2017 Corporate Woods of the nominations and election meeting(s). Meeting 6 p.m.-7 p.m. Pkwy., Uniontown Fall 2017 Deadline: Sept. 5, 2017 - Meeting must take place ON The notice shall include a set date, time, and or AFTER Nov. 12, 2017. location for any potential run-offs.”

18 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 Activist

Charles King Dept. of Administrative Services Chapter 2570 ELECTIONS harles King had just I could make that change and begun his journey ensure that these members get with the State of Ohio their union cards signed,” he King said, “I speak to bar- about the union, which he says C gaining unit members and I let has helped many members when his name was unexpect- said. edly thrown into the ring for the King also zoned in on reduc- them know that we (manage- trust and understand the union. vice presidency of his chapter. ing fair share members, many of ment and union) work together. “Whether they agree with Many members thought he’d be whom had never signed a card, We are your voice.” you or not, you have planted a great fit, even though he felt he because they’d never received After spending more time that seed and they will come was still learning the ropes. But a proper orientation. King got with the members, he discov- back for a follow-up question hoping he could make a differ- the previous five years of new ered many people thought or they are going to go back ence, he graciously accepted the employees for his chapter “their union dues only went and do their homework and position. and set out to contact them towards political parties.” King realize what you told them was Before he began serving all one-on-one. He introduced stated that was not the case at true,” said King. office, an orientation process them to their union and their all. He shared with the mem- had not been in place for five OCSEA contract. He let them bers all the union has to offer, years. He knew how important know about their rights to sign that their union dues go toward orientation and an introduction a union card and that the union contract enforcement and pro- to the union was for members, leaders were there to sit down tecting their rights. so it was something he wanted and talk whenever they needed. King says it’s important to to focus on revitalizing. “I knew share personal experiences

Designed for all Winter 2016/2017 Education Calendar Members To register for any of the following classes, call the education registration hotline at 800-266-5615, ext. 4772 and follow the recorded instructions, or sign up online at ocsea.org/education. If you’d like a class for your area and don’t see one currently scheduled on the calendar, contact Pat Hammel at 800-266-5615, ext. 2654 or [email protected] to find out what types of classes are available or to schedule one for your area on a just-in-time basis. Once you’ve recruited 10 people to attend a class, the class will be scheduled. DECEMBER JANUARY FEBRUARY THURSDAY 8 - ADVANCED STEWARD SATURDAY 7 - ADVANCED STEWARD MONDAY 6 - TESTING IN PROMOTIONS 6 p.m.-9 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, RM 195 RM 195 RM 195

SATURDAY 17 - BASIC STEWARD PT. 1&2 WEDNESDAY 11- INVESTIGATORY INTERVIEWS SATURDAY 11 - BASIC STEWARD PTS. 1 & 2 9 a.m.-4 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 10 a.m.-1 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 9 a.m.-4 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, RM 195 RM 195 RM 195 TUESDAY 17 - BASIC STEWARD PT. 1 WEDNESDAY 22 - ADVANCED STEWARD 6 p.m.-9 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 6 p.m.-9 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, RM 195 RM 195 THURSDAY 19 - BASIC STEWARD PT. 2 6 p.m.-9 p.m., OCSEA Headquarters, 390 Worthington Rd., Westerville, Ohio, RM 195 Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 19 Putting Labor back in

LaborCSEA activists and “Without Day unions, every- their friends in thing that Labor Day stands O labor were out in for wouldn’t be possible,” said full force during the Labor Day OCSEA board member and Dis- weekend, spreading the union trict 2 President Jerry Brown. message and standing proudly “We have a duty to remind our for union rights and all Ameri- union brothers and sisters that can workers. we’re at our strongest when we From parades to picnics, fight together.” OCSEA members represented “In my mind, every day is the union well across the state Labor Day. Every day we should by educating their communities be spreading the union message about the connection between and letting our neighbors know good union jobs and a viable that when union workers are middle class. Labor Day is more strong, every worker is strong,” than a long weekend; it’s a cele- said OCSEA board member bration of the labor movement Aden Frame, who helped OCSEA District 2 members came out for the largest union Labor and the social and economic organize an OCSEA District 8 Day event in Ohio at Coney Island in Cincinnati, which included achievements of American parade in Marietta. a district-sponsored barbecue. Special guest speaker former workers. President Bill Clinton thanked unions for fighting for the American dream. OCSEA District 8 and Chapter 8400 were union strong in the Marietta Fair Parade reminding community members about the dangers of Right to Cincinnati Work and the politicians OCSEA District 5 leaders who support it. They spread the Labor Strong targeted Right to Work message and proudly attacks and their sup- wore AFSCME green in porters like Congressman the Newark parade to Bill Johnson and State warn community mem- Rep. Andy Thompson, an bers about why Right to Ohio Right to Work bill Work is wrong for Ohio. co-sponsor. Marietta Newark Mansfield union leaders marched in their local parade and thanked workers for all they contribute. Get Out the Vote efforts focused on supporting candidates who support public workers and their right to bargain collectively.

WEB EXCLUSIVE: See more Labor Day photos at ocsea.org/LaborDay

20 Public Employee Quarterly MansfieldFall 2016 Presidents Conference: Labor 2016 kick offs

n an amazing example deserve respect and should of solidarity, hundreds demand it from those running I of OCSEA activists came for office. Saunders spoke about together in August for OCSEA’s how public employees continue Presidents Conference to kick to strengthen themselves every off the election season. single day by standing together. Union leaders showed their Guest speakers also included support for public service, Ohio Senator Minority Leader stood proudly against Right to Joe Schiavoni, Ohio Senator Work—and any candidate who Capri Cafaro, and Ohio Demo- supports it—and vowed to do cratic Party Chair David Pepper, what it takes to get out the vote all advocates for public workers, this November. This Labor 2016 opponents against privatization kick off featured voter registra- and Right to Work, and support- tion, workshops on mobilization ers of the right to collectively and speakers who advocate for bargain. public employees and their jobs. Special guest speaker, Richard Cordray, Director of the U.S. WEB EXCLUSIVE: Consumer Financial Protection See the photo gallery at From left to right: Capri Cafaro, Lee Saunders, Joe Schiavoni, and Agency, said public employees ocsea.org/PresidentsConference. Ted Strickland show their passion for union rights. work hard with little recogni- tion. But he said he would never forget all that public servants do for the state and the country. As head of the new federal consumer watchdog agency, Cordray has worked hard to fight big banks and corporations from taking advantage of hard-working Americans. U.S. Senate candidate Ted Strickland spoke about why he’s committed to running for public office. “People say to OCSEA board member Bruce Thompson (left) me: how come you are doing with David Pepper, the Ohio Democratic this? I am doing this because Party Chair. I came from working people. I am working people! And I’m here to help working people,” he said. He also spoke about the necessity of increasing the min- imum wage, because expenses have increased such as health care and “we are hard working people who deserve better wages.” AFSCME International Pres- ident Lee Saunders thanked OCSEA activists for all they Richard Cordray meets with members before beginning his speech. U.S Senate Candidate Ted Strickland thanks do. He says public employees member supporters. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 21 Veterans Conference 2016

e don’t know them all, but we owe them all” was the theme “W of the OCSEA Veterans Confer- ence held at the Ohio Veterans Home in Sandusky. Speakers focused on the issues of limited veterans benefits and the struggle to inform veterans about their existing benefits. Representing the Troop & Family Assistance Center, Tabitha Hoke-Mujihad, spoke of the services available to veterans and active duty servicemen and women through a group of organizations all available under one roof at homefront.ohio.gov. Helen Germain, a resident of the Ohio Vet- erans Home, reminisced about serving in the Marine Corps. She recorded weather conditions to send to ships at sea, and said the armed forces branches worked well together then. “It was good duty,” she said. George Walker Sr., a highly decorated Army Veteran who served in Korea and Vietnam, spoke of his service career and his time as senior drill instructor at John Carrol University. Walker earned the Silver Star, Bronze Star, Bronze Star for Valor, the Vietnamese Cross of Gallantry and was the 88th inductee to the Ohio Veterans Hall of Fame in Speakers include Army veteran George Amy Wray, Pres., and Connie Lowry, Walker (top right), Helen Germain, (top Vice Pres. and chief steward of OVH 1998. Walker is now retired but remains active in left), a Marine veteran, and Tabitha Chap. 2200 welcome all conference his community, “forever in service.” Hoke-Mujihad, with the Troop & Family attendees to their Ohio Veterans Home Winners of the OCSEA Veterans Awards were Assistance Center. facilities. also announced, and Butch Wylie and Jerry Howe were recognized (see sidebar). The conference concluded with a heartfelt 2016 Veteran Awards playing of TAPS by the DR&C Color Guard. Afterward a tour of the facility was offered, highlighting the residents’ dining and recreational facilities, as well as some of the more unique ‘residents’ of the home—a flock of roaming peacocks, caged birds and several aquariums—all providing the residents with entertainment. WEB EXCLUSIVE: Take a tour of the Ohio Veterans Home at ocsea.org/VeteransHome Attendees practice their calisthenics during the conference. Honoring our veterans and supporters The Larry Cremeens Veteran Service Award was presented to Jerry Howe (middle) of the Southern Ohio Correctional Facility, and the Veteran Supporter of the Year Award was presented to Butch Wylie (right), former OCSEA staffer. They were honored for their commitment to veterans by the 2015 winners, CK Williams and Donna Westrick.

22 Public Employee Quarterly Fall 2016 ODOT and union spotlight

eam Up ODOT, the annual celebration of highway innovation took place in August at the Ohio State Expo Center in T Columbus. The event spotlights best practices, on-the-job innovations, equipment, ODOT departments, benefits and more. Also announced were the Total ODOT Performance (TOP) Awards for innovation and community service and the winners of the Director’s Cup Roadeo, ODOT’s truck and loader precision com- petition. As always, OCSEA members were at the forefront displaying an array of innovative ideas that save time, reduce costs and increase safety. See Tapping into public employees on pages 12-13 to read why a union voice and process improvement go hand-in-hand.

Photo credit – ODOT – Bruce Hull

Innovation Keith Jones and Shawn Hyhurst (above left), ODOT Dist. 6, show off a mobile barrier that protects highway workers and was given to Awards Ohio thanks to a collegiate grant and study on safety from Texas A&M. Union activist and steward Gary Kramer (top left) receives ODOT District 1 union and management (above right) are proud the ODOT Shining Star Award for going the extra mile as a union rep- of their mounted grapple used around the state to clear debris, resentative and employee. including in waterways. Member Laura Colbert (top right) is honored for her humanitar- ian efforts when she and a co-worker assisted a traveling member of the public with dementia. Ashtabula County ODOT members (above) have a lot to smile about as recipients of an outstanding external customer service award and several other nods at the event.

Union-Made From providing lunch to planning the event for months, union members are an integral part of Team Up ODOT. The union has been Roadeo actively involved in the event for 20 years. OCSEA ODOT Assembly President Gary Apanasewicz (center) with ODOT Roadeo winners Steve Gacek (left) and Eric Schmidt WEB EXCLUSIVE: (right), both from ODOT District 8. The Assembly honors the top See more TeamUp at loader and truck precision winners with a cash prize for excellence at ocsea.org/TeamUp2016 their job. Fall 2016 Public Employee Quarterly 23 LOCALLOCAL AFL-CIOAFL-CIO OhioOhio CivilCivil ServiceService EmployeesEmployees AssociationAssociation 390 Worthington Road, Ste. A Westerville, OH 43082-8331 COVER STORY

OHIO Civil Service Employees Association AFSCME LOCAL 11/AFL-CIO PUBLIC EMPLOYEE QUARTERLY Volume 72, No. 4 • Fall 2016 Investing in public workers Labor to the polls 2016

FALL 2016 Feature stories PRES. MABE 6 Our work is never done: Strong infrastructure, strong economy, Vote! 2-3 strong Ohio 18 MEETING NOTICES 4-5 Standing with Hillary 19 EDUCATION CALENDAR

The candidates 9 On the issues that matter to you

It starts at the Statehouse 10 Cutting Right to Work off at the source

Ohio Shared Services 12 Employees who know teamwork

Innovators 13 Tapping into public employee potential

AFSCME teens teach warning signs 14 of human trafficking

17 Push back on GDC downsizing