At9C1111 MAY 1988 VOLUME )0=11 NUMBER 5 4111111:10=1). 513 HEADQUARTERS IN WALNUT CREEK, UTILITY REPORTER

OFFICIAL VOICE OF IBEW LOCAL UNION 1245 AFL-CIO Clericals greet PG&E shareholders Cal/OSHA By Steve Diamond Clerical employees of the Pacific Gas and Electric Company brought Petition their demand for equal treatment to the shareholders of the Company during the April 20 annual meeting Drive a held in San Francisco. More than sixty people took off time from work to distribute a statement and success brochure which described the problems facing clerical employees Led by the California Labor Move- of the Company. They were joined ment, the campaign to gather by Physical employees of the Com- enough signatures to place the Cal/ pany and staff members of IBEW OSHA initiative on the November Local 1245. ballot announced that it had Negotiations between the Union reached its goal of over 700,000 and Company over Clerical wages signatures last month. are now at a standstill. The Com- The Coalition to Restore Safety at pany refuses to grant Clerical em- Work, formed by the California ployees the 2.75% wage increase AFL-CIO in December, announced which they agreed to implement for that 724,000 signatures were Physical employees. Instead, the handed over to county registrars Company is offering a one-time throughout the state. Once they are bonus payment of 2.75%. Auditorium. Several Company the productivity of thousands of reviewed and tabulated by the re- The IBEW members assembled executives stopped on their way PG&E employees." gistrars, the Initiative to Restore outside the Masonic Auditorium of into the meeting to speak with The Union statement noted that Safety at Work will achieve official San Francisco at about twelve Union representatives. Union employees of the Company ballot status. noon. Several delegations moved are the single largest block of Help us help you Originally, the Coalition had inside the parking structure to shareholders in the publicly regu- thought they would need 800.000 distribute the Union materials as The Union statement to the lated, but privately owned, utility signatures to qualify for the ballot. shareholders drove in for the meet- shareholders, headed PG&E company. Through an employee But a very high percentage of signa- ing. A second delegation placed SHAREHOLDERS — HELP US HELP stock ownership program, PG&E tures gathered were accurate and themselves at the entryway of the YOU, argued that Company manage- employees own 12% of the Com- so the number of signatures overall auditorium. Each of the 1800 ment's refusal to grant its predomin- pany's stock. Most of that stock is could be reduced. shareholders and PG&E manage- antly female clerical workforce a held by Union employees of the The Campaign is a joint effort of ment present for the meeting was wage increase equal to that granted Company. California labor and a variety of approached by a Union member. the physical employees,of the Com- The statement said further that public interest organizations. Most shareholders took the mate- pany, who are mostly men, "is un- "PG&E management agreed at the Among the backers of the petition rials willingly and many were seen dermining the morale and, hence, SEE Page six drive were the California Medical reading the material inside the Association, the Sierra Club, the American Cancer Society, the Amer- ican Lung Association and the Cali- fornia Trial Lawyers Association. "No labor-led campaign in mem- Sierra Pacific members accept contract ory has drawn more support from such a diverse cross-section of California society as has our fight Local 1245 members working for Local 1245 members and their Another significant improve- to restore Cal/OSHA," Jack Hen- Sierra Pacific Power Company families covered by the Company ment in working conditions in the ning, Executive Secretary-Trea- voted overwhelmingly last month to medical plan have also won in- new agreement is an increase in surer of the California Labor Feder- accept a new three-year contract. creased benefit coverage for Conva- the rest period from eight to nine ation, said. Assistant Business Manager Or- lescent Hospital and Home Health hours. Business Representative "Although labor began the fight, ville Owen reports that the agree- Services as a result of bargaining. John Stralla, who served as spokes- support for the Cal/OSHA initiative ment represents "one of the best In addition, prescription birth con- person for the Negotiating Commit- transcends the move- settlements in the Utility industry trol devices will be treated as a tee, noted that this type of non- ment," Henning said. this year," with a wage package "covered charge" for application to economic issue is extremely impor- totalling 10.5% over the life of the IBEW's Contribution Major Medical benefits. The hear- tant for Sierra Pacific members, contract. The journeyman rate ing aid benefit has been increased whose demanding jobs require the IBEW Local 1245 made a major under the agreement will increase to $500 per ear in a five-year safest possible conditions. contribution to the campaign. At a by 3% on May 1, 1988 to $18.09 per period. Balloting Results recent convention of the California hour and on May 1, 1989 the rate AFL-CIO Committee on Political will increase by 3.5% to $18.72. In Owen and Stralla expressed Union Wins Agency Shop Clause Education, the Local received spec- two years, effective May 1, 1990, strong support for the package ial mention by Henning. Local 1245 the journeyman rate will go up to Under the new contract, all new which was adopted by the member- donated $100,000 to support the $19.47, representing an additional California employees hired by the ship, with Owen stating that "the campaign financially. 4% increase for bargaining unit Company will be covered by an agreement will provide security for In addition, members and staff of members. Other improvements agency shop clause, which requires the members and their families the Local gathered 10,000 signa- won by the union include an in- that workers in the bargaining unit over the next three years." The 493 tures through both Local'union crease in the shift premium relat- either join Local 1245 or pay their members voting clearly agreed, efforts and with Central Labor ing to out-of-town expenses; an fair share of representation costs. casting their ballots in favor of Councils throughout the state. "Emergency Availability Clause" Owen told the Utility Reporter that acceptance by a two to one margin. Local Union's top signature- providing $2.00 per hour for work- "agency shop will help put an end In addition to Owen and Stralla, gatherer is Bill Brill, Unit Chairman ers who carry beepers; and in- to the problem of 'free-riders' who the Local 1245 Negotiating Commit- of the San Jose Clerical employees. creased matching monies for em- refused to support the bargaining tee consisted of Gino Aramini, Frank ployee 401(k) contributions. and grievance process with their Davis, Louis Johnson, Pat Lantis, dues while reaping the hard-won Ken Lutzow, Betty Newberry, Jack See PAGE TWELVE Medical Plan Improved benefits in the Union contract." Pardick, and Keith Smith. Right to Work letter called totally biased

The following letter by Local number of indictments, resigna- way of life and the fundamental free- 1245 Business Representative tions, waste of money and disre- doms which are the basis of our Mike Haentjens appeared recently spect for the laws of our country, democratic society." in the Five Cities Times-Press- the Teamsters and AFL-CIO organi- These are not the words of Recorder (Arroyo Grande). zations pale considerably. gangsters and criminals but the Utility In part, the preamble to the AFL- foundations upon which unionism To The Editor: CIO constitution reads, "We pledge was built. ourselves to the more effective or- The Right To Work Committee, if Reporter I read with amusement and dis- ganization of working men and it had its way, would put the work- gust the letter published in your MAY 1988 women; to the securing to them of ing conditions, wages and benefits paper on Wednesday, November 18, full recognition and enjoyment of the of the working class solely back into VOLUME )0=11 NUMBER 5 titled "Union Merger Bothers Right the hands of employers. To Work." Right To Worker's Organized labor has fought for CIRCULATION: 24,500 I find it hard to believe that you the rights of working men and would actually publish such a to- would return us women everywhere and has ele- (415) 933-6060 tally biased letter in your news- vated them from virtual slaves at paper. to days of the hands of greedy and corrupt I can certainly understand that "Big Business" to the middle class Business Manager the Teamsters reaffiliation with the heavy-handed working conditions we enjoy today. & Executive Editor AFL-CIO would bother The Right To Right To Worker's would return JACK McNALLY Work Committee. The Right To Work management and us to days of heavy-handed man- Committee's sole purpose undoub- agement and unfit working condi- tedly supported by "Big Business" unfit working tions. Minimum wage and less and the conservative right wing is to paints an unpleasant picture of the Managing Editor undermine unionism in this great conditions. future, but Right To Worker's are Jenny Lipow country of ours. painting this picture. Certainly, whenever power and rights to which they are justly enti- God help us if California should large amounts of money are con- tled; to the achievement of ever ever become a Right To Work state. cerned, there is going to be greed President higher standards of living and work- and corruption; however, if you ing conditions; to the attainment of Sincerely, Howard Stiefer compare the Teamsters and AFL- security for all the people; to the Mike Haentjens Executive Board CIO organizations to that of the last enjoyment of the leisure which their Pismo Beach two great Republican Administra- skills make possible! and to the Ron Blakemore tions (Nixon's & Reagan's), the strengthening and extension of our Barbara Symons Michael J. Davis Jim McCauley Food stamps denied strikers by high court Kathy F. Tindall

Lyman Morrison The 'U.S. Supreme Court, in a 5 to "serve as a weapon in labor dis- argument. Marshall said that to 3 vote, upheld last month the putes." excluding workers from benefits Treasurer constitutionality of a new law "Exercising the right to strike available to other unemployed Ron Field which denies striking workers the inevitably risks economic hardship," workers is "onesided . . . and right to food stamps. White continued, "but we are not amounts to a penalty on striking Published monthly at 3063 The ruling was called "a blow to inclined to hold that the (Constitu- workers, not neutrality." Citrus Circle, Walnut Creek, Califor- working families," by United Auto tion] . . . requires the government Marshall noted that the majority nia 94598. Official publication of Workers' President Owen Bieber. It to minimize that result by qualifying decision reserves "especially harsh Local Union 1245, International was the UAW and the United Mine the striker for food stamps." treatment for strikers and their Brotherhood of Electrical Workers, Workers which brought the suit But three justices, led by Thur- families." AFL-CIO, PO. Box 4790, Walnut before the High Court. good Marshall, attacked the White Creek, CA 94596. This decision, Bieber said, lets the government keep "children and Second Class postage paid at Wal- other family members from receiv- nut Creek and at additional mail- ing food stamps for which they ing offices. USPS No. 654640, ISSN would otherwise be eligible solely No. 0190-4965. because a family member is en- gaged in a legal strike." Unit Meeting changes: POSTMASTER: Please send Form "This decision serves only the 3579, Change of Address, and all interests of those who wage correspondence to Utility Repor- economic warfare against working ter, PO. Box 4790, Walnut Creek, people," Bieber said. CA 94596. The ban on food stamps for strik- Unit #1501 Note New Location June 7 Time: 6:00 p.m. ers was put into law soon after Presi- Single copies 10 cents, subscription Carpenters Hiring Hall 51.20 annually. dent Reagan came into office and the Santa Clara County Labor Temple Republican party had gained control 2101 Almaden Road, San Jose of the Senate. But it passed through a Democratic-controlled House of Representatives as well. Conserva- tive politicians had been pushing for the law since 1968, the Unit #1511 Note New Date June 14 Time: 8:00 p.m. Times reported. Round Table Pizza In his written opinion defending 3050 El Camino, Santa Clara the decision, Supreme Court Jus- tice Byron White said that the Food Stamp program was not intended 2 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988

PC0DMV (cap' WC11 APPOINTMENTS PACIFIC GAS AND ELECTRIC COMPANY IBEW 1245 Business Manager PGandE Clerical Ballot Committee Vida Anderson Olivia Mercado Pat Collins Norma Ricker Mary G. Coyle Barry Claybaugh Labor faces Shasta Division Joint Grievance Committee Russell Shelton the new global economy General Construction Joint Grievance Committee Part two Edward N. Loupy (Alternate) Maquiladoras: exploiting both sides Right here on the California border with Mexico, is a new development Geysers Emergency Response Team Committee which shows how our government has been working hand in hand with Ocean American business to take advantage of cheap foreign labor. A program Richard Brown known as the "Maquiladora" system operates between our country and Allan MacLean Mexico. It allows American multinational firms to set up shop in Mexico Fred W. Doster without the usual tax and export fees charged to overseas businesses. In theory, the American firms are supposed to also set up a "twin" plant on the American side of the border. is supposed to be linked to SHASTA DAM AREA PUD Tijuana; El Paso with Ciudad Juarez; and Brownsville with Matamoros. Both American and Mexican workers are supposed to gain from this Shasta Dam Area PUD Negotiating Committtee economic expansion. But a study just released by the AFL- CIO, called "Maquiladoras: Exploiting Both Sides", shows how the program really Dennis Daily works. American corporations, including well known Fortune 500 firms like General Electric, Texas Instruments, Zenith, General Motors, Hon- eywell and DuPont, often establish the Mexican side of the operation CITY OF LODI without the American side. They then hire incredibly cheap, non-union Mexican labor and make their product at the low price once associated City of Lodi — Utility Department Negotiating Committee only with Asian factories. William R. Schmer, Sr. Twenty years ago, there were only 57 of these "maquiladoras." But Albert M. Smatsky, Jr. now, the AFL-CIO says, there are 987 with 268,000 employees. These Darel Clark factories ship $1.6 billion worth of products into the U.S. each year. Most of their workers are women and girls who work without the protection of the more stringent labor standards found here in the United States. The TRI-DAM PROJECT average cost per Mexican worker is about 69 cents an hour compared with an average of $9.00 per hour on our side of the border. Tri-Dam Project Negotiating Committee Zenith Corporation, which once pleaded with American consumers to buy its American-made TV sets, has a huge operation in the Mexican Daniel W. Childres border cities of Matamoros and Reynoso. At Reynosa alone 7,000 Mexi- Jack Carrillo cans work for as little as $3.40 a day. In the last several years, Zenith has fired almost half of its workforce at its Evansville, Indiana, facility, where workers are represented by the International Union of Electrical Workers. CENTRAL LABOR COUNCILS International labor cooperation emerges San Francisco Labor Council To fight back, Mexican workers have begun to organize unions at these Gwen Wynn plants. Mexico has a long and proud history of trade unionism. Like in Perry Zimmerman many countries of Europe, the picket line is almost unknown in Mexico — not because there are no strikes, but because when there are strikes, the vast majority of workers respect the rights of striking workers and refuse to scab. But organizing the multinationals has not been easy. At the Zenith facility in Reynosa workers went out on strike in 1983, joined by 8,000 workers from other plants in the area. At first, free trade unions and a wage increase were agreed to by the company. But after returning to work, 1 the workers found the wage increase cut after two months. Strike leaders CHANGE OF ADDRESS were not rehired, but arrested by local police, fired by Zenith and It you have just moved, or are about to move, please complete this form to insure your blacklisted by other plants in the area. continued receipt of all Union mail. Send completed form and your mailing label from the These workers can benefit from the support of American trade unions. front page to: To develop this support, the AFL-CIO has begun to meet with representa- UTILITY REPORTER tives of the Central Trabajadores de Mexico—the CTM, or the Workers' PO. Box 4790 Central of Mexico. A resolution was passed at the 1987 AFL-CIO conven- WALNUT CREEK, CA 94596 tion which stated that the "the needs of American workers and Mexican workers for better employment opportunities must be addressed in ways that support improvements in living standards and working conditions in Old label: both countries." These first steps toward international labor cooperation deserve our members' encouragement and support. Rather than fearing foreign workers, we should join hands with them to face together the harsh realities of the global economy. Name

New Address 'Street and Number' In Unity,

, City and Zip Code

IL • J IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 3 Minimum Wage debate set Asbestos found in to take place in Congress 20% of all buildings It has been seven years since this labor's influence in the Democratic nation's minimum wage rate has Congress. been raised. But now, it appears, Meanwhile, here in California, the A new report by the Environ- buildings which were the sub- Congress may be willing to con- battle for a reasonable minimum mental Protection Agency ject of this survey. The EPA sider an increase. The new momen- wage is not yet over. When the (EPA) indicates that one in tried to play down the signifi- tum follows a decision by the State State's Industrial Welfare Commis- every five public and commer- cance of the problem when the of California at the end of last year sion raised the minimum last De- cial buildings contains the report was issued. to raise this state's minimum wage cember, they exempted California cancer-causing insulation ma- "Don't panic. There's nothing from $3.35 an hour to $4.25. employees, like restaurant workers, terial asbestos. to suggest ... there are terrible The California move followed who customarily receive more than The report was requested by conditions out there," John A. months of lobbying by the California $60 in tips per month. the U.S. Congress which has Moore, an EPA assistant ad- labor movement for the change. Now The California Labor Federation been pressured for many years ministrator, said. the Federal government is beginning and other public interest groups by environmental and labor But union leaders and some to consider proposals to raise the have filed suit in state court argu- groups to clean up this coun- politicians were very concerned national wage floor from $3.35 to as ing that this "sub-minimum" wage try's asbestos. Earlier surveys about the report. Bill Borwegen, much as $5.05 an hour over a four- is a violation of the State Labor have indicated that up to one of the 850,000 member Service year period of set increases. Code, which specifically prohibits third of all school buildings Employees International "The majority of the members of adding tips to earned wages. The contain asbestos. Union, told the Los Angeles Congress obviously feel that there lawsuit also argues that the sub- The newest study found that Times that workers are worried should be some increase in the minimum wage would have a dis- some 733,000 buildings have about exposure to asbestos and minimum wage," Robert McGlotten, proportionate impact on women some amounts of the so-called they want, at the very least, chief lobbyist for the AFL-CIO in and minorities who typically work "friable" asbestos. This means regulations that would require , told The in industries with tipping. that the material, used widely building owners and managers Times. "We hope they will act upon "The wage inequities are clear," as insulation, is in a condition to test for asbestos hazards and that belief." Fran Bernstein, an attorney with where it can crumble or is notify employees of the results. The debate which raged for the Legal Aid Foundation of Los crumbling, releasing the One member of Congress months in California is now being Angeles, told the Los Angeles cancer-causing fibers. echoed these union concerns. played out at the national level. Con- Times. "A full-time employee at the Current EPA programs put a Rep. James J. Florio, a Democrat servative and business representa- new $4.25 minimum wage will heavy emphasis on cleaning up from New Jersey, denounced the tives argue that a higher minimum gross $8,840 per year. An employee school buildings, but less effort EPA for "sweeping this alarming wage would make it more difficult working full time at the $3.50 sub- into the commercial and public problem under the rug." for employers to hire teenage work- minimum wage who earns $60 in ers and members of minorities. tips will only earn $8,000 per year. But labor economists note that a This action necessarily punishes low minimum wage only encourages those least able to afford it." employers to maintain a pool of cheap labor to undermine the wages and working conditions of all other workers. Some labor officials point out that to have a pool of low-wage U.S. Supreme Court to rule on drug testing workers right here in the United States is like having to compete A challenge to the drug testing of union that the testing was uncon- Fourth Amendment because it did against the non-union cheap labor U.S. Customs Service employees stitutional. not rely on a particular suspicion found in third world countries such will be heard by the U.S. Supreme In other decisions federal courts with some basis in evidence availa- as South Korea or Mexico. Court in October with a ruling on have upheld the testing of FBI ble to the employer. Some analysts note that a higher the issue expected several months agents, bus drivers, and racehorse "Accidents, incidents or rule vio- minimum wage is essential to fight- later. The suit was brought against jockeys. But various state courts lations, by themselves, do not ing poverty in this country. "The the Customs Service by the Na- have ruled illegal the testing of create reasonable grounds for sus- federal minimum wage has re- tional Treasury Employees Union police officers, firefighters and pecting that tests will demonstrate mained at $3.35 per hour since which represents the workers at school bus drivers. alcohol or drug impairment in any 1981," Marion Wright Edelman and the Customs Service. A San Francisco Federal Appeals one railroad employee, much less Clifford M. Johnson, of the Chil- Attorneys for the Union argue Court, however, disagreed with an entire train crew," wrote one of dren's Defense Fund, wrote recently that its members are protected, as other Federal Courts when it ruled the Federal judges. in the Los Angeles Times. It has lost public employees, by the Fourth in February that a mandatory drug The Supreme Court decision will "a quarter of its value due to infla- Amendment of the U.S. Constitu- testing program for railway work- be forced to choose between the tion during the past seven years." tion. That Amendment bans "un- ers was unconstitutional. two approaches found in the Cus- "As recently as 1979," Edelman reasonable searches and seizures" The San Francisco court ruled toms Service and Railway worker and Johnson wrote, "a minimum- by the government. The union ar- that a program to test all workers decisions. wage worker employed full time gues that in addition to being un- violated the U.S. Constitution's throughout the year could earn reasonable the mandatory urine enough to lift a family of three testing program is "demeaning, above the poverty line. In 1988, the LOOKS LIKE YEFI, JUST humiliating and offensive." ITS TIME FOR MAKE SURE same worker will earn less than Although a Supreme Court rul- A DRUG 5HE three-fourths of the amount neces- ing in this case would not directly TEST! FLUNKS. sary to keep even a small family out affect private employers, it can be of poverty." expected to establish guidelines A bill to raise the minimum wage, which could be applied in the pri- sponsored by California Congres- vate as well as public sectors. sional Representative Augustus The appeal to the Supreme Court Hawkins and Massachusetts Sena- followed a decision by a Federal tor Edward Kennedy could be pas- Appeals court in New Orleans to sed in the next legislative session. allow reinstatement of the program But if it is passed while President for testing of new employees and Reagan is in office, a veto is likely. those workers who wanted promo- The ensuing battle to override the tions to "sensitive" jobs. A Federal veto would be a strong test for district court had agreed with the 4 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 DON'T HURT THE KIDS YES on 71 Co-star with Jack Lemmon NO on 72 in a Union, Yes! commercial Join the "Why I said Union, Yes!" Yes!" message. They're the first two the job. Send your name, address, campaign. Let America know what of many stars helping our unions get telephone number, name and Local 1245 and the California your union has done for you. Show the message home on national televi- number of your union local, and the Labor Federation, AFL-CIO urge you people the positive side of our sion — starting May 11th. job you perform to "Why I said to vote for a realistic, updated state unions. And help workers who You could be seen on network TV Union, Yes!" c/o the AFL-CIO, P.O. spending limit by voting YES on don't have a union to think "Union, this fall. The commercial will be part Box 27543, Washington, D.C. Proposition 71 and NO on Proposi- Yes!" If your entry is selected, you'll of the second stage of labor's high- 20006. Your entry must be post- tion 72 on Tuesday, June 7, 1988. co-star on a national commercial visibility "Union, Yes!" campaign. marked no later than July 4, 1988. Everyone agrees something must with Jack Lemmon. If you want to co-star in a "Union, Employees and officers (and their be done to change the Gann Spend- Tyne Daly ("Cagney and Lacey") Yes!" commerical, here's what to do: families) of the AFL-CIO, their af- ing Limit which was passed by 11% and Howard Hesseman ("Head of the in 25 words or less, tell how your filiates, and agencies are not eligible. of the voters in 1979. According to Class") are spreading the "Union, union helped you solve a problem on the bipartisan Commission on State Finance, "Unless the spend- ing limit law is changed, $23 billion must be cut from the current level of education, senior, health care, and law enforcement services over the next ten years." California cannot afford to lose $23 billion dollars when: • California Classrooms are the most crowded in the nation. • $16 million in proposed State spending was slashed from already underfunded Alzheimer resources last year. NOW WE'RE • In the wake of the severe 1987 fire season, the current State budget will cut $40 million from the De- partment of Forestry. • Shasta County was forced to close its hospital and its libraries. Proposition 71 and Proposition 72 represent two very different fu- tures for California. Proposition 71 will keep firm limits on State spending but will allow us to use existing tax re- TALK N' venues to meet the needs of all Californians. Proposition 72 would take $700 million dollars away from law en- forcement, education, senior, health care, and other services and give it to transportation. Proposition 71 is a fair, common- sense measure that will not raise State or local taxes one penny. Here's what it will do: • Require the State limit to reflect the tremendous growth in our school population. • Require the limit to reflect California's economy. It uses the California Consumer price Index (CPI) and the growth in the State's economy to determine annual limit adjustments instead of the U.S. CPI. • Require the existing Commission on State Finance to report annually This is the year we'll be telling America what unions mean to the workplace, to taxpayers on the spending limit to families, and communities. "UNION YES" is the simple, powerful slogan of the AFL-CIO's and how our hard-earned dollars $13 million advertising campaign on television and radio. "UNION YES" will make it clear that unions were spent. It will ensure proper are attracting a new generation of workers. "UNION YES" will show how unions are vital accountability to taxpayers. to our society—by providing a voice on the job, and by addressing issues that are crucial to all Americans. Proposition 71 has been en- dorsed by a broad coalition of or- This exciting campaign will be made even more powerful with your active, enthusiastic support. ganizations, including the Califor- As an individual member, you can carry the message of "UNION YES" to friends and family, nia Labor Federation, AFL-CIO; the to other union members, to unorganized workers—even to the news media. American Association of Retired America needs unions to get moving again. So let's talk up "UNION YES"— persons, CA; the California Associ- so that everyone will be able to get the message: ation of Highway patrolmen and the State Sheriffs' Association; and Bill Honig, Superintendent of Pub- AMERICA MKS BEST WHEN WE SAY, U lic Instruction. Remember, on June 7, VOTE YES ON PROPOSITION 71 AND YES VOTE NO ON PROPOSITION 72. IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 5 Clericals greet PG&E shareholders

FROM Page One end of last year to a 2.75% across work with PG&E customers. Now the board increase for the over red and white buttons which say 12,000 physical employees of the EQUAL TREATMENT NOW! are Company. But they refused to offer being distributed throughout the equal treatment to the nearly 4,000 system. clerical employees at PG&E. In- - Over the last several weeks the stead, management wanted the Company held meeting is with cler- predominantly female clerical ical employees because the workforce to settle for a 2.75% Com.pany felt the employees did bonus payment which would not be not "understand" the contract added to these employees' base offer. Many clericals viewed these wage rate." meetings as attempts to get them "Traditionally, both groups of to change their minds about the employees receive the same wage contract. Some clerical groups offer," the IBEW statement said. boycotted the meetings altogether; "To break with this pattern is divi- others walked out of the meetings sive and is causing a deterioration once they began; and other groups in working relationships at the posed several tough questions for Company." the Company representatives. The statement closed with an To build support for the IBEW expression of concern "that the clerical workers at PG&E, the Local Local Business Manager Jack McNally talks strategy with Bill Attinger. long term impact of this division at Union has invited all Clerical shop PG&E could affect the quality of the stewards to one of three Clerical Company's service and well-earned Conferences to be held in June. reputation." The Union asked its The stewards will assemble at 10 fellow shareholders for support for a.m. at three different locations: on "equal treatment for all at PG&E." June 4 at the Central Labor Coun- cil, Main Meeting Room, 2840 El Clericals active throughout Centro Road, Sacramento, Califor- the system nia 95833; on June 11 at the Holi- Clerical employees throughout day Inn Airport, Alameda/Berryessa the PG&E system are actively ex- Room, 1353 North 4th Street, San pressing their dissatisfaction with Jose, California 95112; and on the unequal treatment offered by June 18 at the Cedar Lanes, Holi- the Company. Black armbands of day Room, 3131 N. Cedar Avenue, protest are worn everyday by many Fresno, California 93703. employees, including those who

Harold Daniels and Sharon Bolton.

Prior to the demonstration, members met at the Union hall. Art Garza. Local 1245 Business Representatives (L-R) Sam Tamimi, Perry Zimmer- man, Dean Gurke.

Shareholders are greeted by smiling activists. Photographs by Kua Patten Dada Rao and George Oryall. 6 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 Larry Honegger and Enid Bidou prepare to leaflet shareholders.

Some members brought their own message.

Demonstrators pass out "Equal Treatment" literature to shareholders.

Even PG&E C.E.O. Dick Clarke got a leaflet. Jessie Turner tries to stay dry.

Business Representative Joe Valentino and Assistant Business Manager Manny Shirley Henry and Linda Shaw. Mederos explain the Union's position to Company managers outside the meeting. IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 7

State COPE Endorsements

San Francisco, April 21, 1988

The Executive Council of the No recommendation was received District Digtrict California Labor Federation, AFL- for the office in a party from one or CIO met in the Sheraton Palace more local central labor body Copes 1.* Roy D. Whiteaker (D) 21. Louise C. Gelber (D) Hotel, San Francisco, April 19-20, that share jurisdiction of a district. No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 1988 to consider candidates for Failure of local central labor body 3.* Milton Marks (D) 23. David Roberti (D) election to the office of United COPEs that share jurisdiction of a No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) States Senator, positions on the 12 district to agree on a recommenda- 5.* John Garamendi (D) 25. Cal McElwain (D) statewide ballot propositions and tion for the office in a party. No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) local central body COPE recom- Such Executive Council recom- 7.* Daniel E. Boatwright (D) 27. Bill Greene (D) mendations for election to the mendations are preceded by an Sunne Wright McPeak (D) No Endorsement (R) United States House of Representa- asterisk(*). No Endorsement (R) 29. Open (D) tives, the State Senate and the A double asterisk (**) indicates 9.* Nicholas C. Petris (D) No Endorsement (R) State Assembly, in a statewide pri- that endorsement is dependent No Endorsement (R) 31. Open (D) mary election on Tuesday, June 7, upon thecandidate accepting the 11. Robert T. (Bob) Mack, Jr. (D No Endorsement (R) 1988. majority position of the Assembly No Endorsement (R) 33. Cecil Green (D) In the following instances a re- Democratic caucus on the selection 13. Alfred E. Alquist (D) No Endorsement (R) commendation has been made by of the Speaker both during the No Endorsement (R) 35. Mike Balmages (D) the Executive Council without con- present session of the State Legisla- 15.* Rose Ann Vuich (D) No Endorsement (R) sideration of the local central body ture and following the elections of No Endorsement (R) 37.* Pat McCabe (D) COPE: November 1988. 17.* Henry J. Mello (D) Marian Bergeson (R) No recommendation was received The following recommendations No Endorsement (R) 39. Benita Berkson (D) for the office in a party by the local- are accordingly submitted by the 19. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) central labor body COPE with juris- Executive Council for designated No Endorsement (R) diction for the district. offices:

Leo T. McCarthy (D) District No Endorsement (R) 1.* Arlie E. Caudle (D) 26.* Patrick Johnston (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 2.* Dan Hauser (D) 27.** Gary A. Condit (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) District District 3.* Wayne C. Harrison (D) 28.* Sam Farr (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 1.* Douglas H. Bosco (D) 25. Edward R. Roybal (D) 4.* Thomas M. Hannigan (D) 29.* Open (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 2.* Wayne Meyer (D) 26. Howard L. Berman (D) 5. John Byouk (D) 30.* Jim Costa (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 3. Robert T. Matsui (D) 27. Mel Levine (D) 6. Lloyd G. Connelly (D) 31.* Bruce Bronzan (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement(R) 4.* Vic Fazio (D) 28. Julian C. Dixon (D) 7.* Norman S. Waters (D) 32.* Aden Windham (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 5. Nancy Pelosi (D) 29. Augustus F. (Gus) 8.* Bruce D. Ketron (D) 33.* Open (D) No Endorsement (R) Hawkins (D) No Endorsement (R) Open (R) 6.* Barbara Boxer (D) No Endorsement (R) 9.* Francis W. Parnell (D) 34. Earl J. Wilson (D) No Endorsement (R) 30. Matthew G. (Marty) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 7.* George Miller (D) Martinez (D) 10.* Phillip Isenberg (D) 35. Jack O'Connell (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 8.* Ronald V. Dellums (D) 31. Mervyn M. Dymally (D) 11. Robert J. (Bob) 36. George Webb II (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) Campbell (D) No Endorsement (R) 9. Fortney (Pete) Stark (D) 32. Glenn M. Anderson (D) No Endorsement (R) 37. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 12.* Tom Bates (D) No Endorsement (R) 10. Don Edwards (D) 33. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) 38. Mark Lit (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 13. Elihu M. Harris (D) No Endorsement (R) 11. Tom Lantos (D) 34. Esteban E. Torres (D) No Endorsement (R) 39. Richard Katz (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 14. Johan Klehs (D) No Endorsement (R) 12.* Anna G. Eshoo (D) 35.* Open (D) No Endorsement (R) 40. Tom Bane (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 15.* Wendell H. Williams (D) No Endorsement (R) 13. Norman Y. Mineta (D) 36. George E. Brown, Jr. (D) No Endorsement (R) 41. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 16. John L. Burton (D) No Endorsement (R) 14.* Patricia Malbert (D) 37. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) 42. Richard David Boyle (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 17. Willie L. Brown, Jr. (D) No Endorsement (R) 15.* Tony Coelho (D) 38. Jerry Yudelson (D) No Endorsement (R) 43. Terry B. Friedman (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 18. Delaine Eastin (D) No Endorsement (R) 16.* Leon E. Panetta (D) 39. Brent Hardwick (D) No Endorsement (R) 44. Tom Hayden (D) No Endorsement (R) (Write-in) 19. Jackie Speier (D) No Endorsement (R) 17.* Vincent Lavery (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 45. Burt Margolin (D) No Endorsement (R) 40. Open (D) 20. Ted Lempert (D) No Endorsement (R) 18.* Richard H. Lehman (D) Open (R) No Endorsement (R) 46. Mike Roos (D) No Endorsement (R) 41. Dan Kripke (D) 21. Byron D. Sher (D) No Endorsement (R) 19.* Gary K. Hart (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 47. Teresa P. Hughes (D) No Endorsement (R) 42. Ada Unruh (D) 22. Robin Yeamans (D) No Endorsement (R) 20.* Open (D) Open (R) No Endorsement (R) 48. Maxine Waters (D) Open (R) 43. No Endorsement (D) 23. John Vasconcellos (D) No Endorsement (R) 21. Open (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 49. Gwen Moore (D) No Endorsement (R) 44. Jim Bates (D) 24. Dominic L. (Dom) No Endorsement (R) 22. John G. Simmons (D) No Endorsement (R) Cortese (D) 50. Curtis R. Tucker (D) No Endorsement (R) 45. Pete Lepiscopo (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 23. Anthony C. Beilenson (D) No Endorsement (R) 25.** Rusty Areias (D) 51. Mark Wirth (D) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 8 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 VOTE June 7 District District

52. Open (D) 67. Open (D) PROPOSITION NO. 70 PROPOSITION NO. 73 No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 53. Richard E. (Dick) Floyd (D) 68. Steve Clute (D) Wildlife, Coastal, and Park Land Campaign Funding. Contribution No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) Conservation Limits. 54. Leon Ralph (D) 69. Open (D) Bond Act Prohibition of Public Funding No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) 55. Richard Polanco (D) 70. Michael K. Gallups (D) Recommendation: No Recommen- Recommendation: Vote NO No Endorsement (R) Evelyn Hart (R) dation 56. Lucille Roybal-Allard (D) 71. Open (D) Digest: Limits annual political con- No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) Digest: This act authorizes a gen- tributions to a candidate for public 57. Dave Elder (D) 72. Christian F. (Rick) eral obligation bond issue of seven office to $1000 from each person, No Endorsement (R) Thierbach (D) hundred seventy-six million dollars $2500 from each political commit- 58. Andrew Kincaid (D) No Endorsement (R) ($776,000,000) to provide for tee, and $5000 from a political party No Endorsement (R) 73. Erlinda Rodriguez funds for acquisition, develop- and each "broad based political com- 59.** Charles M. Calderon (D) Parker (D) ment, rehabilitation, protection, or mittee," as defined. Permits stricter No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) restoration of park, wildlife, coas- local limits. Limits gifts and hon- 60. Sally Tanner (D) 74. James S. Melville (D) tal, and natural lands in California oraria to elected officials to $1000 No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) including lands bond sales would from each single source per year. 61. No Recommendation (D) 75. Jack Chilton (D) be administered primarily by or Prohibits transfer of funds between No Recommendation (R) No Endorsement (R) through California Department of candidates or their controlled com- 62. Open (D) 76. Mike Harman (D) Parks and Recreation, Wildlife Con- mittees. Prohibits sending newslet- No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) servation Board, and State Coastal ter or other mass mailings, as de- 63. Open (D) 77. Sam Hornreich (D) Conservancy with funds made av- fined, at public expense. Prohibits No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) ailable to other state and local agen- public officials using and candidates 64. Donald (Don) Heuer (D) 78. Lucy Killea (D) cies and non-profit organizations. accepting public funds for purpose No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) Contains provisions in event other of seeking elective office. 65. David Neal Chamberlain (D) 79. Peter R. Chacon (D) conservation bond acts are No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) enacted. 66.** Jerry Eaves (D) 80.** Steve Peace (D) Proposition NO. 74 No Endorsement (R) No Endorsement (R) PROPOSITION NO. 71 Deddeh Transportation Bond Act

BALLOT PROPOSITIONS Appropriations Limit Adjustment Recommendation: Vote YES Recommendation: Vote YES PROPOSITION NO. 66 tions to state legislative candidates Digest: This act provides for a bond per election to $1000 from each issue of one billion dollars Digest: Constitution limits tax re- Elected County Assessor person, $2500 from each organiza- ($1,000,000,000) to provide funds venues state and local government tion, and $5000 from each "small for capital improvements for local annually appropriate for expendi- streets and roads, state highways, Recommendation: Vote YES contributor" political committee, ture: allows "cost of living" and as defined. Establishes Campaign and exclusive public mass transit "population" changes. "Cost of liv- guideways. Digest: Presently, the State Con- Reform Fund to which 'individuals ing" defined as lesser of change in stitution requires the offices of may designate up to $3 annually U.S. Consumer Price Index or per district attorney and sheriff to be from income taxes. Provides legis- PROPOSITION NO. 75 capita personal income; measure elective in both charter and non- lative candidates who receive redefines as greater of change in charter counties. This measure specified threshold contributions School Facilities Bond Act of 1988 California Consumer Price Index or amends the Constitution to pro- from other sources, and meet addi- per capita personal income. "State vide the office of assessor shall also tional requirements, may receive Recommendation: Vote YES population" redefined: includes in- be an elective office in charter and with limitation matching cam- creases in K-12 or community col- non-charter counties. paign funds from Campaign Re- Digest: This act provides for a bond lege average daily attendance form Fund. Establishes campaign issue of eight hundred million dol- greater than state population PROPOSITION NO. 67 expenditure limits for candidates growth. Local government "popula- lars ($800,000,000) to provide cap- accepting funds for Campaign Re- ital outlay for construction or im- tion" redefined: includes increases Second Degree Murder of Police form Fund. Provides civil and crim- provement of public schools. in residents and persons employed. Officer. inal penalties for violations. Specifies motor vehicle and fuel Minimum Term. taxes are fees excluded from approp- PROPOSITION NO. 76 riations limit. Recommendation: Vote YES PROPOSITION NO. 69 Veterans Bond Act of 1988 Digest: Existing law enacted by in- Acquired Immune Deficiency PROPOSITION NO. 72 Recommendation: Vote YES itiative provides second degree mur- Syndrome — AIDS der penalty is 15 years to life in Emergency Reserve, Dedication of Digest: This act provides for a bond prison. Minimum term is reduced Recommendation: Vote NO Certain Taxes to Transportation. by good behavior credits, but not by Appropriation Limit Change issue of five hundred ten million dollars ($510,000,000) to provide parole. This measure increases the Digest: Declares that AIDS is an farm and home aid for California minimum prison term for second infectious, contagious and com- Recommendation: Vote NO veterans. degree murder to 25 years in cases municable disease and that the con- where the murderer knew or should dition of being a carrier of the HTLV- Digest: Requires three percent of have known the victim was a III VIRUS OR OTHER AIDS-causing total state General Fund budget be PROPOSITION NO. 77 specified peace officer engaged in viral agent is an infectious, contagi- included in reserve for emergencies the performance of his or her ous and communicable condition. and economic uncertainties. Pro- California Earthquake Safety and duties. Person guilty of second de- Requires each be placed on the list vides net revenues derived from Housing Rehabilitation Bond Act gree murder under such cir- of reportable diseases and condi- state sales and use taxes on motor cumstances must serve a minimum tions maintained by the Department vehicle fuels be used only for public Recommendation: Vote YES of 25 years without reduction. of Health Services. Provides each is streets, highways, and mass transit subject to quarantine and isolation guideways. (Three year phase-in. ) Digest: This act provides for a bond PROPOSITION NO. 68 statutes and regulations. Provides Requires two-thirds vote of Legisla- issue of one hundred fifty million that Health Services Department ture or majority vote of voters before dollars ($150,000,000) to provide Legislative Campaigns. Spending personnel and all health officers taxes on motor vehicle fuels may be funds for a California Earthquake and Contribution Limits shall fulfill the duties and obliga- raised. Reserve and fuel tax re- Safety and Housing Rehabilitation tions set forth in specified statutory venues excluded from appropriation program. Recommendation: Vote NO provisions to preserve the public limit. Prohibits Legislature from health from AIDS. lowering local sales tax rates in Digest: Limits political contribu- effect January 1, 1987. !BEVY 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 9 DON'T BUY

Please boycott Mission Foods Products, National Boycotts sanctioned by support striking workers the AFL•CIO Executive Council The products listed below Mission Foods is a subsidiary come from the Mission Foods of Gruma, a multi-national cor- Factory in Richmond. The work- poration. ers there are currently on strike Please do not buy Mission in order to obtain health insur- foods products. They should Ace Drill Corporation Consumers Union ance that covers their families as pay for the medical insurance Wire, jobber & letter drills, routers Publishers of Consumer Reports well as a living wage. of their families. Not you, the and steel bars magazine, Consumer Reports An- Four years ago a seven-month taxpayer. United Automobile, Aerospace & nual Buying Guide. Services in- strike prevented Mission Foods Mission Foods Products in- Agricultural Implement Workers of clude legal aid and car price report- from busting the Union, but the clude: Tradicional Tortillas, Mis- America International Union ing. workers were forced to settle for sion Tortillas, Mission Tortilla The Newspaper Guild a $2.00 an hour wage cut and a Chips, La Tolteca Tortillas, Advertising Corporation of loss of health insurance cover- Sarita's Deli Chips, Natural Tor- America Faberge, Inc. age for their families. Most of tilla Chips (West-Mark brand). Pocket calendars and desk diaries Personal care products: Aphrodi- the workers there are paid Thank You. Hotel and Restau- International Union of Electronic, sia, Aqua Net Hair Spray, Babe, $4.50 an hour. Without health rant Union, Local 28, Oakland, Electrical, Salaried, Machine and Cavale, Brut, Ceramic Nail Glaze, insurance for their families, 893-3181. Furniture Workers Flambeau, Great Skin, Grande many are forced to go to tax- Also, you can help by writing to Finale, Just Wonderful, Macho, payer supported clinics, hospi- Francisco De La Torre, President Armour Processed Meats Co. Kiku, Partage, Tip Top Accessories, tals, and programs such as at Mission Foods Corporation, Armour Hams, Armour Bacon, Ar- Tigress, Woodhue, Xanadu, Caryl Medi-Cal. 2343 Saybrook Ave., City of mour Hot Dogs. This UFCW boycott Richards, Farrah Fawcett and Commerce 90040. does not include processed meat Faberge Organics products made by Armour-Dial. Oil, Chemical & Atomic Workers United Food & Commercial Work- International Union ers International Union

BASF A.G. Corp., Geismar, Fort Howard Paper Co. McCreary Tire & Rubber Co. R.J. Reynolds Tobacco Co. Louisiana Green Bay, Wisconsin and Mus- Truck, farm, industrial, racing and Cigarettes: Camel, Winston, Salem, Video, Audio and Computer Tapes kogee, Oklahoma Mardi-Gras, small aircraft tires Doral, Vantage, More, Now, Real, and discs, Zerex and other brands Page, Sof-Knit tissues and nap- United Rubber, Cork, Linoleum Bright, Century, Sterling, YSL/ of anti-freeze advertising Alligard kins, Antique towels, Pom-etts, and Plastic Workers of America Ritz; Smoking Tobaccos: Prince 340 —a protectant. Edon and Dolly Madison tissues Albert, George Washington, Carter United Paperworkers Interna- Hall, Apple, Madeira Mixture, Royal Oil, Chemical & Atomic Workers Mohawk Liqueur Corporation tional Union Comfort, Top, Our Advertiser; Lit- International Union Brand name products: Chaska and tle Cigars: Winchester Vodstock Vodka, Grand MacNish, Bakery, Confectionery & Tobacco Blue Cross/Blue Shield of Holiday Paper Cups, Arandas Tequila, Canadian Can-Am Workers International Union Memphis, TN Div. of Imperial Cup Corporation Whiskey, Mohawk labeled Gin, Rum, Carrier of union health plans Holiday Paper Cups brand name Peppermint Schnapps, Cordials, AFL-CIO United Paperworkers Interna- Kahlua, Amaretto and Sambuca. Rome Cable Corporation tional Union Distillery, Wine and Allied Cables used in mining and Brown & Sharpe Mfg. co. Workers International Union construction industry Measuring, cutting and machine Indiana Desk Co. International Association of tools and pumps Medium and high-priced desks Machinists & Aerospace Workers International Association of International Union of Electronic, Napa Valley Co-op Machinists & Aerospace Workers Electrical, Salaried, Machine and Bergfeld 1885 (Sauvignon Blanc) Schnadig Corporation Furniture Workers wine "International" and "Karpen" Bruce Church, Inc. Distillery, Wine and Allied upholstered furniture Iceberg Lettuce: Red Coach, Workers International Union International Union of Electronic, Friendly, Green Valley Farms, John Morrell & Company Electrical, Salaried, Machine and Lucky Meat products: John Morrell, Rath Nixdorff-Lloyd Chain Company Furniture Workers United Farm Workers of America Blackhawk, Nathan's Famous, To- Heavy duty chains sold in hardware bins First Prize, Hunter, Tom stores. The Nixdorff-Lloyd brand Seattle-First National Bank California Table Grapes Sawyer, Krey, Partridge, Rodeo, name appears on the chain spool Withdraw funds Table grapes that do not bear the Scott Petersen, Bob Ostrow, E-Z International Association of United Food and Commercial UFW union label on the carton or Cut, Table Trim, Golden Smoked, Machinists & Aerospace Workers Workers International Union crate Carson Ribs United Farm Workers of America United Food and Commercial Workers International Union Patrick Cudahy Shell Oil Company Processed meat products: Patrick Subsidiary of Royal Dutch Shell City of Hope Cudahy, Gwaltney, Milano's, National Medical Research Facility (parent company of Shell South Louisiana-Pacific Corp. Smithfield, Taneda, Deli Fresh; Africa); Gasoline, petroleum and Office & Professional Employees Brand name wood products: L-P Canned Hams: Agar, Apple Blos- International Union natural gas products Wolmanized, Cedartone, Wafer- som, A&P, Circle A, Country Club, AFL-CIO wood, Fibrepine, Oro-Bord, Redex, DAK, IGA, Jewel, Lancaster, Clark Grave Vault Company Sidex, Ketchikan, Pabco, Xonolite Pathmark, Plymouth Rock, Safe- Sterling Radiator Copper and steel burial vaults United Brotherhood of Carpenters way, Shur-Fine, Smoke-A-Roama, United Automobile, Aerospace & Baseboard heaters for the home and Joiners of America and Inter- Windmill United Automobile, Aerospace & Agricultural Implement Workers of national Woodworkers of America United Food and Commercial America International Union Agricultural Implement Workers of Workers International Union America International Union Colt Firearms Company Marval/Rocco Turkey, Inc. Manufacturers of handguns and Turkey and turkey parts: Marvel, Plymouth Rubber Company United States Playing Card Co. rifles Shady Brook Farms. All products Insulating material, rubber bands Brand names: Bee, Bicycle, Tally United Automobile, Aerospace & bearing USDA stamp #P-18 and vinyl products Ho, Aviator and Congress Agricultural Implement Workers of United Food & Commercial United Rubber, Cork, Linoleum Retail, Wholesale, Department America International Union Workers International Union and Plastic Workers of America Store Union 10 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988

J 0 S WITH

with the Southern Christian Leader- J U STICE ship Conference .(SCLC) in a Martin Luther King Memo- rial March for Jobs with Justice. The Campaign gains momentum march will be "going from Memphis on Washington, D.C., — Jobs with America (CWA) President Morton April 4, where Dr. Justice, the nationwide movement Bahr told reporters that more than King was assassi- for workers' rights, in just six thirty thousand workers have al- nated 20 years ago, months, has steamrolled across ready signed the Jobs with Justice through Mississippi America, seven International union pledge which states, "I'll be there at and Alabama to presidents least five meet up with the told the times dur- Georgia Jobs with Joe Allevo, UAW-COLT worker addresses JWJ media at a ing the next Justice rally on recent brief- year for April 30," he said. news conference at AFL-CIO winter meeting ing. Rallies, other work- In addition to congres- ers' strug- Samuel and Bahr, reporters at the clear signal to Corporate America sional hear- gles as well AFL-CIO winter meetings in Bal that workers are mad as hell and ings, mass as my own." Harbour, Florida heard about future they're not going to take any more," picket lines Organizers Jobs with Justice plans from Presi- IAM President William Winpisinger and other throughout dents John Sweeney (SEIU), Lynn charged in announcing a massive demonstra- the country Williams (USWA), William Win- multi-union campaign against tions have report that pisinger (IAM), Sigurd Lucassen Texas Air Chairman Frank already been signers have (UBC), and Owen Bieber (UAW). The Lorenzo. held in been re- International Presidents were joined Winpisinger described Lorenzo nearly a sponding in by Florida AFL-CIO President Dan as: "a union-busting corporation dozen loca- huge num- Miller and workers who told their chieftain with a turn-of-the-cen- tions with bers when stories of abuse. tury, robber baron mentality. He many more called on to SEIU's Sweeney announced plans epitomizes the anti-worker, public- currently begin to ful- for the April 30 Jobs with Justice be-damned attitude that prevailed being plan- fill their march and rally in Atlanta, Georgia. in corporate board rooms during ned. pledge. Under the banner Justice for that era." The union Bahr said Janitors, the Service Employees UBC President Sigurd Lucassen leaders told that com- union has taken public the predica- announced plans for a Jobs with the media puter lists of ments of workers who are among Justice rally on June 8 in Portland, that the pledge sig- the most exploited in the country. Oregon for lumber industry work- goals of Jobs ners are "We are demanding a living wage ers. "As unions united, we have a with Justice being gener- and decent benefits, along with the tremendous collective strength. We are to build ated and most fundamental of civil rights," powerful Jobs with Justice action, Nashville, Ten- sent to inter- Sweeney declared, "like being able labor/com- nessee, 8,000 people participated national to enter the door of your choice, or munity coal- unions, joining a union without having to itions which can force major corpo- state federations, and local Jobs with fear for your job." rations and government to act Justice coordinators. "In addition, Steelworkers President Lynn Will- responsibly in communities; to we will plug our card signers into the iams told reporters that Jobs with demonstrate to unorganized work- AFL-CIO political action network. We Justice will travel to Fairfield, ers that there is a viable collective will put our activists to work for the Alabama on April 16 in support of fightback response to the workplace (presidential) candidate willing to Lloyd Noland Hospital workers who problems they face; and to change take a stand for workers' rights this have been without a contract since the political climate in the United year," Bahr promised. 1984 and have been fighting man- States to permit social and legisla- "The strength of the campaign agements' union-busting attempts. tive change favorable to working has been its ability to mobilize The hospital has been unsuccessful must use our strength to fight our people. union members to fight in the bat- in four attempts to decertify the enemies in the boardrooms and on To achieve these goals, regional tles of other workers, and to build union. "That kind of disdain for the street," he said. "Jobs with coalitions of workers, Justice rallies have provided work- labor, religi- the lack of ers the opportunity to take to the ous, com- consider- streets together to mobilize against munity, wo- ation for the those who threaten fair worker men's, and community standards and the dignity of Ameri- civil rights — the mean- can workers." organiza- ness of Over the past six months, Jobs tions along spirit — is with Justice actions have taken with elect- what Jobs place in Florida, Iowa, Tennessee, ed officials with Jus- Pennsylvania, Connecticut, New and other tice is in- York, Texas, New Mexico, Delaware, citizens tended to Idaho and Wisconsin. have sprung counter," Jobs with Justice plaris are cur- up to or- Williams rently being made for other actions ganize and said. this Spring in Birmingham, New fight to- "The York City, St. Louis, and Kansas gether Jobs with City (Mo.). around local Justice To bring Jobs with Justice to issues. campaign your community or for more infor- Commun- sends a mation, write to Jobs with Justice, ications clear signal P.O. Box 19128, Washington, D.C. Workers of Jobs with Justice action, Des Mojnes, Iowa, 2,000 people participated to Corpo- 20006, or call 1-800-424-2872. IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988 11 Tentative agreement for Outside Line The Local 1245 Negotiating Com- and literally hundreds of man-hours mittee reached a tentative agree- at the bargaining table, the Union ment on a two-year contract cover- succeeded in convincing the Con- ing Outside Line Construction tractors that they could remain com- members late last month. The petitive even with economic improve- Committee is recommending a ments for Local 1245 members." "yes" vote on the agreement. The Economic Progress proposal was sent to the member- ship for approval on May 2 and Lineman wages under the tenta- ballots are due back by May 23. tive agreement will increase by "The proposed agreement repre- $1.25 June 1, 1988 — a 5.8% in- 1988 Outside Line Negotiating Committee. Front Row (L-R): Andrew Dudley, Com- sents a fair and equitable settle- crease — and after one year will rise mittee Member; Curt Petersen and Tom Heyl, Local 1245 Business Representa- ment over what the Committee felt again by $1.00, or 4.4%. Salaries tives. Back Row (L-R): Bill Cataffio, Alternate; Committee Members Don Kimball, was a major takeaway campaign by for all other classifications are tied Don Holler, and Alex Urrutia; Bill Branson, Temporary Business Representative. the Contractors Association," said to the Lineman rate, and will be Assistant Business Manager Ron increased accordingly. Notable in winning language providing that Committee Commended Fitzsimmons. "The contract we are progress was made on behalf of the the sole responsibility for providing Andrew Dudley, Don Holler, Don recommending includes improve- Groundmen, who will receive 65% a safe and healthful workplace rests Kimball, and Alex Urrutia, who ments in wages, benefits, and of the Lineman rate, representing with the employer. With a two-year served on the 1988 Outside Line working conditions." their first increase in seven years. term, the proposed agreement gives Negotiating Committee for Local Fifty cents of each rate increase will an extra measure of stability to Out- Union Fends Off Takeaways 1245, were hailed by Fitzsimmons come in the form of a higher em- side Line workers. A new provision as "dedicated and hardworking indi- At the outset of bargaining on ployer hourly pension contribution, on employee contracting will, ac- viduals who did an invaluable job of March 4, the Contractors proposed totalling a 33% increase over the life cording to Fitzsimmons, reduce the representing their fellow workers. In major reductions in salaries and of the agreement and providing ad- risk of favoritism in assigning work, addition the Committee benefitted health benefits, decreases in pre- ditional security for Outside Line while other new language tightens from the expert assistance of Busi- mium overtime pay and holidays, members and their families. up protections against "double- ness Representatives Bill Branson, and loss of worker safety protec- breasting." "Double-breasting" re- Safety and Stability are Key Curt Peterson, and Tom Heyl." tions. Ron Fitzsimmons told the fers to Contractors who are Union in Fitzsimmons also noted that "what Utility Reporter that "the Contrac- In addition to defeating an em- one area and non-Union in another; could have been a long and highly tors Association came to the table ployer proposal for three-man crews, the new contract will prohibit such adversarial bargaining process insisting on forty-three takeaways, which the Negotiating Committee employers from being signatories to turned into an amiable settlement — claiming they needed to become viewed as a potential threat to the Local 1245 agreement. truly a victory for both sides." `competitive.' After seven sessions worker safety, the Union succeeded Cal/OSHA CLERICAL SPOTLIGHT petition Bakersfield PG&E Clericals drive... speak out FROM Page One Brill signed up 547 people for the At a recent meeting of the IBEW initiative. He also put together a Local 1245 Advisory Council, the signature gathering team that Utility Reporter had a chance to sit gained almost 1,000 signatures for down and talk with several Clerical the ballot measure. activists about the stalled contract For his efforts, Brill received an negotiations at PG&E. IBEW jacket. Also receiving jackets, Linda Snelling is an Operating awarded to any IBEW member who Clerk/Steno at the Bakersfield Ser- gathered 250 signatures, will be vice Center. A twelve-year employee Bob Martin, Grover Day and War- of the Company, Snelling has been ren "Skip" Harris. a Local 1245 Shop Steward for "It was tough at times trying to seven years. Snelling feels that 'educate' people about Cal/OSHA," IBEW members are strongly op- Brill said. "But well worth the ef- posed to the efforts of the Company fort. At the same time it was very to divide Clerical unit members gratifying to experience people from their Physical Unit brothers walking up to us wanting to sign and sisters. without even discussion." "Equal treatment is really the Bakersfield Stewards: Linda Snelling and Mary Catherine Haring. The following Local Union mem- issue," Snelling said. "PG&E should ductivity to compensate as vacant are single parents, or are the main bers will receive Local 1245 hats for be a model employer, and they positions go unfilled. With more source of their families' incomes, their contribution of 50 or more should take a stand that our clerks layoffs possible, we'll be expected to and deserve equal consideration signatures: Richard Cowart, Joe are worth decent wages. If other do even more extra work. They take with Physical Unit members." Johnson, Mickey Harrington, companies underpay their clerks, advantage of employee loyalty, but The Bakersfield activists also Ronald Chan, Scott Mowry, Ocean, it's not a valid reason why we should when it comes to bargaining, they noted that the wearing of black Al Calleros, Nayaraja Rao, Christ- be brought down to that level." won't give it back." armbands and the red "EQUAL ine Mangante, Gary Covert, Peter Mary Catherine Haring is a Haring also serves as a shop TREATMENT NOW" buttons has O'Driscoll, Scott Thomas, Elbert former Groundman and member of steward and is the recorder of the led to a sympathetic response from Harte, Ron Van Dyke, Stanley the Physical bargaining unit who is Local's Bakersfield unit. PG&E customers. Clark, Chester Bartlett, Bill Bran- currently working as a Utility Clerk "Clericals just want to be treated "Feedback from members of the son, Joel Ellioff, Anthony Villa, in Customer Services. "The Com- with fairness, respect, and dig- public has been overwhelmingly Gwen Wynn, Don Custer, Bob pany keeps squeezing the work- nity," Rich Dunkin, IBEW Local positive," Haring said. "Once they Choate, Don Ramos, Karen Rus- ers," Haring said, and yet they "ex- 1245 Business Representative, understand the issue of equity, most sell, Steve Moore, Nancy Landeros, pect people to increase their pro- added. "Many, if not most, clericals customers are very sympathetic." Vida Anderson, and Sandra Weeks. 12 IBEW 1245 UTILITY REPORTER/MAY 1988