AT&T CORE CONTRACTS EXPIRED!
(SCROLL DOWN FOR BARGAINING UPDATES)
CWA wishes all of our members a safe and happy Independence Day!
Enjoy the 4th of July with your family/friends and remember that our solidarity and strength of purpose will prevail over AT&T's corporate greed. Truly, our independence from corporate tyranny is a battle we must continue to fight; we must never give up our freedom to bargain better contracts and to lead better lives for ourselves and our families. So, as we enjoy the 4th, let us not forget the 70+ year history of CWA and labor activists whom have fought to get us where we are today; we continue that fight today so that in another 70 years there will be good jobs with health care and a strong middle class in America.
Happy Fourth of July!
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AT&T "Hands Off My Health Care" Rally, State Capitol - July 1, 2009
Thank you to the over 250 CWA retirees and members, CWA Locals from across California (as far north as Redding and as far south as Pasadena), and special invited guests who came to the event: AT&T "Hands Off My Health Care" Rally, held on the north steps of the State Capitol, July 1, 2009. A big thanks goes to our wonderful guest speakers, which included several key elected officials; they were:
John Garamendi, Lieutenant Governor - State of California
(Click on the picture above to see a YouTube video of the Lieutenant governor's speech at the rally)
Felipe Fuentes, Assemblymember & Chairman - Assembly Utilities & Commerce Committee
Hector De La Torre, Assemblymember & Member - Assembly Health Committee
Alex Rooker, First Vice Chair - California Democratic Party
Jim Weitkamp, Vice President -CWA District 9 (covering California, Nevada and Hawaii)
Tom Rankin, Treasurer - California Alliance for Retired Americans (CARA)
Addie Brinkley, Retiree Coordinator - CWA District 9 & Vice President, CARA
Berta Gonzalez-Cable, Retiree and Former CWA Local 9421 Secretary-Treasurer
We sent the message to AT&T--in public, and with the support of our elected officials--that CWA members will NOT stand for AT&T's cuts to our active or retired members health care. That's why CWA members told AT&T loud and clear:
"Hands Off My Health Care!"
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JULY 4TH MARKS THREE (3) MONTHS WITHOUT CONTRACTS AT AT&T. WE AS CWA MEMBERS MUST KEEP THE PRESSURE ON AT&T TO BARGAIN FAIRLY. WEAR YOUR RED CWA SHIRT EVERY THURSDAY AND WEAR BLACK EVERY MONDAY. DO NOT WEAR AT&T SHIRTS OR HATS OR DISPLAY THE AT&T LOGO UNLESS YOU ARE A PREM TECH. DO NOT MAKE P2R / ERIC REFERRALS. WE DON'T HAVE A CONTRACT, SO WE DON'T SUPPORT AT&T. AT&T NEEDS TO GET THE MESSAGE LOUD AND CLEAR: WE DON'T SUPPORT A COMPANY THAT DOESN'T SUPPORT US! AT&T, GET OFF OUR BACKS AND GET ON OUR SIDE!
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On a positive note, CWA Local 9421 made the June 4th edition of the Sacramento Bee! Please check out the write-up and photo by clicking here:
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IBEW INFORMATION
You may or may not know that the contract covering some 10,000 International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW) members who work at AT&T across several states, including California, expired on June 27th. IBEW members voted overwhelmingly to strike, if necessary. That means that in addition to the 125,000 CWA members whom could strike at anytime, another 10,000 of our IBEW brothers and sisters could also strike at anytime too! And when you couple this with another 25,000 CWA members working at AT&T Southeast (formerly Bellsouth) whose contract expires on August 8th, we have a combined potential of 160,000 Union members who could walk out at anytime, leaving AT&T paralyzed in all 50 states! Our ability to strike is our power!!
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TENTATIVE AGREEMENT* REACHED AT AVAYA AS OF JUNE 3RD!
AVAYA CONTRACT
CWA Local 9421 represents Avaya members too. Their contract has been expired since May 23rd. As of June 3rd, CWA has reached a tentative agreement (T.A.) with Avaya. Avaya members will vote on the T.A. (*hence, it is tentative until a final vote ratifies this agreement) and the results will be posted on July 22nd. To get the latest on Avaya Bargaining, please click on this link: Avaya Bargaining Updates.
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MOBILIZATION PHASE 2:
STRIKE STANDBY
At this time the desicion has been made to work without contracts at AT&T. This means that everyone should report to their normal work locations at their normal start times from now on, until otherwise notified.
However, a STRIKE could be called at anytime--literally at any minute--without prior notice to AT&T.
In preparation for a strike, CWA Local 9421 has issued a Strike Preparation Package as well as a Picket Assignment to all members. If you have any questions about picket assignments, please call the picket assignment hotline and leave a message with your name, number and question. The number is: 916-557-0130.
STAY STRONG, STAY ALERT, STAY UNIFIED! DON'T EVER FORGET: OUR UNITY IS OUR STRENGTH!
Finally, remember to stay informed regarding the current status of bargaining. Please check the following sources for updates:
Website: www.cwa-att.com (will be updated when bargaining reports or new information is available)
Bargaining Hotline: 916-557-0141 (will be updated as information is available, but will not necessarily be updated everyday; will NOT be updated on the weekend unless new information is available)
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"LAST, BEST AND FINAL OFFER(S)"
(a.k.a. 'Take our Crappy AT&T Offer')
Regarding the "last, best and final offer" made by AT&T to CWA District 6 (The old Southwest Bell Telephone: Texas, Missouri, Oklahoma, Kansas and Arkansas) on May 12, 2009:
The company has only presented this "offer" to CWA District 6 and NOT to any of the other CWA Districts (i.e. our own, CWA District 9) at this time. However, any or all of the other CWA Districts could be presented with an "offer" too.
These types of "last, best and final offer(s)" are not uncommon in bargaining; in fact, in our recent bargaining with AT&T Mobility (wireless, formerly Cingular), AT&T made a "last, best and final offer" to CWA. In that case, the "offer" was so ludicrous and ridiculous that CWA refused. At that point, AT&T said 'take it or leave it' and CWA again refused. Bargaining stopped for two (2) weeks until AT&T finally realized that CWA would not succumb to AT&T's weak "offer"; AT&T asked CWA to come back to the table and a contract was negotiated within three (3) days of talks resuming.
The moral of the story is that while AT&T will posture and threaten CWA with a 'take it or leave it' approach, CWA will NOT accept ludicrous or ridiculous proposals that will undercut our members' benefits, wages or working conditions. AT&T can make whatever proposal they want; however, that does NOT mean that CWA has to or will accept that "offer". Several things could happen: bargaining talks could stop if AT&T presents the other CWA Districts, including our own District 9, with a pathetic "last, best and final offer", which CWA has no choice but to refuse; we could go out on strike, at anytime, regardless of any "offer" made by AT&T; we could continue to bargain.
Please understand that bargaining is a give and take process, and often likened to a game of chess. We are competitors that are vying for the best outcome. CWA will NOT compromise our position or our core beliefs for a pittance; any "offer" made by AT&T that lowers our members' standard of living will NOT be tolerated and is an insult to our intelligence. CWA members deserve better than that!
So: stay strong and united; keep up the faith; continue to mobilize. And remember, to quote CWA District 6:
DON’T FALL FOR AT&TS SLICK AND FANCY SPIN AND PROPAGANDA. OVERALL THEIR PACKAGE IS INADEQUATE.
We must, as always, really look at what AT&T is proposing. The surface may look pretty but it is always what is underneath that counts.
Continue to stay posted on bargaining by visiting the official CWA National Bargaining website, www.cwa-att.com, or by calling our official CWA Local 9421 Bargaining hotline, 916-557-0141, at anytime. Only these two (2) sources, along with your CWA Local 9421 Officers, contain the facts about bargaining; anything else you hear is a rumor unless it is confirmed via one of the above sources.
Only united together will we attain fair and just contracts at AT&T!
Here is the posting from the CWA National/District 9 website regarding the "last, best and final offer":
Important News From CWA Bargaining
By now you have probably heard that in District 6 (Southwest), AT&T has provided a “last, best, and final” offer.
It is important to remember that bargaining continues everywhere else—here in District 9, in District 1 (East), in District 4 (Midwest) and in C&T (Legacy T).
The District 9 Committee is still meeting, working on a broad range of issues of importance to our members. Their goal continues to be a quality contract, however long it might take.
The “last, best, and final” offer does not mean that bargaining is over, even in District 6. There is no impasse, and AT&T has not said that it will implement this offer. There has been no “last, best and final” at other tables, including ours, and we don’t expect one.
It is important to remember that each contract is separate, and that the bargaining process is different at each bargaining table.
The main thing is that bargaining will continue at our table, and that we need intensive mobilization to continue as well.
It is extremely important for all of us to continue to work safely and to perform all tasks by the company guidelines.
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We Are the Network! |
CWA delivered its report, We Are the Network: AT&T Workers Have Built a Strong Company for Tough Times, to shareholders at AT&T's annual meeting on April 24, 2009. Read the report by clicking here. |
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OVERTIME
CWA District 9 is now recommending that all CWA members work overtime, if it is available and if the member so chooses to work it. However, we are asking all CWA Local 9421 members to work very, very SAFE. Remember: SAFETY FIRST!
Take the time to do the job right; that means: 1) Safety 1st; 2) Quality 2nd, 3) Productivity 3rd. Do everything the company has asked you to do for every job, ticket, etc.; that means WORK TO RULE: follow every policy, guideline, coverage, document, process, etc. to the letter! If this slows you down, so be it--you are following company policies--the key is that you are being safe. Plese remain flexible and ready for change on our command.
Stay strong and keep up the good work. Only in Unity will we prevail!
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RUMOR CONTROL
While there are always a lot of rumors within the phone company, that is never more true than now.
However, until you hear something officially from CWA Local 9421--via this website, our bargaining hotline (916-557-0141) or from an Officer--OR it is posted on the CWA National Bargaining website (www.cwa-att.com) or via a formal press release from CWA National, than it is NOT OFFICIAL!
To repeat: NOTHING IS OFFICIAL UNTIL YOU HEAR IT FROM CWA LOCAL 9421 LEADERSHIP OR CWA NATIONAL LEADERSHIP.
This includes the rumors that we will strike at certain times/dates, that CWA has agreed to any "offer", and any other rumor that may come up.
A bit of further rumor control:
No one group or district will go out on strike on their own; anything you hear contrary to this is completely and totally erroneous. Legacy T will not go out on strike without Legacy S, and vice-versa.
When we say 1 Union, 1 Fight, 1 Future, we mean it literally. We will ALL (all CWA Districts) walk out together if/when it comes to that.
If/when we go on strike, it will be made known on all of the aforementioned websites and CWA Local 9421 Officers and Strike Committee Members will notify all Stewards and Chief Stewards, who will in turn notify members. CWA Local 9421 Officers and Strike Committee Members will personally go to all sites and walk members out.
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FOOD FOR THOUGHT
SCABS: $2,500,000.00 A WEEK
HOTELS: $500,000.00 A WEEK
MEALS: $250,000.00 A WEEK
WATCHING AT&T WASTE THEIR MONEY:
PRICELESS...
For everything else, there's CWA!
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Communications Workers of America
CWA Local 9421, Sacramento
Planned Actions - Informational Pickets for July 2009
We are still planning pickets for July; when we determine the dates(s)/time(s), we will post the details here, as well as on our hotline (916-557-0141). Thanks for your patience.
Please still wear your RED CWA shirt every Thursday though!
CWA Local 9421 invites you to join us in an upcoming Informational Picket against AT&T Core. Five (5) nationwide contracts have been expired since April 4th. However, CWA has not reached a single agreement on any major contractual item. Why? AT&T is still playing games with CWA members at AT&T Core; AT&T is not getting serious about bargaining fairly with CWA. Instead of working in good faith with CWA, AT&T is still insisting on dramatically cutting health care and stripping important protections that CWA members have fought for over the last 71 years!
This is why now, more than ever, CWA members need to TURN UP THE HEAT AS HIGH AND AS HOT AS WE CAN and show AT&T that we will not play their games; CWA members demand and deserve a FAIR and JUST contract!
CWA members at AT&T Core know that CWA members at AT&T Mobility, GSI, as well as our other labor partners, retirees and friends support CWA members in attaining a fair contract! Thank you all and keep it up!
Again, these pickets are informational only; they are designed to notify both the public and the employer that we stand together with our Brothers and Sisters working at AT&T Core. CWA represents over 125,000 workers at AT&T Core under six (6) separate contracts nationwide (formerly Pacific Bell/Nevada Bell, Bellsouth, Southwestern Bell, Southern New England Telecom, Ameritech and Legacy AT&T).
We look forward to seeing you at an upcoming picket! Spread the word and come out and join us.
Let’s show AT&T that CWA stands united to fight against their corporate greed!
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Did You Miss the First or Second AT&T Core National Unity e-Meetings for CWA members? |
You can watch an archived version of the First broadcast that aired on April 23, 2009 or the Second broadcast that aired on May 27, 2009 at: www.cwaunion.tv. |
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YOU TUBE VIDEOS:
Informational Picket / Bargaining #1
Click on the link above to watch a short video of CWA Local 9421 Vice President Robert Longer speaking about bargaining issues at the April 2nd informational picket at 2700 Watt Avenue.
Informational Picket / Bargaining #2
Click on the link above to watch a short video of CWA Local 9421 Vice President Robert Longer speaking about bargaining issues at the April 25th informational picket at 1407 J Street.
Click on the link above to watch a short and amusing video about AT&T.
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #69
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Bargaining has once again slowed to an agonizing pace. Inasmuch as the company does not appear ready to make any substantive movement on key issues, the decision has been made to return home for the weekend. We have been available continuously for over 130 days and have informed the company that we are prepared to resume bargaining next week if they are ready to bargain seriously.
The company needs motivation! Keep up the good quality, gold plated, work to rule.
The committee thanks all of the members and retirees that attended the rally in Sacramento today!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 88!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #68
Friday, June 26, 2009
Since our last report, we have been working on Employment Security, Prem Tech, and Health Care issues. We are still very far apart on those key items. While progress has been made on some portions of the contract, there will be no settlement without a lot more movement.
Meanwhile, local leaders and activists from District 9 converged on Capitol Hill this week and met with Senators and Congressmen from California, Hawaii and Nevada. Our elected leaders got an earful from CWA activists about how a profitable company like AT&T, which should be leading the way out of this recession, was instead, further eroding middle class jobs.
On Thursday, while 10,000 Union members from many unions, including 3,000 red-shirted CWA members, demonstrated at our Nation's Capitol for real health care reform, your bargaining committee was fighting to protect our health care at the bargaining table. The more we bargain, the more the need for a national solution becomes obvious.
Now it's your turn to get involved. CWA is holding a "Hands Off My Health Care" rally at the California State Capitol next Wednesday, July 1st. Sign up now to join your brothers and sisters at this important event (click on the link below):
What: "Hands Off My Health Care" Rally
When: Wednesday, July 1st 12:00-1:00pm
Where: State Capitol North Steps, Sacramento, CA
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 83!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #67
Monday, June 22, 2009
Our committee spent the weekend in caucus, both reviewing issues and developing bargaining proposals that will move us forward. Meetings of the full committee have taken place today and will continue tomorrow to discuss the entire range of unresolved issues.
We have reached a critical stage in this bargaining and continue pressing the company to move on the important outstanding issues. We remain ready and willing to work round the clock, if necessary, in order to reach an agreement that is fair to our members.
Remember, all of the company’s regressive issues are still on the table. Please check with your local mobilizers for upcoming activities. Participation in these activities is imperative for you to get a fair and just contract. We will issue bulletins as events warrant.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 79!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #66
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Your bargaining committee has continued meeting with the company day and night in informal discussions, “concept discussions” in an effort to get agreements on issues that can be reduced to writing and to continue narrowing the issues.
In order to keep bargaining moving in a positive direction, our committee has decided not to take a recess to attend the CWA Convention, but instead stay at the bargaining table and keep working towards a fair contract.
Keep the pressure on! We know this has been a long process for everyone and we can’t stress enough how important it is to keep mobilizing while we work through this process. Please check with your local mobilizers for upcoming activities. Participation in these activities is imperative for you to get a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 75!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #65
Tuesday, June 16, 2009
Your Bargaining Committee has continued to work to narrow the differences on many items. We have been meeting with the company in sub-committee and informal sessions and had a number of meetings with the CWA Research Department to analyze changes from our discussions on healthcare.
We have entered a critical stage of bargaining and need your help. While all of the Company's negative proposals remain on the table, they have finally engaged us in detailed, informal discussions on all issues. This is a process of "what if" for example, "If we move off of this, or give you that.. will you accept this or move off of that.." while this is an agonizingly slow process due to the detail of what we are dealing with - it is essential to narrowing the differences and get a true sense of what may either lead to an agreement or where we might completely break down.
Keep the pressure on! We understand that it is frustrating that we cannot share the details of these negotiations, however, rest assured at some point we will get a tentative agreement and be able to share all of the details with you in advance of casting your vote. Until then, please continue to support the Bargaining Committee who is working hard to get the best possible contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 73!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #64
Saturday, June 13, 2009
Your committee worked until late last night and continues informal discussions with the company today on a variety of topics. We are working to narrow the differences, but progress is difficult with discussions centering sometimes on a single word, and is being hampered by the company’s reluctance to provide proposals in writing. Discussions will continue through the weekend.
Now is not the time to slack off. Pump it up! Create as much chaos as possible. It is your involvement that clearly tells the company that you demand a fair and just contract.
Your continued effort to make sure all your work is done safely and with 100% quality, along with your participation in mobilization events, is essential for continued movement at the bargaining table.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 70!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #63
Thursday, June 11, 2009
The parties met today in extensive sub-committee sessions and explored, in detail, many of the most difficult issues facing us. We had some of the best discussions to date. Although no agreement has been reached yet, and there are still significant differences, progress has been made. District 9 Vice-President Jim Weitkamp has now joined us in the workroom.
Now is not the time to slack off. Pump it up! Create as much chaos as possible. It is your involvement that clearly tells the company that you demand a fair and just contract.
Your continued effort to make sure all your work is done safely and with 100% quality, along with your participation in mobilization events, is essential for continued movement at the bargaining table.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 68!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #62
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Your mobilization efforts have caused the company to finally begin to engage us on the critical health care issue. While we are still far apart, it is a small step in the right direction. We’ve had several formal and informal sessions with detailed discussions on healthcare, the future of the Premises Technicians and the impact on the Services Technician job functions. The company moved on some issues but have yet to get the message of what our members need and want.
The company still doesn’t get it!!!!
Help us help you. Pump it up! Create as much chaos as possible. It is your involvement that clearly tells the company that you demand a fair and just contract. Your continued effort to make sure all your work is done safely and with 100% quality, along with your participation in mobilization events, is essential for any movement at the bargaining table.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 67!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #61
Friday, June 5, 2009
This week we continued to meet in subcommittee and formal sessions. We’ve seen some movement on secondary issues but we still remain far apart on all major items. We also had a conference call, including a Q & A session where we discussed the current bargaining process, with the District 9 Mobilizing Committee and Local Mobilizers.
We are looking forward to the larger regional activities and other plans they are putting into play. We’d like to thank you and the mobilizers for your involvement in these activities. It is your involvement that clearly tells the company that you demand a fair and just contract.
Your continued effort to make sure all your work is done safely and with 100% quality, along with your participation in mobilization events, is essential for any movement at the bargaining table.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 62!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #60
Wednesday, June 3, 2009
This week, bargaining has continued in subcommittees. We continue to focus on the issues and problems that affect surplus and employee movement. While there have been some positive responses from the company, progress is still very slow and the 20,000 pound Healthcare elephant is still smack in the middle of the room.
Your continued effort to make sure all your work is done safely and with 100% quality, along with your participation in mobilization events, is greatly appreciated and is responsible for any movement at the bargaining table.
Thanks again to the more than 500 of you from virtually every local in District 9 who participated in the demonstrations in Carlsbad and Oakland last week. Check out the videos at www.cwa9511.org and www.cwa9415.org.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 60!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #59
Friday, May 29, 2009
Our bargaining picture hasn’t changed much this week. The Company still has not responded to our Health Care proposal. We have met in subcommittee meetings and continued discussion on term to perm as well as Article 2 issues that would provide for adding hardships and term employees into the normal sequence to fill a vacancy. We argued for a Mini transfer process that eliminates the game playing of “force balancing” rather than a “true” mini-transfer. We pressed on the issues regarding ST/MST upgrade including continued training for the new MST’s. No agreements have been reached as yet.
We regret many of you had problems getting on the CWA AT&T Unity e-Meeting. You can watch it on www.cwa-union.org/emeeting.
Thanks to the more than 500 of you from virtually every local in District 9 who participated in the demonstrations in Carlsbad and Oakland this week. Keep up the good work!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 55!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #58
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
This is an update to Bulletin #30 (editor's note: at the bottom of this page) which we reported to you on April 4th (editor's note: actually April 2nd). As you can see, we did not have to make many changes to that report. The company is clearly stalling.
It is apparent that the Company has NO INTENT OR DESIRE to reach a FAIR and JUST CONTRACT!
LISTED BELOW ARE THE RETROGRESSIVE PROPOSALS THE COMPANY PRESENTED TO THE UNION THAT ARE STILL ON THE BARGAINING TABLE. WE WOULD LIKE TO CLARIFY THAT THE UNION HAS NOT AGREED TO ANY OF THESE PROPOSALS:
HEALTH CARE – This Company proposal creates a two tier structure for health care, one for new hires and one for current employees. Both plans have high premiums, deductibles and out of pocket costs that the current plan does not have. The Company still maintains that they have no intent or desire to bargain for current retirees. On May 2nd, the Union proposed a plan that would save the company approximately 30 Million dollars over a 3 year period. The company has yet to respond to this proposal.
WAGES - Wages are still on the table. The Company’s proposal is a 5½% wage increase over 5 years with two 2% lump sum payments. We have proposed 4% per year with cola.
PENSIONS – Pension Protection Act will be applied to Lump Sum Pensions which eliminates the GATT Rate and applies the Corporate Bond Rate. This will reduce lump sum pensions taken after January 1, 2010. They have proposed a 1%/yr band increase with no future lump sum accrual and no pension for the Premises Technicians. We have proposed to retain GATT, a pension band increase which matches the wage increase and applies to Premises Technicians.
PREMISES TECHNICIANS - The Company proposal consists of elimination of Sunday premium payments, eliminates the ability to carry over vacation time and eliminates payment for any absence other than personal illness. In addition, they propose that Premises Tech’s perform all work from the SAI to CPE regardless of the technology. As if it couldn’t get any worse, anyone moved into appendix E voluntarily, or forced in by the Company, would lose their current benefits permanently except already accrued pension, even if they return back to Core titles. The company proposes that anyone transferring out of Appendix E would be stuck with Appendix E’s lack of benefits and would not be eligible for pension accrual.
OVERTIME - The company proposal would increase the 49 hr rule to 51 hr rule, eliminate voluntary OT, and would assign overtime as they deem necessary, especially to prevent double time.
LEVERAGED TITLES - This Company proposal would two tier Service Representative Work with a 60/40 pay schedule which would put 40% of pay at risk based on sales. The sales plan would be controlled by management with no input from the Union.
SURPLUS Process – The Company proposal eliminates the Employment Security Commitment, provides for straight-to-layoff after 30 days, forced placement throughout the Western Region, increases commutability to 95 miles, eliminates more senior volunteers, and cuts the reassignment pay protection plan.
NIGHT DIFFERENTIAL - Only applies to shifts ending after 11:00PM and before 6:00AM.
ILLNESS - All Employees will have at least one day of waiting before pay starts for illness.
PARTIALS - Eliminate payment for partial day illnesses.
UNPAID FMLA TIME OFF – Company will require substitution of contractual paid time off.
TEAM PERFORMANCE AWARD - Company proposes to eliminate.
THE COMPANY HAS NOT AGREED TO UNION PROPOSALS TO EXTEND THE FOLLOWING MOA’S THROUGH THE LIFE OF THE 2009 AGREEMENT: CARD CHECK NEUTRALITY AGREEMENT, EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMITTMENT (Job Offer Guarantee), ERB.
MOVEMENT OF WORK/CONTRACTING OUT - Company has rejected.
NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM - The Company is only willing to write a letter.
PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL - Company proposes ill defined council with no dispute resolution process.
SERVICE RECOGNITION - The Company is still unwilling to grant service credit for previous AT&T service.
The current contract expired at midnight April 4, 2009, and we are still far, far, far, apart on all major issues.
“NO CONTRACT NO PEACE”
UNITED WE BARGAIN………
……….. DIVIDED WE BEG!!!!!!!!!!!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 53!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #57
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
This week we met in formal session and subcommittee with some minor progress at the table. The company is still showing interest in our healthcare proposal and has requested more time to prepare their response. The next session is scheduled for Tuesday May 26th.
We were also on a conference call with District 9 VP Jim Weitkamp and local presidents to discuss bargaining status and strategy.
From the Mobilizing Committee
Next week is Memorial Day week, and many of our Congressional leaders will be in their home districts. They need to hear from you, their constituents. We are asking them to contact Randall Stephenson and express their concern (and distaste) that a Very profitable company is demanding drastic increases in the amount its employees pay for health care. If anything, AT&T should be helping to support solutions to this problem instead of just shifting costs. AT&T needs the support of Congress for many of its long-term plans. They need to be shown there is a price for attacking their workers and retirees. Contact your local about how you can help. Retirees can be particularly helpful with this activity.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 46!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #56
Monday, May 18, 2009
Our committee continues to meet in caucus and in subcommittee with the company on a broad range of issues of concern to our members.
From the Mobilizing Committee
News of our successful rallies and events held last week continues to come in, as mobilization activities continue here in District 9 and across the country. These events, as well as our San Francisco event last Thursday, were all part of a national, coordinated mobilization focused on the delivery of our 80,000 on-line petition signatures. More mobilizing events are in the works, including a Thursday rally (picket) by 9421 and a large march and rally in Oakland on May 28.
You can see photos of mobilization around the AT&T footprint, in all states and Districts, by clicking on www.cwa-union.org/att/ and going to "photos."
Legislative Effort Heats Up
CWA's legislative and political teams are targeting state congressional delegations next week, scheduling dozens of meetings coast to coast to make sure that our Members of Congress understand what is at stake at the bargaining table, and what AT&T's proposals mean to working people. Our rank and file teams are seeking letters of support from MOCs. Here in District 9, the effort is well underway. Stay tuned for results!
Don't forget to sign the bargaining support petition if you haven't already, and be sure to get your friends and family members to sign. We can get more than 100,000 supporters on record with an additional push. Here is the website: www.standwithworkers.com.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 44!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #55
Friday, May 15, 2009
This week, for the first time, elected bargainers and staff and VPs from every table were on a conference call together with the three top officers of the CWA (Larry Cohen, Annie Hill, and Jeff Rechenbach) to talk about strategy, key issues, and how we can better support each other. We all recognize that there are proposals that will be the same from table to table, like the National Transfer Plan, but there are many, like health care, which might have different solutions from table to table.
We continued the week with subcommittee meetings where we had extensive discussion regarding monitoring. We also had several subcommittee meetings to discuss Terms to Perm, ST/MST, mini transfer, force balancing, relocation expense, and reassignment pay protection.
From the Mobilizing Committee
Don't forget to sign the bargaining support petition if you haven't already, and be sure to get your friends and family members to sign. We can get more than 100,000 supporters on record with an additional push.
Here is the website: www.standwithworkers.com.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 41!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #54
Tuesday, May 12, 2009
You may be hearing that the company has made a final offer to CWA in District 6 (The old Southwest Bell Telephone). This is not the case here in District 9. We are still bargaining. Keep the faith! We will keep you advised as events warrant.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 38!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #53
Friday, May 8, 2009
Yesterday and today we met with the company in formal session where we responded to the questions they posed regarding our healthcare proposal. We continued discussions in subcommittee on ST to MST issues and MOA’s.
For the first time, the company is engaging the Union in meaningful Healthcare discussion unique to CWA District 9.
Your mobilization has been responsible for getting us to this point!
We will report further as events warrant. Stay United, Stay Strong.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 34!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #52
Wednesday, May 6, 2009
Our last Bulletin indicated that we would produce our next report when we have something of substance to report. While we don’t have a significant report today, we would like to summarize our activities since Friday.
We met with the company in formal session on Saturday and made a comprehensive proposal on healthcare and wages. Monday, we met with District 9 Vice President Jim Weitkamp and Tuesday, with Vice President Weitkamp and CWA President Larry Cohen to discuss the status of bargaining and next steps. Today, we met with the company in formal session and received a list of questions regarding our healthcare proposal. We will be working with the CWA Research Department on an appropriate response.
We expect to meet tomorrow in both formal session and subcommittee and will keep you advised as events warrant.
For information we can’t put in these reports, stay in touch with your mobilizer.
Do you know who your mobilizer is? If not, call your Local.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 32!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #51
Friday, May 1, 2009
The Memorandum of Agreement subcommittee met and continued dialogue on many agreements that the Company wants to eliminate. We have agreed to continue many and to eliminate some that are no longer relevant.
We are working with the CWA research department in an effort to put a new proposal for Healthcare together. We have notified the company we will be making a proposal this weekend in an effort to get things moving. This is being done in spite of the fact we have not received all of the information requested from the Company.
We will be putting out our next bulletin when we have something of substance to report. In the meantime, stay in contact with your Local and your mobilizer.
Your Strike Standby efforts are what make the difference. We’re seeing the company react to your mobilization activities and demonstrations.
You have the power!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 27!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #50
Thursday, April 30, 2009
We met in the subcommittee on Job Security/Force adjustment and discussed force balancing, term employees, Premises Techs and ST/MST issues. We spent much of our time working on our Healthcare proposal with the CWA Research Department. We are still missing necessary data that we have requested from the company which is essential for us to complete our proposal. There will be no formal session scheduled until we have the necessary data.
Your Strike Standby efforts are what make the difference. We’re seeing the company react to your mobilization activities and demonstrations.
You have the power!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 26!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #49
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Today we met in formal session and in subcommittee. In formal session the company provided us with additional requested information on health care. In the moa subcommittee we continued extensive discussion surrounding monitoring.
We also had a conference call on healthcare where both sides of the table had discussions around the different plans and again CWA offered options that would save the company money without imposing the burden of cost shifting on our members. While the company had representation on the call from Dallas, who was supposed to provide accurate data and information, CWA had representatives from the CWA research department in D.C. that had more challenging questions and requested more pertinent information. It was agreed that more information would be provided and another call would be scheduled.
Stay the course! Your strike standby efforts are having an effect. The key to any concerted activity is organizational discipline. Thanks for all you do!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 25!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #48
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Your committee spent the day conferring with the other CWA district bargaining committees and the CWA Research Department regarding healthcare cost and coverage data. There were no formal sessions or subcommittee meetings. We are still awaiting response from the company to some of our data requests.
Stay the course! Your strike standby efforts are having an effect. The key to any concerted activity is organizational discipline. Thanks for all you do!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 24!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #47
Monday, April 27, 2009
The company cancelled the formal session scheduled for today saying they had no proposals for us and have not yet been able to gather all the information necessary for the responses to our remaining data requests. There were no subcommittee meetings.
This is even short of the previous “Snail’s Pace”. How fast are you working?
Our reports are the only source for accurate information. Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, together we must convince them that they need to change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 23!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #46
Friday, April 24, 2009
Today we met in formal session and the company provided us with some additional requested information. It seems the company is unable to give us some of the vital information we have requested. We have asked for projected savings they anticipate by their current Health and Welfare proposals.
They have responded “The Company has not projected savings by region or bargaining unit”
Are they serious? Well maybe they are. Maybe they don’t care how much they save, or if they save anything, as long as they change the way Healthcare is looked at…
This consumer driven plan isn’t about the cost - just who pays. (unlike the company would have you believe)
Our reports are the only source for accurate information. Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, together we must convince them that they need to change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 20!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #45
Thursday, April 23, 2009
We met with the company in both subcommittee and formal session. The Employment Security/Force movement subcommittee continued discussion on converting terms to regular employees as well as AUTS. In the formal session we received the company’s response to some of our information requests. There are still several questions outstanding and we are scheduled to meet again tomorrow.
We have seen the recent company report regarding their healthcare proposals. We are certain you can read between the lines and see that new employees and retirees are left out entirely and that their plan includes deductibles and out of pocket costs even for current employees. The company is more concerned with shifting costs to you than saving money. We also find it ludicrous that the company would suggest that medical costs could drive them toward “bailout” status. This is the 7th largest company in the world, is highly profitable and more than capable of providing its employees and retirees with the benefits we deserve.
Our reports are the only source for accurate information.
Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, together we must convince them that they need to change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 19!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #44
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Today we had no formal or subcommittee meetings. However, we did receive a response from the company to our request to cease work completing Term employees until we had finished bargaining the issues around converting them to regular employees. The company refused to cease work completing Terms (most notably term Splicers associated with Project Lightspeed) saying that there was insufficient work to keep them on the payroll.
Join the AT&T National Unity e-Meeting TOMORROW, Thursday, April 23 at 6 pm PDT with CWA President Larry Cohen and Executive Vice President Annie Hill.
You must register in advance at www.cwaunion.tv. After registering, you will be able to submit questions you would like addressed during the meeting.
Please share this information with your fellow members. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to be involved.
Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, but we must convince them that they must change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 18!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #43
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Again today, there was no formal session as we continue to wait for the company response to our data request. We met with the company in the MOA subcommittee and in the Employment Security/Force Movement subcommittee. Discussions were held regarding converting term employees to regular for those currently on payroll, a process in the future where the terms would have opportunity in AUTS prior to external hires. We also requested that the company cease work completing terms until we have finished bargaining the issue. We also continued the discussion on the Premises Technicians substandard working conditions, compensation and benefits.
AT&T says we need health care that is more market-based. “We cannot have this group of employees in the declining part of the business have the best health care.”
It's disconcerting to your committee that a company doing as well as AT&T is turning their backs on the retirees and trying to use the economy as the reason they want give backs. AT&T has both hands in the cookie jar and they're trying to convince the world they're on a diet.
Join the AT&T National Unity e-Meeting Thursday, April 23 at 6 pm PDT with CWA President Larry Cohen and Executive Vice President Annie Hill.
You must register in advance at www.cwaunion.tv. After registering, you will be able to submit questions you would like addressed during the meeting.
Please share this information with your fellow members. We want to make sure everyone has the opportunity to be involved.
Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, but we must convince them that they must change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 17!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #42
Monday, April 20, 2009
Today there was no formal session. While we continue to wait for the company’s response to our data request for information critical to our Health and Welfare proposals, we met with the company in subcommittees. The committees that met were focused on Employment Security/Force Movement and Premises Technicians.
Join the AT&T National Unity e-Meeting Thursday, April 23 at 6 pm PDT with CWA President Larry Cohen and Executive Vice President Annie Hill.
- Bargaining update
- Member questions
- Next steps in member mobilization
you must register in advance at www.cwaunion.tv. After registering, you will be able to submit questions you would like addressed during the meeting.
Keep the pressure on! The company is feeling the heat, but we must convince them that they must change course and negotiate a fair and just contract.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 16!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #41
Friday, April 17, 2009
Today your bargaining committee requested more information from the company regarding healthcare.
Every request we have made is in an effort to put forward an offer that shows the company how to save -
And not shift costs onto our members back.
The Premises Technician subcommittee focused on substandard Prem Tech pay and benefits, the protection of traditional core work, and the companies desire to erode work to lower rated titles.
At the heart of the mobilizing plan is the recognition that a UNION'S STRENGTH lies with its MEMBERS. Contract gains are not won at the bargaining table; they are won away from the table through the visible Unity and Support of the MEMBERSHIP.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 13!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #40
Thursday, April 16, 2009
In the Memorandum of Agreement subcommittee today we focused on the many issues around monitoring.
The Formal Session continued to focus on Health and Welfare. The company provided a partial data response to the Unions data request on Health and Welfare.
At the heart of the mobilizing plan is the recognition that a UNION'S STRENGTH lies with its MEMBERS. Contract gains are not won at the bargaining table; they are won away from the table through the visible Unity and Support of the MEMBERSHIP.
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 12!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #39
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
We continued meeting in subcommittee regarding the Premise Technicians. We also met on the issues around the ST to MST process.
The formal session was focused on the complex and important issues regarding health and welfare.
YOUR MOBILIZING IS WORKING – KEEP WORKING SAFE!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 11!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #38
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Your Committee met today in both formal session and in sub-committee. In the formal session we received 49 pages of responses to some of our questions. The company said they were “still working” on the rest of our previous questions. We made an additional information request. The company has still made no improvement in their previous proposals. The Premises Technician sub-committee met and continued to work on these very important issues.
YOUR MOBILIZING IS WORKING - KEEP IT UP UNTIL THE COMPANY MOVES!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 10!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #37
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Today was devoted to in-depth discussions in the Premises Technicians subcommittee.
We are awaiting the Company’s response to our clarifying questions on Healthcare, EAP, Prescriptions, Vision, Dental, etc. Both parties agreed to a formal session on Tuesday. The next report will follow that session.
After 6 weeks of Bargaining we are not close to where we need to be. Continue to let the company know we will not roll back over 30 years of earned benefits!
YOUR MOBILIZING IS WORKING - STAY STRONG and STAY UNITED!
The bargaining committee will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 5! THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers,
Pam Suniga, Art Gonzalez & Tom Runnion
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #36
Wednesday, April 8, 2009
There was no formal session today. The bargaining committees continued to meet in subcommittee and both parties agreed to continue discussions tomorrow. Your committee continues to strategize and work on our proposals.
We are hearing from numerous sources that management is concerned that our members are not working overtime, slowing down and not wearing branded apparel. We appreciate your support.
Keep up the good...STRIKE STANDBY!
The bargaining committee will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 4! THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Bill Demers, Pam Suniga,
Art Gonzalez, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #35
Tuesday, April 7, 2009
We met with the company today in both sub-committees and formal sessions. We had an extensive question and answer period regarding the health and welfare benefit proposals. We clarified some issues, requested more information and asked questions on others. The company provided some of the data from our previous requests and we are still waiting for answers to some of our questions from yesterday. Bargaining continues to move at a snail’s pace. How fast are YOU moving?
The bargaining committee will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 3! THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Bill Demers, Pam Suniga,
Art Gonzalez, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #34
Monday, April 6, 2009
The Company called for a formal session today in which they responded to the questions we had previously posed. Your committee then rejected the company’s latest leveraged title proposal, and their latest Premises Technician proposal. The company agreed to form a sub-committee to address Premises Technician issues. We passed proposals about making Term Employees Permanent and providing for Union Representatives to assist employees with all Benefit issues. We then had an extensive subcommittee session to discuss Medical and Benefit issues. The bargaining committee will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual!
STRIKE STANDBY DAY 2!
THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Art Gonzalez, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers & Pam Suniga
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #33
Sunday April 5, 2009 - 2:45pm
The Bargaining Committee is working on proposals as we await responses from the company on our outstanding questions. We have told the company we stand ready to meet with them when they are ready to have meaningful dialogue on OUR issues. This Corporation needs to bargain in good faith without preconditions on ideological issues such as "Consumer Based Health Care." We believe we can come to an agreement that addresses our concerns as well as the company's. The Company is spending a lot of money on "Work Stoppage" preparation, for now we are in "Strike Standby" mode. Our members are still on the payroll while we work without a contract. All working conditions remain unchanged. A strike may be called at any time of our choosing without prior notice to the company. We encourage all members to work safely and with the highest possible standards of quality. We want you to comply with all rules and procedures the Company has ever taught you - if they conflict, stop and notify a manager of the conflict so that it may be resolved. Ensure all tools, equipment, furniture, and materials are ergonomically proper, safe, and in proper condition before use. Additionally, ensure all plant and equipment complies with every safety, quality, and regulatory rule. Make certain that vehicles are properly maintained, inspected and safe. Meanwhile, our bargaining committee will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual!
NO DAYS TO GO! THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Art Gonzalez, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers & Pam Suniga
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #32
Sunday, April 5, 2009 - 3:00am
As we left the table tonight, we are nowhere near an agreement. CWA has decided that we will stay on the job for the present time, however, the contract has expired which gives us the ability to strike at any moment of our choosing. Tom Runnion, our Bargaining chair said “In all the years that I have been an employee and a Union rep dealing with this company I have never seen such greed. We came here to bargain at the end of a five year contract and the only thing this company wants to do is shift costs to our members. We have shown the company how to save money; yet their only objective is to make their employees pay more. It is clear that someone else is calling the shots and the local Company bargainers have no authority.” We stand ready to bargain and await someone from the company with the authority to meet and bargain. This begins Mobilization Phase 2--Strike Standby. Let’s get creative!!!!!! The Company needs to hear us loud and clear! We won’t let our standard of living, our ability to spend time with our families, or our health be compromised. Meanwhile, our bargaining committees will continue to bargain and our members will stay on the job - but it will not be business as usual.
NO DAYS TO GO! THE CONTRACT HAS EXPIRED!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers, Pam Suniga & Art Gonzalez
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #31
Friday, April 3, 2009
We know that many of you are awaiting news. We just concluded a marathon formal session with the company in which we received 13 rejections and 13 retrogressive proposals. We recessed the formal session so that we can review the new company proposals and prepare our responses. Although we were able to reach tentative agreements on 4 joint proposals from the subcommittees and one agreement on CWA NETT, these are minor compared to the retrogressive proposals the company has piled on the bargaining table. Your committee will be working around the clock. We will keep you informed as we can. Thank you for your understanding and support.
WE ARE GETTUNG REPORTS OF ALL THE PRACTICE PICKET LINES AND OTHER MOBILIZATION ACTIVITIES KEEP IT UP AND STEP IT UP! GET LOUD!!!!!!!!
ONE DAY TO GO!
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers, Pam Suniga & Art Gonzalez
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
________________________________________
CWA District 9 / AT&T West
Bargaining Bulletin #30
Thursday, April 2, 2009
Discussions continued today in subcommittees around Memoranda of Agreements and Article 3/7 Unfortunately there is, LITTLE PROGRESS TO REPORT!
In formal session The Company rejected 6 of the Unions proposals on Successorship, Evolving Technologies, Appendices B and D, Recognition, Article 7, and the preamble. They also had some proposals one was like throwing us some crumbs the company would promote CWA/NETT Academy and another one a new version of their no carry over vacation time, where the Company would still have the ability to schedule your vacation for you.
With just 2 more full days till the Contract Expiration date, it is apparent that the Company has NO INTENT OR DESIRE to reach a FAIR and JUST CONTRACT!
LISTED BELOW ARE THE RETROGRESSIVE PROPOSALS THE COMPANY PRESENTED TO THE UNION THAT ARE STILL ON THE BARGAINING TABLE. WE WOULD LIKE TO CLARIFY THAT THE UNION HAS NOT AGREED TO ANY OF THESE PROPOSALS:
- HEALTH CARE – This Company proposal creates a two tier structure for health care, one for new hires and one for current employees. Both plans have high premiums, deductibles and out of pocket costs that the current plan does not have. The Company still assures us that they have no intent or desire to bargain for current retirees.
- WAGES - Company proposal does not include an increase in base wages for the first two years
- PENSIONS – Pension Protection Act will be applied to Lump Sum Pensions which eliminates the GATT Rate and applies the Corporate Bond Rate. This will reduce lump sum pensions taken after January 1, 2010.
- PREMISE TECHNICIANS - Company wants to increase work duties and have Premise Technicians perform work in a higher classification. Company refuses to treat Premises Technicians the same and apply the same work rules as other employees.
- OVERTIME - increase the 49 hr to 54 hr rule.
- OVERTIME - eliminate the assignment of overtime to volunteers first, especially for double overtime
- LEVERAGED TITLES - This Company proposal would two tier Service Representative Work with 60/40 pay schedule which would put 40% of pay at risk based on sales. Sales plan controlled by management and no input from the Union.
- APPENDIX E PROPOSAL from the Company applies to Premises Technicians and would no longer protect benefits or work rules for those who took Premises Technicians jobs due to surplus conditions. Worse in many ways then current Appendix E provisions.
- SURPLUS Process – Company proposal does not include Appendix E in this process
- VACATION – eliminate vacation carry-over and Company to schedule employees vacation.
- NIGHT DIFFERENTIAL – change to only the hrs worked that fall in that time would be paid Differential.
- ILLNESS – All Employees will have at least one day of waiting before pay starts for illness.
- PARTIALS – eliminate payment for partial illnesses.
- HOLIDAY – Eliminate day after Thanksgiving and Presidents day.
- GRIEVANCES – Company wants a two step grievance process.
- UNPAID FMLA TIME OFF – Company will require substitution of contractual paid time off.
- TEAM PERFORMANCE AWARD - Company proposes to eliminate.
- THE COMPANY HAS NOT AGREED TO UNION PROPOSALS TO EXTEND THE FOLLOWING MOA’S THROUGH THE LIFE OF THE 2009 AGREEMENT: CARD CHECK –NEUTRALITY AGREEMENT, EMPLOYMENT SECURITY COMMITTMENT(Job Offer Guarantee), ERB.
- NATIONAL TRANSFER PLAN – Company has not responded.
- MOVEMENT OF WORK/CONTRACTING OUT - Company has rejected.
- NATIONAL HEALTH CARE REFORM - Company has not responded.
- PRESIDENT’S COUNCIL - Company has not responded.
- MONITORING - Company has not responded.
- BENEFITS- MEDICAL - Company has not responded.
- ARTICLE 5 - Company has not responded.
- ARTICLE 6 - Company has not responded.
- SERVICE RECOGNITION -Company has not responded.
The current contract expires at midnight April 4, 2009. and we are still far, far, far, apart on all major issues.
“NO CONTRACT NO PEACE”
UNITED WE BARGAIN………
……….. DIVIDED WE BEG!!!!!!!!!!!
2 days and counting…
IN UNITY,
Lupe Mercado, Tom Runnion, William B. Harvey, Bill Demers, Pam Suniga & Art Gonzalez
Mobilize! Mobilize! Mobilize!
1 Union 1 Fight 1 Future
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-The significance of Red on Thursday-
What every member should know:
In 1989, CWA Local 1400 along with our Union brothers and sisters in New York were on strike. One of the New York members from CWA Local 1103 walking the picket line was Chief Union Steward, E. Gerald Horgan. Twenty (20) years ago this August 15th, Gerry Horgan was killed from injuries he sustained when he was run down by a “scab” as he walked a picket line while striking for health care benefits. The driver of the vehicle which killed him was a manager’s daughter acting as a “scab” during the strike. As she approached the picket line, she accidentally accelerated her vehicle, and struck Gerry Horgan.
He is the only CWA member in our 71-year history to be killed on a picket line. Typical of Gerry Horgan, the picket line he was on was not his own. The Members on another line needed some additional help and asked Gerry to provide that help.
At the time of his death Gerry Horgan was only 34 years old. He was a dedicated family man, and very active in his community. He was the Chief of the Valley Cottage Volunteer Fire Department and a member of the Central Nyack Volunteer Fire Department. He developed, and was Team Leader of the Mountain Rescue Squad of Rockland County, New York. The Squad’s primary responsibility is for rescuing people who fall, or get trapped on the sheer cliffs of the Palisades. Gerry Horgan was also a Veteran of the United States Marine Corps.
When Gerry was killed he left behind two children, Christine who was 2½ and Danielle who was just 7 months. They are now coming of age where they can understand who their father was and what he stood for. We want them to know that their father’s sacrifice was not in vain and is still appreciated by the people he died fighting for.
A journal is being put together in Gerry’s memory to be given to the girls. This journal will be a lasting reminder for them that their father, E. Gerald Horgan, was a trade Unionist who is, and always will be, remember by his Union brothers and sisters.
So Why Red? Why Thursday? Thursday, because it is the day this tragedy occurred and red to symbolize the tragedy itself. Even though this tragedy occurred 20 years ago, the Queens, New York Local still supports Gerry and his family!
So as you look for something to wear next Thursday, show your support to your Union and remember your fallen Union brother in New York, and wear RED!
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY isn't about showing disrespect for managers or being anti-management.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is about supporting the Union in the contract negotiation process.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is having a voice in that process.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is protecting your job and your wages from being reclassified into a lesser status.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is saying the tuition reimbursement plan is important to you for your personal growth and development.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is providing location security so you are not forced to move to another part of the country so the company can save a few dollars.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is supporting families and working hours that are conducive to the family unit.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY isn't anti-management it is pro-community. It is having a strong contract so we can live together as management, technicians, service representatives, et cetera, without having to live in fear that one day our job will be replaced and eliminated -- it's about supporting your local economy.
WEARING RED ON THURSDAY is being proactive during this process so we don't have to be reactive.
is showing our collective support for this,
our Union Contract, so we can prevent
showing it on the picket line!
For all these reasons and more, support your local Union and yourself!
WEAR RED ON THURSDAY!
(excerpted / partially edited from CWA Local 1400)
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"SCAB"
After God had finished the rattlesnake, the toad and the vampire, he had some awful stuff left with which he made a SCAB.
A SCAB is a two-legged animal with a corkscrew soul, a waterlogged brain, and a combination backbone made of jelly and glue. Where others have hearts he carries a tumor of rotten principles.
When a SCAB comes down the street men turn their backs and angels weep in heaven, and the devil shuts the gates of hell to keep him out. No man has a right to SCAB as there is a pool of water deep enough to drown his body in, or a rope long enough to hang his carcass with. Judas Iscariot was a gentleman compared to a SCAB. For betraying his master he had the character to hang himself. A SCAB hasn't.
Esau sold his birthright for a mess of pottage. Judas Iscariot sold his Savior for thirty pieces of silver. Benedict Arnold sold his country for a promise of a commission in the British Army. The modern strike breaker sells his birthright, his country, his wife, his children and his fellow-men for an unfulfilled promise from his employer, trust or corporation.
Esau was a traitor to himself, Judas Iscariot was a traitor to his Lord, Benedict Arnold was a traitor to his country.
A STRIKE BREAKER IS A TRAITOR
TO HIS GOD, HIS COUNTRY, HIS FAMILY
AND THE WORKING CLASS
Jack London, 1904