State of the

UNIONFall 2013

International delegates in attendance at the 7th Regular Convention in Chicago.

The battle for Walmart workers heats up in downtown Chicago.

50 Years Later

Keeping the dream alive for Dr. King.

UFCW Delegates Go Blue. Gold. Bold.

Page 6

Page 5Page 8

Rally for Respect

ufcwlocal1546.org Facebook.com/ufcw1546 Twitter.com/ufcw1546

2

Whatever It TakesBy Kenneth R. Boyd, President & International Vice President

UFCW Local 1546 United Food and Commercial Workers

International Union

The 7th Regular Convention of our union hosted a number of public officials from Illinois as well as oth-

er states. Every one of them voiced their support for our issues. They pledged to help pass immigration reform, fix the Af-fordable Care Act and raise the minimum wage. While it is important to check in with our allies at events like the conven-tion in Chicago or rallies in Washington, D.C., we must never forget that it is the actions we take as members that can have the greatest impact.

For example, Congressman Rodney Davis (R-IL) in Illinois’ 13th district is on UFCW’s target list for Immigration Reform. Members in Rep. Davis’ district should call or email him today and urge his support of the bi-partisan Immigration Reform Bill.

Equally as important is registering to vote. Rep. Davis won his seat by only 1002 votes. UFCW members and their

families can make the dif-ference in this and many other elections.

You don’t have to like politics to be politically active. Public officials from mayor to President have a direct impact on our work and our lives. The best way we can ensure that the peo-ple representing us support our issues is to be politically active.

You can find out who your legislators are and contact them by going to our website ufcwlocal1546.org.

Encourage your co-workers to con-tact their legislators as well. Ask them if they are registered to vote. If not, take them to our website and register them.

Together we can make a difference.

La 7a Convención Regular de nuestra unión auspició a un número de ofi-ciales públicos de Illinois y también

de otros estados. Cada uno de ellos aportó su voz para tratar nuestros problemas. El-los se comprometieron en ayudar a pasar la reforma migratoria, arreglar la Ley de Cuidado Económico y aumentar el sala-rio mínimo. Mientras que es importante ponernos en contacto con nuestros aliados en eventos como la convención en Chica-go, o marchas en Washington, D.C., nunca debemos olvidarnos que son las acciones que tomamos como miembros las que tienen el mayor impacto.

Por ejemplo, el congresista Rodney Davis (R-IL) del distrito 13 de Illinois se encuentra en la lista de la UFCW para la Reforma Migratoria. Los miembros en el distrito del representante Davis deberían llamar o enviar un correo electrónico a su oficina y pedirle que apoye la Reforma Migratoria bipartidista.

Igualmente importante es registrarse para votar. El Rep. Davis ganó su sitio con sólo 1002 votos. Los miembros de la UFCW y sus familias pueden hacer la dif-erencia en estas y otras elecciones.

A ti no te tiene que gustar la políti-ca para ser activo políticamente. Los ofi-ciales públicos, desde el alcalde hasta el Presidente tienen un impacto directo en nuestro trabajo y nuestras vidas. La mejor manera de asegurar que las personas que nos representan apoyan nuestros asuntos, es ser activo políticamente.

Puedes conocer a tus legisladores y contactarlos al ir a nuestro sitio en la red, ufcwlocal1546.org. Anima también a tus compañeros de trabajo a que contacten a sus legisladores. Pregúntales si se han reg-istrado para votar. Si no, llévalos a nuestro sitio en la red y regístralos.

Juntos podemos hacer la diferencia.

STATE OF THE UNION is published four times per year by:

UFCW Local 15461649 W. Adams St. Chicago, IL 60612

Phone: (312) 733-2999 www.ufcwlocal1546.org

Third class postage paid at Mt. Prospect, IL

© UFCW Local 1546 2013

To change your address call (312) 733-2999

State of the Union is mailed to all UFCW Local 1546 members as a benefit of membership.

Subscription fees are included in dues.

The opinions expressed by any individual member is the opinion of that individual member and does

not necessarily reflect the position or opinion of UFCW Local 1546 or any of its officers. Acceptance of advertisement does not imply UFCW Local 1546

endorsement of the product or service.

Story ideas should be submitted to: Eric Bailey

Editor and Director of Communications

Vice Presidents

Christine A. BartholmeyJeff Carr

Efrain CervantesFrank Chapman

Terry DeVitoMike Egan

Jeanette FuentesDiokel Gning

James GordonSharon GorskiJim Hurtado

Carlos JacksonWilliam Johnson

Alicia KandleNick Listermann

George B. MarshallRonald Matusiak

Ed McKeagueCarlos Mendez

Ray RamljakJohn A. Rosenthal

Gerald RosenwinkelDarryl RussellJeff Subach

Kenneth SwansonKenneth Urzedowski

David WarhurstAlfred White

Terry WilliamsJonathan Willigman

Officers and Executive BoardKenneth R. Boyd,

President & International Vice President

Terry Kramer, Secretary-Treasurer

Vicky Hayes, Recorder

“You don’t have to like politics to be politically active.”

Straight TalkBy Terry Kramer, Secretary-Treasurer

Michigan has become the 24th state with a “right to work” (RTW) law, which makes it illegal for collective

bargaining agreements to require nonunion employees to pay fees. Since the actual affect of RTW laws is to restrict workers’ rights – by making it illegal for them to enter voluntary contracts with unions to collect union dues – the name of these laws is very misleading. Even more misleading, however, are claims that these laws boost a state’s economy.

When Oklahoma adopted a RTW law 10 years ago, supporters claimed it would dramatically improve the state’s job growth. But in fact, according to the Oklahoma Chamber of Commerce’s 2011 report, the number of new companies coming into the state has actually decreased by one-third since RTW passed.

Industries locate in a state for many reasons, but RTW laws are not among them. Factors like workforce productivity, avail-

ability of skilled workers, trans-portation, close-ness to markets and materials, quality of life and proximity to research universities are the keys to eco-nomic growth. We need to create good jobs throughout the state, but a RTW law will not persuade companies to move here.

By many measures, the quality of life is worse in states with so-called RTW laws. The average worker in states with RTW laws makes $1,500 a year less than a similar worker in a non-RTW state.

Poverty and lack of insurance are high-er, education is weaker—even infant mortal-ity and the likelihood of being killed on the job are higher in RTW states.

“Right to work” is just plain wrong for Illinois and America.

Michigan ha llegado a ser el estado no. 24 con la ley de “Derecho a Trabajar (RTW)” la cual hace que

sea ilegal que los acuerdos de negociación colectiva requieran que los empleados que no forman parte de la unión paguen cuotas. Ya que el efecto actual de las leyes RTW es restringir los derechos de los trabajadores – al hacer ilegal que ellos ingresen a con-tratos voluntarios con las uniones para co-brar cuotas de la unión – el nombre de es-tas leyes se presta a mucha confusión. Sin embargo, aún más erróneo es el hecho que según estas leyes promueven la economía en un estado.

Cuando Oklahoma adoptó la ley RTW hace 10 años, apoyó la idea de que mejo-raría dramáticamente el crecimiento de los trabajos en el estado. Pero de hecho, de ac-uerdo con la Cámara de Comercio de Okla-homa en su reporte del 2011, el número de compañías nuevas que vinieron al estado actualmente disminuyó en un tercio desde que la ley RTW fue aprobada.

Las industrias se ubican en un estado por muchas razones, pero las leyes RTW no se encuentran entre ellas. Factores

como, productividad de la fuerza laboral, disponibilidad de una fuerza laboral califi-cada, transporte, cercanía a los mercados y materiales, calidad de vida y proximidad a las universidades de investigación, son las claves para el crecimiento económico. No-sotros necesitamos crear trabajos a través del estado, pero una ley RTW no hará que las compañías se instalen aquí.

Por otro lado, la calidad de vida es peor en esos estados que cuentan con las leyes RTW. El trabajador promedio en los estados con leyes RTW gana $1,500 al año menos que un trabajador similar en un es-tado que no tiene las leyes RTW.

La pobreza y la falta de seguro son más altas, y la educación es menos fuerte – inclusive la mortalidad infantil y la posib-ilidad de perder la vida en el trabajo es más alta en los estados RTW.

“Derecho a Trabajar” simplemente no es la solución para Illinois y América.

“Right to work is just plain wrong for Illinois and America.”

The Active Ballot Club (ABC) is the engine that supports elected offi-cials and issues that matter to work-ing families. From the state house to the White House – ABC is devoted to advocating for the interests of UFCW members.

The 2013 ABC contest runs from May 1st – Election Day (November 5th, 2013). All UFCW members who join ABC or upgrade their contribution to $1 per week will be eligible to win a $500 Amer-ican Express gift card.

Sign up today and stand up for working families.

Join the ABC Contest

Únete al ABCEl Active Ballot Club (ABC) es

el motor que soporta a los oficiales elegidos y los asuntos que importan a las familias trabajadoras. Desde la casa del estado hasta la Casa Blanca – ABC está comprometido a apoyar los intereses de los miembros de la UFCW.

La inscripción del 2013 ABC va desde el 1ro de mayo hasta el Día de la Elección (5 de noviembre, 2013). Todos los miembros de la UFCW que se unan al ABC o me-joren su contribución a $1 por sem-ana, serán elegibles para ganar una tarjeta de regalo de $500 de Amer-ican Express.

Inscríbete hoy mismo y apoya a las familias trabajadoras.

4

Store FrontBy Kenneth A. Urzedowski, Executive Assistant

Every year managers might ask you to work “off the clock” or work on your “free-time.” Free-timing is a vi-

olation of your union contract and the law. JUST DON’T DO IT!

Your managers might talk about how things are tight and the work has to get done. You may think that working “off the clock” will possibly get you a raise or promotion because you are willing to step up and work a little extra. It might be tempting to offer to work through your lunch break, do someone a favor before you clock in, or finish up what you’re do-ing after clocking out. But cutting corners like this doesn’t help anyone. It only puts your job at risk.

Your managers know that free-timing is illegal. That’s why they won’t ask you di-rectly to work off the clock. If someone gets caught violating the contract, the manager can say, “I never told him/her to do it.” The only person facing discipline in that situation is the union member who “volunteered.”

Free-timing is a lose-lose situation that kills jobs and eliminates job opportu-

nities for work-ers who should be doing what was done “off the clock.”

If you are ever asked or feel pressured to work “off the clock,” notify your union representative that something fishy is going on. If you are directly ordered to work when not clocked in, comply with your manager’s instruc-tions – to avoid insubordination charges – document everything, and then contact your union representative at your earliest break to report a contract violation.

Lastly, be ready to work when you are on the clock. After you clock in is not the time to put your stuff away, get ready for work or do anything else. Members need to be ready to work when they are sched-uled to work.

Your union works hard so you can earn a fair day’s pay for a fair day’s work. Don’t throw those things away by work-ing “off the clock!”

Cada año es posible que los gerentes te pidan trabajar fuera de las horas regu-lares de trabajo o que trabajes en tu ti-

empo libre. Esto es una violación del contrato de tu unión y de la ley. ¡NO LO HAGAS!

Es posible que también ellos te digan que todo “está apretado” y que el trabajo se tiene que hacer. Es posible que pienses que trabajar fuera de las horas normales hará que te den un aumento de sueldo o una promo-ción en el trabajo, porque estás dispuesto a ayudarlos y trabajar un poco extra. Es posible que tengas la tentación de trabajar durante tu almuerzo, o hacer un favor a otro antes de que marques tus horas al inicio de tu jornada, o terminar lo que estás haciendo después que hayas marcado tus horas después de tu jor-nada de trabajo. Esto no ayuda a nadie. Sólo pone en peligro tu trabajo.

Tus gerentes saben muy bien que traba-jar gratis es ilegal. Por eso es que no te pedi-mos que trabajes fuera de tus horas normales. Si a alguien se consigue violando este contra-to, el gerente puede decir “Yo nunca le dije a él o a ella que hiciera eso.” La única persona que será disciplinada va a ser el miembro de la unión que se ofreció como “voluntario.”

Trabajar gratis es una situación donde todos pierden porque acaba con el trabajo y elimina las oportunidades laborales para trabajadores que deberían estar haciendo el trabajo que se realizó fuera de las horas de trabajo.

Si se te pide que trabajes o que te ofrez-cas a trabajar fuera de las horas regulares de trabajo, notifica a tu representante de la unión que algo no “huele bien.” Si se te dice direct-amente que trabajes fuera de las horas nor-males de tu trabajo, cumple con las órdenes de tu gerente para evitar cargos de insubor-dinación, documenta todo, y luego contacta a tu representante de la unión lo más pronto posible para reportar la violación del contrato.

Por último, prepárate para trabajar dentro de tu jornada marcada. Después que marques el reloj para iniciar tu jornada laboral, no es el tiempo de guardar tus cosas, prepararte para el trabajo o hacer otra cosa. Los miembros necesitan estar listos para trabajar de acuerdo con su horario de trabajo.

Tu unión trabaja muy duro para que re-cibas el pago justo para el día de trabajo justo. ¡No botes eso por trabajar fuera de tus horas regulares de trabajo!

Earlier in the summer, UFCW members successfully lobbied their Senators to pass a bipar-

tisan comprehensive immigration reform bill that includes a road-map to citizenship.

While House members spent the month of August at home in their districts, they heard from UFCW members at town-hall meetings and other events about the importance of passing an immigration bill that makes sense for workers.

The UFCW is pushing to create a common sense immigration process that recognizes the hardships and contributions of people moving here, keeps families together, and creates a road-map to citizenship for new Americans who aspire to be citizens.

You can help fight for immigration reform by going to our website ufcwlocal1546.org and emailing your U.S. Representative. Tell them to support the Senate Immigration Reform Bill.

The Road to Immigration Reform

Follow Us OnlineOn the web go to:ufcwlocal1546.org

On Facebook go to:facebook.com/ufcw1546

On Twitter go to:Twitter.com/ufcw1546

5

Members Rally on Anniversary of Historic March

I HAVE a DREAM that my four little children will one day LIVE in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their CHARACTER.

The March on Washington for Jobs and FreedomAugust 28, 1963

Thousands of people attended the 50th Anniversary of the March on Washington for Jobs and Freedom. 50 years after the historic march, America is still in dire need of jobs that

pay a living wage and the freedom to vote and join a union is be-ing threatened in many states.

UFCW members came out to show their Blue and Gold pride along with many other unions.

“Corporations are spending billions trying to destroy the mid-dle class,” said Ken Boyd, president of UFCW Local 1546. “Now, more than ever, we need to fight to keep Dr. King’s dream alive.”

U.S. Representative John Lewis (D-GA) spoke at the histor-ic march 50 years ago. Two weeks before the anniversary Lewis gave an inspirational speech to the UFCW convention.

“It is good to be in a house of labor. It is good to see each and every one of you. If it hadn’t been for you and orga-nized labor I wouldn’t be standing here as a member of congress.”

“When I was young I asked my family why segregation? Why discrim-ination? They said that’s the way it is. Don’t get in trouble. One day I heard about Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King talking on the radio and I was inspired to get into trouble. It’s time for organized labor to get into trouble again.”

“Fifty years ago when we marched on Washington, I remem-ber I spoke number six and Dr. King spoke number 10. I said ‘We march today for jobs and freedom and yet too many of our brothers and sisters cannot be here for they are receiving starva-tion wages or no wages at all.’ 50 years later too many people are still receiving starvation wages or no wages at all. It’s not right. It’s not fair. It’s not just and we have to do something about it,” said Rep. Lewis.

“I am ready to fight with you. March with you. I’m not to old to sit in, stand up, speak out or step up. Don’t give up, don’t give in and never, ever lose hope,” Lewis added.

UFCW members from across the country turned out for the 50th anniversary march in Washington, D.C.

U.S. Representative Jan Schakowsky

UFCW delegates representing local unions across the U.S. and Canada came to Chicago in August for the

7th Regular Convention.Every five years the UFCW holds its

Regular Convention with the goal of shap-ing the course of the union and ensuring the lives of its 1.3 million members are improved over the course of the coming years.

Inspired by the theme, “Blue. Gold. Bold. Powerful Together,” UFCW del-egates deliberated on taking steps to strengthen the UFCW’s strong base of member activists who are the backbone of creative organizing campaigns, engaged bargaining programs and political activism.

Edward Thomson, International Vice President of Region 6, and long-time mem-ber of Local 1546, welcomed delegates to Chicago at the start of the convention.

“Chicago is a great union city with a long history of union battles,” said Thomson. “From the Haymarket Massacre which led to the establishment of the 8-hour work day to the Pullman Strike which led to the establishment of Labor Day, our city is the embodiment of the fight for justice on the job.”

“No visit to Chicago would be com-plete without having a Chicago style hot dog with Vienna Beef made by Local 1546 members,” added Thomson.

Thomsen introduced UFCW Inter-national President Joe Hansen. “Blue.

Gold. Bold. Powerful Together. That is the theme of our convention,” said Han-sen. “We must grow and organize to be the best UFCW we can be.”

President Hansen and the entire Ex-ecutive Committee were elected by the delegates during the convention.

Local 1546’s Ken Boyd and Al White were on the escort committee for Gover-nor Pat Quinn.

“The best way to help the most peo-ple is a J-O-B that pays a decent wage and a living wage,” said Gov. Quinn. “We cannot allow big corporations to run to the bottom and cut wages with little or no benefits. No pension. That’s not America. The strength of our country is a strong middle class.”

Local 1546’s Alicia Kandle and Efrain Cervantes escorted U.S. Represen-tative Jan Schakowsky (D-IL)

“Your union is consistent and per-sistent champions for quality affordable healthcare not just for UFCW but for all Americans,” said Rep. Schakowsky. “To-day we are working hard to make sure that UFCW members get the best possible treatment from Obamacare...I know you have serious concerns and we’re not go-ing to stop until we help you at UFCW get what you need.”

Local 1546’s Christine Bartholmey and Ken Urzedowski were among the escorts for U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth (D-IL).

“Let me tell you this union changed my life when I was starting out in high school and in college,” said Rep. Duck-worth. “I do not know if [my father] was a UFCW member, but I can tell you that you raised the pay and benefits for everyone in my father’s chicken processing plant. That job put food in our bellies and allowed me to go to school, and I thank you for that.”

International Secretary-Treasurer Marc Perrone spoke about the future of UFCW. “We need to stand together to face the challenges we face as members. Working families are struggling and wag-es have stagnated. Big business has spent billions painting us as a special interest group and accuse us of waging class war-fare. When the rich are getting richer I say hell yes, it’s time for class warfare. Cor-porations started this war and we intend to finish it. We are not bystanders. We are one union with many voices. When we stand together we are never alone. When we stand together we win!”

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the final morning of the convention. “We have to look no farther than Wiscon-sin and Ohio to see efforts underway to undermine workers’ rights,” said Durbin. “I have a message for those who want to roll back these basic rights. You’re in for a fight and we’re going to fight all the way.”

U.S. Representative Tammy Duckworth U.S. Senator Dick Durbin

Members of the Organization Unit-ed for Respect (OUR) Walmart campaign joined delegates at the

7th Regular Convention.“I am a founding member of OUR

Walmart,” said Cindy Murray, Maryland. “What we have built in OUR Walmart is something new and better. I want to say thank you to UFCW and its members who

6

“Let me tell you this union changed my life when I was starting out in high school and in college,” said Rep. Duck-worth. “I do not know if [my father] was a UFCW member, but I can tell you that you raised the pay and benefits for everyone in my father’s chicken processing plant. That job put food in our bellies and allowed me to go to school, and I thank you for that.”

International Secretary-Treasurer Marc Perrone spoke about the future of UFCW. “We need to stand together to face the challenges we face as members. Working families are struggling and wag-es have stagnated. Big business has spent billions painting us as a special interest group and accuse us of waging class war-fare. When the rich are getting richer I say hell yes, it’s time for class warfare. Cor-porations started this war and we intend to finish it. We are not bystanders. We are one union with many voices. When we stand together we are never alone. When we stand together we win!”

Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) spoke on the final morning of the convention. “We have to look no farther than Wiscon-sin and Ohio to see efforts underway to undermine workers’ rights,” said Durbin. “I have a message for those who want to roll back these basic rights. You’re in for a fight and we’re going to fight all the way.”

UFCW Joins AFL-CIO

On August 8, our International Union affiliated with the AFL-CIO in a bold move toward a stronger, more uni-fied labor movement. UFCW President Joe

Hansen, supported by a vote of the UFCW Execu-tive Board, decided to add the 1.3 million private sector members to the AFL-CIO federation in or-der to build a stronger, more unified voice for the rights of workers.

UFCW International President Joe Hansen said, “We join the AFL-CIO because it is the right thing to do for UFCW members, giving them more power and influence. This is not about which build-ing in Washington D.C. we call home — it is about fostering more opportunities for workers to have a true voice on

the job. It is about joining forces to build a more united labor movement that can fight back against the corporate and political

onslaught facing our members each and every day.”Speaking at the UFCW convention Richard Tum-

ka, president of the AFL-CIO welcomed the UFCW back. “If we play by the rules, work hard, if we do our part, we can expect to build a decent life. That’s the vision that unifies us. With that vision, we will take back our country. It is time that the workers of Amer-ica took back our country for workers.”

Joining the AFL-CIO brings the support of more than 12 million union members nationwide to the UFCW. That support will be needed as we tackle

issues like immigration reform.

Dues Increase ApprovedAt the 7th Regular Convention in August, delegates voted to approve the International UFCW’s proposal to increase dues by $3, effective November 1, 2013.

Aumento de los gastos aprobadosEn la 7ª Convención ordinaria en el mes de agosto, los dele-gados votaron para aprobar la propuesta de la UFCW inter-nacional para aumentar las cuotas por 3 dólare, a partir del 1 de noviembre de 2013.

Stand Up Live Better

Members of the Organization Unit-ed for Respect (OUR) Walmart campaign joined delegates at the

7th Regular Convention.“I am a founding member of OUR

Walmart,” said Cindy Murray, Maryland. “What we have built in OUR Walmart is something new and better. I want to say thank you to UFCW and its members who

are sacrificing their time to give us a voice. Thank you for standing with us.”

“I wear my green OUR Walmart shirt with pride,” said Jovani Gomez, Califor-nia. “In California and Texas, because we stuck together against unfair terminations, we got workers put back to work. In Flori-da when management wouldn’t accommo-date the medical needs of a co-worker we fought and got him his care. When they said we could not strike, not only did we do it nationwide, we returned to work and were praised as heroes. Walmart fired me for my activism but I’m not done fighting yet. None of us are.”

“Thank you for welcoming us into the UFCW family,” said Charmaine Giv-ens-Thomas, Illinois. “I see our struggle in the stories of other workers. Walmart has disciplined me in an attempt to silence me but it will not work. OUR Walmart members are making sacrifices every day because we believe things must change at Walmart if we are to change our country. We ask that you continue to believe in us and stand by us until we change Walmart. Real change can happen. We know UFCW takes on big fights and wins them and we will win this fight together.”

Delegates contributed over $13,000 to the OUR Walmart strike fund.

Share for Respect Chances are you know someone who works at Walmart.

Go to shareforrespect.com, login to your Facebook account, and we will tell you which of your friends work or have worked at Walmart.

You can then send them a mes-sage, with a link to the Organiza-tion United for Respect website so that they can learn more and join the campaign.

7

OUR Walmart workers tell delegates about their experiences in the fight for fair wages.

8

Walmart Workers Rally for Respect

Walmart workers in Chicago and 14 other cities across the coun-try rallied to reinstate illegally

fired workers and boost wages. Joining the more than 100 Chicago Walmart workers were supporters from UFCW Local 1546, Chicago Teachers Union, Arise Chicago, Stand Up! Chicago and more. Workers marched from Heritage Green Park to the Walmart Neighborhood Market located at 570 W. Monroe St.

This rally was part of the nationwide campaign organized by OUR Walmart, the same group that organized the Black Fri-day Walmart strike last year. In response to Walmart’s inaction, the group announced widespread, massive strikes and protests for Black Friday in 2013.

OUR Walmart member Charmaine Givens-Thomas, Evergreen Park, IL, said, “I struggle to get by on poverty wages. They need to pay us a living wage. I believe that Walmart is capable of doing that with

them being a multi-billion dollar company.”

Outside the Walmart eight people engaged in civil disobe-dience and were arrested by Chicago Police. Reverend C.J. Hawking, executive director of Arise Chicago was among those arrested.

“American workers should not be forced into a battle with the country’s largest employer to have their rights recognized and to be paid a living wage,” said Hawking. “It is a question of fairness. It’s about right and wrong.”

Since June, Walmart has illegally disciplined nearly 80 workers, including firing 20 worker-leaders. More than 100 Unfair Labor Practice charges have been filed with the NLRB against Walmart.

“Walmart cannot silence our con-cerns,” said Tyrone Robinson, a former

Chatham Chicago Walmart employee who was reportedly illegally fired after going on a legally-protected strike in May. “Our fight to get Walmart to publicly commit to providing better jobs is not just about improving the lives of our families. It’s about improving the jobs for all American workers and strengthening the economy for all of us.”

Members Turn Out for Sox Family Day

Every year the Chicago White Sox and UFCW Local 1546 host “Sox Family Day” and this year was no exception. UFCW Local 1546 mem-bers came out to U.S. Cellular Field to watch the Chicago White Sox

beat the Texas Rangers. UFCW Local 1546 donated $5 of every ticket sold to the Leukemia &

Lymphoma Society.Thank you to all our members who participated in our annual fundraiser.

Union Nights with Northwestern FootballDiscounted tickets starting at just $15*How to Purchase:Online• Visit NUsports.com• Select “tickets” in the header bar• Select “Promotions” from the side menu• Enter the code “NUNION” to place your order

FREE Limited-Edition 2013 Northwestern Hat with purchase.

PhoneCall 888-467-8775 ext. 9002 and ask for Nicole

All orders must be received by the FRIDAY prior to the date of the game. Game times, dates and promotions are subject to change. Service fees apply to all orders. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES.*Actual ticket pricing based on opponent and seat location. Tickets subject to availability. Group ticket discounts are not applicable for Ohio State and Michigan games.

2013 Northwestern Home Football Schedule

Sept. 7vs. Syracuse

Sept. 14vs. W. Michigan

Sept. 21vs. Maine

Oct. 5vs. Ohio State

Oct. 19vs. Minnesota

Nov. 16vs. Michigan

Nov. 23vs. Michigan State

9

Walmart Workers Rally for Respect College Scholarship Winners Announced

Many top students applied this year, making the selction of the winners in 2013 even more challenging. Yet, after reading over their essays, academic records and extra curricular achievements, the scholarship committee reached a unanimous decision on the top two winners and six random drawing entries - who were either Local 1546 members themselves or dependents of

members. These students received either $2,000 or $500 to help offset the cost of their college educations.

Bridget KennedyChicago, ILDaughter of Rosemary Kennedy Employed at Dominick’s

Bridget will be attending Indiana Universi-ty in Bloomington, Indiana this year. She gradu-ated from Albert G. Lane Technical High School with a strong academic record and over 40 hours of community service with the Chicago Public Library, Miseri-cordia and the American Cancer Society.

Here is an excerpt from Bridget’s essay: When Sam Walton started the company, Walmart Corporate, he promised that he would find a way for people to save money to better their lives. In 1992, he was awarded the Medal of Freedom from President George H.W. Bush for keeping this promise to his customers. Now, with Michael Duke as the Walmart Corporate CEO, this company has broken this promise; not to their customers but with their employees. Some issues with the company that the employ-ees have are their wages and health benefits. These employees deserve union representation to be able to work together for the respect and needs they deserve.

Cash for College AwardsEach year UFCW Local 1546 awards six $500 Cash for College scholarships in honor of George J. Spears, former Executive Vice President of UFCW Local 546. The winners are chosen randomly from eligible entries.

Gurveer SanghaSchaumburg, ILSon of Gurbax SanghaEmployed at Plum Grove Nursing & Rehab Center

Gurveer is currently a student at the Univer-sity of Illinois at Chicago. He plans to become a pharmacist as well as volunteer in his local com-munity and in impoverished countries. Gurveer has been on the Dean’s List both of his semesters at UIC.

Here is an excerpt from Gurveer’s essay: This nation was founded on the principles of liberty and equality. It was founded so that every man, woman and family would have an equal oppor-tunity for success and wealth through hard work and dedication. Unfortunately, this principle does not hold true today, and many families are being put in situations of hardship. Throughout time, unions have been one of the few defenders of the American dream for these families...Although, unions, and union members have made great strides in the effort to bring about change, there still remains inequalities in the workplace that are being promoted and carried out by corporations such as Walmart.

Reno Escamilla Schiller Park, IL

Son of Janice Escamilla Employed at Dominick’s

Garret Ralston Machesney Park, IL

Son of Brian Ralston Employed at Schnucks Market

Francesca Romito Elk Grove Village, IL

Daughter of Alina Romito Employed at Jewel Foods

Academic Excellence AwardsEach year, UFCW Local 1546 bestows the $2,000 academic excellence awards, in honor of past local union leaders William Dzik, Jack Boyd, R. Emmet Kelly and Fred Clavio, Sr., to two students who showed outstanding achievements in class performance, citizenship and their understanding of the labor movement.

Union Nights with Northwestern FootballDiscounted tickets starting at just $15*How to Purchase:Online• Visit NUsports.com• Select “tickets” in the header bar• Select “Promotions” from the side menu• Enter the code “NUNION” to place your order

PhoneCall 888-467-8775 ext. 9002 and ask for Nicole

All orders must be received by the FRIDAY prior to the date of the game. Game times, dates and promotions are subject to change. Service fees apply to all orders. NO REFUNDS OR EXCHANGES.*Actual ticket pricing based on opponent and seat location. Tickets subject to availability. Group ticket discounts are not applicable for Ohio State and Michigan games.

2013 Northwestern Home Football Schedule

Evaluation criteria:This is a competitive scholarship. Applicants are evaluated according to academic ability, social awareness and appreci-ation of labor. A GPA of 3.0 or higher is recommended. The required essay can account for up to half your total score.

Application Deadline:A complete application must be received on or before 12:00 p.m. (Eastern Time) on Friday, January 31, 2014.

Scholarship Award Amounts:Amounts range from $500 to $4,000. These one-time cash awards are for study beginning in the Fall of 2014. Students may re-apply each year.

2014 Scholarship Applications NowAvailable

Rafal StefaniakChicago, IL

Son of Beata StefaniakEmployed at Quantum Foods

Alexandra WirtasDowners Grove, IL

Daughter of Brian WirtasEmployed at Casey’s Foods

Angelica ZabalaSilvis, IL

Daughter of Jose ZabalaEmployed at Tyson Foods

10

PensionsA pension you can retire on is one of the many benefits of being a UFCW Local 1546 member. Congratulations to our newest retirees:

UFCW Local 1546 Member InformationUFCW Local 1546Pension Information

UFCW Unions and Employers Midwest Pension Fund9801 West Higgins Road Rosemont, IL 60018847.384.7000 or toll-free at 1.800.621.5133

UFCW Union Industry Pension Fund (National Pension Fund)P.O. Box 6000Frankfort, IL 60423-6000312.649.1200 or toll-free at 1.800.531.2385

UFCW Local 1546 Pension Fund (Formerly known as the “Local 100A Fund”)1649 W. Adams Street, 4th FloorChicago, IL 60612312.829.0850

Have a question about your pension? Contact your pension fund. If your Fund is not listed here, please contact your Union Representative for additional information.

W Jaki Sposỏb Wycofać Się z Członkowstwa w Zwiąkach ZawodowychW przypadku, gdy zostaniesz zwolniony z pracy, przesuni ty na krótkoterminowe bez-robocie, przejdziesz na urlop bezpłatny lub zrezygnujesz z pracy z dowolnego powodu, pamiętaj o uzyskaniu statusu wycofania się ze związków zawodowych w UFCW Lokalu 1546 (withdrawal status). Status taki pozwoli na to, że nie będziesz musiał płacić za-ległych składek członkowskich, ani uiszczać opłaty za przywrócenie członkowstwa w związkach w sytuacji, gdy zdecydujesz się powrócić do tej samej pracy lub podj inn na obszarze podlegającym kompetencji UFCW w dowolnym z 50-ciu stanów USA lub na terenie Kanady. Aby uzyskać status wycofania się ze związków zawodowych (withdraw-al status) należy opłacić w całości należne składki członkowskie do końca ostatniego miesiąca zatrudnienia. Pamiętaj również o tym, że o uzyskanie statusu wycofania się ze związków zawodowych (withdrawal status) należy poprosić w ciągu 30 dni przed termi-nem ukończenia zatrudnienia w obecnym zakładzie pracy. Aby uzyskać status wycofania się ze związków zawodowych (withdrawal status) należy zadzwonić lub złożyć pisemną prośbę do biura UFCW Lokal 1546 w Chicago lub na przedmieściach.

Solicitando el Estatus de RetiroSi usted es despedido definitivamente, temporalmente o está de permiso, o deja su trabajo por cualquier razón, asegúrese se pedir que sea retirado de la UFCW Local 1546. Esto le ayudará a evitar el pago de las tarifas atrasadas o cuotas para el restablecimiento, en caso de que desee regresar a trabajar o busca otro trabajo bajo la jurisdicción de la UFCW, en cualquiera de nuestros cincuenta estados y en Canadá. El estatus de retiro solamente requiere que sus cuotas sean pagadas por completo y que la cantidad que deba sea pagada durante el mes en el cual trabaja. Por favor, tenga en mente que el estatus de retiro se debe pedir dentro de 30 días de haber dejado su empleo. Para solicitar el estatus de retiro, llame o escriba a nuestra oficina de la UFCW Local en Chicago o los suburbios.

Applying for Withdrawal StatusIf you are terminated, laid off, taking a leave of absence, or end your employment for any reason, make sure to request with-drawal status from UFCW Local 1546. This will help you avoid the payment of back dues or reinstatement fees should you decide to return to work or seek other employment under the jurisdiction of the UFCW in any of our fifty states and Can-ada. Withdrawal status only requires that your fees are paid in full and your dues and assessments are paid through the month in which you work. Also, please be advised that withdrawal status must be requested within 30 days of leaving your employ-ment. To request withdrawal status, call or write to our Chicago or Suburban UFCW Local 1546 office.

Daniel Alar - Jewel Food StoresIsmael Alvarado - M & G Provision Co.Patricia Benson - Jewel Food StoresJanice Berebitsky - Dominick's Finer FoodsWilfredo Bonet - Supreme LobsterGeorgia Breyer - Colony FoodsPeter Buccellato - Dominick’s Finer FoodsDennis Bullington - UltraDoyle Cable - Strack & Van TilSergio Casteneda - Allen Bros. Inc.Karen Chapleau - A & P Tea Co.Dominic Cibrario - Jewel Food StoresMichael Cortesi - Sunset Foods

Susan Cortesi - Jewel Food StoresOtto Demke - Gepperths Meat MarketBeatrice Fyock - Jewel Food StoresSusan Gilich - Jewel Food StoresJohn Hubka - Dominick’s Finer FoodsJames Ilosvay - Jewel Food StoresWilla Johnson - Zoll FoodsLiljana Kochanoff - Jewel Food StoresBarbara Laird - Jewel Food StoresJohnnie McNeil - Jewel Food StoresJanet Meuzelaar - Jewel Food StoresGregory Micetich - Jewel Food StoresThomas Milici - Magnolia Super Mart

Patrick Murphy - Sunset FoodsKris Olson - Dominick’s Finer FoodsJames Pedicone - Dominick’s Finer FoodsGarrett Piper - Treasure IslandDebra Regecz - Jewel Food StoresSharon Somolski - Eagle Food CentersLoretta Sparacino - Jewel Food StoresPeter Swanson - Jewel Food StoresKeith Thielmann - Eagle Food CentersPatricia Ward - Jewel Food StoresHenry Webster - Mosca Cardinal FoodsMary Ellen Williams - Jewel Food StoresCasimir Zdanowski - Jewel Food Stores

11

Health & Welfare InformationUFCW Unions and Employers Midwest Health Benefits Fund9801 West Higgins Road Rosemont, IL 60018847.384.7000 or toll-free at 1.800.621.5133

UFCW Union and Employers Calumet Fund1300 Higgins Road, Suite 300Park Ridge, IL 60068-5713847.384.7000 or toll-free at 1.800.621.5133

UFCW Local 1546 Health & Welfare Fund (Formerly “Local 100A Fund”)1649 W. Adams Street, 3rd FloorChicago, IL 60612312.829.0850

Zenith American Solutions (Formerly Food Handlers’ Health & Welfare Fund)P.O. Box 5000Frankfort, IL 60423-5000312.649.0444 or toll-free at 1.877.225.9141

Jewel Health Benefits Fund(SuperValu ASC Benefits)P.O. Box 20Boise, Idaho 83726toll-free at 1.800.969.9688

*If your Fund is not listed here, please contact your Union Representative for additional information.

Prawo do posiadania Reprezentanta ze Zwiàzków Zawodowych (wytnij i zachowaj)Ponisży tekst należy przeczytać swojemu przełożonemu jako deklarację praw wynikających z przynależności do Związków Zawodowych: Jeżeli dyskusja ta w jakikolwiek sposób może przyczynić się do przeprowadzenia akcji dyscyplinarnej przeciwko mnie lub zwolnienia mnie z pracy lub też jeżeli będzie ona mieć jakikolwiek wpływ na moje warunki pracy, to z całym szacunkiem proszę, aby mój Reprezentant ze Związków Zawodowych, Steward, lub inny funkcjonariusz Związkowy był obecny na tym zebraniu. W przypadku nieobecności takiego Reprezentanta,odmawiam uczestniczenia w dyskusji podczas tego zebrania.

Corte esto y mantengalo con usted. Esto se le debe leer palabra por palabra a su supervisor para declarar sus Derechos to Unión.Si esta discusión pudiera en alguna forma, afectar personatmente mis condiciones de trabajo, o ser amonestada o ser despedido, yo respentuosamente solicito que el Representante de la Unión esté presente en la reunión.

Clip and keep with you. To be read word for word to your supervisor to declare your Union Rights:“If this discussion would lead in any way to my being disciplined or terminated or have any effect on my personal working conditions, I respectfully request that my Union Representative, Officer or Steward be present at this meeting. Without representation, I choose not to participate in this discussion.”

Know Your Union Rights

Reaching Your UFCW Local 1546 Union RepresentativeMain Office 1649 W. Adams 2nd Floor Chicago, IL 60612 312.733.2999 FAX 312.733.4369

Christine A. BartholmeyCarlos CartagenaNick ListermannGeorge B. Marshall

Carlos MendezBob O’TooleJohn RosenthalHilda Vargas

Rochelle Office 315 Cherry AvenueRochelle, Illinois 61068815.562.4661

Jonathan Willigman

Colona Office (Plant Office)P.O. Box 345Colona, Illinois 61241309.658.3365

Efrain JimenezVirgil Juarez

Suburban Office 2246 Palmer Dr. Unit 101Schaumburg, IL 60173 847.593.3500FAX .847.593.3515

Jeff CarrEdward J. FlavinVicky HayesJim HurtadoTamara MasonCharles “Chuck” RieberKenneth Swanson

Kenneth A. Urzedowski(Executive Assistant)

Organizing Department:Terry DeVito (Director)Todd ChaseDennis Hernandez

Get involved in your union by attending the next membership meeting on:

Tuesday, Oct. 8, 2013 • 7:00 p.m.UFCW Local 1546 Main Office1649 W. Adams • Chicago, IL 60612

Tuesday, Nov. 12, 2013 • 7:00 p.m.The Belvedere1170 W. Devon • Elk Grove, IL 60612

Tuesday, Dec. 3, 2013 • 7:00 p.m.UFCW Local 1546 Main Office1649 W. Adams • Chicago, IL 60612

Membership Meetings

One of the many protections union members have on the job is Weingarten Rights which ensures your right to have union representation in any meeting with your supervisor. The language below will help you to assert your rights.

12

2246 Palmer Drive, Unit 101Schaumburg, IL 60173

NON-PROFIT ORGU.S. POSTAGE

PAIDMt. Prospect, ILPERMIT No. 111

Get discount tickets for Six Flags Great America Fright Fest

Tickets available for:Sept. 28, 29 Oct. 17-20

Tickets: $31

To order tickets call:Chicago Office: 312-733-2999

or Schaumburg Office: 847-593-3500

• Exclusive benefits forunion families

• Access to knowledgeablemortgage professionals

• Wide range of financingoptions from Wells FargoHome Mortgage

Union Plus® is a registered trademark ofUnion Privilege.

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage is a division ofWells Fargo Bank, N.A. © 2013 Wells FargoBank, N.A. NMLSR ID 399801

The Union Plus®

Mortgage programprovides:

Your home financingresource

Call today!1-800-848-6466

Or visit UnionPlus.org/Mortgage

Your home financing resource

The Union Plus® Mortgage program provides:

Call today!1-800-848-6466

Or visitUnionPlus.org/Mortgage

• Exclusive benefits for union families• Access to knowledgeable mortgage

professionals• Wide range of financing options from

Wells Fargo Home Mortgage