announcements stewards bikers for babies ride … barger david bell dawn bell ... betty mckeown...

Mike AdamsNeal CoxMark CrawshawPamela FaganDawn JenneweinVickie JordanJoshua KayserMichell MorrowBill Morton

Debora MurrayRobert MurrayChris SolomonJeff SpraulGene WhitfieldJoann Wise

Jeff AllanJohn ArellanoMark BakerEugene BanksMike BarbanDean BarcelonaTim BargerDavid BellDawn BellFloyd BellBridgette BerryVerna BlackGeorgene BoenzleTamara BoldenJudyth BowmanBrian BrewerEd BurchJonathon CarlisleKeonna CobbsPenny CollinsJames CornejoGlenn CretsSteven CrowCarolyn DailyEric DavisNate Davis

Michael DemandMarge DodsonClarence DoverDemetrius DrakeRick EllebrachtDebra EnglePamela FerrellAdam FisterBill FoellerNatasha FoersterEric FoustChristina GatesPaul GentiliniJoy Gianformaggio-RitzLewis HankinsDerrick HarperMike HenselAllen HensonKen HoogeDoug HullShantel IvyMark JohnsonMarvis JonesDaniel JuedemannMelanie KarnsMichelle Kelly

Mark KennonBrian KiousTerry KoonsRobin KrausKen KuchtaMichael LavoieChris LeesmannMark LillyGeorge LongDarrel LovingLinda ManceDodie MarlerRosemary McCowanMark McDonaldBetty McKeownKenyetta MillerAmanda MonahanVanessa MooreKimberly MoyPaul MullersmanGraylin NewtonMichael PaplanusBradley Peer

Temeisha PerryArneisha PhillipsTerrence PhillipsMike PipkinTori PrattTed RaglandEric RayfordErin RenaudGina RichardsonJim RineyKeith RobinsonDavetta RossHenry RosterJo Ann RowlandDan RussellRita SchenePaul SchreiberMark SchweigertDana Scott-WilliamsKevin ShaddenScott SiebelRick SiebumMary Skaggs

Joe SobkowMike SongerStephen SpreckRickey StahlmanMary StanglJoe StoutJeanette SweeneyArlene ThummelJoe TurneyJanet TwenteBarry VandiverSaleem VohraBob WarrenEric WatsonThomas WellsDavid WilkersonClarence WilliamsDave WilliamsInez WilsonRosalyn WinstonStanley WisdomLori WrombelRob Wuest

Stewards

Chief Stewards

United We Bargain • Divided We Beg

2258 Grissom DriveSt. Louis, MO 63146-3309

6300 Communications Workers of AmericaLocal 6300

Non-Profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 495St. Louis, MO

ADDRESS SERVICE REQUESTED

Postmaster - Please Deliver Dated Material Enclosed


Volume 02/No. 076September 2009Contents

Announcements

Bikers for Babies Ride October 11

The Largest Organized Ride In Missouri!Minimum donation of $25 per rider and

$15 per passenger

UNION PRIDE2009 Team CWA

7:30 am -9:30 am Meet at CWA Offices 2258 Grissom Drive, Maryland Heights to check-In and pickup your special Team CWA Ride shirts.

9am Kickstands up - Ride to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater for live music, food, vendors, bike & car show, and silent auction.

Reg i st e r on l i n e at www.B i ke r s F o rBab i e s . o rg /TeamCWA

St. Louis Labor Council

Annual Labor - United Way

Kick-Off Trap Shoot& BBQ

Friday October 98am to 12 noon

Winchester Trap & Skeet FacilityRoute 140 and Powder Mill Road,

East Alton, IL

$50 per participant$9 per round at the participant’s expense. Shotguns provided but

you may use your own.

Shooting sponsors needed

For more information618-259-7011 ext. 2

618-259-8558

6300 News6300 News






Communications Workers of AmericaLocal 63006300

Volume 03/No. 12 December 2010

Brentwood Store1811 S. Brentwood Blvd.Brentwood, MO 63144314.963.2008 Eureka 257 East 5th StreetEureka, MO 63025636.938.5728 St. Peters3899 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. St, Peters, MO 63376636.447.6130Chesterfield Mall158 Chesterfield MallChesterfield, MO 63017636.519.7007 Fenton 701 Gravois, Suite 101Fenton, MO 63026636.343.0005 South St. Louis County4133 Elm Park DriveSt. Louis, MO 63128314.615.2199

Chesterfield Valley222 THF Blvd.St. Louis, MO 63005636.536.1652 Kirkwood Commons1263 S. Kirkwood RoadKirkwood, MO 63122314.821.8300 South County Mall 9021 South County Center Way St. Louis, MO 63129314.894.4934Chippewa Square6411 Chippewa StreetSt. Louis, MO 63109314.352.9600 Mid Rivers6291 Mid Rivers Mall DriveSt. Peters, MO 63304636.447.4500 Washington 3181 Phoenix Center DriveWashington, MO 63090636.239.9777

Creve Coeur 11420 Olive Blvd.Creve Coeur, MO 63141314.692.2265 North County8016 N. Lindbergh RoadHazelwood, MO 63042314.831.1159 Wentzville1954 Wentzville ParkwayWentzville, MO 63385636.327.0833Des Peres 13351 Manchester RoadDes Peres, MO 63131314.966.0606 O’Fallon2210 Highway KO’Fallon, MO 63366636.978.9560 West County Mall59 West County Center Des Peres, MO 63131314.966.0560

Please shop these Union mobility stores for your holiday gift giving!Illinois LocationsBelleville Crossing5840 Belleville Crossing St.Belleville, IL 62226618.233.3045 Fairview Heights6403 North Illinois StreetFairview Heights, IL 62208618.397.3147 Marion2406 Williamson County PkwyMarion, IL 62959618.998.8409Carbondale1237 E Main Street, K12Carbondale, IL 62901618.457.7720 Granite City 3453 Nameoki RoadGranite City, IL 62040618.241.3636 St. Clair SquareK8 St. Clair SquareFairview Heights, IL 62208618.624.6721Collinsville 1146 Collinsville Crossing Blvd Collinsville, IL 62234618.343.1308 Waterloo947 N Illinois Route 3Waterloo, IL 62298618.939.0040

Missouri LocationsSt. Louis Metro Area

Cape Girardeau 3363 Gordonville RoadCape Girardeau, MO 63703573.335.2355 Columbia Worley2109 W. WorleyColumbia, MO 65203573.447.4861 Farmington 740 W. Karsch Blvd.Farmington, MO 63640573-701-910Columbia Grindstone1305 Grindstone Pkwy., Ste 100Columbia, MO 65203573.256.7929 Jefferson City610 Wildwood Dr., Suite 101Jefferson City, MO 65109 573.893.2355

Please give your Union mobility Sales Rep the highest rating (5) on thecustomer service questionnaire, if asked to fill one out. Any lower ratingwill result in a less than unsatisfactory appraisal for our Brother or Sister.

Other Missouri Locations

Good & Welfare/Retirees6300 News6300 News 6300 News6300 NewsRetireesFrom the President’s Desk

D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 0 D e c e m b e r 2 0 1 0P a g e 2 P a g e 7

As everyone knows, the elections are over. If you recall months back, we were told that this year’s elections could be the most important one we have ever had. We have heard that before but I think you will agree now that this was the most important one we have seen for many years. The next few years will be difficult years for the working man and woman. The things we have fought for going back to the 1930s are in jeopardy again.

Legislative Committee Chair person Bob Murray, Earline Jones and I went to a special meeting called by the Missouri AFL-CIO and the St. Louis Labor Council on Tuesday, November 16 in Jefferson City.

The biggest issue to negatively impact Organized Labor since 1978 is back again.

You probably have heard that a Senator in Southeast Missouri has began an initiative that is actively pursuing Missouri to join the ranks of 22 other states that have Right To Work (for less) laws.

We listened to three of our labor friendly Senators; Hugh McVey, President of Missouri AFL-CIO as well as Bob Soutier, President of the St. Louis Central Labor Council. They spoke regarding the plan that Organized Labor is taking to fight this UNFRIENDLY Law that does nothing that the proponents say it will do. You will read more during the months ahead to point this out.

Just a few things you as Union Members need to know:

• Right To Work States have lower wages.• Right To Work States have higher poverty. • Right To Work States have less access to healthcare• Right To Work States have inferior education for children• Right To Work States have 52.9% higher workplace deathsThis Local will educate our Members on how this law will affect not

only Union Members, but the entire state of Missouri. Right To Work will bring everything positive that this state stands for to the same level of some of the poorest states in this Country.

All of Organized Labor in Missouri will be doing everything necessary to help businesses, non Union citizens as well as our Elected Officials understand that Right To Work will not be good for anyone in Missouri.

More jobs and less government interference in our lives is what the state of Missouri needs at this time. Not more government control.

There will be more information for our Members in the weeks and months ahead.

Right To Work – For Less –

Why We Don’t Want Missouri toBecome a Right To Work State

By Mike Mehringer, PresidentPresidentMike Mehringer [email protected]

Executive Vice PresidentJim Kolve [email protected]

Administrative Vice PresidentDanny Compton [email protected]

SecretaryGail DiSilvester [email protected]

TreasurerVirginia [email protected]

Vice President ATT Plant 1Ron Munford [email protected]

Vice President ATT Plant 2David Hoyt [email protected]

Vice President ASIKen Bates [email protected]

Vice President MetroSonja Gholston-Byrd [email protected]

Vice President Appendix BLeola Beard [email protected]

Vice President ATT Directory OperationsDeloris Rose [email protected]

Vice President Century Tel/ VerizonKim Reynolds [email protected]

Vice President ATT OperationsDonna Walsh [email protected]

Vice President Print and Media SectorJohn Ebeling [email protected]

Vice President Legacy TGreg Hensler [email protected]

Newsletter Editors/Graphics/Website:Betty McKeownMarge DodsonDan JuedemannMark Schweigert*Reprint permission granted to all Union publications

Circulation 6,500

Published Monthly byCWA Local 6300

2258 Grissom Dr.St. Louis, MO 63146

Phone: 314-991-0200www.cwa6300.org

Office Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pmMonday through Friday

The meeting was called to order by President Tony Hill. Tony said a prayer and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag. Tony asked everyone to remain standing for a moment of silence for deceased members Paul Belko, John Fox, Jr., Rick Greiwe and Tom Johnson. He also welcomed two new members: John Hallvax and Kevin Kujawa.

Nancy Jinkerson announced the menu for the lunch and then read the minutes of the previous meeting. She announced that Tony Hill would be having a birthday this month. A motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the minutes as read.

Nellie Girouard read the Treasurer’s report. A motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the report.

Tony announced that the national CWA Retirees organization sent him notice that they would be selling 2011 pocket calendars as a fundraiser. They will be $2.50 each and a signup sheet is available for anyone interested in purchasing or selling them.

Tony introduced Bob Huss, Vice President of the Chapter. He dis-cussed the election results and talked about the “donut hole”, Social Security and Medicare. He encouraged everyone not to give up the fight for Seniors regardless of the outcome of the election. He also reminded everyone to watch their mail for information from AT&T about healthcare. He is waiting for a call with information about health insurance for Legacy A retirees (the old AT&T) and Legacy S (Southwestern Bell).

Bob also shared that AT&T is cutting back on service to home phone lines with a turnaround of five to seven days for repairs to home lines. They are planning

to phase out of the home phone business altogether. He has copies of information on this issue.

Bob asked all the veterans to stand in honor of Veterans Day. They received a round of applause for their service.

Tony introduced Dr. Matthew Bradley, who gave a slide presentation on arthritis, joint pain, surgery and other treatments. He answered questions from Members. He distributed bags containing his business card and information on the treatments.

Bob Huss asked everyone to go on the CWA website and order Union made Christmas cards. He also urged everyone to try to buy at least one American made toy for their grandchildren.

Drawings were held and monies were given out as prizes.

Tony called Jennings Wooldridge up to preside over the nominations of Chapter Officers for 2011. The Election will be held at the December meeting. Bob Huss and Tony Hill were nominated for President. Earline Jones was nominated for Vice-President. Nellie Girouard was nominated for Treasurer. Nancy Jinkerson was nominated for Secretary. Nominations were then closed. Tony shared a funny story. A motion was made, seconded and passed to adjourn the meeting.

On the way home from the meeting Bob Huss received a call from Hewitt regarding the health insurance for Legacy S. The number to call for information and questions is: 1-877-722-0020.

The next meeting will be on Mon-day, December 13, 2010. Reservations are a must as it is necessary that we have a head count. They can be made by contacting Nancy Jinkerson at (314) 809-3264. Don’t forget to bring a white elephant.

Retirees Meeting November 8, 2010

Retiree MeetingsDec 13 & Jan 10

Meeting 11:30/ Lunch 12:00Meeting Location2258 Grissom Dr.

$12 charge per person. Bring a guest but make

reservations:Tony Hill 618-541-9119 Bob Huss 636-947-4299

[email protected] Girouard314-739-0317

Nancy Jinkerson 314-351-1566

To all my Stewards and Execs at CWA 6300,

I want to thank you for my watch and check, and I will be forever grateful, for my pension, 401(k), and VSP, all Bargained for by you, for us. Without you fighting for me everyday, I would not have been able to pursue my dreams, at my age.

Thank you very much,Chris, Cindy and Bryan Uelk

Rich Man (Not Wealthy)

Retired President Tony Ellerbrachtand Chris Uelk, retired May 22, 2010.

Good & Welfare 6300 News6300 News6300 News6300 News Retirees Attorney Report


This month I thought I would discuss how the employers are using a new part of the workers’ compensation law to try and reduce the amount of benefits individuals receive on cases where the injury is admitted. One of the most significant changes in the law that has caused benefits to be reduced to individuals deals with arthritis. There are a number of different types of arthritis that people develop over the years but the way it is being used in the workers’ compensation system is troubling. Most individuals will over time develop some form of arthritis. This is simply the natural progression of getting older. However, the fact that someone has arthritis does not mean that they are suffering any problems associated with the condition and may not even know they have any arthritic condition.

The employers are trying to make the argument that the fact that a person has an arthritic condition requires the Judge to reduce the amount of disability related to a work injury due to the assumption that the body is weakened due to the prior pre-existing arthritis. They are seeking discounts for the overall value of the claim simply based on the diagnosis. There is simply no part of the new law that allows this to occur. The focus needs

to be on whether the arthritis was related to the physical problems that came about after a work injury. The claim that all arthritis causes physical problems is not accurate.

I want to give you an example of how this new theory is being used. I recently tried a case in which the employee twisted his knee at work. The diagnosis was a torn ligament. The employer accepted the claim and paid for the surgery required to cure the problem. When the doctor performed the surgery, he noted that there was some arthritis in the knee area. The doctor went on to later testify that the arthritis was in the knee before the work injury. The doctor also admitted that the surgery was for the repair of the tear from the work accident and not for the arthritis. The undisputed facts in the case were that the person did not even know they had arthritis and had never seen any medical provider for any problems with the knee.

The employer took the position that under the new law the arthritis present in the injured knee resulted in the reduction of the amount of benefits the employee was entitled to for the tear. The employer argued that the employee must have had some problems in the knee due to the pre-existing condition and

they simply did not recall the problems. The simple fact that there was arthritis was enough to reduce the benefits by a significant amount. This decision is still pending and I will write about it when it is decided.

The point of this article is to make you aware of the problems in some cases and to make sure that you do not admit to pre-existing problems if you never had any treatment for the condition. Everything you mention about possible prior problems is going to be used to try and defeat your rights for benefits. If you do have prior problems, you need to identify the difference between your prior condition and your present work related condition. This will be important to try and maximize your recovery. Please be aware of what history you are reporting to the doctors as they are going to put it in the notes and it can cause problems later. Please try and be accurate and not let the doctor or adjuster try and convince you that you must have had prior problems.

If you have any questions in regard to this matter, please feel free to call.

Michael Goldberg, Esq1-800-489-2891

Pre-existing Conditions and Workers’ CompBy Michael C. Goldberg, Attorney

CWA 6300 Member Jim Howard is very proud of his wife, Kathy. Two years ago her life changed unexpectedly and dramatically after having a stroke that left her paralyzed. It was the scariest period of their life, but friends and family helped her through. Today they are happy to say that, although she is not yet 100% recovered, she is very much on her way thanks to the medical staff at Missouri Baptist and the Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis.

The rehabilitation had given her a newfound appreciation for something we all take for granted, walking! She attended therapy three days a week for eight hour sessions. It improved her health, stamina and determination. To show her gratitude for all their help, Kathy decided she would help raise money and bring attention to stroke issues by walking the 11.8 miles from Missouri Baptist Medical Center to the Rehabilitation Institute. She started the website www.warriorwalk2010.org to collect donations and track her efforts. Her goal is $10,000. Sunday, November 14, Kathy accomplished her goal by traveling the distance in 5.5 hours. Family and friends joined her in the walk, calling her an inspiration to patients, therapists and everyone she meets. Kathy simply says,

“Don’t make assumptions about people with strokes. For those who have had strokes, get up and get moving, and don’t give up.”

Member’s WifeBeats the Odds

By Deloris Rose, Vice President

Kathy and Jim Howard walking with family & friends, Sunday, November 14, 2010.

Eddie Martinez, Tim Heet, Retired Vice President Scott Turner,Melvin Jackson and Kevin Hamilton, all retired June 2010!!

Vice President Ron Munfordand Rick Goughenour, retired August 21, 2010.

Chief Steward Dawn Jennewein and Bill Morris, retired May 15, 2010.

Steward Clarence Williams, Sharon Martin Ijames, retired December 18, 2009 and her husband and Vice President David Hoyt.

Vice President Donna Walsh and Sharon Haefner, retired August 10, 2010.

Frieda Askew, retired September 9, 2010 and Vice President Deloris Rose.

Retired Vice President Scott Turner andWilliam “Buc’ Pfister, retired June, 11, 2010.

Leslie Zerilli, Beth Nicholson and Sharon Mangiapanello, retired November, 2009.

Recent Retirees

Officers’ Report Scholarships 6300 News6300 News6300 News6300 News Officers Report Good & Welfare


WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW… WHAT DOES THE AccTT PROGRAM CONSIST OF?The Accelerated Technical Training (AccTT) program consists of approximately 306 classroom hours, of both lecture

and lab, divided into 10 modules. These modules include: DC Electronics, AC Electronics, Solid State Electronics, Digital Electronics, Computer Fundamentals, Telecommunications and CEF.

WHAT IS THE CEF?The Curriculum Evaluation Feedback form (CEF) is a paper/pencil evaluation that PARTICIPANTS are required

to complete on the last day of the program. Participants are required to sign the CEF form in order to receive their certification and individual feedback on their strengths and weaknesses. Results of the CEF, however, are not used to determine employee certification. The CEF is used to evaluate the school’s delivery of the program.

WHAT DOES THE PROGRAM COST? The AccTT program is completely paid for by Training/Retraining. Your cost will be your time and effort expended

during the 13-15 months it takes to complete the program. DOES COMPLETION OF THE AccTT PROGRAM EXEMPT ME FROM THE TKT?Successful graduates of the Accelerated Technical Training program will be eligible to qualify for any position

requiring the TKT, i.e., Communications Technician, Systems Technician, or Network Center Technician. Other test requirements, however, i.e., the Physical Abilities Evaluation (PAE) may still be required.

WHO IS ELIGIBLE TO PARTICIPATE IN THE AccTT PROGRAM?Any regular full-time or part-time non-management employee of ATT ASI, Operations, Services, Telecom,

DataComm, Southwestern Bell Telephone, or Southwestern Bell Messaging Services, with at least one year of net credited service is eligible to apply. Prior to admission an applicant must attend an Orientation informational meeting and pass a prerequisite course entitled “Math for Electronics”.

WHAT WILL THE “MATH FOR ELECTRONICS” COURSE CONSIST OF?The “Math for Electronics” course is a 4-week, 24-hour class, which will cover items such as: basic algebra,

transposition, substitution and right-angle trigonometry. It presupposes that the student has previously studied elementary algebra. The study of electronics relies heavily on a strong math background. Those employees who have never studied algebra or who consider their math skills a little lacking, may want to first consider enrolling in a regular algebra class prior to taking up the study of electronics.

WHEN WILL CLASSES BE OFFERED IN MY AREA?In order to begin a class, there must be a Company approved school in the area and a sufficient number of eligible

employees interested in enrolling.

Accelerated Technical TrainingBy Ronald Munford, Vice President AT&T Plant 1

The Accelerated Technical Training Program is:• Fast-paced, concentrated advanced electronics training program• A challenging 13-15 month course of intensive study & commitment - available to AT&T nonmanagement employees of Operations, Telecom, Services, ASI, Datacomm, Southwestern Bell Telephone and Southwestern Bell Messaging Services through certain local company-approved vocational schools, community colleges and universities throughout Arkansas, Kansas, Missouri, Oklahoma and Texas• For highly motivated employees with strong math and study skills and an interest in competing for advanced technical jobs

St. Louis classes will start the first quarter of 2011.For more information Email Ron Munford at [email protected]

The AccTT program is a Joint Initiative of AT&T and the Communications Workers of America

Members’ LossesJenell Bruno FatherRobert Burgert MotherBryan Edwards GrandmotherRobert Frankenhauser AuntCharles Griffin MotherAlisha Johns MotherEurnekia Long GrandmotherHeidi Meyer GrandfatherNancy Niedzwiecki MotherCindy Patchin SisterJudy Ring GrandfatherMichael Sanchez WifeLois Storch Brother-in-lawStanford Storch BrotherJeanette Sweeney SisterStacy Tebow UncleCrystal Thomas UncleDeborah Weber FatherJoan Weilbaecher Aunt

Motions 11-17-10Motion: Bob Murray, second Mark Crawshaw to send Mike Mehringer, Jim Kolve, David Hoyt, John Ebeling, Ron Munford and Ken Bates to the District 6 Conference January 26-28, 2010 in Branson, MO Cost: Lodging 3 nights $1890.00, Transportation: renting van cost based on actual rental plus gas, Lost time 3 days $3069.04, Per diem 4 days $1,182.00, Registration none To-tal $6,141.04

Motion: Bob Murray, second Dawn Jennewein to purchase 1/8 page ad in Labor Tribune Christmas issue Cost $439.00

Motion: Mark Crawshaw, second Dawn Jennewein to purchase nine tickets to the St Louis Labor Council Christmas Luncheon on December 16 at the Ma-chinists Hall $50.00 each Total $450.00

AT&T Mobility

Justin BradyAndy ChapmanJustyn GersonClayton KaimannKevin LambCatherine Manoni

Aaron MayJennifer McCoyMelvin OwensAlyssa SanthuffScott Spencer

Next Meetings:No December Meeting

January 19

AT&T Advertising Solutions

Jamie BazzellDanielle CampShawn EasterwoodNeil FesenmeyerCheryl McKinley

Matthew NovakRichard PowellMichael WhittenStephen Young

New Members

Jason BrownRyan CahillJames CookBrian DorrisJames FaderJohn FlemingKeith ForbesMichael ForrestDavin HaymoreEric HenryJim HerzogSteven JacksonChristopher JonesRobert KempKristopher Kott-meierMatthew Lazenby

Jerry LoflandRobert McKinnonDan MillerJeffrey MinickySteven MontileoneEric NelsonWayne OliverPatrick ReynoldsMatt RidgewayAnthony SottorivaJessie SpenceBrett SurwilloLeRoy TurnerMichael UnizuhDouglas WehmeyerScott Whitman

AT&T Telephone

Retirees In SympathyPaul BelkoJohn Fox

Richard GreiweThomas JohnsonRonald Stanton

RetiringCarol Guin 04/05/10William Morris 05/15/10Jackie Robinson 05/15/10Patrick Steinbrecher 05/21/10Mary Sue Mayes 07/29/10Cathy Cruise 08/01/10Linda Senter 08/13/10Mary Benne 08/21/10Elizabeth Goehler 08/21/10Lawrence Abram 09/15/10Janet Turner 09/15/10Stephanie Johnson 09/15/10Gary Benne 09/17/10Susan Brown 09/18/10Gail Boykin 09/19/10Randy Weiss 10/01/10Gerald Byron 10/01/10Georgia Straub 10/02/10

Get Well SoonJan Twente

Retiree Gary Buss Retiree Chris Uelk

CongratulationsKelvin Luster Baby Girl Maria Ellis Baby Boy Jill Culleton Baby Boy

Winners each received a gift card worth $20.00 from Schnucks. The more meetings through out the year you attend the more entries you get.

At this year’s annual Christmas Party, the Community Services Committee will hold a 50/50 raffle to benefit our CWA 6300 Sister Stephanie Saddler. Stephanie is the mother of three young children, who lost all their possession in fire this past October. We are happy everyone is safe, but they need help rebuilding their lives. Several of the November Gift Card winners donated their gift cards to the cause; Dawn Jennewein, Mike Adams, Paul Gentilini, Rick Siebum, Dana Scott-Williams, Earline Jones and Stephanie Bates. We ask her Union Brothers and Sisters to please join their generosity.

Dawn JenneweinDodie MarlerEric Rayford

George LongMary StanglMike AdamsMelanie KarnsPaul GentiliniRick Siebum

Gina RichardsonDana Scott-Wil-liamsMike SmithLinda ManceBrian Kious

Earline JonesMark BakerTerrence PhillipsRenee BlackStephanie BatesMichell Morrow

Christmas Party 50/50 Raffle

Winners of the Thanksgiving Gift Card Drawing!

Good & Welfare 6300 News6300 News6300 News6300 News Retirees Attorney Report


This month I thought I would discuss how the employers are using a new part of the workers’ compensation law to try and reduce the amount of benefits individuals receive on cases where the injury is admitted. One of the most significant changes in the law that has caused benefits to be reduced to individuals deals with arthritis. There are a number of different types of arthritis that people develop over the years but the way it is being used in the workers’ compensation system is troubling. Most individuals will over time develop some form of arthritis. This is simply the natural progression of getting older. However, the fact that someone has arthritis does not mean that they are suffering any problems associated with the condition and may not even know they have any arthritic condition.

The employers are trying to make the argument that the fact that a person has an arthritic condition requires the Judge to reduce the amount of disability related to a work injury due to the assumption that the body is weakened due to the prior pre-existing arthritis. They are seeking discounts for the overall value of the claim simply based on the diagnosis. There is simply no part of the new law that allows this to occur. The focus needs

to be on whether the arthritis was related to the physical problems that came about after a work injury. The claim that all arthritis causes physical problems is not accurate.

I want to give you an example of how this new theory is being used. I recently tried a case in which the employee twisted his knee at work. The diagnosis was a torn ligament. The employer accepted the claim and paid for the surgery required to cure the problem. When the doctor performed the surgery, he noted that there was some arthritis in the knee area. The doctor went on to later testify that the arthritis was in the knee before the work injury. The doctor also admitted that the surgery was for the repair of the tear from the work accident and not for the arthritis. The undisputed facts in the case were that the person did not even know they had arthritis and had never seen any medical provider for any problems with the knee.

The employer took the position that under the new law the arthritis present in the injured knee resulted in the reduction of the amount of benefits the employee was entitled to for the tear. The employer argued that the employee must have had some problems in the knee due to the pre-existing condition and

they simply did not recall the problems. The simple fact that there was arthritis was enough to reduce the benefits by a significant amount. This decision is still pending and I will write about it when it is decided.

The point of this article is to make you aware of the problems in some cases and to make sure that you do not admit to pre-existing problems if you never had any treatment for the condition. Everything you mention about possible prior problems is going to be used to try and defeat your rights for benefits. If you do have prior problems, you need to identify the difference between your prior condition and your present work related condition. This will be important to try and maximize your recovery. Please be aware of what history you are reporting to the doctors as they are going to put it in the notes and it can cause problems later. Please try and be accurate and not let the doctor or adjuster try and convince you that you must have had prior problems.

If you have any questions in regard to this matter, please feel free to call.

Michael Goldberg, Esq1-800-489-2891

Pre-existing Conditions and Workers’ CompBy Michael C. Goldberg, Attorney

CWA 6300 Member Jim Howard is very proud of his wife, Kathy. Two years ago her life changed unexpectedly and dramatically after having a stroke that left her paralyzed. It was the scariest period of their life, but friends and family helped her through. Today they are happy to say that, although she is not yet 100% recovered, she is very much on her way thanks to the medical staff at Missouri Baptist and the Rehabilitation Institute of St. Louis.

The rehabilitation had given her a newfound appreciation for something we all take for granted, walking! She attended therapy three days a week for eight hour sessions. It improved her health, stamina and determination. To show her gratitude for all their help, Kathy decided she would help raise money and bring attention to stroke issues by walking the 11.8 miles from Missouri Baptist Medical Center to the Rehabilitation Institute. She started the website www.warriorwalk2010.org to collect donations and track her efforts. Her goal is $10,000. Sunday, November 14, Kathy accomplished her goal by traveling the distance in 5.5 hours. Family and friends joined her in the walk, calling her an inspiration to patients, therapists and everyone she meets. Kathy simply says,

“Don’t make assumptions about people with strokes. For those who have had strokes, get up and get moving, and don’t give up.”

Member’s WifeBeats the Odds

By Deloris Rose, Vice President

Kathy and Jim Howard walking with family & friends, Sunday, November 14, 2010.

Eddie Martinez, Tim Heet, Retired Vice President Scott Turner,Melvin Jackson and Kevin Hamilton, all retired June 2010!!

Vice President Ron Munfordand Rick Goughenour, retired August 21, 2010.

Chief Steward Dawn Jennewein and Bill Morris, retired May 15, 2010.

Steward Clarence Williams, Sharon Martin Ijames, retired December 18, 2009 and her husband and Vice President David Hoyt.

Vice President Donna Walsh and Sharon Haefner, retired August 10, 2010.

Frieda Askew, retired September 9, 2010 and Vice President Deloris Rose.

Retired Vice President Scott Turner andWilliam “Buc’ Pfister, retired June, 11, 2010.

Leslie Zerilli, Beth Nicholson and Sharon Mangiapanello, retired November, 2009.

Recent Retirees

Good & Welfare/Retirees6300 News6300 News 6300 News6300 NewsRetireesFrom the President’s Desk


As everyone knows, the elections are over. If you recall months back, we were told that this year’s elections could be the most important one we have ever had. We have heard that before but I think you will agree now that this was the most important one we have seen for many years. The next few years will be difficult years for the working man and woman. The things we have fought for going back to the 1930s are in jeopardy again.

Legislative Committee Chair person Bob Murray, Earline Jones and I went to a special meeting called by the Missouri AFL-CIO and the St. Louis Labor Council on Tuesday, November 16 in Jefferson City.

The biggest issue to negatively impact Organized Labor since 1978 is back again.

You probably have heard that a Senator in Southeast Missouri has began an initiative that is actively pursuing Missouri to join the ranks of 22 other states that have Right To Work (for less) laws.

We listened to three of our labor friendly Senators; Hugh McVey, President of Missouri AFL-CIO as well as Bob Soutier, President of the St. Louis Central Labor Council. They spoke regarding the plan that Organized Labor is taking to fight this UNFRIENDLY Law that does nothing that the proponents say it will do. You will read more during the months ahead to point this out.

Just a few things you as Union Members need to know:

• Right To Work States have lower wages.• Right To Work States have higher poverty. • Right To Work States have less access to healthcare• Right To Work States have inferior education for children• Right To Work States have 52.9% higher workplace deathsThis Local will educate our Members on how this law will affect not

only Union Members, but the entire state of Missouri. Right To Work will bring everything positive that this state stands for to the same level of some of the poorest states in this Country.

All of Organized Labor in Missouri will be doing everything necessary to help businesses, non Union citizens as well as our Elected Officials understand that Right To Work will not be good for anyone in Missouri.

More jobs and less government interference in our lives is what the state of Missouri needs at this time. Not more government control.

There will be more information for our Members in the weeks and months ahead.

Right To Work – For Less –

Why We Don’t Want Missouri toBecome a Right To Work State

By Mike Mehringer, PresidentPresidentMike Mehringer [email protected]

Executive Vice PresidentJim Kolve [email protected]

Administrative Vice PresidentDanny Compton [email protected]

SecretaryGail DiSilvester [email protected]

TreasurerVirginia [email protected]

Vice President ATT Plant 1Ron Munford [email protected]

Vice President ATT Plant 2David Hoyt [email protected]

Vice President ASIKen Bates [email protected]

Vice President MetroSonja Gholston-Byrd [email protected]

Vice President Appendix BLeola Beard [email protected]

Vice President ATT Directory OperationsDeloris Rose [email protected]

Vice President Century Tel/ VerizonKim Reynolds [email protected]

Vice President ATT OperationsDonna Walsh [email protected]

Vice President Print and Media SectorJohn Ebeling [email protected]

Vice President Legacy TGreg Hensler [email protected]

Newsletter Editors/Graphics/Website:Betty McKeownMarge DodsonDan JuedemannMark Schweigert*Reprint permission granted to all Union publications

Circulation 6,500

Published Monthly byCWA Local 6300

2258 Grissom Dr.St. Louis, MO 63146

Phone: 314-991-0200www.cwa6300.org

Office Hours: 8:00 am - 5:00 pmMonday through Friday

The meeting was called to order by President Tony Hill. Tony said a prayer and led everyone in the Pledge of Allegiance to our flag. Tony asked everyone to remain standing for a moment of silence for deceased members Paul Belko, John Fox, Jr., Rick Greiwe and Tom Johnson. He also welcomed two new members: John Hallvax and Kevin Kujawa.

Nancy Jinkerson announced the menu for the lunch and then read the minutes of the previous meeting. She announced that Tony Hill would be having a birthday this month. A motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the minutes as read.

Nellie Girouard read the Treasurer’s report. A motion was made, seconded and passed to approve the report.

Tony announced that the national CWA Retirees organization sent him notice that they would be selling 2011 pocket calendars as a fundraiser. They will be $2.50 each and a signup sheet is available for anyone interested in purchasing or selling them.

Tony introduced Bob Huss, Vice President of the Chapter. He dis-cussed the election results and talked about the “donut hole”, Social Security and Medicare. He encouraged everyone not to give up the fight for Seniors regardless of the outcome of the election. He also reminded everyone to watch their mail for information from AT&T about healthcare. He is waiting for a call with information about health insurance for Legacy A retirees (the old AT&T) and Legacy S (Southwestern Bell).

Bob also shared that AT&T is cutting back on service to home phone lines with a turnaround of five to seven days for repairs to home lines. They are planning

to phase out of the home phone business altogether. He has copies of information on this issue.

Bob asked all the veterans to stand in honor of Veterans Day. They received a round of applause for their service.

Tony introduced Dr. Matthew Bradley, who gave a slide presentation on arthritis, joint pain, surgery and other treatments. He answered questions from Members. He distributed bags containing his business card and information on the treatments.

Bob Huss asked everyone to go on the CWA website and order Union made Christmas cards. He also urged everyone to try to buy at least one American made toy for their grandchildren.

Drawings were held and monies were given out as prizes.

Tony called Jennings Wooldridge up to preside over the nominations of Chapter Officers for 2011. The Election will be held at the December meeting. Bob Huss and Tony Hill were nominated for President. Earline Jones was nominated for Vice-President. Nellie Girouard was nominated for Treasurer. Nancy Jinkerson was nominated for Secretary. Nominations were then closed. Tony shared a funny story. A motion was made, seconded and passed to adjourn the meeting.

On the way home from the meeting Bob Huss received a call from Hewitt regarding the health insurance for Legacy S. The number to call for information and questions is: 1-877-722-0020.

The next meeting will be on Mon-day, December 13, 2010. Reservations are a must as it is necessary that we have a head count. They can be made by contacting Nancy Jinkerson at (314) 809-3264. Don’t forget to bring a white elephant.

Retirees Meeting November 8, 2010

Retiree MeetingsDec 13 & Jan 10

Meeting 11:30/ Lunch 12:00Meeting Location2258 Grissom Dr.

$12 charge per person. Bring a guest but make

reservations:Tony Hill 618-541-9119 Bob Huss 636-947-4299

[email protected] Girouard314-739-0317

Nancy Jinkerson 314-351-1566

To all my Stewards and Execs at CWA 6300,

I want to thank you for my watch and check, and I will be forever grateful, for my pension, 401(k), and VSP, all Bargained for by you, for us. Without you fighting for me everyday, I would not have been able to pursue my dreams, at my age.

Thank you very much,Chris, Cindy and Bryan Uelk

Rich Man (Not Wealthy)

Retired President Tony Ellerbrachtand Chris Uelk, retired May 22, 2010.

Mike AdamsNeal CoxMark CrawshawPamela FaganDawn JenneweinVickie JordanJoshua KayserMichell MorrowBill Morton

Debora MurrayRobert MurrayChris SolomonJeff SpraulGene WhitfieldJoann Wise

Jeff AllanJohn ArellanoMark BakerEugene BanksMike BarbanDean BarcelonaTim BargerDavid BellDawn BellFloyd BellBridgette BerryVerna BlackGeorgene BoenzleTamara BoldenJudyth BowmanBrian BrewerEd BurchJonathon CarlisleKeonna CobbsPenny CollinsJames CornejoGlenn CretsSteven CrowCarolyn DailyEric DavisNate Davis

Michael DemandMarge DodsonClarence DoverDemetrius DrakeRick EllebrachtDebra EnglePamela FerrellAdam FisterBill FoellerNatasha FoersterEric FoustChristina GatesPaul GentiliniJoy Gianformaggio-RitzLewis HankinsDerrick HarperMike HenselAllen HensonKen HoogeDoug HullShantel IvyMark JohnsonMarvis JonesDaniel JuedemannMelanie KarnsMichelle Kelly

Mark KennonBrian KiousTerry KoonsRobin KrausKen KuchtaMichael LavoieChris LeesmannMark LillyGeorge LongDarrel LovingLinda ManceDodie MarlerRosemary McCowanMark McDonaldBetty McKeownKenyetta MillerAmanda MonahanVanessa MooreKimberly MoyPaul MullersmanGraylin NewtonMichael PaplanusBradley Peer

Temeisha PerryArneisha PhillipsTerrence PhillipsMike PipkinTori PrattTed RaglandEric RayfordErin RenaudGina RichardsonJim RineyKeith RobinsonDavetta RossHenry RosterJo Ann RowlandDan RussellRita SchenePaul SchreiberMark SchweigertDana Scott-WilliamsKevin ShaddenScott SiebelRick SiebumMary Skaggs

Joe SobkowMike SongerStephen SpreckRickey StahlmanMary StanglJoe StoutJeanette SweeneyArlene ThummelJoe TurneyJanet TwenteBarry VandiverSaleem VohraBob WarrenEric WatsonThomas WellsDavid WilkersonClarence WilliamsDave WilliamsInez WilsonRosalyn WinstonStanley WisdomLori WrombelRob Wuest

Stewards

Chief Stewards



6300 Communications Workers of AmericaLocal 6300






Volume 02/No. 076September 2009Contents

Announcements

Bikers for Babies Ride October 11

The Largest Organized Ride In Missouri!Minimum donation of $25 per rider and

$15 per passenger

UNION PRIDE2009 Team CWA

7:30 am -9:30 am Meet at CWA Offices 2258 Grissom Drive, Maryland Heights to check-In and pickup your special Team CWA Ride shirts.

9am Kickstands up - Ride to Verizon Wireless Amphitheater for live music, food, vendors, bike & car show, and silent auction.

Reg i st e r on l i n e at www.B i ke r s F o rBab i e s . o rg /TeamCWA

St. Louis Labor Council

Annual Labor - United Way

Kick-Off Trap Shoot& BBQ

Friday October 98am to 12 noon

Winchester Trap & Skeet FacilityRoute 140 and Powder Mill Road,

East Alton, IL

$50 per participant$9 per round at the participant’s expense. Shotguns provided but

you may use your own.

Shooting sponsors needed

For more information618-259-7011 ext. 2

618-259-8558

6300 News6300 News






Communications Workers of AmericaLocal 63006300

Volume 03/No. 12 December 2010

Brentwood Store1811 S. Brentwood Blvd.Brentwood, MO 63144314.963.2008 Eureka 257 East 5th StreetEureka, MO 63025636.938.5728 St. Peters3899 Veterans Memorial Pkwy. St, Peters, MO 63376636.447.6130Chesterfield Mall158 Chesterfield MallChesterfield, MO 63017636.519.7007 Fenton 701 Gravois, Suite 101Fenton, MO 63026636.343.0005 South St. Louis County4133 Elm Park DriveSt. Louis, MO 63128314.615.2199

Chesterfield Valley222 THF Blvd.St. Louis, MO 63005636.536.1652 Kirkwood Commons1263 S. Kirkwood RoadKirkwood, MO 63122314.821.8300 South County Mall 9021 South County Center Way St. Louis, MO 63129314.894.4934Chippewa Square6411 Chippewa StreetSt. Louis, MO 63109314.352.9600 Mid Rivers6291 Mid Rivers Mall DriveSt. Peters, MO 63304636.447.4500 Washington 3181 Phoenix Center DriveWashington, MO 63090636.239.9777

Creve Coeur 11420 Olive Blvd.Creve Coeur, MO 63141314.692.2265 North County8016 N. Lindbergh RoadHazelwood, MO 63042314.831.1159 Wentzville1954 Wentzville ParkwayWentzville, MO 63385636.327.0833Des Peres 13351 Manchester RoadDes Peres, MO 63131314.966.0606 O’Fallon2210 Highway KO’Fallon, MO 63366636.978.9560 West County Mall59 West County Center Des Peres, MO 63131314.966.0560

Please shop these Union mobility stores for your holiday gift giving!Illinois LocationsBelleville Crossing5840 Belleville Crossing St.Belleville, IL 62226618.233.3045 Fairview Heights6403 North Illinois StreetFairview Heights, IL 62208618.397.3147 Marion2406 Williamson County PkwyMarion, IL 62959618.998.8409Carbondale1237 E Main Street, K12Carbondale, IL 62901618.457.7720 Granite City 3453 Nameoki RoadGranite City, IL 62040618.241.3636 St. Clair SquareK8 St. Clair SquareFairview Heights, IL 62208618.624.6721Collinsville 1146 Collinsville Crossing Blvd Collinsville, IL 62234618.343.1308 Waterloo947 N Illinois Route 3Waterloo, IL 62298618.939.0040

Missouri LocationsSt. Louis Metro Area

Cape Girardeau 3363 Gordonville RoadCape Girardeau, MO 63703573.335.2355 Columbia Worley2109 W. WorleyColumbia, MO 65203573.447.4861 Farmington 740 W. Karsch Blvd.Farmington, MO 63640573-701-910Columbia Grindstone1305 Grindstone Pkwy., Ste 100Columbia, MO 65203573.256.7929 Jefferson City610 Wildwood Dr., Suite 101Jefferson City, MO 65109 573.893.2355

Please give your Union mobility Sales Rep the highest rating (5) on thecustomer service questionnaire, if asked to fill one out. Any lower ratingwill result in a less than unsatisfactory appraisal for our Brother or Sister.

Other Missouri Locations

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