vol. 28 no. 3 official publication of utility workers

Utility Workers Union of America Local 223

Official Publication of Utility Workers Union of America Local 223, AFL-CIOVol. 28 n No. 3september-OctOber

2017

UWUAAnnunciator

Insidethis issue 2017Golf outinG

OFFICERSREPORTS

SEE PAGES2-3, 6-7

LABOR DAY PARADESEE PAGES 4-5

UWUA LOCAL 22330th GOLF CLASSIC

SEE PAGES 12-14

RETIREE NOTICESSEE PAGES 20-21

BIRCH RUN SHOPPINGSEE PAGE 24

2017 LABOR DAY PARADE

Golf Outing photos courtesy of Mark Huston

Photo courtesy of John Heath

2 l o c a l 2 2 3 • a n n u n c i a t o r SEPtEMBEr- octoBEr 2017

Negotiations Update

by MIKE SMITH

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

President’srePort

mediator has been contacted for assistance there also, but to date they have not entered negotiations. Detroit Thermal, in late August, turned down the first TA and went back to the table in early September. Hamtramck Energy has just begun negotiating their contract. Due to the Union-unfriendly state legislative groups and our unfortunate loss in the judicial system, PAC Fund donations are no longer able to be deducted from the members’ paychecks. For many years, this was the process Unions have used to secure monies to be used to help support candidates who were member and community friendly. (As you well know, we cannot use the union dues money to support candidates.) We are currently exploring some new ideas and ways to make it as easy as possible for members to donate money to the Union PAC Fund. So, more to come on this subject. The next big activity at the Union Hall is the elections for all the divisional officers; then, in January, elections for the Local officers. I can’t stress enough the importance to be involved in the Union and all the Union activities. Each contract with each company is becoming more and more difficult to complete. Without the membership’s involvement and support, we will have a harder and harder time securing good contracts. As members, we must attend Union meetings to hear what is going on in the Union and at

the companies we work at. With this information, your voice and opinions will be heard and we can better define the direction of the Union. We also must get involved in the election process, ask officers who are running what they stand for and what they have done, and what they are going to do. Or maybe it’s time for you to run for office. But most importantly, you must vote. Times are changing and our membership is changing. This year, you have just begun to see the first big turnover of the senior members retiring. To keep the Union strong and fresh ideas flowing, new and younger members are going to have to step up and begin to fill these leadership positions. Yes, it’s a big commitment and a ton of responsibility, so start slow and become a Steward or Committeeperson. It’s the membership that is the strength of the Union. To stay up to date on all the latest information, please contact the Union Hall and sign up for our monthly Union Times newsletter, and also sign up for the text message system. We utilize this system as new information and important reminders arise. Thank you to everyone who attended the Labor Day march. We had a good showing and the little bit of rain did not dampen the spirits of all that were there. We recently held our 30th Annual Local 223 Golf Outing. Thank you to all the golfers, our sponsors, and our committee that’s puts it all together.

[email protected]

The summer seems to have flown by. I couldn’t even tell you if the first 2 and a half months were good, hot, rainy or what. Contract negotiations seemed to take the majority of our time and there are still more contracts to complete. I would like to thank the negotiations team for all the hard work and time they put in to complete the DTE contract. That was a difficult and time-consuming contract to complete, but I believe in the end we all came together, as a Union should! For DTE members, we have a 4-year contract that will give our membership a net positive impact, with minimal changes to our benefit package.

Thank you to all the members that came to various roll-out meetings and to everyone who exercised their right to vote. Currently, we are preparing the language from the TA so we can send it off to be printed. With a little luck, it shouldn’t take too long to get hard copies, but it will be on our Local 223 website very soon. As I said, we are still negotiating contracts for Detroit Thermal, Hamtramck Energy, THAW and the SO’s. Currently, we have a federal mediator in the SO negotiations, and we may be looking to the membership for some additional help. The THAW negotiations have been very difficult and extremely slow moving. A federal

HAP is a proud supporter of the Utility Workers Union of

America’s 30th annual golf outing. We look forward to

working with UWUA Local 223 now and in the future.

Congratulations on the 30th annual UWUA golf outing

hap.org

Health Plans for EveryoneIndividual • Group • Medicare • Medicaid

Contact 223’s MAP DirectorMIKE ERICKSONMEMBER ASSIStANCE

PROgRAM

(586) [email protected]

Need a referral for apersonal or family crisis?

Remember: All calls to the MAP are held in strict confidence.

l o c a l 2 2 3 • a n n u n c i a t o r SEPtEMBEr- octoBEr 2017 33

An amazing thing happens when smaller groups of people join together, organize themselves, and unite for a cause. As these groups assemble, they quickly begin to focus on the things they have in common. More importantly, they understand how important it is to forget about their differences. A great example of this happened during this past Labor Day weekend. Consider the Detroit Labor Day Parade. Thousands gathered in downtown Detroit to march in solidarity, celebrating the long and important history that organized labor has had in our state. Men and women, blacks and whites (and all the colors in between), those with money in the bank and those living paycheck to paycheck, a wide variety of ethnic and religious backgrounds. All of these people, when united for a cause that they believe in, stand together, despite their differences. Their bond that day is much stronger than

Published byUtility Workers

Union of America, Local 223, AFL-CIO

Postage Paid at Dearborn, MI

Postmaster: send address changes to

Local 223,15160 Commerce Drive N., Dearborn, michigan

48120-1225

Annunciator15160 Commerce Drive N., Dearborn, MI 48120-1225 • (313) 271-9700

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEMBERS MIKE SMITH President TIM cox Vice President joHn MaSSEngIll Recording Secretary jUanITa RaY Treasurer ToM banKS Gas Division DEnnIS bREnnan Port Huron Supervisors Division HollY cHRESTon Office, Professional & Technical Division cHRIS DEVEZIn Underground Division STEVE DIoT Power Generation Division wIllIaM DYER Fermi Division DIanE Hall Transmission Trades joHn HolMES Stores Division gEoRgE lEwIS FM&S Division al McKInnEY Substation Division aRnolD PETTY WSC Shops Division gERalD SEllEY Meter Division MIKE waTKInS Motor Trans Division lERoY HUcKlEbERRY Trustee TanYa MccUlloUgH Trustee KnEa MaRTIn Trustee MIKE SMITH Editor aURoRa bERlaSI Managing Editor

by TIM COX

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

Vice President’srePort

[email protected]

Ask yourself, “Are we stronger?”

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Local 223 Golf Ad.pdf 1 8/24/2017 2:19:43 PM

Out with the Old in with the New!A NEW GRIEVANCE PROCESS is underway, because you spoke and we listened...Our current process was filled with lengthy timelines, i.e.,

• Length of time to get through the process• Long waits for a grievance answer

The current process failed to meet the members’ expectations.

Therefore, in response to the voice of the membership, a New Grievance Process has been negotiated to address these concerns and bring about better accountability. This New Grievance Process will also help Labor Relations meet their duty to provide unbiased mediation.A high-level glance at the New Grievance Process:

• Tighter timeline, providing a clear defined pathway to the next step in the process, and same day answers at 3rd Step Panel hearings. For example:

At the 2nd Step, the grievance will follow one of two pathways, 1. Discriminations, harassment and terminations will be fast

tracked to the current 3rd Step Process.2. Contractual, disciplines, and work rule violations will be

heard before a 4-person panel. This 4-person panel will consist of 2 Union Representatives and 2 Managers that have equal voting authority. This Panel will vote and yield a same-day answer. In the event of a split decision, the Union may appeal to arbitration.

Keep in mind that preserving and protecting Arbitration is paramount for members’ rights and contractual enforcement. Stay tuned... Training dates for the New Grievance Process will be coming soon!

the forces that want to pull them apart. The victories, and struggles, that organized labor has seen in Michigan would be quickly forgotten without folks intentionally gathering as one united labor force – together! As Local 223 members, we need to learn from this example. Without your involvement, Local 223 is less effective. Every meet-ing you choose to miss or survey you choose not to take weakens our position in bargaining. You are “the Union” and the leader-ship is not as effective without your input and direction. When the members of Local 223 voted against the proposed contract, your voice was heard and change happened. If you are reading this issue of the ANNUNCIATOR, thank you! You have made a choice to participate in your Local. My advice to you is to get off of the sidewalk. Pick your spot and step proudly into the parade. Choose to march together. We are stronger in our unity!

GRIEVANCE NEWS INthe

Don’t RiDe the tRenDThere is a increase in grievances around vehicle accidents and damage of property.


2017 LABOR DAY PARADE


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OUR CONSULTANTS.

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You can trust GRSto provide thebest outcomes foryour benefit plans.

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Health & Welfare


Brothers & Sisters, This year, your Local 223 Executive Board has been challenged like never before. We have faced two (anti-labor) new presidential appointments to the National Labor Relations Board, Right-to-Work, and preparing for 7 collective bargaining agreements that are either expiring orbrand new. With that in mind, a legally binding collective bargaining agreement, a contract, is the shield that protects union workers and frees us to concentrate on our work and pay close attention to safety, so that we can return safe every day to our loved ones. This contract guarantees us good wages, good benefits, a dignified retirement, and work rules that allow Union workers to havetheir say on all issues. I have been fortunate to

have the opportunity to collaborate with LJPR Financial. Currently, we are working on a series of programs and a new benefits website designed to help you and your family get the most out of your benefits. Some of the

topics to be discussed may include:•Newpensionoptions•Usingyour401(k)•Protectingyourfamily:wills,trusts,and

power of attorney•Retirementreadiness•SocialSecurity•Medicare

I would also like to remind our members that are employed by DTE Energy that the 2018openenrollmentforyourbenefitswillbeNovember6-17,2017.Atthetimeof

writing this article, I am still working with DTE Benefits to ensure that

their informational documentation is correct prior to it being mailed

out to the membership. Once this process is completed, it will be sent to you via U.S. mail, Local 223 Union Times, Local 223 text and Local 223 website.

by JOHN MASSENGILL

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

recordinG secretArYrePort

john [email protected]

7 Bargaining Agreements lie ahead

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need. Unionism and solidarity, the founding principles that put power in the hands of the worker, are ideals which we must strive to remain true to. Let’s not forget our shared history Unionism didn’t

start yesterday. Unions have been here for decades, and the spirit of solidarity as advocated through the Union and the idea of unionism have solidified through the ages. You’ll see the modern formation of the Union fighting time and again for reasonable hours and safer employee working conditions. You’ll see Union officials lobby from time to time for political participation at the grassroots and at the national levels. They have been authorized by workers, the members, to negotiate on their (members’) behalf. Every so often, these moves yield results, because not even the highest offices can tune out the collective voice of the Union. The employers have to listen to these collective bargaining voices. Let’s face it, the issues that unions address at the workplace are often closely connected with overall community and societal concerns. Yet, it’s not uncommon to find governments and multinationals in many countries routinely making attempts to deny workers their legal right to freely form unions. Standing tall above anti-union tactics We’ve seen anti-union tactics take various shapes at different places, from denying unions’ legal recognition to actually dissolving them, seizing property belonging

It almost feels like I have been a Union worker and Steward to the Union all mylife.From1989(theyearIjoined

the Union) to date is not by any means a short time. For me, it was a chance to join the cause and champion workers’ rights. As it is, I haven’t backed off from the cause ever since. I have stayed on, worked on, and served long enough to know the benefits. A solid beginning I worked for the Ford Motor Company/RougeSteelfor12years,whereIwasamember of the United Automobile Workers (UAW). I was a Union Steward for 7 years in the UAW. I left the position in 2000 and took a job with DTE Energy as an Instrumentation Repair Tech “A”. As it turns out, this was the best decision I made. I immediately became involved in the Union. I was a Shop Steward, Committeeperson, Bargaining and Grievance (B&G), Treasurer for Power GenerationDivisionfor8years,andnowI have been given the great opportunity to serve as the Local Union’s Treasurer. I was appointedtothispositiononJune1,2017,and I am humbled by the opportunity.Driven by the spirit of stewardship I have always felt compelled to take leadship positions in my Union. This is something that comes from deep within me; a commitment to serve the Union. I recognize how greatly important unions are. They are a fundamental cog of a democratic, free-working society. Workers’ rights and freedom of association – the liberty to form and join unions and collectively pursue their interests – are two foundations for a successful society. Your right to join the Union as a worker is extremely important if you’re seeking to achieve both economic and social justice. My philosophy has always been grounded on believing in the Union and the power of our collective voice. My perception of the Union is not any different from any other worker’s. It is the body of working people who come together and stand united, speaking with one voice to improve their working conditions and lives overall. The Union seeks to better wages and em-ployee benefits, win respect for the worker, and improve the conditions that directly or indirectly impact the ability of the worker to do his or her job. This is something we all

Union and Solidarity: Seen from the Eyes of a Local Union Officer

to the Union to violently repressing peaceful marches and lawful strikes, and even imposing legal boundaries that serve to threaten the very existence of many unions. Oftentimes, Union activists face all manner of resistance from anti-unionists, but they don’t give in. They stay true to the ideals of unionism and champion for solidarity of the working people. These people are our National Officers, Local Officers, Divisional Officers and Shop Stewards. They face resistance for voicing their plights and the plights of the Union members. It is our legal right, you and I, to talk about what we deem unfair or unpleasant at our places of work and to unite with them, not against them, so that our voices can be heard.The power in our hands –the power we must leverage Unionism is our primary and ultimate resolve. It’s our power against oppressive forces that we meet from time to time as we go about our jobs. The isolated worker is powerless against these forces. No single worker can stop the ways of a resolute employer who is on the oppressive path. To overcome this glaring handicap, work-ers must organize themselves into unions. The Union not only binds us together into common action, it gives us the power and the weapons to fight. Employers become powerless, or at least less powerful, against a united workforce. The Union creates a power balance that’s often sloping on the side of the united workers. The Union is mighty, and its voice is heard and sometimes even becomes the law. Unions give the working class a voice whose influence is not just limited to the workplace, it spreads to their communities

FINAN

CIAL CORNER

A simple small contribution to your future can make a big difference. Say like $3.33 a day (a cup of coffee!) can add up to about $122,000 in 30 years (*7% growth rate). With that in mind, imagine what a few cups of coffee a day could do to your 401(k) over time. And When you look at the lump-sum option, make sure you understand the math: If interest rates go up (the Fed increases rates and bonds follow), then the lump sum amount goes down. There are a whole bunch of other considerations in the lump-sum. Go to local223retirement.org to get the book on it.

For more information, contactDon Bentley, AIF®, Financial Advisor

5480 Corporate Drive, Suite 100 | Troy, Michigan 48098 T +1 248 641-7400 x 118 | F +1 248 641-7405www.ljpr.com | @ljprllc | facebook.com/ljprllc

See TREASURER’S PERSPECTIVE on page 19

[email protected]

treAsurer’sPersPectiVe

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

by JUANITA RAY


/aab;opeiu42

cc: local File Trustees


/aab;opeiu42cc: local File Trustees


Michigan Stateutility workers Council

(517) 645-4555 www.msuwc.org

Patrick Dillon, PresidentCraig Wright, Executive Vice President

Mike Nelson, Secretary-Treasurer

Bob Ritsema, Vice PresidentDave Miller, Vice PresidentTom Cole, Vice PresidentJerry Ebelt, Vice President

We support the30th AnnualLocal 223

GolfClassic


The Barnabas Project-Uganda is a non-profit organization based out of Kampala, Uganda. The organization’s main focus is to empower, educate, and teach sustainable micro-enterprises within a small community outside of Kampala by the name of Busoke. Over the past six years, the Barnabas Project has created a school for the children, installed three wells, started a child sponsorship program, and created several small farming programs within the village. Busoke is a small community with around 400 families, located 45 minutes to the northeast of Kampala. The only access to the village is down a dirt road three miles from the nearest town, and the closest hospital is 15milesaway.Thevillagersaresubsistencefarmers who provide food for the families and the village. The villagers are able to sell a small portion of fruits, vegetables, and hand-made building bricks to purchase essentials. I was first contacted by the director of the organizationin2011forguidanceandadviceto start a community development project in Busoke, based on a philosophy of community development that was started in my church. Theinitialcontactin2011hasledtotwovisits to Uganda and the development of a non-profit entity called the Barnabas Project Partners. The Barnabas Project Partners was developed to provide funding as well as create and manage projects for the Barnabas Project Uganda. We became official in Decemberof2016. Over the past six years, we have had to overcome several challenges from gaining the trust of the village elders, damage to the schools due to weather, and even something as simple as sending donations (monetary and material). Theschoolwasstartedin2011with20children in a spare room that was provided by one of the village elders. This has led to

the purchase of two acres, which we were able to build three buildings (one was lost recently in a storm), a small three-stall outhouse, and a teacher’s dormitory (which is still in construction). The partially constructed dorm is currently being used as a temporary classroom until more funding can be obtained to rebuild the building that was lost. The school is now upto145childrenandourlargestchallengehas been obtaining supplies and food for the children. A child sponsorship program wasstartedin2015tohelpthechildrenwithtuition fees, supplies, and lunch meals. OnJuly4,2017,ItookmythirdtriptoUganda to evaluate current projects and assess damages to the school caused by a recent storm. I communicated my trip to the members of UWUA Local 223. Transmission Trades Division officers and the membership voted to fund a small project. Discussions with the director of Barnabas Project Uganda led to the building of a play area for the children of the school, which was to include playsets and a volleyball court. During my last visit, we were able to get the playsets delivered and cemented in place. The pictures as this page show the excitement of the children on the playsets were being delivered. One photo shows an older child digging a post hole for the volleyball net. The village accomplishes all tasks with simple tools. This young man is using a hoe to dig the post holes. Due to the time frame that was allocated

trAnsmission trAdes rePort

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

by BRYAN R. PICKETT

The barnabas Project-Uganda

for my trip, I was not able to see the children enjoy their new play area, but a few pictures were sent by the director of the children enjoying their gift from the UWUA Local 223. I would like to thank my Brothers and Sisters of our Local for the love and generosity they have shown the people of Busoke. You have truly given them something that they would never have been able to enjoy. Pictures or words cannot express the joy the children and teachers showed when they saw the play equipment come down the road and into the village.


30th

ANNUAL

Local223Golf

outinG


This fall continues to be a busy time for the Power Generation Division (PGD). After working with the Local to get a contract between DTE and Local 223, negotiations continued with Detroit Thermal, Hamtramck Energy, and DTE Supervising Operators.

I am pleased to say the Union and management teams were successful in reaching agreements at Detroit Thermal and Hamtramck Energy. Contracts which will continue to benefit

our members and provide a good working relationship for the next 3 years. I would like to thank our Senior National Representative, Jim Harrison, for his support during these negotiations. As Chairperson of Power Generation

Division, I have ensured the continued and deserved advocacy of our membership. Continue to monitor your posting boards and Stewards for communications from the Division. Engagement and solidarity are most important in these times with DTE Energy. There is a huge change continuing and growing within Fossil Generation. As the Company moves from generating with coal to gas, the labor requirements will change and look unfamiliar. PGD will keep the communication paths open and ensure the membership’s voice is heard when key decisions are weighed.

Mark

your

calendar

CONTACT:

AL McKINNEYCell 313-419-1880

JIM STINSONCell 734-347-4149

PAUL SAWICKICell 734-934-1922

DAVE TINGLECell 313-282-3987

RAFAT ESSACell 313-802-3407

SUBSTATION DIVISION(AND OLD CONSTRUCTION DIVISION)

RetiRement PaRtyANNUAL

LOCAL 223 UNION HALL15160 N. Commerce Dr.

Dearborn, Michigan

FriDAy, OctOBEr 27, 2017

HONOREES INCLUDE:Joe Dams, Dale Kaska, Dale Olinzock, Sidney Davis, Scott Parker, Donald Starlin,

Doug Landschoot, Jeff Hodges, Tim Neboysky, Brian Currie, Robert Lippus,Mike Engel, Keith Anderson, Mark Dickey, David Ehred, Brian Horn, Ennis Woods,

Henry Krolikowski, Don Dekimpe, Larry Magnotte, Kevin Dolin, Lee Neal,Craig Smith, William Chesney, Roger Weiss, Jr. , Donald Marson, Ron Philips

(OThEr rETirEES NamES FOrThCOmiNg)

OPENBAR: 5:00 DINNER

SERVED: 6:30Let’s get together to give them a great send off !

Since there will beNO

ADMISSIONCHARGE

for this year’s party, please RSVPno later than

FRIDAY,OCtObER 13,

2017(so we may get a proper

count for our caterer)

PM PM

Power GenerAtioncHAirPerson’srePort

U W U A L O C A L 2 2 3

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AUtOMOBiLE iNJUriES AND NO-FAULt iNSUrANcE cLAiMS • Serious injury or death due to careless drivers • Medical bills, lost wages and services from No-Fault insurers • Trucks, motorcycles, passengers, pedestrians

SLiP AND FALL • Injuries on icy, cracked and poorly maintained surfaces • Falls in stores, apartment complexes, and on city sidewalks

WOrKErS cOMPENSAtiON • Weekly benefits and medical coverage for on-the-job injuries • Benefits for widows and dependents of a deceased worker • Conditions include carpal tunnel syndrome, back & neck conditions, heart attacks, lung disease and mental or emotional disorders

NUrSiNG HOME iNJUriES AND NEGLEct • Bedsores, infections and disease from neglect • Falls from a bed or wheelchair because of careless aides

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Attorneys ProudlyrePresenting locAl no. 223,

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Samuel C. mcKnight

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Darcie r. Brault

John r. Canzano

David r. radtke

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as well. This voice promotes a higher level of economic equality in societies in which workers live. Without this voice, the worker has little-to-no recourse at all when his or her rights are violated. Workers need collective bargaining power. Without it, they have few to no options for improving their incomes, workplace conditions and their living standards. Democratic societies recognize the Union and go a step further to allocate space for the voice of us, the working people, to be heard. This allocation is, however, of no benefit to the working people who don’t step up to leverage it. It does not take much to take advantage of this privilege bestowed upon us by the virtue of being in a democratic society. All we need to do is recognize the value of the

Union, join it and take active roles within it. Even when we cannot personally rise to the positions of Union leadership, our voices will still be heard loud when we stand behind our democratically elected Union leaders. Unionism is our means to higher power and our proletarian virtue. It brings us together as empowered workers through

solidarity. I believe that a collective voice,

exercised through the Union, is power. This power drives change. Having a collective voice that has a clear message that communicates solidarity and workers’ rights is unmatched.

Unions are built through the active participation of us, the

working people. I believe in active participation. I believe in the power of

a united worker community. I believe in the power of a collective voice. Whichever way you look at it, having a collective voice is the only way to win. And win we will, as long as we remain united towards our common purpose. The purpose ofthe Union.

continued from page 7

treAsurer’sPersPectiVe

I wear pink for my mother and sister, who are breast cancer survivors!

I wear pink to support the fighters.I wear pink to admire the survivors.I wear pink to honor the taken.I wear pink in hopes of a cure.Let pink be a reminder that early

detection saves lives, so please get a mammogram!

– JuAnITA RAY


RECENTLY RETIRED

UWUA Local 223wishes to extend

our sincerest congratulationsand best wishesto the following

members on their recent retirement.

GAS DIVISIONCharles Footemichael W. harrisDan C. BallardJohn L. Frazierhugh g. riachDale m. PostonTerry Simmonsgary J. Payne

michael mengemarshall LeathersCharles EvansJon mcCloudStanley gadillegerald YoungDavid riserJames SorahDennis guiterrezBret PfaffLucille Livingstonmichael BiroDennis andersonalan BoothLarry Chevrierrichard JakubczakErvin Lewis

WSC SHOPS DIV.Timothy BowersThomas amrheinWilliam morrison

MOTOR TRANSPORTATIONNorm Suttonrobert KocsisDoug UppleggerFred hermansBill Lamontrobert Sionkowskiroy Williams

OPT DIVISIONFermin Pueblaantonio hernandezSue Turner WilliamsLisa Tafralianmark KoskiLinda WatkinsCheryl munro

POWER GENERATION DIVISIONgerald Beauvaisronald hill

rochelle CaslinTimothy J. BrittonLarry D. Owensgarald Wayne CaddellSteven Edgar hallmichael D. KiniryJohn m. Frunekrichard D. harkinsDenise m. Sturkey

METER DIVISIONLinda m. Lamondricky J. hillockJohn L. hillEmmett Traylormarie L. Piersonrobert C. Pettusrichard K. Drainmary mcCombFrederick SandleThomas rogersrichard K. Drain

rose hodgesJohnnie Boone, Jr.Linda K. Stewart-rewaltalan JakelJudy BrunsonJoseph E. LewisBrandon C. ClyneFloyd Clarkroosevelt BanksW. Dennis Savage

You andyour manytalents willbe missed.

Legghio & israeL, P.C.ATTORNEYS AND COUNSELORS AT LAW

Christopher P. Legghio Stuart M. Israel Kevin P. Kales John G. Adam John J. Bobrowski Megan B. Boelstler Benjamin A. Schepis Lauren E. Crummel Judith A. Champa

306 South washington downriver Office Suite 600 8415 Park Avenue Royal Oak, MI 48067 Allen Park, MI 48101 (248) 398-5900 (313) 381-0806


Any retiree group that would like their meeting notices published in the Annunciator should call

Aurora Berlasi in the Union Hall at (313) 271-9700,or email at [email protected]

2017 REtiREE CHAPtERCLub MEEtingS

For information on joining theSouthwestern Edison Club,

call the clubhouse at 734-362-2056or visit: [email protected]

Everyone Welcome...spouses, employees and guests!For information, call Dave Whitwam (734) 241-5373

or Ken Domansky (734) 735-9412

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Monroe Activities center (MAc)Corner Mentel & Fix Rd.(Exit I-75 at Nadeau, turn left to Mentel, right ¾ mi. to Fix Rd.)(734) 384-2350

DECO RETIREES – mONROE LOCATIONSFOUrtH WEDNESDAyOF EAcH MONtHAt 8:00 A.M.

SEcOND WEDNESDAyOF EAcH MONtHAt 8:00 A.M.

CONNERS CREEK RETIREE GROUPMeetings the first Tuesday of the month at

Roses Family Restaurant (31301 Harper, St. Clair Shores)Breakfast served at 8:00 a.m. – social time after.

For more information, call Paul Pica at (810) 775-2708.

SEPTEMBER 14OCTOBER 12noVEMbER 9DECEMBER 14

southWestern edison club events

DECEMBERBreakfastCANCELLEDMerry Christmas

SEPT. 28OCT. 26NOV. 23

CLUB ELECSYRSMeetings the first Tuesday of the month

at the Plymouth Elks Club. Social time is 11:30 a.m.and lunch is served at 12:00 noon.Speaker(s) cover topics of interest.

is a proud sponsor of theLocal 223 UWUA

30th Annual

GolfClassic

BLUE FLAmES mEETINGS meeting dates for 2017:

September 12, 2017October 10, 2017november 14, 2017

There are no meetings in December, January, or Feburary

10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.Local 223 union Hall15160 Commerce Drive northDearborn, Michigan 48120


UWUA LOCAL 223’s Anti-Discrimination Policy and Procedure

Union is here to represent employees. If you believe that you are experiencing discrimination based on race, creed, color, national origin, sex, age, or disability (including harassment), you should communicate your complaint to your Local 223 Steward. The grievance procedure of the Local 223/DTE Energy contract is one method by which an employee can resolve a complaint regarding prohibited discrimination.

Every employee also has the right to pursue any claim she/he may have against any individual of the Company with the appropriate governmental agency or through private litigation. If you feel that a Union Steward or a Local 223 official is part of your complaint or is ignoring your complaint, it is important that you notify one of Local 223’s Human Rights

Every member of Local 223 has a duty not to

engage in any form of unlawful discrimination. One of the main constitutional objectives of our National Union is to unite all workers in our Union regardless of race, creed, color, sex, or national origin. Local 223’s By-Laws require every member to pledge to never discriminate against a fellow worker because of race, creed, color, sex, age or national origin. The Local 223/DTE Energy contract prohibits discrimination based on race, creed, color sex, age or national origin. Law also prohibits discrimination based on disability. If any member or person represented by Local 223 believes she/he is a victim of prohibited discrimination at work (which could include verbal, physical, or written harassment), the Union is available to assist in the resolution of her/his complaint. The

representatives: Any violation of our Union’s policy against discrimination is conduct unbecoming a Union member under Local 223’s By-Laws. Local 223’s Human Rights representatives are responsible for responding to member/employee complaints about Stewards or Union officials who engage in prohibited discrimination or who ignore a complaint about prohibited discrimination. Local 223 believes that it has excellent Stewards and Local officials. However, if you have a complaint that a Steward or a Local official has engaged in prohibited discrimination, or is ignoring a complaint about prohibited discrimination, Local 223 is ready and willing to investigate and remedy such complaint. Local 223’s Human Rights representatives have the authority to initiate appropriate action against Union officials who violate our policy against discrimination, including the ability to file internal Union charges, which can result in removal from office. We urge all members of Local 223 to work with the Union to eradicate discrimination in the workplace.

MARC LITTLELocal 223 Union Hall

Phone (313) 320-3845

If you believe your rights have been violated, call the Local 223 help line

313.441.2267

Sexual Harassment • Hate Group Symbols Ethnic Discrimination • Intimidation • Illegal Retaliation

Local 223 UWUA will not tolerate any kind of unlawful harassment or discrimination.

THE LOCAL 223 UWUA OATH OF MEMBERSHIP

I pledge never to discriminate against a fellow worker because of race, creed, color, sex, age or

national origin.

I pledge never to discriminate against a fellow worker because of race, creed, color, sex, age or

national origin.

LOCAL 223 UWUA STANDS IN SOLIDARITY AGAINST ALL FORMS OF UNLAWFUL DISCRIMINATION AND HARASSMENT

THE LOCAL 223 UWUA CONSTITUTION & BYLAWS: Under our Constitution & By-Laws, any form of unlawful discrimination is a violation of the Oath of Membership and constitutes conduct unbecoming a Union member. Un-lawful discrimination is anti-union and subject to Union charges and trials. (See Constitution & By-Laws, Art.XVI.)THE LOCAL 223 DTE LABOR CONTRACT: Under our Labor Contract, any Union member who engages in un-lawful workplace discrimination is subject to just cause discipline. Local 223 and DTE are contractually committed to eliminating all forms of workplace harassment and discrimination. (See contract, Sec.. 8.33.)

Local 223 UWUA stands in solidarity against all forms of unlawful discrimination

and harassment.If you believe your rights have been violated,

call the Local 223 HELP LINE 313.441.2267

Mission Statement

The mission of UWUa Local 223 is to provide its members with a voice for the workplace and in the larger community. Our goals are to protect and improve the wages, benefits and standard of living of our members and their families, to ensure a safe and healthy workplace, to affirm the dignity and value of our members and the work they perform, and to create a more just and secure workplace and society. We accomplish our mission by:• Theactiveinvolvementofourmembers• Effectivebargainingandrepresentationofourworkplace• Activeparticipationinthepoliticalandlegislativeprocess• Theactivepursuitofallianceswithourunionsand

organizations that share our concerns, and• Organizingtoincreasethestrengthandinfluenceoftheunion

as a whole

Our work is guided by our belief in the right of all workers to participate in decisions which affect them and to be treated with dignity, fairness and respect.

Through our advocacy for the human and effective use of human resources, we enhance the lives of all employees and the performance of the company. We believe that our strength depends upon the democratic participation of all members and our willingness to stand united for our mutual gain.


FM&S DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: First TUESDAY of every other month, except June, July and August following General Council Meetings.LOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 4:30 p.m.

GAS DIVISIONCOMMIttEEPERSONS MEEtINgMEEtiNG DAtE: First WEDNESDAY of every monthLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 6:00 p.m.gENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEEtINgMEEtiNG DAtE: Second WEDNESDAY of every monthLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 6:00 p.m.

METER DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Second MONDAY of every month, except June, July and AugustLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 5:30 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November and December.

MOTOR TRANSPORTATION DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Second TUESDAY of every other month (except June, July, and August) LOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 5:30 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, March, May, September, and November

NUCLEAR GENERATION DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Second TUESDAY of each monthLOcAtiON: VFW HalltiME: 4:15 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: Meeting all months, unless cancelled by membership.

POWER GENERATION DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Fourth THURSDAY of every monthLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 7:00 p.m.

O.P.T. DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Third TUESDAY of every month except July and August LOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 6:00 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, February, March, April, May, June, September, October, November, and December

LOCAL 223 DIVISION MEETING SCHEDULE

LOCAL 223 GENERAL COUNCILMEEtiNG DAtE: Last WEDNESDAY of every other month, except June, July and August

LOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 12:30 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, March, May, September and November (refreshments served after meeting.)

STORES DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Fourth MONDAY of every other month, except June, July and AugustLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 5:00 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, March, May, September and November.

SUBSTATION DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Third THURSDAY of every month, except June, July and AugustLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 6:30 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December. (Standard two-hour meeting limit.)

TRANSMISSION TRADESMEEtiNG DAtE: Second TUESDAY of every monthLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 5:30 p.m.

UNDERGROUND LINES DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: First WEDNESDAY of every month, except June, July and AugustLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 5:30 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, February, March, April, May, September, October, November, and December.

WARREN SERVICE CENTER SHOPS DIVISIONMEEtiNG DAtE: Third WEDNESDAY of every other month, except June, July and AugustLOcAtiON: Local 223 Union HalltiME: 4:00 p.m.MEEtiNG MONtHS: January, March, May, September, and November.

Non-profit Org.U.S. Postage

PAIDPermit No. 1776Fenton, MI

15160 Commerce Drive N.Dearborn, MI 48120(313) 271-9700

uWuA, locAl 223, AFl-cio

Join us for a shopping trip to Birch RunSPONSORED BY UWUA Local 223

ONE DAY TRIP to BIRCH RUN Premium Outlets Mall • 145 OUTLET STORES12240 South Beyer Rd, Birch Run, MI

SATURDAY, DECEMBER 2, 2017

Make checks/money orders payable to: UWUA Local 223 Mail to: Juanita Ray, 15160 Commerce Dr. N., Dearborn, MI 48120

Departure from UWUA Local Union Hall15160 Commerce Drive N., Dearborn, MI 48120Bus leaving at: 8:00 am sharp

Return from Birch RunBoarding bus at: 7:00 pm

Name: _____________________________________________________________________Address: ___________________________________________________________________City: ________________________ State: ________________ Zip: ____________________Email: ______________________________________________________________________Phone: _____________________________________________________________________Emergency Contact: _______________________ Phone: ____________________________Amount Paid: ________________________________________________________________Balance Due: ________________________________________________________________

FOR INFORMATION CALL:

Juanita Ray ............................................(248) 229-6067Aurora Berlasi ........................................(313) 216-0789Knea Harris ............................................(313) 229-7461Cindy Ireland ..........................................(734) 545-9040Holly Chreston .......................................(313) 401-9193Tanya McCullough ................................. (313) 304-3511Valerie Brown .........................................(248) 496-8321Allan McKinney ......................................(313) 449-1880

$40 per person

Includes Continental Breakfast, Transportation, Snacks, Wine and Spirits Tasting, Dinner will be provided and much more!

Form & money must be received by

Nov. 17, 2017

Limited Seating on Bus

Join us for a shopping trip to Birch RunSPONSORED BY UWUA Local 223

ONE DAY TRIP to BIRCH RUN Premium Outlets Mall • 145 OUTLET STORES12240 South Beyer Rd, Birch Run, MI


Make checks/money orders payable to: UWUA Local 223 Mail to: Women’s Committee, Attention: Aurora Berlasi, 15160 Commerce Dr. N., Dearborn, MI 48120

Departure from UWUA Local Union Hall15160 Commerce Drive N., Dearborn, MI 48120Bus leaving at: 8:00 am sharp

Return from Birch RunBoarding bus at: 6:00 pm

Name:_________________________________________________________________Address:_______________________________________________________________City:_________________________ State:_________________ Zip:________________Email:__________________________________________________________________Phone:_________________________________________________________________Emergency Contact:________________________ Phone:________________________Amount Paid:____________________________________________________________Balance Due:____________________________________________________________

FOR INFORMATION CALL WOMEN’S COMMITTEE:

Juanita Ray ............................ (248) 229-6067Aurora Berlasi ........................ (313) 216-0789Knea Harris ............................ (313) 229-7461Cindy Ireland .......................... (734) 545-9040Alicia Dennis .......................... (313) 421-2215Holly Chreston ....................... (313) 401-9193Tanya McCullough ................. (313) 304-3511Valerie Brown ......................... (248) 496-8321Allan McKinney ...................... (313) 449-1880

$40 per personIncludes Continental

Breakfast, Transportation, Snacks, Wine Tasting at St. Julian, Dinner will be

provided and much more!

Form & money must be received by

11/18/2016

Limited Seating on Bus

Join us for a shopping trip to Birch runSPonSoRED bY UWUA LOcAL 223

ONE DAY TRIP • Birch run Premium Outlets Mall • 145 OUTLET STORES12240 South Beyer Road, Birch Run, Michigan


~ DEPaRTURE ~from UWUA Local Union Hall15160 Commerce Drive N.

Dearborn, MI 48120Bus Leaving: 8:00 a.m. sharp

~ RETURn ~from Birch Run

Boarding Bus: 7:00 p.m.

Make checks/money orders payable to: UWUA LOcAL 223Mail to: Women’s Committee – Attention Juanita Ray – 15160 Commerce Dr. N., Dearborn, MI 48120

vol. 28 no. 3 official publication of utility workers

Documents