The 1005 LineThe news and information

publication of

ATU Local 1005 Prepared and

distributed by the Education

Committee

For The People Who Know Where They Are Going

July / August 2011

"Silence never won rights. � ey are not handed down from above; they are forced by pressures from below."

Roger Baldwin, founder of ACLU

What’s Inside...

Officer’s Corner

page 2

Union Meeting Highlights

page 3

Transit Budget Reductions, What

They Could Have Meant

page 9

Transit Safety and Security

page 11

Meet Our Newest Member

page 13

OJE

page 14

Long-term Illness or Injury

page 15

Retirements

page 15, 16, 24, 29, 32, 33, 34

Tornado

page 17

Prostate Cancer

page 18

Related Budget Article on page 7

Transit Cuts Not as Deep as Feared

Email From: Lamb, Brian

Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2011 4:27 PM

To: Transit-All Fellow Employees:

Late yesterday the transportation fi nance bill was made public,

including funding for transit over the next two years. The bill has not

yet been signed into law, but a special session of the legislature has

been called for this afternoon so the process is now underway.

The legislature had previously proposed a $109.4 million cut over

the next two years to the State General Fund budget for regional

transit operations. Governor Dayton vetoed that bill. If he had not, we

would have been forced to cut service by about 25 percent and also

raise fares.

In the current bill, the reduction is $52 million over two years –

less than half of the original proposal. In addition, the bill includes ad-

ditional one-time funding for transit operations that will further lessen

the impact for this two-year budget cycle. We can expect about $15.8

million of Counties Improvement Transit Board funds that it will real-

locate to cover operational expenses and $7.3 million from reserves of

Suburban Transit Providers.

The Council needs to identify how to shore up the $29 million

difference. We have identifi ed a number of sources – many of them

one-time fi xes – to close the gap partially. Making up the full differ-

ence will not come painlessly, and we have a lot of work to do over

the next months to keep fi nances in line.

We can be thankful that we’re no longer looking at 25 percent ser-

vice cut scenarios with dozens of whole routes eliminated, but we will

need to fi nd service effi ciencies over the next two years. In the Sep-

tember 10 service choice, for instance, we won’t be eliminating any

routes, but we will adjust service more than we typically do. Other

options, such as a fare increase, may be considered by the Council at

some point, but is not a foregone conclusion.

We can be very appreciative of the great work of many people

in crafting this budget compromise through the legislative process.

While some additional belt tightening certainly will be required, we

will be able to maintain the high quality service to our customers for

the next two years.

I’ll keep you posted on our funding and our plans to adjust to the

new, less severe budget realities.

Thanks, Brian Lamb, General Manager

OFFICER’S

CORNER

Page 2

Michelle Sommers President

LOCAL 1005

OFFICERS

President/Business Agent

Michelle Sommers

Vice-President

Dorothy Maki

Recording Secretary/

Ass’t. Business Agent

Dan Abramowicz

Financial Secretary/

Treasurer

Tommy Bellfield

ATU Local 1005

Union Office

8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

(Closed 12:00 - 1:00)

312 Central Ave.

Suite 438

Mpls., MN 55414

612-379-2914

email:

office@atu1005.com

website:

www.atu1005.com

Calendar

Education Committee

Meetings - 11:30 a.m.

September 20th

October 18th

Membership Meetings

August 23th - Mpls.

September 27th - St. Paul

10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.

We may have a state budget settlement, but the fight is not over.

Transit funding levels are still at risk at the federal level. Pressure needs

to be maintained on elected officials to keep transit whole and reject any

cuts. That is why it is so important for members (ATU, TMSA, AFSCME

and non-rep) to contact their elected representatives and senators. It

sounds like a broken record, but it does work! We need to keep the

pressure on high right now, at the state and federal levels.

The fight is not just about transit funding either: A healthcare plan that

gives members quality coverage at an affordable price has become the

exception rather than the rule. Healthcare reform will never happen while

people are still arguing about ‘single’ vs. ‘family’ premium costs. These

kinds of reforms will become reality only when a majority of the people

work together to have their voices heard. We have reached a point where

silence is not golden; it is an endorsement for the richest 2% to control

the rest of us.

If we are to move forward in our contract, to better our working

conditions and benefits, we need to stand up and take the necessary steps.

Taking the time to get involved only takes a few minutes in a week. A

phone call and an email are all it takes. Sitting and watching while public

services are continually cut - and the working class is continually attacked

- is unacceptable. Take the time to tell your representatives what you care

about: jobs, education, transportation, collective bargaining rights or

anything else. Let them know you will be watching how they vote on

your issues.

While I think we should all be able to agree that transit funding and

healthcare are important, I also know we may disagree on other issues.

Let’s try to put aside the issues we disagree on for now and work together

on the issues that unite us.

The union office is in the process of creating a new website that will

be easier to follow; have information on issues more quickly; have

Facebook links; email notification; and other upgrades to increase

Continued on page 19

FIGHT IS NOT OVER

Page 3

Education

Committee

Advisor

Dorothy Maki

Chair

Melanie Benson

South

Liz Goldberg

Stacey Taylor

Heywood Office

Ilona LaDouceur

Rec. Secretary

Nicollet

Alec Johnson

Ryan Timlin

Twaya McIntosh

Debbi Sievers

Blayne Williams

Ruter

Anastasia Bloodsaw

Jackie Williams

East Metro

Philip Jarosz

Doug Barton

Heywood Garage

Faye Brown

Vice Chair

Walter T. Curry, Jr.

LRT

Carl Rice

Lisa Callahan

725 Bldg.

Scott Lindquist

Stephen Babcock

Layout

Editorial Board

Ken Dolney

Mark Lawson

Gary Bier

Recommendations of the Executive Board

A motion was m/s/c to pay for air travel, luggage fees, registration, lost time and per diem for two officers to attend the Transit Initiatives &

Communities Conference in St. Louis from June 20-22, 2011

sponsored by the Center for Transportation Excellence.

A motion was m/s/c to pay registration and lost time for fifteen (15) members to attend the Labor Arbitration Institute’s seminar titled

Labor Law and Labor Arbitration on Thursday, October 13.

A motion was m/s/c to pay for air fare, luggage fees, registration, activity fees, lost time, and per diem for four (4) Executive Board members to attend the 2011 ATU Eastern Can-Am Conference Sep.

13-18 in Manalapan, FL. (Palm Beach)

A motion was m/s/c to purchase a new computer server, software licensing, backup equipment, anti-virus software and firewall protection at a cost not to exceed $8,500.00.

A motion was m/s/c to purchase a portable digital projector at a cost not to exceed $1,000.00.

A motion was m/s/c to purchase a new laptop computer at a cost not to exceed $3,000.00.

A motion was m/s/c to allow Lynn Larkin-Wright, Community Services

Liaison for St. Paul Regional Labor Federation, to appear before the

executive board to speak briefl y.

(m/s/c = made, seconded and carried)

Arbitration Requests

An East Metro operator requested arbitration after being discharged

for violating her Last Chance Agreement and Misconduct. After a brief

explanation in which Ms. Rodriguez appeared, a secret ballot was cast.

This request will not be going to arbitration.

A Nicollet operator requested arbitration for a Class B violation. After

a brief explanation in which Mr. Wallace appeared, a secret ballot was

cast. This request will be going to arbitration.

Financial Secretary/Treasurer's Report

The following member passed away since last month’s meeting:

Mike Wallace - First Transit

Members stood for a moment of silence.

Continued on page 4

Union Meeting Highlights

May 2011

Light Rail

Carl Rice #6223

Lisa Callahan #6716

Mark Miller retired from LRT,

July 15, 2011. We wish him

well!!!!!

Parking spaces at LRT have

decreased since construction

started on the expansion of the

Central Corridor.

The pick will be hung the

week of July 25, with picking to

start August 1. This is a system

pick.

Classes are almost done for

the new rulebook. The new

rulebook will go into effect

August 1.

Enjoy the rest of summer!!!!

Winter is coming.......

LRT had a unplanned shutdown

August 5, 2011 during rush hour.

It started when the Catina Wire

broke, stalling a train on the Hwy.

62 flyover. A bus bridge was used

from the Franklin Avenue Station

to the HHH Airport Station.

Trains resumed around 3:00 p.m..

Be safe in construction zones.

They’re everywhere

Page 4

President's Report

The interim open enrollment packets have been sent out to members.

Excess monies paid by active members will be repaid, minus applicable

income taxes, by June 10. Retirees will have their respective accounts

credited for the excess monies paid.

Members were thanked for approving the purchase of a new computer

server.

Implementation of the new contract involves many meetings to insure

both Union and Company have mutual understanding regarding new or

changed language. Nothing in the new contract will be implemented until

July 1st.

Several arbitration awards and settlements were announced: Five were

settled, one was denied, and two were sustained in part.

A meeting took place several weeks ago with Gen. Mgr. Brian Lamb

regarding several grievances.

Lynn Larkin-Wright’s appearance at the Executive Board meeting was

discussed briefly. Members were urged to call “211” for help.

President Sommers invited members to “pass the hat” for donations to

be given to the family of Tajepaul Mathura (needs pancreas transplant).

Members are requested to call, email, write or meet with their state

legislators to voice their concerns about the budget problems.

A flyer will be posted soon for people to sign up to help members

affected by the bad weather in North Minneapolis on May 21 and 22.

Unfinished Business

A motion was made and seconded to abandon the purchase of a

building and pursue renting new space at 312 Central Ave (3rd floor,

room 356) and enter into a new lease. The motion passed.

May Rochester Membership Meeting

The Rochester membership meeting was held on Wednesday, May 25,

2011, at the Rochester Labor Temple.

Dan Abramowicz presented the arbitration requests. After brief expla-

nations, secret ballots were cast.

Financial Report

Copies of the budget and financial statement were made available to

members.

East Metro

Philip Jarosz, Dr. #65015

Doug Barton, Dr. #68273

Drivers Robert Horbach,

#2626, Ronald Bailey, #9320 and

Mike Swintek, #82, have all

retired from East Metro.

Part-time drivers Beth Crigen,

#70315 and Jane Hanson, #68279

will be going full-time.

Barb Osadcheek, #2499 will be

completing the O.J.E. program for

Transit Supervisor on August 22nd

and will return to driving.

Lowande Aaron has been at

East Metro as part of the O.J.E.

program as an assistant manager.

She will be completing her

program August 22nd.

Steve Jaeger has fi nally gotten

his fi fth assistant. Dan Stoffer

from the Training Center is at East

Metro as an assistant manager for

many months to come.

Speaking of the Training

Center, East Metro has received

two trainers from the

Center.

Dennis Johnson, #1087 and

Stephanie Nichols, #9485 have

returned to driving.

Page 5

President's Report

New office space for the Union Office is being considered and we’re

waiting for a response from building management.

The new Run Time Committee will commence with Garage

Coordinators being involved in the selection process for routes being

considered.

The new “2-step” grievance procedure will begin on July 1, 2011. All

grievances initiated on July 1st and after will be handled with the new

procedure.

Public hearings have been scheduled in preparation for the impending

State Shutdown. Members were encouraged to attend as many meetings

as they could and show support for transit.

President Sommers and Rec. Sec. Dan Abramowicz attended a training

seminar in St. Louis, Missouri, to show transit advocates how to generate

more money for transit through a variety of ways.

Metro Transit’s restricted duty program has been rumored to have

been discontinued. We will inquire and respond accordingly.

National Group Protection will be at the properties in September to

sign members up for insurance products.

Transit cuts are projected to be about 25%, possibly resulting in layoffs

in the hundreds.

Volunteers are requested for the upcoming ATU Picnic on Sunday,

June 2011

Report of the Local

The ATU Picnic was announced for Aug. 7 at Battle Creek Park in St.

Paul.

Members informed of upcoming arbitration assessments.

The work status of a fellow member was discussed briefly.

RCL’s contract extension with the city of Rochester is not “official”

yet.

Members were reminded that contract negotiations will re-start in late

summer and to think of what changes (proposals) they’d like to see.

Old Business

A motion was m/s/c to abandon the purchase of a building and pursue

renting new space at 312 Central Ave, 3rd floor, and enter into a new

lease.

Commuter Rail Big

Lake

Ridership Update We are happy to announce that Northstar Commuter Rail’s week-day average ridership has once again increased over last year. Although May’s total rider count was slightly lower than last year, the weekday average is up by over 29%. For the first five months of 2011, total ridership is up 4% over last year and the weekday average is up 16%.

Northstar milestones BNSF’s Northstar Suburban Operations has accomplished 2 YEARS INJURY FREE beginning on June 1, 2009 and 119 days with 100% On Time Performance effective May 31, 2011. A tremendous accomplishment.

Tom’s Cornerby Tom Mevissen

An oily predicament Recently, the maintenance facilities crew at Big Lake VMF have successfully solved a mys-tery. For many months, facilities have been aware of an oily “rain drip” coming from an exhaust air unit for the compressor room located on the mezzanine. They were able to deduct that this oil is actually coming from the “waste” channel located underneath the S&I pit. The air that is being replaced has concentrated the oil from the air and in effect leaks out of the exhaust air unit. Facilities modified the air compressors with custom air filters. They also replaced the air louvers located near the S&I pit with air filters as well. The filters will now soak up the oil before it gets into the exhaust unit. These changes will help keep the air compressor equipment oil free and prevent overheating.

Page 6

August 7.

LRT management has told an operator that a “field test” is not

acceptable as a valid test. ATU will be grieving the issue.

ATU learned that Metro Transit allegedly hired ‘outside’ people as

Stockkeepers while internal candidates were deemed ineligible. This will

be investigated.

A Close Encounter of the Customer Type

TIC Humor

Caller: I need a bus from “the” transit center to the U of M.

Rep: Which transit center?

Caller: “The” transit center.

Rep: There are many transit centers...where are you?

Caller: (annoyed) The Brooklyn Center Transit Center.

Rep: Okay good, thank you. And where would you like to go at

the U of M?

Caller: Ummm, The Carlson School of Magnets.

Rep: Pardon me?

Caller: (irritated) The Carlson School of Magnets

Rep: do you mean the Carlson School of Management?

Caller: Yea…whatever.

Customer, in all seriousness, wanted to go from the Happy Valley

Transit Center to the Megermall.

Another one wanted to go to Hennepin and Frankenstein.

Oh dear!!!

I had a call this morning from a guy wanting to go downtown

Minneapolis and said he was at 2418. Just that, 2418, no street.

When I asked for the name of the street, he said, “There is no

street, it’s an apartment.” I explained that I needed either a street

address or intersection, and he said he did not know the name of

the street, so I asked him if he could walk out to the street and read

me the sign at the corner. He was on a cell phone, so I could hear

“crunch, crunch, crunch,” as he walked out to the street. He said,

“Okay, I see a sign.” I said, “What does it say?” He said, “I will

spell it for you. "R-E-N-T-A-L O-F-F-I-C-E.”

Page 7

Heywood

Ilona La Douceur #66048

Faye Brown # 6331

Walter T. Curry, Jr. #3815

SAFETY

With today's budget cuts, let's not cut corners on safety or let it be put on the back burner. The Mall of America (MOA) is being closely monitored for buses not properly stopping at LRT cross-ings. Buses must stop at all non-exempt rail crossings. Failure to do so could result in loss of one’s CDL. Don't cross tracks if you can't clear them.

Bays and driveways at garages are not “home free, all rules out”. The speed limit is still enforced. We can be hit and killed, so slow down, let us live, and keep your job. You’ll get home whether you drive at 10 mph or 30 mph. Let's remember that the job you are doing, we are doing, too. So let's be courteous to each other. Keep your cool. Let's talk, not yell.

Be safe in construction zones. They’re everywhere.

MAINTENANCE

Mechanics remind drivers to write up bad order buses. “We can't fix it if we don't know it’s broken.” Call dispatch on pullouts if you have a problem, instead of running around looking for a mechanic.

Mechanic Recognition took place in July. Congratulations! Good job.

TRANSIT BUDGET REDUCTIONSWhat They Could Have Meant

Ilona LaDouceur TIC #66048

Most of you are aware of the potential budget cuts some legislators

were proposing for transit. It is this writer’s personal and professional

opinion that ANY cuts in transit, at any level, are ludicrous. There is a

growing and constant need for public transit services. In my position in

TIC (Transit Information Center) I alone talk to 150 to 200 people a day,

day in and day out, getting the information they need to ride public

transportation. I have had several callers during my shift express their

concern in regards to transit service cuts and fare increases. I have

instructed these callers to make their concerns and comments known by

calling, writing and emailing directly to the Met Council.

Here are just some of the reasons NOT to cut, but rather ADD money

to the transit budget. In other words, to progress not digress:

• Many of our riders depend on public transportation 100% for their

everyday functions: work, school, transporting their children to school and daycare, medical appointments, shopping and other routine errands, taking care of other family members or friends that are not mobile. We are the only mode of transportation that they have.

• With gas prices getting higher, people who have their own vehicles are finding that it is too expensive to commute this way; thus, they have begun to use and rely on public transportation.

• Traffic - a growing population means more traffic. Public transportation means fewer single person vehicles, thus better traffic flow. This is compounded more with all the summer highway construction jobs.

• “Go Greener”. Less traffic means less pollution and less pollution-related health issues.

Per the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of all of Minnesota as of

2010 was approximately 5.3 million people. About 3.5 million of those

are in the seven-county metro area, plus Rochester, Mankato, St Cloud

and Duluth. These cities are growing and becoming more populated year

after year. People need to get around, go to work, do their errands and go

to appointments. Kids go to school. Tourists want to visit different places

in the cities. We need to have the resources to move large numbers of

people to vast areas of space in a timely fashion....PUBLIC

TRANSPORTATION.

On June 27, 2011 John Levin, Director of Service Development

presented “Planning for Potential Transit Budget Reductions.” These are

some of the ideas and major points:

The Budget Challenge

• Final transit operation budget undetermined

Nicollet

Melanie Benson #854

Twaya McIntosh #9002

Debbi Sievers #64222

Alec Johnson #66034

Ryan Timlin #66279

Blayne Williams #77

Rummage Sale

The annual Nicollet Garage

Rummage Sale was held on

Saturday, July 30. This sale, spon-

sored by the Nicollet Club, raises

money each year to pay for cable

TV in the drivers’ room. This

year’s sale netted $748, of which

$300 goes to the maintenance

shop. More funds will need to be

raised because cable TV costs over

$90 a month.

Thanks to the many people

who donated items to the sale; to

those who examined and sorted

them; and to those who set every-

thing up, staffed the sale and put

things away afterwards. Extra

thanks because the day of the sale

was very hot and humid.

Special mention goes to:

Maria Flores, Driver 6942 and

daughter

Debra Mills, Driver 9846

Peter Moore, Driver 1700

Joel Terrell, Garage Coordinator

Ginger Duckworth, Driver 68255

and family members

Caroline Boekhoff, Driver 6851

Dave Zapata

Charles Hall

Joe Comerford Retires

The retirement party for Joe

Comerford, Driver 9795, was held

in the Nicollet drivers’ room on

Tuesday, August 9, 2011. Joe is

retiring with 14 years of service.

We wish Joe the very best in the

years to come.

Page 8• Planning based on transit finance bill proposal for $109 million

cut in general fund for biennium

Comprehensive Approach

• Administrative cost reductions and efficiencies

• Use of reserves and other funding sources

• Fare increase

• Unprecedented service reductions (This item got my attention)

Fare Increase Options

Base Fare Increase $0.25 $0.50

Estimated Ridership Loss* 2.5 m (3%) 6.8 m (8%)

Ridership Recovery Period 18 months 24 months

Net Revenue Increase $11 million $16 million

in 2012/13 biennium*

• Increasing ridership loss limits potential fare

revenue growth from fare increases

* Assumes fare increase takes effect January 1, 2012

Service Reduction Plan Strategy

• Review all services

• Metro Transit and MTS contracted regular route

• Metro Mobility: Meet ADA service requirements

• Transit Link: Retain existing funding level?

Guiding Principles for Regular Route

Bus Service Reduction Planning

• Minimize ridership loss

• Minimize impacts on those who rely on transit the most, avoid

disparate impacts

• Preserve the integrity and connectivity of the transit system

where possible

• Seek public input on plans and adjust based on comments

Methodology

• Review route performance

• Eliminate or restructure high subsidy / low ridership service

• Reduce frequency and span of service, eliminate segments of

routes

• Take into account other options for riders (shifts to other routes,

other modes)

• Review plans to avoid disparate impacts

• Prioritize proposals to allow for scaled plan

Page 9

MJR

Jackie Williams #66180

Anastasia Bloodsaw #2297

I’d like to thank many at MJR

for the love they recently showed

three of our coworkers who were

affected by the May tornado in

North Minneapolis.

Mike Mucker, known for his

quest for fun and laughter, com-

passionately suggested we all

come together to be a financial

blessing to these operators. We

were not concerned with what the

insurance companies, FEMA, or

any other agencies were doing, for

we personally wanted to assist

them.

Given the fact that one of the

families was a Metro Transit hus-

band-and-wife team (Jeff #9071

and Margaret #9866 Stephens), we

were devastated with their double

loss. Later, we were made aware

that Operator Al Sesler #65025

also was affected.

The day after the storm and

tornado, Jeff and Margaret

Stephens were awakened by the

buzzing of power saws and the

illumination of a generator light as

debris was being cleared by anoth-

er Metro Transit husband-and-wife

team, John and Julie McConnell.

Tim Hnida (Squirrel) helped to

raise additional funds to add to the

donations. All time was donated

during split breaks. Management

was also cooperative. Thank you,

Manager Doyne Parsons, Mike

Mucker #65108, Dakota Nyaribo,

#67299, Tim (Squirrel) Hnida

#65086, John #8803 and Julie

#2384 McConnell and all our fel-

low operators for your donations.

We are a close family at MJ

Ruter. There is love at MJ Ruter.

Preliminary Planning Effort

• Review current route performance

• Outline potential service reductions

• Project impact on ridership, resources

• Identify conflicts in guiding principles

• Adjust approach based on policy direction and

public input

Distribution of Service Reductions

• 25% reduction in hours of service

• 200+ peak buses

• Loss of 8 to 10 million annual rides

• 500+ jobs lost

Significant Impacts on Local Routes

• Most suburban local and many crosstown routes eliminated

• Many routes with frequency and/or hours of service reductions

• Connectivity of core urban network compromised

• More trips will require a transfer, take longer

• More standees on core local routes

Significant Impacts on Commuter Routes

• Lower performing routes eliminated

• Some high ridership routes eliminated, including most U of M

routes, riders shift to local service

• Policy approach to park & ride service

– Approach 1: Eliminate all park & ride service - or -

– Approach 2: Retain high ridership service to major

park & ride markets; make deeper cuts to local service

Primary Park and Ride Network

• St. Paul markets: Maplewood, Woodbury

• Minneapolis markets: Maplewood, Woodbury, Blaine,

Coon Rapids, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Roseville,

Edina, Bloomington, I-394 corridor

• 69 peak buses

• 2.4 million annual rides retained

Local Service Reductions to Offset

Retained Primary Park & Ride Service

• 6 more route eliminated one or more days

• 11 more core local routes with deeper midday

frequency reductions

• 10 to 15 percent of total service reduction

• 12 peak buses

• 1.9 million annual rides lost

Page 10

725 Bldg

Scott Lindquist #6401

Stephen Babcock #3128

Instructor Cheryl Kienietz-

Hall, secretary Sharon Reich,

and manager Maria Crescini are

all that is left of the training

department here at the OSC/725

Building. All the other instruc-

tors went back to the garages in

a driving position. This is

because at this time and with

these budgetary constraints there

will be no new hiring of drivers

until next spring.

Congratulations to Danny

Kearns for retiring after 10 years

of service.

In the Material Management

annual pick, Rick Rolfson (Head

Stockkeeper) left to go to the

new Track and Signals Facility

over on 24th and Hiawatha Ave.

Stephen Babcock will be the

new Head Stockkeeper.

The Radio department has

been extremely busy making

cables to support all the elec-

tronic equipment coming in the

new buses. They manufacture

the cables and then ship them

out to Gillig in California to

have them installed as the buses

are being built on the assembly

line.

Summary

• Significant reduction in overall coverage and

system connectivity

• Largest portion of savings from cuts to urban

local service

• Conflict between retaining core park & ride

markets vs. deeper cuts to local service

Public Engagement

Public Hearings

• These were scheduled but have now been cancelled.

We need to talk to our riders and let them know of their options in

voicing their concerns, comments and ideas. Talk to your union

representative or call the union office. Contact our government officials.

Cuts like these would be devastating to public transportation in every

respect: for our riders, for us and for the future of public transportation

in the Twin Cities and beyond.

Protecting the Privacy of OthersMelanie Benson, Driver 854

The beginning of a new system pick for drivers is a good time to

remind ourselves to guard one another’s privacy. Drivers who change

routes may not want all of their passengers to know which new route,

schedule or garage they have chosen. This information should come from

the actual driver and not from coworkers.

There have been instances of unwanted attentions by certain passengers

toward certain drivers. We are in a vulnerable position out there. Let’s

not make it worse for each other by giving out information on others.

We should not even share other

drivers’ names (fi rst or last),

their family status, their senior-

ity standing, their health status,

vacation times or anything else

that might identify them to pas-

sengers.

This is not to say that any of

our passengers are necessarily

untrustworthy, but we just never

know. So, to be on the safe side,

let the drivers who choose to

share their information do so

themselves. If passengers ques-

tion other drivers, they can be

told of privacy considerations.

They’ll understand.

TRANSIT SAFETY/SECURITY

COMMITTEE (TSSC)

MEETING MINUTES

Disclaimer:

Due to format changes, these columns are not exact

replicas of TSSC minutes. We cannot assure the accura-

cy of all data. The exact minutes are posted after each

meeting at the operating garages.

Page 11

May 5, 2011

Members of the Committee Present:

Danielle Julkowski - Management Advisor

Christina House,-Committee Chair

Jerry Langer- MJR

Darrell Hanson,- Nicollet

Leatha Falls- FTH

Lisa Benson - South

Diane Rude - East Metro

Others in attendance:

Don Davis- Maintenance

Eric Isakson- TCC

Mario Galasso-MTPD

- Safety

Debra Downing- Street Operations

Brad Carlson-Operator

Doug Looyen-OJE ATM

Paul Krech-OJE ATM

Christina House called meeting to order at 10:00 am in FTH Chambers.

March minutes were not reviewed.

POLICE REPORT

Mario Galasso in attendance:

• N. Metro P&R’s targeted for Catalytic Converter thefts-Suspects have

been arrested.

• Undercover police are boarding w/transfers.

• Media questioning Metro Transit “Stroller Policy”. Per/Risk Mgmt-state

the policy and let it go. The request will be on video.

TCC REPORT

Eric Isakson in attendance:

• April 2011-40% of calls are disorderly conduct

South

Liz Goldberg #1630

Stacey Taylor #70055

Stars In the Southern Sky

Stephen Leko, #9201, South

Operator and Relief Instructor,

gathered August 4th with fellow

workers and management

in honor of his retirement, with 19

years of loyal and joyful service.

Tall and soft-spoken, with a big

smile and friendly greeting

for everyone, Steve not only con-

tributed his many talents and skills

within the Instruction arena, but

also happily volunteered for any

and all garage events. The

"Breakfast Club" was infamous due

to Steve's perfect pancakes and egg

sausage sandwiches!

It has always been obvious, the

love Steve has had for his job.

It’s also just as obvious how impor-

tant the people Steve works with

are to him. Steve Leko - One of a

kind - A star in our sky. Love you,

StevO.

"Last-Day-Of-The-17-Week-Pick-

Celebrational Pot Luck"

Everyone is so grateful that it’s

finally over that we decided to cele-

brate - with food! September 9th is

the date. Bring your favorite salad,

dessert or main dish.

"The Annual Butch Shiro Chili

Cook-Off" Scheduled for October

- date to be announced.

Peter Stumme, Nicollet Operator

Ladder Academy Participant

After very successfully complet-

ing his 12-week On the Job

Experience here at South, Peter

returns to his home garage this

August. Congratulations!

Page 12April- Call Type Number

RT 9780

PRTT 2589

Emergency request to talk 334

Silent Alarm 240

SAFETY REPORT

No Report

RISK

No Report

LRT

No Report

STREET OPERATIONS

Deb Downing in attendance:

• CCLRT- Read the detours, a lot of changes.

• Plowing issues taken care……help from Mother

Nature.

• EB University-Jersey barriers not positioned properly

at bus stop for pick up/drop off- Call TCC with

locations. People jumping/ climbing over barriers to

cross street or to catch the bus

• MOA-MOA employees, commercial vehicles running

stop signs, cutting off buses.

• DID Ambassadors parking on Nicollet Mall, blocking

buses.

• Nicollet Mall-Complaints of vehicles parking on the

sidewalk

• 12th/Nicollet Bus Stop, request for bus stop to be

moved back to NS.

MAINTENANCE REPORT

Don Davis in attendance:

• MCI Buses-All curbside mirrors changed out with

convex mirrors

• South and MJR will receive new Flyer buses June.

• Exhaust Temperature indicator light on 11 & 12

hundred series- No action needed by operator

ACTION ITEM

Respectfully submitted,

Danielle Julkowski

June 2, 2011

Members of the Committee Present:

DJ Tafesse- MJR - Committee Chair

Darrell Hanson,- Nicollet

Leatha Falls- FTH

Danielle Julkowski - Management Advisor

Lisa Benson - South

Diane Rude-East Metro

Brenda Himrich-Safety

Debra Downing-Street Operations

Russ Dixon- ATU

Director of Bus Operations-Christy Bailly

Diane Rude called meeting to order at 10:00 am in

FTH Chambers.

REVIEW OF MINUTES

May minutes were not reviewed

VISITORS

Brad Carlson-Nic operator

POLICE REPORT

Mike LaVine in attendance:

• 2011-3 Assaults on operators (2 arrests made).

• Safe Zone-Increase in Offi cers riding from DT to

BCTC and RTS.

• May 31-June7-Police saturation at 7th/Nic BS, DT

LRT platforms.

• Increase in activity at Lake ST LRT Platform,

offi cers to monitor.

• Suspect who assaulted a vulnerable adult on the

bus in St Paul received 5 yrs in prison for this

crime. Background check confi rmed the suspects

DNA matched another unsolved assault on another

vulnerable adult. Consecutive sentencing in process.

• 3 portable tower cameras at P&R with theft issues-

P&R lots without cameras.

TCC REPORT

Eric Isakson in attendance:

• May 2011

Call Type Number

RT 10437

PRTT 2371

Emergency request to talk 98

Silent Alarm 237 11-Determined (actual events)

SAFETY REPORT

Brenda Himrich in attendance:

• System Vehicle and Customer Bus Accidents per

100,000 miles-2011

Goal-3.80

YTD-4.98

• Nic Mall- buses speeding, running red lights and

passing. Safety to monitor

Page 13

• Increase in accidents happening in garages

RISK

No Report

LRT

Derrick Cain in attendance:

• June 4, at 2330 –Jun 5, 1200hrs- Bus Bridge from Franklin to MOA.

STREET OPERATIONS

Deb Downing in attendance:

Updates from last month’s requests

• EB University-Jersey barriers not positioned properly at bus stop for pick up/drop off- Call TCC with locations.

Street Operations working with city.

• MOA-MOA employees, commercial vehicles running stop signs, cutting off buses. Street Operations to monitor

• DID Ambassadors parking on Nicollet Mall, blocking buses. DID Supervisor instructed workers to move

vehicle ASAP when fi nished with work.

• 12th/Nicollet Bus Stop, request for bus stop to be moved back to NS. Agreement with city prohibits moving the

bus stop.

New concerns:

• EB 3rd St near Cedar -Request for tree trimming.

• EB Univ at Cromwell, Hamline and Simpson-Not able to board persons in wheelchair due to positioning of

jersey barriers.

MAINTENANCE REPORT

No Report

ACTION ITEM

• Request to change signage on bus- No music without headphones- Operators cannot hear chimes over the music.

• Op was involved in accident. Within a week he has received 33 inquires from lawyers. Op is wondering how the

lawyers got the information. Law fi rms request information through The Data Practice Act.

• Risk Mgmt is looking into getting rid of the Courtesy Cards.

Respectfully submitted,

Danielle Julkowski

Meet Our Newest Member

Hi. My name is Doug Barton, and I’m Driver #68273 out of East

Metro. I started with Metro Transit in September of 2008 and made

full-time in May of 2010.

I am a native Minnesotan and a graduate of Breck School. I have

a work history in either transportation or sales. I was a long-haul truck

driver for ten years, traveling 48 states and Canada, with a one-time

trip to Alaska.

I have a love for traveling, both domestic and abroad. My passions are downhill skiing, golf, anything out-

doors, cards, chess, and jazz music.

If you should happen to see me, please stop and say hi. Please also let me know if you have any ideas for ar-

ticles you’d like see in The 1005 Line. I’m always willing to listen and to see where we might take it.

Page 14

A Good On-the-Job Experience

Anastasia Bloodsaw, Dr. #2297, MJR

I signed up for the Leadership Academy two years ago. On May 26, 2011, I received a letter stating that one

of the three positions that I had picked was open. The open position was in the farebox department, acting as

Farebox Supervisor. I only had a day or so to get back with HR to let them know if I was going to take the

position or not, as they needed move to the next person. Despite not knowing anything about this department, I

decided to take the position.

For every job that I have applied for at Metro Transit, it has been clear that management wants a person who

has at least a basic level of computer skills. In going through these interviews, I was initially quite upset with

Metro Transit for not having made this clearer throughout the years. I’ve been driving for over ten years now,

and I feel that I have mastered being a professional driver. Ultimately, however, Metro Transit is too big a

company for me to stay in one spot until I retire.

So I went home and thought about it. Eventually I decided that I can’t say Metro Transit is responsible for

holding me back from getting the jobs I’m applying for. I realized that, until I advance my own computer skills,

I am going to be right here driving buses until I retire.

One thing I didn’t note yet is that I graduated from secretarial school in 1993. If you’re not utilizing your

skills, and if too much time passes, you will forget what you learned. I don’t use computers when driving the

bus, so it’s no surprise that I lost these skills with the passing of time.

I went to see my garage manager, Mr. Doyne Parsons, and I asked him what he thought I needed to do, based

on my desire to move to a different position at Metro Transit. He told me that Metro Transit was coming out

with some computer classes and that I should strongly consider taking at least a few of those classes.

With that, I started taking computer classes as I was going through the rest of my OJE classes. Now, having

been in the OJE portion for almost six weeks, I can really say things are not as bad as I thought they would be.

I’ve been very fortunate to work with a mentor who’s been able to help me grow in my computer skills while

also demonstrating how those computer skills are necessary to being successful in a supervisor position at Metro

Transit. In the six weeks I’ve been an OJE, I’ve grown in my skills to the point where I can confidently use

Microsoft Outlook (email), Excel and Word. I’m also pulling reports off my computer each day and analyzing

those reports to provide work direction to the employees working within the department.

Beyond just learning about computers, I’ve gotten to understand how the fare box repair department operates

at Metro Transit. They are a very small department, but they are important to the overall success of Metro

Transit. I’ve learned how to take a fare box apart and how to clean the various parts of the fare box, including

the Trim unit. I’ve learned how to install and remove a fare box on the bus. I’ve also gotten to learn more about

how the fare box repair department works closely with the vault pulling department to make sure every dollar is

collected and eventually sent to the bank.

In the six weeks I’ve been in the OJE portion of the program, I feel I’ve built enough computer skills so that I

won’t be held back in completing for future job openings by not knowing how to use computers. Overall,

despite my worries and apprehension concerning the OJE portion of the Leadership Academy, I can truly say I

am enjoying myself and learning a lot! And I really enjoy the learning because this is something I want to do.

Just remember that if you want to move into something other than driving in the future and you feel that your

lack of computer skills or other training is holding you back: It’s never too late to learn!

Page 15

So You’ve Fallen Down and Broken Your Head -

What to Do Now…?Doug Barton, Driver 68273, East Metro Garage

First, pick yourself up, give your head a shake and see if anything has come loose. If nothing is wrong, look

around and make sure no one has seen your re-enactment of a Dick Van Dyke pratfall, and go along your merry

way with the knowledge that only your pride has been hurt. (This realization is quite cheap and you don’t have

to endure those people in the white coats.)

On the other hand, if you notice that when you turn your head you can feel the gray matter up there wrapping

around your brainstem, you may want to tell somebody about it, and be showered with sympathy. More than

likely they will be amenable to your wishes, and will tell you that you should have your head examined by a

professional. You shouldn’t take this advice personally, but by all means take it to heart. This could be the

beginning of a journey into an extended illness/injury situation.

Everyone at Metro Transit should know the procedure for taking time off from work due to a personal (off

the job) illness/injury situation. Should you fall ill before your next shift:

1. Call dispatch as early as possible and let them know you won’t be coming in to work (the earlier, the better, as this allows your dispatcher the time to fill your work.) Do not wait until ten minutes before your shift. In fact, anything less than twenty minutes will count as a ‘late’ and not as a sick occurrence.

2. Inform your manager and be prepared to get a doctor’s release (especially if this injury/illness is starting to look like it will last more than a couple of days). Your manager will issue medical forms to be filled out by your doctor, and the result of your physical will be the determining decision as to whether or not an extended leave of absence will be required.

Once it has been determined that you will be placed on extended leave, you will be required to follow some

Metro Transit guidelines to get you back on track in your job. You will be required to call in to your manager on

a weekly basis (just to inform your manager of your current status and if you have any medical appointments

scheduled). In most cases, should you not get your manager on the phone, a voice mail will suffice. If managers

have any more questions, they will call you back. You should make sure your manager has your current phone

number and an e-mail address, if possible. Communication between you and manager will be paramount in

getting back to work. Any medical appointments will need to be reported within two hours after completion.

Medical forms provided by Metro Transit will need to be completed and mailed or faxed as soon as possible.

Taking care of these things in a timely fashion will help you and your manager determine the best course of

action.

End of part one

On May 31, 2011, at East Metro Garage, Ron retired with

more than 18 years of service. Ron started as a part-time driver

at South Garage in February of 1993, and in April of 1994

transferred to Snelling/East Metro, where he remained until his

retirement.

Ron’s plan is to travel to California to see his grandson.

Ron is pictured here with Assistant Transportation Manager

Barb Keener.

Ron Bailey, Driver 9320, Retires

Phil Henderson #64237

There was a great cookout

for Phil on Thursday, May 26th,

to help him celebrate his retire-

ment. The offi cial party with

cake was held on Wednesday,

June 1st, 2011. Phil is retiring

with seven years of service. He

started in July of 2004.

When asked what he will

miss, he replied, "I will really

miss the green micro scrub in the

rest rooms. It really works good for

cleaning hands." When asked if he had any plans, "I am going to

do some traveling and eventually move to a warmer climate. I am

going to buy a farm and raise medical marijuana."

Phil, your sense of humor and attention to detail in work will be

missed. We wish you the best in your endeavors (and maybe we

will visit your farm when we retire).

Bill Wormwood #561

Bill was hired as a full-time driver on February 4, 1980 and left service as a

train operator on June 2, 2011.

He retires with 31 years of

service. "I have always enjoyed

driving. LRT was a nice change

from the buses." He is looking

forward to working less, enjoying

life more, and stopping to smell

the roses. He just turned 62 and

decided it was time to go.

Left: Sheri Gin-

gerich, Deputy

Chief Offi cer -

Rail presents Bill

a new-style shirt.

Right:

Tommy Bellfi eld, Finnacial Secretary/Treasurer of Local 1005,

presents Bill with the customary union jacket.

Page 16

Run Time Committee If you are interested in participating, please contact your Garage Coordinator or the Union offi ce.

Please designate which problem routes you have knowledge of. This committee starts in the September pick.

Page 17

Diabetes, Part Three

Faye Brown, Driver 6331, Heywood Garage

Well, everyone, a lot of information was put out about diabetes and the Motorcycle Tour de Ride. I hope you

took advantage of it. The ride took place June 4, and we made it through the uphills and the downhills. Rich-

ard Miller, Paul Osborne, Marilyn Hood and I represented Heywood. We did the 7 -mile ride. There were other

drivers from other garage who rode the 7, 27, 42 or 62 miles.

It was a lot of unexpected fun. The phrase that was said as you passed a rider who wore the red shirts (repre-

senting that they had diabetes) was GO, RED RIDER. We laughed, met new people and, of course, ate. We also

enjoyed entertainment and games. There were so many people from other garages and other companies there to

participate in this wonderful event. I really feel privileged to have had the opportunity to help raise money and

ride for this cause.

If you missed the ride, plan on doing it next year. I will, and I will be working toward the 27 miles. Hope to

see you on the road next year.

Tornado that Touched Lives

Faye Brown, Driver 6331, Heywood Garage

The sky, sunny and bright, became cloudy. It

turned dark, so dark it was like night. The rain

began to pour and the winds started to blow so

hard the windows and doors sounded like they

were coming off their hinges. Trees were falling

and rooftops were peeling away. People were

running and screaming, trying to hide - but,

before they could, it was over.

If you think this was an HBO or STARZ

movie or some TV special, you’re wrong. That was a small description of what happened on May 22, 2011, the

day a tornado touched down in North Minneapolis, a day we will never forget.

When the people in that area came up from their hiding, it was unbelievable. It looked like a bomb had been

dropped. People’s homes, vehicles and businesses were damaged to the point of no repair. I talked to some

eyewitnesses who saw it touch down and dance across the lake at Wirth Park; some saw it by the golf course; a

witness cried to me on the phone as she saw the one storm victim as he lay dead in his car after it had been

crushed by a tree.

There were many drivers of the transit fleet who were on the

street that day and were terrified because there was nowhere to

drive to for cover. One driver from Heywood Garage was caught

in the middle, with trees falling down all around her bus and

feeling trapped.

After all of this happened to North Minneapolis, the

compassion and help that came from everywhere was

overwhelming. People from all over came to lend a hand with the

cleanup: the Red Cross, Salvation Army churches and just

everyday neighbors wanting to help. KMOJ broadcasted from the

outside so that donations could be dropped. FEMA has not declared this as enough of an emergency to give

monies to help individual families that are in need. So a donation of any kind (clothing, furnishings, health and

beauty) is truly appreciated.

Note: After all the troubles the people of North Minneapolis have gone through, the city thinks it’s okay to

write citations for debris around some homes.

Page 18

Early Detection of Prostate Cancerby Deborah Sievers

I work out of Nicollet Garage, and in the last six months have realized that a few of our male drivers have

had to have surgery for prostate cancer. Luckily, these drivers and dispatchers had an exam early enough so the

cancer has not been life threatening. So here is some information that I have found, and I hope this is helpful.

Please, just like breast exams that women do, it is just as important that men do the same and talk to their

doctors about testing for prostate cancer.

Definition of prostate cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the prostate (a gland in the male reproductive

system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum). Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men.

The public health burden of prostate cancer is substantial. A total of 240,890 new cases of prostate cancer and

33,720 deaths from the disease are anticipated in the United States in 2011, making it the most frequent

nondermatologic cancer among U.S. males. A man’s lifetime risk of prostate cancer is one in six. Prostate cancer

is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, exceeded only by lung cancer.

Some men with prostate cancer remain asymptomatic and die from unrelated causes rather than as a result of

the cancer itself. This may be due to the advanced age of many men at the time of diagnosis, slow tumor growth,

or response to therapy. The estimated number of men with latent prostate carcinoma (i.e., prostate cancer that is

present in the prostate gland but never detected or diagnosed during a patient’s life) is greater than the number of

men with clinically detected disease. A better understanding is needed of the genetic and biologic mechanisms

that determine why some prostate carcinomas remain clinically silent, while others cause serious, even life-

threatening illness.

Prostate cancer exhibits tremendous differences in incidence among populations worldwide; the ratio of

countries with high and low rates of prostate cancer ranges from 60-fold to 100-fold. Asian men typically have a

very low incidence of prostate cancer, with age-adjusted incidence rates ranging from 2 to 10 per 100,000 men.

Higher incidence rates are generally observed in northern European countries. African American men, however,

have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world; within the United States, African American men have

a 60% higher incidence rate compared with white men.

These differences may be due to genetic, environmental, and social influences (such as access to health care),

which affect the development and progression of the disease. Differences in screening practices have also had a

substantial influence on prostate cancer incidence, by permitting prostate cancer to be diagnosed in some patients

before symptoms develop or before abnormalities on physical examination are detectable. An analysis of

population-based data from Sweden suggested that a diagnosis of prostate cancer in one brother leads to an early

diagnosis in a second brother using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening. This may account for an increase

in prostate cancer diagnosed in younger men that was evident in nationwide incidence data. A genetic

contribution to prostate cancer risk has been documented, but knowledge of the molecular genetics of prostate

cancer is still limited. Malignant transformation of prostate epithelial cells and progression of prostate carcinoma

are likely to result from a complex series of initiation and promotional events under both genetic and

environmental influences.

Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer

The three most important recognized risk factors for prostate cancer in the United States are:

Age.

Race.

Family history of prostate cancer.

Age is an important risk factor for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is rarely seen in men younger than 40

years; the incidence rises rapidly with each decade thereafter. For example, the probability of being diagnosed

Page 19

with prostate cancer is 1 in 8,517 for men younger than 40 years, 1 in 40 for men aged 40 through 59 years, 1 in

15 for men aged 60 through 69 years, and 1 in 8 for men aged 70 years and older, with an overall lifetime risk of

developing prostate cancer of 1 in 6.

Relative Risk Related to Family History of Prostate Cancera

Risk Group Relative Risk for Prostate Cancer Brother with prostate cancer diagnosed at any age 3.4 (95% CI, 3.0–3.8)

Father with prostate cancer diagnosed at any age 2.2 (95% CI, 1.9–2.5)

One affected FDR diagnosed at any age 2.6 (95% CI, 2.3–2.8)

One affected second-degree relative diagnosed at any age 1.7 (95% CI, 1.1–2.6)

Affected FDRs diagnosed age <65 years 3.3 (95% CI, 2.6–4.2)

Affected FDRs diagnosed age >65 years 2.4 (95% CI, 1.7–3.6)

Two or more affected FDRs diagnosed at any age 5.1 (95% CI, 3.3–7.8)

FDR = first-degree relative.

Adapted from Zeegers et al.

I really hope this helps and if you need more information on this, you can go on the website, and talk to your

doctor. Again, early detection adds years on to your life.

The website that I got this from is: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/genetics/prostate/

HealthProfessional

The top 10 locations for weekday boardings in

2010 were:

Location

Approx. average weekday boardings

7th & Nicollet

4,100

Mall of America Station

4,000

Lake Street/Midtown Station

3,500

Nicollet Mall Station

3,300

Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) Station

3,200

Did You Know?

Uptown Transit Center

3,100

Brooklyn Center Transit Center

3,100

Chicago-Lake Transit Center

2,700

5th & Minnesota

2,600

46th Street Station (LRT)

2,600

Source: Public Relations (John Siqveland?)

sends an email to management and supervi-

sors with fi ve interesting facts. The intent is so

management can discuss them with employees

face-to-face communication.

communication. We have also put together a committee of members who will work on transit funding and

messaging. We are trying new ideas to increase member awareness and involvement.

In the next few months, the Union Transit Funding Committee will be visiting work locations to inform

members and ask for members willing to volunteer, to pledge to make phone calls or to join a rally for transit.

Please consider taking the steps to help.

Offi cer's Column Continued from p. 2

Page 20

2011 State Bus RoadeoDeborah Sievers

This was the Heckler’s fifth year of

attending the State Bus Roadeo, held

this year in St. Cloud. What great fun.

Most of us got there Thursday

night. We went to dinner at an excellent

restaurant called Anton’s, an old

speakeasy, where the food and décor

were fantastic. The geese outside were

a special added feature. The rest of the

group got there on Friday, and we hung

out at the pool.

Saturday was the Roadeo. It rained,

but finally cleared up. David Palm,

new to the Roadeo and Marshall

Freeman, reigning State Champion, were our participants this year. They drove the course very well. The

banquet was held that night and, following tradition, we dressed up, and afterwards enjoyed delicious food and

dancing.

We have made many friends over the years, and it is sad when we find some who could not make it this year.

One of our many friends is Jim Schenk from Lake City,

Minnesota. He got sick in the last year and was not able

to attend this year. The other was Duane from St. Cloud,

Minnesota, who was State Champion several times. He

passed away this year. They were both greatly missed

by our group.

Next year’s roadeo will be held in Bemidji,

Minnesota. Go to the Heckler’s Row Facebook page for

info updates on next year’s roadeo and see more

pictures of this year’s roadeo and banquet.

Right: Thai Chang, Mainte-

nance Helper #2368 (Fueler),

received his plaque from Murray

Olson for ten years of service. His

anniversary was May 5, 2001.

Left: Tim Dixon, Mechanic Technician #5510, received his 30-year

plaque from Murry Olson, South Garage Mechanical Maintenance fore-

man, on May 12th, 2011. Tim's anniversary date was January 19, 1981

(and his birthday was Friday, May 13th).

Service Awards

at South

Retired Members’ Clubs

Northside Breakfast ClubMeets 8:30 a.m. the 2nd Tuesday of each month

at Barnacle Bill’s, Shingle Creek Parkway and

Freeway Blvd, Brooklyn Center.

Southside Breakfast Club Meets 8:00 a.m. the 1st Wednesday and the 4th

Thursday of each month at the VFW Post, 67th

Street & Lyndale Ave in Richfi eld.

St. Paul Retiree Lunch ClubMeets 12:00 p.m. the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Mattie’s (formerly Wells Lanes ) So. Concord St., South St. Paul 55075

Metro Transit Mechanic TeammateMeets at 12:00 p.m. the 3rd Tuesday of the month

at Old Country Buffet (by Petco), 2000 South

Robert St., West St. Paul

The 1005 Line

Remember, you can always access past and

present issues online at www.atu1005.com on

the education page.

You can also see the results of arbitration

votes and other meeting results.

Page 21

If you want to join the St. Paul Retiree Club

contact one of the following:

President Howard Osterkamp (651) 731-2428

Vice-President Jay Kerkvliet (651) 489-8281

Treasurer Paul Huber (651) 698-6551

Secretary Mary Huber (651) 698-5771

RetirementsCongratulations to April Retirees

04/02/11 Michael Krakowski, OHB Lead

Stockkeeper 5524

04/12/11 Mike Schwintek, EM Op. 82

04/14/11 Patrick Whelan, EM Cleaner II 3476

04/19/11 James Dalton, Nic. Op. 477

04/23/11 James Latourneau, Hey. Money Counter

319

04/28/11 David Williams, MJR Stockkeeper 7406

Congratulations to May Retirees

05/03/11 William Hyrkas, Nic. Op. 64061

05/03/11 Roxanne McClurg, MJR Op. 31

05/14/11 Robert Beier, OHB Mech. Tech. 5144

05/14/11 Garold Campbell, MJR Op. 1266

05/15/11 James Hajek, OHB Mech. Tech. 5301

05/18/11 Marshall Korvela, So. Op. 66128

05/31/11 Ronald Bailey, EM Op. 9320

Congratulations to June Retirees

06/02/11 Philip Henderson, LRT-OH Electro

Mech. Tech. 64237

06/03/11 Duane Bennett, MJR Op. 8836

06/03/11 William Wormwood, LRT Train Op. 561

06/04/11 Carroll Dingemans, Hey. Op. 857

06/04/11 Lawrence Nezworski, MJR Op. 676

06/17/11 Lauren Weizel, Public Facilities Worker

68113

06/24/11 Gary Coleman, OHB Motor Builder

5311

CRYPTOEach letter stands for another. If you think A=F, for example, it would equal F throughout the puzzle. Clue:

B=E (Answer on page 34 )

Submitted by Pat Kelehan, Facilities Tech. #5470

Z A Y B A X B C W D Z V Z F F T B Y V Z G B C D H F S C D Z

V C D H Z K B

X B C W D C M H. N H V H F S C L Z?

ATU NorthWest

ConferenceStephen Babcock, 3128

The Northwest Conference June

9 - 13 was attended by

representatives from transit union

locals from as far away as Seattle,

Washington, and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The four-day

conference started out with some classes on issues

important to unionists. Barb Kucera and John See from

the Labor Education Service conducted a training session

on messaging. Barb reviewed the history and growth of

the Right Wing’s "echo chamber", while John talked

about the use of Twitter and other new media to convey

labor’s message. Candace Lund, organizing and

mobilizing director for the Minnesota AFL-CIO, also

participated, outlining tips for communicating about the

middle class.

How to Communicate with the Media/Framing Issues - by Barb Kucera, LES

Why should unions embrace social media?

It allows unions to have intimate, personal conversations with hundreds (if not thousands) of members.

Social media allow unions to have unmediated dialogue across vast distances, any time of the day or night.

Unions can campaign globally, raise awareness of issues locally or build support from non-traditional regions or

geographic areas. Unions must be ready to invest the time and resources to do social media properly.

Engage the members in conversation

People who visit your website expect to be able to interact with you. The

web content is no longer one-way. It is no longer enough for your union's

website to broadcast your message. Members and non-members should be able

to leave comments directly on a page and have someone from the union respond

- the more personal the interaction, the better. The new social media mean that

you can interact with your critics directly, and others can participate as well.

Be active and involved in online communities

No one will read if you only tweet once or twice. Members and non-

members will quickly stop checking if a site hasn't been updated in a week.

Choose your social media networks carefully

The nurse's union is a good example of how to use facebook.com as a gathering place where all members

could feel connected, share information, opinions, self-organize and develop community support. Critics only

stimulate discussion and further define the union's message. They also used video on YouTube.com.

Open up the union to social media

Social Media allows members to easily and quickly share important information, flyer, videos, breaking news

and more online. How do members who are continually connected avoid being continually distracted?

Sometimes there are even aggressive distractions. There must be controls. Some are controls are by the

software that control what posts or displayed. Other controls are by conventions that are spelled out, expected

behavior. We need to know what controls are based on and we need a choice in that filtering.

Media and Web Presence - by John See, LES

John is connected to the Labor Hub, (www.laborhub.net), an organization that promotes web design with

links to Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. They have package website deals of $2500 for a basic website and

Page 22

Tim Dixon registers in the

participants.

Mark Lawson, South Operator Board member, Ken

Dolney, East Metro Operator Board member, and

Tommy Bellfield, Financial Secretary/Treasurer,

stand in front of the conference banner.

$4500 for a website with bells and whistles. A good example of the bells and whistles would be the

MNAFLCIO.org.

Techniques were discussed on how to handle opponents. One is called Google Bombing. Evidently the more

searches that one does on a particular topic (like your opponent’s voting record), the higher the ranking it gets

and it will come up in other people's searches. It is not a distortion of the truth, it just brings his record (or

whatever your search) to the forefront.

The upcoming language for websites is called Drupal. This is an open source code that allows for modules to

be built and integrated into the website. More information can be found on www.drupal.org.

Healthcare Systems - by Pete Benner

If you wanted information on our healthcare system in comparison to other countries, this was the place to be.

The speaker, Pete Benner, went into the many different aspects of U.S. healthcare and labor unions. Employers

are using assessments and wellness programs to target employees, but they have to do it within the guidelines of

the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

In the U.S., what unions have to bargain for depends on local situations:

* Coverage for primary care, prescription drug benefits, coverage of children up to age 26

* Coverage from retirement to age 65

* Supplemental coverage to Medicare

* Dental and Optical care

* Long-term coverage

In Canada, full coverage is guaranteed from birth to death, prescriptions by hospitals are covered, private are

not. Ninety-eight percent are covered by public funds. Unions have to bargain for:

* Chiropractic and optical care

* Supplemental long-term care

* Private prescriptions

The older you get, the more expensive care becomes, but Canadian care is much less expensive for the same

age range. Ninety-eight percent of their healthcare cost is covered by public funds. Healthcare is the U.S. is

much more expensive. Doctors are paid more, and pharmaceuticals companies charge more. The average MRI

in the United States is $1027, the average cost in Japan is $122. The technology is the same.

There is always a fight over funding for U.S. healthcare. What we can bargain for depends upon the

situation locally, but in some aspects, the fight extends well beyond - into the national political level.

The Rise of the Right Wing "Echo Chamber" - by Barb Kucera

The right wing repeats a viewpoint through as many outlets as possible, so they echo each other. Repetition

offers credibility. The right wing has been building since William F. Buckley came on the scene in 1955;

through the launch of Fox News in 1996; and continuing today with the Supreme Court's ruling allowing massive

corporate funding of campaigns with no disclosure.

Page 23

Mark Lawson, South

Operator Board member,

Ken Dolney, East Metro

Operator Board member,

and Tommy Bellfield

Financial Secretary/

Treasurer, listen to a

lecture on internet usage

by John See, LES

The hat was passed for the Wisconsin delegation to help continue the fight against Governor Walker's union-

busting measures. Bill McCarthy, president of the Minneapolis Labor Federation, had already given $5000 and

promised to donate another $1000. Bobby Kasper, President of the St. Paul Labor Federation, promised space

(at 411 Main Street - where we have our St. Paul meetings) to all unions affected by the state shutdown.

On Saturday, Michelle Sommers, President of ATU Local 1005,

started the day by addressing the conference members about transit

funding. The outlook is bleak. Other guest speakers included:

Shar Knutson, President of the AFL-CIO

Bill McCarthy, President of the Minneapolis Labor Federation

Bobby Kasper, President of the St. Paul labor Federation

Brian Lamb, Metro Transit

Susan Haig, Metropolitan Council Chair

The consensus among all speakers was that we are very lucky we

have Dayton to stand up for transit!

Friday also included the reports of every

local represented at the conference. Highlights

of recent contracts were shared, and struggles

with management and funding were considered.

Breaks and evenings during the conference

were a great time to network and get to know

counterparts in other cities, and learn what they

do, and how they handle various issues and

situations.

This successful conference ended with a

7:00 p.m. standup comedy show. The featured act was Scott Hansen.

Page 24

Michelle takes a pose with one of the

main headliners, Scott Hansen.

Some of the participants unwind in the courtyard after classes.

Mark Miller #3005

Rail operator Mark Miller retired from Metro Transit on July 15th

with over 39 years of driving. He was hired as a full-time driver on

July 10, 1972.

Mark was a bus operator for 32 of those years, working out of Old

Snelling and East Metro.

Health and Safety Hazards for City Bus Drivers

“The job of operating public transit vehicles in urban centers may be among the most stressful and

unhealthy of modern occupation say two prominent medical researchers.1"

The following material, compiled by MFL Occupational Health and Safety, Inc. in Winnipeg, Manitoba,

Canada, summarizes the results of studies of the effects of stress on bus drivers. Although the studies are a bit

dated, most of the observations and conclusions are undoubtedly still valid. The references at the end of the

article are specific to Canada, but a similar list for the local area will be provided in the next issue of this

newsletter.

Stress and Work Design

Dozens of studies conducted over the last four decades in cities on almost every continent show that city bus

drivers, when compared to workers in other jobs, are more likely to experience

• death from heart and blood vessel disease

• heart and blood vessel-related conditions such as chest pain and high blood pressure

digestive disorders

• musculoskeletal problems, especially of the back, neck and shoulders

Bus drivers frequently report tension, mental overload, fatigue and sleeping problems. Bus drivers also have

more frequent absences from work and of longer duration than workers in other occupations. A large proportion

of the work absences are attributable to stress-related disorders such as digestive problems and anxiety. Bus

drivers retire earlier and at a younger age than other civil servants. Early retirement is usually accompanied by

disability. The main health problems leading to disability are related to the back, tendons and joints, mental

illness, and heart and blood vessel disease.

Stress is believed to play a significant role in causing two of the diseases (heart and blood vessel disease and

digestive disorders) found in excess in bus drivers. Typically, stressful jobs are those which have high

psychological demands and little decision-making control, in combination with low social support on the job.

Bus driving is a classic example of a stressful job. Bus drivers must respond to multiple demands over which

they have little control. The main tasks of a bus driver are to drive safely, keep on schedule, and treat passengers

in a professional and courteous manner. Yet two of these tasks are inherently contradictory — maintaining the

schedule and serving the public. In order to accomplish one, the other may have to be compromised. Traffic

congestion is another stressor which enters this equation.

Social support helps protect individuals experiencing stress. Bus driving interferes with social support in two

ways. The job itself is solitary with little chance for face-to-face contact between coworkers. The work schedule

disrupts family and social life.

Work Factors Associated with stress-related Health Problems

• traffic congestion

• constant time pressure

• little or no input into how work is organized or implemented

• disorderly passengers

• threat of physical assault and crime

• work schedule interference with home life and leisure activities

• social isolation on the job

How buses are designed and how work is scheduled may account for musculoskeletal problems associated with

driving a bus. Musculoskeletal problems include back, neck, and shoulder problems. Muscle cramping, pressure

Page 25

points and poor circulation in the legs and buttocks are other examples. Long term exposure to whole-body

vibration and impact while driving over bumps in the roads and rough road surfaces can result in low back

problems.

Work Design Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal and Other Problems

• poor design of the driver’s cab and hard to reach or poor layout of vehicle controls

• steering wheel placement not adjustable and too small or large in diameter

• shortcomings in the design of the seat such as no adjustable springs/suspension, no lumbar

support and no height adjustability

• sitting for long periods of time

• holding a pedal down for long periods of time

• awkward working position

• inadequate rest breaks

Other Hazards

Stress and musculoskeletal problems are not the only problems bus drivers face. Motor vehicle accidents are a

serious safety hazard faced by bus drivers. Heavy traffic and bad weather increase the risk of accidents. These

hazards are increased if the vehicle is not properly maintained. Examples of poor maintenance of vehicles

includes faulty brake systems, headlights or windshield wipers. Slipping on the bus floor, outside of the bus or on

the steps are examples of other safety hazards.

There may be temperature problems in the bus — excessive heat in the summer or poor heating and blasts of

cold air in the winter. Glare from sunlight may result in eyestrain. Noise can be a source of annoyance,

distraction and fatigue. It may interfere with the driver’s ability to concentrate or get auditory cues from the

traffic on the road.

Bus drivers breathe in vehicle exhaust when readying the bus for service in the garage, from their own bus

engine, and from surrounding traffic. Bus drivers are exposed to communicable diseases such as the common

cold from the public. Another type of exposure may occur via skin contact with contaminated objects when

cleaning the bus or during cleanup of body secretions or fluids in an emergency situation. The exposure of

greatest concern is when the skin is punctured by a contaminated object such as a discarded needle.

Reducing Work Hazards

Research supports a number of measures to reduce work hazards for city bus drivers. Measures include

• reduce traffic congestion (bus lanes, signal priority)

• reduce passenger inquiries (automated information systems)

• enhance driver security (alarm systems, emergency procedures)

• reduce social isolation on the job (schedule breaks in central locations)

• reduce fatigue and interference with personal life (improve work schedules)

• improve social aspects of work (supportive style of leadership)

• improve ergonomic design of buses (seat design, steering wheel design)

What you can do If you have a work-related health and safety concern

• talk to your union Health and Safety Committee representative. Your representative should be involved

in identifying workplace hazards and recommending solutions to reduce or eliminate workplace hazards.

Page 26

• talk to your supervisor about the problem.

• contact the City of Winnipeg Employee Occupational Safety and Health Unit or Employee Assistance

Program

• call the MFL Occupational Health Centre (949-0811) if you need

- to see a doctor to find out if your injury or illness may be caused by your work

- information on health and safety concerns in your workplace

- help in solving workplace health and safety problems

- education on specific health and safety issues

- library resources on workplace health and safety

• contact one of these government agencies

Manitoba Labour Workplace Safety and Health Branch 945-3446 — to make a health and safety complaint

Manitoba Workers Compensation Board 954-4321 — to report a work-related injury or illness

Show this fact sheet to your own doctor and discuss your personal cardiac risk profile. Your doctor or the

Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation can provide information for decreasing your risk for heart and blood

vessel disease.

Reference

Evans, G. & Carrere, S. (1991). Traffic congestion, perceived control, and psychophysiological stress among

urban bus drivers. Journal of Applied Psychology. 76(5) p.658. June 1998

Page 27

Pride Paradeby Deborah Sievers

This year’s Pride Parade was wonderful. It was

great to see a lot of new people walking along with the

bus. We handed out a lot of different gifts this year.

I would like to thank Allie, marketing intern, for

helping get everything set up. Thank you to our driver,

Jessica. This is her second year, and she did a great job

keeping the crowd cheering for Metro Transit. Thanks

also to the walkers who went with the bus. Two even

brought their kids.

I hope to see more people out next year. I’ll let you know the date

as soon as it’s been set.

This event is not sponsored by ATU 1005.

It is in the paper for information to our interested

members only.

Page 28

Dan Kearns Retires

Dan worked for IBM for thirty years prior to coming

to Metro Transit. When he was fi rst hired, he started out

as a transit information representative in TIC on July 16,

2001. After three years, he transferred over to the rev-

enue department as a farebox technician on July 10 2004.

He worked as a fl oater and his last assignment was to

MJR. He retired on August 4, 2011.

When asked about working here, he said, "It has been

enjoyable for the most part.”

Page 29

Competing Proposals in Congress Offer Two Very Different

Transportation Futures for America

July 28, 2011 - From Andrea Kiepe, Transportation For America

After over a year of delays, the U.S. House and Senate have fi nally put forward competing proposals to guide

America’s transportation investments into the future. The federal transportation re-authorization bill establishes

the framework for allocating billions of dollars and for local transportation projects including biking lanes and

trails, sidewalks, roads, bridges, public transit, and rail.

Rep. John Mica, Chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, released a proposal that

would cut federal transportation funding by roughly one-third and lock in that reduced level of investment over

the next six years. On the other hand, the Senate’s bi-partisan proposal, while still lacking many details, maintains

current funding levels plus infl ation for just two years.

The difference between these two proposals is enormous. The Mica proposal could directly result in the loss of

over a half million jobs nationwide. It would also damage our transportation network, which the American Soci-

ety of Civil Engineers says is deteriorating and long overdue for massive repairs.

The Mica bill is a clear example of lawmaking that is pennywise and pound-foolish. The proposal takes us in

the wrong direction, jeopardizing more than just construction and transit jobs – it risks damaging America’s abil-

ity to recover and prosper.

For more information about the Mica bill and how it would impact federal transportation investment, see this

short series of blogs from Transportation for America Staff on Transit for Livable Communities webstie:

www.tlc.com

Elvis sneaks into the gathering to

wish Danny a goodbye, along with

Nick Eull and his many co-workers.

Page 30

Anatomy of An AccidentStacey H. Taylor

Driver #70055 - South Garage

As Metro Transit bus drivers, we encounter unfamiliar variables while doing our so-called ‘routine’ runs.

After overcoming cold-weather driving, warm weather variables suddenly change our experiences on routes as

well. The warmer weather brings more road construction; more bikes; and more pedestrian traffic throughout the

cities. Not every route stays the same for long as variables change daily and often unexpectedly by the minute.

While navigating changing conditions, drivers are challenged and expected to make all the right moves in

traffic. There is a constant checking of all the information gathered from training and experience.

Sometimes before getting behind the wheel and into traffic each day, an eight-letter dirty word crosses a

driver’s mind, an eight-letter word most drivers may not want to speak about in mixed company:

A-C-C-I-D-E-N-T

Whether we have five, ten or 20 years of service, one thing some of us may eventually share at some point

may be the unfortunate experience of an accident.

Who are the players and participants in a bus accident?1. Bus driver

2. Passengers

3. TCC

4. Other driver/pedestrian

5. Street Superviser

6. Safety coordinator

7. Peer Support

Those who have encountered that dirty word know accidents are classified as “unavoidable” or “avoidable”

and no doubt this resonates in some drivers’ minds as “fault” or “no-fault.”

South Garage Safety Specialist Mark Kitzerow assesses and reviews many accidents to see if they are

avoidable. “It is not about getting to the end of the road,” Kitzerow said. “It is about getting to the next block

safely.”

Kitzerow said that there is a lot to learn from the near misses drivers encounter weekly on their individual

routes. He lends his years of experience to old and new drivers alike to prevent them from encountering similar

situations. He often gives tips or refresher knowledge of accident avoidance and how to best read and anticipate

actions of other drivers and pedestrians in the bus zone. Mark mentioned that most drivers hit the streets doing

all the right things, such as observing the five major points in accordance with the safe driving keys acronym

A-G-K-L-M:

A-im high in steering

G-et the big picture;

K-eep your eyes moving;

L-eave yourself an out;

M-ake sure they see you.

There are times when drivers have done the AGKLM; been extra careful with additional mirror checks and

signaling intent to turn or leaving the curbside and then suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, a loud metal crash

or bang still occurs.

Kitzerow mentioned additional reminder tips that may prevent accidents when pulling away from a curb (a

common form of accident):

1. When a car is behind your bus at a curb, on a multi-lane street, it is best to assume the vehicle is going

to make a right-hand turn.

2. While doing the mirror check watch for head movement, signal and angle of the car behind you.

3. Recheck your footwork in stop position and when going from brake to gas pedal, do a three-second

count before going to the gas. According to Kitzrow, this buys you low speed if cars are coming around

you to make the turn.

Maybe as a driver you see an accident coming in typical slow-motion Technicolor.

Sometimes a car veers into the bus and the bus driver swerves to avoid it; takes a foot off the gas; pumps or

slams the brake. Maybe the driver accelerates and steers out of the way to avoid the inevitable. Sometimes

accidents happen in a flash. They can occur while clearing an intersection or when a driver is sitting perfectly

still waiting for a red light to change.

Collisions can be more facts than fault - such as unseen ice, improper street lighting, blind spots or simply

bad timing. Sometimes your reactions may seem useless to foil the dangerous actions of other

drivers.

The first thing to remember following an accident is: Do not beat yourself up!

What happens after an accident is different for every driver, but what you do as a professional driver is more

important. Make sure you know what your main responsibilities are following an accident.

Whether “Bang, crash or scrape,” there are some basic things found in your handbook that can guide you

through the first stages of an accident. What if a passenger is hurt or someone outside the bus is injured and

needs some assistance? What if the driver is hurt?

1. Make sure all passengers inside the bus are all right.

2. Make sure those in the other vehicle are allright.

3. Make sure you are allright.

4. Assess the entire exterior of the bus for damages.

5. Assess the damages to other vehicle or person outside bus.

6. Call Transit Control (TCC) and give them a description of all your assessments.

7. Hand out courtesy cards.

TCC may ask if you need Peer Support to help you deal with the trauma of the accident. Peer Support is a

confidential resource that enables you to seek advice and counsel from drivers who have dealt with situations

that occur on the bus, including accidents and confrontations. Peer Support is a group of current drivers taking

turns on-call 24 hours a day to assist other drivers in stressful situations.

There are several options a driver has after an accident:1. The driver may continue driving the same bus if there is little or no damage to the vehicle or no injuries

to passengers or self. A driver may have to get another bus, continue the route or go to the next starting point and finish the shift.

2. The driver can continue after statements made to the police and/or street supervisor.

3. Injuries to the driver, passengers or pedestrian in an accident will result in the driver returning to the garage for full alcohol and drug screening.

4. The driver fills out an accident report form. The driver is given days off until the results of the tests and the examination of bus tapes or accident report are reviewed by a safety specialist. If you do not agree with the findings of the Safety Specialist, or want to be represented at any time in the process, get a hold of your executive board member.

Hopefully, as a professional driver, you had time to do all you could do to lessen the severity of the accident.

Page 31

Left: Relief Instruc-

tors Angel Tapia,

Randy Finch and

Coordinator Bob Ben-

son gave Steve a fond

farewell with gifts of

his favorite ‘tools’…apron, hat, and spatulas. He loved to cook up breakfast

for the garage. His special was a Spanish omelet.

Steve Leko Retires August 4 with 19+ Years of Service

Steve started as a part-time driver on January 4,1992

and went full-time on March 3, 1993. He retired as a

Relief Instructor at South Garage early, due to his health.

He said to drivers below him in seniority, “Sorry, but my

plan is to heal up and come back!”

David Williams Retires

After a slight delay,

Dave got out the

door and on his way

to retirement.

Left: Dave holds the

cake with his former

boss, Chris Haefner.

Right: Dave recieves

the coveted union

jacket from Tommy

Bellfi eld, Fin.Secty./

Treasurer of ATU Local 1005.

Even though the retirement was at

MJR, there was a large turnout of co-

workers and friends.

Dave, we wish you happiness in this

new phase of your life.

Remember that your skills as a professional driver may have prevented more serious or life-threatening injuries

from happening to you, your passengers or other pedestrians. Just remember that you have to believe your

actions and reactions as a professional driver. You have the skills and instructions. Remember to never

underestimate or overestimate your driver skills and instincts.

Page 32

Steve with fellow Relief Instruc-

tor Randy Finch.

He continued on as a committed bus driver until

he transferred into Revenue Finance in 1997. After

a few short months as a vault puller, Jim found a home in

the money-counting room and remained on the Central

Counting Room team until he retired on April 23, 2011,

with over 31 years of service. Combined with his fi rst

round, Jim had a total of 37 years, six months of dedicated

service to Metro Transit.

As a bus operator, Jim earned several driving awards

and commendations.

Jim earned 13 consecutive years of excellent atten-

dance in Revenue Finance, with the highest level of accuracy. Jim trained numerous new money counters on

balancing the day’s deposit and processing both bus and rail cash fares.

Jim is known for a charming sense of humor and a positive attitude. He was especially helpful to light- duty

employees from other departments who assisted in our counting room. He openly welcomed the temporary work-

ers with his friendly attitude, tales of his adventures as a bus driver, and about his interest in music and his days

as a musician.

Jim is looking forward to a relaxing retirement and purchasing his dream car – a new Buick!

James Latourneau, Heywood Money

Counter 319, Retires

April 22, 2011

Jim began his career as a

bus driver on July 13, 1973.

After several years, Jim

took a short break in service

from Metro Transit, but

returned to driving.

Paul Manning Retires from South Garage

Paul celebrated 24 Years with Metro Transit!

His wife Ruth was by his side on February 1st, 2011

with him to celebrate. They will be doing

some over-the-road travel in their Motor home

heading to the southeast part of our country.

Paul was hired as a part-time driver on April 13,1987 and went

fulltime

May 11,1996.

Page 33

Dorothy Maki, ATU Local 1005 Vice-President,

gives Paul his ATU retirement jacket.

South Manager

Frank Stumpf

helps Paul hold up

his cake.

Answer

IN TEN YEARS I WILL BE TWICE AS OLD AS I WAS FIVE YEARS AGO.

HOW OLD AM I?

ANSWER: 20 YEARS OLD

Submissions for Letters to the Editor are subject to approval of the

Editorial Board and space considerations. Letters to the Editor are

solely the opinion of the author and do not represent endorsement

by ATU Local 1005 or the Education Committee. If you have an

editorial to submit, please contact a committee member or our

advisor Dorothy Maki at: dorothy@atu1005.com.

Letters

To The

Editor

In Memoriam

Pat Whelan, 3476, East Metro

Pat was hired on May 17,1993 and retired with 18 years of service on

April 13th. His son Eddie was back from two tours in Iraq, and his son

Charles had just won the North Suburban Weight Lifting competition.

His wife, Angie was also by his side. He is looking forward to doing

more of what he loves…. visiting with friends and family and playing

cards! They will be traveling to the Southeast in their motor home.

Ray Hojsik Nicollet Driver #2310, ten-year employee, formerly of Johnson City, New

York

Profoundly kind, caring and incredibly generous to the end, Raymond Hojsik passed

away July 27, 2011 in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, far too soon, at the age of 58. No

words can fittingly describe the degree of sadness we bear with his passing.

He is survived by his parents, Anthony and Doris Hojsik; brother, Ron Hojsik; sister,

Diane Boncamper; son, Tony Hojsik; granddaughter, Hannah Hojsik; nieces, Jessica and

Alicia Hojsik; nephews, Brian and Brandon Boncamper ; several cousins and numerous

friends.

Even though his work took him far from family and friends in New York, he stayed in constant contact with

all, and never missed his annual hunting trip with longtime friend, Art Savage.

Jim Hightower | The Downgrading of America

Jim Hightower, Op-Ed: By downgrading the government's credit rating, they add to the absurd hysteria over the

defi cit. "It's the cause of America's economic stagnation," they wail, "and the only way to fi x it is to take sledge-

hammers and chainsaws to programs that the middle-class and the poor rely on." Yoo-hoo, Wall Streeters — it

was not workaday folks who crashed our economy, it was you! Your fi nancial collapse wrecked the livelihoods

of millions and jacked up the federal defi cit you now decry. These elites are hoping that we can't keep up with

the fact that they're using their own failure as an excuse to go after essential public programs needed by the very

people they've knocked down.

Page 34

VETERANS FOR PEACE HOLDS

“PEACESTOCK 2011”Tim Coglianese, Driver 119, Nicollet Garage

On Saturday, July 9, the organization Veterans for Peace held

its annual retreat for peace in Hager City, Wisconsin. Red Wing

Local Chapter 115 was the main sponsor of this event, held for

the ninth straight year.

There were a number of well- known speakers at the event.

All of them, of course, spoke out against the insanity of war. But they also lay down the path that this country

seems to be intent on - being involved in countless wars. This has been true since the early 1960’s when the USA

first became involved in Viet Nam. Cambodia and Laos were included, however covertly at first, until our

military was deeply entrenched for more than seven years. Our major involvement in that region was based on

the lie of our Navy being attacked in the Gulf of Tonkin. The result was that more than 58,000 Americans were

killed. The Pentagon Papers exposed the lies of our involvement there.

In the decades since then, we have had countless wars, “nation building” initiatives, and military actions to

protect our “national interests”. Presently, we are involved in six different wars, spending billions of dollars

every week, killing hundreds of soldiers and citizens. Each of the speakers added something different to the

discussion. These points included: how we could better use the money on domestic programs; how the lies and

scare tactics getting us into wars continue; and how these military incursions are producing more hatred by the

citizenry of those various nations toward America. The fact was also brought out, many times, that an

overwhelming majority of Americans want us out of Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, and the rest of the war

zones we are sending our troops into. But the politicians turn a deaf ear to the public, and seem to listen only to

the military-industrial complex and the Pentagon.

Here is a partial list of those who spoke at Peacestock 2011:

Daniel Ellsberg - The principal Pentagon Papers whistleblower. He spoke via Skype for more than 30

minutes, and answered many questions from the audience for about another 15 minutes. Most of this session

dealt not with the Pentagon Papers, but with our government’s involvement in so many wars today.

Cynthia McKinney - Former Congresswoman from Georgia. She was elected to six terms. Ms. McKinney

is an outspoken critic of our wars, and is active is bringing humanitarian relief to the Palestinians.

Ray McGovern - Former Military Officer, Consultant to President George H. Bush, and CIA Officer.

He has been in the foreground of exposing the lies behind our government’s involvement in the Middle East.

Also present that day, but not as a scheduled speaker was Colleen Rowley. Ms.Rowley is best known for her

exposing the deliberate ignoring of facts and intelligence presented to high- ranking members of the FBI that

could have possibly prevented the 911 terrorist attacks from ever happening. She was asked to “retire” from her

position in the FBI as a result.

My wife and I spent time that day talking to both Colleen Rowley and

Cynthia McKinney. They were both personable and very well informed. As

are the other speakers, these women are both very active and outspoken in

their love for America, and about the path of war it seems to seek out.

I attended this retreat for peace as a member of Veterans for Peace. I

served my country in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970. Being a member of

Veterans for Peace, I believe I am still serving my country.

If you are a veteran and would like to learn more about Veterans for

Peace, go to www.veteransforpeace.org. You do not have to be a veteran who

has seen combat, but one who feels enough is enough when it comes to our

being at war.

Page 35

Colleen Rowley joins Tim for a photo.

RAFFLE!VIKING TICKETS

Teresa Collins 1378

HARMON KILLEBREW

Lillie Loving 6828

PERCY HARVIN

David Schaffer 9450

COPE 50/50

Lori Stewart 64283

DRAWING!$25 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD

Steve Meyer 5516

UNION SWEATSHIRT

Bob Schaller 2713

IPOD SHUFFLE (BLUE)

James Leas 479

UNION PULLOVER

Cliff Bolden 2473

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

Lisa Callahan 6716

UNION T-SHIRT

Dave Gosha RCL536

KINDLE AND GIFT CARD

Rebecca Baldus 2390

UNION LETTERMAN JACKET

Norm Timmer 5909

$75 JAX GIFT CARD

G.Q. Quashie 6356

SONY DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.

Bob Gross 66179

UNION POLO SHIRT

Doug Herrala 2030

PORTABLE DVD PLAYER

Anthony Harmon 64183

UNION SWEATSHIRT

Robin Mirtica 2433

IPOD CLASSIC

Jack Berner 8927

UNION PULLOVER

Dave Tuveson 64190

$75 MANCINI’S GIFT CARD

Maria Hennes-Staples 2479

UNION JACKET

Michelle Windham 65144

$50 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD

Jill Schuster 64060

UNION LETTERMAN JACKET

Amanda Walker 64279

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

Larry Hotchkiss 67438

WII GAMING SYSTEM

Angela Barnett 70111

8 HRS RECOGNITION TIME OFF

Wayne Riddle 3805

UNION JACKET

Craig Webber 9955

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

Tom Mevissen

UNION PULLOVER

Mike Anderson 9452

CANON DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.

James Johnson 65151

UNION T-SHIRT

Ojay Wicker 68026

40” SONY TV

Bonnie Ripple 7628

$25 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD

Radar McManus 64171

UNION PULLOVER

Darlene Hopkins 6875

IPOD SHUFFLE (RED)

Dave Wolking 68078

UNION POLO SHIRT

Daniel Kirley 70069

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

John Polzer 9269

WEBBER KETTLE

Jerry Learn 5238

GPS

Carla Simonson 9631

$75 JAX GIFT CARD

Bradely Birt 69175

UNION LETTERMAN JACKET

Dan Shadd RCL

PORTABLE DVD PLAYER

Lisa Benson 9143

UNION POLO SHIRT

Glenn Goetz 2698

$50 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD

Don Dixon 2103

IPOD TOUCH

D.J. Rogers 3865

UNION JACKET

Steve Chatterton 5415

KINDLE AND GIFT CARD

Michelle Bellfi eld 7664

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

Tom Joernt 70196

UNION SWEATSHIRT

Jane Hanson 68279

SONY DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.

Lorna Sheehan 2488

8 HRS. RECOGNITION TIME OFF

Nanette Smith 6215

UNION T-SHIRT

Howard Merrill 9226

$75 MANCINI’S GIFT CARD

Tom Newkirk 997

UNION PULLOVER

Azmalio Perez 1554

$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD

Larry Cota 67343

UNION JACKET

Jim Fisher 68050

AMC MOVIE TICKETS

Mike Herralla 63026

UNION LETTERMAN JACKET

Teresa Collins 1378

UNION SWEATSHIRT

Mark Hanson 5560

WEBBER GRILL

Tony Pray 2068

$50 RAINBOW FOODS GIFT

CARD Mark Probasco 69044

UNION PULLOVER

Ilya Tulchinsky 64032

AMC MOVIE TICKETS (4)

Sheldon Ziegler 5800

$50 RAINBOW FOODS GIFT

CARD Kim Rice 5975

47” LG3D TV

Adam Hinrichs 69140

ATU 1005 PICNIC WINNERS!