Member's Voice April 2011

The newsletter of CUPE Local 15, Vancouver Municipal Education and Community Workers

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to:CUPE Local 15545 W. 10th Ave.Vancouver, BCV5Z 1K9

Annual General MeetingAPRIL

Date & Time: Wednesday, April 27, 5:30 p.m.

Location: Italian Cultural Centre3075 Slocan St. Vancouver, Room 5Under

Discussion: • Executive Board Elections• Executive Board By-election, Member-at-Large HSPBA• Vancouver School Board, Langara College & Emily Carr

University bargaining updates• 2010 Audited Statement Report

General Meetings provide all members with an opportunity to participate in decisions that affect the union. Please note that there will be a short VMECW Society meeting following the union meeting to deal with the 2010 financial audit. (Childcare assistance, and Interpretation available upon request.)

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Executive Election NominationsBy Leanne Toderian, Secretary Treasureron behalf of the Executive Board

The following members have accepted nomination for election to the CUPE Local 15 Executive Board. Polling locations and times are posted on our webpage and elsewhere in this issue.

PresidentBrother Paul FaoroBrother Jordan Parente

2nd Vice President Sister Sally BankinerSister Betty McGee

City SectorBrother Arthur LumBrother Mike MooreBrother Santino Scardillo

K-12 SectorSister Gail JohnsonBrother Warren Williams

TrusteeSister Randi Gurholt-SearySister Karla Mairena

Here are the dates that you can vote for Executive Board Elections. Please bring your membership card with you to vote.

April 18, 2011 8:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Hellenic Community Centre, 4500 Arbutus Street, Vancouver

April 19, 20119:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Robson Square Media Centre, 800 Robson Street, Vancouver

April 20, 20119:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.Super 8 Hotel, 725 SE Marine Drive (at Fraser), Vancouver

April 21, 201110:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.Holiday Inn Vancouver Ctr, 711 W. Broadway, Vancouver

April 27, 20118:00 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.Italian Cultural Centre, 3075 Slocan Street, Vancouver

CUPE 15 is on Facebook and TwitterSearch CUPE 15 for Facebook, and keep up-to-date- on news from your President, Paul Faoro at @paulfaoro on Twitter.

It’s election time, again!


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WWW.CUPE15.ORG CUPE Local 15, Vancouver Municipal Education and Community Workers

90 Grievances Filed in 2010by Paul Faoro, President

Update from your Executive

by Leanne Toderian, Secretary Treasurer

April is our AGM where our Finance Committee presents the findings of our independent auditor. Our local has a long standing practice of having an independent auditor review the Union and Society’s financial records. To my knowledge no other local across this country holds itself up

to such scrutiny. Financial stability is a critical piece, fundamental to our ability to represent our members. While the day to day finances are the responsibility of the Secretary Treasurer and the Finance Committee, the Executive of the day who introduced this practice had a full understanding that

this provides a level of comfort to our members that the finances of their union are solid and with our house in order we can then turn our efforts to protecting the rights of our members at our worksites. I am proud to continue in that tradition

and we will have a full report at the April AGM.

Also this month has a very important event for our members, the upcoming CUPE Local 15 Executive board elections. Elsewhere in this issue, you will find candidates and their profiles. One of the goals the Executive had this year was to assist members in giving them opportunities to vote. Over the years there have been a number of visions or versions of polling station location, dates and times. The Executive are committed to addressing this important issue before next years’ elections and develop a policy on how we accomplish this. We want to respond to the growing membership represented in five cities working 24/7 and we are committed to making this process accessible to the best of our ability. To that end, you will find a list of polling locations and times elsewhere in this issue and on the CUPE 15 website. We hope this will help transition us to the next level.

Not to be overshadowed is the upcoming federal election. It has been said true democracy is what lies between elections. What that means to me is you can’t simply rely on campaign promises. It is what you do while in office that really counts and how you relate to your constituents in between elections. Many candidates who don’t really have a platform will rely on fear mongering or the

Chicken Little approach “the sky is falling”. What you have to ask yourself is: If I cast my vote for you will you listen to the people once in office? Will you consult? Will you be open and accessible? Cast your vote wisely and vote for the person who will represent you throughout the term, not just on Election Day.

On to other news around the local. I was pleased to attend the strike vote for our members at Langara on March 30th. As a municipal worker, I have had the pleasure of participating in a number of strike votes. I can say without a doubt the members who participated in that vote were as positive as they could possibly be. Not to say anyone relishes a strike, but I could feel the common bond and concern they had for each other in the room; they we acting as one. No one stood up and said “what about me”. I think the members should be very pleased with how they treat each other with respect and dignity. The result also proved this as they achieved an 83% in favour of strike. Congratulations!

As always I urge you to visit the Local 15 website for updates for your sector. There is much happening around the local that cannot be captured here. I look forward to seeing you at the AGM on April 27th.

Elections, Conventions, AGMs, oh my!

Leanne Toderian Secretary Treasurer

Paul Faoro, President

One of the main responsibilities of our union is enforcing the 18 collective agreements we have under our watch. It’s an obligation that we take seriously at CUPE 15 as these collective agreements provide for all of the working conditions, rights, benefits, and wages for our members. Collective agreements are legal

binding contracts that employers must follow. While I am sure all of the employers we deal with may think they are all perfectly following the collective agreement, they are not.

In 2010 CUPE 15 filed over 90 grievances on behalf of our members

for breaches of the collective agreement and other workplace violations. These grievances cover a wide area of matters but the most common types are on promotional issues, compensation, hours of work, harassment and discipline, including termination matters. These 90 grievances do not include the numerous informal inquiries made almost daily by our shop stewards and all of the job evaluation appeals and reclassification requests initiated by our workplace representatives and union staff.

While we were successful in resolving the majority of the grievances directly with the employer, some however required us to advance them to arbitration for third party adjudication. A

few weeks ago we were very pleased to receive decisions for two arbitrations that took place in early February. In both cases the arbitrator ruled in favor of our union.

The first arbitration was with the City of Vancouver for a policy grievance that CUPE 15 filed in 2009 asserting that the City breached Article 11.7 of the collective agreement after I was denied the opportunity to speak to City Council regarding the 2010 Operating Budget. Article 11.7 provides our union two primary rights. The first is a requirement for the employer to provide our union with reports going to City Council that could result in a change of operation that could affect wage rates, workloads, or reductions of employment. The second gives us the right to speak to City Council about the report. Our grievance stemmed from the latter point.

I had submitted a request to speak to City Council on the Operating Budget report as it indicated there would be a projected shortfall of over $50 million which, if approved, would have heavily impacted our membership and civic services. My request to speak at the Council meeting unfortunately was denied as I was told that I could attend one of the public consultation meetings. These are the meetings that usually have 50 plus speakers and you are limited to speak to five minutes. We filed the grievance as we believed our right under 11.7 means more than what is afforded to the general public to address City Council.

Arbitrator David McPhillips agrees. In his 31 page decision he wrote “Article 11.7 on its face

contains a substantive right for the Union to provide input to City Council prior to its making any decision which could have an impact on the Collective Agreements and the members of Local 15. In my opinion, that obligation is not met by “unstructured” community meetings where there may be only three or four Council members in attendance and the setting is very informal.”

Successfully resolving this grievance has affirmed our union’s right to have the required time to make thorough presentations to City Council on matters affecting our members. It not only helps us immensely but will assist other CUPE locals in the municipal sector who have similar collective agreement language.

The second arbitration was with Langara College where we filed a grievance for a senior member who was not awarded a temporary promotion in the bookstore. The collective agreement language on promotions is clear as it states seniority shall be the determining factor unless the ability to perform the job by an employee with less seniority is superior. The employer gave the promotion to the junior employee. The onus is on College to establish the superiority of the less senior applicant. We won the arbitration as it was deemed the College breached the collective agreement.

Already this year 27 grievances have been filed for CUPE 15 members and approximately 12 grievances are waiting to be heard at the arbitration step.

Follow me on Twitter @paulfaoro.

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Letters, Notices, & Updates

I would like to thank CUPE Local 15 and CUPE British Columbia for their generous support of an International Women’s Day event at the WISH Drop in Centre.

WISH is a non-profit organization providing support services to female survival sex trade workers in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside. They provide services ranging from daily hot meals and onsite nursing care to literacy support and a learning centre. WISH supports the immediate needs of some of our City’s most vulnerable women.

With the generous financial support received from the union membership a group of CUPE sisters were able to work with WISH staff and volunteers to organize a dinner for more than 100 women. The funds donated by CUPE were used to create a high caliber three course meal, provide fresh flowers at each table, and purchase chocolates and items for gift baskets for draws during the evening.

It was a remarkable evening and I am grateful for the financial support from CUPE which made this event possible. The gratitude expressed by the women at the WISH centre was overwhelming for those of us in attendance and it is our most sincere wish that this may become an annual event, as we cannot imagine a more perfect way to celebrate International Women’s Day!

In solidarity,Diane Brown, City Sector Representative

BCNDP DonationI want to thank you sincerely for your generous donation of $400 in 2010 and I want you to know that I greatly appreciate your support of the BC NDP.

It’s unions like yours that will help us win the next election. When we defeat the BC Liberals, we’ll reverse their policies that hurt so many people. You’re helping us to form a government to tackle serious social problems such as the enormous number of children living in poverty, job losses, and cuts to health care.

You know that the BC Liberal party can count on their wealthy corporate insiders to raise millions for them quickly. This puts us at a serious financial disadvantage, because money is critical to winning election campaigns. That’s why the support of unions like yours is absolutely critical.

That’s why every donation your members make this year is vital to ensure a better future for BC workers and families. Thank you once again for supporting a progressive party that will bring a better government to the people of our province.

In solidarity,

Jan O’BrienProvincial Secretary, BC NDP

Thanks for the Support for our International Women’s Day Event

CLC Winter SchoolI would like to thank the membership of CUPE Local 15 for sending me to the Canadian Labour Congress (CLC) 2011 Winter School in Harrison, British Columbia. I was a student in the Provincial Labour Law course instructed by Jennifer Glougie and Jonathon Hanvelt from Bannister and Company.

I found this course very informative with a broad range of materials covered. Topics discussed included the Labour Relations Code and Regulations, Employment Standards Act, and the BC Human Rights Code. In addition we reviewed the trade union certification process, unfair labour practices, collective bargaining procedures, and guidelines for strikes, lockouts and picketing.

It was an intensive week with visitors from the Labour Relations Board (LRB) and a guest mediator and arbitrator who walked the class through the process of bringing a formal complaint before the LRB. The week culminated in our class presenting a mock case before the Labour Relations Board. As an active shop steward in the City sector I found this course extremely useful. It was very informative and I’ve gained a wider understanding of how provincial labour law informs the work we do in Local 15 and how it is also utilized by trade unions across the province to represent members at various levels.

Once again I would like to extend a sincere thank you to the membership of CUPE Local 15 for this educational opportunity. I enjoyed it immensely and look forward to putting the valuable information learned to good use representing our members!

In solidarity,Diane Brown, City Sector Representative

The Executive DecidedBy Leanne Toderian, Secretary Treasurer

At the April 6th Executive Board meeting the following decisions were made:

Purchase 4 tickets to the CUPE • Metro Annual Charity Golf TournamentSend up to 4 delegates to the CLC • National ConventionSet date for City et al Bargaining • Committee selection for May 11, 2011Appoint 2011 Executive Board • Returning Officers: Sister Michele Alexander and Brother Joey Lau

At the March 16th Executive Board meeting the following decisions were made:

Purchase 8 tickets to CCPA Gala • Fundraising Send letter of support to CUPE 4576 • in Sainte-Anne-de-Madawaska in New BrunswickAppoint Brother Jim Leyden to the • Local 15 Education Committee

Get your Art OnI would like to extend my sincere thanks for your support and the generous donation provided by CUPE 15 to our Get Your Art On event that took place in early March.

The event was a huge success and great fun, and provided attendees with an opportunity to experience some of our province’s most talented musicians, comedians and artists. We were also very pleased to have an opportunity to hear from all five BC NDP leadership candidates about their visions for our province.

Your generous donation helped us raise funds to ensure that I can continue to stand up for the rights of workers in my community, work to raise our province’s minimum wage, and advocate for St. Paul’s Hospital, amongst many other things.

I wish you all the best and thank you again for your kind support as well as all that you do for our community.

Sincerely,Spencer Chandra Herbert, MLAVancouver-West End, Official Opposition Critic for Tourism, Culture and the Arts

Donation to CCAPThank you so much for the donation of $1,500 to the Carnegie Community Action Project. CUPE 15’s support of our grassroots work to get more social housing, better incomes and to stop gentrification is really appreciated. On behalf of our dozens of volunteers and thousands of supporters, thank you!

Wendy PedersenCommunity Organizer, CCAP


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Newsbytes

Langara College Members Vote Yes to Strike ActionBy Paul Faoro, President After many months of unproductive contract negotiations with Langara College, including four days of mediation at the BC Labour Relations Board, our bargaining committee and Executive Board concluded that we must take a strike vote to start having the employer take negotiations seriously.

On March 30th our members at Langara voted 83% in favour of taking strike action to back up our bargaining committee. We made a commitment to our members at a pre-vote meeting that our union would do everything we can to get back to the bargaining table to reach a fair and respectful deal without taking strike action. The day after the vote I started that by making a presentation to the Langara Board of Governors where I clearly laid out what was needed to get a deal. As well, I have written the Minister of Advanced Education, Naomi Yamamoto, requesting an urgent meeting to discuss the situation. In addition we have been doing outreach to students to get them onside.

Adding to this situation is the fact that the Langara Faculty Association has obtained a strong strike mandate from their members and has already served 72 hours strike notice. We are in regular contact with the LFA and our solidarity is the strongest it ever has been. We will collectively do what it takes to reach just settlements for our respected memberships. Check out cupe15.org for the latest news.

newsbytes focusBOOMERANGSTBy Caroline Mewis, HSPBA Health Sector Representative

This is the title of a conference I was fortunate to attend. As the first Boomers turn 65 this year it is reassuring to know that there is a lot of excellent research into aging and specifically the impact on Health Services.

We all know that aging is not a disease and that the Boomers are a generation that has had a lot of impact up until now with their focus on health and fitness. It is almost as if they invented jogging and health food stores and the proliferation of vitamins and other supplements. The good news is that they are generally healthy and want the opportunity to age successfully.

Some politicians have referred to the Tsunami of Boomers that might impact health services but many notable researchers are referring to it as the grey glacier of aging, which is more apt. They also have identified what services we will all need as we navigate the process successfully.

It is also comforting to hear that the health care system is sustainable as the impact will be gradual and the Boomers will make sure that the money is spent on appropriate services. I am sure we will all do our best to age gracefully and with luck will not need to access health services any time soon!

Thank you for allowing me to attend this excellent conference.

Special Meeting for City, Park Board, Britannia and Ray-Cam MembersBy Paul Faoro, President Our collective agreements for members employed by the City of Vancouver, Park Board, Britannia, and Ray-Cam will expire at the end of this year. As a result CUPE 15 is calling a special meeting on May 11th to elect a bargaining committee for the upcoming contract negotiations.

Vancouver City Council has served notice to withdraw from the Metro Vancouver Labour Bureau which means we should be negotiating directly with the City of Vancouver. This should result in more productive and timely contract talks which will certainly be a welcome change.

Over the last several months I have met with the presidents from other CUPE locals in the lower mainland that represent municipal employees. We have discussed the pending negotiations that are going to start up and have compared current workplace issues.

The meeting to elect a bargaining committee will be held on May 11th at the Croatian Cultural Centre, 3250 Commercial Drive, in Vancouver, starting at 5:30 p.m. If you cannot attend the meeting and would like to put your name forward to serve on the bargaining committee please contact Leanne Toderian at our union office. Training will be provided to all members elected to the bargaining committee.


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Financial Statements

Financial Position

Statement of Operations

Changes in Net Assets

Statement of Cash Flows

Notes to the Financial Statements

1. The purposes of the Society are to hold the Capital Assets used by the Canadian Union of Public Employees Local 15 - VMECW (referred to as Local 15) and to provide benefits to society members, as determined by Society policy or membership resolution. It was incorporated under the Society Act of British Columbia and is therefore exempted from income tax.

2. Significant Accounting Policies(a) Revenue RecognitionThe Society follows the deferral method of accounting for revenue,(b) Capital Assets: Purchased Capital Assets are recorded at cost. Amortization of Capital Assets is provided for on the straight line basis at the annual rates set out below. The final year amortization is not taken if the asset remains in use.Building: No amortization taken since 1998Equipment, furniture and fixtures 20% Straight Line(c) Investments: Investments are recorded at cost.

3. Term DepositsInvestment certificates of the Credit Union have annual interest rates of 0.25% to2.00%.

4. Loans Receivable from Members

The Society is subject to higher than normal credit risk on loans to members as these loans are available only for hardship cases. The amount that represents the Society’s maximum credit risk exposure on these loans as at December 31, 2010 has not been determined.

5. Capital Assets: Capital Assets are recorded at cost and consist of:

6. Related Party TransactionsThe Society rents its office space and leases its office equipment to the Canadian Union of Public Employees - Local 15. Total income earned from Local 15 for the year is $285,000 (for 2009: $309,300).

7. Transfer- Health MembersThe transfer was made from Bill 29 settlement, for the purpose of professional development by Health Science Professionals Bargaining Association members. Any undistributed funds have been recorded as deferred revenue.

8. Sick BenefitsThe Society benefits continuance policy normally covers a period of six months.

9. This loan is unsecured, non interest bearing, and there are no fixed terms for repayment.

10. Certain prior year figures have been adjusted to conform with the current year presentation.

To the Executive Board of, Vancouver Municipal Education and Community Workers Society,We have audited the accompanying financial statements of Vancouver Municipal Education and Community Workers Society, which comprise the statement of financial position as at December 31, 2010, and the statement of operations and changes in net assets, and statement of cash flow for the year then ended, and a summary of significant accounting policies and other explanatory information.

Management’s responsibility for the financial statementsManagement is responsible for the preparation and fair presentation of these financial statements in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles for not-for-profit organizations, and for such internal control as management determines is necessary to enable the preparation of financial statements that are free from material misstatement, whether due to fraud or error.

Auditor’s responsibilityOur responsibility is to express an opinion on these financial statements based on our audit. We conducted our audit in accordance with Canadian generally accepted auditing standards. Those standards require that we comply with ethical requirements and plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free from material misstatement. An audit involves performing procedures to obtain audit evidence about the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. The procedures selected depend on the auditor’s judgment, including the assessment of the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to fraud or error. In making those risk assessments, the auditor considers internal control relevant to the entity’s preparation and fair presentation of the financial statements in order to design audit procedures that are appropriate in the circumstances, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the entity’s internal control. An audit also includes evaluating the appropriateness of accounting policies used and the reasonableness of accounting estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that the audit evidence we have obtained is sufficient and appropriate to provide a basis for our audit opinion.

OpinionIn our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Vancouver Municipal Education and Community Workers Society as at December 31, 2010, and its financial performance for the year then ended in accordance with Canadian generally accepted accounting principles for not-for-profit organizations.- FAIRHALL ZHANG & ASSOCIATES LTD.


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CUPE 15 Elections

Executive Board ElectionsPaul Faoro for PresidentDear Sisters and Brothers,

Election time is upon us in more ways than one this spring – important and closest to home is our own Executive Board elections this April 27th. As you may already know from the last Members’ Voice, we have many positions to elect,

including President. We’re likely going to have the opportunity to vote for municipal, provincial, and federal governments this year. But first, it’s our time to define who will best represent us on the job, speak for us, and act on our behalf in our upcoming Executive elections.

So with that, I would first like to thank Barb Dickinson from the Park Board for nominating me for another term as your president. I am really honoured by her nomination.

I have a great respect for the membership and this union and want to continue to represent all of you. I will bring to the position the energy and commitment that we need in these tough times – along with the experience I have gained in my many years of service to Local 15.

In the last two years we faced a serious economic recession which severely hit our members, communities, and employers. I cannot think of a more challenging time for our union as we faced position cuts and service reductions. Under my leadership, protecting jobs was at the forefront, and always dealt with in a compassionate, strategic, and professional way. I’m proud of the work our Shop Stewards, Executive Board and staff have done representing our union through these difficult times. Vancouver City Council, Park Board, School Board, and the Art Gallery Board heard loud and clear in public and on many occasions our demands to protect public services and jobs. Loud and clear.

Speaking of loud and clear, I’ve been working more closely with our fellow unions (many of which have members at your worksites) to share our strengths, resources and communications through tough times. Meeting with CUPE locals 1004 and 391, IBEW 213, Vancouver Firefighters’ Union, IATSE, and the Vancouver Police Union allowed us all to coordinate efforts on difficult issues – like the City’s $50 million budget shortfall.

It’s the same at the Vancouver School Board, where we worked closely with the Operating Engineers - Local 962, Elementary and Secondary Teachers’ Associations, and CUPE 407 to take unified actions against underfunding by the Provincial Government.

And we’re carrying on this effort again, as we work with the Langara Faculty Association to reach fair deals at the bargaining table for their members and ours. It never ends, it seems.

Without a doubt, our solidarity with unions around us is the strongest it has ever been, and it’s something I want to continue. We are a leader in the labour movement and our community. Local 15 is one of the largest locals in the Canadian Union of Public Employees, with close to 6,000 members. Our members work for 17 employers at over 150 worksites in Vancouver, North Vancouver, Burnaby, Richmond, and Delta. So it’s without a doubt that we have many different voices to represent.

And what better way to do that than by communicating effectively with our members? We’ve risen to the challenge and have diversified our channels of communication, starting with the sometimes complicated world of Facebook and Twitter. You can find me on both Facebook and Twitter (@paulfaoro). CUPE 15 also has a Facebook page, where you will find our latest posts and updates, connecting you to what’s important. You’ve also told us how we’re doing on our e-newsletters, and we appreciate that feedback. We will continue to improve where we can, and keep you up to date with the progress. Hopefully, we’ll be able to reduce our carbon footprint even more by reducing paper and switching to more efficient ways to communicate.

On a final note, we have a few hurdles to jump through in 2011. We have to conclude contract negotiations at Emily Carr University, Langara College, and the Vancouver School Board. Preparations will then start for negotiations for our large City and Parks group, Vancouver Art Gallery, Museum of Vancouver, Space Centre, and the Maritime Museum. More than ever, we are going to need experienced navigation through changes in government, ensuring our membership is properly represented.

I am proud of this union, our membership, and what we are able to achieve together. I want to continue to work with, and for, you, making your union relevant to you. With your help, I look forward to doing just that.

I hope I can count on your vote, and your continued support.

Jordan Parente for PresidentMake Jordan Parente Your Local 15 PresidentIt would be my honour to serve as your CUPE Local 15 President.

The future that I envision of BC’s largest CUPE local, is a welcoming environment to all members with a cohesive, yet transparent, Executive under my leadership.My experience heading other boards and executives, coupled with my strong social justice, community and CUPE 15 affiliation lends to the skill set, energy and integrity that is needed in the President’s position of our local.

Along with my fellow Trustees, during the four years I previously served on CUPE 15’s Society

Board the local’s coffers went from near empty to well over a million dollars surplus.

My experience in organizing CUPE BC youth will lend itself to the methods needed to ensure equal representation of Shop Stewards among all the union’s sectors.

I will explore the working structure of our Executive Board to see where sector representatives may be better enabled to take on a larger role within the organization.

As my fellow members can attest a new voice is needed in dealings with our elected government.

Thank you to Donald Rounding for your confidence in nominating me for the President position.

Experience •CUPE 15 Executive •Shop Steward•Bargaining Committee Commitments•Transparent/Cohesive Executive Board•Member driven Newsletter•Leadership you can trust

For more information, please visit: www.jordanparente.ca. The voice of change; vote Jordan Parente for CUPE 15 President.

Sally Bankiner for Second Vice President Your Candidate for Re-Election

As I write this article I remember my mother who I lost yesterday. She was my inspiration and she taught me the values that I live by. She taught me to share my toys, to be kind, not to hit my sister, and later in life to be non-judgmental, and to respect and truly value the contributions of every person in my life and to live with compassion and empathy. With a saddened heart and humble thank you, I have accepted the nomination for 2nd Vice President.

I would like to share with you some insight as to why I am asking for your vote. I truly believe that working for you as a Steward for many years and then having the honour of being elected as a City Sector Rep gave me a solid understanding of what it means to be a member of a union. It became abundantly clear what the word “solidarity” means and why we call each other “brother” and “sister”.

I have gained experience in many areas such as bargaining. I am co-chair of our OH&S Committee, and chair of our Education Committee. I have spoken out at the Vancouver Art Gallery on important issues and understand that as elected Executive Board members it is crucial that we work as a team and face the challenges together, united and stronger than before. All of us have


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CUPE 15 Electionsfaced these difficult challenges in the last few years and it is important that we find solutions to the issues together, instead of just looking for problems and fear mongering. We are charged with making important decisions that affect you and your family.

An important aspect of our work on the Board is the financial health of our local. Transparency applies to everyone and to all aspects of our Executive Board and how it functions. Our financial records are maintained in a meticulous manner and we are independently audited every year. Although the financial and business aspect is an extremely important part of what the Executive does, our main focus is taking care of and serving our membership through the administration of 18 different collective agreements, bargaining, and daily dealing with the global issues that affect you including the way our municipal, provincial, and federal governments affect our rights to collectively bargain.

I am proud to say that as long as I have been on the Executive each and every one of my colleagues has proven to be a positive inspiration and it has been an incredible experience. The work of the Executive Board is not individual. I am proud of this union and the accomplishments we have made over the years and understand that as a team we will disagree from time to time but we must respect each other’s opinions and work together.

I have worked with some extremely passionate and talented colleagues on the Executive over the years and despite our differences that make us unique, we worked collaboratively and our accomplishments are a team effort and certainly not individual. Although each individual has a part you must be able to put your trust in us as your elected officials to reach a fair, unbiased decision understanding that at times there is no middle ground. This election is not about seeking a seat on the board for the sake of holding a title. The true quality of a leader is to be able to work with a diverse team of people recognizing individual strengths and utilizing our collective skills and abilities to address the issues we face together. So, in closing, I would like to encourage you to come out and exercise your vote at the advance polls and at the Annual General Meeting. Also, please feel free to contact me via the union office or at: http://twitter.com/askmesallyb.

In solidarity,Sally Bankiner, 2nd Vice President

Betty McGee for 2nd Vice PresidentI wish to take this opportunity to declare I have accepted the nomination and will be running for the office of 2nd Vice President of Local 15. I would also like to take this opportunity to formally thank my nominator, Sonia Brizzi, and the many other members who encouraged me to allow my name to stand.

As Chief Shop Steward of the Parks sector I continue to be a very active Steward and enjoy this work very much. I believe that Shop Stewards

are extremely important to our local as they are on the front line protecting and supporting our members. I am happy to report that we are training a number of new Stewards and I am playing an active role in mentoring those who will serve the Parks sector. I find this work extremely rewarding.

I believe I have clearly demonstrated my commitment to the members of CUPE Local 15 and the values that I feel strengthen our union. Fiscal responsibility, adherence to the local’s by-laws and policies and transparency in process are paramount from our elected union officials and I am proud that my actions over the years reflect these core values. With your support I am hopeful that I may once again bring these qualities and my dedication to the tasks of strengthening solidarity in our union and representing members in the role of 2nd Vice President.

To view a list of the positions I have held and the bargaining I have been involved in please log on to a blog I have created. http://voteforbetty.wordpress.com/. If you have any questions you may leave them on the blog or email me at [email protected] and I will be happy to respond.

Thank you in advance for your consideration of my candidacy.

In solidarity,

Karla Mairena for TrusteeMy name is Karla Mairena and I am accepting nomination for Trustee, with thanks to my nominator. I am an active Steward and am currently on the Labour Management Committee and my worksite OH&S Committee. I enjoy this work and the opportunity to further develop my negotiating and advocacy skills.

My family immigrated to Canada from Nicaragua and I feel very fortunate to live in British Columbia. The transition from Nicaragua to Canada has formed much of my political perspective and my passion to work as an activist. I am proud that CUPE participates on an international level in supporting labour struggles of workers in other countries and also for drawing attention to exploitation of new immigrant workers in our own country.

I believe that every worker has the right to a fair wage, and respectful work environment and that we must work hard to maintain these rights, both locally and globally. For our local, I believe that a solid executive is key to efficiently serving the membership and I believe I would be an asset on the board.

As a Trustee I would bring reliability, honesty, accountability, and a solid work ethic to the table. I am a creative and strategic thinker and I am passionate about protecting the rights of our membership. I can commit to giving the time and attention necessary to ensure that all duties attached to the Trustee role be carried out diligently and with integrity.

I would be honoured to have this opportunity and am asking for your support at the polls.

Thank you.

In solidarity, Karla Mairena, City

Randi Gurholt-Seary for TrusteeWith all elections there is the decision on who to put your vote behind. The good news is that our union has energetic people who are willing to stand for positions and dedicate many volunteer hours to ensure our union represents the members. We are after all, each and every one of us members.

I am standing for election as a Trustee, a position I have held before for two terms and hope to again.

Why am I running?

In looking back over the years I guess I have a growing herstory of being involved and standing up when work needs to be done. I spent two years booked off my job during 2007 through 2009 working as a Member Organizer for CUPE National. I have represented BC on the CUPE National Child Care Working Group since 2002 and more recently as the co chair. I also am on the CUPE BC Working Group since its inception and am actively involved with various other coalition partners that are working diligently on behalf of workers to bring about an Integrated Early Care and Learning Plan both to BC and Canada. Together with others I helped establish many past social events for our union known as “The Onion” and have helped with various other events from the Children’s Christmas Party to elections, telephone campaigns andsocial justice events.

I have been picket captain during strikes and sat at the bargaining table for a difficult round ofbargaining. While working for our members at many of our BC and national conventions I debated resolutions as well as attended caucuses, marches and forums to keep informed about CUPE actions that affect members.

I believe in volunteerism for our union and believe that if something presents itself as needing doing, then it’s best to be a part of getting it done. I enjoy using my creativity in political action and find it extremely helpful in finding creative solutions for difficult problems. I believe in working together with thoughtfulness, wisdom and positive action.

Randi-Gurholt Seary, Britannia

Betty McGee, Parks


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Arthur Lum for City Sector RepresentativeMy name is Arthur Lum and I am pleased to accept my nomination for City Sector Representative.

Currently I work in Parking Enforcement, and previously I worked in the Civic Theatres. One of the benefits of my job is the large and diverse group of members that I work with and the wide range of political opinions and viewpoints that I am regularly exposed to. I appreciate and respect this diversity and will try to represent it as best I can on the Executive, if elected.

I have also developed a good sense of humour, as one must working in Parking Enforcement and I feel this has served me well thus far.

I have very broad interests, including a nerdish love of technology.

I believe that our local could be much enhanced by getting new activists involved and bringing a fresh and energetic perspective to the social justice and labour issues that we address. I believe that new approaches to informing and activating members are overdue and that technology has a huge role to play in connecting with and representing the hugely diverse skills, opinions and needs of our membership.

I also know the value of a more conservative and cautious approach.

I have served as a Trustee for the last few years and to this end, am unequivocal in my view that an organization’s actions must be compliant with their bylaws and further that the bylaws must be in line with the memberships interests. I know that the integrity of the Executive process is critical. I may not agree with every decision but I do need to know that the process the decision was made in was mandated by the membership.

If given the opportunity to serve as City Sector Rep, I promise to do so with diplomacy, enthusiasm, respect, and integrity.

In solidarity,Arthur Lum, CUPE 15 Steward, City

Santino Scardillo for City Sector RepresentativeI am happy to accept the nomination for City Sector Rep and would like to thank Brother Doug Elford for the nomination.

I have been a City employee for the past 20 years. Although I have been a proud member of CUPE 15 for many years, my actual first experience as a member goes back 30 years to when I was employed by Hastings Community Center. Since then I have become Shop Steward at National Yard with a proven track record in advocating and protecting the rights of members throughout the City in Community Services, Non Market Housing, Animal Control, The Gathering Place, Landfill Operations, Parking Enforcement, Coin Collections, Licensing and Inspections, and Engineering, to name a few.

I am a member of both the Local 15 Occupational Health & Safety Committee and the Education Committee. To advocate effectively for members, I have educated myself on topics such as auxiliary issues, contracting out, harassment and bullying, duty to accommodate, human rights, and many other important topics. I also represent our members on the Joint OH&S Committee with the employer which deals with the more “global” health and safety issues.

As your City Sector Rep I have your direct voice on many important issues, especially this upcoming bargaining year. I would be honoured to continue to reflect you, our members, and look forward to doing so respectfully.

I appreciate your support as I run for office and encourage you to come out and vote.

In solidarity, Santino Scardillo “Red”, City

Volunteer in your riding - try our NEW federal riding look-up toolElections rely on huge teams of volunteers - and one of the best ways to make sure that our voices are heard is to take part.

Make your voice heard! Volunteer: The NDP is our party, and our voice in parliament. Your time makes all the difference. Enter your postal code to learn more about your candidate and find out how you can get involved.

http://cupe.ca/forms/election-2011.php

CUPE members talking to other CUPE membersThis year, CUPE election coordinators and volunteers in each province are working hard to reach out to members and candidates..

Your regional coodinator is Jeff Lawson, and you can reach him at:[email protected]

CUPE action: Federal election 2011For five years, Stephen Harper’s Conservative government has put the interests of banks and big corporations ahead of Canadian workers.

As a result, too many of us are struggling – caring for aging parents, keeping up with the cost of housing, child care and prescription drugs and worrying about how we will afford retirement.

Now is the time to say enough. This federal election is our chance to choose real leadership, with a real vision for a better Canada. As CUPE members we know the importance of electing a government that understands the issues facing working Canadians.

ELECTIONS 2011

CUPE 15 Elections

CUPE National President, Paul Moist with Rev. Jackson and Wisconsin public sector workers at the “We are Wisconsin” rally


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Canada’s tax system has become increasingly unfair over the past two decades—and Stephen Harper is making it even worse for working Canadians.

Federal and provincial governments have made the tax system less fair by:

Cutting taxes for high incomes and • corporationsShifting to taxes such as the HST that fall • more on consumersCreating expensive tax loopholes and • boutique tax credits, costing federal and provincial governments tens of billions a yearDownloading services to the local level, which • rely on more regressive property taxes and user fees

The Facts

From 1990 to 2005, the overall tax rate for the poorest Canadians increased by 20 per cent. Meanwhile the tax rate for the richest one percent was cut by 10 per cent. The richest Canadians pay a lower overall tax rate than every other income group in Canada—including the poorest 10 per cent.

The federal government’s revenues reached a record low share of our economy last year: 14.3 per cent compared to an average of 17 per cent for the past 25 years. Federal revenues would be $45 billion higher if they rose to this average. That’s more than the size of the deficit this year and shows that the federal government doesn’t have a spending problem; it has a revenue problem.

The Harper Conservatives’ record

The Harper government is making the tax system even more regressive in many different ways.

From day one, they’ve riddled and complicated our tax system with more and more expensive tax credits and loopholes. Small tax credits for

children’s fitness and arts programs, tools and other small and specific tax credits may sound impressive, but they are really only worth $75 or less, and nothing for lower income families. The biggest winners are people with high incomes and tax accountants. It’s much more effective and fair to increase funding directly for public programs rather than continue with Harper’s growing number of “boutique” tax cuts.

Meanwhile other tax measures Harper has introduced have overwhelming benefited corporations and the rich while costing working families more.

Harper’s corporate tax cuts will cost the federal government more than $6 billion a year—close to $500 per household—while they are making steep cuts to public spending. The big winners of Harper’s corporate tax cuts will be already highly profitable big banks and oil companies. Together with other finance and resource companies, they’ll be able to reduce their tax bill by more than $2 billion a year. The top income tax rates for large corporations will be at half the individuals income tax rate while many can avoid income taxes altogether through tax loopholes and tax havens. His $2.5 billion election promise of income splitting will go overwhelmingly to high income families who can afford to have one spouse stay home, saving each of them $7,000 or more a year. Meanwhile, Harper wants to expand other multi-billion dollar tax loopholes favoured by CEOs and corporations, such as reduced taxes for capital gains through which the wealthiest pay tax at half the rate of working people. The Harper government was also behind regressive tax moves at the provincial level, relentlessly pushing provincial governments to cut their corporate taxes and introduce Harmonized Sales Taxes and even giving Ontario and B.C. close to $6 billion in federal taxpayers’ money to do so.From his first budget, Stephen Harper’s main

priority has been to cut taxes for the rich and corporations. But it’s not just an issue of tax fairness. As he said two years ago, he believes that “no taxes are good taxes”. If governments raise less money in revenue, deficits will rise and there will be more pressure to cut public spending and to privatize public services.

Tax cuts introduced by the Harper government will reduce federal revenues by more than $37 billion this coming year, by $220 million since they came to office and by more than $120 billion over the next three years. A growing share of these reduced revenues is the result of tax cuts for business.

A better choiceWe need adequate tax revenues to pay for decent public services. As former US Supreme Court judge Oliver Wendell Holmes said, “Taxes are the price we pay for civilization.” Public spending as a share of Canada’s economy was recently cut to its lowest level in at more than thirty years.

The federal government needs higher revenues to pay for needed public services, and to provide new programs that will benefit working Canadians, including affordable public child care, affordable prescription drugs, quality care for seniors, affordable housing, better education and clean water for all.

There’s an easy place to start: reversing Harper’s corporate tax cuts, closing tax loopholes and raising taxes on the rich. Just a few of these measures could net the federal government more than $20 billion a year. A few other measures could net an extra $10 billion a year, providing the funds for progressive programs that would provide many real benefits to all working families in Canada.At L. Abutebut pultusperi, dicaper

Let’s talk about Fair TaxesFederal Election

Authorized by the registered agent for Canada’s NDP


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Sally Bankiner, Chair, Education Committee

Another month has come and gone and by the looks of the weather we are well into a rainy spring. It is again my privilege to write the April edition of the Steward’s Mailing. There is a lot going on in the next few months and your Education Committee has been working on developing the Steward’s Training Event for 2011 which is tentatively scheduled for June 10th and 11, 2011. After much discussion we have decided to hold this event locally to make it more convenient for all to attend. The theme this year is “Roots” and we are thrilled at the possibility of having Barry O’Neil, President of CUPE BC as a guest speaker at the Friday evening plenary session. We are also planning on combining the Annual Steward’s Recognition Dinner with this event so please stay tuned for more information coming your way soon.

We have a significant number of new stewards at Local 15 and we extend to you congratulations on your new role. As you take on your new role you will find that stewarding means being open to learning new things about yourself, the employer, and your community. It’s an opportunity to fight for our members and for what is right. It helps us to grow both personally and professionally. If you have not seen a copy of the new Steward’s Handbook from CUPE BC, please visit their website and download the PDF version at: http://cupe.ca/updir/stewards_handbook.pdf.

At first stewarding may feel a little intimidating or challenging but , when you see that you have truly made a difference in someone’s life and experience the thrill of your first big or little “win”

it truly is extremely rewarding! From then on, it keeps getting better and better as you grow more confident every day....

To support our stewards Local 15 offers a wide variety of educational courses in addition to a mentoring program. Both are valuable tools for giving you experience in handling meetings with the employer and then in time, the grievance process. You can also check our website for upcoming courses like “Facing Management” which is being held at the Local 15 office on June 7th and 8, 2011. Please call for an application and book off form if you are interested in signing up for this excellent course or if you would like to have a mentor, please contact the union office for more information.

On a serious note; as most of you know, April 28th marks the “Workers’ Day of Mourning”. Last year 143 B.C. workers lost their lives due to workplace injury and disease. An average of three workers die and 2,600 work related injuries are reported each week; with 46 young workers being injured every day and 17 workers permanently disabled. April 28th is a day that we pause, reflect and gather to remember those fallen workers and re-commit ourselves to creating safer workplaces for everyone. The tiny canary was once the only safeguard mine workers had against danger in the workplace. If the canary died, it was a signal to evacuate the mines, FAST! Today, CUPE members across Canada act as frontline protection for their fellow citizens. They have become the canaries. So, the next time you see an unsafe situation - whether it’s an unsecured ladder, a tripping hazard, a frayed cord or an unsecured filing cabinet, don’t ignore it or think it’s someone else’s problem. Report any hazards to your supervisor or safety committee rep. It may also be a good time to do an earthquake check at your worksite.

Please visit the CUPE BC website at: http://www.cupe.bc.ca/committees/occupational-health-and-safety

“CUPE helps protect workers and the public by putting a high priority on health and safety issues. We develop materials to help workers understand their rights and responsibilities in the workplace, refuse unsafe work and ensure that changes are made to keep the work environment safe. We also support locals to negotiate health and safety provisions into collective agreements to ensure that workers are protected. CUPE has also been part of putting together some of the world’s most progressive workers’ compensation and health and safety laws here in B.C. That work is now threatened as the Liberal government is developing significant changes to the Workers’ Compensation Act and the Occupational Health and Safety Regulation. CUPE members and other workers want to protect the gains we’ve made in creating healthier, safer workplaces. A safe and healthy workplace environment protects both the workers and the public we serve.”

In closing let me say that sometimes it is not easy being a steward or for that matter a Health & Safety Representative. It takes a special person to be a steward. You are a primary problem solver, dispute mediator, grievance handler, complaint referral system and advocate. A steward is a significant link and a conduit between the worksite and the Local. It takes a high degree of personal dedication, and commitment. BUT please be assured that all the members that collectively make our union strong, value your dedication and ongoing support.

Remember, knowledge is power and you can use that power to change your world or the world of someone else!

Education Corner

“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” - Nelson Mandela

VANCOUVER—CUPE 1004 was recognized at City Council for one hundred years of public service. Mayor Gregor Robertson noted that CUPE 1004 represents and reflects “the tremendous diversity of the City.”

“CUPE 1004 has certainly made a major contribution to the life of this City and our status of one of the most livable cities in the world,” said Robertson. “CUPE 1004’s members are instrumental in our goal to be the greenest and the cleanest city in the world.”

CUPE 1004 president Mike Jackson thanked Council and said he was very proud to be a member of CUPE 1004. Jackson praised the relationship between the City and the workforce. “It’s not just about the hard work that we do,” said Jackson. “It’s about our relationship together. That creates the most livable city in the world.”

“We are committed to improving the City of Vancouver,” Jackson said. “Not only in the

physical landscape, but also in our relationship with the City. Our commitment is to provide residents with the best services we possibly can.”

CUPE 1004 secretary-treasurer Frank Lee briefly shared some of the Local’s early history, before it joined CUPE in 1966. CUPE 1004’s first written history can be found in the minutes of a membership meeting on March 14, 1911, which recorded a defeated motion to “endorse socialism at the next Trades Council.” The American Federation of Labor issued its first charter in April of that year, and in May a Committee of the Trades Council was struck to urge City Council to adopt a 44-hour week for civic employees.

In June, 1912 the union acquired a Charter from the International Hod Carriers, Building and Common Laborer’s Union of America (bricklayers and plasterers) and called itself the Civic and General Laborer’s Union. The union received its own charter in 1917 and became the Vancouver

Civic Employees Federal Labour Union, Local 28. Lee noted that many members had been blacklisted as a result of their sympathy strike in 1919 in support of the Winnipeg General Strike. The City Hall Employees and Vancouver Fire Fighters helped financially in the struggle to have these members re-employed and the strong bonds of solidarity established then still exist today.

CUPE 1004 represents 2,500 members who provide clean water and safe sanitary systems, repair potholes, sidewalks and streets, maintain parks and facilities, collect garbage and recycling and maintain Vancouver’s landfill. CUPE 1004 also represents members who work at the PNE, Easy Park (Parking Corporation of Vancouver), the Downtown Eastside Residents Association (DERA), PHS Community Services Society (formerly Portland Hotel Society), Co-Development Canada and the Federation of Post-Secondary Educators (FPSE), Capilano Students’ Union and staff from various college and university faculty associations.

City recognizes CUPE 1004’s 100th anniversary


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International Women’s Day Celebrated its 100th Anniversary on March 8th, 2011By Leanne Toderian, Secretary Treasurer The first International Women’s Day events were run in Austria, Denmark, Germany and Switzerland in 1911 and were attended by over one million people. 100 years on, International Women’s Day (IWD) has become a global mainstream phenomena celebrated across many countries and is an official holiday in approximately 25 countries including Afghanistan, Russia, the Ukraine, Vietnam, and Zambia. Unfortunately not Canada – it seems we have a way to go yet.

There were a number of events that happened around the lower mainland, hosted by CUPE BC, the Vancouver and District Labour Council, CUPE Metro, to name a few. While there are still those who question whether women can equal men in commitment and experience, thankfully those numbers are waning. Sadly some of those who question whether women can hold office are women themselves, but they are not the

majority. True labour activists and trade unionist both men and women have they value the contributions women have had in the labour movement and their communities.

CUPE BC and CUPE National along with Local 15 have a proud tradition of honouring women and the contributions they make, and recognizing the unique challenges faced by women in the workplace. Local 15 has always had women active in the local whether as stewards, trustees, or executive board members.

Our local boasts what may have been the first female president some 40+ years ago.

And how has the International Women’s Day campaign manifested itself? On a personal note, I have no doubt this work allows me to serve this local as Secretary Treasurer, who as a single mother may not otherwise have had the opportunity; but for the hard work and support of men and women who came before me. Perhaps the most encouraging, just in time for IWD, is that Sister Joey Hartman, one of the VMREU’s former Secretary Treasurers, was recently elected as President of the Vancouver and District Labour Council; a progressive forward thinking endorsement. Congratulations to you sister! A fitting tribute to wind up this celebration.

For more information about what CUPE has to offer visit: www.cupe.bc.ca and www.cupe.ca and find out more about women’s committees on those websites and how you can participate.

Healthy Teeth, Healthy Body - April Is Dental Health Month!by Patricia Taylor, HSSCBA Health Sector Representative

At a recent health conference I attended (with thanks to Local 15) it was clear to me that there is a disconnect between oral care and health care.

As a Certified Dental Assistant this is troubling to me and my profession. Within the health care model, there was not a plan in place for oral care, or to include a dental health professional within the interdisciplinary team.

The conference I refer to was held in Vancouver February 22-23 presented on behalf of the Health Services and Policy Research and the Institute of Health Research (CHSPR).

This year, 2011, the first baby boomers turn 65! There are myths relating to the aging population that they are to blame for uncontrollable health costs. There is abundant research that tells us that aging alone is not a threat to the health care system. Multiple chronic conditions, not age, are the main driver of the health system. Most people at home rely on informal care from a spouse or child (I know about this!).

Children younger than five accounted for the highest proportion of ER visits, with 485,760 visits overall in 2008-09, followed by age 20-24 with 405,691.

While the impact of the H1N1 Pandemic may not have resulted in as many severe cases as predicted, more than 15,000 Canadians were admitted to hospital.

Getting back to mouth care... within the interdisciplinary team identified as doctors,

nurses, occupational therapists, physical therapists, and dietitians but there was no mention of a dental professional. Keep in mind

that the aging adults will keep their teeth so this needs to change!

Did you know that poor dental health can affect other areas of your body? There is a strong link between gum disease and diabetes. People with diabetes are not only at more risk for gum disease but having gum disease can affect the severity of diabetes. Studies are examining whether pregnant women with gum disease may be at a higher risk of delivering low term babies. There is new research that points to a possible

connection between gum disease and heart disease and stroke.

I would like to thank CUPE Local 15 for allowing me the opportunity of attending this 23rd Annual Health Policy Conference. It was very informative and provided me a certain level of comfort knowing that we have such intelligent researchers in Canada!

Bravo!


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Events & Credits

The Members’ Voice is published nine times a year for members of CUPE Local 15 - Vancouver Municipal, Education and Community Workers. The Deadline for submissions is 9:00 a.m. on the first Wednesday of each month. All submissions may be edited for brevity and clarity. Signed articles and letters do not necessarily reflect the views or policy of CUPE Local 15.

CUPE Local 15545 West 10th AvenueVancouver, BC V5Z 1K9Phone: 604-879-4671Fax: 604-879-7582Email: [email protected]: www.cupe15.org

Local 15 is a chartered affiliate of the Canadian Union of Public Employees and is also affiliated with the CUPE British Columbia Division, CUPE Metro District Council and the Vancouver & District Labour Council. CUPE 15 is a member of the Canadian Association of Labour Media (CALM).

CUPE Local 15 Executive Board

Table Officers:President: Paul Faoro

1st Vice President: Miriam Pulsifer

2nd Vice President: Sally Bankiner

Secretary Treasurer: Leanne Toderian

Sector Representatives:City: Santino Scardillo, Diane Brown

College/University: Emma Somers , Reba Noel

Cultural: Matthew Quiring

Health/HSSCBA: Patricia Taylor

Health/HSPBA: Vacant

Parks: Anne-Marie McGee, Barb Dickinson

K-12: Peggy Wong, Warren Williams

Trustees:Joey Lau, Michelle Alexander, Arthur Lum

Staff Representatives:Kathie Currie, John Geppert, Keith Graham, Graeme Moore

Office & Administrative Staff:Mark Gloumeau, Accounting Coordinator Maureen Dorratt, Office Assistant Rosemary Matheson, Office Manager Barbara Simpson, Office Assistant

Building Maintenance:Jeff Zaharia

CUPE National Representatives:Justin Schmid, Tina Meadows, Matt Yun

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Join our Facebook group. Just search for CUPE 15

Please join other CUPE Local 15 members at this fun event, there will be lots of things for your family to do. Kids are definitely welcome!

Saturday May 7th, 10am-2pm

Races• clowns• pony rides• barbeque• Ride on a Backhoe• or climb into a Vancouver Police • paddy wagonor Vancouver Fire Services Fire Truck• Bouncy castle• and so much more!•

City of Vancouver Annual Family Day Event

Documents

Member's Voice April 2011