st. thomas, ontario

ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO
Volume 42, No. 2
July 6, 2009
Saturday, July 18th, 2009 - 11am - 3pm
Last year’s event was a great success and this
year’s is looking even bigger and better.
We ask you to register your family members
before hand so we can estimate the amount of
food needed. There will be a choice of
hamburger, hot dog or pizza with a pop available
for the nominal fee of $1.00. This is done to
prevent waste. There will be free sno-cones,
popcorn and cotton candy.
There will be moonwalks (for different size
children), a funhouse trailer, radar gun, obstacle
courses, Rockband, giant maze and much more.
So come on out, have a good time and hope
for great weather. Remember, Grandparents,
Grandchildren, Dads and Moms are all welcome!
Member’s Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
.............................................
Number of Adults Attending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Number of Children Attending . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Please return this form to your
Committeeperson.
Deadline for registration will be July 10th
Please Plan to Attend and Have a Fun Day!
PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NO. 40026126
PAGE 2, NEWSHEADLINE
St. Thomas, Ontario
Let’s make the best of our leisurely summer. Who knows
if we’ll get this opportunity again!
In Solidarity,
Jean Simpson, Editor
P. O. Box 545, St. Thomas, Ontario N5P 3V6
EDITORIAL BOARD
Jean Simpson, Editor
Dennis McGee
Scott Smith
President
Plant Chairperson
Cindy Aquilina
Ray “Coop” Cooper
Member-At-Large
Recording Secretary
Shane MacPherson
Sheila Copping
Financial Sec.-Treas.
Member-At-Large
Bob Such, Retired Workers’ Chairperson
The opinions expressed or advertisements displayed do not necessarily
reflect the views, opinions or endorsement of Local 1520 C.A.W. The
Editorial Board reserves the right to edit any article submitted for length
or conformity to C.A.W. Policy. Published four times a year.
THANK YOU!
I would personally like to thank Local 1520 for that
beautiful Bible in memory of my Father. Special
thanks to my co-workers. You know who you are.
Eugene Holtby & Family
SUMMERTIME
This is the time of year we all
wait for and I think we are
especially glad this year since it seemed like such a long,
snowy winter. Can anyone remember in recent years
scraping any more snow off your car than we did this past
winter?
Well the nice weather is finally here but it’s not all
“coming up roses”. We are still hoping for an economic
turnaround, pension protection, new product, EI improvements, another shift and the list goes on.
But it doesn’t all have to be doom and gloom. Sure, we
get four weeks of lay-off. Could it come at a better time of
year? Probably not! We might have a little less cash to
flash but there are any number of ways we can enjoy the
summer with family and friends that won’t cost a ton of
money. A little creativity is all it takes.
For those of us with kids, nieces or nephews, or
grandkids when was the last time you got to spend this
much time doing fun kid stuff with them while they are out
of school? If you can fit some of this in it will likely make
it a summer to remember for them as well.
Better not forget the list of things to do around home.
Garden, paint, decorate, renovate, fix, organize, clean and
so on! Now we will have some time to plan and accomplish some of these chores.
On behalf of my Family, I would like to take this
opportunity to thank everyone for the kind words and
cards we received on the passing of my Dad. The
flower basket we received was beautiful.
Also to my special friends, it’s funny how the little
things in life mean the most. Words cannot express
how much it meant to me to have your support during
this difficult time.
Janice McClennan
In Memory
We extend our deepest sympathy to the families of:
KEN MACKAY - February 19, 2009 - Retiree
DAN CRAWFORD - February 23, 2009 - Retiree
PETER EICHLER - March 12, 2009 - Retiree
GENTIL VANDENABEELE - March 14, 2009 - Retiree
KURT MAYNARD - March 20, 2009 - Retiree
ROSS NORMAN - April 9, 2009 - Retiree
JEAN VACHON - May 8, 2009 - Retiree
WINSTON TONKS - May 14, 2009 - Retiree
PHIL CAMPBELL - May 20, 2009 - Chassis
TOM ANDREWS - June 17, 2009 - Retiree
They will be missed by the membership of
C.A.W. Local 1520.
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 3
As I write this article and contemplate about what has
been happening in the plant and outside, it just isn’t
slowing down. The economy is a mess; the Ontario and
Federal governments continue to beat on the autoworkers
and our pensions and whatever they can to disrupt the
lives of Canadians and Ontarians alike.
The Local Union has been involved in many discussions
and has been out in the streets protesting against the
position of the Ontario government on the Pension Benefit
Guarantee Fund (PBGF). This is a fund that has been
established to provide some protection to employees’
pensions if the employer goes bankrupt. There was a
report commissioned by the government to increase the
protection level from $1000.00 to $2500.00, but the latest
budget did not include this change but chose to make
changes that would be detrimental to the Guarantee Fund
and we have been front and center in Toronto and in the
local offices of the MPPs in the area protesting these
actions of this government. We again continue to stay busy
and active to push forward our concerns for all working
Canadians and as we all know our work cannot be done
alone, so again I urge everyone to get out there and talk to
you area MPs and MPPs and get their views on E.I., PBGF
and other issues affecting working families throughout.
We have just gone through plant wide elections and I
want to congratulate all the candidates for a very clean
campaign. Congratulations to all that were successful in
getting elected or re-elected. I look forward to working
with all of you. I believe we have a very good Executive
Board and a solid Inplant Committee as we move forward.
Since our last Newsheadline there has been 105 retirements. I want to extend my congratulations to those who
chose to retire and wish them a long and healthy
retirement. With that I want to personally thank Stan
Szydlowski for his commitment to the Local Union as our
Financial Secretary for the past 9 years. It has been an
absolute pleasure to work with you; your dedication to this
Local has been without a doubt second to none. Enjoy
your retirement my good friend, you truly have earned it.
I would remiss if I didn’t thank Chuck Stafford, Les
Smith, Paul White, Chris Wright, Ron Homm and Steve
Horton for their years of service and dedication to the
Local. Hopefully I haven't forgotten anyone.
Again, thank-you to all.
On a personal note on two fronts, thank-you all for your
support and confidence on my acclamation as President
and for your vote as delegate to the Constitutional
Convention and to C.A.W. Council.
On a sadder note, on behalf of my entire family the
outpouring of support in the passing of my Father was
greatly appreciated. Many thanks to all who attended.
Lastly, as the summer is upon us, I do want to wish
everyone a safe vacation, as this is a very exciting time for
our young children. Remember our Family Fun Day is on
Saturday July 18, 2009. Also, keep in mind there are no
membership meetings in July and August but start again in
September. We will again be forming our new committees
in September as well. Please come out and get involved.
In Solidarity,
Dennis McGee, President
* ATTENTION *
Do you, or anyone you know, who worked in Paint Shop or
Solder Grind Booths in Body Shop that have Cancer?
If so, please contact Dennis McGee at the Union Hall
at 519-652-5552.
EYE EXAMS ON SITE
FORD EMPLOYEES
100% EYEGLASS COVERAGE
IF YOU’RE PAYING MORE THAN YOUR PLAN
COVERS YOU’RE PROBABLY PAYING TOO MUCH
STORE HOURS
Mon. - Thurs., 9:30 - 5:30 • Fri., 9:30 - 6:30
Sat. 9:00 - noon • Sun. - closed
5 19 45 1 - 54 1 7
PAGE 4, NEWSHEADLINE
I congratulate Collin Hulst on the successful
completion of his electrical apprenticeship program and
for attaining his Provincial Certificate of Qualification.
In closing, I wish all members and their families a
safe and happy summer.
Remember to always work safe and lock out.
In Solidarity,
Doug Wiebe, Skilled Trades Chairperson
Thank you to all skilled trades for your support in my
re-election as Skilled Trades Chairperson. I will do my
best to address all of your concerns.
Congratulations to Scott Smith, Greg Barber, Les
Coulter, Steve Hamilton, Tim Caskanette, Mark
Campbell, Paul Dawson, Adam Mitoraj and Todd
Poyntz on their re-election; to Dennis McGee, Frank
Doyle, Ron Burton, Ray Cooper and Dave Penz on
their acclamation; and to Shane MacPherson, Kevin
Hill, Rick Myers, Michelle Gleeson, Bill Hill, Bob
Gilmore, Jim Collins, Joel McGee and David
MacMillan on their election.
The layoff weeks are listed as July 13, July 20, July
27 and August 3, 2009. These layoff weeks are not
locked in as yet. The shutdown weeks are August 10
and August 17, 2009
The work that has been scheduled for these weeks is
always subject to change, but this is what we know as
of our last meeting.
Paint wants to start working on the structure problem
under the colour booths during the four layoff and two
shutdown weeks. They will also do their planned
maintenance work during the two shutdown weeks.
The work during the four-layoff weeks will be done
during the day shift and the afternoon shift. The final
number of skilled trades required will be finalized in
the coming weeks.
Body Shop wants to work a small crew during the
August 3rd layoff week and will also work the two
weeks of shutdown.
Final will work the two shutdown weeks only, as will
Material Handling and the remainder of what is
Central.
At our last meeting, the areas decided to do a full
canvass for the two weeks of shut down for all trades,
then review the number that want to work and decide
on their final totals. Remember, all final numbers are
subject to change.
There are six grievances in various stages, two of
which deal with terminations. I will continue to work
at resolving the other four as quickly as possible.
New E-mail Addresses:
Dennis McGee
[email protected]
Shane MacPherson
[email protected]
CAW 1520
[email protected]
Don’t Drink
and Drive!
Problems?
Alcohol and/or Drugs
ST. THOMAS ASSEMBLY PLANT
SUBSTANCE ABUSE
RECOVERY PROGRAM
Confidential CAW Rep.
Mike Anderson
In-Plant: 519-637-5537
Cell: 226-373-2442
EMAIL:
[email protected]
[email protected]
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 5
The last few months have been a real roller coaster
ride for the Auto Industry. We have seen both Chrysler
and GM file for bankruptcy. The US and Canadian
Governments have mandated that the Unions make
concessions if they want any loans. A number of
suppliers have been forced into bankruptcy. Plants
have continued to be closed and the layoffs continue to
pile up.
Ken Lewenza said it best, “The economy may be in a
recession, but the Auto Industry is in a depression.”
Ford has said they don’t need any loans and that has
a lot of us wondering why they should get the same
concessions as the other two. It remains to be seen if
they will get the same concessions, but we must
remember that we have to stay competitive with the
UAW if we are going to see investment in Canada.
There’s no doubt that if our labour costs are not in line
with the US operations, Canada won’t see any new
investment.
Regardless of what happens, I know how the
membership feels about what is going on and how we
feel about concessions if there is no future for our plant.
There has only been one meeting and at the time of
writing this article, nothing further has been scheduled.
OUT PLANT MEETING - At the out plant
meeting, we had the following elections and here are
the results:
Alternate Plant Chairperson - Les Coulter
Ford Council Delegates - Frank Doyle, Greg Barber,
Steve Hamilton and Ron Burton (alternate.)
ELECTION - I would like to thank everyone for
their continued support in my re-election as plant chairperson. Congratulations to all that were successful and
I look forward to working with all of you.
$3500.00 VACATION BUY BACK - The
$3,500.00 is to be paid out in pay period 34. If you
would like to put the payment into your RRSPs you can
get the forms from Labour Relations or the Benefit
office. The deadline to submit the form is July 10/09.
$1700.00 SPECIAL PAYMENT - I think for
the most of us, it is not that the Company moved the
payment to pay period 33, but how they did it. To
notify us the week before was an absolute slap in the
face. This would seem to me, nothing more than trying
to get us to the Bargaining table so that they can
eliminate it all together. The Company, in my opinion,
has made a big mistake by doing this not only for
morale but how we view them.
TENTATIVE DOWN WEEKS - The schedule
for down weeks remains the same and is as follows:
July 13/09 (PP.29), July 20/09 (PP.30), July 27/09
(PP.31) and August 3/09 (PP.32).
GATE COLLECTION AND CHANGE BANDIT
- We had a gate collection on June 12/09, for Children’s
Hospital and collected $1,228.98. Also on April 29/09,
Dean Simmons was our Change Bandit and went
around the plant and collected $2,000.00. I want to
thank everyone who contributed to the gate collection
and to the Change Bandit. Thanks to Dean and the
Retirees for collecting the money.
2010 MODEL YEAR LAUNCH - We had a
meeting on June 10/09, with the Company to discuss
the upcoming launch of the 2010 model year. The
scheduled date for the start is August 20/09.
In closing, I would like to wish everyone a great
summer holiday and we’ll see you after the shutdown.
In Solidarity,
Scott Smith
Plant Chairperson
DEADLINE
SEPT. 14, 2009
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS
Local 1520 Hall 519-652-5552
Toll Free
1-800-411-2700
Benefit Office
In Plant
519-637-5265
519-637-5450 519-637-5212
519-637-5350
Green Shield
Toll Free 1-888-711-1119
PAGE 6, NEWSHEADLINE
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 7
C.A.W. Leadership both locally and nationally are to be
commended for their support and involvement of retired
workers in the fight for survival brought on by the current
economic crisis. As important as fighting to protect the
jobs of active workers is, our leaders have not lost sight of
the fact that pensions and benefits for retired workers have
been earned through their years at work and must be
protected. The company and the government must both
live up to their responsibility to ensure those pensions and
benefits continue well into the future. To demand that our
sisters and brothers still at work should be responsible for
those costs is totally unacceptable.
RALLIES - Thank you to all who took part in the
rallies on April 23 at Queens Park, on May 2 at
McCormick’s in London and on May 14 at Chris Bentley’s
constituency office in London. Fighting back does make a
difference!
RETIREMENTS - Congratulations and best wishes for
the future to our Local 1520 Sisters and Brothers who
recently took the opportunity to retire and enter a life of
leisure. We look forward to all of you being members of
C.A.W. Local 1520 Retired Workers Chapter and as many
as possible, along with your spouses, taking part in
meetings, rallies, functions, trips, programs and other
activities organized by the Chapter. (Thanks to those who
have already began that involvement.)
Special thanks and congratulations on his retirement to
Brother Stan Szydlowski who has done an excellent job
serving our membership over the years, most recently as
Local 1520 Financial Secretary Treasurer and liaison to the
Retired Workers Chapter. Have a great retirement Stan,
you have certainly earned it.
DINNER DANCE - A full house was in attendance on
May 2, to enjoy our annual Retired Workers Dinner Dance
hosted by Local 1520. Thank you to the Local and to
Sister Jean Simpson and the Entertainment Committee for
a very enjoyable evening that also gave us the opportunity
to celebrate our Chapter’s 20th Anniversary. Next year
this event will take place Saturday May1.
REDEDICATION - Our June 8, Chapter meeting began
with the rededication of the Bert Rovers Memorial Garden,
which was officially opened June 24, 2001. This year’s
ceremony honoured forty-five C.A.W. Local 1520
members who passed away since last year’s rededication,
as well as four hundred & twenty-two previously deceased.
Thank you for your involvement in the ceremony to
Sister Norma Moravcik and Brothers Dennis McGee,
Frank LeFrank and Charlie Thomson and to all of you who
were in attendance.
PORT ELGIN - Results of elections held at our June
meeting to attend the September 6 to 11, C.A.W. Retired
Workers Conference in Port Elgin are as follows. Elected
delegates are Brothers Fred Fleming, Jim Mahon, Jerry
Stiltz and Bob Such. Sister Jean Simpson and Brother
Dennis Daly were elected as alternate delegates and will
attend the conference as guests unless needed to replace a
regular delegate. Brother Jim Lumley will also attend as a
Retired Workers Council delegate.
Buses for the September 7, Port Elgin Labour Day
Parade will depart from Local 1520 Hall at 7:30 am.
Timbits and juice boxes will be provided on the buses.
Contact person is Jean Simpson at 519-659-7509.
STAY FIT - As of September 16, Brother Ray Cote will
again conduct Fitness Training Sessions in a relaxed and
enjoyable atmosphere each Monday and Wednesday
(except Chapter meeting days and holidays) from 10:00 to
11:00 am at C.A.W. Local Hall. Join in by calling Ray at
519-762-0505 or just by coming to one of the sessions.
COMPUTER TRAINING - Basic and Internet
Training will resume in September at Wheable Adult
Education Centre. This consists of two three-hour sessions
per week for four weeks, a total of twenty-four hours. The
training is fully funded through our negotiated Retired
Workers Fund and is available to retired members, spouses
and surviving spouses. For more information and/or to
register for the training phone me at 519-455-4762.
CARD COMMITTEE - If you are aware of an illness,
injury or bereavement involving a Chapter member please
help us send an appropriate card by calling Kay Seaton at
519-455-3604 or Kathy Lumley at 519-633-1681 for all
other locations.
FUTURE MEETINGS - Our next two meetings will
take place at C.A.W. Local 1520 Hall at 11:00 am, Monday
September 14 and Tuesday October 13. Please bring your
favourite salad, dessert or food item and stay for lunch.
Lunch in September will include barbequed hamburgers,
hot dogs and a corn roast and October will feature a pig
roast all compliments of the Chapter.
Have a great summer. Hope to see you in September!
In Solidarity,
Bob Such,
Retired Workers’Chairperson
PAGE 8, NEWSHEADLINE
BUDD MAYNARD
The beautiful summer weather has finally arrived and
the long awaited backyard barbeques and the rest of all
that goes with it are here to enjoy.
I’m not going to go into the, what ever number new
contract because it’s no cents. Times are what they are
and those that are in the know did what they thought had
to be done.
Years ago, before the war, Germany’s inflation was so
bad that those who had jobs were paid their wages twice
per day, once in the morning and again in the afternoon.
Wives would pick up those wages and rush to stores to
buy groceries. Inflation got so bad that people were
forced to use German marks as kindling for their wood
stoves. My point? I’ve worked with a one, two, three
and even a five year collective agreement and now it
seems we are being called upon to reopen the contract
every few MONTHS.
I want to congratulate all those who participated in
our Local union’s elections. Standing for office or
voting for those that did makes for a strong effective
Local union which is exactly what we all will most
definitely have to have when the Ford Motor Company
begins our next round of negotiations.
I spoke to a gentleman who worked for over 30 years at
General Motors Diesel on Oxford Street in London. He
was an engineer at both the train and military plants. He
traveled greatly in the U.S. and spent two years in G.M.’s
facility in Chicago. He remarked how some people he
always thought of as friends had made some very hurtful
remarks, asking how his G.M. pension was serving him
while almost sneering as he nervously replied. People
seem to regale in the cutbacks, concessions and other
claw backs he was undergoing with his pension.
Agreeing with him, I recalled how even though I
worked hourly, I had met with people who also took
great delight in Automotive Big Three pension bashing.
It seemed like we were finally getting what we
deserved, our “come-upence” as it were.
It’s as if the public sees us auto workers, active or
retired, as greedy, lazy and non-deserving louts who
have had it good for far too long. Union bullies who
made the companies grant our huge demands without
concern to anyone else.
Those who sometimes grant us a little sympathy then
blame the companies for not putting us in our place.
No one seems to remember Chrysler borrowing five
hundred million dollars and repaying it back with
interest, two years early! Banks borrowing billions of
dollars, interest free, no repayment schedule and some
of it totally forgivable are never mentioned.
I recall Ford earning several billion dollars one year
and no one said lets reopen the contract so the workers
might share in this new wealth. Wealth by the way, that
workers active and retired, helped provide.
Ford would later use eight of those billions to
purchase Jaguar and some years later sell it for 3.8
billion. Questioned about such a loss, Ford remarked
that the market for high priced cars was low. When an
assembler misses a bolt he gets a suspension. Ford
claims you make mistakes and you must be responsible.
The following is from Jerry Kroth, an associate
professor of psychology at Santa Clara University in
California. Very interesting!
We hear about General Motors’ struggling, bailouts
and bankruptcy, and we hear about how Toyota, Honda
and Nissan will fill the vacuum created by any GM or
Chrysler bankruptcy. But what we don’t hear ought to
pique your interest: Last year Japan imported a
whopping 8,000 Fords. That’s right 8,000 Fords were
sold in Japan while Toyota alone sold 2 million automobiles here in America. Honda sold a million. According
to Frank Fillipo of Autoblog, poor GM only sold 2,000
cars in Japan last year.
Why? The average GM car in the United States costs
about $25,000 but in Japan the same car costs $50,000.
A big mark up, plus tons of other obstacles and restrictions. No one calls that protectionism, but that is
exactly what it is.
There is an overwhelming pressure to keep foreign
imports out of Japan, whether its so-called “inferior”
American cars, “infected” Washington apples or
“tainted” American meat. Eleven Saturn vehicles were
sold in Japan--a car made jointly by the U.S. and Japan-and a piddling 12 Rolls Royce’s. I guess Royce is
considered inferior as well.
Peter Mandelson, the European Union’s external trade
commissioner, said last week that Japan was “the most
closed developed market in the world and that imbalances… were truly staggering.” The social pressures
within Japan and the complex layer-cake of bureaucratic
restrictions keep all imports marginalized, not just our cars.
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 9
To be specific: The Japanese car market of 4.5
million vehicles begrudgingly allowed 6 percent of their
car market to be made up of non-Japanese manufactured
vehicles. In South Korea, the situation is even worse. It
imported 9,000 U.S. cars but sold 800,000 cars in ours.
If you think KIA out performs a Malibu, good luck.
Imagine a refreshing change--a new law requiring that
Japanese and Korean car manufacturers only be allowed
to sell the same number of cars in the United States that
they reluctantly import into their countries. In other
words, the playing field would finally be leveled.
GM, Ford and Chrysler would start filling the vacuum
created by the sudden absence of Toyotas, Nissans and
Hondas from American showrooms. If Japan could only
sell to us what it purchased from us, it would be limited
to 5.5 percent of the U.S. car market and not a fraction
more and Korea would be limited to a mere 2 percent.
Thousands of American jobs would be saved;
thousands more created. The Rust Belt would
experience a renaissance. Instead of Detroit, let’s have
Toyota City take it on the chin for a change.
Sure, the Japanese would protest that they had to start
letting their showroom dealers start selling Fords and
Chevy’s at competitive prices.
Maybe a trade war would start; maybe they’d cash in
their T-bills, but it is just as likely that the bigwigs of
Toyota, Nissan, Honda and KIA would hurriedly ask
parliamentarians to open markets to allow more
American cars to be sold there so more of their cars
could be sold here.
Maybe Congress and the media are opposed, but in
the days of Jimmy Hoffa and Walter Reuther, a healthy
strike by automakers and sympathetic truckers could
shut our country down until we saw some real action.
Maybe its time to clog the turnpikes, slow interstate
commerce to a crawl, and demand that fairness in trade
finally be implemented. If now is not the time, well,
just how close does the patient have to get to death
before we decide to stop the bleeding?
On March 24, 2009, I stopped at a gas station in
Chatham. My truck’s gas gauge was on ¼ tank. I use
regular, which was priced at .885 per liter. My tank
takes 125 liters to fill when empty. When the pump
showed 90 liters had been pumped, I began to slow it
down. Then to my surprise, it went to 92 then to 95. I
even looked under my truck to see if it was being
spilled. It wasn’t. Then the pump showed 120 liters. It
finally stopped at 122. This was strange.
If you do the math my truck at ¼ tank should be 125
liters (when full) divided by 4 or 30 or so liters of gas.
Putting 122 liters of gas in a tank with 30 liters already
in it means I must have a tank capable of holding over
150 liters of fuel. I called my dealer and he said this
was not possible. Then I was told that one out of ten gas
stations were calibrating their pumps to show more gas
had been pumped than what the customer actually got.
The Ministry of Transportation of Ontario (MTO)
advises consumers to check out gas pumps. When
fueling up put EXACTLY 10 liters in your tank, then
look at the dollar amount. If the dollar amount is not
EXACTLY 10 times the price of your chosen fuel then
there is an excellent chance your pump is rigged. If you
pay .90 cents a liter then 10 liters should cost $9.00.
If you find out a pump is rigged phone the MTO.
Don’t forget you pump number.
Have a safe and great vacation!
If you happen to be up north in the Killarney area
drop in. They are a really friendly bunch. Fishing is
great; wonderful little shops packed with local crafts and
many one-of-a-kind things you’ll love. The fish dinners
are to die for. Say hello to Brothers Bob Jones re:
“Jonesy”
“Talk to ya”
Budd Maynard, Retiree
PAGE 10, NEWSHEADLINE
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 11
RECREATION Report
The 8-Ball Tournament was held at Hustlers on
Dearness Drive on February 21, 2009. We had 26
players from all locals affiliated with POEM Council.
The winner from Local 1520 was Steve Fisher.
April 4 & 5, POEM Council hosted the C.A.W.
National Non-Contact Hockey Tournament at the
Western Fair Sports Complex in London, Ontario. We
had 24 teams and three divisions. Results were: Open
Division - Old Boys, 35 and Over - Rusty 1520 (3rd
place) and 45 and Over - 1520 Black.
May 2, the POEM Trap Shot was held in Guelph.
They had 21 squads participate.
June 6, the POEM Golf Tournament was held at
Forest City National Golf Club. We had 148 players
trying to qualify for the 24th Annual C.A.W. National
Golf Tournament.
I would like to thank the committee for all the hard
work they did: Roy Jollymore, Marylynn DeBoer, Lyle
Pugh, Lucy Graham, Ray Cooper, Agnes Murray, Frank
Doyle, Wendy Acker and Shane MacPherson.
Congratulations to Jeremy Slatts from Local 1520
“A” winner. On the Ladies’ side “A” winner was
Donna Aitken from Local 1520. Good luck at the
National.
The National tournament will be held at Rockway
Glen Golf Course in St. Catherines, ON, on Saturday
August 22, 2009. A hospitality night will be held at
Rockway Glen Golf Course on Friday night August 21,
starting at 6:30 p.m.
Congratulations to all our qualifiers and good luck!
Saturday July 18, 2009, CAW Local 1520 will be
hosting its annual Family Day at the Hall.
The 9th C.A.W. National Recreation Conference
was held starting on Friday, June 12, with registration
in the Salon room starting at 3:00 p.m. followed by
dinner and a plenary session. A casino night was
planned after the session in the main hall from 9:00 11:00 p.m.
Saturday, June 13, started with breakfast from 7:00 9:00 a.m. In the A/B hall Bob Nickerson spoke on
recreation and the start up of all Councils after we
broke from the U.A.W. to C.A.W. Recreation. There
were ten Councils in all.
He also spoke on the $50 billion deficit. Flaherty
and Harper are blaming part of this deficit on high E.I.
benefits they are paying out as part of the reason. Can
someone in government tell me where the $50 billion
went that this government took from the E.I. funds just
last year and put in the general reserve? Does this
mean that we have now spent over $100 billion in the
past two years as well as the surplus that was in the
general fund left from the Martin government? Can
someone please explain this to Canadians?
This was followed by Council breakouts. The guest
speaker in the A/B hall was Dennis Hull. He was
speaking about his hockey years, COPD and the Lung
Association. To learn about COPD call the Lung
Association at 1-888-344-5864 (lung) or visit
www.on.lung.ca. Lunch was held after his presentation.
Some people golfed at Saugeen for one of the
afternoon activities. Other activities were bingo,
bowling, euchre, crib and Texas hold-em. Dinner was
held from 5:30 - 7:00 p.m. and after dinner the awards
presentations were held in the main hall from 8:00 to
9:00 p.m. Karaoke followed.
All in all it was a good conference.
Joe Simpson
Recreation Chairperson
Get Involved
If you attend General Membership meetings
you will see 10-15 retired workers in attendance
each meeting.
When you consider the elected members who
are obligated to attend, the balance at these
meetings show a small number of rank and file
people. They say they have family to be with or
just do not care. When you consider all the people
before you had family commitments but still took
the time to support the leaderships.
This union stands out in the community and
among the Labour movement. Please consider
showing support and get involved.
Ray Wharton
Active Retiree
PAGE 12, NEWSHEADLINE
Scott Houston
- Keeping His
Daughter’s
Memory
Alive
Scott Houston was born in Scotland, and raised in
Ontario. He has been in the London/St. Thomas area
for more than forty years.
He started working at Ford Motor Company twentyfive years ago; it was a good paying job, great benefits
and had a strong union. It was truly a man’s job!
Scott’s hobbies include: hockey, his number one
passion, snowmobiling and travel. He is very active in
the minor hockey association as a coach for his son’s
Bantam hockey team. He has coached minor hockey
for many years.
During his profile, Scott talked proudly about his
family, a handsome son, Josh, a beautiful daughter,
Tara, and a strong and fun loving marriage to his wife
Sheri. As a young family, they had it all. “Both of us
were gainfully employed, we moved to follow our
dream of country living with the kids…we were living
the dream” stated Scott.
But, tragedy struck August 14, 2002, when their
beautiful daughter Tara was diagnosed with a terminal
brain stem glioma (tumor), a very devastating form of
cancer with a very short to nil life expectancy. The
dream changed for Scott and his family. The dream
became that of survival. Tara fought and survived with
her condition for six months; five months longer than
the medical system had given her.
“In search for hope and survival, we found it in
Houston, Texas. We were then dubbed Houston goes to
Houston and the communities in which we live, came
together to help raise funds to get my family to Texas.”
A one-day fundraiser in aid of getting the Houston’s
to Houston brought in enough funds to get Tara to
treatment in the states and allow the family to be
together in Houston with her, grandmothers included.
Too good, too late, Tara passed away while in Houston
on February 9, 2003.
With love and the devotion to keep Tara’s memory
alive, the Tara “Boom” Houston Children’s Foundation,
(TBHCF) was founded by her parents, Scott & Sheri
Houston. “When we lost Tara, the funds that were not
used for her medical expenses, were put back into the
community in way of her named Foundation.”
The TBHCF accepts applications from families
experiencing financial hardship due to their child’s
chronic or terminal illness. In most cases, both parents
have left work, as did the Houston’s to be with their
child, 24/7. Every waking moment together is what a
family fighting to survive holds onto.
Tara’s Foundation is unique and a one of a kind, as
was she. TBHCF covers most of Southwestern Ontario
families’ in need of financial support. “It doesn’t go to
the hospitals for research; it goes directly to the
families in need of money for every day living
expenses, “ said Scott. Expenses like travel to and
from the hospitals or medical facilities to receive
needed treatments, assistive devices or specialized
equipment not covered by OHIP, mortgage payments,
utilities and/or groceries are some of the things covered
by TBHCF.
The Foundation has raised over $100,000 in the last
six years, since its’ beginning. Because they are so
unique, the demands on the Foundation are growing
and the funds deplete rather quickly. “We work very
hard to fund raise to have funds for the next family in
need.”
The Houston’s are very proud to be a part of and
watch Tara’s Foundation grow and flourish into
something so good, and in their daughter’s name.
TBHCF has grown a hundred fold over the last six
years, both in who they reach out to and those who
volunteer to help. “We would like to see the foundation
keep growing, with more donations, more volunteers,
and more money than we have families in need. The
memory and life of Tara touches and reminds forever, a
purpose for being here with us for too short a time.”
The members of CAW 1520 have been an amazing
support for both the family and Foundation. When
working with Tara and her health, Scott was off work
for six months, the guys were great in helping to fund
raise, encourage and support. The union was very
compassionate at such an emotional and over whelming
time. Whenever or whatever the cause or event of the
Foundation, the local is usually one of the first organizations to be involved. Whether sponsoring, attending,
allowing raffle draws or employees selecting TBHCF
as their charity of choice for payroll deductions, the
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 13
membership has always been very supportive. Proudly,
Scott shares, “they are still right up front with us.”
Many different fund raising events are held
throughout the year and awareness and attendance is
growing. With an annual charity golf tournament every
July, Foundation Fun and Flair Gala in the spring,
summertime baseball tournaments and numerous
raffles, there is always something going on. Recent big
news for TBHCF was the donation of a 2009 Harley
Davidson Sportster from Rocky’s HarleyDavidson/Buell of London and tickets will be on sale
all year.
Scott is kept very busy with work, his family; the
presidential position in the TBHCF, along side his wife
Sheri who is the VP/Secretary/Treasurer. With the
other directors and a pool of volunteers, too many to
mention, the Foundation is quickly growing before his
very eyes.
A wish would be that it was different, that he still had
his beautiful daughter here with him and there was no
need for a Foundation as unique as Tara’s. “We go
forward a little more every day as we learn to live with
our heavy hearts, it hasn’t been easy. The immeasurable amounts of support for my family from many
friends, those involved with the Foundation and the
local, are what helps my family go forward.
Thanks just sometimes doesn’t seem like enough.”
Scott,
Sheri, Josh
and their
extended
family and
friends
miss Tara
terribly,
but are
putting
their strength, passion and energy
into the TBHCF to help themselves
survive.
submitted by Cindy Acquilina
NO. 1
SHIFT
REPORT
Greetings everyone, we are quickly
approaching prime vacation season and with the
tentative down weeks in July it should be a great
summer with our families.
I would like to thank everyone who took the
time to take part in our inplant elections and
congratulate those who ran for all positions win or
lose.
On another note, we had two rallies since I last
wrote, a pension rally in Toronto and Fix E.I. rally
in London. The turn out in Toronto was terrific
while the E.I. rally was lightly attended (unfortunately). Thanks to the people who did turn up.
These rallies are one of our best avenues to get
media coverage for our very real concerns.
We will also soon be re-forming our Standing
Committees. These committees normally meet
just prior to or after the general membership
meetings and are a vital component of our local
union. Anyone interested in joining a committee
can enter their name at the general membership
meeting in September.
There are several committees to choose from
including:
Bylaws, Editorial, Education,
Environment, Health and
Welfare, Human Rights, Special
Assistance, Union in Politics
and Women’s Committee
On a personal note, thank you for your support
during the elections.
Have a great summer!
In solidarity,
Tim Caskanette
#1 Shift Committeeperson
PAGE 14, NEWSHEADLINE
APPRENTICESHIP
Committee Report
It has been a very busy spring and I have been active in
a number of things. Here is a brief outline of my activities
within our community.
OYAP Health and Safety Training - Each year for the
past six years our Training department has provided
Health and Safety training to students in the Grade 12
OYAP programs in the Public and Catholic School Boards.
The training, loosely based on the training our Skilled
Trades workers get, is in response to the need of the
Boards to enable them to provide job placements for
students in the program. The training also helps the
students to prevent accidents and injury and has been
responsible for the zero injury record the Board has
enjoyed up until now.
I'm proud to be involved with such a fine program, and
we hope to continue for years to come.
The training is followed by a tour of our plant to help
drive the safety message home for the students. Most kids
walk away from the tour enlightened and enthusiastic
about safety and encouraged by the conversation that our
trades offer them while they are here.
Thanks to Scott Smith, Plant Chair Local 1520, George
Dryburgh, Don Guest, and Chad Hogan for developing
and improving on an already great program. Thanks to the
skilled trades membership for participating in a fantastic
tour day. The students appreciate it and I thank you.
CAW SKILLED TRADES COUNCIL - I am one of
local 1520's delegates to the National Skilled Trades
council and sit on the Apprenticeship Committee and the
Communications Committee as chair. This spring we are
launching a new website, designed by our committee for
the national group. Check it out at www.trades.caw.ca.
There is a lot of activity ramping up within the council
under the leadership of our new president, Dave Cassidy
from Local 444. I would like to thank the membership for
the confidence they have shown in me for the last 6 years I
have served as delegate. I will be seeking the nomination
from our skilled trades members for another term as
delegate so that I can continue to develop and train our
committee members on the web. Look for good things to
come in the future.
EMOLTB- In January, I became the Labour co-chair of
the Elgin Middlesex Oxford Local Training Board. The
board is equally represented by labour and business and is
responsible, primarily for gathering and reporting on
employment numbers in the 3 county regions, and developing projects to address specific needs at the local level.
This spring I was the facilitator for the board's annual
retreat, and, among other things, we discussed a new
model proposed by the ministry of Training Colleges and
Universities to improve the information and it's timeliness
as it relates to employment and the job market. The
board's work is crucial for planning, and I look forward to
serving the board as co-chair. Thanks to Dennis Reed
(CUPE Local 103), outgoing Labour co-chair for his
guidance and leadership in the past years.
SLOME (Skills London Oxford Middlesex Elgin) was
held this year at the Agriplex at the western fair on May
13th 2009. SLOME is a career fair for kids in grades 4-10
and is an annual event. This year was the 10th anniversary
of SLOME, my 9th anniversary of being involved in the
project, and the CAW London area skilled trades council's
6th anniversary. SLOME is a great way for kids to talk
with people in different careers and to try the profession ina-hands on way. SLOME has grown again this year as the
event drew over 4500 area kids and their teachers/parent
volunteers. Thanks to Scott Smith, Plant Chair Local 1520,
Mike Saker, Dick Los and Dave Jones for helping out with
SLOME and making it a positive opportunity for our kids.
I would like to wish the membership a safe and happy
summer. Enjoy the beach, and remember the sunscreen,
you'll need it!
In Solidarity,
Joel Van Bynen
Apprenticeship Co-ordinator
COLOURING
CONTEST RULES
1.
2.
3.
4.
Open to all Local 1520 members’ children
and grandchildren.
Age groups are : 5 years and under;
6 years to 9 years; and 10 years to 12
years.
Deadline for entries: August 31, 2009
Mail completed entries to:
C.A.W. LOCAL 1520
P.O. Box 545, St. Thomas ON. N5P 3V6
PRIZES TO BE AWARDED PER AGE GROUPING
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 15
National Aboriginal Peoples Day
The CAW joins Aboriginal Peoples in celebration
of June 21, National Aboriginal Peoples' Day. In
commemorating this day, we pay tribute to the
unparalleled contributions of Aboriginal
peoples in the development of Canada and their
ongoing contributions as First People. We also
recognize the strength and determination of
our Aboriginal sisters and brothers working in
solidarity with the labour movement.
June 21st is the summer solstice, marked for
centuries by many Aboriginal communities as a
day to celebrate their heritage. In 1996, the
Parliament of Canada proclaimed June 21 as
National Aboriginal Peoples Day. For us, it is a
day to express our solidarity with aboriginal
people as well as a day to recognize and
educate ourselves on diverse Aboriginal
cultures.
The last century saw an increasing militancy
amongst Aboriginal people as their frustration
grew over the land claim issues, poverty and
cultural devastation faced by their communities.
To solve problems faced by our Aboriginal
People, we must recognize that their rights are
inalienable. The treaties signed should not be
dismissed as ancient pieces of paper, but must
be the basis of any relationship between our
First People and the rest of Canada. The treaties
represented a commitment to protect the
economic self-sufficiency and cultural
independence of Aboriginal Peoples and
hopefully an end to conflict and an end to
second class status.
The fundamental collective human rights of
Aboriginal Peoples as People, including their
right to a self-government, right to economic
development and right to negotiate with all
levels of government, must be recognized and
respected in accordance with the law.
The economic development for Aboriginal
communities must be a priority for us. The
economic gap between aboriginal communities
and the rest of the country has been continuously widening. The tragedy of the
unemployment rate, especially amongst youth
and the increasing suicide rate points to the
despair. Most Aboriginal people are at or below
the poverty line. In major western cities, four
times as many Aboriginal people as other
citizens are below the poverty line.
Canadians collectively need to acknowledge
that years of oppression being inflicted on
Aboriginal People have resulted in the
systematic destruction of communities, where
they have little or poor access to housing, health
care and social services. We also have to
address the issues surrounding the tragedy of
the Canadian Native "residential Schools" and
the legacy it left, and pain it inflicted then and
continues to inflict now on aboriginal people.
NEB, Port Elgin, Ontario
Inukshuk
(IN-OOK-SHOOK)
The Inukshuk means “in the image of man”. A creation of the
Inuit people. They are figures made of stone which have stood
for centuries, along, what is now, Canada’s, northern shores.
The Inukshuk are markers, in a sense, a compass, pointing the
way back to the Arctic ocean. They are not only a way of
communicating guidance, but they are a symbol of survival
and should remind us of our dependence upon one another to
survive, in a sometimes, harsh environment. A group needed
to work as a whole, to create these structures. Every stone
supports another stone, creating unity.
The Inukshuk proves, that together, we can achieve success.
From this wonderment, which dots the landscape, we should
also learn that, even though we are not aware of who will
follow our path, our humanity should ensure that their struggle
is less difficult so that they may travel farther, and achieve more.
submitted by Pam Ogden
PAGE 16, NEWSHEADLINE
SUMMER COLOURING CONTEST
Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Age . . . . . . . . . . . Phone . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
..............................................
Postal Code . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
(see page 14 for details)
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 17
NEWS & VIEWS (MY OWN)
TOXIC BLOB ON THE MOVE - No the local MP is not
moving his office to the Port. The toxic sludge is inching
its way closer to the harbor. No matter who’s responsible,
it’s got to be cleaned up before we start drinking it!
If the governments had spent as much time and money
dredging the harbor as they have dragging their feet the
harbor would be 100 feet deep.
A new ferry operator is wooing Ports Burwell and
Stanley. One that even has a boat. Gee! What a novel idea,
a boat and a plan. He wants to move 60 tractor-trailers and
86 autos a day.
There’s next to no manufacturing plants for the tractortrailers to haul anymore. But the Conservatives have a
plan. They are going to open a new theme park called Old
Factory Land. It will feature bus tours of old dinosaurs like
McCormick’s, Sterling, Presstran, Siemens and look at
endangered species like Ford Motor Co. and Lear Seating.
It would be great for over seas visitors to see where their
jobs came from.
THE BEST SCABS TO YOU EACH MORNING - Kellogg’s
workers were locked out after twenty bargaining sessions
and the company is busing in scabs to do their work.
London workers have good wages and benefits and their
plant made more profit than the new plant in China. The
company wants concessions like GM and Chrysler got
from the C.A.W. even though they made mega profits. It’s
pure greed just like the price of gas.
The oil giants are still making obscene profits during this
recession. You would think if they lowered prices more people
would drive gas-guzzlers, keeping the automakers busy. The
government should force them to lower prices to help stimulate
the economy; they did it with C.A.W. negotiations and auto
companies. Why not apply it to these oil bandits.
GENETICALLY MODIFIED - Fruits and veggies shipped
long distances to market are transported in containers that
have nitrogen pumped in to replace oxygen. This method
prevents the produce from ripening in transit from China
and South America. It’s not supposed to have any harmful
effects but who really knows. One thing we do know is
they have taken DNA from Artic Char (fish) and combined
it with strawberries because it makes the fruit stay red and
gives it a longer shelf life.
They have altered feed grains so that the plants don’t
reproduce. This prevents the farmers from using last year’s
plants or seeds for the following year. They have done this
with rice in Asian countries where for years the farmers grew
their own seeds. Now everyone has to pay these multinational companies because they have patented most grain.
India, where curry is a staple in their food diet, multinational corporations have patented the rights to curry and
most popular types of rice. If you want balsamic rice it
will cost more because corporations like Monsanto hold the
rights to that flavour. Yes, now it’s possible to buy the
rights to most flavours, etc., just put up the money and send
in the lawyers from NAFTA.
TWO PLUS FOUR EQUALS ZERO - Taxpayers are on the
hook to the cost of four million dollars for legal fees in the
Mulrooney Bolognagate. We know he took the money and
was less than honest about it. Were not getting back the
two million he got in damages, so the total cost to us is six
million and what do we get for our money? Nothing!
What’s the point?
DANGER - If you have plug-in style air fresheners in your
home, get rid of them now! All those plug-in style gizmos
produce toxins equal to burning a garbage bag on the stove.
Tests have proven that for young kids, people with allergies
or asthma, these things are a real health threat. There are a
number of household items that contain dangerous
substances. If you are interested in a complete list of
household hazardous products, contact me and I will give it
to you or put it on our website. Some of the stuff we use at
home is a controlled substance in the workplace.
Government employees continue to get obscene bonuses
or severance packages for not doing their job. We’re being
forced to reduce pensions and benefits while government
on both levels and company executives get lavish payouts.
Nortel paid out $45 million dollars in bonuses to executives while saying it can’t afford severance pay for its laid
off workers.
The C.P.P. lost $24 billion dollars. The top executives at
C.P.P. got $7 million dollars in bonus payments. Lets claw
back executive bonuses and MP’s phony expenses and give
the money back to the workers.
Thank you for your support in the elections just finished.
Congratulations and thank you to all who ran for a position
and participated in some way. The Election Committee did
a great job. Well done!
In September, we will be looking for people to volunteer
on various committees. Join one and participate in plant
and community events.
Proud to be Union!
Ray “Coop” Cooper
PAGE 18, NEWSHEADLINE
Election Results
Retiring Members
June 20, 2009 - 11:03am EST
Executive Board
President - Dennis McGee
Vice President - Mark Campbell
Financial Secretary - Treasurer - Shane
MacPherson
Recording Secretary - Ray "Coop" Cooper
Trustees - Paul Dawson, Rick Myers, Michelle
Gleeson
Guide - Jim Collins
Sgt At Arms - Darcy McLeod
Plant Chairperson - Scott Smith
Skilled Trades Chairperson - Doug Wiebe
In Plant
Zone 1 - Ron Burton
Zone 2 - Bob Gilmore
Zone 3 - Steve Hamilton
Zone 4 - Kevin Hill
Zone 5 - Frank Doyle
Zone 6 - Greg Barber
Zone 7 - Les Coulter
#1 Shift - Tim Caskanette
Alternates
Zone 1 - Dan Bradburn
Zone 2 - Joel McGee
Zone 3 - Adam Mitoraj
Zone 4 - Bill Hill
Zone 5 - Paul Masseo
Zone 6 - Todd Poyntz
Zone 7 - David MacMillan
#1 Shift Alternate - Dave Ormandy
Skilled Trades Alternate - Dave Penz
CAW Council Delegates
Dennis McGee
Scott Smith
Ray "Coop" Cooper
Mark Campbell
Paul Dawson
CAW Constitution Delgates
Dennis McGee
Scott Smith
Paul Dawson
Mark Campbell
Greg Barber
April 2009
L. Albiston
M. W. Beer
Sue Gilbert
Glen Gordon
Les Nemeth
Kevin Paardekooper
Mike Bell
Rob Bell
Joe Bento
Norm Brewster
Wayne Browning
Carman Budai
T. Bugeja
Steven Bulock
W.P. Calvert
Greg Cameron
Paul Campbell
Guido Caputo
G.A. Chase
J. Churilla
Benny Clements
John Crandell
Gerard Doiron
John Fedorowski
John Ferreira
Chris Hart
Cam Hastings
William Heynen
Jim Hilliker
Ron Homm
Gerry Kelly
Robert Lane
Larry MacDonald
Tom Mason
Rob Pert
Jim Purvis
Ace Richardson
Jerry Roberts
Joel Rock
Benny Sartoretto
Tom Studerus
Chris Tuckey
Tony Urbano
Dennis Vanrensen
Jim Wakling
Paul B White
Randy Wilson
Steve Wilson
Jim Young
Randy Young
Drago Zizek
Bob Zwicker
Kyle McColl
Dale McEwen
Chris McGuffin
Rick Milford
Mark Miller
Paul Miron
Ron Morin
Dan Morrison
Marian Musialski
Dianne Nemeth
May 2009
Wayne Bailey
Mike Huston
Stan Szydlowski
Sam Basacco
John Hutcheson
Rose Thibert-
Tim Carter
Jamie Kuipers
Mather
Margaret Cheney
Larry Lamont
Larry Tulett
Curtis Doty
Mike Lumani
D. B. Walters
Jim Ford
Dave MacIntyre
George Wilson
John Garrison
Doug Maginn
Pete Wise
Rod Geddes
Barry Mutch
Kevin Woodford
Alison Gleeson
Rob Parrack
Phil Wood
Ron Hamilton
M. A. Smith
Chris Wright
Steve Horton
John Stefan
Greg Wyatt
Ron Howard
Alf Stinziano
June 2009
Allan Campbell
William Spence
Gord Cornell
Terry Toll
Robert Jackson
Lynda Topping
Paul D White
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 19
Media
and the
C a n a d i a n
Autoworker
Well, the other shoe has dropped in London. A lockout at the
Kellogg’s plant occurred on June 5th, placing workers out on the
street. This was not a strike by the workers, but a lockout. The
company chose to stop production. Christine Lowry, Vice
President of Nutrition and Corporate Affairs at Kellogg Canada
Inc. was quoted in the Monday June 8th London Free Press issue
as “We have tentative plans to continue discussions in the near
future. We are hopeful that the work disruption will be brief and
that a fair and equitable agreement is within reach.” How can this
statement even be taken seriously? This work stoppage was instigated by the company, NOT the union.
Why would a company that did over 13 billion dollars US in
profits from year to year with estimated forecasts similar in this
fiscal year, feel the need to stop production and move to such a
drastic position? Representing the workers at Kellogg’s, Local
154-G of the Bakery, Confectionary, Tobacco Workers and Grain
Millers Union has been without a contract since April 4th and has
been negotiating since February of this year. Though they have
been in a legal strike position for almost three months, they chose
to continue production while negotiations were still ongoing.
The stumbling block here? In a word, “Concessions.” The
company was using the excuse of hard times in the Auto Sector to
win concessions from the workers. Funny that. While the
Canadian Auto Sector is struggling along, re-negotiating contracts,
asking workers both Blue and White collar to prepare to take a
major economic hit. Companies that are turning a huge profit
attempt to further increase those profits on the backs of their
workers. They do this by bargaining in bad faith and actually
getting to the point of locking out their own workers because they
are worried about the Auto Sector!? Do they really think that the
public is that stupid?
As workers and unionists, we need to fight to stop this flawed
thinking before it snowballs into one huge race to the bottom. The
media has painted a picture of the economy’s collapse around the
bargaining of the Auto Unions and that they need to make major
concessions while those that drove the economy into the ground
are still making millions regardless of their performance. This
illegitimate blaming should not be allowed to migrate to other
sectors of the economy. Companies that make a profit, in this case
a very large one, need to open their books to prove that these
economic times are actually affecting their bottom line before they
start to plead poverty and viciously attack those that work hard to
make those profits a reality.
Paul ”Bear” Dawson
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PAGE 20, NEWSHEADLINE
he OFL "DRV2WRK Caravan" is
a province-wide tour travelling
through more than 50 towns and
cities in June. The Caravan was in
London on June 21 and in St. Thomas
on June 22. This tour is telling their
stories how the job losses of Ontario
are affecting working people.
THANK YOU!
I would like to thank the Sisters and Brothers of Paint Shop
for allowing me the opportunity to be your committee person.
I would also like to congratulate Brother Joel McGee on his
election to alternate committee person in Paint Shop.
Bob Gilmore
I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the
Brothers and Sisters for their support in the election. I look
forward to working with all of you in the future!
Les Coulter
I would like to thank the membership in Zone 3 and
General Stores for your support in electing me as your
committee person.
Steve Hamilton
I want to thank everyone in Zone 5 for your continued
support in the recent elections. I look forward to representing
the zone and together we will continue to fight through these
difficult times.
$
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 21
Financial
Secretary’s
Report
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the
membership for your support in the past election. I would
like to say a special thanks to Brother Stan Szydlowski,
over the past nine years as Financial Secretary, you left
some pretty big shoes to fill. I am forever grateful that you
looked at me as the man who can could step in and take
over for you. I wish you all the best in your retirement.
Just a reminder to all, that this September is when we reform our Standing Committees. I believe that our
committees are the foundation of our Local. This is an
excellent way to get involved and would encourage anyone
who’s looking to do just that, to sign up.
Shane MacPherson,
Financial Secretary
EDUCATION
COMMITTEE
Frank Doyle
I would like to take this opportunity to thank the Brothers
and Sisters of Zone 6, Waste Treatment Plant, Executive
Garage and all Plant Services for your support in the past
election. I am looking forward to working with you again.
I would also like to take this time to congratulate everyone
who was successful in the recent elections and I am looking
forward to working with you.
Greg Barber
I would like to thank the membership for all their support
over the past nine years as Recording Secretary. It was a
privilege to serve the best Local in the C.A.W. There are so
many Brothers and Sisters on the Executive Board and the rest
of the Leadership to name each one and I might miss one so
thank you all!
There is one person that made my job so much better by putting
up with my writing and questions thank you, thank you Janice.
All the best in the years to come, keep up the good work
that CAW Local 1520 has done the past forty-two years.
Les Smith
The Education Committee would like to thank all the
Brothers and Sisters who participated in the Advance
Grievance Handling course at the Union Hall on February
28. The course was well attended and was a great success.
We will be having another one-day labour course in the fall
so please watch the notice boards in the plant and at the Hall.
I would also like to thank the Executive of Local 1520 for all
support given to this committee to make the course possible.
Special thanks to Brother Stan Szydlowski for all the support
he has given to the committee throughout his years as Financial
Secretary. We wish him a very healthy and happy retirement.
Lastly, the Education Committee will be re-forming in
September for another three years. This is an opportunity for
all of us to get involved and support our Union. Please feel
free to join us at our meeting which takes place right after the
adjournment of the General Membership meeting (3rd Sunday
of the month.) We are always looking for more members. If
you are interested, please contact me, Keke Adams I work on
top of Line 1 in Chassis or contact the Union hall.
In Solidarity,
Keke Adams, Chairperson
Education Committee
PAGE 22, NEWSHEADLINE
THANK YOU!
My Family and I would like to thank the Local for the
Bible on the passing of my Brother Dave (30 yr. Retiree.)
Pamela Ogden
I would like to thank Local 1520 for the Bible presented to
me in memory of my brother, Vaughn. I would also like to
thank the Retirees Chapter for their many kind expressions of
sympathy. It was greatly appreciated.
Dennis Daly
On behalf of my Family, I would like to thank Local 1520
for the beautiful Bible given in memory of my mother, Emily
Wright after her passing. Also, thanks to my fellow co-workers
on frame line for the thoughtful sympathy card with all of your
signatures. Everyone’s kindness was very much appreciated.
Paul Wright
Brothers & Sisters: Thank you for your support during the
loss of our son, Garret. Your kindness will never be forgotten.
Thank you very much for the lovely Bibles that we
received in memory of my Sister who passed away March 1st
and my Brother who passed away on April 22nd. It was very
much appreciated by the family.
Martin & Rose Siroski
On behalf or our family, I would just like to say thank you
for the beautiful Bible given to us at Dale’s passing. It will
bring us some comfort at this very difficult time. I also
wanted to share with all of you that Dale loved his job at
Ford’s and the friends he made. So on behalf of myself and
his daughters Nicole, Erika and Katie, we thank you.
Nellie Johnson & Family
Your kind thoughts and support are sincerely appreciated.
Thank you for the Bible in memory of Mary Wright.
Al Wright & Family
Thank you to Local 1520 for the beautiful Bible in memory
of Ken. Thanks also to Brothers Dennis McGee, John
O’Handley, Whitey MacDonald, Ron Riley, Albert Bernardo
and Rob Clements for carrying Ken to his final resting place.
Lynda, Ken, Kathy & Stacey MacKay
Scott Laframboise, Becky Humphrey & Family
GREGORY’S OPTICAL
CENTRE
Eye exams
covered through
Greenshield
with on-site
doctor.
Call or Visit
Store for Details
OFFERS CAW LOCAL 1520 MEMBERS AND FAMILIES
PAY NOTHING
Choose from Any Frame $139.00 or Under and
PAY NOTHING with your Insurance
Two Locations
GREGORY’S WHARNCLIFFE 519-438-3662
304 Wharncliffe Rd. S.
GREGORY’S LONDON EAST 519-453-8350
1890 Dundas St. E.
NEWSHEADLINE, PAGE 23
How do you feel about having six weeks
off during the summer?
SCOTT MILLSON
DARRYL DELLER
JOEL VAN BYNEN
It’s bitter sweet. I love having the
time away from work with my family,
however I know that this much time
off isn’t good for the job security.
It’s going to be great weather and time
well spent with the kids! However, I’d
be happier working through shutdown
and feeling more confident about our
part in the industry.
I’d like it if we didn’t need any layoffs,
but summer’s as good a time as any if
we need to be laid off!
BRIDGET SHELSON
PETE VILLINGA
JOHN KITTELBERGER
I welcome the time off except that it isn’t
good at any time when it comes in the form
of a layoff. I’m glad though that our union
has been instrumental in ensuring ample
notice for us to prepare for this time. So the
only glitch could be a possibility of cancellation and the down side to that?????
I hope to enjoy the time off.
I will like having the summer off, but
what’s happening in the auto sector is
very scary. I’m hoping were not off too
much and things bounce back. Some
new plants and jobs would be nice.
DEAN SIMMONS
JIM MORRISON
HEATHER TAVERNER-KYDD
I would rather just have my two
weeks holidays and work steady.
It doesn’t pay as well as working.
Six weeks off in the summer is awesome,
if it’s vacation time. When you’re laid
off and you’re the only one with a job
right now, being on EI is not good.
PAGE 24, NEWSHEADLINE
FINANCIAL SECRETARY'S REPORT - C.A.W. LOCAL 1520
FOR THE MONTH OF:
APRIL 2009
BALANCE AT THE END OF: MARCH 2009 - $684,183.03
INCOME
Dues
Skilled Trades Dues
Recreation
Retirees Per Capita
Jackets, T-shirts, etc.
Interest
Retirees Active Fund
Investment Fund
Newsheadline
Watches
My Sister's Place
Lounge Receipts
Building Receipts
TOTAL INCOME
117,067.03
19.94
5,175.00
5,852.25
188.25
94.25
934.30
360.58
1,100.00
200.00
139.30
11,802.50
10,378.00
153,311.40
ALLOCATION OF ASSETS
Balance as per bank statement
Less o/s cheques
Actual Bank Balance
Special Accounts
Savings Account
Term Deposit
TOTAL CASH ASSETS
255,825.15
49,142.45
206,682.70
145.83
239,679.73
200,000.00
646,508.26
PER CAPITA OWING
70,716.69
PAYROLL REMITTANCE OWING 8,735.70
ACTUAL CASH ASSETS
567,055.87
BALANCE OF MORTGAGE
0.00
EXPENDITURES
FUND SUMMARY
Office Wages
4,383.19
Lost Time
34,649.02
Travel, Meals, etc
21,543.55
Registration & Delegate Fees
274.87
Equipment - Mtce. & Repairs
48.58
Postage & Telegrams
235.61
Rent
1,700.00
Supplies
122.90
Telephone
885.79
Subscriptions
175.80
Per Capita Tax
61,451.45
Per Capita Tax - Affiliates
9,830.84
Staff Medical & Payroll Taxes
715.93
Education
302.88
Retirees Active Fund
2,412.00
Recreation
18,512.60
Newsheadline
35.77
Flower & Bible
118.93
Retirees Per Capita Fund
3,492.21
Donations - Strikes, Union
(300.00)
Donations - Charitable
450.00
Payroll Remittance
10,184.27
Payroll Deductions
(9,272.90)
Bank Charges
69.00
Retirees Watches
6,559.65
Retirees Spring Dance
250.00
My Sister's Place
209.30
Lounge Expense
9,839.12
Building Expense
12,105.81
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
190,986.17
GENERAL FUND
Net Income
(37,674.77)
Add to last month's balance of 684,183.03
Leaves Balance to account for 646,508.26
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
Less expenses
BALANCE
141,679.03
116,853.85
144,202.62
114,330.26
EDUCATION FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
17,769.00
148.10
302.88
17,614.22
RECREATION FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
18,444.32
5,915.50
18,512.60
5,847.22
POLITICAL ACTION FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
5,833.62
148.10
0.00
5,981.72
RETIRED MEMBERS (per capita)
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
65,654.24
5,867.06
3,492.21
68,029.09
BUILDING
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
(40,714.68)
10,378.00
12,105.81
(42,442.49)
FLOWER AND BIBLE FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
S. Szydlowski - Financial Secretary
(Bracket figures are in the red)
14,070.96
444.30
118.93
14,396.33
NEW MEMBER ORIENTATION
Balance previous month
Add income
(758.47)
0.00
0.00
(758.47)
SPECIAL ASSISTANCE
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
12,519.70
370.25
0.00
12,889.95
INVESTMENT
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
439,319.15
360.58
0.00
439,679.73
LOUNGE
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
(6,370.00)
11,802.50
9,839.12
(4,406.62)
RETIREES ACTIVE FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expenses
BALANCE
8,194.41
934.30
2,412.00
6,716.71
HUMAN RIGHTS FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expense
BALANCE
4,796.80
29.62
0.00
4,826.42
WOMEN'S COMMITTEE
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expense
BALANCE
2,986.94
29.62
0.00
3,016.56
ENVIRONMENT FUND
Balance previous month
Add income
Less expense
BALANCE
TOTAL OF ALL FUNDS
758.01
29.62
0.00
787.63
646,508.26
PUBLICATION MAIL AGREEMENT NO.40026126
RETURN UNDELIVERABLE CANADIAN ADDRESSES TO:
LOCAL 1520
P. O. BOX 545, ST. THOMAS, ONTARIO N5P 3V6
PRINTED ON
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