President’s Report by Barb Henderson
May 2006
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Region 1D Area Leadership Conference Held Tuesday, April 25 Director Don Oetman talked to us about current bills we should be watching, such as the Fair Bankruptcy Bill (S 2556) and HR 5113 entitled the Fairness and Accountability in Reorganization Act of 2006.
First, they would close some of the loopholes that have allowed executives of company’s huge bonuses and other forms of compensation, while at the same time using the bankruptcy process to slash wages and benefits for workers and retirees.
Second, the bill would require bankruptcy judges to take into consideration a company’s foreign operations, as well as, its domestic ones in ruling on motions to reject Collective Bargaining Agreements and Retirees’ Health Benefits.
Another bill to watch for is the Employee Free Choice (Senate bill 842 and House bill 1696).
10% More Don also talked about giving 10% more of ourselves and for our membership, such as:
· Increase Voter Registration by 10% · Increase Worker to Worker by 10% · Increase Election Day turnout by 10%
If everyone gave just a little more of themselves, even to volunteer just once a year, this would make such a difference in our union and country.
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Sub Councils in Detroit May 1-5 It was a very interesting time, but sad because so many Locals are losing jobs and members. Our councils are getting smaller every time we meet. Also, this was International Vice President Dick Shoemaker’s last Sub Council. He is also the last appointment of Walter Reuther.
Brother Shoemaker has been involved in our union movement in one way or another for the past 46 years, but union under our UAW Constitution, he must now retiree as he will be 65 years of age. He will truly be missed by all!
Career Day I would like to thank everyone that participated in Career Day. I know my three grandchildren enjoyed the whole day and received valuable information they can use in their future.
Labor Monument Just a reminder the Labor Heritage Society is still in need of financial support. It’s not too late to purchase a brick for the Labor Monument. Forms are available at the hall.
They are also holding a raffle for an “FXDI Dyna Street Bob Harley” Davidson Motorcycle. Tickets are $10 each and the drawing is July 18, 2006. You can purchase tickets from Curt Jenison at JJ-1 or 20 Bay Area and Kris Lemons in Small Machines, Blocking Cell Area.
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Constitution Convention I would like to thank the membership for your support and electing me as one of your delegates to the convention. This is such an honor and I really appreciate your continued support.
Buyout I would like to wish all of our members accepting one of the retirement offers the best of luck in your future.
Patience Appreciated Also, thank you for your patience and understanding during these difficult times for all of us, and working with your Benefit Reps by setting up appointments when researching all your options.
Just a reminder, there’s still more to come with Priority Health opening enrollment soon for more of our members.
Local 730 Accepts Three Awards Each year at the Michigan Labor Press Training Conference held at Black Lake, a Publication Contest is held. I am very proud to share with you the following awards earned by Local 730 and a big thank you to our Editor Jeff Downing and members of our Publication Committee for the great job they do every month.
1st Place - Photo Excellence Category A photo that was taken by Jeff Downing featuring the striking nurses in Petoskey, MI.
1st Place - Best Photo Collage The photo collage that was put together by Jeff Downing of our local union picnic held.
3rd Place – Best Editorial Won by Rocky Love for an article published in our February 2005 issue.
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Calendar of Events May 16 (Tuesday 7 am thru 1 pm Wednesday) Union Hall Bid Sale
Newly elected sworn in at member mtgs.
May 19 (Friday) 5 to 9 a.m. and 1 to 2:30 Veterans Breakfast at Union Hall
May 24, 25 (5 am Wed. to 5 am Thur.) Election for Shop Committee & Chairperson
June 17 (Saturday) 12 noon to 5 p.m. Local 730 Picnic at Douglas Walker Park
May thru June 17 The Community Service Committee will be holding a raffle during the months of May and June with winners to be drawn at the Local 730 Picnic scheduled for Saturday, June 17. Prizes will include an American made grill and $25 gift cards.
Barb Henderson President
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