Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

Jun 22, 2023 | Community Service, Front Page, Other News, Recent News, Row 2

Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

IAM141.org
June 22, 2023

On the vibrant green fairways of Broadlands Golf Course near Denver, Colorado, a special guest named Britta stole the show at an annual golf charity event hosted by Machinists Union Local 1886 and Local 47. Britta is a retired guide dog who has spent her years serving as a loyal companion and a breeding “Momma” for Guide Dogs of America. Now at six years old, Britta retired after three years of dedicated service, helping to improve the lives of children with autism, veterans suffering from PTSD, and those with vision impairments, among other forms of critical assistance.

Britta, the mother of two litters of puppies, was brought to the charity event by Christine Coyle, a dedicated Guide Dogs Representative, and Los Angeles resident. With an impressive 25 years of service under her belt, Coyle has bred and raised seven dogs from start to finish for Guide Dogs of America.

Coyle’s passion for community service and giving back inspired her involvement with Guide Dogs. “It just looked like a great way for our entire family to get involved,” Coyle said, reflecting on what initially drew her to the charity. “It’s just a really wonderful opportunity to raise awareness and money for Guide Dogs of America and the work they’re doing.”

According to Local 47 President Garry Harper, the fundraiser has seen an increase in participation each year. Harper, who has served Union Members in the Denver region as President for the past 30 years, described the increase in participation, saying, “When we first started doing this, we had 60 golfers who signed up. Today, we have more than 140.” The numbers would be higher this year, but, as Harper quipped, “they don’t have enough golf carts.”

According to Local 1886 President Johnny Martinez, the chief organizer of the fundraiser, last year’s event raised over $23,000. A figure he believes will be surpassed this year. “I seriously want to thank everyone who helped make this happen,” he said. “This is one of the largest tournaments of its kind held at this location,” he continued.

“We try to limit costs by working with local businesses and community organizations, and we hold raffles and other drawings, which is where we actually get most of our donations,” he added. 

The help is very much needed. Breeders like Christine have to pay out of pocket to raise a puppy for Guide Dogs of America, relying on tax write-offs to recoup costs such as food and other related costs.

Coyle further explained the financial aspects of raising guide dogs. “The school provides vet care and breeding,” she said. “In all, it can cost about $4,000 to get a dog into training. But, that’s just the breeding cost. To get the service dog through breeding and training, and to actually deliver it to a recipient, the total costs can range as high as $70,000.”

She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Machinists Union for their support. “Those expenses are why we’re so appreciative of the Machinists Union’s generosity and assistance. We truly couldn’t do it without you guys,” she said.

Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to creating partnerships between people and service dogs, enhancing the lives of visually impaired or blind individuals and service dogs for veterans and children with autism. The organization also assigns facility dogs to professionals in various environments, such as hospitals, schools, and courtrooms. These expertly trained dogs serve as reliable companions, boosting their human partners’ confidence, mobility, and independence. All services, including transportation, personalized training, lodging, and ongoing support after graduation, are offered entirely free of charge to the beneficiaries.

Machinists Union Assistant General Chair Rich Robinson also attended the event, praising the fun and festive atmosphere. But he wanted to recognize more than just the event’s ambiance. “This local has proven itself time and time again. They want to support their community and this great cause, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work they’re doing.”

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Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

June 19, 2023

On the vibrant green fairways of Broadlands Golf Course near Denver, Colorado, a special guest named Britta stole the show at an annual golf charity event hosted by Machinists Union Local 1886 and Local 47. Britta is a retired guide dog who has spent her years serving as a loyal companion and a breeding “Momma” for Guide Dogs of America. Now at six years old, Britta retired after three years of dedicated service, helping to improve the lives of children with autism, veterans suffering from PTSD, and those with vision impairments, among other forms of critical assistance.

Britta, the mother of two litters of puppies, was brought to the charity event by Christine Coyle, a dedicated Guide Dogs Representative, and Los Angeles resident. With an impressive 25 years of service under her belt, Coyle has bred and raised seven dogs from start to finish for Guide Dogs of America.

Coyle’s passion for community service and giving back inspired her involvement with Guide Dogs. “It just looked like a great way for our entire family to get involved,” Coyle said, reflecting on what initially drew her to the charity. “It’s just a really wonderful opportunity to raise awareness and money for Guide Dogs of America and the work they’re doing.”

According to Local 47 President Garry Harper, the fundraiser has seen an increase in participation each year. Harper, who has served Union Members in the Denver region as President for the past 30 years, described the increase in participation, saying, “When we first started doing this, we had 60 golfers who signed up. Today, we have more than 140.” The numbers would be higher this year, but, as Harper quipped, “they don’t have enough golf carts.”

According to Local 1886 President Johnny Martinez, the chief organizer of the fundraiser, last year’s event raised over $23,000. A figure he believes will be surpassed this year. “I seriously want to thank everyone who helped make this happen,” he said. “This is one of the largest tournaments of its kind held at this location,” he continued.

“We try to limit costs by working with local businesses and community organizations, and we hold raffles and other drawings, which is where we actually get most of our donations,” he added. 

The help is very much needed. Breeders like Christine have to pay out of pocket to raise a puppy for Guide Dogs of America, relying on tax write-offs to recoup costs such as food and other related costs.

Coyle further explained the financial aspects of raising guide dogs. “The school provides vet care and breeding,” she said. “In all, it can cost about $4,000 to get a dog into training. But, that’s just the breeding cost. To get the service dog through breeding and training, and to actually deliver it to a recipient, the total costs can range as high as $70,000.”

She expressed her heartfelt gratitude to the Machinists Union for their support. “Those expenses are why we’re so appreciative of the Machinists Union’s generosity and assistance. We truly couldn’t do it without you guys,” she said.

Guide Dogs of America is dedicated to creating partnerships between people and service dogs, enhancing the lives of visually impaired or blind individuals and service dogs for veterans and children with autism. The organization also assigns facility dogs to professionals in various environments, such as hospitals, schools, and courtrooms. These expertly trained dogs serve as reliable companions, boosting their human partners’ confidence, mobility, and independence. All services, including transportation, personalized training, lodging, and ongoing support after graduation, are offered entirely free of charge to the beneficiaries.

Machinists Union Assistant General Chair Rich Robinson also attended the event, praising the fun and festive atmosphere. But he wanted to recognize more than just the event’s ambiance. “This local has proven itself time and time again. They want to support their community and this great cause, and I couldn’t be more proud of the work they’re doing.”

 

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Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

Jun 1, 2023 | Community Service, Front Page, Other News, Row 2

Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

IAM141.org
June 1, 2023

Amid the extensive damage caused by Super Typhoon Mawar, the District Vice President of the Machinists Union in Guam, is encouraging residents to seek help from the Machinists Union Disaster Relief Fund.

Vice President Sharon Sugiyama said the fund offers immediate support to union members and their families following natural disasters. Sugiyama has committed to helping affected Union Members find and complete the paperwork to apply for assistance.

Sugiyama underscored the high need for assistance among the approximately 800 United employees on the island, some of whom had suffered damage to homes, and many others prevented from working due to the storm.

“Right now, there’s an urgent need for things like gas and water, and especially electricity,” she said of the damage left in the wake of the storm. “Lines for gas are unbelievable,” she continued, adding that cars are waiting hours in lines more than four miles long. “We’re missing things like ice and water,” she added.

Established to provide swift assistance in instances of natural disasters, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund has been a lifeline for its members and their families in times of need. It assists those impacted by natural disasters, often before other sources of aid can react.

The Disaster Relief assistance program is funded by direct, voluntary contributions from Machinists Union Members.

The Pacific Island of Guam, a U.S. territory, is undergoing an extensive cleanup following last week’s devastation caused by Typhoon Mawar. When the Typhoon made landfall, its projected continuous winds of 140 mph led to the destruction of homes, upended vehicles, and caused the demolition of wind sensors at the airport, which recorded a gust of 105 mph. The breadth of the damage is such that only aerial images can genuinely illustrate the vast extent of the destruction.

The Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, said in a social media post that the island had endured “an alarming ordeal unmatched in over twenty years.”

In the Western Pacific, typhoons are tropical cyclones with intensity equivalent to hurricanes.

Nearly 98% of Guam experienced a power outage during the Typhoon. The governor told news agencies it took almost two days for the Guam Power Authority to fully restore power to the Guam Memorial Hospital. Workforces are operating on round-the-clock shifts to reestablish electricity throughout the island.

A National Weather Service meteorologist provided a disturbing description of the aftermath in a Facebook video update after the storm’s departure, saying, “As we observe from our doors, what once was a lush jungle now resembles a forest of splintered wood.”

Guam serves as an essential base for U.S. forces in the Pacific, with approximately 6,800 service members stationed on the island. In response to the storm, military officials executed evacuation procedures for personnel, dependents, and employees, dispatched ships to safer waters, and either relocated aircraft off the island or secured them in protective hangars.

United Airlines, a significant employer on the island, has approximately 800 employees in Guam and many hundreds more across national airports who hail from the North Pacific Island.

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Standing Strong: Guam’s Resilience in the Aftermath of Super Typhoon Mawar

June 1, 2023

Amid the extensive damage caused by Super Typhoon Mawar, the District Vice President of the Machinists Union in Guam, is encouraging residents to seek help from the Machinists Union Disaster Relief Fund.

Vice President Sharon Sugiyama said the fund offers immediate support to union members and their families following natural disasters. Sugiyama has committed to helping affected Union Members find and complete the paperwork to apply for assistance.

Sugiyama underscored the high need for assistance among the approximately 800 United employees on the island, some of whom had suffered damage to homes, and many others prevented from working due to the storm.

“Right now, there’s an urgent need for things like gas and water, and especially electricity,” she said of the damage left in the wake of the storm. “Lines for gas are unbelievable,” she continued, adding that cars are waiting hours in lines more than four miles long. “We’re missing things like ice and water,” she added.

Established to provide swift assistance in instances of natural disasters, the IAM Disaster Relief Fund has been a lifeline for its members and their families in times of need. It assists those impacted by natural disasters, often before other sources of aid can react.

The Disaster Relief assistance program is funded by direct, voluntary contributions from Machinists Union Members.

The Pacific Island of Guam, a U.S. territory, is undergoing an extensive cleanup following last week’s devastation caused by Typhoon Mawar. When the Typhoon made landfall, its projected continuous winds of 140 mph led to the destruction of homes, upended vehicles, and caused the demolition of wind sensors at the airport, which recorded a gust of 105 mph. The breadth of the damage is such that only aerial images can genuinely illustrate the vast extent of the destruction.

The Governor of Guam, Lou Leon Guerrero, said in a social media post that the island had endured “an alarming ordeal unmatched in over twenty years.”

In the Western Pacific, typhoons are tropical cyclones with intensity equivalent to hurricanes.

Nearly 98% of Guam experienced a power outage during the Typhoon. The governor told news agencies it took almost two days for the Guam Power Authority to fully restore power to the Guam Memorial Hospital. Workforces are operating on round-the-clock shifts to reestablish electricity throughout the island.

A National Weather Service meteorologist provided a disturbing description of the aftermath in a Facebook video update after the storm’s departure, saying, “As we observe from our doors, what once was a lush jungle now resembles a forest of splintered wood.”

Guam serves as an essential base for U.S. forces in the Pacific, with approximately 6,800 service members stationed on the island. In response to the storm, military officials executed evacuation procedures for personnel, dependents, and employees, dispatched ships to safer waters, and either relocated aircraft off the island or secured them in protective hangars.

United Airlines, a significant employer on the island, has approximately 800 employees in Guam and many hundreds more across national airports who hail from the North Pacific Island.

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Machinists Union Local 1725 Swings into Action for Guide Dogs of America

Machinists Union Local 1725 Swings into Action for Guide Dogs of America

May 17, 2023 | Community Service, Front Page

Machinists Union Local 1725 Swings into Action for Guide Dogs of America

IAM141.org
May 17, 2023

CHARLOTTE, NC – Machinists Union Local 1725 hosted a Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser at the Harry Jones Golf Course in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, May 17. The event was buzzing with activity as golfers came together in support of Guide Dogs of America.

About 100 union members, predominantly from American Airlines, gathered at the event, transforming the tranquil golf course into a vibrant hub of camaraderie and compassion. Among the attendees were Mike Klemm, President of Machinists Union District 141, and Mark Baskett, Assistant Chairman at District 141.

Also present was the PDGC of Machinists District 142, John Coveny, along with General Chairs Ken Coley, and Bill Wise. EAP Director Chris Davis and Tony Blevins, Special Assistant to the International President. Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, was also present.

Their presence added a touch of gravitas to the occasion.

The participants registered with $80 for singles and $320 for 4-person teams. But more than the game, it was the cause that attracted people. The registration fees, raffle proceeds, and other contributions were directed to Guide Dogs of America.

Guide Dogs of America is a non-profit organization that has been transforming lives through partnerships with service dogs. They breed, raise, and train guide dogs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. They also provide service dogs for veterans and children with autism. Moreover, the organization places facility dogs with professionals in hospitals, schools, and courtrooms, where these highly skilled canines serve as trusted companions, enhancing people’s confidence, mobility, and independence.

The Machinists Union has a long history of supporting Guide Dogs of America, the official charity of the union. The union recognizes the organization’s exemplary work in assisting individuals overcoming PTSD, those living with autism, and those who are visually impaired. The union members understand the transformative power of a service dog, and this annual charity event is a testament to that.

The event was not just about golfing and fundraising; it was an opportunity for the union members and the larger community to understand the profound impact of their contributions. Stories of individuals who have benefited from Guide Dogs of America’s programs were shared, painting a picture of how the proceeds from events like these change lives.

“She is an amazing guide dog, leading and guiding me everywhere I need to go,” said Teresa Blevins, a Guide Dog recipient of her service dod Delilah. “She navigates stairs, elevators, and even crowded rooms, making sure I can move around independently and with ease,” she continued.

The Machinists Union Local 1725’s Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser was not just a day on the green; it was a day of coming together, embracing a noble cause, and making a difference. As golf balls soared through the air, so did the hopes and aspirations of those present, all striving to contribute to a world where everyone has the companionship and support of a guide dog, increasing their confidence, mobility, and independence.

Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines provide guide dogs to individuals at no cost, thanks to private contributions. They breed, raise, and train these dogs at their impressive campus in Silmar, California, which spans 7 acres and includes a dedicated puppy department.

The school relies on the invaluable assistance of volunteer puppy raisers who take in the puppies at a young age. These dedicated raisers teach the dogs important house rules, socialize them with the public, and expose them to various environments like shopping centers and doctor’s offices. Thanks to the raisers’ efforts, the dogs are well-behaved and comfortable in different settings.

The campus is also home to instructors and trainers who ensure students become fully mobile and independent before leaving the school. The instructors provide support and assistance if any issues arise after students return home. The organization’s success depends on the collective effort of volunteers, supporters, and donors, who form a village of compassion and dedication. The impact goes beyond providing guide dogs to the visually impaired, as the organization now extends its support to children with autism, veterans with PTSD, and the needs of police departments and courtrooms through Tender Loving Canines.

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Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Sign up for Email Alerts

Machinists Union Local 1725 Swings into Action for Guide Dogs of America

MAY 17, 2023

CHARLOTTE, NC – Machinists Union Local 1725 hosted a Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser at the Harry Jones Golf Course in Charlotte, NC on Wednesday, May 17. The event was buzzing with activity as golfers came together in support of Guide Dogs of America.

About 100 union members, predominantly from American Airlines, gathered at the event, transforming the tranquil golf course into a vibrant hub of camaraderie and compassion. Among the attendees were Mike Klemm, President of Machinists Union District 141, and Mark Baskett, Assistant Chairman at District 141.

Also present was the PDGC of Machinists District 142, John Coveny, along with General Chairs Ken Coley, and Bill Wise. EAP Director Chris Davis and Tony Blevins, Special Assistant to the International President. Dora Cervantes, Secretary-Treasurer of the IAM, was also present.

Their presence added a touch of gravitas to the occasion.

The participants registered with $80 for singles and $320 for 4-person teams. But more than the game, it was the cause that attracted people. The registration fees, raffle proceeds, and other contributions were directed to Guide Dogs of America.

Guide Dogs of America is a non-profit organization that has been transforming lives through partnerships with service dogs. They breed, raise, and train guide dogs for individuals who are blind or visually impaired. They also provide service dogs for veterans and children with autism. Moreover, the organization places facility dogs with professionals in hospitals, schools, and courtrooms, where these highly skilled canines serve as trusted companions, enhancing people’s confidence, mobility, and independence.

The Machinists Union has a long history of supporting Guide Dogs of America, the official charity of the union. The union recognizes the organization’s exemplary work in assisting individuals overcoming PTSD, those living with autism, and those who are visually impaired. The union members understand the transformative power of a service dog, and this annual charity event is a testament to that.

The event was not just about golfing and fundraising; it was an opportunity for the union members and the larger community to understand the profound impact of their contributions. Stories of individuals who have benefited from Guide Dogs of America’s programs were shared, painting a picture of how the proceeds from events like these change lives.

“She is an amazing guide dog, leading and guiding me everywhere I need to go,” said Teresa Blevins, a Guide Dog recipient of her service dod Delilah. “She navigates stairs, elevators, and even crowded rooms, making sure I can move around independently and with ease,” she continued.

The Machinists Union Local 1725’s Golf Outing Charity Fundraiser was not just a day on the green; it was a day of coming together, embracing a noble cause, and making a difference. As golf balls soared through the air, so did the hopes and aspirations of those present, all striving to contribute to a world where everyone has the companionship and support of a guide dog, increasing their confidence, mobility, and independence.

Guide Dogs of America and Tender Loving Canines provide guide dogs to individuals at no cost, thanks to private contributions. They breed, raise, and train these dogs at their impressive campus in Silmar, California, which spans 7 acres and includes a dedicated puppy department.

The school relies on the invaluable assistance of volunteer puppy raisers who take in the puppies at a young age. These dedicated raisers teach the dogs important house rules, socialize them with the public, and expose them to various environments like shopping centers and doctor’s offices. Thanks to the raisers’ efforts, the dogs are well-behaved and comfortable in different settings.

The campus is also home to instructors and trainers who ensure students become fully mobile and independent before leaving the school. The instructors provide support and assistance if any issues arise after students return home. The organization’s success depends on the collective effort of volunteers, supporters, and donors, who form a village of compassion and dedication. The impact goes beyond providing guide dogs to the visually impaired, as the organization now extends its support to children with autism, veterans with PTSD, and the needs of police departments and courtrooms through Tender Loving Canines.

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Scholarship Contest is Now Underway!

Scholarship Contest is Now Underway!

Feb 27, 2023 | Community Service, Education, Front Page, Organizing, Page Five, Page Three, Page Two, Perusals, Row 2

The Scholarship Contest is Underway!

IAM141.org
February 27, 2023

Calling all high school seniors and college and trade school students! Prepare to prove your worth in the arena of the written word by taking part in the 2023 essay competition. This year’s theme is “The rise of public approval of labor unions in the United States.”

In a mere 700 to 1000 words, you can champion the cause of the working class and earn a wealth of funds for your future education. Prizes will be awarded to six exceptional participants, starting at $1,000. The ultimate victor will receive a grand prize of $2,000.

The Essay Competition launched on March 1, 2023, and ends at midnight on July 15, 2023. Winners will be announced on or around August. 1, 2023. Judging will be done by an impartial Scholarship Committee that is not a member of District Lodge 141. Essays must be submitted via email.

Furthermore, the winners of the essay competition will be honored by District 141 of the Machinists and Aerospace Union, where they will be recognized for their exceptional writing skills and commitment to social justice. Additionally, the top entries will be included in our District Journal, which records key events within our District for future generations to see.

So sharpen your quills and unleash your creativity! Submit your entries by the deadline of midnight, July 15, 2023, and join the ranks of the finest writers in District 141. May the odds be ever in your favor!

Official Rules and Application Form

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Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money Will Be Awarded

February 27, 2023

Calling all high school seniors and college and trade school students! Prepare to prove your worth in the arena of the written word by taking part in the 2023 essay competition. This year’s theme is “The rise of public approval of labor unions in the United States.”

In a mere 700 to 1000 words, you can champion the cause of the working class and earn a wealth of funds for your future education. Prizes will be awarded to six exceptional participants, starting at $1,000. The ultimate victor will receive a grand prize of $2,000.

The Essay Competition shall commence on March 1, 2023, and end at midnight on July 15, 2023. Winners will be announced on or around August. 1, 2023. Judging will be done by an impartial Scholarship Committee that is not a member of District Lodge 141.

Furthermore, the winners of the essay competition will be honored by District 141 of the Machinists and Aerospace Union, where they will be recognized for their exceptional writing skills and commitment to social justice. Additionally, the top entries will be included in our District Journal, which records key events within our District for future generations to see.

So sharpen your quills and unleash your creativity! Submit your entries by the deadline of midnight, July 15, 2023, and join the ranks of the finest writers in District 141. May the odds be ever in your favor!

Official Rules and Application Form

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“Go Red” Luncheon Raises Awareness of Heart Disease

“Go Red” Luncheon Raises Awareness of Heart Disease

Feb 9, 2023 | Community Service, Front Page, Page Five, Page Four, Page Three, Page Two, Perusals, Row 2

“Go Red” Luncheon Raises Awareness of Heart Disease

IAM141.org
February 8, 2023

Heart disease is a devastating threat to women in the United States, claiming the lives of a staggering 314,186 women in 2020 alone – accounting for one out of every four female deaths. 

On Wednesday, the Local 1487 Women’s Committee of Chicago hosted a landmark event to raise awareness of the impact of heart disease on women. The “Go Red” luncheon brought together a diverse group of reservations, customer and fleet service agents, and other airline workers dressed in their best red attire. The women shared deeply moving personal stories of their encounters with cardiovascular disease and learned how to attain CPR certification. Attendees were also treated to a mime flag tribute dance performed by Christine Byrd and Charlene Allen. A red wine-tasting table was sponsored by Coopers Hawk, a notable local winery and restaurant in the Chicago area. And a range of heart-healthy food options was on offer. 

April Walker, one of the lead organizers helping to put the event together, reminded the gathering to “Remember your numbers!” before a raffle drawing. “Not just your raffle numbers!” she said to laughter.

Over healthy and delicious food options, the women learned about the symptoms of heart disease and the steps they can take to protect themselves. The atmosphere was boisterous and cheerful, as the women were empowered with the knowledge and inspiration to take charge of their health and wellness.

The American Heart Association reports that nearly half of all women, 44%, live with some form of cardiovascular disease. Despite this, most women remain unaware of the dangers of heart disease and the gender-specific risks created by life stages such as pregnancy and menopause.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the lack of understanding surrounding heart disease in women can be attributed to a significant gap in research and outreach. Much of the literature and outreach efforts regarding heart disease are geared toward men, leaving women underrepresented and their specific needs ignored.

Data released by the AHA shows that nearly 70% of postgraduate medical students report minimal to no training on gender-specific medical treatment. Only 42% of cardiologists feel adequately prepared to assess cardiovascular issues specific to women.

This lack of representation can have devastating consequences. Candice Schafer, Senior Development Director of Chicago’s Go Red for Women, explains that heart disease presents differently in women than in men. “A lot of women are turned away from hospitals when they are actually in cardiac distress,” she says. “In women, a heart attack presents very differently. It shows up as fatigue or sometimes a headache.” These symptoms can go on for days, making it essential for doctors to recognize the signs of cardiac distress in women.

However, there is cause for optimism. According to Shaeffer, 80% of cardiac health can be improved through lifestyle choices. By raising awareness and improving the representation of women in research and outreach efforts, women can take control of their heart health and reduce their risk of heart disease.

“The disparity in representation and understanding of heart disease in women is a significant issue that needs to be addressed,” said Shaeffer. “Through increased awareness and better representation in research and outreach efforts, women can take charge of their heart health and reduce their risk of heart disease.”

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EAP Peers:        February is often a month that people are struggling with finances after the holidays. We focus on a government agency that has some terrific resources - the Consumer Finance Protection Bureau. This agency has a myriad of resources to help with any...

Stay up to date with all the latest news and information from the Machinists Union

Sign up for Email Alerts

“Go Red” Luncheon Raises Awareness of Heart Disease

February 8, 2023

Heart disease is a devastating threat to women in the United States, claiming the lives of a staggering 314,186 women in 2020 alone – accounting for one out of every four female deaths. 

On Wednesday, the Local 1487 Women’s Committee of Chicago hosted a landmark event to raise awareness of the impact of heart disease on women. The “Go Red” luncheon brought together a diverse group of reservations, customer and fleet service agents, and other airline workers dressed in their best red attire. The women shared deeply moving personal stories of their encounters with cardiovascular disease and learned how to attain CPR certification. Attendees were also treated to a mime flag tribute dance performed by Christine Byrd and Charlene Allen. A red wine-tasting table was sponsored by Coopers Hawk, a notable local winery and restaurant in the Chicago area. And a range of heart-healthy food options was on offer. 

April Walker, one of the lead organizers helping to put the event together, reminded the gathering to “Remember your numbers!” before a raffle drawing. “Not just your raffle numbers!” she said to laughter.

Over healthy and delicious food options, the women learned about the symptoms of heart disease and the steps they can take to protect themselves. The atmosphere was boisterous and cheerful, as the women were empowered with the knowledge and inspiration to take charge of their health and wellness.

The American Heart Association reports that nearly half of all women, 44%, live with some form of cardiovascular disease. Despite this, most women remain unaware of the dangers of heart disease and the gender-specific risks created by life stages such as pregnancy and menopause.

According to the American Heart Association (AHA), the lack of understanding surrounding heart disease in women can be attributed to a significant gap in research and outreach. Much of the literature and outreach efforts regarding heart disease are geared toward men, leaving women underrepresented and their specific needs ignored.

Data released by the AHA shows that nearly 70% of postgraduate medical students report minimal to no training on gender-specific medical treatment. Only 42% of cardiologists feel adequately prepared to assess cardiovascular issues specific to women.

This lack of representation can have devastating consequences. Candice Schafer, Senior Development Director of Chicago’s Go Red for Women, explains that heart disease presents differently in women than in men. “A lot of women are turned away from hospitals when they are actually in cardiac distress,” she says. “In women, a heart attack presents very differently. It shows up as fatigue or sometimes a headache.” These symptoms can go on for days, making it essential for doctors to recognize the signs of cardiac distress in women.

However, there is cause for optimism. According to Shaeffer, 80% of cardiac health can be improved through lifestyle choices. By raising awareness and improving the representation of women in research and outreach efforts, women can take control of their heart health and reduce their risk of heart disease.

“The disparity in representation and understanding of heart disease in women is a significant issue that needs to be addressed,” said Shaeffer. “Through increased awareness and better representation in research and outreach efforts, women can take charge of their heart health and reduce their risk of heart disease.”

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Machinists Honor Hispanic Heritage Month

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Sep 16, 2022 | Community Service, Front Page, GOIAM Stories, Page Five, Page Three, Page Two, Row 2

Machinists Honor Hispanic Heritage Month


16 September 2022

Hispanic Heritage Month is observed each year from September 15 – October 15 to pay tribute to the contributions, rich legacy, culture, and influence of the Hispanic and Latino community in the United States.

The celebration dates back to 1968 when President Lyndon B. Johnson created Hispanic Heritage Week beginning September 15 to honor the contributions of this growing community and to mark the anniversary of the independence of a few Latin American countries. The observation was then expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period.

The IAM honors the history-making power of past and present Latino leaders who have been critical to the advancement of the labor movement – within our union and beyond.

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, the IAM recommits to keep fighting for a more equal and just workforce and takes pride as having one of the most diverse Executive Councils with Latino representation in the labor movement. 

International President Robert Martinez Jr. made history as the first Hispanic ever elected to the IAM Executive Council and the first Latino in labor to head a major North American international union. General Secretary-Treasurer Dora Cervantes also paved the way as the first Hispanic to serve as General Secretary-Treasurer in the history of the IAM.

In order to mentor and build the next generation of Latino leaders in the union, the IAM created the Spanish Leadership Program at the William W. Winpisinger Education and Technology Center. The program provides IAM members with the skills and tools they need to effectively represent and fight for workers’ rights.

IAM also partners with many Latino advocacy organizations to address and educate about issues affecting Latino working families. This includes groups like the Labor Council for Latin American Advancement (LCLAA), an AFL-CIO constituency group committed to improving the rights and conditions of Latino workers.

If you are an IAM member and want to get involved, you can reach out to Julie Frietchen, IAM Director, Women’s, Human Rights & Young Workers at (301) 967-4747 or jfrietchen@iamaw.org.

La IAM Conmemora el Mes de la Herencia Hispana 

El Mes de la Herencia Hispana es celebrado cada año desde el 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre para rendir homenaje a las contribuciones, el rico legado, la cultura y la influencia de la comunidad hispana y latina en los Estados Unidos.

La celebración se remonta a 1968 cuando el presidente Lyndon B. Johnson creó la Semana de la Herencia Hispana a partir del 15 de septiembre para honrar la contribuciones de esta creciente comunidad y para conmemorar el aniversario de la independencia de algunos países latinoamericanos. La celebración fue luego ampliada por el presidente Ronald Reagan en 1988 para cubrir un período de 30 días.

La IAM honra el poder histórico de los líderes latinos del pasado y el presente quienes han sido fundamentales para el avance del movimiento laboral, dentro y fuera de nuestra unión.

Mientras celebramos el Mes de la Herencia Hispana, la IAM vuelve a comprometerse a seguir luchando por una fuerza laboral más equitativa y justa y se enorgullece de tener uno de los Consejos Ejecutivos más diversos con representación latina en el movimiento laboral.

El presidente internacional, Robert Martinez Jr., hizo historia como el primer hispano elegido para el Consejo Ejecutivo de la IAM y el primer latino en el movimiento laboral en encabezar una de las uniones internacionales más grandes de América del Norte. La Secretaria-Tesorera General Dora Cervantes también rompió barreras al convertirse en la primera hispana en desempeñarse como Secretaria General-Tesorera en la historia de la IAM.

Con el fin de guiar y formar la próxima generación de líderes latinos en la unión, la IAM creó el Programa de Liderazgo en Español en el Centro de Educación y Tecnología William W. Winpisinger. El programa brinda a los miembros de la IAM las habilidades y herramientas necesarias para representar y luchar de manera efectiva por los derechos de los trabajadores. 

La IAM también colabora con muchas organizaciones que ayudan a la comunidad latina para abordar y educar sobre los problemas que afectan a las familias trabajadoras. Una de estas organizaciones es el Consejo Laboral para el Avance del Trabajador Latino Americano (LCLAA, por sus siglas en inglés), un grupo afiliado a la AFL-CIO que está comprometido con mejorar los derechos y las condiciones de los trabajadores latinos.

Si eres un miembro de la IAM y quieres involucrarte en este tema, puede comunicarse con Julie Frietchen, directora del Departamento de Mujeres, Derechos Humanos y Trabajadores Jóvenes de la IAM al (301) 967-4747 o jfrietchen@iamaw.org.

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