Paradise Pups: Golfing for Guide Dogs in Hawaii

Paradise Pups: Golfing for Guide Dogs in Hawaii

Pups in Paradise: Golfing for Guide Dogs in Hawaii

Pups in Paradise: Golfing for Guide Dogs in Hawaii

IAM141.org

+ To support the important work that Guide Dogs is doing, please CLICK HERE

The serene and picturesque Pearl Country Club in Aiea, Hawaii, on the island of Oahu, played host to the 1st annual Pups in Paradise Charity Golf Tournament on Tuesday, September 26. Nestled near the historic Pearl Harbor and the vibrant area of Waikiki, the club is renowned for its stunning views and pristine golf course, making it a sought-after venue for a myriad of events, golf tournaments among them.

The Pups in Paradise Charity Golf Tournament aims to raise funds and awareness for Guide Dogs of America, an organization committed to providing service dogs to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, veterans, and children with autism. The event seeks to support the organization’s mission to foster meaningful and transformative relationships between service dogs and their recipients, enabling them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. The funds raised during this event will contribute to the continuation of the organization’s services, which are offered at no cost to the recipients, and help transform lives through partnerships with service dogs.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the sponsors and donors who made this event possible,” said Local 1979 President Derek Morton, who hosted the event. “Without their generous contributions, we would not have been able to achieve such a resounding success. I am truly proud of the hard work and dedication that our local put into making this event happen. Together, we have shown what can be accomplished when we work towards a common goal.”

Event organizers said the outing attracted over a hundred golfers who donated $125 each in support of Guide Dogs of America. The players were joined by local businesses and pro-labor groups who sponsored holes throughout the course, adding several thousand dollars in additional donations and other donations. The sponsors included Hawaiian Airlines, who donated $3,500, and United Airlines, who contributed an impressive array of swag items for the golfers. Even more money was raised through raffles and contests, which included a package to the prestigious Hualalai Golf Course on the Island of O’ahu, valued at $1,800.

The effort is estimated to have raised an estimated $10,000 for the charity.

“This is the first year that we’ve done this,” said Stacey Williams, who helped organize the event. “So, we had to build everything from the ground up,” she said. “We didn’t have anything from previous years that we could use to make sure this would be a success,” she added. “This has been a learning experience for all of us, but now we have a foundation that we can build on for next year.”

Stacey Williams is a District Vice President for the Machinists Union.

Vice President of Operations for Hawaiian Airlines, Lokesh Amaranayaka, praised the event, saying that the fundraiser was an opportunity for the airline to deepen its connections with the community. “We are a fundamental part of Hawaii,” he noted. “When we see this level of community outreach, we need to be there.”

Among the dignitaries attending the event was the President of Guide Dogs of America, Russel Gittlen.

“I really want to thank Local 1979 for starting this program,” he said of the event. “It takes a lot of work, and we really appreciate everyone who helped put this together.”

“And, the help is needed,” he explained. “The total costs of breeding, training, and providng each dog is close to $70,000,” he said. “And that includes ongoing support; we don’t just give the dogs to those in need. We also help people learn to work with their service animal, so they can get the most of their new relationship.”

Guide Dogs of America breeds, trains, and delivers service dogs to a range of recipients. In addition to visually impaired persons, the organization also offers assistive dogs to veterans facing challenges related to PTSD, nursing homes, and children with autism. The services are provided at no charge to beneficiaries.

Machinists Union General Vice President Richard Johnsen praised Local 1979 for their commitment to the community and union members. “This is an astounding effort,” he said of the outing. “This local deserves to be recognized for the work they’ve done here and for their unyielding efforts to look out for the membership,” he said.

Johnsen led a delegation to Maui earlier in the week, delivering Disaster Relief checks to union members still dealing with the lingering effects of the wildfires that devastated so much of the island. “I’m incredibly proud of the work this local has done to assist union members on Maui,” he said. “It’s all part of the commitment this local has repeatedly demonstrated to solidarity and service.”

“Let’s keep lifting each other up,” he continued. 

In addition to Hawaiian Airlines and United, the outing attracted several sponsors, including National Group Protection, Pepsi, Berkshire Hathaway, 100 Sails Restaurant and Bar, Heineken, Modelo, Corona, the Four Seasons Resort, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and Miller Lite. Generous support was also provided by the Air Transport Territory and District 141 of the Machinists Union.

The outing drew support from all corners of the Machinists Union.
In attendance:

Richard Johnsen, IAMAW General Vice President, Airline Territory
Edison Fraser, IAMAW Airline Territory Chief of Staff
Tom Regan, IAMAW Airline Coordinator
John Coveny, President and Directing Chair, IAMAW District 142
Joe Shultz, Secretary-Treasurer, IAMAW District 142
Arthur Croker, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Stacey Williams, Vice President, Hawaii, IAMAW District 141
Shannon Robello, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Troy Rivera, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Olu Ajetomobi, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Rich Robinson, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Kyle Carroll, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Cristina Odoardi, IAMAW District 141 Community Service Director

 

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Pups in Paradise: Golfing for Guide Dogs in Hawaii

September 26, 2023

+ To support the important work that Guide Dogs is doing, please CLICK HERE

The serene and picturesque Pearl Country Club in Aiea, Hawaii, on the island of Oahu, played host to the 1st annual Pups in Paradise Charity Golf Tournament on Tuesday, September 26. Nestled near the historic Pearl Harbor and the vibrant area of Waikiki, the club is renowned for its stunning views and pristine golf course, making it a sought-after venue for a myriad of events, golf tournaments among them.

The Pups in Paradise Charity Golf Tournament aims to raise funds and awareness for Guide Dogs of America, an organization committed to providing service dogs to individuals who are blind or visually impaired, veterans, and children with autism. The event seeks to support the organization’s mission to foster meaningful and transformative relationships between service dogs and their recipients, enabling them to lead more independent and fulfilling lives. The funds raised during this event will contribute to the continuation of the organization’s services, which are offered at no cost to the recipients, and help transform lives through partnerships with service dogs.

“I want to express my sincere gratitude to all of the sponsors and donors who made this event possible,” said Local 1979 President Derek Morton, who hosted the event. “Without their generous contributions, we would not have been able to achieve such a resounding success. I am truly proud of the hard work and dedication that our local put into making this event happen. Together, we have shown what can be accomplished when we work towards a common goal.”

Event organizers said the outing attracted over a hundred golfers who donated $125 each in support of Guide Dogs of America. The players were joined by local businesses and pro-labor groups who sponsored holes throughout the course, adding several thousand dollars in additional donations and other donations. The sponsors included Hawaiian Airlines, who donated $3,500, and United Airlines, who contributed an impressive array of swag items for the golfers. Even more money was raised through raffles and contests, which included a package to the prestigious Hualalai Golf Course on the Island of O’ahu, valued at $1,800.

The effort is estimated to have raised an estimated $10,000 for the charity.

“This is the first year that we’ve done this,” said Stacey Williams, who helped organize the event. “So, we had to build everything from the ground up,” she said. “We didn’t have anything from previous years that we could use to make sure this would be a success,” she added. “This has been a learning experience for all of us, but now we have a foundation that we can build on for next year.”

Stacey Williams is a District Vice President for the Machinists Union.

Vice President of Operations for Hawaiian Airlines, Lokesh Amaranayaka, praised the event, saying that the fundraiser was an opportunity for the airline to deepen its connections with the community. “We are a fundamental part of Hawaii,” he noted. “When we see this level of community outreach, we need to be there.”

Among the dignitaries attending the event was the President of Guide Dogs of America, Russel Gittlen.

“I really want to thank Local 1979 for starting this program,” he said of the event. “It takes a lot of work, and we really appreciate everyone who helped put this together.”

“And, the help is needed,” he explained. “The total costs of breeding, training, and providng each dog is close to $70,000,” he said. “And that includes ongoing support; we don’t just give the dogs to those in need. We also help people learn to work with their service animal, so they can get the most of their new relationship.”

Guide Dogs of America breeds, trains, and delivers service dogs to a range of recipients. In addition to visually impaired persons, the organization also offers assistive dogs to veterans facing challenges related to PTSD, nursing homes, and children with autism. The services are provided at no charge to beneficiaries.

Machinists Union General Vice President Richard Johnsen praised Local 1979 for their commitment to the community and union members. “This is an astounding effort,” he said of the outing. “This local deserves to be recognized for the work they’ve done here and for their unyielding efforts to look out for the membership,” he said.

Johnsen led a delegation to Maui earlier in the week, delivering Disaster Relief checks to union members still dealing with the lingering effects of the wildfires that devastated so much of the island. “I’m incredibly proud of the work this local has done to assist union members on Maui,” he said. “It’s all part of the commitment this local has repeatedly demonstrated to solidarity and service.”

In addition to Hawaiian Airlines and United, the outing attracted several sponsors, including National Group Protection, Pepsi, Berkshire Hathaway, 100 Sails Restaurant and Bar, Heineken, Modelo, Corona, the Four Seasons Resort, the Polynesian Cultural Center, and Miller Lite. Generous support was also provided by the Air Transport Territory and District 141 of the Machinists Union.

The outing drew support from all corners of the Machinists Union.
In attendance:

Richard Johnsen, IAMAW General Vice President, Airline Territory
Edison Fraser, IAMAW Airline Territory Chief of Staff
Tom Regan, IAMAW Airline Coordinator
John Coveny, President and Directing Chair, IAMAW District 142
Joe Shultz, Secretary-Treasurer, IAMAW District 142
Stacey Williams, Vice President, Hawaii, IAMAW District 141
Shannon Robello, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Troy Rivera, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Olu Ajetomobi, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Rich Robinson, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Kyle Carroll, Assistant General Chair, IAMAW District 141
Cristina Odoardi, IAMAW District 141 Community Service Director

 

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Hurricane Idalia: Emergency Resources

Hurricane Idalia: Emergency Resources

Hurricane Idalia Emergency Resources

Union Resources

Contact your Assistant General Chair or Local Grievance Committee for help accessing the IAM Disaster Relief Fund.

Disaster Relief Information

Employee Assistance Program

IAM141 Community Service

Airports are likely to have suffered damage as a result of the storm. If you see any safety-related issues when returning to work, please complete a safety report (GSAP, GSIP, etc.)
Safety Page

All IAM members can obtain confidential help through the IAM Employee/Member Assistance Program. Services include but are not limited to addictions, mental health, stress, depression, and financial hardship.

You can reach the confidential IAM Assistance Helpline by calling 301-335-0735 or emailing iameap@iamaw.org.

As an IAM member, you could also be eligible for a $500 disaster relief grant through the Union Plus Disaster Relief Grant program.

 

Mobile Apps

Florida Storms – Florida Public Radio Emergency Network Google Play  iTunes

Florida 511 – Get up-to-the-minute, real-time traffic conditions and incident information for the State of Florida with Florida 511.

FEMA – mobile app

Red Cross – mobile apps

Everbridge – mobile apps

Gas Buddy – Gas station availability

  •  
Traffic

 

Florida 511 – Get up-to-the-minute, real-time traffic conditions and incident information for the State of Florida with Florida 511.

Florida Highway Patrol – Florida Highway Patrol Live Traffic Crash and Road Condition Report. Reports are updated every five minutes. Incidents located within city limits also may not show on the map since it is not common practice for FHP to work incidents inside city limits.

Florida Traffic – Traffic incidents and conditions from Florida 511 and Florida Highway Patrol brought to you by Florida State Emergency Response Team Geographic Information Systems.

Evacuation Information

All Florida coastal counties and counties are susceptible to storm surges, and most have designated evacuation zones. 

Mapping tool: Allows those in the storm’s path to search by address and determine if you are in a designated evacuation zone. 

Evacuation Zones – to determine if you are in a designated evacuation zone

Evacuation Orders: View Florida County evacuation orders.

Read More About Evacuation Zones – learn more about designated evacuation zones, which counties have them and which don’t, how flood zones are factored into evacuations, and evacuation orders.

Shelter Status and Openings

Please go to Summary Shelter Information for currently open general and special needs shelters within the State of Florida. 

For information from your county Emergency Management program regarding shelter preparedness and lists of potential shelters that may be opened, please visit the Shelter Information Index and choose your county.

View Open Shelters on a map.

Special Needs Assistance

If you know or care for an individual with access or functional needs, such as a medical condition that requires assistance but not hospitalization, it is important that you pre-register with the Florida Special Needs Shelter Registry.

For more Special Needs Sheltering Information, here

 

State Assistance Information Hotline
Florida’s State Assistance Information Line (SAIL) is active.

This toll-free hotline is activated to provide additional resources to help Floridians receive accurate & up-to-date information regarding Hurricane Idalia.

State Assistance Information Line: 1-800-342-3557

Report Fraud or Price Gouging
FEMA will never ask you for money to provide disaster assistance. Recognize fraud:  
  • FEMA employees will always have an official ID  
  • Don’t trust anyone who offers financial help & asks for money or personal info.  
  • Always talk with someone you trust.

Ways to Report Fraud to FEMA

For more information, visit fema.gov/disaster-fraud

Report Price Gouging in Florida

  • Call: 1-866-966-7226
Emergency Planning

While living in and visiting Florida offers many benefits and advantages, it is important to keep in mind severe weather hazards and potential threats. Every family and business should have predefined emergency plans and always keep an emergency supply kit ready and stocked.

Each Florida county has a designated emergency management program, and residents, businesses, and visitors should also visit their county’s emergency management for the most up-to-date and locally significant information.

 

Over 1,500 Flights Canceled Due to Hurricane Idalia

IAMAW141 | 30 August, 2023

By Wednesday morning, Hurricane Idalia had severely impacted the Gulf Coast Big Bend region, resulting in the cancellation of over 1,500 flights and the delay of at least 1,000 more.

The storm was the worst to hit the region in more than 120 years.

The Federal Aviation Authority has announced that multiple airports, such as Tampa, St. Pete-Clearwater, Sarasota, and Tallahassee, are shut down. They might reopen on Thursday, based on the amount of damage the storm caused.

Aviation tracking website FlightAware data shows Southwest Airlines being the hardest hit, with 200 canceled flights. American, Delta and United Airlines saw 200 additional delays and 300 cancellations at 9:00 a.m.

Passengers flying to airports in the path of Hurricane Idalia have been notified by major airlines, including Delta, JetBlue, Southwest, and United. These airlines offer free booking changes within a specific time frame to accommodate the hurricane’s impact on travel plans.

The National Hurricane Center reported that just before 8 a.m. ET, Idalia arrived at Keaton Beach in Florida’s Big Bend region as a Category 3 storm, with maximum sustained winds of 125 mph and even higher gusts.

In preparation for potential impacts from Invest 93L, Governor Ron DeSantis of Florida has declared a state of emergency for 33 counties. This order enables state officials to provide necessary resources to any affected areas.

Florida Governor Ron DeSantis declared a state of emergency for 33 counties in the hours leading up to Idalia’s landfall. The order allows state officials to make critical resources available to areas that the storm may impact.

Florida is home to thousands of Machinists Union Members centered around the state’s airports. 

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Chicago 1487 Golfers Tee Off to Aid Guide Dogs of America

Chicago 1487 Golfers Tee Off to Aid Guide Dogs of America

Chicago 1487 Golfers Tee Off to Aid Guide Dogs of America

IAM141.org

Morning thunderstorms did little to quell the enthusiasm of the 144+ golfers at the annual Golf Outing to benefit Guide Dogs of America. The event, hosted each year by Chicago’s Local Lodge 1487, raised an estimated $20,000 for the charity. 

The outing brought together a diverse collection of union members from the airline industry, including Ramp and Gate Agents and Ticket counters, Stores Workers, and Instructors. Summer thunderstorms created a wet start for the event, but the gloomy skies had given way to a clear sunny day by mid-morning. 

According to Local President Tony Licciardi, the effort raised about $17,000 from registrations alone, plus several thousand more from raffle tickets, games, and other fundraisers. Also finding support at the event was the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League, which fights for the interests of airline and union members on Capitol Hill. 

“This is wonderful,” expressed Licciardi. “I am so grateful for the overwhelming support we got from the membership and the local community,” he said. “A ton of work goes into this event,” he continued. “It would be completely impossible without this support.” 

“I want to sincerely thank all our volunteers, and eveyone who came in from accross the sytem,” he added. 

Also lending support to the effort was Air Transport General Vice President, Richie Johnsen, who helps oversee the more than 100,000 union workers in the American Civil Air Transport industry.

The money went to Guide Dogs of America, a four-star charity that provides service dogs free of charge to visually-impaired persons, veterans dealing with PTSD, and children on the autism spectrum. 

Guide Dogs of America’s Four-Star Rating

Guide Dogs of America holds a coveted four-star rating from Charity Accountability Groups such as Charity Navigator.

Guide Dogs of America provides life-changing service dogs to people in need. The organization breeds and trains dogs for blind people, veterans, and children with autism. Additionally, they place specialized dogs in institutions such as hospitals and schools. These trained dogs help those in need gain confidence and enhance their mobility. Volunteers also help recipients learn how to use their service dog and are given full access to valuable ongoing support and resources from the charity. 

Remarkably, all services, including training and accommodation, are offered at no cost to recipients. 

Behind the Scenes: Puppy Raising Program

One of the standout features of Guide Dogs of America is its Puppy Raising Program. Puppies are placed with dedicated “puppy raisers” when they are eight weeks old. These volunteers play a pivotal role in the pups’ early life, teaching them house manners and basic obedience. 

The numbers speak for themselves. At any given time, Guide Dogs of America has between 150 to 200 puppies placed in homes, all made possible through selfless volunteers and the generosity of donors.

A System of Support

The organization ensures that its volunteers are always supported at every point. Guide Dogs of America offers structured training sessions with its professional staff, behavioral support, and on-site veterinary care, underlining its commitment to each puppy’s success. In essence, the entire GDA team backs every puppy and its raiser.

Those interested in being part of this transformative journey or want more information on regional meetings can visit the Guide Dogs of America website, which can be found here.  

The help from donors and volunteers is vital to the success of Guide Dogs of America. If you would like to donate or volunteer, please click here. 

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Chicago 1487 Golfers Tee Off to Aid Guide Dogs of America

August 17, 2023

Morning thunderstorms did little to quell the enthusiasm of the 144+ golfers at the annual Golf Outing to benefit Guide Dogs of America. The event, hosted each year by Chicago’s Local Lodge 1487, raised an estimated $20,000 for the charity. 

The outing brought together a diverse collection of union members from the airline industry, including Ramp and Gate Agents and Ticket counters, Stores Workers, and Instructors. Summer thunderstorms created a wet start for the event, but the gloomy skies had given way to a clear sunny day by mid-morning. 

According to Local President Tony Licciardi, the effort raised about $17,000 from registrations alone, plus several thousand more from raffle tickets, games, and other fundraisers. Also finding support at the event was the Machinists Non-Partisan Political League, which fights for the interests of airline and union members on Capitol Hill. 

“This is wonderful,” expressed Licciardi. “I am so grateful for the overwhelming support we got from the membership and the local community,” he said. “A ton of work goes into this event,” he continued. “It would be completely impossible without this support.” 

“I want to sincerely thank all our volunteers, and eveyone who came in from accross the sytem,” he added. 

Also lending support to the effort was Air Transport General Vice President, Richie Johnsen, who helps oversee the more than 100,000 union workers in the American Civil Air Transport industry.

The money went to Guide Dogs of America, a four-star charity that provides service dogs free of charge to visually-impaired persons, veterans dealing with PTSD, and children on the autism spectrum. 

Guide Dogs of America’s Four-Star Rating

Guide Dogs of America holds a coveted four-star rating from Charity Accountability Groups such as Charity Navigator.

Guide Dogs of America provides life-changing service dogs to people in need. The organization breeds and trains dogs for blind people, veterans, and children with autism. Additionally, they place specialized dogs in institutions such as hospitals and schools. These trained dogs help those in need gain confidence and enhance their mobility. Volunteers also help recipients learn how to use their service dog and are given full access to valuable ongoing support and resources from the charity. 

Remarkably, all services, including training and accommodation, are offered at no cost to recipients. 

Behind the Scenes: Puppy Raising Program

One of the standout features of Guide Dogs of America is its Puppy Raising Program. Puppies are placed with dedicated “puppy raisers” when they are eight weeks old. These volunteers play a pivotal role in the pups’ early life, teaching them house manners and basic obedience. 

The numbers speak for themselves. At any given time, Guide Dogs of America has between 150 to 200 puppies placed in homes, all made possible through selfless volunteers and the generosity of donors.

A System of Support

The organization ensures that its volunteers are always supported at every point. Guide Dogs of America offers structured training sessions with its professional staff, behavioral support, and on-site veterinary care, underlining its commitment to each puppy’s success. In essence, the entire GDA team backs every puppy and its raiser.

Those interested in being part of this transformative journey or want more information on regional meetings can visit the Guide Dogs of America website, which can be found here.  

The help from donors and volunteers is vital to the success of Guide Dogs of America. If you would like to donate or volunteer, please click here. 

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Summer of Solidarity at “Airline Local” 1833 in MSP!

Summer of Solidarity at “Airline Local” 1833 in MSP!

The Minnesota State Fair is the perfect place to show union pride and solidarity. “Airline Local” 1833 President Mary Sansom is going to make sure that the Machinists Union are front and center. Photo Credit: Minnesota State Fair Planning Committee

Summer of Solidarity at the Great Minnesota Get-Together

Service to the Community
2 September 2022

Going back as far as anyone can remember, Airline Local 1833 has held a prominent role at the Minnesota State Fair, which the locals call the “Great Get-Together.” The Get-Together, which began as a way for area farmers to close out the Mid Western summer growing season, attracts more attendees yearly than any other state fair in the US. 

Notable among the children sporting farmer-themed face paint, musical acts, and concession stands are an impressive cadre of labor unions. Led by the Minnesota AFL-CIO, working Mid Westerners represented at the Fair include Iron and Sheet Metal Workers, Educators, and Medical Workers, among others. And, right in the center of them all, in the very heart of the Fair itself, is Mary Sansom. Mary is the President of “Airline Local” 1833 in Minneapolis, representing Union Members at Southwest Airlines and United, both of which are home to increasingly tense labor negotiations. “Don’t forget Southwest!” Mary quickly reminded me when I called her this afternoon about her Local’s support of the Get-Together and her brief meeting with US Senator and former Presidential Candidate Amy Klobuchar. The Local is also home to area workers at American Airlines, which settled their contract just as COVID-19 was starting.

I found out that Klobuchar had stopped by the Machinists Union kiosk at the Get-Together when Brian Vega texted me a photo of Mary standing next to Klobuchar, holding a “CONTRACT NOW” flyer, which have become ubiquitous at United Airlines. Brian is the Social and Video Media Coordinator for Machinists Union District 141.

“When it comes to our union, Klobuchar just breezes through like that,” Mary said of the encounter. “She stands with us on most issues,” she said. “And, there are a few areas where she needs a little more encouragement from us,” she said laughingly. Told of the ongoing tensions surrounding contract negotiations, the Senator responded simply, “So I’ve heard.” “Klobuchar and the Machinists Union haven’t always seen eye-to-eye on every issue,” Mary said of the Senator. “But, if she’s here to support our Contract Negotiations at United and Southwest, she’s on the right track.”

In addition to Klobuchar, Minnesota Representatives Angie Craig, Dean Phillips, and members of Machinists Union District 77 also stopped by to show solidarity for airline workers engaged in contract negotiations.

“Southwest has been working under an amendable contract since 2018,” Mary explained. “And now if we add all our members at United, there’s a lot of airline workers getting fed up.”

Mary, who leads the yearly effort to bring the Machinists Union to the Fair, said that politics are far from the main reason for attending. “I’ve been here for 48 years,” she said. “And, this has been going on for at least that long,” continued, explaining that the long-standing tradition of Machinists Union support for the State Fair and surrounding region is an integral part of the culture of Local 1833. “The Nurses Union out here could be facing a strike,” she said. We want to stand in solidarity with them right now. We also want to show support for Starbucks workers who are organizing, and Trader Joe’s and Amazon,” she continued. “These are new unions,” she said, “and they could use a hand. We need to stand with our union brothers and sisters when it matters.”

No Amazon facility in Minneapolis has been successfully organized thus far. However, one of the Staten Island Sorting Facility’s lead organizers, the Nation’s first to form a union successfully, will be a featured guest at the upcoming Machinists District Convention in Orlando, Florida. Tristan Lion Dutchin, who helped lead the effort to unionize Amazon, has been a frequent attendee at organizing events at JetBlue’s JFK hub, alongside Machinists Union organizers. 

According to Mary, networking is a vital part of unionism, both with other unions and within the communities they call home. “We’re out here to make State Fair visitors aware of the work that Unions do and why we’re still relevant,” she said. “A lot of your neighbors might be union, and you’d never know it,” she said, explaining why community involvement is critical to unions. 

An easy walk from political headquarters, it is not uncommon for elected representatives to stop by the Machinists Union kiosk at the Minnesota State Fair. Above, United States Representative Angie Craig (in red), and below, US Representative Dean Phillips took a moment to show support for Machinist Union Members engaged in ongoing contract talks with United and Southwest.

“Plus,” she said, “this is great for our members!” Mary detailed the vital role retirees play in setting up the Machinists Union Kiosk and the crash course that new Union Stewards get when they’re thrown into the mix. “It’s a lot to have thrown at them, but they meet everyone and just learn so fast,” Mary explained of volunteers experiencing their first time at the Fair. Mary has had time to be well-versed on the topic of unionism in her decades within the airline industry. A former employee at Northwest, she famously quit the airline bcause she refused to work for a non-union carrier. Over the years, she has served as a trusted mentor for generations of new union members in Minneapolis. 

The next morning, Mary passed the Machinists Kiosk over to Local 1833 Trustee Jan Haber, Local 623 (St. Cloud, MN) union member Joe Baretta and District 77 Rep Andrew Peltier who were left with staffing duties and a request for pictures.

“I’m really excited about Joe and Andrew because this is the first time in a very long time that the other IAM members from the other industries in MN have staffed the kiosk,” she said.

Which is why Mary has decided to defiantly place the Machinists Union directly in the heart of the largest State Fair in the Nation. “We have prime real estate on the State Fairgrounds,” Mary said. “We’re in the middle of everything,” she said of the location of the Local 1833 Fair Kiosk. The DNC has an office right there, so anyone trying to get elected or re-elected needs to come right past us” she said, “and the AFL-CIO is just next door, and there’s a beer hall right across the road,” she said with a laugh. “Everyone wants to be here, but we won’t surrender our spot.”

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Chicago Guide Dog Golf Outing Raises Funds, Spirits

Chicago Guide Dog Golf Outing Raises Funds, Spirits

Meet Sheldon! Sheldon is a “Puppy in Training” for a bright future in the field of Guide Dogging. Sheldon is just one of the service canines that Guide Dogs of America raises and trains each year. Dogs like Sheldon transform the lives of children with autism, veterans facing PTSD challenges, and the visually impaired. The Golf Outing featuring Sheldon is held each year at Chicago’s IAM Local 1487, which raises as much as $10,000 for this important cause. 

Chicago Guide Dog Golf Outing Raises Funds and Spirits

Community Service
18 August 2022

“He’s a massive baby,” Zack Gittlan said apologetically of the 11-month-old Golden Retriever named Sheldon, who was enthusiastically greeting guests at the annual Golf Outing Charity hosted by Chicago’s Local 1487.

Sheldon, wearing a bright yellow “Puppy in Training” vest is one of the 120 service dogs that Guide Dogs of America raises each year. Each animal will help to improve the lives of people who are visually impaired or children dealing with autism, as well as veterans facing challenges related to PTSD. In addition, Guide Dogs of America provides highly-trained service dogs to facilities such as children’s hospitals, schools, and courtrooms. 

“It takes about two years to raise and train a dog,” Zack said. “We train them to focus on their owners, and to ignore all the things that might distract a pet, like sights, sounds, smells… there’s just a million things that would keep a pet dog occupied. A guide dog has to  be able to overcome those things and provide instant assistance and companionship,” he said. 

But, it truly takes a village to produce the highly skilled canines to become trusted best friends and eager helpers. “It costs about $60,000 to breed, train, and deliver each guide dog,” Zack said. “And we provide all these services to people in need at no cost to them,” he added. “That’s why we are so appreciative of the hard work and support that the Machinists Union provides to us.”

Machinists Union Local 1487 in Chicago has been at the forefront of the effort to support Guide Dogs of America for years. According to the union’s district Community Service Director, Cristina Odoardi, the local has raised “well over $50,000 so far this year,” on behalf of the charity. But, says Cristina, the efforts serve as more than just fundraisers. “We are also strengthening our networks within the community. We’re building bridges and making friends, which is important,” she said. “Plus, we get a chance to meet each other outside of work, and provide opportunities for union members to become more involved,” she said as she detailed examples of community work leading to new shop stewards and heightened volunteerism. 

The Golf Outing itself takes about six months to plan and execute, according to Chicago’s Recording Secretary, Greg Klujewski. “We work on a series of events each year, to raise money and build awareness for Guide Dogs, and also to build community with each other,” he said. “I am deeply humbled and appreciative of the overwhelming support that our union and community have extended to us to make this get-together a success,” he said. “Today, 144 people signed up from all over the country.  “And, every level of our union is represented, from our local lodge to District 141, Air Transport, and the Grand Lodge are here. We have our District President Mike Klemm out here supporting us, and General Vice President Richard Johnsen, and we are grateful for their participation and encouragement.” 

 

“I want to commend Local Lodge 1487’s President, Tony Licciardi and Greg Klujewski for all their work making this happen,” said District President Mike Klemm. “We’re out here bonding and creating a more unified front as we continue to push United Airlines to negotiate a fair contract for our members,” he said. “Events like this create stronger bonds within our union and communities, and at the same time we’re out here supporting a great cause.”

At a boisterous after-event appreciation dinner, General Vice President cheered on the local. Saying “events like this are the crown jewel of our organiazation,” he praised the solidarity it promoted as well as its effectiveness as a fundraiser. District 141 President Mike Klemm also spoke, thanking the attendees and speaking for a few moments about the ongoing efforts the negotiate a contract at United.

Zack Gitland also thanked the Local for its efforts. In a heartfelt statement to the membership, he said that the annual golf outing was among his favorite events to attend. “You guys got to see old friends and golf,” he said. “I get to see the lives you’re changing. I get to see the child with autism that can live a more normal life, thanks to the work you’re doing. I get to see the veteran who needed the love and companionship of his new service dog. I get to see people with a disability who can live independently for the first time. So, from the bottom of my heart, thank you.”

 

 

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Lodge 811’s Ongoing Commitment to Community: Toy Drive for Pediatric Cancer Patients

Lodge 811’s Ongoing Commitment to Community: Toy Drive for Pediatric Cancer Patients

Home Town Pride: Lodge 811 Continues A Long-Standing Commitment to Community Service with Annual Toy Drive for Pediatric Cancer Patients

Commitment To the Community: Local 811 Toy Drive for Pediatric Cancer Patients

Local Lodge 811’s Women’s Committee recently dropped off a large donation of toys from their latest toy collection project for Texas Children’s Hospital in Houston, Texas.

In previous years the local donated any type of toy to all children at the hospital, but this time, the committee chose to collect specific toys for bed-ridden pediatric cancer patients: puzzles, word games, books, and hand-held electronics.

Local 811 Secretary Treasurer Sarah Monderoy Garcia has been on the Women’s Committee since 2013. She, Lodge 811 Vice President Nelson Yanes, Trustee Adrienne Coleman, Charlotte Lazard, and Evelita Everitt make up 811’s Women’s Committee, which is continually collecting donations for different organizations.

“We’re always doing some type of drive, whether it’s toiletries, clothing, or toys. We like to target different areas of need in the community,” said Garcia.

The committee encouraged members to bring donations to union meetings and advertised with flyers on the break-room bulletin boards at George Bush Intercontinental Houston Airport (IAH) where Local 811 members work for United Airlines as ramp service employees, ground crew, and stores material specialists (members who work side-by-side with mechanics to provide parts for planes).

The committee strategically decides to host their toy drives in the summer time, the “off-season,” because hospitals typically receive an abundance of toy donations over the holidays but are running low and have new patients come summer.

Richard Johnsen, General Vice President of the Machinists’ newly formed Air Transport Territory, expressed optimism that the Machinists and the ALU could forge a strong alliance. “We are more than just unions,” said Johnsen. “We’re also part of a movement. People are tired of sitting on the sidelines. They want to act, they want to make changes. That’s why this campaign at JetBlue is so exciting; it’s a vital part of a larger movement to prove that working people deserve just as much respect as managers and executives.”

Johnsen also pledged to work closely with the ALU, including hammering out a potential agreement to open the renowned Winpisinger Education Center to ALU members. “The Winpisinger Center is the largest labor school in North America,” he said. “It has an expert teaching staff that holds classes on things that matter to unions. Things like contract negotiations, leadership training, arbitration, organizing and more. It’ll be a great asset to JetBlue Crewmembers once they come on board, and I hope that ALU members will look into the opportunity to find out more about the Winpisinger Center.”

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