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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FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

IAM141.org

The IAM applauded the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2023 in the House of Representatives.

This month, the House of Representatives approved the “Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act” (H.R. 3935). This Act is a bill to renew and modernize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and includes vital provisions that will improve aviation safety for the next five years. The bill received broad support from both political parties, passing the House with a vote of 351 to 69.

The Act still has to pass the Senate before it becomes law. 

Improves Efficiency at the Federal Aviation Administration

The bill aims to improve how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) works. The way the FAA currently operates is inadequate for the post-pandemic surge in air travel. The bill will make the FAA more efficient and simplify existing regulations, making air travel faster and more reliable for millions. 

Grows the Aviation Workforce

Commercial aviation has a severe shortage of workers, leading to flight delays, cancellations, and overall poor service for travelers. Staffing shortages are most acute among ground and gate agents, pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers. This bill helps solve the problem of inadequate staffing by making it easier for people to start careers in aviation. 

Enhances the Passenger Experience

Thanks to the hard work of airline agents, the aviation system can often function without incident – despite record levels of air travelers straining the system. However, too often, passengers can experience one weak segment of their journey, leading to cascading problems that can ruin the entire trip. This bill will make air travel more reliable for all aspects of air travel. 

Upholds America’s Gold Standard in Safety

America’s aviation system is the safest mode of travel on Earth. But, it must be continually updated and modernized to stay ahead of new and emerging safety concerns. This bill will ensure that American civil aviation is the best in the world by addressing these new threats, including the recent uptick in runway incursions.

The bill will also ensure that foreign air carriers operating in the United States do not undermine labor rights or safety standards, and it will authorize a study to find solutions to improve safety for airline ramp workers. The Machinists Non-Partisan Political League has been fighting for these measures and policy changes for years. 

“We are not just leaders in the aviation industry; we are the guardians of safety, fairness, and respect,” said District President Mike Klemm. “This bill is a significant step forward in protecting those values.”

Mike Klemm is the President of the largest single group of airline workers in the Machinists Union, which, in turn, includes the largest group of unified aviation workers in North America. 

“While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members,” wrote Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez. “This includes improved cabin air quality, robust airplane maintenance standards, and efforts to help thwart the unfortunate string of airline worker assaults and deaths in recent years.”

The Machinists Union joined a coalition of aviation-sector unions led by The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), opposing raising the retirement age for pilots from 65 to 67 years. The groups argued that creating such a retirement age change would put the U.S. out of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is included in a spate of international treaties overseen by the United Nations. Existing rules require most pilots to retire at age 65.

“We are pleased that the House has passed this important legislation,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. Johnsen is head of the largest collection of unified airline workers in the Machinists Union, which includes unified workers at United, American, Hawaiian, and Spirit Airlines. 

“This bill will help ensure that the FAA has the resources to keep our skies safe and IAM air transport members protected from violence and abuse. We continue to stand in solidarity with ALPA to ensure the retirement age for pilots remains at 65. We now look to the Senate to pass this reauthorization package and get it signed into law.”

“This is a major win for us,” said District Legislative Director David Roderick. “But I assure you that our work is far from done,” he said. “This crucial bill is now moving to the Senate. We, at the IAM, remain committed to working with members of the Senate to make certain this vital legislation gets passed. We will not rest until our airline workers reap the benefits they rightly deserve.”

 

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FAA Reauthorization Act Receives Broad Support in House

July 31, 2023

The IAM applauded the passage of the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) Reauthorization Act of 2023 in the House of Representatives.

This month, the House of Representatives approved the “Securing Growth and Robust Leadership in American Aviation Act” (H.R. 3935). This Act is a bill to renew and modernize the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and includes vital provisions that will improve aviation safety for the next five years. The bill received broad support from both political parties, passing the House with a vote of 351 to 69.

The Act still has to pass the Senate before it becomes law. 

Improves Efficiency at the Federal Aviation Administration

The bill aims to improve how the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) works. The way the FAA currently operates is inadequate for the post-pandemic surge in air travel. The bill will make the FAA more efficient and simplify existing regulations, making air travel faster and more reliable for millions. 

Grows the Aviation Workforce

Commercial aviation has a severe shortage of workers, leading to flight delays, cancellations, and overall poor service for travelers. Staffing shortages are most acute among ground and gate agents, pilots, mechanics, and air traffic controllers. This bill helps solve the problem of inadequate staffing by making it easier for people to start careers in aviation. 

Enhances the Passenger Experience

Thanks to the hard work of airline agents, the aviation system can often function without incident – despite record levels of air travelers straining the system. However, too often, passengers can experience one weak segment of their journey, leading to cascading problems that can ruin the entire trip. This bill will make air travel more reliable for all aspects of air travel. 

Upholds America’s Gold Standard in Safety

America’s aviation system is the safest mode of travel on Earth. But, it must be continually updated and modernized to stay ahead of new and emerging safety concerns. This bill will ensure that American civil aviation is the best in the world by addressing these new threats, including the recent uptick in runway incursions.

The bill will also ensure that foreign air carriers operating in the United States do not undermine labor rights or safety standards, and it will authorize a study to find solutions to improve safety for airline ramp workers. The Machinists Non-Partisan Political League has been fighting for these measures and policy changes for years. 

“We are not just leaders in the aviation industry; we are the guardians of safety, fairness, and respect,” said District President Mike Klemm. “This bill is a significant step forward in protecting those values.”

Mike Klemm is the President of the largest single group of airline workers in the Machinists Union, which, in turn, includes the largest group of unified aviation workers in North America. 

“While the bill, H.R. 3935, does not address all the IAM’s demands in an FAA reauthorization package, it does include several of our requested provisions and will ultimately help improve the safety and working conditions of our air transport members,” wrote Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez. “This includes improved cabin air quality, robust airplane maintenance standards, and efforts to help thwart the unfortunate string of airline worker assaults and deaths in recent years.”

The Machinists Union joined a coalition of aviation-sector unions led by The Airline Pilots Association (ALPA), opposing raising the retirement age for pilots from 65 to 67 years. The groups argued that creating such a retirement age change would put the U.S. out of compliance with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), which is included in a spate of international treaties overseen by the United Nations. Existing rules require most pilots to retire at age 65.

“We are pleased that the House has passed this important legislation,” said IAM Air Transport General Vice President Richie Johnsen. Johnsen is head of the largest collection of unified airline workers in the Machinists Union, which includes unified workers at United, American, Hawaiian, and Spirit Airlines. 

“This bill will help ensure that the FAA has the resources to keep our skies safe and IAM air transport members protected from violence and abuse. We continue to stand in solidarity with ALPA to ensure the retirement age for pilots remains at 65. We now look to the Senate to pass this reauthorization package and get it signed into law.”

“This is a major win for us,” said District Legislative Director David Roderick. “But I assure you that our work is far from done,” he said. “This crucial bill is now moving to the Senate. We, at the IAM, remain committed to working with members of the Senate to make certain this vital legislation gets passed. We will not rest until our airline workers reap the benefits they rightly deserve.”

 

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Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

IAM141.org

Heat-related injuries and sickness can often be hard to understand because the words used to describe them can be tricky. With hot weather warnings in the U.S., it’s crucial to understand terms like heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Think about a hot day at the beach when the temperature is around 90°F. It feels great until you start doing something that makes your body work hard, like gardening, hiking, or running for the bus. This effort makes your body temperature go up. Your heart tries to help by sending more blood to your skin, where it cools down thanks to your sweat. But if you can’t sweat because you’re dehydrated, if the air is too humid for sweat to evaporate, or if it’s just too hot for your body to handle, you could get heat injuries or sickness.

If you feel that your work area is vulnerable to heat injuries, you can take action. File a safety report and help protect your coworkers.
+ File a Safety Report

Heat Stress

“Heat stress” is a term for any problem that happens when you’re active in hot weather. Symptoms like heat rash, cramps, dizziness, or fainting are signs that your body is having trouble cooling down. If you don’t do something about it, heat stress could turn into something more serious, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you’re suffering from heat stress, you should stop what you’re doing, find a cooler, shady place, and slowly drink water or clear juice. Cramps usually happen when your body has lost too much water and salts through sweating. Drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte can help replace these, but avoid energy drinks since caffeine can cause dehydration. If the cramps don’t get better within an hour, or if you have heart problems or need to limit your salt intake, you should go to the clinic or see a doctor.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion happens when your body has lost too much water and salts because of sweating. You might feel sick, vomit, faint, slur your words, feel weak, get a headache, feel irritable, have clammy skin, and your body temperature might increase. If you get heat exhaustion many times, it can hurt your organs, especially your kidneys. Very bad heat exhaustion can cause muscle breakdown that can lead to heart rhythm problems, seizures, and damage to your kidneys.

If you or someone else has heat exhaustion, you should move to a cool place (with air conditioning if possible) and take small sips of cool liquids. Call 911 if you can’t get the person to a clinic or emergency room. Take off shoes, socks, and any tight or heavy clothes, and use water or cold compresses on the head, face, neck, and wrists.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the worst kind of heat sickness. It happens when your body can’t control its temperature and gets hotter than 104°F. You might stop sweating, and your body temperature can reach 108°F in just 10-15 minutes. Other symptoms can include passing out, having seizures, or acting strangely without quick medical help, which could include a cold IV drip; heat stroke can cause disability or death in a few hours.

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, can be serious and life-threatening if not properly addressed. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, take breaks, and seek cool environments when spending time in the heat. Should symptoms of any heat-related illness appear, take immediate action and seek medical attention if necessary. Stay safe and informed during the hot weather, because understanding these conditions can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Remember, if you see anyone suffering from heat related injuries, it is important to file a GSAP, GSIP, or equivalent safety report as soon as it is safe to do so. GSAP and GSIP reports are non-punitive, and offer the best way to protect your work area from safety hazards such as heat-related injuries. 

+ File a Safety Report

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Here’s the Difference Between Heat Stress, Exhaustion, and Stroke

July 18, 2023

Heat-related injuries and sickness can often be hard to understand because the words used to describe them can be tricky. With hot weather warnings in the U.S., it’s crucial to understand terms like heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke.

Think about a hot day at the beach when the temperature is around 90°F. It feels great until you start doing something that makes your body work hard, like gardening, hiking, or running for the bus. This effort makes your body temperature go up. Your heart tries to help by sending more blood to your skin, where it cools down thanks to your sweat. But if you can’t sweat because you’re dehydrated, if the air is too humid for sweat to evaporate, or if it’s just too hot for your body to handle, you could get heat injuries or sickness.

If you feel that your work area is vulnerable to heat injuries, you can take action. File a safety report and help protect your coworkers.
+ File a Safety Report

Heat Stress

“Heat stress” is a term for any problem that happens when you’re active in hot weather. Symptoms like heat rash, cramps, dizziness, or fainting are signs that your body is having trouble cooling down. If you don’t do something about it, heat stress could turn into something more serious, like heat exhaustion or heat stroke.

If you’re suffering from heat stress, you should stop what you’re doing, find a cooler, shady place, and slowly drink water or clear juice. Cramps usually happen when your body has lost too much water and salts through sweating. Drinks like Gatorade or Pedialyte can help replace these, but avoid energy drinks since caffeine can cause dehydration. If the cramps don’t get better within an hour, or if you have heart problems or need to limit your salt intake, you should go to the clinic or see a doctor.

Heat Exhaustion

Heat exhaustion happens when your body has lost too much water and salts because of sweating. You might feel sick, vomit, faint, slur your words, feel weak, get a headache, feel irritable, have clammy skin, and your body temperature might increase. If you get heat exhaustion many times, it can hurt your organs, especially your kidneys. Very bad heat exhaustion can cause muscle breakdown that can lead to heart rhythm problems, seizures, and damage to your kidneys.

If you or someone else has heat exhaustion, you should move to a cool place (with air conditioning if possible) and take small sips of cool liquids. Call 911 if you can’t get the person to a clinic or emergency room. Take off shoes, socks, and any tight or heavy clothes, and use water or cold compresses on the head, face, neck, and wrists.

Heat Stroke

Heat stroke is the worst kind of heat sickness. It happens when your body can’t control its temperature and gets hotter than 104°F. You might stop sweating, and your body temperature can reach 108°F in just 10-15 minutes. Other symptoms can include passing out, having seizures, or acting strangely without quick medical help, which could include a cold IV drip; heat stroke can cause disability or death in a few hours.

Heat-related illnesses, such as heat stress, heat exhaustion, and heat stroke, can be serious and life-threatening if not properly addressed. It’s crucial to stay hydrated, take breaks, and seek cool environments when spending time in the heat. Should symptoms of any heat-related illness appear, take immediate action and seek medical attention if necessary. Stay safe and informed during the hot weather, because understanding these conditions can make a significant difference in your health and well-being.

Remember, if you see anyone suffering from heat related injuries, it is important to file a GSAP, GSIP, or equivalent safety report as soon as it is safe to do so. GSAP and GSIP reports are non-punitive, and offer the best way to protect your work area from safety hazards such as heat-related injuries. 

+ File a Safety Report

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Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

IAM141.org

Calling all members of Machinists Union District 141! If you’ve ever considered continuing your education or know someone who is, now is the time to take advantage of the unique opportunity before you – the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition. This is no ordinary competition; there’s an abundance of unclaimed scholarship money waiting for worthy candidates. Thousands of dollars are up for grabs and could go home with you or a family member!

Currently, more scholarships are available than entries, which means your odds of securing one are higher than ever. The deadline to submit entries is fast approaching: midnight, July 15, 2023. So, we strongly urge you to put pen to paper, or rather, fingers to keyboard, and get your entries in!

The scholarship is open to children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members who’ve been in good standing for a year or more (as of June 1, 2022) in District Lodge 141. These members should be graduating high school seniors or enrolled full-time in a college or trade school. Our members enrolled in college or trade school, taking at least six units per semester, are also eligible to enter the competition. Only one award per family is allowed. And, if you’ve already won a scholarship, you’ll have to sit this it out. 

The 2023 essay competition asks you to delve into the subject, “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” Your essay must be between 700 to 1,000 words and submitted as a Microsoft Word document to dan@bleicomm.com. Please include a recent photograph of yourself, place the title and your name at the top of the document, and include a bibliography of sources for your essay material. To ensure that the work submitted is entirely yours – authenticity matters!

The awards are too big to miss. One overall winner will be awarded $2,000, and six placement winners will each receive $1,000. The winners will be announced around August 1, 2023, after careful and impartial judgment by an outside Scholarship Committee chaired by Daniel Brin.

The winning contestants will be honored at a local lodge ceremony and published by Machinists Union District 141. 

This is a tremendous opportunity to let your voice be heard, gain recognition, and secure funding for your education. So why wait? 

Take up your metaphorical pen and begin crafting your thoughts. We look forward to reading your entries! Don’t let this opportunity and the unclaimed scholarship money go to waste. Hurry, the competition ends soon!

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Hurry, There’s Still Time! Thousands of Dollars in Scholarship Money is Available!

July 2, 2023

Calling all members of Machinists Union District 141! If you’ve ever considered continuing your education or know someone who is, now is the time to take advantage of the unique opportunity before you – the 2023 Adolph Stutz Memorial Scholarship Essay Competition. This is no ordinary competition; there’s an abundance of unclaimed scholarship money waiting for worthy candidates. Thousands of dollars are up for grabs and could go home with you or a family member!

Currently, more scholarships are available than entries, which means your odds of securing one are higher than ever. The deadline to submit entries is fast approaching: midnight, July 15, 2023. So, we strongly urge you to put pen to paper, or rather, fingers to keyboard, and get your entries in!

The scholarship is open to children, spouses, and dependent grandchildren of members who’ve been in good standing for a year or more (as of June 1, 2022) in District Lodge 141. These members should be graduating high school seniors or enrolled full-time in a college or trade school. Our members enrolled in college or trade school, taking at least six units per semester, are also eligible to enter the competition. Only one award per family is allowed. And, if you’ve already won a scholarship, you’ll have to sit this it out. 

The 2023 essay competition asks you to delve into the subject, “Public approval of labor unions among the U.S. public is at its highest level since 1965, according to a new Gallup poll. Are U.S. labor unions making a comeback? Yes or no? Why?” Your essay must be between 700 to 1,000 words and submitted as a Microsoft Word document to dan@bleicomm.com. Please include a recent photograph of yourself, place the title and your name at the top of the document, and include a bibliography of sources for your essay material. To ensure that the work submitted is entirely yours – authenticity matters!

The awards are too big to miss. One overall winner will be awarded $2,000, and six placement winners will each receive $1,000. The winners will be announced around August 1, 2023, after careful and impartial judgment by an outside Scholarship Committee chaired by Daniel Brin.

The winning contestants will be honored at a local lodge ceremony and published by Machinists Union District 141. 

This is a tremendous opportunity to let your voice be heard, gain recognition, and secure funding for your education. So why wait? 

Take up your metaphorical pen and begin crafting your thoughts. We look forward to reading your entries! Don’t let this opportunity and the unclaimed scholarship money go to waste. Hurry, the competition ends soon!

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Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

Retired Guide Dog Britta Takes Center Stage at Denver Charity Fundraiser

IAM141.org

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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Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

IAM141.org

“Our union has recognized the importance of racial justice in and outside of the workplace over the years.”
-Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez

Juneteenth holds a vital place in American history. As a holiday, it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Celebrated on June 19, this day is a tribute to the abolition of slavery, first observed in 1866 by Black Texans in Galveston, Texas. As the IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. articulates, this day was more than just an end to a harrowing chapter of history. He writes, “This day marked the end of an ugly chapter in American history and a new beginning for Black Americans and their quest for equality.”

However, Martinez underscores that the fight for democracy and economic justice is ongoing. “This day is a reminder that the fight continues for democracy and economic justice for all Americans,” says Martinez, elucidating on the role of the IAM union in this battle. Their efforts have been instrumental in dismantling societal barriers and paving the way for full participation for everyone.

According to Martinez, collective bargaining agreements are essential in confronting current threats and ensuring economic success. “The collective bargaining agreements we have fought for over the years have been an essential tool that allows everyone to succeed economically,” he says. An existing threat looming large is the erosion of voting rights, which labor movements strive to counter by highlighting harmful legislation.

In the fight for workers’ rights, Martinez emphasizes the significance of unity and diversity. He states, “We must all come together and fight for workers’ rights. The best way to achieve that goal is to embrace and celebrate our diversity.” For the IAM union, racial justice has always been a pivotal issue. Their constant fight is to ensure its presence in their collective bargaining agreements. Martinez believes “racial justice and economic justice go hand in hand.”

As Juneteenth approaches, Martinez encourages reflection on the strides made thus far and the future work required to achieve racial and economic equality for all. He writes, “Please take this holiday to reflect on how far we have come and the work needed in the future to achieve racial and economic equality for all.”

In closing, Martinez’s words resonate as a profound rallying call for all of us. His message is clear: the fight for racial and economic justice is far from over, and in the spirit of Juneteenth, we must stand in solidarity, committed to continuing the battle for a more equitable future.

+ The full statement can be read here.

 

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Juneteenth: The Fight Continues for Racial and Economic Equality

June 19, 2023

“Our union has recognized the importance of racial justice in and outside of the workplace over the years.”
-Machinists Union International President, Robert Martinez

Juneteenth holds a vital place in American history. As a holiday, it commemorates the end of slavery in the United States. Celebrated on June 19, this day is a tribute to the abolition of slavery, first observed in 1866 by Black Texans in Galveston, Texas. As the IAM International President Robert Martinez Jr. articulates, this day was more than just an end to a harrowing chapter of history. He writes, “This day marked the end of an ugly chapter in American history and a new beginning for Black Americans and their quest for equality.”

However, Martinez underscores that the fight for democracy and economic justice is ongoing. “This day is a reminder that the fight continues for democracy and economic justice for all Americans,” says Martinez, elucidating on the role of the IAM union in this battle. Their efforts have been instrumental in dismantling societal barriers and paving the way for full participation for everyone.

According to Martinez, collective bargaining agreements are essential in confronting current threats and ensuring economic success. “The collective bargaining agreements we have fought for over the years have been an essential tool that allows everyone to succeed economically,” he says. An existing threat looming large is the erosion of voting rights, which labor movements strive to counter by highlighting harmful legislation.

In the fight for workers’ rights, Martinez emphasizes the significance of unity and diversity. He states, “We must all come together and fight for workers’ rights. The best way to achieve that goal is to embrace and celebrate our diversity.” For the IAM union, racial justice has always been a pivotal issue. Their constant fight is to ensure its presence in their collective bargaining agreements. Martinez believes “racial justice and economic justice go hand in hand.”

As Juneteenth approaches, Martinez encourages reflection on the strides made thus far and the future work required to achieve racial and economic equality for all. He writes, “Please take this holiday to reflect on how far we have come and the work needed in the future to achieve racial and economic equality for all.”

In closing, Martinez’s words resonate as a profound rallying call for all of us. His message is clear: the fight for racial and economic justice is far from over, and in the spirit of Juneteenth, we must stand in solidarity, committed to continuing the battle for a more equitable future.

+ The full statement can be read here.

 

 

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