OCEA EMPLOYEE VOLUME 68, ISSUE 2 • April–June 2015
Orange county workers keep our county safe and healthy. standing together, we are OC
Free movie tickets when you refer a friend! One of the ways Velece Insurance Corp. is able to keep our prices so low is we don’t spend thousands of dollars on advertising. We use our resources to provide the best services to our customers and we rely on our members to recommend us to their friends and family. To help encourage our clients to make those recommendations, we offer great incentives for referrals. For every policy that is signed by someone you referred, you get TWO FREE MOVIE TICKETS.
Go online to Velece.com or call 714-558-1034 to speak to an agent today!
A wholly-owned subsidiary of the Orange County Employees Association Lic. #0310550 • 830 North Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701 • Phone: (714) 558-1034 • FAX: (714) 558-1035 • www.velece.com auto • motorcycle • classic cars • watercraft • recreational vehicles • home • condo • renters • mobile home • earthquake • umbrella • commercial • mexican insurance
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OCEA EMPLOYEE VOLUME 68, ISSUE 2 • April–June 2015
OCEA delegation champions labor in Sacramento State Senator and former California Labor Federation President Connie Leyva addresses workers from across the state at the Labor Legislative Conference in Sacramento.
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FEATURES 4 OCEA scholarship deadline in July
9 We are OC
Applications for one of three scholarships due July 24.
6 2015 OCEA Hot Dog schedule
OCEA is heading back to the bargaining table.
10 OCEA: Working People Standing Together
The legendary OCEA Hot Dog wagon is back and ready to make an appearance near you.
8 Frank Eley: 30 years of service
More articles from OCEA’s media campaign highlighting the valuable work our members do for the community.
21 OCEA endorses Chris Prevatt for OCERS
OCEA Past President Frank Eley recently celebrated 30 years of service on the OCEA Board.
Help re-elect Chris Prevatt to the OCERS Retirement Board in November.
News & Updates
2 3 4 4
President’s Message General Manager’s Message OCEA News Briefs OCEA Calendar
22 22 23 24
OCEA Tickets OCEA E-Ticket Program OCEA Discounts OCEA Classifieds
OCEA EMPLOYEE
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President’s message
Lezlee Neebe OCEA President
Leading in a changing climate Change is all around us; both at work and at home. For many, change brings on fear, stress, and pressure, while others gain momentum and relish the challenge. Amidst it all, there are leaders scattered throughout our ranks who bring us through the tough times and propel us forward. We just celebrated Cesar Chavez Day this Spring. Mr. Chavez was a leader with his own style and was described as shy, self-effacing, and introspective. Yet this same man used his common sense and grass roots activism to organize farm workers, transforming their working conditions for the better, and becoming one of the most influential and effective labor leaders in America. We have an iconic leader at our helm here at OCEA in Nick Berardino. He established a strong, vibrant labor presence in Orange County as well as the at the State level. He has passionately fought for the respect all workers deserve, as well as continually standing as an advocate for our veterans. After his 40 years at OCEA, Nick retires this summer leaving a remarkable legacy of distinction and honor. He was once quoted as saying “…if my members feel that I brought a voice for their rights and for their jobs and for their families’ security, then it’s all been worth it.” We also have leaders among the rank and file. One of our most distinguished is Frank Eley. Last month, we celebrated Frank’s 30 years of service on the Board of Directors of OCEA. For about 10 of those years, he served as your President, and continues leading by example today as a role model for many of us. Frank also still serves as one of the two general employee representatives on the Orange County Employees Retirement System (OCERS) Board, along with Chris Prevatt. Steward leaders have stepped up to have their profiles and photos featured in the OC Register to educate the public on how public workers contribute to the community. We also have several stewards serving as delegates to the Orange County Labor Federation, where they have a front row seat to the larger labor community. We also have continued to diligently cultivate leaders in the workplace who can be counted on to pass out flyers or keep bulletin boards up to date. Yes, there are leaders everywhere in our ranks, all at various stages of development, but all very much needed for 2
OCEA EMPLOYEE
OCEA to remain the strong and vibrant force that it is. What is your role? Are you the bulletin board guru, or the go-to person in the office? Whatever that role may be, know that you are a key member of our union army. Take the time to be informed and be prepared for a time we may need to mobilize our forces. Preparation means education, and our leadership team will ensure the message keeps going out. When all our members tap into their individual strengths, we stand together as one strong army. Sometimes the army is quieter and just doing drills to stay alert. But there will inevitably come a time when we will need to mobilize. When that time comes, you may be asked to pass out flyers, or sign up to phone bank. You may speak out publicly or participate in a job action. No matter what, we must never lose sight of the fact that when we stand together, when we move together in solidarity, we win. Our OCEA leadership will shift with these changes, keeping focused on our mission, and never losing sight of our purpose. Join us in continuing to grow the strength of our great union by standing with us. Change is happening every day, and our union “army” is strong and ready to win! In solidarity,
Lezlee Neebe OCEA President
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
General Manager’s message
Nick Berardino OCEA General Manager
Stand up and fight! As I round the corner for my final lap I have been thinking about the past and the future for the dedicated men and women that comprise the County workforce. After reading my words for decades I have to assume folks read my stuff even less. Then suddenly it popped into my head; before I leave, the one thing I want everyone to know is that you must continue to stand up and fight!
The question they ask themselves is, “How will this affect my candidacy in the next election?” Employees are only pawns for the next move in their political careers. If more votes can be obtained by abusing employees or denying them a fair and just wage, then the politicians have no problem doing so and a few (thank God it’s only a few) derive some weird kind of pleasure doing so.
The reason why you must never give up is pretty easy to understand when you consider the following fact: Orange County employees are no longer considered a human resource but pawns in the larger political scheme and ambitions of County leaders. This unfortunate circumstance has been the most difficult change for me to accept. Perhaps it’s because I remember the days when the County administration included heads like General Tom Riley and CEO Bob Thomas. Both men were retired war heroes who served in World War II and formally trained in leadership. Although military command practice has been developed after many years of research and analysis, one thing has never changed as the basic premise of its leadership model: THE TROOPS COME FIRST!
While this political environment in which we work is disgusting and discouraging, it doesn’t change the fact that it is real. We have to accept this as the new reality, adjusting our thinking and approach to this challenge; most importantly we must stand up to it and fight. Our battle should not only be waged for our interests, but for the community we serve. So when we look back at leaders like General Riley and Bob Thomas we must find peace in knowing that our civic leaders weren’t always overly influenced by politics, which should provide us hope that in the future, brighter days lie ahead. But the sun will only shine again if we have the courage to reach beyond the clouds and pull it towards us. In solidarity,
In recent years the County’s management model has drastically changed from the Thomas/Riley days. Today, County elected officials and executives are more concerned with themselves and their political ambitions. Electeds are bound by “term limits” so instead of leading, they are always plotting and viewing each decision through a political prism.
Nick Berardino OCEA General Manager
Looking to the Future: After an exhaustive national search, the OCEA Board of Directors selected Jennifer Muir, who is currently OCEA’s Assistant General Manager, to replace Nick Berardino as General Manager when he retires Aug. 1. She is now and will continue to be the strong and committed leader OCEA needs to weather the challenges ahead. Jennifer has worked tirelessly to build OCEA’s strength through communications, advocacy and community relationships. She came to OCEA already possessing a deep knowledge of our county and state from her time as an investigative reporter for the Orange County Register and has expanded that knowledge while at OCEA. Nick will continue to be involved with OCEA after his retirement in August, serving as a consultant to the organization. He will also play a role in negotiations this year, although Jennifer and other talented and capable leaders on our staff will be taking the lead. It’s an exciting time for OCEA, as we look confidently to the future. Jennifer Muir, OCEA Assistant General Manager
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA EMPLOYEE
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OCEA news briefs
Deadline approaching for 2015 OCEA Board of Directors Scholarship applications There’s still time to apply for one of three $2,000 college scholarships awarded through the 2015 OCEA Board of Directors Scholarship program. Applications can be downloaded from the homepage on www.oceamember.org and must be submitted at OCEA or postmarked by July 24.
E M P LOYEE Orange County Employees Association
OFFICERS Lezlee Neebe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . President Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1st Vice President Judy Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2nd Vice President Butch Garcia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Secretary Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Treasurer Maria Corona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Insurance Officer
Only children or stepchildren of OCEA members—including those applicants whose legal guardian is an OCEA member—are eligible. Students must also be enrolled, or intending to enroll, in an accredited community college, college or university for the Fall 2015 quarter or semester to qualify. A selection committee will review each student’s high school transcripts, current GPA and personal recommendations. Students must also write a 750-word essay describing how they would use their college education to improve the lives of working families. The essay will be the greatest determining factor in selecting scholarship winners. Awards will be presented to the winners at the OCEA Board of Directors meeting Aug. 18.
OCEA calendar May 11
5:30 p.m.
Political Action Committee Meeting
May 12
Noon-1 p.m.; 5:30-7 p.m.
Steward Meeting
May 14
Noon-1 p.m.
OCEA Presents: Identity Theft by OCCU
May 19
3 p.m.
Board of Directors Meeting
May 25
Memorial Day observed
May 28
Noon-1 p.m.
OCEA Presents: Homebuyer 101 by OCHOP
June 8
5:30 p.m.
Political Action Committee Meeting
June 9
Noon-1 p.m.; 5:30-7 p.m.
Steward Meeting
June 16
3 p.m.
Board of Directors Meeting
June 25
Noon-1 p.m.
OCEA Presents: Pre-Retirement: Roth, Rollovers and Taxes by Empowerment Retirement (formerly Great-West Retirement)
Frank Eley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Past President
COMMITTEE CHAIRS Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Legislative Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Budget/Finance
BOARD OF DIRECTORS Sharron Anderson . . . . . . . . County Executive Office Russell Baldwin . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Dan Beam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Judy Bowling . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Defender Rick Burns . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superior Court Alan Dean Clow . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Defender Maria Corona . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Frank Eley . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Works Anjali Essoe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Sheriff-Coroner Ian Foster . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Public Works Eusebio “Butch” Garcia . . . . . . Social Services Agency Alicia Hernandez . . . . . . . . . . Child Support Services John Leos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Probation Paul Nguyen . . . . . . . . . . . . . Social Services Agency Lezlee Neebe . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Superior Court Chris Prevatt . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Ryan Ramos . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Health Care Agency Evelyn Reyes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Probation Pamela Waters . . . . . . . . O.C. Community Resources
The OCEA Employee magazine (USPS 004330) is published quarterly (January-March; April-June; July-September; and OctoberDecember) by the Orange County Employees Association, 830 N. Ross St., P.O. Box 177, Santa Ana, Ca 92702; telephone (714) 8353355. Periodical postage paid at Santa Ana, California. Subscription prices: members, $3.00 per year; non-members, $6.00 per year. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: Orange County Employees Association, P.O. Box 177, Santa Ana, Ca 92702-0177. Advertising in the OCEA Employee magazine does not constitute OCEA endorsement of the products or services advertised. The opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the official opinion of the OCEA unless specifically so stated. Contributions in the form of articles, photographs, human-interest incidents, retirement news, etc., are welcomed and encouraged. Association office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday, except public holidays. OCEA reserves the right to edit or reject any material submitted for publication. Photographs will be returned only upon request. Copyright 2014 by the Orange County Employees Association. All rights reserved. Reproduction of any portion or contents prohibited by law. Printed by Anchor Printing, Tustin, Ca.
July 4 Independence Day observed July 14
Noon-1 p.m.; 5:30-7 p.m.
Steward Meeting
July 13
5:30 p.m.
Political Action Committee Meeting
July 21
3 p.m.
Board of Directors Meeting
July 23
Noon-1 p.m.
OCEA Presents: Wills and Trusts by Don Drozd, OCEA General Counsel
Editor: Jennifer Muir Design & Production: Kevin Rush 830 N. Ross Street Santa Ana, Ca 92701 (714) 835-3355
Unless otherwise stated, all events will occur at OCEA, 830 N. Ross St., in Santa Ana. Visit www.oceamember.org for an updated events listing.
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OCEA EMPLOYEE
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA news briefs An important message about YOU OCEA made history and secured a weekly column on the Orange County Register’s editorial pages—a place where we can counter the attacks on us, aggressively fight to protect working families and share a working person’s perspective on the news. Look for the column every week in the Opinion section of the OC Register, usually on Fridays. This, as well as the dozens of news stories featuring our great union each month, really reflect on the strength and power all of YOU created by being part of OCEA. The history that led our organization to this point is pretty incredible, made
possible by sacrifices from countless employees who stood up for something greater than themselves, volunteered their time and efforts so that their coworkers and their families could have a better life. For 75 years, OCEA members have built this organization brick by brick. When detractors told us our union wouldn’t be successful because we are in Orange County, our membership swelled. When they tried to rewrite our MOU during the bankruptcy, our members stood together—working through Christmas— Continued on pg. 20
Open enrollment coming Sept. 1-30 OCEA members may review and make changes to their Health & Welfare and supplemental benefits elections during open enrollment Sept. 1-30. During open enrollment, members can make a wide variety of permissible changes to their insurance, such as adding or dropping dependents, changing option packages, and, for OCEA members, upgrading certain plans. OCEA will mail open enrollment packets to eligible employees in late August. Make sure to follow all instructions closely and return the enrollment form with any requested changes to OCEA in person or by mail by the Sept. 30 deadline. Remember, OCEA is not part of the County’s “pony” system; all correspondence must be sent directly to OCEA. If changes are not made within the open enrollment period, with limited exceptions, members must wait until the following year to do so. For assistance with open enrollment, contact an OCEA Benefits Administrator at (714) 8353355.
OCEA Health Fair and Farmers Market returns Sept. 22 OCEA’s annual Health Fair, presented by the OCEA Health & Welfare Trust, will return from 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 22, in the parking lot in front of OCEA. Representatives from County agencies and various health organizations will educate attendees on health issues and treatments and provide screenings for cholesterol and glucose levels, carpal tunnel syndrome, bone density, blood pressure and other health conditions. Massage therapists will give free massages. This year, the event is being held in conjunction with Health & Welfare Trust benefits open enrollment so OCEA members can get in-person assistance with their supplemental benefits elections. County medical insurance representatives will also be at the Health Fair to aid employees. OCEA’s Farmers Market will return for the third year, providing free bags of produce for fairgoers, and a healthy lunch will be served, along with zucchini off the grill and free samples from vendor booths.
What’s going on in your workplace? Contact OCEA Internal Organizer Tim Steed at tsteed@oceamember.org if you would like to submit a workplace story idea for OCEA Employee magazine. Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA EMPLOYEE
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2015 schedule:
OCEA Hot Dog Wagon
Unless otherwise noted, hot dog service begins at 11:30 a.m. This schedule is subject to change. View the Hot Topics section of www.oceamember.org for the most up-to-date list.
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DATE
AGENCY
LOCATION
5/14
D.A.
401 Civic Center Drive, Santa Ana
5/16
OC Pubic Works Open House
2301 N. Glassell Street, Orange (10 a.m.)
5/19
Registrar of Voters
1300 S. Grand Avenue, Bldg. C, Santa Ana
5/21
Animal Control
561 The City Drive South, Orange
5/26
Community Resources—HCS
1770 N. Broadway, Santa Ana
5/28
AMEA—Public Works
Public Works Yard, Anaheim
6/2
Probation—West Court PHN
8141 13th Street, Westminster
6/4
Fountain Valley Yard
1730 Mount Hermann Avenue, Fountain Valley
6/11
San Clemente
380 Avenida Pico, San Clemente
6/16
O.C. Water District
10500 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley
6/18
SSA
744 N. Eckhoff Street, Orange
6/23
Harbor Court Newport Beach
4601 Jamboree Boulevard, Newport Beach
6/25
Irvine City Hall
1 Civic Center Plaza
6/30
AMEA—Police Dept./Library
500 W. Broadway, Anaheim
7/1
Costa Mesa
77 Fair Drive, Costa Mesa
7/2
Sheriff—Aliso Viejo Substation
11 Journey, Aliso Viejo
7/7
JWA
3160 Airway Avenue, Costa Mesa
7/9
SSA—CRO
2020 W. Walnut Street, Santa Ana
7/16
Musick Farm
13502 Musick, Irvine
OCEA EMPLOYEE
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA’s resident grill masters Jerry Martel and Carlos Rosales cook hot dogs on the wagon.
7/21
Irvine Yard (OSF)
6427 Oak Canyon, Irvine
7/28
O.C. Fire Authority
1 Fire Authority Road, Irvine
8/1
Sheriff’s Picnic
Doheny Beach
8/4
Garden Grove
11222 Acacia Parkway, Garden Grove
8/6
North Court
1275 N. Berkeley Avenue, Fullerton
8/13
Probation North
1535 E. Orangewood Avenue, Anaheim
8/18
Moulton Niguel Water District—The Yard
26161 Gordon Road, Laguna Hills
8/20
AMEA—City Hall
200 S. Anaheim Boulevard, Anaheim
8/25
HCA
1241 E. Dyer Road, Santa Ana
8/27
CSS—Annual Staff Appreciation Day
1055 N. Main Street, Santa Ana
9/1
Mesa Water District
1965 Placentia Avenue, Costa Mesa
9/3
Loma Ridge
2644 Santiago Canyon Road, Silverado Canyon
9/10
Sanitation District
10844 Ellis Avenue, Fountain Valley
9/15
Placentia
9/17
SSA South
Moulton Parkway
9/24
HCA
405 W. 5th, Santa Ana
9/29
Court Irvine Facility Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA EMPLOYEE
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OCEA Past President Frank Eley and his 30 years of service
March 2015 marked 30 years of service on the OCEA Board of Directors for OCEA Past President Frank Eley. His commitment and dedication to building the strength of OCEA will be felt my our members for the next 30 years and beyond. The following are just a few of the highlights of Frank’s service to OCEA: • Joined the OCEA Board of Directors in 1985 • Has been a member of the Executive Committee since 1989 serving as OCEA President, Second Vice President, Treasurer, Insurance Officer and Past President • Committees chaired: Special Events, Newspaper, Budget & Finance, Retirement, PAC
• Committees served on: Board Eligibility, Nominations & Elections, Health & Welfare Trust, PICA Alternative Plan, NBR Committee • Has served on the OCERS Retirement Board since 1998 • OCLF delegate
On behalf of the OCEA Board, staff and the entire OCEA membership, we would like to say THANK YOU!
“Frank’s tenure on the OCEA Board is an inspiration to the entire organization. He has served as a role model to so many Board members who have looked to him as an astute leader which has only made OCEA stronger.” - OCEA President Lezlee Neebe 8
OCEA EMPLOYEE
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
This year, County workers return to the bargaining table in a new position, ready to stand together to fight for the wage increases and the economic security your families deserve. As you know, we negotiated our last contract in the most difficult bargaining environment in our union’s history. A majority of the Board of Supervisors were running for higher office, and their campaign platforms involved attacking you, your co-workers, and other working men and women everywhere. These politicians made it clear to County workers that they had no intention of coming to a fair settlement on a long term deal, and they came after us with an initial proposal to slash compensation by 16 percent. That’s why we rejected their last, best and final offer, and why ultimately OCEA members voted to ratify a short 1.5 year agreement that built a bridge to a day when we could be in a better position to achieve fairness. That day is today. In the coming months, your OCEA bargaining team and Board of Directors will be negotiating a contract with new members on the Board of Supervisors. We have had a chance to watch what has happened with other bargaining units in terms of their negotiated contracts, and we have spent considerable time building internal strength through member involvement. While we still face considerable political challenges from the board and their supporters this round of negotiations, we are in a much better position than before. Now we need your help to build a path to the future.
See, while we were preparing, so was the County. Prior to leaving the Board of Supervisors, John Moorlach fired one last parting shot at County workers, and pushed through an initiative called Civic Openness In Negotiations or COIN. While the name sounds harmless, the intent was to create delays and other obstacles during negotiations, taking direct aim at you—dedicated county employees. Not surprisingly, the Board of Supervisors refused to expand COIN to inject transparency into contracting with outsourced companies or other outside vendors, especially those who offer political donations to the Board. OCEA is currently disputing this illegal action through the state Public Employment Relations Board (PERB), and we are sponsoring legislation in the California Senate to expand transparency to negotiations involving public funds between the County and any other private vendors. Regardless of how the Board feels about your work it is clear that the community counts on you all. To show the residents of Orange County the amazing work you do OCEA ran profiles of County workers in the Orange County Register for 19 weeks. These profiles featured a different County worker each week and a unique view into the essential services provided by each and every one of you. These profiles helped educate the community that County workers make up the fabric of our communities and that WE ARE OC! As we march forward into negotiations, we need your voice, your efforts and your stories to show our community just how valuable public workers are and why the County should invest wisely in its most valuable resource—you.
OUR UNION:
Working People Standing Together Orange County workers—our public safety officers, social workers, nurses and many more—are the backbone of our great County, keeping our streets safe and clean and providing services our communities need. Unfortunately, politicians and their corporate backers have not let up on their constant attacks on workers, eroding the middle class our grandparents’ generation built brick by brick. And they’re doing it for their own personal gain. So we are standing together to make sure the public knows Orange County’s workers are truly heroes in our communities. OCEA recently launched a campaign to tell the public about the great work you do and your dedication to our community. The following profiles were published in the Orange County Register. Read them online at www.oceamember.org/workingpeople. Sign up to stand with your co-workers and get involved in your union at www.oceamember.org/ getinvolved.
MICHAEL MANCHESTER:
SHE FINDS KIDS THE LOVE AND CARE THEY NEED Michael Manchester knows what a neglected child looks like. “Coming to school in dirty clothes, not showering, acting very hungry, withdrawn or angry. These are some of the danger signs of abuse and neglect.” Manchester has spent 19 years helping kids in need. For over four years she has worked with the Orange County Social Services Agency in Foster Care Licensing. She and her colleagues evaluate prospective foster parents, interviewing them and doing home reviews to make sure they meet the county’s stringent requirements. “If we chose correctly and carefully, we have great temporary replacement homes for dependent children,” Manchester said. “The kids who are placed in my homes are loved and cared for. They finally have a place where they can feel safe and warm and have a bed.” Manchester has a special understanding of the children she protects; she grew up in a household torn by abuse and alcoholism. But her career wasn’t a lifelong goal. “After my children were older I thought I’d go back to school at 45 for an associate’s degree. I’d never been to college before.” A department head at her school convinced her to pursue a four-year program and become a social 10
OCEA EMPLOYEE
worker. So the Massachusetts native graduated with a degree in mental health and human services from the University of Maine.
parents, Manchester said. “We have to go through every cupboard and drawer in their home, which is very intrusive. We’re looking for safety issues: knives and cleaning products must be inaccessible, medications and firearms locked up.”
Manchester started her career in Maine in a group home, and then worked for the state in Adult and Children’s Emergency Services. Manchester came back to California 14 years ago to be a part of her grandchildren’s lives and live closer to her family. She never left. Her first permanent position for the County of Orange was tough. “I was in Investigations in Specialized Family Services, which is the most difficult unit of all. I saw damaged babies, kids who were drugexposed in utero. After three-and-a-half years, I transferred to Continuing Services for two more years. I could only do it for five-and-a-half years. My heart broke every time.”
“We look at criminal and medical histories, evidence of domestic violence or physical abuse. There are foster parents who have had histories of abuse as children. That doesn’t disqualify them; sometimes that’s one of the reasons they want to be a foster parent, because they want to give back and positively change a child’s life.” The 60 or so families Manchester oversees represent a wide diversity in many ways, but they all have one thing in common, she says. “All of my foster homes are loving, caring places – people who take the children in and treat them like their own.” Through her job, Manchester has gotten to know people whose selfless and giving spirit inspire her as well. “I have one foster parent who has been doing it for 40 years. She has taken in about 120 kids. She adopted six of them; four were bedridden. They weren’t supposed to live very long yet they all lived into their 30s and 40s. She’s extraordinary, but believe me, there are a whole bunch of people like her – fabulous folks who give from their hearts all the time.”
Now, her focus is on finding safe and loving homes – a much more challenging job than one might think. Besides willingness, there are a lot of other requirements to be met before couples are licensed to become foster
Manchester and her team also thoroughly vet the backgrounds of potential foster parents.
Manchester says her present job has been the best part of her career so far. “It has enabled me to make a much bigger difference. Some children didn’t even know how to use utensils because they only ate finger food or fast food all their lives. Most of them have been neglected, abused, physically or sexually. Some were born to addicted mothers. To see them thrive and grow is just amazing.”
Michael Manchester Senior Social Worker, Orange County Social Services Agency OCEA member since 2005 Expert insight While foster parenting is designed to be temporary, some foster parents may adopt children after long-term placement and if all other options have been exhausted (such as relative or Non-Related Extended Family Member [NREFM] placement). If you would like to experience the joys of making a meaningful difference in the life of a child, visit www.oc4kids.com/adopt or call 1-888-871-KIDS. OCEA EMPLOYEE
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BILL DAHER:
USING SCIENCE AND DETECTIVE WORK TO MAKE ORANGE COUNTY SAFER He doesn’t carry a gun or badge, but, from the sterile aisles of a Santa Ana science lab, forensic scientist Bill Daher protects residents throughout Orange County. Armed with test tubes and a lab coat, Daher, who joined the Orange County Sheriff’s Department Crime Lab in 1988, uses his expertise in toxicology, pharmacology, chemistry and biology to examine DNA, drugs and more for law enforcement agencies throughout the county. Daher exudes a scientist’s fascination with complex names and details. He has spent his career practicing almost every kind of scientific analysis ever shown on “CSI,” though he discovered his field by accident, as a pre-med major in college. “At some point I decided that it wasn’t really a possibility,” Daher said about becoming a doctor. “You have to either have to have rich parents or graduate with a huge loan from medical school.” Daher earned degrees in biology and chemistry from California
Bill Daher Forensic Scientist III, Orange County Sheriff’s Department OCEA member since 1989 Expert insight Orange County Crime Lab collects and evaluates physical evidence from crime scenes for all Orange County public agencies, and is the only lab of its kind that serves law enforcement agencies in O.C. The lab has been on the forefront of the forensics field, housing the first DNA lab in the Western United States and the first automated fingerprint identification system in California. More than 150 staff members work for the lab.
State University, Fullerton, but still didn’t know what he wanted to do. An attempt to get into pharmaceutical sales prompted him to work on an MBA degree. Then one day he was casually browsing through a job binder at the university’s career center. “I came across an employment ad for a toxicologist. I had no idea what that was,” he said. “Even some of my professors didn’t know. It was in the County of L.A. in conjunction with USC – a state-approved methadone lab. That’s the drug that’s used to get people off of heroin.” Daher’s career was launched. A few years later, a desire to shorten his commute led him to apply for a job with the County. He started out in toxicology, a department with several divisions. Perhaps the busiest area of toxicology relates to detecting the presence of alcohol in the blood of accused drunk drivers. “We all know the dangers of DUI,” Daher said. “It’s governed by Title 17 in California, so our work is under very strict scientific regulations: the methods of gathering samples, the standards, the calibrations. It’s because DUI is a very serious offense. It can affect your career and your relationships if you’re convicted.” For that reason, DUI charges are often contested in court. Daher spends a considerable amount of his work time at trials, giving testimony and explaining evidence.
“You’re telling the jury how you reached your conclusions in a way that leaves no doubt,” Daher said. “It’s a very serious task.” Currently, Daher is assigned to the crime lab’s controlled substance section. “Think of the lab like a tree with two big trunks. There’s the criminal trunk, with subsections like DNA (analysis), toxicology and controlled substances. The other trunk is what’s called the identification bureau, where we look for latent fingerprints on evidence.” Working in controlled substances, Daher is keenly aware of Orange County’s patterns of illegal drug use and the sudden changes that sometimes sweep through the shadowy world of illicit drugs. Among many subjects of study, Daher has been learning about the hazards of bath salts, an emerging family of drugs that include synthetic chemicals related to cathinone, an amphetamine-like stimulant. His work has saved lives. His efforts have helped put criminals behind bars. It’s the evolving nature of his field, and the fact that he helps ensure safety and justice that keep him engaged in his role as a public servant. “I can’t imagine working anywhere else now,” Daher said. “It has been a fascinating place for me. And there’s a real sense of accomplishment – I’m contributing to society in ways that are very satisfying.”
TONY SANCHEZ:
A WATCHDOG FOR THOSE IN NEED When Orange County families are hit with a job loss or catastrophic illness, public assistance programs provide a safety net so they can get back on their feet. But what happens when people abuse programs such as food stamps, welfare or public housing assistance? That’s when Tony Sanchez steps in. He has been uncovering welfare fraud for the County since 2007, one of about 30 investigators who save Orange County taxpayers millions of dollars while making sure the needy are served. “These forms of assistance are a lifeline for some people,” Sanchez said. “It’s very important that they’re used properly.” Sanchez grew up in Santa Ana, the second oldest of seven children. He began his career in the military. After being discharged from the U.S. Army in 1990 he spent 19 years in the California Army National Guard. In 1992, Sanchez became an eligibility worker, handling cases for welfare and food stamp benefits. He learned how this safety-net program works and the diverse populations it serves. Then he worked in Child Support Services as a
senior child support officer in the courts, helping attorneys, interviewing people and determining child support. Sanchez found his calling in law enforcement. He took a job at the District Attorney’s Office as an investigative assistant, searching for people who hadn’t been paying their child support and other obligations. “We had to find them and get them into court,” he said. “It was a very fun job. Sometimes it became a cat-and-mouse game.” While working with the DA’s Office, Sanchez became a sworn investigator, working with the Social Services Agency and the Orange County Housing Authority. “We look for people who are abusing public services: welfare, food stamps, in-home support services, Section 8 housing.” Sanchez and his colleagues receive referrals from the Social Services Agency and Orange County Housing Authority. “Maybe someone’s colleague or neighbor suspects there’s something that’s not quite right. We also have our own hotline, and we get some tips from Crime Stoppers.” Sanchez runs background checks on suspects and visits them in their homes. Sometimes he receives information through
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
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neighbors. His investigations often lead to the recovery of resources and criminal charges being filed. Sometimes Sanchez uncovers no fraud and even suggests ways to help people. “In many cases, everything is fine. We even come across people who need more help than they’re getting, and we let Social Services know.” Sanchez, a father of four children and grandfather of three, loves to serve the community in his spare time. He’s a wrestling official and volunteers for Shortstop, a juvenile-crime diversion program; Stop Short of Addiction, for first-time juvenile drug offenders; and the D.A.’s Gang Reduction Intervention Partnership, a gangprevention program for local youth. “I love giving back, and I’m blessed because I have a very supportive wife who lets me do all these things that I enjoy. When you do something that helps the community, that’s the biggest reward. If you can change someone’s life for the better in the process, well, a job doesn’t get better than that.”
Tony Sanchez Welfare Fraud Investigator, Orange County District Attorney’s Office OCEA member since 1995 Expert insight If you suspect welfare fraud is going on in your community, call 714-6643900. Additionally, the Orange County District Attorney’s website at www.orangecountyda. org provides crime reports and analysis, information on Orange County’s most wanted and more.
Get Involved OCEA was started over 75 years ago by workers who stood together to get better benefits for themselves and their families. All these years later our power still is rooted in the premise that working people standing together can improve their lives. As we enter negotiations we need you to get involved. If you want a membership meeting at your work location, want to learn more about negotiations or become a workplace leader please contact OCEA Internal Organizer Tim Steed at 714-835-3355 or tsteed@oceamember.org about getting more involved, or go to oceamember.org/getinvolved.
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Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA Board members and staff are joined on stage by other members of the Orange County Labor Federation to be honored as leaders.
OCEA delegation champions Labor in Sacramento OCEA Board members and staff attended Labor’s Joint Legislative Conference April 13-14 in Sacramento. Representatives from unions across the state convened to discuss Labor’s agenda in 2015 and champion initiatives that support working men and women. The theme, Working People Standing Together, Changing Lives, was reflected in powerful testimonials by rank and file members who conveyed the dramatic difference union membership had made on their lives. Impassioned speeches by Labor leaders and elected officials from across the Golden State rounded out the lineup featuring CA Labor Federation’s Art Pulaski, State Building Trades President Robbie Hunter, State Attorney General Kamala Harris and CA Governor Brown among others. On day one, a spectrum of issues were discussed in afternoon briefings, with topics ranging from using state laws to organize to improving voter turnout and ensuring that public money creates good jobs with labor protections.
The impact union jobs have on economic equity was clearly conveyed as was the need to support the national Labor community: actively organizing against the job-killing Fast Track/TTP and showing solidarity with restaurant workers in their “Fight for Fifteen” campaign for a living wage. The second day of the summit, a stack of legislative bills were presented to state representatives who communicated their support for Labor-friendly policies. Over a dozen elected officials joined our OC delegation’s all-day lobbying sessions in a legislative office building. All our guests fielded questions from OCEA and our OC Labor Fed brothers and sisters who represented members from dozens of trade and service unions active in Orange County. Co-hosted by the California Labor Federation and the State Building Trades Council, Labor’s Joint Legislative Conference was both inspiring and very productive.
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Orange County’s delegates who pitched labor initiatives to our County’s representatives in Sacramento.
“California has to be the place where organized labor is strong and grows.” - Gov. Jerry Brown
Key bills presented on our Labor Advocacy Day: • SB 546 (Leno): Will extend rate review and regulation to the large group market to protect workers from unreasonable increases to health care costs. • AB 465 (Hernandez) Will prohibit employers from requiring workers to waive basic rights as a condition of employment. • AB 219 (Daly) Will close the loophole and expand prevailing wage to all ready-mix drivers. • AB 1308 (Perea) Will strengthen standards for apprenticeship programs. • AB 251 (Levine) This bill will clarify the amount of “de minimis” of a publicly subsidized project, which would trigger the prevailing wage requirements. 16
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OCEA Assistant General Manager Jennifer Muir and OCEA General Manager Nick Berardino with California Attorney General Kamala Harris. (Opposite) Governor Jerry Brown receives a warm welcome from the Labor community from across the state with California Labor Federation Executive Director Art Pulaski.
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
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At work with: OCEA Board member Paul Nguyen
County employee since 2006 OCEA member since 2006 OCEA Board member since 2011
Paul Nguyen Social Services Supervisor I Social Services Agency
Q: Why did you go into public service, and what motivated you to join OCEA? Originally when I graduated college, I wasn’t sure what I was going to do. After searching online, I found a job for a wholesale mortgage lender doing broker relations. After only a couple of years I knew that I was in the wrong industry and found very little rewards coming into work each day. One day my mother told me to look into working for social services like my late father did. My father was an eligibility worker and had worked for the County of Los Angeles for 20 years until he passed away in 2004. In 2005 I decided to apply for the County of Orange since I was planning to move somewhere in Orange County eventually. I applied for a Social Worker position to match my Sociology education and to follow in my father’s footsteps. After doing a couple of years in the private sector doing a job I did not like, I knew I wanted to do something I could be proud of each day, while serving the community. I finally was hired in September 2006 as a Social Worker for the Family Self-Sufficiency division. I’ve been an OCEA member since I started with the County because, honestly, I initially wanted the supplemental benefits. Eventually I saw the other more important benefits of being a member—being part of organization that has the well-being of hard working families as their highest priority. I definitely saw OCEA’s dedication to their employees first hand when I was laid off and re-hired in 2009. Being laid off is an awful thing to happen to anyone, but when you have an organization that constantly has your back in finding another job or even to the point of giving you grocery gift cards to 18
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ensure you and your family don’t go hungry, the challenge is less painful. When I was rehired back into the County, I became more involved with OCEA and became a Steward. Eventually I was voted in as a member for the Board of Directors. Q: When did you start at the County, and what has been your career path? I started as a Social Worker for the Social Services Agency— Family Self Sufficiency division in September 2006. I did Initial Services for families needing assistance in CalWORKs, Food Stamps, and Medi-Cal. My position was many needy families’ first contact in the County when they were meeting challenges that did not allow them to meet their family’s basic needs. I mainly did this with some side-stepping of different but lateral responsibilities until I was promoted into a Social Services Supervisor I in July 2014 doing appeals for the same programs I facilitated all these years. I look forward to learning more in appeals and the program integrity subdivision, gaining more valuable experience and knowledge, and also continue my schooling so that my career path will continue soaring into higher altitudes. Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job? There are many rewards to my job. As a public employee, it’s nice to know that we represent the government and provide services back to the community and general public in a notContinued on pg. 20
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
At work with: OCEA Board member Evelyn Reyes
Evelyn Reyes Supervising Juvenile Correctional Officer Probation Department
Q: Why did you go into public service, and what motivated you to join OCEA? I am a servant leader and care taker by nature, therefore public service sounded like something I would enjoy as a career. My motivation was fairness in the workplace. Q: When did you start at the County, and what has been your career path? I became a regular full-time employee for the Probation Department on Dec. 15, 1989 (my mother’s birthday). I began as a receptionist at the Santa Ana Office. After about 15 months, I applied for a Probation Night Counselor position and I began working at the Juvenile Hall in 1991. After about a year of working graveyard shifts, I applied for a Deputy Probation Counselor position and began working as a day staff. Finally on Dec. 26, 2007, I was promoted to Supervising Juvenile Correctional Officer. Q: What is the most rewarding part of your job? I’ve been lucky enough to be the subject of an essay by a few of our kids, stating that I was caring, always fair and seemed to know when something was going on and would always make myself available to talk if they wanted to.
County employee since 1989 OCEA member since 2004 OCEA Board member since 2014
I’ve run into former clients on the street, and they would be happy to tell me they remembered me and that they’ve been able to turn their lives around and now have a wife and children of their own. Q: What are the challenges you face working in your field, and how do you overcome them? The youth we serve have more and more mental issues combined with drug abuse and behavior issues. The department has adopted evidence-based programs to aid in a more positive and productive thought and decision process of our youth. Our department provides a variety of training addressing issues of human trafficking, drug abuse, the adolescent brain, gangs and much more. Q: What advice do you have for employees who want to be active at OCEA but don’t know how to get started? I tell them the best way to get involved is to read the newsletters, learn what’s going on and what is needed by members. A union works best for the members when the members work for the union.
Want to read more from your OCEA Board of Directors? Visit the bottom left corner of OCEA’s homepage at www.oceamember.org and select “Meet Your Board” for bios and links to interviews and articles about your dedicated Board members. Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
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Continued from pg. 5 to preserve workplace protections. When they told us our voices would never be heard because of the OC Register’s anti-worker perspectives, OCEA helped start an independent nonprofit news organization that would give workers a fair shake. And now, we have a weekly column in the Register’s editorial pages. A radio broadcast in April discussing our great leader Nick Berardino’s upcoming retirement, his incredible history standing up for workers, and the future of OCEA describes the strength of our organization today, and in the years to come. These stories and our strength doesn’t mean there won’t be challenges ahead. There will be. The same forces that have been attacking your family’s security all these years are still plotting their next moves. Our success over the past 75+ years has been a testament to the workers who stood together to counter our critics’ strength in dollars with our strength in numbers. That’s why it’s so important we continue to stay involved, unified and together. I’m confident that if we do that—if we stand together—we will win.
FREE Paper Shred & ewaste day 9 a.m. – 2 p.m. June 18, 2015 OCEA Headquarters
830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, CA 92701 Orange County Employees Association in collaboration with OC Waste & Recycling and Goodwill of Orange County are hosting a paper shed and electronics disposal event for OC employees.
For more information, check OCEA’s website at www.oceamember.org.
Continued from pg. 18 for-profit manner. As an Appeals Rep, I can hold my head up a little higher knowing that my position exists to ensure clients that don’t agree with a decision or action can turn to an unbiased, diligent, and knowledgeable group of people. We are committed to adhering to all County policies and laws, especially those applicable to the assistant programs SSA provides to our clients. I especially find it rewarding when I am able to take care of a client’s appeal in a fair and just way that not only was the right thing to do but also improves their life, even if just a little. Q: What are the challenges you face working in your field, and how do you overcome them? In my current position we essentially deal with client concerns and complaints. I would like to say I’m able to resolve all of their issues but half of the time their dispute with the County’s actions or decisions cannot have a conclusion that would please them. My job is to determine if County actions and decisions were correct per our objective policies/regulations and unfortunately that doesn’t always align with the client’s feelings. When this happens, I do my 20
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best to explain policies and why the County did what they did. I take my time to listen to my clients and see if there are possible proper options that would address their concern. Sometimes the extra few minutes we spend with our clients can change what would have been undesired outcomes into more favorable ones. Q: What advice do you have for employees who want to be active at OCEA but don’t know how to get started? Being more active with OCEA is an incredible thing that will positively affect thousands of dedicated, hard-working individuals and families. This organization is great because of the incredible individuals running and supporting it. Before a person becomes that great workplace leader, I highly recommend they become a great workplace employee. As you would learn the MOUs of various positions applicable to you and those around you, you also want to learn and be trained in the policies and procedures applicable to your current position. Be really good at your job so that you will become an important asset to your clients, co-workers, and to the County. This way you will have an even greater value, as a workplace leader and member of OCEA’s family.
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
CHRIS PREVATT FOR RETIREMENT BOARD
OCERS Retirement Board member and OCEA Past President Frank Eley endorses fellow OCERS and OCEA Board member Chris Prevatt for re-election on the Retirement Board.
Elect a candidate who: • Is a proven leader • Is dependable • Is responsible • Is committed to advocating for employee interests Chris Prevatt wants to avoid raising retirement contributions for OCEA members. We need Chris to advocate for employee rights on the Retirement Board along with Frank Eley. “I have watched Chris Prevatt’s passion and commitment to the OCERS Board. He has been true blue to the members and the people of OCEA. He is committed to the middle class and the preservation of the defined benefit system. We need to keep Chris on the OCERS Board as a strong voice for employees.” – Frank Eley, OCERS Board/OCEA Board of Directors
VOTE FOR CHRIS NOVEMBER 2015 Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
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OCEA tickets
Special savings for OCEA members! Check OCEA’s website, www.oceamember.org, for full details. Prices subject to change without notice. Amusement Parks Castle Park: $12.99/person 36” and above (Reg. $19.99). All-day unlimited rides, unlimited miniature golf and Buccaneer Cove (when in season). No blackouts; tickets expire Dec. 31. Tickets only available online. Disneyland: One-day One-park: $95.04/adult; $89.28/ages 3-9 (Reg. $99 & $93). 1-day Park Hopper: $142.60/adult; $137.08/ages 3-9 (Reg. $155 & $149). 2-day 1-park per day: $168.35/adult; $156.52/ages 3-9 (Reg. 185 & $172). No blackouts. Tickets expire Dec. 31, 2016. More ticket options available online. Tickets only available online. Knott’s Berry Farm: $37/adult; $30/ages 3-11 and seniors 62 and up (Reg. $67 & $37). No blackouts; tickets expire Dec. 31. Tickets also available online. LEGOLAND: 1-Day LEGOLAND-only admission: $70/ adult; $65/ages 3-12, plus 2nd day FREE within 90 days of first visit. (Reg. $85$79). No blackouts. LEGOLAND Resort Hopper admission (LEGOLAND, SEALIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park): $75/adult; $70/ages 3-12, plus 2nd day FREE; 2nd day must be used anytime between first visit and the expiration date (Reg. $109-$103). Tickets only available online. San Diego Zoo: $40/adult; $32/ages 3-11 (Reg. $48 & $38). No blackouts; tickets expire Feb. 2, 2016. Tickets also available online. San Diego Zoo Safari Park: $40/adult; $32/ages 3-11 (Reg. $48 & $38). No blackouts; tickets expire Feb. 2, 2016. Tickets also available online. SeaWorld San Diego: Single-day admission: $63/ages 3 & up (Reg. $86/adult; $83/ages 3-9). Tickets expire Dec. 31. Fun Card: $77/ages 3 & up (Reg. $89/adult; $86/ages 3-9). Blackouts: May 24; July 3-4 and 19; Sept. 6; Fund Cards available for purchase now through Oct. 31. Fun Cards expire Dec. 31. Tickets also available online. Six Flags Magic Mountain: $42/ages 3 and up (Reg. $66.99). No blackouts; tickets expire Sept. 27. Tickets also available online. Universal Studios Hollywood: 3-day admission: $84/ages 3 & up (Reg. $95). Blackouts apply for revisits! Annual Pass w/blackouts, Annual Pass w/out blackouts and Premium Star Pass are also available. Prices are subject to change without notice. Tickets only available online.
Dinner entertainment Medieval Times Dinner & Tournament: $42/adult; $32/ages 12 & under (Reg. $57.95 & $35.95). Reservation required. Tickets expire Dec. 30. Pirate’s Dinner Adventure: $36/adult; $28/ages 3-11 (Reg. $59 & $40). Reservation required. Tickets expire Nov. 30.
Movie Theaters AMC Theatres (Loews & Cineplex): $8/person (Reg. $12.50). Unrestricted admission. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide. Century Cinema: $8/person (Reg. $12). Unrestricted admissions. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide. Krikorian Premiere Theatres: $7.50/person (Reg. $12). Unrestricted admission. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide. Regal Entertainment Group: $8.50/person (Reg. $12.50). Unrestricted admission. Subject to surcharge for large format, IMAX or 3-D. Valid nationwide.
ONE-TIME EVENTS DISNEY ON ICE: 3 p.m. Sat. 12/21-$39/ages 2 and up (Reg. $44); seating section: level 200. Limit 6 tickets per member. No refunds. Look for more information on www. oceamember.org. SEGERSTROM CENTER FOR THE ARTS: Check www.oceamember.org for details. Tickets only available online.
OUT OF AREA ORLANDO VACATION: Save up to 35% off your next family vacation to Orlando! Discount offers include admissions to Disney World; Universal Studios Orlando; Sea World and Aquatica; as well as vacation homes and Orlando hotels close to or on theme park property, at very affordable rates. Exclusive discounts available online only. Check for more information on www.oceamember.org. Tickets at Work: Take advantage of exclusive discounts and special offers on entertainment and travel nationwide! Offers only available online include 25% off regular car rental rates; hotels; Las Vegas shows and attractions; New York and Broadway specials; South Florida attractions; ski resorts tickets; Six Flags theme parks; and more. Check for more information on www.oceamember.org.
So Cal Attractions Aquarium of the Pacific: $19/adult; $12/ages 3-11 (Reg. $28.95 & $14.95). No blackouts; tickets expire Nov. 30. Tickets also available online. BATTLESHIP USS IOWA: BUY ONE, GET ONE FREE admission vouchers are now available at the OCEA Special Events office (until supplies last). Otherwise online prices are: $13.50/ adult; $7.50/ages 6-17; $11.50/senior 62 and up (Reg. $18-$10-$15). No blackouts; tickets expire one year from the day of purchase. USS Iowa is located at the Pacific Battleship Center at 250 S. Harbor Blvd., San Pedro, CA 90731; visit website www.pacificbattleship.com for details. Tickets only available online. BOOMERS! (Family Fun Centers): $15/ages 3 & up (Reg. $29.95). All-day unlimited rides and unlimited miniature golf passes, excluding arcade games, batting cages and food. No blackouts. Tickets expire Dec. 31.
Sports K1 Speed: $15/person (Reg. $25.95). Price includes one standard 14-lap race and 1-year K1 Speedway license for new drivers. Junior drivers must be at least 48”; adult drivers must be at least 4’10” to drive. No blackout dates. NEWPORT LANDING SPORTFISHING: ½-day trip: $ 1/2-day trip: $26.50/adult; $21/ages 2-12 (Reg. $41.50-$34); ¾-day trip: $45/adult; $40/ages 2-12 (Reg. $71-$61). Offer based on availability. Rod and tackle packs available at the additional charge. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www. NewportLanding.com. Tickets are not available at the OCEA Special Events office. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31.
Seasonal
Catalina Flyer: $54/adult; $40/ages 3-12 (Reg. $70 & $53). Reservation required. Tickets expire Dec. 31.
AQUATICA, SEAWORLD’S WATER PARK: Single-day admission: $31/adult; $25/ ages 3-11 (Reg. $38 & 33). Season duration: May 1-Sept. 27. Tickets only available online.
Catalina Express: $62/adult; $53/ages 3-11 (Reg. $74.50 & $59). Reservation required. Blackouts: May 23-25, July 3-5, Sept. 5-7. Tickets expire Dec. 31.
BUCCANEER’S COVE at BOOMERS, IRVINE: $15/ages 3 and older (Reg. $21.99). No blackouts; season duration: March 23-Sept. 7. Tickets also available online.
Discovery CUBE Orange county: $12/adult; $10/ages 3-15 (Reg. $16.95 & $12.95). Tickets only available online.
KNOTT’S SOAK CITY: $25/adult; $23/ages 3-11 (Reg. $36 & 26). Season duration: May 16-Sept. 13. Tickets also available online.
Madame Tussauds Wax Museum, Hollywood: $18/ages 3 & up (Reg. $29.95). Tickets expire Jan. 31, 2016. Tickets only available online. SUNSET CRUISES: $13/adult; $10/ages 2-12 (Reg. 25). Unlimited Drink Package: $13/person (Reg. $25). Offer based on availability. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www.cruisenewportbeach. com. Tickets are not available at the OCEA Special Events office. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31. Newport Landing Whale Watching: $15/adult; $10/ages 3-12 (Reg. $25). Based on availability. Reservations by phone (949) 675-0551 or online www.NewportWhale.com. Tickets are not available at the OCEA Special Events office. Promo code: OCEA. Offer expires Dec. 31.
LEGOLAND WATER PARK: LEGOLAND Resort Hopper admission: (LEGOLAND, SEALIFE Aquarium and LEGOLAND Water Park): $75/adult; $70/ ages 3-12, plus 2nd day FREE; 2nd day must be used anytime between first visit and the expiration date (Reg. $107-$97). Tickets only available online. RAGING WATERS: $30/ages 3 and up (Reg. $42.99 & 31.99/ under 48”). Season duration: May 9-Sept. 20. Tickets also available online. SIX FLAGS HURRICANE HARBOR: $34.99/ages 3 and up (Reg. $40.99). Season duration: May 23-Sept. 27. Offers only available online.
OCEA e-ticket programs For up-to-date listings on all available tickets, go to www.oceamember.org/etickets. 22
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Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
OCEA discounts
Special savings for OCEA members! Check OCEA’s website, www.oceamember.org, for full details. Automotive & Car Rentals
Candies, Flowers & More
The Red Book: New cars at fleet prices! For details, go to www.redbook4autos.com or call (800) 422-4561.
Cherry Moon Farms: 20% discount on hundreds of orchardfresh gifts that make every occasion special. For more information call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA.
Avis: Up to 25% savings on selected cars through corporate program. OCEA corporate code T815000. (800) 331-1212. Budget: Up to 25% savings on selected cars through corporate program. OCEA corporate code X627900. (800) 455-2848 Dollar Rent-A-Car: Call (800) 800-3665 to find out more! Corporate code: CH0415. Enterprise Rent-A-Car: 10% off regular price! Call (800) 736-8222. Corporate code: 32E8228. EZ Auto Test Only: Smog all vehicles including motor homes, change of title, out of state, and gross polluters! We are located at 2208 N. Main Street #B, Santa Ana, CA 92706 (at the corner of Main and Buffalo Street; near School First Credit Union). For details please call (714) 542-9400. GotCarWash.com: 30 Days of ‘UNLIMITED’ FULL SERVICE car washes for ONLY $4.99/ FREE enrollment as well as the following: monthly fee for all vehicles - $29.99 (after first 30 days). The introductory fee of $14.99 is waived fro all vehicles. Your membership will automatically renew for your convenience. Call (855) WASH-247 or (855) 927-4247, or visit our website www.GotCarWash.com. Hertz: 5% off daily and weekly rentals! Join Hertz #1 Gold Club online and save more! Corporate code: 1335448. Call (800) 654-8216. Promax Auto Service: Do you need quality automotive service? With ASE Certified Technicians who have experience with both foreign and domestic automobiles, Promax Auto Service has consistently been voted #1 by the Reader’s Choice for Best Automotive Repair Shop in South Orange County. OCEA members save 20% off the total bill. Contact us at (949) 495-5156. We are located at 20742 Lake Forest Dr. #C2, Lake Forest, CA 92630. Thrifty Car Rental: Great savings through Tickets-At-Work Corporate Program! Call (800) 847-4389. Corporate code 0010229234.
Banking
GiftBloom.com: 15% discount on all gifts and products for local, same day and international deliveries. To place your order contacts Preferred Rate Coordinator, Ujwal Patel, (224) 999-0089. Personal Creations: 20% discount on a variety of personalized gifts, perfect for any occasion. For more information call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA. ProFlowers.com: 20% discount on a variety of gifts for all your personal and corporate occasions! Same-day delivery available! Call (800) 210-2279 to place your order. Corporate code: OCEA. Red Envelope: 20% discount on a unique and wide-ranging collection of thoughtful gifts for every occasion. To order by phone, call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA. Shari’s Berries: 20% discount on high-quality handdipped berries, luxurious cheesecakes and gourmet baked goods. Call (800) 210-2279. Corporate code: OCEA. See’s Candy: Gift certificates good for 1 lb. at any See’s store! OCEA-members price $14.50 (Reg. $17.50). Certificates are available at the OCEA Special Events office by cash or ATM/debit card.
HOME IMPROVEMENT RMA-JEM: Outstanding construction since 1981! Specializes in roofing insulation, sheet metal, stucco, texture/paining, energy efficient windows and more. For more details on OCEA discount call Maria Paulin, (714) 985-2888 ext. 100. Promo code: OCEA.
Outdoors Palm Springs Aerial Tramway: As an OCEA member you can enjoy all the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway’s attractions at up to 25% discount. The Alpine Club cards are available at the OCEA Special Events office free of charge. Card is valid for up to 6 persons. Discount contact (760) 325-1391.
Party Rentals
Orange County’s Credit Union: Receive a $50 bonus with a new checking account. Present this offer at the Ross Branch of Orange County’s Credit Union by Jul. 31, 2015 to receive the offer. Normal approval standards apply. Offer is available to “new” Members only. Must open a personal checking account, enroll in e-Statements, sign up and qualify for a Debit MasterCard, and either set up and receive Direct Deposit or make 5 Debit Card purchases within 60 days. Bonus typically paid within 90 days. Bonus represents dividends deposited into your account and may be reported to the IRS. Any taxes are your responsibility. The new checking account must remain open for 90 days or bonus may be reversed. Min. opening deposit is $25 for all accounts except Better Than Free which has no min. Membership in Orange County’s Credit Union is available to anyone who lives or works in Orange County. The Membership fee is $5. Federally insured by NCUA. Promo code OCEA50 (888) 354-6228 www.orangecountyscu.org.
Education University of Phoenix delivers rigorous coursework in a flexible format to allow students to balance work and home life while earning their degrees. OCEA members are eligible to receive a 10% savings on the cost of tuition among other benefits such as access to innovative technologies including electronic textbooks and course materials, online library and more. For more details visit www.oceamember.org
Purchase tickets: To order by mail, please include: 1) name and phone number, 2) letter stating your ticket order, and 3) check payable to OCEA for the full amount of the ticket order plus $6.40 for shipping and handling. Send orders to: Special Events, OCEA, 830 N. Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA
OC Fun Party Rentals: Looking for a jumper rental company that offers safe, clean, affordable and great-looking jumpers? OCEA members receive $10 off per hour of entertainment, per rental item booked! This offer excludes additional concessions servings and all helium tank rentals. For more information call (714) 914-7159, email ocfunpartyrentals@ gmail.com or visit their website www.ocfunrentals.com.
Photography & Art Sketches and Clay Molding: Local artist draws realistic sketches from photos creates statues and figures out of clay. References and work samples are available upon request. View my portfolio at http://bit.ly/XnBC8V. Christine, (714) 653-5172; http://bit.ly/XnBC8V S8ved Photography: For your next Kodak-moment call George Reyes at (714) 609-0039 or email him s8vedpic@yahoo.com. Save 20% on any order. Visit www.s8vedphotography.com.
92701. Checks for over $500 not accepted. Ticket sales are final. Sorry, no refunds or exchanges. Please allow sufficient time! Mailed ticket orders are generally processed within five business days of receiving the order. OCEA makes no guarantees on mailed orders. Shipping and
Services
Wireless
ADT Security Services: Residential and Business Security that include Burglary, Fire, Carbon Monoxide, Online Access, Video, and Home Automation Features. 24 Month monitoring agree required, Additional charges may apply in areas that require guard response service for municipal alarm verification. Prices subject to change. Some insurance companies offer discounts on homeowner’s insurance. Please consult your insurance company. Offer subject to change. CA ACO7155. Please contact Jeff Spatz at (714) 907-2995 or by email jspatz@adt.com
Please note: Wireless discounts are applicable to all Orange County and City employees. Proof of employment is required.
Travel & entertainment Hotels and Resorts: Save $250 on your next vacation. Cancun, Hawaii, Florida, Jamaica, Aruba, Paris, Italy, Dubai, Australia and many more locations. With over 200,000 hotels and resorts available through the savings program, you will find familiar brands and hotels around the world. Create a free guest account and receive $250 in savings! Frank Apuron (949) 874-0655; info@ASunsetAway.com; www.ASunsetAway.com.
Wellness Between the Ropes Boxing: Discover personal fitness through boxing, calisthenics and nutritional guidance. Let Orange County boxing legend Raul Franco help whip you into shape! OCEA members receive a discount: Individual sessions are $35 per hour and group classes are $20 per person! Additional charges may apply. Contact Raul at (714) 333-7405 or raulfranco1220@yahoo.com for details.
AT&T: County of Orange Employees receive up to 15% discount off their monthly service fee for rate plans with minutes or data usage included. Existing and new users qualify for the discount! For more information please contact Jeannie Acosta, (310) 990-1262 or ja0590@ att.com. Sprint: Save 18% off select regularly priced monthly service plans. Plus, activation fee waived for new activations (up to $36 value; requires a new twoyear agreement). This discount is available to all employees working at the state or local level within the State of California. Mention this code to claim 18% discount: GLSCA_COO_ZZZ; To order by phone: 1-866-639-8354; To order online: www.sprint.com/ californialocalgovernment; To add 18% discount for existing Sprint customers: www.sprint.com/verify and click on the “Existing Customers” tab or call 866-6398354. T-Mobile: 15% discount on qualifying monthly recurring phone charges. Promotion code: 13302TMOFAV. Discount contact: Daniel Chacon, (310) 651-0603 or T-Mobile Government Program, (866) 464-8662. Verizon: Save 15% on select monthly plans. Apply online using Government Employee Program E-Code EMD70. Discount Contact: www.verizonwireless.com/getdiscount.
Elite Fitness: Exclusive offer for OCEA members! 25% off gym membership (Reg. $65); no initiation fees, no contract; no cancellation fees; 20% off personal training; FREE 1st class (MMA, yoga, cardio, weights, salsa or Bachata); $20 off a 60-min. massage. Conveniently located at 214 N. Broadway, Santa Ana, CA 92701. For more information call Joaquin or Elia, (714) 760-4638 or visit website www.elitefitnessdowtown.com.
handling charges cover costs of certifying and insuring mailed tickets. For further information, contact Joanna Nachurski at (714) 835-3355 or at joanna@oceamember.org. Ticket hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
You can now purchase certain tickets online at www.oceamember.org/etickets OCEA EMPLOYEE
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OCEA classifieds
Classified ads are a free service to all OCEA members. Only members may submit ads and ads may be edited or rejected by OCEA. Transactions are not OCEA’s responsibility, as all sales or exchanges are done at the responsibility of the seller and buyer. Notify OCEA Communications Production Manager Kevin Rush if you wish to submit an ad, make changes to a current ad or cancel an ad. E-mail your ads to krush@oceamember.org; send them to OCEA, 830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, Ca, 92701; or fax them to (714) 835-7654. CARPOOLERS NEEDED
RETIREE SERVICES
Visit www.ridematch.info to request a carpool matchlist from the regional rideshare agency. Learn more about alternative commute options at www.commutesmart.info.
Retired Employees Association. Join the Retired Employees Association. Participate for only $3 a month. Information: (714) 840-3995, fax (714) 840-7189, email reaoc@reaoc.org or www.reaoc.org.
FOR SALE Yorkie puppies. Boy and girl. $475 each. Black and tan. Born 1/12/15. Interested contact Barbara (310) 487-4140. 3/15 Sofa and Chaise lounge set. Purchased in 2007 from Ashley Furniture Stores; brown microsuede fabric; in good condition; asking for $250.00.Buyer must arrange pickup. Pictures available. For more information please contact Chad and Chantel Callahan at chachacallahan2011@gmail.com or 760-415-6086. 3/15 Furniture for sale. Items include: 5 piece oak bedroom set with 2-year-old Sealy mattress; two 56” TV’s; two beige cloth material loveseats; 42” antique oak claw-foot table with insert; oak and glass door hutch; oak sofa table and end tables; coffee table; oak table lamp; treadmill. Pictures available; call for pricing. Information: Lee, (714) 681-6588. 12/14 Corn roaster. Brand new, fully equipped, never used. Heavy duty 3,500 pound axle and 15” Goodyear steelbelted radial tires mounted on chrome directional wheels; 2x3 rectangular tube frame. Heavy duty Bulldog hitch, 2” ball; heavy duty top crank fold up Bulldog jack. Cold and hot water equipped, fire extinguisher, top rack. Roaster has minimal rust damage due to storing. $7,500; buyer must arrange pickup. Pictures available. Information: Damian, dloza714@me.com. 2/15
Orange County Office on Aging. Free information on services for older adults, (800) 510-2020. VACATIONS/VACATION RENTALS Bargain timeshare: Great vacation location Honolulu Hawaii, Kuhio Banyan Club Timeshare. Waikiki Beach just blocks away, the International Market is just across the street. Ala Wai Golf Course is close by and the Yacht Harbor is within minutes, many restaurants, night clubs, shops nearby. The studio suite has full bath, sleeps up to four persons, Murphy bed and couch bed. Usage is annual floating red week, deeded ownership, free cable tv, in room safe. Sale price of $100.00 bargain price, timeshare company requires all persons on the deed to submit a credit check. Contact Shirley at (951) 258-2613. 3/15 Howard’s Time Share Resort Weeks: Contact Howard at (714) 313-1290 or hsnitowsky@hotmail.com if you would like to confirm a timeshare resort week in Cabo San Lucas, Hawaii, and other resort destinations in Mexico. These prime, beach front, world-class resorts, with a good variety of dates and suite types, are in high demand, all at very attractive prices - so please request your peak demand weeks early. OCEA MEMBERS RECEIVE A 5 PERCENT DISCOUNT.
Men’s Murray mountain bike. Black frame. $50. Information: Michael, (714) 603-8192. 8/14 Rogers drum set. A 7 piece 1972 modified Rogers kit with a new Pearl Masters 14x6.5” maple snare drum. Sabian and Paiste cymbals, SKB hard cases, Pearl and Tama hardware. All in excellent sound and condition. Selling as a complete kit; pictures available upon request. $2,600. Information: Tom, tjs3781@hotmail.com. 2/15 24
OCEA EMPLOYEE
Vote Chris Prevatt for OCERS Retirement Board in Nov. 2015
Pre-retirement: roth, rollovers and taxes Presented by Empowerment Retirement (formerly Great-West Retirement)
Noon to 1 p.m. Thursday, June 25, 2015 OCEA Assembly Room, 830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, Ca 92701 • Roth option: What is it and how does it work? • Roth contributions, income taxes and rollovers • Roth option vs. before-tax option • Roth contribution analyzer
Please RSVP by emailing Joanna Nachurski at joanna@oceamember.org. Parking is available under the building and in the dirt lot north of OCEA.
Orange County Employees Association 830 N. Ross St., Santa Ana, CA 92701 • (714) 835-3355 • (714) 835-7654 Fax • www.oceamember.org
Orange County Employees Association 830 North Ross Street, Santa Ana, CA 92701
Want to be part of something bigger than yourself?
stand with us! There are many ways to help: • Become a workplace leader or an OCEA Steward • Join OCEA’s Political Action Committee or Health & Welfare Trust • Represent your co-workers on an OCEA bargaining team and more!
Sign up at www.oceamember.or g/getinvolved