SUMMER-FALL EDITION
PROUDLY REPRESENTING MORE THAN 10,000 HARDWORKING MEMBERS ACROSS ILLINOIS AND NORTHWEST INDIANA
2020
TEAMSTERS
LOCAL 743
YOUR EXECUTIVE BOARD TEAM! DEBRA SIMMONS-PETERSON PRESIDENT
JAMES THOMAS
LOCAL UNION OFFICE:
SECRETARY-TREASURER
4620 S. TRIPP AVE, CHICAGO, IL 60632 773-254-7460
LOCAL 743 OFFICERS AND STAFF DIRECTORY
EXECUTIVE BOARD Debra Simmons-Peterson President (773) 299-1770 dsimmons@teamsterslocal743.com James Thomas Secretary Treasurer (773) 299-1771 jthomas@teamsterslocal743.com Robin Sullivan Vice-President (773) 299-1789 rsullivan@teamsterslocal743.com
Stay in Touch with Your Leaders and Business Representatives
Christine Salamone, Recording Secretary (773) 299-1776 csalamone@teamsterslocal743.com Jose Silva, Trustee / Sr. Union Rep. (773) 299-1775 jsilva@teamsterslocal743.com Georgetta Davis, Trustee (773) 614-0204 Kevin Sanders, Trustee / Sr. Union Rep. (773) 299-1784 ksanders@teamsterslocal743.com
CHANGE OF ADDRESS Don’t forget to update Local 743 when moving or when your mailing address changes. Contact us: (773) 254-7460 ralvarado@teamsterslocal743.com
AGENTS & OPERATORS Vivian Schmitter General Counsel 773-299-1787 vschmitter@teamsterslocal743.com
Robert May Director of Field Services 773-299-1774 rmay@teamsterslocal743.com
Rose Alvarado Director of Titan 773-299-1778 ralvarado@teamsterslocal743.com
Brendan Crowley Attorney 773-299-1792 bcrowley@teamsterslocal743.com
Julita Barrios Union Representative 773-299-1781 jbarrios@teamsterslocal743.com
Lakeisha Massey Lead Titan Operator 773-299-1779 lmassey@teamsterslocal743.com
Denise Stiger Organizer 773-299-1783 dstiger@teamsterslocal743.com
Precious Morris Union Representative 773-299-1794 pmorris@teamsterslocal743.com
Crystal Lindsey Titan Operator 773-299-1780 clindsey@teamsterslocal743.com
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Deidre Jenkins-Wilborn Administrative Assistant 773-299-1788 djenkins@teamsterslocal743.com
SCAN & FOLLOW US ONLINE!
4 MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT Recognizing the hard working members that have braved the COVID-19 Pandemic crisis.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE: GENERAL MEMBERSHIP MEETING In an effort to keep all of our Local 743 members safe and abide by the State of Illinois restrictions on large gatherings, the October General Membership meeting will be held via Zoom Video Conferencing.
5 IM MEMORIUM Remembering our loved ones and friends whom we've recently lost.
Members who wish to attend the Zoom meeting must call the Union at
(773) 299-1780 to request registration access. Members will be asked to provide information to verify membership status and eligibility. Once confirmed, you will receive an email with the invitation to join the Zoom meeting. Invitations are limited to one electronic device only.
Monday, October 5, 2020 at 6pm via Zoom Conference
7
Upcoming Meetings: Monday, November 2nd and Monday, December 7th - TBD
CHIEF STEWARD SPOTLIGHT Highlighting RUSH and UCMC stewards that have gone above and beyond to serve their fellow members.
11 LOCAL 743 SUCCESS STORIES Highlighting Local 743 victories in arbitrations, bargaining agreements, grievances and milestone wins.
15 LOCAL 743 VICTORY AT UCMC Emergency Room & Endoscopy Technicians Vote Unanimously to Join Teamsters Local 743
WITHDRAWAL CARD Leaving work? Request a withdrawal card and submit to avoid paying a reinstatement fee upon your return. Clip and mail to: Teamsters Local 743, 4620 S. Tripp Ave, Chicago, IL 60632 Enclose $0.50 to process. Date: ___/____/___ Name: ___________________________ Address: __________________________________________ __________________________________________________ City, State & Zip: ____________________________________ Phone: ___________________________________________ Social Security #: ___________________________________ Last Day of Work: ___________________________________ Employer: _________________________________________ Signature: _________________________________________
16 HAPPY RETIREMENT TO TRUSTEES
/teamsterslocal743
Congratulations to long-time Local 743 Board members and staff, Goleen Bradley & Beverly Sisson
@teamsterslocal743
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@teamsterslocal743
A MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT
Debra Simmons-Peterson Dear Brothers and Sisters:
our members. The Union will continue to hold Employers
I would like to take a moment to recognize and thank the
accountable to make sure our members’ safety and health remain
hardworking members of
a priority.
Teamsters Local 743 who are collectively keeping America
I would also like to address the sadness we feel as a Union
running amid the COVID-19 pandemic. We want you to know
regarding the unrest with nationwide protests and
that we appreciate everything you
destruction in cities all over the
are doing right now - You are our heroes. Local 743 cannot thank
country. Local 743 believes it is important to protect ALL lives and
you enough for your strength, dedication and hard work.
spread the message that everyone matters. We have to stand together
I want to assure you that we will
as one and remain united. Always
continue to do everything in our power to assist our Teamster
remember, we are much stronger when we work together in peace
members who are struggling through this turbulent period. We
and harmony. Please continue to stay safe,
are here to support you if you have
stay prayerful and stay encouraged.
any issues or concerns. My staff and I are committed to providing
“None of us is as strong as ALL of us”.
our members with the highest quality representation during this difficult time. We are rising to the challenges that this virus presents for our members and we are doing everything we can to protect ALL of
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Debra Simmons-Peterson President
A Message From the Vice President Throughout the COVID-19 pandemic Teamsters Local 743 has been at the forefront to represent and protect our members. We have provided member appreciation lunches, we have conducted contract ratification votes by mail, and have held grievances and Labor Management meetings via Zoom conference to ensure continuity in the representation of our members. Teamsters Local 743 is a unique Union that cares about all our members. We provide resources and information for a variety of needs outside of the workplace to improve the lives of our members and their families. Local 743 is committed to protecting our members rights and jobs in the workplace. To ensure our members continue to have the necessary resources and training, Teamsters Local 743 has been conducting stewards trainings via Zoom conference. On June 15, 2020, Teamsters Local 743 held its first General Membership meeting via Zoom conference. Many members joined the meeting who would not have been able to attend the meeting in person. We have also conducted several departmental meetings with our members via Zoom conference. We continue to be creative in our representation and connection to our members in these unprecedented times. Teamsters Local 743 will continue to be “The Union That Cares”. In Solidarity,
Robin Sullivan
BEAUTIFUL MEMORIES SILENTLY KEPT, OF ONES THAT WE LOVED AND WILL NEVER FORGET. LOCAL 743 MOURNS THE RECENT PASSING OF THE FOLLOWING MEMBERS.
LEATHER MOSS
SPAGNOLIA TART
BRITTANY POOLE
GILDA CRANSHAW
We mourn the passing of Teamster Local 743 member
We mourn the passing of Teamster Local 743
We mourn the passing of of Teamster Local 743
We mourn the passing of Teamster Local 743 member
who died from Coronavirus, Ms. Leather Moss.
Member Spagnolia (Spag) Tart.
member Brittany Poole. Sister Poole worked in the
Gilda Cranshaw.
Sister Moss was a Patient Transport Specialist at the
Brother Tart worked at Rush University Medical
Food Service Department at the University of
University of Chicago Medical Center.
Center in the EVS Department for 10 years.
Chicago Medical Center for 12 years.
President Simmons and the
President Debra Simmons-
entire Local 743 Executive Board and Staff would like to
Peterson and the entire Local 743 Executive Board
President Simmons and the entire Local 743 Executive Board extends
extend their condolences to the family of Sister Moss and
extends their heartfelt sympathy to the family of
their deepest sympathies to the family of Sister
to the members at UCMC.
Brother Tart and the entire RUMC Family.
Poole and the entire UCMC Family.
FRED OCASIO
Sister Cranshaw was a CNA and Union Steward at Beacon Care Center in Chicago.
President Simmons and the entire Local 743 Executive Board would like to extend their condolences to the family of sister Cranshaw and to the members at Beacon Care.
We mourn the passing of
We mourn the passing of
Teamster Local 743 member and US Veteran, Fred Ocasio.
Teamster Local 743 member Deborah Perkins. The 57
Brother Ocasio suffered a heart attack during the COVID-19
year old was employed as a CNA at Countryside since
crisis. He was a member for 21 years and a Local 743 member
March of 2018. Admired as a sweet woman and a solid
for the last four years. President Simmons and the
co-worker, Local 743 sends their deepest condolences
Local 743 Executive Board express their condolences.
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DEBORAH PERKINS
and prayers to her family.
HEALTH & WELFARE ADMINISTRATION As the Administrator for the Local 743 Health and Welfare Fund, I am available to offer assistance Open enrollment season is a 30- with educating members, day period when employees may providing proper enrollment forms and Plan Benefit elect or change their health Summaries, answering questions insurance benefit options available through their employer. and helping members through the process of open enrollment.
What is open enrollment?
Basically, Open Enrollment is your once-a-year chance to sign up for health insurance. If you miss this window, you have to wait until the next Open Enrollment period to enroll. The Local 743 Health and Welfare Fund will be conducting open enrollment this year from mid-November through midDecember for calendar year benefits starting January 1, 2021.
Due to the current, ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, I may not be able to visit individual worksites this year in person to assist members with open enrollment. Please feel free to contact me by phone at 773-299-1776 or by email at csalamone@teamsterslocal743.com
UNION STEWARD TIPS & RESOURCES TIPS FOR HELPING MEMBERS DURING INVESTIGATORY INTERVIEWS Q. A worker was called for an interview and asked if she saw another employee committing an unsafe act. Did she have a right to demand union representation?
A.
Yes, if she had a reasonable fear that her failure to timely report the incident could lead to her own discipline. For example, the company may have a published rule requiring workers to promptly notify supervisors when they observe safety infractions.
Q.
Can a worker who is instructed to undergo a drug screen insist on bringing a union steward to the test?
A. Yes. In a 2015 decision (Manhattan Beer Distributors), the NLRB said that an employer must allow a representative to attend a drug test to insure that the screener follows proper protocols.
Q. If a worker is called at home and questioned about an on-the-job accident, can he decline to answer until he has an opportunity to consult with his steward?
Quite often, Local 743 members are unfamiliar with their contract language and concepts of benefit offerings.
A.
Yes. Weingarten rights apply to phone calls from management. Christine Salamone Local 743 Health & Welfare Administrator
The Teamster Difference Debra McCaa is a Patient Case Specialist for the University of Chicago Medical Center, and also a Steward for Teamsters Local 743. She believes the Teamsters union empowers workers, creates a sense of pride & unity among members, and fights to make sure they're treated fairly.
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CHIEF STEWARD SPOTLIGHT Our Stewards work extremely hard to enforce collective agreements, hold bosses accountable and ensure proper member entitlements. In this issue, we’re acknowledging the four Local 743 Chief Stewards that go above & beyond for their fellow members and co-workers.
Barbara Young
Seantki Vassel - Jackson
Steve Bailey
Jazzium Gregory
Barbara is a 22 year employee of the RUMC, and
Seantki is a 20 year employee of the RUMC, and a dedicated
Steve is an 18 year employee of the University of Chicago
Jazzium is a 21 year employee of the University of Chicago
a dedicated Chief Steward for 18 months. Although the
Chief Steward for 8 months. She emphasizes how
Medicine, a dedicated steward for 12 years and a Chief
Medicine. She has been a dedicated steward for 6 years
role can be stressful, she highlights that it’s quite
important it is the have patience, proper time
Steward for 18 months. He’s very knowledgeable regarding
and a Chief Steward for 2 months. She was an advocate
rewarding. Most importantly, she aspires to listen before
management and effective delegation skills to perform her
the contract and employee policies. Steve has been a
for the Union for many years before becoming a Union
speaking, show empathy and thoroughly understand
role to the best of her ability. “This job takes true dedication,
devoted Union member and a leader from the time he first
Steward, and has always gone out of her way to help her co-
the CBA & Code of Conduct.
and knowledge of operations.”
became a union member.
workers understand policies.
BECOME A MEMBER TODAY! JOINT COUNCIL 25 WOMEN'S COMMITTEE
Tracy ReedBowers
At the November 2019 Executive Board Meeting, the Joint Council 25 Women’s Committee board unanimously voted to elect Tracy Reed-Bowers President, Lesley Tuton Secretary Treasurer, and Lisa Beecher Recording Secretary for the 2020-2022 term.
I am truly honored to have been elected President of The Teamsters Joint Council 25 Women’s Committee. Having held the positions of Recording Secretary, Secretary Treasurer and now President, I am a prime example as to how this committee promote and cultivates leadership opportunities for Teamster women. I know that I have big shoes to fill and I promise that I will give it my all. Time to Renew your Membership! In an effort to streamline the renewal process, we encourage members to renew their memberships in January of each year. To renew, download the membership form HERE and return it to the Teamsters Joint Council 25 Women's Committee office. You can also renew by clicking on the PayPal link on the homepage. 9 | www.teamsterslocal743.com 7 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
Mail form to: 4620 South Tripp Chicago, IL 60632 We accept credit cards PH: 773-220-9893 via PayPal via the website www.teamsterwomen.com
Georgetta Davis Local 743 Board Trustee Battles COVID-19 On The Front Lines I wake up every morning happy and ready to go to work. Once I get there, it s a bit overwhelming. We don t have all of our people. We are short-staffed, and I m working with a lot of people who are scared. Like so many other front line essential workers, managing the ever-changing environment and hazards of COVID-19 has been a struggle for Georgetta Davis, a Union Steward and Unit Clerk of 33 years at Rush University Medical Center and Local 743 Board Trustee. I find myself working two units at once most of the time, and as the front runners of the hospital, we are the lifeblood to many other departments and procedures. Having suffered through many personal and professional losses during this pandemic crisis, Georgetta has consistently encouraged the strength and perseverance of her co-workers and Local 743 members. We are all in this together. And, we will get through it if we stay strong for one another, continue to wear proper PPE and be as positive as we can be right now. With PPE shortages being a major issue for many front line workers, Georgetta gives much credit to Local 743 President Debra Simmons-Peterson for her persistence with management and executives at Rush University Medical Center to get more supplies to those workers who need them. Overall our Union has been for the people - wholeheartedly. Many things were fought for, including Hazard Pay, and not everything was a win, but it was important for our members to know that President Simmons-Peterson was on it, and communicated consistently to service the members.
Local 743 President Debra Simmons-Peterson released a statement expressing, “I feel it is irresponsible to remove or reduce these hospital services on the South Side of Chicago”. The Emergency Room at Provident Hospital services over 30,000 patients a year and provides inpatient and outpatient services to over 100,000 patients, and proposing to shut down these facilities does not fall in line with a commitment to integrated care. “Our communities will not survive if there is a further reduction in healthcare services, especially amidst the Covid-19 Pandemic”, says President Simmons-Peterson. “Now is not the time to remove critical resources from the people who are most vulnerable and most at risk”.
Mercy Hospital Members Gather To Oppose Local Closings Concerned Local 743 members gathered recently to oppose the closure of Mercy Hospital in early 2021, as well as the proposed cuts to crucial services at Provident Hospital.
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Teamsters Local 743 has over 250 members employed at Mercy Hospital and 63 members employed at Provident Hospital. On September 10, 2020, Teamsters Local 743 along with the support of fellow healthcare worker unions, is hosting a car caravan parade to advocate to keep Mercy and Provident Hospitals open. We cordially invite everyone to attend. Get more info at teamsterslocal743.com
GRIEVANCES & ARBITRATIONS Local 743 is celebrating a few of the victories for our grievants, stewards and staff! It is always our goal to find justice for our members, protect their benefits, secure back-pay, fight for better wages, win arbitration cases, and more.
The Grievant, Company and Union have entered into a settlement agreement resolving the grievance filed. Jose Silva was the Union Rep for this grievance. It was filed on July 30, 2019 and the matter fully and finally resolved May 4, 2020.
Local 743 filed and won an election petition to represent the library student clerks working at the University of Chicago’s libraries. From 2017 to 2018, the University challenged the election results but the challenges were denied by the NLRB. Ultimately, the Union was able to process two Unfair Labor Practice charges and the University agreed to engage in bargaining. Congrats UOC clerks!
Charges have been filed and processed in May 2019, disputing the Employer’s refusal to bargain over subject matters pertaining to the Employer’s relocation. Region 13 of the NLRB has issued a complaint over the such refusal and has scheduled a hearing in this matter to begin on August 18, 2020 absent a settlement before that.
Charges were filed concerning Claridge’s refusal to execute the CBA. The Board issued a default decision ordering the Employer to execute the CBA and give retroactive effect to its terms. In addition, it must make employees whole for any losses associated with its failure to execute the CBA. The Parties agreed to a bilateral settlement agreement, but Claridge still failed to comply. The matter was picked up again and decided by the Board.
Stewards You Should Know Dawn & Patricia work tirelessly to ensure proper representation in their respective areas at work, including being active and visible during important contract ratifications. Dawn Cook and Patrice Poynter,
In Dawn Cook s case, she
both Housekeeping Assistants and
even required the assistance
Union Stewards in the EVS
of a cane. But that didn t
department, are dedicated to
slow her down or discourage
helping their co-workers in any
her from doing what needed
area they can.
to be done.
Recently, during a contract
These women work well as a
DAWN COOK
ratification vote at UCMC, these
team to represent their co-
PATRICE POYNTER
Housekeeping Asst. III Environmental Services
ladies walked the halls before,
workers to the fullest. They
during and after their shifts,
deserve to be saluted!
Housekeeping Asst. IV Environmental Services
providing guidance and support.
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Thanks Dawn and Patrice.
LOCAL 743 NEWS & COMMENTARIES
Dear Brothers and Sisters: Who would have ever thought that this cycle would come full circle?
Robert May Director of Field Services The spread of the coronavirus is challenging Unions to rethink their approach to training as government mandated travel bans, telework and social distancing have prohibited the traditional in-person training. With no vaccine in sight, we are looking at different approaches to training for our union stewards. The Union is in the process of creating online training modules to ensure our stewards are given the proper tools to represent their members. Our goal is to have virtual sessions that will create structured learning. We are also looking into developing ways to bring members closer to the contract and get their feedback with biweekly zoom chats or livestream Q&A’s. The hope is that this will lead to conversations that build solidarity and show members that the employer is responsible for workplace safety. Our responsibility is to hold the employer accountable. Look for updates soon. 11 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
Where we would all be on an equal playing field no matter the colors of our skin, or socio-economic status. Covid-19. Black Lives Matter. Protests. Riots. Killings. So many crippling and polarizing events have mesmerized us and left us asking ‘what is happening’? Did we fall asleep at the wheel or did we just take everything for granted?
James Thomas
Many of us have lost loved ones and friends… some of them way before their time.We’ve all been mentally and spiritually tested. We’ve done some soul-searching, and we realize it’s time to do a better job at taking care of ourselves and each other.
“Will you be part
As the world tries to return to some form of normalcy, this is the time to RESET, RE-EVALUATE and RESTART.
Secretary-Treasurer
of the problem, or part of the solution…”
This is the challenge to us all: What will you do differently? Will you be part of the problem, or part of the solution, in a world where nothing is promised.
Black Swan employees receive well-deserved rewards for their hard work On the May 15, 2020 pay date, all Black Swan employees received a big welcoming surprise, after weeks of stalled negotiations. Employees finally received an approximate 20% bonus added to their paychecks and the potential for more in the future. According to the company, “Everyone is working hard during these hard times and we felt this bonus was appropriate.” The employees were very happy with the outcome, and are currently planning on how to use their bonus monies at a time of great need.
Congrats Black Swan employees! Continue to work hard and reap the rewards you deserve. 10 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
LOCAL 743 SUCCESS STORIES Ronnie Bynum: Grievance victory at UCMC Ronnie Bynum (Patient Transportation Specialist) is a 16-year employee at the University of Chicago Medical Center who, with the help and persistence of his Union, was victorious with his grievance. Ronnie Bynum has this to say about Teamsters Local 743: “President Debra Simmons-Peterson and my Union Representative Robin Sullivan fought hard on my behalf - they never gave up. I am very grateful to have a Union that works hard and fights for their members”.
Discrepancies with company documents leads to reinstatement Gerald Thompson, a Housekeeper at Mercy Hospital, was terminated in April 2020 for allegedly having four (4) incidents of ‘No Call No Show’. A grievance was filed the same day by Michele Brewer on his behalf. His termination grievance was heard in two parts by Union Reps Precious Morris and James Thomas on May 12th and May 15th. After the Union pointed out discrepancies with company’s documents, it was determined that Mr. Thompson would be reinstated and made whole from April 2020.
Undocumented company findings leads to reinstatement with back pay Donta Walton, Security for Community Care Center, was terminated in May 2020. A grievance was filed immediately on his behalf by Steward Timothy Myatt. During the grievance hearing, held May 29th, the Union Rep, Precious Morris, pointed out several discrepancies and undocumented findings in Donta’s file. On June 1st, the company agreed to bring Donta back to work with back pay, where he will be able to return in early June 2020.
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LOCAL 743 SUCCESS STORIES Clements National closes its doors after 50 years After almost 50 years in Chicago, Clements National permanently closed on May 31, 2020. This news was extra devastating to those families employed there since there were a lot of married couples, brothers, sisters, cousins and in-laws, all working under the same roof. Even though there was no severance package in the current contract, President Debra Simmons-Peterson instructed the Business Agents to negotiate and demand a fair severance for our members. The union negotiated, among other benefits, vacation pay, 20 weeks of severance pay, and all banked sick days to be paid out. Local 743 will also be committed to helping these members find work at other Local 743 shops.
Capitol Carton Deal Finally Reached Gabriel Arzate, union steward from Capitol Carton, worked tirelessly to make sure his co-workers received the raises they deserved after 7 long months of negotiations.
New Union Steward Catches Company Error Joan Stanley, a new Union Steward at Aperion Tolleston Park, caught a huge error. The company tried to delete the weekend premiums that are outlined in the contract. Now, the company has to pay retro back to January 2020. Excellent job in staying diligent and informed, Joan. We need amazing Stewards like you to keep Employers in line and held accountable. Keep up the good work!
The union was able to get wage increases higher than they ever had. They will also get improvements on their retirement plan. One of the biggest issues members had was the temporary employees and now they will be part of the bargaining unit as well. Kudos to Gabriel for all his hard work!
Local 743 ratifies agreement with RTC Recent Ratifications to the RTC contract include a 3 ½ month extension with a $400 bonus. In addition, 2 issues that were reached in negotiations will take effect immediately. The Cycle Counting department (which never gets overtime) will now be included in the production list for overtime. The company will now hire direct and not through a temp agency. Those hired will be on probation for a 90-day period.
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KNOW YOUR UNION REPRESENTATIVES HOW TO CONTACT US: PRECIOUS MORRIS pmorris@teamsterslocal743.com PH: 773-299-1794 JULITA BARRIOS jbarrios@teamsterslocal743.com PH: 773-299-1781 “Since I'm a new union representative, my only challenge is to learn every aspect of my job and trying to keep up!”
What have been some of your biggest challenges?
“Seeing the immigrant community afraid to speak up about a grievance because they are afraid of getting ICE called on them.”
“Bon Appetit. Greyhound. Con Global. Munster Med Inn, South Shore & Aperion.”
Name a few of the job sites you represent.
“All Waukegan shops, Claridge Nursing Home, Engineered Glass, Bagcraft, RTC.”
"None of us are as strong as all of us!"
Give us your favorite quote.
“Injustice anywhere is a threat to
justice everywhere.”
“Organizing and growing our membership. Educating & empowering our members.”
Where do you see yourself in four (4) years?
“Senior Representative. Increase Hispanic Caucus Committee members.”
“Members have been on the front line from day one. It is hard to hear some of the stories. It has been an emotional roller coaster for us ALL.”
How has COVID-19 affected you and your members?
I personally lost a close friend and several members to COVID. Our immigrant community has suffered as they are unable to collect any government assistance like the stimulus check, unemployment, etc.
“Very family orientated. The "spoiled" baby of the family. I’m also the world’s greatest daughter, sister, aunt, cousin, niece and friend.”
Tell us a little about your family life?
“I have 4 daughters, 1 son, 2 granddaughters. My husband and I coach multiple soccer teams (our second family) and we love to dance and play cards.”
Joint Council 25 Essential Workers Series When the COVID-19 Pandemic first hit Chicago, Rush University Medical Center Patient Care Technicians Catina Reed and Aisha Slaughter were designated to work on COVID-19 units, taking care of patients battling the virus. With Teamsters Local 743 behind them, the PCT s at Rush were able to acquire the PPE that keeps them safe as they spend their days taking care of COVID-19 patients.
Teamsters
Joint Council No. 25 is recognizing the hard work of Members deemed essential workers during the COVID-19 Pandemic. Original article here. 13 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
SUPERIOR SERVICE. GREAT RESULTS. Howard Ankin has consistently supported Local 743 Members by attending Monthly General Membership Meetings and providing legal advice and important information about workers compensation. Recently, the firm generously donated over 2000 facemasks to Local 743 Frontline Healthcare Workers. Ankin Law is dedicated to helping Local 743 Members with their personal injury claims. Local 743 Members can obtain free, confidential telephone consultations by calling 312-600-0000.
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UCMC EMERGENCY ROOM & ENDOSCOPY TECHNICIANS VOTE UNANIMOUSLY TO JOIN TEAMSTERS LOCAL 743 Chicago, Ill. – In a unanimous vote Tuesday, over fifty Emergency Room
bargaining unit voted to join Teamsters Local 743, making the decision
support of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters, and
and Endoscopy Technicians at University of Chicago Medical Center
unanimous. The new members said they were feeling disrespected by
Teamsters Joint Council Organizers Pasquale Gianni and Eduardo Farrera.
(UCMC) on Chicago’s South Side elected to join Teamsters Local 743.
management and were not being paid for the high level of stress involved in
Gianni said he hopes more healthcare workers see the benefits of unionizing
The unit joins the growing number of healthcare professionals choosing to
their jobs. Local 743 Organizer Denise Stiger said the Emergency Room
to protect their rights.
join Local 743.
Technicians sought out Local 743 because they saw the gains the union
“We are thrilled to welcome this group into the Teamster family,” said Local 743 President Debra Simmons-
fought for while representing some of their UCMC co-workers.
Peterson. “We’ve seen how Covid-19 has rocked the healthcare world, and
“This group has a very stressful job. UCMC sees a lot of victims of
put employees at odds with managers over safety and pay. We want our new
Chicago’s gun violence and individuals involved in severe car accidents. You
brothers and sisters to know we will be
add a pandemic to that, and they’re dealing with a lot more stress, a lot
fighting for them every step of the way to receive the wages and benefits they deserve, and to make sure the hospital is doing everything in its power to ensure the safety of these members.”
more danger. They felt it was the right time to join a powerful union like the Teamsters,” said Stiger.
Sending a clear message of strength
Stiger organized the group with the help of UCMC Clerical Steward Debra
and unity, every member of the
McCaa. Stiger & McCaa also had the
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“These workers sent a loud and clear message to UCMC that they deserve better,“ Gianni said. “Hopefully this is the first of many in a wave of healthcare workers asserting their voices in the workplace, via union representation, in the age of Covid-19.”
Teamsters Local 743 represents more than 6,000 healthcare workers at various hospitals and clinics in the Chicago area. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters Health Care Division represents more than 50,000 healthcare worker nationwide.
Original Article Source: Jake Berent Communications Director Teamsters Joint Council 25
LOCAL 743 BOARD TRUSTEES Local 743 gives sincere thanks and appreciation to our recently retired Executive Board Trustees. Your hard work, dedication and perseverance were an intricate part of our Union’s success and victories. Enjoy your retirements, ladies. It is well-deserved!
BEVERLY SISSON Beverly was a Local 743 member for four decades at the Rush University Medical Center. She was elected to the Local 743 Executive Board as a Trustee and served from January 2014 to December 2019.
GOLEEN BRADLEY Goleen served as Local 743 Recording Secretary & Trustee under President Simmons-Peterson from January 2014 to December 2019. She was also a decades-long employee of the Central States Pension Fund and the Recording Secretary of the Chicago Chapter of the Teamsters National Black Caucus.
2020 Local 743 Fair Share Fee Notice The right by law to belong and participate in a union is a very important right. You also have the right to refrain from becoming an active member by paying a reduced monthly fee to the union. This fair share fee is authorized by law to sustain your Union’s cost for the broad range of programs in support of you and your co-workers that the Union by law is obligated to provide, such as grievance handling, arbitration proceedings, contract negotiations and administration, and other matters relating to your terms and conditions of employment. 16 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
For the certification year of 2020-2021, this fair share cost has been calculated by our accountants to be 83% of total dues. Should you desire to exercise your right to be a nonmember, please notify the Secretary Treasurer of Teamsters Local 743 in writing at 4620 S. Tripp Avenue, Chicago IL 60632 and this rate will be applied to you going forward. As a nonmember, you will not be able to vote on contracts or other matters affecting the Union, attend Union meetings, nominate candidates for office, hold or be a candidate for office, or otherwise enjoy an array of memberonly benefits (death benefits, fire benefits, scholarships, etc.) that are the
rights and privileges of membership accorded only to full Union members. Nonmembers who may also wish to object to the manner in which this calculation was derived and argue that certain expenditures are not germane to the collective bargaining process may do so by notifying the Secretary Treasurer in writing of their desire to object. Upon receipt of your objection, Teamsters Local 743 will provide you with our accountants’ fair share fee report on the fees that are chargeable, non-chargeable, the basis for this calculation, and the procedure for challenging the calculation.
Please continue to take steps to care for yourself and help protect others in your home and community.
We are not out of the woods yet! Stay vigilant! Follow breaking news updates and practice CDC guidelines. If you return to work, continue to protect yourself by doing the following: Know how it spreads Wash your hands often Avoid close contact Cover your mouth & nose Cover coughs & sneezes Clean & disinfect Monitor your daily health
www.SolidarityIsEssential.org
Teamsters.org/Covid-19
Providing information on your legal rights at work, filing complaints with federal and state regulators, and occupational safety and health during the COVID-19.
Daily news & updates closely monitoring the coronavirus pandemic. Website includes factsheets from the Safety & Health Department and more.
www.TeamstersSafety.org The IBT Safety and Health Department continues to provide comprehensive worker safety and health training to our rank-and-file membership.
Keep a mask, tissues, and hand sanitizer with at least 60% alcohol on hand whenever possible.
HELPING LOCAL 743 FAMILIES PLAN FOR THE UPCOMING SCHOOL YEAR
Be sure to visit the CDC & State of Illinois COVID-19 websites for the latest info:
USDA NUTRITION TIPS Teach children the importance of nutrition and physical activity within this “lockdown” environment.
www.cdc.gov coronavirus.illinois.gov
TEAMSTERS FACTS FOR KIDS Take advantage of e-learning opportunities at home by sharing some fun facts about the International Brotherhood of Teamsters and its history.
Click The Links! —> 17 | www.teamsterslocal743.com
PARENTS CHECKLIST Your 2020 back-to-school list for returning to school during COVID-19. This checklist provides students with recommendations, whether in-class or remotely.