WISCONSIN STATE EMPLOYEES UNION Weekly Summary

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LABOR DAY...Monday is a national holiday to recognize working men and women and what they have accomplished in this country.  All of us take great pride in the fact that we have made great advances in economic growth, safety in the workplace, and manageable hours a week.  It seems, however, that all of that has slipped away a bit over the last eight years.  It seems as though the middle class is on the decline.  All of us should take a few minutes on Monday to think about the gains that labor has made and attend local rallies and celebrations recognizing Labor Day.  There are events scheduled in Milwaukee, Green Bay, Janesville, Madison, Fond du Lac, Oshkosh, Eau Claire and LaCrosse.  Throughout the state, there will be public recognition of the gains of working men and women.  All of us need to stand strong and begin to reestablish the working middle class. 

POLITICAL SEASON… With each week, we get closer to the September primaries and the November general election, and the union’s involvement in the political process becomes more important.  By now, you and your local union should be interviewing prospective legislative candidates and incumbents for endorsements.  Our threshold for endorsements is pretty simple.  Basically, “What are you prepared to do to adequately fund state operations and the state public services?”  Throughout the state, the Take Back staff is setting up phone banks, walks and rallies to organize working men and women into an efficient, effective campaign for President of the United States.  We strongly encourage you and your local members to volunteer and engage in these activities.  Without casting gloom and doom, I don’t think we as public employees can sustain another four years of republican control.  Our destinies and futures lie in your activity at the ballot box.  For information about activities in your areas, please consult the SEPAC website (www.wseu-sepac.org) for a calendar of political activities and functions to participate.

STATE BUDGET… We at the council are beginning to have discussions with the Doyle administration about some specific budget initiatives in the 2009-2011 state budget.  State agencies have to have their budget proposals into the Department of Administration by September 15th.  If you are aware of any unusual budget proposals from your worksite or agency, we strongly encourage you to contact your field rep or us at council so we can research it and deal with it.  All of us are functioning under the assumption that the 09-11 budget will have serious revenue problems given the softening of the economy due to the tourism downturn from weather and gas prices.  We will find ourselves working in a pretty dismal economic environment as we enter the 2009-2011 biennial. SCHOLARSHIP TIME....The annual AFSCME Family Scholarship for 2009 has been announced.  Thirteen scholarships of $2,000 (renewable for four years) are awarded to winners meeting the eligibility requirements.  The application deadline is 12/31/08.  Further info:  www.afscme.org/members/880.cfm.

ELECTIONS...You’re probably already tired of hearing about the importance of this fall’s elections.  However, we just don’t have the luxury of being tired.  We need to get involved to make sure that the leaders we elect will begin to take us out of this quagmire economy and build a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.  We must get serious at all levels of these elections.  We cannot allow another candidate to be elected by default.  We all have too much to lose.  It seems scary to us that there is a real possibility that we could have another four years of ineffective, war mongering, cowboy politics.  Now that election season is upon us, candidates are talking about how to fix the problems of energy and economics; skyrocketing health care costs and access to health care; and reverse the trend of foreclosures.  This same politician has been in the U.S. Senate for 28 years and has not done a damn thing.  You, your members, your families and friends must engage to turn the page on the decline of the middle class and move forward a new direction with new leadership.  We can’t sit back and hope others will do it for us.  Please visit the SEPAC website (www.wseu-sepac.org) for a calendar of political activities and functions to participate.  Now is the time!

STATE AFL-CIO CONVENTION...The biennial convention of the Wisconsin State AFL-CIO will be held September 22-23, 2008 at the Wyndham Milwaukee Hotel.  Locals not sending any delegates to this convention are asked to forward signed credentials to the Council so that locals who are attending may carry the votes.  Forward signed credentials to Jana Weaver at the Council.

NEW CONTRACT BOOKS....The printing and binding of our new contract books continues, with a target for fall distribution.  In the next few weeks, local presidents will be asked to direct us as to whether their local will have their contract books mailed individually to members, or if they’d like to pick them up from the Council and handle their own distribution.  Accurate address information is more important than ever.  Locals should be working now on pulling together any address changes and submitting them to Council so that members get this, and other information, on a timely basis.  In addition, it saves money on costly returns.

LABOR DAY CELEBRATIONS...area labor councils are gearing up for the annual Labor Day celebrations, coming up next weekend.  We urge you to check out the activities in your area, and take part in the celebrations.

SCHOLARSHIP TIME....The annual AFSCME Family Scholarship for 2009 has been announced.  Thirteen scholarships of $2,000 (renewable for four years) are awarded to winners meeting the eligibility requirements.  Application deadline is 12/31/08.  Further info:  www.afscme.org/members/880.cfm.

AUGUST 15, 2008

POLITICAL SEASON...We have entered the season of elections and politics.  All levels of election this fall – from the presidential race at the federal level to state assembly - are extremely important to our members, their families and their interests.  As always it is vitally important that our rank and file members and leadership engage in the world of politics.  There are and will be many opportunities for you and your members to become involved in the elections at the federal and/or state levels.  We don’t have the luxury of having any of our local unions “sitting out” these elections.  We absolutely need to elect a president who will change the dynamics of our country, so we can once again enjoy the fruits of the middle class, while not mortgaging the future of our children and grandchildren.  Also critical to our interest is protecting and maintaining the Democratic majority in the state senate, and changing the majority in the state assembly.  Your political action committee, SEPAC, is currently in the process of planning for the fall elections.  All of our local unions need to have face to face contact with all of the candidates for assembly and senate in your area.  Our local unions drive our endorsements and activity in these elections.  We don’t have the same political action funds as the Wisconsin Manufacturers and Commerce or other corporate interests, but more important than that, we have members willing to volunteer.  Each local union should have some kind of political action committee and be fully engaged in politics and the election landscape within your area.  If there are questions, issues or difficulty in getting your local engaged, contact PEL Coordinator Steve Williams (swilliams@wseu-24.org; phone:  608.269.0307).  He will be more than ready to assist in this important process.  We just cannot find ourselves come January, 2009 in position complaining about the horrible way legislators treat us; and the take backs they are proposing.  We have an opportunity to control our own destiny politically.  For important information regarding campaigns at all levels, visit the SEPAC website (wseu-sepac.org).

STANDING COMMITTEES...Just a reminder that all standing committees are starting anew with the President’s appointments.  You must contact President if you wish to be appointed, re-appointed or re-assigned to a different committee.  There are no automatic appointments.  Make contact before 8/20/08.  These are the Council’s standing committees:  Education; Grievance; Scholarship; Joint Health & Safety; LTE Abuse; Organizing; Outsourcing; SEPAC; and Retirement.  You may reach President McLinn at 608.836.0024, ext. 128; or at bmclinn@wseu-24.org.

AUGUST 7, 2008

COUNCIL 24’s CONVENTION...Since the last Weekly Summary, Council 24 has wrapped up its annual convention, which included election of table officers.  The following members were elected/re-elected as follows:
            President – Bob McLinn, Local 18; Vice President – Paulette Feld, Local 579;
            Secretary – Jeff Johnson, Local 2748; Treasurer – Larry Lautenschlager, Local 48.
They are joined on the executive board by the following individuals and the units they represent:
AS Unit – LaCretia Moss, Local 91; Mary Czynszak-Lyne, Local 2412.
BC Unit – Barb Peters, Local 171; John Gast, Local 383.
PSS Unit –Amy Huss, Tom Corcoran, Local 2748.
SPS Unit – Ron McAllister, Local 6; Todd Wetzel, Local 178; Jon Patzlsberger, Local 3394.
Tech Unit – Gerry Zastrow, Local 584; Ken Weaver, Local 758.
Congratulations once again to all of these dedicated members.
            In addition to the elections, delegates to the Council convention also adopted a couple of resolutions setting policy for our union for the upcoming year.  At the end of the day, it was a sign of the strength and solidarity of our union.  

FALLEN HEROES FUND...In keeping with a previous convention resolution regarding public service, we held a special collection for the AFSCME Fallen Heroes Fund at our convention to further assist AFSCME members who suffered from the recent floods in the Midwest.  The collection yielded $1,440.  A further contribution was made by Executive Board member Ken Weaver, Local 758, who donated his $250 PEOPLE prize winnings to the fund; making the grand total $1,690.  Council 24 will match this amount and remit to the AFSCME Fallen Heroes Fund for further disaster relief.  If there are individuals or locals still wishing to contribute, it is not too late, you are strongly encouraged to do so.  To date, more than 80 Council 24 members have received flood assistance from this fund.

STANDING COMMITTEES...With the convention and election of officers, President McLinn is asking that anyone wanting to either continue to serve on a standing committee, or to be a new appointment to any committee make a direct request to him.  Each committee will start anew with a blank slate – so whether you want to be reappointed; to make a change; or to receive a brand new appointment – all need to express that request to President McLinn before 8/20/08.  These are the Council’s standing committees:  Education; Grievance; Scholarship; Joint Health & Safety; LTE Abuse; Organizing; Outsourcing; SEPAC; and Retirement.  You may reach President McLinn at 608.836.0024, ext. 128; or at bmclinn@wseu-24.org.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION… Our convention was immediately followed by the International Convention, from July 28-August 1 in San Francisco.  Elections also occurred here, and President McEntee and Secretary-Treasurer Lucy were both reelected to 4-year terms; along with Council 40’s Mike Murphy as Wisconsin’s IVP.  A series of constitutional amendments and well over 100 resolutions were adopted setting policy of the International Union and its subordinate bodies for the next two years.  Council 24 was well represented at this convention, both in terms of delegates and in terms of convention committee appointments.  On Thursday, 7/31, Janet Ramsey of Local 1942 was featured as a presenter to the convention delegation regarding her activity as a Volunteer Member Organizer.  All of Council 24’s delegation was very proud of her, and the other members of Council 24 who played an active role at this convention.  Comparatively, for a Council our size, we continue to have tremendous impact at the International Union level – which is a credit to our members; their dedication, commitment and hard work.

July 18, 2008

CONVENTION SEASON!

COUNCIL 24’S CONVENTION...opens with registration opens at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 7/23.  Delegates will be busy with resolutions impacting direction of the Council for the coming year, as well as election of table officers.  In addition, Governor Doyle will address the delegation.  Once the official business is over, the Bay Beach picnic will occur on Wednesday and on Thursday evening we’ll bring it all together with a Mardi Gras celebration. 

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…right on the heels of our Council convention comes the International Convention in San Francisco, during the week of July 28th.  Council 24 has a large delegation planning to attend where they will consider resolutions and debate the future direction of the International Union, as well as elect general officers and the executive board. 

Due to all this convention activity, there will be no Weekly Summary for the next TWO weeks.  We’ll provide a full re-cap of both conventions in the August 8th edition.  Please also note that Council offices will be closed on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday, July 22-24 because all staff will be in attendance at the Green Bay convention.  If you should have an emergency and need to reach staff from the union, call the Hotel Sierra at 414.432.4555 and ask for the AFSCME Council 24 Convention Office.

SUPREME COURT...last week our state Supreme Court blew a $275 million hole in the state budget when, led by “Gut Check” Judge Ziegler, they ruled that taxing corporations for software purchases was unconstitutional.  If you think this is bad, wait till Judge Gabelman gets on the bench.  These Supreme Court races are important and have tremendous impact on state operations and the workers we represent.  Stay tuned.

 July 11, 2008

MAJOR ORGANIZING VICTORY...Recently we scored a huge win on the Maintenance of Membership drive within Local 1942.  This win means that every bargaining unit now has fairshare protection from free-riders.  The next focus will be to sign the fairshare fee payers up as members.  We congratulate Local 1942, especially Janet Ramsey, and Council 24’s Organizing Committee for putting this excellent campaign together.

COUNCIL 24 CONVENTION...is approaching July 23-25 in Green Bay.  Delegates will be receiving their advance packets in the coming days.  Packets contain copies of proposed constitutional amendments and resolutions to be acted upon, as well as workshop and other convention-related information.  Please note that registration opens at 8:00 a.m. on Wednesday, 7/23 and closes at 10:00 a.m. on Thursday, 7/24.  We have Bay Beach planned for Wednesday evening and the theme of Thursday night’s party is Mardi Gras.  Get those costumes ready!

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…It’s not too late to make sure your local is represented.  Important decisions will be made this year about the election of a vice president representing Wisconsin, as well as significant decisions on the direction of the International Union.  Local unions not sending delegates are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org, if you wish for your local’s voted to be carried by another delegate.  Lynn can provide information about how to elect another delegate for that purpose.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Tuesday, 7/22, KI Convention Center, Green Bay.

FLOOD VICTIMS...just a reminder that the International Union has reopened the “Fallen Heroes Fund” to collect and disperse money to flood affected members in the Midwest.  Members or locals are urged to contribute by sending a check to:  AFSCME Fallen Heroes Fund, 1625 L St., NW, Washington DC  20036.  Already dozens of your brothers and sisters in Council 24 have registered for flood relief – proof that your contributions benefit us right here at home.

CONTRACT...New rates and retroactivity payments will appear on your Thursday, 7/3 paychecks.  Please look carefully to make sure your retro amount is accurate.  Questions or problems should be reported to your field representative.  We are in the final proofreading process with the contract and hope to have the document at the printer within the next couple of weeks.

 COUNCIL 24 CONVENTION...is approaching July 23-25 in Green Bay.  Locals are urged to send credential forms in ASAP so that their delegates will receive the advance packet of convention information, resolutions and proposed amendments, which will be mailed in early July.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org, if you wish for your local’s voted to be carried by another delegate.  Lynn can provide information about how to elect another delegate for that purpose.
Locals who ARE sending delegates are asked to forward a listing of your local delegation to Lynn (lmegonigle@wseu-24.org) at the Council.

JULY 4TH HOLIDAY...In observance of the holiday, all Council offices will be closed on Friday, 7/4.  There will be no Weekly Summary – so watch for the next edition on 7/11.
COMMITTEE MEETING...Education, 7/9; Council 24.

June 20, 2008

FLOOD VICTIMS...our thoughts and prayers are with the citizens and our members who incurred huge losses and significant damage to their homes and personal property during the recent flooding disaster.  The International Union has reopened the “Fallen Heroes Fund” to collect and disperse money to affected members in the Midwest.  The International has made an initial contribution of $100,000 and Councils and Locals are beginning to contribute as well.  The International also has a “strike team” currently in the Midwest dealing with AFSCME members’ issues.  We know that with losses in the billions of dollars, whatever the union can do is a drop in the bucket, nonetheless we are prepared to do as much as we can.  Any member or local wanting to contribute can do so by sending a check to:  AFSCME Fallen Heroes Fund, 1625 L St., NW, Washington DC  20036.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org, if you wish for your local’s voted to be carried by another delegate.  Lynn can provide information about how to elect another delegate for that purpose.
           
Locals who ARE sending delegates are asked to forward a listing of your local delegation to Lynn (lmegonigle@wseu-24.org) at the Council.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences.  Application deadline is 7/1/08.  Further info:  www.afscme.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 6/27 - Council 24.

June 12, 2008

BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…Just as we put the 07-09 contract “to bed”, we elected new bargaining team members for the 09-11 contract this week. The results of those bargaining team elections are as follows.
AS Unit - Jan Banicki, Local 13; Ann Capadona, Local 68; Cecelia Lewandowski, Local 82; Susan Raasch, Local 579; Gary Mitchell, Local 2412.
BC Unit - Vern Seay, Local 1; Mike Will, Local 126; Barb Peters, Local 171; Paul Walton, Local 1131; Jack Connell, Local 1914.
PSS Unit -Bill Brockmiller, Tom Corcoran, Amy Huss, Dave Kopplin, Laura Welle, all Local 2748.
SPS Unit - Julie Peters, Local 15; Jason Wenzel, Local 18; Ron Keenan, Local 104; Marty Kehrein, Local 333; Russ Wilson, Local 1215.
Tech Unit - Vicky Ruppert, Local 13; Karen Borst, Local 48; Randy Brink, Local 171; Cathy Horenberger, Local 634; Scott Plaster, Local 1218.

In addition, at these bargaining unit conferences, the five units also elected their Council 24 executive board members for the 09-11 term. The results of those elections are:
AS Unit - LaCretia Moss, Local 91; Mary Czynszak-Lyne, Local 2412.
BC Unit - Barb Peters, Local 171; John Gast, Local 333.
PSS Unit -Amy Huss, Jeff Johnson, Local 2748.
SPS Unit - Ron McAllister, Local 6; Todd Wetzel, Local 178; Jon Patzlsberger, Local 3394.
Tech Unit - Gerry Zastrow, Local 584; Ken Weaver, Local 758.

We congratulate all of these elected leaders, and look forward to working with them as we continue the work of representing our members.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org, if you wish for your local’s voted to be carried by another delegate. Lynn can provide information about how to elect another delegate for that purpose.

Locals who ARE sending delegates are asked to forward a listing of your local delegation to Lynn (lmegonigle@wseu-24.org) at the Council.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences. Application deadline is 7/1/08. Further info: www.afscme.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 6/27 - Council 24.

June 5, 2008

 CONTRACTS…The Governor signed our contracts on Monday, 6/2, with an effective date of Sunday, 6/8.  According to the Compensation Bureau, the contracts will be implemented in pay period 14, which runs June 8 to June 21, and any lump-sum payments will be included in the July 3 paycheck.   There has been a lot of misinformation and inaccurate reporting by some incompetent media sources in the State of Wisconsin regarding these contracts.  First, neither the legislature, nor the Governor, amended these contracts in any way.  Second, you will receive a 2% wage adjustment effective 7/1/07 and a 1% wage adjustment effective 6/28/08.  Various market adjustments for affected classes will occur in October; and then your 2% wage increase will occur 6/28/09.  Now, 2 +1 + 2 = 5; and 2 + 2 + 1 = 5; so how does the media interpret that you have lost any money in this deal?  The actual savings of $25 million across all state employees occurs because the 2% in June of 2009 only applies to a couple of days during the current  biennium and the majority of the cost is shifted to the 09-11 biennium budget.  In essence, a $25 million  savings in the 07-09 budget.  We don’t want to confuse you any more than you already may be; however these are the straight facts.  You will see them play out as your pay adjustments are implemented over the course of contract.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org, if you wish for your local’s voted to be carried by another delegate.  Lynn can provide information about how to elect another delegate for that purpose.

Locals who ARE sending delegates are asked to forward a listing of your local delegation to Lynn (lmegonigle@wseu-24.org) at the Council.

EVENT CANCELLATION ...Labor’s Baseball night on Friday, 6/20/08 at Carson Park in Eau Claire has been cancelled  due to lack of labor support by team ownership.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences.  Application deadline is 7/1/08.  Further info:  www.afscme.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
            Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
            Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 6/27 - Council 24.

May 29, 2008

CONTRACTS…The legislature completed their ratification of our contracts on Wednesday, 5/28. The Senate approved the contracts with two dissenting votes - Glen Grothman (West Bend); and Mary Lazich (New Berlin). The contracts then went to the Assembly and were approved, again with two consistent “no” votes - Robin Vos (Racine); and Leah Vukmir (Wauwatosa). No reason was given by any of these legislators as to why they voted in opposition; however they were clearly in the minority as the contracts passed with overwhelming support in both houses. The last step is the Governor’s signature, which will occur on Monday, 6/2 at 12:30 p.m. As yet, we do not have a solid date for the issuance of the retroactive compensation checks, but the best guess is early July. Many thanks to the bargaining team members for their perseverance, patience, and hard work as well as to all of you for your support and legislative pressure for approval of the contracts. Contract language changes are available on Council 24’s website, as well as the OSER website.

After approving our contracts, legislators finally went home until the January session. There is much work to be done between now and then to protect our interests in the November elections.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials (signed by president and secretary) to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME...Local 122 is organizing “Turn it Green” baseball night on Friday, 6/20/08 at Carson Park in Eau Claire. The game features the Eau Claire Express vs. the Wisconsin Woodchucks, gates open at 5:30 p.m., game at 6:30. General admission - $5; fan deck - $25. Pay at the gate on game day. Please notify your local leadership if you plan to attend; and wear your AFSCME green t-shirt! Please contact your field rep if you need further info.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences. Application deadline is 7/1/08. Further info: www.afscme.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 5/30 - Council 24.

May 23, 2008

MEMORIAL DAY...Monday marks our country’s annual observance of Memorial Day. Whatever your plans include for this first “official” weekend of summer, please take a few moments to pay tribute in some way to the brave women and men who have given their lives in defense of our country, our freedom, and our very way of life. In observance of the holiday, all Council offices will be closed on Monday, 5/26.

CONTRACTS…Our contracts are scheduled before the legislature’s Joint Committee on Employment Relations on Tuesday, 5/27, in the afternoon. They will then proceed to the full houses of the legislature on Wednesday, 5/28, with the Senate taking them up first. There is a distinct possibility the Governor may sign them on Thursday, 5/29; however this is not certain at this time. What is certain is that legislative ratification occur on Tuesday and Wednesday. There has been no negative pushback from legislators. However, this is not to say that you should not contact them and encourage them to do the right thing on your collective bargaining agreements. That contact will also give you another opportunity to decide whether or not your respective legislator should be endorsed by this union in the fall elections.

Just a reminder that bargaining teams have now returned to work and their e-mail accounts are no longer being monitored; nor is the toll-free bargaining hotline. Anyone needing further information is urged to contact their local steward, officers, or field representative.

INTERNATIONAL CONVENTION…Local unions not sending delegates to this summer’s International Convention in San Francisco are asked to contact and/or forward your credentials to Council 24 to the attention of Lynn Megonigle (608-836-0024, ext. 129); or lmegonigle@wseu-24.org.

TAKE ME OUT TO THE BALLGAME...Local 122 is organizing “Turn it Green” baseball night on Friday, 6/20/08 at Carson Park in Eau Claire. The game features the Eau Claire Express vs. the Wisconsin Woodchucks, gates open at 5:30 p.m., game at 6:30. Special rates offered, baseball cards given out to all kids. All AFSCME members are invited to attend and wear your green AFSCME shirts. Further info will follow next week.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences. Application deadline is 7/1/08. Further info: www.afscme.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 5/30 - Council 24.

May 16, 2008

CONTRACT…As you know by now, the ratification vote on the contract approval was overwhelming. All five units were ratified by the membership. The percentage of ratification in each unit is as follows: Administrative Support - 91%; Professional-Social Services - 90%; Technical - 94%; Blue Collar - 80%; Security & Public Safety - 92%.

We are now working to schedule the legislative ratification of the contract. It appears that there is a high likelihood of that occurring during the last week of this month. Legislators are scheduled for a veto override session starting on Tuesday, 5/27. Initial indications from legislative leadership are positive. To this point we have received no pushback or negative feedback from either house, either party. As soon as the schedule becomes definite, or we start experiencing pushback from legislators, we will contact you for assistance.

As a matter of housekeeping, be advised that bargaining teams have now returned to work and their e-mail accounts are no longer being monitored; nor is the toll-free bargaining hotline. Anyone needing further information is urged to contact their local steward, officers, or field representative.

BUDGET REPAIR BILL…Both legislative houses have crafted their own versions of budget repair to plug the $600 million hole in the current budget. Neither version is acceptable to the Governor and his administration, and at this writing, he is holding a press conference to announce his vetoes. Although no one benefits from a budget shortfall, we have been able to work closely with the governor and the administration to lessen the impact and to focus some of the cuts. There will be some pain in this budget repair situation, but not like there would have been under either house’s version. We continue monitoring the situation to make sure the programs, services and interests of state employees are protected.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences. Application deadline is 7/1/08. Further info: www.afscme.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…FRIDAY, 5/30 - Council 24 (NOTE DATE CHANGE)

May 9, 2008

RATIFICATION…Today, 5/9, is the last day for eligible ballots to be received. Tellers will count the ballots on Monday, 5/12. We do not anticipate any problems with the vote, and are working with OSER at this time to try and schedule the legislative ratification. The first step in that process is to schedule a JCOER meeting. All of our communication with legislators up to this point has been positive, or at least there has been no negative pushback on your contracts. We hope it stays that way - but as always we are ready and poised to defend what is ours. A deal is a deal.
 Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support  - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar – bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Services – pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety – spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team – techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).


BUDGET REPAIR BILL…The majority leader of the state senate and the speaker of the assembly seem to have their own private sandbox on this issue, and have not communicated or advised their caucus mates or the governor regarding their ‘sandcastles’. We have made it very clear that AFSCME stands with the Governor and his proposal to fill the $650 million budget hole. We know that in his proposal that state employees are not being offered up as sacrificial lambs to the budget cutters. Unfortunately these legislative leaders are more caught up with doing nothing, than with doing something substantial. Perhaps in the fall, we can rectify that situation.

VOICE MAILS AT COUNCIL 24....There were minor problems with voice mails at Council headquarters last week. If you left at message for any of the Madison-based staff and have not heard back, please call again.

JERRY CLARK SCHOLARSHIP...$5000/year for junior and senior years, awarded to two college sophomores majoring in social sciences. Application deadline is 7/1/08. Further info: www.afscme.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Thursday, 5/23 - Council 24.

May 1, 2008

RATIFICATION…Ballots have now gone out by mail to all members. Please follow the directions carefully in your packet and return the ballot as indicated so that your vote will count. Anyone who has not received the ballot packet is urged to contact Council 24 ASAP. Informational meetings are also underway around the state for those who prefer to ask questions face to face. In addition to the meetings and the contact methods below, each team also has specific phone numbers to field questions. Those numbers are:

Administrative Support Unit: 608-576-3859; 608-576-3861; 608-576-3897
Blue Collar Unit: 608-576-3942; 608-576-3950; 608-576-3960
Professional Social Services Unit: 608-576-3529; 608-576-3648; 608-576-3748
Security & Public Safety Unit: 608-576-4059; 608-576-4061; 608-576-4173
Technical Unit: 608-576-4175; 608-576-4274; 608-576-4316
 Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support  - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar – bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Services – pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety – spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team – techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament last weekend was another huge success. Goodwill abounded as our members and local unions joined others in support of our scholarship program for the higher education goals of our members’ children. Merely saying “thank you” is just not enough to acknowledge the contributions of our local unions and leadership; nonetheless - THANK YOU! Winner and prize lists are currently being complied and will be listed in a future issue.

SCHOLARSHIP WINNERS...Our outside independent review committee has chosen the winners of this year’s scholarship awards. They are listed below. We congratulate these students on a job well done. They are certainly deserving of these awards.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

2008 Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Winners

1st Place-- $4,000 2-year scholarship
Brittany Schleicher
Parent: Ronald Schleicher, Local 178

2nd Place--$2,000 2-year scholarship
Kendall Wagener
Parent: Robert Wagener, Local 1005

3rd Place--$2,000 1- year scholarship
Cody Carlin
Parent: Gerald Carlin, Local 1005

4th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Stephanie Schmidt
Parent: William W. Schmidt, Local 15

5th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Jason Ramsey
Parent: Janet Ramsey, Local 1942

6th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Lisa Borchardt
Parent: Julie Borchardt, Local 6

7th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Melissa Schleicher
Parent: Ronald Schleicher, Local 178

8th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Tosha Wright
Parent: Leonard E. Wright III, Local 281

9th Place--$1,000 1-year scholarship
Karissa Sebero
Parent: Clifford Sebero, Local 1218

Members Only Scholarship --$1,000 1-year scholarship
Jacquelyn Swick, Local 377

April 25, 2008

CONTRACT RATIFICATION…The ratification bargaining unit conference is this coming Monday, 4/28 in Madison at the Alliant Center.  The ratification period for balloting is from 4/29 through 5/9.  Ballots will be mailed to your home, along with detailed instructions.  We urge you to carefully follow the instructions at your earliest convenience to make sure your ballot is received back at Council by the end of business on Friday, 5/9 (contrary to what you may read in AFSCME Reports – deadline IS Friday, 5/9).  Anyone not receiving a ballot by the end of next week should contact Council.  In addition, we will again be conducting regional informational meetings around the state as indicated below.  (information also posted on our website).  Please keep in mind that these are only informational meetings, no one will be allowed to vote. To speak directly with one of your bargaining team members, you can also contact them in the usual ways listed below; or beginning Tuesday, 4/29 you may contact them at these phone numbers:

 Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support  - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar – bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Services – pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety – spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team – techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).
                         
REGIONAL CONTRACT INFORMATION MEETINGS…
Tuesday, 4/29-Waupun - 2:30-4:30 p.m., Wesley Center, 114 S. Forest St.; and
Oshkosh – 7-9 p.m., Columbus Club, 1821 Jackson St.; and
Prairie du Chein – 6-8 -p.m., Country Inn & Suites, 1801 Cabela’s Lane; and
Racine – Labor Center, 6-8 p.m., Labor Center, Mt. Pleasant St.

Wednesday, 4/30 – Green Bay, 6-8 p.m., The Sports Center, 500 Grant St., West DePere; and
LaCrosse- 6-8 p.m. Cartwright Center, Port O Call, UW LaCrosse; and
Milwaukee – 6-8 p.m., American Serb Hall, 5101 W. Oklahoma

Thursday, 5/1 – Stevens Point, 6-8 p.m., UWSP Science Bldg, 2001 4th Ave, Room A109, parking lot X; and
Eau Claire, 6-8 p.m., Labor Temple, Birch St. & Hwy 53; and
Whitewater, 6-8 p.m., UW Whitewater Art Dept., Room CA30

Friday, 5/2 – Merrill, 6-8 p.m., Northway Club, N2198 Bus. Hwy 51; and
Superior, 6-8 p.m., Barkers Island, 300  Marina Dr.; and
Madison, 6-8 p.m., Labor Temple, 1602 S. Park St.

WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY…is observed this year on Monday, 4/28 and honors those who have been injured or have died while on the job.  Despite improvements won by workers and unions through the years, injuries, illness and deaths still happen at a high rate.  Both AFSCME and the AFL-CIO have special informational web pages – visit them for more info.

April 18, 2008

BARGAINING...We have set the ratification bargaining unit conference for Monday, 4/28 in Madison; and have established the ratification period for balloting from 4/29 through 5/9. Ballots will be mailed to your home. We encourage local union treasurers to make sure the Council receives the most up to date address information so that we can try and minimize errors. Teams will be manning phones during the ratification period and numbers will be listed in the ratification materials. Along with the mail ballot, we will again be conducting regional informational meetings around the state on the dates and in the cities listed below. Specific location and time information will posted soon on our website. Please keep in mind that these are only informational meetings, no one will be allowed to vote. As yet, we have not established a JCOER meeting date, or a legislative ratification date. We are taking this contract one step at a time. E-mail continues to be monitored as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

REGIONAL CONTRACT INFORMATION MEETINGS…Tuesday, 4/29-Waupun; Oshkosh; Prairie du Chien; Racine. Wednesday, 4/30 - Green Bay; LaCrosse; Milwaukee. Thursday, 5/1 - Stevens Point; Eau Claire; Whitewater. Friday, 5/2 - Merrill; Superior; Madison. (specifics posted soon at www.wseu-24.org)

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is next weekend at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. We still have 29 slots open for bowlers. We really want to make this 25th anniversary tournament special - so please sign up your team today. We will be there all next weekend, so come on out, spend some time with your union brothers and sisters and raise some money for our kids’ education. Don’t miss this chance for fun, solidarity and new prizes for our 25th year! Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

JUNE BARGAINING UNIT CONFERENCES…The constitutionally required regular bargaining unit conferences have been scheduled as follows in Stevens Point (locals have been notified).
Tuesday, 6/10 - Blue Collar, Technical, Administrative Support
Wednesday, 6/11 - Security & Public Safety; Professional Social Services

WORKERS MEMORIAL DAY…is observed this year on Monday, 4/28 and honors those who have been injured or have died while on the job. Despite improvements won by workers and unions through the years, injuries, illness and deaths still happen at a high rate. Both AFSCME and the AFL-CIO have materials available to help mark this day. Visit their websites for more info.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Thursday, 4/24 - Council 24.

April 11, 2008

BARGAINING…We are absolutely at the short stroke of the process. Only one issue remains in the Professional Social Services Unit, which we should have wrapped up in the immediate future. Looking toward the ratification process, we have scheduled the bargaining unit conference to vote on ratification of the tentative agreement. This conference for all units will occur on MONDAY, APRIL 28, 2008 in Madison. Specifics on registration and conference times will follow by mail to all delegates of record. If you are a delegate, please make sure you have arrangements in place to attend this important bargaining unit conference. We will also again be conducting a mail ballot vote to the membership on ratification, which will begin the day after the conference. Again, all of this specific information will be communicated in the membership mailing. In the meantime, if you have specific questions on a particular area of the tentative agreement, or on what is occurring, please contact your bargaining teams as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is scheduled for April 25-26 at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. Many openings are still available on Saturday at 10 a.m. and Saturday at 1:00 p.m, as well as other times. Get your team together now. Don’t miss this chance for fun, solidarity and new prizes for our 25th year! Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

CONGRATULATIONS…We are very proud to announce that Tiffany Swan, daughter of Local 2748 member Lisa Turner, has been selected as one of 13 ASFCME Family Scholarship winners for 2008. Congratulations to Tiffany, and to Sister Turner on this accomplishment.

RETIREMENT PLANNING WORKSHOPS…Free workshop presentations have been scheduled around the state for public employees to help them prepare financially for retirement. Please see the listing below for your area:

Stepping Stones to Retirement
presentations by : Department of Employee Trust Funds (Wisconsin Retirement System), Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program, Social Security Administration

Representatives from the federal Social Security Administration, the Department of Employee Trust
Funds (Wisconsin Retirement System), and the Wisconsin Deferred Compensation Program (WDC)
will present the following free informational workshops for public employees. Attendees will learn more
about using these programs as stepping stones to financially prepare for retirement.

All programs run from 6:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Reservations are not needed.

Presentations are set for the following locations:

JANESVILLE
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Location: Marshall Middle School-Cafeteria, 25 S. Pontiac Drive, Janesville, 53545

WISCONSIN RAPIDS
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
Location: Lincoln Senior High School-Performing Arts Center, 1801 16th Street South,
Wisconsin Rapids, WI 54494

EAU CLAIRE
Tuesday, May 6, 2008
Location: Chippewa Valley Technical College-ECB 103 Auditorium, 620 W. Clairemont
Avenue, Eau Claire, WI 54701

SUPERIOR
Wednesday, May 7, 2008
Location: Superior High School- Performing Arts Center, 2600 Catlin Avenue, Superior,
WI 54880

For more information, call the WDC office toll free at 1-877-457-9327, and select Option 2.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Thursday, 4/24 - Council 24.

April 4, 2008

BARGAINING...We continue reviewing language and making preparations for the ratification process. In all likelihood, we should have everything finalized next week and hope to have bargaining unit conferences scheduled yet in the month of April. In the meantime, we are proofing and readying documents for both the bargaining unit conference and ratification process. As far as what you may be hearing, there is nothing to be concerned about. Any rumors regarding money being taken from the table or language being removed are just that - rumors with no foundation. We continue working closely with the governor and his staff to make sure the legislature does the right thing.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

STATE BUDGET REPAIR BILL…All activity is occurring behind closed doors, with no public input - which is always a dangerous situation. We continue trying to monitor things as best we can. It is unfortunate when the peoples’ business becomes the private playground of legislative leaders.

ELECTION DAY…Last Tuesday brought local and one statewide election. We would be remiss if we did not comment on the state supreme court race, which had an abysmal outcome. It is a sad day when independent interests and big money can change the voters’ perspective and buy their way into the state supreme court. Tuesday’s outcome not only reinforced the fact that there is an absolute need for campaign finance reform to take individual expenditures and outside money out of these kinds of races. This would let the candidates persuade voters on their own merit, not on biased, racist, fabricated television ads. This race has made Wisconsin a national disgrace. Since the election on Tuesday, there has been a large volume of articles from New York, Washington, DC and other areas, as well as opinions by respected legal scholars all declaring that the Wisconsin Supreme Court race on 4/1/08 was a travesty of justice - not something to be proud of.

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is scheduled for April 25-26 at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. With the exception of the Friday, 7:30 p.m. shift, many openings still exist at all other shift times. Get your team together now. Don’t miss this chance for fun, solidarity and new prizes for our 25th year! Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Thursday, 4/24 - Council 24.

March 28, 2008

SPRING ELECTION DAY…Please exercise your right to vote on Tuesday, 4/1. Aside from all of the important local elections and referenda occurring, there is a critical race for the Wisconsin Supreme Court. The favorite son of big money and big business (Gableman) is trying to buy his way to the Supreme Court by defeating Justice Louis Butler. All of the advertisements on TV are nothing but emotional hype. Make sure you read the recent AFSCME piece mailed to your home about Judge Butler’s record for working men and women. His election would maintain the Court’s integrity and send a clear message that the Supreme Court is not for sale.

BARGAINING…We are still preparing information and documents for the bargaining unit conference and ratification. Teams continue meeting about language and pay plan implementation. Please be patient with us as we try to put everything together for your consideration and vote. As always, specific information is available as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

STATE BUDGET…We continue working with the Governor and his administration making sure that state employees do not bear the brunt of cuts for balancing the budget. Meetings are occurring with leadership in both legislative houses to attempt to bring resolution. We are encouraging both houses to drop the political pandering and get this critical issue resolved as soon as possible. Stay tuned for more info as deliberations and negotiations continue.

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is scheduled for April 25-26 at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. All public employee union members, retirees, and spouses are welcome to bowl in this family-friendly event. This event is the sole fundraiser for the Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Programs, which directly benefit your Union brothers and sisters, and their dependents. So, register your team today and join us for a weekend of fun and prizes. Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

UNION INFORMATION NETWORK…If you’d like to receive this Weekly Summary electronically, normally in your in-box on Friday of each week, please provide your e-mail address to: kschwartz@wseu-24.org. Make a note in your e-mail that you wish to be added to the UIN.

March 20, 2008

BARGAINING… TENTATIVE AGREEMENT REACHED…All five units reached tentative agreement on their economic packages and structure this week. This agreement now officially encumbers the necessary compensation reserves to fund our agreements. What this means is that our legal position becomes stronger with these T.A.’s. There are a few pieces of unfinished language business we continue to meet on across the five units. However, for the most part the bulk of our job in reaching an acceptable settlement has been completed. We are also in the process of organizing the settlement information in order to schedule a bargaining unit conference to ratify the agreement. The TENTATIVE timetable would be for a bargaining unit conference during the second full week of April, with ballots going out to members throughout the month of April and a ratification report of the votes in early May. BUC delegates should be alerted that they may need to come to a conference without the normal advance notice. As always, specific information is available as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

STATE BUDGET…We continue to work with the Governor about initiatives to close the budget gap. As everyone knows, the Assembly Republicans passed an irresponsible “fix” that would balance half of the deficit, $250 million, on cuts in public services, state programs, and from comp reserves. The Governor has been strong in his opposition to this foolish and politically-driven Republican sham. The Senate Democrats are currently preparing their amendment to the budget bill, which contains some of the governor’s initiatives, and seems to be more responsible than that of the Assembly Republicans. Your union testified yesterday in Milwaukee at a Joint Finance Committee hearing about the evils of the Assembly Republicans’ version and the need to move forward in fixing this in a responsible, non-political manner. Stay tuned for further information about this serious problem.

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…Although neither house fulfilled their responsibility in the recent floor debates, we have advocated (and yesterday testified before Joint Finance) that an amendment to the budget repair bill should include payment of attorney fees for employees caught in this horrible nightmare of John Doe. We are attempting to work this as the budget repair bill moves through the process.

SPRING ELECTION DAY…As election day approaches on 4/1 - a reminder that contract language makes it easier to exercise your right to act as a poll worker. In many locations, poll workers are urgently needed, so please check into this if you are interested. And, while we are on the topic, please make plans now to do your civic duty and cast your ballot on 4/1, or before if voting absentee.

UNION INFORMATION NETWORK…If you’d like to receive this Weekly Summary electronically, normally in your in-box on Friday of each week, please provide your e-mail address to: kschwartz@wseu-24.org. Make a note in your e-mail that you wish to be added to the UIN.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 3/28 - Council 24.

March 14, 2008

STATE BUDGET…As we have been reporting, we have had ongoing meetings with the Governor and his administration regarding the budget deficit. The Governor “gets” the value of public service and the employees who provide it. His budget proposal clearly protected the public service and provided revenue for acceptable pay increases. On Wednesday, 3/12 the State Assembly, lead by the slash and burn Republicans, passed a budget proposal on a party line vote that would create huge layoffs in state agencies, actually close some state agencies, and eliminate the major part of the available money for your pay increases. This irresponsible proposal would fund almost half of the budget deficit on the backs of state employees and the programs they work for. On Thursday, the Senate, lead by Democrats, did not take up either the governor’s repair bill or the Assembly version, instead indicating they needed more time to carefully consider their options regarding the $650 million deficit. We report this to you to reinforce what we have said before - in the fall of this year when decision time comes about electing state legislators, we cannot forget the incredible anti-public employees animus that exists in the legislature. Everyone wants to be our friend face-to-face, but rarely are they willing to put it on the line when voting on important legislation or the budget.

BARGAINING… Teams are scheduled to receive final offers from the employer starting on Monday, 3/17. After the Teams get these offers, they will make decisions about acceptance. There may be some minor modifications and language clarifications, but clearly our intent is that by the end of next week we should have tentative agreements in all five units. Teams may not be able to release specific details at this time because the employer has not made the final economic proposal. However, we urge you to stay in touch with your bargaining teams by e-mail or voicemail so that you are aware of how the state’s proposal impacts your unit.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…We have tried to the bitter end to convince legislators, both Senators and Representatives, both Democrats and Republicans, that they need to make substantial changes in the John Doe statute in order to protect our members who work in secured facilities. Everyone knows the history; everyone knows the politics being played here. Legislators adjourned on Thursday with neither house, neither party, doing anything to facilitate a compromise and provide some protection for our workers. Listening to the debate on the floor of both houses has sickened us with the partisan politics from the likes of Carol Roessler and others trying to split our union, trying to reassign blame, trying to confuse the issue. The bottom line - neither party, neither house - has done anything to take care of this incredibly serious problem. They can beat their chests and talk about their partisan bills - but this is meaningless to those affected since these bills never passed or were signed into law. Those deeply involved in this process were absolutely astounded in disbelief as we watched both Democrats and Republicans make this a partisan issue and do nothing to fix it. We will remember this in the fall.

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is scheduled for April 25-26 at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. All public employee union members, retirees, and spouses are welcome to bowl in this family-friendly event. This event is the sole fundraiser for the Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Programs, which directly benefit your Union brothers and sisters, and their dependents. So, register your team today and join us for a weekend of fun and prizes. Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 3/28 - Council 24.

March 7, 2008

BARGAINING… All Teams met with the employer this week and did move closer to settlement. We addressed some of the remaining outstanding market issues this week and hope to be in a position next week to bring some finality to several, if not all, of the units. Rumors regarding the state’s budget shortfall and budget repair and their impact on bargaining are most likely without substance. No money has been withdrawn from the bargaining table, and we continue to meet with the employer and the administration regarding the budget shortfall issue. More info is available from your teams as listed below, however please bear in mind that due to the fluidity of some of these proposals, your teams may not be able to release certain detailed information, but rather speak in generalities on their impact.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

LOBBY DAY… Another successful all-AFSCME Lobby Day was held on Wednesday this week. More than 200 AFSCME leaders from all around the state assembled in Madison to hear Governor Doyle speak about the budget problems, and enlist our support. Our members then visited legislators in their Capitol offices on a variety of issues. Certainly important to Council 24 is the John Doe legislation. We have prepared and enclosed an in-depth report specifically on the state of this issue. We encourage you as leadership to circulate this information to your members for their action.

OTHER LEGISLATION…AB 92, which imposes penalty enhancement on inmates who incite riots and injure staff in correctional and other facilities, passed the Assembly unanimously on Wednesday night. The bill is now on its way to the Senate, where they must concur if it is to be enacted. This bill was created as a result of 2004 New Lisbon correctional disturbance. We urge you to contact state senators and encourage them to take speedy action during this floor period on AB 92, so that it can be signed by the Governor and become law.

BOWLING TOURNAMENT…The 25th Annual Jim Boyd Memorial Bowling Tournament is scheduled for April 25-26 at Tower Lanes in Beaver Dam. All public employee union members, retirees, and spouses are welcome to bowl in this family-friendly event. This event is the sole fundraiser for the Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Programs, which directly benefit your Union brothers and sisters, and their dependents. So, register your team today and join us for a weekend of fun and prizes. Applications are available on our website at www.wseu-24.org, or by contacting Kara Schwartz at 608-836-0024 ext. 113, or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

CONVENTION DATES FOR 2008… Please note this change when making your plans for our annual convention in Green Bay. This year the convention will convene on WEDNESDAY, July 23rd at 9 a.m., and continue on THURSDAY, July 24th and if necessary, FRIDAY, July 25th. The executive board meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JULY 22nd. The Council Executive Board made this change due to the scheduling of the national AFSCME convention during our normal weekend.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 3/28 - Council 24.

February 29, 2008

BARGAINING… All teams met with the state this week, continuing discussions about market adjustments. We know there are many rumors circulating throughout the state regarding the current budget deficit and its impact on your contracts. First, all of these rumors are FALSE. The state has NOT refused to bargain, they continue to cooperate with us. We believe we can responsibly fashion a settlement of these contracts while enhancing our members’ buying power during this contract period. Teams continue ‘crunching the numbers’ of the current proposals. We will resume meetings with the state on Monday, 3/3 with an eye toward bringing closure in the very near future. More info is available from your teams as listed below, however please bear in mind that due to the fluidity of some of these proposals, your teams may not be able to release certain detailed information, but rather speak in generalities on their impact.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…We continue working on this incredibly important issue regarding modification of the current John Doe law to prevent further abuse and intimidation of our employees by inmates. The issue continues to have some kind of life in both houses of the legislature. Unfortunately the versions differ considerably from one house to another, and from one version to another. All of us are in a real dilemma with regard to what the final product will be. It takes more than just our union to set the focus of this legislation, it also takes 99 state assembly representatives and 33 state senators, all having their own opinionated political interests. We will keep working with legislators in both houses to find or craft an acceptable compromise that provides protections against inmates filing these kinds of actions. This is not easy, it is not something that could, should or would be fixed overnight, and it is not Monday morning football. Regardless of the outcome in this session on this John Doe legislation, we should not allow these politicians to affect, influence, or create internal issues within our union. And that is exactly what they want to do!

MARCH 5TH - LOBBY DAY… All of AFSCME will be coming together on March 5th for Lobby Day. We strongly encourage unions to take part. Bus schedules and contact information for your area can be found on the SEPAC website. www.wseu-sepac.org <http://www.wseu-sepac.org>. Council will defray the cost of transportation if there is more than one person in a vehicle. However, we strongly encourage the utilization of buses. All questions regarding legislator appointments should be directed to Lobbyist John Grabel at (608) 836-6666 or via email at jgrabel@tds.net <mailto:jgrabel@tds.net>. General questions can be directed to Steven Williams (608) 269-0307, via email at swilliams@wseu-24.org <mailto:swilliams@wseu-24.org>, or call the Council offices.

CONVENTION DATES FOR 2008… Please note this change when making your plans for our annual convention in Green Bay. This year the convention will convene on WEDNESDAY, July 23rd at 9 a.m., and continue on THURSDAY, July 24th and if necessary, FRIDAY, July 25th. The executive board meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JULY 22nd. The Council Executive Board made this change due to the scheduling of the national AFSCME convention during our normal weekend.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 3/28 - Council 24.

February 22, 2008

BARGAINING… We continue to wait for a response to counter proposals that we made to the employer. All of our issues remain on the table including money issues. The state has made a series of proposals to us regarding both market and general wage adjustments. Those proposals remain on the table and intact. Bargaining teams are anxiously waiting responses from the state so we can make decisions and bring these negotiations to a conclusion. For further information, please contact your bargaining team at one of the following addresses:

Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION… The Senate Democrats have accepted the union’s changes to their bill draft that provides protection for all our workers regarding John Doe proceedings. We are now working with the Assembly Republicans in an attempt to accept the senate changes and move the bill forward in the final days of their session.

STATE BUDGET… Director Beil and Assistant Director Weaver have been engaged with the Doyle administration in discussions about the budget shortfall and it’s impact on state operations and our members. If there is a positive side to the discussion, it’s that the administration has made us a player at the table and values our input. This won’t be easy for anybody, but your union has an opportunity to fashion resolution that is reasonable and effective.

MARCH 5TH - LOBBY DAY… All of AFSCME will be coming together on March 5th for Lobby Day. We strongly encourage unions to take part. Bus schedules and contact information for your area can be found on the SEPAC website. www.wseu-sepac.org. Council will defray the cost of transportation if there is more than one person in a vehicle. However, we strongly encourage the utilization of buses. All questions regarding legislator appointments should be directed to Lobbyist John Grabel at (608) 836-6666 or via email at jgrabel@tds.net. General questions can be directed to Steven Williams (608) 269-0307, via email at swilliams@wseu-24.org, or call the Council offices.

CONVENTION DATES FOR 2008… Please note this change when making your plans for our annual convention in Green Bay. This year the convention will convene on WEDNESDAY, July 23rd at 9 a.m., and continue on THURSDAY, July 24th and if necessary, FRIDAY, July 25th. The executive board meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JULY 22nd. The Council Executive Board made this change due to the scheduling of the national AFSCME convention during our normal weekend.

February 15, 2008

VOTE…VOTE…VOTE…Tuesday, 2/19, is an important day - Wisconsin’s spring primary. It is essential that we exercise our constitutional right to select our elected leaders, not only in the presidential primary, but across the state in local primary races. Most local units of government - county boards, school boards, town boards, village boards, etc. will be holding primaries. These are important to us as workers and taxpayers. Please consult your latest issue of “AFSCME Reports” for a listing of endorsed candidates. We hope you will consider these candidates at the poll on 2/19. There is really no excuse for public sector employees not to vote!

BARGAINING…The parties get closer. This week we made another series of counter proposals to the employer in the area of economics and market. We will receive the employer’s response to these next week. We are probably only one move away from reaching resolution. But we have learned that nothing is certain until the ink is dry. Teams and leadership are concerned about the weakening of Wisconsin’s economy and would like to encumber the current money on the table as soon as possible. A whole host of market proposals have been made across the units. If you are interested in finding out about any particular class or market proposal, please contact your team by e-mail or the hotline.
Specific info on your unit’s status is available as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…Lobbyists and leadership have been working very hard to bring about an acceptable resolution to the John Doe proposal in the State Senate. Things are hanging in a delicate balance at this time; and for the immediate moment we are letting them play out. The Assembly version (AB 695) goes to the floor of the Assembly next week, where it is our information that it will pass. Even though an issue like this has incredible merit and it should be a non-controversial “slam dunk”, as we all know once politics is inserted, you are never sure of the outcome or motivations. Your union is in daily contact with Senate members and leadership on the John Doe issue. Stay tuned.

CONVENTION DATES FOR 2008… Please note this change when making your plans for our annual convention in Green Bay. This year the convention will convene on WEDNESDAY, July 23rd at 9 a.m., and continue on THURSDAY, July 24th and if necessary, FRIDAY, July 25th. The executive board meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JULY 22nd. The Council Executive Board made this change due to the scheduling of the national AFSCME convention during our normal weekend.

STEWARDS IN ACTION TRAINING…for Madison area locals for new and/or experienced stewards; to be held Thursday, 2/21, 8:30 - 4:30; AFSCME Headquarters, Madison. Advance written registration requested- local union presidents have received registration info. Contact your field rep with questions.

ADVANCE NOTICE - LOBBY DAY…We have begun working with Council 11 to schedule a Lobby Day for all of Wisconsin AFSCME on 3/5/08. We strongly encourage local unions to begin making plans to attend. There will be several pieces of legislation that will be on the front burner, such as: John Doe; prison riots; possible protective status for non-security staff; and other worker protection bills that we can engage legislators on face to face. Stay tuned for more info.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…(NOTE DATE CHANGE) THURSDAY, 2/21/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS… Organizing, 2/22; Council 24.

February 8, 2008

BARGAINING...Three of our five teams received counter-proposals from the employer this week on economics. All in all, and generally speaking, these counter proposals were positive and values increased from the previous proposals. Bargaining Teams are meeting internally today, Friday, and again on Monday and will resume economic bargaining with the state on Tuesday. The Technical and Professional Services team will get their counter proposals on Tuesday, and further discussions will continue throughout the week. We are attempting to bring these negotiations to a successful conclusion while keeping one eye on the economy. Specific info on your unit’s status is available as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

CONVENTION DATES FOR 2008… Please note this change when making your plans for our annual convention in Green Bay. This year the convention will convene on WEDNESDAY, July 23rd at 9 a.m., and continue on THURSDAY, July 24th and if necessary, FRIDAY, July 25th. The executive board meeting will be held on TUESDAY, JULY 22nd. The Council Executive Board made this change due to the scheduling of the national AFSCME convention during our normal weekend.

FEBRUARY 19 PRIMARY ELECTIONS…Across Wisconsin there are important elections occurring on Tuesday, 2/19, including primaries elections with local units of government. Having labor sensitive candidates elected to school boards, town boards, village boards and county boards in extremely important to the working men and women of Wisconsin. The high profile U.S. Presidential primary also occurs on this day. It is no secret that your union has endorsed Hillary Clinton, and strongly encourages its members to support her in this presidential election process. Anyone interested in engaging in the Clinton Campaign in Wisconsin between now and 2/19 should check out the SEPAC website (wseu-sepac.org), where you can contact Steve Williams and be directed to the area coordinator for campaign activity.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES…Positions are currently open for application within several different labor organizations, including: Wisconsin State AFL-CIO Communications Director, and Labor 2008 Zone Coordinator (Green Bay & NE Wisconsin); AFSCME Take Back Wisconsin Coordinator (Eau Claire & NW Wisconsin); SEIU Deputy Political Director; and AFT-Wisconsin Lead & Internal Organizer. Check out our website (wseu-24.org) for position descriptions and application deadlines.

STEWARDS IN ACTION TRAINING…for Madison area locals for new and/or experienced stewards; to be held Thursday, 2/21, 8:30 - 4:30; AFSCME Headquarters, Madison. Advance written registration requested- local union presidents have received registration info. Contact your field rep with questions.

ADVANCE NOTICE - LOBBY DAY…We have begun working with Council 11 to schedule a Lobby Day for all of Wisconsin AFSCME on 3/5/08. We strongly encourage local unions to begin making plans to attend. There will be several pieces of legislation that will be on the front burner, such as: John Doe; prison riots; possible protective status for non-security staff; and other worker protection bills that we can engage legislators on face to face. Stay tuned for more info.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…(NOTE DATE CHANGE) THURSDAY, 2/21/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS… Organizing, 2/22; Council 24.

February 1, 2008

BARGAINING…This week in bargaining we made the transition to economics in four of the five units. In four units, we made initial proposals to the employer regarding our issues in market and other economic benefit areas. The Professional/Social Services team is winding up some important overtime language negotiation, but we feel confident this issue will be completed by next week Tuesday and they will then also begin economic discussions. We expect to receive serious counter proposals from OSER starting next Tuesday. This means we should be entering the final lap of negotiations. We would like to get all of the available money “locked up” before there are any other major economic downturns. Specific info on your unit’s status is available as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message)

AB 695 - JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…An Assembly Committee conducted a public hearing on 1/31 on the legislation that would close the loophole in John Doe laws. AB 695 would provide protection for our members working in correctional facilities, mental health facilities, and probation and parole, from arbitrary and recriminatory lawsuits filed by inmates or patients. Testimony went well. We assume the Committee will have no problem in moving the bill out, and sending the matter to the Assembly floor.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES…Positions are currently open for application within several different labor organizations, including: Wisconsin State AFL-CIO Communications Director, and Labor 2008 Zone Coordinator (Green Bay & NE Wisconsin); AFSCME Take Back Wisconsin Coordinator (Eau Claire & NW Wisconsin); SEIU Deputy Political Director; and AFT-Wisconsin Lead & Internal Organizer. Check out our website (wseu-24.org) for position descriptions and application deadlines.

ETF - Anyone interested in information on the Wisconsin Retirement System can attend a information public meeting. A schedule is enclosed with statewide details.

STEWARDS IN ACTION TRAINING…for Madison area locals for new and/or experienced stewards; to be held Thursday, 2/21, 8:30 - 4:30; AFSCME Headquarters, Madison. Advance written registration requested- local union presidents have received registration info. Contact your field rep with questions.

ADVANCE NOTICE - LOBBY DAY…We have begun working with Council 11 to schedule a Lobby Day for all of Wisconsin AFSCME on 3/5/08. We strongly encourage local unions to begin making plans to attend. There will be several pieces of legislation that will be on the front burner, such as: John Doe; prison riots; possible protective status for non-security staff; and other worker protection bills that we can engage legislators on face to face. Stay tuned for more info.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 2/22/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS… LTE Abuse, 2/7; Outsourcing, 2/8; Organizing, 2/22; Council 24.

January 25, 2008

BARGAINING…This was a transition week for us. We have resolved many of the non-economic issues and will be moving into economics and market bargaining starting on Tuesday of next week. There are just a very small number of non-economic issues unresolved, and teams feel strongly that it is in our best interest to engage the state on the economic side and try to encumber as much of the available money as possible. It is important to stay in touch with your team members as to the status of the contract, now more than ever. You may contact your teams as indicated below.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…Leaders in the state Assembly have scheduled AB 695 (John Doe changes) for public hearing on 1/31 at 10 a.m. in Room 225 Northwest of the Capitol. We would like as many correctional leaders as possible to come to this hearing, and we are in the process of coordinating testimony. This is an incredibly important piece of legislation as it goes directly to workers’ rights and protections in DOC, DHFS, and other like environments. If you cannot make the hearing, we encourage you to contact your state Assembly and Senate representatives and urge them to support AB 695 to fix the loopholes in the current legislation that provide inmates with a legal tool to extract punishment and harass correctional and institutional workers who are doing their jobs. We need you to make these contacts!

ADVANCE NOTICE - LOBBY DAY…We have begun working with Council 11 to schedule a Lobby Day for all of Wisconsin AFSCME on 3/5/08. We strongly encourage local unions to begin making plans to attend. There will be several pieces of legislation that will be on the front burner, such as: John Doe; prison riots; possible protective status for non-security staff; and other worker protection bills that we can engage legislators on face to face. Stay tuned for more info.

MENTAL HEALTH ACTION DAY…2/20 has been designated as Mental Health Action Day by the Lt. Governor. Anyone specifically interested in being a leader for this day is urged to visit the Mental Health section at the Lt. Governor’s website: ltgov.wisconsin.gov. We would ask that you also let us know at the Council if you plan to participate, so that we can coordinate with the Lt. Gov.’s office.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 2/22/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS… LTE Abuse, 2/7; Outsourcing, 2/8/08; Council 24.

January 18, 2008

MLK DAY…The Monday recognition of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. holds special significance for us, in that this American hero was assassinated while marching with striking AFSCME workers in Memphis, TN. This year marks the 40th anniversary of this tragic loss. We hope all AFSCME members can find some time during the day on Monday to reflect on Dr. King’s life and legacy.

BARGAINING…Teams met with the state this past week. There was continuing discussion on outstanding language issues. There are very few non-economic issues remaining. Our goal is to have all of these resolved one way or another by January 24. If that occurs, we then will be negotiating the economics, which include wage adjustments, market adjustments, differential adjustments, sabbatical adjustments and benefit adjustments. Teams are eager to get their teeth into the economic side of the process. For specifics on the non-economic agreements, contact your teams as indicated below.
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

2008 COUNCIL BUDGET…locals have received their constitutional notice that the Council’s 2008 operating budget will be considered for adoption at the executive board meeting on Friday, 1/25. Anyone having comments should notify their local president ASAP, so that the info can be forwarded to Council.

ADVANCE NOTICE - LOBBY DAY…we have begun working with Council 11 to schedule a Lobby Day for all of Wisconsin AFSCME on 3/5/08. We strongly encourage local unions to begin making plans to attend. There will be several pieces of legislation that will be on the front burner, such as: John Doe; prison riots; possible protective status for non-security staff; and other worker protection bills that we can engage legislators on face to face. Stay tuned for more info.

JOHN DOE…we need local union members to contact their state assembly and senate representatives regarding support of AB 695, the bill recently introduced to close the loophole in the John Doe law, which inmates have been using to harass our members. This is an extremely important piece of legislation and we need everyone’s help and action to make it a reality.

MENTAL HEALTH ACTION DAY…2/20 has been designated as Mental Health Action Day by the Lt. Governor. Anyone specifically interested in being a leader for this day is urged to visit the Mental Health section at the Lt. Governor’s website: ltgov.wisconsin.gov. We would ask that you also let us know at the Council if you plan to participate, so that we can coordinate with the Lt. Gov.’s office.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 1/25/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS… LTE Abuse, 2/7; Outsourcing, 2/8/08; Council 24.

January 11, 2008

IN MEMORIAM…this week the union lost a long-time activist and leader. Harvey Hoeft, Sr. served our union as a Council executive board member, bargaining team chair, local union president, full time chief steward, international union organizer and in many other roles advocating and representing thousands of public employees. Harvey was on the first Security & Public Safety bargaining team, when the collective bargaining law became effective. Both Corrections and the union were significantly impacted by his leadership. Our thoughts and prayers go out to his family, including our own field representative, Harvey Hoeft, Jr.

BARGAINING…Teams were in Madison this week continuing their preparations. Some sidebar discussions with agency representatives occurred, however substantial meetings with the employer will not occur until next week. We are poised and ready to proceed as soon as OSER gets an indication from the agencies on some of our proposals. We had a meeting with OSER leadership this week, and communicated how very important it is for us to begin making substantial progress for conclusion of this contract ASAP. As always, for specific info, please contact the teams as follows:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

AFL-CIO COMMUNITY SERVICES CONFERENCE…this annual conference begins Thursday, 2/28 and continues through 3/1 in Manitowoc. We encourage local unions to participate. Specific information is available on the State AFL-CIO website (wisaflcio.org); or from Ann McNeary (labor@uwdc.org; 608-246-4355).

MENTAL HEALTH ACTION DAY…2/20 has been designated as Mental Health Action Day by the Lt. Governor. This day is set aside for citizens, workers and others to put the issue of mental health parity for insurance coverage at the forefront. On 2/20 a Lobby Day will occur as well as meetings with legislators and others at the Capitol. Anyone specifically interested in being a leader for this day is urged to visit the Mental Health section at the Lt. Governor’s website: ltgov.wisconsin.gov. We have worked closed with Lt. Gov. Lawton on this issue in the past, and this is another chapter in that initiative.

SCHOLARSHIP…Applications are now available for the 2008 Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Program. For more information, or to request an application, please see our website at www.wseu-24.org or contact Kara Schwartz at (608) 836-0024 ext. 113 or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 1/25/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS…Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): Organizing, 1/15/08; LTE Abuse, 2/7/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE); Outsourcing, 2/8/08; Council 24.

January 4, 2008

HAPPY NEW YEAR…Best wishes from everyone at Council 24 for a healthful and prosperous 2008. We have picked up where right where we left off last year, and are looking forward to working for you and with all of you this coming year.

BARGAINING….After the holiday break, teams came back to Madison on Wednesday this week and spent two and a half days on language clean-up, editorial changes, counter proposals and some economic work. The employer was not prepared to resume non-economic discussions this week, so we worked internally. Teams will be back next week Tuesday through Thursday. If we can get the state to engage, we believe it will be only a short time to get language issues resolved. Some teams have already begun looking at options related to market and across-the-board increases. For specific info, please contact the teams as follows:

Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…We continued working with Susan McMurray this week to try and move along the John Doe repair bill. We are trying to schedule the matter before both legislative houses during the January session so we can fix the flaws ASAP. Our discussions have been with both Republicans in the Assembly, and Democrats in the Senate. We’re walking carefully through the political minefield. Stay tuned for a call to action if we are unsuccessful in getting legislators to collectively unite to move this legislation.

LOCAL ELECTIONS…Primaries for both local and presidential elections occur on 2/19. We encourage everyone to get involved at your local government level, since leadership starts at the lowest level - school boards, town boards, county boards - that is where the legislators of tomorrow develop. More info on spring elections and the presidential primary is available on the SEPAC website.

AFL-CIO COMMUNITY SERVICES CONFERENCE…this annual conference begins Thursday, 2/28 and continues through 3/1 in Manitowoc. We encourage local unions to participate. Specific information is available on the State AFL-CIO website (wisaflcio.org); or from Ann McNeary (labor@uwdc.org, 608-246-4355).

MENTAL HEALTH ACTION DAY…2/20 has been designated as Mental Health Action Day by the Lt. Governor. This day is set aside for citizens, workers and others to put the issue of mental health parity for insurance coverage at the forefront. On 2/20 a Lobby Day will occur as well as meetings with legislators and others at the Capitol. Anyone specifically interested in being a leader for this day is urged to visit the Mental Health section at the Lt. Governor’s website: ltgov.wisconsin.gov. We have worked closed with Lt. Gov. Lawton on this issue in the past, and this is another chapter in that initiative.

SCHOLARSHIP…Applications are now available for the 2008 Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Program. For more information, or to request an application, please see our website at www.wseu-24.org or contact Kara Schwartz at (608) 836-0024 ext. 113 or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 1/25/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS…Education, 1/7/08; Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): Organizing, 1/15/08; LTE Abuse, 2/7/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE); Outsourcing, 2/8/08; Council 24.

December 21, 2007

GREETINGS OF THE SEASON...On behalf of the staff and executive board, we extend our warmest wishes for Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to everyone. We hope the next couple of weeks will afford you all some hard-earned and well-deserved time to rest, relax and enjoy friends and family. We’ll all be doing the same as we reflect on 2007 and look forward to the new challenges of 2008.

OFFICE CLOSURES…Please note that in observance of the holidays, all Council offices will be closed on Monday and Tuesday, December 24 and 25; as well as Monday and Tuesday, December 31 and January 1. There will be no Weekly Summary next week - we’ll be back on January 4th with the first edition of the new year.

BARGAINING….This week we bargained with the state in the Security & Public Safety and Professional/Social Services units. Significant progress was made in both units on some language issues, which made it well worth our time and the wait it took to get there. With the holidays, bargaining will slow until the first week of January. Teams will return January 2nd - 4th. We hope to continue the momentum in the other units so we can wrap up language issues and begin serious discussions on wage and market increases. Anyone interested in specific areas of discussion related to language and agreements is encouraged to contact their bargaining teams as follows (please keep in mind that teams will not be back in Madison until 1/2/08):

Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

SCHOLARSHIP…Applications are now available for the 2008 Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Program. For more information, or to request an application, please see our website at www.wseu-24.org or contact Kara Schwartz at (608) 836-0024 ext. 113 or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 1/25/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS…Education, 1/7/08; Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): Organizing, 1/15/08; LTE Abuse, 2/7/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE); Outsourcing, 2/8/08; Council 24

December 14, 2007

BARGAINING….This week we began discussions about language issues with the employer. Tuesday was spent dealing with Administrative Support and Blue Collar issues. We have reached some agreements in concept on certain language issues. Other issues remain open and under discussion. On Wednesday, Professional-Social Services and Security & Public Safety met regarding their language issues and on Thursday, the Technical team did the same. Hopefully we can clear up these language issues from the table so that immediately following the holidays we can get to the extremely important matters of bargaining economics and market adjustments for your contract. Anyone interested in specific areas of discussion related to language and agreements is encouraged to contact their bargaining teams as follows:

Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

JOHN DOE LEGISLATION…On Thursday this week, the Council along with the DOC Secretary, the Warden of Waupun Correctional Institution and the Dodge County District Attorney conducted a press conference in Waupun regarding the travesty and aberration of law regarding John Doe complaints against correctional officers. This is one of those rare times when both the employer and the union have the same energy toward fixing a problem together. The press conference set a positive message to legislators to get going on this immediately. As we wait for this legislation to pass, we have been advised of two more cases - one in Crawford County and one in Juneau County. It is clear that inmates have learned how to use this loophole in the law to put correctional staff through incredible economic and personal stress by filing these John Doe cases. A high level meeting with legislative leadership has been set for next Tuesday.

SCHOLARSHIP…Applications are now available for the 2008 Jim Boyd Memorial Scholarship Program. For more information, or to request an application, please see our website at www.wseu-24.org or contact Kara Schwartz at (608) 836-0024 ext. 113 or kschwartz@wseu-24.org.

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 1/25/08, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETINGS…Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): LTE Abuse, Thursday, 1/17/08, Outsourcing, 2/8/07; Council 24.

December 7, 2007

BARGAINING….All five teams met with the employer this week. Each team received an initial economic offer from the employer. The general wage adjustment offer for all units is pretty well-known: 2% - 6/24/07; 2% - 7/1/08; 1% - 4/1/09. Each unit also received initial proposals on market adjustments for select classifications. Team are in the process of reviewing these wage and market proposals. They are scheduled to resume bargaining on Tuesday, 12/11. We will push the employer to get as many outstanding issues resolved before the holidays as possible. Just so there is no misinformation circulating, we most certainly will not reach tentative agreement before the holidays. We are entering the time period when teams will be into the “nub” of the bargain. It’s important for everyone to understand what is going on. We encourage you to stay in touch with your team in the following ways:
Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org;
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org;
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org;
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org;
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org;
or call the toll-free bargaining hotline at 800-836-4024 (leave message).

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 12/14, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETING…Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): LTE Abuse, Thursday, 1/17/08, Council 24

November 30, 2007

BARGAINING….Earlier this week, a major factor occurred that impacted our bargaining. The legislative JOCER committee met and not only took action on the unilateral pay plan, which by the way is 2%-year 1; 2%-year 2; and 1% on 4/1/09; but also authorized OSER to make proposals to the collective bargaining agents related to compensation reserves. Bargaining teams are scheduled to return to Madison next Tuesday, where they’ll be meeting with the employer through the week. Team by team, they will make their initial economic and market offers. It is important to understand there is more to do than just economics, in that we also still have substantial language and other issues to bargain. We hope that with the placement of the economic package on the table, we can engage the State in a positive and constructive way to wrap up this contract in a mutually satisfactory manner within the near future. If, after Tuesday next week, you would like information from your team on specifics, please contact them as follows:

Bargaining Teams’ E-Mail Contact List:
Administrative Support - asuteam@wseu-24.org
Blue Collar - bcteam@wseu-24.org
Professional Social Serv. - pssteam@wseu-24.org
Security & Public Safety - spsteam@wseu-24.org
Technical Team - techteam@wseu-24.org

WISCONSIN WAY FORUMS…The Wisconsin Way is a coalition of groups interested in finding ways to make Wisconsin taxes fairer and reduce the property tax burden without sacrificing the quality of public services. Toward that end, opinions, ideas and answers are sought from Wisconsin citizens at a series of public hearings around the state. Learn more about the group, and hearings that have already taken place at www.wisconsinway.org

We encourage you to spread the word to your members to attend one of these remaining forums.
· Kenosha/Racine Forum: Tuesday, December 4 at the Parkway Chateau (Brat Stop) in Kenosha.
· Poynette Forum: Monday, December 3 at Poynette Village Hall in Poynette.
· Thursday, December 6 we will be at the Alliant Energy Center in Madison.

All forums are from 7 -9 p.m. and registration is available on the Web site ,or toll free at 1-800-919-3012 or via e-mail at wisconsinway@wcgpr.com

EXECUTIVE BOARD MEETING…Friday, 12/14, Council 24.

COMMITTEE MEETING…Grievance Committee, 1/16/08 (NOTE THIS CHANGE IN DATE): LTE Abuse, Thursday, 1/17/08, Council 24.

November 16, 2007

CRITICAL INCIDENT….This week brought an incredibly tense situation that could have had an extremely negative impact, but because of highly professional and trained staff there was a positive outcome. On Wednesday morning one of our members, a dental assistant at Waupun Correctional Institution, was seized as a hostage by an inmate serving a lifetime sentence. She was held for over five hours. Fortunately, she was not physically harmed and was released shortly after noon on Wednesday. Our members, along with other staff at the institution, were closely involved in the situation, serving on security, hostage negotiating teams, and the command center. In review, it was a well-organized labor-management operation. Our thanks and recognition goes to all of the workers at Waupun Correctional for the extraordinary job they did. Our thoughts and prayers remain with the member who was held hostage as she recovers from this ordeal.

JOHN DOE TRAVESTY…as you may be aware, we have had another worker, a correctional officer served with felony charges by a judge in Dodge County. An inmate, not happy with a C.O. went directly to the judge, without witnesses or evidence, to issue the complaint. We are totally convinced this young officer is completely innocent. Nonetheless, under current state law, he is forced to retain legal counsel and defend himself, creating a huge economic burden for his family. Council 24 and our lobbyists are working extremely hard to have legislation introduced to change this for the future. In the meantime, Local 18 is trying to help offset the huge economic impact for this C.O. and his family. A legal defense fund has been established. Contributions will be accepted from locals and/or individuals. Checks can be written to: Local 18 Defense Fund; c/o Dan Meehan; 123 W. Brown St., Waupun, WI 53593. Any donation is greatly appreciated by this officer, Gabe Umentum, and his family. Questions can be directed to President McLinn at Council 24 or Dan Meehan at Waupun Correctional Institution.

BARGAINING… We keep trying to jump start bargaining. It is difficult in that the legislators have requested information about salaries/benefits/market infor