We need your voice now more than ever!Bargaining Action: You are being robbed! Speak up now! The bargaining teams are hard at work, negotiating better working conditions and fighting for increased wages and realistic COLAs. We need your voice now more than ever! Your employer is proposing unacceptably low compensation increases that fail to address the rising cost of living and your hard work. This is a critical moment in our contract negotiations, and we must act together! The reality is:
Your participation is crucial. Silence sides with the oppressor, always. It's time to send a clear, unified message: We demand fair, inflation-matching wage increases! By sharing your experiences and concerns, you'll help the bargaining team push for the compensation you deserve. Take Action Now: Send letters by August 15th if at all possible
Together, we are stronger. Let's show management the power of our unity.  2025-2027 Bargaining Update |
| We're thrilled to announce the winners of our recent WPEA raffle! This exciting event not only brought our union family closer together but also helped strengthen our communication channels. Let's give a round of applause to our lucky winners: Skyla Jimmy from the Military Department Skyla's chose an Anker Soundcore Motion Boom Plus Bluetooth Speaker as her prize. Get ready for some high-quality tunes, Skyla! Tammy Kugler from DNR Olympic Tammy is still deciding on her prize as she helps to battle the fires throughout our state. We can't wait to see what fantastic item she'll choose! Juliana Mueller from State Patrol Juliana's chose a Kindle Paperwhite as her prize. Happy reading, Juliana! These members not only walked away with amazing prizes but also contributed to strengthening our union. By updating their contact information, they've ensured they'll stay informed about important union matters and upcoming events. Remember, keeping your contact details current is crucial for our collective strength. It allows us to communicate effectively, organize swiftly, and stand united in our efforts to secure better working conditions and fair compensation. Didn't win this time? Don't worry! Stay tuned for future opportunities to participate and win. More importantly, make sure your contact information is up to date. You never know when it might make a difference in our collective actions or when it might lead to an exciting prize! Congratulations once again to our winners, and a big thank you to all who participated. Together, we make WPEA stronger! |  Skyla Jimmy, Military Department |
Tacoma Rainiers Game
We haven’t had a group event in over 4 years and can’t wait to see everyone! So let’s start it off at the Tacoma Rainiers Game September 7th Cheney Stadium – 2502 S Tyler St Tacoma starting at 6:05pm. Tickets are $15.50 and include a Ballpark Meal (hotdog & bottled water).
WPEA will be set up prior to the game with goodies for our members. Don’t forget to wear your WPEA BLUE!
Tickets are available at: www.wpea.org/tacomarainiers
WPEA will be set up prior to the game with goodies for our members. Don’t forget to wear your WPEA BLUE!
Tickets are available at: www.wpea.org/tacomarainiers
Union Leaders Learn on the Job through SPUR Program
Article by Julia Thurman-Lascurain, WPEA Member Education & Mobilization Director & Dana Rollins, WPEA/UFCW SPUR
Dana Rollins, WPEA/UFCW SPUR WPEA has partnered with the UFCW International to pilot a Special Project Union Representative program! Approved SPURs are granted a Union leave of absence from their agency or institution to focus on organizing for a period ranging from 30 days to one year.
SPURs engage in various activities, including:
The first thing I think about when I consider my role as a union organizer through the SPUR program is how energizing and vital it feels to be in such a position to help workers. I have benefited from being a union employee for over 23 years now, but before that I lived in so-called "right to work" states in the deep south. That Janus double-talk has always irked me. It's more accurate to call it the "right not to have rights." I could see through the whole facetiousness of it from the very beginning. So when I moved out here to Washington at the turn of the century, it marked a new and exciting time in my life.
I got a job with Highline College and for the first time became represented by a union - the WPEA. In the ensuing years I became a job steward and several times helped to bargain our contract (Highline like Yakima Valley College directly bargains its own contract). Earlier this year I became a WPEA executive board member as a VP representing District 4- representing King County, and more recently learned about the SPUR (Special Projects Union Representatives) training program introduced through our international union, UFCW. I was very excited to apply for and be accepted to the program.
I am now on a temporary 6-month leave of absence from the college and working full-time for the union as an organizer. I am still a "newbie," starting my second month as I write this, but already gaining valuable training and on-the-ground practice in organizing and representation. I love the experience and contacts I'm gaining as I learn how to best help my fellow workers. It is deeply-rewarding work.
I have "shadowed" reps on various zoom meetings to our schools and government offices and recently attended the Washington State Labor Council Convention in Wenatchee, which was very inspiring. I got to meet other organizers (and one former SPUR graduate) - all valuable contacts for the days to come. I was able to hear presentations by various speakers such as the Presidents of the AFL-CIO and SEIU (not to mention our very own WPEA superstar and legislative lobbyist, Seamus Petrie), and to vote on a number of important resolutions.
In the days to come I will be involved in supporting the letter-writing campaign and a mapping project of our membership, and will have the opportunity for several more invigorating in-person meetings around the state. I am deeply grateful to be a part of this restorative work with our exceptional union team.
At the end of my 6-month SPUR program, I will then return to the Highline bargaining unit with the same wages, hours, benefits, and position as when I left, but with a wealth of valuable experiences that will enable me to be a better representative and leader for our union.
In Solidarity,
Dana Rollins
SPURs engage in various activities, including:
- Working on specific organizing programs, such as making home calls, conducting research, distributing information packets, and educating workers on the benefits of union membership.
- Attending meeting and union events.
- Visiting agencies and institutions to meet members and help support representation staff
- Lead trainings
- Run New Employee Orientations and more
The first thing I think about when I consider my role as a union organizer through the SPUR program is how energizing and vital it feels to be in such a position to help workers. I have benefited from being a union employee for over 23 years now, but before that I lived in so-called "right to work" states in the deep south. That Janus double-talk has always irked me. It's more accurate to call it the "right not to have rights." I could see through the whole facetiousness of it from the very beginning. So when I moved out here to Washington at the turn of the century, it marked a new and exciting time in my life.
I got a job with Highline College and for the first time became represented by a union - the WPEA. In the ensuing years I became a job steward and several times helped to bargain our contract (Highline like Yakima Valley College directly bargains its own contract). Earlier this year I became a WPEA executive board member as a VP representing District 4- representing King County, and more recently learned about the SPUR (Special Projects Union Representatives) training program introduced through our international union, UFCW. I was very excited to apply for and be accepted to the program.
I am now on a temporary 6-month leave of absence from the college and working full-time for the union as an organizer. I am still a "newbie," starting my second month as I write this, but already gaining valuable training and on-the-ground practice in organizing and representation. I love the experience and contacts I'm gaining as I learn how to best help my fellow workers. It is deeply-rewarding work.
I have "shadowed" reps on various zoom meetings to our schools and government offices and recently attended the Washington State Labor Council Convention in Wenatchee, which was very inspiring. I got to meet other organizers (and one former SPUR graduate) - all valuable contacts for the days to come. I was able to hear presentations by various speakers such as the Presidents of the AFL-CIO and SEIU (not to mention our very own WPEA superstar and legislative lobbyist, Seamus Petrie), and to vote on a number of important resolutions.
In the days to come I will be involved in supporting the letter-writing campaign and a mapping project of our membership, and will have the opportunity for several more invigorating in-person meetings around the state. I am deeply grateful to be a part of this restorative work with our exceptional union team.
At the end of my 6-month SPUR program, I will then return to the Highline bargaining unit with the same wages, hours, benefits, and position as when I left, but with a wealth of valuable experiences that will enable me to be a better representative and leader for our union.
In Solidarity,
Dana Rollins
Celebrating Lance Levesen: District 6 VP, Shop Steward and Unofficial Duck Wrangler
Article by Julia Thurman-Lascurain, WPEA Member Education & Mobilization Director
We are thrilled to spotlight the remarkable contributions of Lance Levesen, our District 6 Vice President, whose dedication and service have greatly impacted Skagit Valley College (SVC) and the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA).
Lance began his journey at SVC in September 1990 as a part-time Security Guard. After 12.5 years of committed service, he transitioned to a full-time Campus Security Officer role in March 2003. Over the past four out of six years, Lance has embraced an unusual yet heartwarming role as the unofficial "duck wrangler," rescuing ducklings hatched on the third-floor terrace of Lewis Hall and reuniting them with their mothers each May. This annual duty, though outside the usual scope of his responsibilities, has become a cherished tradition for Lance.
Lance's union journey began around 2010 or 2012, sparked by an incident where the union fought for him and his colleagues against unfair treatment. Thanks to the support and encouragement from Julie Bishop, a former shop steward, Lance realized the importance of being a voice for others. This experience propelled him to become a shop steward himself, and eventually led him to take on larger roles within the union.
What Lance loves most about WPEA is its strength and resilience. Despite challenges like the Janus decision, which has caused a decline in union numbers and impacted budgets, WPEA continues to thrive. Lance proudly notes that WPEA has been winning significant arbitrations and grievances related to COVID layoffs, setting them apart from other unions. The power of WPEA, according to Lance, lies in its members, and their collective strength ensures ongoing victories and support for all.
Inspired by the guidance of mentors like Julie Bishop and Stephanie Falcone, Lance ran for VP in 2018 or 2019. Encouraged by the voice in his head saying, "I should run for office; I would be a good VP," Lance ran for office and successfully won, now serving his second term.
Outside his professional life, Lance enjoys simple pleasures. Whether it's hunting in the hills, fishing, or spending time in his yard, these activities bring him joy and relaxation. When indoors, he loves cuddling with his pets and streaming shows, finding comfort in the little things.
Throughout his career, Lance has learned two vital lessons: the power of the union comes from its members, and if management says you don't need a union, it’s a clear sign that you do. His journey is a testament to the strength and importance of union solidarity, and we are grateful for his unwavering commitment to our community.
Lance began his journey at SVC in September 1990 as a part-time Security Guard. After 12.5 years of committed service, he transitioned to a full-time Campus Security Officer role in March 2003. Over the past four out of six years, Lance has embraced an unusual yet heartwarming role as the unofficial "duck wrangler," rescuing ducklings hatched on the third-floor terrace of Lewis Hall and reuniting them with their mothers each May. This annual duty, though outside the usual scope of his responsibilities, has become a cherished tradition for Lance.
Lance's union journey began around 2010 or 2012, sparked by an incident where the union fought for him and his colleagues against unfair treatment. Thanks to the support and encouragement from Julie Bishop, a former shop steward, Lance realized the importance of being a voice for others. This experience propelled him to become a shop steward himself, and eventually led him to take on larger roles within the union.
What Lance loves most about WPEA is its strength and resilience. Despite challenges like the Janus decision, which has caused a decline in union numbers and impacted budgets, WPEA continues to thrive. Lance proudly notes that WPEA has been winning significant arbitrations and grievances related to COVID layoffs, setting them apart from other unions. The power of WPEA, according to Lance, lies in its members, and their collective strength ensures ongoing victories and support for all.
Inspired by the guidance of mentors like Julie Bishop and Stephanie Falcone, Lance ran for VP in 2018 or 2019. Encouraged by the voice in his head saying, "I should run for office; I would be a good VP," Lance ran for office and successfully won, now serving his second term.
Outside his professional life, Lance enjoys simple pleasures. Whether it's hunting in the hills, fishing, or spending time in his yard, these activities bring him joy and relaxation. When indoors, he loves cuddling with his pets and streaming shows, finding comfort in the little things.
Throughout his career, Lance has learned two vital lessons: the power of the union comes from its members, and if management says you don't need a union, it’s a clear sign that you do. His journey is a testament to the strength and importance of union solidarity, and we are grateful for his unwavering commitment to our community.
Labor History – Personnel System Reform Act of 2002: A Step Towards Modernizing Washington State's Workforce
Article by Aubrei Franklin, WPEA Marketing & Membership Coordinator
In 2002, Washington State took a significant step towards modernizing its workforce with the passage of the Personnel System Reform Act (PSRA). This landmark legislation aimed to revamp the state's personnel management system, making it more efficient, flexible, and responsive to the needs of both employees and the public.
This month in 2002 marked the beginning of the transition timeline and was featured in WPEA’s Sentinel. If you would like to read the article from 2002
click here.
What did the Personnel System Reform Act of 2002 mean?
Before the enactment of the PSRA, Washington State's personnel system was governed by a set of outdated laws and regulations that had been in place for decades. The system was characterized by rigid rules, limited flexibility in hiring and managing employees, and a lack of modern management practices. This often resulted in inefficiencies and challenges in meeting the evolving needs of the state government and its workforce.
Key Provisions of the Act
Decentralization of Human Resources Management: The PSRA decentralized many human resources (HR) functions, transferring responsibilities from the central Department of Personnel to individual state agencies. This shift allowed agencies to tailor HR practices to their specific needs and improve the responsiveness of HR services.
Modernization of the Civil Service System: The Act introduced significant changes to the civil service system, including the creation of a more flexible classification and compensation structure. This allowed for better alignment of job roles with the needs of the state government and provided agencies with greater latitude in setting pay scales and managing promotions.
Collective Bargaining: One of the most notable changes brought by the PSRA was the expansion of collective bargaining rights. The Act granted state employees the right to negotiate wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment through collective bargaining agreements. This shift aimed to improve labor relations and ensure that employees had a stronger voice in workplace matters.
Performance Management: The PSRA emphasized the importance of performance management, introducing systems to better evaluate and enhance employee performance. This included the development of performance-based pay and the establishment of clear performance expectations and accountability measures.
Reduction of Bureaucratic Barriers: The Act sought to reduce bureaucratic barriers and streamline HR processes. This included simplifying hiring procedures, making it easier to fill vacant positions, and reducing the time required to bring new employees on board.
The implementation of the PSRA led to several positive outcomes for Washington State's workforce and government operations. Agencies reported increased flexibility in managing their personnel, leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness. The expanded collective bargaining rights fostered better labor relations and contributed to a more engaged and motivated workforce. Additionally, the focus on performance management helped to ensure that employees were better aligned with the goals and objectives of their respective agencies.
The Personnel System Reform Act of 2002 was a pivotal piece of legislation that modernized Washington State's personnel management system. By decentralizing HR functions, enhancing collective bargaining rights, and emphasizing performance management, the Act laid the groundwork for a more efficient, responsive, and effective state workforce. As a result, Washington State is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century and continue providing high-quality services to its citizens.
This month in 2002 marked the beginning of the transition timeline and was featured in WPEA’s Sentinel. If you would like to read the article from 2002
click here.
What did the Personnel System Reform Act of 2002 mean?
Before the enactment of the PSRA, Washington State's personnel system was governed by a set of outdated laws and regulations that had been in place for decades. The system was characterized by rigid rules, limited flexibility in hiring and managing employees, and a lack of modern management practices. This often resulted in inefficiencies and challenges in meeting the evolving needs of the state government and its workforce.
Key Provisions of the Act
Decentralization of Human Resources Management: The PSRA decentralized many human resources (HR) functions, transferring responsibilities from the central Department of Personnel to individual state agencies. This shift allowed agencies to tailor HR practices to their specific needs and improve the responsiveness of HR services.
Modernization of the Civil Service System: The Act introduced significant changes to the civil service system, including the creation of a more flexible classification and compensation structure. This allowed for better alignment of job roles with the needs of the state government and provided agencies with greater latitude in setting pay scales and managing promotions.
Collective Bargaining: One of the most notable changes brought by the PSRA was the expansion of collective bargaining rights. The Act granted state employees the right to negotiate wages, hours, and other terms and conditions of employment through collective bargaining agreements. This shift aimed to improve labor relations and ensure that employees had a stronger voice in workplace matters.
Performance Management: The PSRA emphasized the importance of performance management, introducing systems to better evaluate and enhance employee performance. This included the development of performance-based pay and the establishment of clear performance expectations and accountability measures.
Reduction of Bureaucratic Barriers: The Act sought to reduce bureaucratic barriers and streamline HR processes. This included simplifying hiring procedures, making it easier to fill vacant positions, and reducing the time required to bring new employees on board.
The implementation of the PSRA led to several positive outcomes for Washington State's workforce and government operations. Agencies reported increased flexibility in managing their personnel, leading to improved efficiency and effectiveness. The expanded collective bargaining rights fostered better labor relations and contributed to a more engaged and motivated workforce. Additionally, the focus on performance management helped to ensure that employees were better aligned with the goals and objectives of their respective agencies.
The Personnel System Reform Act of 2002 was a pivotal piece of legislation that modernized Washington State's personnel management system. By decentralizing HR functions, enhancing collective bargaining rights, and emphasizing performance management, the Act laid the groundwork for a more efficient, responsive, and effective state workforce. As a result, Washington State is better equipped to meet the challenges of the 21st century and continue providing high-quality services to its citizens.
July Recipe - Back to School Lunch Ideas
Too much zucchini in the garden and need back to school lunch ideas? Here’s a good one!
Zucchini Muffins
Recipe by Sara Forte for Sprouted Kitchen
These are on the low end of the sweet scale, so if you want them to be more like a treat, add a few more tablespoons of sugar. If you’d like to turn it into a loaf, you can bake the batter in a greased loaf pan for closer to 45 minutes, sticking a toothpick in the center to make sure it isn’t too wet.
1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium/large)
2 eggs
1/3 cup olive oil (or avocado oil or coconut oil)
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
3/4 cup almond flour
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or superfine rice flour)
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 cup cane sugar
1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chunks turbinado sugar, to finish, optional
Start by grating the zucchini. Put them in a fine mesh sieve and press out excess water. Preheat the oven to 360°F and grease a muffin tin.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, vanilla, vinegar and buttermilk or yogurt, until well combined. Add the flours, baking soda and powder, salt, cinnamon and sugar; and stir until combined. Add the zucchini and chocolate and fold it all in.
Fill the muffin tins about 2/3 full (they don’t rise much) and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top, if using. Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes, or until golden around the edge and a little tap on the center bounces back at you.
Remove to cool completely. Keep covered at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge or freezer any longer than that.
Zucchini Muffins
Recipe by Sara Forte for Sprouted Kitchen
These are on the low end of the sweet scale, so if you want them to be more like a treat, add a few more tablespoons of sugar. If you’d like to turn it into a loaf, you can bake the batter in a greased loaf pan for closer to 45 minutes, sticking a toothpick in the center to make sure it isn’t too wet.
1 cup grated zucchini (about 1 medium/large)
2 eggs
1/3 cup olive oil (or avocado oil or coconut oil)
1/2 tsp. vanilla extract
1 tsp. apple cider vinegar
1/4 cup buttermilk or plain yogurt
3/4 cup almond flour
3/4 cup all-purpose flour (or superfine rice flour)
1/2 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. baking powder
1/4 tsp. sea salt
1/2 tsp. cinnamon
1/2 cup cane sugar
1/2 cup semi sweet chocolate chunks turbinado sugar, to finish, optional
Start by grating the zucchini. Put them in a fine mesh sieve and press out excess water. Preheat the oven to 360°F and grease a muffin tin.
In a large mixing bowl, whisk the eggs, oil, vanilla, vinegar and buttermilk or yogurt, until well combined. Add the flours, baking soda and powder, salt, cinnamon and sugar; and stir until combined. Add the zucchini and chocolate and fold it all in.
Fill the muffin tins about 2/3 full (they don’t rise much) and sprinkle turbinado sugar on top, if using. Bake on the middle rack for 20 minutes, or until golden around the edge and a little tap on the center bounces back at you.
Remove to cool completely. Keep covered at room temperature for 2 days, or in the fridge or freezer any longer than that.
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