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WPEA Newsletter

WPEA Newsletter - June 2024

6/24/2024

 

On the Calendar

Recurring Events: 
President Office Hours – Every Monday at 12:00 and Thursday at 4:00
Stay up-to-date with your WPEA President
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/84804444204?pwd=8WO6oSWkNIEyIBc4bAblg2im01Jkb4.1
Meeting ID: 848 0444 4204
Passcode: 424576
 
UNITY Meetings – Every Wednesday at 12:00 & 5:00
Different topics, highlights, and news from your Union every week.
https://us06web.zoom.us/j/81922699344?pwd=dbfzaAvNpLkL4UOGhuS2oseCB3bZiD.1
Meeting ID: 819 2269 9344
Passcode: 716299

​
Thurston-Lewis-Mason Central Labor Council Solidarity Night & Meeting – 1st & 3rd Wednesday of every month.
Stay up-to-date with the latest from the Central Labor Council and visit their website at: https://www.tlmlabor.org/
July Events
July 1 - Statewide Steward Meeting - Zoom link in email
​July 4 - Independance Day, WPEA Office Closed
July 4 - Seafair 4th of July - Gasworks Park
July 10 - Lineworker Appreciation Day
July 14-15 - Lake Chelan Pro Rodeo
July 17-21 - Capitol Lake Fair - Olympia
July 19-20 - Lavender Festival - Sequim
July 19-21 - Darrington Bluegrass Festival
July 20 - Ellensburg Food & Wine Festival
July 20 - WPEA Board Meeting - Via Zoom - Members welcome, see email for details. 
July 30 - Shop Steward Training - email Heather Kafton at [email protected] to RSVP



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2025-2027 Bargaining Update as of June 28
Update by Aubrei Franklin, WPEA Marketing & Membership Coordinator

It has been a whirlwind month of bargaining.  Although during bargaining we can’t get into very specific details, we did want to share an update of main concerns and next steps.  The fiscal forecast and compensatory items will be addressed in July. 
​

Within Higher Education safety and security concerns are key. 
The union highlighted discrepancies in campus safety measures, citing examples where budget cuts led to insufficient security coverage, such as at Olympic College, where budget constraints might revert security staffing to inadequate levels.  The union discussed the need to address ongoing safety concerns, with an emphasis on updating safety plans regularly and involving staff in the planning process. 

The session ended with the understanding that several proposals require further discussion and refinement. Both parties agreed to continue brainstorming and to bring forward more concrete suggestions in future sessions. The bargaining process is ongoing, with both sides committed to finding mutually acceptable solutions to the issues raised. 
The Union currently has about 18 articles open. 

General Government is looking for really diverse changes. 
The union highlighted the importance of timely discussions, especially considering the ongoing fire season and when our schools break for the summer.  The need for those members to bargain earlier in the year due to their jobs was discussed and the Union is hopefully we are on the path to getting the issue resolved. 

The u
nion representatives emphasized the need for oversight and inspections to ensure workplace safety. The state acknowledged the concerns and discussed the procedural aspects of involving L&I.
 

Additionally,
large changes have been brought forward by the Union for Washington State Patrol and the CO3s and CVEO3s.  
The bargaining session ended with both parties agreeing to continue discussions and addressing pending items in upcoming meetings. 

The Union currently has about 16 articles open. 

We are currently in the beginning stages of this session. As we move forward, we are hopeful that our issues will continue to be addressed. 

Next Steps: In July we will be having very critical conversations surrounding pay, increases, adjustments and classification increases. The Union will work tirelessly to bargain as much as we can for our members.  

__ 

If you would like to show your support – check out our updated bargaining webpage! We have posters, postcards, helpful ideas, and how you can get involved. We want to hear from you, have an idea to show your support? Let us know at [email protected]. 

2024 WPEA Scholarship Winners

Elan Robinson - $5000.00
Parker Liberatore - $3000.00
Ella Koebelin - $3000.00
Ellie Easterbrook - $1000.00
Jack Rankin - $1000.00
Sasha Hansen - $1000.00
Emma Robertson - $1000.00

This year we had a large turnout of applicants for our scholarship program. Every year WPEA awards $15,000.00 to 7 outstanding applicants that are comprised of members, spouses, domestic partner, children, mother, father, sister, brother or grandchildren.
There is a scholarship committee that scores each applicant on Grades, Application, Personal Essay, Labor Movement/Union Essay and Reference Letter. Once the scholarship committee has graded each applicant, they are sent to the WPEA Board, and they make the final decision.
The scholarship committee is made up of WPEA members from across the state. They volunteer their time and effort for the betterment of the members and their families.
We look forward to next year
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​New Leadership - New Faces of WPEA

We are thrilled to introduce:
Christi Hill, WPEA Staff Representative!
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Christi has been around WPEA for a few months now but hasn't been formally introduced to all our WPEA members!  With a profound background steeped in the values of the labor movement, Christi brings a wealth of passion and dedication that promises to inspire.

Christi comes from a union strong family and has always been drawn to the benefits of representation in labor and the belief that employees deserve adequate compensation, fair treatment, and a voice regarding employment conditions.  In navigating the inevitable challenges of the field, Christi finds strength in principles of fairness and empathy.

"To stay motivated, I remind myself of the importance of fairness in the workplace and remain mindful that I would hope to have the same support I am able to offer the members if I found myself in similar situations." Christi stated and truly is reflected in her favorite quote, "You never know how strong you are until being strong is the only choice you have."

When Christi is not working she enjoy the outdoors; the beach and camping are her favorite. She also enjoys spending quality time with her grandbabies. Welcome to WPEA Christi, we are so happy you are here!

Welcome back to WPEA:
Ashley Chipman, WPEA Staff Representative!
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If you have been a part of WPEA for a while you may remember Ashley Chipman, and now she has returned as a WPEA Staff Representative!

"My connection to the labor movement started early," shares Ashley. "My grandfather was an electrician and union member with IBEW, and my grandmother served as an executive secretary for IUOE Local 302. Summers spent helping around their locals ignited my initial interest." However, it was a pivotal meeting with Amanda Hacker that truly solidified Ashley's dedication. "She inspired and guided me into the labor movement, showing me firsthand what it means to stand united in support of workers' rights."

Ashley's primary goal in this position is to build trustworthy relationships with our members. Ashley strives to have members feel empowered and understood when consulting with her, and confident during negotiations with management." Ashley is committed to fostering respectful partnerships with management, advocating for members' needs while striving for mutually beneficial solutions.

​Additionally, Ashley states "
I am a down-to-earth person and am fascinated by the beautiful balance of life. While I experience hardships just like anyone else, a part of me can’t help but smile and feel grateful for the ability to feel the sun, wind, or rain on my skin. Life has its ups and downs, but I embrace it all and am here to walk through this journey with you."  Welcome back Ashley - We can't wait to see what you do in your new role!


Washington State Legislative Staff to join the WPEA family!
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​Article by Julia Thurman-Lascurain, WPEA Member Education & Mobilization Director

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It’s been years in the making, and in 2024, Washington State Legislative Staff finally won the right to organize! May 1, 2024, marked the first day legislative staff could submit union authorization cards. By May 17th, the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA) filed with the Public Employees Relations Commission (PERC) for recognition of both the House Democratic Staff and the Senate Democratic Staff.

Legislative staff have long been united in their efforts to improve working conditions and secure the legal right to unionize. By teaming up with the WPEA, they began collecting signature cards. These cards are a formal indication that staff members want to join the union and have it bargain on their behalf.

The House Democratic Staff bargaining unit will consist of the legislative assistants, policy, and communications staff for a total of approximately 80 members! For the Senate Democratic Staff all legislative assistants organized for a bargaining unit of approximately 30! 

To gain official recognition, the union must file with either the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) or PERC, depending on jurisdiction. For the legislative staff, the appropriate body is PERC. Once filed, PERC verifies the signed cards against the list of employees, leading to either direct recognition or an election. In this case, an election was necessary.

PERC sent out ballots to those seeking recognition among the House and Senate Democratic Staff, with ballots due by July 5th and counting scheduled for July 8th. If the election results in a win for the union, legislative staff will gain formal recognition, and the process of bargaining their first union contract will commence.

Currently, legislative staff are forming their bargaining teams and discussing essential elements for their inaugural contract. This bargaining process will follow the same timeline as the statewide higher education and general government contracts, aiming to conclude by mid-September. Once the contract language is finalized, it will be presented to union members for review and ratification, with ratified contracts due by October 1st. This deadline ensures that any compensatory items can be reviewed and approved in the next legislative session.

The right to organize is a significant victory for Washington State Legislative Staff, and with the support of the WPEA, they are poised to secure better working conditions and stronger representation in the workplace.


Exploring the Washington State Department of Natural Resources Recreation Program
​
​Article by Julia Thurman-Lascurain, WPEA Member Education & Mobilization Director

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WPEA proudly represents over 900 dedicated members working at the Department of Natural Resources (DNR). Our members encompass a diverse range of roles, including geoduck divers, fiscal technicians, foresters, firefighters, maintenance mechanics, and heavy equipment operators and so many more. Together, we ensure the seamless operation of the Washington State Department of Natural Resources, playing a crucial role in maintaining the state’s natural resources including recreation areas.

Enjoy Free Camping with DNR
One of the significant responsibilities of many of our fellow union members is maintaining public areas for everyone to enjoy. This dedication directly relates to the incredible free camping opportunities available across the state. DNR manages 80 campgrounds across Washington State, available on a first-come, first-served basis at no additional cost with a Discover Pass. While most campsites are free, some reservations are available at Elbe Hills ORV Campground. Use the Interactive Recreation Map to find your next camping spot and ensure the site is open, as some close seasonally. Our members work tirelessly to ensure that these public spaces are safe, clean, and accessible, making it possible for residents and visitors alike to experience the beauty of Washington’s natural landscapes without the burden of additional costs.

https://www.dnr.wa.gov/Campsites

All you need is a Discovery Pass and an adventuring spirit! Before heading out on your adventure, make sure you have a Discover Pass. Required for vehicle access to recreation sites on DNR-managed land, the annual Discover Pass is transferable between two vehicles and must be displayed on your front windshield while parked. Learn more and find a vendor near you at discoverpass.wa.gov

Camping Tips and Campfire Safety
Practice Leave No Trace principles, observe quiet hours, and check for burn bans before lighting campfires. Purchase firewood locally to prevent the spread of invasive species.

Discover Washington’s Premier Recreation Destinations
Under the leadership of Commissioner of Public Lands, the DNR manages a diverse array of recreational activities across 3.3 million acres of state trust lands. These lands offer something for everyone, from hiking and mountain biking to horseback riding, paragliding, rock climbing, and off-road vehicle riding. Our state trust lands are not only places for adventure but also vital resources managed for timber production, generating revenue that supports local county services, public school construction, and universities.

Plan Your Next Adventure
https://www.dnr.wa.gov/recreation
To explore these incredible opportunities, visit the DNR website! You’ll find detailed information about various recreation sites managed by DNR members, ensuring that your next favorite outdoor activity spot is union strong!

Explore Our Working Forests and Natural Areas
Washington’s state trust lands span 3.3 million acres, featuring various forests with unique recreation sites. From Ahtanum to Yacolt Burn, each area offers distinct opportunities and tips for your visit. Additionally, DNR manages two types of natural areas: Natural Area Preserves and Natural Resource Conservation Areas (NRCAs), protecting the state’s ecosystems, habitats, and native species.

We proudly to support the hardworking members of the DNR. Together, we keep Washington’s natural resources and recreation areas thriving for all to enjoy.


Unit Spotlight​ - Security Officers with Military Department
Article from Heather Kafton, WPEA Staff Representative

As you pass through the gates of Camp Murray, you'll encounter the dedicated Security Officers of the Washington State Military Department (WMD), represented by the Washington Public Employees Association (WPEA). These officers maintain a constant presence, ensuring the security and safety of the premises around the clock, every day of the week.
​
The WPEA Security Officers serve as crucial guardians, focusing on
anti-terrorism force protection and the well-being of all employees and guests of the WMD. Their responsibilities extend to safeguarding agency property, screening visitors at checkpoints, responding to emergencies, providing medical assistance, and conducting regular security patrols, among other essential duties.

Recently, during a day at the firing range under the guidance of firearms instructor and WPEA steward Charles Perez, WPEA member Levi Thomas demonstrated the proper handling techniques for "Rescue Randy," the dummy used in their annual physical tests. This exercise underscores the commitment of WPEA members to continually hone their skills and maintain proficiency in their roles.

The dedication of WPEA represented Officers is evident in their proactive approach to professional development. During a recent
​Labor-Management Cooperation Committee (LMCC) meeting with WMD, WPEA advocated for updated training sessions on baton and handcuff usage, a request that was accepted by the employer.


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Levi Thomas, Charles Perez (WPEA Steward) and new hire and new WPEA member Alphonso Valencia
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Levi Thomas with dummy "Rescue Randy"

Debi Schoonover: A Dedicated Advocate and Educator 
​
Article by Julia Thurman-Lascurain, WPEA Member Education & Mobilization Director​

PictureDebi Schoonover, VP District 9
Debi's journey with both WPEA and Walla Walla Community College (WWCC) has been marked by her unwavering commitment to both education and advocacy. Notably, she made an impactful decision to run for Vice President of District 9, bypassing the traditional route of shop steward. Her drive was fueled by a noticeable lack of understanding about the union and a vacant VP position in her district. The first encounter with a union representative had left a lasting impression, compelling her to step up and complete the term. Her passion and dedication saw her running for the current term, ensuring strong leadership and representation for all WPEA members in district 9: Yakima County, Franklin County, Adams County, Benton County, Walla Walla County, Columbia County, Garfield County, and Asotin County. 

Since October 2020, Debi Schoonover has been an integral part of WWCC as the Clarkston Campus Nursing Program Coordinator. Joining in the midst of the Covid-19 pandemic, Debi has navigated unprecedented challenges with resilience and dedication, ensuring the continued success of the nursing program and the well-being of her students and colleagues. 
What Debi loves most about her union is the unwavering support it provides. "My union has my back, and the rest of our members’ as well, 24/7. I know I have a safe work environment with good benefits and fair pay," she shares.
This assurance brings her peace of mind, knowing that her job treats employees fairly and equitably. Having grown up in a
pro-union family, with her father serving multiple terms as his local president, Debi understands the critical role unions play in protecting workers' rights. Her experience working in a right-to-work state, where employees were often mistreated, further cemented her belief in the importance of strong union representation.
 

Outside of her professional life, Debi's perfect weekend is a testament to her love for nature and family. Camping with her five children on the South Fork, free from cell service and internet, is her ideal getaway. Whether it's kayaking, hiking, fishing, or simply observing wildlife, these moments are precious. One of her favorite activities is helping her kids hunt for 'snipe' after dark, a delightful tradition that, amusingly, only works once. 

Throughout her career at WWCC, Debi has learned valuable lessons, particularly about the importance of teamwork. "People who work in academia seem to really LOVE meetings! Those same people are some of the kindest and know how to take teamwork to the highest level," she observes. The camaraderie and collaborative spirit at WWCC have enriched her experience, showing her a level of teamwork she hadn't encountered before. 
​

Debi Schoonover’s journey is a shining example of dedication, leadership, and the importance of community.
​Her contributions to WWCC and her advocacy within the union make her a cherished member of the
WPEA family. Here’s to celebrating Debi and all she brings to our community!
 


WPEA IT Update
​
Article by Joey Hicklin, WPEA Organizer

Hey there, union family! 

It's your friendly neighborhood IT admin here, and boy, do I have some exciting news to share! I've been busy making some pretty cool changes that are going to make our union even stronger. So, grab a cup of coffee (or tea, if that's your thing), and let me fill you in on what's been happening since February. 

First up, we've given our membership database a major upgrade. Remember that old desktop computer that used to hold all our info? Well, we've kicked it to the curb and moved everything to the cloud. I know, I know, it sounds like we're living in the future, right? But trust me, this is awesome news for all of us. Our membership coordinator can now work from anywhere (hello, work-from-home days!), and we don't have to worry about losing all our data if that ancient computer decides to give up the ghost. Plus, it's saving us a few bucks in the long run. Win-win! 

Next, we've supercharged our new hire outreach. Instead of our poor Organizer spending all their time sending individual emails (talk about tedious!), we've got a shiny new automated system. It's like having a friendly robot assistant who reaches out to new hires three times in their first month, telling them all about their contract and inviting them to orientation. This frees up our Organizer to tackle lots of other important stuff, like creating awesome training programs for all of us. 

Now, here's a big one – we're ditching that expensive IT helpdesk. I know, it sounds scary, but trust me, it's a good thing. Those folks were charging us an arm and a leg, took forever to respond, and sometimes messed up our devices. So, we're bringing it all in-house. That means faster help when you need it, and we can start exploring cool new tech stuff instead of just keeping the lights on. 

We're also getting all high-tech with our mobile devices. We're using something called Intune and Autopilot (sounds like something out of a sci-fi movie, right?). This means we can keep track of all our union devices and make sure they're being used for union business. No more lost tablets or phones! Plus, it might even lead to some of you getting union devices for important work. How cool is that? 

Last but not least, we're planning a total makeover for our website. Our current site is serviceable, but it’s built on an aging platform that is hindering our growth. We're looking at some fancy new options that'll let us have special areas just for stewards and member leaders, plus a whole section for training programs. It'll be like having a virtual union hall right at your fingertips! 

I know all this tech talk might sound a bit overwhelming, but here's the bottom line: we're making these changes to serve you better, keep your information safe, and make sure we're using your dues in the smartest way possible. We're not just keeping up with the times – we're getting ahead of the game! 

Got questions? Concerns? Brilliant ideas? I'm all ears! After all, this union is all about you, and we want to make sure these changes work for everyone. 
​
Stay awesome, and remember – united we bargain, divided we beg! 
Your tech-loving IT admin, Joey Hicklin 

P.S. I always have open office hours at 3 PM, so feel free to stop by and chat about all things tech. Just don't ask me to fix your home printer – that's where I draw the line! 😉 

History Matters: June 12 the first Longshoremen Union is established in 1886.
Article by Derya Ruggles, WPEA Organizing, Legislative, Media Specialist

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Longshoremen working on ships docked on the Seattle waterfront walk off the job, leading to negotiations and then the acceptance of the Stevedores, Longshoremen and Riggers Union of Seattle.
Longshoremen are dock workers responsible for unloading and loading ships, balancing weight loads, and stowing cargo in densely packed ship holds – a critical and dangerous undertaking.
Three months earlier, in March 1886, longshoremen in Tacoma had unionized, following in the footsteps of longshoremen in Portland, Oregon, who had organized in 1878.
The 1886 longshoremen’s strike in Seattle followed a three-day strike two years earlier and then two years of stalled talks over workers’ demands for representation. A total of 88 men signed the new union charter; the first meeting was held on June 14, 1886.

Take a look at the ILWU Seattle 125 year tribute 4 minute video: ILWU Seattle Longshoremen 125 Years Tribute

​From https://wwwwww.historylink.org/File/22612.historylink.org/File/22612
Further reading on the rich history of ILWU: Seattle Waterfront History (ilwu19.com)


​This Month's Featured Recipe - Slow cooker Peach Cobbler

Ingredients
8 large peaches, peeled and cut into eighths
3/4 cup granulated sugar
1/3 cup chopped crystallized ginger (optional)
1 (14.25-oz.) box super-moist white cake mix (such as Better Crocker)
3/4 cup regular oats
1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
1/4 cup ginger ale
1/4 tsp. ground nutmeg
1/4 tsp. kosher salt
1 tsp. vanilla extract

Directions
Step 1
Mix fruit and sugar:
Toss together peaches, sugar, and ginger in a 6-quart slow cooker.
Step 2
Add topping to fruit filling:
Combine cake mix and remaining ingredients.
Spread over peach mixture.
Step 3
Cook cobbler:
Cover and cook on HIGH 2 to 3 hours. Remove lid and let stand 15 minutes.
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Did you see the latest article about our members?

Our DNR members were featured in an article on Rueters, check it out now:
https://www.reuters.com/investigates/special-report/usa-prisons-firefighters/
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