2011 July_Aug
-
Upload
tommy-bellfield -
Category
Documents
-
view
218 -
download
2
description
Transcript of 2011 July_Aug
The 1005 LineThe news and information
publication of
ATU Local 1005 Prepared and
distributed by the Education
Committee
For The People Who Know Where They Are Going
July / August 2011
"Silence never won rights. � ey are not handed down from above; they are forced by pressures from below."
Roger Baldwin, founder of ACLU
What’s Inside...
Officer’s Corner
page 2
Union Meeting Highlights
page 3
Transit Budget Reductions, What
They Could Have Meant
page 9
Transit Safety and Security
page 11
Meet Our Newest Member
page 13
OJE
page 14
Long-term Illness or Injury
page 15
Retirements
page 15, 16, 24, 29, 32, 33, 34
Tornado
page 17
Prostate Cancer
page 18
Related Budget Article on page 7
Transit Cuts Not as Deep as Feared
Email From: Lamb, Brian
Sent: Tuesday, July 19, 2011 4:27 PM
To: Transit-All Fellow Employees:
Late yesterday the transportation fi nance bill was made public,
including funding for transit over the next two years. The bill has not
yet been signed into law, but a special session of the legislature has
been called for this afternoon so the process is now underway.
The legislature had previously proposed a $109.4 million cut over
the next two years to the State General Fund budget for regional
transit operations. Governor Dayton vetoed that bill. If he had not, we
would have been forced to cut service by about 25 percent and also
raise fares.
In the current bill, the reduction is $52 million over two years –
less than half of the original proposal. In addition, the bill includes ad-
ditional one-time funding for transit operations that will further lessen
the impact for this two-year budget cycle. We can expect about $15.8
million of Counties Improvement Transit Board funds that it will real-
locate to cover operational expenses and $7.3 million from reserves of
Suburban Transit Providers.
The Council needs to identify how to shore up the $29 million
difference. We have identifi ed a number of sources – many of them
one-time fi xes – to close the gap partially. Making up the full differ-
ence will not come painlessly, and we have a lot of work to do over
the next months to keep fi nances in line.
We can be thankful that we’re no longer looking at 25 percent ser-
vice cut scenarios with dozens of whole routes eliminated, but we will
need to fi nd service effi ciencies over the next two years. In the Sep-
tember 10 service choice, for instance, we won’t be eliminating any
routes, but we will adjust service more than we typically do. Other
options, such as a fare increase, may be considered by the Council at
some point, but is not a foregone conclusion.
We can be very appreciative of the great work of many people
in crafting this budget compromise through the legislative process.
While some additional belt tightening certainly will be required, we
will be able to maintain the high quality service to our customers for
the next two years.
I’ll keep you posted on our funding and our plans to adjust to the
new, less severe budget realities.
Thanks, Brian Lamb, General Manager
OFFICER’S
CORNER
Page 2
Michelle Sommers President
LOCAL 1005
OFFICERS
President/Business Agent
Michelle Sommers
Vice-President
Dorothy Maki
Recording Secretary/
Ass’t. Business Agent
Dan Abramowicz
Financial Secretary/
Treasurer
Tommy Bellfield
ATU Local 1005
Union Office
8 a.m. - 4 p.m.
(Closed 12:00 - 1:00)
312 Central Ave.
Suite 438
Mpls., MN 55414
612-379-2914
email:
website:
www.atu1005.com
Calendar
Education Committee
Meetings - 11:30 a.m.
September 20th
October 18th
Membership Meetings
August 23th - Mpls.
September 27th - St. Paul
10:00 a.m. - 7:00 p.m.
We may have a state budget settlement, but the fight is not over.
Transit funding levels are still at risk at the federal level. Pressure needs
to be maintained on elected officials to keep transit whole and reject any
cuts. That is why it is so important for members (ATU, TMSA, AFSCME
and non-rep) to contact their elected representatives and senators. It
sounds like a broken record, but it does work! We need to keep the
pressure on high right now, at the state and federal levels.
The fight is not just about transit funding either: A healthcare plan that
gives members quality coverage at an affordable price has become the
exception rather than the rule. Healthcare reform will never happen while
people are still arguing about ‘single’ vs. ‘family’ premium costs. These
kinds of reforms will become reality only when a majority of the people
work together to have their voices heard. We have reached a point where
silence is not golden; it is an endorsement for the richest 2% to control
the rest of us.
If we are to move forward in our contract, to better our working
conditions and benefits, we need to stand up and take the necessary steps.
Taking the time to get involved only takes a few minutes in a week. A
phone call and an email are all it takes. Sitting and watching while public
services are continually cut - and the working class is continually attacked
- is unacceptable. Take the time to tell your representatives what you care
about: jobs, education, transportation, collective bargaining rights or
anything else. Let them know you will be watching how they vote on
your issues.
While I think we should all be able to agree that transit funding and
healthcare are important, I also know we may disagree on other issues.
Let’s try to put aside the issues we disagree on for now and work together
on the issues that unite us.
The union office is in the process of creating a new website that will
be easier to follow; have information on issues more quickly; have
Facebook links; email notification; and other upgrades to increase
Continued on page 19
FIGHT IS NOT OVER
Page 3
Education
Committee
Advisor
Dorothy Maki
Chair
Melanie Benson
South
Liz Goldberg
Stacey Taylor
Heywood Office
Ilona LaDouceur
Rec. Secretary
Nicollet
Alec Johnson
Ryan Timlin
Twaya McIntosh
Debbi Sievers
Blayne Williams
Ruter
Anastasia Bloodsaw
Jackie Williams
East Metro
Philip Jarosz
Doug Barton
Heywood Garage
Faye Brown
Vice Chair
Walter T. Curry, Jr.
LRT
Carl Rice
Lisa Callahan
725 Bldg.
Scott Lindquist
Stephen Babcock
Layout
Editorial Board
Ken Dolney
Mark Lawson
Gary Bier
Recommendations of the Executive Board
A motion was m/s/c to pay for air travel, luggage fees, registration, lost time and per diem for two officers to attend the Transit Initiatives &
Communities Conference in St. Louis from June 20-22, 2011
sponsored by the Center for Transportation Excellence.
A motion was m/s/c to pay registration and lost time for fifteen (15) members to attend the Labor Arbitration Institute’s seminar titled
Labor Law and Labor Arbitration on Thursday, October 13.
A motion was m/s/c to pay for air fare, luggage fees, registration, activity fees, lost time, and per diem for four (4) Executive Board members to attend the 2011 ATU Eastern Can-Am Conference Sep.
13-18 in Manalapan, FL. (Palm Beach)
A motion was m/s/c to purchase a new computer server, software licensing, backup equipment, anti-virus software and firewall protection at a cost not to exceed $8,500.00.
A motion was m/s/c to purchase a portable digital projector at a cost not to exceed $1,000.00.
A motion was m/s/c to purchase a new laptop computer at a cost not to exceed $3,000.00.
A motion was m/s/c to allow Lynn Larkin-Wright, Community Services
Liaison for St. Paul Regional Labor Federation, to appear before the
executive board to speak briefl y.
(m/s/c = made, seconded and carried)
Arbitration Requests
An East Metro operator requested arbitration after being discharged
for violating her Last Chance Agreement and Misconduct. After a brief
explanation in which Ms. Rodriguez appeared, a secret ballot was cast.
This request will not be going to arbitration.
A Nicollet operator requested arbitration for a Class B violation. After
a brief explanation in which Mr. Wallace appeared, a secret ballot was
cast. This request will be going to arbitration.
Financial Secretary/Treasurer's Report
The following member passed away since last month’s meeting:
Mike Wallace - First Transit
Members stood for a moment of silence.
Continued on page 4
Union Meeting Highlights
May 2011
Light Rail
Carl Rice #6223
Lisa Callahan #6716
Mark Miller retired from LRT,
July 15, 2011. We wish him
well!!!!!
Parking spaces at LRT have
decreased since construction
started on the expansion of the
Central Corridor.
The pick will be hung the
week of July 25, with picking to
start August 1. This is a system
pick.
Classes are almost done for
the new rulebook. The new
rulebook will go into effect
August 1.
Enjoy the rest of summer!!!!
Winter is coming.......
LRT had a unplanned shutdown
August 5, 2011 during rush hour.
It started when the Catina Wire
broke, stalling a train on the Hwy.
62 flyover. A bus bridge was used
from the Franklin Avenue Station
to the HHH Airport Station.
Trains resumed around 3:00 p.m..
Be safe in construction zones.
They’re everywhere
Page 4
President's Report
The interim open enrollment packets have been sent out to members.
Excess monies paid by active members will be repaid, minus applicable
income taxes, by June 10. Retirees will have their respective accounts
credited for the excess monies paid.
Members were thanked for approving the purchase of a new computer
server.
Implementation of the new contract involves many meetings to insure
both Union and Company have mutual understanding regarding new or
changed language. Nothing in the new contract will be implemented until
July 1st.
Several arbitration awards and settlements were announced: Five were
settled, one was denied, and two were sustained in part.
A meeting took place several weeks ago with Gen. Mgr. Brian Lamb
regarding several grievances.
Lynn Larkin-Wright’s appearance at the Executive Board meeting was
discussed briefly. Members were urged to call “211” for help.
President Sommers invited members to “pass the hat” for donations to
be given to the family of Tajepaul Mathura (needs pancreas transplant).
Members are requested to call, email, write or meet with their state
legislators to voice their concerns about the budget problems.
A flyer will be posted soon for people to sign up to help members
affected by the bad weather in North Minneapolis on May 21 and 22.
Unfinished Business
A motion was made and seconded to abandon the purchase of a
building and pursue renting new space at 312 Central Ave (3rd floor,
room 356) and enter into a new lease. The motion passed.
May Rochester Membership Meeting
The Rochester membership meeting was held on Wednesday, May 25,
2011, at the Rochester Labor Temple.
Dan Abramowicz presented the arbitration requests. After brief expla-
nations, secret ballots were cast.
Financial Report
Copies of the budget and financial statement were made available to
members.
East Metro
Philip Jarosz, Dr. #65015
Doug Barton, Dr. #68273
Drivers Robert Horbach,
#2626, Ronald Bailey, #9320 and
Mike Swintek, #82, have all
retired from East Metro.
Part-time drivers Beth Crigen,
#70315 and Jane Hanson, #68279
will be going full-time.
Barb Osadcheek, #2499 will be
completing the O.J.E. program for
Transit Supervisor on August 22nd
and will return to driving.
Lowande Aaron has been at
East Metro as part of the O.J.E.
program as an assistant manager.
She will be completing her
program August 22nd.
Steve Jaeger has fi nally gotten
his fi fth assistant. Dan Stoffer
from the Training Center is at East
Metro as an assistant manager for
many months to come.
Speaking of the Training
Center, East Metro has received
two trainers from the
Center.
Dennis Johnson, #1087 and
Stephanie Nichols, #9485 have
returned to driving.
Page 5
President's Report
New office space for the Union Office is being considered and we’re
waiting for a response from building management.
The new Run Time Committee will commence with Garage
Coordinators being involved in the selection process for routes being
considered.
The new “2-step” grievance procedure will begin on July 1, 2011. All
grievances initiated on July 1st and after will be handled with the new
procedure.
Public hearings have been scheduled in preparation for the impending
State Shutdown. Members were encouraged to attend as many meetings
as they could and show support for transit.
President Sommers and Rec. Sec. Dan Abramowicz attended a training
seminar in St. Louis, Missouri, to show transit advocates how to generate
more money for transit through a variety of ways.
Metro Transit’s restricted duty program has been rumored to have
been discontinued. We will inquire and respond accordingly.
National Group Protection will be at the properties in September to
sign members up for insurance products.
Transit cuts are projected to be about 25%, possibly resulting in layoffs
in the hundreds.
Volunteers are requested for the upcoming ATU Picnic on Sunday,
June 2011
Report of the Local
The ATU Picnic was announced for Aug. 7 at Battle Creek Park in St.
Paul.
Members informed of upcoming arbitration assessments.
The work status of a fellow member was discussed briefly.
RCL’s contract extension with the city of Rochester is not “official”
yet.
Members were reminded that contract negotiations will re-start in late
summer and to think of what changes (proposals) they’d like to see.
Old Business
A motion was m/s/c to abandon the purchase of a building and pursue
renting new space at 312 Central Ave, 3rd floor, and enter into a new
lease.
Commuter Rail Big
Lake
Ridership Update We are happy to announce that Northstar Commuter Rail’s week-day average ridership has once again increased over last year. Although May’s total rider count was slightly lower than last year, the weekday average is up by over 29%. For the first five months of 2011, total ridership is up 4% over last year and the weekday average is up 16%.
Northstar milestones BNSF’s Northstar Suburban Operations has accomplished 2 YEARS INJURY FREE beginning on June 1, 2009 and 119 days with 100% On Time Performance effective May 31, 2011. A tremendous accomplishment.
Tom’s Cornerby Tom Mevissen
An oily predicament Recently, the maintenance facilities crew at Big Lake VMF have successfully solved a mys-tery. For many months, facilities have been aware of an oily “rain drip” coming from an exhaust air unit for the compressor room located on the mezzanine. They were able to deduct that this oil is actually coming from the “waste” channel located underneath the S&I pit. The air that is being replaced has concentrated the oil from the air and in effect leaks out of the exhaust air unit. Facilities modified the air compressors with custom air filters. They also replaced the air louvers located near the S&I pit with air filters as well. The filters will now soak up the oil before it gets into the exhaust unit. These changes will help keep the air compressor equipment oil free and prevent overheating.
Page 6
August 7.
LRT management has told an operator that a “field test” is not
acceptable as a valid test. ATU will be grieving the issue.
ATU learned that Metro Transit allegedly hired ‘outside’ people as
Stockkeepers while internal candidates were deemed ineligible. This will
be investigated.
A Close Encounter of the Customer Type
TIC Humor
Caller: I need a bus from “the” transit center to the U of M.
Rep: Which transit center?
Caller: “The” transit center.
Rep: There are many transit centers...where are you?
Caller: (annoyed) The Brooklyn Center Transit Center.
Rep: Okay good, thank you. And where would you like to go at
the U of M?
Caller: Ummm, The Carlson School of Magnets.
Rep: Pardon me?
Caller: (irritated) The Carlson School of Magnets
Rep: do you mean the Carlson School of Management?
Caller: Yea…whatever.
Customer, in all seriousness, wanted to go from the Happy Valley
Transit Center to the Megermall.
Another one wanted to go to Hennepin and Frankenstein.
Oh dear!!!
I had a call this morning from a guy wanting to go downtown
Minneapolis and said he was at 2418. Just that, 2418, no street.
When I asked for the name of the street, he said, “There is no
street, it’s an apartment.” I explained that I needed either a street
address or intersection, and he said he did not know the name of
the street, so I asked him if he could walk out to the street and read
me the sign at the corner. He was on a cell phone, so I could hear
“crunch, crunch, crunch,” as he walked out to the street. He said,
“Okay, I see a sign.” I said, “What does it say?” He said, “I will
spell it for you. "R-E-N-T-A-L O-F-F-I-C-E.”
Page 7
Heywood
Ilona La Douceur #66048
Faye Brown # 6331
Walter T. Curry, Jr. #3815
SAFETY
With today's budget cuts, let's not cut corners on safety or let it be put on the back burner. The Mall of America (MOA) is being closely monitored for buses not properly stopping at LRT cross-ings. Buses must stop at all non-exempt rail crossings. Failure to do so could result in loss of one’s CDL. Don't cross tracks if you can't clear them.
Bays and driveways at garages are not “home free, all rules out”. The speed limit is still enforced. We can be hit and killed, so slow down, let us live, and keep your job. You’ll get home whether you drive at 10 mph or 30 mph. Let's remember that the job you are doing, we are doing, too. So let's be courteous to each other. Keep your cool. Let's talk, not yell.
Be safe in construction zones. They’re everywhere.
MAINTENANCE
Mechanics remind drivers to write up bad order buses. “We can't fix it if we don't know it’s broken.” Call dispatch on pullouts if you have a problem, instead of running around looking for a mechanic.
Mechanic Recognition took place in July. Congratulations! Good job.
TRANSIT BUDGET REDUCTIONSWhat They Could Have Meant
Ilona LaDouceur TIC #66048
Most of you are aware of the potential budget cuts some legislators
were proposing for transit. It is this writer’s personal and professional
opinion that ANY cuts in transit, at any level, are ludicrous. There is a
growing and constant need for public transit services. In my position in
TIC (Transit Information Center) I alone talk to 150 to 200 people a day,
day in and day out, getting the information they need to ride public
transportation. I have had several callers during my shift express their
concern in regards to transit service cuts and fare increases. I have
instructed these callers to make their concerns and comments known by
calling, writing and emailing directly to the Met Council.
Here are just some of the reasons NOT to cut, but rather ADD money
to the transit budget. In other words, to progress not digress:
• Many of our riders depend on public transportation 100% for their
everyday functions: work, school, transporting their children to school and daycare, medical appointments, shopping and other routine errands, taking care of other family members or friends that are not mobile. We are the only mode of transportation that they have.
• With gas prices getting higher, people who have their own vehicles are finding that it is too expensive to commute this way; thus, they have begun to use and rely on public transportation.
• Traffic - a growing population means more traffic. Public transportation means fewer single person vehicles, thus better traffic flow. This is compounded more with all the summer highway construction jobs.
• “Go Greener”. Less traffic means less pollution and less pollution-related health issues.
Per the U.S. Census Bureau, the population of all of Minnesota as of
2010 was approximately 5.3 million people. About 3.5 million of those
are in the seven-county metro area, plus Rochester, Mankato, St Cloud
and Duluth. These cities are growing and becoming more populated year
after year. People need to get around, go to work, do their errands and go
to appointments. Kids go to school. Tourists want to visit different places
in the cities. We need to have the resources to move large numbers of
people to vast areas of space in a timely fashion....PUBLIC
TRANSPORTATION.
On June 27, 2011 John Levin, Director of Service Development
presented “Planning for Potential Transit Budget Reductions.” These are
some of the ideas and major points:
The Budget Challenge
• Final transit operation budget undetermined
Nicollet
Melanie Benson #854
Twaya McIntosh #9002
Debbi Sievers #64222
Alec Johnson #66034
Ryan Timlin #66279
Blayne Williams #77
Rummage Sale
The annual Nicollet Garage
Rummage Sale was held on
Saturday, July 30. This sale, spon-
sored by the Nicollet Club, raises
money each year to pay for cable
TV in the drivers’ room. This
year’s sale netted $748, of which
$300 goes to the maintenance
shop. More funds will need to be
raised because cable TV costs over
$90 a month.
Thanks to the many people
who donated items to the sale; to
those who examined and sorted
them; and to those who set every-
thing up, staffed the sale and put
things away afterwards. Extra
thanks because the day of the sale
was very hot and humid.
Special mention goes to:
Maria Flores, Driver 6942 and
daughter
Debra Mills, Driver 9846
Peter Moore, Driver 1700
Joel Terrell, Garage Coordinator
Ginger Duckworth, Driver 68255
and family members
Caroline Boekhoff, Driver 6851
Dave Zapata
Charles Hall
Joe Comerford Retires
The retirement party for Joe
Comerford, Driver 9795, was held
in the Nicollet drivers’ room on
Tuesday, August 9, 2011. Joe is
retiring with 14 years of service.
We wish Joe the very best in the
years to come.
Page 8• Planning based on transit finance bill proposal for $109 million
cut in general fund for biennium
Comprehensive Approach
• Administrative cost reductions and efficiencies
• Use of reserves and other funding sources
• Fare increase
• Unprecedented service reductions (This item got my attention)
Fare Increase Options
Base Fare Increase $0.25 $0.50
Estimated Ridership Loss* 2.5 m (3%) 6.8 m (8%)
Ridership Recovery Period 18 months 24 months
Net Revenue Increase $11 million $16 million
in 2012/13 biennium*
• Increasing ridership loss limits potential fare
revenue growth from fare increases
* Assumes fare increase takes effect January 1, 2012
Service Reduction Plan Strategy
• Review all services
• Metro Transit and MTS contracted regular route
• Metro Mobility: Meet ADA service requirements
• Transit Link: Retain existing funding level?
Guiding Principles for Regular Route
Bus Service Reduction Planning
• Minimize ridership loss
• Minimize impacts on those who rely on transit the most, avoid
disparate impacts
• Preserve the integrity and connectivity of the transit system
where possible
• Seek public input on plans and adjust based on comments
Methodology
• Review route performance
• Eliminate or restructure high subsidy / low ridership service
• Reduce frequency and span of service, eliminate segments of
routes
• Take into account other options for riders (shifts to other routes,
other modes)
• Review plans to avoid disparate impacts
• Prioritize proposals to allow for scaled plan
Page 9
MJR
Jackie Williams #66180
Anastasia Bloodsaw #2297
I’d like to thank many at MJR
for the love they recently showed
three of our coworkers who were
affected by the May tornado in
North Minneapolis.
Mike Mucker, known for his
quest for fun and laughter, com-
passionately suggested we all
come together to be a financial
blessing to these operators. We
were not concerned with what the
insurance companies, FEMA, or
any other agencies were doing, for
we personally wanted to assist
them.
Given the fact that one of the
families was a Metro Transit hus-
band-and-wife team (Jeff #9071
and Margaret #9866 Stephens), we
were devastated with their double
loss. Later, we were made aware
that Operator Al Sesler #65025
also was affected.
The day after the storm and
tornado, Jeff and Margaret
Stephens were awakened by the
buzzing of power saws and the
illumination of a generator light as
debris was being cleared by anoth-
er Metro Transit husband-and-wife
team, John and Julie McConnell.
Tim Hnida (Squirrel) helped to
raise additional funds to add to the
donations. All time was donated
during split breaks. Management
was also cooperative. Thank you,
Manager Doyne Parsons, Mike
Mucker #65108, Dakota Nyaribo,
#67299, Tim (Squirrel) Hnida
#65086, John #8803 and Julie
#2384 McConnell and all our fel-
low operators for your donations.
We are a close family at MJ
Ruter. There is love at MJ Ruter.
Preliminary Planning Effort
• Review current route performance
• Outline potential service reductions
• Project impact on ridership, resources
• Identify conflicts in guiding principles
• Adjust approach based on policy direction and
public input
Distribution of Service Reductions
• 25% reduction in hours of service
• 200+ peak buses
• Loss of 8 to 10 million annual rides
• 500+ jobs lost
Significant Impacts on Local Routes
• Most suburban local and many crosstown routes eliminated
• Many routes with frequency and/or hours of service reductions
• Connectivity of core urban network compromised
• More trips will require a transfer, take longer
• More standees on core local routes
Significant Impacts on Commuter Routes
• Lower performing routes eliminated
• Some high ridership routes eliminated, including most U of M
routes, riders shift to local service
• Policy approach to park & ride service
– Approach 1: Eliminate all park & ride service - or -
– Approach 2: Retain high ridership service to major
park & ride markets; make deeper cuts to local service
Primary Park and Ride Network
• St. Paul markets: Maplewood, Woodbury
• Minneapolis markets: Maplewood, Woodbury, Blaine,
Coon Rapids, Brooklyn Center, Brooklyn Park, Roseville,
Edina, Bloomington, I-394 corridor
• 69 peak buses
• 2.4 million annual rides retained
Local Service Reductions to Offset
Retained Primary Park & Ride Service
• 6 more route eliminated one or more days
• 11 more core local routes with deeper midday
frequency reductions
• 10 to 15 percent of total service reduction
• 12 peak buses
• 1.9 million annual rides lost
Page 10
725 Bldg
Scott Lindquist #6401
Stephen Babcock #3128
Instructor Cheryl Kienietz-
Hall, secretary Sharon Reich,
and manager Maria Crescini are
all that is left of the training
department here at the OSC/725
Building. All the other instruc-
tors went back to the garages in
a driving position. This is
because at this time and with
these budgetary constraints there
will be no new hiring of drivers
until next spring.
Congratulations to Danny
Kearns for retiring after 10 years
of service.
In the Material Management
annual pick, Rick Rolfson (Head
Stockkeeper) left to go to the
new Track and Signals Facility
over on 24th and Hiawatha Ave.
Stephen Babcock will be the
new Head Stockkeeper.
The Radio department has
been extremely busy making
cables to support all the elec-
tronic equipment coming in the
new buses. They manufacture
the cables and then ship them
out to Gillig in California to
have them installed as the buses
are being built on the assembly
line.
Summary
• Significant reduction in overall coverage and
system connectivity
• Largest portion of savings from cuts to urban
local service
• Conflict between retaining core park & ride
markets vs. deeper cuts to local service
Public Engagement
Public Hearings
• These were scheduled but have now been cancelled.
We need to talk to our riders and let them know of their options in
voicing their concerns, comments and ideas. Talk to your union
representative or call the union office. Contact our government officials.
Cuts like these would be devastating to public transportation in every
respect: for our riders, for us and for the future of public transportation
in the Twin Cities and beyond.
Protecting the Privacy of OthersMelanie Benson, Driver 854
The beginning of a new system pick for drivers is a good time to
remind ourselves to guard one another’s privacy. Drivers who change
routes may not want all of their passengers to know which new route,
schedule or garage they have chosen. This information should come from
the actual driver and not from coworkers.
There have been instances of unwanted attentions by certain passengers
toward certain drivers. We are in a vulnerable position out there. Let’s
not make it worse for each other by giving out information on others.
We should not even share other
drivers’ names (fi rst or last),
their family status, their senior-
ity standing, their health status,
vacation times or anything else
that might identify them to pas-
sengers.
This is not to say that any of
our passengers are necessarily
untrustworthy, but we just never
know. So, to be on the safe side,
let the drivers who choose to
share their information do so
themselves. If passengers ques-
tion other drivers, they can be
told of privacy considerations.
They’ll understand.
TRANSIT SAFETY/SECURITY
COMMITTEE (TSSC)
MEETING MINUTES
Disclaimer:
Due to format changes, these columns are not exact
replicas of TSSC minutes. We cannot assure the accura-
cy of all data. The exact minutes are posted after each
meeting at the operating garages.
Page 11
May 5, 2011
Members of the Committee Present:
Danielle Julkowski - Management Advisor
Christina House,-Committee Chair
Jerry Langer- MJR
Darrell Hanson,- Nicollet
Leatha Falls- FTH
Lisa Benson - South
Diane Rude - East Metro
Others in attendance:
Don Davis- Maintenance
Eric Isakson- TCC
Mario Galasso-MTPD
- Safety
Debra Downing- Street Operations
Brad Carlson-Operator
Doug Looyen-OJE ATM
Paul Krech-OJE ATM
Christina House called meeting to order at 10:00 am in FTH Chambers.
March minutes were not reviewed.
POLICE REPORT
Mario Galasso in attendance:
• N. Metro P&R’s targeted for Catalytic Converter thefts-Suspects have
been arrested.
• Undercover police are boarding w/transfers.
• Media questioning Metro Transit “Stroller Policy”. Per/Risk Mgmt-state
the policy and let it go. The request will be on video.
TCC REPORT
Eric Isakson in attendance:
• April 2011-40% of calls are disorderly conduct
South
Liz Goldberg #1630
Stacey Taylor #70055
Stars In the Southern Sky
Stephen Leko, #9201, South
Operator and Relief Instructor,
gathered August 4th with fellow
workers and management
in honor of his retirement, with 19
years of loyal and joyful service.
Tall and soft-spoken, with a big
smile and friendly greeting
for everyone, Steve not only con-
tributed his many talents and skills
within the Instruction arena, but
also happily volunteered for any
and all garage events. The
"Breakfast Club" was infamous due
to Steve's perfect pancakes and egg
sausage sandwiches!
It has always been obvious, the
love Steve has had for his job.
It’s also just as obvious how impor-
tant the people Steve works with
are to him. Steve Leko - One of a
kind - A star in our sky. Love you,
StevO.
"Last-Day-Of-The-17-Week-Pick-
Celebrational Pot Luck"
Everyone is so grateful that it’s
finally over that we decided to cele-
brate - with food! September 9th is
the date. Bring your favorite salad,
dessert or main dish.
"The Annual Butch Shiro Chili
Cook-Off" Scheduled for October
- date to be announced.
Peter Stumme, Nicollet Operator
Ladder Academy Participant
After very successfully complet-
ing his 12-week On the Job
Experience here at South, Peter
returns to his home garage this
August. Congratulations!
Page 12April- Call Type Number
RT 9780
PRTT 2589
Emergency request to talk 334
Silent Alarm 240
SAFETY REPORT
No Report
RISK
No Report
LRT
No Report
STREET OPERATIONS
Deb Downing in attendance:
• CCLRT- Read the detours, a lot of changes.
• Plowing issues taken care……help from Mother
Nature.
• EB University-Jersey barriers not positioned properly
at bus stop for pick up/drop off- Call TCC with
locations. People jumping/ climbing over barriers to
cross street or to catch the bus
• MOA-MOA employees, commercial vehicles running
stop signs, cutting off buses.
• DID Ambassadors parking on Nicollet Mall, blocking
buses.
• Nicollet Mall-Complaints of vehicles parking on the
sidewalk
• 12th/Nicollet Bus Stop, request for bus stop to be
moved back to NS.
MAINTENANCE REPORT
Don Davis in attendance:
• MCI Buses-All curbside mirrors changed out with
convex mirrors
• South and MJR will receive new Flyer buses June.
• Exhaust Temperature indicator light on 11 & 12
hundred series- No action needed by operator
ACTION ITEM
Respectfully submitted,
Danielle Julkowski
June 2, 2011
Members of the Committee Present:
DJ Tafesse- MJR - Committee Chair
Darrell Hanson,- Nicollet
Leatha Falls- FTH
Danielle Julkowski - Management Advisor
Lisa Benson - South
Diane Rude-East Metro
Brenda Himrich-Safety
Debra Downing-Street Operations
Russ Dixon- ATU
Director of Bus Operations-Christy Bailly
Diane Rude called meeting to order at 10:00 am in
FTH Chambers.
REVIEW OF MINUTES
May minutes were not reviewed
VISITORS
Brad Carlson-Nic operator
POLICE REPORT
Mike LaVine in attendance:
• 2011-3 Assaults on operators (2 arrests made).
• Safe Zone-Increase in Offi cers riding from DT to
BCTC and RTS.
• May 31-June7-Police saturation at 7th/Nic BS, DT
LRT platforms.
• Increase in activity at Lake ST LRT Platform,
offi cers to monitor.
• Suspect who assaulted a vulnerable adult on the
bus in St Paul received 5 yrs in prison for this
crime. Background check confi rmed the suspects
DNA matched another unsolved assault on another
vulnerable adult. Consecutive sentencing in process.
• 3 portable tower cameras at P&R with theft issues-
P&R lots without cameras.
TCC REPORT
Eric Isakson in attendance:
• May 2011
Call Type Number
RT 10437
PRTT 2371
Emergency request to talk 98
Silent Alarm 237 11-Determined (actual events)
SAFETY REPORT
Brenda Himrich in attendance:
• System Vehicle and Customer Bus Accidents per
100,000 miles-2011
Goal-3.80
YTD-4.98
• Nic Mall- buses speeding, running red lights and
passing. Safety to monitor
Page 13
• Increase in accidents happening in garages
RISK
No Report
LRT
Derrick Cain in attendance:
• June 4, at 2330 –Jun 5, 1200hrs- Bus Bridge from Franklin to MOA.
STREET OPERATIONS
Deb Downing in attendance:
Updates from last month’s requests
• EB University-Jersey barriers not positioned properly at bus stop for pick up/drop off- Call TCC with locations.
Street Operations working with city.
• MOA-MOA employees, commercial vehicles running stop signs, cutting off buses. Street Operations to monitor
• DID Ambassadors parking on Nicollet Mall, blocking buses. DID Supervisor instructed workers to move
vehicle ASAP when fi nished with work.
• 12th/Nicollet Bus Stop, request for bus stop to be moved back to NS. Agreement with city prohibits moving the
bus stop.
New concerns:
• EB 3rd St near Cedar -Request for tree trimming.
• EB Univ at Cromwell, Hamline and Simpson-Not able to board persons in wheelchair due to positioning of
jersey barriers.
MAINTENANCE REPORT
No Report
ACTION ITEM
• Request to change signage on bus- No music without headphones- Operators cannot hear chimes over the music.
• Op was involved in accident. Within a week he has received 33 inquires from lawyers. Op is wondering how the
lawyers got the information. Law fi rms request information through The Data Practice Act.
• Risk Mgmt is looking into getting rid of the Courtesy Cards.
Respectfully submitted,
Danielle Julkowski
Meet Our Newest Member
Hi. My name is Doug Barton, and I’m Driver #68273 out of East
Metro. I started with Metro Transit in September of 2008 and made
full-time in May of 2010.
I am a native Minnesotan and a graduate of Breck School. I have
a work history in either transportation or sales. I was a long-haul truck
driver for ten years, traveling 48 states and Canada, with a one-time
trip to Alaska.
I have a love for traveling, both domestic and abroad. My passions are downhill skiing, golf, anything out-
doors, cards, chess, and jazz music.
If you should happen to see me, please stop and say hi. Please also let me know if you have any ideas for ar-
ticles you’d like see in The 1005 Line. I’m always willing to listen and to see where we might take it.
Page 14
A Good On-the-Job Experience
Anastasia Bloodsaw, Dr. #2297, MJR
I signed up for the Leadership Academy two years ago. On May 26, 2011, I received a letter stating that one
of the three positions that I had picked was open. The open position was in the farebox department, acting as
Farebox Supervisor. I only had a day or so to get back with HR to let them know if I was going to take the
position or not, as they needed move to the next person. Despite not knowing anything about this department, I
decided to take the position.
For every job that I have applied for at Metro Transit, it has been clear that management wants a person who
has at least a basic level of computer skills. In going through these interviews, I was initially quite upset with
Metro Transit for not having made this clearer throughout the years. I’ve been driving for over ten years now,
and I feel that I have mastered being a professional driver. Ultimately, however, Metro Transit is too big a
company for me to stay in one spot until I retire.
So I went home and thought about it. Eventually I decided that I can’t say Metro Transit is responsible for
holding me back from getting the jobs I’m applying for. I realized that, until I advance my own computer skills,
I am going to be right here driving buses until I retire.
One thing I didn’t note yet is that I graduated from secretarial school in 1993. If you’re not utilizing your
skills, and if too much time passes, you will forget what you learned. I don’t use computers when driving the
bus, so it’s no surprise that I lost these skills with the passing of time.
I went to see my garage manager, Mr. Doyne Parsons, and I asked him what he thought I needed to do, based
on my desire to move to a different position at Metro Transit. He told me that Metro Transit was coming out
with some computer classes and that I should strongly consider taking at least a few of those classes.
With that, I started taking computer classes as I was going through the rest of my OJE classes. Now, having
been in the OJE portion for almost six weeks, I can really say things are not as bad as I thought they would be.
I’ve been very fortunate to work with a mentor who’s been able to help me grow in my computer skills while
also demonstrating how those computer skills are necessary to being successful in a supervisor position at Metro
Transit. In the six weeks I’ve been an OJE, I’ve grown in my skills to the point where I can confidently use
Microsoft Outlook (email), Excel and Word. I’m also pulling reports off my computer each day and analyzing
those reports to provide work direction to the employees working within the department.
Beyond just learning about computers, I’ve gotten to understand how the fare box repair department operates
at Metro Transit. They are a very small department, but they are important to the overall success of Metro
Transit. I’ve learned how to take a fare box apart and how to clean the various parts of the fare box, including
the Trim unit. I’ve learned how to install and remove a fare box on the bus. I’ve also gotten to learn more about
how the fare box repair department works closely with the vault pulling department to make sure every dollar is
collected and eventually sent to the bank.
In the six weeks I’ve been in the OJE portion of the program, I feel I’ve built enough computer skills so that I
won’t be held back in completing for future job openings by not knowing how to use computers. Overall,
despite my worries and apprehension concerning the OJE portion of the Leadership Academy, I can truly say I
am enjoying myself and learning a lot! And I really enjoy the learning because this is something I want to do.
Just remember that if you want to move into something other than driving in the future and you feel that your
lack of computer skills or other training is holding you back: It’s never too late to learn!
Page 15
So You’ve Fallen Down and Broken Your Head -
What to Do Now…?Doug Barton, Driver 68273, East Metro Garage
First, pick yourself up, give your head a shake and see if anything has come loose. If nothing is wrong, look
around and make sure no one has seen your re-enactment of a Dick Van Dyke pratfall, and go along your merry
way with the knowledge that only your pride has been hurt. (This realization is quite cheap and you don’t have
to endure those people in the white coats.)
On the other hand, if you notice that when you turn your head you can feel the gray matter up there wrapping
around your brainstem, you may want to tell somebody about it, and be showered with sympathy. More than
likely they will be amenable to your wishes, and will tell you that you should have your head examined by a
professional. You shouldn’t take this advice personally, but by all means take it to heart. This could be the
beginning of a journey into an extended illness/injury situation.
Everyone at Metro Transit should know the procedure for taking time off from work due to a personal (off
the job) illness/injury situation. Should you fall ill before your next shift:
1. Call dispatch as early as possible and let them know you won’t be coming in to work (the earlier, the better, as this allows your dispatcher the time to fill your work.) Do not wait until ten minutes before your shift. In fact, anything less than twenty minutes will count as a ‘late’ and not as a sick occurrence.
2. Inform your manager and be prepared to get a doctor’s release (especially if this injury/illness is starting to look like it will last more than a couple of days). Your manager will issue medical forms to be filled out by your doctor, and the result of your physical will be the determining decision as to whether or not an extended leave of absence will be required.
Once it has been determined that you will be placed on extended leave, you will be required to follow some
Metro Transit guidelines to get you back on track in your job. You will be required to call in to your manager on
a weekly basis (just to inform your manager of your current status and if you have any medical appointments
scheduled). In most cases, should you not get your manager on the phone, a voice mail will suffice. If managers
have any more questions, they will call you back. You should make sure your manager has your current phone
number and an e-mail address, if possible. Communication between you and manager will be paramount in
getting back to work. Any medical appointments will need to be reported within two hours after completion.
Medical forms provided by Metro Transit will need to be completed and mailed or faxed as soon as possible.
Taking care of these things in a timely fashion will help you and your manager determine the best course of
action.
End of part one
On May 31, 2011, at East Metro Garage, Ron retired with
more than 18 years of service. Ron started as a part-time driver
at South Garage in February of 1993, and in April of 1994
transferred to Snelling/East Metro, where he remained until his
retirement.
Ron’s plan is to travel to California to see his grandson.
Ron is pictured here with Assistant Transportation Manager
Barb Keener.
Ron Bailey, Driver 9320, Retires
Phil Henderson #64237
There was a great cookout
for Phil on Thursday, May 26th,
to help him celebrate his retire-
ment. The offi cial party with
cake was held on Wednesday,
June 1st, 2011. Phil is retiring
with seven years of service. He
started in July of 2004.
When asked what he will
miss, he replied, "I will really
miss the green micro scrub in the
rest rooms. It really works good for
cleaning hands." When asked if he had any plans, "I am going to
do some traveling and eventually move to a warmer climate. I am
going to buy a farm and raise medical marijuana."
Phil, your sense of humor and attention to detail in work will be
missed. We wish you the best in your endeavors (and maybe we
will visit your farm when we retire).
Bill Wormwood #561
Bill was hired as a full-time driver on February 4, 1980 and left service as a
train operator on June 2, 2011.
He retires with 31 years of
service. "I have always enjoyed
driving. LRT was a nice change
from the buses." He is looking
forward to working less, enjoying
life more, and stopping to smell
the roses. He just turned 62 and
decided it was time to go.
Left: Sheri Gin-
gerich, Deputy
Chief Offi cer -
Rail presents Bill
a new-style shirt.
Right:
Tommy Bellfi eld, Finnacial Secretary/Treasurer of Local 1005,
presents Bill with the customary union jacket.
Page 16
Run Time Committee If you are interested in participating, please contact your Garage Coordinator or the Union offi ce.
Please designate which problem routes you have knowledge of. This committee starts in the September pick.
Page 17
Diabetes, Part Three
Faye Brown, Driver 6331, Heywood Garage
Well, everyone, a lot of information was put out about diabetes and the Motorcycle Tour de Ride. I hope you
took advantage of it. The ride took place June 4, and we made it through the uphills and the downhills. Rich-
ard Miller, Paul Osborne, Marilyn Hood and I represented Heywood. We did the 7 -mile ride. There were other
drivers from other garage who rode the 7, 27, 42 or 62 miles.
It was a lot of unexpected fun. The phrase that was said as you passed a rider who wore the red shirts (repre-
senting that they had diabetes) was GO, RED RIDER. We laughed, met new people and, of course, ate. We also
enjoyed entertainment and games. There were so many people from other garages and other companies there to
participate in this wonderful event. I really feel privileged to have had the opportunity to help raise money and
ride for this cause.
If you missed the ride, plan on doing it next year. I will, and I will be working toward the 27 miles. Hope to
see you on the road next year.
Tornado that Touched Lives
Faye Brown, Driver 6331, Heywood Garage
The sky, sunny and bright, became cloudy. It
turned dark, so dark it was like night. The rain
began to pour and the winds started to blow so
hard the windows and doors sounded like they
were coming off their hinges. Trees were falling
and rooftops were peeling away. People were
running and screaming, trying to hide - but,
before they could, it was over.
If you think this was an HBO or STARZ
movie or some TV special, you’re wrong. That was a small description of what happened on May 22, 2011, the
day a tornado touched down in North Minneapolis, a day we will never forget.
When the people in that area came up from their hiding, it was unbelievable. It looked like a bomb had been
dropped. People’s homes, vehicles and businesses were damaged to the point of no repair. I talked to some
eyewitnesses who saw it touch down and dance across the lake at Wirth Park; some saw it by the golf course; a
witness cried to me on the phone as she saw the one storm victim as he lay dead in his car after it had been
crushed by a tree.
There were many drivers of the transit fleet who were on the
street that day and were terrified because there was nowhere to
drive to for cover. One driver from Heywood Garage was caught
in the middle, with trees falling down all around her bus and
feeling trapped.
After all of this happened to North Minneapolis, the
compassion and help that came from everywhere was
overwhelming. People from all over came to lend a hand with the
cleanup: the Red Cross, Salvation Army churches and just
everyday neighbors wanting to help. KMOJ broadcasted from the
outside so that donations could be dropped. FEMA has not declared this as enough of an emergency to give
monies to help individual families that are in need. So a donation of any kind (clothing, furnishings, health and
beauty) is truly appreciated.
Note: After all the troubles the people of North Minneapolis have gone through, the city thinks it’s okay to
write citations for debris around some homes.
Page 18
Early Detection of Prostate Cancerby Deborah Sievers
I work out of Nicollet Garage, and in the last six months have realized that a few of our male drivers have
had to have surgery for prostate cancer. Luckily, these drivers and dispatchers had an exam early enough so the
cancer has not been life threatening. So here is some information that I have found, and I hope this is helpful.
Please, just like breast exams that women do, it is just as important that men do the same and talk to their
doctors about testing for prostate cancer.
Definition of prostate cancer: Cancer that forms in tissues of the prostate (a gland in the male reproductive
system found below the bladder and in front of the rectum). Prostate cancer usually occurs in older men.
The public health burden of prostate cancer is substantial. A total of 240,890 new cases of prostate cancer and
33,720 deaths from the disease are anticipated in the United States in 2011, making it the most frequent
nondermatologic cancer among U.S. males. A man’s lifetime risk of prostate cancer is one in six. Prostate cancer
is the second leading cause of cancer death in men, exceeded only by lung cancer.
Some men with prostate cancer remain asymptomatic and die from unrelated causes rather than as a result of
the cancer itself. This may be due to the advanced age of many men at the time of diagnosis, slow tumor growth,
or response to therapy. The estimated number of men with latent prostate carcinoma (i.e., prostate cancer that is
present in the prostate gland but never detected or diagnosed during a patient’s life) is greater than the number of
men with clinically detected disease. A better understanding is needed of the genetic and biologic mechanisms
that determine why some prostate carcinomas remain clinically silent, while others cause serious, even life-
threatening illness.
Prostate cancer exhibits tremendous differences in incidence among populations worldwide; the ratio of
countries with high and low rates of prostate cancer ranges from 60-fold to 100-fold. Asian men typically have a
very low incidence of prostate cancer, with age-adjusted incidence rates ranging from 2 to 10 per 100,000 men.
Higher incidence rates are generally observed in northern European countries. African American men, however,
have the highest incidence of prostate cancer in the world; within the United States, African American men have
a 60% higher incidence rate compared with white men.
These differences may be due to genetic, environmental, and social influences (such as access to health care),
which affect the development and progression of the disease. Differences in screening practices have also had a
substantial influence on prostate cancer incidence, by permitting prostate cancer to be diagnosed in some patients
before symptoms develop or before abnormalities on physical examination are detectable. An analysis of
population-based data from Sweden suggested that a diagnosis of prostate cancer in one brother leads to an early
diagnosis in a second brother using prostate-specific antigen (PSA) screening. This may account for an increase
in prostate cancer diagnosed in younger men that was evident in nationwide incidence data. A genetic
contribution to prostate cancer risk has been documented, but knowledge of the molecular genetics of prostate
cancer is still limited. Malignant transformation of prostate epithelial cells and progression of prostate carcinoma
are likely to result from a complex series of initiation and promotional events under both genetic and
environmental influences.
Risk Factors for Prostate Cancer
The three most important recognized risk factors for prostate cancer in the United States are:
Age.
Race.
Family history of prostate cancer.
Age is an important risk factor for prostate cancer. Prostate cancer is rarely seen in men younger than 40
years; the incidence rises rapidly with each decade thereafter. For example, the probability of being diagnosed
Page 19
with prostate cancer is 1 in 8,517 for men younger than 40 years, 1 in 40 for men aged 40 through 59 years, 1 in
15 for men aged 60 through 69 years, and 1 in 8 for men aged 70 years and older, with an overall lifetime risk of
developing prostate cancer of 1 in 6.
Relative Risk Related to Family History of Prostate Cancera
Risk Group Relative Risk for Prostate Cancer Brother with prostate cancer diagnosed at any age 3.4 (95% CI, 3.0–3.8)
Father with prostate cancer diagnosed at any age 2.2 (95% CI, 1.9–2.5)
One affected FDR diagnosed at any age 2.6 (95% CI, 2.3–2.8)
One affected second-degree relative diagnosed at any age 1.7 (95% CI, 1.1–2.6)
Affected FDRs diagnosed age <65 years 3.3 (95% CI, 2.6–4.2)
Affected FDRs diagnosed age >65 years 2.4 (95% CI, 1.7–3.6)
Two or more affected FDRs diagnosed at any age 5.1 (95% CI, 3.3–7.8)
FDR = first-degree relative.
Adapted from Zeegers et al.
I really hope this helps and if you need more information on this, you can go on the website, and talk to your
doctor. Again, early detection adds years on to your life.
The website that I got this from is: http://www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/pdq/genetics/prostate/
HealthProfessional
The top 10 locations for weekday boardings in
2010 were:
Location
Approx. average weekday boardings
7th & Nicollet
4,100
Mall of America Station
4,000
Lake Street/Midtown Station
3,500
Nicollet Mall Station
3,300
Terminal 1 (Lindbergh) Station
3,200
Did You Know?
Uptown Transit Center
3,100
Brooklyn Center Transit Center
3,100
Chicago-Lake Transit Center
2,700
5th & Minnesota
2,600
46th Street Station (LRT)
2,600
Source: Public Relations (John Siqveland?)
sends an email to management and supervi-
sors with fi ve interesting facts. The intent is so
management can discuss them with employees
face-to-face communication.
communication. We have also put together a committee of members who will work on transit funding and
messaging. We are trying new ideas to increase member awareness and involvement.
In the next few months, the Union Transit Funding Committee will be visiting work locations to inform
members and ask for members willing to volunteer, to pledge to make phone calls or to join a rally for transit.
Please consider taking the steps to help.
Offi cer's Column Continued from p. 2
Page 20
2011 State Bus RoadeoDeborah Sievers
This was the Heckler’s fifth year of
attending the State Bus Roadeo, held
this year in St. Cloud. What great fun.
Most of us got there Thursday
night. We went to dinner at an excellent
restaurant called Anton’s, an old
speakeasy, where the food and décor
were fantastic. The geese outside were
a special added feature. The rest of the
group got there on Friday, and we hung
out at the pool.
Saturday was the Roadeo. It rained,
but finally cleared up. David Palm,
new to the Roadeo and Marshall
Freeman, reigning State Champion, were our participants this year. They drove the course very well. The
banquet was held that night and, following tradition, we dressed up, and afterwards enjoyed delicious food and
dancing.
We have made many friends over the years, and it is sad when we find some who could not make it this year.
One of our many friends is Jim Schenk from Lake City,
Minnesota. He got sick in the last year and was not able
to attend this year. The other was Duane from St. Cloud,
Minnesota, who was State Champion several times. He
passed away this year. They were both greatly missed
by our group.
Next year’s roadeo will be held in Bemidji,
Minnesota. Go to the Heckler’s Row Facebook page for
info updates on next year’s roadeo and see more
pictures of this year’s roadeo and banquet.
Right: Thai Chang, Mainte-
nance Helper #2368 (Fueler),
received his plaque from Murray
Olson for ten years of service. His
anniversary was May 5, 2001.
Left: Tim Dixon, Mechanic Technician #5510, received his 30-year
plaque from Murry Olson, South Garage Mechanical Maintenance fore-
man, on May 12th, 2011. Tim's anniversary date was January 19, 1981
(and his birthday was Friday, May 13th).
Service Awards
at South
Retired Members’ Clubs
Northside Breakfast ClubMeets 8:30 a.m. the 2nd Tuesday of each month
at Barnacle Bill’s, Shingle Creek Parkway and
Freeway Blvd, Brooklyn Center.
Southside Breakfast Club Meets 8:00 a.m. the 1st Wednesday and the 4th
Thursday of each month at the VFW Post, 67th
Street & Lyndale Ave in Richfi eld.
St. Paul Retiree Lunch ClubMeets 12:00 p.m. the 2nd Wednesday of the month. Mattie’s (formerly Wells Lanes ) So. Concord St., South St. Paul 55075
Metro Transit Mechanic TeammateMeets at 12:00 p.m. the 3rd Tuesday of the month
at Old Country Buffet (by Petco), 2000 South
Robert St., West St. Paul
The 1005 Line
Remember, you can always access past and
present issues online at www.atu1005.com on
the education page.
You can also see the results of arbitration
votes and other meeting results.
Page 21
If you want to join the St. Paul Retiree Club
contact one of the following:
President Howard Osterkamp (651) 731-2428
Vice-President Jay Kerkvliet (651) 489-8281
Treasurer Paul Huber (651) 698-6551
Secretary Mary Huber (651) 698-5771
RetirementsCongratulations to April Retirees
04/02/11 Michael Krakowski, OHB Lead
Stockkeeper 5524
04/12/11 Mike Schwintek, EM Op. 82
04/14/11 Patrick Whelan, EM Cleaner II 3476
04/19/11 James Dalton, Nic. Op. 477
04/23/11 James Latourneau, Hey. Money Counter
319
04/28/11 David Williams, MJR Stockkeeper 7406
Congratulations to May Retirees
05/03/11 William Hyrkas, Nic. Op. 64061
05/03/11 Roxanne McClurg, MJR Op. 31
05/14/11 Robert Beier, OHB Mech. Tech. 5144
05/14/11 Garold Campbell, MJR Op. 1266
05/15/11 James Hajek, OHB Mech. Tech. 5301
05/18/11 Marshall Korvela, So. Op. 66128
05/31/11 Ronald Bailey, EM Op. 9320
Congratulations to June Retirees
06/02/11 Philip Henderson, LRT-OH Electro
Mech. Tech. 64237
06/03/11 Duane Bennett, MJR Op. 8836
06/03/11 William Wormwood, LRT Train Op. 561
06/04/11 Carroll Dingemans, Hey. Op. 857
06/04/11 Lawrence Nezworski, MJR Op. 676
06/17/11 Lauren Weizel, Public Facilities Worker
68113
06/24/11 Gary Coleman, OHB Motor Builder
5311
CRYPTOEach letter stands for another. If you think A=F, for example, it would equal F throughout the puzzle. Clue:
B=E (Answer on page 34 )
Submitted by Pat Kelehan, Facilities Tech. #5470
Z A Y B A X B C W D Z V Z F F T B Y V Z G B C D H F S C D Z
V C D H Z K B
X B C W D C M H. N H V H F S C L Z?
ATU NorthWest
ConferenceStephen Babcock, 3128
The Northwest Conference June
9 - 13 was attended by
representatives from transit union
locals from as far away as Seattle,
Washington, and Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. The four-day
conference started out with some classes on issues
important to unionists. Barb Kucera and John See from
the Labor Education Service conducted a training session
on messaging. Barb reviewed the history and growth of
the Right Wing’s "echo chamber", while John talked
about the use of Twitter and other new media to convey
labor’s message. Candace Lund, organizing and
mobilizing director for the Minnesota AFL-CIO, also
participated, outlining tips for communicating about the
middle class.
How to Communicate with the Media/Framing Issues - by Barb Kucera, LES
Why should unions embrace social media?
It allows unions to have intimate, personal conversations with hundreds (if not thousands) of members.
Social media allow unions to have unmediated dialogue across vast distances, any time of the day or night.
Unions can campaign globally, raise awareness of issues locally or build support from non-traditional regions or
geographic areas. Unions must be ready to invest the time and resources to do social media properly.
Engage the members in conversation
People who visit your website expect to be able to interact with you. The
web content is no longer one-way. It is no longer enough for your union's
website to broadcast your message. Members and non-members should be able
to leave comments directly on a page and have someone from the union respond
- the more personal the interaction, the better. The new social media mean that
you can interact with your critics directly, and others can participate as well.
Be active and involved in online communities
No one will read if you only tweet once or twice. Members and non-
members will quickly stop checking if a site hasn't been updated in a week.
Choose your social media networks carefully
The nurse's union is a good example of how to use facebook.com as a gathering place where all members
could feel connected, share information, opinions, self-organize and develop community support. Critics only
stimulate discussion and further define the union's message. They also used video on YouTube.com.
Open up the union to social media
Social Media allows members to easily and quickly share important information, flyer, videos, breaking news
and more online. How do members who are continually connected avoid being continually distracted?
Sometimes there are even aggressive distractions. There must be controls. Some are controls are by the
software that control what posts or displayed. Other controls are by conventions that are spelled out, expected
behavior. We need to know what controls are based on and we need a choice in that filtering.
Media and Web Presence - by John See, LES
John is connected to the Labor Hub, (www.laborhub.net), an organization that promotes web design with
links to Facebook, Twitter, and YouTube. They have package website deals of $2500 for a basic website and
Page 22
Tim Dixon registers in the
participants.
Mark Lawson, South Operator Board member, Ken
Dolney, East Metro Operator Board member, and
Tommy Bellfield, Financial Secretary/Treasurer,
stand in front of the conference banner.
$4500 for a website with bells and whistles. A good example of the bells and whistles would be the
MNAFLCIO.org.
Techniques were discussed on how to handle opponents. One is called Google Bombing. Evidently the more
searches that one does on a particular topic (like your opponent’s voting record), the higher the ranking it gets
and it will come up in other people's searches. It is not a distortion of the truth, it just brings his record (or
whatever your search) to the forefront.
The upcoming language for websites is called Drupal. This is an open source code that allows for modules to
be built and integrated into the website. More information can be found on www.drupal.org.
Healthcare Systems - by Pete Benner
If you wanted information on our healthcare system in comparison to other countries, this was the place to be.
The speaker, Pete Benner, went into the many different aspects of U.S. healthcare and labor unions. Employers
are using assessments and wellness programs to target employees, but they have to do it within the guidelines of
the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).
In the U.S., what unions have to bargain for depends on local situations:
* Coverage for primary care, prescription drug benefits, coverage of children up to age 26
* Coverage from retirement to age 65
* Supplemental coverage to Medicare
* Dental and Optical care
* Long-term coverage
In Canada, full coverage is guaranteed from birth to death, prescriptions by hospitals are covered, private are
not. Ninety-eight percent are covered by public funds. Unions have to bargain for:
* Chiropractic and optical care
* Supplemental long-term care
* Private prescriptions
The older you get, the more expensive care becomes, but Canadian care is much less expensive for the same
age range. Ninety-eight percent of their healthcare cost is covered by public funds. Healthcare is the U.S. is
much more expensive. Doctors are paid more, and pharmaceuticals companies charge more. The average MRI
in the United States is $1027, the average cost in Japan is $122. The technology is the same.
There is always a fight over funding for U.S. healthcare. What we can bargain for depends upon the
situation locally, but in some aspects, the fight extends well beyond - into the national political level.
The Rise of the Right Wing "Echo Chamber" - by Barb Kucera
The right wing repeats a viewpoint through as many outlets as possible, so they echo each other. Repetition
offers credibility. The right wing has been building since William F. Buckley came on the scene in 1955;
through the launch of Fox News in 1996; and continuing today with the Supreme Court's ruling allowing massive
corporate funding of campaigns with no disclosure.
Page 23
Mark Lawson, South
Operator Board member,
Ken Dolney, East Metro
Operator Board member,
and Tommy Bellfield
Financial Secretary/
Treasurer, listen to a
lecture on internet usage
by John See, LES
The hat was passed for the Wisconsin delegation to help continue the fight against Governor Walker's union-
busting measures. Bill McCarthy, president of the Minneapolis Labor Federation, had already given $5000 and
promised to donate another $1000. Bobby Kasper, President of the St. Paul Labor Federation, promised space
(at 411 Main Street - where we have our St. Paul meetings) to all unions affected by the state shutdown.
On Saturday, Michelle Sommers, President of ATU Local 1005,
started the day by addressing the conference members about transit
funding. The outlook is bleak. Other guest speakers included:
Shar Knutson, President of the AFL-CIO
Bill McCarthy, President of the Minneapolis Labor Federation
Bobby Kasper, President of the St. Paul labor Federation
Brian Lamb, Metro Transit
Susan Haig, Metropolitan Council Chair
The consensus among all speakers was that we are very lucky we
have Dayton to stand up for transit!
Friday also included the reports of every
local represented at the conference. Highlights
of recent contracts were shared, and struggles
with management and funding were considered.
Breaks and evenings during the conference
were a great time to network and get to know
counterparts in other cities, and learn what they
do, and how they handle various issues and
situations.
This successful conference ended with a
7:00 p.m. standup comedy show. The featured act was Scott Hansen.
Page 24
Michelle takes a pose with one of the
main headliners, Scott Hansen.
Some of the participants unwind in the courtyard after classes.
Mark Miller #3005
Rail operator Mark Miller retired from Metro Transit on July 15th
with over 39 years of driving. He was hired as a full-time driver on
July 10, 1972.
Mark was a bus operator for 32 of those years, working out of Old
Snelling and East Metro.
Health and Safety Hazards for City Bus Drivers
“The job of operating public transit vehicles in urban centers may be among the most stressful and
unhealthy of modern occupation say two prominent medical researchers.1"
The following material, compiled by MFL Occupational Health and Safety, Inc. in Winnipeg, Manitoba,
Canada, summarizes the results of studies of the effects of stress on bus drivers. Although the studies are a bit
dated, most of the observations and conclusions are undoubtedly still valid. The references at the end of the
article are specific to Canada, but a similar list for the local area will be provided in the next issue of this
newsletter.
Stress and Work Design
Dozens of studies conducted over the last four decades in cities on almost every continent show that city bus
drivers, when compared to workers in other jobs, are more likely to experience
• death from heart and blood vessel disease
• heart and blood vessel-related conditions such as chest pain and high blood pressure
digestive disorders
• musculoskeletal problems, especially of the back, neck and shoulders
Bus drivers frequently report tension, mental overload, fatigue and sleeping problems. Bus drivers also have
more frequent absences from work and of longer duration than workers in other occupations. A large proportion
of the work absences are attributable to stress-related disorders such as digestive problems and anxiety. Bus
drivers retire earlier and at a younger age than other civil servants. Early retirement is usually accompanied by
disability. The main health problems leading to disability are related to the back, tendons and joints, mental
illness, and heart and blood vessel disease.
Stress is believed to play a significant role in causing two of the diseases (heart and blood vessel disease and
digestive disorders) found in excess in bus drivers. Typically, stressful jobs are those which have high
psychological demands and little decision-making control, in combination with low social support on the job.
Bus driving is a classic example of a stressful job. Bus drivers must respond to multiple demands over which
they have little control. The main tasks of a bus driver are to drive safely, keep on schedule, and treat passengers
in a professional and courteous manner. Yet two of these tasks are inherently contradictory — maintaining the
schedule and serving the public. In order to accomplish one, the other may have to be compromised. Traffic
congestion is another stressor which enters this equation.
Social support helps protect individuals experiencing stress. Bus driving interferes with social support in two
ways. The job itself is solitary with little chance for face-to-face contact between coworkers. The work schedule
disrupts family and social life.
Work Factors Associated with stress-related Health Problems
• traffic congestion
• constant time pressure
• little or no input into how work is organized or implemented
• disorderly passengers
• threat of physical assault and crime
• work schedule interference with home life and leisure activities
• social isolation on the job
How buses are designed and how work is scheduled may account for musculoskeletal problems associated with
driving a bus. Musculoskeletal problems include back, neck, and shoulder problems. Muscle cramping, pressure
Page 25
points and poor circulation in the legs and buttocks are other examples. Long term exposure to whole-body
vibration and impact while driving over bumps in the roads and rough road surfaces can result in low back
problems.
Work Design Factors Associated with Musculoskeletal and Other Problems
• poor design of the driver’s cab and hard to reach or poor layout of vehicle controls
• steering wheel placement not adjustable and too small or large in diameter
• shortcomings in the design of the seat such as no adjustable springs/suspension, no lumbar
support and no height adjustability
• sitting for long periods of time
• holding a pedal down for long periods of time
• awkward working position
• inadequate rest breaks
Other Hazards
Stress and musculoskeletal problems are not the only problems bus drivers face. Motor vehicle accidents are a
serious safety hazard faced by bus drivers. Heavy traffic and bad weather increase the risk of accidents. These
hazards are increased if the vehicle is not properly maintained. Examples of poor maintenance of vehicles
includes faulty brake systems, headlights or windshield wipers. Slipping on the bus floor, outside of the bus or on
the steps are examples of other safety hazards.
There may be temperature problems in the bus — excessive heat in the summer or poor heating and blasts of
cold air in the winter. Glare from sunlight may result in eyestrain. Noise can be a source of annoyance,
distraction and fatigue. It may interfere with the driver’s ability to concentrate or get auditory cues from the
traffic on the road.
Bus drivers breathe in vehicle exhaust when readying the bus for service in the garage, from their own bus
engine, and from surrounding traffic. Bus drivers are exposed to communicable diseases such as the common
cold from the public. Another type of exposure may occur via skin contact with contaminated objects when
cleaning the bus or during cleanup of body secretions or fluids in an emergency situation. The exposure of
greatest concern is when the skin is punctured by a contaminated object such as a discarded needle.
Reducing Work Hazards
Research supports a number of measures to reduce work hazards for city bus drivers. Measures include
• reduce traffic congestion (bus lanes, signal priority)
• reduce passenger inquiries (automated information systems)
• enhance driver security (alarm systems, emergency procedures)
• reduce social isolation on the job (schedule breaks in central locations)
• reduce fatigue and interference with personal life (improve work schedules)
• improve social aspects of work (supportive style of leadership)
• improve ergonomic design of buses (seat design, steering wheel design)
What you can do If you have a work-related health and safety concern
• talk to your union Health and Safety Committee representative. Your representative should be involved
in identifying workplace hazards and recommending solutions to reduce or eliminate workplace hazards.
Page 26
• talk to your supervisor about the problem.
• contact the City of Winnipeg Employee Occupational Safety and Health Unit or Employee Assistance
Program
• call the MFL Occupational Health Centre (949-0811) if you need
- to see a doctor to find out if your injury or illness may be caused by your work
- information on health and safety concerns in your workplace
- help in solving workplace health and safety problems
- education on specific health and safety issues
- library resources on workplace health and safety
• contact one of these government agencies
Manitoba Labour Workplace Safety and Health Branch 945-3446 — to make a health and safety complaint
Manitoba Workers Compensation Board 954-4321 — to report a work-related injury or illness
Show this fact sheet to your own doctor and discuss your personal cardiac risk profile. Your doctor or the
Manitoba Heart and Stroke Foundation can provide information for decreasing your risk for heart and blood
vessel disease.
Reference
Evans, G. & Carrere, S. (1991). Traffic congestion, perceived control, and psychophysiological stress among
urban bus drivers. Journal of Applied Psychology. 76(5) p.658. June 1998
Page 27
Pride Paradeby Deborah Sievers
This year’s Pride Parade was wonderful. It was
great to see a lot of new people walking along with the
bus. We handed out a lot of different gifts this year.
I would like to thank Allie, marketing intern, for
helping get everything set up. Thank you to our driver,
Jessica. This is her second year, and she did a great job
keeping the crowd cheering for Metro Transit. Thanks
also to the walkers who went with the bus. Two even
brought their kids.
I hope to see more people out next year. I’ll let you know the date
as soon as it’s been set.
This event is not sponsored by ATU 1005.
It is in the paper for information to our interested
members only.
Page 28
Dan Kearns Retires
Dan worked for IBM for thirty years prior to coming
to Metro Transit. When he was fi rst hired, he started out
as a transit information representative in TIC on July 16,
2001. After three years, he transferred over to the rev-
enue department as a farebox technician on July 10 2004.
He worked as a fl oater and his last assignment was to
MJR. He retired on August 4, 2011.
When asked about working here, he said, "It has been
enjoyable for the most part.”
Page 29
Competing Proposals in Congress Offer Two Very Different
Transportation Futures for America
July 28, 2011 - From Andrea Kiepe, Transportation For America
After over a year of delays, the U.S. House and Senate have fi nally put forward competing proposals to guide
America’s transportation investments into the future. The federal transportation re-authorization bill establishes
the framework for allocating billions of dollars and for local transportation projects including biking lanes and
trails, sidewalks, roads, bridges, public transit, and rail.
Rep. John Mica, Chair of the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee, released a proposal that
would cut federal transportation funding by roughly one-third and lock in that reduced level of investment over
the next six years. On the other hand, the Senate’s bi-partisan proposal, while still lacking many details, maintains
current funding levels plus infl ation for just two years.
The difference between these two proposals is enormous. The Mica proposal could directly result in the loss of
over a half million jobs nationwide. It would also damage our transportation network, which the American Soci-
ety of Civil Engineers says is deteriorating and long overdue for massive repairs.
The Mica bill is a clear example of lawmaking that is pennywise and pound-foolish. The proposal takes us in
the wrong direction, jeopardizing more than just construction and transit jobs – it risks damaging America’s abil-
ity to recover and prosper.
For more information about the Mica bill and how it would impact federal transportation investment, see this
short series of blogs from Transportation for America Staff on Transit for Livable Communities webstie:
www.tlc.com
Elvis sneaks into the gathering to
wish Danny a goodbye, along with
Nick Eull and his many co-workers.
Page 30
Anatomy of An AccidentStacey H. Taylor
Driver #70055 - South Garage
As Metro Transit bus drivers, we encounter unfamiliar variables while doing our so-called ‘routine’ runs.
After overcoming cold-weather driving, warm weather variables suddenly change our experiences on routes as
well. The warmer weather brings more road construction; more bikes; and more pedestrian traffic throughout the
cities. Not every route stays the same for long as variables change daily and often unexpectedly by the minute.
While navigating changing conditions, drivers are challenged and expected to make all the right moves in
traffic. There is a constant checking of all the information gathered from training and experience.
Sometimes before getting behind the wheel and into traffic each day, an eight-letter dirty word crosses a
driver’s mind, an eight-letter word most drivers may not want to speak about in mixed company:
A-C-C-I-D-E-N-T
Whether we have five, ten or 20 years of service, one thing some of us may eventually share at some point
may be the unfortunate experience of an accident.
Who are the players and participants in a bus accident?1. Bus driver
2. Passengers
3. TCC
4. Other driver/pedestrian
5. Street Superviser
6. Safety coordinator
7. Peer Support
Those who have encountered that dirty word know accidents are classified as “unavoidable” or “avoidable”
and no doubt this resonates in some drivers’ minds as “fault” or “no-fault.”
South Garage Safety Specialist Mark Kitzerow assesses and reviews many accidents to see if they are
avoidable. “It is not about getting to the end of the road,” Kitzerow said. “It is about getting to the next block
safely.”
Kitzerow said that there is a lot to learn from the near misses drivers encounter weekly on their individual
routes. He lends his years of experience to old and new drivers alike to prevent them from encountering similar
situations. He often gives tips or refresher knowledge of accident avoidance and how to best read and anticipate
actions of other drivers and pedestrians in the bus zone. Mark mentioned that most drivers hit the streets doing
all the right things, such as observing the five major points in accordance with the safe driving keys acronym
A-G-K-L-M:
A-im high in steering
G-et the big picture;
K-eep your eyes moving;
L-eave yourself an out;
M-ake sure they see you.
There are times when drivers have done the AGKLM; been extra careful with additional mirror checks and
signaling intent to turn or leaving the curbside and then suddenly, seemingly out of nowhere, a loud metal crash
or bang still occurs.
Kitzerow mentioned additional reminder tips that may prevent accidents when pulling away from a curb (a
common form of accident):
1. When a car is behind your bus at a curb, on a multi-lane street, it is best to assume the vehicle is going
to make a right-hand turn.
2. While doing the mirror check watch for head movement, signal and angle of the car behind you.
3. Recheck your footwork in stop position and when going from brake to gas pedal, do a three-second
count before going to the gas. According to Kitzrow, this buys you low speed if cars are coming around
you to make the turn.
Maybe as a driver you see an accident coming in typical slow-motion Technicolor.
Sometimes a car veers into the bus and the bus driver swerves to avoid it; takes a foot off the gas; pumps or
slams the brake. Maybe the driver accelerates and steers out of the way to avoid the inevitable. Sometimes
accidents happen in a flash. They can occur while clearing an intersection or when a driver is sitting perfectly
still waiting for a red light to change.
Collisions can be more facts than fault - such as unseen ice, improper street lighting, blind spots or simply
bad timing. Sometimes your reactions may seem useless to foil the dangerous actions of other
drivers.
The first thing to remember following an accident is: Do not beat yourself up!
What happens after an accident is different for every driver, but what you do as a professional driver is more
important. Make sure you know what your main responsibilities are following an accident.
Whether “Bang, crash or scrape,” there are some basic things found in your handbook that can guide you
through the first stages of an accident. What if a passenger is hurt or someone outside the bus is injured and
needs some assistance? What if the driver is hurt?
1. Make sure all passengers inside the bus are all right.
2. Make sure those in the other vehicle are allright.
3. Make sure you are allright.
4. Assess the entire exterior of the bus for damages.
5. Assess the damages to other vehicle or person outside bus.
6. Call Transit Control (TCC) and give them a description of all your assessments.
7. Hand out courtesy cards.
TCC may ask if you need Peer Support to help you deal with the trauma of the accident. Peer Support is a
confidential resource that enables you to seek advice and counsel from drivers who have dealt with situations
that occur on the bus, including accidents and confrontations. Peer Support is a group of current drivers taking
turns on-call 24 hours a day to assist other drivers in stressful situations.
There are several options a driver has after an accident:1. The driver may continue driving the same bus if there is little or no damage to the vehicle or no injuries
to passengers or self. A driver may have to get another bus, continue the route or go to the next starting point and finish the shift.
2. The driver can continue after statements made to the police and/or street supervisor.
3. Injuries to the driver, passengers or pedestrian in an accident will result in the driver returning to the garage for full alcohol and drug screening.
4. The driver fills out an accident report form. The driver is given days off until the results of the tests and the examination of bus tapes or accident report are reviewed by a safety specialist. If you do not agree with the findings of the Safety Specialist, or want to be represented at any time in the process, get a hold of your executive board member.
Hopefully, as a professional driver, you had time to do all you could do to lessen the severity of the accident.
Page 31
Left: Relief Instruc-
tors Angel Tapia,
Randy Finch and
Coordinator Bob Ben-
son gave Steve a fond
farewell with gifts of
his favorite ‘tools’…apron, hat, and spatulas. He loved to cook up breakfast
for the garage. His special was a Spanish omelet.
Steve Leko Retires August 4 with 19+ Years of Service
Steve started as a part-time driver on January 4,1992
and went full-time on March 3, 1993. He retired as a
Relief Instructor at South Garage early, due to his health.
He said to drivers below him in seniority, “Sorry, but my
plan is to heal up and come back!”
David Williams Retires
After a slight delay,
Dave got out the
door and on his way
to retirement.
Left: Dave holds the
cake with his former
boss, Chris Haefner.
Right: Dave recieves
the coveted union
jacket from Tommy
Bellfi eld, Fin.Secty./
Treasurer of ATU Local 1005.
Even though the retirement was at
MJR, there was a large turnout of co-
workers and friends.
Dave, we wish you happiness in this
new phase of your life.
Remember that your skills as a professional driver may have prevented more serious or life-threatening injuries
from happening to you, your passengers or other pedestrians. Just remember that you have to believe your
actions and reactions as a professional driver. You have the skills and instructions. Remember to never
underestimate or overestimate your driver skills and instincts.
Page 32
Steve with fellow Relief Instruc-
tor Randy Finch.
He continued on as a committed bus driver until
he transferred into Revenue Finance in 1997. After
a few short months as a vault puller, Jim found a home in
the money-counting room and remained on the Central
Counting Room team until he retired on April 23, 2011,
with over 31 years of service. Combined with his fi rst
round, Jim had a total of 37 years, six months of dedicated
service to Metro Transit.
As a bus operator, Jim earned several driving awards
and commendations.
Jim earned 13 consecutive years of excellent atten-
dance in Revenue Finance, with the highest level of accuracy. Jim trained numerous new money counters on
balancing the day’s deposit and processing both bus and rail cash fares.
Jim is known for a charming sense of humor and a positive attitude. He was especially helpful to light- duty
employees from other departments who assisted in our counting room. He openly welcomed the temporary work-
ers with his friendly attitude, tales of his adventures as a bus driver, and about his interest in music and his days
as a musician.
Jim is looking forward to a relaxing retirement and purchasing his dream car – a new Buick!
James Latourneau, Heywood Money
Counter 319, Retires
April 22, 2011
Jim began his career as a
bus driver on July 13, 1973.
After several years, Jim
took a short break in service
from Metro Transit, but
returned to driving.
Paul Manning Retires from South Garage
Paul celebrated 24 Years with Metro Transit!
His wife Ruth was by his side on February 1st, 2011
with him to celebrate. They will be doing
some over-the-road travel in their Motor home
heading to the southeast part of our country.
Paul was hired as a part-time driver on April 13,1987 and went
fulltime
May 11,1996.
Page 33
Dorothy Maki, ATU Local 1005 Vice-President,
gives Paul his ATU retirement jacket.
South Manager
Frank Stumpf
helps Paul hold up
his cake.
Answer
IN TEN YEARS I WILL BE TWICE AS OLD AS I WAS FIVE YEARS AGO.
HOW OLD AM I?
ANSWER: 20 YEARS OLD
Submissions for Letters to the Editor are subject to approval of the
Editorial Board and space considerations. Letters to the Editor are
solely the opinion of the author and do not represent endorsement
by ATU Local 1005 or the Education Committee. If you have an
editorial to submit, please contact a committee member or our
advisor Dorothy Maki at: [email protected].
Letters
To The
Editor
In Memoriam
Pat Whelan, 3476, East Metro
Pat was hired on May 17,1993 and retired with 18 years of service on
April 13th. His son Eddie was back from two tours in Iraq, and his son
Charles had just won the North Suburban Weight Lifting competition.
His wife, Angie was also by his side. He is looking forward to doing
more of what he loves…. visiting with friends and family and playing
cards! They will be traveling to the Southeast in their motor home.
Ray Hojsik Nicollet Driver #2310, ten-year employee, formerly of Johnson City, New
York
Profoundly kind, caring and incredibly generous to the end, Raymond Hojsik passed
away July 27, 2011 in St. Louis Park, Minnesota, far too soon, at the age of 58. No
words can fittingly describe the degree of sadness we bear with his passing.
He is survived by his parents, Anthony and Doris Hojsik; brother, Ron Hojsik; sister,
Diane Boncamper; son, Tony Hojsik; granddaughter, Hannah Hojsik; nieces, Jessica and
Alicia Hojsik; nephews, Brian and Brandon Boncamper ; several cousins and numerous
friends.
Even though his work took him far from family and friends in New York, he stayed in constant contact with
all, and never missed his annual hunting trip with longtime friend, Art Savage.
Jim Hightower | The Downgrading of America
Jim Hightower, Op-Ed: By downgrading the government's credit rating, they add to the absurd hysteria over the
defi cit. "It's the cause of America's economic stagnation," they wail, "and the only way to fi x it is to take sledge-
hammers and chainsaws to programs that the middle-class and the poor rely on." Yoo-hoo, Wall Streeters — it
was not workaday folks who crashed our economy, it was you! Your fi nancial collapse wrecked the livelihoods
of millions and jacked up the federal defi cit you now decry. These elites are hoping that we can't keep up with
the fact that they're using their own failure as an excuse to go after essential public programs needed by the very
people they've knocked down.
Page 34
VETERANS FOR PEACE HOLDS
“PEACESTOCK 2011”Tim Coglianese, Driver 119, Nicollet Garage
On Saturday, July 9, the organization Veterans for Peace held
its annual retreat for peace in Hager City, Wisconsin. Red Wing
Local Chapter 115 was the main sponsor of this event, held for
the ninth straight year.
There were a number of well- known speakers at the event.
All of them, of course, spoke out against the insanity of war. But they also lay down the path that this country
seems to be intent on - being involved in countless wars. This has been true since the early 1960’s when the USA
first became involved in Viet Nam. Cambodia and Laos were included, however covertly at first, until our
military was deeply entrenched for more than seven years. Our major involvement in that region was based on
the lie of our Navy being attacked in the Gulf of Tonkin. The result was that more than 58,000 Americans were
killed. The Pentagon Papers exposed the lies of our involvement there.
In the decades since then, we have had countless wars, “nation building” initiatives, and military actions to
protect our “national interests”. Presently, we are involved in six different wars, spending billions of dollars
every week, killing hundreds of soldiers and citizens. Each of the speakers added something different to the
discussion. These points included: how we could better use the money on domestic programs; how the lies and
scare tactics getting us into wars continue; and how these military incursions are producing more hatred by the
citizenry of those various nations toward America. The fact was also brought out, many times, that an
overwhelming majority of Americans want us out of Iraq, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Libya, and the rest of the war
zones we are sending our troops into. But the politicians turn a deaf ear to the public, and seem to listen only to
the military-industrial complex and the Pentagon.
Here is a partial list of those who spoke at Peacestock 2011:
Daniel Ellsberg - The principal Pentagon Papers whistleblower. He spoke via Skype for more than 30
minutes, and answered many questions from the audience for about another 15 minutes. Most of this session
dealt not with the Pentagon Papers, but with our government’s involvement in so many wars today.
Cynthia McKinney - Former Congresswoman from Georgia. She was elected to six terms. Ms. McKinney
is an outspoken critic of our wars, and is active is bringing humanitarian relief to the Palestinians.
Ray McGovern - Former Military Officer, Consultant to President George H. Bush, and CIA Officer.
He has been in the foreground of exposing the lies behind our government’s involvement in the Middle East.
Also present that day, but not as a scheduled speaker was Colleen Rowley. Ms.Rowley is best known for her
exposing the deliberate ignoring of facts and intelligence presented to high- ranking members of the FBI that
could have possibly prevented the 911 terrorist attacks from ever happening. She was asked to “retire” from her
position in the FBI as a result.
My wife and I spent time that day talking to both Colleen Rowley and
Cynthia McKinney. They were both personable and very well informed. As
are the other speakers, these women are both very active and outspoken in
their love for America, and about the path of war it seems to seek out.
I attended this retreat for peace as a member of Veterans for Peace. I
served my country in the U.S. Army from 1968 to 1970. Being a member of
Veterans for Peace, I believe I am still serving my country.
If you are a veteran and would like to learn more about Veterans for
Peace, go to www.veteransforpeace.org. You do not have to be a veteran who
has seen combat, but one who feels enough is enough when it comes to our
being at war.
Page 35
Colleen Rowley joins Tim for a photo.
RAFFLE!VIKING TICKETS
Teresa Collins 1378
HARMON KILLEBREW
Lillie Loving 6828
PERCY HARVIN
David Schaffer 9450
COPE 50/50
Lori Stewart 64283
DRAWING!$25 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD
Steve Meyer 5516
UNION SWEATSHIRT
Bob Schaller 2713
IPOD SHUFFLE (BLUE)
James Leas 479
UNION PULLOVER
Cliff Bolden 2473
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
Lisa Callahan 6716
UNION T-SHIRT
Dave Gosha RCL536
KINDLE AND GIFT CARD
Rebecca Baldus 2390
UNION LETTERMAN JACKET
Norm Timmer 5909
$75 JAX GIFT CARD
G.Q. Quashie 6356
SONY DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.
Bob Gross 66179
UNION POLO SHIRT
Doug Herrala 2030
PORTABLE DVD PLAYER
Anthony Harmon 64183
UNION SWEATSHIRT
Robin Mirtica 2433
IPOD CLASSIC
Jack Berner 8927
UNION PULLOVER
Dave Tuveson 64190
$75 MANCINI’S GIFT CARD
Maria Hennes-Staples 2479
UNION JACKET
Michelle Windham 65144
$50 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD
Jill Schuster 64060
UNION LETTERMAN JACKET
Amanda Walker 64279
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
Larry Hotchkiss 67438
WII GAMING SYSTEM
Angela Barnett 70111
8 HRS RECOGNITION TIME OFF
Wayne Riddle 3805
UNION JACKET
Craig Webber 9955
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
Tom Mevissen
UNION PULLOVER
Mike Anderson 9452
CANON DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.
James Johnson 65151
UNION T-SHIRT
Ojay Wicker 68026
40” SONY TV
Bonnie Ripple 7628
$25 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD
Radar McManus 64171
UNION PULLOVER
Darlene Hopkins 6875
IPOD SHUFFLE (RED)
Dave Wolking 68078
UNION POLO SHIRT
Daniel Kirley 70069
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
John Polzer 9269
WEBBER KETTLE
Jerry Learn 5238
GPS
Carla Simonson 9631
$75 JAX GIFT CARD
Bradely Birt 69175
UNION LETTERMAN JACKET
Dan Shadd RCL
PORTABLE DVD PLAYER
Lisa Benson 9143
UNION POLO SHIRT
Glenn Goetz 2698
$50 CUB FOODS GIFT CARD
Don Dixon 2103
IPOD TOUCH
D.J. Rogers 3865
UNION JACKET
Steve Chatterton 5415
KINDLE AND GIFT CARD
Michelle Bellfi eld 7664
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
Tom Joernt 70196
UNION SWEATSHIRT
Jane Hanson 68279
SONY DIGITAL CAMERA PKG.
Lorna Sheehan 2488
8 HRS. RECOGNITION TIME OFF
Nanette Smith 6215
UNION T-SHIRT
Howard Merrill 9226
$75 MANCINI’S GIFT CARD
Tom Newkirk 997
UNION PULLOVER
Azmalio Perez 1554
$50 BEST BUY GIFT CARD
Larry Cota 67343
UNION JACKET
Jim Fisher 68050
AMC MOVIE TICKETS
Mike Herralla 63026
UNION LETTERMAN JACKET
Teresa Collins 1378
UNION SWEATSHIRT
Mark Hanson 5560
WEBBER GRILL
Tony Pray 2068
$50 RAINBOW FOODS GIFT
CARD Mark Probasco 69044
UNION PULLOVER
Ilya Tulchinsky 64032
AMC MOVIE TICKETS (4)
Sheldon Ziegler 5800
$50 RAINBOW FOODS GIFT
CARD Kim Rice 5975
47” LG3D TV
Adam Hinrichs 69140
ATU 1005 PICNIC WINNERS!