UPEC goes Multimedia

Friday, October 24, 2008

Business Manager Chris Darker prepares to record a new message at Redding Radio

REDDING - The United Public Employees of California (UPEC) has been working on multimedia campaign that support national and community events and that bring attention to the work that their members do within their communities. “Our members work hard and often under stressful situations. As their Representatives, we want them to know we support them and appreciate what they do”, stated Local Business Manager Chris Darker. “Chris understands the power of Electronic Media to build the Union Brand and promote our Union in the North State”, said Christine Perry a Union Relations Representative for UPEC.  Local 792 utilizes Radio frequently to spotlight specific public service topics as well as to deliver important messages concerning Union issues to the public.
Radio Campaigns have addressed the following topics: “Thanking the Fire Fighters”, “Nurse Appreciation Week”, and “Labor Day Promotion”.  Starting in September 2008, television was added to the media mix.  “Most spots are being produced in house by staff and Chris Darker who is our audio anchor (voice delivering the message)”, said Perry. Television allows UPEC the opportunity to reach the entire north state.  Currently, UPEC is doing public awareness safety spots.  These spots run in the news and sports on KRCR and other times based on availability.
Sample spots include: “Labor Day Worker Appreciation:”, “Breast Cancer Awareness”, “Remember to Vote”, and “Child Safety Awareness”. Building the name awareness of our Union, promoting our members, and networking within the communities we serve is extremely important to for our continued growth and success, said Darker. UPEC reaches about two-thirds of their members and the communities they serve.  As the program grows so will the coverage area.

Exciting Scholarship Update

The UPEC Local 792 Scholarship Committee is excited to announce the new scholarships that will be awarded in June 2009. There will be four $500.00 scholarships available for eligible senior high school students. There will also be three awards for members who want to attend the UPEC Leadership Conference from June 26-28, 2009; the monetary value for Leadership Conference Scholarships will be $500.00 for first, $250.00 for second and $100.00 for third. Eligibility for both scholarships is clearly stated in each scholarship application. All applications for upcoming scholarships will be available online from January 1, 2009 through April 15, 2009. Updated information will be posted on the website when it becomes available. We proud to be able to support educating our youth and helping our members become leaders in our union. 

Be Active, Stay Informed, Get Involved!

Monday, October 20, 2008

The PED Academy Level 1 Training that occurred from October 5-10 at the National Labor College was very successful. It is encouraging to see so many of our union brothers and sisters excited to organize and stand up for members rights. It is important to remember that the union only works because of the members and their support. Let the strength of our local continue to grow, get involved! Attending meetings and staying informed is the easiest way to stay updated of current bargaining unit issues and information. Please remember there are always ways that you can help if you are looking at getting involved, there are even training opportunities available for members. All you have to do to start is simply let a representative or steward know that you are interested in becoming more involved and more information will be provided to you. If you cannot become more involved at this time, please continue to thank and encourage your union brothers and sisters around you who are!
Be active, stay informed and get involved!

UPEC Board Proposes Changes to Board for 2009

Thursday, October 16, 2008

REDDING - The UPEC Executive Board will submit a proposal to members at the November 15, 2008 Local Membership meeting regarding changes to the Local Executive Board configurration. Business Manager Chris Darker recommended the change and received a unanimous decision from the Board on the new configuration at the September 27th Board meeting. The proposal will eliminate the three (3) “At Large” Board positions and add an additional Board seat to accomidate the new areas Local 792 has added to the Local since the 2006 election. The Board is proposing seats for San Francisco Region, Monterey-Santa Cruz Region, Milpitas-Santa Clara Region and additional seats for the Shasta Region with over 1,000 members. Currently, the UPEC Executive Board has 13 seats and is proposing a reconfiguration that will raise the number of seats to 14. The membership will be given an opportunity to vote on this issue and a number of other issues that affect the Board and the Local in 2009. The Local will hold nominations in April 2009 for the 2009-2012 term.

PERKSCard Available

REDDING - The latest discount benefit for UPEC members is the PERKSCard. This is a discount card can be used at participating stores and on line shopping! Members can also purchase gift cards at a discount and the site features printable coupons. As the holiday’s approach you may find this benefit helpful with your Christmas shopping budget. There is no additional cost to UPEC members for this benefit and the card is good for 3 years. Members who have not received their cards and would like to receive one should call Patti Wyatt at the UPEC Office at 530-245-1890 or 800-241-1890 or email your request to . This is a new benefit we are trying to build over a 3 year period and would appreciate your participation and suggestions.

Last Day to Register

REDDING - Monday, October 20, 2008 is the last day to register to vote in the November 4th election. If you have changed your address since the last time you voted this is your last opportunity!  You can complete the registration form on line, or download a hard copy and complete it by hand. Simply sign and mail your completed form back in to your local election office. To be eligible to vote, your voter registration card must be postmarked not later than Monday, October 20, 2008. If you aren’t sure you are registered, call or visit your local county elections office.