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.

New Requirements for RN License Renewal

Friday, October 10, 2008

REDDING - The Board of Registered Nurses has implemented a new requirement when renewing your Registered Nurse License. Effective immediately, upon renewal of an RN license, the Board will require licensees to indicate if they have been convicted of a misdemeanor or felony during the last renewal period.

Convictions must be reported even if they have been dismissed, reduced, or expunged. A deferred entry of judgment for a violation of section 11368 of the Health and Safety Code must also be reported. All traffic violations involving alcohol, dangerous drugs or controlled substances, injury to persons, or providing false information must be reported (you can omit traffic infractions under $300). The definition of conviction includes a plea of nolo contendere (no contest), as well as pleas or verdicts of guilty. You must include misdemeanor as well as felony convictions.

Raygoza LDF Fund receives $5,000.00 donation

Thursday, October 09, 2008

REDDING - Business Manager Chris Darker announced today that Local 792 received a check in the amount of $5,000.00 from the LIUNA Latino Caucus for the Norma Raygoza Legal Defense Fund. Local 792 started the fund in July 2008 to assist Glenn Superior Court Clerk Norma Raygoza with her discrimination law suit against the court. The fund has received nearly $20,000.00 in donations since July. “I appreciate the generous donation from our union brothers and sisters at the caucus”, said Darker. Norma continues her fund raising efforts at many events throughout the northstate. Glenn Superior Court has retained a law firm to represent them in the lawsuit. UPEC has produced a video on the case which can be found on the UPEC website and at http://normaraygoza.com.