Thursday, November 29, 2012

Holiday Breakfast w/ Santa

You're invited to our annual holiday breakfast with Santa Claus!
RSVP by emailing us here!
Share and RSVP for the event on Facebook.

All attendees will receive:
  • Hot Breakfast
  • Photo with Santa Claus
  • Gift from Santa (only children under 12 years old)



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Wednesday, November 28, 2012

On Point: November 27th

Check out the latest edition of UFCW's OnPoint- Summing up the heroic acts taken by Walmart workers last week, and how Black Friday will never be the same.




Monday, November 26, 2012

Monday Morning One Liners:

Did you miss the Black Friday actions on Walmart? Check out all the pictures from across the nation here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/ourwalmart/.

Watch why Walmart workers from across the nation went on strike last week?

Must Read: Last week on Wednesday morning, an eight-year Walmart employee in St. Cloud, Florida, went on strike, had the police called on her, received a trespassing warning.

Walmart committed bribery in Mexico, what about India? The bribery investigation has moved to India, where a number of employees are suspended as another investigation continues.




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Friday, November 23, 2012

Walmart Black Friday Strike

Keep up with the Black Friday Strikes on Tumblr: http://changewalmart.tumblr.com/

This morning we joined unions and community leaders and activists to support Walmart workers calling for change.  Thank you to all who attended to support the retail workers fighting for respect at work!  As of right now, Walmart workers have walked out of stores in protest of management in seven states!  Support Walmart workers at www.changewalmart.com






















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Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Have a Union Made Thanksgiving!

Make this Thanksgiving Union Made!  Support these brands made by proud union members!  For more products check out Labor411, a great resource to find union made products near you, and AFL-CIO's Union Made Thanksgiving Page.

(list via Labor411)


Turkey—Whole and Deli Style
Boar’s Head
Butterball
Eckrich Deli
Foster Farms
House of Raeford Farms
Klement’s
Saag’s
Sahlen’s
Thumann’s

Potatoes
Ore Ida
Betty Crocker
McCain

Stuffing
Manischewitz
Stroehmann Bakery Products
Kraft

Cranberries / Cranberry Sauce
Ocean Spray

Vegetables
Andy Boy
Eurofresh
Birds Eye
Mann’s
Sunripe Produce


Thanks to all of you, thousands of New Yorkers will enjoy a wonderful Happy Thanksgiving.  Thank you for your hard work the past few weeks helping New Yorkers recover from Super Storm Sandy, and now, enjoy a special holiday with family and loved ones!

Happy Thanksgiving!
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Walmart Black Friday Strike


The nation is listening to Walmart Workers who are fighting for Change!  Support Walmart workers on Black Friday!

Check out these videos of National News Walmart Workers are making!"Walmart Employees Plan Historic Strike" –The Ed Show (video):  http://www.nbcnews.com/id/49263362#49894324

"Walmart workers plan Black Friday protests" – CBS Evening News (video): http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-18563_162-57552153/walmart-workers-plan-black-friday-protests/

"Why Walmart and Big Retailers Should Pay Their Workers More" – Huffington Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/bob-herbert/walmart-worker-pay_b_2155678.html

Evidence that Walmart has the ability to change the way other retailers operate.Leaked Document Shows What Walmart Really Pays its Workers” - MSNBC : http://tv.msnbc.com/2012/11/19/leaked-document-reveals-walmarts-meager-compensation-structure/


Monday, November 19, 2012

Hurricane Sandy Relief to UFCW Members

UPDATED: 11/19/12 3:40 PM

NYC Rapid Repairs is a program to make your home safe for return. The City is working with contractors to assess damage to your home from Hurricane Sandy and make the necessary repairs for all property owners.  If you rent your home and there are unsafe conditions,  call 311.  The first step to participating in NYC Rapid Repairs is to call 311, visit NYC.gov, or visit a restoration center.  For more information on this program click here for a detailed explanation of what steps you need to take.

Con Edison has a new program for Certification processes to help restore service faster. NYC Building Code requires a licensed electrician or plumber to certify that systems can be energized. To help ease things due to Hurricane Sandy Con Edison has made a self-certification process available. If you are going to have your energy equipment inspected, cleaned, and/or repaired by a licensed contractor, you can download the form at this website and email or fax it back to Con Edison. Information on where to email or fax is located on the website and differs depending on which Borough you live in. A service turn-on will be scheduled once the certification form is received.

For issues related to your gas service, call National Grid at 718-643-4050

If you are affected by Hurricane Sandy and are in need of assistance you MUST get in touch with FEMA. You can call FEMA at (800) 621-3362 or (800) 462-7585 for the hearing impaired.


  • You can also register online at FEMA’s website at http://disasterassistance.gov or on your smartphone at m.fema.gov
  • Governor Cuomo has also set up an assistance hotline to help anybody navigate the system at (888) 769-7243.


Important: Did you miss days of work due to Hurricane Sandy because of lack of transportation or getting injured in the storm?  You will likely qualify for Disaster Unemployment Assistance [adobe needed].  

First, file for regular unemployment insurance by calling the NYS Department of Labor at (888) 209-8124.  Click here for a pdf with more information.  If you need more information or have additional questions regarding Hurricane Sandy and your current situation you can email Adam Obernauer at aobernauer@ufcw1500.org or dial 800.522.0456 ext. 11341.

Thank you, and our thoughts are with all affected by this catastrophic storm.  We will continue to update this page as more information becomes available.
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Thursday, November 15, 2012

Stop & Shop's Parent Company, Ahold USA, Appoints New COO

The original Stop and Shop logo used until 2008.
The original Stop and Shop logo used until 2008. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
Via Boston Globe: http://www.boston.com/businessupdates/2012/11/15/stop-shop-parent-appoints-james-mcann-chief-operating-officer-ahold-usa/20SznOGIqSnXvSe4LJFBNJ/story.html


Ahold, the corporate parent of such supermarket chains as Stop & Shop as well as the Peapod online grocery ordering and delivery service, announced the appointment of James McCann as chief operating officer of Ahold USA, effective Feb. 1.

McCann will succeed Carl Schlicker, who has announced his retirement.




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Wednesday, November 7, 2012

Hurricane Sandy Relief Efforts


The devastation our region has faced is simply unfathomable. No words can describe the destruction Hurricane Sandy has brought upon millions of families throughout New York.  Throughout the last few weeks, UFCW Local 1500 members have been nothing short of amazing, donating crucial supplies to New Yorkers in need.

Thank you to all members and friends who continue to help the thousands of families in need during these trying times.

Christina Narcisse donating warm clothing to
Hurricane Sandy victims at a shelter in Long Island


Enita Shuku donating hats and warm clothes to children in a Hurricane shelter 

Stop & Shop members donate warm clothes and
help out the National Guard in Long Island


 UFCW International President Joe Hansen has established a relief fund to provide our sisters and brothers the support and assistance they require to sustain their lives and get back on their feet.  To find out more or to donate visit: https://www.wepay.com/donations/ufcw-sandy


UFCW President Hansen Statement on President Obama Re-Election


WASHINGTON, D.C. — Joe Hansen, International President of the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW), yesterday released the following statement regarding the reelection of President Obama.
“President Obama’s reelection is a victory for UFCW members and workers across the nationThe President stabilized a failing economy, put in place new rules to prevent another financial crisis, and made important investments in the middle class. He reformed health care, made college more affordable, and helped guarantee women equal pay for equal work.
“There is much more to be done in a second term. It is time for immediate and bold action to create good-paying jobs. It is time for a tax code that is fair and helps close the gap between the rich and the poor. It is time to strengthen our labor laws so workers can join a union freely and fairly. And it is time to reform our immigration system so those who work hard and play by the rules can become American citizens. Only then can we truly recognize the President’s vision of shared prosperity and shared sacrifice.
“Achieving these goals will require leadership by President Obama. But he also needs a partner in Congress. Tea-party legislators tried—and failed—to defeat the President at any cost, calling it their top priority. I hope they will now put as much effort into addressing the great challenges facing our nation.
“The American people have spoken. It is time to get to work on their behalf.”
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The United Food and Commercial Workers International Union (UFCW) represents more than 1.3 million workers, primarily in the retail and meatpacking, food processing and poultry industries. The UFCW protects the rights of workers and strengthens America’s middle class by fighting for health care reform, living wages, retirement security, safe working conditions and the right to unionize so that working men and women and their families can realize the American Dream. For more information about the UFCW’s effort to protect workers’ rights and strengthen America’s middle class, visit www.ufcw.org, or join our online community at www.facebook.com/UFCWinternationaland www.twitter.com/ufcw.


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Monday, November 5, 2012

UFCW Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund

Want to know how you can help out after Hurricane Sandy? The UFCW International has established a Disaster Relief Fund to provide vital financial support for the nearly 200,000 UFCW members living in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and surrounding areas. 




Hurricane Sandy has devastated millions of lives throughout New York, leaving many of us without power and heat in our homes, and some of us homeless.  We personally extend our deepest sympathies to all of our members and families who have been affected by the storm.



The 23,000 members of UFCW Local 1500 have seen the catastrophic devastation first hand.  UFCW International President Joe Hansen has established a relief fund to provide vital financial support for the nearly 200,000 UFCW members residing in New York, New Jersey and surrounding areas affected by the storm.  


A large number of UFCW worksites in New York and New Jersey are unable to open for business, impacting the majority of our members from loss of work and income.

This has been a devastating storm and the effects of it will be felt for some time to come. The fund will provide our sisters and brothers the support and assistance they require to sustain their lives and get back on their feet.

For more information or to donate to the fund please visit: https://www.wepay.com/donations/ufcw-sandy.  

Or send contributions to: 

UFCW Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund
c/o UFCW International Union
1775 K Street, NW
Washington, D.C. 20006





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Where to Vote on Election Day, After Sandy

Election day, November 6 2012: Polls open at 6 a.m. - 9 p.m.
Registered to vote? Find your polling place here: https://voterlookup.elections.state.ny.us/votersearch.aspx

As many of us continue to find ways to cope with the aftermath of Hurricane Sandy's devastation, we understand that many of our normal lives and routines have been displaced and rearranged. Most of us are finding it nearly impossible to find electricity, heat, gasoline, and public transportation services are slowly recovering.  With complete understanding of these devastating circumstances our State faces, tomorrow is election day and we encourage you to go to the polls and vote.

If you are fortunate to be able to find your way to the polls to vote, be sure to double check your polling site to confirm it is still up and running, as many polling sites throughout New York have been moved due to Hurricane Sandy.

As a result to the displacement of many of our communities, Governor Cuomo has signed an Executive Order declaring all New Yorkers residing in federally-declared disaster counties may vote at any polling site in NY.  However, you will only be able to vote for the U.S. Presidential and U.S. Senatorial election.  To cast your vote for your local legislative races, you must cast your ballot at your specific polling place.

For more information, New York State has established a toll-free number to assist voters with any questions about voting, poll site changes and absentee ballots.  1-855-NYS-SANDY (1-855-697-7263)

Executive Order Details – Voting by Affidavit Ballot

Governor Cuomo has signed an Executive Order which provides for a voter who is a resident in the federally-declared disaster counties of Nassau, Rockland, Suffolk, Westchester and of New York City (which includes Bronx, Kings, New York, Queens and Richmond) who have been displaced by Hurricane Sandy:
  1. To vote an affidavit ballot at any poll site in New York State, other than their regular poll site;
  2. Every Board of Elections in the State shall transmit the completed affidavit ballot of any voter who resides in one of the above counties to the Board of Elections where such voter is registered to vote to be canvassed;
  3. The affidavit ballot can only be canvassed for such contests for which the person was entitled to vote at such election.
 Executive Order (pdf 187KB)



Poll Site Changes due to Hurricane Sandy


Nassau County Voting Poll Site Changes: http://www.nassaucountyny.gov/agencies/BOE/index.html


New York City Information

For the latest information concerning the Board of Elections in the City of New York please follow this link:
http://vote.nyc.ny.us/html/temp_hours/temp_hours.shtml







Sunday, November 4, 2012

California: 7,000 UFCW Members On Strike

As we all are slowly recovering from the devastation throughout the Northeast from Hurricane Sandy, we have learned this morning our UFCW brothers and sisters have gone on strike.

via UFCW 8: http://www.ufcw8.org/index.cfm?zone=/unionactive/view_article.cfm&HomeID=262808

Raley’s Grocery Workers on Strike
Walkout hits stores in Northern and Central California
Unions cite imposition of contract takeaways and unfair labor practices

ROSEVILLE, CALIF. (Nov. 4, 2012) — Thousands of Union grocery workers walked off their jobs at Raley’s supermarkets this morning, citing management’s unlawful implementation of takeaways and unfair labor practices.

Following days of intense negotiations in the presence of Federal Mediator Greg Lim, leaders of UFCW 8-Golden State and UFCW Local 5 announced a strike was in effect at Raley’s, Nob Hill and, in all likelihood, Bel Air stores in Northern and Central California. The labor dispute involves approximately 7,000 union members.

The workers will set up picket lines in front of stores and will soon be asking shoppers to take their business to Safeway, Save Mart, Rite Aid and other Union retailers.

In communications with members, the Unions noted Raley’s management had been bargaining in bad faith since contract negotiations began 15 months ago. 

Union attorneys filed charges of “unfair labor practices” against the company on Nov. 1, citing violations of laws prohibiting harassment and intimidation of Union members, circumventing the Union’s authority as a bargaining agent, and “regressive bargaining” — submitting proposals that are worse than previous offers. The Unions also charged that Raley’s was unlawfully threatening to implement changes to the parties’ collective bargaining agreements.

After the Union leaders said they intended to file additional charges in response to systematic one-on-one interrogations of Union members by Raley’s managers, Raley’s officials said they would comply with Union demands to stop the interrogations but the interrogations continued anyway.

The strike coincides with Raley’s imposition of many of its “last, best and final” contract proposals without the input or approval of its Union employees. Among other things, the proposals include permanent elimination of some wage premiums for working at night and on Sundays and holidays, and establishment of two distinct classes of workers — those hired after the next contract is ratified and those hired before.

Other terms proposed by the company include elimination of retiree health care and inadequate funding of health care for active workers.

The strike has received endorsement by the UFCW International Union and all of the regional labor councils in Northern and Central California. In addition, the Raley’s Union Solidarity Alliance, initially formed by UFCW 8-Golden State and UFCW Local 5, was recently expanded to include UFCW Local 711 in Nevada; Northern California Teamsters; Bakery, Confectionery, Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers International Union Local 85; and IUOE Stationary Engineers Local 39.

UFCW Presidents Jacques Loveall and Ron Lind said progress in the negotiations was stymied by Raley’s management team under the direction of an outsider with a history of animosity toward Unions. 

“This individual’s lack of good faith, his inconsistencies and his erratic approach have derailed the entire process,” they continued.

“By allowing this outsider, whose priority is ‘union avoidance,’ to direct its bargaining efforts, Raley’s has forced us to take this course,” they said.

“We look forward to returning to the bargaining table when Raley’s management has adopted a more constructive attitude,” they added. “Our goal from the beginning is to negotiate a fair agreement serving the needs of both Raley’s and its Union employees.”



Important: Changes in Polling Sites throughout New York


Important announcement from the NYS Board of Elections:


Poll Site Changes due to Hurricane Sandy

Poll Site Changes Reported by County
Locate your Polling Place

If you live in one of these counties that has not finalized their polling locations due to Hurricane Sandy your polling place may be affected: Nassau, Putnam, Rockland, Suffolk, Sullivan and Westchester. Be sure to check back here for updated information prior to voting or contact your county board of elections.

If you live in the City of New York go to http://gis.nyc.gov/vote/ps/index.htm for your poll site information.
Find out if you are registered to vote and where your polling place is located outside of New York City.


Friday, November 2, 2012

Friday Afternoon News Bites:

Mayor Bloomberg endorsed President Barack Obama, citing his superior leadership, views on climate change, in an editorial.
When I step into the voting booth, I think about the world I want to leave my two daughters, and the values that are required to guide us there. The two parties’ nominees for president offer different visions of where they want to lead America.
 UFCW President Joe Hansen has set up a Hurricane Sandy relief fund:
“Inspired by President Obama’s declaration that we will get through this together, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union has established a Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund to provide vital financial support for the nearly 200,000 UFCW members living in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and surrounding areas."



Less Jobs=More Money: Walmart announced they will be installing an additional 10,000 self-checkouts throughout 1,200 stores in the U.S.  

Amazon.com is gaining more ground in quest of becoming a Power Retailer...


Important! New York Absentee ballot application mail/fax deadlines have been extended to today, b/c of #Sandy...The in person deadline is now Monday-http://t.co/sQD6SP6o


In Richmond this morning, Walmart workers walked off the job in protest of company!


Real truth: via @meeshellchen: In Sandy's Wake, New York's Landscape of Inequity Revealed huff.to/YemKvp

UFCW President Joseph Hansen Announces Union-Wide Relief Fund for Hurricane Sandy Victims

STATEMENT FROM JOSEPH T. HANSEN, INTERNATIONAL PRESIDENT, UNITED FOOD & COMMERCIAL WORKERS UNION ANNOUNCING UNION-WIDE RELIEF FUND FOR HURRICANE SANDY VICTIMS 

Nation’s largest retail workers’ union providing funds and support for members impacted by the catastrophic storm 

 (Washington, D.C.) – The following is a statement issued by United Food and Commercial Workers (UFCW) International Union President Joseph Hansen: “Inspired by President Obama’s declaration that we will get through this together, the United Food and Commercial Workers International Union has established a Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund to provide vital financial support for the nearly 200,000 UFCW members living in New York, New Jersey, Connecticut and surrounding areas.

 “Hurricane Sandy’s impact on our members was catastrophic. Homes were destroyed or severely damaged by flood waters. Many have not had power to their homes or businesses since Monday and it may be many more days before electricity is restored.

The UFCW is deeply concerned for the physical safety and well-being of our members in New York and New Jersey. “Apart from the physical stress of keeping their homes and families safe, workers in the region’s grocery stores, retail stores, food processing facilities and other private industry are suffering from the loss of income from missed hourly wages as their stores and worksites are unable to open for business.

I am calling on UFCW local unions across the U.S. and Canada to open their hearts and checkbooks and donate to the UFCW Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund.”

Contributions can be mailed to: UFCW Hurricane Sandy Disaster Relief Fund c/o UFCW International Union 1775 K Street, NW Washington, D.C. 20006 For further updates, please visit www.ufcw.org

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