Good morning, all...

Here's an interesting little article that I found in the Buffalo News this morning (OK, right now it's barely morning, but I like to sleep in on Saturdays. Sue me).


Delphi plan would save only 6,000 hourly jobs
By JERRY ZREMSKI
NEWS NATIONAL CORRESPONDENT
5/27/2006

NEW YORK - Delphi Corp.'s bankruptcy reorganization plan would eliminate all but 6,000 of its U.S. hourly employees. The plan foreshadows job cuts even at the eight plants the company plans to keep open, such as the facility in Lockport that now includes 3,000 factory workers among its 3,800-member work force.

Testifying in U.S. Bankruptcy Court on Friday, Delphi executive Mark R. Weber acknowledged that while the company plans to cut its salaried staff by only 37 percent, it plans to reduce its U.S. hourly work force from 33,000 to 6,000.

The number of U.S. salaried employees - 9,000 - will exceed hourly workers because the company's top managers will remain in America.

"In addition, we'll have that number of [salaried] employees in the U.S. because they will be engineering products for manufacture all around the world," said Weber, Delphi's executive vice president for operations.

Delphi has been ramping up its overseas manufacturing operations for years, and unions have contended its reorganization proposal is aimed at shifting the company into a low-wage offshore employer.

Lindsey Williams, a company spokesman, conceded earlier this week that the Lockport plant would have to be restructured even though the facility is set to remain open.

Already, Weber acknowledged, Delphi has 135,000 workers outside the United States, compared with 45,000 in America.

That overseas focus would grow under Delphi's reorganization plan, which calls for closing or selling 21 of its 29 U.S. facilities.

Delphi has contended it needs freedom from its labor deals because those agreements would hamstring the company as it attempts to close facilities.

But labor lawyers pointed out that the company has been able shrink in recent years despite those union contracts.

Delphi labor negotiator Darrell Kidd acknowledged the United Auto Workers' work force at Delphi has shrunk from 43,000 to 23,317 since the company was spun off from General Motors Corp. in 1999.

And Thomas M. Kennedy, a lawyer for the International Union of Electronic, Salaried, Machine and Furniture Workers/Communications Workers of America, pointed out that his union's Delphi work force had fallen from 15,837 to 8,400.

"And all that was occurring under the current labor agreements, right?" Kennedy asked, prompting Kidd to agree.

Kidd noted that most of the job cuts that have occurred in recent years came about because of routine retirements and resignations, along with buyout programs the unions agreed to at particular plants.

"Could you have put those attrition programs in place without entering negotiations and giving something up?" asked Delphi lawyer John K. Lyons.

"No," Kidd replied.

Meanwhile, Delphi's unions continued their efforts to show that Delphi's reorganization plan favors management over labor. Under tough questioning, Weber conceded that when the company gives $98 million in bonuses to salaried employees, some of it could go to managers at plants that are losing money.

And after Weber said Delphi Chief Executive Officer Steve Miller had volunteered to cut his salary from $1.5 million to $1, Kennedy noted that Miller had received a $3 million signing bonus when he joined Delphi in July 2005.

"How much of that has he given back?" Kennedy asked.

"None that I am aware of," Webber replied.

Delphi's unions have vowed to strike if Delphi wins the right to break its union contracts, and a strike could cripple Delphi's main customer, General Motors.

But Judge Robert D. Drain is not expected to issue a decision in the case until late June. At least two more days of hearings are set on the issue, starting next Friday.


e-mail: jzremski@buffnews.com


Hmmm...that sounds promising, now doesn't it. Bleh.

Dawn

A Better Use of Time...

Well, since my back's been out for the past couple of days and I'm skipping my kickboxing class tonight, I thought I'd put fingers to keyboard, join me, won't you?

I read an article a few months back about the various community programs that the employees residing in GM's different JOBS banks can volunteer their time to, rather than sitting doing nothing. Why isn't our dear employer looking into something like that for our membership in the banks? I'm sure that there are quite a few organizations that would love to put our people to work helping others.

I know what you're thinking..."If they hurt themselves while volunteering, they could file for Worker's Compensation". Yeah, but it would take a company lawyer about 5 minutes to pencil-whip a waiver for people to sign. That would solve that little problem, now wouldn't it?

Hell, if Delphi let our people volunteer on company time, they could probably write off their wages as a charitable contribution! Cha-ching! Really, wouldn't that be much better than keeping 522 people caged up like animals downtown? I would be really interested in seeing what the company line about that would be. More likely than not, it would be as vague as John Sheehan's (Delphi's Chief Restructuring Officer) testimony in the 1113/1114 hearing yesterday. Ugh.

Maybe I need to write another letter to Steve-O...

Dawn

It's Almost Like Seeing My Name in Lights...

Well, almost. I have to say, I didn't notice myself, but something was brought to my attention yesterday. Let's see if you can see what I mean. Here's a paragraph from this month's union newspaper, more specifically, the Shop Chairman's Report...

"This bankruptcy action by Delphi Corporation will in some way affect everyone's life. It's critical that the membership if the IUE-CWA make the decisions that they will be called upon to make based on the facts and not based on rumors, misinterpreted news media reports, phony web sites or political posturing."

Did you miss it? Our Shop Chairman seems to be trying to mention my humble little home in his report for this month ("phony web sites"). Awww...I'm flattered, really. The hall apparently cares deeply about my little slice of heaven here. So much so that, this month alone, I've gotten a letter from the President's office (certified mail, no less), and now a shout out in the Local 717 Union News.

I must be moving up in the world. Pardon me while I go and celebrate my new found celebrity with a hot, steaming cup of joe...

Dawn

C'mon...Let's All Sing Along

Celebration...Kool and the Gang...

Yahoo! This is your celebration
Yahoo! This is your celebration

Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)
Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)

There's a party goin' on right here
A celebration to last throughout the years
So bring your good times, and your laughter too
We gonna celebrate your party with you

Come on now

Celebration
Let's all celebrate and have a good time
Celebration
We gonna celebrate and have a good time

It's time to come together
It's up to you, what's your pleasure

Everyone around the world
Come on!

Yahoo! It's a celebration
Yahoo!

Celebrate good times, come on!
It's a celebration
Celebrate good times, come on!
Let's celebrate

We're gonna have a good time tonight
Let's celebrate, it's all right
We're gonna have a good time tonight
Let's celebrate, it's all right

Baby...

We're gonna have a good time tonight (Ce-le-bra-tion)
Let's celebrate, it's all right
We're gonna have a good time tonight (Ce-le-bra-tion)
Let's celebrate, it's all right

Yahoo!
Yahoo!

Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)
Celebrate good times, come on!
It's a celebration!
Celebrate good times, come on! (Let's celebrate)

(ad lib)

Come on and celebrate, good times, tonight (Celebrate good times, come on!)
'Cause everything's gonna be all right
Let's celebrate (Celebrate good times, come on)
(Let's celebrate)

You know that you were all singing it in your head, now weren't you!
Dawn

Just VOTE...

Today's entry is going to be short and sweet. If you have already voted, good job!
If you haven't...

GET OFF OF THE COMPUTER, GET IN YOUR CAR, DRIVE DOWN TO THE HALL AND VOTE!!! WHAT THE HELL ARE YOU WAITING FOR, AN ENGRAVED INVITATION?!

OK, I'm done. Now, go vote.

Dawn

Andy's Fourth "Leaflet"...

Ok, Andy made this a comment to my last post, but I want it on the front page...enjoy.

Dawn

“LIAR, LIAR PANTS ON FIRE”

In a last minute slander attempt to pull votes, my opponent has clearly voided the issues in this campaign and has shown why he indeed “MUST GO”. He assumed there would be no way I could respond to his last leaflet, but due to modern technology, he was once wrong again. I would like to address these so called allegations, so that my reputation remains at stake.

STRIKE PAY

As everyone knows by now, I like to do my job as efficiently as possible. In Plant 15 I designated one of our members to go around and sign individuals up according to a departmental roster. This would guarantee that no one would be missed. This allowed me to take care of my other two facilities to insure it was done in a timely manner. Our Zone Glenn Munger, did not approve of the person I put in charge, I assume for political reasons, and demanded she be removed from signing Plant 15 members up. He instructed me to assign the work to one of this individual’s co-worker instead. When I explained that I did not want to cause any hostility between the employees, he became irate. At the point in time, I told him, I did not have time to “play his games”, and since he does basically nothing all day long, for him to do it.

DISCIPLINE

On Friday April 21st I scheduled a half vacation, weeks in advance with my Alternate in order to take my two children to the circus as part of my son, turning 5 years old, birthday present. Before I left, me and my Alternate spent over and hour with the General foreman in Plant 46 to resolve the issue. Meetings were scheduled for the following Monday and Tuesday with the appropriate individuals in attempt to resolve the issues. Since it involved multiple shifts, the Zone Committeeman, NOT I was in charge and handle the situation accordingly. Feel free to ask the employees in Plant 46 the outcome of the situation.

ALL BARK AND NO BITE

Who did Andy call when he was “physically grabbed by the throat”? Nobody. It never happened. Another one of Munger’s lies.

Who did Andy call for help when “he was chased by a foreman”? Nobody. It never happened. Munger lies again. I will proudly show anyone my Disciplinary Record, which will reflect, I NEVER HAD TIME OFF. Glenn, can you do the same? NO!

"Why does Andy rotate his car in the parking lot?". Andy doesn’t even have a car. He drives a full size Chevrolet Silverado, that’s why. It been in the same row the last 5 years Munger lies again.

In closing, All Glenn’s Elections revolve around the same thing, never the issues, constant personal attacks. It is impossible to run a clean campaign against him. Hopefully this will be the last one for everybody.

MMG

Andy Pappagallo

8:13 PM

Andy's Third Flyer...

OK everyone, if you've tried to leave a comment lately, you'll notice an annoying new procedure. Now, you must type in the funky little word that appears at the bottom of the page, because I was starting to get comment spam on my posts, and it was starting to piss me off.

Now, today's post. Here you will find Andy's third leaflet, and, after that, I'll tell you what I think of Glenn's crap, I mean leaflet...

ELECT
ANDY PAPPAGALLO
ZONE II COMMITTEEMAN

“Because you simply deserve better”

www.717solidarityblog.blogspot.com

MMG

A RESPONSIBLE AND SMART DECISION

As this campaign ends, since I will no longer be the District 5 Committeeman, I would like my fellow workers to know that it has been a pleasure to serve you these last five years. It has been a distinct honor and privilege to represent this District and to develop what I am proud to say, a friendship, with every one of you. I would also like to express my sincerest gratitude to the members of Zone II for allowing me the opportunity to converse with them. This has enabled me to get an overall feeling of what their concerns and needs are.

Many of us, regardless of our seniority or age, have not experienced such a climate of uncertainty at Delphi. Our plans for the American Dream and our resolve to remain focused on the objectives for financial stability and for meaningful employment are being put to the test by circumstances beyond our control. It is imperative that we remain strong and that we the members of IUE-CWA Local 717 remain united during these times of uncertainty.
When casting your ballot for Zone II Committeeman you need to ask yourself this one simple question. WHAT DO THESE SIGNIFICANT EMOTIONAL EVENTS THAT HAVE BEEN TRANSPIRING TODAY, PERTAIN TO THE REPRESENTATIVE THAT WE WILL ELECT TOMORROW?

It is simply a MATTER OF TRUST, and that the person you elect must be committed to serving this membership with INTEGRITY, COMMITMENT and MOTIVATION. I vow to you that once elected, I will uphold the National and Local Agreements to protect this MEMBERSHIP, and not MANAGEMENT. Your next Zone II Committeeman must be without a doubt faithful to this principle, and I am clearly convinced that you deserve representation without biased political intrusion.

I believe that this membership deserves leadership superior to what it is receiving right now. The current Zone II Committeeman has shown repeatedly, that his strategy is one of self-gratification. I cannot and will not allow a politician with no redeeming qualities to exploit this membership for his own personal gain, his own personal agenda and his own personal satisfaction.

If based on past elections held at the Union Hall, voter turnout will be low. Do not take for granted what your vote is worth, or what difference your vote will make. I fully understand that people have family obligations after work. Either it is picking up a child from school, daycare or the babysitter, or it is to rush home because a spouse needs to leave to go to work on an opposite shift. Please take the opportunity, either before work or after, to cast your ballot. Every vote will count in this election.

WE NEED ELECTED REPRESENTATIVES WHO WILL BE LOOKING OUT FOR THE BEST INTEREST OF OUR EXPECTATIONS, NOT THEIRS. Please choose wisely. Our future depends on it.

Fraternally,


Andy Pappagallo

WHO IS IMMATURE?

Glenn Munger has circulated throughout Zone II an E-Mail that he is claiming originated from me. I would like this membership to know that this is nothing but a BOLD FACED LIE and POLITICAL PROPAGANDA intended to influence your vote.

Why would I write something about someone’s disabilities, when my father has been deaf in one ear since he was eight years old? My brother also takes care of physically and mentally challenged children.

I would like to say SHAME ON YOU, GLENN, for this type of last minute political mudslinging to garner votes. What's more, SHAME ON YOU AND RAY PLACER for going to MANAGEMENT and attempting to have me DISCIPLINED over this matter. You two ought to be on Steve Miller’s payroll and working on Delphi’s bankruptcy.

VOTING BEGINS THURSDAY MAY 18 AT 10:00 A.M. AT LOCAL 717 UNION HALL AND CONTINUES FOR 24 HOURS UNTIL THE VOTING
ENDS FRIDAY MAY 19 10:00 A.M.

Thanks, Andy, now, on to Glenn's flyer...

First off, you should get out the military-style chem suit to deal with this kind of toxic waste (Quick! Call the EPA!). Yes, Glenn, we know that you're older than dirt and was here during the concessionary contracts of the 80's. My dad was laid of for a good part of that decade, so I, too, remember it well. It's nice to remind people of things like that when you're trying to run a campaign on fear and uncertainty. And, I'm sure Andy did fight with the Shop Chairman twice this week, but those fights didn't have a damn thing to do with current contract negotiations, and you know it. You don't care though, because you think that that sounds good in a leaflet (If you can't dazzle them with brilliance, baffle them with bullshit).

And yes, thanks to you, Mike Coe, Ray Placer and the rest of your rat pack, many people are now aware of that now infamous email. I know for a fact that Andy didn't write that stuff, but he won't throw the author under the bus and tell anyone who did. That's part of being a UNION person, you don't tattle to MANAGEMENT and try to get people disciplined (or, make things up to try to get people disciplined, as in my case).

And now, the most BLATANT LIE in this whole cess pool...have you heard the one about Andy and the supervisor? Glenn spins a yarn in which Andy "was tearfully yelling 'Basil, stop him!' as the foreman continued chasing him through the office". What I'd like to know is, how would you know? YOU WEREN'T THERE WHEN ANY OF THE EVENTS HAPPENED! I, on the other hand, was. The only time I saw you was when I was being deposed by Labor Relations. Oh, and coincidentally, NEITHER ANDY NOR THE SUPERVISOR RECEIVED TIME OFF FOR THE INCIDENT.

If anyone has any questions, just leave a comment, and I'll see what I can do...

Later...
Dawn

101 Ways to Beat a Dead Horse...

Well, as we trudge through the quagmire of this year's election, we seem to be having no problem finding the deepest, darkest corners of Crap Jungle. Case in point, Mike Coe's second leaflet. Now, you'll notice that I haven't 'endorsed' a candidate for District 5, and that's because, well, I'm in District 6 (kind of a no brainer, if you think about it). But, if I were to 'endorse' someone in that race, it would be Rob Nichols, because, he sounds like he really wants the job, instead of like he's just running to try to help someone else out (you know who).

Now, the way Mike has this leaflet broken up makes my job much easier this time around. Let's take it section-by-section, shall we?

Qualified and Experienced

Okey dokey, Mike prattles on about the various things he's been appointed to over the past 12 years, and they sound a lot like the positions that every candidate in every race have either been appointed or elected to. Not impressive by any means.

The First Issue

In this, the 'first' issue, Mike brings up a 'bogus' leaflet that supposedly came from Andy. The one, true statement made here is 'bogus'. Andy didn't write that leaflet. Let me repeat that for the mentally challenged among us...ANDY DIDN'T WRITE THAT LEAFLET. And, being the good union person that he is, he also won't throw someone else under the bus with management (anything you'd like to share, Glenn? Ray??) to clear the whole matter up. The fact that you, Glenn, and Ray keep spreading the crap on the floor only serves to undermine our Shop Chairman.

The Second Issue

Mike states in this the 'second' issue, that "This bankruptcy jeopardizes all of our futures". Thanks for the update Captain Obvious. Andy "refuses" to work with the Bargaining Committee? Are you kidding me? That's just too funny to comment on. Mike further states "This is no time for politics that divide this membership from our bargainers". You're correct there, but Andy isn't the one you should be telling that to. Hang a left on Sferra, and take that one straight to the hall.

The Third Issue

Or, as I like to call it "The Twilight Zone" (do do do do, do do do do). Mike outlines this dreamland scenario where the real reason (tee hee) Rob is running for Committeeman is so that if Andy loses, and Rob wins, he'll resign so that Andy can have the chance to get his position back. I think we all know it doesn't work that way, no need to explain it any further.

In Closing

Well, it looks like Glenn has taught Mike well. Nothing like putting charges that could get someone disciplined by management in a leaflet. You may not have family in high places, Mike, but you do seem to think you have friends there.

Well, that's all for today, my peeps...

Dawn

Why I Believe...

As the beginning of the end of Silly Season draws near, I'd like to use today's entry to explain just why I believe in Andy & Kathy.

I'm sure that you are all aware that Andy & Kathy are my friends, but that's not why I support their campaigns for office. I support them because reps like Andy & Kathy are truly the future of our union. I've never seen anyone work so hard on their people's behalf as Andy & Kathy do. You can tell that they take pride in representing us, and doing it well.

I believe in Andy & Kathy because, since the beginning of this bankruptcy debacle, they have stood in the trenches to answer questions and try to allay peoples' fears where others have quietly scampered out of sight. I believe in them because they do their level best to try to bring the membership good information about what's going on, as soon as they can, instead of taking four words out of context and spinning yarns that do nothing but scare people and make the atmosphere on the shop floor more toxic each day.

I believe in Andy & Kathy because they know what a union is for, and how union members are supposed to treat each other. No matter how ugly Silly Season gets, you won't see either one of them running & crying to MANAGEMENT because they can dish it out, but they apparently can't take it.

I believe in Andy & Kathy because, no matter how many childish games the hall and their rat pack play, they still carry on at a superior level, in spite of the garbage thrown at them. Andy & Kathy share a single goal: TO REPRESENT THIS MEMBERSHIP. PERIOD. No games, no agendas.

Just a few more things to remember:
Get out and vote on Thursday & Friday down at the hall
Keep in mind who truly represents you, not who just plays the part.

Peace y'all...
Dawn

Chuckie's First Leaflet...

As each day passes, the stinky brown matter on the shop floor seems to get just a bit deeper. Exhibit A: Chuck Brewster's first leaflet. Long about paragraph four, Ol' Chuckie says that he is running for committeeman because, in his words, "I am disgusted (o mon dieu!), like many of you, with the lack of representation we have received from our current committeeman, Kathy Cooper". Wow. That's a complete load of crap. Please allow me to elaborate (OK, you really have no choice about that because this is, after all, my website)...

Now, as many of you may know, our union reps that handle NTBUs are given corporate email accounts to help facilitate proper communication with those that they represent. I know, because I've been asked to help coordinate with the Help Desk to get this accomplished for some of the newer reps and after the redistricting. Now, I'm not a betting girl (c'mon seven!), but I'd be willing to place a small wager that the reason "days would pass without her having any calls at all" is because NTBUs handle the majority of their business via email, including placing their union calls directly to Kathy.

Chuck also mentions that "most of the information received by those at the JOBS bank was a result of me passing (that should really be MY passing, it's a gerund phrase, check your grammar lessons) out informational leaflets and answering questions when I wasn't even functioning as committeeman". Well, my first question about that would be, why would you, since you're only an ALTERNATE committeeman, have been given the aforementioned informational leaflets before Kathy? Is that because you're the "inside man" for the hall? And secondly, since you are the alternate committeeman, people are going to ask you questions, even when you're not functioning (I think that's in the fine print of the job description, look closely), because it's generally quicker than putting in a call. I'm almost certain that that is what happens in EVERY DISTRICT, not just district 6.

Keep in mind, my peeps...

A VOTE FOR BREWSTER IS A VOTE FOR MUNGER!

Ahhh...now I feel better. Have a nice weekend!

Dawn

The word for today...

A funny thing happened on my way through my workday today...I was taken aside by a member of management, and asked about this website, because it had been 'brought to his attention'. And, judging by the line of questioning, it would seem as though someone were trying to imply (infer, suggest, etc.) to management that there was a possibility I could be writing these posts on company time and with my company computer.

If you will be so kind as to direct your eyes to the upper-left hand corner of each post, you will find a date. That date indicates the day on which that post was created. Now, if you will turn your attention to the bottom-left corner of each post, you will see the time of day displayed. That indicates the time of day the post was created. Both of those nuggets of information are added automatically each time a post is created. 'Nuff said.

Now, since I don't know too many members of management who surf the blogosphere, I can only assume that someone went out of their way to make management aware of this site and its content. I can't imagine who that could have been, but I have had one word floating around in my head ever since.

The word for today is...

intimidate

One entry found for intimidate.
Main Entry: in·tim·i·date
Pronunciation: in-'ti-m&-"dAt
Function: transitive verb
Inflected Form(s): -dat·ed; -dat·ing
Etymology: Medieval Latin intimidatus, past participle of intimidare, from Latin in- + timidus timid
: to make timid or fearful : FRIGHTEN; especially : to compel or deter by or as if by threats
- in·tim·i·dat·ing·ly /-"dA-ti[ng]-lE/ adverb
- in·tim·i·da·tion /-"ti-m&-'dA-sh&n/ noun
- in·tim·i·da·tor /-'ti-m&-"dA-t&r/ noun
synonyms INTIMIDATE, COW, BULLDOZE, BULLY, BROWBEAT mean to frighten into submission. INTIMIDATE implies inducing fear or a sense of inferiority into another (intimidated by so many other bright freshmen). COW implies reduction to a state where the spirit is broken or all courage is lost (not at all cowed by the odds against making it in show business). BULLDOZE implies an intimidating or an overcoming of resistance usually by urgings, demands, or threats (bulldozed the city council into approving the plan). BULLY implies intimidation through threats, insults, or aggressive behavior (bullied into giving up their lunch money). BROWBEAT implies a cowing through arrogant, scornful or contemptuous treatment (browbeat the witness into a contradiction).

If someone has a better explaination, I'd really love to hear it...

Dawn

Hey, Mr. Postman...

If you will all direct your eyes up to the rather large header on the page, you will see a note. Per request of the President's office (sent via Certified Mail, no less, because I'm so special), I have been asked to add a disclaimer to remind my visitors that this site is, in no way, approved by or affiliated with IUE-CWA Local 717.

Look up and you'll see it.

Happy to help...

Dawn

Andy's Second Flyer

Good morning, again, my peeps... here's Andy's second flyer in the Zone II election...

ELECT ANDY PAPPAGALLO
ZONE II COMMITTEEMAN

“YOU SIMPLY DESERVE BETTER”

www.717solidarityblog.blogspot.com

MMG

MAN, OH MAN!

Once again, characteristically, our current Zone II Committeeman, Glenn Munger, seems to want to avoid the issues. He has resorted to his typical mud slinging campaign. As I stated in my first leaflet, I will defend myself against any personal attacks.

In his leaflet, the Zone Committeeman explains that the membership should not elect me because of my lack of experience, failure in communicating with him and his bargaining expertise in light of the bankruptcy filing by Delphi. I would now like to attempt to COMMUNICATE with the membership as to HIS failings as a Zone Committeeman.

In June of 2005, training courses were held for all representatives so that newly elected and established representatives could be educated. This would enable them to share information that would ultimately benefit our membership and to protect them from management.
These classes, scheduled on Saturdays, lasted for two hours. The vast majority of elected representatives attended. They were there early, eagerly willing to learn, except for our Zone Committeeman, Glenn Munger. He always came in late after the classes started, interrupting what was going on, and even had the audacity to fall asleep during one of the sessions.
To his credit, though, he tried to conceal his eyes under his dark sunglasses. Apparently, the glare from the fluorescent lights bothered his eyes. As we all took notes from our training manual, and from our instructor Don Arbogast, he sat their in a comatose state. I hardly think he was meditating, or searching his inner sole for the correct answers to the questions asked.

On September 12 2005, Plant 46 and 15 management sat down with the NTBU’S employed in those plants to prepare them for the reduction in the workforce that was going to happen within the NTBU classification. Management informed the employees why and when this was going to take place. They then stated they would let the effected employees know within the week that were going to be displaced out of a job.

As management fielded questions from the NTBU’S in front of union representatives, including Zone II Committeeman Glenn Munger, emotions began to become tense in the meeting. After the meeting, their Committeeperson along with me assisted some very disturbed and alarmed members in filing Requests For Transfer. What did Zone II Committeeman Glenn Munger do? He quietly slid out the door for the remainder of the day. From 11:00 a.m. until 3:00 p.m., GLENN MUNGER WAS NOWHERE TO BE FOUND. Why would you not help support your Committeepersons during this difficult time? Were you afraid you were going to miss the most recent episode of “BIKER BUILD OFF”, or were you hiding at the Union Hall? We the members are sick and tired of no answers and no communication from you! It seems the only communication we ever get, is usually several months before your election. Coincidence, I DO NOT THINK SO!

MAN ON A MISSION!

Beginning in February of this year our Zone II Committeeman miraculously decided to arrive every morning around 6:00 a.m. and pretend to oversee the coffee pot in Plant 15. This coffee pot, managed for years by select members who are responsible for the supplies, the upkeep, the money and donations to multiple charitable organizations throughout the community is the pride of Plant 15. DO YOU REALLY THINK THE MEMBERS OF PLANT 15 CANNOT SEE THROUGH THIS TASTELESS POLITICAL STUNT?

Then, he will proceed over to the Plant 46 coffee pot before the employees of that plant start working, and do the same thing! Where were you before this time? Searching for the finest coffee beans these two facilities have ever seen. Give the membership a break. Year after year, we have seen these same antics from you, and the members of Zone II are dissatisfied and disgusted. Did you ever think, that just for once if you would attempt to put the same effort into upholding your elected responsibilities, and serve the membership of Zone II, instead of resorting to this pathetic and infantile behavior, that you would not have to worry, year after year, at election time.

MAN ON THE RUN!

The current Zone II Committeeman has declared that the worst is yet to come to this membership, and has stated to me that, “ ANDY, WE MIGHT REALLY WANT TO THINK TWICE OF BEING A UNION REPRESENTATIVE WITH THE STUFF THAT IS GOING TO HAPPEN AROUND HERE”. Now, wait just one second! Maybe Glenn Munger’s idea of being a Union Representative is to disappear when the heat is on, but it is not mine. I have devoted a good portion of my years at Delphi to representing the membership, and the Union Contract, and I hope to continue doing it, with the membership’s approval, for the NEXT TWENTY TO THIRTY YEARS.

On numerous occasions, Glenn Munger has told members, “WHY WOULD I STAY HERE AND WORK FOR LESS MONEY, THAN IF I WAS RETIRED”. In the next breath, he is telling the members of Zone II that he is not retiring, and is contemplating running for Shop Chairman in this year’s General Election. THE ONLY THING THAT I HAVE TRULY SEEN GLENN MUNGER RUN FOR IS THE BACK DOOR, AND FROM SERVING THIS MEMBERSHIP.

In closing, it has become apparent that Glenn Munger is up to his sleazy old tricks, as usual. He is trying to mislead this membership with outright lies and innuendos. An example of this is that he is telling members of Zone II that I am starting a rumor about him retiring. This is simply not true. He, himself, has started this gossip.

Several years ago, Glenn Munger wrote in one of his leaflets, “that we elect the kind of leaders that we demand and deserve”. He has also stated in the past that, “you are accountable for your actions on the floor”. This membership has seen time and time again, whom he is accountable to, and that is to himself, AND WE DEMAND AND DESERVE BETTER THAN HIM. There are three letters that apply to the present Zone II Committeeman, and that is MMG. MUNGER MUST GO!

Therefore, the choice is up to you, the membership of Zone II. If you are satisfied with the leadership that the current Zone II Committeeman is providing, then, by all means, re-elect him. If you, the membership, CALL FOR and REQUIRE someone who has a clear stake in “OUR” future, then please vote for Andy Pappagallo on May 18 and 19, at our Local 717 Union Hall. Your vote can and will make a difference.


In Solidarity


Andy Pappagallo

????????? ASK ANDY ??????????

I wonder why you are so familiar with that question, Glenn. Is it because when any members from District 5, or management, ask you a question your reply is always, “I DO NOT KNOW, GO ASK ANDY, OR SEE WHAT ANDY THINKS ABOUT IT". The membership of Zone II can ASK ANDY all the questions they want. Andy will have the answers, Glenn Munger will not.

Since our Zone II Committeeman, Glenn Munger, allegedly claims to be a bargainer for IUE-CWA Local 717, I would like to know when he is scheduled to travel to Troy, Michigan for contract negotiations. I have read carefully our National and Local Agreements, from front to back, and have not found his signature anywhere in these legal documents.


Thanks again, Andy...

Dawn

This Doesn't Look Good...

OK, my peeps, we're taking this bus back to what I created it for...news about our Adventures in Bankruptcy. Well, here's one from the Detroit Free Press ...


Ohio Delphi plant firing raises talk of wildcat strike
May 6, 2006

The shop chairman at a Delphi Corp. brake plant in Dayton, Ohio, was fired Friday evening and the union local's president was escorted from the plant in a police cruiser, leaving 1,500 hourly workers to talk about a wildcat strike.

As the supplier, restructuring under Chapter 11, plans to sell or shut down 25 of 33 U.S. plants by January 2008, anger among workers is growing.

Employees say the uproar started when an employee left his assembly line for an unauthorized bathroom break and was disciplined by Delphi. Shop chairman Tony Keen threatened to shut down some of Delphi's machines, using his power to do so if he believes safety is in danger, said Dan Lamb, an hourly worker at the plant.

Local president Joe Buckley discouraged workers from a wildcat strike, a walkout not authorized by union executives.

Delphi management called Dayton police to escort Buckley off the premises.

By Jason Roberson

Copyright © 2006 Detroit Free Press Inc.

Um, yikes...
Dawn

Glenn's First Leaflet

What's that smell? Oh, it's Glenns first re-election leaflet hot off the presses. The theme of Glenn's first shot across Andy's bow is "Ask Andy". How about if we "Ask Glenn"?

Hey Glenn...why is it you don't discuss what a 'great' job you do as Zone II Committeeman in your leaflet? What's that? Oh, that's right, the committemen in your Zone earn that distinction by keeping the membership informed when you can't see fit to do so. The only time we see you passing out any leaflets is when you think it's of your best political advantage to be seen on the floor.

Hey Glenn...why is it you felt the need to drag an innocent bystander into your mudslinging fest? Last time I checked, none of the NTBUs you claim to represent were in the race for your job. To tell the truth, I can't remember the last time you or the big shots at the hall gave a damn about my fellow NTBU bretheren, other than when you are collecting our dues or trying to collect our votes. Hell, most of my classification couldn't pick you out of a line up when asked who their Zone was, because they only see you at election time.

Hey Glenn...you seem to try to paint Andy as inexperienced and immature in your leaflet, but, by the way I've seen you act, you seem to be looking in a mirror, not at someone else. I have seen you sneak around the floor in 15 to pass out what meager information comes out of the hall, without letting our representatives know there was something to be shared. The immaturity must come from the top, down.

Hey Glenn...you asked Andy 'what changed' in his opinion of Rob and the district 5 race. One could ask you the same question. If I remember correctly, you were leading Rob around last year at this time against Andy, and now, you're backing Mike, Rob's opponent. Rob isn't worthy of your adoration anymore?

Hey Glenn...you spend a whole lot of time asking about the Shop Chairman's race in the fall, are you fishing for votes? Because, if you'd like to discuss rumors, one floating around is that you're running for that job in the fall. And, speaking of rumors, you also seem to lead the race in that area as well, constantly taking bits of real facts and spinning them into crap that just scares people. That's really effective leadership, there, boy.

Well, those are my questions for Glenn...Feel free to ask him your own if you happen to see him on the floor...

Dawn

Some Things to Keep in Mind...

As predicted, the stinky brown matter is beginning to pile up in the dark corners of Zone II, and the incumbent is trying to play up people's fears to bolster his campaign. So, let's just clear up a couple of things that are beginning to spread on the floor like athlete's foot...

First and foremost, the most bizarre thing I've heard so far is "Ya know, there's only three guys left that have ever bargained for us...Donny, Ray & Glenn"... Weeeeelllll, let's remember one thing, while I am deficient in meeting attendance, I do know this...the bargaining committee is comprised of the president, shop chairman & the sub-chairmen. Notice that I left Zone committeemen out? That's because the Zones aren't at the bargaining table. They don't negotiate the contract, on a local or international level. Let me repeat that...ZONE COMMITTEEMEN DON'T NEGOTIATE THE CONTRACT FOR YOU. In the days before the position of sub-chairman was created the Zones did, in fact, bargain on your behalf, but that was about 40 years ago. The sub-chairmen now have that responsibility. Now, unless something has changed that I have not been made aware of, that's the way it is. If I'm wrong, please show me the language in the contract or union constitution so that I may be corrected.

Secondly, I got my hands on a copy of Mike Coe's flyer for the position of District 5 committeeman (Andy Pappagallo's district, if ya don't know). This is the candidate currently being endorsed by the incumbent Zone for our neck of the woods. I'm beginning to believe that, for parts of this leaflet, he was channelling someone else. Let me say right now, I don't know Mike personally, and he could be an absolutely lovely human being. That is irrelevant to my point. I would, however like to give my opinion about some of the points he made in his leaflet.

Mike says that he's running for committeeman because he has "witnessed too many political games being played over the years when unity should be the priority". Well, he's got a point there. Far too many times we have all in Zone II seen the incumbent Zone be the ringmaster of that particular circus, while the committeemen in his area pick up his slack. Hell, there's a whole helluva lot of people in this Zone who don't even know who their Zone Committeeman is because they've either never seen him, or have only seen him at election time!

Mike goes on to say that "the bankruptcy made this too difficult a time for this local to strap our Shop Chairman with an inexperienced Zone Committeeman. My family and coworkers are too important to support inexperience at this time!" Well, if that's true, why is Glenn supporting candidates in districts 5 & 6 that are heavily inexperienced? Hmmm???

Please don't think that I'm picking on Mike Coe, I'm not, he just happened to be the first political pawn from the other side of the fence to put a flyer out. I will do my best to do the same (dis)service to other flyers from that side of the tracks as they come out.

Until tomorrow, y'all...
Dawn

Andy's First Flyer

Good morning, my peeps... As is customary with elections, it's time for the flyers to start coming out. Here's Andy Pappagallo's first flyer in his bid to become our next Zone II Committeeman...

Elect ANDY PAPPAGALLO
ZONE II COMMITTEEMAN
“You Simply Deserve Better”

MMG

My name is Andy Pappagallo. My tenure at Delphi started on January 31, 1994. I live in Austintown, Ohio with my wife, Carrie, of six years, and my two sons, Matthew age 5, and Jacob age 2.

Since 2001, I have been the current AM shift Committeeman for Plant 15 and 46. In 2004, because of redistricting, I acquired the CSE Test Facility in Champion. Beginning in 1999 until 2001, I was the Alternate Committeeman. Prior to that time, I functioned in the absence of the elected District Alternate Committeeperson of District 5. During my term, I have served in the appointed capacity of multiple Zones, both Sub Chairperson positions and have even filled in as the Assistant to the Chairperson of the Shop Committee.

To my friends, supporters, and Brothers and Sisters of District 5, I would like to express my utmost gratitude for the years of continuing support as your District Committeeman. By your repeated requests, and by the desires of many members of District 6 and District 14, I am announcing my candidacy as ZONE II COMMITTEEMAN.

My numerous years of service to Local 717, with utmost dedication, and my experience makes me more than qualified for the position of Zone Committeeman.

With the troubling times we are facing today, we need elected representatives who have a CLEAR STAKE in what our future may hold. This year it is essential to develop that foundation and move forward in a direction that will benefit Local 717. I am asking for your support in electing me to the position of ZONE II COMMITTEEMAN.

As an Elected leader of this Local, it is a duty and obligation to inform this membership of any pertinent information that might affect their livelihood, workstations and working conditions. Unfortunately, WITH OUR CURRENT ZONE COMMITTEEMAN this has not occurred, due to neglect and ineptitude. Once elected, I vow to:

1. Inform all representatives in Zone II of my weekly schedule a week in advance, so that if any problems arise, I can make myself available.

2. Communicate to District and Alternate Committeeman all information from Weekly Shop Committee meetings, along with multiple Plant Unit Meetings. They do not attend the above meetings. Without this vital information that is divulged in these meetings, a representative is not properly prepared to protect you, the members of Zone II, against Management. THE CURRENT ZONE COMMITTEEMAN HAS A HABIT OF NOT DISCLOSING INFORMATION THAT WILL NECESSITATE HIM TO BE ACCOUNTABLE TO DECISIONS THAT HE HAS MADE, OR IS INVOLVED WITH.

3. To continue my practice of being visible, vocal, and accountable all year long, not just around election time, AS IS THE CASE WITH THE CURRENT ZONE COMMITTEEMAN.
My objective, once elected, is to address the issues we face today, and in the years to come. Unfortunately, I cannot say the same about my opponent. He has clearly shown repeatedly, that he will avoid sensitive and politically incorrect issues, BECAUSE HE IS LIABLE ONLY TO HIMSELF, AND NOT TO YOU, THE MEMBERSHIP.

I have always made myself accessible to the membership, especially during layoffs, so that if problems arise I can attack them quickly, aggressively, and efficiently. In addition, I have assisted members outside of my District, with the full knowledge of their Committeemen, by giving them direction and guidance. My daily communications with other representatives, outside of District 5, and on various shifts, have allowed me to represent the membership in the most professional manner.

The geographic nature of ZONE II is all encompassing. ZONE II consists of the 101 Classification (NTBU’S) on all shifts, 102 Classification (Skilled Trade NTBU’S), plus Plant’s 14, 15 and plant 46. The NTBU’S are scattered in different business segments throughout the North River Road and Dana Street Complex, along with Plant 8 and the CSE Test Facility in Champion. To my friends who hold NTBU positions, and those that are dissatisfied with their present Zone II Committeeman, I am asking for your aid in introducing me to your co -workers, so that I can meet and greet them personally and answer any questions they might have. This will help in their decision when casting their vote for ZONE II Committeeman. Many times, members will vote for the incumbent because they did not have the opportunity to meet the other candidate. It is my desire not to allow this to happen.

In closing, we are facing critical times, and the representatives you, the membership, elect today will be the building blocks of our union tomorrow. The current Zone Committeeman has shown, without a doubt that his motive in running for office over the years was for his own personal gain and self-gratification. HIS LACK OF LEADERSHIP AND INDECISIVE DECISION-MAKING ABILITY ON THE FLOOR HAS JEOPARDIZED THIS MEMBERSHIP.
I would appreciate your support and vote for ZONE II Committeeman. Thank you for taking time to read this leaflet, and I look forward to talking with each one of you during this campaign.

Fraternally Yours,

Andy Pappagallo

This year’s Zone, District and Alternate Committeeman elections will not be held in the Plants, as they have in the past. Voting will take place at Local 717 Union Hall. The reasoning behind this is, according to the President’s office, is due to the uncertainty of what will be happening during these bankruptcy hearings, and the financial savings that our local union will incur.

My opponent, in past elections, has resorted to personal attacks. I would like to make one thing clear. I will not sit back and allow him to make personal insults and innuendos against my family, or myself. I will defend my creditability if my opponent engages in these types of tactics. THIS ELECTION NEEDS A DECISION BASED ON FACTS, NOT SLANDER.

Thanks, Andy. Don't forget to get down to the hall and vote...

Dawn