ONE UNION - ONE VOICE

TWO CONTRACTS

On September 15, 2009, over 120 Local 455 Kroger Stewards gathered from all over Local 455's servicing area in Texas and Louisiana to attend the Clerk Steward Conference held at the Fireman’s Conference Center in Houston, TX. The theme for the conference was “One Union, One Voice, Two Contracts.”

Bill Hopkins, President of Local 455, addressed the stewards and gave a brief outline of the local union’s top goals including organizing the unorganized; continuing to mobilize and educate our members in the political process such as pressuring members of Congress to pass the “Employee Free Choice Act” and to support “Healthcare Reform” and stand “United to Bargain.” He stressed the fact that the weeks and months ahead will present serious challenges, whether we’re talking about the debacle of Wall Street that caused our pension plans substantial investment losses or the out of control health care cost or wages that fail to keep pace with inflation. We will only be successful in combating these difficult issues if we stay united with our brothers and sisters who work in the stores and we must send a loud and united message to Kroger that we are One. One Union with One Voice . . . but two separate contracts. President Hopkins thanked the stewards for all they do to help their union continue to grow and be the best it can be.

International Vice President & Region 5 Director Chad Young addressed the stewards on upcoming contract negotiations. He stressed the importance of sending a clear message to the Company that we are prepared to do whatever is necessary to reach a fair and equitable agreement.

The rest of the day was divided into four workshops to better educate union stewards in addressing workplace issues. The four workshops included the following topics: Politics – presented by Nikki Budzinski, International Political Representative, who enlightened the stewards with a political presentation. She reviewed the political landscape and talked about key legislation and made it clear why union members must be active in politics. Assisting Nikki was Local 455 Membership Assistance Representative Pam Edgerley. Health & Welfare – presented by South Central H & W Assistant Matt DuChette and Marlene Hopkins, Claims Examiner who gave an informative presentation and answered all insurance questions. Pension – was facilitated by Dennis Nast, Administrator UFCW Unions and Employers Pension Fund, who addressed the stewards on the current Pension situation and answered pension questions. And, last but not least Grievances & Negotiations. Grievances was presented by Sue Mann, Special Assistant to the President who spoke on some of the ongoing issues that stewards need to be aware of, along with Local 455 Attorney, Pat Flynn who brought his expertise to the class by answering questions. Secretary-Treasurer Rick Alleman facilitated Negotiations with emphasis on preparing for upcoming Kroger negotiations.

Also in attendance were Kroger Representatives, William Yelderman, Labor Relations Manager; and Michael Knapp, Risk Management Assistant who gave a presentation on the “Texas Occupational Injury or Disease Benefits Plan” regarding the steel cutting glove and general safety in the stores. It was the perfect opportunity for our stewards to voice their concerns and ask questions.

The conference concluded with President Hopkins thanking the stewards for their participation and the great jobs they do out in the stores. He hoped they received valuable knowledge and information to prepare them for the vast duties and responsibilities of representing the members.

CHECK OUT THE PHOTO GALLERY FOR PICTURES OF THE CLERK STEWARD CONFERENCE!