Member Spotlights

I love the union and am very proud to be apart of it. I would like to thank the UFCW and its members for getting us the best contract ive ever seen . The benefits offered are second to none. Im looking forward to becoming much more active in the near future.

Nicole Coalter has been the cheese master at Oregon City Fred Meyer since 2017, and has worked for Fred Meyer since 2002. Nicole lives in Salem with her husband Alen and her two dogs (Annabelle and Olivia) and her cat named boots. Together they have four children. While not working, she is pursuing a Masters Degree in mental health and clinical counseling at Phoenix University. Nicole would ultimately like to have a career advocating for the homeless and mentally ill. In her “spare” time Niki likes to watch Law and Order and play games on her phone. Nicole is grateful for the Union’s hard work at getting us a new contract.

“I had an opportunity to work at Fred Meyer after being with Safeway for over 20 years and happy to still be in the union! Looking forward to my new journey at Fred Meyer and being a shop steward here.”

After spending most of my career working in non-union jobs I found myself laid off for the second time due to “corporate restructuring “. I came to QFC and spent the last 20 years working in a Union position. I will take my Union job any day! It is good to know that our Reps have our backs and we’re fighting for us. I’m retiring in 2020 and look forward to my Union pension!! Rep’s comment: I wish Becky a great retirement and will really miss her and all her hard work for the Union. She was a tireless advocate for her coworkers. When I needed any help with flyering stores or anything else she stepped right up to help. She is a real trade Unionist and will be truly missed.

“I have spent all of my employable life (13 years) being a union member and working at Fred Meyer. Most of my time I spent in the Produce department learning as much as I could. I was trained to run the department in my manager’s absence, and moved into the Grocery department to further my knowledge of running the store. This put me in a position where I was able to do most everything, and I wanted to transfer to Meat to again further my career with the company. My first attempt to move departments was unsuccessful, and the store posted the position again. Thanks to the language in the new contract, the company really had no choice to promote me to the Meat department after I re-applied. It is my first official week in the Meat department, and I couldn’t be happier!”

I just want to thank the entire bargaining team, leadership, and all members that stayed strong during these negotiations. Well Done, Thank You. Very Proud to be a UFCW555 Member.

Anotoinette Reynolds is very happy with the recent contract settlement. She has been working in the nutrition department at the Hillsboro Fred Meyer. Because of the new language she will now be classified as a grocery clerk something that Local 555 had been working for a long time. She looks forward to all of the opportunities that the grocery department has

The UFCW was a voice for me and my employment status when I was not able to be that voice for myself. The voice that protected my employment rights, rights that I didn’t realize I had. A voice that supported me as a valued, dedicated and hardworking employee. I am so grateful for the knowledge and commitment of our local union.

Hi my name is Kinthia Brooks and I work in the bakery at Rosaurers in Hood River. I am glad to be part of the union because of all the benefits we get. I am also glad that we have people that are looking out for us and I am excited to see what out new contract will look like.

I feel like the union has fought so much for our wages. They have made it so we can live our lives. I have a lot of respect for the union and that its well earned.

As a member of the bargaining team, I learned first hand how important a strong contract is for all members. I was told for years that I was too valuable in the service deli and that I was forbidden to transfer to another department. After ratification, a position opened in cut fruit and I applied, interviewed and got the position. Thank you UFCW555 and all the members who took the time to vote.

Cathy Whitney, front end at Safeway 1580 in Silverton works hard and is grateful that her Union works hard too. The protections that the bargaining committee secured will make the members secure into the future. Thank you to everyone for their hard work.

I’m proud to be a 14 year member of UFCW555 while employed with First Student the union gives us a voice & great benefits in the workplace. I know for certain that if we didn’t have the union security we would not be making as much as we are now. I’ve been on the negotiation team throughout the years & I enjoy being a part of the process in getting our needs met with our employer! I know we are in a more secure place having the union representing us than we would ever be without. Also this being my first full year as a Shop Steward I’m very exciting to continue to help advocate for my fellow co-workers & union members. Looking forward to the Shop Steward Summit.

First I want to say I Think this is a pretty good deal. I want to also thank the bargaining team and Dan and Jeff for there hard work on getting this.

I want to thank the bargaining team for their hard work on reducing the gap for myself and my coworkers. Also, improving our healthcare coverage. I truly appreciate all that was done!

I want to thank the bargaining team. I think they did a good job. I think they did a great job.

Hi my name is Nathan Plough i have worked at Fred Meyer Newport for 12 years I am currently in the produce department. I believe the wage gap at Fred Meyer is morally wrong. I do not believe that employees that work as hard if not harder than i do should get paid $3 less. I strongly support the UFCW 555 in the fight for equality in the workplace as well as the cost of living increase we all deserve

Without being union, we wouldn’t even be making the wage we are now. Over the years I have had many benefits from being a union member that I wouldn’t have had otherwise. We have got to stick together in this! Ps. I’ve never lost a fight. ~ Donna Baker member since 1984

I was really struggling to get the necessary items for back-to-school. My Union stepped up and provided this wonderful bag filled with so much that was needed for a successful first day of school. Thank you UFCW555.

I am very Thankful for everything Ufcw555 does for their members & Grateful to be a part of this union.

Trina Meier has been at Fred Meyer for 24 years. She works hard every single day. She wants to be treated equitably in both wages and working conditions. Trina knows that she has to be part of the fight for more.

I am Verissa Ellis, a Union Shop Steward at Bay Area Hospital. For the last 14 years, I have worked in the Operating Room as a Certified Surgical Fift Assistant. I became a Union Shop Steward because I kept hearing from employees how bad things were at the hospital and how little the Union supported us. I have found, after sitting in many meetings representing members in HR and participating in the bargaining process as a committee member on the bargaining team, just how much the Union does to protect our members!

I’d like to provide information to our members. Being informed is important to the pharmacy group I work with. I am very happy to be the one to keep them updated. I want to thank my Longview pharmacy for their support and confidence in me.

My name is Rod Rickerd I have worked for Safeway/Albertsons for 20 years. I am a journeyman meat cutter. I have always enjoyed the wages and benefits the union has negotiated over the years. Until recently I have never had to call the union for any special help, until my manager called me into office to have a phone conversation with H/R. I said nothing and called my representative. He set a meeting and a conversation that might have turned into disipline turned into, guess what, NO DISCIPLINE . If you are called into the office always call our union.

My Union is important to me. I wear my buttons to show solidarity. Show your support and wear a button.

I appreciate the support for my workgroup in following the contract. I value the resource to discuss issues/ask questions with a steward/Union Rep. I am glad the Union seeks to create a partnership with my employer.

The UFCW Local 555 has changed my life. Being a member of the Unity Bargaining Committee I have learn a lot about the process and feel personal satisfaction representing my fellow members in Central Oregon. I enjoy helping people and feel engaged in my community. Helping us all live better is my goal.

Hi our names are Jana Woods and Cyndi Campbell and we are the bakery gals. We work at McMinnville Safeway ( Jana 3years, Cyndi 15 years). When we first became union ( about 2 years ago), we were very skeptical to say the least. However in the last couple of years we have learned the value of being union. For myself (Jana), i now have a pension and my husband had some extensive dental work done at a very reasonable cost, and for me ( Cyndi) I was able to get a new hip and be covered by the great and prompt 555 disability plan. Thank you local 555. We are happy union members today.

UFCW555 does an amazing job of representing championing for, & going the extra mile for its union members. Michelle & the entire UFCW Staff have gone above & beyond In effecting the lives of both my co-workers and my own personal life in the workplace. Thank you for all the work that you all do to make our workplaces & lives better!!

I just retired from Safeway after 23 years of working for the company. Because of my union pension, I was able to retire with security. I realized that there was no way that I could support myself on Social Security alone. With my union pension, I can enjoy my retirement and this next chapter of my life!

I’ve been involved with my Unit Based Team at Kaiser as a Co-Lead. While doing this I’ve learned quite a bit as a Union member. This is the first time I’ve been part of a Union and there are a lot of benefits. As a steward I hope to help others with contractual needs and provide Information to all the members.

Michelle my union Rep. has been working hard to try & fix our problems since we become union. Thanks Michelle!! We appreciate it!!

My name is David larue I have worked for Safeway for over 29 years. I moved from Southern California in 2004 and worked at the McMinnville Safeway for 10 years. I have been at Dallas for 6 years in the meat department. I love the local 555 health insurance and my pension. I also love working for Safeway. Thanks UFCW 555 and Safeway.

My name is Bev Pettengill. I am a Radiology Technologist in the Cath Lab at Bay Area Hospital and have worked here for 11 years. Over the years, I have seen a lot of challenges at the hospital that needed attention so I decided to get involved with my Union and Bargaining Committee to help make a difference. A short time later, I decided to take it a step further and became a Union Shop Steward to help serve, assist and support our members. I have learned so much over the last couple of years and have been able to use new knowledge to assist many members working at the hospital. I am proud to be a member of UFCW Local 555 and encourage you to get involved!

Amy Lindeman is a new Steward at Kaiser Permanente. She Said, “Being a part of a Union is important to myself, my family, and my community. I appreciate all the hard work UFCW does to secure benefits and wages.”

I am thankful that the Union was here to help me through a very difficult and trying time with my employer due to health issues. The Union helped guide me through that time including helping me file the correct paperwork, knowing who to talk to in the corporate structure with HR and bridging the divide between my health concerns and my employers awareness of my needs. Had the Union not been there to support me I would likely not still be working for the company, so I value their empathy and their willingness to look at both sides of the situation and help me reach reasonable accommodations for my issues.

Joyce and her daughter Ashley work in the CCK department in Sandy. They have other family members working in different departments in the store. Together as a family they are supporting the bargaining committee to get a good contract.

We had so much fun handing out stickers and fliers to customers outside Fred Meyer in support of contract negotiations. It was a great chance to meet workers from other locations, and let customers know that Fred Meyer is a union shop. So many customers were actually union members themselves, and we had a lot of great conversations!

What were you doing in 1978? Nan was starting her career with Safeway, which now passes the 40-year mark! What an accomplishment, Nan! Congratulations!

My co-workers and I just voted to ratify a three year contract with Kaiser Permanente. As members of the Alliance for Health Care Unions we agreed not just to a local contract for Local 555 members, but also a National Agreement that covers 48,000 Kaiser employees across the nation. Having an active campaign helped us win a contract we can all be proud of

I am wearing this button because we deserve a fair, honest, and predictable contract!

Knocking on doors in St. Charles, Missouri, Stephanie Sweet has a wonderful conversation with this lovely lady, home recuperating from surgery. She was happy to say that she was absolutely voting NO on Prop A, because she knows the value of Union membership

Kayla appreciates Local 555 for help with school supplies for her daughter. She is starting kindergarten this year. This is a great way to help start her first year of school.

Lynn is still looking fresh as a daisy after spending two long days in ratification meetings. As a member of the bargaining committee she has already spent long countless hours at the table fighting for even better benefits for her co-workers. Lynn is a perfect example of what solidarity looks like, and serves as an inspiration to her fellow coworkers

I started at Bay Area Hospital in 2000 as a part time employee working as a Unit Secretary/CNA. During my entire employment I have been union and I feel that it is a great benefit to have. I would NEVER want to go to a job that was not a union job. I love that I have someone who will fight for me and support me in a time of need.

I am wearing this button because I need more hours. I can’t live off 26 hours.

My name is Yvette Silmon and I work at the Orchards Fred Meyer in Vancouver, Washington as a checker. I have been with Fred Meyer for 20 years. I think the union is great and it just makes me feel good to know I can come to work and have some protections that I would not have if I were non-union. Back in 2009 I was in a situation where I was termed, a grievance was filed, and my rep saved the day and got me back to work. The only thing I regret is not having been more active with the local in my store in previous years. I just would like to say to my co-workers: keep your head up and stay positive.

I wanted to thank UFCW for the night at the ball park and the security of our bargaining agreement. I know we are going into negotiations, so my rep and stewards have been in the store letting us know how to stay informed. Thank you UFCW, and all the members that have the opportunity to be part of the bargaining team. Stay strong!

Virginia

I am very excited about getting my new medical insurance. Thank you UFCW, for being on top of these things.

Richie Gensman has been a proud UFCW 555 member for 21 years coming from the Lake Oswego Albertsons (which closed in 2015) to the Lake Oswego Safeway. Richie is grateful for the union insurance which saves him several hundred dollars a month on prescriptions. Richie has been in bowling leagues for the USBC for the last 27 years, since he was 14 years old. If you know anything about bowling, you know that getting a 300 is a BIG deal. Richie scored 300 about 3 1/2 years ago and is proud to show that accomplishment off with the score sheet he has saved!

I am glad that I had a part in the legislative process that helped to bring forth the Fair Work Week Act. The work that we all did will benefit union employees and many more Oregonians both on the job and in their free time for years to come.

I am personally very thankful for the new Fair Work Week law! It makes planning my life outside of work much less stressful. A big thanks to everyone at 555 involved!

I am so glad to be a member of UFCW! 🙂

I am proud to be a union member for 25 years at Kaiser. It gives me confidence knowing I have job security and a large team of union leaders watching over my livelihood. I am proud to be a part of a large well-organized union for I will be retiring within the next 5 years. I feel so fortunate to have my pension when I do retire. It is my goal before I retire to educate as many of our members just how important it is to be unionized and the importance of having a pension.

I have worked for QFC for 16 years and I know just about everyone that works with me. The customers are great. Because of my disability, my union has been supportive with educating me on my rights as a union member.

Lots of things are good about the Union. I know that I am the union and I know that when I Have questions to help me better understand my rights and benefits as a member, my union representative Mary Spicher has always been there to answer my questions.

This is my second year as a steward attending the leadership conference. The experience has been very beneficial. I have learned loads of useful tips on ways to help and encourage members. I have made many new friends and contacts for additional help in being a steward.

The leadership conference has been a great source of ideas for solutions to many of our workplace situations. Sharing experiences and issues with other stewards from various types of jobs have been very, very helpful. The workshops have been excellent with great topics and trainings and will really increase our knowledge and effectiveness. This has been a fantastic and motivational learning experience.

The union summit was amazing! I felt much more informed about the information I needed to be more helpful to my coworkers in time of need. I enjoyed meeting people and hearing them speak about experiences and their lives in the union. I feel proud to be part of this Union.

It was a privilege to be able to be a part of the leadership conference. I learned so much and met so many amazing new people. I’m very much looking forward to attending next year.

I learned a lot about policy at the UFCW Local 555 leadership conference. It was informative on how the union process works as well as sick pay, seniority, and the grievance process. I will now have the tools to help my fellow union members and communicate what I’ve learned.

When Valerie Spier, customer service at Fred Meyer 0355, heard that Strike Captains were needed, she jumped at the chance. Valerie is a 41 year employee, who understands the importance of a strong union and building strength by participation. When she also found out that she could make picket signs, she was delighted to do so. She hopes her message makes Fred Meyer think twice about their offer.

This is my first leadership conference. I found it very informative. The guest speakers were great and I enjoyed the different classes.

The leadership conference was filled with education, camaraderie, and fun. This is my second year and it was nice to see faces from last year…loved it!

My name is Chris Toquero and I’m a steward at Kaiser’s Skyline pharmacy. As a steward it’s my job to know the contract, answer questions, and spot problems. Having trained stewards who know what to do is the best way to defend our contract and protect our members.

I’m one of the steward council co-chairs at Kaiser’s Sunnyside Medical Center, where I work as an EEG Technologist. Being able to solve problems in my workplace makes me feel great about my union! It’s exciting to see so many members getting involved as we get ready for bargaining.

Mara Hooper is an Improvement Advisor at Kaiser Permanente and a Steward for our Union. Mara brings a lot of experience to our team with prior experience as a Pharmacy Tech and as a Co-Lead of her Unit Based Team. Recently, most of our Kaiser Stewards came to the Union Hall to learn more about being a Steward and to prepare for our upcoming contract campaign. Empowering our members and building a strong Union will be essential to winning the best contract possible.

Erin Megyesi and Jessica Lang both work for Kaiser Permanente at the Sunnyside Medical Center. They were chosen by their co-workers to help lead their Unit Based Teams and a big part of their job is to make sure that their co-workers have a voice on important issues at work.

My name is Kelly Jo Richards and I’m a Labor Partner working for Kaiser Permanente. I’m paid by the employer to represent our members. It’s exciting to help build our Union as we approach bargaining next year. The work we are doing today is like an investment that will pay off in better wages and a better contract.

Member Jessyka Gayewski receives her $250 International ABC Impact gift card from her Representative Tera Martinez. Jessyka joined the Active Ballot Club to help people in her community, her coworkers, and fellow Union Members. The Fair Work Week legislation was really important to Jessyka because it will help people get that extra time off between shifts. She looks forward to knowing that her ABC dollars will continue to help working families with future legislation.

Hi, my name is Nancy Dudgeon and I work at the Vancouver Safeway 1519 in the deli. I’ve worked at the Hazel Dell store and the Washougal store over my 22 year career with Safeway but had to take a year off for health reasons. I’m back now! I can say I come from a union family because my Dad spent 32 years with Safeway, and my husband spent 40 years as a union pipefiter. I spent a couple of years non-union and didn’t like not having union representation. As union members we have affordable insurance, a pension, and help when I had a short term disability. I would like to say to the young people: you don’t know how good you have it with our union here until it’s gone!

I’ve worked at Fred Meyer since 1998 and have been a shop steward almost as long. It has been a great honor to work as a shop steward for the crew at Newport Fred Meyer. It’s great to hear the news of the Fair Work Week law. It’s a great step for establishing a better work life balance for retail workers. A lot of times, especially during the holiday seasons, we’re treated as salaried employees, on call and yet only compensated for hours worked. With the FWW law, we will be compensated for showing our employer hard work and dedication!

I work at the McMinnville Safeway. I’m excited for the Fair Work Week law to go into effect this year. We can finally have a private life! It’s going to be a good new year.

I am very happy and proud to be a member of the UFCW Local 555. I have been a member for well over a decade and feel we are headed in a great direction.

Hi, my name is Rebecca Cervantes. I’m a courtesy clerk at the Hood River Rosauers. I have been there almost 2 years now. The union has helped me out in many ways—from problems at work to just questions and concerns. The union works hard and has your back like a family, which I’m happy to be a part of.

My name is Keith Kicklighter and I work at The Coos Bay Safeway where I am the assistant Deli Manager. I have been with Local 555 for almost 4 years. I attended the annual leadership conference this year and it was very informative. I notice that a lot of the other union members had the same problems as us, and together I think we can fix all of the problems.

I enjoyed the Summit very much.

The conference was good for thought and tons of fun! I learned that we all are union, not just our reps. We are stronger TOGETHER!

Up until about 2 years ago, I was working a non-union job that didn’t provide health
coverage. As I’ve gotten older—I recently turned 51—health coverage has become more and more important to me. It has been warming and comforting to know that my union has my back and has helped me get the care that I need—without destroying my wallet!

Ivan has been a member of UFCW Local 555 for nine years. Working in the pharmacy Ivan says he gets to see firsthand how good the health benefits for UFCW members are. He also looks forward to attending the Labor Day Picnic at Oaks Park every year.

I am proud to be a part of the ABC, and grateful to my brothers and sisters of Local 555 that help support it. Over the past few years they have helped me and my co-workers pass laws to make our lives better! Thank you to Local 555 and for all you do!

I am glad to be a member of UFCW Local 555. On a personal level, I appreciate the fact that our union shows up and works closely with members. I know the union takes it’s members seriously and looks out for our best interests.

Meet Zee. She joined Local 555 in September of 2016. Zee once worked as a contract consultant in Saudi Arabia. She currently works in seafood at Glisan Fred Meyer and is considering becoming a steward for Local 555.

I want to thank my Local 555 Union and the International Union. My son, Matthew Moore, has been awarded a total of $9,000 in scholarships from the Union. He is studying at the University of Oregon. We both are very thankful for this opportunity to help him with all the costs of college. This is another great example of the benefits of being a Union member.

Duke and Kristi Buchheit love working at Roth’s, and enjoy the benefits that their Union contract gives them.

“We appreciate everything our Union does for us, and look forward to seeing even stronger contracts being bargained in the future.”

My name is Erin Barnds and I work as a checker at Safeway #1653 in Vancouver, WA. I’ve worked for Safeway for 25 years at only three stores: Cascade, Battle Ground, and this one. It’s taken awhile but now I understand the importance of having a union in our workplace. I decided to step up and help my co-workers understand their rights under their Union contract by being the Union Steward for my store. I like the idea of learning something new because Ron, our Union Rep, brings together all the stewards in Vancouver for training and we get to meet each other and we get to hear what’s happening in the different stores. Also my dad was union for 45 years with Safeway night crew. I have a 13 year-old daughter and I like to spend my spare time reading and hanging out at Barnes & Noble. I’m looking forward to being more active in the Union and getting through the steward training.

Ronda Little has been working for Fred Meyer for ten years. She started as a cashier in 2007 and now works as a PIC at Hawthorne Fred Meyer. She appreciates that the Union has always had her back.

I would like to thank the Union for their services. They look out for myself and the members. I am so happy to be a member of 555.

Meet Jeleah Swan. Jeleah joined Local 555 in August. She works in apparel at the Interstate Fred Meyer. After working at Walmart, Jeleah’s family is so happy for her to get the benefits and protections of a Union contract. Jeleah’s thinking about going to school and might apply for our International Scholarship Program. In her spare time she enjoys thrift shopping and going to the movies.

My name is Howard Ross and I’m a produce clerk at Fred Meyer store #140 in Vancouver, WA. I’ve worked for Fred Meyer for 10 years, 8 1/2 as a Union member. I’ve worked in produce since I was 10 years old working at a farmers market, so coming to the produce department at this store was a good fit for me. Also it’s good to work at the same store as my daughter, Deborah Peralta. She’s also our Union Steward. As far as the Union goes it’s good to work for a Fortune 500 company and also be represented by UFCW, knowing that they have my back if I need them. I also enjoy seeing our Union Rep Ron come into the store because he’s approachable and he’s always professional and happy. In my spare time I enjoy sports, hiking, golf, and just enjoying the outdoors. I would have to say that it makes it easier to have a long term position with Fred Meyer knowing that I’ll have a pension from the Union when I retire. Also, the health care is inexpensive.

It was my privilege to be invited to the 555 Leadership Conference in October. While I am not our Shop Steward, I promote the benefits of being Union at every opportunity. The shift to include “Leadership” folks like myself opened up the scope of conversation, which I found beneficial. I now have a more focused picture of how I can make a difference at my store. I look forward to next year with great anticipation, when we will greet old friends, make new ones, expand our knowledge, and have an overall great time.

I am a new member, looking forward to being part of the family and excited about all the benefits and possibilities available to me. I have lots to learn and want to be active and involved with the Union.

Armina Javor has been a proud Union member for sixteen years. She works at the Division Fred Meyer and loves her job. In return, she is loved by her co-workers and customers alike!

I am very proud of my union, they’ve helped myself and many associates over the last several years. I really enjoyed the leadership development conference; it was very educational and will benefit my coworkers as well as myself. I am really excited to see the progress we’ve accomplished and am enthusiastic about our future as a union. I feel confident with the direction and our continued success.

The leadership conference was enlightening and powerful with great information to share.

My name is Bradley Rinard and I’m the frozen foods clerk at the Woodland Safeway in Washington. I’ve worked at this store for two years and we recently converted over to the whole store being Union. I’m proud to be a member in a union store: the benefits are good and we have representation. My hobbies are paintball, bowling, and I’m starting a billiards league. I have recently signed up to become the Union Steward at my store and I look forward to the challenge of assisting my co-workers with making sure their rights aren’t being violated. And I can keep the family union tradition going because my dad is the Union Steward in his chemical plant!

On my first day in September, 1990, I was taught to check like Sherm was right beside me. To this day I still strive for that way of thinking. When Sherm would come in for his daily “rounds” always smiling, I would try to catch a hug. I will say though, the ultimate moments were being blessed enough to see Sherm and Steve together at the store, both with smiles!

This was my first leadership conference and it answered many questions I had. I now feel better equipped to perform my duties as shop steward. Thanks UFCW!

I have been with the Union since 1979. I started with Thriftway in 1979, and in 1985 I joined the Fred Meyer team. I have worked at the Mill Plain Fred Meyer since 1986. I believe my Dad was in the AWPPW Union for 40 years, so I was raised Union. My late father-in-law started the ULRA back in the early ’60s. I am a firm supporter of unions and can testify to all the benefits that a union can offer. I know from recent experience that the medical plan we have is excellent. My sister-in-law has been in the Union with Safeway for several years as well. I’m grateful for all of the benefits the Union provides for all the members. Many thanks to the leadership of Dan, Jeff, and their staff, and all the members as well.

I’m grateful for the support our union gives us: from strong wages to a pension that will allow me to retire (and enjoy it). Our union has even improved the lives of people all across the state with recent wins in Salem! I can’t wait to see what’s next!!!

Craig Paton, a UFCW member for 13 years, is a lead bartender and wine steward at the Stadium Fred Meyer, a unique position with the company. He enjoys forming relationships with regular customers and educating people about wine pairings. “I do think this is the best job at Fred Meyers! I love entertaining people.” In fact, Craig came up with a new idea for customers to be able to sit and drink in the bar and order their groceries on their ClickList app so they can relax while the shopping is done for them!

Bobby Kral has been working at the Safeway in Forest Grove for 26 years. Bobby attends very single union meeting that he can make it to. He loves being a member of Local 555 and is thankful for his excellent union pension that he has built up over the years.

I am very proud to be a UFCW union member. I have been through enough in my life to truly appreciate what the union does and am looking forward to become a shop steward so I can get more involved and help my coworkers. I have been around long enough to appreciate what the union does for their members and community.

I want to thank UFCW Local 555 for all their hard work on Fair Work Week law. I know how this law will change my life and my family’s life. All my brothers and sisters in 555 will benefit from this.

I am very proud of the UFCW for working hard towards getting us better working wages. As a shop steward in my store I am the initial chain of communication which in my opinion is a very important tool to have at any location. To me the job security that the union provides ice is a very beneficial factor.

11-year-old Frankie Rutigliano plays ball for the Southern Oregon Generals Travel Team and is shown here throwing the first pitch at a Medford Rogues ball game. Strike! In the second picture he is out with Dan Gibson (his very proud Grandpa) at UFCW Member Appreciation Night. Dan has worked at Sherm’s Thunderbird Markets since 1977 and has been a UFCW member for 40 years. Thanks for being a part of the Local 555 family, Dan and Frankie!

My name is Linda Strange and I’m a checker at the Battle Ground Albertsons. I started my career at Safeway in Carlsbad, New Mexico, where I worked as a SOM for five years and was also an alternate steward. I moved here two years ago to be closer to my family. I’ve always enjoyed being a union member because it gives us a voice in the workplace, inexpensive insurance, representation, and consistent pay raises. Having the Union in the store is new to a lot of people but I think they’ll end up wanting to have us here in the long run. I think it’s a good thing to have negotiated contracts instead of going years without a pay raise. Today more than ever we need to keep the union around and I want to play my part and help my coworkers by being the steward at Albertsons 592. When I’m not working I enjoy relaxing at home or going for a good hike as a chance to enjoy being outdoors.

Just want to thank everyone involved for their work in Salem on the Fair Work Week to make scheduling better for all Oregon workers. UFCW strong!

We’ve been part of the UFCW Local 555 for almost two years now. In that time, I have seen an immense amount of positive change. It feels good to see coworkers feeling more empowered and letting their voices be heard by management. Going forward, I am certain we will continue to see positive and productive growth with the Union on our side.

I have been with Safeway almost three years. Since the fuel station position in Junction City has gone Union, I have a pension, better insurance, and if I work more than eight hour in a day, I get overtime. I would like to thank UFCW Local 555 for what they do for me and my coworkers, and for fellow Union Members.

Emery Mims works at the Oregon City Albertsons and has been a member for over 38 years. He is glad to have access to Local 555’s healthcare and pension plan. He intends to work for a few more years and he appreciates the role his seniority plays in getting a good schedule and good hours.

Thanks to UFCW 555 and my coworkers for the option to participate in Lobby Day and get my coworkers to sign ballot initiative petitions to help change legislation on Fair Work Week. I am thankful to be part of Local 555 to make members’ lives better.

Ben Hobbs has been a supportive and proud Union member since February 2002. Well-liked and respected by his fellow employees, Ben was just honored by Fred Meyer as the “Employee of the Quarter!” Congratulations, Ben, and thank you for your help in organizing ClickList employees!

My schedule changes all the time, even after they have been posted for the next two weeks. We need this Fair Work Week bill to hold the companies accountable.

Good time, good people. I learned a lot!

Robert Cartusciello from the Fred Meyer in Cornelius is happy to be working his first union job. He has been so happy with the new sick leave law and can’t wait to see what happens with the Fair Work Week campaign. Rob is also interested in being involved in the upcoming contract negotiations because he understands that unions are stronger when we stand together.

I have been in the workforce for forty-five years, in both Union and non-Union positions, and have been with UFCW Local 555 for over 10 years. One great thing about being a Union member is the benefits, which make our jobs worth more in the long run. And, I have peace of mind knowing the Union has my back and fights for our rights. Now that I’m living in a small tourist town, I hope 555 will be effective in keeping our wages reasonable as the cost of living becomes outrageous. Join a Union, take care of our future. Keep up the good fight!

I’m proud to have the backing of Local 555. They have done so much for living wages & fair scheduling in the state of Oregon and I’m looking forward to stewarding and organizing new workers! Let’s raise those journey wages next time!

The Union has been very good to me and was there to protect me when I needed it. I strongly believe that as a union we are headed in a very good direction. I’m proud to say I am a UFCW 555 member!

Jordan Purvis and Timothy Farwell are both longtime proud Union members. They enjoy getting their job done while working together in the produce department at the Safeway 1070.

Rodney Rogers started with Fresh Cut Produce at the Cedar Mill Safeway a couple of years ago to supplement his acting and voiceover career. He enjoys being a part of his Union and says “I’ve taken advantage of the great services provided by the UFCW 555 including health benefits, the Union pension, and contributions to the Union political fund.” Safeway encourages him to provide frequent Voice Over Intercom calls announcing shopper deals, which also gives him practice for his voice characters!

Great job on the Fair Work Week! You rock!! Keep up the great work and thank you for your commitment and dedication. You are appreciated more than you know!

The union isn’t always appreciated, but they do so much for everyone. I thank them for sick pay and Fair Work Week and whatever they bring into our contract. Keep up the great work.

The union’s investment into our communities’ future is notably recognized. A complete passion for those they represent is shared at the local level. I would like to thank each and every one of you. We honor those who represent us now, as we honor all who have served the cause.

James is a long time proud union member who works at Safeway #0382 on 122nd and Powell in Portland. James says: “Brothers and sisters, we work hard for our employers every day and it is time for them to give us a good contract with livable wages and benefits so we can provide for our families. Please support the bargaining committee by attending meeting and rallies on an effort to accomplish that in bargaining.”

I have been a union member most of my life. I really appreciate UFCW having my back. I am really looking forward to the benefits that I should be getting with my new contract. Thank you for everything you do.

I have worked for Kroger for over 6 years. I have recently joined a store that was Union. The union has provided so much help with a pay increase and helping me to get on insurance. Ellen was so persistent when I went to apply for open enrollment. I kept forgetting one part on the enrollment and Ellen was kind and helpful with everything. I love my Union and would recommend the Union to anyone.

I like the Union because you guys always have my back. My rep is easy to talk to, and he and the staff are always easy to get a hold of and responsive to my needs.

I want to thank each of you participating at the bargaining table for doing everything that you do for us. I would be interested in a higher wage considering the raise in minimum wage.

I’m so excited to join the Union. Special thanks to Kevin Ferris and Nichole for going above and beyond helping me transfer from my non-union position to joining. I’m so thrilled to be a part of the 555 family. Look forward to the journey with 555 by my side.

My employer had somehow confused my years of service, and I was paying over 6 times the monthly cost of insurance to cover my husband. Getting nowhere with employee services, I called my UFCW representative. In short order, the issue was corrected, my husband was completely covered under my premium, and I was sent a large refund check for the error. I am on the right path now due to my Union.

I love how the Union backs me up when I have problems. Anywhere, anytime, any one. The Union keeps me here so I can do my job happily.

I have always gotten a quick response to all of my phone calls and concerns. I really appreciate UFCW having my back. We would really have problems if we didn’t have such a great team working for us.

Brian McKenzie and Wendy Johnson of Fulton Provision celebrate as negotiations wrap up. These two fought hard for their fellow union brothers and sisters by serving on their bargaining committee. They walked away with hard wage increases every year, increases to their pension plan, increased time off for senior employees, and caps on any potential medical increases. Importantly, they also walked away with a sense of pride knowing that they had the full backing and solidarity of their fellow union members. They have committed to continuing the work of building their union and taking the first steps to becoming shop stewards. Congrats to all the members at Fulton Provision Company.

I like being in the union because I know that there’s always someone fighting for me and helping me when I need it. The benefits are great. And overall it’s just good knowing that I’m not alone.

Meet Sam, a proud member of Local 555. Sam has been working at Gateway Fred Meyer since May of 2016. During the survey season, Sam started telling co-workers to complete our bargaining survey because, “the union is the only reason we have protections at all!”

Barbara never thought she would be terminated. She was surprised and devastated when it happened, but she talked to her Shop Steward and got UFCW Local 555 on the case. She is back to work and happy to be helping customers!

To me being a Steward is about helping my fellow co-workers not only know their rights, but exercise them when appropriate! Before I became a Steward, I was at a place in my job where I felt hopeless, down, and ready to find another job. It was then by happenstance that I was invited to the 2017 Leadership Conference where I learned about what a steward is/does. Knowing my store didn’t have one, I jumped on the opportunity to not only better the store for myself, but for everyone else who has become a member before me, and all of those who come after. I now wake up ready to go to work and excited knowing that I have made this into a career, and not just my job.

I love being a part of Local 555, knowing I am making a difference. I even got a tattoo of a pink donut with chocolate strips and a 555 inside, with the words “A voice for working America” around it as a dedication and commitment to 555. Thank you United Food & Commercial Workers! Let’s rock this, together we can make a difference. People helping people is what it’s all about. (Not the hokey pokey like we’ve all been led to believe. Lol)

I have always been a union supporter! I am from a multi-generational Union family. The union has the working man’s back.

For a few years now I’ve been pro-union because I see that it protects workers and is for the greater good. I appreciate having someone to go to if I’m in a tough situation. I’ve been following “Right to Work,” and I really hope it doesn’t pass— we need to have employees’ and workers’ interests in mind, not the interests of big corporations!

Congratulations to Bonnie Dahill for 10 years of employment at Albertsons in Grants Pass! She would like to see a wage increase for long term Courtesy Clerks.

Bonnie says, “Be active, stay strong, go UFCW 555!”

I’ve been a UFCW 555 member since March 2017. I have to say I love the security I have with this union. I’m glad we have the mandatory pay raises that the company has to give us. The insurance is amazing and so much cheaper than any other place I’ve seen!! I had thought about going back to work in the dentistry profession but it was too expensive to cover myself, my husband, and kids. That has played a huge role in my decision to stay here with union benefits because I can afford the coverage!!

I’ve been a UFCW member since 2000, and I’ve seen a lot of changes since that time. Of the positive changes that I’ve seen, the passage of the First Day Sick Pay law was one of the biggest. I appreciate the new law because you don’t feel forced to come into work sick anymore. You don’t have to make a choice between getting paid and getting other people sick. I really look forward to the Fair Work Week law going into effect—I’m optimistic that it will be a really positive change for the workers!

Hi! My name is Brett Ninneman and I’m a meat cutter at QFC store #212, Vancouver, WA. I’ve been cutting meat there for the last 2 years and have worked in retail grocery since 2007. I’ve worked my way up from courtesy clerk then to checker, produce clerk, and then in the meat department as a wrapper, and now a cutter. I really appreciate having the union insurance covering myself and my wife and it’s good to know that when we decide to start a family it will cover all of us for $25.00 a week. In my years working in retail I’ve never had to be represented, but it’s good to know they are there if needed. I also have a brother who is a meat cutter (Cary Ninneman, also working for QFC in store #205 in Portland), so we have a bit of a family affair with QFC and meat cutting. Overall I’m happy with what has been negotiated with our contracts in the past but would like to see the pay gap increased between newbies and journeymen, and I’m looking forward to upcoming talks. In closing, I think we need to get more involved in our union, including myself. I think they are doing a great job protecting what’s important to us, our livelihood!

I have been a UFCW Union member for many years. Most recently I joined the negotiation team and became a shop steward. By becoming a more active member I have realized more benefits of the Union.

My name is Tiffany Baumhardt and I have been a UFCW member since 1993. I am proud to have participated in the lobbying for Fair Work Week. As a healthcare professional, it is clear that the stress of not knowing your schedule takes a toll on an individual and on their family. Thank you to our Union for leading the way and demanding advance notice of work schedules. This will go a long way for working families.

I’ve been with Kaiser for 4 years (working at the SMC check-in desk) and am a proud Union member. I’m prepared to stand with my Union Brothers and Sisters at our upcoming bargaining.

I love the union and what it does for us members. We work hard and so does the union. Because of them I can take care of my family. Thank you, 555!

My name is Andrea Anderson and I’m a steward at Kaiser’s Mail Order Pharmacy. We are fighting for a fair contract by showing management we are unified. Joining with the other Unions at Kaiser, we are circulating petitions that lay out our priorities. Everyone I work with signed!

I really appreciate the union dental insurance plan. Recently I needed to switch from one plan to another. I was having difficulty figuring out how to switch. I called the union for help and just like that I was able to switch. Thank you, Local 555.

Suzie Babbitt, our new steward from Wilsonville Safeway, has been a union member for over 18 years and has always been in a union family. She says, “I want to thank Local 555 for making it possible for parents to stay home with their children when they are too sick to be in daycare. A healthy family is a happy family!” Suzie is very excited to be a shop steward and to help represent and coach her co-workers.

My name is John Meissinger and I have been with Safeway in Sherwood and UFCW Local 555 for almost 2 1/2 years now. I love the fact that the union has my back. It feels nice to know that I have someone to go to if I feel like I’m not being treated fairly by my employer.

Hi, my name is Pat Mehigan and I’m a checker at Safeway store #1103. I have 28 years in retail food all at the same store here in Vancouver. I started as a courtesy clerk some years ago when our President, Dan Clay, was my union rep. I love my work but I don’t think I would enjoy it as much if I didn’t have union representation. I’ve had to use the union a couple times over the years and they have come through for me. I also contribute to the Active Ballot Club because I understand unions are the only major organizations out here fighting to make things better for us working folks politically. Our store didn’t have a steward for a long time (if ever) so I spoke with my rep and now I’m a steward in training. To my fellow union brothers and sisters: get involved in your union!

Franz Bakery

My name is Elizabeth Bonaventura. I have worked at Fred Meyer Newberg for 9 years. I had never had any problems before so I never really needed the union’s help. However, recently I was terminated. I met with the union and we filed a grievance. The union was able to win the grievance and I am very happy to say I am going back to work.