Dispatch

Brothers & Sisters,

If you haven’t called dispatch in a while there has been a change in the box. I just want to inform you that Charlie Lascurain is now in retirement mode as of February 1st 2010. All of us at Local 612 would like to thank Charlie for all of his hard work and professionalism throughout his career as a business representative for Local 612 and want to wish him a long and happy retirement. To update you on the dispatcher situation, Local 612 is going to be rotating the Business Representatives to take your calls in dispatch. Local 612 has also cut back because of the recession and we’re all sharing the responsibility in dispatch so we can take care of contracts, negotiations and other issues that might occur in our area that we are overseeing.

To update you on the work situation, we are starting to see a little movement with dispatches to our signatory contractors & members returning to work for their previous employers. We are hoping that this year will bring more job opportunities to our members than last year. Give us a call to see what’s happening & if you are back to work, let the dispatcher know so we can update the out of work list.

In Solidarity,
Todd J. Mickelson

Key Points to Remember

•  Keep your contact numbers current.
•  Most dispatches are for the very next day. Check messages before 5:00 p.m.
•  Maintain your dues. Stay current and a member in good standing. Washington Employment Security requires you to maintain union status or actively search for work.
•  Has your martial status changed? Update your Beneficiary Card.

Some Definitions You Might Find Useful:

Doby: Also referred to as "Travel Service Dues". Dues paid by an Operator while working in another locals jurisdiction.

Dues Check-Off: A percentage of your gross wage that is paid only when a member is working, as part of your total dues. Typically deducted by your employer. Check your pay stub.

Membership Dues: Also referred to as "Monthly Dues". This dues must be paid by the member each month. There are some payment options; pay quarterly, yearly and by credit card.

Vested: Participants in the pension trust that have acquired five years of service or 7500 hours. Receive a non-forfeitable right to benefits.  Benefit amount is determined by how many hours paid into the plan.

Withdrawal Card: Issued by application, when a member is no longer working in scope of work as stated in our IUOE Constitution.