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The newspaper of Teamsters Local 31 of the International Brotherhood of Teamsters

Fall, 2009 www.teamsters31.ca Delta, B.C., Canada

31 News

From: Teamsters Local Union No. 31, #1 Grosvenor Square, Delta, B.C. V3M 5S1Publications Mail Agreement No. 40565532

Teamsters launch cross-Canada organizingdrive of Fedex workers

On September 14, 2009Teamsters Canada launched a full-scale campaign to organize FedExCanada after receiving numerousphone calls and emails from theirworkers wanting to enjoy the sameworking conditions and fairtreatment enjoyed by Teamstermembers at Purolator and UPS.

In comparison, they’ve madea good decision as FedEx Canadaworkers continue to fall further andfurther behind their unioncounterparts.

Based on the last Purolatornegotiations, where employeeswon a 12.25% wage increase,

improved benefits and a 20%increase in pension contributionsover four years, the average FedExCanada worker recently receivedonly a 1-1.5% increase in wages, a30% reduction in pension and issueswith the co-pay system to thebenefits and pensions. UPS hassimilar increases to that ofPurolator in their contract.

With corporations apparentlygetting greedier the need to unionizehas never been so great!

Special thanks go toTeamsters Local 31 members whowere working on the organizingcampaign: Bros. John Lam, Mark

Bethel, Chico Staruiala, AhmnonShabacon, Mike Skerry and BryanMudge; please acknowledge theirefforts in helping FedEx workersachieve better wages, pensions andworking conditions.

Further information on thiscampaign can be accessed at:

www.FedExWorkers.org (English)www.CampagneFedex.org (French)

During the organizing drive, the Teamsters’ presence at the FedEx worksite was felt daily, especially with the appearanceof the Teamster truck. (photos A. Kirk)

Pictured left to right: President StanHennessy, Purolator Shop StewardBryan Mudge, Teamsters CanadaOrganizer Grant Coleman, BusinessAgents Larry Sargeant and Richard VanGrol

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President’s Report

Dear Brothers & Sisters,

Where has the time gone? Assummer has just ended, it is myhope that all members had anenjoyable summer and enjoyedsome time off during the warmermonths.

While the year 2009 hasproven to be a challenge to yourLocal, especially in thetransportation and manufacturingsectors, the Local remainsconfident that with the steps we aretaking to help safeguard ourmembers, we shall be able toweather the storm and be ready fora brighter future.

While it is true a downturnedeconomy does traditionally affectsome sectors more than others, theeffects of the recession hasimpacted all areas. Whether youare in freight (trucking), courier,warehousing, manufacturing, or thepublic sector, we have all witnessedeither the lay off of a juniormember or the freeze on hiring ofnew employees.

While some economistspredict an end to the recessionheading into 2010 and some muchneeded economic (job) growth, theLocal however remains cautious inthis regard.

As a Local, our representationneeds to remain strong and everpresent. Our commitment toorganizing needs to remain a toppriority, thereby helping the futuresof new members and safeguardingthe security of our currentmembers.

The Local is currentlyinvolved in a nationwide organizingdrive at FedEx Couriers. TheTeamster Locals across Canadahave united under the leadership ofTeamsters Canada President BobBouvier and his staff led byTeamsters Canada Director ofOrganzing, Mike Crawford, to takeon this notorious non-union couriercompany.

Earlier in the year, TeamstersCanada held a training seminarprimarily for our members fromUPS and Purolator Courier. Ourmembers were taught thefundamentals of organizing. Thosemembers have now been taken offtheir jobs and are working on theFedEx organizing campaign withtheir wages being paid byTeamsters Canada.

While the FedEx organizingdrive is ongoing, the Local is alsoinvolved in many other organizingactivities.

The Local remains heavilyinvolved in community eventsthroughout the Lower Mainland. Itruly believe that our involvement inthe community with the use of ourtractor trailer unit pays hugedividends to the Local. Whileattending these events is personallygratifying, the general public inattendance leaves these eventswith a much more positive view ofunions (Teamsters). The eventsare listed on our website:www.teamsters31.ca. You shouldall take a few minutes to view thesite as it has been newlyconstructed.

Fraternally,Stan Hennessy, President

In June, 2009 I attended my first Teamsters Canada convention inOttawa. At the Convention, delegates passed a motion to create thefirst-ever Teamsters Canada Youth Committee. In September, I wasappointed by Joint Council 36 to represent Local 31 on this new YouthCommittee.

The Youth Committee is comprised of 15 Teamster members age35 and under from across Canada. The Committee was formed todetermine what the youth are thinking, why they are not involved in theunion movement, and how to get them more actively involved with theUnion. At our first meeting, conducted in Montreal, the members of theCommittee were introduced to Brigitte Sottile, Teamsters Canada’sDirector of Education, who facilitated the meeting.

Young Teamster members from across Canada attended. Theycame from the trucking, construction, courier, retail distribution, officeand railway industries.

If you are a young union member and have any questions aboutthe Youth Committee or have any ideas on how to get youth involved inthe union movement, please contact me.

Mike Hennessy, TrusteeTeamsters Local 311 Grosvenor Square

Delta BC V3M 5S1mhennessy@teamsters31.ca

Teamsters Youth Committee builds on thefuture of Union In an effort to become more

environmentally responsible,31NEWS and Teamsters Local 31have made some changes –beginning with this latest edition ofthe newsletter.

We are now printing31NEWS on post-consumer wastestock that is made without the useof chlorine bleach. This is alsocertified by the Forest StewardshipCouncil. Printing is done using soy-based inks.

We are also posting 31NEWSon our websitewww.teamsters31.ca so you canread it online. If you would ratherread the newsletter online and notreceive a paper copy at your home,go to our website and fill out awebform. This could cut down onthe number of copies we orderfrom our printer.

We hope that these changeswill help encourage everyone tothink of ways to impact theirenvironment in a positive way!

We’re going green!

President Stan Hennessy and nineother local union officers from acrossCanada were nominated and electedto serve as members of the Teamsters

Canada Executive Board at theTeamsters Canada Convention held in

Ottawa the week of June 6, 2009.Pictured being sworn in by Teamsters

Canada President, Robert Bouvier(not shown) are (l-r) Alain

DeGrandpre, President, TeamstersJoint Council 91 (Quebec), Stan

Hennessy, President, Teamsters Local31, and Larry McDonald, President,

Teamsters Local 938, Mississauga,Ont. Also sworn in but not shown

were: Rick Ashdown; Local 979Winnipeg, Serge Berube, President,

Teamsters Local 1999, Quebec; RickEichel, Sec-Treas., Teamsters Local

362 Calgary; David Pearce,President, Teamsters Local 855, St.

John’s Nfl.

An honour at Teamsters Canada Convention

Take your pick of courses and apply nowfor CLC Winter School

In early November the Local Union faxed CLC Winter Schoolcourse information to all worksites.

If you wish to attend the CLC Winter school and requestfunding from Local 31’s Union/Industry Advancement Fund, pleasechoose your first and second choice of courses. Write a letteraddressed to:

Executive Boardc/o Stan Hennessy, President

Teamsters Local Union No. 311 Grosvenor SquareDelta BC V3M 5S1

Fax: 604-540-6073

For course schedules, descriptions and further information,please visit our website at www.teamsters31.ca or phone BernadetteBajo at 604-527-2714. Please respond as soon as possible as space islimited. The deadline is Friday, December 4, 2009.

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Secretary-Treasurer’sReport

We get Letters . . .

Dear Bro. Hennessy:

I would like to thank Local 31 members and staff for the opportunityto attend the CLC Winter School for the week of January 26-30, 2009. Iwas proud to represent Local 31 while taking the United Steel Workers andNDP Building Political Power course. I was made aware that this is thefirst year for this course at the CLC, and I found that it was one of themost interesting and informative classes that I have ever taken. I learned alot about the impact that the labour movement can and does have onpolitics, past history of unions and politics, and how much of an impact oneperson or a group of people can have. I would highly recommend thiscourse to anyone who is interested in getting involved in politics from aunion perspective.

Thanks again to everyone who was involved in giving me this greatexperience.

Lance MatricardiShop Steward, Coast 2000 Terminals

Dear Bro. Hennessy:

I would like to thank you for the wonderful opportunity I receivedfrom you to attend the CLC Winter School this February.

It was an incredible experience all around, and I learned an invaluableamount of steward education, which I couldn’t have gotten anywhere else.The importance of the opportunity and the level of achievement the schooloffers is second to none, so again I thank you for that opportunity and Ihope in the future I may be considered to again attend the CLC WinterSchool to further my education.

I was also wondering if it would be possible to be able to sit in on anarbitration hearing in any capacity so I could see how the process worksfrom start to finish. After I complete the steward training, I plan to thentake the CLC Arbitration course and would really like to get a first-handlook at an actual case or two. Any information on how I may be able to dothis would be greatly appreciated.

Dave ColeShop Steward, Canada Drayage

Dear Bro. Tyler:

This letter is to demonstrate my appreciation and regard for yourefforts in negotiating a valuable reparation from the union grievanceconcerning the contracting out of work at Ryder Transpacific ContainerTerminals.

The promotion of three employees from the second tier wage andbenefits package to the first tier is without a doubt the most valuable andimportant reparation that could be attained through this negotiation.

Please accept my sincere thanks for the successful outcome ofnegotiations in this regard.

Frank MazzoneRyder Transpacific Container Terminals

Dear Bro. Hennessy:

Thank you and Teamsters Local 31 for the privilege of attending the2009 CLC Winter School at Harrison Hot Springs. The CollectiveBargaining (Basic) Course I attended was very informative, and combinedwith the class interaction, gave me a greater understanding of the groupdynamics and processes involved in collective bargaining. I am confidentthat my newfound knowledge and understanding will aid my brothers andsisters in obtaining the best possible contract during our upcoming collectivebargaining with our employer, Canadian Freightways Ltd.

John Van BerkelShop Steward, Canadian Freightways

Dear Richard:

On July 15, 2009, I and my fellow workers celebrated my return towork at my employer Canadian Freightways Ltd.

I anticipated this moment each and every day I was absent fromNovember 28, 2008 to July 15, 2009. It has allowed me to celebrate anoccasion that I feel will benefit not only myself, but also the employees andemployers of the trucking industry in my province for setting the recordstraight about mandatory retirement at age 65. I do not feel one bit shyabout strutting the progress we’ve made.

Your efforts were tireless on everyone’s behalf to settle the terms ofagreement of the mandatory retirement policy between the company andmyself.

I applaud you for settling the issue constructively, securely and withthe utmost effectiveness.

So this is a thank-you note – for standing by me when the toughwere stating and grinding their position; promoting our position not only onmy behalf, but on behalf of all employees union or not, today and in thefuture.

I want to acknowledge your contribution to this settlement agreementon behalf of myself and the parties.

Brian MansonDriver, Canadian Freightways, Vancouver

Editor’s Note: On November 13, 2008 the Union filed a grievanceand policy grievance over Canadian Freightway’s mandatory retirement atage 65 policy. After numerousletters and meetings between theCompany and the Union, the Unionapplied to the Canada IndustrialRelations Board on May 11, 2009.Prior to the hearings, PresidentHennessy attended a meeting withC.F. President Darshan Kailly andthey were able to reach anagreement. As a result, Bro.Manson was reinstated to hisposition at CF on July 15, 2009 withfull reimbursement of wages andpension amounting to more than$27,000. Bro. Manson is seen in theabove photo accepting hissettlement cheque from BusinessRepresentative Richard Van Grol.

Myfirst yearasSecretary-Treasurerhas beenbothinterestingandchallenging.I am

pleased to enclose in this issue theaudited financial statementsshowing that we are in a positiveposition again this year. This wasachieved through careful planningand President Hennessy’s steadyleadership.

Having the surplus wasfortunate as we were able toreplace the local’s aging 50-year-old boiler, almost guaranteed tobreak down on the coldest night ofthe year. Furthermore, we were

also able to upgrade our telephonesystem to bring us in line with the21st century. These improvementswill enable us to continue tosafeguard the members’ assets inthese increasingly uncertain times.

In my role as business agentfor Metro Vancouver, F&GDelivery and Chep Pallet I am ableto see first-hand the strength anddignity of our members as theydeal with the current downturn inthe economy. I am ever hopefulthat the recovery will be strong andswift in restoring stability to ouralready complex modern lives.

Fraternally,

Rod Blackburn, Secretary-Treasurer

No mandatory retirement at 65

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Dear Benefit Plan Members:

We are once again pleased toprovide you with updates andinformation regarding yourcoverage under the Teamsters’National Benefit Plan. We wouldlike to extend our welcome to newmembers of the Plan and thosereturning after a break in coverage.

Your Plan booklet is a goodsource of information regarding thePlan. However, should you havequestions regarding your coverage,please call us directly at 604-552-2650. Our office takes pride in thepersonalized assistance we are ableto offer to our members.

Gail Johnson, Administrator

2009 Plan Improvements

As you know, the Trustees ofthe Teamsters’ National BenefitPlan meet regularly to discuss thePlan’s benefits and finances. As aresult of input from themembership, a review of the Plan’sfinances and changes in thebenefits industry generally, theTrustees approved the followingPlan improvements:

* Effective January 1, 2009,the Weekly Indemnity rate forPlans A and B increased from$435.00 per week to $455.00 perweek. The increased rate is limitedto disabilities incurred on or afterJanuary 1, 2009.

* Effective January 1, 2009,the maximum benefit payable forany eligible person for Basic andMajor services performed in anycalendar year increased to acombined limit of $3,000.00 forPlans A and D. The increased rate

is limited to Basic and Major Dentalservices performed on or afterJanuary 1, 2009.

In addition, effectiveJanuary 1, 2009, the lifetime benefitpayable for orthodontic services forany eligible person was increased to$3000.00 per lifetime. This includesonly services performed on or afterJanuary 1, 2009.

* Effective June 1, 2009, theaccepted per visit fee is increasedfrom $30.00 to $40.00 forchiropractor, physiotherapist,massage therapist, podiatrist,naturopath, speech therapist andacupuncturist.

Benefit Plan Abuse Impacts AllMembers

While most members of theTeamsters’ National Benefit Planhave valid claims and continue to

abide by therules of thePlan, we aresometimesfaced with theissue of Planabuse.

Theseproblems take

various forms:* The Plan not being advised

when a spouse has coverage underanother benefit plan

* The Plan not being advisedof a marital break-up or othersituations where dependents are nolonger eligible for coverage

* The disability claimant whoattempts to deceive physicians andin turn claims adjudicators in orderto access benefits

* The disability claimant who

returns to work without notifyingthe Plan and continues to cashdisability cheques

* The member who ignorestheir agreement with the Plan torepay benefits on receipt of ICBCor WCB settlement, leaving thePlan with legal costs to pursuerecovery of the money

* Altered receipts or otherdocuments.

Those of us at the Plan’soffice do our utmost to preventabuse of your Plan, nevertheless itdoes occur. Recovering theresulting overpayments is costlyand impacts all members. Thecontinuing financial stability of thePlan is critical to future Planimprovements and to the provisionof benefits to those members whohave legitimate claims and trulyneed the coverage.

Let’s all work together to endmisuse and exploitation of yourbenefit plan!

Improvement to ClaimProcessing for PrescriptionDrug Coverage

As you are aware, the Planprovides coverage for drugsapproved for sale in Canada for thetreatment of illness or diseasewhich are available only byprescription and when prescribedby a physician. Drugs determinedto be “Lifestyle” drugs such asthose for weight loss and those forcosmetic purposes are excluded.

Your prescription drug cardwhen presented at the pharmacyprovides direct payment for thosedrugs covered under the B.C.Pharmacare formulary. Until

* The Teamsters’ NationalPension Plan is a Defined BenefitPlan which means thatcontributions are received fromemployers only. Employees do notcontribute or “pay into” theTeamsters’ National Pension Plan.Contribution rates are based onwhat has been negotiated in yourcollective agreement.

* Under the Income Tax Act,persons who are self employedincluding dependent contractors(Owner/Operators) are notpermitted to participate inRegistered Pension Plans.

* Have you remembered toverify who your designatedbeneficiary is on the Teamsters’National Pension Plan? Pursuantto Pension Legislation, if you havea spouse at the time of your death,your spouse is deemed to be your

recently, for payment of non-formulary drugs, the Plan requiredconfirmation that a member’sphysician requested SpecialAuthority from Pharmacare. Oncethe Plan received confirmation ofPharmacare’s response, whetherapproval or denial, the Plan wouldprovide coverage for the drug.

The Plan’s Trustees haverecently agreed to addressmembers’ concerns over thedifficulty of the Special Authorityprocess.As such,effectiveMarch 1,2009,havingones’physicianrequestSpecial Authority from Pharmacarewill no longer be required forcoverage of non-formulary drugs.However, direct payment throughyour Drug Card will not workunless a reply to a Special Authorityrequest has been received.

If members do not wish torequest Special Authority, the Planwill provide coverage once amember pays for the drug andsubmits the receipt to our office onan Extended Health claim form.Please contact our office if yourequire forms for thisreimbursement process or, if moreconvenient, forms can bedownloaded from the Benefits linkat www.teamsters31.ca

If you do not wish to requestSpecial Authority from Pharmacare(as noted above) expenses forthose drugs will not go toward yourPharmacare deductible.

beneficiary unless he or she waivesthat right. If you do not have aspouse, then your designatedbeneficiary shall be entitled to adeath benefit. If no beneficiary isnamed, the benefit shall be paid toyour Estate.

* Pension statements aremailed to active members annually.As such, it is very important that thePlan has your current address onfile. This will ensure that updatedPension Statements are distributedin an efficient and timely fashion.

* In the event that youterminate your employment, youmay elect to become a TerminatedMember of the Plan. You willautomatically become a TerminatedMember if a period of two yearshas passed during which we havenot received pension contributionson your behalf. The other way to

become a Terminated Memberwould be by applying for aVoluntary Termination prior to thetwo year period previouslymentioned. Becoming aTerminated Member allows you tomove the commuted value or lumpsum value of your pension. Pleasenote that pursuant to the Plan’srules, portability (or moving thelump sum) would not apply tosomeone who has reached normalretirement age (65) unless theirmonthly pension is less than 4% ofthe YMPE (Yearly MaximumPensionable Earnings) asestablished by the Canada PensionPlan. The Plan rules stipulate thatany monthly pension under theprescribed limit will not beadministered and will be paid out ina lump sum.

Pension Quick Facts

Teamsters Benefit Plans: Keeping you updated

ContactTeamsters

BenefitsPlans

1610 Kebet WayPort Coquitlam BC

V3C 5W9

Phone:604-552-2650

Toll-free:1-888-478-8111

Web:www.teamsters31.ca

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On Saturday June 13, 2009 the Local held a Shop Steward Trainingcourse at the Union Hall in Delta. The purpose of the course was toprovide Shop Stewards with skills and knowledge and to assist them inbeing more effective and comfortable in dealing with their employers andco-workers. Topics included:

* the roles and responsibilities of a Shop Steward;* identifying a grievance;* the grievance procedure; and* investigating, drafting, presenting and settling a grievance.A Shop Steward Seminar was held at the Union Hall on Sunday, June

14, 2009 andincludeddiscussions onWorkersCompensationAppeals and theduty toaccommodate.The Local alsowelcomed Dr. GaryNamie of theWorkplace BullyingInstitute inBellingham,Washington for aninformative andvaluable session on bullying in the workplace. Dr. Namie discussed manyissues, including what bullying is, why it happens, its effects and how todeal with it.

Over 40 ShopStewards attendedover the weekend.Attendees includedindividuals who hadjust become Stewardsas well as Stewardswith many years ofexperience. TheLocal’s In-HouseCounsel, KarleneBateman taught thecourse on Saturdayand presented topics

at the seminar on Sunday. Also present throughout the weekend werePresident Stan Hennessy, Secretary-Treasurer Rod Blackburn, OrganizerJure Kelava and Business Representatives Cheryl Popeniuk, Tom Brown,Anthony Kirk, Terry Tyler and Richard Van Grol.

The Local would like to thank all the Stewards who attended for theirinterest and dedication. The Local also requests that any suggestions youmay have for future Shop Steward Seminar topics be passed on to yourBusiness Representative.

2009 International Teamster Women’s Conference

Raising the stakes for women workers

Conference attendees Shalyn Przada (Purolator Nanaimo), AngelaAllen (APD), and Pam Manuel (Stream Vancouver Warehouse)attend one of the sessions during the ITWC

Statistics Canada/CALM

The majority of unionmembers in Canada are nowwomen, which has been the casesince 2006. 2.15 million womenand 2.07 million men are unionmembers. Women’s unionizationrate (30 per cent) also exceedsmen’s (28.7 per cent).

Unionized women are closerto achieving pay equity than non-unionized women. Women inunionized full time jobs average 94per cent of union full-time men’saverage ($23.36 versus $24.83).

The wage gap is muchbigger for non-unionized full-timewomen who earn only 81 per cent

of non-union full-time men’saverage ($18.16 versus $22.50).

The average unionizedworker is paid $23.58 an hourwhile the average non-unionworker is paid $18.98. Full-timeunion workers’ average wage is$24.15. Full-time non-unionworkers average only $20.55.

Part-time union workers’average wage is $19.99. Part-timenon-union workers earndramatically lower pay of $12.56.

Unionization has risenslightly among young workersaged 15 to 24 rose to 13.5 percent. It fell for all other agegroups.

Majority of union members are women

Dear President Hennessy:

I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank you for takingtime out of your busy schedule to attend this year’s Women’s Conference.Your support did not go unnoticed, and not only did you attend theconference, you also participated in all the opening sessions andworkshops. You must agree Mr. Hennessy that Teamster Women aremaking sure their voices are being heard and we know how to put on onehell of a conference.

This year we had 981 Teamsters in attendance. We had some of thebest speakers that left us with a much broader understanding of whyunions are the solution to the problems that we are all facing due to theeconomic meltdown. As you are well aware, it is important for each andevery one of us to help organize the unorganized if we want to keep ourmiddle class and leave this world a better place for the next generations tocome.

Again, Mr. Hennessy, we thank you for your endless support.Sis. Barb Adam

ITWC, Local 879

Equipping effective stewards

I will start by encouraging my fellow Teamster sisters to apply for theopportunity to attend future conferences. Wow! What an incredibleopportunity to be a part of the biggest women’s conference to date. WhenI walked into the room on the first morning I could feel the vibe and energycoming from all the women. It gave me goose bumps.

On day one of the conference I attended my first rally as aTeamster….what an empowering experience. While rallying we held oursigns high, and yelled, Dignity…Justice….Sisters!! It proves that no matterwhat size of a group you are, big or small, the Teamster Union support isthere.

Not only was I able to meet three great ladies who joined me as theLocal 31 delegates, we were also joined by President Stan Hennessey andVice-President Catherine Gastaldello. And, of course the chance to hearand see in person, our General President, Mr. James Hoffa! Let me tellyou, if anyone can get you all fired up it’s Mr. Hoffa. I would like to thankLocal 31 for this great experience and opportunity.

Sis. Pamela Manuel, Stream Vancouver Warehouse

A Canadian workshop “Teamster Women and Leadership” washosted by Brigitte Sottile, Director of Education, Teamsters Canada. Manystories were told of struggles but also of victories in the workplace. Suchthings as integrity, leading by example, building relationships, andunderstanding cultural aspects were all part of this dynamic andmotivational session.

The theme of the Conference was “Raising the Stakes”, andchallenged members to be active in organizing, enthusiastic in firing upmembers in their workplaces and government and to hold employersaccountable to the Collective Agreements they signed.

I would like to thank my Sisters & Brothers at Local 31 for allowingme to attend such an incredible Conference and I wholeheartedlyencourage others to attend next year.

Sis.Angela Allen, Steward, Abbotsford Police Dept.

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After several days ofnegotiations, beginning last year,ContainerWorld Forwarding andTeamsters Local 31 have finallysigned a Memorandum ofAgreement on March 3, which wasvoted on and ratified on March 8 by71 members in attendance.

The 130 workers werepreviously represented by anotherunion. They were not satisfied withthe representation or the conditionsin the collective agreement theyhad. As a result, they contactedLocal 31 for help. We were pleasedto be able to come to their aid. Wenow report that the members haveover 65 changes to the old

by Tom BrownBusiness Representative

I’m fast approaching my firstyear on the job and would like totake this opportunity to say thanks.

As the Teamster Local 31Business Representative for theAbbotsford School District and thecivilian staff at the AbbotsfordPolice Department, I have had anincredibly positive and rewardingtime. The reason is, quite simply,the people. In no particular orderit’s the hard working shop stewardsand other members, the supportstaff at our Annacis Island office,my fellow BusinessRepresentatives, and the seniorofficers and Executive Board of theUnion. All have been especiallygracious with their time and supportin making me feel like an integralpart of the Local 31 team.

There are a lot of issues themembers have with their employersand we have been workingdiligently at getting some resolved.Our members have a tireless groupof shop stewards who continuallyhold management accountable fortheir actions.

I have held regular meetingswith our stewards to plan strategiesand to brainstorm ideas that willhelp our members moving forward.

I had made a commitment tovisit all SD34 schools and otherfacilities by the end of March sothat I could introduce myself to themembers and get a feel for wherethey worked. I also used thesevisits to hand out business cardsand shop steward posters and tohave them placed on the unionbulletin boards at all these locations.We have a very diverse anddynamic employee group at both heSchool District and the AbbotsfordPolice Department and with thatcomes varying issues that requireour shop stewards and me to delveinto and look for resolutions. Wehave had some successes at bothbarns and will continue to workhard to achieve positive resolutions.

Brothers and Sisters, thanksagain for all the continued supportand I look forward to thechallenges the coming months willproduce.

Once again the TeamstersUnion was well represented via ourTeamsters Museum.

On November 6, 2008 MikeMcCardell of Global Television andhis cameraman paid us a visit anddid a shoot that was aired onNovember 9th, 2008 on the 6 p.m.

newscast. What an excellentpromotion for our Museum and theTeamsters Union as a whole.

We had many visitorsthroughout the long winter even

First contract reached at ContainerWorldby Terry TylerBusiness Representative

collective agreement, withimprovements included, but notlimited to

* enrolment in the TeamstersNational Benefit Plan, whichprovides weekly indemnity –something new for the membership

* enrolment in the TeamstersPension Plan

* wage increases* posting language* increase in banked overtime* numerous changes to the

language to improve workingconditions

Containerworld servesprimarily the beverage industry,unloading ocean containers anddomestic trucks. It supplies the BCLiquor Distribution Branch,

restaurants, bars and private liquorstores. The warehouse is CanadaCustoms-bonded and offers a fullrange of inventory storage anddistribution. It occupies the largestwarehouse in B.C. under one roof– more than one kilometer aroundthe outside perimeter.

Local 31 looks forward to thefuture, attending to the concerns ofour new members and improvedconditions in the future.

Special thanks go tobargaining committee membersJohn Lamb and Tyson McLaren fortheir assistance and to PresidentStan Hennessy who helped tofinalize the agreement with theCompany.

First year on the job apositive experiencebecause of thepeople

though we had lots of snow. OnMarch 7th we had the StoveboltChev Club for a well attended tour.

The next day we had theVintage Car Club VancouverChapter visit. We had over 50Vintage cars cover the Museumparking lot - the oldest a 1910 Ford.We had over 100 people attend,including our Local 31 PresidentStan Hennessy and his family. Thekids really enjoyed themselves.

As usual we are busy withmany projects. The biggest oneright now is the 1935 Diamond TLowbed C/W Winch. This one is acomplete rebuild. We are hoping tofind a sponsor for this project Wealso will be working on the 1929International. We hope we can takeit for its paint job next Fall.

We had many tours includingLions Gate Model A, Ford V8 andKids World (open house). In May

On March 7, 2009 Ron Ainey,owner of Pactow TransportServices, plunged 143 feet into thefreezing depths of the NanaimoRiver, after having been pushed.

In 1969, Pactow Transportwas started by Ron Ainey’s fatherand supplied trailer services toSeaspan International Ltd. Ronbegan his career as a driveralongside many men who are nowthe company’s most senior drivers.When his father passed away, Rontook over the day-to-day operationsof the family business. Today, withover 35 drivers and locations inVancouver, Swartz Bay andNanaimo, Ron is busy running thelongtime Teamster company.

Ron shared how he was overthe moon when his eldest son,Cody, began work at Pactow as ayard hostler. At age 24, Cody was afun-loving kid and liked by allaround him. His older co-workers,many of whom started off working

we participated in the PortCoquitlam May Day Parade.

We also would like to invite all

Local 31 Members and theirfamilies to come and pay us a visitat any of our open houses. You areall welcome.

Once again a big thank you toall our volunteers. Without themnone of this would be possible.

Norm LynchPresident & Curator

for his grandfather, kept him inline and made sure he did hisshare of the workload. Cody wasa damn good worker and a proudTeamster, who grew up aroundthe trucks.

In December, 2008 CodyAiney died unexpectedly. Withover 300 friends, family and co-workers in attendance, it wasstanding room only at hiscelebration of life.

Father Ron Ainey confidedthat no parent should ever have tobury one of his children, and that itis the hardest thing a family wouldever have to do.

“We really wanted to findsomething to keep the memory ofCody alive.”

In memory of Cody Ainey,Ron raised $5,125 for B.C.Children’s Hospital by bungeejumping off the Nanaimo RiverBridge.

There was a large turnout of

co-workers, friends and family towitness the jump and cheer Ron on.While the spirit was willing, thebody was not, and, in the end, Ronwas actually pushed by thejumpmaster. He fell 143 feet at aspeed of 50 kilometres per hour andplunged head first up to his waistinto the freezing Nanaimo River.

I think Cody would havegotten a real kick out of the jumpknowing that both Ron and he wereabsolutely terrified of heights. Thejump was a huge success, but Ronvows never to do it again.

Teamsters Museum promoted via media and tours

Pactow owner jumps from bridge (bungee that is)

Page 7

Teamsters Local 31’s 2008 AuditedFinancial Statements

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The Teamsters in B.C. have had a very long relationship with Varietythe Children’s Charity Show of Hearts Telethon. Teamster membersvolunteer their time to provide late night and early morning security for theevent at the Red Robinson Show Theatre in Coquitlam. The 2009 Telethonraised $8,304,513 to help B.C. children with special needs.

Thanks also go out to those volunteers not pictured - Cal Chan, RyanPayette, Ken Kinghorn and all the other Teamster volunteers!

If you would like to help out at next year’s telethon (January 30 & 31,2010) please email Larry Sargeant at lsargeant@teamsters31.ca.

Early Risers: Teamsters morning shift Telethon security (l-r) EdPike, Stephanie Pike, Rod Blackburn, Jim Kidd, Doug Pett,Dianne Pett, Larry Sargeant, Tom Brown, Karlene Bateman,Angela Martin, Rob Ordinal, Terry Wheats, John Lam, JohnCarroll, Russ Stackhouse, Stan Hennessy, Pat Loftus, MikeHennessy, Kevin Lowe, Ben Hennessy, Mathias Marquez, AnthonyKirk

Night Owls: Teamsters night shift Telethon security (l-r) RobOrdinal, Paul Mior, Richard Van Grol, Bleu Dumont, John Lam,Larry Sargeant, Russ Stackhouse, Kevin Lowe, Ben Hennessy,Mike Hennessy, Tom Brown, Pat Loftus, Stuart Ireland, TerryWheats

Helping B.C.’s special kids

Dear Stan:

It is with much appreciation and thanks to you and Teamsters Local31 for providing the Teamsters’ new truck and trailer for our AnnualFamily Picnic.

The Teamsters’ truck was an added attraction for the employees andmany of them used the truck as a backdrop for picture taking. There weremany comments made about how eye-catching the truck was. Goodpositive feedback on the colour and design.

The picnic and subsequent open house tour of our newly-expandedand renovated facility at Purolator Courier in Richmond was anoutstanding success. Over the course of four-and-a-half hours, we hadalmost 300 people come and go. Although months of preparation goes intothis event we still managed to be somewhat disorganized in regards to thekids races, thankfully no one seemed to mind though. All in all it was a funtime for everyone, especially the kids, and that is the main purpose fordoing it.

We certainly hope you enjoyed the part of your day that you spentwith us. It was nice that the Union had some representatives there.

Once again, thank you for making our picnic that much morememorable.

From the TEAM 99 members:

Lynda Field, Chris MacKay, Christene Walser, Fiona Guerrerro,Sandra Jewitt, Christine Leigh, Trish Wells, Pat Symons, SperoMoukas

(l-r) John Lam,Purolator Burnabyshop steward, Stan

Hennessy, President,Lynda Field, Trustee,

Anthony Kirk,Business

Representative

Teamster truck an added attraction at Purolator Open House

Local 31 General Membership MeetingsSchedule

Vancouver2nd Wednesday of the Month623 Derwent Way, Annacis Isld7:00 p.m.Abbotsford1st Thursday of the MonthADTA Hall2570 Cyril St., AbbotsfordCustodial @ 1 p.m.General @ 6:30 p.m.Nanaimo2nd Tuesday of the Month3 – 2480 Kenworth Road7:00 p.m.

Victoria2nd Thursday of the MonthPro Patria Legion,411 Gorge Rd. East7:00 p.m.Prince George and NorthernB.C.Please call 250-563-5346 or1-877-562-2531 for times andlocations

Congratulations to all the Teamsters Local 31 members who placedin this year’s B.C. Professional Truck Driving Championships heldthis summer.

Team Award: 1st - Canadian Freightways – MaryAnne Black,Evan Hirst, Robert Mullen, Monty Watson, Hans Wettstein

Step-Van 1st - Robert Mullen, Canadian Freightways2nd - Tony Gomez, Canadian Freightways3rd - John Carroll, Van-Kam Freightways

Straight Truck 1st - Hans Wettstein, Canadian Freightways

Single-Single 1st - Jack Newton, Canadian Freightways2nd - Evan Hirst, Canadian Freightways3rd - Jose Lecinana, Canadian Freightways

Single Tandem 1st - Edward Rolson, Van-Kam Freightways2nd - Michael Myles, Van-Kam Freightways3rd - Brian Vanzetta, Canadian Freightways

Tandem-Tandem 2nd - Rob Balan, Canadian Freightways3rd - John Broker, Martin-Brower of Canada

B-Train 2nd - Adam Besse, Canadian Freightways

Congratulations!

Page 9

Editor’s Note: TeamstersLocal 31 is proud to featuresome of our members and theiraccomplishments away from thejob. Darren Darby is aPurolator Courier driver andwas featured in The Provincesports section on June 14th thisyear, and we were givenpermission to reprint his story in31NEWS.

Story by Steve Ewen, The ProvincePhotos by Gerry Kahrmann, TheProvince

Darren Darby has so manypeople in his corner that it mightnot be long before they get amailbox and a stoplight there.

The Surrey boxer, a Purolatortruck driver by day, is so upbeatthat you start to wonder if he canbe beat. He’s got an ever-growingentourage — tag them TeamDarby — lending whatever handthey can as he chases down hisdream of winning a Canadiantitle.The support group is led by hisunderstanding wife, Denise, andfour young sons, but there’s also akick boxer, a mixed martial artist, apower lifter, a naturopath doctorand a host of others. Throw in apartridge and a pear tree and theremight be a song.

Darby does have a 5-11-3career record. That can’t beignored.

But he has a plan and, for thepast year or so, a whole lot ofbacking, and that together can be apowerful thing.

“When I win thatbelt one day, I’m goingto hold it up for a secondand then I’m going topass it into my cornerand make sureeverybody gets to touchit, like they do with the

Stanley Cup,” said Darby, 32, whohas six rounds scheduled withCalgary’s Steve Claggett on theundercard of Rumble at the RockVI next Friday.

“And then I’m going to runaround in the stands and make sureeverybody there gets to touch it,too. When I win that belt one day,I’m going to ask them to make mea bigger belt, one that can fit abunch of people. There’s a lot ofpeople involved in this.”

Darby gets much of theexpertise, merchandise and gymtime for free or at a dramaticallydiscounted rate. People havebought in. It’s easy to do.

He’s usually out the doorbefore 2:30 a.m. every morning todrive a truck for Purolator.

He finishes up by earlyafternoon. He trains for a couple ofhours. He goes home for an hour ortwo to be with his family. He goesback and trains some more. He’susually home and in bed by 9 p.m.

Darby vehemently contendsthat the whole thing doesn’t happenwithout Denise, who carries muchof the responsibility of running herdover Ethan, 2; Maximus, 3; andKaden, 5. Darby’s son fromanother relationship, Jahkai, 10,lives in Toronto but is coming herefor a chunk of the summer, addingyet another dimension.

Did we mention Denise alsomakes Darren’s boxing shorts?People really are chipping inwherever they can.

“Darren is a great friend and

his group of family and friendsreally care about him and how hedoes,” said Jody Cranston, anoted power lifter who is Darby’sstrength trainer.

“Darren is a guy who isalways there for you, so we arethere for him. Boxing is anextremely dangerous sport so wewant to give him all the supportwe can.”

Darby insists that he’s “100times better than his record,” and,with this group backing him now,he swears he could win thelightweight (135-pound) CanadianBoxing Federation title if given ashot. The championship currentlysits vacant.

Manny Sobral, the promoterbehind the Rumble at the Rockseries, backs up Darby, insistingthat he’s hung tough with solidcompetition, guys like ArisAmbriz, a 10-0-0 Californian whobeat Darby with a fifth-roundtechnical knockout last November

in Oregon.Sobral says that a win over 4-0-

0 Claggett would help the makeDarby’s case for a title try.

Sobral might be a tad biased.

He’s coached Darby some. Thenagain, it’s difficult to find somebodyhe’s met who hasn’t wanted to helphim.

“I think Darren is a throwbackto the old-time fighters who wouldtravel the country and box just aboutanyone in their backyards,” saidSobral, the former Canadian Olympicwelterweight.

“Most of his bouts have beenagainst undefeated, up-and-comingprospects, and he’s held more thanhis own.

“This match gives Darren achance to box an undeafeated fighterin his backyard.

“Darren has a world-classpunch that gives him a shot againstjust about anyone he steps into thering with.”

Union member by day, title-shotboxer by night

Darren Darby (centre) has a huge support network. From left, JodyCranston (power lifter and personal trainer), Jason Fenton (kick boxer),Paul Forde (MMA fighter), Barbara Barley (runs Sports Central Gym,where Darby does much of training), wife Denise Darby with childrenKaden, Ethan, and Max, and Dr. Kris Bentz (naturopath).

Editor’s Note: Bro. DavidBoudreau is another memberfrom Purolator Courier who hasachieved much in the sportingworld. Thank you to Local 31Trustee Lynda Field and thePurolator newsletter forsubmitting this article.

David Boudreau was shy asa child. To help him overcome hisshyness, Bro. Boudreau’s fatherenrolled him in the alpine skiingprogram at Special Olympics BC(SOBC), a registered charitableorganization dedicated to providingindividuals with intellectualdisabilities the opportunity tocelebrate personal achievementthrough positive sportsexperiences.

“Skiing was a huge challengefor me,” Bro. Boudreau recalled,“but I soon discovered thateveryone in the program had ahard time learning.”

“My coaches gave me achance. They were patient andhelped me learn. Skiing opened upmy world and my dreams.”

Bro. Boudreau began trainingfor the Special Olympics threeyears ago, dedicating three to fourevenings a week to his intensetraining regimen. In December2007, he began his career withPurolator as an AM sorter andskillfully managed to continuetraining while working full-time atPurolator’s Port Kells terminal.

“My job comes first, thensports,” said Bro. Boudreau. “A lot

of athletes find it difficult to get afull-time job. It’s particularlytough to keep a full-time job thatpays well. And Purolator is agreat place to work. Everyone’snice. If I need help, I get it.”

The 25-year-old athlete leftfor the Special Olympics NationalWinter Games on Feb. 24, 2008hoping to realize his dreams, andcame home with an impressivefour-medal win. David capturedOlympic gold in the men’s super-G, silver in the men’s downhill andtwo bronze medals in the men’sslalom and giant slalom.

Never forgetting the wayskiing changed his life, he nowchooses to give back to thecommunity in which he lives andworks. “Now I teach children

Teamster member skis for Team Canada at Special Olympicswith Down’s syndrome how to ski. Iwant to give back. I want to see thechildren smile and have a good time.”

Bro. Boudreau will ski for TeamCanada in Idaho from Feb. 2 to 13 atthe 2009 Special Olympics WorldWinter Games. He now works in theAir Ops Division at the RichmondHub.

COURAGE isresistance to fear,mastery of fear -

not absence of fear.~Mark Twain

Page 10

Teamsters Local 31 provides scholarships to deserving graduates ofthe Yukon Individual Learning Centre. The ILC rents space in theLocal’s Black Street offices. Congratulations to the five graduates ofthe ILC who each merited a $200 scholarship from the Local:

Jessica BienSylvia MacKenzieJason JohnsonGiselle Graf-SmithJennifer Wilson

Congratulations Yukon graduates!

When Purolator Burnaby shop steward John Lam learned that hisfriend and co-worker Ken Rombough had been diagnosed with colorectalcancer and an inoperable tumor in his hip, he knew he wanted to dosomething to help.

Bro. Rombough is 56 years old and has worked for Purolator/GelcoExpress for 21 years, making many friends on the job. With this diagnosishe also learned he had only about two months to live.

Bro. Lam decided to raise funds to support Saint Joseph’s Hospicein Comox which was taking care of Bro. Rombough. On April 11th, Bro.Lam had his head shaved after having received pledges from family,friends, co-workers and union brothers and sisters.

In total, Bro. Lam raised over $1,800 in donations, all of which gotowards helping the Hospice take loving care of other cancer patients.

As of the printing of this newsletter, Bro. Lam reports that Bro.Rombough is “alive and well and living in Comox”, defying his doctors’prognoses. Every two weeks he makes the trip to the mainland forchemotherapy treatments at Lions Gate Hospital.

Local 31 commends Bro. Lam for doing his part in helping a friendand union brother during this difficult time.

Before: Bro. John Lam in a stylizedmohawk just before getting his headshaved for Saint Joseph’s Hospice inComox

After: “It’s a bit chilly!”

Bro. Marc Thériault of Deltahas been involved in SpecialOlympics for the past 14 years.Marc is the first athlete in SpecialOlympics British Columbia history

to win gold medals at five WorldGames in three different sports.

Marc currently participates infigure skating, curling, softball andsoccer. Some of Marc’s mostmemorable moments in Special

Olympics happened at the 1999World Summer Games in Raleigh,North Carolina where he hit thegame winning inside-the-parkhomerun to win Gold for Canadaalong with his teammates from theKelowna Grizzlies Softball Team.This was followed by a Gold Medalin Figure Skating (Level 5 -Singles)at the 2001 World Winter Games inAnchorage, Alaska – where Marcsuccessfully landed the first-everdouble-jump in Special OlympicsInternational Competition. Theresults of this competition changedthe structure of Special Olympicsfigure skating in the singlescategory as we see it today. Thisled up to his next world appearanceat the 2005 World Winter Games inNagano, Japan where he competedagain in figure skating – this time intwo categories (paired up with hisfiancé, Alexandra Magee – wherethey won Gold at Level 2) andMarc also won a Silver Medal inLevel 6 Men’s Singles.

Marc’s next appearance wasat the 2007 World Summer Gamesin Shanghai, China. Together with

his teammates from the SurreyVipers Soccer team, where theybattled on to win Gold in a shootout

– Marc scored the game winninggoal against Team Peru. Marc’s lastappearance at a World Gameshappened in 2009 at the WorldWinter Games in Boise, Idaho –where he regained his world title inFigure Skating (Level 6 Singles) bywinning Gold for Special OlympicsCanada.

Since 1997 Marc has beenemployed as a Material Handler forThe Hudson’s Bay Company inRichmond, BC. Marc very muchappreciates the support he has beengiven by The Hudson’s BayCompany – who have allowed himtime off for training and competitionwhen necessary.

In his down time Marc alsoenjoys spending time with thefriends he has made through SpecialOlympics. Marc also assists bothSpecial Olympics Surrey andSpecial Olympics BC in manycharity events to help raise fundsand awareness of Special Olympicsin various communities throughoutBritish Columbia.

On July 28, 2009 – Marc waschosen as a Torch Bearer for the

2010 Olympic Winter Games. Hewas nominated by The Hudson’s

Bay Company as their first choiceto represent the company in thetorch run.

While competing and winningin the highest levels of SpecialOlympics Figure Skating, in alldisciplines, Marc is now workingtowards his Senior Silver FreeSkate and Senior Silver Dancelevels in the Skate Canada testsystem. To top off all of hissuccesses, Marc was inducted intothe BC Special Olympics Hall ofFame in 2008.

Marc lives with his parents,Karen and Gérard, who supporthim in all of his efforts. Marc isengaged to his skating partner andfellow Special Olympian, AlexandraMagee. Marc has a sister, Amy,brother-in-law, Doug and one niece,Sydney – whom he adores.

Marc’s positive attitude iscontagious to those who are aroundhim. His friends and family credithis achievements to his drive anddetermination to succeed. Despiteall of the recognition that Marcreceives, he remains a modest anddown to earth individual.

Braving the chill for a friend

HBC Teamster member sets record for Special Olympians

Page 11

Each year the Local selects astudent to accept this award whobest embraces the attributes of pastmember, Art Price—a highlyrespected member of Local 31from August 1960 until his passingon April 22, 1993. In his longTeamster career, Brother Priceserved as chairman for the shopstewards; he served on several setsof freight negotiation committees;and rose to the rank of businessrepresentative and finallysecretary-treasurer.

This year the Local is verypleased to award this scholarship, inthe amount of $1,000.00, toElizabeth Wenting - daughter ofLauri Wenting, member at SD # 34,also granddaughter of MargaretWenting, a long time member. Sheis seen accepting her award fromAbbotsford Business Agent TomBrown and Secretary-TreasurerRod Blackburn. Elizabeth, agraduate of Mission SecondarySchool, was in the top ten of herclass in grades 10 through 12. Sheearned the Junior and Senior MusicLeadership Award in grades 8,9,10and 11 and was a member of thechoir, school jazz & concert bandsfor five years

Elizabeth is very activelyinvolved with Girl Guides ofCanada. Now in her 10th year, shevolunteers as a junior leader andacting secretary/communicationsperson for her unit. She has beenskating with the Mission RacersSpeed Skating Club for six yearsand is now a coach for juniorskaters.

Still, Elizabeth manages to findtime to volunteer with OperationRed Nose in the Mission CandleLight parade, which she’s done forthe last seven years and workspart-time at a fitness centrebabysitting and cleaning.

Her teachers say that she is agreat role model for the youngerstudents; is friendly and courteousand always on-task—the kind ofstudent that can be counted on toget things done.

Elizabeth is enrolled in theBachelor of Science program at theUniversity of the Fraser Valley. Itis her goal to become a generalpractitioner one day.Congratulations, Elizabeth.

The Art Price MemorialScholarship is awarded annually tothe child of any Teamster memberin good standing. Applications mustbe submitted to the Local no laterthan August 30.

We have often heard theexpression “education opensdoors” but there is an old Chineseproverb that says, “Teachers openthe door, but you must enter byyourself.”

This year four of ourmembers’ children have steppedboldly over the threshold with somevery big steps. The followingstudents have been awarded thisprestigious scholarship:

Wendy Lee –$1,000 James R.Hoffa Memorial Scholarship

Wendy is the daughter ofWayne Lee, a member working forVancouver Police Department.She has been actively involvedwith Royal Canadian Air Cadetssince 2004. She graduated fromJohnston Heights SecondarySchool in the top 15% of her gradeand received the Top BandsmanAward and a Major ServiceAward. She was an activemember of the student council forfive years and participated in manyleadership activities. She is alsoinvolved in aquatics where shecontinues to show leadership as alifeguard and swim instructor.

Her teachers say that areview of her accomplishmentsshows that she would be well-suited to many professions. Her

workethic isexcellentand sheconsistentlydedicatedherselfto thecultureof herhighschoolby

helping to organize projects such as“Bully Beware” and the Arts Club,formed to beautify the school andthe community. She is a seriousand motivated student and hopes tocontinue her education at SimonFraser University.

David Martinez –$10,000James R. Hoffa MemorialScholarship

David is the son of CarolyneJ. Martinez, a member at SD#34and the brother of Carlos who wasawarded a scholarship last year.He is a straight A student andgraduate of Rick HansenSecondary School in Abbotsford.He participated in importantacademic contests: Skills Canadaand Physics Olympics. He alsoexcelled in the “Link Crew”Leadership and Mentoringprogram. David was a majorcontributor to his high school’s

culture and to the betterment of thecommunity by being activelyinvolved in the Global AwarenessClub. As such he participated inshoreline cleanups, a 24hour famine,and recycling programs. He alsovolunteered his time to tutor otherstudents, record the football games

and keeptimeduringbasketballgames.

Heis a strongathletespecializingin defenceon thefootball

team; does cross country skiing andwas an avid member of his highschool’s Frisbee team.

David’s teachers say that he isan amazingly talented and wellrounded individual and that hiscommitment to excellence andpassion for success has always beenevident. Furthermore, he is a leaderwho uses his skills and abilities tothe maximum, has character, andmakes those around him better. Hecurrently attends the University ofthe Fraser Valley to pursue a degreein Science.

Krystal Samways –$1,000 JamesR. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship

Krystal, the grandchild ofGeorge Samways, a member withVan Kam Seaboard Cartage,graduated from AldergroveCommunity Secondary School withstraight ‘A’s. She has receivedseveral awards for her academicachievements in French, English,Social Studies, Life Sciences, andothers. She is pictured receiving herscholarship award from PrinceGeorge Business RepresentativeJohn Ellis, who is retiring January,2010.

Her volunteer experience andextracurricular activities are variedand many: she is an accomplishedmusician and was a member of thehigh school jazz bands. Shevolunteers with the Valley

Therapeutic Equestrian Associationand shares her knowledge as atutor and mentor with otherstudents. She held the position ofVice-President of her studentcouncil. Krystal also teaches pianoand is a cosmetician and cashier atShoppers Drug Mart. Shecurrently attends the University ofNorthern BC in Prince George andaspires to become a geneticsresearcher.

Kurtis Stewart –$1,000 JamesR. Hoffa Memorial Scholarship

Kurtis is the son of RandyStewart, a member working atUnited Parcel Service (Coastal).He graduated from LordTweedsmuir Secondary School witha 4.0 grade point average rankingfirst in a class of 275. He receivedTop All-Round Student recognitionin 2006 and 2008 and TopAcademic Student in 2006 and2007. Also recognized as a topathlete, Kurtis is involved in varioussports including soccer, volleyball,golf, baseball, and track and field.

He has clocked in many hoursof volunteer service from workingat the food bank to peer tutoring.His most significant, he feels, hasbeen spent working at children’scamps where he learned how to bea positive role model for others, theimportance of honesty, how to dealwithresponsibilityand howto be agoodinfluencein thecommunity.Thus, hehasdiscovereda passionto workwithothers in a way that will benefitthem and their community. Kurtisis now enrolled at the University ofBC to eventually become apsychologist. His goal is to use hiseducation to help people, especiallychildren.

We extend our best wishesand congratulations to all of you!The scholarship fund wasestablished in 1999 in recognition ofJames R. Hoffa’s tireless service tothe Union and its members.Recipients are selected by animpartial committee of universityadmissions and financial aiddirectors based on academicachievement, SAT/ACT scores,character, potential and financialneed. Guidelines may be obtainedby contacting Local 31 union officeor by visiting www.teamster.org.

Opening doors to learningArt Price Memorial

Scholarship

Page 12

How to Reach Your Union Representatives

Local 31 Toll Free 1-877-LOCAL31Local 31 Reception (604) 540-6009

Local 31 Fax (604) 540-6073 or (604) 523-1897www.teamsters31.ca

Lower Mainland RepresentativesTerry Tyler (604) 527-2711 ttyler@teamsters31.caCheryl Popeniuk (604) 527-2706 cpopeniuk@teamsters31.caLarry Sargeant (604) 527-2718 lsargeant@teamsters31.caRichard Van Grol (604) 527-2709 rvangrol@teamsters31.caDave Cooper (604) 527-2708 dcooper@teamsters31.ca

AbbotsfordTom Brown 604-504-4520 tbrown@teamsters31.ca

1-877-562-2531

Vancouver Island1-877-562-2531

Prince GeorgeJohn Ellis (250) 563-5346Anthony Kirk

YukonJure Kelava (867) 667-2473

Organizing Dept.Toll Free: 1-877-BE UNIONJure Kelava (604) 527-2722 jkelava@teamsters31.ca

Dispatch (604) 527-2718

DuesAngela Martin (604) 527-2701Dianne Pett (604) 527-2702

Executive OfficeStan Hennessy (604) 527-2716 shennessy@teamsters31.caRod Blackburn (604) 527-2707 rblackburn@teamsters31.ca

Teamsters H&W & Pension(604) 552-2650

Toll Free 1-888-478-8111

Local 31 extends its condolences to thefamilies of the following members who havepassed away.Dev Revel VPD 56Martha Christensen Diversified 46Orville Ewing Van-Kam 44Cody Ainey Pactow 24Arthur Smith Van-Kam 51Donel Regnier School District 34 64Allen Taylor 57Harminder Bains Gulf Islands Cartage 52Eric Chrona 62Victoria Jones School District 59 53Eunice Krahenbil School District 34 55Louis Lo Hudson’s Bay Co. 59Clifford Prato Canadian Fwys. 57Cecilia Shum Hudson’s Bay Co. 56Scott Speirs YRC Reimer 54William Stratford Van Kam FwysMax Sauter Motorways (retired)Gordon Hardman

Name Company Years aTeamster

Ken Guthrie Ryder Transpacific 37Richard Hobday Canadian Freightways 41John Johnson Canadian FreightwaysDouglas Jordan Superior Propane 28Peter King Canadian Feightways 28Pierre Le Gal Superior Propane 20Gregory Lenz 8Khan Lodhi Beachcomber Hot Tubs 19George Lundy 35George Mui Metro Vancouver 13Sidney Armbruster YRC Reimer 37Shirley Belansky 18Josephine Berg School District No. 59 17Wayne Blackburn Canadian Freightways 32Robert Bruce Columbia Containers 9Susan Clarke Metro Vancouver 13Joseph Doucette YRC Reimer 28Sandy Ferris Vancouver Police Dept. 5Clarence Flynn 40Ian Fraser Pactow Transport 35Ross Peterson Teamsters Local 31 40Louis Pratt Lindsays Cartage 36Rebecca Scherban Metro Vancouver 13Ramona Volmers HBC Logistics 1Larry Whelehan North 60 Petro 18Vicki Yip Vancouver Police Dept. 12Sandra Allen Vancouver Police Dept. 20Shirley BelanskyKen Bramham Pt Coquitlam Transfer 22John Carignan Purolator BurnabyTerry Dearden Canadian Freightways 23Roger Donais Clarke Transport 20Maureen Dunster Vancouver Police Dept. 32Benny Durant District Delivery 23Stan Granda Purolator Prince George 13Linda Harris School District No. 34 28William Mack YRC Reimer 39Donald MaitlandMelvin Morberg YRC Reimer 1Manfred OtterDavid Pike Canadian Freightways 35Roy Renouf Mountain Pacific Transport 23Susan Taylor School District No. 59 16Tage Thomsen YRC ReimerNeil Tiernan School District No. 59 38

Congratulations Local 31 retirees!

Death Benefit CardsThis is a reminder to all Local 31 members that it is very important to

have a Death Benefit Card filled out and submitted to the Local 31 DuesOffice.

Also, if your beneficiary needs to be changed or if you would like tocheck that your beneficiary information is current, please come to theHead office or phone Angela Martin at (604) 527-2701 or Dianne Pett at(604) 527-2702 and they will check their records.

If you are absent from work for any reasonMembers are responsible for keeping their dues current when they

are absent from work.If your dues lapse you could lose seniority with your company and

become suspended. If you become suspended, you must pay a re-initiationfee.

Keep your dues current!Call the Dues office to check your status.604-527-2701 Angela604-527-2702 Dianne

Important Messages from your DuesDepartment

31NEWS is an official publication of Teamsters Local Union No. 31,affiliated with the International Brotherhood of Teamsters,Teamsters Canada and the Canadian Labour Congress.

Edited by: Terry Tyler, Communications Director &Stan Hennessy, President

Layout: Stephanie Pike