Local 653
Fact Finder
Minneapolis, MN
http://ufcw653.org
Vol.52, No.6, June 2014
Roundy’s Exits Twin Cities Market
By Matt Utecht
Sales rumors have swirled around Rainbow Foods (which is owned by
Roundy’s Supermarkets, Inc. out of Milwaukee) in the Twin Cities area for
years. They included but weren’t limited to Hy-Vee, Walmart, Kroger’s,
Miner’s Super One, and even a few who thought bankruptcy wasn’t out
of the question. The bottom line is that over the last couple of years our
members who work in these stores watched helplessly as changes in the
day-to-day store operations at Rainbow deteriorated, and the fear of
continued store closings grew.
bargained a “Store Closing Agreement” that will provide a “severance
package” for any Rainbow employee who is still employed and who
meets the requirements at the time of a Rainbow closing. I also sat down
with each of the purchasing employers and bargained “Store Acquisition
Agreements” which spell out the process and employment terms for
Rainbow employees to follow while reapplying with their new employers.
The sale of Rainbow has created a lot of anxiety amongst our membership,
and for those members in the six stores that weren’t a part of the initial
Continued store closings certainly would have been a painful end result, purchase it has been even more difficult. Through these difficult times
and the idea that a nonunion grocer might purchase
our employers have stepped up and are doing
the chain would have been equally disastrous; Continued store closings everything they can to give jobs to as many Rainbow
neither would be the case. On a Saturday in mid- certainly would have been workers in the six stores as possible. For those who
February I was asked if I would be available to attend a painful end result, and aren’t retained, this union will work closely to be
a meeting here at the Union Hall by a group of our
sure severance is paid when stores do close; also,
the idea that a nonunion we will coordinate enrolling our members in the
union employers. I assumed the subject would be
contract negotiations being we were down to our grocer might purchase “Dislocated Workers Program” which is offered
last few weeks in that process. Much to my surprise the chain would have been through the Minnesota AFL-CIO to provide training
both I and Secretary-Treasurer Paul Crandall, who equally disastrous.
in new professions for dislocated workers.
also attended, were asked by the employers to
sign confidentiality agreements. It was then the plan for our unionized While the final closing date for this sale isn’t set until sometime in July, the
hiring process has begun and our Rainbow members are moving forward.
employer group to purchase Rainbow was made known to me.
During these stressful times many questions will arise, and rumors will be
On Wednesday, May 7, the best possible scenario came true, and was spread; your union is here to answer questions and dispel rumors. Please
finally made public. A group of Twin Cities grocers announced the asset contact your union representative at 763-525-1500, Monday – Friday,
acquisition of Rainbow Foods: Corporate Cub Foods to buy four stores, 8:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m., and cell phones after hours and weekends. (If you
Lunds/Byerly’s to buy two stores, Jerry’s to buy four stores, and Haug need a cell number, call 763-525-1500.)
Corp. to buy one store (all Minneapolis Local 653 stores). Another six
As we move forward, I will continue to update you on the transition
Rainbow locations were not acquired, and may close if not purchased.
process.
Prior to the announcement I sat down with Roundy’s representatives and
WALMART ON TAX DAY: How Taxpayers Subsidize America’s Biggest Employer and Richest Family
On tax day, when millions of American taxpayers and small businesses pay their fair share to support critical public services and the economy, they
will also get stuck with a multi-billion dollar tax bill to cover the massive subsidies and tax breaks that benefit the country’s largest employer and
richest family.
Walmart is the largest private employer in the United States,1 with 1.4 million employees.2 The company, which is number one of the Fortune
500 in 2013 and number two on the Global 5003, had $16 billion in profits last year on revenues of $473 billion.4 The Walton family, which owns
more than 50 percent of Walmart shares,5 reaps billions in annual dividends from the company.6 The six Walton heirs are the wealthiest family in
America, with a net worth of $148.8 billion.7 Collectively, these six Waltons have more wealth than 49 million American families combined.8
This report finds that the American public is providing enormous tax breaks and tax subsidies to Walmart and the Walton family, further boosting
corporate profits and the family’s already massive wealth at everyone else’s expense. Specifically, our analysis shows that:
Walmart and the Walton family receive tax breaks and taxpayer subsidies estimated at more than $7.8 billion a year – that is enough money to
hire 105,000 new public school teachers.
The annual subsidies and tax breaks to Walmart and the Waltons include the following:
•
Walmart receives an estimated $6.2 billion annually in mostly federal taxpayer subsidies. The reason: Walmart pays its employees so
little that many of them rely on food stamps, health care and other taxpayer-funded programs.
•
Walmart avoids an estimated $1 billion in federal taxes each year. The reason: Walmart uses tax breaks and loopholes, including a
strategy known as accelerated depreciation that allows it to write off capital investments considerably faster than the assets actually wear
out.
(Walmart--continued on Page 2)
Walmart - continued from Page 1
•
The Waltons avoid an estimated $607 million in federal taxes on their Walmart dividends. The reason: Income from investments is
taxed at a much lower tax rate than income from salaries and wages.
In addition to the $7.8 billion in annual subsidies and tax breaks, the Walton family is avoiding an estimated $3 billion in taxes by using specialized
trusts to dodge estate taxes – and this number could increase by tens of billions of dollars.
Walmart also benefits significantly from taxpayer-funded public assistance programs that pump up the retailer’s sales. For example, Walmart had
an estimated $13.5 billion in food stamp sales last year.
Table of Key Findings
ESTIMATED ANNUAL SUBSIDIES AND TAX BREAKS
TO WALMART AND THE WALTON FAMILY
WALMART
Cost to taxpayers of Walmart workers relying on
public assistance programs due to low wages and
benefits
Cost of federal tax breaks benefiting Walmart
Cost of direct economic development subsidies by
state and local governments
WALTON FAMILY
Cost of preferential tax rate on Walmart dividends
claimed by the Walton family
ANNUAL TOTAL
COST TO TAXPAYERS
$6.2 billion
$1 billion
$70 million
COST TO TAXPAYERS
$607 million
$7.8 billion
Estimated number of teachers that could be hired with $7.8 billion
105,131
ESTIMATED ONE-TIME TAX BREAKS TO THE WALTONS
Cost of tax avoidance by Walton family through use
of special estate tax trusts
$3 billion
potential for additional tens of billions
OTHER TAXPAYER-FUNDED BENEFITS TO WALMART
Estimated annual revenue from food stamp sales
$13.5 billion
Endnotes
Alexander E.M. Hess, “The 10 largest employers in America,” USA Today (August 22, 2013). http://www.usatoday.com/story/money/business/2013/08/22/ten-largest-employers/2680249/
2
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Form 10-K (filed March 21, 2014), p. 13. http://www.sec.gov/Archives/edgar/data/104169/000010416914000019/wmtform10-kx13114.htm
3
Fortune, “Global 500: Walmart” (Retrieved April 2, 2014). http://money.cnn.com/magazines/fortune/glob-al500/2013/snapshots/2255.html?iid=G500_sp_list
4
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc. “Walmart reports Q4 underlying EPS of $1.60, Fiscal 2014 underlying EPS of $5.11” (Feb. 20, 2014). http://news.walmart.com/news-archive/
investors/2014/02/20/walmart-reports-q4-underlying1-eps-of-160-fiscal-2014-underlying1-eps-of-511 5
This calculation of Walton family share ownership is derived from Wal-Mart Stores, Inc., Proxy Statement (filed April 22, 2013), p. 67. http://www.sec.gov/Archives/
edgar/data/104169/000130817913000238/lwalmart_def14a.htm
6
Shelly Banjo, “At Walmart, Maturity Means Fat Dividends,” Wall Street Journal (June 1, 2012). http://online.wsj.com/news/articles/SB1000142405270230355210457
7440144281187990 7
Forbes, “The World’s Billionaires” (Accessed March 3, 2014). http://www.forbes.com/billionaires/list/#tab:over-all_search:walton; Megan Willett and Mike Nudelman,
“Meet the Waltons: A Guide to America’s Wealthiest Family,” Business Insider (Oct. 9, 2013). http://www.businessinsider.com/meet-the-waltons-wal-mart-family-tree-2013-10
8
Politifact Wisconsin, “Just How Wealthy is the Walton Family?” (November 27, 2013). http://www.politifact.com/wisconsin/statements/2013/dec/08/one-wisconsin-now/justhow-wealthy-wal-mart-walton-family/. Jesse Bricker, Arthur B. Kennickell, Kevin B. Moore, and John Sabelhaus, “Changes in U.S. Family Finances from 2007 to 2010:
Evidence from the Survey of Consumer Finances,” Federal Reserve Bulletin, vol. 98, no 2, (February 2012), pp. 1-80. http://www.federalreserve.gov/pubs/bulletin/2012/pdf/scf12.pdf (The Politifact Wisconsin story rates as true the claim that the Waltons have as much wealth as 41.5
percent of American families. Bricker et al report that the total number of families represented in the 2010 Survey of Consumer Finances upon which this claim was
1
based is 117.6 million; 41.5 percent of 117.6 million is 48.8 million).
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 2
Shop Union on Your Summer Vacation or a One-Day Getaway!
By Paul Crandall
Memorial Day is upon us and
with our cold spring, I know
everyone is itching to get up north
to camp, fish, and just plain relax.
If you are fortunate enough to get
away to the Brainerd lakes area, please
remember to shop at the UFCW Local
653 stores that employ your fellow union
brothers and sisters.
These stores are very clean, well-staffed, and
geared up to handle what should be a great summer
for any activity we like to do outdoors. In Brainerd,
Local 653 represents the employees at the Quisberg’s
Cub store and the employees of S.A.V.E Tobacco and
Liquor (complete with fuel). In Baxter, Local 653 represents
the Quisberg’s Cub store and Miner’s Super One Foods. In
Pequot Lakes, Local 653 represents the employees of Pequot
Lakes Super Valu and Heroes coffee shop, and in Crosby Local
653 represents the employees of Super One Foods, a great little
Cub Foods Brainerd
417 8th Avenue Northeast
Brainerd
S.A.V.E. Tobacco and
Liquor
701 Industrial Park Road
Brainerd
Cub Foods Baxter
14133 Edgewood Drive
Baxter
store that provides full service with an awesome meat and deli
department!
If you are just getting away for a day or a weekend, don’t forget to
check out an awesome union benefit available to all members—Camp
653. Located in Monticello on beautiful Lake Ida, Camp 653 has
campsites for tents and campers, clean bathrooms and showers, and
a nice, clean, sandy beach for the kids. To reserve a spot at Camp 653
just call the union office at 763-525-1500 and speak to Molly.
Back to shopping union, please pick up your grocery needs at the
Monticello Cub store where Local 653 represents close to 100
hardworking members. If your travels take you to the Saint Cloud
area, stop in the Byerly’s meat department for delicious burgers,
steaks, brats, or if you didn’t catch any fish, their seafood case is
amazing. Say “hi” to the Local 653 meat department employees.
Please make every effort to patronize these union stores any time
you travel to these areas, and let the employees and manager know
you’re a Local 653 member. Below I have listed the names and
addresses of our 653 stores.
Super One Foods Baxter
7895 Excelsior Road
North
Baxter
Monticello Cub Foods
216 7th Street West
Monticello
Pequot Lakes Super Valu
30503 State Highway 371
Pequot Lakes
Byerly’s Foods Saint
Cloud
“Meat Department”
2510 West Division Street
St. Cloud
Crosby Super One Foods
101 East Main Street
Crosby
Thank you for patronizing these union stores!
Proper Vacation Etiquette
By Greg Larson
You earned your vacation. You deserve your vacation. Don’t forget to enjoy your vacation that is paid time off! If you did not write down your
vacation on the vacation planner calendar that should have been posted from January 1, 2014, through February 15, 2014, you do have the right
to request vacation time a minimum of two weeks prior to the desired taking of vacation. As long as no one else is on vacation that week, they do
not have the right to deny your paid vacation as long as another employee in your classification has not requested vacation ahead of you. Super
seniority is a misconception when it comes to vacation selection or trying to take the same week of vacation off as long as another coworker did not
sign up first. Remember, a vacation cannot be denied because of a holiday week or “just because.” Employees are allowed to take a vacation week
anytime during the 52 weeks of the year.
From time to time, some employees like to sign up for vacation and then decide to not take vacation at the time of posting the schedule for the
upcoming work week. To play a game, because they think that it’s their right to because of their seniority or whatever, is WRONG! The company can
make you take that vacation you signed up for, period. To play games with vacation time is poor etiquette and just plain rude to your coworkers. You
work with one another, and I have always said that 50% of vacation is the anticipation of looking forward to going. Respect when another coworker
would like to take their vacation time.
If you don’t recall, there was an employer proposal during the 2014 Minneapolis Retail Contract negotiations to Discontinue Past Practice on
employers allowing employees to “bank” or “roll over” unused vacation from year to year. Local 653 President Matt Utecht, the contract bargaining
committee, and the union attorney addressed this issue during 2014 negotiations, and vacation can be banked or rolled over. I always said that it is
important to take a break from the workplace and that is why you have paid vacation.
In closing, they can limit but not deny any weeks for vacation on the calendar. Your company, employees, and coworkers are by far the best overall
in the industry. Respect that! That’s proper vacation etiquette.
If any questions or problems arise, do not hesitate to call your business agent immediately at 763-525-1500 or 1-800-292-4105.
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 3
Hy-Vee’s New Hope Open House
By Jim Schommer
On April 17 the city of New Hope hosted an open house for Anderson Companies (the developer) and Hy-Vee so that they could present their
proposed redevelopment to the community and get some feedback. As you probably already know, the developer is proposing to construct a
90,000 square foot Hy-Vee grocery store on the old K-mart site across the street from City Hall. Over the years, this same location has seen three
grocery stores fail. These stores were much smaller than the 90,000 square foot proposed Hy-Vee which would include a pharmacy, liquor store
and full-service, sit-down restaurant that would sell beer and wine. A gas station with a 4,500 square foot convenience store and coffee shop would
also be located in the parking lot.
We had members who live in New Hope and the surrounding communities attend the open house and they voiced their concerns to the mayor and
city council about this huge, nonunion grocery store/liquor store/pharmacy/bar-restaurant/gas station/convenience store/coffee shop located in
New Hope and what it would do to their livelihoods. Another issue is what effect it will have on the many small businesses in the New Hope area.
These same local business owners who live in the community and who put their money back into the local economy also contribute to the many
youth programs, fundraisers, and other charities in the area.
At the open house, residents were asked to fill out a survey on what they thought about the proposed, new Hy-Vee store. This survey was provided
by Hy-Vee. The results of the survey (which Hy-Vee had total control of) showed in their words, “Overwhelming support and a good use of space.”
They skimmed over issues such as delivery truck noise, not having another gas station, a smaller store, increased traffic, uncontrolled turn lanes,
actual wages and full-time jobs being filled by members of the community, landscaping and adding pedestrian and bike paths. Council member
Daniel Stauner said it best, “Hy-Vee is doing a good job of marketing.”
As you can see, this is more than a union versus nonunion issue in the eyes of the community. For us though—UFCW Local 653 and its members—it
is about what kind of wages and benefits they will offer. If they are substandard, it will affect our members and our employers.
Take a look at the letter Jon Viner, a meat cutter for Rainbow Foods, wrote to the mayor and city council:
To the Editor:
I have been following the proposed New Hope Kmart redevelopment plan with a proposal for a
large grocery store concept –a grocery store that would include a liquor store, large eating area
and pharmacy, which could have an affect on our local businesses.
Redevelopment of this area is certainly important but our community is surrounded with grocery stores in Plymouth, Crystal, Golden Valley and Maple Grove. Grocery stores in this area have
closed in the past with the likes of Lunds and Country Store.
Several other grocery stores have closed in the area, and a Walmart is projected for Plymouth.
One has to wonder if another grocery store is a good fit for this area.
I believe that there are other possible development scenarios that would be a better fit for our
community; a medical center, senior housing, small businesses or a community center for our
youth and seniors. Golden Valley made a very inviting “Town Square” on Winnetka and Highway
55 where a large grocery store was proposed to go at one time.
The city needs to take a step back and look at other types of development for this area. The
area where Kmart was located and closed is just another reason to question, “Why retail?”
This citizen thinks we should do something different than retail food in this area to get it right
for our community.
An open house regarding this development is 4:30-8 p.m., Thursday, April 17, at City Hall, 4401
Xylon Ave N. Come and see what is being proposed and share your concerns with your elected
officials.
Jon Viner, New Hope
Paul Schifferle of Byerly’s taking Hy-Vee’s survey
←Jay Viner discussing proposed
Pat Smith of Kowalski’s talking with council
members Daniel Stauner and Andy Hoffe
Long-time members PatRichter
and Mark Ditter of Almsted’s Fresh
Market
←Member Leah Nesgoda of Rainbow
discussing Hy-Vee with Mayor Kathi
Hemken
Go to our website (www.ufcw653.org) for up-to-date information on what’s going on with Hy-Vee. Also check out President Matt Utecht’s interview
with Channel 12 about the proposed Hy-Vee in New Hope.
Hy-Vee store in New Hope
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 4
Labor Has Lost a Good Friend
Robert C. Bell
1926-2014
A friend of labor for over 60 years,
Bob represented injured Union workers and their familiies.
The Law Firm of
Erickson, Bell, Beckman and Quinn, P.A.
is proud to carry on the tradition Bob Bell started in 1962.
James C. Erickson, Sr.
Caroline Bell Beckman
Kari L. Quinn
Mark G. Gaughan
James C. Erickson, Jr.
Charles R. Bartholdi
Recognized | Respected | Recommended
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 5
SERVICE PINS SENT OUT
March and April 2014
5 Years
Tim Felegy (Cub Foods – Savage)
Dianne Huguet (Oxendale’s Market)
Georgina Lopez-Quiroz (Jerry’s Cub – Eden Prairie)
Kelsey Stach (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
10 Years
Don Bartels (Rainbow Foods – Chaska)
Brian Bentz (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
John Court (Cub Foods – Lakeville North)
Margaret Falwell (Rainbow Foods – Richfield)
David Kimber (Knowlan’s Festival Foods – Brooklyn Park)
Brooks Krick (Cub Foods – Savage)
Trudy Rozen (Cub Foods – Savage)
Heidi Sims (Cub Foods – Fridley)
15 Years
Craig Breimhorst (Radermacher’s Cub – Shakopee)
Greg Freeman (Cub Foods – Savage)
Deanna Hagen (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
Jeremy Lawson (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
Joseph Nelson (Jerry’s Cub – West Broadway)
20 Years
Rose Foley (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
Timothy McGinty (Radermacher’s Cub – Shakopee)
Scott Scofield (Rainbow Foods – Chaska)
Bill Vadakin (Cub Foods – Lakeville South)
25 Years
Anthony D. Anderson (Jerry’s Cub – Knollwood)
Paul Hutchinson (Cub Foods – Chanhassen)
Steve Krzmarzick (Cub Foods – Lakeville South)
Kristina Moore (Cub Foods – Eagan East)
Barbara Petsinger (Cub Foods – Eagan West)
Keith Rodewald (Cub Foods – Lakeville South)
Timothy Westphal (Jerry’s Cub – Southdale)
30 Years
Steven J. Erickson (Cub Foods – Savage)
Karen Hinderscheit (Cub Foods – Savage)
Gary Phillips (Rainbow Foods – St. Louis Park)
Jay Quast (Cub Foods – Eagan West)
35 Years
Penny Pederson (Cub Foods – Lyndale)
40 Years
Diane Dunning (Lunds – Plymouth)
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 6
Looking to get away this summer?
Check out Ours Resort and Camp 653!
Both properties are available to all active, dues-paying UFCW
Local 653 members and retirees receiving a UFCW Local 653
pension. Go to www.ufcw653.org for more information and to
check availability, and call the union office (763-525-1500) to
make reservations. You won’t regret it!
Ours Resort in Lutsen, MN
On the shore of Lake Superior, six cabins, fully equipped
kitchens, HDTV, Blu-ray/dvd,
fireplace, porch/deck, bedding,
towels and soap provided.
Outdoors you’ll find
charcoal grills, deck chairs,
swing set, horseshoe pit,
and beautiful views.
“It’s a little slice of heaven on
earth!”
--Quote from
frequent Ours guest
Camp 653 is our private
campground on Lake
Ida in Monticello, MN
15 RV/pop-up sites, ten
tent sites, electricity at all
sites.
Bathrooms, showers, dump station,
beach, boat dock,
playground, screened
pavilion, outdoor
games, on-site caretaker.
$416,028,061.00 WOW!!! Now That’s A Chunk of Change!
By Doug Rigert
Hardly a week goes by that I don’t have a member ask me about the
pension plan. Although it’s a topic I’m not all that knowledgeable in,
I try to do my best to explain and answer as many questions as I feel
I competently can. The real experts in understanding and explaining
the particulars of Local 653’s pension plan, how to qualify, rules
and requirements, and its monetary value to you, are the people
who work in this area at Wilson-McShane Corporation. They are the
ones who are responsible for the day-to-day administration of the
pension plan.
First, a little history and information. The creation of the pension
plan and its basic framework and principals behind its inception
were first established way back in 1960 by the leadership of Local
653 and the employers. It came out of the wisdom and strong
belief that, beyond working week in, week out, year after year for
a paycheck, someone who has done so should have the reasonable
ability or expectation to at some point stop working and have the
financial means to support themselves and to retire with dignity.
Although not entirely by itself, the creation of the pension plan was
designed to help accomplish just that.
In the 53 year history of Local 653’s defined benefit pension plan,
$416,028,061.00 alone has been paid out in the last 25 years
to retired members. Again, that’s only in the last 25 years, not
including the millions of dollars also paid out to retirees for the
other 28 years before that! If that dollar amount doesn’t make your
jaw hit the floor or get your attention, I guess nothing will.
The purpose of this lengthy article is to help inform and educate
those union members who don’t already know and understand just
what a huge financial benefit this pension plan has been to retired
members and, just as importantly, what it can be to those who
qualify and work as many years as possible. In an attempt to address
this topic as easily as possible, I will be using two hypothetical
examples to help illustrate the value of this defined benefit pension
plan that many of you may already qualify for. Please remember
that both of the examples used are just nothing more than a way to
demonstrate as simply as possible how your pension fund works.
Both examples are based on eligibility requirements to qualify that
have been met, as well as the total number of vested and benefit
credited years tabulated at either the old $65.00 crediting rate or
the current $35.00 crediting rate, or the combination of the two.
Example 1: If a full-time employee (member) with 40 vested and
benefit credited years were to retire today, their monthly pension
check before taxes are taken out would be about $2,480.00. The
way I reached this amount was by doing the following: 36 years
out of the forty (40) vested and benefit credited years were figured
at the old crediting rate of $65.00 which was in effect until May
2, 2010, and the remaining four years were figured at the current
crediting rate of $35.00 which is still in effect since May 2, 2010. 36
x $65.00 = $2,340.00, 4 x $35.00 = $140.00. When added together,
the total equals $2,480.00.
To expand more on this example and its real value, that monthly
pension amount (before taxes) equals $29,760.00 a year. If this
member was 60 years old when they retired and received their
monthly pension payment for the next 25 years it would add up to
$744,000.00 (before taxes). If you were to take it one step further
and figure this same member’s monthly union dues at $50.18,
which is equal to the current and highest hourly rate ($25.09) of
a meat manager paid out over the same forty (40) year period,
in less than one year worth of pension payments (before taxes)
they would receive back every dollar they ever paid in union dues.
Remember to keep in mind I also used the highest current hourly
rate figured over forty (40) years knowing full well that almost all of
those years were really at a lower hourly rate. As you can now see,
this benefit by itself is huge, not to mention many of the other great
benefits many of you as members may be eligible for. Although your
monthly union dues do not go towards the pension fund, I thought
it was important just the same to point out. However, the union
does bargain on your behalf for the contribution rates reflected in
the contract.
Example 2: If a part-time employee (member) with 20 vested and
benefit credited years were to retire today and is at least 62 years
old, their monthly pension check before taxes are taken out would
be about $1,180.00. The way I reached this amount is the same as
the previous example. Sixteen years out of the 20 vested and benefit
credited years were figured at the old crediting rate of $65.00 which
again was in effect until May 2, 2010, and the remaining four years
were figured at the current crediting rate of $35.00 which is still
in effect since May 2, 2010. 16 x $65.00 = $1,040.00, 4 x $35.00
= $140.00. When added together the total equals $1,180.00. The
yearly pension amount (before taxes) for this member would be
$14,160.00. If they received their pension for the next 25 years it
would add up to $345,000.00 (before taxes). As stated with Example
1, every dollar this member ever paid in union dues they would
receive back within the first year of pension payments alone.
Beware of anybody trying to convince you that a 401(k) plan would
be better for you or the rest of our members instead of the defined
pension plan. This is not the case, not even close. They are either
simply uninformed or intentionally trying to mislead you. Unlike
the defined pension plan, 401(k) plans are riddled with all kinds of
investment losses and fees that eat away at whatever value might
be left when the time comes to utilize it and, once you’ve drawn
down to whatever amount is left, that’s it—it’s gone. The odds are
you will outlive, by many years, whatever the total value of monies
you have in the plan. Imagine being retired and having no money
left other than maybe your monthly social security check to live on
because you’ve used up everything you had in your 401(k) plan and
you’re only 68 years old. If you’re somebody who derives some kind
of pleasure from being ripped off or enjoys panhandling on a corner
as a senior, a 401(k) plan is just the plan for you.
If you qualify and are eligible for the defined pension plan, the
monthly payments you’ll receive will be there regardless of how
long you live. This is not to be mistaken as a guarantee – the value of
the current pension plan is only as good as the union staying strong
and in place. It is essential that you the member understand this and
fight (if need be) to keep it healthy and strong into the future for
your own financial security, as well as for those who retire after you.
To find out if you qualify for or are eligible for a pension, or to
get more information regarding the pension plan, or to request a
pension update, please contact Wilson-McShane Corporation at
952-854-0795. If you found this article helpful, I encourage you to
share and discuss the importance of this with your fellow coworkers
because some of them may not have received this Fact Finder
newsletter. Thank you.
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 7
Annual Family Picnic
and Fishing Contest
Wednesday, July 16, 2014
All members and their family, friends and retirees are Directions:
welcome to fish or just come and have a great time.
You can fish from shore, the fishing pier or from a
To Beebe Lake Regional Park: Take 94 west to Maple
boat (you provide the boat).
Grove Parkway (Hennepin County Road 30). Go west
on County Road 30 eight (8) miles to County Road
This is a catch / photo / release contest, so bring
19. Turn right towards Hanover. After three (3) miles
your camera.
take a left on Wright County Road 34 (also listed as
10th Street). Go four (4) miles to Beebe Lake Park.
There will be drawings for other prizes during lunch
at the Beebe Lake Shelter.
To Boat Ramp: Go ½ mile south of Beebe Lake Park
on County Road 34 to Garrison. Go right (west) to
All participants 16 and over must have a valid fishing 20th Street NE, then turn right (north). Ramp is ¼
license.
mile on your right.
Group I
Ages 1 – 11
Largest Fish – Set of Twins tickets
Smallest Fish – Set of Twins tickets
Location: Beebe Lake Regional Park
7250 10th Street Northeast
(Wright County Road 34)
Time: 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon (8:30 a.m. check-in)
Awards, prizes and lunch will start promptly
at 12:00 noon
Group II
Ages 12 – 17
Largest Fish – 2 nights at Ours Resort
Most Species – 3 nights at Camp 653
Registrations must be received by Thursday, July 10,
2014. If you have any questions, call Steve Milner at
the union office (763-525-1500).
There will be three prize groups, and prizes will be
awarded as follows:
Group III Adults
Largest Fish – 3 nights at Ours Resort
Most Species – 3 nights at Camp 653
Hot dogs and pop
will be served for lunch!
2014 UFCW LOCAL 653 FISHING CONTEST AND PICNIC
Print Full Name:
Employer:
NUMBER OF PEOPLE ATTENDING IN THE FOLLOWING AGE GROUPS:
1 - 11 years old ___________
12 - 17 years old ___________
18+ years old ___________
Mail entry form to: UFCW Local 653
Attn: Picnic and Fishing Contest
13000 63rd Avenue N
Maple Grove, MN 55369
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 8
NOTICE: Don’t Come Up Short
By Rick Milbrath
When Should I Get a Withdrawal Card?
Let’s start off by asking a few questions:
• Are you going back to school?
• Are you quitting work?
• Are you going to try a new career?
• Are you retiring or maybe going on a medical leave for more than 30 days?
If your answer is “yes” to any of these questions, you should take out a withdrawal card. All too often we hear
from members who didn’t take out a withdrawal card. They call the union office when they return to work,
only to find out that they need to rejoin the union, which means they have to pay their initiation fee…again.
Let me clear up some common misconceptions about withdrawal cards. If you are on a medical leave from
work (whether you are on FMLA or Workers’ Compensation), you need to contact the union office for details
on obtaining a withdrawal card. Many people tell me they didn’t because they were afraid they would get a
new seniority date or it would affect their health insurance in some way. If you are on a medical leave, your
seniority is protected for up to one year while you are found physically unable to work by a certified medical
authority. As far as health insurance, a withdrawal card has nothing to do with your insurance.
If a withdrawal card has nothing to do with seniority
or your insurance, what does it do for you? A
withdrawal card is like the hold button on your
phone. It simply puts your union dues on hold while
you are away. When you return to work from a leave
or are rehired, you simply start paying dues in the
month you return.
Remember that if you are leaving the industry for
any reason, get a withdrawal card! By doing so, you
will save yourself the trouble of having to rejoin the
union (when you return to work, be sure to fill out a
new union application immediately and return the
withdrawal card with your union application). The
only thing this will cost you is five minutes of your
time to call. For years they were $5.00 to obtain; now
they are FREE.
To be eligible to obtain a withdrawal card, your
initiation fee must be paid and union dues current. If
you should have any question, please call the union
office at 763-525-1500 or 1-800-292-4105.
It’s Not Too Late...
...to enter our Biggest Loser contest!
You’ll just have a little less time to work on losing weight.
Stop in the UFCW Local 653 office between 8:00 and 4:00
any weekday to weigh in. Prizes range from $100 to $500 gift
cards. Final weigh-in is at the Wilson-McShane Health Fair
on September 14. Contact Nancy Vaillancourt at 763-5251500 if you have any questions.
Your Weingarten Rights
In 1975, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled in the Weingarten decision that an employee is entitled to have a union representative
present during any interview which may result in his or her discipline. It is up to you to insist on union representation. If you
fail to do so, you may waive your rights.
If you are called into a meeting with any management representative and have reason to believe that disciplinary action may
result, read them your Weingarten rights:
“If this discussion could in any way lead to my being disciplined
or terminated, I respectfully request that my union representative
or steward be present at this meeting. Without representation, I
choose not to answer any questions.”
Do the following:
1. Ask your supervisor if you might be disciplined as a result of
the interview. If he/she says “No,” ask for a written statement to
that effect. If he/she gives you such a statement, you must participate in the interview. If not, read him/her your Weingarten
rights, remain for the meeting, take notes, and afterwards immediately contact your union representative.
2. If he/she says you might be disciplined but will not allow you
to have a union representative present, read him your Weingarten rights, stay in the room, take notes, and do not respond
to any questions. Afterwards, contact your union representative
immediately. If the supervisor allows your union representative
to be present, you should participate in the interview.
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 9
UFCW Local 653
13000 63rd Avenue North
Maple Grove, MN 55369
www.ufcw653.org
763-525-1500 or 1-800-292-4105
Matthew P. Utecht, President
Paul Crandall, Secretary-Treasurer
JERRY’S FOODS: Jerry’s Sausage
Brainerd / Baxter Cub Foods - S.A.V.E Foods - Baxter Super One - Crosby Super One - Pequot Lakes Supervalu
- Byerly’s St. Cloud
Business Representatives
Richard Milbrath
CORPORATE CUB FOODS: Apple Valley, Bloomington,
Burnsville HOTC, Burnsville South, Chanhassen, Eagan
West, Eagan East, Lakeville, Lakeville South, Rosemount, Savage, Shorewood
Steve Milner
LUNDS: Lake Street, Central, Edina, Richfield, Minnetonka, Bloomington, Wayzata, Lower Wayzata, Navarre, Plymouth, Hennepin, Prior Lake, Lunds Kitchen,
Trainers/Drivers
BYERLY’S: Edina, Golden Valley, St. Louis Park, Ridgedale, Burnsville, Chanhassen, Eagan, Maple Grove
BONE MARCHE’: St. Louis Park
Bill Spartz
Homestead at Anoka - Golden Living (Bloomington
& Chateau) - Villa at Bryn Mawr - Park Health & Rehab ABM (Bloomington & Chateau) - Innsbruck Healthcare
- Oaklawn Healthcare - Gold Cross - Brede’s - Hirshfield’s
CORPORATE CUB FOODS: Monticello
KOWALSKI’S MARKETS: Lyndale, Eagan, Hennepin,
Chicago, Eden Prairie
Doug Rigert
Sullivan’s Supervalu - Bergan’s Supervalu
JERRY’S CUB FOODS: Bloomington, Brookdale, Eden
Prairie, Knollwood, Lake Street, Nicollet, Rogers, Southdale, West Broadway
JERRY’S FOODS: Edina, Eden Prairie, Jerry’s Enterprises
Greg Larson
Ingebretsen’s - Nelson’s Meats - Swanson Meats Cooper’s County Market - Almsted’s Fresh Market Jubilee Foods - Cub Foods Shakopee - Driskill’s Foods Oxendale’s Market
KNOWLAN’S FESTIVAL FOODS: Andover, Bloomington, Brooklyn Park
Nancy Vaillancourt
CORPORATE CUB FOODS: Blaine North, Blaine South,
Brooklyn Park North, Brooklyn Park South, Coon Rapids
South, Crystal, Champlin, Fridley, Maple Grove, Silver
Lake Road, Rockford Road, New Brighton, Vicksburg
CUB FOODS - Coon Rapids (Williston), Minnetonka
(Haug)
JERRY’S CUB: Elk River
Everett’s Foods
Organizer: Jim Schommer
RAINBOW FOODS: Apple Valley, Blaine, Bloomington,
Chaska, Coon Rapids, Eagan, Eden Prairie, Lake Street,
Lakeville, Maple Grove, Plymouth (6th Ave), Plymouth
Station, Quarry, Richfield, Savage, St. Louis Park, Uptown
KING’S COUNTY MARKET: Andover
Matt Utecht
KING’S COUNTY MARKET: St. Francis
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 10
A Done Deal
By Bill Spartz
I recently wrote about the proposed change in the minimum wage that
was before the legislature this year. On April 21, Governor Mark Dayton
signed the bill into law. It is the first time in ten years that the state has
raised the minimum wage. The federal minimum wage is $7.25 and is
being looked at for an increase by Congress and the President. There
is no law that requires a company to increase the “starting rate” or the
“cost of living” adjustment until this law is enacted.
Beginning on August 1, 2014, the large employer minimum wage will
go to $8.00 an hour. On August 1, 2015, the minimum wage for large
employers goes to $9.00 an hour and on August 1, 2016, the minimum
wage for large employers goes to $9.50 an hour. A “large employer”
is defined as an employer who has a gross annual revenue over
$500,000.00. A small employer wage rate is included in the law, as well
as a 90-day training wage and a “new” youth wage.
Increasing the minimum wage in the future is also a part of the new
law. Beginning January 1, 2018, the minimum wage will be “indexed to
inflation.” That means that as inflation goes up, so does the minimum
wage. If inflation is 2.7%, then the minimum wage goes up that percent.
The commissioner of the Department of Labor will have the ability to
decide if it is approved or not.
How these things play out going forward will be communicated as we
find out more information.
Large Employer Wage
$6.15/hour
$8.00/hour on August 1, 2014
$9.00/hour on August 1, 2015
$9.50/hour on August 1, 2016
Small Employer Wage
$5.25/hour
$6.50/hour on August 1, 2014
$7.25/hour on August 1, 2015
$7.75/hour on August 1, 2016
90-Day Training Wage
(18 and 19 years old)
$4.90/hour
$6.50/hour on August 1, 2014
$7.25/hour on August 1, 2015
$7.75/hour on August 1, 2016
Youth Wage (Under 18
years old)
No youth wage $6.50/hour on August 1, 2014
$7.25/houro n August 1, 2015
$7.75/hour on August 1, 2016
Indexed to Inflation
No inflationary
increases
Indexing begins January 1, 2018
Executive Board Members
Matthew P. Utecht, President
Nick Stute, Vice President 7
Paul Crandall, Secretary-Treasurer
Paul Merchlewitz, Vice President 8
Colleen Ryan, Recording Secretary
Melissa Charles, Vice President 9
David Maas, Vice President 1
Judi Johnson, Vice President 10
Mary Schmidt, Vice President 2
Scott Larson, Vice President 11
Tom Potvin, Vice President 3
Michael Gaulrapp, Vice President 12
Doug Dehmer, Vice President 4
Keven Millner, Vice President 13
Theresa Kick, Vice President 5
John Pignato, Vice President 14
Lorrie Wayman, Vice President 6
Michael Sperbeck, Vice President 15
A Member Shows Her Creative Side
By Nancy Vaillancourt
During our time on the picket line at Walmart this
past November, Deb Lambert, a cashier of 24 years at
Riverdale Cub Foods, was one of the volunteers who
made it out on more than one occasion to picket with
us. It was great to be able to learn more about her
and the things she likes to do. She shared her hobby of
woodburning with me and had some awesome pictures of
things she made to share with me. She has always had an
artistic side and decided to put her talent to work.
After contacting a friend with the same talent, they came
up with their logo and company name, “L-D Custom
Woodburning,” and went into business. They woodburn a
variety of items—some plain, some with colors or 3-D, and
others with branding irons. They specialize in custom orders.
Items they have made include TV trays, wall hangings, coat
racks, and tables. You can find them at several different
craft fairs throughout the metro area.
Thanks to Deb for letting me
do this story – I can’t wait to
see the wedding gift I ordered
for my daughter!
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 11
UFCW Local 653
Members:
Retiree’s Club Meeting Notice
Knights of Columbus Marian Hall
1114 American Blvd. W.
Bloomington, MN 55420
Thursday, June 19, 2014
10:00 a.m Cards
12:00 p.m. Lunch
1:00 p.m. Speaker
United Food & Commercial
Workers Union, Local 653
13000 63rd Avenue N.
Maple Grove, MN 55369
763-525-1500 or 1-800-292-4105
NON-PROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE PAID
Permit No. 2899
Twin Cities, MN
Change Service Requested
SEND IN FOR YOUR
CHANCE TO WIN!
For more information:
Thea Gullekson:
952-831-3143
Char Hanson:
612-869-9035
or Marlen Wahl:
952-888-3220
Vikings!
All active, dues-paying
members are eligible for
ticket drawings.
Mail your entry to:
UFCW Local 653
Attn: Tickets
13000 63rd Ave N
Maple Grove, MN 55369
It’s Time to Talk Golf!
It’s time again for our annual John Lego Memorial Golf Tournament on
Wednesday, August 20, 2014, at Brookview Golf Course in Golden Valley. We
will tee it up with a shotgun start at 8:00 a.m. We will have the longest putt and
closest to the pin events, and will finish with brats on the patio, along with an
awards ceremony and prizes. This event is for members and retirees.
Come on out and enjoy a day of talking about the shot that got away or just
visiting with others from our industry who you haven’t seen in a while. Come
and have fun as we award the prize of greatest value to a place yet to be determined. I know
that many of our members look forward to this event and that the golf course enjoys having our
group back year after year.
The cost will be $180.00 for a foursome again this year, so hurry and get your entries in early
so we don’t have to turn your group away. See you on August 20th!
Make checks payable to:
UFCW Local 653
Mail payment and entry form
to:
UFCW Local 653
Attn: Golf Tournament
13000 63rd Ave N
Maple Grove, MN 55369
5th Annual John Lego Memorial 4-Person Scramble Golf Tournament
1.
Team Captain
Work Location
Telephone
Work Location
Telephone
Work Location
Telephone
2.
3.
4.
June 2014 - Fact Finder - Page 12