As with most years, 2009 was a very exciting and sometimes sad year. On a national level, America elected its first black President, Michael Jackson died under mysterious circumstances, and the economy continued to struggle to get back on track after many years of poorly controlled credit.
As far as the union locals of 2-19 and 12-6 are concerned we were able to negotiate new three year deals with Aera and Chevron. The Big West Refinery continues to be in an idled state, with rumors continuing to swirl around its future. This is an important issue as they contributed many members to local 2-19.
After the ’09 contract negotiations, we saw Chevron HR rep Kim Mudford transfer out of the area and was replaced by two newer HR reps. after some definite growing pains both of these reps have quit the company and have been replaced by Dave Reed. Chevron also added HR rep Matt Legg to the mix as Mr. Reed’s boss. We have had a better relationship since these changes were made and are hopeful going forward for continued successful negotiations. The years ahead will bring many changes as many members are closing in on retirement and the younger employees will take the lead in field operations. We will see many negotiations between the USW and the oil companies in the future to usher in these changes.
On a sadder note, Chevron statewide committee member Mr. Steve Audap took an early retirement due to health issues. We also lost members of the 12-6 family in Jim Barraza and Rodney Stigall to failing health and Dan Brockett was killed in a motorcycle accident.
I want to say how important it is for the newer employees to take an interest in the union/company relationship, because like it or not it is going to be left in your hands to take care of your future workplace concerns. We do have some newer union reps that have been elected to various committees and positions within both locals and are doing a great job. Any employee wanting to get involved should speak with a current rep or better yet join us at the local 12-6 membership meeting held the second Tuesday of every month at the Taft union hall.
It is my hope to continue to update the local 12-6 website on a regular basis, as I am burning to get some things off of my chest concerning union, political, health, sports, social, business, and a myriad of other issues and remember the comments written in this blog are not necessarily the views of local 12-6 or the USW. I would like to ask members to watch a movie I saw over the holiday season entitled Foods Inc. I will be burning on some of the topics brought up in this movie. And your comments are always welcome through this website.
Joe – You have started your blog off with a bang! Well written and to the point.
I whole heartedly disagree with Ed Crane, this mindless drivel reminds me of something a third grader woud write…….just kidding, good job and I look forward in eager anticipation for the next post.
As a member of Steve Audap’s family (sister) I would like to extend a heartfelt thank you to so many of his co workers who have reached out to help him through this past year. He dearly loved his job and those of you who continue to be a part of his life makes his retirement easier for Steve and his family . Chevron should be proud of it’s employees. These friends and co workers of Steve’s have gone that extra mile in helping him cope with a grave illness and have put many a smile on his face and a feeling of comfort in his heart. It has been truely amazing. Thank you all,
The Audap Family