For Immediate Release: ACH Lawsuit
March 17th, 2014
Grand Rapids, Michigan - The UAW is in more hot water following its recent failure to unionize the Volkswagen auto plant in Tennessee. Veteran Labor Activist Patricia Meyer and more than 150 auto workers have filed suit against the International UAW because of its failure and refusal to represent and advocate for their interests, despite demanding and collecting union dues from these workers.
Most of the workers in question had been employees hired-on as “ACH” workers. ACH stands for Automotive Component Holdings. These workers were denied seniority, health care benefits, vacation-time, bonuses, and were even paid at lower wages. The workers were, for all intents and purposes, Ford workers. These workers were also UAW dues-paying members. But, these ACH workers were lied-to by both their Union, and by Ford.
ACH workers have been exposed to a litany of abuses. Some workers were forced, by ACH, to sign-with with other companies that would never make them Ford workers. Almost all workers were denied the right to have their grievances heard and some workers, with excellent work-records, were fired at the whim of management [with the UAW's approval].
Additionally, the UAW allowed violations of closed-shop agreements to occur and also forbade ACH workers to hold Union management positions within the plants. The UAW also acquiesced when Ford made several demands that harmed the interests of workers.
Initially, ACH workers at an automotive plant in Saline, Michigan contacted Ms. Meyer for assistance. After the Saline ACH workers had exhausted their patience and administrative options with attempting to get the UAW to pay attention to their problems, the workers finally turned to Ms. Meyer because of her reputation and experience advocating for auto workers.
While Saline is no longer a Ford plant, many former ACH workers still remain working at the plant under the new corporate owners, French company Faurecia. However, the remaining ACH workers were informed, through the UAW, that they would not receive unemployment benefits if they resigned and refused to work for Faurecia, the new corporate owner of the plant. While Faurecia violated the Union workers’ rights, it is not a party to this lawsuit.
“We are not Union busters,” says Meyer. “We are fighting for the little guy, which is something the UAW cannot say.” Ms. Meyer has been an advocate on behalf of workers at all three major automakers – GM, Ford, and Chrysler, pertaining to abuses of the companies and the policing ofunions. This is the first lawsuit against any Union filed with Ms. Pat Meyer’s help and the help of her advocacy firm, LAWS. L.A.W.S. stands for Labor Advocates Union Solutions.
Ms. Meyer has written multiple books on the subject of the damage done to America and the middle and working classes by corporate interests run amok. Ms. Meyer sees the United Auto Workers as the primary bad actor in the ACH’s workers woes. The ACH Workers who have joined the lawsuit are among those who have lost all faith that they will ever get what they were promised, or that the UAW would lift a finger to fulfill its legal obligations under the contracts.
Originally, the lawsuit involved Ford, as well as some of the sub-corporations that Ford established, such as Visteon and ACH. But, the ACH workers largely agreed that, more than anyone else, the UAW was responsible for what has happened because the ACH workers paid the UAW union dues specifically so that The UAW would look-out for the workers’ interests. But, the UAW made little to no attempt to do so.
While the ACH workers are not happy with Ford, they expected no better from a corporation than to see a corporation continually attempt to minimize labor costs and maximize labor output. The UAW, under the direction of Walter Reuther, would have combated these kinds of abuses, yet now does nothing about them. The UAW completely failed these loyal, hard-working, dues-paying members.
Critics of the UAW even contend that the UAW’s general conduct and reputation could have been a factor in Michigan becoming a right-to-work state, a major downgrade of employee rights throughout Michigan and in other places. In years past, Michigan would have been up in arms over the Governor signing such a bill. The Unions, most of all the UAW, have been doing so little on behalf of their membership that many people, rightly or wrongly, see the UAW as part of the problem. Some critics contend that the UAW’s failure in Tennessee could be traced, at least in part, to the workers’ skepticism that they would benefit from paying dues to the UAW.
The UAW Locals are not parties to this lawsuit, says Ms. Meyer. The aim of this action, beyond getting restitution for the ACH workers, is to reform the UAW and to stop its behavior of acting as a Company Union, and to return the UAW to advocating for its workers, and not for the Big Three Automakers.
In June 2014, UAW membership will be asked to ratify a 25% dues-increase across-the- board for all UAW members. This dues-increase would also include the ACH workers. Also affected by the increase in union dues, are the UAW retirees. These UAW retirees have no vote nor say on what happens to them, unfortunately, but are now being asked to raise their monthly dues. Many union members and union retirees do not want this rate increase because of the lack of fair and adequate representation by the UAW International.
A press conference is being scheduled and will be held in the near future.
To learn more about the case or other matters, please contact us at The Law Office of Jonathan D. Browning, P.L.L.C. at
(616) 458 – 4670.
March 17th, 2014
Grand Rapids, Michigan - The UAW is in more hot water following its recent failure to unionize the Volkswagen auto plant in Tennessee. Veteran Labor Activist Patricia Meyer and more than 150 auto workers have filed suit against the International UAW because of its failure and refusal to represent and advocate for their interests, despite demanding and collecting union dues from these workers.
Most of the workers in question had been employees hired-on as “ACH” workers. ACH stands for Automotive Component Holdings. These workers were denied seniority, health care benefits, vacation-time, bonuses, and were even paid at lower wages. The workers were, for all intents and purposes, Ford workers. These workers were also UAW dues-paying members. But, these ACH workers were lied-to by both their Union, and by Ford.
ACH workers have been exposed to a litany of abuses. Some workers were forced, by ACH, to sign-with with other companies that would never make them Ford workers. Almost all workers were denied the right to have their grievances heard and some workers, with excellent work-records, were fired at the whim of management [with the UAW's approval].
Additionally, the UAW allowed violations of closed-shop agreements to occur and also forbade ACH workers to hold Union management positions within the plants. The UAW also acquiesced when Ford made several demands that harmed the interests of workers.
Initially, ACH workers at an automotive plant in Saline, Michigan contacted Ms. Meyer for assistance. After the Saline ACH workers had exhausted their patience and administrative options with attempting to get the UAW to pay attention to their problems, the workers finally turned to Ms. Meyer because of her reputation and experience advocating for auto workers.
While Saline is no longer a Ford plant, many former ACH workers still remain working at the plant under the new corporate owners, French company Faurecia. However, the remaining ACH workers were informed, through the UAW, that they would not receive unemployment benefits if they resigned and refused to work for Faurecia, the new corporate owner of the plant. While Faurecia violated the Union workers’ rights, it is not a party to this lawsuit.
“We are not Union busters,” says Meyer. “We are fighting for the little guy, which is something the UAW cannot say.” Ms. Meyer has been an advocate on behalf of workers at all three major automakers – GM, Ford, and Chrysler, pertaining to abuses of the companies and the policing ofunions. This is the first lawsuit against any Union filed with Ms. Pat Meyer’s help and the help of her advocacy firm, LAWS. L.A.W.S. stands for Labor Advocates Union Solutions.
Ms. Meyer has written multiple books on the subject of the damage done to America and the middle and working classes by corporate interests run amok. Ms. Meyer sees the United Auto Workers as the primary bad actor in the ACH’s workers woes. The ACH Workers who have joined the lawsuit are among those who have lost all faith that they will ever get what they were promised, or that the UAW would lift a finger to fulfill its legal obligations under the contracts.
Originally, the lawsuit involved Ford, as well as some of the sub-corporations that Ford established, such as Visteon and ACH. But, the ACH workers largely agreed that, more than anyone else, the UAW was responsible for what has happened because the ACH workers paid the UAW union dues specifically so that The UAW would look-out for the workers’ interests. But, the UAW made little to no attempt to do so.
While the ACH workers are not happy with Ford, they expected no better from a corporation than to see a corporation continually attempt to minimize labor costs and maximize labor output. The UAW, under the direction of Walter Reuther, would have combated these kinds of abuses, yet now does nothing about them. The UAW completely failed these loyal, hard-working, dues-paying members.
Critics of the UAW even contend that the UAW’s general conduct and reputation could have been a factor in Michigan becoming a right-to-work state, a major downgrade of employee rights throughout Michigan and in other places. In years past, Michigan would have been up in arms over the Governor signing such a bill. The Unions, most of all the UAW, have been doing so little on behalf of their membership that many people, rightly or wrongly, see the UAW as part of the problem. Some critics contend that the UAW’s failure in Tennessee could be traced, at least in part, to the workers’ skepticism that they would benefit from paying dues to the UAW.
The UAW Locals are not parties to this lawsuit, says Ms. Meyer. The aim of this action, beyond getting restitution for the ACH workers, is to reform the UAW and to stop its behavior of acting as a Company Union, and to return the UAW to advocating for its workers, and not for the Big Three Automakers.
In June 2014, UAW membership will be asked to ratify a 25% dues-increase across-the- board for all UAW members. This dues-increase would also include the ACH workers. Also affected by the increase in union dues, are the UAW retirees. These UAW retirees have no vote nor say on what happens to them, unfortunately, but are now being asked to raise their monthly dues. Many union members and union retirees do not want this rate increase because of the lack of fair and adequate representation by the UAW International.
A press conference is being scheduled and will be held in the near future.
To learn more about the case or other matters, please contact us at The Law Office of Jonathan D. Browning, P.L.L.C. at
(616) 458 – 4670.
Attention Indianapolis ACHers!
We received an inquiry from a worker who was an Indianapolis ACHer about the UAW lawsuit asking
why this worker or other Indianapolis ACHers should join.
The Indianapolis ACHers were laid off in November of 2010. Most were called back to work in the Ford
plant in Louisville, KY on March 26, 2012. They claim that they were the first new hire class in Louisville.
They were told they would do a 90 day probation. We are not sure what seniority date they were given
in Louisville but they wish they had their seniority date of June 2007.
It is my understanding that you workers from Indianapolis signed a contract that was put into the hands
of your union representative. Did you receive your $6000 signing bonus of moving fees?
The purpose of this lawsuit against the UAW International Union is to restore full UAW union
representation , lost seniority, wages, bonuses and benefits.
If you are afraid to stand up for justice for what your union has failed to do for you this lawsuit is not for you!
We received an inquiry from a worker who was an Indianapolis ACHer about the UAW lawsuit asking
why this worker or other Indianapolis ACHers should join.
The Indianapolis ACHers were laid off in November of 2010. Most were called back to work in the Ford
plant in Louisville, KY on March 26, 2012. They claim that they were the first new hire class in Louisville.
They were told they would do a 90 day probation. We are not sure what seniority date they were given
in Louisville but they wish they had their seniority date of June 2007.
It is my understanding that you workers from Indianapolis signed a contract that was put into the hands
of your union representative. Did you receive your $6000 signing bonus of moving fees?
The purpose of this lawsuit against the UAW International Union is to restore full UAW union
representation , lost seniority, wages, bonuses and benefits.
If you are afraid to stand up for justice for what your union has failed to do for you this lawsuit is not for you!
Dear ACHers and former ACHers who have not joined the ACH
lawsuit against the UAW.
Be aware that this lawsuit has been filed on your behalf
It is not too late to join!
The UAW has not always represented you correctly or told you the truth!
1. Grievances have been mishandled.
2. Job relocations have been presented and encouraged without full details being told.
3. The UAW has allowed what should have been ACH positions to be filled with people hired off the street causing the
ACHers who transferred into the plant to have lower seniority.
4. The UAW has allowed fraudulent elections and in some cases allowed employees to vote who are not UAW members.
5. ACH Tier 2 employees have not been allowed to become part of the UAW VEBA health insurance which is offered to
Ford, GM and Chrysler workers.
If you have unjustly lost your ACH job or have been discriminated against be aware that you have until January 21, 2014
to join the lawsuit. See below for details.
Stand up for what is right!
Dear Previous Visteon, ACHers now Tier 2 Workers
Since the lawsuit was served the UAW has started to put itself into the public eye in all positive ways
including coming into the plants to "woo" its members and to try to put the lawsuit in a bad light.
This lawsuit is not a class action suit. It is being bought on behave of the previous Visteon, ACH
workers who became Ford Tier 2 workers because of what the UAW did not do for you.
While at Louisville, Kentucky I was shocked to learn that the Tier 2 workers did not even
know about the VEBA medical insurance that Ford, GM and Chrysler workers have.
It is not too late to join this lawsuit just follow the directions found in the next message.
Do what you think is best for you.
Since the lawsuit was served the UAW has started to put itself into the public eye in all positive ways
including coming into the plants to "woo" its members and to try to put the lawsuit in a bad light.
This lawsuit is not a class action suit. It is being bought on behave of the previous Visteon, ACH
workers who became Ford Tier 2 workers because of what the UAW did not do for you.
While at Louisville, Kentucky I was shocked to learn that the Tier 2 workers did not even
know about the VEBA medical insurance that Ford, GM and Chrysler workers have.
It is not too late to join this lawsuit just follow the directions found in the next message.
Do what you think is best for you.
ATTENTION! VISTEON, ACH FORD WORKERS
The law firm of Dodge and Dodge PC has assigned the ACH lawsuit to Attorney John Browning Jr. The money sent in the
name of Dodge and Dodge or Patricia Meyer has been designated to John Browning Jr. for use in this lawsuit.
In the future any money designated for the lawsuit will need to be made out to Earl Wilk Sr.,
a member of the LAWS executive board, to be held in trust until it is needed for the lawsuit.
Patricia Meyer traveled to Louisville, Kentucky last weekend to meet with Ford workers who wished to join this lawsuit.
As a result an extension has been granted for anyone who would like to join the lawsuit. Make a check for $100.00 out to
Earl Wilk Sr. On the check put for ACH lawsuit. Send the check along with your name, address and telephone number to
LAWS, INC
Box 112
West Olive, MI 49460
You may contact Patricia Meyer at 269-998-4609 or by email at [email protected] if you have any questions.
It is time for Visteon / ACHers to legally fight for what they were promised.
While the effect of 2 tier employees is very evident on Wall Street, the effect for society is not nearly as positive.
As we continue to put profits for corporations first it is evident that people, all people, loose out.
First, we have nonexistent or substandard health care for the entry level jobs. Workers have a choice, they
can get government aid, live in bankruptcy, or they can ignore symptoms until they drop because they now have
an emergency situation. This holds true for their families also, even though they work for the dignity to
take care of their own.
Then we have the drain on the tax base that is passed on to the people. Property owners get full benefit of tax breaks
and numerous leasers get "new job creation" bonuses. Someone has to make up the difference of what business
does not pay. That burden will go to the people who earn reduced paychecks and crappy benefits. They have no means
to get out of paying their share.
There is also a loss of consumer buying power as pay is out as much as 2/3 in some instances. Everyone must live
in survival mode as only the bare necessities can be afforded. Their plan must call for some new consumers
because the 2nd tier worker cannot afford the products
they make.
Finally, there is another generation of worker who put their 30 years in so that they could take care of themselves
and their spouses with a pension and medical benefits they had earned. They had worked to take of themselves
and now find that all they worked for is vanishing because of new regulations and guidelines that ensure
the corporate world is always going to come first. They helped build the company and now must give this up to
"save" them? At a time in their lives when they should be proud and secure retirees go looking to the government
for assistance. They must find their own means to heal the damage that 30 years of work will do to the human body.
Forget being a consumer, their money goes to doctors and pharmacies.
You have got to ask yourself "IS THIS A STABILIZING PLAN FOR A BETTER FUTURE?" How lond will business
prosper and survive when there are no consumers, only survivors?
While the effect of 2 tier employees is very evident on Wall Street, the effect for society is not nearly as positive.
As we continue to put profits for corporations first it is evident that people, all people, loose out.
First, we have nonexistent or substandard health care for the entry level jobs. Workers have a choice, they
can get government aid, live in bankruptcy, or they can ignore symptoms until they drop because they now have
an emergency situation. This holds true for their families also, even though they work for the dignity to
take care of their own.
Then we have the drain on the tax base that is passed on to the people. Property owners get full benefit of tax breaks
and numerous leasers get "new job creation" bonuses. Someone has to make up the difference of what business
does not pay. That burden will go to the people who earn reduced paychecks and crappy benefits. They have no means
to get out of paying their share.
There is also a loss of consumer buying power as pay is out as much as 2/3 in some instances. Everyone must live
in survival mode as only the bare necessities can be afforded. Their plan must call for some new consumers
because the 2nd tier worker cannot afford the products
they make.
Finally, there is another generation of worker who put their 30 years in so that they could take care of themselves
and their spouses with a pension and medical benefits they had earned. They had worked to take of themselves
and now find that all they worked for is vanishing because of new regulations and guidelines that ensure
the corporate world is always going to come first. They helped build the company and now must give this up to
"save" them? At a time in their lives when they should be proud and secure retirees go looking to the government
for assistance. They must find their own means to heal the damage that 30 years of work will do to the human body.
Forget being a consumer, their money goes to doctors and pharmacies.
You have got to ask yourself "IS THIS A STABILIZING PLAN FOR A BETTER FUTURE?" How lond will business
prosper and survive when there are no consumers, only survivors?
Attention all part time Visteon / ACHers who were hired with
the promise to become full time Ford workers after
89 days of employment!
Now 6 to 7 years later you are still waiting for full
time employment with Ford.
If you are interested in joining a group working to rectify
this wrong please contact Labor Advocates Workers
Solution (LAWS) at [email protected] with your
name, address, e-mail and phone. We will contact you.
the promise to become full time Ford workers after
89 days of employment!
Now 6 to 7 years later you are still waiting for full
time employment with Ford.
If you are interested in joining a group working to rectify
this wrong please contact Labor Advocates Workers
Solution (LAWS) at [email protected] with your
name, address, e-mail and phone. We will contact you.
Pat's Labor Day Message
I HAVE A WISH!
As I watched the King Memorial I was once again encouraged and compelled to go forward and continue fighting for justice for workers and retirees in this country.
My wish for all is that thousands of Americans hit the streets throughout this country with a solid message. Insist that our National Leaders do their jobs and stop being lead around by the nose by the "Old Boy Clubs."
Look around you! Look at what this nation has become as the result of Greed!
People in responsible positions - who should know better - selling their souls for money and power!
WE CAN NO LONGER DO NOTHING!
The silence of inactivity and corruption is deafening - resulting in a crime against our American Way!
Even the media is owned and controlled by corporations, lawyers and big money!
If it was allowed to print the real stories that would bring to light what is really happening in our nation what a difference it would make. No more Wall Street, Banking or Corporation actions going unchallenged and unpunished.
My wish can begin to be granted by one simple step,
LET'S GET STARTED!
Start now, before we go quietly into the night and lose what you have worked so hard for!
Don't let those issues that concern you slip by unchallenged!
Contact your congressman, senators, union officials, newspapers, etc. and let them know how you feel and what you think needs to be done.
Don't be part of the silent majority, let yourself be heard!
I HAVE A WISH!
As I watched the King Memorial I was once again encouraged and compelled to go forward and continue fighting for justice for workers and retirees in this country.
My wish for all is that thousands of Americans hit the streets throughout this country with a solid message. Insist that our National Leaders do their jobs and stop being lead around by the nose by the "Old Boy Clubs."
Look around you! Look at what this nation has become as the result of Greed!
People in responsible positions - who should know better - selling their souls for money and power!
WE CAN NO LONGER DO NOTHING!
The silence of inactivity and corruption is deafening - resulting in a crime against our American Way!
Even the media is owned and controlled by corporations, lawyers and big money!
If it was allowed to print the real stories that would bring to light what is really happening in our nation what a difference it would make. No more Wall Street, Banking or Corporation actions going unchallenged and unpunished.
My wish can begin to be granted by one simple step,
LET'S GET STARTED!
Start now, before we go quietly into the night and lose what you have worked so hard for!
Don't let those issues that concern you slip by unchallenged!
Contact your congressman, senators, union officials, newspapers, etc. and let them know how you feel and what you think needs to be done.
Don't be part of the silent majority, let yourself be heard!
L.A.W.S., INC.
LABOR ADVOCATES WORKERS SOLUTION
Not for Profit Working for American Workers, Retirees, and Families
([email protected]) (disputethis.org)
P.O. Box 112 West Olive, MI 49460
269-998-4609
August, 2013
My name is Patricia Meyer and I am Director of L.A.W.S., Inc., a not for profit organization working to find justice for our American workers, retirees and their families mainly in the manufacturing arena.
OVER THE YEARS
* I have worked with members of the Congress and Senate of the United States along with many government agencies for over several years to bring the case of GM Corporation/Delphi fraud and collusion to light. It has been proven that both GM Corporation and Delphi "cooked" their books to appease Wall Street.
*I worked with Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi's and Congressman George Miller's (CA) offices along with several others trying to bring to light what was happening to GM/Delphi before the bankruptcy.
*My organization has tried to be heard all over Washington for over four years. We have met with politicians, several Federal Departments and Federal Agencies. With the evidence we have and an informant who has come forward with information about GM's plan I am sure that if someone had bothered to really listen and act the GM bankruptcy and bail out would have been avoided. I can't help but feel that this has all been covered up.
*I was invited to attend the Congressional Auto Hearing in December of 2008 and several questions that we submitted to the Congressman were asked during the Hearings. I was also told by Timothy Geithner's office that I could help with the Auto Team, however, I never heard from them again.
Recently
* I asked my Congressman Bill Huizinga to sponsor a Bill about Social Security reform that would remove the CAP.
* I was approached by Professor C. William Kaufman for help in getting out to the people the threat China is to America both economically and militarily. I took him to Washington, D.C. to met with several Congressmen to bring his information to them.
* Professor Kaufman and I also met with Matty Moroun about the new bridge situation between Detroit and Canada. We learned of Matty's fear of China's importing goods through Canada without having to pay tariff due to NAFTA.
* In 2012 I was invited by Judge Drain to testify before the Delphi Bankruptcy Court about fraudulant actions on the part of General Motors and Delphi.
* LAWS is always encouraging people to take action and be heard. I applaud the people in New York who are trying to be heard. More people need to be heard throughout America.
* Pat has been contacted by the Ways and Means Committee investigating the IRS and has delivered information to them about her experiences with the IRS Whistle Blower Program and the Treasury Department. She is waiting to be contacted by them again to appear in person before the Committee to offer her testimony. LAWS encourages you to contact the Ways and Means Committee at 202-225-3625 and to ask them to call Patricia to present her information before them personally.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Patricia Meyer
P: 269-998-4609
E: [email protected]
Author and Advocate Exposes Additional Proof of Fraudulent Behavior by the IRS with Report in Washington to the Ways and Means Committee on Abusive
Tactics and Intimidation by Controversial Agency
West Olive, MI - In 2008 Patricia Meyer wrote the book Dispute This exposing her findings of corruption and cover-up in the GM/Delphi spinoff after spending two years trying to get politicians both state and national, several Federal Agencies including the FBI and the SEC and Federal Departments including the Labor Department to help bring the General Motors/Delphi fraud to light.
Meyer, author and director of non-profit group LAWS, Inc., told how and why General Motors and Delphi pulled off a massive corporate cover up on not just Congress, but with shareholders and former employees who were left holding the bag. "Delphi and its parent company General Motors, orchestrated a fraud that was among the most flagrant in U.S. history during a wave of corporate meltdowns," states Meyer. "This meltdown has and is still sparking criminal and regulatory investigations based on the billions of dollars lost by both former Delphi employees and unsuspecting shareholders," she added.
Encouraged by Floyd Williams, retired National Director of Legislative Affairs in the U.S, and Attorney Laura Baek, attorney for the National Taxpayer Advocacy, Patricia Meyer became a whistle blower in March of 2007 to the newly revised whistle blower office of the IRS under the direction of Stephen Whitlock regarding GM/Delphi infractions.
After three years of frustration trying to work with this office it was suggested by Floyd Williams that she contact Commissioner Steve Miller of the IRS for help and clarification. Within one week of the letter being sent, Meyer lost her Federal Postal Pension and received a letter from her IRS case worker Robert Gardner stating that her Whistle Blower Case had been closed and that she could not appeal this decision.
She contacted Attorney Laura Baek of the Tax Advocacy Office who told her that she could appeal this decision to the U.S. Tax Court which she did.
On several occasions over this three year period Pat asked for an appointment with Nina Olson of the Tax Advocacy Office to discuss this situation. As of this date she has heard nothing from her.
Based upon recent meltdowns and Congressional hearings held in Washington this year, Meyer can't help but wonder whether the Treasury Department under the direction of Timothy Geithner and the IRS were working together to block her in a massive cover-up. She believes this is only the tip of the iceberg and encourages other citizens to not let the IRS intimidate or force them into silence via fear and intimidation as she’s witnessed firsthand.
Meyer is currently the Director of the not-for-profit LAWS, Inc. which was founded in 1994. Her mission is direct and attracting much attention across the globe: advocate and champion workers' rights and expose corporate fraud, with particular focus in the automotive sector. She is also the author of four books including: America: Rightsize This (2001), You Win But Lose (2003),Dispute This (2008) and How Washington D.C. Helped Allow Corporations to Get Away With Fraud (2012).
For media inquiries, interview requests and schedule availability please contact Patricia Meyer directly at 269-998-4609 or visit: www.disputethis.org.
L.A.W.S., INC.
LABOR ADVOCATES WORKERS SOLUTION
([email protected])
Not for Profit Working for American Workers, Retirees, and Families
P.O. Box 112 West Olive, MI 49460
269-998-4609
Ways and Means Committee
IRS Investigation
July 30, 2013
To Whom It May Concern:
Over a number of years the IRS under the direction of the Treasury Department has covered up proof that I have presented to them about misdeeds on the part of the automotive industry costing the taxpayers billions of dollars.
The following information is part of what I have presented to President Bush, President Obama, many senators and congressional representatives, the Treasury Department under the direction of both Henry Paulson and Timothy Geithner and numerous agencies within the Federal Government.
After several years of trying to be heard in Washington in March of 2007 I became a whistle blower to the Whistle Blower Office of the IRS. It became apparent to me that I, as Director of L.A.W.S., Inc., became a target of the Treasury Department when on June 8, 2010 when I asked for some feedback on my case I incurred a temporary loss of my Federal Postal Pension and was dropped from the whistleblower program all within a seven day period.
The following individuals offered advice and encouragement to press forward with my attempt to find justice for the American workers and taxpayers.
Audra Jolicoeur - FBI
Floyd Williams - National Director of Legislative Affairs in the United States
Attorney Laura Beck - IRS
Congressman Dave Camp
Congressman Barney Frank
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur
Congresswoman Maxine Waters
Congressman Bill Huizenga
It should be noted that the following people who were provided with proof of wrongdoings apparently chose to cover up and/or ignore this situation instead of taking action on behalf of the American taxpayers.
Senator Carl Levin
Senator Debbie Stabenow
Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi
Congressman George Miller (CA) - Jody Calemine
Stephen Whitlock - IRS
Robert Gardiner - IRS
Senator Brian Dorgan
Senator Charles Grassley
Senator Max Baucus
The enclosed documents will outline for you the information I have been trying to provide, how it was received and the IRS's part in the picture.
Sincerely submitted,
Patricia Meyer
Director of L.A.W.S., Inc.
LABOR ADVOCATES WORKERS SOLUTION
([email protected])
Not for Profit Working for American Workers, Retirees, and Families
P.O. Box 112 West Olive, MI 49460
269-998-4609
Ways and Means Committee
IRS Investigation
July 30, 2013
To Whom It May Concern:
Over a number of years the IRS under the direction of the Treasury Department has covered up proof that I have presented to them about misdeeds on the part of the automotive industry costing the taxpayers billions of dollars.
The following information is part of what I have presented to President Bush, President Obama, many senators and congressional representatives, the Treasury Department under the direction of both Henry Paulson and Timothy Geithner and numerous agencies within the Federal Government.
After several years of trying to be heard in Washington in March of 2007 I became a whistle blower to the Whistle Blower Office of the IRS. It became apparent to me that I, as Director of L.A.W.S., Inc., became a target of the Treasury Department when on June 8, 2010 when I asked for some feedback on my case I incurred a temporary loss of my Federal Postal Pension and was dropped from the whistleblower program all within a seven day period.
The following individuals offered advice and encouragement to press forward with my attempt to find justice for the American workers and taxpayers.
Audra Jolicoeur - FBI
Floyd Williams - National Director of Legislative Affairs in the United States
Attorney Laura Beck - IRS
Congressman Dave Camp
Congressman Barney Frank
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur
Congresswoman Maxine Waters
Congressman Bill Huizenga
It should be noted that the following people who were provided with proof of wrongdoings apparently chose to cover up and/or ignore this situation instead of taking action on behalf of the American taxpayers.
Senator Carl Levin
Senator Debbie Stabenow
Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi
Congressman George Miller (CA) - Jody Calemine
Stephen Whitlock - IRS
Robert Gardiner - IRS
Senator Brian Dorgan
Senator Charles Grassley
Senator Max Baucus
The enclosed documents will outline for you the information I have been trying to provide, how it was received and the IRS's part in the picture.
Sincerely submitted,
Patricia Meyer
Director of L.A.W.S., Inc.
Attention Achers!
The Federal case concerning the ACHer is being readied.
All of you who have attended meetings, signed up, called or are interested
e-mail me at [email protected] immediately. I need to know your intentions
and/or your concerns.
Pat
INDEPENDENCE DAY FOR ACH WORKERS
As we get ready to celebrate the independence of the American people from being ruled unfairly by England, the ACH workers have much to identify with. The new American people were ruled from far away with no voice or vote in what was imposed onto them by English rulers who only cared about increasing the taxes and making more off them. You could draw a parallel to the rulers of Solidarity House very easily. The leadership there has enjoyed pay raises and bonuses and benefits that they have asked to do without. And you did in hopes that when the company was doing "well enough" they would include all of you in their spoils. But that didn't happen, instead they capped your pay and charged another initiation fee. And fed you another line about how they had your back and would be looking out for you.
And when the time came that some of you actually got to be real employees of the company you had been working for all along, you had to pay the penalty of being new hires again. You all lost credit for actual hire in dates while friends and family enjoyed being hired off the street with more seniority. I guess most of the ACH weren't related to any one special enough to get themselves hired in first, in spite of the PREFERENTIAL HIRE AGREEMENT. That little promise turned out to be controlled by the new buyer, who needed your help to ensure they were both profitable and putting out a quality product. Used again by your original employers, but that was all OK ed by the people you paid money to for representation. The only voice you had was to ask questions of the Reps they sent out to tell you more lies. Some of you kept believing just like the settlers who still believed the King {of England} was going to treat them fairly. Instead he sent troops to put down the uprising, like the Reps who said "Do what we say or you won't get unemployment or your Ford job!" A good unemployment lawyer proved that wrong but people paid the price by being called out of line of seniority. They lost pay and weeks towered benefits and bonuses. Quite an example for any other disobedient settlers{workers}. The settlers threw the tea in the bay to protest, ACH workers put their selves on the unemployment rolls to show how they were being misused.
The LAWS group has worked very hard to bring some kind of justice for all of you ACH workers. Director Pat Meyer has attempted to meet with Bob King to discuss issues, has met with the legal department at Solidarity, and has helped many of you to get hearings with the Labor Relations Board. All of them could care less and offered no help for your situation. This has brought us to the realization that the only other step to take was thru the courts. There is an attorney who has stepped up to take the issue on. The only thing that has to be done is for you as an individual to say "I want to stand up for myself". While there should be 800 people willing to challenge what has been done to you in the name of higher profits, he is asking for 100 to join in this fight.
His name is Ken Myers and he is already handling the Lordstown, Ohio temp workers case. The number to reach him is 216-241-3900 and you can write your own payment agreement. More details will be explained once you call. You may also get more info by calling Debi at 517-416-4197. No one else seems to be willing to help get the justice you deserve as a 6 or 5 year employee. Imagine what credit for your full time working would do to change your standing at the current location you are in. There are many laws that protect your right to disagree with your employer while the courts sort thru the BS that has been thrown at you. Make this your INDEPENDANCE DAY and "throw your tea in the bay!"
THE LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
The Federal case concerning the ACHer is being readied.
All of you who have attended meetings, signed up, called or are interested
e-mail me at [email protected] immediately. I need to know your intentions
and/or your concerns.
Pat
INDEPENDENCE DAY FOR ACH WORKERS
As we get ready to celebrate the independence of the American people from being ruled unfairly by England, the ACH workers have much to identify with. The new American people were ruled from far away with no voice or vote in what was imposed onto them by English rulers who only cared about increasing the taxes and making more off them. You could draw a parallel to the rulers of Solidarity House very easily. The leadership there has enjoyed pay raises and bonuses and benefits that they have asked to do without. And you did in hopes that when the company was doing "well enough" they would include all of you in their spoils. But that didn't happen, instead they capped your pay and charged another initiation fee. And fed you another line about how they had your back and would be looking out for you.
And when the time came that some of you actually got to be real employees of the company you had been working for all along, you had to pay the penalty of being new hires again. You all lost credit for actual hire in dates while friends and family enjoyed being hired off the street with more seniority. I guess most of the ACH weren't related to any one special enough to get themselves hired in first, in spite of the PREFERENTIAL HIRE AGREEMENT. That little promise turned out to be controlled by the new buyer, who needed your help to ensure they were both profitable and putting out a quality product. Used again by your original employers, but that was all OK ed by the people you paid money to for representation. The only voice you had was to ask questions of the Reps they sent out to tell you more lies. Some of you kept believing just like the settlers who still believed the King {of England} was going to treat them fairly. Instead he sent troops to put down the uprising, like the Reps who said "Do what we say or you won't get unemployment or your Ford job!" A good unemployment lawyer proved that wrong but people paid the price by being called out of line of seniority. They lost pay and weeks towered benefits and bonuses. Quite an example for any other disobedient settlers{workers}. The settlers threw the tea in the bay to protest, ACH workers put their selves on the unemployment rolls to show how they were being misused.
The LAWS group has worked very hard to bring some kind of justice for all of you ACH workers. Director Pat Meyer has attempted to meet with Bob King to discuss issues, has met with the legal department at Solidarity, and has helped many of you to get hearings with the Labor Relations Board. All of them could care less and offered no help for your situation. This has brought us to the realization that the only other step to take was thru the courts. There is an attorney who has stepped up to take the issue on. The only thing that has to be done is for you as an individual to say "I want to stand up for myself". While there should be 800 people willing to challenge what has been done to you in the name of higher profits, he is asking for 100 to join in this fight.
His name is Ken Myers and he is already handling the Lordstown, Ohio temp workers case. The number to reach him is 216-241-3900 and you can write your own payment agreement. More details will be explained once you call. You may also get more info by calling Debi at 517-416-4197. No one else seems to be willing to help get the justice you deserve as a 6 or 5 year employee. Imagine what credit for your full time working would do to change your standing at the current location you are in. There are many laws that protect your right to disagree with your employer while the courts sort thru the BS that has been thrown at you. Make this your INDEPENDANCE DAY and "throw your tea in the bay!"
THE LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
PATRICIA MEYER SPEAKS
Many years ago I had family working in the GM system who asked me to help to bring to light the problems the
workers were encountering in the GM plants. Thus the organization Uniting All Workers Concern (UAW Concern)
was born. In the past few years we have added an advocacy arm entitled Labor Advocates Workers Solution (LAWS, Inc.),
which has been active in Washington for the past 7 years.
Through my interaction with workers and retirees involved in various labor situations over the last 17 years I have become
aware of what goes on in the Detroit 3 and in other manufacturing areas.
Recently I looked at the new GM-UAW Contract agreement and I feel that there a 4 major areas that need studying:
(1) 2 tier workers situation
(2) pension plan deficits
(3) decimation of the skilled trades, especially at GM
(4) proposed changes in the UAW VEBA and other benefits
Letters about these issues will be sent to the appropriate persons at a later date.
The following letter to President Obama deals with the recently negotiated UAW-GM agreement as it pertains to the
400,000 plus UAW retirees. The retirees seem to be underwriting the cost of this new union, corporation collaborative
creative problem solving with real dollars taken from their very hands.
READ FIGHT BACK ARTICLE
Author and Advocate Exposes Additional Proof of Fraudulent Behavior by the IRS with Report in Washington to the Ways and Means Committee on Abusive Tactics and Intimidation by Controversial Agency
West Olive, MI - In 2008 Patricia Meyer wrote the book Dispute This exposing her findings of corruption and cover-up in the GM/Delphi spinoff after spending two years trying to get politicians both state and national, several Federal Agencies including the FBI and the SEC and Federal Departments including the Labor Department to help bring the General Motors/Delphi fraud to light.
Meyer, author and director of non-profit group LAWS, Inc., told how and why General Motors and Delphi pulled off a massive corporate cover up on not just Congress, but with shareholders and former employees who were left holding the bag. "Delphi and its parent company General Motors, orchestrated a fraud that was among the most flagrant in U.S. history during a wave of corporate meltdowns," states Meyer. "This meltdown has and is still sparking criminal and regulatory investigations based on the billions of dollars lost by both former Delphi employees and unsuspecting shareholders," she added.
Encouraged by Floyd Williams, retired National Director of Legislative Affairs in the U.S, and Attorney Laura Baek, attorney for the National Taxpayer Advocacy, Patricia Meyer became a whistle blower in March of 2007 to the newly revised whistle blower office of the IRS under the direction of Stephen Whitlock regarding GM/Delphi infractions.
After three years of frustration trying to work with this office it was suggested by Floyd Williams that she contact Commissioner Steve Miller of the IRS for help and clarification. Within one week of the letter being sent, Meyer lost her Federal Postal Pension and received a letter from her IRS case worker Robert Gardner stating that her Whistle Blower Case had been closed and that she could not appeal this decision.
She contacted Attorney Laura Baek of the Tax Advocacy Office who told her that she could appeal this decision to the U.S. Tax Court which she did.
On several occasions over this three year period Pat asked for an appointment with Nina Olson of the Tax Advocacy Office to discuss this situation. As of this date she has heard nothing from her.
Based upon recent meltdowns and Congressional hearings held in Washington this year, Meyer can't help but wonder whether the Treasury Department under the direction of Timothy Geithner and the IRS were working together to block her in a massive cover-up. She believes this is only the tip of the iceberg and encourages other citizens to not let the IRS intimidate or force them into silence via fear and intimidation as she’s witnessed firsthand.
Meyer is currently the Director of the not-for-profit LAWS, Inc. which was founded in 1994. Her mission is direct and attracting much attention across the globe: advocate and champion workers' rights and expose corporate fraud, with particular focus in the automotive sector. She is also the author of four books including: America: Rightsize This (2001), You Win But Lose (2003),Dispute This (2008) and How Washington D.C. Helped Allow Corporations to Get Away With Fraud (2012).
For media inquiries, interview requests and schedule availability please contact Patricia Meyer directly at 269-998-4609 or visit: www.disputethis.org.
West Olive, MI - In 2008 Patricia Meyer wrote the book Dispute This exposing her findings of corruption and cover-up in the GM/Delphi spinoff after spending two years trying to get politicians both state and national, several Federal Agencies including the FBI and the SEC and Federal Departments including the Labor Department to help bring the General Motors/Delphi fraud to light.
Meyer, author and director of non-profit group LAWS, Inc., told how and why General Motors and Delphi pulled off a massive corporate cover up on not just Congress, but with shareholders and former employees who were left holding the bag. "Delphi and its parent company General Motors, orchestrated a fraud that was among the most flagrant in U.S. history during a wave of corporate meltdowns," states Meyer. "This meltdown has and is still sparking criminal and regulatory investigations based on the billions of dollars lost by both former Delphi employees and unsuspecting shareholders," she added.
Encouraged by Floyd Williams, retired National Director of Legislative Affairs in the U.S, and Attorney Laura Baek, attorney for the National Taxpayer Advocacy, Patricia Meyer became a whistle blower in March of 2007 to the newly revised whistle blower office of the IRS under the direction of Stephen Whitlock regarding GM/Delphi infractions.
After three years of frustration trying to work with this office it was suggested by Floyd Williams that she contact Commissioner Steve Miller of the IRS for help and clarification. Within one week of the letter being sent, Meyer lost her Federal Postal Pension and received a letter from her IRS case worker Robert Gardner stating that her Whistle Blower Case had been closed and that she could not appeal this decision.
She contacted Attorney Laura Baek of the Tax Advocacy Office who told her that she could appeal this decision to the U.S. Tax Court which she did.
On several occasions over this three year period Pat asked for an appointment with Nina Olson of the Tax Advocacy Office to discuss this situation. As of this date she has heard nothing from her.
Based upon recent meltdowns and Congressional hearings held in Washington this year, Meyer can't help but wonder whether the Treasury Department under the direction of Timothy Geithner and the IRS were working together to block her in a massive cover-up. She believes this is only the tip of the iceberg and encourages other citizens to not let the IRS intimidate or force them into silence via fear and intimidation as she’s witnessed firsthand.
Meyer is currently the Director of the not-for-profit LAWS, Inc. which was founded in 1994. Her mission is direct and attracting much attention across the globe: advocate and champion workers' rights and expose corporate fraud, with particular focus in the automotive sector. She is also the author of four books including: America: Rightsize This (2001), You Win But Lose (2003),Dispute This (2008) and How Washington D.C. Helped Allow Corporations to Get Away With Fraud (2012).
For media inquiries, interview requests and schedule availability please contact Patricia Meyer directly at 269-998-4609 or visit: www.disputethis.org.
THE PRICE OF JUSTICE?
It has come to our attention that a few of you seem to have a problem understanding why you should be asked to throw in some money to an attorney to see if there is any justice for you. Lets add up the money you have spent on paying to be screwed and not represented.
Union Dues for each month of employment: aprox. $15.00
Months per year of employment: X 12
Number of years: X 7
That already equals up to $1260.00
Initiation fees [ some paid for each company] $60.00
Final tally to not be represented $1320.00
Honestly your money should have worked for you and it HAS NOT! Kind of makes this investment in justice a real bargain . Anyone who can't see the value in that just doesn't understand and should continue to pay for what they will never get.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AT THE MEETING!
disputethis.org
With regards to those who are feeling the threat of retaliation, I have spoken to the attorney. He assures us that all judges and attorneys are very aware of the fact that there are many laws written to cover employees right to bring suit against unfair or illegal practices. He has been involved in only 1 case where this was a reality and the judge informed defendants attorney that if this practice did not cease, people would go to jail, as in their clients. You would be the Litigant STAND UP FOR YOURSELVES!
SEE YOU ALL AT THE MEETING
It has come to our attention that a few of you seem to have a problem understanding why you should be asked to throw in some money to an attorney to see if there is any justice for you. Lets add up the money you have spent on paying to be screwed and not represented.
Union Dues for each month of employment: aprox. $15.00
Months per year of employment: X 12
Number of years: X 7
That already equals up to $1260.00
Initiation fees [ some paid for each company] $60.00
Final tally to not be represented $1320.00
Honestly your money should have worked for you and it HAS NOT! Kind of makes this investment in justice a real bargain . Anyone who can't see the value in that just doesn't understand and should continue to pay for what they will never get.
HOPE TO SEE YOU ALL AT THE MEETING!
disputethis.org
With regards to those who are feeling the threat of retaliation, I have spoken to the attorney. He assures us that all judges and attorneys are very aware of the fact that there are many laws written to cover employees right to bring suit against unfair or illegal practices. He has been involved in only 1 case where this was a reality and the judge informed defendants attorney that if this practice did not cease, people would go to jail, as in their clients. You would be the Litigant STAND UP FOR YOURSELVES!
SEE YOU ALL AT THE MEETING
ANNOUNCEMENT OF JUNE 22, 2013 MEETING
This is official notification of this Saturday's meeting for the intent of securing what justice can be had for the ACH workers from any and all locations. The time will be 6 PM . Location is at the American Legion Hall at 320 W. Michigan Ave. Saline, Mi. 48177. The building sits on top of a hill on the right side, just before the park if you are travelling from the east. Plenty of parking is available. Turn right at sign for hospital and then a quick left into lot.
We cannot stress enough that this is for the serious minded workers who feel that something must be done about your treatment as dues paying union members. If you think that you can lay back and let the few brave enough to carry this battle benefit you without your being involved, YOU ARE VERY WRONG! This will not be a class action where everyone benefits, but rather individual agreements handled as a group. That means if you don't sign up, you will not be included in any settlement reached. The only people excused from this will be those in Kentucky, and some of them feel strongly enough to make the drive.
Everyone needs to hear the same information at the same time. It is also a sign of respect for the attorney who is willing to meet with you on a Saturday evening. We have done our best to make sure to include the C crew workers who wish to attend. The more people who take advantage of this legal help, the lower the cost for all of you. Many have worked very hard to give this opportunity to you. Now, YOU ONLY NEED TO STAND UP FOR YOURSELF.
While the anniversary of Martin Luther King's speech "I HAVE A DREAM" is this Saturday also, we have to face the fact that for many of you it is about "I'm LIVING THE REALITY"! You have deserved better all along. Time to show the courage to do something about it. We look forward to meeting the strong and determined among you. Bring a friend.
This is official notification of this Saturday's meeting for the intent of securing what justice can be had for the ACH workers from any and all locations. The time will be 6 PM . Location is at the American Legion Hall at 320 W. Michigan Ave. Saline, Mi. 48177. The building sits on top of a hill on the right side, just before the park if you are travelling from the east. Plenty of parking is available. Turn right at sign for hospital and then a quick left into lot.
We cannot stress enough that this is for the serious minded workers who feel that something must be done about your treatment as dues paying union members. If you think that you can lay back and let the few brave enough to carry this battle benefit you without your being involved, YOU ARE VERY WRONG! This will not be a class action where everyone benefits, but rather individual agreements handled as a group. That means if you don't sign up, you will not be included in any settlement reached. The only people excused from this will be those in Kentucky, and some of them feel strongly enough to make the drive.
Everyone needs to hear the same information at the same time. It is also a sign of respect for the attorney who is willing to meet with you on a Saturday evening. We have done our best to make sure to include the C crew workers who wish to attend. The more people who take advantage of this legal help, the lower the cost for all of you. Many have worked very hard to give this opportunity to you. Now, YOU ONLY NEED TO STAND UP FOR YOURSELF.
While the anniversary of Martin Luther King's speech "I HAVE A DREAM" is this Saturday also, we have to face the fact that for many of you it is about "I'm LIVING THE REALITY"! You have deserved better all along. Time to show the courage to do something about it. We look forward to meeting the strong and determined among you. Bring a friend.
Upcoming Meeting
This letter is to announce to you the intentions of the LAWS group to go further into securing the priority issues that have affected the ACH workers. We do have a date and time set up for the next step which will be announced on this web page next week. This is to make clear to you where we are at this time and to insure that all of you understand the situation. We have spent a lot of time trying to get some justice thru the National Labor Relations Board to no avail. Many of you tried to get grievances or help thru the Union process and found the same results.
For that reason we are entering another ring of legal help to get what you deserve as working people. Yes, we are talking about legal action. Only the serious need attend. If you honestly feel you deserve better and are ready to be done with lies and tricks, You should attend.
Many of you are working very hard to spread the word, each location has a lead person who will be sent flyers with exact details. This is crucial to our success. We have an attorney who is willing to take the things you are reporting to us on and try to get you resolution and recognition for your years of service. This can only be effective by cutting thru the B.S. and YOUR INVOLVEMENT!
This will not be class action where only a few brave people carry the burden and others benefit from a settlement. If you don't come to the meeting and sign up, you are not included. This will be a show of solidarity of the serious and the strong, proud workers who feel that the lies needed to stop a long time ago. Anyone too afraid to stand up for themselves now should know that they are not alone. That is why it is very important to attend. Also, the more people involved, the cheaper it is for all of you. That is as simply put as it can be. Plus you all need to hear the same thing from the attorney at the same time. I say again, there is nothing like looking around a room and knowing that you are all in this together from many different locations. You will have their back and they have yours. It is what has been missing from your union life since you began work
We have been willing to help but this is something you must all do for yourselves. We have motivated and guided as far as we can. It is time to stand up for yourselves and do! Attendance at this meeting is a must for all but the Kentucky group, and we are trying to get a web cam set up for them. Keep yourself informed, write out any pertinent statements. We are not talking about individual grievances, but the issues that have affected all of you. SENIORITY, BENEFITS, AND REPRESENTATION.
The day to reserve is June 22nd. Please set this day aside to attend. The time and place will be announced to you in a flyer. Please be proactive about staying in touch and watch this website. It will succeed with your participation.
LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
This letter is to announce to you the intentions of the LAWS group to go further into securing the priority issues that have affected the ACH workers. We do have a date and time set up for the next step which will be announced on this web page next week. This is to make clear to you where we are at this time and to insure that all of you understand the situation. We have spent a lot of time trying to get some justice thru the National Labor Relations Board to no avail. Many of you tried to get grievances or help thru the Union process and found the same results.
For that reason we are entering another ring of legal help to get what you deserve as working people. Yes, we are talking about legal action. Only the serious need attend. If you honestly feel you deserve better and are ready to be done with lies and tricks, You should attend.
Many of you are working very hard to spread the word, each location has a lead person who will be sent flyers with exact details. This is crucial to our success. We have an attorney who is willing to take the things you are reporting to us on and try to get you resolution and recognition for your years of service. This can only be effective by cutting thru the B.S. and YOUR INVOLVEMENT!
This will not be class action where only a few brave people carry the burden and others benefit from a settlement. If you don't come to the meeting and sign up, you are not included. This will be a show of solidarity of the serious and the strong, proud workers who feel that the lies needed to stop a long time ago. Anyone too afraid to stand up for themselves now should know that they are not alone. That is why it is very important to attend. Also, the more people involved, the cheaper it is for all of you. That is as simply put as it can be. Plus you all need to hear the same thing from the attorney at the same time. I say again, there is nothing like looking around a room and knowing that you are all in this together from many different locations. You will have their back and they have yours. It is what has been missing from your union life since you began work
We have been willing to help but this is something you must all do for yourselves. We have motivated and guided as far as we can. It is time to stand up for yourselves and do! Attendance at this meeting is a must for all but the Kentucky group, and we are trying to get a web cam set up for them. Keep yourself informed, write out any pertinent statements. We are not talking about individual grievances, but the issues that have affected all of you. SENIORITY, BENEFITS, AND REPRESENTATION.
The day to reserve is June 22nd. Please set this day aside to attend. The time and place will be announced to you in a flyer. Please be proactive about staying in touch and watch this website. It will succeed with your participation.
LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
Get it in Writing
Through out the many phone calls from workers a common theme seems to be emerging, nothing in writing is given to the workers anymore! This holds true of the agreements you are required to sign on entry to worksites, promises told to you by union officials, union meetings minutes, and quality disputes with management. It would seem that the only reason for this is that they don't want to be held to the words they stand in front of you and say. You are asked to fill out paper to get your car worked on, rent a movie, join a shopping club, or go to the dentist or doctor. They all give a copy of what you are expected to sign, it is known as a binding contract. It means that what you agree to is clear to both parties, everyone understands what it means, and it cannot change later on. NO WONDER YOU CAN"T GET ANYTHING IN WRITING!
Let's address the quality issue first. There used to be clear quality directives that were on every work station when only 1 employer was involved. Now that we all work for someone else, standards for the same product seems to be getting "fuzzy". When a problem develops it is easy to blame "the lazy or disgruntled worker". While many of you still make the same product the new employer has a different approach. It's called fill the order at all costs! When you are asked to let a quality issue go, and you know it is an issue, ask for an AVO. That stands for AVOID VERBAL ORDERS. The workers do care and try to hold up standards, but the Foreman has to get the quota filled or he could be gone. Let them know that you want to be correct in doing your job and if they want to lower standards you need to have this in writing. Maybe you are simple and he needs to spell it out clearly. Maybe the standards have changed. Either way, if the direction to pass a part is from management, they should not be afraid to step up to their own orders. This would clearly put the blame with them and not the workers. You all come to work to do a good job and get paid for having done so. This AVO will make clear in who's direction this issue should fall.
At orientation we used to get some paperwork in writing that told of the work rules, benefits, and promises made. What was on the paper was understood to be what all parties could trust to be true. Now we seem to have revolving or evolving contracts that only hold true when it is about your discipline or termination. I can't hurt to ask on your entry for copies of what you are asked to sign. If what is presented is the truth, what's the problem? If it is a point of irritation or anger, let it go, but understand you tried and all of the others in the room are witness to facts or lies presented. Don't we wish that every promise said up till now had been in writing? A truthful start will eliminate many problems later. That should be in the best interest of workers and employers.
When it comes to voting on contracts and meeting minutes, only the guilty are so ashamed of what they are doing that they refuse to print the facts. A "highlights" page means nothing if no one has to disclose that each additional paragraph contradicts what little bit of good you were told would be for you to count on. On the subject of the minutes from your meetings, if you are not allowed to see what went on for yourself in writing, draw your own conclusions. If leadership needs to keep what they do a secret, I wouldn't trust them. What do you think? If you would like to remind leadership that the MEMBERSHIP is the highest ruling body, Take some friends who agree and make a motion that all minutes from all meetings be PRINTED AND DISTRIBUTED TO THE MEMBERSHIP! From now on if that has to be said. Why would you pay to belong to a group that has to keep their actions secret. Your ears only hear half of what is said to you. Things in print are true facts. Anyone afraid to put things in print should obviously not be trusted.
Take the initiative and be your own advocate to protect what was promised to you!
Through out the many phone calls from workers a common theme seems to be emerging, nothing in writing is given to the workers anymore! This holds true of the agreements you are required to sign on entry to worksites, promises told to you by union officials, union meetings minutes, and quality disputes with management. It would seem that the only reason for this is that they don't want to be held to the words they stand in front of you and say. You are asked to fill out paper to get your car worked on, rent a movie, join a shopping club, or go to the dentist or doctor. They all give a copy of what you are expected to sign, it is known as a binding contract. It means that what you agree to is clear to both parties, everyone understands what it means, and it cannot change later on. NO WONDER YOU CAN"T GET ANYTHING IN WRITING!
Let's address the quality issue first. There used to be clear quality directives that were on every work station when only 1 employer was involved. Now that we all work for someone else, standards for the same product seems to be getting "fuzzy". When a problem develops it is easy to blame "the lazy or disgruntled worker". While many of you still make the same product the new employer has a different approach. It's called fill the order at all costs! When you are asked to let a quality issue go, and you know it is an issue, ask for an AVO. That stands for AVOID VERBAL ORDERS. The workers do care and try to hold up standards, but the Foreman has to get the quota filled or he could be gone. Let them know that you want to be correct in doing your job and if they want to lower standards you need to have this in writing. Maybe you are simple and he needs to spell it out clearly. Maybe the standards have changed. Either way, if the direction to pass a part is from management, they should not be afraid to step up to their own orders. This would clearly put the blame with them and not the workers. You all come to work to do a good job and get paid for having done so. This AVO will make clear in who's direction this issue should fall.
At orientation we used to get some paperwork in writing that told of the work rules, benefits, and promises made. What was on the paper was understood to be what all parties could trust to be true. Now we seem to have revolving or evolving contracts that only hold true when it is about your discipline or termination. I can't hurt to ask on your entry for copies of what you are asked to sign. If what is presented is the truth, what's the problem? If it is a point of irritation or anger, let it go, but understand you tried and all of the others in the room are witness to facts or lies presented. Don't we wish that every promise said up till now had been in writing? A truthful start will eliminate many problems later. That should be in the best interest of workers and employers.
When it comes to voting on contracts and meeting minutes, only the guilty are so ashamed of what they are doing that they refuse to print the facts. A "highlights" page means nothing if no one has to disclose that each additional paragraph contradicts what little bit of good you were told would be for you to count on. On the subject of the minutes from your meetings, if you are not allowed to see what went on for yourself in writing, draw your own conclusions. If leadership needs to keep what they do a secret, I wouldn't trust them. What do you think? If you would like to remind leadership that the MEMBERSHIP is the highest ruling body, Take some friends who agree and make a motion that all minutes from all meetings be PRINTED AND DISTRIBUTED TO THE MEMBERSHIP! From now on if that has to be said. Why would you pay to belong to a group that has to keep their actions secret. Your ears only hear half of what is said to you. Things in print are true facts. Anyone afraid to put things in print should obviously not be trusted.
Take the initiative and be your own advocate to protect what was promised to you!
UPDATE ON ACTION TAKEN BY LAWS
Many of you workers have been contacting us to ask questions and get clarification on the avenues we are trying to use to secure some publicity and justice for the "temporary" workers of ACH. Newspapers contacted have been ANN ARBOR News group, Detroit Free Press, Reuters News, and Voice of Detroit.
In addition we have been interviewing for legal help in your plight. I will share with you that a visit was made to the office of Joel Golden, where we paid a $250 consult fee for 1 hour of his time. While this lawyer came to us highly recommended it was apparent early on that he was not interested in wasting his time on anything older than 1 year. Instead of paying him to listen to what we had to say, we paid him to ask questions which did not cover our circumstances at all. BIG DISAPPOINTMENT If you are seeking counsel on employment matters as he is listed to do, do not waste your money here.
We have also contacted other attorneys and will truthfully report what we find out after speaking with them. We continue to work to find solutions and justice for you. If any of you know of a reporter or an attorney that would be good to contact please contact us at [email protected]
Because we intend to be as truthful as we can I will say that 3 days after our visit to Mr. Golden our check was returned to us. We got our money's worth I guess.
For the Milan Group: we have been frantically searching to get an attorney to take the case on. We had someone who was interested, but due to the lateness of proof and impending deadline, declined to be involved. We have not stopped working on this and still have people calling in to be included. If it comes down to this , Pat will file with the State of Michigan herself on your behalf.
Please understand that it is the documentation that a lawyer needs to file . You should not be afraid to come forward with the proof so very necessary to get an attorney to be involved. A statement means you say this happened, actual proof of what has been done is what a lawyer must have to file a case. We can only help those willing to help themselves.
Many of you workers have been contacting us to ask questions and get clarification on the avenues we are trying to use to secure some publicity and justice for the "temporary" workers of ACH. Newspapers contacted have been ANN ARBOR News group, Detroit Free Press, Reuters News, and Voice of Detroit.
In addition we have been interviewing for legal help in your plight. I will share with you that a visit was made to the office of Joel Golden, where we paid a $250 consult fee for 1 hour of his time. While this lawyer came to us highly recommended it was apparent early on that he was not interested in wasting his time on anything older than 1 year. Instead of paying him to listen to what we had to say, we paid him to ask questions which did not cover our circumstances at all. BIG DISAPPOINTMENT If you are seeking counsel on employment matters as he is listed to do, do not waste your money here.
We have also contacted other attorneys and will truthfully report what we find out after speaking with them. We continue to work to find solutions and justice for you. If any of you know of a reporter or an attorney that would be good to contact please contact us at [email protected]
Because we intend to be as truthful as we can I will say that 3 days after our visit to Mr. Golden our check was returned to us. We got our money's worth I guess.
For the Milan Group: we have been frantically searching to get an attorney to take the case on. We had someone who was interested, but due to the lateness of proof and impending deadline, declined to be involved. We have not stopped working on this and still have people calling in to be included. If it comes down to this , Pat will file with the State of Michigan herself on your behalf.
Please understand that it is the documentation that a lawyer needs to file . You should not be afraid to come forward with the proof so very necessary to get an attorney to be involved. A statement means you say this happened, actual proof of what has been done is what a lawyer must have to file a case. We can only help those willing to help themselves.
IN REFERENCE TO THE DAN RATHER LETTER:
We would like to clear up some confusion about what you may have been told about this letter. What was put on the website to inform you all of a chance to get some publicity for you temporary workers. It was written by a union member to explain how this ACH group has been treated and how she feels about what has been done to them. A text went out to say that the Dan Rather Show would do this story if they got 50 statements. No one at the Dan Rather office promised to do the story. You were asked to share your own personal story of how your life has been affected by the treatment you have received as a temp worker. This was to show that more workers feel the shame of the union's representation of these dues paying members and how individuals feel themselves. Please do not sign any group letter. there is no telling where those names are sent or who else has access to them.
This is between you and the world and what you want people to know about how Ford made such a miraculous comeback financially. If you don't feel the need to write any of this, then don't. But even as we continue to secure legal representation publicity is a good thing. Nothing comes to those who don't help themselves and as far as the rest of the world knows, Ford execs are geniuses at business planning. The truth of how you contributed to this will never come out if you don't speak out for yourself. We are desperately hoping someone out there cares about how workers are being treated in this country. Hopefully, if the Rather show takes this on it will make a difference.
We would like to clear up some confusion about what you may have been told about this letter. What was put on the website to inform you all of a chance to get some publicity for you temporary workers. It was written by a union member to explain how this ACH group has been treated and how she feels about what has been done to them. A text went out to say that the Dan Rather Show would do this story if they got 50 statements. No one at the Dan Rather office promised to do the story. You were asked to share your own personal story of how your life has been affected by the treatment you have received as a temp worker. This was to show that more workers feel the shame of the union's representation of these dues paying members and how individuals feel themselves. Please do not sign any group letter. there is no telling where those names are sent or who else has access to them.
This is between you and the world and what you want people to know about how Ford made such a miraculous comeback financially. If you don't feel the need to write any of this, then don't. But even as we continue to secure legal representation publicity is a good thing. Nothing comes to those who don't help themselves and as far as the rest of the world knows, Ford execs are geniuses at business planning. The truth of how you contributed to this will never come out if you don't speak out for yourself. We are desperately hoping someone out there cares about how workers are being treated in this country. Hopefully, if the Rather show takes this on it will make a difference.
L A W S GROUP
Pat Meyer director
disputethis.org
PAT SPEAKS
Recently AXS-TV broadcasted a show dealing with American workers who have been displaced by foreign workers in this country. The issue we are dealing with is the "temporary" workers of the ACH corporation who helped Ford Motor Company to make such a miraculous recovery at the expense of their pay and benefits. Unlike the workers in their piece being from foreign countries, it was the corporation which was brought in from another country to lower wages and benefits. The Ford Motor Company seems to have benefitted greatly by "leasing the business" to another company while maintaining control of property, equipment, process, and workers.
These so called "temp" workers have in fact been working in Ford facilities for 7 years, many putting in 10 and 12 hour days, 6 and 7 days a week. Of course being a temporary qualifies them to no insurance, half price pay, and no written contract covering them until the September 2011 contract. They have been dues paying union members the entire time with no representation or contract of their own. Even the barest essential of bereavement pay has been refused to them under the name of helping Ford survive. All along these temporaries have been promised to have preferential hiring rights to Ford, after the new buyer gives consent to releasing them. It seems these temporary employees had been "sold" along with the business to guarantee the new owner could take over with a skilled workforce that would insure the new company could maintain the productivity and quality of Ford standards.
Debi Muncy, a Ford worker, has been proud to pay union dues for almost 30 years. She has given of her family time and financial donations to help support many activities that were and still are of importance to raising standards for working people. She feels that the temporary workers have been treated like second class union workers. She has not paid union dues to support this kind of treatment. Debi is ashamed to see that both Ford corporate execs and union "exec" leadership have prospered in pay rates and bonuses while standing on the back of these workers. At some point the union has stopped representing workers and become the employment agents for this corporation. Any objections to this is met with intimidation by both union and company officials.
As we approach the holidays that say how great America is I'm saddened to know how devalued the American workers have become. Debi states, "I love this country and I loved my union, but until it lives up to its guiding words I feel that all workers have been "sold out."
American workers' lives are better for having had good paying jobs and benefits, but we must recognize that our workers have worked hard to achieve these goals. Do companies stay great because of their plan of operation alone, or do they become great because of the operation plan along with the hard working people who get up every day and come to work and do a good job? How much profit can a corporation make when it decides it doesn't need to pay their own workers enough to be able to afford the product they make?
We feel our country needs to know at what price some of our corporations have prospered. We at the LAWS, INC. have been attempting to find some kind of justice for these workers and have been reminded that many things are wrong even though they are not considered illegal. We feel that it certainly should be illegal to profit from workers' loss.
I would encourage you to contact [email protected] immediately and let Dan Rather and his associates know what is happening to you and your fellow workers. If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact me through the contact form at the bottom of this page, at [email protected] or at 269-998-4609.
MILAN WORKERS of A C H
This is written to clearly show how the Milan membership was set aside from any offers presented to other locations. International UAW officials attended meetings here to explain to the membership what their choices would be upon the sale of the Milan location. They were told by rep Jody Dunn that there was no offer of employment to Ford locations. If they wanted to continue to be employed they could choose to sign up with the INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS. If this was not acceptable, they could be terminated. No offer of work at other ACH locations, still operating at this time. It was not until other ACH plants reached sale agreements that these workers realized that they had been excluded from offers made to other locations. Pay and benefits were affected for these dues paying members of the UAW.
THE STORY OF ACH WORKERS
This is an explanation of the treatment of the "temporary" workers who have been so instrumental in the success and profitability of Ford Motor Co. It appears from the representation that the International UAW has offered these workers, that the duty of the officials involved was to act as the employment and disciplinary arm of the company. At no time has there been an elected ACH representative, and not until the contract of September 2011 was there written word of their rights and representation. These members have been dues paying union workers since 2007.
The transition agreement used to sell or close the ACH facilities gave the power to the new buyer to determine if this skilled workforce was necessary to ensure the success of their takeover of the business. The ACH worker would be released to their chosen location only if the worker was not necessary to the new buyer's operation. In the end of the Saline transition these members were forced to abide by a contract that they had no right to vote, however newly hired nonunion temps did have the right to vote. They were also forced to agree to be an employee of a new company for which no work rules or contract had been written. When International UAW rep Jody Dunn explained all this at a meeting he said "Either you want a job or not. If you don't want to work for this company you will not be eligible for unemployment and won't be called on for a Ford job. ACH was being dissolved at this location Oct. 25,2012. Their decision was initially due in November16th. There was no notice under the Warren Act which guarantees 60 day notice of closure of a company. A contract for this new employer, DAS, was not offered to the membership for vote until March of 2013. The vote was posted on Friday for a Monday vote. The members voted it down because of lack of information and the late notice. Union officials had this information in February, but didn't think these dues paying union members needed the info.
Some members who felt no trust in the unions promises or lack of knowledge about what would come out of signing with DAS, chose to remain ACH and be laid off. Contrary to the promise of "Preferential Hire" many Ford locations were hiring off the street and these laid off ACH workers were not called in line of their seniority. They are still awaiting to be called to a location which is hiring lesser seniority ACH workers at this time. In many instances these new hires off the street have more seniority then the ACH workers waiting to transition to their promised Ford position.
At the Milan location the offer was even worse than that. They were told by International reps that they were not included in any offer of Ford employment. If they did not agree to be employed be INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC. they would be terminated. And of course there was short time frame to decide. It was not until the other ACH locations were made different offers that this group of dues paying union members realized they had been left out.
Adjusted seniority dates, lost benefits, and nonexistent representation has been the penalty imposed on these members. In addition, the ACH members who accepted out of state work, just to get to Ford, had to cover all moving and relocation expenses on their own meager earnings. This is not representation of dues paying union members and the International union should be ashamed of taking their dues. It is clear in every way that as these workers were a vital part of the Ford recovery at the expense of their wages and benefits. No one wants to see the union be destroyed. That is the only reason any of us make a decent wage and have benefits. We just want the union to live up to their own words of representing the membership, not the corporation .
For this reason, we feel that a class action law suit is necessary for the ACH workers. If you feel the same about how you have been represented, you should contact the LAWS group to join our growing list. We currently are hearing from workers at Milan, Saline, Sheldon Rd., Sterling Hgts., Rawsonville, Flat Rock, and Dearborn locations. To add your name or ask questions contact [email protected].
THE LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
Pat Meyer director
disputethis.org
PAT SPEAKS
Recently AXS-TV broadcasted a show dealing with American workers who have been displaced by foreign workers in this country. The issue we are dealing with is the "temporary" workers of the ACH corporation who helped Ford Motor Company to make such a miraculous recovery at the expense of their pay and benefits. Unlike the workers in their piece being from foreign countries, it was the corporation which was brought in from another country to lower wages and benefits. The Ford Motor Company seems to have benefitted greatly by "leasing the business" to another company while maintaining control of property, equipment, process, and workers.
These so called "temp" workers have in fact been working in Ford facilities for 7 years, many putting in 10 and 12 hour days, 6 and 7 days a week. Of course being a temporary qualifies them to no insurance, half price pay, and no written contract covering them until the September 2011 contract. They have been dues paying union members the entire time with no representation or contract of their own. Even the barest essential of bereavement pay has been refused to them under the name of helping Ford survive. All along these temporaries have been promised to have preferential hiring rights to Ford, after the new buyer gives consent to releasing them. It seems these temporary employees had been "sold" along with the business to guarantee the new owner could take over with a skilled workforce that would insure the new company could maintain the productivity and quality of Ford standards.
Debi Muncy, a Ford worker, has been proud to pay union dues for almost 30 years. She has given of her family time and financial donations to help support many activities that were and still are of importance to raising standards for working people. She feels that the temporary workers have been treated like second class union workers. She has not paid union dues to support this kind of treatment. Debi is ashamed to see that both Ford corporate execs and union "exec" leadership have prospered in pay rates and bonuses while standing on the back of these workers. At some point the union has stopped representing workers and become the employment agents for this corporation. Any objections to this is met with intimidation by both union and company officials.
As we approach the holidays that say how great America is I'm saddened to know how devalued the American workers have become. Debi states, "I love this country and I loved my union, but until it lives up to its guiding words I feel that all workers have been "sold out."
American workers' lives are better for having had good paying jobs and benefits, but we must recognize that our workers have worked hard to achieve these goals. Do companies stay great because of their plan of operation alone, or do they become great because of the operation plan along with the hard working people who get up every day and come to work and do a good job? How much profit can a corporation make when it decides it doesn't need to pay their own workers enough to be able to afford the product they make?
We feel our country needs to know at what price some of our corporations have prospered. We at the LAWS, INC. have been attempting to find some kind of justice for these workers and have been reminded that many things are wrong even though they are not considered illegal. We feel that it certainly should be illegal to profit from workers' loss.
I would encourage you to contact [email protected] immediately and let Dan Rather and his associates know what is happening to you and your fellow workers. If you have any questions or comments feel free to contact me through the contact form at the bottom of this page, at [email protected] or at 269-998-4609.
MILAN WORKERS of A C H
This is written to clearly show how the Milan membership was set aside from any offers presented to other locations. International UAW officials attended meetings here to explain to the membership what their choices would be upon the sale of the Milan location. They were told by rep Jody Dunn that there was no offer of employment to Ford locations. If they wanted to continue to be employed they could choose to sign up with the INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS. If this was not acceptable, they could be terminated. No offer of work at other ACH locations, still operating at this time. It was not until other ACH plants reached sale agreements that these workers realized that they had been excluded from offers made to other locations. Pay and benefits were affected for these dues paying members of the UAW.
THE STORY OF ACH WORKERS
This is an explanation of the treatment of the "temporary" workers who have been so instrumental in the success and profitability of Ford Motor Co. It appears from the representation that the International UAW has offered these workers, that the duty of the officials involved was to act as the employment and disciplinary arm of the company. At no time has there been an elected ACH representative, and not until the contract of September 2011 was there written word of their rights and representation. These members have been dues paying union workers since 2007.
The transition agreement used to sell or close the ACH facilities gave the power to the new buyer to determine if this skilled workforce was necessary to ensure the success of their takeover of the business. The ACH worker would be released to their chosen location only if the worker was not necessary to the new buyer's operation. In the end of the Saline transition these members were forced to abide by a contract that they had no right to vote, however newly hired nonunion temps did have the right to vote. They were also forced to agree to be an employee of a new company for which no work rules or contract had been written. When International UAW rep Jody Dunn explained all this at a meeting he said "Either you want a job or not. If you don't want to work for this company you will not be eligible for unemployment and won't be called on for a Ford job. ACH was being dissolved at this location Oct. 25,2012. Their decision was initially due in November16th. There was no notice under the Warren Act which guarantees 60 day notice of closure of a company. A contract for this new employer, DAS, was not offered to the membership for vote until March of 2013. The vote was posted on Friday for a Monday vote. The members voted it down because of lack of information and the late notice. Union officials had this information in February, but didn't think these dues paying union members needed the info.
Some members who felt no trust in the unions promises or lack of knowledge about what would come out of signing with DAS, chose to remain ACH and be laid off. Contrary to the promise of "Preferential Hire" many Ford locations were hiring off the street and these laid off ACH workers were not called in line of their seniority. They are still awaiting to be called to a location which is hiring lesser seniority ACH workers at this time. In many instances these new hires off the street have more seniority then the ACH workers waiting to transition to their promised Ford position.
At the Milan location the offer was even worse than that. They were told by International reps that they were not included in any offer of Ford employment. If they did not agree to be employed be INERGY AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS, LLC. they would be terminated. And of course there was short time frame to decide. It was not until the other ACH locations were made different offers that this group of dues paying union members realized they had been left out.
Adjusted seniority dates, lost benefits, and nonexistent representation has been the penalty imposed on these members. In addition, the ACH members who accepted out of state work, just to get to Ford, had to cover all moving and relocation expenses on their own meager earnings. This is not representation of dues paying union members and the International union should be ashamed of taking their dues. It is clear in every way that as these workers were a vital part of the Ford recovery at the expense of their wages and benefits. No one wants to see the union be destroyed. That is the only reason any of us make a decent wage and have benefits. We just want the union to live up to their own words of representing the membership, not the corporation .
For this reason, we feel that a class action law suit is necessary for the ACH workers. If you feel the same about how you have been represented, you should contact the LAWS group to join our growing list. We currently are hearing from workers at Milan, Saline, Sheldon Rd., Sterling Hgts., Rawsonville, Flat Rock, and Dearborn locations. To add your name or ask questions contact [email protected].
THE LAWS GROUP
disputethis.org
Pat Speaks
Betrayal of the American Dream
A Good Read!
I would recommend to you the book Betrayal of the American Dream by Donald Barlett and James Steele. They explain the devastation of the American middle class and how this plan was carried out.
They know what we know!
For Your Information!
The NLRB is now working with the former ACHers now DAS employees at the Faurecia Saline, Michigan plant. Someone listened!
Attention All
Milan, Saline, Rawsonville
Sheldon Rd., Flat Rock and Sterling Heights
Ford Workers
Click HERE and you will find letters showing that we are fighting for you!
PAT SPEAKS
Our organization has fought for 21 years for justice and dignity for all.
2012 - a year that looked like the 1930's
A nation fearing the financial cliff.
Workers and retirees facing situations that no one could have predicted.
Starting in 2008 banks and large corporations faced a crisis which affected almost every family.
America is seeing a depression causing unemployment cuts, medical care cuts and poverty no one expected. Many feel that politics in Washington D.C. had a major hand in our nation's set back.
Let's be perfectly honest! Since the 1930's until recently unions had a significant purpose. They helped develop fair working and living conditions which brought about the middle class. In the last few years we have watched a sharp change. The working people and retirees always thought that the unions and their leadership worked for them. Recently it has become clear to me that some of their leaders have sealed their membership's fate by becoming a "company union."
In 2011 all auto retirees and workers at Chrysler, Ford and GM lost their cost of living.
In 2012 Ford and GM sued the government on behalf of the workers who had FICA taxes taken out of their performance bonuses. Why didn't the UAW leadership fight for the Chrysler workers who were left out of the suit? Why did GM and Ford workers receive only 35% when it is suspected that some union leaders in the Wisconsin regions received larger amounts?
The UAW leadership stripped the retirees and workers of earned rights. It took over its members health insurance because GM, Ford and Chrysler said that they could no longer afford to pay it. Then the UAW allowed GM to get away with delaying payments into the retirement and medical insurance fund.
Many of the UAW members across the country feel that they are receiving no support from the UAW leadership. Even some of their local and regional UAW officials are disturbed about this lack of representation.
Remember the $75 Billion bailout for GM and Chrysler? I attended the House sessions at which the Big Three executives testified. Who will pay back this loan which helped them remain in operation? Probably the American people. Consider this! No one talks about the fact that some of the GM bailout money went to Brazil and other offshore investments.
Our group worked hard to make Washington and the public aware of what was happening.
Many trips were made to Washington and 2 books were written providing pertinent information
Dispute this! America Is Crumbling Within!
The Keys to Uncovering the Cover-up 2008
How Washington D.C. helped allow corporations to get away with fraud General Motors/Delphi Spin Off and Bankruptcies What can we do about it? 2012
in hopes someone would help stop the corruption and bring the offenders to justice.
In the past 6 months a Ford worker, Debi Muncy, fought for Ford temporaries known as ACH workers for 5 years who have been deprived of fair wages, medical coverage and full bonuses.
Saline, Michigan was an eye opener for me! Ford sold its plant there to a French company known as Faurecia. Now that facility is split into union and nonunion workers at low wages and bad working conditions. The UAW union's cry is "you're lucky to have a job!" In reality the UAW takes 2 hours of pay a month from some of the workers but none from employment agency workers who hired in at $11 an hour. Never have I seen such injustice!
Our governor, Rick Snyder, in a special October meeting at the Liberty School in Saline, Michigan said he wouldn't support a bill to make Michigan into a right to work state. In December, with a stroke of a pen, he broke his word. Is what I have seen at the Saline, Michigan plant going to occur throughout the state due to this new legislation?
Union Members and Retirees,
Thanks to all of you for your help
You need to unite and start to fight for the good of all!
Phone - Write - Whatever it takes to stop injustice!
Now is the time for all of us to work together!
Betrayal of the American Dream
A Good Read!
I would recommend to you the book Betrayal of the American Dream by Donald Barlett and James Steele. They explain the devastation of the American middle class and how this plan was carried out.
They know what we know!
For Your Information!
The NLRB is now working with the former ACHers now DAS employees at the Faurecia Saline, Michigan plant. Someone listened!
Attention All
Milan, Saline, Rawsonville
Sheldon Rd., Flat Rock and Sterling Heights
Ford Workers
Click HERE and you will find letters showing that we are fighting for you!
PAT SPEAKS
Our organization has fought for 21 years for justice and dignity for all.
2012 - a year that looked like the 1930's
A nation fearing the financial cliff.
Workers and retirees facing situations that no one could have predicted.
Starting in 2008 banks and large corporations faced a crisis which affected almost every family.
America is seeing a depression causing unemployment cuts, medical care cuts and poverty no one expected. Many feel that politics in Washington D.C. had a major hand in our nation's set back.
Let's be perfectly honest! Since the 1930's until recently unions had a significant purpose. They helped develop fair working and living conditions which brought about the middle class. In the last few years we have watched a sharp change. The working people and retirees always thought that the unions and their leadership worked for them. Recently it has become clear to me that some of their leaders have sealed their membership's fate by becoming a "company union."
In 2011 all auto retirees and workers at Chrysler, Ford and GM lost their cost of living.
In 2012 Ford and GM sued the government on behalf of the workers who had FICA taxes taken out of their performance bonuses. Why didn't the UAW leadership fight for the Chrysler workers who were left out of the suit? Why did GM and Ford workers receive only 35% when it is suspected that some union leaders in the Wisconsin regions received larger amounts?
The UAW leadership stripped the retirees and workers of earned rights. It took over its members health insurance because GM, Ford and Chrysler said that they could no longer afford to pay it. Then the UAW allowed GM to get away with delaying payments into the retirement and medical insurance fund.
Many of the UAW members across the country feel that they are receiving no support from the UAW leadership. Even some of their local and regional UAW officials are disturbed about this lack of representation.
Remember the $75 Billion bailout for GM and Chrysler? I attended the House sessions at which the Big Three executives testified. Who will pay back this loan which helped them remain in operation? Probably the American people. Consider this! No one talks about the fact that some of the GM bailout money went to Brazil and other offshore investments.
Our group worked hard to make Washington and the public aware of what was happening.
Many trips were made to Washington and 2 books were written providing pertinent information
Dispute this! America Is Crumbling Within!
The Keys to Uncovering the Cover-up 2008
How Washington D.C. helped allow corporations to get away with fraud General Motors/Delphi Spin Off and Bankruptcies What can we do about it? 2012
in hopes someone would help stop the corruption and bring the offenders to justice.
In the past 6 months a Ford worker, Debi Muncy, fought for Ford temporaries known as ACH workers for 5 years who have been deprived of fair wages, medical coverage and full bonuses.
Saline, Michigan was an eye opener for me! Ford sold its plant there to a French company known as Faurecia. Now that facility is split into union and nonunion workers at low wages and bad working conditions. The UAW union's cry is "you're lucky to have a job!" In reality the UAW takes 2 hours of pay a month from some of the workers but none from employment agency workers who hired in at $11 an hour. Never have I seen such injustice!
Our governor, Rick Snyder, in a special October meeting at the Liberty School in Saline, Michigan said he wouldn't support a bill to make Michigan into a right to work state. In December, with a stroke of a pen, he broke his word. Is what I have seen at the Saline, Michigan plant going to occur throughout the state due to this new legislation?
Union Members and Retirees,
Thanks to all of you for your help
You need to unite and start to fight for the good of all!
Phone - Write - Whatever it takes to stop injustice!
Now is the time for all of us to work together!
SALINE VIOLENCE
An unfortunate incident took place here in Saline just a few days ago that many will see as a clear cut violation of someone's rights. It is also example of failure to provide a safe work environment for employees . Yes, you have a right to expect that when you are at work you will be physically safe and safe from harassment and discrimination. For that reason it is very sad that an assault took place here. The fact that it was against a labor rep is probably the reason so much instant action was taken. Some were told the danger was in the parking lot. Some were told the building was on "lock down". The truth is the danger is in treating people like they are garbage or property to be sold off to guarantee profits and success to "The Buyer". We do not believe violence is right and do not condone this happening against anyone, but you cannot ignore the way people are treated in the Saline plant. It is no surprise someone feels that is their only resort.
The LAWS group is very concerned about the pressure that is placed on you workers. We hope that everyone in the building knows that. Our goal is to offer help in those issues you face because you have a BAD contract and management feels that they can treat you like an obsolete tool, "if it doesn't have a purpose, toss it out". They need to realize that THESE ARE PEOPLE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT! People with families and responsibilities. We care that you be recognized for the contribution to whichever company you "belong" to. We care that some are feeling so used, they face every day knowing how much they will hate the workday. We care that some of you that you come into work every day knowing you will be spoken to like you are a dog. But most of all, we want you to know some of this is wrong and illegal and you don't have to take it!
The union has taken care of their own. Not the membership, but their friends and family. Salary definitely took care of their important people. If you find yourself in a place where you feel a violent explosion, please call our organization. Whether we can intervene or direct you to necessary help, we will do what we can to head off someone reacting in a way that will cause even more grief .
We will be scheduling another meeting for the 16th of this month. Details will be released before then as to where and time. Plan to be there! People from other plants will be there also as what happens at one plant may affect their own. Many people do care about what is happening to working people in this country. Care enough to attend yourself. No one makes a profit that a worker does not generate. You can hang your head down and take what comes, or stand up proud like working people who deserve to be respected for their contributions.
HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE NEXT MEETING!
Pat Meyer Debi Muncy
269-98-4609 517-416-4197
disputethis.org
An unfortunate incident took place here in Saline just a few days ago that many will see as a clear cut violation of someone's rights. It is also example of failure to provide a safe work environment for employees . Yes, you have a right to expect that when you are at work you will be physically safe and safe from harassment and discrimination. For that reason it is very sad that an assault took place here. The fact that it was against a labor rep is probably the reason so much instant action was taken. Some were told the danger was in the parking lot. Some were told the building was on "lock down". The truth is the danger is in treating people like they are garbage or property to be sold off to guarantee profits and success to "The Buyer". We do not believe violence is right and do not condone this happening against anyone, but you cannot ignore the way people are treated in the Saline plant. It is no surprise someone feels that is their only resort.
The LAWS group is very concerned about the pressure that is placed on you workers. We hope that everyone in the building knows that. Our goal is to offer help in those issues you face because you have a BAD contract and management feels that they can treat you like an obsolete tool, "if it doesn't have a purpose, toss it out". They need to realize that THESE ARE PEOPLE WE ARE TALKING ABOUT! People with families and responsibilities. We care that you be recognized for the contribution to whichever company you "belong" to. We care that some are feeling so used, they face every day knowing how much they will hate the workday. We care that some of you that you come into work every day knowing you will be spoken to like you are a dog. But most of all, we want you to know some of this is wrong and illegal and you don't have to take it!
The union has taken care of their own. Not the membership, but their friends and family. Salary definitely took care of their important people. If you find yourself in a place where you feel a violent explosion, please call our organization. Whether we can intervene or direct you to necessary help, we will do what we can to head off someone reacting in a way that will cause even more grief .
We will be scheduling another meeting for the 16th of this month. Details will be released before then as to where and time. Plan to be there! People from other plants will be there also as what happens at one plant may affect their own. Many people do care about what is happening to working people in this country. Care enough to attend yourself. No one makes a profit that a worker does not generate. You can hang your head down and take what comes, or stand up proud like working people who deserve to be respected for their contributions.
HOPE TO SEE YOU AT THE NEXT MEETING!
Pat Meyer Debi Muncy
269-98-4609 517-416-4197
disputethis.org
PAT SPEAKS
The last three months have been plagued with happenings to the Ford ACH workers and the LTS (long term supplemental) employees all over the country. Ford temporary workers who have been promised jobs as Ford Tier 2 employees have found themselves assigned to companies all over the country that have leased or purchased Ford facilities.
The worst situation we are aware of is located at the Saline, MI Faurecia plant, a French owned company. The ACH employees in this plant have been told that ACH has been dissolved at this location and are being forced to either sign with a company called Devon Alpha Services (DAS) and continue working in the Faurecia plant while waiting for a Ford job to open up for them or to be unemployed. Employees accepting employment with DAS has been forced to accept attendance and disciplinary procedures along with the loss of medical coverage unless they pay for it themselves. The stringent and unfair attendance policy of this company could have influence on whether or not an employee could be picked for a Ford job he/she has been promised. One example of this rule is making employees work seven days a week twelve hours a day with no time off. If an employee turns down Saturday or Sunday he/she gets a point against them. The more points an employee receives the less likely Ford is to hire him/her.
It is clear to me that the UAW leadership denied the Ford ACH and LST workers their rights to become full Ford employees, by negotiating contracts that allowed the new buyers or leasers to do as they pleased with these employees denying them the protection the union should provide.
It would seem that the UAW is actually acting like an agent of employment for multiple corporations. Every time an employee is moved from one company to another, even though they are already UAW members waiting for Ford jobs they were guaranteed, they are required to pay a new initiation fee. If they finally get a Ford job they will have to enter as a beginning employee, even if they were employed by Ford in the past, having to pay an initiation fee once again to the UAW and to wait to earn benefits they once already had earned. They will also go with adjusted seniority some losing years worth of seniority.
If you are aware of any more situations similar to this please contact us and your local newspapers, TV and radio stations. We may be contacted through this site, at 269-998-4609 or [email protected].
Reader Response:
Read your article on Disputethis.org. I feel for all of you. I retired form Ford a year and a half ago and hired on with Inergy in Milan. My career with ford started at the Flat Rock Foundry, then the Saline plant then Milan. Was told many lies and half truths through the years by both the Company and the UAW. Finished out my time with Ford in a plant where all the "plant" employees, even though they were in the same local as my home plant. Had seniority over those of US that came from other plants. Had to work the off shifts, the bad jobs etc. So I can relate to what you are saying.
As for the initiation fee, YOU need to get a withdrawal card form the LOCAL UNION you are leaving when you get laid of. Take that card to the NEW LOCAL when your transfer and that will take care of your initiation fees. YOU should ONLY PAY ONCE TO THE UAW.
With that said, those of us working at the Inergy plant have the same rules, out of 300 people that started out with them a little over a year ago about half have been terminated. Funny thing is I jut read an article how the average wage in France is over $30 an hour and the work week is 26.5 hours a week. Guess the United States is becoming the new third world for workers rights and pay.
To all that may read this, I too, work at the Saline Mi. Plant, I have kids in school was divorced,and unemployed, and was trying to start my own business. I lived near Brighton then. One day My veterans advocate at the Howell MI Works office sent me a email regarding positions at the ACH plant in Saline,, would i take a test for... it.... funny i thought i took a test almost 3 years earlier in Plymouth for the Ach Plant there, was called for a job but passed it up for they were only starting at $14.00 an hour,I thought, for what I do and how much experience and knowledge i have it wasn't enough ..that was in 2006 I took a job with decent benefits and $4.00 more an hour and lots of o/t,,,,it was good for oh 21/2 yrs and the company folded and Look... I found myself here in Saline Working for $14.00 an hour for ACH 4 years later. What a mistake that was ....... I ..... started in May of 2011, as an ACH employee ,in the Ant Farm. I was amazed at the process and how the plant was structured. Mostly how it was run and i soon found out.It was a nightmare,i came in on launch for the 2012 Focus, 12 hr shifts 7 days a week no days off no vac'n to be had.We didn't have bosses or supervisors like i was use to.We had over seers,slave drivers really,narcissistic and demanding,just a tool with feet.Sure we'd get a good supervisor but he wouldn't last long they'd get rid of him, he didn't fit their bill of what a supervisor should be...a friggin TOOL..so they would replace him with a bigger tool than the one before .we had a special thing going on over in focus ,the process was unique all the I P's were casted and RMO'd, hand trimmed and inspected before they were foamed nothing else like it in the plant these jobs were on the fore front of the mass jobs for employees we now see with Belkin and Devon. We finally went to 8 hr days 6-7 day weeks but that 93 days we worked straight thru I thought it would kill me,but we made it through.We did better than some of those Supervisors,were still here, well may bee not.. I saw or should I say learned how much we weren't valued or cared for by the Union OR Labor then, we were treated like shit then and were treated like shit now. Faurecia came.We had High Hopes..Hmm..Nothing changed but the Moniker on our shirts.Same people same faces in Labor And The Union. We still have no representation on the floor that don't go to the supervisor first to find out what he wants to do before he comes to You or they just don't show up.So when we have a problem and they don't address it, it doesn't go away it gets worse,now that Tool has his boot firmly across your neck while your breathing dust off the ground.and you feel abandend by the very people You pay to protect you.and the situation gets Tense and you feel you have no place to turn.The people around you are too afraid to do anything because they feel if they show loyalty to you that they will get the same treatment , you cant go to your supervisor hell you don't even talk to him unless you have to and the people you work with are aware that your boss is a BULLY or is hounding you for your (Harassment) number and you wont give it to him or go out with him so he treats you like crap,writes you up for things that you have no control of that may go wrong then he finds ways to embarrass you or degrade you just to leave you alone for a few days and then come back and do it some more or does your boss think that this point system is the shit,and he finds pleasure in giving them and then chasing you around to sign the stupid sheet of paper so he can put it in your file...or may-bee not. so you loose trac and now you got 13 points but you were at work everyday you weren't late you didn't leave early.. W T F now your in Labor they say you got too many points we have to let you go,but before you leave why don't you go down to Medical ,they need a hair sample so our dismissing you for points is Justified,by some other means,,Is any of this you or some one you may know .?Because its real,i know some of it is happening to me,we need to unite for these reasons and many more that this Company ,the Union and Labor is committing daily, to someone you know,a dad a mom a sister a brother your grandma may bee your Uncle, May bee your wife or husband.Its sic,its scandalous its unfair and MOST of all ITS ILLEGAL..I was gonna try to fix things for myself but I realize it doesn't work unless you have Numbers ,the people and a concerted effort ! I have committed myself to this but I need you to help me and Pat to Make things right again... I am new here but willing to help get things changed I AM ..the ..Man With out the Gun............
I’ve been working at Visteon/ ACH/FORD call it what you will it’s all Ford, since 1/22/07. I’d never worked in a union shop before, but my experience here has left a bad taste in my mouth. I’d always thought the union would have my back, but that has turned out not to be true. Instead they’ve stabbed it multiple times. I’d like to know how The Company can say,” were going to do this or that” and my union just rolls over like a dog getting its belly scratched and say’s ‘OK’.
My buddy, Shay Rose died of a heart attack at the ripe old age of 32 while being loaned out to the Kansas City plant. He’d been there almost two years, if we had health insurance, I’d like to think he might still be among the living. And six other people I’ve heard have died. Three of them had cancer and had to pay out of pocket, one was a suicide out in the parking lot, and maybe he could have gotten some help. Here we are all but numbers. We didn’t get any kind of health insurance till we got emergency only and prescription coverage in 2009. Last I knew, you needed a DOCTER to GET a prescription!
I was under the impression that I was a temp., when I was hired in, because the plant was for sale. So I thought I would be getting less than 40 hours a week and I’d be laid off in 89 days, that’s my definition of temporary. But five and one half years later I’m writing this letter.
I’m already supposed to be making more money; the contract I seen said I should be Ford after one year. I’m supposed to be getting preferential treatment in hiring. We are a trained workforce, why wouldn’t they want us? Yet…. They.. ? Are hiring friends, family, and then people off the street before me. Where is my union? And what are my dues being used for? Golf parties, going to Las Vegas, political fundraisers, (your pick) etc. And even lately, my Ford brothers and sisters are being told on Friday to report at their new plants by Monday. That isn’t much notice. If the union treats THEM that way, what can I expect?
Updated as of 1- -12
I’v e been here as of this written word, 6 years now. I’ve been Visteon, ACH, and now Devon. I don’t even think I’m under the Ford umbrella anymore? I no longer have a contract or Union representation. Altho the contract I hired in on said after 1 year service I would become Entry Level , 5 years later I’m still waiting.
We did finaly get health insurance, not good but better than none.I’m writing this because we lost another Sister, her name was Nancy Swisher. She was a diabetic and untill about a year ago (when we got insurance) she pay’d out of pocket for her meds, altho they still weren’t cheap with insurance. I about shit when she told me how much it cost, just to stay alive! No wonder she to work so much overtime! I was told at Nancy’s funeral she was the ninth ACH person to die. It’s sad but true, but to The Company, all she was is a number, she’s already been replaced. R.I.P Nancy,Shay and the others
Mike “Bug” Buglione
Pat Speaks
As many of you know L.A.W.S., Inc. has questioned for years whether Delphi was ever truly a standalone company. Recently I received the following information about some Romney supporters and their ties to Delphi and GM. Please read this information carefully and judge for yourselves. If nothing else I am sure that you will find it very interesting. Read Article HERE
The last three months have been plagued with happenings to the Ford ACH workers and the LTS (long term supplemental) employees all over the country. Ford temporary workers who have been promised jobs as Ford Tier 2 employees have found themselves assigned to companies all over the country that have leased or purchased Ford facilities.
The worst situation we are aware of is located at the Saline, MI Faurecia plant, a French owned company. The ACH employees in this plant have been told that ACH has been dissolved at this location and are being forced to either sign with a company called Devon Alpha Services (DAS) and continue working in the Faurecia plant while waiting for a Ford job to open up for them or to be unemployed. Employees accepting employment with DAS has been forced to accept attendance and disciplinary procedures along with the loss of medical coverage unless they pay for it themselves. The stringent and unfair attendance policy of this company could have influence on whether or not an employee could be picked for a Ford job he/she has been promised. One example of this rule is making employees work seven days a week twelve hours a day with no time off. If an employee turns down Saturday or Sunday he/she gets a point against them. The more points an employee receives the less likely Ford is to hire him/her.
It is clear to me that the UAW leadership denied the Ford ACH and LST workers their rights to become full Ford employees, by negotiating contracts that allowed the new buyers or leasers to do as they pleased with these employees denying them the protection the union should provide.
It would seem that the UAW is actually acting like an agent of employment for multiple corporations. Every time an employee is moved from one company to another, even though they are already UAW members waiting for Ford jobs they were guaranteed, they are required to pay a new initiation fee. If they finally get a Ford job they will have to enter as a beginning employee, even if they were employed by Ford in the past, having to pay an initiation fee once again to the UAW and to wait to earn benefits they once already had earned. They will also go with adjusted seniority some losing years worth of seniority.
If you are aware of any more situations similar to this please contact us and your local newspapers, TV and radio stations. We may be contacted through this site, at 269-998-4609 or [email protected].
Reader Response:
Read your article on Disputethis.org. I feel for all of you. I retired form Ford a year and a half ago and hired on with Inergy in Milan. My career with ford started at the Flat Rock Foundry, then the Saline plant then Milan. Was told many lies and half truths through the years by both the Company and the UAW. Finished out my time with Ford in a plant where all the "plant" employees, even though they were in the same local as my home plant. Had seniority over those of US that came from other plants. Had to work the off shifts, the bad jobs etc. So I can relate to what you are saying.
As for the initiation fee, YOU need to get a withdrawal card form the LOCAL UNION you are leaving when you get laid of. Take that card to the NEW LOCAL when your transfer and that will take care of your initiation fees. YOU should ONLY PAY ONCE TO THE UAW.
With that said, those of us working at the Inergy plant have the same rules, out of 300 people that started out with them a little over a year ago about half have been terminated. Funny thing is I jut read an article how the average wage in France is over $30 an hour and the work week is 26.5 hours a week. Guess the United States is becoming the new third world for workers rights and pay.
To all that may read this, I too, work at the Saline Mi. Plant, I have kids in school was divorced,and unemployed, and was trying to start my own business. I lived near Brighton then. One day My veterans advocate at the Howell MI Works office sent me a email regarding positions at the ACH plant in Saline,, would i take a test for... it.... funny i thought i took a test almost 3 years earlier in Plymouth for the Ach Plant there, was called for a job but passed it up for they were only starting at $14.00 an hour,I thought, for what I do and how much experience and knowledge i have it wasn't enough ..that was in 2006 I took a job with decent benefits and $4.00 more an hour and lots of o/t,,,,it was good for oh 21/2 yrs and the company folded and Look... I found myself here in Saline Working for $14.00 an hour for ACH 4 years later. What a mistake that was ....... I ..... started in May of 2011, as an ACH employee ,in the Ant Farm. I was amazed at the process and how the plant was structured. Mostly how it was run and i soon found out.It was a nightmare,i came in on launch for the 2012 Focus, 12 hr shifts 7 days a week no days off no vac'n to be had.We didn't have bosses or supervisors like i was use to.We had over seers,slave drivers really,narcissistic and demanding,just a tool with feet.Sure we'd get a good supervisor but he wouldn't last long they'd get rid of him, he didn't fit their bill of what a supervisor should be...a friggin TOOL..so they would replace him with a bigger tool than the one before .we had a special thing going on over in focus ,the process was unique all the I P's were casted and RMO'd, hand trimmed and inspected before they were foamed nothing else like it in the plant these jobs were on the fore front of the mass jobs for employees we now see with Belkin and Devon. We finally went to 8 hr days 6-7 day weeks but that 93 days we worked straight thru I thought it would kill me,but we made it through.We did better than some of those Supervisors,were still here, well may bee not.. I saw or should I say learned how much we weren't valued or cared for by the Union OR Labor then, we were treated like shit then and were treated like shit now. Faurecia came.We had High Hopes..Hmm..Nothing changed but the Moniker on our shirts.Same people same faces in Labor And The Union. We still have no representation on the floor that don't go to the supervisor first to find out what he wants to do before he comes to You or they just don't show up.So when we have a problem and they don't address it, it doesn't go away it gets worse,now that Tool has his boot firmly across your neck while your breathing dust off the ground.and you feel abandend by the very people You pay to protect you.and the situation gets Tense and you feel you have no place to turn.The people around you are too afraid to do anything because they feel if they show loyalty to you that they will get the same treatment , you cant go to your supervisor hell you don't even talk to him unless you have to and the people you work with are aware that your boss is a BULLY or is hounding you for your (Harassment) number and you wont give it to him or go out with him so he treats you like crap,writes you up for things that you have no control of that may go wrong then he finds ways to embarrass you or degrade you just to leave you alone for a few days and then come back and do it some more or does your boss think that this point system is the shit,and he finds pleasure in giving them and then chasing you around to sign the stupid sheet of paper so he can put it in your file...or may-bee not. so you loose trac and now you got 13 points but you were at work everyday you weren't late you didn't leave early.. W T F now your in Labor they say you got too many points we have to let you go,but before you leave why don't you go down to Medical ,they need a hair sample so our dismissing you for points is Justified,by some other means,,Is any of this you or some one you may know .?Because its real,i know some of it is happening to me,we need to unite for these reasons and many more that this Company ,the Union and Labor is committing daily, to someone you know,a dad a mom a sister a brother your grandma may bee your Uncle, May bee your wife or husband.Its sic,its scandalous its unfair and MOST of all ITS ILLEGAL..I was gonna try to fix things for myself but I realize it doesn't work unless you have Numbers ,the people and a concerted effort ! I have committed myself to this but I need you to help me and Pat to Make things right again... I am new here but willing to help get things changed I AM ..the ..Man With out the Gun............
I’ve been working at Visteon/ ACH/FORD call it what you will it’s all Ford, since 1/22/07. I’d never worked in a union shop before, but my experience here has left a bad taste in my mouth. I’d always thought the union would have my back, but that has turned out not to be true. Instead they’ve stabbed it multiple times. I’d like to know how The Company can say,” were going to do this or that” and my union just rolls over like a dog getting its belly scratched and say’s ‘OK’.
My buddy, Shay Rose died of a heart attack at the ripe old age of 32 while being loaned out to the Kansas City plant. He’d been there almost two years, if we had health insurance, I’d like to think he might still be among the living. And six other people I’ve heard have died. Three of them had cancer and had to pay out of pocket, one was a suicide out in the parking lot, and maybe he could have gotten some help. Here we are all but numbers. We didn’t get any kind of health insurance till we got emergency only and prescription coverage in 2009. Last I knew, you needed a DOCTER to GET a prescription!
I was under the impression that I was a temp., when I was hired in, because the plant was for sale. So I thought I would be getting less than 40 hours a week and I’d be laid off in 89 days, that’s my definition of temporary. But five and one half years later I’m writing this letter.
I’m already supposed to be making more money; the contract I seen said I should be Ford after one year. I’m supposed to be getting preferential treatment in hiring. We are a trained workforce, why wouldn’t they want us? Yet…. They.. ? Are hiring friends, family, and then people off the street before me. Where is my union? And what are my dues being used for? Golf parties, going to Las Vegas, political fundraisers, (your pick) etc. And even lately, my Ford brothers and sisters are being told on Friday to report at their new plants by Monday. That isn’t much notice. If the union treats THEM that way, what can I expect?
Updated as of 1- -12
I’v e been here as of this written word, 6 years now. I’ve been Visteon, ACH, and now Devon. I don’t even think I’m under the Ford umbrella anymore? I no longer have a contract or Union representation. Altho the contract I hired in on said after 1 year service I would become Entry Level , 5 years later I’m still waiting.
We did finaly get health insurance, not good but better than none.I’m writing this because we lost another Sister, her name was Nancy Swisher. She was a diabetic and untill about a year ago (when we got insurance) she pay’d out of pocket for her meds, altho they still weren’t cheap with insurance. I about shit when she told me how much it cost, just to stay alive! No wonder she to work so much overtime! I was told at Nancy’s funeral she was the ninth ACH person to die. It’s sad but true, but to The Company, all she was is a number, she’s already been replaced. R.I.P Nancy,Shay and the others
Mike “Bug” Buglione
Pat Speaks
As many of you know L.A.W.S., Inc. has questioned for years whether Delphi was ever truly a standalone company. Recently I received the following information about some Romney supporters and their ties to Delphi and GM. Please read this information carefully and judge for yourselves. If nothing else I am sure that you will find it very interesting. Read Article HERE
LABOR ADVOCATES WORKERS SOLUTION
Not for Profit Workingfor American Workers, Retirees, and Families
Patricia Meyer, Director
([email protected]) (www.disputethis.org)
P.O. Box 112 West Olive, MI 49460
269-998-4609
September 22, 2011
President
Obama,
As you know L.A.W.S., Inc. has been active for many years working for justice
for our American workers, retirees and their families. In the last few days we have
received several phone calls from General Motors UAW retirees with questions
about what the 2011 GM UAW contact would hold for them since they have no
voice or vote in the contract negotiations or the outcome.
Today I made a phone call to GM/UAW retiree Richard Danjin who has worked
on contracts in the past. I asked him if he had any knowledge of what the
provisions were in the new contract for the retirees . He provided me with both
information and his opinion about the recently negotiated UAW-GM agreement
as it pertains to the 400,000 plus UAW retirees, spouses and dependents.
* Annual Cola Catch Up: The annual COLA catch up of $700 for the principle
retiree and $400 for surviving spouses will be eliminated. The reason given by
UAW President Bob King at a press conference on 9-20-11 is that the pension
fund is strained. No one knows better than you, Mr. President, the amount of
underfunding that exists in GM's North American pension fund which today
amounts to 10.8 billion underfunded dollars. A conservative estimate of $250
million dollars annually adds up to 1 billion dollars over the life of this agreement
in REAL dollars taken from the retirees to underwrite the cost of this agreement
to "keep the corporation competitive."
* Pension De-Risk Consideration: Over a week ago Mr. Stephen Girsky on GM
told a group of Wall Street analysts, "we want to take the pension risk off the
table" in the 2011 UAW-GM agreement supplement under Pension De-Risk.
"The parties may amend the plan over the life of the agreement." Mr. President,
a worker's pension plan is the foundation upon which his/her future is built.
This language clearly states to current retirees that the rock solid economic
security he is counting on is no longer rock solid. The cost of this contract
should come from the active work force not the retirees in so far as the
pension funding is the sole responsibility of the corporation. Furthermore the
retirees were neither consulted nor are they provided an opportunity to give
consent to this agreement.
* GM Legal Services: GM legal services for retirees may be terminated by the
company. This service has been available for around 25 years. It has not been a
free service. The retirees receive a separate withholding statement yearly.
UAW President Bob King is allowing GM once again to take from the retirees to
help fill their coffers.
Today General Motors has 48,5000 active workers and over 400,000 retirees,
spouses and dependents. During the next ten days the United Automobile Workers
Union will conduct a ratification vote among the UAW active work force. The
agreement is being touted by the UAW leadership as economically keeping GM
competitive and recognized as not adding to GM's cost. By Wall Street standards
it is almost a magic act, but like the TARP bailout someone must pay. The entire
American Society pays for the Tarp, in regards of the UAW-GM agreement the
retirees pay. They are underwriting the cost of this new union, corporation
collaborative creative problem solving with real dollars taken from their very
hands.
As the United States Government stills maintains partial ownership in General
Motors I am asking you to look into this situation immediately. The retirees in
our country seem to coming under direct attack by our politicians and union
officials. They are being accused of receiving entitlements for Social Security
they have paid into since they began their work career. Are they once again
to be shafted by the corporation and union they worked for, were loyal to and
trusted to treat them fairly?
I need a direct answer within the next 48 hours and the name of someone
who I can work with. You may reach me at 269-998-4609 email: [email protected]
Respectfully submitted,
Patricia Meyer
Director of L.A.W.S. Inc.
DENTAL AND VISION CHANGES
Since we received the Fight Back article we have learned of changes in
the dental and vision coverage for GM and Chrysler retirees coming in 2012.
According to the Facebook page for Local UAW 598 former GM and Chrysler
hourly employees will have coverage for a preventive dental program such
as x-rays,fillings and twice yearly cleanings as well as vision exams every
two years with a $25 co-pay. These changes will take place in 2012.
More information will be released in November.
Events Pertaining to Patricia Meyer's IRS Whistle Blower Case
July, 2011
I spent two years trying to get politicians both state and national, several Federal Agencies including the FBI and the SEC and Federal Departments including the Labor Department to help bring the General Motors/Delphi fraud to light.
Finally in March 2007 I went to the Tax Advocacy Office and Attorney Laura Baek signed me up to become a whistle blower to the IRS Whistle Blower Office under the direction of Stephen Whitlock. I met with him and was told that he would decide if any money would be awarded. It could take up to seven years for the investigation into the case. I would be allowed to add information but I could not work with any agent because of the neither admit nor deny Rule # 6103. I was directed to send any additional information to the Utah office, which I did, only to be informed that they were not handling my case. After several phone calls I was told to send any information to Agent Robert Gardner in Buffalo, NY as he was handling my case which I have done. He, too, informed me that he would not be able to discuss the case with me. I have since periodically added pertinent information to my case.
Laura Baek brought to my attention that (n) of Rule #6103 could provide a chance for me to be able to work with the agents. She also suggested that I contact Senator Grassley and after the last election Senator Baucus for their help in changing this rule. After sending information and communicating with their staffs I was told that they could not help.
During President Bush's administration Vice President Cheney's office gave me the name of Floyd Williams, Political Liaison of the IRS, as someone who might be able to help me. He has been very helpful over the last three years.
In 2010 I contacted Representative Silvestre Reyes (TX) who is the Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, to ask for help due to my concerns of the new GM's use of the TARP money. I was invited to meet with his staff in Washington, D.C. Attorney Mike Delaney of the House Intelligence Committee was unable to attend but he arranged a meeting with other members of his team. After listening to my concerns they directed me to the SIGTARP office under the direction of Neil Barofsky.
A meeting was set up with members of his staff who said that they would look into this information and respond. We are still waiting for a response.
On the same day information and a video was also left with Vee Joseph of Timothy Geithner's Treasury Office showing corruption and fraud on the part of the "old" and "new" GM. Prior to this date I was sent a document from Timothy Geithner stating that I could be part of the auto team, however, I was never contacted again.
I contacted IRS Stephen Whitlock's office and talked with Simone about my case. I expressed my concerns over the criminal aspects of it and that I was fighting for justice not for reward money. She suggested that I contact Victor Song, the head of the criminal section of the IRS, which I did.
During this time my bank called and told me that my direct payment Federal Postal Pension had not been received that month. I contacted the OPM who, after investigating the matter, informed me that I had been accidently dropped from the system, I would be reinstated but they would not be responsible for my $77 late payment fee because my automatic payment was not made on time.
Since I was understandably upset about this occurrence I contacted Floyd Williams for advice. He suggested that I write to Steve Miller, Commissioner of the LSMB, and Stephen Whitlock's superior, which I did. I never received any answer from his office.
Within two weeks of my letter to Steve Miller I received a letter from Robert Gardner, the IRS Agent in charge of my case, stating that my Whistleblower Case had been closed and that I could not appeal this decision.
I contacted Attorney Laura Baek of the Tax Advocacy Office who told me that I could appeal this decision to the US Tax Court which I have done.
Over the years I have asked for appointments with Nina Olson of the Tax Advocacy Office to discuss this situation. As of this date I have heard nothing from her.
I have received correspondence from H. Roberson who saying that he is the IRS attorney assigned to this appeal and that all information needs to be addressed to him.
As of this time I have been unable to find an attorney to represent me in Tax Court. I have contacted the offices included with the papers I received from the Tax Court plus Pam Chaney in Maryland who has been trying to help me find someone.
It is important to note that most of the written communications that have been sent to the politicians, Federal Agencies and Federal Departments have also been sent to President Bush or President Obama along with Timothy Geithner of the Treasury Department
July, 2011
I spent two years trying to get politicians both state and national, several Federal Agencies including the FBI and the SEC and Federal Departments including the Labor Department to help bring the General Motors/Delphi fraud to light.
Finally in March 2007 I went to the Tax Advocacy Office and Attorney Laura Baek signed me up to become a whistle blower to the IRS Whistle Blower Office under the direction of Stephen Whitlock. I met with him and was told that he would decide if any money would be awarded. It could take up to seven years for the investigation into the case. I would be allowed to add information but I could not work with any agent because of the neither admit nor deny Rule # 6103. I was directed to send any additional information to the Utah office, which I did, only to be informed that they were not handling my case. After several phone calls I was told to send any information to Agent Robert Gardner in Buffalo, NY as he was handling my case which I have done. He, too, informed me that he would not be able to discuss the case with me. I have since periodically added pertinent information to my case.
Laura Baek brought to my attention that (n) of Rule #6103 could provide a chance for me to be able to work with the agents. She also suggested that I contact Senator Grassley and after the last election Senator Baucus for their help in changing this rule. After sending information and communicating with their staffs I was told that they could not help.
During President Bush's administration Vice President Cheney's office gave me the name of Floyd Williams, Political Liaison of the IRS, as someone who might be able to help me. He has been very helpful over the last three years.
In 2010 I contacted Representative Silvestre Reyes (TX) who is the Chairman of the House Intelligence Committee, to ask for help due to my concerns of the new GM's use of the TARP money. I was invited to meet with his staff in Washington, D.C. Attorney Mike Delaney of the House Intelligence Committee was unable to attend but he arranged a meeting with other members of his team. After listening to my concerns they directed me to the SIGTARP office under the direction of Neil Barofsky.
A meeting was set up with members of his staff who said that they would look into this information and respond. We are still waiting for a response.
On the same day information and a video was also left with Vee Joseph of Timothy Geithner's Treasury Office showing corruption and fraud on the part of the "old" and "new" GM. Prior to this date I was sent a document from Timothy Geithner stating that I could be part of the auto team, however, I was never contacted again.
I contacted IRS Stephen Whitlock's office and talked with Simone about my case. I expressed my concerns over the criminal aspects of it and that I was fighting for justice not for reward money. She suggested that I contact Victor Song, the head of the criminal section of the IRS, which I did.
During this time my bank called and told me that my direct payment Federal Postal Pension had not been received that month. I contacted the OPM who, after investigating the matter, informed me that I had been accidently dropped from the system, I would be reinstated but they would not be responsible for my $77 late payment fee because my automatic payment was not made on time.
Since I was understandably upset about this occurrence I contacted Floyd Williams for advice. He suggested that I write to Steve Miller, Commissioner of the LSMB, and Stephen Whitlock's superior, which I did. I never received any answer from his office.
Within two weeks of my letter to Steve Miller I received a letter from Robert Gardner, the IRS Agent in charge of my case, stating that my Whistleblower Case had been closed and that I could not appeal this decision.
I contacted Attorney Laura Baek of the Tax Advocacy Office who told me that I could appeal this decision to the US Tax Court which I have done.
Over the years I have asked for appointments with Nina Olson of the Tax Advocacy Office to discuss this situation. As of this date I have heard nothing from her.
I have received correspondence from H. Roberson who saying that he is the IRS attorney assigned to this appeal and that all information needs to be addressed to him.
As of this time I have been unable to find an attorney to represent me in Tax Court. I have contacted the offices included with the papers I received from the Tax Court plus Pam Chaney in Maryland who has been trying to help me find someone.
It is important to note that most of the written communications that have been sent to the politicians, Federal Agencies and Federal Departments have also been sent to President Bush or President Obama along with Timothy Geithner of the Treasury Department