September 15, 2009

I copied this off of UPTE's web site (http://www.upte.org/publication-ebulletin/2009-08-18.html).

"This last week, UC borrowed $200 million that it will lend to the state of California, so that the state can then pay for new buildings at UC. That is the same amount that UC targeted to cut from staff wages. Clearly, new buildings are a higher priority than paying salaries for those of us who work in the buildings UC already has."

What would UPTE have UC do rather than construct new buildings? Would UPTE have UC borrow $200 million to prevent furloughs for UC employees? This, to me, is an abrogation of our future. Sure, furloughs are not welcome but most of us have vacation or comp days to use without losing pay.

When I see new buildings going up at UC, I see construction workers (one of the hardest hit job sectors) who can provide for their families. I see buildings filled in the coming years with researchers, technicians and health workers (all UPTE represented employees). I see Postdoctoral fellows (represented by UAW). I see janitors (represented by AFSCME). I see jobs for those who are not even union represented. I see new job opportunities for my children and myself. Look at each new building at your campus and estimate how many jobs that this is providing now and will provide in the future. I think that these new buildings are not a bad idea.

Some of you may have been laid off or may be facing layoffs. I'm calling on my network of UC employees to email me if they know of a job opening. If you know of a job available, please let me know general details. You should even let me know if your department is expecting a grant or other work in the future. It may help someone who is looking for work. I'll pass your message along to those who are looking for a job. I'll do this for anyone who asks, even UPTE members

If you are looking for a job, let me know along with a general description of what you do (a CV or resume will do fine). I'll put you in touch with those who know of potential job opportunities that may fit in with what you do.

I've recently received a check from UPTE as have nearly 1,000 others. We prevailed in our arbitration case so UPTE had to pay additional monies to everyone who sent an objection letter for the 2008/2009 objection period. I expect that all those who sent objection letters for the 2009/2010 objection period will soon receive about $50,000 more from UPTE (not individually). It pays to send objection letters, if you don't know how to do this, contact me at wwitke@san.rr.com).

Werner