The regular meeting of Branch 782 was called to order by President Frank Thomasy at 7:33 p.m. the 26th day of August, 2003 at the Branch office, 2628 F Street, Bakersfield. The flag salute was led by Sergeant-at-Arms Jeff Harrington. All members of the Executive Board were present. The stewards from 01, 04, 05, 06, 07, 08, 09, Camino Media, Delano, Lamont, Shafter and Wasco were present. Also present were Newsletter Editor Basil Zuniga; OWCP Representative George Perez; Representative of Retirees Joe Jones, and Anita Holderman of the Social and Recreation Committee.

The minutes of the July 22, 2003 meeting were read and accepted with no additions or corrections. The communications were read.

Frank Thomasy reported that Griselda Mendez passed away recently after a long illness. A moment of silence was observed in Griselda’s memory.

APPLICATION FOR MEMBERSHIP: Applications were received from Mary Alomari, Rufo Tanja and Jesse Neira.

REPORTS OF SPECIAL AND STANDING COMMITTEES: Irene Pasos reported that the Picnic will be Sunday, October 12 at Jastro Park. Set up will begin at 9:30. Help is needed. Contact Irene if you want to help. Lunch will be served from 12 noon until 3 p.m.

Basil Zuniga reported that the Newsletter folding will be September 17, and it will be Stockdale Station’s turn. Please get articles to Basil by the 10th.

UNFINISHED BUSINESS: None

NEW BUSINESS: None

GOOD OF THE ASSOCIATION: Today is Basil’s 50th Birthday. Congratulations Basil!  Mark Ramirez made a motion that the Assistant Shop Stewards will be paid the same as a regular Shop Steward as specified in Article VII, Section 1 of the Branch By-Laws. Seconded by Alan Smith. A discussion was held. Gene “Pink” Shebley made a friendly amendment that the pay be retroactive to January 1, 2003. The amendment was acceptable. A discussion was held. Dicie Wilder called for the question. A vote was taken and the motion passed.

Basil Zuniga made a motion that the retirement check that Griselda Mendez should have received from the Branch be provided to her family. Seconded by Silver Farr. Motion passed.

Basil thanked Rick Plummer for the excellent article about Joe Jones in the newsletter. Frank Thomasy asked any Steward who needs keys to the office to please contact Mike Towery at the Steward Meeting and keys will be provided. Frank discussed some of the changes Van Nuys has in store for the Carriers.

A discussion was held regarding uniforms, curbing the wheels, rubber bands, cup holders and attendance. Tina Harbour reported that there will be cake after the meeting for Basil’s Birthday.

IMPROVEMENT OF THE ASSOCIATION: None

FINANCIAL SECRETARY’S REPORT: Diana Chavez reported that $16,127.73 was

collected for August 2003.

TREASURER’S REPORT: Molly Biggar reported:

Beginning Balance $28,180.63

Income $10,197.08

Interest Income $ .12

Balance $38,377.83

Expenses $ 6,728.24

Ending Balance $31,649.59

The COLCPE drawing was won by Clint Gallaher.

The drawing for $100.00 would have been won by Tony Garcia, except he was not present.

There were 30 members present.

The meeting adjourned at 8:35 p.m.

Respectfully Submitted,

Kim Gerdes