300 Buffalo NY Healthcare Workers Join CWA

District 1 Organizing Coordinator Erin Bowie reports: 303 St Joseph Hospital (Catholic Health System) service employees voted April 22 to join CWA Local 1168. The count was 123-103 with one challenged ballot. We currently represent the RNs, and will begin bargaining both contracts (RN contract is up in August) immediately.

The internal organizing committee worked with many 1168 Executive Board members, RN members, and stewards on this campaign. Everyone in Buffalo really stepped up to the plate including Locals 1122 and 1133, and District 1 Staff in Buffalo. Jeff Lacher from District 4 also assisted.

Ron Hosinski and Elaine Lopez from 1168 led this campaign. Michelle Quintus came for the last few weeks, and her assistance was instrumental in a victory. Debbie Hayes, CWA Staff Rep also spent long hours on the campaign, and will be bargaining the first contract.