Union Workers Crash the Red Cross Bash

[Omaha Steve]

I've been a donor in the years past. Regular as the seasons. My contract allows me to donate while on the clock. This non profit makes millions every year and is using the economy as an excuse to cut corners. I will remember to check this in October. That is the next time I can donate.

http://www.wkbw.com/news/local/47111287.html





By Jenny Rizzo

Story Published: Jun 5, 2009 at 11:30 PM EDT

Story Updated: Jun 5, 2009 at 11:30 PM EDT

The Greater Buffalo Chapter of the American Red Cross is hosting its biggest fundraiser of the year tonight. Its called the "Bash" but not everyone in attendance this evening was invited to attend.

The Red Cross Blood Service's dispute with CWA Local 1122 became part of tonight's event. They're currently without a contract and are trying to negotiate a new collective bargaining agreement. Union workers took advantage of this very public event to share their message with the community.

They're dressed in camoflauge just like the other party-goers but they're not attending the bash. Instead, these Red Cross workers are letting everyone know about their union's struggle with the Blood Services Division. "We believe our members at the Red Cross are understaffed and we believe there's a tremendous lack of training to ensure that the blood supply is going to be safe," said James Wagner, President of CWA Local 1122.

They want Western New Yorkers to know what is happening at the Red Cross, because they say cost-cutting measures are having a negative impact on the services the union workers provide. "We're not telling the public what to do, we're just trying to get the information out there and ask that the public ask questions and think twice," said Wagner.

FULL story and video at link.