In The News: 540 Hospital Workers in Reno Vote CWA

By a four-to-one margin, 540 hospital workers voted for CWA representation at the St. Mary's Hospital in Reno, Nev., following a year-long campaign, reported District 9 Organizing Coordinator John Dugan.

The bargaining unit consists of service workers including Certified Nursing Assistants, EVS workers, monitor techs, phlebotomists, EMT's, intake reps, transport workers, orderlies, sterile techs and kitchen and laundry workers. They will be represented by Local 9413.

Strong support came from CWA District 9 staff, including Mark Bixler, Ed Venegas, John Doran, Nancy Biagini, Janine Munson and organizers from Locals 9400, 9586, 9509, Marco Ramierez, Victor Serrano and Melinda Hawkins, who conducted an 8-day house calling blitz with local leaders.

Critical bilingual language assistance was provided by two CWA members at AT&T — Sophia Guadron and Lili Vega — who took leave from their jobs to help in several key departments during the campaign's final months.

Members of the California Nurses Association also provided help, letting organizers use their offices, and providing assistance when needed.