Congratulations to all of the Pomona nurses on their outstanding win in the decertification election held last week.  Thanks to all of you who have communicated your appreciation to me personally. The numbers of yes votes were overwhelming in size and message.  Please understand that Local 121RN is grateful for your trust.  We will do everything possible to continue to earn your trust and respect.

            It is time to put the election behind us.  I want to encourage all the nurses who are not currently union friendly to call and review their concerns with me.  If possible, through this process, we can find some common ground to build from.

            Now we must go about the business of maintaining the integrity of the collective bargaining agreement.  This is done by becoming familiar with the contract and enforcing the language that is agreed upon by the bargaining committee and the hospital management.

            Again, I would like to propose that the union and the hospital utilize the services of the Federal Mediation and Conciliation in an effort to begin a better working relationship.  These services were offered to both parties on the last day of negotiations by federal mediator Linda Gonzales.  I will propose to Ray Inge, Vice President of Human Resources, that we contact FMCS and begin this process.

            I have learned so much from this campaign and from the Pomona nurses.  The nurses of Pomona have my deepest respect.  Finally after a year of intense negotiations and the decertification campaign, the nurses will be able to get down to activities of daily living within the hospital. 

            It continues to be an honor to work with the Registered Nurses of PVHMC.