The Telecommunications Workers Union (TWU) delegates have worked very hard over the past three days to address the resolutions brought to the floor during the Bargaining Convention.

  The Convention is scheduled to come to a close today at 5 p.m.  Please note that all resolutions that cannot be voted on during Convention will be forwarded and addressed by the Bargaining Committee.

Sister Juanita West informed the TWU attendees during the Good of the Order period (a period where delegates can announce general information or announcements that don’t require a vote) about the plight of TWU member, Sister Sharon Reinhardt, a Shop Steward for Local 213, who was diagnosed with breast cancer in August 2009.  Sister Reinhardt is a well-respected and dedicated Union activist who has represented many employees during her time of service.  The news that her cancer had spread was devastating news for her family.  Consequently, a second round of chemotherapy is needed to slow the spread of the cancer.

In an effort to alleviate burdensome medical costs of care during treatment (which are not fully covered by insurance), and to fulfill a few bucket list dreams, Sister Reinhardt’s daughter, Lisa Reinhardt, who is also a TWU member, has organized a fundraising benefit gala event that she has aptly named Gulliver’s Gala.  The benefit gala will be held on May 15, 2010, in Calgary, Alberta.

Date:        Saturday, May 15th, 2010
Time:        4 p.m.
Location:    Calgary Crescent Heights Community Association
Address:    1101 2nd St NW, Calgary, Alberta

To learn more about Sister Sharon Reinhardt’s story, the Gala fundraising event or how you can help, please refer to the following website:  http://gulliversgala.org/ or contact by email Business Agents Ivana Niblett at ivana.niblett@twu-stt.ca or Delores Pilsl at delores.pilsl@twu-stt.ca.

The Reinhardt family has asked to extend its gratitude to everyone who has helped and supported Sister Sharon Reinhardt during this difficult time.

The TWU would like to take this opportunity to thank Sister Reinhardt for her many years of dedicated service to the Labour movement and to everyone she helped during her years of service.  We are deeply moved by your struggle and wish you and your family the very best outcome.  Once again, on behalf of everyone at the TWU, thank you.