After months of continued social distancing, more than a hundred Local 812 members came together virtually for the June 2020 General Membership meeting. It was the first time the Local has ever held a member meeting via Zoom, an online platform. Local 812 President Joe Vitta thanked members for their strength and commitment during the pandemic. “You went to work every single day. Because of you, store shelves were always filled with water, soda and beer. You provided New Yorkers with comfort and a sense of normalcy during a very difficult time,” said President Vitta.
The board reminded members to stay safe and to be sure they always have the necessary PPE and safety protocols. The Local 812 Health and Pension Funds have remained fully operational and ready to assist participants with retirement and healthcare issues. President Vitta noted that many members are beginning to get back on the job after layoffs and that health coverage will continue to be provided to any laid off members.
Each member of the Local 812 Executive Board, as well as business agents, delivered a report to the membership. Having gone months without a membership meeting, due to the pandemic, Recording Secretary Angel Martinez provided detailed reports of the all Executive Board meetings that have been held since February. Local 812 leaders spoke about the many union actions taken during the “PAUSE” period, including procurement of PPE, insuring that members not be charged for sick days for COVID-19 related absences and about keeping pressure on companies to create safe working environments.
The Local 812 scholarship committee announced the recipients of the scholarship for 2020-2021. A winner was also drawn for a raffle to benefit the scholarship fund.
While we all would have liked to have gotten together with our 812 brothers and sisters in person, the Zoom meeting provided a way to keep us all up to date. For 
the rest of 2020, including July and August, monthly general membership will be held. We don’t yet know when we’ll be able to safely hold a traditional meeting, so check the Local 812 website for meeting details. Whether online or in a union hall, attend our union meetings - stay active and informed!
