News

2014 Regional Council Candidate Statements

The following members are running for Regional Council. Their names and statements are below.

On Friday, January 17 ballots will be mailed, and votes will be counted on Friday, February 7 at SEIU Local 721, 1545 Wilshire Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90017

All ballots must be received by 9:00 am on February 7.

Bargaining Unit: 111

Judy Archie
Job Title: Senior Typist Clerk
Department: Department of Health Services
Bargaining Unit: 111
“As a SEIU Local 721 member, steward, and bargaining team member of the clerical unit 111 I am asking for your support to become a part of the Los Angeles County Regional Council. I plan to make a difference. My voice will be heard in the best interest of every SEIU member who is represented. I would like to help strengthen SEIU Local 721 to survive through difficult times. I would like to help implement new ideas for organizing and seeking the proper representation needed to serve the members.”

Raymond John Campoy
Job Title: Intermediate Typist Clerk
Department: Internal Services Department
Bargaining Unit: 111

Cheyenne Chambers
Job Title: Secretary III, Care Services
Department: Los Angeles County Department of Public Health
Bargaining Unit: 111

“My name is Cheyenne Chambers, Secretary III in DPH.  I’m asking for your vote to continue working on your behalf on the Regional Council which I have been both its Co-Chair and Secretary from 2010-13. I have the experience, knowledge and skills that it takes to represent you with passion, dedication and professionalism.  Having served, I know what it takes to do it effectively.  Our B.U. needs a strong voice and focused strategy to press for improvements and insure that we do not allow unfair policies, procedures and proposals to erode our working conditions and rights on the job.”

Mike Gomez
Job Title: Intermediate Clerk
Department: Los Angeles County Probation Department
Bargaining Unit: 111

“As we approach the new year 2014 we will need new members and new ideas to tackle the issues and challenges ahead. We must organize and bring into the union current members whom have not participate in or with the union and turn them into active and participant union members. Only through strength and solidarity shall we meet the challenges head on.” 

Karen Nealy
Job Title: Senior Typist Clerk
Department: DCFS Department of Children and Family Services
Bargaining Unit: 111

“I would like the opportunity to represent Bargaining Unit 111 support staff, as Regional Council Member for SEIU721.  Some of my attributes: Shop Steward for more than 10 years, Senior Typist, and Bargaining Committee Member 2013.  I gained valuable training and insights, to understand the County of Los Angeles policies and negotiation practices with multiple departments; DCFS, Health Services, Probation, Sheriffs, and DPSS, with different levels of responsibility.I have technical skills to enhance communication and utilize social media networking.”  

Gary Sheridan
Job Title: Intermediate Clerk
Department: County Council
Bargaining Unit: 111

I have been in  the County for over 26 years. I have worked in several departments and am currently  at County Counsel. I have been a Steward for  over 15 years and during which time I have been on Bargaining Team 111 (Clerical), for 3 past  contracts. I am currently a member of the Regional Council and serve on the Regional Action Committee. I want to be on the Regional Council again because I believe in listening to my fellow SEIU members and making sure they are treated fairly. I want to be on the Council because I  am committed to making this Union strong, and dedicated for justice for the worker.”

Barbara Thurman
Job Title: Intermediate Typist Clerk
Department: Public Social Services Department 
Bargaining Unit:111

BU 112

Lillian Cabral
Job Title: Head Clerk
Department: Department Patient Financial Services DHS
Bargaining Unit: 112

“My name is Lillian Cabral and I have worked for the County of Los Angeles for 35 years. I have been honored to represent my members as a steward, bargaining chair for 112, vice chair for Health Policy committee, Chair of our Labor Management at LAC+USC Medical Center, Class Spec’s committee member, present chair of the Los Angeles County Regional Council and an executive officer for SEIU Local 721 as secretary. If elected to the Regional Council I will continue my work to provide and serve our members with dignity, honestly and give you the best that you have worked so hard for. A Voice to be heard and a vote to be counted. Vote Lillian Cabral for Regional Council.”

Janice Pearson 
Job Title: Supervisor Clerk
Department: Department of Probation
Bargaining Unit: 112

BU 121

Irene Cruz
Job Title: Information Systems Analyst II
Department: County Counsel
Bargaining Unit: 121

“I have been a member of SEIU for the past 13 years and the current Chair of the Veterans Caucus.  I’m also a Shop Steward, part of the Bargaining Team, member of the Joint-Labor Management Committee and a 6 year Veteran of the United States Marine Corps.  My knowledge and valuable experience in the shared decision-making process qualifies me to provide responsive leadership on the Regional Council.  My priority will be to work collaboratively and enhance communications with Union members.  I am asking for your support and more importantly your vote on February 7, 2014.  Vet.women@yahoo.com”

Efren Diaz
Job Title: Senior Application Developer
Department: Internal Services Department
Bargaining Unit: 121

“I am running to represent L.A. County Region as a Regional Council Member.  I believe that the rank-and-file members are the real source of strength for our Union.I pledge to return transparency, financial accountability, open debate, and self-governance of our union.  I promise to fight for dues equity, your rights at the workplace, and making sure that every member is guaranteed affordable health care coverage.  I will fight to ensure an ethically run, strong and democratic union by the members and for all members.”  Hello members, my name is Veronica Johnson.  I am an employee of the Los County Department of Public Social Services, where I currently work as a GAINS Service Worker. Over the past 27 years I have promoted to a variety of positions including Eligibility Worker, Family Support Officer and Auditor.  For many years I have been committed and dedicated to participating in many local county commission boards, forums, and public decision planning as they relate to under-represented populations. If elected, I would give 110% as a candidate serving to find solutions to any challenges and critical issues.”

Kelley Dixon
Job Title: Operations Assistant II
Department: Los Angeles Sheriff’s Department
Bargaining Unit: 121

  • BU 121 chair
  • Los Angeles County Steward Council
  • Million Dollar Training Fund Committee
  • Classification Specifications Committee
  • Ergonomics Committee

“I FIGHT for ALL members.I BELIEVE in TRANSPARENCY, FAIRNESS, and JUSTICE for ALL.I BELIEVE in keeping it REAL.I AM a LEADER, not a follower.I DON’T FOLD FOR ANYONE.UNITED WE STAND, DIVIDED WE FALL.YOU WANT ACCOUNTABILITY and A PERSON WHO KEEPS HER WORD, VOTE, ME, KELLEY DIXON, FOR REGIONAL COUNCIL.”

Aleah Hayden
Job Title: Deputy Public Conservator/ADMR II
Department: Department of Mental Health
Bargaining Unit: 121
“I kindly request your vote for Regional Council Member.  As a Regional Council Member I will assist in making fair and equitable decisions that affect our beloved 721 Union.  I have a family history of union involvement and have been grounded in what it means to be loyal.  I promise to give you my best!  I have worked on nonprofit committees and served as lead for community events.  I have a background in the financial industry and management.  I will be sure your voices are heard!”  

Sylvia Lumford
Job Title: Health Information Associate
Department: Health Services Department
Bargaining Unit: 121

Grace Santillano
Job Title: Staff Assistant I
Department: Department of Mental Health
Bargaining Unit: 121

BU 311

Marva Burgess
Job Title: Registered Nurse II
Department: Juvenile Court Health Services
Bargaining Unit: 311 

BU 341

Daphne Teoh
Job Title: Clinical Psychologist
Department: Department of Mental Health
Bargaining Unit: 341

BU 342

Patrick Del Conte
Job Title: Recreation Therapy Supervisor
Department: Department of Mental Health for LA County
Bargaining Unit: 342

BU 431

Paul Aldape
Job Title: Public Works Crew Leader
Department: Public Works Department
Bargaining Unit: 431

BU 711

Phoury Chhun
Job Title: Gain Services Worker
Department: Department of Social Services-Gain Program
Bargaining Unit: 711

Veronica Johnson
Job Title: Gain Service Worker
Department: Department of Social Services-Growth Program
Bargaining Unit: 711

“Hello members, my name is Veronica Johnson. I am an employee of the Los Angeles County Department of Public Social Services, where I currently work as a GAINS Service Worker. Over the past 27 years I have been promoted to a variety of positions including Eligibility Worker, Family Support Officer and Auditor. For many years I have been committed and dedicated to participating in many local county commission boards, forums, and public decision planning as they relate to under-represented populations. If elected, I would give 110% as a candidate serving to find solutions to any challenges and critical issues.”

BU 722

Evangelia Vitogiannis
Job Title: Medical Case Worker II
Department: Department of Mental Health
Bargaining Unit: 722

BU 723

Mellonie Freeman
Job Title: Children’s Social Worker III
Department: Department of Children and Family Services
 Bargaining Unit:  723

“My name is Mellonie Freeman and I am running for a position on the SEIU Local 721 Regional Council. I have been an active steward for over 20 years and have participated in several committees including Policy Review and Labor Management. I am a member of the 723 Bargaining Team and a Lost Timer/ Advocate for 721. I realize how important it is to be involved in my union and if elected, I will continue to defend, support and represent us, the members. Thank you for your consideration.”

Gregg Fritchle
Job title: Children’s Social Worker III
Department: DCFS
Bargaining Unit: 723

“I am currently the voice of Children’s Social Workers on the LA County Regional Council, fighting for fair representation and a fair dues structure for all Local 721 members. I’ve been a Union activist for the past 23 years (in Local 721 and one of its predecessor Locals, Local 535), as a Worksite Steward, COPE activist, and Executive Board member (Local 535). I’ve served on several Labor-Management committees and on five Contract Bargaining Teams (chairing the CSW Bargaining Team in 2007). Whatever the cause for social workers, I’ve been there. I want to continue to fight for social workers.”

BU 729

Lydia Cabral
Job Title: Patient Resources Worker
Department: Northeast Cluster (LAC+USC)
Bargaining Unit: 729

“I have worked for the County of Los Angeles for 8 years at Olive View Medical Center then transferred to LAC+USC Medical Center where I have watched and learned from the most experienced stewards and learned to recognize when a member or I  are not being treated fairly and used the rich resources we have at our union hall. I admit I have more learning and knowledge to gain but as your representative on the Regional council  I will be empowered to make good and wise decisions regarding my members and their best welfare. I will bring your voice and your vote to the table and remember always who put me there. Vote Lydia Cabral 4 Regional Council” 

Yolanda Roybal
Job Title: Patient Financial Services CONT Worker
Department: Northeast Cluster (LAC+USC)
Bargaining Unit: 729

“I would like to be given the opportunity to serve my brother and sisters. I have been involved with our union and actively update my co-workers about what’s current. I am willing and able to make the commitment with the regional council, to serve the needs of all County workers.”

BU 731

Tracey Boykins
Job Title: Eligibility Worker ll
Department: Department of Public Social Services (DPSS)
Bargaining Unit: 731

My name is Tracey Boykins, I am an Eligibility Worker for the Department Of Public Social Services. I have been a steward for 10 yrs and co chair of bargaining unit 731.  I am running for a second term on La County Regional Council. We are 55,000 members strong and we have a voice as stakeholders on how we want our union to serve us. But, remember it takes all of us to make these changes possible. I am able, willing, and ready to serve again on LA County Regional Council to make change. Therefore, I am asking for you vote on LA County Regional Council. Thank you in advance.

Salena Coleman
Job Title: Eligibility Worker II
Department: Department of Public Social Services
Bargaining Unit:  731

Hello Brothers and Sisters,
My name is Salena Coleman I am an Eligibility Worker with Los Angeles County for 14 years now. I have been a Union Steward for almost 10 years. I have my certificate in Labor Studies an soon I will receive my degree. I am running for Regional Council because I feel I will be an asset to the members and help guide us in the direction best for the members. It’s time for a change but a positive change. Vote for me Salena Coleman and I can help make that happen. 

Yolanda Floyd 
Job Title: Eligibility Worker II
Department: DPSS
Bargaining Unit: 731

Adolfo Granados
Job Title: Eligibility Worker II
Department: Department of Public Social Services
Bargaining Unit: 731

“I am presently a Shop Stewart at DPSS Florence District #17 I have strong ethics and integrity with extremely well developed and proven leadership skills.  I am open and forthright and confident with expressing my views and standing up to support the rights of others to express their.  I am innovative with an ability to develop a vision from concept to inception.  I am driven, focused, honest, and reliable with a professional attitude.  I have the time, skills, and experience to contribute, and I am committed to making a difference as a Regional Councilor.”

Elvia Malvido
Job Title: Eligibility Worker II / Quality Control Monitor
Department: Department of Public Social Services (DPSS)
Bargaining Unit: 731

“As a candidate for the SEIU Local 721 Los Angeles County Regional Council, I am committed to giving a voice to our membership. I vow to make certain that we have a say in local issues that matter most to our members and the communities we serve. For the past year I have worked tirelessly in Sacramento with SEIU 721 to ensure that the Affordable Care Act was neither privatized nor contracted out. It would be my great privilege to continue making the same efforts, as a member of the Regional Council, for all the issues we face together.”

Ellen Martirosyan
Job Title: Eligibility Worker II
Department: Department of Public Social Services
Bargaining Unit:  731

“Being an active Seiu 721 shop Stewart and an active LA County DPSS Eligibility  Worker, I am committed in serving my fellow coworkers’ and members’ needs. I have stood by my coworkers in protecting and executing their rights as an Seiu 721 members and will do all in my power to continue so. It will be an honor and privilege to represent them in LA County Regional Council!” 

BU 732

Melinda Harrison
Job Title: Eligibility Supervisor
Department: Department of Public Social Services
Bargaining Unit: 732

BU 777

Robinn Mosley
Job Title: Gain Services Supervisor
Department: DPSS 
Bargaining Department: 777

“My personal commitment to you is I will continue to represent each one of you in solidarity as fellow union members within APS, DCFS, DPSS collectively to address all interests, issues and concerns. Co-Chair, LA Chapter Social Workers; LA Regional Council; Elected and negotiated as Co-Chair BU 777. I voted “NO” to not leave behind BU 723 & BU 711 tables. A Senior Steward, SEIU 721, Glendale; Member of various caucuses including Armenian, Native American and a member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. Education includes: MSW and M.A. Behavioral Science Negotiation and Conflict Resolution. Email: robinnmosley@yahoo.com” 

Jorge Ortiz Jr.  
Job Title: Supervising Children’s Social Worker. 
Department:Department of Children and Family Services 
Bargaining Unit: 777 

“My name is Jorge Ortiz Jr., MSW, and I work for the Department of Children and Family Services since 1990.  I have been a Supervising Children’s Social Worker for the last 17 years.  Currently I am a member of the 777 Bargaining Team. It has been a pleasure and a great learning experience to represent the union members. I believe that I am a Team player that works well with others. It will be a great honor to represent and to continue advocating for all SEIU members.”

BU 850

David L. Davidson        
Job Title:  Retirement Specialist II
Department:  LACERA
Bargaining Unit: 850 (administrative, technical and clerical)

“I have been a steward since September 2012.  I was the chair of the Bargaining Unit 850 (administrative, technical and clerical) team that negotiated our last contract for wages, hours and other terms and conditions of employment at LACERA.  I was also chair for BU 850 on the Bargaining Policy Committee that negotiated the last contract with Los Angeles County for our fringe benefits.  I believe that employees should be treated fairly, and I will do my best to protect employee rights.  I will be a strong voice for LACERA employees on the SEIU Local 721 LA County Regional Council.” 

Renee Pasqua
Job Title: Retirement Benefits Specialist
Department: LACERA
Bargaining Unit: 850

BU 0 NLACRC

Carol J. Bluiett
Job Title: Consumer Services Coordinator 
Department: Adult Unit 6
Bargaining Unit: 0 NLACRC

BU City of Baldwin Park

Ramon Burgos
Job Title:  Public Works Maintenance Worker I
Department: Graffiti Abatement Program
Bargaining Unit: City of Baldwin Park

BU City of Inglewood

Joseph Watson
Job Title: Fleet Maintenance Technician
Department: Public Works
Bargaining Unit: City of Inglewood

BU City of Santa Ana Chapter- SEIU

Sergio Verino 
Job Title-Supervisor Community Preservation Inspector 
Department-Planning and Building Department 
Bargaining Unit: City of Santa Ana Chapter- SEIU 

My name is Sergio Verino.  I am an employee with City of Santa Ana.  I have over 20 years’ experience in public service.  I have been involved in unions all of my life, California School Employees Association as a Labor Representative Intern to Past President of SEIU Santa Ana Chapter 2013.  As a Past President with help of negotiation team, I helped, strategize and delivered a 16.7 percent increase for our 400 members.  I learned that through hard work and determination anything can be accomplished.  I will bring this experience and approach to the LA/OC Regional Council. Unity is Key!

BU  MOU 14

Alan Peshek
Job Title: GSD Materials Management
Department: Department of General Services
Bargaining Unit: MOU 14

BU MOU 18

Elder Castro
Job Title: Security Officer
Department: Airports
Bargaining Unit: MOU 18

Daren McDaniel
Traffic Officer II
Department of Transportation
Bargaining Unit: MOU 18

“Hello my name is Daren McDaniel. I work for the city of Los Angeles as a traffic officer for the past 14 years. I have been a steward (protecting the rights of my fellow officers and making sure that management upholds our MOU). I’m running for regional council because I want to make a difference and focus on what we all need which i hold dear to my heart-REPRESENTATION. I believe that change can only occur when you become part of the process. I need your vote. A vote for me is a vote for us.”

BU MOU 8

Stacee A. Karnya
Job Title: Chemist II
Department: Public Works/Sanitation/Environmental Monitoring Division
Bargaining Unit: MOU 8

“I am Stacee Karnya, a Chemist-II for the City of LA, Environmental Monitoring Division.  I want to be on the regional council to make sure that issues that are important to you are heard and addressed.  I want to step up to the challenge of being your regional representative.  I am a steward; on the Contract Action Team; was on the design teams for Imagine721 (July2010) and the Member Leaders and Action Conference (March2011).  Lastly, I was a delegate at the International Convention in May2012.  I am very active and greatly committed to this union and would like your support.”

Kesavan S. Korand
Job Title: Construction Manager/Civil Engineering Associate II
Department: Bureau of Engineering, Department of Public Works
Bargaining Unit: MOU 8

“As your sitting Regional Council Member for MOU 8, I gave voice in all local issues that matter to most of you. With your earnest faith and support, I would like to re-run.I will fight for better COLA & benefits in 2014 contract negotiations. Please vote and re-elect me.”