Many good people have helped to build the United Public Workers Union, AFSCME Local 646. Since May of this year, four more devoted staff members have retired.
Aurora “Marti” Fernandez worked for the UPW for over 37 years. She began as a receptionist, became a business agent, did research and legislative work, and became secretary to the State Director. She dedicated herself to supporting all of the members of this Union, as her strong values developed as she was growing up in a plantation camp. She will spend some of her retirement time trying to train her four-month-old Chihuahua – Lilywong. She expressed her appreciation to the members for the experiences she has gained that have enriched her life.
Linda Smith has worked for UPW since 1989, (over 30 years ago). She will be spending more time taking care of her grandchildren, while having more quality family time. She has played a crucial role in the business office, always paying attention to details and helping to ensure that the proper policies and procedures were followed. She has provided much help and support to so many members during her time with the union and will be sorely missed.
Leilani Mindoro has provided solid representation and leadership especially to our Kauai members over the past 16 years. She started working in the healthcare industry as an LPN before assuming leadership roles in the UPW and became the Kauai Division Director. She has worked hard to protect the interests of our members, and now she will be spending more time with family and grandchildren.
Jonathan Sloan retired as a business agent on the Big Island. He worked long hours to help and assist the membership and has been a very responsive and responsible person. He’s always been committed to fighting on behalf of the members and would always make himself available to address members’ concerns. Doing his job, the best he could, was his top priority. Though many perceived him as having a “gruff” exterior, he was really a “softie” on the inside, and Jonathan always had a very positive attitude.
Since May, the Union has also hired Aiyana Brinson and Blythe Yamamoto – two new business agents who have been added to Oahu Division.
Aiyana is a Leilehua graduate who comes from a graphic design background and who has had substantial management experience. Blythe is a Punahou graduate who previously served as Director for the Special Olympics organization. A love of children and a great degree of patience are notable characteristics that Blythe possesses.
