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UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO
600 S. Frederick Ave,
Gaithersburg, MD 20877
Phone: 301-977-2447
Local Link Online – August 26, 2025
Latest News
Read the latest news and upcoming events for UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO!
UFCW Local 1994 MCGEO is teaming up with Montgomery County’s Alcohol Beverage Services to raise funds for the March of Dimes and their fight to protect and promote maternal and infant health.
Local 1994 Members Working for RE Wilson & Annapolis Bus Company Vote to Authorize Strike Over Health Care
Bus drivers and aides in Anne Arundel County who are represented by UFCW Local 1994 have taken a major step toward a possible strike, voting overwhelmingly on Monday to authorize a work stoppage if negotiations with their employer remain stalled.
The 170 workers—employed by Annapolis Bus Company (ABC) and RE Wilson, both operating under Student Transportation of America— noted that their top concern was affordable and adequate health insurance.
“One of the main sticking points is adequate and reasonable access to health care,” said Ray Lee, Special Assistant to the Local 1994 President. “What they’re offering right now is the bare minimum that’s required under federal and state law. It’s more like a coupon than real coverage.”
Currently, the bus companies provide drivers with limited health care options under the Affordable Care Act, while office staff are offered CareFirst BlueCross BlueShield coverage. Some drivers report out-of-pocket expenses topping $1,000, making coverage effectively out of reach.
“Our members are on the front lines transporting children safely to and from school every day,” Lee added. “No deal gets done without affordable and adequate health care access to the employees.”
The authorization vote does not mean a strike has begun. Instead, it gives the union the ability to call a strike if the company refuses to improve its offer. Student Transportation of America issued a statement saying it “remains hopeful this matter will be resolved quickly.”
Celebrating Newly Promoted Sergeants
On Thursday, June 21, 2025, the Sheriff’s Office recognized members at the Promotional Ceremony for their advancement to the rank of Sergeant.
Congratulations to these dedicated professionals on their well-earned promotions and thank them for their continued leadership and service.
Pictured (left to right): Sgt. George Balaras, Sgt. Lisa Dinga, Sgt. Joshua Lehman, Sgt. Tory Fisher, and Sgt. Ricky Vargas. Not pictured: Sgt. Zach Buttrey, Sgt. Ed Strong, and Sgt. Jeffrey Ventura.
🗣️ Upcoming Member Meetings – Registration Required
Your voice matters. Join us to get the latest updates and have your say in what’s happening in your union.
🎉 The Gaithersburg Labor Day Parade — Show Your Union Pride!
This is more than a parade — it’s a celebration of workers, solidarity, and union power. Come stand shoulder to shoulder with your fellow members and let the community see the faces of the people who keep Montgomery County running.
📅 Monday, September 1, 2025 📍 Meet-up location & time: Coming Soon (waiting for the city to assign us a line up location and time)
The parade kicks off at 10:00 AM and wraps up around 11:00 AM — but the fun doesn’t stop there! Stick around for the City’s post-parade block party with food, music, and inflatables for the kids (11:00 AM–12:30 PM).
Bring your family, your friends, your signs — and wear your MCGEO gear! Kids love it, the energy is electric, and it’s one of the best ways to kick off Labor Day.
⚖️ Webinar: Know Your Rights – Workers’ Compensation Information Session
Getting hurt at work can be stressful and confusing — but you don’t have to navigate it alone. Attorneys from Berman, Sobin, & Gross LLP will walk you through your rights, the claims process, and what to do to protect yourself if you’re injured on the job.
We hope to see you at all of these events — because when we show up, we show our strength.
Welcoming Members Back to School
Local 1994’s Union Representatives Nancy Austin and Rosa Ortiz and Administrative Assistant Catarina Gacek were on hand to welcome school health staff as they kicked off the new school year. With members spread across 211 schools throughout the County, this gathering is a rare and valuable opportunity to connect with school health personnel in one space.
Union Representative/Organizers
Have issues in your workplace and need some guidance ? Reach out to your union representative. Call the office at 301-977-2447 or send an email. They are there to help.
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