WE TAKE A STAND FOR CHANGE!
BALLOTS HAVE BEEN MAILED OUT! MEMBER'S SHOULD SEE THEM STARTING THIS WEEK! REMEMBER TO FILL IN THE BOX FOR:
WE TAKE A STAND FOR CHANGE SLATE!
Meet The Candidates
Phil Zubiate
Candidate for President of Workers United Local 50
Hello Fellow Union Members,
My name is Phil Zubiate and I am running for President of Workers United Local 50. I have worked at the Disneyland
Resort for 18 years holding positions as Dinner Cook, Lead, with my most recent position as a Demi Chef at Carthay Circle. My positions at the Union include being an active Shop Steward and Former Business Agent. I believe I’ve made an impact on our members by listening to concerns and providing prompt solutions. As a U.S Navy veteran, I learned how to lead and help my teams be successful no matter the obstacles we face, and have continued to lead successfully throughout my roles with major corporations such as Target, Nordstroms, Beacon Worldwide, and Disney. I continued my education in Labor Studies through LA Trade-Technical College including Grievances and Arbitration's, Collective Bargaining, and Union Building Strategies. In addition, I was also sent to Chicago’s Federation of Labor for organizing classes where I learned how to be a better Organizer.. I live locally and have served on the Executive Board and as President of The Anaheim Soccer Association for 15 years. My wife Linda and I have been married for 28 years, have three wonderful daughters, and now grand-kids. Over the course of my employment with the Union, I have witnessed current leadership disregard Union Members concerns and instead of finding solutions, they do nothing more than apply band aids to such problems. Our Slate won’t allow this. We will be transparent and honest to our members. I am committed to ensuring all voices are heard and solutions are found,
Local 50 union members deserve it. We will be the caretakers of the Union and we will Listen! Through our campaign you will hear our pledge to you, our members. We will do our best to answer your questions and provide continuous improvements to the issues that matter most to you. Thank you for the opportunity to serve as your next President!
LOCAL 50 UNITED FOR CHANGE!
Pedro Oceguera
Candidate for 1st Vice-President of Workers United Local 50
Greetings, I am Pedro Oceguera, and it is with great enthusiasm that I address you today. With 14 years of dedicated service to our company, I have had the privilege of being deeply engaged with our union since the inception of my journey as a cast member.
After a brief hiatus to spend quality time with my family, I am humbled to seek your support in reclaiming a role that I hold dear - that of your Vice President. With the blessing of my family and the unwavering support of our community, I am eager to once again represent your interests and aspirations.
My commitment to our collective welfare is unwavering. If entrusted with the responsibility of Vice President, I pledge to champion initiatives that drive positive change and foster a supportive and inclusive environment for all members. Together, we will strive for continuous improvement and progress.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you once again and am eager to embark on this journey together. Your support means the world to me, and I am committed to earning your trust through action and dedication.
It is with great pleasure and determination that I introduce myself to you. My name is Dalia Mendez, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of 2nd Vice President. With nine and a half years of dedicated service to the Company, I bring a wealth of experience and a passion for positive change to this role.
My journey with Disney began as a Food Prep at Blue Bayou, where I learned the importance of teamwork and dedication firsthand. Over the years, I have had the opportunity to expand my skills and knowledge by working in various capacities, including as a Chef at Main Street West, and contributing my expertise to locations such as Bayou, Lamplight, Banquets, and Festivals.
This year marked a significant milestone in my career as I joined the Union as a Shop Steward and had the privilege of being part of the negotiating team. It was during this time that I witnessed the power of collective action and the importance of effective representation.
Now, I stand before you, eager to take on the responsibility of 2nd Vice President. I am committed to ensuring that our Union reflects the needs and aspirations of all its members. I believe that change is not only possible but essential for the betterment of our Union, and I am dedicated to making that change a reality.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you in this capacity and ask for your support as we work together to build a stronger, more inclusive Union.
Grace (Campista) Torres
Candidate for Treasurer of Workers United Local 50
It is with great enthusiasm and dedication that I introduce myself to you. My name is Grace (Campista) Torres, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Treasurer. With nine years of devoted service to the Company, I bring a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to representing your interests to this role.
My Disney journey began as a Food Prep at Cafe Orleans, where I cultivated a deep appreciation for teamwork and culinary excellence. Over the years, I have had the privilege of expanding my skills and contributing to various aspects of our operations, including serving as a HOH Lead / Dinner Cook at esteemed locations such as Carnation Cafe and Festivals.
My dedication to our Union's mission has been unwavering. For the past seven years, I have proudly served as a Shop Steward, advocating for the rights and well-being of our Union members. Additionally, I had the honor of serving one term as Treasurer, where I worked diligently to ensure the financial health and transparency of our Union.
My commitment to our collective voice extends beyond the confines of our workplace. During the Measure L Campaign, my husband and I shared our story with the media, recognizing that our experiences were not ours alone, but representative of the struggles and triumphs of all Union members. It is this commitment to amplifying your voices that drives me to seek reelection as Treasurer.
I am deeply grateful for the trust and support you have placed in me, and I am eager to continue serving you in this capacity. Together, let us ensure that your voices are not only heard but respected and acted upon.
Joseph Wimbish
Candidate for Secretary of Workers United Local 50
My name is Joseph Wimbish, and I am honored to address you today. My journey with Disney began in 1998 at Stage Door Cafe, where I embarked on a path that has shaped my career and commitment to our organization. In 2001, I played a pivotal role in the opening of Disney California Adventure (DCA), serving as a lead at Cocina Cucamonga and various other locations within the park.
In 2006, I transitioned into workforce management, assuming the role of a stage scheduler, where I honed my skills in optimizing scheduling processes for operational efficiency. By 2012, I had transitioned into a production scheduler role, specifically for New Orleans/Critter Country Quick-Service Restaurants (QSR), further expanding my expertise in this domain.
Throughout my tenure, I have remained deeply invested in supporting our workforce. In 2018, I took on the responsibility of a shop steward, leveraging my knowledge from scheduling and years of service to assist our fellow cast members. It was in this capacity that I became intimately familiar with the challenges and aspirations of our workforce.
In recognition of my dedication and advocacy, I was elected to the Executive Board in 2021, representing QSR and scheduling interests. Now, I stand before you as a candidate for the recording secretary position, driven by a fervent desire to effect positive change within our leadership.
I believe that our organization thrives when leadership is responsive, inclusive, and forward-thinking. As recording secretary, I aspire to foster an environment of transparency, accountability, and collaboration. Together, we can navigate the challenges ahead and usher in a new era of excellence for our community.
I humbly ask for your support as we embark on this journey together. Let us work hand in hand to shape a brighter future for all.
Thank you for your consideration.
David Nava
Candidate for Executive Board, Table Service
My name is David Nava, and I am excited to announce my candidacy for one of the Table Service Seats on the Executive Board. With 15 years of dedicated service to the company, I have had the privilege of working across esteemed locations such as Big Thunder Ranch Barbecue, Carnation Cafe, Ariel's Grotto, Cove Bar, Oga's Cantina, Cafe Orleans, and Blue Bayou. Throughout my tenure, I have acquired comprehensive knowledge and expertise in various roles, including CLP, ST, BH, and WH, and have served as a trainer for all these positions.
Currently, I hold the position of Lead/Support, having previously served as Lead/Support in five of our distinguished establishments. My journey within the company has been defined by a commitment to excellence and a dedication to fostering a collaborative and supportive work environment. It is this ethos that has led me to actively participate in union meetings, particularly during the negotiation of our last contract.
It is with great conviction that I seek a seat on the Executive Board. I firmly believe in the power of collective action and shared victories. Together, we can reach unparalleled heights and effect positive change for our members and the communities we serve. I invite you to join me as we move forward, united in purpose and passion, towards a brighter future.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve and represent our collective interests on the Executive Board.
Jimena Orozco Gonzalez
Candidate for Executive Board, Table Service
My name is Jimena Orozco, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the Executive Board, representing Table Service. As I approach my milestone of ten years at the Disneyland Resort, I bring a wealth of experience and a steadfast commitment to advocating for our members.
Throughout my journey at the resort, I have held various front-of-house roles, with my current position being a Bartender. This diverse experience has provided me with a comprehensive understanding of the intricacies of our operations and the needs of our workforce.
If elected to the Executive Board, I pledge to bring about positive change by championing transparency and accountability. I firmly believe that by working collaboratively with my fellow board members, we can foster an environment of trust and openness, ensuring that the voices of our members are not only heard but valued and acted upon.
My goal is not to merely earn the trust of our members but to maintain it through consistent and dedicated service. I am committed to representing your interests with integrity and diligence, striving each day to uphold the values that our Union stands for.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and I humbly ask for your support in this endeavor. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for all.
Eric Ventre
Candidate for Executive Board, Table Service
My name is Eric Ventre, and it is with great enthusiasm that I stand before you as a candidate for the Executive Board. With five years of dedicated service to the company and a year and a half of experience as a shop steward, I bring a deep understanding of our organization's inner workings and a strong commitment to advocating for the interests of all members.
I began my career at the Hungry Bear restaurant, where I gained invaluable experience working in every position within the establishment. Currently, I serve as a bushelp at esteemed locations such as Cafe Orleans, Blue Bayou, and Carthay Circle, further broadening my understanding of our diverse operations.
My decision to join this new board stems from my belief in the importance of unity, transparency, and inclusivity within our union. If elected, I am committed to fostering an environment where every member's voice is heard and valued. I will work tirelessly to ensure that our union fights for the interests of all job classifications, promoting fairness and equity across the board.
Throughout my tenure as a shop steward, I have had the privilege of assisting many of our fellow cast members with their grievances. My approach has always been one of transparency and honesty, earning the trust of my colleagues along the way.
I am deeply passionate about serving our community and am ready to dedicate myself wholeheartedly to this role. With your support, I am confident that together, we can build a stronger and more unified union that truly represents the interests of all its members.
Jicela Lopez
Candidate for Executive Board, QSR
My name is Jicela Lopez, and it is with great honor and enthusiasm that I announce my candidacy for the Executive Board, representing Quick Service Restaurants (QSR). With over nine years of dedicated service to the Disney company, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of our Union members.
My journey with Disney began as a Food Service Worker at French Market in New Orleans Square. Over the years, I have worked diligently, and I am currently classified as an Order Cook. Through these experiences, I have gained firsthand insight into the challenges and opportunities facing our QSR, HOH, Receivers, and Receiver Assistants.
If elected to the Executive Board, I pledge to be a strong and compassionate voice for all Union members. It is my belief that every member deserves to have their concerns heard and addressed. I am committed to being both the voice and ears for our diverse membership, ensuring that the needs of all are recognized and prioritized.
I am inspired by the momentum of change within our Union, and I am dedicated to keeping that momentum alive. Together, let us continue to fight for positive change and progress. "Local 50 United for Change" is not just a slogan but a rallying cry for a brighter future for all.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you, and I humbly ask for your support in this endeavor. Together, let us work towards a stronger, more inclusive Union that truly represents the interests of all its members.
Frank Morrissey
Candidate for Executive Board
I am honored to introduce myself as a candidate for Executive Board Member. My name is Frank Morrissey, and I bring over three decades of dedicated service to the Disney family to this role. Throughout my 31-year tenure, I have had the privilege of serving in various capacities, each contributing to my deep understanding of our organization and its members.
My journey with Disney began in Fantasyland and ToonTown, where I started as a Culinary Person before transitioning into Receiving. For the past 27 years, I have proudly served as a Receiver Lead, overseeing operations and ensuring the smooth functioning of our receiving department.
I have had the opportunity to contribute to significant milestones within our company, including serving on the opening teams for the Pacific Wharf in Disney California Adventure and the restaurants in Galaxy's Edge. These experiences have not only broadened my skill set but have also instilled in me a profound appreciation for the importance of teamwork and collaboration.
As a candidate for the Executive Board, I am committed to bringing back transparency and honesty to our union. I believe that open communication and integrity are essential for building trust and fostering a strong sense of community among our members. With your support, I am confident that we can work together to ensure that our union truly represents the interests of all its members.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I look forward to the opportunity to serve you and our union with dedication and integrity.
Jorge Avalos
Candidate for Executive Board, Club 33
My name is Jorge Avalos, and I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Club 33 representative. In my two years with the company, I have had the privilege of experiencing the magic of Disney firsthand, starting as a Busser/Runner at New Orleans Square Club 33 and currently serving as a full-time bartender and Step Into The Magic facilitator.
Despite my relatively short tenure at Disney, I have been deeply committed to embodying the spirit of Disney magic and guiding others in understanding its essence. Through my role as a Step Into The Magic facilitator, I have had the privilege of onboarding new Cast Members, imparting to them the values and principles that define the Disney experience.
Moreover, my engagement with leaders across the resort has propelled me to participate in the ambassador program, where I have acquired invaluable leadership skills. I am grateful for the opportunities I have had to develop as a leader and contribute to the uplifting of our community.
If elected as Club 33 representative, I am committed to inspiring and guiding our Cast Members towards a brighter future. I believe in the power of unity and collaboration, and I am dedicated to fostering an environment where every member feels empowered to contribute and thrive.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. I am eager to serve and represent the interests of our esteemed Club 33 members with passion and dedication.
Frankie Salgado
Candidate for Executive Board, QSR
I am honored to announce my candidacy for an executive board member position, and it is with great enthusiasm that I introduce myself to you. My name is Frankie Salgado, and I bring over 15 years of dedicated service with Disney to this role.
Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of working in various capacities within the foods department, starting at Main Street where I served as a cashier, food prep, Lead, and Support. My journey then led me to scheduling, where I honed my skills as both a stage and production scheduler.
With a deep understanding of the nuances of our industry and a commitment to upholding the values of our union contract, I am dedicated to representing all my fellow foods cast members. It is my belief that fair treatment for all is not only a fundamental right but also a cornerstone of our collective success.
I am deeply grateful for your consideration and humbled by the opportunity to serve you in this capacity. Together, let us work towards a future where every member's voice is heard, and every member is treated with the fairness and respect they deserve.
Maritza Carranza
Candidate for Executive Board, Banquets
I am honored to address you today as a candidate for the Executive Board representing Banquets. My name is Maritza Carranza, and my journey with the Disneyland Resort began in 2001 at Rancho Del Zocalo, where I started as a host. Over the years, I have dedicated myself to our organization, and I currently serve as a Dinner Cook/Lead at Banquets and Festivals.
Having had the privilege of being a member of the negotiation team and previously serving as an Executive Board member, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to advocating for the rights and interests of our members.
If re-elected, I pledge to bring about positive change by championing transparency and collaboration. It is my belief that by working closely with other board members and ensuring open communication, we can foster an environment of trust and accountability, thereby keeping the faith of our members intact.
My dedication to our collective welfare extends beyond mere words; it is a guiding principle that informs every decision I make. I am committed to serving you with integrity and passion, striving each day to uphold the values that our union stands for.
I am deeply grateful for the trust and support you have placed in me, and I am eager to continue serving you in this capacity. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for all.
Norene Lorenzo
Candidate for Executive Board, QSR
It is with great enthusiasm and a profound sense of commitment that I announce my candidacy for the Executive Board. My name is Norene Lorenzo, and I am honored to seek your support once again.
With 17 years of dedicated service to the Disneyland Resort, I bring a wealth of experience and a deep understanding of the needs and concerns of our Cast Members. For the past 12 years, I have had the privilege of serving as a shop steward, advocating tirelessly for the rights and well-being of our members.
My passion for fighting for the best interests of our Cast Members extends beyond the workplace. I have actively participated in initiatives such as Measure L, demonstrating our commitment to advocating for fair treatment and just compensation. From attending city hall meetings to door knocking on Anaheim residents' doors, I have been deeply involved in ensuring that our voices are heard.
If elected to the Executive Board, I am committed to championing transparency, justice, and honesty for all our Cast Members. I believe that every member deserves to be treated with dignity and respect, and I will work tirelessly to ensure that their voices are heard and their rights upheld.
I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to serve you once again, and I humbly ask for your support in this endeavor. Together, let us work towards a brighter future for all our Cast Members.
Cristal Ruiz
Candidate for Executive Board, ODV
Cristal Ruiz, dedicated member with 17 years of commitment to you, the cast who create the magic. I hired into Outdoor Vending as a cashier, in 2007 at 17-years-old. I quickly got cross-trained to Outdoor Ventures, where I was inspired to apply to be a scheduler as a cashier. I got the position of stage scheduler which empowered me as I was not a working lead yet. I started in Workforce Management as a Stage Scheduler in 2008, where I am currently at. In 2009, I became a Working Lead for vendors in both parks. I also became a Welcome to Foods Facilitator in 2011, where I introduced cast to our department and food safety protocols. I've been an advocate since I was young, including running for positions from elementary to high school. In 2006, I became an Anaheim Police Explorer, where I served the community of Anaheim by volunteering for city events. In 2009, I volunteered to promote school sponsored events at Cal State Fullerton to students on campus. In 2013, I became a mom while in college and that has pushed me to balance both work and home in tandem. I graduated in 2014 with a Bachelor's in Communications and Sociology from Cal State Fullerton. Last year, I earned an Integrative Attachment Certification which helps me better support my peers with their needs and issues that may arise both in and out of work. As a candidate for the executive board, I bring a unique expertise and am committed to listen and learn from you. I am a big advocate not only for your rights but also for needed resources. My experience provides me with an understanding within our operation and life challenges.
Kevin Barrios
Candidate for Chair of Trustee
I am honored to announce my candidacy for the position of Chair of Trustee. My name is Kevin Barrios, and I have dedicated over 14 years of service to the Disneyland Resort.
My journey with the company began in 2009 as a custodial busser, and over the years, I have had the privilege of cross-training in various positions and locations. Currently, I serve as a Waithelp, but I have also worked as a Food Prep, Order Cook, Dinner Cook, and Bushelp. Additionally, I held leadership roles for five years as a Front of House lead at the Golden Vine Winery and Steward Lead.
I have contributed to the successful openings of significant dining establishments, including Riverbelle Terrace during its transition to Table Service, and Lamplight Lounge. My knowledge extends to various locations, including Ariel’s Grotto, Blue Bayou, Big Thunder Ranch, and Riverbelle.
In 2018, I became a Shop Steward with the intention of assisting my fellow Cast Members in understanding their contract rights. This commitment to advocacy and empowerment stems from my belief in the importance of transparency and accountability.
Furthermore, I bring a solid educational background to this role, having earned a Bachelor’s Degree from Life Pacific University and a Master’s Degree in Business Administration from Wilmington University.
If elected as Chair of Trustee, my primary objective will be to ensure that the board fulfills its responsibilities to the Cast and provides strategic direction for the Union. I am committed to serving with transparency, accountability, and unwavering dedication to the well-being of our Cast Members.
Thank you for considering my candidacy. Together, let us work towards a future where every Cast Member is supported and empowered.
Edgar (Panda) Campista
Candidate for Trustee
I am Edgar (Panda) Campista, and I am honored to announce my candidacy as your trustee. Over the past decade, I have dedicated myself to our company's growth and success. My tenure began at the esteemed Golden Vine Winery complex, and I have since assumed the role of a dinner cook at the prestigious Blue Bayou.
During my six-year tenure as a shop steward, I have tirelessly advocated for the rights and well-being of our colleagues. Notably, as a member of the negotiation team, our collective efforts were spotlighted during the Measure L campaign, underscoring our commitment to transparency and progress.
Now, I stand before you once more, motivated by the conviction that change is imperative. It is time for our voices to resound with clarity and purpose, signaling our readiness for a new era of empowerment and advancement.
Together, let us embark on this journey towards positive transformation.
Maggie Diaz
Candidate for Trustee
I am pleased to introduce myself as Maggie Diaz, a dedicated member of the Walt Disney Company family for the past 13 years. My journey within the company has been diverse and enriching, having served as a trainer at Ariel's Grotto and currently as a hostess at Lamplight Lounge. Throughout my tenure, I have had the privilege of working across various locations within the resort, gaining valuable insights and experiences.
Beyond my frontline duties, I am deeply committed to supporting our fellow cast members. For the past decade, I have proudly served as a shop steward, advocating for the rights and well-being of our workforce. It is through this role that I have witnessed firsthand the importance of solidarity and collaboration in fostering a positive work environment.
Today, I stand before you as a candidate for the position of trustee. I believe that my extensive experience, coupled with my unwavering dedication to our collective interests, uniquely qualifies me to represent and serve our community effectively.
As we navigate the challenges and opportunities ahead, I am committed to ensuring that your voices are heard and that our union remains a steadfast advocate for all members.
Thank you for your consideration and support.
