Union Break with Council 35

Union Break Season 2 Premier Routes are shifting at SFO. We’re kicking off Season 2 of Union Break with a conversation that gets straight to what matters. In Part 1, Council 35 President Melissa Osborne and SFO Base Manager Cierra Lewis join us to talk through the recent flying changes impacting the base. Cierra addresses the biggest concern right away: We also get to know Cierra beyond the title, hearing her journey from Flight Attendant to base manager and her deep roots at SFO. Melissa brings the contract and industry perspective that helps put the changes into context. This is Part 1 of the conversation. Tune in to Part 2 as we dive deeper into the big hot topics facing SFO and Council 35, and what Flight Attendants should know at the base level.

In this updated episode of Union Break, we revisit our Sick Bank Roll-Over discussion with newly amended and contract-accurate information. Featuring LECP Melissa Osborne. After identifying an error in the original episode, we re-recorded this conversation to ensure you have the clearest and most correct understanding of how sick bank rollovers and options work moving into the new contract cycle. We break down: ✔ Updated sick bank roll-over rules ✔ How to make your selections on roll over and where to find the form ✔ Where to find your bank accruals and how to identify the 2 different banks ✔ How to make the most of your bank before year-end Union Break prioritizes accuracy and transparency and when new information comes to light, we update it promptly so our members have what they need to make informed decisions.

Welcome to Union Break with Council 35! In this episode, we’re recapping our September 22nd membership meeting in San Francisco, where Council 35 officers and the Joint Negotiating Committee joined us to share insights on the upcoming Alaska–Hawaiian merger negotiations. Melissa walks us through the highlights, including the differences between Section 6 negotiations and JCBA negotiations, why member participation in surveys is so important, and how this process will shape our future contract. Tune in to hear how these discussions are setting the stage for the work ahead—and how your voice matters in shaping the outcome.

In this episode, we break down one of the toughest topics for flight attendants: no shows. What really happens when you miss an assignment? Can you fix it by calling back in? How do no shows affect reserves differently from line holders? And what should you do if commuting issues get in the way? We’ll talk through: -The difference between attendance and performance tracks. -How reserves can protect themselves and avoid doubling their risk. -What to do in commuting failure situations (and why honesty matters). -When it might actually be smarter to just accept the points and move on. -Resources and leave options available if your points start adding up. It’s time to rethink the way we look at no shows—not as a personal failure, but as part of the system we work under.

Union Break – Episode #16: PPP Explained with LECVP Virginia Fritz In this episode of Union Break, Mischelle sits down with SFO LEC Vice President Virginia Fritz to untangle the details of the Productivity Premium Program (PPP). With 2025 being a transition year, there’s a lot of confusion out on the line — and Virginia brings clarity. She explains what the PPP is and how it works. What TFP will count toward your PPP, including boarding pay and State Bank hours. She provides tips for meeting the thresholds and maximizing your bonus — up to $3,100. Whether you’re flying the line or planning ahead, this episode gives you the insight you need to make informed decisions to get the most towards your bonus. Tune in and stay informed — your bonus might depend on it!

Episode Title: Understanding the Sick Bank – Part 2 Union Break is back with another important episode diving deeper into the new sick bank system. Melissa Osborne returns to break down how the sick banks work, clear up common misconceptions, and answer the questions we’ve been hearing from members. If you’re feeling unsure about how or when to use your sick bank hours, this episode is for you. Tune in and get the clarity you need! #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #Solidarity #UnionBreak #UnionStrong #SFO #VolunteersMakeADifference

Today on Union Break: Understanding the New Sick Banks In this extended episode, we dive deep into the new sick leave banks with special guest Melissa Osborne. She walks us through the key differences between the CBA Sick Bank and the State Sick Bank, explaining how each one works, how to call in, and how to designate which bank you want to use. Melissa also breaks down: How time is accrued in each bank What’s required in terms of doctor’s notes When and how to use each bank There’s a lot to unpack, and we didn’t want to leave out any important details—so we went a little longer on this episode. Grab a chair, pour yourself a drink, and join us as we get into everything you need to know about the new sick banks. #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #Solidarity #UnionBreak #UnionStrong #SFO #VolunteersMakeADifference

Mental Health Matters with Jody Ventura This week on the Union Break Podcast, we're joined by Jody Ventura, Chairperson of EAP, for an important conversation about mental health and the resources available to us as flight attendants. In Part 1 of our discussion, Jody breaks down the wide range of support EAP offers—from Lyra’s confidential counseling services to Professional Standards. We talk about how to navigate interpersonal challenges at work, when to reach out to a peer, and when it’s time to involve Professional Standards. Jody shares her personal insights as a professional juggling both a demanding career and a full life outside of work. Tune in to hear her perspective and learn how EAP and Lyra can support your wellbeing both on and off the plane. To reach out to Jody Ventura contact her @ Email : sfo.eap.chair@afaalaska.org Phone: (408) 829-6210 Don’t miss this thoughtful and timely episode—your mental health matters. #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #Solidarity #UnionBreak #UnionStrong #SFO #VolunteersMakeaADifference

We’re joined by Raymond Ramirez, Chairperson of the Service Committee. Service is a vital part of our work—and it’s constantly evolving. Raymond shares the how and why behind the changes we’re seeing. Curious about the preorder meals program or box water? Raymond gives us the inside scoop on all things service. #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #Solidarity #UnionBreak #UnionStrong #SFO #VolunteersMakeADifference

We all know safety is our top priority as flight attendants. Well, we get to sit down with Brad Young, ASHSC (Air, Health and Security) Chairperson for Council 35 at SFO. You’ll hear about who the committee collaborates with, what some of the recent trends are and even what improvements we can look forward to in the new contract. Join us for a lighthearted chat about safety. #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #Solidarity #UnionBreak #UnionStrong #SFO #VolunteersMakeaDifference

Mya and Mischelle welcome Hilary Stream, LEC Chairperson, for the Hotel Committee as a continuation of the “Get to know your Union Reps” series. Hilary offers a fresh perspective on the behind the scenes of what the Hotel Committee does to support us. She even goes into details on how our hotel properties are chosen. There are a lot of fun takeaways from our chat. #AFAAlaskaCoucil35 #Solidarity #Union Break #UnionStrong #SFO #Volunteersmakeadifference

On today’s episode hosts Mya and Mischelle interview Melissa Osborne, LEC President of Council 35, on topics that include: • The official launch of the Union Break podcast • Introduction of the hosts of the podcast • Thank you to the outgoing MEC officers • Engagement opportunities #UnionBreak #Solidarity #AFAAlaskaCouncil35 #UnionStrong #SFO

It’s been a highly discussed and debated topic, now it’s time to officially let your voice be heard. Our first episode of Union Break will provide you with much needed information about voting for TA2. Our guests, Melissa Osborne, LEC President and Virginia Fritz, LEC Vice President of Council 35, walk us through the process and also provide information about resources that are available: https://contract2022.afaalaska.org/ta2/ https://afacwa-elections.org/