Locals collaborate to host 350 members at Saints game

MAPE Locals 401 and 701 shared a beautiful evening of Saints baseball, picnic dinner and fellowship last Friday, Aug. 18. Nearly 350 members and their families participated, representing the Department of Revenue, Minnesota Management and Budget, Minnesota IT Services and Dept. of Administration.

Wendi Einberger McDonough, a trainer for corporate tax franchise at the Department of Revenue, attended the event and said, “It was wonderful to meet each other’s families in a relaxed environment. We could have conversations about the union and other issues that being in a work environment hinders.”

Many locals are planning picnics, parties and gatherings to celebrate the upcoming Labor Day, which reminds us why being a part of a union is so important and of the sacrifices so many have made to help improve working conditions.

“It’s up to us to build the union we want. By getting to know our coworkers, we become friends, and I have always had the belief that friends take care of friends, which results in all union members looking out for each other,” explains Einberger McDonough. 

Members gathered 90 minutes before the game to enjoy a picnic dinner. When the game started everyone moved to the bleachers where MAPE took up almost two full sections in the outfield. Some highlights of the night were meeting other families, seeing MAPE up on the jumbotron and fireworks after the game.

“Food, fireworks, family, friends and co-workers, fellowship, beautiful summer weather, and a Saints victory made for a perfect night with MAPE!” said Local 401 President Jeff Gintz, who led the planning of the event. Russell Schreyer, Local 701 membership secretary, also helped make this event happen.