Archives

Emily Mazzullo

Emily Mazzullo is the back up Shop Steward for Stop & Shop Baymore, while also being the head of the floral department. Emily is also the chairwoman of the Pride ARG group within Stop & Shop. As the chairwoman she helps provide management with resources on how to be more inclusive, and how to stay aware of the sensitivities of others within the 2SLGBTQ+ community.  She joined Local 1500 in 2014 when she was hired as a part time bakery clerk. As a Shop Steward, Emily encourages new members to never be afraid to stand up for yourself, and ask questions. She also believes it is very important for our members to feel comfortable, so they can work in a positive environment.

Robert Shuford

Robert Shuford began his career in Stop & Shop on September 30th, 2001 where he works as a night crew chief. He has always been an assiduous person, who always strives to do his best. On May 25th, 2023, Robert did more than his best and became a hero! While preparing to open Stop & Shop, Robert heard a loud bang from outside and, knew trouble was amiss.

He rushed outside to see a wallowing cloud of black smoke fuming from the aftermath of an overturned semi-truck. Robert knew he didn’t have much time and called for his coworkers to assist him, as he rushed into danger. Hiscoworkers weren’t as willing as he was and insisted that he stay away from the danger. Instead of having a back-and-forth Robert chose to continue assisting anyone near the accident. As Robert got closer to the truck, he saw the injured driver and assisted him. Robert has since been recognized as a local hero by Nassau County Executive Bruce Blakeman, and even has his own day. June 15th is now Robert Shuford day. You never know what anyone may be capable of. We salute you Robert Shuford.

Danny Gleason

Danny (Daniel) Gleason is the dairy manager at King Kullen. He began working in the supermarket industry in 1989, and has been a UFCW Local 1500 member since. Danny has been a UFCW Local 1500 Executive Board member for the last 18 years. Words of advice that Danny Gleason would give to new members is to be active in your union. He recommends attending union events, and being proactive in your union. Danny is also a scout master for the Boy Scouts of America, where he is integral in mentoring the America’s youth.

Keith Lewis

Keith Lewis has been a member of Matlyn Key Food for 10 years. He works as a price integrity coordinator. As a 10-year member Keith has had a number of union representatives, but one in particular stands out to him. His relationship with UnionRepresentative Juan Guardado has been nothing but positive. He believes that Juan’s work in his stores is what helps to keep everyone’s morale high.

Keith’s advice for newer members is to take advantage of the family/extended family you have with the union. May it be scholarships, or medical benefits investigate what the union has to offer.

Alicia Boake

In 1987 Alicia Boake began her career as a part-time employee in the Baldwin Pathmark. It was also in that same year, that Alicia developed her relationship with UFCW Local 1500. In 1989 Alicia attended her first proposal meeting. Here she recounts her first dealing with Frank Meehan: “He was just so passionate about the situation. His presence and just the way he was explaining the situation, you wanted to be a part of that.” It was at that proposal meeting where in which Alicia began to understand just how the Union works from the proposal meeting, to the strike vote, to the contract vote.

This first encounter with Frank helped to develop a familial bond between Alicia and the Union. “It was just a pretty empowering thing, to see all those people come together to have their voice be heard.” This connection with the Union would eventually flourish ultimately leading to Alicia being entrusted with the position of “Shop Steward” by her then union rep, Rob Newell in 1999.

Currently Alicia Boakes works for the Gateway ShopRite. Transitioning from Pathmark to Shop Rite was a difficult decision for her. Knowing that she would still be a part of UFCW Local 1500 helped solidify her decision to take the necessary steps to continue her career. In 2017 Alica Boake was awarded the Member of the Year award at  the UFCW NY/NJ District Council Convention.

Adam Glamore

Adam Glamore began his career as a part-timer with Stop & Shop in the produce department in 2000. Adam officially became a Local 1500 Member in December of 2000. He is now the produce manager after working 22 years. In his spare time Adam is an avid comic book creator. He started drawing and comic book creation at 14, and even sold some of his work during his high school career. You can check out his work here at www.tempestudios.weebly.com. Be sure to thank Adam for the fresh produce next time you are in Stop & Shop. Thank you for reading this month’s Member Spotlight.

Yave Infante

Yave Infante is a Full-Time member of Wild by Nature who works in the deli department. Yave Infante has been a UFCW Local 1500 member for almost 15 years. He joined UFCW Local 1500 in 2008.

Yave’s first union rep, Joe Waddy had a seismic impact on Yave’s life. Joe inspired him to take advantage of several union resources Yave had at his disposal. This information proved to be extremely important. Yave recently became the father of a beautiful baby girl and was able to alleviate some of the financial pressures though UFCW Local 1500’s medical plan.  Yave’s message to the newer members is “don’t be afraid to step up!

John Fanzo

John Fanzo has been a UFCW Local 1500 member for the last 16 years, and continues being a proud and vocal member. John is currently the Assistant Bakery Manager at ShopRite. The chemistry he has with his bakery team is magnetic

John Fanzo began working in the Supermarket industry 38 years ago, after having served time in the United States armed services. Initially he wanted to become a teacher,  but quickly changed to working in the supermarket profession. While working in the bakery department John developed an outstanding work chemistry with his team. His fellow bakery team members enjoy John’s mentorship, and wisdom. Check out the video below!

Eric Jimenez

Eric Jimenez began his prestigious career in the grocery industry in 1987 and has been a UFCW Local 1500 member for the last 20 years. Eric is currently the Produce Manager and Shop Steward of Stop & Shop Arverne. He earned the leader position and trust of his team by being active for his fellow team members when, management violated members respect and rights.

Eric has positioned himself as a mentor for the newer and younger members who may not be familiar with their rights, and as a bridge to build better communication between members and management. Eric has been a tremendous supporter of the union and we thank him for his diligence and leadership.