According to Bob Wiesner, Labor Relations Staff Specialist for the MNA, nurses were intent on organizing the facility from the outset of the facility's opening in February 1998. "We were approached to organize the facility in May, 1998," said Wiesner. "In my memory, this is the fastest a brand new hospital has been organized."

Wiesner praised Fairview Lakes registered nurse Sue Kreitz for her skill in coordinating the vote. "Sue worked so hard and inspired her colleagues through her determination," said Wiesner. "Sue's message about the benefits of consistency offered by a union contract, obviously hit home with the nurses."

The vote at Fairview Lakes Medical Center could also resonate beyond the facility. MNA is involved with organizing efforts at Unity Hospital in Fridley, where over 430 nurses will vote on certification on November 11. Unity is the last remaining metro non-contract hospital in the Allina system. "Unity nurses want to be assured of the same benefits and legal agreements available to other Allina employees," said Wiesner.

The Minnesota Nurses Association is the largest nursing union in the Midwest. It has represented the interest of nurses since 1905. In addition to collective bargaining, the association acts as a professional advocacy, education and policy-making organization for registered nurses in Minnesota.

I invite all nurses who choose activism over apathy---empowerment over powerlessness---to join us in the