I just found out from a friend who is a union steward. My raise was from 10.50 to 11.35. So I got an 85 cent raise also. The way I understand it is 35 cent came from the new contract. The 50 cent is from people who were hired ofter Aug 2002 but made seniority before July 31, 2008. This is a copy of my email that he sent me regarding this raise.
I emailed him back because I did not understand the last part about the semi annual pay hikes.
As I theorized in my email regarding contract changes anyone in progression(those that started after August 1, 2002 but reach seniority by July 31, 2008 received this because the 90 day base pay rate was raised 50 cents. This should not (but I do not know 100%) affect your last anniversary raise. After that you will receive semi annual pay hikes like those of pre Aug 2002 who have reached progression.
I hope this helps everybody who was wondering about the pay raise. When I receive more info I will post it. I have 1 year 7 months, even though I started during Oct 06 for peak season (u know that doesn't count).
tmsjef00