Dear Bargaining Unit Employee,
A few short weeks ago, I wrote to you (as a Candidate for President of Local 2017) asking for your vote. In the election held October 3, 2007.
I am now writing to you as the newly elected President. Thank you for your support and vote.
I would be remiss not thanking Past President Sonny Fore and past Vice President Rob Kowloski. The union would not be what it is today without you.
I started attending union meetings during the contract negotiations 2003-2006. It took me a long time to sign my name on the dotted line and give up my hard-earned money. If I may, let me explain why I joined the union.
I, like most of you say "Why join the union? I'm going to get what they negotiate whether I join or not. That is correct. You will get what the union negotiates, right or wrong good or bad.
After attending a few meetings, I realized there were (at the most) 10-20 people deciding my benefits. They were deciding if I was going to have enough Health Coverage, money to pay bills, enough sick and vacation time. How did they know? The answer is, they didn't know what Mark Steiner needed or wanted. I decided to add my voice to those small few and I am glad I did.
I am now involved. (More than I ever thought) I now have a " place" to go and let someone know what Mark Steiner needs. I now have a 'place" to get information not rumors. This "place is your union.
The second reason I joined our Local was a person I met at one of the occasional meetings I went to. His name is Irwin Scharfeld. If you haven't met Irwin you are missing out. He has a wealth of knowledge and skills. I honestly believe without Irwin our last contract negotiations would not have gone as well as they did. We would not have the great contract we have. Thank you Irwin.
Since I have assumed office I have got to work closely with the past board. Let me tell you, if success is measured by the people that surround you, I will be successful. I am very impressed with all your elected local 2017 officials.
We on the executive board of Local 2017 invite you to a meeting or two. We invite you to meet us and talk to us. Come meet this man Irwin and chat. I know every one is busy with life, but try to fit a meeting into your schedule. I am sure you will come away with a different view of our union.
Please check your union bulletin boards for upcoming meeting dates and union information.
Thanks once again
Mark