Merry Christmas and Happy New Years

As our year comes to a close, I’d like to take a minute to reflect on the events that have influenced our lives both personal and work related.

From a Union position, I am grateful for all your efforts to help us overturn “right to work “in Missouri.

This was not an easy task in today’s political environment. I am pleased that we were able to educate the general public on how this truly impacts more that just union workers.

Again, on the political front we are used to seeing all kinds of anti-union legislation come down the pipe. This year was no exception. Missouri House bill 1413, is a prime example of how some politicians will try to strip away basic Rights, like freedom of speech and expression. To make it harder to join a union.

You’ll be happy to know that our members, your fellow brothers and sisters have filed a lawsuit against this and right now there is a temporary restraining order against this.

In the contracts we represent, 2018 has not excluded them from the rollercoaster of emotion. . ..

At AT&T: This year has had it’s share of consolidation and surplus. There is the much-anticipated merger between Two (2) of the outside departments. This has produced many rumors some, to ridiculous to repeat. AT&T seems to have impeccable timing on announcing surplus (layoffs). In the past few years they always seem to have one just in time for the Holidays!

At Lantel Communications: We are still in bargaining after the membership rejected the company offer, the membership is regrouping. Bargaining to resume January of 2019

On a brighter note, The City of Independence 911 dispatchers have FINALLY gotten out of the basement, LITERALLY! They now have moved to a brand-new state- of- the- art facility. With all new high-tech equipment and ergonomically correct work stations. I almost forgot, IT HAS WINDOWS!!! This has been a long time coming, I’m sure the Mayor and the Director are glad we don’t bring this up every time we see them, now we can bug them about bargaining that will begin May of 2019.

With Mood Media formerly Muzak, our members helped us negotiate a new contract, with pay and severance increases and NO increase for their health care!

In the printing sector E-2 Embroidery and Raven Printing both have had excellent years. E-2 has increased business so much they have had to move location to accommodate the growth. Raven has seen the increase as well and has hired 3 new members.

We also lost a good Chief Steward and an even better friend, Jason Woodruff. We are still dealing with that loss, but are moving forward in his memory.

Like most of you, we have many things to be thankful for. Our families, our friends and YOU!

We at CWA Local 6360 would like to wish you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

Joseph Blanco

CWA Local 6360

President