From th Presidents desk:
Dear Brothers, I've been elected to serve as the next president of local 236. Let me begin this letter by extending my condolences and sympathy on the loss of one of our brothers, Mr. James D. Cull. He was well liked and respected by many of his co-workers. We extend our heartfelt sympathy to his family and many friends. He will be missed.
I always start almost every letter with story or some kind of anology or something to help us "go". In the 17th century in England, there was a stable kepper by the name of Thomas Hopsin. Mr. Hopsin rented out horses in London. When you went to rent a horse from Mr. Hopsin, you could have any horse, any stable, as long as it was one closet to the door. That is where we get the expression of "Hopsin's choice".
That seems to me to be the agreement we've had in the past with the companies AST,ABC and our current employer BBRS. Kind of a take it or leave it agreement. Our current three year contract expiered on December 31,2002. We have been negotiating a new contract in the past few months. I look to put in place a new contract that is concrete, pratical, and measurable. I invite your inpute on issues concerning the upcoming negotiations for our next contract.
Being new to the office of president, a training period will be necessary to familiarize myself with the official duties and also the procedural aspects of the position. I eagerly accecpt the challenge. My efforts are aimed toward making this a successful presidency by promoting unity as well as service among the officers, committeemen, and members of our local and encourge all to attend meeetings. Success comes from many, not the few.
Let me express gratitude to my predecessor, John Garcia for his hard work, his efforts, and accomplishments while serving as this locals past president. He did a tremendous job.
I'm cofident we can make this a strong local. Become an active member by attending union meetings ao that your voice can be heard. Again, success comes from many, not a few.
Together we stand.
Kent Whitaker
BRS LOCAL 236
PRESIDENT/LOCAL CHAIRMAN