Union Members Generously Give for the Holidays

[Omaha Steve]

http://blog.aflcio.org/2010/12/24/union-members-generously-give-for-the-holidays/

by Mike Hall, Dec 24, 2010

Throughout the holiday season, union members have spread more than a sleigh full of holiday cheer, from helping Santa answer kids’ letters, to food and toy drives and reuniting families. Here are just a few of the holiday highlights.

For six years, the Atlantic and Cape May (N.J.) Counties Central Labor Council has brought far-flung families back together with its “Fly Home for the Holidays” program. The council takes requests from area residents who want to fly home two relatives, but need help. Along with the airfare, comes a $500 holiday shopping spree and other goodies.


Missouri Painters and Allied Trades members Margo Webb, Bill Crowely, Bill Reape and Jim Wolfe ring for holiday donations.


Says council President Roy Foster:

Being in a labor movement is about meeting and helping people in the community. If we can help in some small way, especially at this time of the year, then we’re fulfilling our mission.

Fred Slunt III, a 35-year-old school custodian, is this year’s winner. His parents, both of whom have serious health issues, will be flown from their Las Vegas home to see their granddaughter for the first time ever and their son and daughter-in-law for the first time in several years.

This year, Foster says the council received more requests than ever.

It makes you see how tough it can be for people out there. If we can provide that little bit of joy during this season, all the better.

Read more here: http://www.pressofatlanticcity.com/life/article_ed151e4b-cdc1-577e-baaa-921a539828d1.html

In Tucson, Ariz., members of Letter Carriers (NALC) Local 704 filled in for Santa to help answer children’ letters to St. Nick. Although usually addressed to the North Pole, the U.S. Postal Service relies on organizations and volunteers like Dan Versluis to read and answer the letters.

FULL story at link.

[old mark]

1. K&R. As a former AFSCME Steward, I already know this, but it is good to see it

publicised. The right spreads so many lies about Unions and workers - it is great to see some of the good things we do all the time.

Thanks.
Mark

[Omaha Steve]

2. I am an AFSCME steward

(Secret hand shake has taken place)

[old mark]

3. PLEASE!!! Don't mention the Secret Handshake!!! (Won't be secret for long...)

:)


mark

[Kingofalldems]

4. Repub response--They must be destroyed---

They make too much money! How dare they!

[Omaha Steve]

5. Last I knew over a dozen states want to change public employee laws next year

Nebraska is one.

[Kingofalldems]

6. Exactly, it is a concerted effort by the repubs

I am sure Rove had something to do with it.