President's Corner

Hello Brothers & Sisters,

     The past 15 months have been jammed packed full of work for not only myself but several members of the board.  Late last year (2010) our collective bargaining bill was signed into law and then the purchase of our new lodge home.  From the time we signed the papers on the building till now I think it has been a total of 20 days I have not been in that building.  Many long days were spent in there by members of the board, myself & few members to make the lodge building what it is today.  I say thank you to everyone who helped.

     About mid-year we began the certification process to become the exclusive bargaining representative for 1st Sergeants & below.  After a few road bumps we were successful in winning the certification election.  We then sent notice to the state advising we would like to begin the process.  We formed our negotiation committee and the process began.  After numerous hours of caucuses & meetings we have reached a tentative agreement pending bargaining unit ratification.

    There will be informational meetings for members of the Bargaining Unit (1st Sergeant & Below) held very shortly to go over the contract. Our labor attorney, Abigail Carter, from Bredhoff & Kaiser in Washington, D.C. will be on hand to answer questions.  Members of the Bargaining Unit are strongly urged to attend these meetings so you understand the process & our first ever contract.  After the last informational meeting we must wait 7days before the vote.  PLEASE READ THE EMAIL THAT WILL COME OUT PRIOR TO THE VOTE TITLED "CONTRACT RATIFICATION ELECTION."

    In closing I hope each of you & your families had a very Merry Christmas / Happy Holiday season & that we all have a very prosperous 2012.  Please keep our fallen heroes & their families in your thoughts & prayers.

Fraternally,
Shane Schapiro
President