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Politics and Local 237

To the Editor:

"Political foolishness is to be expected in any labor union," is the opening statement of Mr. Chris Maisano's reply letter printed in the Sept. 19 issue. Indeed, Mr. Maisano, truer words could not have been spoken, or in this case printed.

Had you even bothered to read my letter, you'd have noticed this wasn't about politics, but actually about the fact that we members are truly feeling a sense of abandonment by Teamsters Local 237's leadership.

Must we be subjected to scorn by the very people that we are supposed to depend on to lead us to some modicum of prosperity? Has it become taboo to question union leadership when it appeared that leadership is not representing us in a member-friendly fashion?

You decided to speak on my 2004 candidacy run for office as a basis for your baseless attack. Since you mentioned it, let me just say that at the time I felt compelled to try to do something to shake up union leadership to react to mounting concerns within membership ranks about growing displeasure with the union leaders. Filing grievances with the union wasn't helping, so I, along with my fellow slate members, ran to try and make a difference for the better.

As for the points you made, the $1-billion measure in emergency funds was already drawn up and on its way to Albany long before the May 1 rally was put together. Let's not forget that the Housing Authority is home to a lot of voters who have active interests in what goes on in the developments they reside in. So, Mr. Maisano, please don't try to pull wool over the eyes of members.

And in regards to your comment on voter registration, well done; now what are you doing for the members? Try getting us to believe in the efforts you claim the union is making is for the good of us all. What about coming to the work locations and bonding with members so we can get to know who you are? Since you are so quick to insult, perhaps you should try to get to know who we are.

DEXTER LINO, Assistant Superintendent