August 2008

As we begin an exciting new chapter in the history of Local 152, I want to thank the many dedicated union activists who helped bring us to this moment.

The results of last week's election confirm that our members stand behind our leadership team. They have given us a mandate to continue our work on their behalf.

From the moment Local 152 was founded on Jan. 1, 2006, we worked tirelessly to restore the workers' confidence, trust and loyalty in the UFCW and the union movement.

We rescued the health and welfare fund, reduced dues, restored lost benefits and stabilized our budget. We negotiated our way out of a costly lease and moved into centrally-located headquarters. Through it all we upheld the highest standards of integrity.

This election allows us to put the past behind us as we set our gaze toward a better future. In the months and years ahead, we will build on our early victories with more standard-setting contracts and successful organizing campaigns.

It will be especially important to carry our renewed spirit of solidarity into the political realm. This will be a historic opportunity to change our nation's priorities so that working men and women can at last get a break.

The days of division are gone. Today we stand united and confident. Working together, we will become an even stronger and more powerful force for positive change.

Thank you for helping make this possible.

Sincerely,

Brian String
President