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"Don't waste time in mourning. Organize!"
- Joe Hill, union organizer, on the eve of his execution, 1915.
Joe Hill paid the ultimate price with his beliefs as a union organizer. It is not a glamorous position but one that is necessary to ensure that future generations of workers are afforded the opportunities that we have as unionists. We cannot afford to lag behind and let the non-union situation fester, especially here in the jurisdiction of Local One. There are non-union structures being erected in the city of New York as we speak. A generation ago many would say that would not be possible. But here we are, outfits capable of building high-rise buildings completely non-union. If it can be done here, it can be done anywhere. We must begin to have our voices heard, and make our elected officials in this city and elsewhere accountable to labor. This can only be done with grassroots organizing efforts and the belief of our members that their voices can make a difference. Local One currently has picket duties set up and you can get more detailed information by visiting our website or by contacting our union hall. Please make an effort to give some time back to our union by volunteering your services. Labor has always had a special place in this town, and we are determined to keep it that way.
Costello Memorial: On Saturday, April 13th there was a memorial for Chuck Costello. The family was overwhelmed with the support and generosity shown not just by members of Local One, but also by all members throughout our country. I know I received several phone calls from members looking to forward a contribution to the Costello family. As sad as this has been for the Costello family and the members of this local, it is with great pride that I say I am an elevator constructor. We are workers in the building trades who don't always wear our emotions on our sleeves, but the outpouring of support has been quite emotional to all involved. Thousands and thousands of dollars were raised for Mary Costello and her children but I believe more important to her was the love and support shown for Chuck. We thank all of those who contributed and came out to the memorial to take part in such a special day. Once again elevator constructors have outdone themselves in terms of love and generosity.
"Mary and Ray Costello."
Labor and Delivery: Brother Jim O'Neill and his wife Pam are proud to announce the birth of their son, Connor James O'Neill, born on March 8th and weighing in at 7lbs., 6 ounces. Connor comes from a family of active union members with Daddy Jim and Grandpa Dennis both very active in protecting the causes of Local One. Congratulations to the O'Neill family on their new arrival.
"Connor James O'Neill."
Six hundred words goes awfully fast when writing this journal but I will close with this. There are many members of this organization who put in a lot of time and effort to support our organization. This is not a contest to see who can do the most, but should be a collective action of many members pursuing the best interests of our families. We all have a place in this organization and even if you're doing just a little bit, you are still helping this organization prosper. Thank you to all the hard working members of this organization. If you're not involved at all, please try to find a little time to give back a little bit. It all helps brothers and sisters, and our future hinges on the efforts of our involved members. You are our future.
In Solidarity,
Brother Tony Carudo
Phone: 646-345-6840
Fax: 413-403-8808
E-Mail: carudo@optonline.net
Posted Online May 5, 2002
