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I would like to reach out to each and every one of our members and thank you for yoursupport of the National Treasury Employees Union (NTEU) executive board elections at JFK. As NTEU Chapter 304 President, my primary goal is to represent you, address your concerns and ensure that you have a voice in all workplace matters.  I also want to reintroduce you to our other board members: Vice President Cynthia Armstrong, Secretary Tomasa Ramos, Treasurer Liz Hagiloizi, Chief Steward Sheldon Birthwright, and Legislative Coordinator Lourdes Sierra.

The road to Title V and collective bargaining for the TSA has not been an easy one. Over the last several months we have seen two of President Obama’s nominees for TSA Administrator withdraw their nominations. We will notbe deterred. NTEU continues to support H.R. 1881, the Transportation Security Workforce Enhancement Act of 2009.  This bill, which is currently pending in the U.S. House of Representatives, would provide us with the rights we so justly deserve. NTEU is also working directly with the Obama Administration to secure collective bargaining rights through administrative action. Our lobbyists are working day and night to ensure that our President’s promise to us, namely Title V and our right to collectively bargain, is fully realized.

Where does that leave us? What is our responsibility in this matter? As TSA Officers we have a choice. NTEU or AFGE? I ask you to please, take the time you need to make the right decision. Your future is at issue. Examine the very different way these two unions are conducting business here and now. NTEU has been a presence at JFK for 30 years, actively representing the needs of Customs and Border Protection Officers (CBPOs). Because of this, NTEU has the internal structure in place to hit the ground running when our rights are granted. In just a few years NTEU worked with Port Authority to obtain parking at the terminal for JFK’s CBPOs, brought CBPOs to Grade 12 on the GS Pay Schedule, won a 5% pay differential for CBPOs who utilize a foreign language on the job, and achieved Law Enforcement status for CBPOs.  These are just some examples of why Customs Officers have voted twice for NTEU’s representation over AFGE. I have personally met with a number of NTEU’s CBP’s chapter leaders. I am thrilled to report to you that they are encouraged about the prospects of NTEU representing the TSA. Furthermore, they have offered their hand in support of our cause. All NTEU chapters operate with local staff attorneys and labor relations experts to aid our Officers with everyday workplace issues. NTEU lawyers are not on retainers. This is no different at JFK; our attorneys are here for you now.

We have seen people in power showing favoritism to friends by promoting them, giving them an unfair advantage over you. Nepotism is an issue that must be addressed and NTEU is prepared to address it. I ask you, TSA Brothers and Sisters, let us not make the same mistake. Selecting a union is not about friends choosing friends; this is about your future and the future of your families. If you take the time to gather the facts and examine the history and performance of NTEU vs. AFGE you will see what I see.

I would be remiss if I didn’t take a moment to thank Allie Robbins, NTEU’s Attorney and Howard Lazarowitz, NTEU’s Field Organizer for their hard work in conducting the recent election. All NTEU members where given the option to nominate or be nominated for executive board positions. Allie and Howard’s dedication to a fair, open, and inclusive process was extraordinary. All our members were given a voice in this process. This is just another example of how NTEU conducts business.

Your participation and membership in NTEU adds strength to our union and enables us to protect the rights of employees. Ask the right questions. Examine the facts. Make the smart choice. I did. When you do your homework you will know as I know that NTEU is clearly TSA Employees only real choice.

In Solidarity,

Al Lamberti – President
NTEU JFK Chapter 304
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Join NTEU today or get more information by calling 1-866-591-5735.