Labor Day is a time to recognize the battles fought by those before us to secure safety, fair wages, respect, and dignity in the workplace. USW Local 5000 recognizes the effort put in by its membership in recent times, especially with respect to the many successes during the latest bargaining agreement negotiations, but also to those who put in the long hours not only to support our nations infrastructure and economy but also to support their families back home. The nature of our work is especially demanding given the nature of being away from home for months at a time, and it is important to recognize the work that we all do - never forget, this holiday is about you - the backbone of our nation and the driving force behind the companies that employ us. 

It is also appropriate to recognize the work and support of those who keep USW Local 5000, as well as the International running smoothly. We recognize Tom Zidek, our Business Agent, for the many hours of work he has and continues to put into the day to day administrative work of our Local Union. Without his tremendous help and support over the last number of years, we cannot say for certain what Local 5000 would look like today. We recognize the tremendous support we get from Jamie Walker, our International Staff Representative, for keeping us up to date with Union business as well as making connections with different USW staff to help us move forward with a number of projects. Our Executive Board continues to develop in its role as the guiding hand of the local union, the Ship's Chairmen who dutifully provide face-to-face shipboard Union representation, several of our own who left work to sit at the negotiation table during the last round of negotiations for the shipping companies, and this year those who will sit at the table for SISCO negotiations, and so many more who provide the strength and support for USW and USW Local 5000. 

Thank all of you for everything you do, and have a safe and Happy Labor Day.