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As older Verizon employees leave...
Younger members need to get off the bench!

Across the T-6 Council (consisting of all IBEW telephone locals in Massachusetts and Rhode Island), about 1,200 members are taking the retirement incentive package that we negotiated with Verizon to help avoid layoffs.  That number includes nearly 500 members from Local 2222!

Many longtime stalwarts of Local 2222 will be leaving the union playing field for greener pastures.  There's no way that I can begin to name everyone or cite their accomplishments on behalf of this local and their contribution to the wellbeing of our membership. 

Dozens of members who are leaving have played key roles as stewards, committee chairs, EAP counselors, executive board members, and business agents for Local 2222. 

As these members step down, new members will need to step up.  As our Local 2222 president Fitzy would say, "Now we are going to see who are the players, and who are the spectators."

Our union is facing huge challenges in the near future.  So believe me, we need a lot more players!  Changes in technology, new competition and the constant re-organization of our work, puts our jobs and livelihoods in constant jeopardy.  A new generation of Local 2222 members must become more involved, especially in the renegotiation of our contract with Verizon next year.

Let me assure everyone who might be interested that, "no tryouts are necessary!"  There are lots of ways to contribute.  It just takes a little time and energy and you can make a huge difference.

Let me give an example.  A few months ago, Pat Atwell, Paul Feeney and Chris Morgan wanted to start a group for our younger members.  Now they are leading the Local 2222 "Futures Committee" to encourage new members become union activists.

Another example.  Brian Conlan, a chief steward from the Dedham garage who is also a veteran, wanted to put some programs together for Verizon Veterans.  Now we have a Local 2222 Veteran's Committee!

It's that simple.

And we really need people on our other committees – Mobilization, COPE, Home for Little Wanderers – or to step up and help with contract enforcement by becoming stewards.

To the dedicated union members who are leaving us, all I can say is, "thank you!"  The time and energy you have given to the movement has made Local 2222 a well-respected union. The years together have been richly rewarding and I'll always have many fond memories of our good times together.  I expect to see everyone at the next Retiree's meeting!

So once again, I urge every member to consider what you might be able to do to build and strengthen our union.  Get off the bench, put on a union t-shirt, and get into the game!