Message From The President
In November 1955 Local 295 was certified as an affiliate of the greatest Union of our times. The International Brotherhood of Teamsters (IBT). Since then Local 295, Local 851 and the IBT have had some hell of a ride in all that has gone on during the last 55 years. In spite of it all we have made it through and have a lot to be happy and proud of. As I have stated many times in the past and continue to say today I am just as proud of being a member of Teamsters Local 295 as I am of my family and my Country.
I tend to look at them the same way. Sure things can go wrong and times can get tough, but that is the time we get busy fixing them.
I enjoy seeking out the facts of history, arriving at a destination that contains the true answers rather than someone else’s spin or a group’s rewrite of history. That’s how I can set my path by knowing my internal compass is pointing to the true north. That will insure that I stay on the right path no matter if the path takes me uphill or downhill or if it is made up of twists and turns. I know I will not be alone on this path knowing I am a member of this great local knowing I have my brothers and sisters with me heading in the same direction. We will not let anything or anyone get in our way. That way is the way of Teamster Unionism! It is because of the principles of Unionism that our Union has had the power and ability to deliver workers rights, job security, a good wage, medical care and a pension to all of us in this great Union.
The merger of Local 851 into Local 295 will only prove great results. I am excited about our new beginning as one stronger local. I would like to welcome Vice President Thom Conelias as well as all of the former Local 851 members into Local 295. Thom brings many years of experience not only running a Local Union but over 10 years of experience as a Trustee to our Pension and Health and Welfare funds. Together we will work as one strong team to meet the challenges of the future.
“These are the times that try men’s souls”. We have challenges ahead. Local 295 has withstood big setbacks and none have destroyed us. This local as an institution must endure and must not perish. It must exist to serve the best interest of its active members, retired members and future members. Without the tireless efforts of the Executive Board, Business Agents, Stewards and the support of the members I could not look forward to achieve this goal.
Stand with me and together we will meet the challenges that come before us and achieve victory through unity. I thank all of you for doing your part.
Fraternally,
Lou Calemine
President