I have been granted the rare privilege and honor of being able to share my thoughts, musings and impressions by the Steel Barrel News. As a no seniority peon and older steelworker it is a rare occasion that my thoughts and or opinions are valued. So I hope my first attempt will not disappoint.

As a veteran steelworker and long time unionist, I have observed some very interesting behavior here at Beta Steel. It seems like the Imperial form of unionism is being practiced by the union powers that be. Ruling by decree and questionable interpretation of the union constitution and by-laws along with unchecked and unaccounted for spending of my hard earned union dues is an interesting occurrence. By the way I have never contributed so much and received so little in return.

Isn't it ironic in this time when our democratic principles are being played out on the national stage, one of the most democratic of institutions namely our union fails to pass the democratic test. I always thought the main concept of a union was that it was a fraternal organization that is supposed to look out for the best interests and welfare of its members. I guess I am wrong about that, just ask those in charge.

Hopefully, through this forum we can all work together to make this a "More Perfect Union." One that truly represents the interests of our union brothers and sisters.

This is just my humble opinion, it does not necessarily represent the opinions of the editors or staff of the Steel Barrel News.

Sincerely,

Joe "Old Skool" Zaragoza

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Created on ... October 26, 2008