From the Desk of Gary Peifer:

The Days Ahead…Integrity.

     A long standing member stopped by the Sacramento office recently to discuss and clarify some information regarding his future. During our conversation, I was reminded that our craft has always created our future by not forgetting the values that formed our past. The member stated that in considering his retirement during this recession, he was thinking of the younger craft workers who had displayed a commitment to hard work and quality, a trait worthy of being afforded any available work. He decided he would “pay it forward” as the trade needs to continue and support the membership as a whole.

     As this recession increasingly continues to impact our standard of living as workers and families, the need for membership participation is also increasing. There are other trades and non-union contractors that are undermining the standards of the crafts that BAC members perform. The call to help our Union and thus help ourselves must be answered. With issues such as picketing, leafleting, phone banking and community meetings, participation isn’t an option, it is a necessity in order to survive and maintain our work. When you receive the call, ask where and when, and then commit to be there. This Union is heard and respected only when its membership stands selflessly together, it belongs to all of us, defend it.    

     I would take this opportunity to thank the members who recently gave multiple evenings to help defeat the Elk Grove Charter Commissions attempt to repeal the prevailing wage regulations (Unions wage and benefit package) by omitting it from the proposed city charter, which was not adopted due to influence by our presence at the Elk Grove City Council meetings. Our presence is also helping to fight the Sacramento Strong Mayor initiative, an action if passed, will result in the loss of prevailing wages within the City of Sacramento. It works when were united.

    In recognition of this and the many other selfless acts by members witnessed recently, I fraternally ask the membership to adopt and solemnly practice the BAC Code of Conduct and commit to OUR UNION. This effort will serve to build solidarity, and in doing so, help us survive this recession and strengthen our Union for the future. If you don’t have a copy, it can be found online at www.bacweb.org or obtained from the BAC field representative in your area.

     In closing, I would remind all that we are truly our Brother and Sisters keeper. Look out for one another and in that take care of you and yours. Fraternally, Gary

      The Sacramento Area BAC Retirees meet the first Wednesday of every month @ 9:00 A. M. at Denny’s Restaurant located in the shopping center at the Southeast corner of Watt Avenue and Auburn Boulevard in Sacramento. All retirees are encouraged to attend. For additional information, contact Gary @ (510) 703-4280.