April 2019

Greetings Brothers and Sisters. Spring is finally here (Well sort of). Spring ushers in New life. New growth. The change of Seasons also reminds us that change is inevitable. I would like to remind all of our members that this coming Fall is the expiration of the Big 3 Contracts. For most of our units the outcome of the upcoming negotiations could have a major impact on the landscape of our Local and its membership. Keeping in mind that as a result of the negotiations a Strike and/or lockout is always a possibility. Other area UAW Locals that may be impacted are in the process of communicating with the membership that being prepared is key.  Some of our Local 724 members may be impacted so it is worth developing a plan now. On the Local front we recently had elections for 2 Executive Board positions. Congratulations to our new Trustee Dustin Edgington and Sue Wohlscheid our new Guide. I look forward to working with both of you on our Executive Board. On a sad note the Local Lost a True Trade Unionist on April 2, 2019. Ron Dean was a long time Member of UAW Local 724 with more than 30 years of service. Ron started his Union membership at Lindell Drop Forge and ended at Dakkota Integrated Systems. Ron held many titles at both facilities including Shop Chairperson. Ron was a true UAW member who dedicated his life to being not only a true UAW Leader but a member of his community as well .He loved to help people. Ron will be missed dearly by all who knew him.
I’ll end with a quote by our UAW Region 1D Director Gerald Kariem
“If service is beneath you then leadership is beyond you”