A special thanks to the members of Local 287 who hosted the Hoffa-Mack April fundraiser. They did a great job. We raised some money-always nice-but even more important we got to talk with over 350 members. Enthusiastic members at that. Members who care about the Teamsters Union, the direction its going and who leads it. San Jose , like earlier fundraisers, underscored the strong support for Jim Hoffa and his Slate.

Members are smart, they know things aren't perfect but appreciate the energy, vision and commitment that Jim Hoffa has brought to the Teamsters. They recognize that Teamsters power is on the increase and that we're a union on the move. We're building through politics, capital strategies, community coalition programs and organizing the unorganized. This new strength has meant the best national contracts in our union history and it's convinced other national unions to seek a merger with the Teamsters. Brotherhood of Locomotive Engineers, Graphic Communications International and Brotherhood of Maintenance Way employees have brought their two hundred thousand plus members into the Teamsters.

Power brings recognition and Jim Hoffa has become the voice of the American Labor Movement. We're on the right track and the right road but take nothing for granted. We will continue to work hard and campaign hard to assure members we deserve their support. To those who joined us in San Jose , thank you. It was fun meeting with you and listening to your ideas. Al Hobart, Western Region Vice-President from Seattle, Randy Cammack, Vice-President at large and Frank Gallegos were impressed with the turnout, enthusiasm and knowledge of our Northern California members.

If you couldn't make San Jose all is not lost. You have two more opportunities before this fall's election. On Saturday, July 29th members from Joint Council 38 locals will host a fundraiser in Modesto and on Saturday, September 23 we'll have a major event at Swiss Park in Fremont .

Thank you again for being so generous with your time and money.

In Union ,

Chuck Mack                                                                          San Jose Bar-B-Q Photo Album