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First Transit Workers in Illinois Join Teamsters

WASHINGTON, Apr. 08 /PRNewswire/ --

First Transit Workers Latest Group to Overwhelmingly Vote for Teamster Representation

WASHINGTON, April 8, 2008 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- First Transit workers in McHenry, Illinois overwhelmingly voted to join the more than 5,800 bus drivers, aides and mechanics who have become proud members of the union since May 2006.

The 37 First Transit drivers and shop personnel voted 29-4 to join Teamsters Local 731. The drivers work three routes in McHenry, as well as provide a "call and ride" service for area residents. The new members came together seeking improved working conditions, including better pay and better buses.

"It's very simple why I voted for the Teamsters. I wanted to get fair pay for the work we perform. If you look in the paper, other bus driver positions are starting at $14 an hour. Here it's a little over $10. All we want is fair pay for the responsibility. I voted for the Teamsters to better our lives," said Ron Langton, a First Transit driver.

"I think it was time," said John Goldschnikl, a fellow First Transit driver. "We needed representation. This was long overdue."

The victory was made possible through the joint efforts of Teamsters Joint Council 25, Teamsters Local 731 and the International Union.

"This victory is a great example of what can be accomplished when we work in unison," said John T. Coli, Teamsters Joint Council 25 President. "Everyone had a hand in supporting these workers in their efforts to join the Teamsters."

"The workers were motivated and remained focused and committed throughout the entire structured organizing campaign. We are proud to welcome them to the Teamsters and look forward to providing them with strong representation," said Terrence J. Hancock, President of Teamsters Local 731.

The victory is part of an effort to organize private school bus and transit workers across the country. Drive Up Standards is a national campaign to improve safety, service and work standards in the private school bus and transit industry.

Founded in 1903, the Teamsters Union represents more than 1.4 million hardworking men and women in the United States, Canada and Puerto Rico.