To the Brothers and Sisters of Local 18007,
As we navigate the challenges of the current landscape, I want to take a moment to speak directly to the core of what makes this Local strong: Solidarity. It is not just a word we put on banners; it is the lifeline of our union and the shield that protects our livelihoods.
Defending Our Jurisdiction: 98 Years of Excellence
For 98 years, the members of Local 18007 have been the face of our industry. We are the professionals who walk into our neighbors’ homes, ensure their safety, and provide the essential services our community relies on.
Currently, we are seeing increasing pressure from the company attempting to have contractors perform customer-facing work—work that has been ours by right, by contract, and by excellence for nearly a century. Let me be clear: Contractors do not have our history, they do not have our training, and they do not have our commitment to the public. We must remain vigilant and united. When we allow our work to be chipped away, we lose more than just hours; we lose the integrity of our craft. We must stand together to ensure that this work remains where it belongs—in the hands of the dedicated professionals of Local 18007.
The James “Ducky” Kostka Memorial Fund
While we fight for our work, we must also fight for each other. It is with a heavy but determined heart that we announce the launch of a fundraising effort in memory of our brother, James “Ducky” Kostka.
James was a part of our union family, and his passing reminds us that the “silent” struggles of mental health are just as dangerous as any job site hazard. We are establishing a fund specifically for Local 18007 members struggling with mental health disorders. This fund is about being our “Brother’s Keeper.” We want to ensure that no member feels they have to walk a dark path alone because of a lack of resources or support. To Donate please send funds to: local18007@gmail.com (Memo line: Ducky)
A Symbol of Our Unity
To show our collective strength and our commitment to these causes, the Local will be distributing new T-shirts to every member in the coming weeks.
When you wear this shirt, wear it with pride. Wear it as a sign to the company that we are unified in protecting our work jurisdiction. Wear it as a sign to your brothers and sisters that we stand together in support of mental health awareness.
Membership Event!!
Upcoming Event: Paintball Outing I am pleased to announce that our local Mental Health Committee and Veterans Committee are joining forces to host a Paintball Event on May 9th.
This collaboration highlights our commitment to supporting our veterans and promoting mental wellness through community connection and a bit of friendly competition.
- When: May 9th
- Registration: Please visit the website for full details and to sign up.
- Who: All members and their families are encouraged to attend.
I look forward to seeing you and your families there for what promises to be a fun, high-energy day!
Closing
We are at a pivotal moment. By protecting our 98-year history and looking out for the mental well-being of our membership, we aren’t just surviving—we are strengthening the foundation for the next 98 years.
Stay safe, stay vigilant, and above all, stay united.
In Solidarity,
Nick Passarelli
President, Local 18007
