For the first time in many years, our members in both the United
States and Canada find themselves involved in national elections at
more or less the same time. Canadians will cast their votes on October
14th and precisely three weeks later on November 4th, our Brothers
and Sisters throughout the United States will have their
opportunity to head to the polls and have their voices heard.
As with every election season, we are all beginning to find ourselves
surrounded by campaign literature detailing the vision of particular candidates
and parties. The television, newspaper and Internet advertisements
cannot be escaped. While elections almost by definition must contain some
element of a change argument, this year it seems that as the campaigns
progress, every party and virtually every candidate has now adopted it as
their major theme.
With the ever-increasing level of media attention to the election process,
it seems that “change” is everywhere. In New York, autumn is approaching
and the change of seasons in combination with the election campaigns
recently had me pondering that famous quote; “the only thing constant in
life is change.”
The International does not exist in a bubble within our constantly
changing world. We face constant challenges and must evolve and adapt if
we are to continue being successful. Change is not always easy, but it must
be embraced. This central theme has been key to our success and survival
over these past one hundred and fifteen years. Not many labor unions
today can boast about that kind of longevity.
By now you are aware that we have experienced change in the position
of International President. As you will see in the minutes of the recently
concluded meeting of the General Executive Board held in San Diego, and
the images on the pages that follow, Thomas C. Short retired as International
President after fourteen years in that position and is now referred to as
International President Emeritus Short.
International Vice President Matthew D. Loeb was unanimously elected
by the members of the Board to be his successor and we welcome him to
his new position. President Loeb has a track record of dedication and commitment
and I look forward to working with him for many years to come.
As the only President that many of our members knew, President Emeritus
Short will be missed. For me he was not only a great leader, but also a
mentor and a friend and I, like you, wish him the very best of times in a
retirement that is well earned.
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