Dear Brothers and Sisters/Members of the DCSMEC Union:

I am certain by now that most of you have heard enough rumors about problems in DCSMEC, problems with the budget and generally that the sky is falling that your either on edge, outraged or downright sick.  Me, I’m sick and disgusted at many of the things that are going on around us but I am not ready to give up the fight.  I find that the rumors are almost always worse then the realities and with that in mind I have decided to come out to the yards this week and try to talk to as many of you as possible.  These are dark days and there are many things to be concerned about but if we stay united our chances improve.  I have been in a full time leadership role in DCSMEC for 10 years and I will not abandon you now so please contact your yard representatives and stewards to find out when I will be stopping by a location near you.  I need you to know the truth, I need your input and most of all I need your support.

 United we Stand, Divided we Fall.

Fraternally,
Joe Cortese

November 7, 2011