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Lester “Les” Singer, former Teamsters Central Region Vice President, passed away on May 10, 2026. Singer began his Teamsters career in 1963 as a driver for Coca-Cola. Several years later, he served as a business agent and as Vice President of Teamsters Local 20 in Toledo, Ohio — positions he held from 1978 until 1992. Singer continued to advance in Teamsters leadership, getting elected President of Local 20, President of the Ohio Conference of Teamsters, and President of Teamsters Joint Council 44, all from 1992 until 2003. He later served for a decade as an International Vice President, from 1997 until 2007. While serving as president of the Ohio Conference of Teamsters — representing 90,000 members — Singer played an instrumental role in establishing the state’s strike fund. As an International Vice President, re-establishing the International Union’s strike fund and strengthening organizing programs nationwide were his top priorities. Singer was a devoted husband, father, grandfather, and great-grandfather. He and his wife were passionate advocates for the work of St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital, raising over a million dollars in charitable contributions. No services are currently scheduled, per Singer’s wishes, but memorial contributions in his memory can be made to St. Jude. The post In Memoriam: Lester “Les” Singer appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.Continue reading→

(OAKLAND, Calif.) – Members of Teamsters Local 853 at Crystal Creamery in Oakland, Calif., have ratified a strong four-year contract covering drivers and loaders who distribute dairy products throughout Northern California. The agreement delivers wage increases, back pay, improved benefits, and stronger workplace protections. It also restores yearly route bidding for drivers and clearly defines routes. “This contract delivers real improvements on everything from wages to job protections,” said Steve Beck, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 853. “The company came to the bargaining table looking to shift more costs onto workers, but our members stood together and secured a strong agreement. I want to thank our bargaining committee for their hard work and dedication throughout negotiations.” “This is the first time in years we’ve had real say over our routes and schedules,” said Jerome Nelson, a Crystal Creamery driver and member of Local 853. “We stuck together and ended up with a contract that respects the work we do. Getting guaranteed yearly bidding back was a big win for everyone here.” Teamsters Local 853 represents nearly 15,000 members across half a dozen industries across Northern California. For more information, visit teamsters853.org. ### The post Teamsters at Crystal Creamery Ratify Strong Contract appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.Continue reading→

(SAN FRANCISCO) – Shuttle drivers and attendants at Vivalon Rides in San Francisco have voted to join Teamsters Local 665. The workers organized to secure better wages, stronger benefits, and a greater voice on the job while continuing to provide critical transportation services for San Franciscans who are unable to drive. “These workers provide an essential service to their community and deserve fair pay, quality benefits, and a seat at the table,” said Tony Delorio, Secretary-Treasurer of Teamsters Local 665. “We are proud to welcome them to the Teamsters and look forward to helping them secure a first contract that recognizes the important work they do every day. Thank you to Local 665 Business Agent Joe Matekel for his leadership and for helping bring the workers’ vision to unionize across the finish line.” The 22 drivers and attendants provide on-demand transportation throughout San Francisco for older adults and people with disabilities. “We do important work for people across San Francisco, and we knew the best way to improve our jobs was by standing together,” said Charlene Monroe, a Vivalon driver and member of Local 665. “Now that we're Teamsters, we have the strength and support to win the wages, benefits, and protections our co-workers and families deserve.” Teamsters Local 665 represents more than 5,000 workers throughout the San Francisco Bay Area. For more information, visit teamsters665.org. ### The post Vivalon Workers in San Francisco Join Teamsters appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.Continue reading→

(BRISTOL, Va.) – A group of 221 table games dealers and dual rates at Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Bristol have voted to join Teamsters Local 519. They’re seeking a fair first contract that includes higher wages, improved benefits, and a strong voice on the job. “Dealers and dual rates are the backbone of the gaming floor, and when they stand together, they have the power to win real improvements on the job,” said Tommy Blitsch, Director of the Teamsters Convention, Trade Show, and Casino Division. “It was the best decision to choose the Teamsters, and we’re proud to support them as they move forward in securing a fair first contract.” The dealers are responsible for operating table games such as blackjack, roulette, and poker. They manage the games, handle chips and payouts, and ensure games are conducted fairly and efficiently. “It was a team effort from start to finish, and we had the best team to fight for representation, including our organizer, Marty Hinch,” said Wes Trotterchaud, President of Local 519. “At the drop of a hat we were ready to support this group in their effort to join the Teamsters. Their determination carried over, and they’re going to reap the benefits.” “Choosing to join the Teamsters was about securing respect, stability, and a voice on the casino floor,” said Anthony Keen, a table games dealer/dual rate and proud new member of Local 519. “We’re ready to negotiate a contract that reflects the hard work we do every day.” Nationwide, the Teamsters represent nearly 6,000 members at casinos and casino hotels. Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents 1.3 million hardworking people in the U.S., Canada, and Puerto Rico. Visit Teamster.org for more information. Follow us on X @Teamsters and on Facebook at Facebook.com/teamsters. The post Hard Rock Workers in Virginia Join Teamsters appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.Continue reading→