Teamsters
In Memoriam: Lester “Les” Singer
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.
Teamsters at Crystal Creamery Ratify Strong Contract
(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.
Vivalon Workers in San Francisco Join Teamsters
(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.
Hard Rock Workers in Virginia Join Teamsters
(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.
Read More....
Republic Airways Workers Join Teamsters
(WASHINGTON) – Airline Maintenance Technicians (AMTs) with Republic Airways have voted overwhelmingly to join the Teamsters, resulting in nearly 800 new members. They now join Republic Airways pilots and flight attendants who are already represented by the Teamsters Union.
“Republic Airways AMTs are tired of being overlooked and are ready to stand together for the pay, protections, and respect they’ve earned,” said Dave Saucedo, Director of the Teamsters Airline Division. “These workers do critical, highly skilled work every single day to keep planes operating safely. By joining the Teamsters, they now have the power to hold Republic accountable and fight for a better future.”
The 777 newly organized AMTs are preparing to begin negotiations on a first contract that delivers industry-leading wages, strong benefits, and improved workplace protections that raise the standards at Republic Airways.
“This victory shows the growing momentum for Teamsters representation throughout the airline industry,” Saucedo said. “The Teamsters are committed to helping these workers win a first contract that reflects the critical role they play at Republic Airways and airports across the U.S.”
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 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 Republic Airways Workers Join Teamsters appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Teamsters Demand Illinois Lawmakers Extend Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers
(SPRINGFIELD, Ill.) – Thomas W. Stiede, President of Teamsters Joint Council 25, is calling on leaders of the Illinois legislature to pass a bill extending unemployment insurance benefits to workers who are forced to strike.
“This measure is essential for addressing the affordability crisis facing working families across the state,” Stiede said. “Illinois lawmakers should focus on policies that strengthen workers’ ability to stand together for fair contracts without risking total financial ruin. As prices for groceries, housing, transportation, and health care continue to rise, workers need stronger protections when they are forced onto a picket line in pursuit of dignity, safety, and fair pay.”
Unemployment benefits for striking workers would provide a crucial lifeline during labor disputes, helping families stay afloat while ensuring employers cannot simply prolong strikes for people who are fighting for better working conditions and economic justice.
“Expanding unemployment protections for striking workers is a meaningful step toward a more just and affordable economy for everyone who depends on a paycheck to get by. Nobody should be pushed to the brink because they advocate for fair wages, good benefits, and respect on the job,” Stiede said. “If Illinois leaders are serious about tackling the affordability crisis, they need to stop talking and start acting. We cannot afford any more delays. Lawmakers who choose inaction over solidarity should know that the Teamsters are paying attention, and we will support those who support working people when we go to the polls in November.”
Teamsters Joint Council 25 represents more than 100,000 hardworking men and women throughout Illinois and northwest Indiana. For more information, go to teamstersjc25.com.
The post Teamsters Demand Illinois Lawmakers Extend Unemployment Benefits to Striking Workers appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Bazooka Teamsters Authorize Strike
(SCRANTON, Pa.) – More than 60 members of Teamsters Local 229 at Bazooka Inc. in Moosic, Pa., have overwhelmingly voted to authorize a strike after the candy company failed to offer a contract that would provide improved wages and affordable health care. Negotiations began in October 2025 and have dragged on for months without a fair contract.
“Our members have spent decades building this company and making its products a success,” said Joe Secor, business agent for Local 229. “Some workers have devoted more than 50 years of their lives to this facility. After nearly seven months of negotiations, Bazooka continues to drag its feet instead of offering a fair contract that recognizes their hard work and dedication.”
Teamsters at the Bazooka facility perform critical work across production, maintenance, shipping, packaging, and quality control operations that keep production running and products moving nationwide. The plant is the only facility in the United States that manufactures Ring Pops, one of the company’s most popular and recognizable candy brands.
“We take pride in the work we do every day and in the product that comes out of this facility,” said Rick Walker, a cook at Bazooka and 18-year member of Local 229. “This vote sends a clear message that we are standing together and deserve a fair contract. We have been patient throughout this process, but enough is enough.”
Headquartered in Scranton, Pennsylvania, Teamsters Local 229 represents over 1,000 members across half a dozen industries across Northeastern Pennsylvania. For more information, visit teamsters229.org.
###
The post Bazooka Teamsters Authorize Strike appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Teamsters Extend Picket Lines to Additional Breakthru Beverage Facilities
(WASHINGTON) – Teamsters at Breakthru Beverage in Cicero, Ill. and St. Louis extended their unfair labor practice (ULP) strike to company operations in Kansas City, Mo., and Champaign, Ill. Teamsters at the Kansas City and Champaign locations exercised their individual legal and contractual right to refuse to cross the extended line. Teamsters nationwide with similar contractual picket line protections remain on standby.
Over 215 drivers and warehouse workers were forced onto the picket line over the company’s numerous ULPs. Members of Teamsters Locals 600, 688, and 710 are demanding the company come to the table to negotiate a fair contract without regressive proposals, surface bargaining, and unilateral changes to the status quo.
“Breakthru Beverage has been illegally trying to diminish our members’ power at the bargaining table,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “They know the strength of our union when members act on their right as Teamsters — guaranteed in their collective bargaining agreement — to honor picket lines in solidarity with their brothers and sisters. We are here to hold Breakthru accountable for their unlawful behavior. The 1.3-million member Teamsters Union will continue to stand in solidarity with all Breakthru Teamsters until a fair agreement is reached.”
Management is demanding that workers waive their lawful right to not cross or work behind a Teamsters picket line at their respective locations. But the Teamsters refuse to bargain away hard-fought contractual rights.
“The company has been lying to workers and using scare tactics to try to get our members to cross these picket lines,” said Jeff Padellaro, Director of the Teamsters Brewery, Bakery, and Soft Drink Conference. “Breakthru Teamsters’ solidarity is strong and these extended picket lines show that management has failed to intimidate us. It is time for Breakthru to come back to the table and negotiate a fair deal. It’s up to management when this strike ends.”
“We just want a deal that protects all our rights as Teamsters,” said Tony Ortiz, a driver at Breakthru Beverage and member of Local 710 in Mokena, Ill. “The support of our brothers and sisters at other Breakthru Beverage facilities gives us the power to defend ourselves against management’s insulting and illegal practices. Our solidarity is strong, and we will continue to fight to protect it.”
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 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 Teamsters Extend Picket Lines to Additional Breakthru Beverage Facilities appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Recology Teamsters Ratify Strong Contract
(SAN MATEO, Calif.) – Over 140 members of Teamsters Local 350 at Recology have voted overwhelmingly to ratify a new five-year contract that delivers major gains in wages, retirement benefits, and workplace protections.
The agreement includes a 25 percent wage increase, enhanced retirement benefits, and important protections against surveillance by cameras in and around trucks.
“This is a huge win for all of us,” said Brian Marshall, a sanitation driver and bargaining committee member. “Securing a strong contract like this makes all the difference in the world so that we can provide for our families and stay safe on the job. We clock in to work every day to keep our communities clean and healthy. This contract delivers the compensation and respect we have earned.”
Recology Teamsters service hundreds of commercial and residential routes collecting waste, recycling, and compost throughout San Mateo County, including communities like Belmont, Burlingame, East Palo Alto, Foster City, Menlo Park, Redwood City, San Carlos, San Mateo, Hillsborough, and part of the West Bay Sanitary District.
“This strong contract is the result of worker militancy. Earlier this year, our members unanimously voted to authorize a strike, making clear that they were done with Recology’s delays and disrespect at the bargaining table,” said Robert Sandoval, Secretary-Treasurer of Local 350. “Recology Teamsters spoke with a unified voice and we are proud to secure an agreement that raises standards across the industry.”
Teamsters Local 350 represents members in the public sector and solid waste, recycling, and linen industries, and in San Francisco, San Mateo, Santa Clara, and San Benito Counties. For more information, please visit teamsters350.com.
The post Recology Teamsters Ratify Strong Contract appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.
Teamsters Celebrate Bipartisan Push to Advance Faster Labor Contracts Act
(WASHINGTON) – Today, the U.S. House of Representatives reached the 218 signatures needed on a discharge petition to advance the Faster Labor Contracts Act. The petition, filed by Representative Donald Norcross (D-NJ, 1st District), will force a vote on the bill in the coming weeks.
“Securing the support needed to move the Faster Labor Contracts Act forward is a significant milestone for millions of Teamsters and workers across this country,” said Teamsters General President Sean M. O’Brien. “This is one of the most consequential labor bills to come before Congress in generations. It has the potential to hold Corporate America accountable for endlessly dragging out negotiations and denying workers the first union contracts they deserve. The Teamsters Union thanks every Democrat and Republican who signed the discharge petition and made the choice to stand with workers.”
The Teamsters applaud House Minority Leader Hakeem Jeffries (D-NY, 8th District), Rep. Donald Norcross, Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA, 3rd District), and House Democrats for supporting the Teamsters and working people across America.
The Teamsters commend Republican Representatives Mike Lawler (R-NY, 17th District), Nick LaLota (R-NY, 1st District), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA, 1st District), Don Bacon (R-NE, 2nd District), Max Miller (R-OH, 7th District), Riley Moore (R-W. VA, 2nd District), and Rob Bresnahan (R-PA, 8th District), who stood up for working people and helped force action on this critical bill.The Faster Labor Contracts Act would amend the National Labor Relations Act to require employers to bargain with newly organized workers within 10 days of voting to form their union. The Senate version of the bill, introduced last year by Senator Josh Hawley (R-MO) and Senator Cory Booker (D-NJ), continues to gain bipartisan and bicameral support.
Founded in 1903, the International Brotherhood of Teamsters represents over 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 Teamsters Celebrate Bipartisan Push to Advance Faster Labor Contracts Act appeared first on International Brotherhood of Teamsters.