Contents:

• Happy New Year, An Introduction from Karen Lascoli

New MEC Officers were elected at the last MEC meeting.  Karen Lascoli is our new MEC President, Joanne Trihey, PIW, is now the MEC Vice President and Leslie Miller, CLW, MEC Secretary/Treasurer.  Their terms commence today, January 1, 2002.

An introduction from the newly-elected MEC President, Karen Lascoli:

As a 24 year flight attendant, based in Pittsburgh, I bring a significant and diversified background of Union experience to the office of MEC President.  During my AFA career I have served on various committees including: Uniform, New Hire Orientation, Welcoming, Scheduling, Accident Investigation, Grievance and Flight Attendant System Board of Adjustment.  Also, I served the Pittsburgh flight attendants as the Local Council 40 President for 8 years and most recently I have been the MEC Grievance Chair from July 1995 through 2001.

I am proud to represent you along with newly elected MEC Vice President Joanne Trihey, PIW and MEC Secretary/Treasurer Leslie Miller, CLW.  Joanne and Leslie also bring a wealth of Union experience to the MEC.

I want you to know that I will serve you with a commitment to defend your rights and uphold the integrity of the Collective Bargaining Agreement.  My priorities and goals are very basic - first and foremost, I will not forget that I am a line flight attendant keenly aware of the every day obstacles that flight attendants face as safety professionals.  I will remain dedicated to resolving the myriad of issues affecting good working conditions.

There is one responsibility, however, that we all must share in order for our Union to be successful - being familiar with the Collective Bargaining Agreement.  This is crucial in assisting Union leadership.  If you experience a contract violation or have concerns and questions about the contract, contact your local representatives for assistance. As the MEC President, I will be steadfast in supporting your local representatives.

"Strength In Numbers" is a powerful strategy our Union must utilize to overcome the daily problems that we face as flight attendants. Each of us has a role to play in taking a pro-active approach. Collectively, we can make a difference and augment change.

Over the next three years I look forward to making a difference in our workplace so we can continue to be proud of our jobs as safety professionals.

I wish each of you and your families a very happy, prosperous and healthy New Year.

In Solidarity,

Karen Lascoli
MEC President