Big Send-Off for Retiring Staffers

Rudy, who retired effective Janu­ary 31, 2009, was honored for “his long and distinguished” 45-year career as an organizer, field representative and ultimately as administrative assistant to the Sector President. Rudy was elected president of Mailers Local M-87 just one year after he started work with Arnold’s Binding in Reading, PA. As an organizer, he spearheaded more than a dozen successful organizing campaigns.

Conference delegates singled out Rudy’s “diligence and intense work ethic” for special praise.

Phillips, who most recently served as Mailer Coordi­nator and administrative assistant to the Sector President during the course of his 19 years on staff, was cited for his “invaluable assistance to local leaders, members and their families, and to our union overall.” Delegates took note of his negotiating skills and efforts to pursue “justice on behalf of our members in countless grievances and arbitrations.” The resolution noted that Phillips had “performed honorably within our trade since he completed his apprenticeship and as a member of the PPMWS Head­quarters staff.” Phillips retired effective May 31, 2009.

Thompson joined the ITU staff in 1972 in Colorado Springs. She retired effective March 31, 2009.

During her 36 years with the union, Thompson handled a multitude of assignments. Her final position, as administrative secretary for the Sector President, involved maintaining the books for various Sector funds, managing correspondence between locals and the headquarters, and managing preparations and logistics for annual conferences.

The resolution described Thompson as “an essential member of the Sector team.”

“We salute you all on the occasion of your retirement and wish you well in all your future endeavors,” the delegates declared.