Since I have been an ALPA member (10yrs) I have not felt like they have been on my side. At the regional level we were treated like a nuissance, now at the Major level there is no change b/c they still do not nor ever seem to have represented my interest. Let me start by saying I had many discussions w/ Prater before he was elected about the Age 60 issue, he bluntly told me the poll on Age 60 rule was wrong and that he was ALL FOR changing it no matter what the overall membership wanted. Then back when we had our (FDX) contract road show I questioned our Negotiating committee about VEBA and other contract benefits for those (I believe) age 54-59 which give no benefits to those that are junior/younger (ie the junior are usually the younger folks). This recent decision by our MEC and ALPA national shows me where there true allegiance lies with the top 10%. This truly is a topic that is going to hurt the unity of the membership if it has not already done so.

Retroactivity in my opinion is also a senior issue that was pushed for by our SENIOR MEC. I have respect for everyone's opinion but the majority should set the precedent.

So 10 yrs of taxation without representation; please someone tell why I should not become a nonmember on checkoff? I have already thrown away my FDX ALPA lanyard because they apparently do not represent the best interest of me and my family.