Thread: Christopher kern lec44 f/o rep candidate
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Old 09-15-2015 | 03:39 PM
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admrl757
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Default Christopher Kern LEC44 F/O Rep Update 2
In this, the second of a two part series, I wish to offer my perspectives and positions about current critical issues. This is in response to the vetting process expressly sought by many members. My intent is to provide you, the line pilots of Council 44, information you are seeking as you make your considered decisions.

DPA or ALPA
Several years ago I submitted my card to DPA agreeing with the philosophy that this gesture would put ALPA on notice. I have not renewed my card nor have I contributed financially to DPA. Over the last 20 years, I have flown for three different air carriers, with ALPA being the representative body of the pilots. I have already experienced Union switching as one of those carriers made the shift to ALPA. I know friends flying for other carriers represented by independent unions. They have their problems and issues, just like us. I have seen and personally experienced ALPA at its best and its worst. ALPA is by no means perfect. What organization is?
The effectiveness and capability of any organization is directly related to the individuals who comprise it. Look no further than the Company we fly for as proof of that postulate. We are at a monumental point in time. We have the rare opportunity thru the upcoming nominations to replace individuals and effect reforms. It has already started with the election of our new MEC Chairman and Negotiating Committee.
I may disagree with those whose crew bags wear Green but I do not dismiss nor discount your ideas. On the contrary, I empathize with your disgust, disappointment and frustration. While we may differ on the means and methods, we share common ideals. I am reaching out to you specifically for your support and help to advance the changes we both fervently believe are needed. You are right, DALPA and ALPA must evolve otherwise it will become extinct.

RESTORATION
Restoration is a word in my vocabulary. It is a goal to work towards that I support. It is not a catch phrased blind cause to hit a brick wall or drive off a cliff. We have a strong hand, some will say the upper hand, and we will eventually find out who has the winning hand. Until someone folds we can be assured that the Company will raise and call at every opportunity they can. This is the least we can expect in a high stakes situation such as this.
Restoration, however, extends beyond the context of our PWA. It also applies to the manner I must represent you in order to restore your faith in ALPA.

TRANSPARENCY
I favor and support increasing transparency. We all understand there are situations that mandate the need for closed proceedings but they should not be used for controlling or containing disagreement and dissent. If I ask you to get involved and engaged, you have to know what is going on.

ETHICS
I have been advised that a successful campaign involves one that omits making promises and avoids use of the term never. No one has mentioned anything about guarantees or the word always.
Accordingly, I guarantee you I will make mistakes and I will not please every single one of you each and every time at all times during my term should you choose me to be your Representative.
I will, however, always endeavor to conduct myself and Union business in a manner that is above reproach.
There is no other way.

TECHNOLOGY
There is a growing call to use technology to its fullest for Union business (streaming videos of proceedings and increased use of electronic balloting). I am not sure what progress DALPA has made on this matter, but I intend to research this issue, learn of any impediments and work to overcome them. Nothing detracts a member’s motivations to participate faster than having to use paper proxies and ballots.

Speaking of paperwork, ballots are on their way to you at this time. To nominate me as your LEC44 First Officer Representative, write “Christopher Kern” on the ballot and return the ballot before the upcoming nomination meeting of 28 September 2015. You can return it via US Mail via the preprinted envelope (don’t forget the stamp and allow for delivery time). You can drop it off in the ATL Crew Room ALPA Box by 26 September 2015. You can bring the ballot with you personally, or have a friend bring it on your behalf, to the meeting which will be held at The Hilton Garden Inn (Airport North) from 1300 to 1600. I will be attending the meeting and plan to utilize the limited floor time offered by our current LEC to directly engage in conversation with you. Please keep the questions, comments, ideas and feedback coming.

I am Christopher Kern and I humbly request your consideration and vote to become your next LEC 44 First Officer Representative.

Christopher Kern
ATL717B in transition to ATL7ERB
[email protected]
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