Greetings,

Everybody likes a free ride, and I'm no different.

At Rutgers, we enjoy all the material benefits of union representation even if we never sign up as full members. But over the last year as I've become involved with the union, I've learned how much you miss when you sit this one out. Just by signing a form when we visit the office or drop one in the mail, you've become part of something larger than yourself, a history-making institution that leads the charge in higher pay, better benefits and strong workplace protections for academic workers. More than that, you're part of a community at Rutgers that stretches beyond your department and your campus--beyond even graduate students, to include every member of the university faculty. By joining us, you're one step closer to discovering just how incredible that community can be.

I'm writing to you now because you are not yet a full member of the union, and I know first-hand what a wonderful world of people you have to meet by signing up to receive member-only communications and invites, by connecting to a network of caring, dedicated people who already work hard on your behalf day in and day out.

I've made some of my best friends in the union. And I don't want any of you to miss out!

So, where can you find all these amazing people? Continuing a new summer tradition, please join us this week for the...

Graduate Employees Social Hour: Meet the gang, have some fun, and as always count on free drinks for anyone wearing a union shirt to support the team! This Friday, July 17, we'll be at Evelyn's Restaurant on Easton Ave in New Brunswick, any time after 8:30pm.

Please direct all questions to me at taga@gsa.rutgers.edu.

In unity,
Elric Kline
TA/GA Steering Committee