Gothamist: TWU's Headquarters Worth $39 Million!

Barry Popik

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 23:43:57 -0500

I'm a lexicographer, and I just want to confirm that "Sexy Lexicographer" is NOT me! My colleagues aren't particularly sexy, either. Who are you?

pugsley

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 22:42:33 -0500

A 3 million dollar fine will not ruin the union. It doesn't take much money to negotiate a contract every couple of years or so. Dues are a non-stop cash machine for the union. If they are bankrupt today they will continue to rake in cash for the rest of eternity, so Roger shouldn't lose any sleep over it.

Sexy Lexicographer

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 22:36:51 -0500

Lest We Forget.. The following is a comment from your average, not overly punctilious reader. The word "lest" is _not_ in fact a cutesy, antiquated form on "unless." Instead, "lest" means "(so) that not." For example: TWU chairman Roger Toussaint appealed his conviction LEST he serve time in jail. Gothamist, I like you, I really do. But you're not writing for a high school newspaper. Your staff is too large, and your blog writing too short, to allow such egregious errata. Ok, now make fun of me.

Adam

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 20:21:03 -0500

Union dues are now deducted from paychecks but since TWU broke the law this is now being terminated (rightly so). Bus drivers make $60k/year with full job security and full benefits. 40% less pay sounds about right. In real world (private sector) this kind of job that requires no education or skills would pay much less without taxpayer funded benefits, early retirement and job security. TWU makes me sick. Why taxpayers should pay for the superworkers? TWU members should pay their own pension and health plans just like we do.

glennardo

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 15:03:23 -0500

Or the union could just negotiate for those who pay dues and the others can get McDonald wages. Without the union these guys would make about 40% less and the quality of our transit system would deteriorate even further.

tien

Wed, 12 Apr 2006 14:47:27 -0500

paypal?? to pay dues?? that's just nuts. i thought most union dues were deducted from paychecks.