Leading a union like Local 1994 comes with its challenges, but it also comes with incredible rewards. One of the greatest perks of this job—something I never take for granted—is witnessing the deep commitment our members have to service. Not just the service you provide every day to the public in your jobs, but the service you show to your union and to each other.

This past August and September reminded me once again why I am so proud to lead this organization. When our union called, you answered. You turned out for the Labor Day Parade, you marched with us at Poolesville Day, you stood up at our press conference, and you showed your support at events like attending our candidate for sheriff’s event. You didn’t just show up—you showed the broader community what solidarity looks like in action.

These moments may not grab the headlines, but they matter. They remind our neighbors, our elected officials, and our employers that Local 1994 members are a force—engaged, active, and ready to defend what we’ve built together. And to me personally, they are a reminder of the kind of union we are: one where solidarity isn’t an empty slogan, it’s a living, breathing practice.

I want to thank each one of you who gave your time, energy, and presence over these past months. You strengthen our union every time you step forward, and you make my role as President a true honor.

Take a survey! We’re conducting a survey to gauge how our website is being used. Take a quick few minutes to give us feedback: https://forms.office.com/r/TttVHniYEc

Ride On bus operator and Local 1994 member Tilwonna Gollman-Stevenson is being recognized for her quick thinking and compassion after reuniting a missing woman with dementia with her family earlier this month.

When the unfamiliar passenger boarded her Route 55 bus, Gollman-Stevenson noticed something wasn’t right. After calmly keeping the woman safe and alerting authorities, the passenger was reunited with her loved ones.

“I treated her the way I’d want my own grandmother to be treated,” Gollman-Stevenson said in an article in the Montgomery Banner.

Her actions are a powerful reminder of the care and vigilance our members bring to the community every day.

School bus drivers and aides employed by Annapolis Bus Company (ABC) and RE Wilson have overwhelmingly ratified a new contract that delivers substantial wage and benefit enhancements and provides a path to adequate and affordable health care.

The ratification vote, held Thursday, was nearly unanimous: RE Wilson drivers voted 100% in favor, and Annapolis Bus Company drivers voted 96% in favor.

“This contract is a clear win for our members,” said Ray Lee, special assistant to the president. “These drivers and aides stood together, demanded respect, and won an agreement that reflects the value of their work transporting Anne Arundel’s children safely to and from school every day.”

Health care access was the key issue in negotiations. Until now, the employees were only offered limited plans through the Affordable Care Act, leaving many with untenable out-of-pocket costs. Meanwhile, office staff at the same companies received much better coverage. The new agreement helps to close that gap, offering them a path to better coverage.

The drivers and aides had authorized a strike just before the school year began, showing their readiness to walk off the job if necessary. But that solidarity paid off at the bargaining table, averting a strike and producing a contract that raises standards across the board.

“This fight was always about fairness and dignity,” said Lee. “The drivers and aides made it clear they weren’t going to settle for bare-minimum health care. Their unity and determination delivered this victory.”

The new contract goes into effect immediately.