August 30, 2005

Dear Sisters and Brothers:

In 1999, the General Executive Board established the BCTGM International Disaster Relief Fund following Hurricane Floyd, which devastated a large number of BCTGM members in North Carolina. The generosity of union member donations helped us aid members in their recovery from Hurricane Floyd and then in 2001, Tropical Storm Allison. In recent years, the Fund has been depleted.

Once again, it is time to appeal to all union members for contributions to the Fund so that we may be able to assist our sisters and brothers whose lives have been devastated by these natural disasters. As I write this communication, Hurricane Katrina is wreaking havoc throughout the Gulf Coast region and severely impacting hundreds of BCTGM members and their families.

Your generosity in the past has been greatly appreciated by those who have received assistance during trying times. I know future recipients will be very grateful as well.

Local unions and union members wishing to help fellow union members in their recovery following Hurricane Katrina can send contributions (checks or money orders only) to:

BCTGM International Disaster Relief Fund
10401 Connecticut Avenue
Kensington, Maryland 20895

Thank you for your timely and generous response to this appeal.

In solidarity,

Frank Hurt
BCTGM International President