It was a rainy Saturday, but that didn't stop the members of the LCFT delegation from taking care of the work of the Union yesterday at Navy Pier.  The morning session was an exciting one, with visits from Illinois Senator Dick Durbin, Chicago Mayor Richard Daley, and the featured speaker of the morning, New York Senator Hillary Clinton.  Clinton's message revolved around two themes: thanks and support.  She thanked the AFT for their support throughout her bid to become the Democratic Nominee for President, and then asked everyone to throw their support behind Barack Obama.  The rest of the morning was focused on getting the business of the Union done, and many resolutions were debated and approved.  The delegates broke for lunch, and then returned to more resolutions and a celebration of the organizing efforts of the AFT.  Finally, a rally was held in support of the workers of the Resurrection Hospital, whose attempts to Unionize have been brutally rebuffed, leading up to the firing of one Union worker. 

Senator Obama is expected to address the convention via satellite on Sunday.

The LCFT delegation had a great day at convention yesterday.  The convention opened to a rousing performance by the Chicago Military Academy's drum corps, and warm wishes from convention chairs Marilyn Stewart, CTU president, and Ed Geppert, IFT president.  Delegates were treated to a video on AFT's philanthropic efforts, a wonderful speaker from the Special Olympics, and the final opening speech of AFT president Ed McElroy.  McElroy praised AFT members for their efforts over the past two years, and encouraged members to stay the course--keep fighting for Union rights.  The evening included a delegate reception at Navy Pier where a great time was had by all!  Keep checking lcft.org for more updates or link to the AFT's website at www.aft.org/convention/index.htm!