◆ SpookStack

Fran’ Fe: JOHN L. LIS, BP AL DERVIS. WITH bargaining rights. "J was satisfied the the PMA was well run when I worked under that union at Mine B, although that union was strict regarding the enforcement of their by-laws. As far as I know, both Elshoff and Falcetti vere impartial as to which union had the bargaining rights. I have Worked vith then for am: and I think they are both fine people. "Jt is my understanding thet on April 1, 1937 the Progressive Mine Lorkers of Anerica, referred to hereinafter as the Pla through their officials signed a contrect with Elshoff for a $5.50 a day wage scale rith no retroactive clause pending a penaanent settlement. At that time as I understand it, the UT had a rage scale which amounted to $6.00 a day. Therefore the miners rorking at Ifine B vere dissatisfied. JI know that I was, Due to this, many miners wanted to go over to the Ui. to get the extra money. "J know that there was 4 group on men, whose names I do not recall, tho were try__ to organize for the men to join the UM.. A bulletin vas posted at the mine calling for a special PMA meeting on May 11, 1937. I did not attend this meeting, but the next day at the mine J] heard some men had been expelled for organizing for the Ui':. ss cacereceee of the PitA and a Board member of that union, told the miners the Pua had a contract with a retroactive clause and they rowd get back pay, Falcetti handed the Secretary of the local, (phonetic), a copy of the contract and had him read it to the men to prove there was no retroactive clause. I do not kno vha replied to that. TIT TESS Special wzent F. aI. — = F.Bet." - 145 -