Never in my life did I imagine that we would witness the events we have experienced in the past few months. The devastating toll COVID-19 has taken on lives and economies across the globe is immeasurable. First and foremost, my sincerest condolences go out to any of you who may have lost friends and/or family members during this time. The stories of our most vulnerable citizens passing away and not being able to say goodbye to their loved ones or receive a proper burial are absolutely heartbreaking.
The ITPEU has also felt a sizable impact. The ITPEU has represented taxi drivers in Las Vegas, NV, for nearly forty years. With the city of Las Vegas virtually shut down, the majority of the workforce has been furloughed since mid-March. As of the time this letter is being penned, there is hope that Las Vegas will begin reopening soon, albeit at half-capacity. Given the city’s dependence on tourism, the rebound depends on how soon people are ready to venture back out into populated areas with the looming possibility of a second wave. It is our sincerest hope that our membership who drive for Yellow-Checker-Star and Henderson cab companies return to their work as soon as possible. The ITPEU is an institution of the Las Vegas taxi industry. Whereas other organizations have represented drivers in the city, ITPEU members have received unique hands-on and constant support. We believe in our drivers.
Many ITPEU members on the service contract sites have been furloughed due to reduced staffing and we also hope for their swift return. However, we consider ourselves fortunate to report that most ITPEU members have remained employed on the government installations. These workers are essential to operations at US government facilities and have continued to provide services such as: security, food service, maintenance and environmental services at hospitals during this pandemic. The ITPEU salutes all of you for your dedication and hard work.
The ITPEU Health and Welfare Plan continues to provide free access to LiveHealth Online. This telemedicine app gives you the freedom to speak to a doctor in your state over video chat and avoid the deductible costs and long waiting times at the doctor's office. The physician can prescribe medicine and provide doctor’s notes - all from the comfort of your own home without risking exposure to communicable illnesses. There was an increase in user registration during the month of April, but nowhere near the levels which we would expect given the value of the service. LiveHealth Online will change the way you approach care and we cannot stress enough how important it is to register and experience the ease and convenience. This is the future and the ITPEU has seen to it that our participants have FREE access to this benefit. Download the app on Android or iOS and register now and take advantage of this great benefit.
I wish you all an enjoyable summer and fall. To those of you who have registered for the Eastern Gateway Free College Benefit through the OPEIU, I wish you the focus and determination to follow through and earn your degree. For those who have not yet registered or explored the benefit, please visit https://freecollege.opeiu.org/.
Stay safe and remember: an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.