I am responding to the letter submitted by Brenda Rice-Scott in reference to union memberships. How dare you refer to City of Vicksburg employees as “having their heads in the sand?” They are dedicated working employees and do not care to listen to your union mafia crap.

Ms. Rice-Scott is obviously a paid employee of the union where she holds the office of president. If she is not a salaried employee she does have her union dues paid because she holds an office.

In her letter she speaks with the same “slick” language used as scare tactics by union officials. I have spoken with City of Vicksburg employees who have no problem with their employment and, in fact, many are grateful to be employed during these economic times. Paying union dues and union salaries are the last thing these employees want or need to be paying.

I suppose the next item on her agenda is to bring her mafia men to provide lunch and fill the minds of employees with union propaganda. When I was present at several of these “free lunch” seminars I repeatedly asked the same questions in reference to union activities and was asked to leave and not return. Why, if they had nothing to hide? Needless to say, they chose not to answer my questions in reference to union activities, costs and salaries. For the city employees who favor union presence ask yourself these questions:

• If the union forces an employee strike will I be paid? No, or a minimal fee if you agree to walk a picket line for hours.

• What will the union do for me? Nothing, but incite employee discontent and take money from your check to support their enormous salaries.

In the 1930s unions were a necessary evil to keep employers from mistreating employees. The federal government has implemented laws to protect employees — thereby making unions a money-making mafia machine. Please don’t subject yourself to this totally absurd group.

If the Board of Mayor and Aldermen decide to support a union then they must live with their decision and the City of Vicksburg will pay the costs.

Ms. Rice-Scott I am not Tea Party member nor am I wealthy. Your prejudiced comments may encourage me to support this group.

Karen Wood

Vicksburg