Rat Patrol: 'Standing for what's right' -- or harassment? Depends on your view - By JONATHAN BILYK, MyWebTimes.com, IL
Tom Nixon, business agent for Plumbers and Pipefitters Local 422, which covers 10 counties, said his local also employs the use of pickets periodically, noting his local is picketing a restaurant in Joliet using non-union plumbers.
'But sometimes you have to pick your battles,' said Nixon. 'If you've got a chance of getting something done, then go ahead.'
Other union representatives, though, were even more hesitant to use pickets.
Gary Grabowski, business agent for the Carpenters Local 195 in Ottawa, said he would only use pickets 'as a last resort.'
And Dan Aussem, business agent for Ironworkers Local 444, said pickets, while a legitimate practice, should not be overutilized."