To All Delegates and Members

September 21, 2001

   RE:  PRIMARY ELECTION, SEPTEMBER 25, 2001

Due to the tragic World Trade Center attack, all primary election ballots, except for absentee ballots, cast on September 11, 2001, have been canceled.  Accordingly, a new election primary has been scheduled for Tuesday, September 25, 2001.

In light of our national and local crisis, the election has taken on even greater significance.  Therefore, it is crucial that all of us take the time out of our very busy schedules to vote for those candidates endorsed by the PBA (see the attached list of PBA endorsed candidates).

Most significant is the race for Mayor, in which the PBA has endorsed Peter Vallone.  In this time of crisis, we need a Mayor with experience that can lead us through the difficult task of rebuilding this city and restoring in our citizenry a sense of security and stability.  Moreover, we need a Mayor who supports the heroic men and women of the New York City Police Department that keep our city safe each and every day.

Employers are obligated to provide their employees sufficient time off to vote.  Because of the extraordinary crisis facing our City and the unprecedented manpower needs of the Department, we need to be vigilant to assure our members’ fundamental right to vote.  We have voiced our concern to the Department and they have assured us of their intention to grant officers sufficient time off to vote.  Please notify your borough representatives immediately if you are told that you will not be afforded such an opportunity.

Thank you for your continued support.