I voluntarily submit this Application for Membership in Local Union 996 Brotherhood of Teamsters, so that I may fully participate in the activities of the Union. I understand that by becom- ing and remaining a member of the Union, I will be entitled to attend membership meetings, participate in the devel- opment of contract proposals for collective bargaining, vote to ratify or reject collective bargaining agreements, run for Union office or support candidates of my choice, receive Union publications and take advantage of programs available only to Union members. I understand that only as a member of the Union will I be able to determine the course the Union takes to represent me in negotiations to improve my wages, fringe benefits and working conditions. And, I understand that the Union's strength and ability to represent my interests depends upon my exercising my right, as guaranteed by federal law, to join the Union and engage in collective activities with my fellow workers.