Trending...
- ReviewsAlly Launches Evidence-Based Review Platform for VPNs, Business Software, and Online Services
- Zombie Logic Press Announces Upcoming Release of Vanished Roads by Thomas L. Vaultonburg
- Naperville Police Arrest Three Following Investigation into June 18 Armed Robbery
CHICAGO, May 13, 2025 ~ The Chicago Zoological Society, also known as the Brookfield Zoo Chicago, has recently come under fire for the termination of long-term employee and union steward, Carrie Sapienza. After 33 years of dedicated service as a senior groundskeeper and union steward, Carrie was abruptly let go from her position.
According to a press release from Teamsters Local 727, the union representing Carrie, the termination was unjust and without proper investigation. Despite multiple requests from the union, representatives from the Zoo were unable to provide any documentation supporting their decision to terminate Carrie.
The notice of discharge cited "conduct, insubordination, uncooperative [sic], and disobedience" as reasons for Carrie's termination. However, according to the paperwork, these allegations stem from an incident where Carrie allegedly overstepped her authority by speaking directly with contractor staff in regards to the removal of tram cars while acting in her role as senior groundskeeper.
More on illi News
John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727, spoke out against the Zoo's actions stating that even if Carrie did what they allege she did (which she vehemently denies), it does not warrant termination. He also accused the Zoo of conducting a "witch hunt" against a highly active union steward.
In response to Carrie's termination, Local 727 has filed both a grievance and unfair labor practice charges against the Zoo. They are also asking members of the public to show their support for Carrie by signing an online petition demanding her reinstatement. The petition can be found at bit.ly/4kpp4gH.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 workers in various industries across Chicago. From bus drivers to zookeepers, they advocate for fair treatment and working conditions for their members. For more information on their efforts, visit TeamstersLocal727.org.
When reached for comment on this matter, Caleen Carter-Patton stated that she could not provide any further information at this time. As the situation continues to unfold, the public is urged to stay informed and show their support for Carrie and her fight for reinstatement.
According to a press release from Teamsters Local 727, the union representing Carrie, the termination was unjust and without proper investigation. Despite multiple requests from the union, representatives from the Zoo were unable to provide any documentation supporting their decision to terminate Carrie.
The notice of discharge cited "conduct, insubordination, uncooperative [sic], and disobedience" as reasons for Carrie's termination. However, according to the paperwork, these allegations stem from an incident where Carrie allegedly overstepped her authority by speaking directly with contractor staff in regards to the removal of tram cars while acting in her role as senior groundskeeper.
More on illi News
- Sylvester Anthony III Introduces His Artist Journey with Debut Single "Cherish"
- BCD Meetings & Events Client Survey Finds Cost Pressures and ROI Driving Priorities in 2026
- Boston Industrial Solutions Introduces High-Performance Primer for Bonding Liquid Silicone to Epoxy
- Healthcare Leaders Publish New Integrated Behavioral Healthcare Guide, Led by Doctors of Behavioral Health
- Verbica Challenges Panetta to a Televised Debate on the Issues
John Coli Jr., Secretary-Treasurer of Local 727, spoke out against the Zoo's actions stating that even if Carrie did what they allege she did (which she vehemently denies), it does not warrant termination. He also accused the Zoo of conducting a "witch hunt" against a highly active union steward.
In response to Carrie's termination, Local 727 has filed both a grievance and unfair labor practice charges against the Zoo. They are also asking members of the public to show their support for Carrie by signing an online petition demanding her reinstatement. The petition can be found at bit.ly/4kpp4gH.
Teamsters Local 727 represents nearly 10,000 workers in various industries across Chicago. From bus drivers to zookeepers, they advocate for fair treatment and working conditions for their members. For more information on their efforts, visit TeamstersLocal727.org.
When reached for comment on this matter, Caleen Carter-Patton stated that she could not provide any further information at this time. As the situation continues to unfold, the public is urged to stay informed and show their support for Carrie and her fight for reinstatement.
Filed Under: Business
0 Comments
Latest on illi News
- Rare 1933 Harold Weston painting will be auctioned to benefit the Keene Valley Library
- $20 Million Revenue Target, Accelerating Growth, 7% Of Outstanding Shares Retired, Clear Path Toward Profitability: VSee Health, Inc N A S D A Q: VSEE
- HomeCentris Home Health Achieves 5-Star CMS Rating
- Top 10 AI Robots: AI Trading Yields 356% Annualized Return for Retail Traders (SATS)
- Adsoptia Launches AI-Powered Optimization Platform for a New Era of Autonomous Marketing Decisions
- Heritage at Manalapan Announces New Incentive: Included Finished Basement on Select Homesites
- Leicester UK Manufacturer Tabletop Tyrant Secures Flawless 100% Customer Satisfaction Rating Across 5,800+ Orders
- Quality Inn O'Fallon to Host Ribbon Cutting Celebrating a New Chapter and Launch of Business
- Chicago: Mayor Brandon Johnson Celebrates National Immigrant Heritage Month, Awarding of 4-Star Certified Welcoming Designation
- Naperville Police Begin Fourth of July Crackdown on Impaired Drivers and Seat Belt Law Violators
- The Calida Group Announces Promotion of Joshua Nelson to President, Advancing Next Phase of National Growth
- Farmer's Fridge Expands Fresh, Convenient Meal Access Across Eastern Pennsylvania
- Naperville: Structure Fire in the 1100 Block of North Mill Street
- Cango Mobility x Hikvision Announce Strategic Partnership
- HomeCentris Healthcare Signs Definitive Agreement to Acquire S&K Holdings, Expanding Mid Atlantic Platform
- Nayarit Strengthens Its Position as a Global Surf Destination; Sayulita to Become Mexico's First Official Surf City
- Century Fasteners de Mexico Exhibiting at 2026 Farnborough International Airshow
- Pregis Opens Customer Experience Centers in Atlanta and Los Angeles, Creating More Access to Customers Nationwide
- George Martinez Completes Community Re-distribution Initiative, Returning $5,000 In Campaign Resources To Anchorage Nonprofits
- Hardwood Floor Refinishing Services That Transform Spaces and Increase Property Value