The last Metro Washington Council meeting before the summer break was dominated by a lively discussion and debate about the future of healthcare in the District of Columbia as delegates expressed their concern about the fate of United Medical Center and Howard University. Leaders and delegates plan to stay engaged in the ongoing struggles to maintain services and good jobs in the local community and updates will be posted in Union City. Another highlight was swearing in new delegates, including from one new affiliate -- the Workers United MidAtlantic Regional Joint Board -- and one returning affiliate -- Teamsters 96. "We're excited to be back and look forward to being an active member of this Council," said Local 96 president Wilder Reed. photo by Chris Garlock