Cintas appeals suit against union

[Omaha Steve]

http://news.cincinnati.com/article/20090501/BIZ01/905020364

The Enquirer • May 1, 2009

MASON - Cintas Corp. said late Friday it is appealing a federal appeals court's rejection of its racketeering and trademark infringement claims against two unions trying to force the company to recognize them as bargaining agent for employees.

The uniform and business services supplier said it was appealing to the Second U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals the March 9 dismissal by U.S. District Court of its lawsuit against UNITE HERE and the Teamsters union, which have waged a six-year campaign against the company.

In a statement, UNITE HERE General President Bruce Raynor said attempting to organize workers isn't a crime. He called the appeal "an attempt to intimidate workers and unions from standing up for better, safer jobs."

At the same time, Cintas said it had refiled state claims for trademark infringement and corrupt practices against the unions in Warren County Common Pleas Court.