Members of LL2339-N:

Today, we must begin to unite like never before.  Together, we will be able to maintain what so many have worked for over the many years.  This is not a time to be sad but a time to arm yourself with factual information.
We need to take a breath and relax our minds.  We need to focus on what the future can provide.  

In the past weeks, many of you have stopped by the grievance table, made phone calls to us, reached out via face book, and sent emails.  There are many questions that go unanswered. I wish those answers came freely so we could better calm the anxiety. There will be many hurtles to over come as we move forward as a cohesive group.  The days, weeks, months ahead will yield these answers as we go along.  

Today the pre announcement was made through the news wire.  They pointed out in one article that the talks have been underway since mid February.  We have to wait for the actual company to make their statement.  We have a chance today to show there is power in numbers.
We need to stay focused on protecting what has been fought for and not get caught up in the name change and uniforms.

I can not make promises to have answers to your questions. I can promise you that your executive board and grievance teams will work hard to make sure your voice is heard throughout this new journey.  I encourage you to engage each other in the benefits your contract provides.  Your negotiation team continues monthly to build on what you have.  We now come to another cross road, and now have a choice.  Stay informed and in the know with the facts from your IAM Reps.  We will provide you information as it is provided to us.  I hope you visit your local website daily www.ll23394u.org so you can stay on top of the bulletins as they hit the press. Again together we can survive this new challenge. Together we can help the IAM Union protect us.

I hope to see you at the next lodge meeting May 11th 2010, 3p, at the Renaissance Hotel.

In Solidarity,

Joey Guider, President LL2339-N