Machinists 837

RTI SpeedFacts

F18

Recent SpeedFacts and Media Events

August 24, 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

            On Monday, September 5, 2011, the St. Louis Labor Council will again be hosting the Annual Labor Day Parade in downtown St. Louis. As in previous years, we are participating in the event with a float depicting our products and a float carrying members through the parade. Additionally, we will have several motorcycles and vehicles carrying our members along the route. 

This year’s lineup will have us will have us starting out on 20th Street between Olive and Locust.  Members should arrive by 7:00 A. M. the parade itself will begin at 8:30 A. M. The Local Lodges and District approved the purchase of T-Shirts for those attending the Parade. Each member and any family member with you will be given a T-Shirt for marching or riding in the event. Sizes will be first come – first served but in past years everyone received the size they needed.           

A map of our starting location is on the back of this SpeedFacts and I look forward to seeing you at the Parade!

Fraternally yours,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

July 25, 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters, Boeing, GKN & RTI, 

            Monday, September 5, 2011, the St. Louis Labor Council will again be hosting the Annual Labor Day Parade in downtown St. Louis. As in previous years, we are participating in the event with a float depicting our products and a float carrying members through the parade. Additionally, we will have several motorcycles and vehicles carrying our members along the route.  We are looking for (4) four Marshalls for the Annual Labor Day Parade.  If anybody is interested please contact your plant chairman by Friday, July 29, 2011.
            Also, the Cost of Living for Boeing effective August 5, 2011, will be (.28¢ Cents) twenty eight cents. The accumulative total for this contract is now .59¢ cents.
            The Cost of Living for GKN Aerospace effective July 25, 2011, will be (.27¢ Cents) twenty seven cents.  The accumulative total for this contract is now .42¢ cents.   
Fraternally yours,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

June 15, 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters of RTI: 

As you may or may not know, some IAM members employed at GKN have petitioned the International President to charter a Local Lodge specifically for IAM members at GKN. 

During the IAM National Staff Conference held this week in Toronto, Canada the Executive Council met and approved the chartering of two new Local Lodges; Local Lodge 387 and Local Lodge 738.  Both of these new Local Lodges will fall under the jurisdiction of District Lodge 837.   

Effective July 1, 2011 all GKN members of Local Lodge 837A and 837B will be transferred to Local Lodge 387, and all RTI Tradco members of Local Lodge 837B will be transferred to Local Lodge 738.

The chartering of two new Local Lodges will necessitate nominations and elections.  This will occur as soon as this can be reasonably brought about.  

Additionally, a proportionate amount of assets from Local Lodge 837A and Local Lodge 837B will be transferred to Local Lodge 387 to establish operating capital in order for the Local Lodge to fully function.

Midwest Territory Chief of Staff Rod Hoffman has been assigned to provide necessary assistance during this transition period; i.e., the drafting of Bylaws.   

Grand Lodge Auditor Rick Fischer has also been assigned to assist in the transition; i.e., transferring the proportionate amount of assets to Local Lodge 387.   

All current IAM members working at Boeing will remain in their respective Local Lodge, being either Lodge 837A or Lodge 837B.  Any vacancy of elected officers will be filled in accordance with your Local and District Bylaws. 

Please be informed that a special meeting will be held on June 27th at 7:00 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 4:00 p.m. at the Knights of Columbus Hall in Washington, MO for all IAM members working at GKN to answer all questions regarding this transition. 

Fraternally yours,                                                          
Gordon King                                                           
President Directing Business Representative

January 31, 2011

CONTRACT UPDATE 

Dear RTI Brothers and Sisters, 

Still Open on the table: 

Union Proposed: 

Article 3, Sec.7   Company still refuses to allow Union Representation to have access to shop floor.

Article 5,    Non-bargaining unit employees will NOT be permitted to perform work normally and historically performed by bargaining unit employees. Company is unwilling to give up their right to perform OUR work.

Article 20, Sec.4 The Union and Company is coming close on an agreement of not limiting employees to (2) bid’s a year.

Article 27, Sec.6 NEW Language   On all Company documents requiring an employee’s signature, the employee will be supplied with a copy of the signed document.  The Company and Union are close to agreeing on this language.

Article 31, Sec.1 Union asking for 3 year contract.

We will update you on all economical proposals as soon as we receive the company’s total proposal, should be by week’s end. 

Company Proposed: 

Article 7, Delete “Third shift employees will work seven hours, but will be compensated for eight hours.”

Article 11, Employees will be paid bi-weekly.

Article 31, Company wants a 4 year contract.

Appendix “A” employees on third shift would receive fifty (.50) cents per hour.

Appendix “B” restructured from 4 classifications to 6 classifications.

 

In Solidarity,

Your Bargaining Team 

                                                                        Gordon King, PDBR

                                                                        Stephen McDerman, ADBR

                                                                        Bruce Darrough, Lodge “B” President

                                                                        Cindy Mills, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Clarice Deaton, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Roger Collins, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Timothy Bradshaw, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Gregory Smith, Bargaining Committee

 

January 27, 2011

Dear, RTI Brothers and Sisters, 

Today we begin meeting with the Company to negotiate a new Collective Bargaining Agreement. Your Bargaining Committee has been working hard to prepare proposals to present to the Company. We are united and committed to negotiating the best contract possible for all RTI Union members. 

Please continue to wear your contract shirts on Thursdays to display your Solidarity and support for your Bargaining Team. 

We will continue to provide you with updates when new information becomes available throughout the negotiations process. 

In Solidarity, 

Your Bargaining Team 

                                                                        Gordon King, PDBR

                                                                        Stephen McDerman, ADBR

                                                                        Bruce Darrough, Lodge “B” President

                                                                        Cindy Mills, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Clarice Deaton, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Roger Collins, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Timothy Bradshaw, Bargaining Committee

                                                                        Gregory Smith, Bargaining Committee

 

January 5, 2011

REVISION: Strike Sanction Vote 

 

Dear RTI Sisters and Brothers, 

This Speedfacts  is a revision to the Speedfacts that was issued on December 21, 2010, whereas it was noted that if the membership is required to work overtime on a mandatory basis the Strike Sanction Vote meeting time would be adjusted accordingly. After discussion with management on January 4, 2011 the Union was informed that Fabrication will be on mandatory overtime for Saturday, January 8, 2011, as a result the meeting time for the Strike Sanction Vote will be changed in order to give every member the opportunity to vote in this very important process. 

 Doors will open at 11:00 a.m. at the Knights of Columbus in Washington, Missouri and the meeting will begin at 12:00 p.m. for all working second shift, third shift and those on first shift who are not on mandatory, the voting process will remain open until 5:00 p.m. for the members of first shift working mandatory overtime. Again, it is important to note that ONLY active members in good standing employed at RTI will be allowed in the meeting room. No guests or children will be allowed in. Photo ID required. This vote is a requirement per our International Constitution and should taken place no less than 30 days prior to contract expiration in order for our members to receive strike benefits in the event the Final Contract offer is rejected. Remember, this vote is very important; however it will NOT put you on the street.  

You will be voting on the Final Contract offer on Saturday, February 19, 2011, also at the Knights of Columbus in Washington, Missouri. If the membership votes down this Final Contract offer from the Company by a majority of those present and voting on the contract, then per the International Constitution a second Strike Vote will be taken. In order to declare a strike, such vote must carry by a two-thirds (2/3) majority of those present and qualified to vote. 

            Additionally, we encourage every member to attend this very important meeting in order to exercise your right to vote, meet your Bargaining Committee, ask any questions or address any concerns.

Fraternally yours,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

December 21, 2010

Dear RTI Sisters and Brothers,  

The members and Staff of District 837 are very proud of you all for standing up for what you think is right. We all have opinions and you where all able to voice yours. 

Now that the vote is over we must all join together and put our differences aside and become one voice for the betterment of all. We have listened to your concerns and know there is work to be done to correct some problems on our end. 

We must now all stand together as one to negotiate a fair and equitable contract for you. Your negotiating committee will start immediately preparing proposals and meeting with the International on the issues each of you brought forth in the meetings and surveys you completed. 

The Strike Sanction Vote is set for Saturday, January 8, 2011 at the Knights of Columbus in Washington, Missouri.  Doors will open at 9:00 a.m. and the meeting will begin promptly at 10:00 a.m.  It is important to note that ONLY active members in good standing employed at RTI will be allowed in the meeting room.  No guests or children will be allowed in.  Photo ID Required.  The IAM International Constitution requires this vote in order for our members to receive strike benefits in the event the Final Contract offer is rejected.  Remember, this vote is very important, however it will NOT put you on the street.  You will be voting on the Final Contract offer on Saturday, February 19, 2011, also at the Knights of Columbus in Washington, Missouri. 

On behalf of your District 837 Staff and your Brothers and Sisters at Boeing and GKN, we wish each and every one of you a very safe and Happy Holiday. 
Fraternally yours,                                                                                   
Gordon King                                                                                   
President Directing Business Representative

 

November 3, 2010

CERTIFIED

*REVISION: November 10, 2010

David Z. Paull
Vice President
RTI International Metals, Inc.
1000 Warren Avenue
Niles, Ohio 44446-0269 

Dear Mr. Paull: 

We are requesting the following preliminary data relative to the newly formed IAM bargaining unit in which we will be looking forward to negotiating our  contract with RTI Tradco. We feel this data is essential to bargain intelligently on the issues of wages and working conditions in the forthcoming negotiations.  Please forward this data as soon as possible to me by e-mail but no later than December 15th adbr837@yahoo.com and hard copy to me at 212 Utz Lane Hazelwood, Mo. 63042.  

The IAM requests the data detailed below be provided in an electronic version on 3½" diskette or compact disc in a format compatible with an IBM-type personal computer. The preferable format is in Microsoft Excel.  A hard copy of the files showing this data, including field layout, is also requested.  

The data needed is as follows: 

I.      Current data and data for the prior three years showing:

a.       A breakdown for any insurance premiums (such as medical, dental, vision, life, accident, etc.) by type of coverage (such as single, one dependent, family, etc.) and carrier, including details on per employee premium costs (or premium equivalent for self-insured plans), number of employees by type of coverage, and any employee-share of these insurance premiums (see attached Sample 1 for example);

b.      Information by type of coverage, carrier, costs and retiree-share of costs for any insurance for retirees; and

c.       C.O.B.R.A. rates for medical, prescription drug, dental, and vision insurance. 

II.      A current detailed breakdown by bargaining unit employee showing the following:

a.       Pay/occupation grade or level (i.e. pay grade 5);

b.      Job title;

c.       Straight-time hourly rate;

d.      Shift primarily assigned to;

e.       Age or date of birth;

f.       Seniority or date of hire.

III.      For the entire bargaining unit:

a.       The current average hourly rate;

b.      Number of employees currently at each level of the vacation schedule;

c.       Average number of days used per bargaining unit member for paid sick leave, paid personal days, paid jury duty, paid bereavement leave, paid military leave, and any other types of paid leave during the most recent year (calendar, fiscal or 12-month period);

d.      Average annual cost to the employer per employee for pension, health care, life insurance, accidental death & dismemberment, and each other type of insurance or benefit (please indicated what time period this data is for)

e.       Average hours of overtime worked per week per bargaining unit member. 

       IV.      For any pension, savings or stock plan:

a.       Form 5500 and all supplements for the past three years;

b.      Annual reports and actuarial reports for the past three years;

c.       The most current Summary Plan Description (SPD) and Summary of Material Modification (SMM);

d.      The most current plan documents, including all attachments and supplements;

e.       The most current IRS determination letter;

f.       For voluntary participation and/or contribution plans, such as 401(k) plans, the annual average for the past three years for:

1)      The number of bargaining unit members participating;

2)      The average contribution by these participants;

3)      The number of these participants making the maximum contribution;

4)      The average employer match/contribution for these participants;

5)      The average account balance;

6)      The number of these participants with loans from the plan. 

          V.      The most current Summary Plan Descriptions (SPD) and Summary of Material Modifications (SMM) for all other benefit plans not included in Section IV. 

            If there are any questions regarding the above request, please notify me as soon as possible.  

            Thank you in advance for your timely assistance. 

Sincerely,

Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative
IAMAW District 837

 

November 2, 2010 

CERTIFIED MAIL 

David Z. Paull
Vice President
RTI International Metals, Inc.
1000 Warren Avenue
Niles, Ohio 44446-0269 
Re:       Contract Termination Notice 

Dear Mr. Paull: 

            This letter is to inform you of Aerospace District 837, International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO intent to modify the current contract per Article 31 – Duration Section 1 of the Collective Bargaining Agreement between RTI Tradco and the International Association of Machinist and Aerospace Workers. 
Sincerely,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

May 7, 2009

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

             Everyone should be keenly aware that Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has indicated he will terminate the C-17 GlobeMaster III Program and reduce the number of F/A-18 Super-Hornets in the 2010 Defense Budget.

             You also realize what a negative impact this will have on our members, our community, and our nation. Each and every one of you know these aircraft represent the best of the best.

             The C-17 has provided countless life-saving missions since it was first introduced to the fleet. In times of peace or global tragedy, the GlobeMaster has provided humanitarian relief across the country and around the world. In times of war and conflict this aircraft has delivered troops and supplies to our families and friends who have voluntarily gone into harm’s way.

             The C-17 represents an operation success story with the highest reliability and mission capable rate of any airlift aircraft in the world. Thanks to you, it also represents a unique acquisition success story in that deliveries have been made ahead of schedule for the past ten years. The program has received numerous awards, including the prestigious Collier Trophy.

            If Congressional leaders do not act to restore funding to the C-17 in 2010, the line will shut down in 2011. This could impact 462 jobs right here in the Bi-State region.

             The F/A-18 is just as important to our members, our community, and our nation. Secretary Gates indicated the DoD would procure just 31 of these jets in FY2010 with no indication of future year procurement or talk of the highly successful multi-year funding that reduces the cost to tax-payers.

             The U. S. Navy is facing a shortfall of 200 tactical aircraft and the Super-Hornet is the only clear choice in ensuring our aircraft carriers have the air superiority needed to sustain combat around the globe.

             Without a clear commitment to full rate production with multi-year intent, 840 IAMAW jobs could be impacted in the near future.

             I know everyone working on these programs is proud of the product you build and the service they perform in supplying and protecting our troops around the world. I know the record of these planes should be testimony itself to the need to continue building these jets well into the next decade.

             What I don’t know is why the Secretary of Defense feels it necessary to cut veteran programs that have shown their worth when billions and billions are being tossed over the Hill to bailout poorly run financial institutions that do little to create jobs.  

            The District cannot sit idly by and let our members, our military, and our nation suffer the losses associated with Secretary Gates’ decision. Your District Leadership is making this issue our number one priority.  

            You will soon be asked to sign letters of support for these two very important programs. When asked, we hope you will read the letters and sign the petitions. When the Union Legislative Committee visits Capitol Hill next week, they will be seeking the full support of every congressperson to restoring the C-17 production funding and increase the F/A-18 funding to allow for full rate production for multiple years. 

            If you have any questions regarding these programs and what else you can do to help, please contact a Union Representative or Legislative Committeeperson right away. 

Fraternally yours, 
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

November 25, 2008

 Dear Brothers and Sisters of Boeing & RTI Tradco,

             A few weeks ago members of the GKN Bargaining Committee began preparing for negotiations.  This week we held preliminary meetings with the Company.  Main table discussions will officially begin on December 1, 2008.  The current Collective Bargaining Agreement will expire on January 11, 2009.

             During the negotiations process, District Staff will continue to return your messages and phone calls as soon as possible.

             We wish you and your families a Happy Thanksgiving.  Please drive safely if you will be traveling.

Fraternally yours,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

October 31, 2008

Dear Brothers and Sisters of RTI Tradco:

ELECTION DAY

            November 4, 2008, is a very important day for the entire country and all of us.  This is the day that you exercise your right to vote for those people that will be running our Local, State and Federal Governments.

            The past several months, your District has been informing you on different issues that we feel are important to working families.  We hope this information will help you to make an informed decision when you vote on Tuesday.

            How you vote is a personal decision, but the important thing is that you and your family get out and vote.  Please take the time and vote on November 4th.

ELECTION RALLY

            On November 1st there will be an Election Rally at the Union Hall for Missouri Statewide AFL-CIO COPE endorsed Candidates.  Saturday will be a good time to hear from them and their positions, positions that are important to working families.  The rally starts at 2:30 p.m. in the park at 212 Utz Lane, Hazelwood, MO.

AFL-CIO ENDORSEMENTS

            For your convenience I have attached the Missouri and Illinois AFL-CIO COPE endorsements to the back of this letter. (Below online text) I have limited the list to the St. Louis Metro area.

            The Machinist Union is a member of the AFL-CIO and the Federation spends quite a bit of time and research with interviews and questionnaires to determine who they would like to support in November.  The candidates listed have either supported “working families” with their vote or as a new candidate have been endorsed by a Labor Club that can speak to their supporting position for labor.  The endorsements listed on back are for educational tool only.

Fraternally yours,
Gordon King
President Directing Business Representative

 

October 2, 2008 

Dear Sisters and Brothers of RTI Tradco, 

            Please mark your calendars for Wednesday, October 8, 2008.  Throughout that day I will be in Washington at the Hummingbird Club, along with my staff, to meet with anyone interested to address any issues brought forward.  We will be available to answer all your questions and also discuss a regular schedule for future meetings.  It is very important that anyone interested attend these meetings! 

Hummingbird Club

5 Penn St.

Washington, MO

            Meetings will be held immediately following your shifts, with the exception of those on 2nd shift.  Second shift workers should plan to attend at 1:00 p.m.  Approximate times will be 7:00 a.m., 1:00 p.m. and 4:30 p.m.  Times can be adjusted due to overtime if you notify us of the need for a change.

                                                             Fraternally yours,
                                                             Gordon King
                                                             President Directing Business Representative

 

August 26, 2008 

LABOR DAY PARADE 

Dear Sisters and Brothers of District 837, 

            This coming Monday, September 1, 2008, the St. Louis Labor Council will again be hosting the annual Labor Day Parade in downtown St. Louis.  The District will be participating and would love to see the membership join in!   

            Our position for line-up this year will be located around Olive and 16th Street.  The float should be parked at 7:00 A.M. with participants beginning to gather then.  The parade starts at 9:00 A.M.  The District Delegates approved purchasing T-shirts with our logo and the parade theme that will be made available to members and their family marching or riding in the parade.  Sizes will be first come – first serve but most years everyone’s needs are taken care of.  (See map on back of Speed facts). 

I look forward to seeing you at the parade! 

                                                           Fraternally yours,
                                                                           Gordon King
                                                                           President Directing Business Representative

  • August 14, 2008

    Dear Sisters and Brothers, 

                The Boeing Company in St. Louis has currently posted job openings in the following Union job positions:

                                        Maintenance Mechanic

                                        Requisition Number: 08-1019478

                                        Closing Date: 8/19/08

                                       Support Coordinator

                                        Requisition Number: 08-1019359

                                        Closing Date: 8/20/08

    Job seekers can apply online at: www.boeing.com/employment/index.html

                                                                 Fraternally yours,
                                                                    Steve McDerman
                                                                    Assistant Directing Business Representative

     

  • July 8, 2008 

                                        FLOOD DISASTER ASSISTANCE

    Dear Sisters and Brothers of Boeing, GKN Aerospace and RTI Tradco,

                 The recent levy collapse in the Winfield Missouri Area has left local residents and members in desperate need of donations and supplies. When tragedy strikes our community, the District always looks for ways to help. The Winfield/Foley Fire Protection District is organizing the collection of donations that will be used in helping the area recover from the flooding.

                 During the Lodge Meetings this weekend the District will be collecting supplies to take to the Winfield/Foley Firefighters. If you can donate any of the following types of items, please do. (You can drop off any donated items at the Union Hall through next Friday, July 18, 2008 during our normal business hours of 8:00 A.M. to 5:00 P.M.)

                 The type of items needed most are:

                Canned Goods
                     Bottled Water
                     Gatorade or similar bottled drinks
                     Bug Spray
                     Bleach
                     Cleaning Supplies
                     Mops
                     Brooms
                     Dust Masks
                     Laundry Baskets
                     Laundry Detergents

                Any other items that you would find useful are also welcome. If you have large items, such as freezers, refrigerators, or furniture, you can contact the Winfield/Foley Fire Department direct at (636) 566-8406 to discuss how to donate those larger items.

                 Service to our Community is just one of the many benefits a good Union provides and this, while under tragic circumstances, is an excellent opportunity to prove that.

    Fraternally yours,
    Gordon King
    President Directing     Business Representative

  • April 9, 2008

    Dear Sisters and Brothers of Boeing, GKN Aerospace & RTI Tradco, 

                The results of the election last Saturday for District Lodge 837 President Directing Business Representative can be viewed at www.iam837.org.  Now that the election is final I am required by District Bylaws to fill any vacancy that occurs in office for the rest of the unexpired term. 

                After discussion with the Staff, I have taken the following actions: 

    ·        Selected current elected Business Representative, Steve McDerman to serve as Assistant Directing Business Representative effective immediately. 

    ·        With approval of the District Delegate body appointed Plant Chairman, Earl Schuessler to fill the Business Representative vacancy, effective Monday, April 14, 2008. 

    ·        With approval of the District Delegate body appointed Shop Steward Ron Evola to fill the Plant Chairman vacancy, effective Friday, April 11, 2008 on second (2nd) shift. 

    ·        Plant Chairman Roger Smith will transfer to first (1st) shift effective Friday, April 11, 2008.

     This weekend, members of both Lodge ‘A’ and Lodge ‘B’ will be nominating members to serve as delegates to the IAM Grand Lodge Convention.  Meetings will be Saturday, April 12, 2008 at 10:00 a.m. for Lodge ‘A’ and Sunday, April 13, 2008 at 2:00 p.m. for Lodge ‘B’.  I encourage every member to attend and take an active part in what is sure to shape the future of this great Union. 

                                                    Fraternally yours
                                                    Gordon King
                                  President Directing Business Representative

  • Archived SpeedFacts
    • align="center">March 17, 2008 

                                         Support Striking Workers against Valley Ford 

    Dear Sisters and Brothers of Boeing, GKN and RTI Tradco, 

                I have been contacted by our sisters and brothers from Machinist District #9.  They are asking District #837 members for our support in their fight against Valley Ford.  Below is a copy of a notice with detailed information.  Let’s show our solidarity for our Union sisters and brothers in our community.

                                                                 Fraternally yours,
                                                                Gordon King
                                     Assistant Directing Business Representative

    Notice                                                 Notice                                                 Notice 

    Members of Automotive Local 777 and Teamsters Local 618 went out on strike against Valley Ford on November 1, 2007. 

    The reasons for this strike were the unreasonable concessions demanded by the company including but not limited to:

     q       Gut paychecks (a 10% cut for current employees, a 25% cut in base pay for new employees)

    q       Kill their current pension and replace it with a nickel donation to the company’s 401K plan

    q       Destroy their current family-protecting health plan and force them into a much lesser plan (with the employee being forced to pay up to $540 of the cost monthly)

    q       Cut tool allowance by 30% 

    The importance of winning this strike is the fact that the outcome of this strike could possibly affect all future contract negotiations in this area especially the automotive shops. 

    As we enter the 3rd month of the strike, we are requesting your support of these striking members by volunteering to walk picket duty to relieve these members so that we may continue to keep the pressure on the Valley Ford. 

    If you can help by walking a specified picket assignment, Monday thru Saturday, please contact your Business Representative at 314-739-6200 or Automotive Local 777 at 314-739-6217 so that we may schedule you to walk. 

    Again, I cannot stress enough the importance of winning this strike and with the collective efforts our membership we can win. 

    In Solidarity 

     Roger E. Poole   
    Tony Rippeto
    Directing Business Representative                                    
    Tim Young
    Secretary Treasurer

    March 12, 2008 

                                                                    TANKER  DEAL 

    Dear Sisters and Brothers of Boeing, GKN and RTI Tradco, 

                Outrage continues to grow over the U.S. Air Force decision to award a $40 billion Aerial Refueling Tanker Contract to European Company EADS a contract which could eventually be worth $60 billion.  Appearing on CNN’s Lou Dobb’s tonight, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger ripped into the Air Force’s decision. 

                “How we could turn over the crown jewel of support of our nation’s Air Force to foreign manufacturers is beyond me,” said Buffenbarger.  “We’re going to take this on tooth and nail and get the decision overturned.  We’re going to see that America gets what it deserves in the form of economic justice and fairness for American workers.” 

                The AFL-CIO Executive Council, meanwhile, called on Congress to “defund” the contract, as well as conduct a full investigation into the circumstances under which the contract was awarded to a foreign contractor. 

                The House Appropriations Defense Subcommittee also held a hearing, beginning a formal inquiry into the contract, “I personally consider our Aerial Refueling Program to be a major weapons system that is essential to our national security,” said the committee’s Chairman, John P. Murtha (D-PA).  “I think it’s imperative that the Air Force explain to this committee its decision to award a major U.S. weapons system to a foreign company.” 

                Boeing’s KC-767 tanker would be built with over 85 percent domestic U.S. content and would support more than 44,000 U.S. jobs and 300 contractors in over forty states.  The tanker competition was mandated in 2003, allowing a heavily subsidized European manufacturer, EADS to bid against Boeing, a U.S. firm that received no subsidies.  Boeing had filed a protest with the Government Accountability Office. 

                The decision does not impact the jobs of District #837 members directly, but in addition to several other reasons, I am concerned that it opens the door for our government to outsource other military manufacturing work like the fighters we produce. 

                I met with KSDK (Local Channel 5) yesterday to express these concerns and issued a press release to all local media outlets.  I strongly urge every member to voice your outrage by contacting your elected officials.  We have provided links on the District Website, www.iam837.org, for you to easily deliver an email message to your Congressional Representatives.  You can also view my press release. 

                This issue is not about Republican or Democrat, Union or Non-Union- it is about what is right for the taxpayer dollars and Aerospace Manufacturing jobs of America’s working families.  I will keep you informed about the Districts actions as they develop. 

                                                                   Fraternally yours,

                                                                    Gordon King
                                    Assistant Directing Business Representative

    Press Release Issued Wednesday, March 12, 2008

    Machinists Speak Out on Recent
    USAF Tanker Deal     

    The Machinists Union is opposed to the awarding of the USAF Tanker deal to a foreign company as it is not the best decision for the U. S. economy, will not create the 44,000 jobs in the U. S. that Boeing would have created, and poses a potential threat to our nation and its military, while further eroding the U. S. manufacturing base by allowing foreign governments to continue subsidizing aerospace work.

     It’s Tankers today; will it be fighters tomorrow? 

    Issue One: The U. S. economy will not realize the gain of 44,000 high paying jobs by allowing foreign companies to build the next generation tanker. Our economy cannot afford to lose that type of boost.

     §            Boeing estimates that 44,000 jobs would be created across the United States if they were the supplier of the next generation tanker. With our current economy in the tailspin it is in, we need these jobs to keep America economically strong.

    §        EADS has promised around 1,500 jobs in Alabama. This was done to appease some Congressmen but will not have a large impact across the U.S. (Yesterday, Northrop revised that figure to 48,000 jobs across the U. S. making us wonder where the extra jobs came from.)

    §        It is American tax dollars being used to procure this tanker but we will be sending our tax dollars overseas, pumping up European economies, while Americans continue to lose out. We owe the American people the respect to use their money to assist in the American Economic recovery first. 

    Issue Two:  The security of the United States and our men and women in uniform are compromised by allowing foreign companies to build the products used to defend our freedoms. It’s tankers today, will it be fighters tomorrow?

    §        In the event of war or conflict where any of the countries involved in the EADS deal are involved, we are not guaranteed continued production of promised but un-delivered aircraft or spare parts that would be crucial in keeping the tankers functional.

    §        Our military depends on inter-service dependability. Boeing consistently upgrades or modifies their products to achieve this goal whenever possible. Foreign companies may not be cleared to have access to the latest technologies and delays in obtaining that approval may delay our military from having the best of the best to save American lives.

    > §        During a not to distant conflict in the Middle East, our supply of military parts from a nation involved in that conflict delayed delivery of contracted parts. Any nation involved in a war will take care of their own needs first. We need our military production to take place in the United States for this purpose.

     Issue Three: Foreign governments subsidize EADS, allowing for an unfair competitive advantage over U. S. aerospace companies and U. S. congressmen are investigating what they call “shady practices” inside the European aerospace community. Americans cannot compete without a level playing field.

    §        The World Trade Organization currently has a complaint over the unfair state-funded subsidies European nations give their aerospace companies. The U. S. companies cannot compete with this type unfair practice.

    §        Senator Pat Murray is collecting information on Airbus’s “checkered past” and “shady dealings” when it comes to securing contracts from the U.S.

    §            American Aerospace workers are the most productive and efficient workforce in the world, but if they are not allowed to compete on a level playing field, they do not stand a chance of securing new work.

                ----END--- 

                January 24, 2008  

    STRIKE RALLY FOR IAM LOCAL 777

    Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

                IAM Local 777 members have been on strike against Valley Ford since November 1, 2007.  This Saturday, January 26, 2008 there will be a Rally by Union. Members throughout the area to show our support and solidarity for the striking members. 

                                                    Date:                Saturday, January 26, 2008
                                                    Time:                10:00 A.M. – 12:00 P.M. (NOON)
                                                    Location:          675 Dunn Road, Hazelwood, Missouri 

                Parking will be along Dunn Road or at the UAW Regional Office nearby.  Please make every effort to attend.  It is vital that we display the strength of unity. 

                                                                Fraternally yours,
                                                                Gordon King
                                     Assistant Directing Business Representative

    January 24, 2008

    RALLY * RALLY 

    AMERICA’S EDGE
    OUR SKILLS
    OUR KIDS
         www.americasedge.tv     

    Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

                Good jobs come from good skills – it’s America’s Edge in the global economy.  But will our kids get the training they need to keep America’s jobs here?  Will our children work in safe factories with good pay and benefits, or will the work be done overseas? 

    (It is up to us to demand affordable training for the next generation of workers, our kids.) 

                You are invited to a rally with IAM International President Tom Buffenbarger and other special guests to keep America’s Edge at the forefront of the 2008 Presidental Campaign. 

                                                    Date – Sunday, January 27, 2008
                                                    Time – Doors open at 12:00 P.M.
                                                    Place – District Lodge 837
                                                                 212 Utz lane
                                                                 Hazelwood, MO  63042 

                This rally is sponsored by the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers, AFL-CIO, www.goiam.org.  Bring your children.  Refreshments will be provided. Group photos will be taken for use in the IAM Journal.   

                I look forward to seeing all of you this Sunday. 

                                                     Fraternally yours,
                                                    Gordon King
                                                    Assistant Directing Business Representative

    January 18, 2008 

    Dear Brothers and Sisters, 

    With deep sorrow and a heavy heart I must report to the membership that our Brother and President Directing Business Representative, Rick Smith, passed away on the morning of January 18, 2008. 

    Currently, Funeral arrangements are being made at Stygar Funeral Home, 5987 Mid-Rivers Mall Drive, St. Peters, Missouri 63376, (636) 970-7200. Further information on visitation and burial arrangements will be available tomorrow at www.iam837.org or by contacting Stygar Funeral Home.           

    Rick was a proud union member for 41 years and served the District 837 membership as President since 1998. He was and always will be admired for his conviction and dedication to organized labor and his devotion to our members which never wavered. He will be greatly missed by everyone. 

    The Smith family has requested that any memorial contributions be made to the Guide Dogs of America – St Louis Chapter.

     Our thoughts and prayers are with the Smith family.

    Fraternally yours,
                Gordon King
    Assistant Directing     Business Representative