Recalls 

          Our laid off workers are beginning to return. The OshKosh and GMT orders have brought people back to work. The laid off Skilled Trades workers are also starting to be reinstated.

          The union presented its’ case to the company for Millwrights and Electricians to be recalled. The company had been sending “repairable work” out the door. This was work we’ve performed in the past: fan unit repair, Graco/Sandpiper Pumps, and pneumatic hoist repair. There are also capital projects for the balance of 2009, that we are capable of completing.

          The company listened and agreed to return three (3) Millwrights before the end of October. Four (4) more will come back in January to help with the disassembly of the 50M. An additional four (4) will return in February. A total of three (3) Electricians will return by May. The company also agreed to replace retiring Electricians/Millwrights on a one for one basis. I believe they finally realize that they’ve hit “rock bottom” regarding Skilled Trades’ manpower. I also believe all Tradespeople will be back on the job by May.

          The union had reservations with the company’s “verbal pledge” to return craftspeople. In response, the company signed a “Letter on Intent” to further their commitment. I haven’t seen this done before, it was a step in the right direction.

          We still have 100+ members on lay off. The economy appears headed in a positive direction. Let’s hope we get back on track soon.

50,000 Ton Press 

          The repair/refurbishment of the 50M is easily the most intricate and time consuming endeavor at this facility since the press was installed. The original construction took place between 1952-55. Mesta Machine (Pitts. Pa.) was the manufacturer. They began as a company in 1898 before closing their doors in 1983.

         Cracks in the base of the press necessitate a complete disassembly. When finished, the location will be one large hole in the ground. The fixture has been idle since September 2008. It is estimated the disassembly will take approximately six (6) months. The entire venture is forecast to be 18-24 months. Fast forward to that time frame (summer/fall 2011)…business should be ready to soar. The Joint Strike Fighter project will be “chomping at the bit” to kick off. It should be vastly better times for employment and overtime.

Union Hall Improvements 

          The Local’s buildings are old and decaying, but we are keeping them afloat. This past Columbus Day we survived a fire in the empty house immediately north of our property. The dwelling absorbed significant damage to the roof, upstairs and back wall. We were spared.

          Recently a new roof was installed on the hall. This effectively stopped leaks that were damaging our ceiling tiles. New tiles have been put in place. A new flag pole has been erected complementing our existing U.S./POW-MIA pole. The new one proudly displays our UAW affiliation. My thanks to John Thomma for his assistance. A new hot water tank was installed by Bobby Hayes, along with some copper plumbing being reworked in the basement. New steps were added to the entrances of the Office House. My thanks to Mark Mohn for completing this work. Our grounds are kept up and the interior housekeeping are maintained by Ted Beba and Diana Vales. Many thanks to them as well.

Are You Union? 

          How do you view yourself as a union member? How do you present yourself? Do you wear UAW apparel? We need to show solidarity! We need to LIVE solidarity! Local 1050 is one union. All of us are in the same proverbial boat. The Bargaining Committee represents you. We give it our best when dealing with the company on contractual matters. Support from our membership is crucial. If you are the person sitting in the cafeteria on a soap box lambasting the union, for whatever reason, go the extra mile. Directly let your stewards or other union officials know your concerns. Don’t perpetuate rumors. It’s a pleasure when people call the union office to verify a rumor. We can set the record straight. Attend Union Meetings! What’s holding you back? It’s the perfect forum to have your concerns addressed.

          Our Local accomplishes more than just filing grievances. We are actively engaged in the political process (see Citizenship/Legislative Article). Our community involvement has been outstanding! We’ve helped abused men and women, disabled veterans, and other locals on strike. We were the largest volunteer donors to the local Girl Scout Cookie Campaign. In times of need, we help collect funding for each another.

SHOW YOUR UNION COLORS!

STAND TALL!

WE ARE TOGETHER AS ONE!

GO UNION!

GO UAW!!!