NASA Budget Cuts Could Cost 7,000 Florida Jobs

Rather then return to the moon, NASA could be forced to send 7,000 workers at the Kennedy Space Center to the unemployment line.

President Obama’s proposed budget calls for an end to NASA’s Constellation program, which involves the development of a new manned space vehicle and a return to the moon by 2020. Instead, the White House is proposing hiring private companies to develop and build the spacecraft.

The Washington Post wants to gauge the public’s reaction to the president’s proposed plans with a poll entitled “Should Obama cut NASA funding for manned lunar missions?” Click here to show your support for workers at the Kennedy Space Center.

In a letter to President Obama, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger warned of significant domestic job losses, potential security breaches and the loss of important new technologies if the administration moves forward with its plan to have NASA rely on the private sector to develop and operate the nation’s manned space program.

“The push to privatize space travel is similar to efforts to privatize other critical government services,” said Buffenbarger. “These efforts are based on anti-government ideology and are promoted by companies that want to profit from government outsourcing.”

GOIAM.ORG

Time for Action

The date, time and venue for the rally have been set (Saturday, February 27th at BCC North Campus, Titusville, 3:00 p.m.). National AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka, presidents of national and international unions, Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams, elected officials and perhaps some celebrity guests will speak. However, this is not a union rally. This is a community event intended to protect local business, our schools and the quality of life we presently enjoy. Concerned citizens from across the state and country have already committed to join us. Now it's up to us to make the rally a resounding success. The future of manned space flight and our jobs depend on our ability to convince the administration and Congress that the budget, as proposed, is a grave mistake and threatens our world leadership in technological advancement while posing a risk to out national security. I will be needing seventy five volunteers the day of the rally to assist in parking control and aiding rally attendees. Additionally, we need help in leafletting Brevard merchants. We will be asking merchants to post flyers in their facility and publicize the rally on their marquees. This is a tremendous undertaking. A great deal of time and resources have been spent in making this event possible. Space supporters around the county have called and asked how they might help. Now it's your turn to step up and offer assistance. Call me if your willing to help in making this rally a success. Your job depends on it.

Lew

JOBS RALLY IN TITUSVILLE!

We will be having extensive details of this rally coming as soon as we can. Unions from across the United States are being called apon to help us save America's Human Space Flight Program. This is not going to be strictly a Union event, this event is for all working men and women who are concerned about their jobs! Plan to attend this event, tell your friends and family to come as we are in this as a community. The Space Coast will not be the same without Human Space Flight and the jobs in which it brings.

All the citizens of Brevard County have a chance to show their support for NASA's Human Space Flight program and demand that it be continued!

This is an electronic communication from the Florida AFL-CIO, sent out today:


On February 27th AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka and the Executive Council will hold a rally in Titusville to kick-off the labor movement’s national grass roots mobilization to get America working again.

President Barack Obama has recommended a budget to Congress that all but eliminates human spaceflight by NASA and instead encourages the privatization of space exploration. After leading the world in boldly going where no man has gone before, the President now seems content to let the Russians and Chinese dominate the human conquest of space. If NASA’s human space flight operations are suspended, the results would be catastrophic for Florida’s working families.
· Thousands of high skill, high wage, jobs will be eliminated in Florida.
· Communities along the space coast and other regions will be decimated leading to an unprecedented loss of jobs for our teachers, public sector workers, service industry workers and anyone else who calls these communities home.
· This will have a ripple effect across the entire state. In 2004 space, aeronautics and aviation industries accounted for nearly 148,000 jobs and nearly $7.6 billion in wages.
Florida’s labor movement must act quickly and decisively to ensure that this economic Armageddon does not happen. We owe it to our movement and to future generations of Florida’s working families to keep NASA’s human spaceflight operations in Florida and to stop the privatization of our nation’s exploration of the cosmos. Details of this campaign to save NASA and Florida’s economy are forthcoming.


What: Statewide rally to kickoff national jobs campaign
Who: AFL-CIO President Richard Trumka, General Presidents of the AFL-CIO Executive Council, Florida AFL-CIO President Mike Williams, Members of Congress
Where: Titusville on the Space Coast, specific location TBA
When: Saturday, February 27th, 3:00 PM

If you are unable to view the Letter

Please visit http://get.adobe.com/flashplayer/

Don't forget to deselect "Free Google Toolbar" if you do not wish to have the google browser toolbar installed on your computer.

A full screen link to the letter can be found at: http://www.docstoc.com/docs/document-preview.aspx?doc_id=24845508

International President Buffenbarger's Letter to the White House

President Buffenbarger's Letter to the White House -

LL2061 is Preparing for a Fight!

DBR Walker informed the members at the February meeting that the International was forming a letter writing campaign. Once it is ready, the details will be posted here. Also there will be national publication, so that our Brothers and Sisters across the United States, can help us in our efforts to convince Congress to save the Constellation program.

We are also formulating information (FAQ) to assist members who have questions about multiple pending issues, related to the end of the program.

As hard as it is to do, we all must stay on target with the upcoming Shuttle Missions. We must show Congress why they should keep Constellation and the workforce that would support it.

Video from a Space Center Employee.

USA Negotiating Committee

Nominations and Elections were held last night at the regular membership meeting for the USA Contract Negotiating Committee. Your elected Committe members are:
Lew Jamieson
Jay Blair
Michael May
Carson Yates
Mike Saltsman
Lynn Beattie

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday February 2nd 2010.

Regular Membership Meeting starts at 4:30PM at the District Hall on February 2nd.

Address for the District Hall:
271 Taylor Avenue
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-3025

Local Lodge Election Results

Elected by acclamation at November's meeting;

President Lew Jamieson

Vice President Murray Caldwell

Secretary - Treasurer Murray Hill

Recording Secretary Karen Houston

Conductor-Sentinel Carson Yates

Elected December 1

Trustee

Jay Shaw

Mike May

MeriBeth Chewuk

Auditor

Jim Guppenberger

Mike Saltsman

Gary Steele

AFL-CIO Labor Council Delegate

Mike May

Lew Jamieson

Jay Blair

Murray Hill

Karen Houston

Lynn Beattie

Rob Schneider

Robert Livingston

District 166 Delegate

Murray Caldwell

Robert Livingston

Linda Donahoe

Chris Cassidy

Steve Ching

MeriBeth Chewuk

Rob Schneider

Stan Copeland

Allen Hinton

Jim Guppenberger

Karen Houston

Marty Coleman

Dave Lovell

Chris Raub

Stacy Drinkwater

Murray Hill

New Video from the Machinists News Network.

The video also plays in the side bar player but since it is about us, it deserves some main page play.

http://www.goiam.org/index.php/news/latest-videos/6446-iams-journey-to-space

Regular Membership Meeting December 1st, 2009

Regular membership meeting at the District Hall starts at 4:30PM. Tonight there will also be officer elections for all of the positions nominated during the November Membership meeting.
Hope everyone can come out and vote.

November 3rd Business Rep Elections.

At the upcoming regular membership meeting date of November 3rd, 2009, there will be an election for Business Reps' for District 166.
Polls will be open 8:00AM till 6:00PM at the District Hall on November 3rd, 2009.
There are 4 positions open for election and 5 nominees.

The nominees are:

Linda Donahoe
Johnny Walker
Nick Mrdjenovich
Joe Kyles
Robert Miller

Please make time to stop by and vote.

www.savespace.us Letter Campaign

Save Space is a movement started by people on the Space Coast to raise the awareness of the nation, the President, and other elected officials: Space needs to be a priority for America.

As the clock ticks toward the end of the Space Shuttle program, as the President and his advisors review the Augustine Commission recommendations, as Florida's economic engine falters. it is imperative that we make our voices heard by writing letters to the President: Save Our Space Program!

In the coming days Space Florida will also be releasing a letter campaign to address our issues with all branches of our Government. When that campaign is ready, links will be posted here. It would not be a bad idea to share the link to savespace.us with friends and family. The more support America shows for the Space Program, the better the chances NASA will receive the funding it needs to operate correctly.

USA Retirement Photos

The photos are up on the district site. Go to iam166.org and you will find a link to the photos or click http://www.iam166.org/usaweb/ to go directly to the pictures. Thanks again, to Mark Weaver for the pictures. If you need a photographer for portraits or events contact Mark.

Regular Membership Meeting October 6th, 2009.

Regular Membership meeting, October 6th 2009. Meeting starts at 4:30PM at the district hall.

October 4th Retirement Party at Fox Lake Park.

There will be a retirement party for all of our members who elected to take the voluntary layoff. The party will be October 4th starting at noon at Fox Lake Park in Titusville. Details are still in work and will be posted here as soon as everything is set. Tickets are $8 for adults and $4 for children 12 and under. In the coming weeks tickets will be offered in the shops during lunch. There will be water provided but no other beverages, so B.Y.O.B.

Plan to come out, enjoy the food, and spend some time with our retiring members.

Space Coast AFL-CIO Labor Council Activist Training.

The Space Coast AFL-CIO Labor Council will be providing Activist Training on September 26th. The training starts at 10:00AM and food will be provided.
Address for the AFL-CIO Training is 1122 Lake Drive Cocoa, FL. It is at the corner of SR520 and Lake Drive.

For more information, contact Claudie Pouncey at spacecoastaflcio@bellsouth.net

Volusia/Flagler AFL-CIO 8th Annual Labor Day Celebration

The Volusia/Flagler Chapter of the Central Florida AFL-CIO is holding it's 8th annual Labor Day Celebration.

There will be a picnic and BBQ on Monday September 7th starting at 11:00AM. The location is:

Reed Canal Park
2871 Nova Road Entrance
South Daytona.

There will be rides and games for the kids, live music, and great food. The event runs through 2:00PM. Our Local Lodge is invited to attend the celebration, so we hope to see you there! We will have a table so if you attend, stop by and say hello.

Health Care Rally in Orlando

Free Transport from Cocoa

When: Saturday, August 29th – 1:00 PM
Where: Downtown Orlando Rec. Center, 649 W. Livingston Street

Bus transportation will be provided from Space Coast AFL-CIO Hall 1122 Lake Dr Cocoa. THIS IS A TICKET EVENT. RSVP for transport and or tickets spacecoastaflcio@ymail.com by Friday the 28th. There is no charge for riding the bus. Come out and show support for Health Care Reform!


http://spacecoastaflcio.org/

Regular Membership Meeting September 1st, 2009.

271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-3025

Monthly Membership Meeting for LL2061. Meeting starts at 4:30PM for members with a Steward meeting directly after the membership meeting ends.

Nominations for the Business Rep Election will take place at the September meeting.

July 30, 2009 Review of U.S. Human Space Flight Plans Committee; Meeting

The Augustine Committee will be meeting for a public meeting on Thursday July 30th in Cocoa Beach.

Date and Time: July 30, 2009 - 8 am - 4 pm EDT
Location Information:
Hilton Cocoa Beach
1550 North Atlantic Avenue
Cocoa Beach, FL

From the official release:

The third public session will be July 30 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. EDT at the Hilton Cocoa Beach Oceanfront Grand Ballroom, 1550 North Atlantic Ave., in Cocoa Beach, Fla.

The agenda is:
8 a.m.: Bob Cabana, director, NASA's Kennedy Space Center
8:30 a.m.: Exploration Beyond Low Earth Orbit subgroup (Ed Crawley, moderator)
11 a.m.: Congressional perspective (presenters TBD)
Noon: Lunch break
1 p.m.: NASA Constellation projects managed at Kennedy
2:30 p.m.: Public comment period
3 - 4 p.m.: Committee public deliberations

Following each meeting, committee chairman Norman Augustine will be available to answer questions from reporters. NASA Television will carry the meetings and news conferences live on the agency's media channel. The events also can be viewed on NASA's Web site.

Anyone interested in attending should know seating is limited. It would be good for the membership to have some seats filled, even by our own family members. The Committee needs to hear how we feel about the direction NASA is headed and what we want concerning Human Space Flight.

We Have a New Home on the Web.

Last night we went live with LL2061.org . Currently all of the pages are not updated but should be within the next few weeks. For news, there is a link from LL2061.org to this blog (for the time being). As soon as possible, we will migrate over to the main site for future postings, and will post here when that time comes.

The new site will offer us options the blog does not have, so that we may communicate with each other in the best possible manner. If you find any errors on LL2061.org, feel free to email iamwebsteward@gmail.com and let us know.

Please Contact Bill Nelson and let him know F-22's should not be cut.

Early next week the Senate is expected to vote on an amendment that will strip funding for seven additional F-22s from the Fiscal Year 2010 Defense Authorization, S 1390. We are asking that Senators vote against the amendment--a NO vote on the amendment.


Yes means in favor of the amendment to strip funding and ? means undecided.

Brownback, Sam (KS) ?
Cochran, Thad (MS) ?
Graham, Lindsey (SC) ?
Hagan,Kay (NC) Yes
Landrieu, Mary (LA) ?
Lincoln, Blanche (AR) ?
Nelson, Bill (FL) Yes
Pryor, Mark (AR) ?
Roberts, Pat (KS) ?
Shelby, Richard (AL) ?
Warner, Mark (VA) Yes
Webb, Jim (VA) Yes

If these planes get cut, our Brothers and Sisters on the assembly line will be the first to feel it. Second in line will be the Armed Forces, who have our backs everyday. Our Senator Bill Nelson is voting to cut the funding needed to produce these jets. It is our duty to call or email the Senator and let him know we wish for the funding, so these jets can be built.

Washington, D.C. Office
United States Senate
716 Senate Hart Office Building
Washington, DC 20510
Phone: 202-224-5274
Fax: 202-228-2183

For electronic contact (Email Form) visit this website:
http://billnelson.senate.gov/contact/legislation.cfm#

Jerry Copeland

Jerry Copeland, Roads and Grounds, passed away Saturday morning. Details of service arrangements will be posted when determined.  Our thought and prayers go out in Jerry's memory and for his family.

Services for Jeff Simmons

Services for Jeff Simmons, EG&G plumber, will be held Saturday, July 18 at 1 pm at Volusia Memorial of Port Orange, 4815 Clyde Morris Blvd. Port Orange. Our thought and prayers go out in Jeff's memory and for his family.

New Feature, Calendar for LL2061 Events.

Added a calendar to the page, located below the Feedblitz sign-up. Currently it has the dates of the Membership meetings added. If you have an event that needs to be added, feel free to email me at iamwebsteward@gmail.com and I'll get it added.

Joe Tidwell

Brother Joe Tidwell is in the critical care unit at Wuesthoff Hospital. Visiting hours are; 10-12 am, 3-5 pm and 8-9:30 pm. 

Regular Membership Meeting June 2nd 2009

Regular Membership meeting June 2nd 2009 at the District Hall. Meeting starts at 4:30PM.

Hall is located at 271 Taylor Avenue Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday May 5th 2009

Regular meeting starts at 4:30pm at the District Hall.

Hall is located at 271 Taylor Avenue Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

Dues Increase Approved

The membership at Tuesday's Local Lodge meeting voted overwhelmingly to accept an Executive Board proposal that would increase dues for LL 2061. This action was viewed as a necessary action to maintain the viability and existence of the Local. The proposal was in response to an increase in monies paid to the International and the depletion of the treasury due to expenses incurred during the USA strike. The increase in payments to the International coupled with a decrease in membership in LL 2061 made it necessary for your Executive Board to take action. 

The increase is pegged at eight dollars ($8.00) per month. This computes to two dollars ($2.00) per week - five cents ($.05) per hour. Three dollars ($3.00) of this increase will go directly to the Lodge's treasury. The Executive Board has been gravely concerned that our ability to provide necessary services to the membership was being restricted and some services would have to be eliminated if this increase was not approved. Our ability to fund contract negotiations, grievance processing and arbitration of grievances,  training (Safety and Health, communications, EAP and Leadership training, and community service), were some of the services that were being curtailed or eliminated.

The dues increase was determined after extensive research and  exhaustive debate by the Executive Board. Many proposals were considered. The Board attempted to produce a proposal that would have the least economic impact on our membership and still allow the Local to maintain and increase the level of service to our members. The Executive Board feels strongly this is a fair and reasonable increase in view of the fact the dues formula has not increased since 1976. We are confident this increase will carry the Local through the foreseeable future.

Should you have any questions or comments, please feel free to contact me at 321 446-7092 or contact an Executive Board member.

Lew

Contract Ratification Results

IAM 2061 membership ratified contract proposals today with the following companies;

EG&G
Sierra Lobo
Yang
SC Jones
Indyne
IHA
GCR/CMT

Voting was heavy at ratification meetings held at the Radisson Hotel and the IAM Hall in Cape Canaveral. Your negotiating committees are grateful to the membership for the support and encouragement the membership has offered during these negotiations.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committees

FINAL NEGOTIATIONS BLOG

Your Negotiating Committee for EG&G/Yang/Sierra Lobo met again today to make final arrangements for Sundays upcoming ratification meeting. To quell recent rumors we wish to announce proposed pay increases of 4%, 3.5% and 3.5% over a 3 year contract and increases of $.25 per year for the duration of the contract added to our pension. We wish to stress that there are approximately 14 pages of proposed changes to our existing contract, including changes to the maximum work time policy, substance abuse policy, vacation annual accrual carryover and group insurance to name a few. Therefore we, as YOUR negotiating committee , strongly urge each and every member to not only review these significant changes but to also vote! Once again, if you would like to get a copy of the proposed changes, we will be handing them out early at the union hall at 8:30 a.m. til 9:30 before the ratification meeting. The meeting will start at 10 am at the Radission in Cape Canaveral. Voting will end at 2 pm.

For the proposed changes, to the InDyne, IHA, GCR/CMT and S C Jones contracts, there will be a presentation at the union hall April 5, 2009 at 11:30 am with voting immediately following. The contracts are similiar in nature, but have different details in relation to each companies. Voting will end at 2 pm.

Loss of our Brother, Glenn Exline

On Tuesday March 31st Brother Glenn Exline passed away.


He will be missed greatly by all of us who have grown to know the strong man that he was. Though Glenn had retired last February, he was still a regular at the monthly meetings where we will miss his friendship and experience dearly.



His family will receive visitors at North Brevard Funeral Home tonight from 6 to 8pm. Funeral services will also be held tomorrow, Saturday April 4th at North Brevard Funeral Home at 10am. The address is 1450 Norwood Avenue Titusville, FL 32796.

http://www.northbrevardfuneralhome.com/

You can also leave condolences at North Brevard Funeral Home's website.
Here is a direct link to Glenn's page :
http://www.northbrevardfuneralhome.com/obit-service-schedule.jsp?site=0166&id=42963

Regular Membership Meeting April 7th 2009

Regular meeting at the District hall starts at 4:30pm on Tuesday April 7th. There is also a dues rate presentation and vote on the proposal scheduled for the meeting. Please attend and cast your vote.

Hall is located at 271 Taylor Avenue Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

NEGOTIATIONS CLARIFICATION

The Negotiating Committee has completed proof reading our new proposed contract. We have also completed a summary of all the significant changes. If you wish to get a copy early, to review, we will be handing them out early at the union hall April 5, 2009 at 830 am. The reason we are doing this is the meeting hall was not available any earlier than 930 and we need time to set up the meeting. Once again the meeting is scheduled for April 5, 2009 at the Radisson in Cape Canaveral located at 8701 Astronaut Blvd (A1A). The meeting will start at 10 am. sharp. Voting will start after our presentation and Q&A. Polls will close at 2 pm. Copies of the summary will also be available at the Radisson. We urge EVERYONE to attend, don't let someone else decide YOUR future.

Note: S C Jones, InDyne, IHA and CMT/GCR will tentatively be scheduled to vote April 5, 2009 at the union hall. Times to be announced.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

Your Negotiating Committee is still revising our existing contract to reflect proposed changes. We hope to complete it in the coming days. In an effort for transparency, the committee will be at the union hall sunday April 5, 2009 between the hours of 8:30 to 9:30am to hand out copies of ALL significant changes. Please note, for cost containment purposes, we will not included typos or normal replacement language (i.e. JBOSC to ISC) We will then go to the Radisson to set up for the ratification vote.

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/30/09

Your Negotiating Committee met with representatives of EG&G, Yang and Sierra Lobo this morning. After several rounds of intense negotiating we have tentatively agreed on a contract we feel is fair and just for all our members. We will meet again tomorrow to assemble a revised contract for members consideration. The ratification meeting will be April 5, 2009 at the Radisson in Cape Canaveral at 10 am. More information will be posted on tomorrows blog.


Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/27/09

Your committee met again with company representatives. A lot of progress has been achieved through mutual agreement and difficult negotiating. We feel we are close to reaching a contract for your consideration. Have a great weekend!

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/26/09

Your negotiating committee met again today with company representatives. We are currently engaged in economic issues which are moving slowly. Due to difficulties finding a meeting place large enough for our group, contract ratification is scheduled for sunday April 5, 2009 at the Raddison in Cape Canaveral. The meeting will commence at 10a.m. sharp! The polls will open immediately after discussion ceases. Voting will continue until the last member present has voted. ONLY MEMBERS WILL BE ADMITTED. Please share this information with all your coworkers so everyone will have a voice in this vote!

S C Jones, Gov't Contracting Resources/CMT, InDyne Inc. and IHA negotiations are in progress and on time. Contract ratifications for these groups will be held at the union hall on April 5 at a time yet to be announced.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/24/09

Your Negotiations Committee met again with company representatives this morning. We have had extended conversations over our proposals and theirs. Further review is needed to reach an agreement on several issues. Trust in your committee for we have the greater good for ALL our members in our hearts and minds.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/23/09

Your negotiations committee reconvened meetings with management early this morning. Management presented their economic counter proposals. Although we found common ground on several proposals and tentatively agreed upon them, we are miles apart on significant issues important to our members according to our surveys. It is our sincere hope that we are able to close the gap soon so that each side feels they have accomplished their mission. Stay United! Together we can go to the moon and beyond....

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/17/09

Happy St Pattys Day to all our brothers and sisters! Your Negotiating Committee met again with representatives of signatory companies today. We were successful in whittling down to just a couple of remaining language issues. The Union presented our economic proposals to management. After a brief rundown by DBR Johnny Walker we concluded for the day. We will reconvene next monday March 23, 2009

In Solidarity,

Your Negotiating Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/16/09

Your Negotiating Committee reconvened today to attempt to resolve final contract language issues. Unfortunately a couple of issues have been bantered back and forth, language added and deleted, without successful resolution. We will reconvened tomorrow morning and hope to agree on remaining non economic issues so that we can move forward in the negotiations process. Keep the faith brothers and sisters! GO DISCOVERY!

Godspeed and Good Luck to Discovery!

Launch is set for 7:43PM EST and so far everthing is running smooth. LL2061 would like to wish the crew of Discovery a safe and happy journey to the I.S.S.

For updates visit www.floridatoday.com.

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/13/09

Your negotiations committee met with management representatives again today. We are whittling down to the final few stumbling blocks, inclusive of the maximum work time policy and addressing current workplace issues. We hope to wrap up in the coming week all non economic issues. Negotiations will resume next monday March 16, 2009.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

Negotiations Update 3/12/09

Your negotiations committee, along with DBR Johnny Walker and Nick Mrdjenovich, met again for yet another full day with management. We are very close to resolving all non economic issues. We will meet again tomorrow and hope to resolve all remaining contractual language. Show your strength…….show your UNITY! GO I.A.M!

Fraternally,
Your Negotiations Committee

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/10/09

Negotiations Update

Your Negotiations Committee, along with DBR Johnny Walker and Business Rep. Nick Mrdjenovich, met again with management representatives today. We reviewed contract language mutually agreed upon and noted as such. We also discussed contract language we could not agree upon, presented our counter proposals and reasons for opposition. Lively discussion ensued. Our next meeting is this thursday March, 12, 2009

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/9/09

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/9/09

Your negotiations committee met again today to review company non economic proposals in preparation for our next meeting. Numerous articles are under review for change and/or further clarification. Our next meeting is scheduled for tomorrow morning.

For those of our members who don’t know everyone on your negotiations committee, we are led by DBR Johnny Walker, VP Murray Caldwell, Linda Donahoe, Jay Shaw, Phil McPherson and Steve Ching. We all thank you for your endorsement and votes of confidence.

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/6/09

Your Negotiations Committee, DBR Johnny Walker and Bus. Rep. Nick Mrdjenovich reconvened negotiations with management representatives today. The company responded to our non economic proposals and then presented their non economic proposals. We approach them with cautious optimism. Your committee will work in the days ahead to throughly review their proposals and try and find common ground we can agree on. We are scheduled to meet again early next week.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiations Committee

Negotiations Update 3/5/09

NEGOTIATIONS UPDATE 3/5/09

Your Negotiating Committee convened our first meeting with representatives from EG&G, Yang, and Sierra Lobo. We opened negotiations by formally presenting our non economic proposals to management. We had good discussion on many items. We will be reconvening tomorrow at 10 am and look forward to managements response to our proposals. Stay strong in solidarity!

Your Negotiations Committee

EGG/SIERRA LOBO/YANG Contract Updates by Email

If you wish to receive email updates during contract negotiations, simply use the box at the upper right of this page to sign up. The service is setup to mail updates to you whenever this webpage is updated with new content/information. You will sign up through Feedblitz but be assured they do not send you spam, the service they provide simply emails you when this page is updated. We ask that you use a home email address and not any work provided addresses.
Many cellular providers also provide email to cell phones, you may want to check with your service to see if you can receive email via cell phone.

You should receive email updates within 30 minutes of the page being updated. Be sure to tell your co-workers about the blog and the email service, so that we can all stay better informed.

Well informed members during these crucial negotiations is our goal.

EGG/SIERRA LOBO/YANG Negotiations Update

We met with DBR Johnny Walker and BR Nick Mrdjenovitch to finalize our proposals.
Lengthy discussion followed every Article and Proposal. Meetings with the company will
commence this week. We all look forward to representing you and getting you a fair
contract.

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

March 2, Negotiations Committee Update

The negotiating committee would like to thank our membership for their very strong support
in the strike sanction vote. The results show a high level of solidarity and resolve which we will
carry throughout the collective bargaining process. We sincerely thank each and every
member for their trust and vote of solidarity. Be union, stay united.
REMEMBER, UNITED WE BARGAIN.......DIVIDED WE BEG !

Fraternally,

Your Negotiating Committee

EGG/YANG/Sierra Lobo Negotiations Update

After reviewing the final results of your surveys, your negotiations committee and business representatives have met for 2 days formulating our proposals for the initial meeting with management. A strike sanction vote will be held next Wednesday, February 25, 2009 from 8 am until 6 pm at the Union hall. This is an important part of the negotiations process. Please contact your steward/designee for further information and questions.

Your Negotiating Committee

BOA vs. EFCA. via TARP

Always nice to know your tax dollars are being used to lobby against you. Bank of America CEO Ken Lewis was questioned by Congressman Keith Ellison about the bank using TARP funds to lobby against the Employee Free Choice Act. Though the CEO does not admit using TARP funds, he does admit to funding lobbying . I'm guessing if you have enough cash to lobby, you should not need to be borrowing from taxpayers.


Ken Lewis makes $9,803 an hour, while his tellers - those that make Bank of America run - make $10-$15 an hour. A number of Lewis' 247,000 employees lack adequate health coverage and instead depend on state subsidies." While Lewis himself did not take a bonus for last year, Lewis made sure that high level staff still got bonuses even though Bank of America recently announced it was laying off another 35,000 employees.



Read more over at SEIU's link:
http://www.seiu.org/2009/02/ken-lewis-whats-really-in-your-companys-best-interest.php

EG&G/Yang/Sierra Lobo Negotiations

Your negotiating committee met today, February 6.  After an initial review of our recent surveys, the committee is pleased to announce a strong showing of solidarity amongst our membership with an equally strong emphasis on job security, wages, pension and insurance. Your committee looks forward to meeting with EG&G/ Yang/ Sierra Lobo to conclude a fair and equitable contract on your behalf. Have a wonderful weekend.

Your Negotiating Committee

Obama's Labor Friendly Start

Nondisplacement of Qualified Workers Under Service Contracts

For Immediate Release

January 30, 2009

EXECUTIVE ORDER
-----------

NONDISPLACEMENT OF QUALIFIED WORKERS UNDER SERVICE CONTRACTS

When a service contract expires, and a follow-on contract is awarded for the same service, at the same location, the successor contractor or its subcontractors often hires the majority of the predecessor's employees. On some occasions, however, a successor contractor or its subcontractors hires a new work force, thus displacing the predecessor's employees.

The Federal Government's procurement interests in economy and efficiency are served when the successor contractor hires the predecessor's employees. A carryover work force reduces disruption to the delivery of services during the period of transition between contractors and provides the Federal Government the benefits of an experienced and trained work force that is familiar with the Federal Government's personnel, facilities, and requirements.
Therefore, by the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act, 40 U.S.C. 101 et seq., and in order to promote economy and efficiency in Federal Government procurement, it is hereby ordered as follows:

Section 1. Policy. It is the policy of the Federal Government that service contracts and solicitations for such contracts shall include a clause that requires the contractor, and its subcontractors, under a contract that succeeds a contract for performance of the same or similar services at the same location, to offer those employees (other than managerial and supervisory employees) employed under the predecessor contract whose employment will be terminated as a result of the award of the successor contract, a right of first refusal of employment under the contract in positions for which they are qualified. There shall be no employment openings under the contract until such right of first refusal has been provided. Nothing in this order shall be construed to permit a contractor or subcontractor to fail to comply with any provision of any other Executive Order or law of the United States.


Friday, January 30th, 2009 at 12:00 am

Executive Order -- Notificiation of Employee Rights Under Federal Labor Laws

For Immediate Release

January 30, 2009


EXECUTIVE ORDER
- - - - - - -
NOTIFICATION OF EMPLOYEE RIGHTS UNDER FEDERAL LABOR LAWS

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act, 40 U.S.C. 101 et seq., and in order to ensure the economical and efficient administration and completion of Government contracts, it is hereby ordered that:

Section 1. Policy. This order is designed to promote economy and efficiency in Government procurement. When the Federal Government contracts for goods or services, it has a proprietary interest in ensuring that those contracts will be performed by contractors whose work will not be interrupted by labor unrest. The attainment of industrial peace is most easily achieved and workers' productivity is enhanced when workers are well informed of their rights under Federal labor laws, including the National Labor Relations Act (Act), 29 U.S.C. 151 et seq. As the Act recognizes, "encouraging the practice and procedure of collective bargaining and . . . protecting the exercise by workers of full freedom of association, self organization, and designation of representatives of their own choosing, for the purpose of negotiating the terms and conditions of their employment or other mutual aid or protection" will "eliminate the causes of certain substantial obstructions to the free flow of commerce" and "mitigate and eliminate these obstructions when they have occurred." 29 U.S.C. 151. Relying on contractors whose employees are informed of such rights under Federal labor laws facilitates the efficient and economical completion of the Federal Government's contracts.

Friday, January 30th, 2009 at 12:00 am

Executive Order -- Economy in Government Contracting

For Immediate Release

January 30, 2009

EXECUTIVE ORDER
- - - - - - -

ECONOMY IN GOVERNMENT CONTRACTING

By the authority vested in me as President by the Constitution and the laws of the United States of America, including the Federal Property and Administrative Services Act, 40 U.S.C. 101 et seq., it is hereby ordered that:

Section 1. To promote economy and efficiency in Government contracting, certain costs that are not directly related to the contractors' provision of goods and services to the Government shall be unallowable for payment, thereby directly reducing Government expenditures. This order is also consistent with the policy of the United States to remain impartial concerning any labor-management dispute involving Government contractors. This order does not restrict the manner in which recipients of Federal funds may expend those funds.

Sec. 2. It is the policy of the executive branch in procuring goods and services that, to ensure the economical and efficient administration of Government contracts, contracting departments and agencies, when they enter into, receive proposals for, or make disbursements pursuant to a contract as to which certain costs are treated as unallowable, shall treat as unallowable the costs of any activities undertaken to persuade employees -- whether employees of the recipient of the Federal disbursements or of any other entity -- to exercise or not to exercise, or concerning the manner of exercising, the right to organize and bargain collectively through representatives of the employees' own choosing. Such unallowable costs shall be excluded from any billing, claim, proposal, or disbursement applicable to any such Federal Government contract.

Sec. 3. Notwithstanding section 2 of this order, contracting departments and agencies shall treat as allowable costs incurred in maintaining satisfactory relations between the contractor and its employees, including costs of labor-management committees, employee publications (other than those undertaken to persuade employees to exercise or not to exercise, or concerning the manner of exercising, the right to organize and bargain collectively), and other related activities. See 48 C.F.R. 31.205-21.

Sec. 4. Examples of costs unallowable under section 2 of this order include the costs of the following activities, when they are undertaken to persuade employees to exercise or not to exercise, or concern the manner of exercising, rights to organize and bargain collectively:

(a) preparing and distributing materials;

(b) hiring or consulting legal counsel or consultants;

(c) holding meetings (including paying the salaries of the attendees at meetings held for this purpose); and

(d) planning or conducting activities by managers, supervisors, or union representatives during work hours.



All of this is helpful to us. We only wish that these provisions would have been ordered long ago.

President Obama Views NASA's New Rover

NASA brought out their new moon rover for President Obama's inagural parade. By the reactions in the video, Obama and his First Lady enjoyed the rover. NASA did a great job getting the rover into the parade. This is exactly what the space program needs, exciting displays of what we can do with manned exploration.

This Miracle Brought to You by America's Unions

Found this article on the web and figured I would pass it along.

"They're calling it a miracle--the successful landing of a US Airways jet in the Hudson and subsequent rescue of all 155 passengers. They're detailing the heroism of all involved, starting with the pilot and including cabin crew, ferry crews, and first responders. What they're not telling you is that just about every single one of these heros is a union member."


http://www.dailykos.com/story/2009/1/16/11125/1166/655/684821

Happy New Year ! Regular Membership Meeting January 6th, 2009.

Regular meeting starts at 4:30PM at the hall. Address is; 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

http://maps.google.com/maps?hl=en&safe=off&rls=com.microsoft:en-us&q=271%20Taylor%20Ave.%20Cape%20Canaveral%2C%20FL%2032920.&um=1&ie=UTF-8&sa=N&tab=wl

Regular Membership meeting tonight December 2nd 2008

Regular membership meeting tonight at the District Hall in Cape Canaveral. Meeting starts at 4:30PM.

JBOSC Reserve Sick Leave

The grievance relative to the JBOSC Reserve Sick Leave disposition has been processed and the Union and the company are engaged in selecting an arbitrator. The Union will provide updates once the arbitration has been scheduled.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday November 11th.

Sorry folks, I goofed up and forgot the date was changed for this months regular membership meeting. Same place and time but on NEXT Tuesday the 11th.

Don't forget to go vote tomorrow.

Machinists Approve New Boeing Contract by 74%

http://www.iam751.org/


"The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) announced today that its members voted to ratify a new 4-year contract with the Boeing Company by 74 percent.
The new agreement covers 27,000 IAM members at Boeing facilities in Washington, Oregon, Kansas and California, and ends a strike that began on September 6, 2008.
Machinists will begin returning to work as early as November 2 (for third shift employees) and November 3 for first and second shift employees. Per the Settlement Agreement, members have until the beginning of their shift on Monday, November 10 to return to work.
"Our Union has delivered what few Americans have - economic certainty and quality benefits for the next four years. Each of you stood up and did your part to win this battle," said District 751 President Tom Wroblewski. "Your solidarity brought Boeing back to the table and made this Company address your issues. After 57 days of striking, we have gained important and substantial improvements over the Company's offer that was rejected on September 3. I am proud to be a member of the Machinists Union and want to thank our members for their solidarity and commitment."
"This contract gives the workers at Boeing an opportunity to share in the extraordinary success this Company has achieved over the past several years," said Aerospace Coordinator Mark Blondin. "It also recognizes the need to act with foresight to protect the next generation of aerospace jobs. These members helped make Boeing the company it is today, and they have every right to be a part of its future."
Among the many job security gains, the Union reasserted its jurisdiction over the scope of work of bargaining unit represented jobs that was lost in the 2002 contract. The Union members' share of medical costs will remain unchanged from 2002 through 2012. In addition to the many monetary gains achieved in the new contract, the takeaway language that was riddled throughout the Company's 9/3/08 proposal was withdrawn - retiree medical is preserved, survivor benefits are returned, reinstatement of seniority lost due to layoff is returned, promotional rights restored and the list goes on.
As part of the Settlement Agreement, the Union negotiated insurance and benefits will be considered continuous for all returning employees and their dependents. The Company will return all insurance premiums that were paid during the strike and all valid insurance claims will be paid."

Good Job on the contract!

Senator Joe Biden in Melbourne

Senator Joe Biden, Democratic Party nominee for Vice President will make an appearance on Tuesday, October 28 in Melbourne. The event will be at Wickham Park. Gates open at 4:00pm .

Rick Thompson Cook Out

There will be a cook out for Rick Thompson this Saturday, 10/25 at Our Place Saloon (across from TICO Airport off US1 on River Road) beginning at 12 Noon. This is not a benefit, just a cook out for a good friend. Everyone is asked to bring a covered dish and a happy face. Burgers and dogs will be the menu.

Rick Thompson Benifit Lunch Postponed

Susan wrote to let us all know the luncheon will not take place as planned Tuesday. Will update if and when the lunch is rescheduled. Please keep brother Rick in your thoughts.

Lunchtime benefit for Brother Rick Thompson on Tuesday, October 14 at M7-555

Was sent this information from Susan Ross (Stites).

Although it's short notice, we need to get the word out. There will be a lunchtime benefit for Brother Rick Thompson on Tuesday, October 14 at M7-555. This is in the Industrial Area, otherwise known as The Water and Waste Shop. Please, come help us support Rick. A covered dish would be appreciated, but is not necessary to attend. Bring your appetite and wallet. It will be a grab and go lunch. so dont worry about parking. Every one attending will be helping Rick, as he has helped so many before him. We appreciate everyone in advance, and look forward to seeing you all on Tuesday.

Stop by and support Brother Rick Thompson on Tuesday, your stomach will reap the rewards.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday October 7th.

Regular meeting starts at 4:30PM at the hall. Address is; 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. Hope to see everyone there.

Update to Boeing Strike Mailing Address for Support.

Hi there,

Our mailing address is 9125 15th Place South, Seattle, Wa. 98108. Attention Susan A. Palmer, Secretary-Treasurer.
Please make checks out to the District 751 Hardship Fund. We appreciate any help you can give. We’re all in this fight together!

In Solidarity,

Susan A. Palmer
Secretary-Treasurer
District Lodge 751, IAM&AW

Machinists Union On Strike Against Boeing

I have sent an email asking for a mailing address so that any members who wish to send them a strike support donation, will have the information. They are in their 19th day on the line and as we know, the more support they receive the better they will stand. As soon as I get the information for donations I will post it here. Their website is very informative on the current strike events. Here is the link:

http://www.iam751.org/

A video from one of the striking members posted on Youtube, reminded me of many of the sights and sounds we experienced last year. Here is the video:

Obama Calls on Senate and House Leadership to Renew America's Commitment to NASA

Since the IAM announced their Endorsement of Barack Obama on September 9th, the District Lodge felt the members of the Local Lodges would be interested in this press release:

WASHINGTON, D.C. - U.S. Senator Barack Obama today sent the following letter to Senate Majority Leader Harry Reid and Speaker Nancy Pelosi, calling to renew our country's commitment to NASA and to provide a budget with sufficient resources for success in its critical missions - space exploration and human spaceflight, science and aeronautics research.
The text of the letter is below:

Dear Majority Leader Reid and Madam Speaker Pelosi:

This Administration's lack of leadership for our nation's space program has left Americans without access to space or the ability to support its astronauts on the International Space Station (ISS) without paying Russia for transportation. The ISS is a world-class research facility, built with approximately $100 billion of U.S. taxpayers' money. With the planned retirement of the Space Shuttle in 2010, the U.S. will be paying Russia for rides to and from the ISS, and for emergency lifeboat services, using their Soyuz spacecraft. Furthermore, at the end of 2011, NASA will no longer even have the legal authority to continue paying Russia for Soyuz flights, so unless we act immediately, the U.S. will abandon its role in supporting, and benefiting from, missions to this amazing facility, leaving it to our international partners.

The Bush administration's plan to have astronauts explore beyond low-earth orbit, returning to the Moon and then on to Mars, has never been funded adequately. In order to pay for this program, all other NASA programs have been short-changed ─ from our important earth and space science missions to investment in critical aeronautics programs. The very engine of innovation for our nation, investment in research and technology, has been all but eliminated at NASA. America needs to renew its commitment to NASA and to provide sustained, stable direction with an honest budget and sufficient resources for success across all of its critical missions: Human Spaceflight, Science, and Aeronautics Research.

As Dr. Michael Griffin, the NASA administrator, said recently, "In a rational world, (NASA) would have been allowed to pick a Shuttle retirement date to be consistent with Ares/Orion availability, (NASA) would have been asked to deploy Ares/Orion as early as possible (rather than "not later than 2014") and we would have been provided the necessary budget to make it so" [NASA e-mail, 8/18/08]. Regrettably, the current administration has not behaved rationally and, with the Russian invasion of Georgia, NASA is now left with more limited options, all of them much worse than if the administration and their Republican allies in Congress had thought through the strategic consequences of these decisions five years ago.

Because of this failure of leadership, America is now faced with three less-than-optimal options:
∙ Ask Congress to renew the existing waiver for the Iran-North Korea-Syria Non-proliferation Act (INKSNA) and rely on Russia to launch and retrieve our own astronauts on the Space Station between the imminent retirement of the Space Shuttle and the first launch of an operational replacement for the Shuttle.

∙ Do nothing and abandon American commitments to the International Space Station between 2012 and 2015, relinquishing our $100 billion dollar investment to the Russians and our other international partners.

∙ Increase NASA's funding significantly to extend our use of the Space Shuttle beyond 2010 as partial mitigation for the gap in American access to low-earth orbit and for our dependence on Soyuz, while also providing a smoother transition of NASA's Shuttle workforce, infrastructure, and capabilities to new systems.

Administrator Griffin has initiated an analysis of the third option to determine its feasibility, cost, and schedule implications. The results should be available in the November timeframe so that the President-elect's transition team can prepare appropriate action along with appropriate FY2010 budgeting. NASA's appropriators, however, should be prepared to consider increasing NASA's budget to extend safe Shuttle operations beyond 2010 and to accelerate government and private-sector efforts to provide human access to low-earth orbit. Any effort to extend the Shuttle program must receive adequate funding, ensuring that progress on developing new vehicles is not further delayed by diverting funds to the Shuttle.

In the meantime, while we await the results of NASA's Shuttle study, there are three concrete steps that Congress should take immediately. I urge you to:

∙ Extend NASA's waiver of INKSNA so we keep that option open for allowing U.S. astronauts to utilize the ISS beyond 2011.

∙ Demand that NASA take no further action that would make it more difficult or expensive to fly the Shuttle beyond 2010.

∙ Provide additional funding in FY2009 above that contemplated in the pending appropriations bills to support the single extra Shuttle flight already approved overwhelmingly by both House and Senate authorizers earlier this year.

NASA should be funded appropriately to carry out its important goals. In 1961, President Kennedy inspired America to explore the heavens. He set difficult goals for NASA but, importantly, he and a Democratic Congress provided NASA with the resources necessary for success. And succeed they did. NASA helped America win the Cold War without firing a single shot by dazzling the world with our technological and moral leadership. It is time to dazzle them again.

Sincerely,
Barack Obama United States Senator

For more information on Barack Obama, visit http://www.barackobama.com/index.php

Hurricane Ike Relief Appeal

As Hurricane Ike roared toward the Texas coast, IAM President Tom Buffenbarger established a task force to assist Machinists Union members impacted by the storm.

Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez, Transportation GVP Robert Roach, Jr., and Community Services Director Maria Cordone are coordinating the efforts of IAM Grand Lodge Representatives on the ground and staff from several affected District Lodges.

First job for the task force is to account for IAM members in the storm-ravaged areas and help provide access to much-needed resources. As many as 5,000 IAM members in South Texas may have been affected.

“We have a far larger density of IAM members in the South Texas area than we’ve had in past disasters, and we’re working hard to find out the extent of our members’ losses,” said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. “The scale of our task is far larger than Hurricanes Katrina, Rita and Wilma combined. We are counting on the generosity of our IAM family to help in this time of need.”Any member who has been impacted by the storm, or has information about other impacted members is asked to contact the Machinists Union at ike@iamaw.org.

Contributions of non-perishable food, clothing can be sent to: District 161, 330 Belden Street, Lake Charles, LA 70601 (337) 433-2000. Monetary donations can be sent directly to the “IAM Disaster Relief Fund” in care of the Community Services Department, 9000 Machinists Place, Upper Marlboro, 20772.

“As quickly as these funds are received, they will be distributed directly to IAM families on the basis of need,” said IP Tom Buffenbarger and GST Warren Mart in a letter being mailed to locals and districts. “Fellow members of our union need our help. They need it now. We are confident you will join us in responding to that need.”

Support the Employee Free Choice Act.

The online "card" can be found at : http://www.unionvoice.org/campaign/efca_card_support

With your help, our unions will present the new president and Congress with 1 million signatures urging them to enact the Employee Free Choice Act.
Add your name today.

The Employee Free Choice Act will:
1. Strengthen penalties against companies that coerce or intimidate employees trying to form unions and bargain;
2. Establish mediation and binding arbitration when the employer and workers cannot agree on a first contract; and
3. Enable employees to form unions when a majority signs authorization cards.

Sign the Online Card to help us reach our goal: 1 million signatures urging the new president and Congress to enact the Employee Free Choice Act.

This is also called the "Card Check" which will allow employees to form a collective unit without being harassed by an employer. At this time the process involves card signatures and then the NLRB will schedule an election normally several months after the initial drive has been completed. During the time lapse, employers harass the employees into rejecting the union through illegal practices and normally the use of outside "Union Busting" consultants. The Employee Free Choice Act will stop the bottom feeding consultants from tampering with the process of forming a collective barganing unit. That said, it is no wonder they have fought to keep this bill from becoming law.

Party For Joe Tidwell, KARS Park This Friday.

Brother Joe Tidwell has been feeling a little down due to illness. His brothers and sisters from the LES-A&R shops are tossing him a party at KARS Park on Friday August 8th starting at 3:30PM. There will be food and drinks and they are asking for a $5 donation to cover the costs of the food. Please stop by the party and give Joe some words of encouragement!

Still Need Help With Your Resume?

For those having difficulties submitting their EG&G/Yang resumes we want to help. The Local will have fellow members at the Union Hall (271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral) to assist you on Saturday, July 26th beginning at 8am. Come see us.

Steward Training Class Reminder

There will be a Steward Training class Saturday, July26th beginning at 9am at the Union hall located at 271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral. Brother James Parker, IAM Southern Territory Educator will conduct the class. All members of Local Lodge 2061 are invited to attend.

Discussions with EG&G continue

District Lodge 166 Directing Business Representative Johnny Walker met today with EG&G Manager of Labor Relations Lester Jordan. The two engaged in wide-ranging discussions relative to ISC workforce requirements and the process for current JBOSC employees transitioning to ISC. DBR Walker characterized the talks as constructive and encouraging. Manpower requirements are uncertain at this time. This Union will continue to meet with ISC contractor representatives and assist them in any way possible. Please alert your friends and co-workers to this site as it remains the best means of communicating with our membership. As we learn more we will post the information on this site.

Need Help With Your Resume?

We understand some current JBOSC employees don't have access to a computer or are experiencing problems submitting their electronic resumes to EG&G/Yang. We are here to help.
We will have folks at the Union Hall this Sunday (7/20) beginning at 2pm to assist you. All we ask is you bring a written resume (to the best of your ability) and we will set up an e-mail address for you and assist you in submitting your resume. We will use the computers at the Hall. The Union Hall is located at 271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral immediately East of the Cape Canaveral recreation complex. See you at 2pm.

Current JBOSC Employees

Following further discussions with ISC transition representatives they have requested we take additional steps in the resume process. They are asking we submit resumes to EG&G and Yang. They tell us once your on-line resume is submitted they will generate an on-line application to your e-mail address to be completed by you and returned via e-mail. I have attached the links to the resume sights. The requisition number is EGG30165. If you are unable to submit a resume on-line for any reason, please contact Lew Jamieson (321-446-7092) or Murray Caldwell (321-794-5993) and we will assist you in submitting your resume. .I know this process has been confusing to us all and appears as though the companies and the Union can't decide how this process should work. We can only request you recognize the companies are very busy with the transition and are working with this Union to affect an orderly transition. I can assure you Johnny Walker, Murray Caldwell and myself are in daily contact with the transition team and providing the companies with any assistance they request.

Here are the links;

http://www.egginc.com/isc/careers

www.yangenterprises.com/career.aspx

ISC Open House Reminder

The EG&G Open House is Tuesday, July 15 5-8pm at the "Radisson at the Port", Cape Canaveral. Members who are currently employed by JBOSC employers who will be transitioning to ISC are urged to attend.

Meeting with Indyne/IOMS

Local 2061 representatives met today with Indyne, Inc. Director Kyle "Booee" Kuhn and associate Roger Morton. The meeting was productive and shed some light on the transition process. All affected members must submit an application to Indyne. Applications are available at http://www.indyneinc.com/ Scroll down under the IOMS heading to "IOMS Recruiting Website". Select your job classification, click on "My Application" complete the application, register and submit. The Local has hard copy applications on hand for those unable to complete the on-line application. The hiring process will occur in late July or early August. Indyne has committed to interview all incumbent employees. Indyne will hold an open house Monday, July 7th at Comfort Inn & Suites Resort Hotel, Cocoa Beach in the Ocean Ballroom. Three one hour sessions will be offered; 2pm, 3pm and 4pm. All members are urged to attend. Enjoy your Independence Day holiday.

Lew

Meeting with EG&G/ISC

Local 2061 representatives met with EG&G Program Manager Kirt Bush and EG&G associate Herman Garrett today. The discussions were positive and shed some light on the transition process for current JBOSC employees. EG&G will begin accepting brief resumes (no more than one page) beginning July 7th. Resumes should contain the following:
Name
Address
Contact phone number
Current employer
Job Classification per the collective bargaining agreement
Brief description of current duties
Current manager's name
These resumes may be hand delivered to the Headquarters Building, Room 1404 beginning next week on a non-interference basis.
Applications will be made available later this month. The application process likely will be conducted by EG&G personnel at the Union Hall. EG&G will be holding an open house July 15th at the Radisson at the Port, Cape Canaveral from 5-8pm. Members are encouraged to attend. The EG&G transition team will be present along with the CEO of parent corporation URS. More information will be available following EG&G's first transition meeting with NASA on July 9th. General information on the ISC contract can be found at www.egginc.com/isc Click on the FAQ header. Enjoy your Independence Day holiday.

Lew

July Grand Lodge Raffle Drawing Results

Ryan Keichle, USA Crawlers was winner of the IAM Convention Knife

Meri Beth Chewuk, CHS Enviromental was the winner of the month long 50/50.

A total of $780 towards Grand Lodge convention costs were raised by the raffles.

There is another month long 50/50 being done again this month and will be drawn at the August meeting, see your steward for tickets. $1 each or 6 tickets for $5, Murray Caldwell is the contact person on this event.

There are two Gift Baskets valued at over $250 being raffled off for the August meeting, see your steward for tickets. $1 each or 6 tickets for $5, Karen Houston is contact person on this event.

Both drawings you do NOT have to be present at the meeting to win, winner will be contacted to arrange prize drop-off. The prizes will be given out at the regular membership meeting, if the winners are present to receive them.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday July 1st

Don't forget the regular membership meeting is Tuesday at 4:30PM at the district hall. See you all there.

Brother Mark Plenge Passes

Good Friend and Brother Mark Plenge passed away Thursday, June 26th. Mark was a longtime elevator technician for USA. Mark was a dedicated Union man and our Local will miss him. Services will be Sunday, June, 29 at Settle-Wilder Funeral Home, 406 South Orange Street, New Smyrna Beach. Visitation will begin at 2pm followed by services and burial at 3pm. Mark was a brother-in-law to Local 2061 member Roger Thomas of the USA HVAC shop.

Link To Launch

The website for Link to Launch is : http://www.linktolaunch.org/

The website contains maps and information to the rally on Monday.

Senator Bill Nelson is to address the rally participants prior to the Senate Subcommittee being seated.

It is very important to have a strong showing from everyone at KSC and anyone who cares about Space Exploration. If you are planning on attending, please wear a Union shirt and feel free to make a tasteful sign!

If you cannot attend, please ask your family to attend. Also bring anyone with you as the more in attendance the better.

Hope to see alot of Union tshirts in the crowd!

Services for Gary Kenny

Gary B. Kenney, 50, of Merritt Island, devoted husband, father, and son, died suddenly on Monday evening, June 16, 2008. He is survived by his wife of 25 years, Sharon, a daughter, Amanda; sons, Darryl and Joshua; his mother and father, Mr. and Mrs. John Kenney Jr., of Merritt Island; his brothers, Craig, John and Ronald, and his sister, Denise. Visitation at Wylie-Baxley Funeral Home Friday June 20th, 6 - 8 p.m., with a memorial serv ice at Wylie-Baxley Chapel on Saturday, June 21st at 10 a.m. In lieu of flowers please send dontatons to Garys nephew, Jason Kenney, who is a missionary to Chile, c/o Macedonia World Baptist Missions, Inc., PO Box 519, Braselton, GA 30517.

NASA Awards Kennedy Space Center Institutional Services Contract

From Nasa's website ; http://www.nasa.gov/home/hqnews/2008/jun/HQ_C08039_KSC_Installation.html

WASHINGTON -- .NASA has selected EG&G Technical Services Inc, of Gaithersburg, Md., to provide institutional services at NASA's Kennedy Space Center in Florida.

The contract begins Oct. 1, 2008, with a five-year base period, followed by five one-year options. It is a cost-plus-award-fee contract. The maximum potential value of the contract is approximately $1.5 billion.

EG&G Technical Services will perform facilities operations, maintenance and engineering; propellants and life support operations; logistics; transportation; and laboratory management for Kennedy.

Selected services also will be provided at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station and Patrick Air Force Base in Florida. The company will furnish resources, including management, personnel, equipment and supplies to support Kennedy's work at those locations.

For information about NASA and agency programs, visit:
http://www.nasa.gov

American Jobs are important and our Government is starting to wake up to the fact.

"In a blow to Northrop Grumman Corp's hopes of building a new aerial refueling tanker for the Air Force under a $35 billion contract, the General Accountability Office Wednesday said Boeing Co. -- the competitor for the deal -- deserves another chance to bid on the project.

The Northrop Grumman contract would add jobs on Long Island and elsewhere in New York State, but the GAO said the Air Force made "a number of significant errors that could have affected the outcome of what was a close competition" between the two companies."

http://www.newsday.com/business/ny-bztank0619,0,4502205.story


This only happened because people across the country complained about our jobs being sent overseas. The fight is not over yet but atleast there will be a chance to keep our defense and jobs in the USA.

Thank You to all the members who have taken the time to email our reps and ask for a review of the contract award. It's all of us collectively who have made a difference. Our children depend on what we do now to secure a good life in the future. It's nice to know Americans still have the guts to say NO to shipping our manufacturing away.

RALLY TO SAVE OUR JOBS

Brothers and Sisters;

Come join Union members from all over the state in a rally prior to and during the U.S. Senate Committee hearings on the future of OUR JOBS at KSC (see prior blog post). The rally will begin at 8:00am, Monday June 23rd at the Canaveral Port Authority building (formerly the Premier Cruise Line headquarters) at Port Canaveral. Parking will be at Lot 1 (PortFest parking area) at the port. Follow the signs. Shuttle will be provided. Also, water and portable restrooms will be on site. Bring your signs and noisemakers (NO fireworks) and wear your Union tee shirt. Senator Nelson will address the rally prior to the hearing. Let's show the U.S. Senate and the rest of the country how important our jobs are to our families, our community and our country. Our jobs are worth investing four hours of personal leave. Come join us. If you have any questions, call me at 321-446-7092.

Lew

Rest in Peace Brother Gary Kenney

Gary, our thoughts and prayers are with your family. Your brothers and sisters from LL2061 are deeply saddened by the terrible news of your passing. You will be missed by all of us.

U.S. Senate Hearings on Shuttle Workforce at Port

Sub-Committee Chairman Bill Nelson (D,FL) will conduct a hearing of the U.S. Senate sub-committee on Space, Aeronautics and Related Sciences (a sub-committee of the Commerce, Science & Transportation Committee) to examine issues surrounding the retirement of the Space Shuttle and the transition to the Orion/Ares system. This hearing will focus on workforce related challenges at Kennedy Space Center and analyze potential solutions to mitigate the transition's effects on the community. The hearing will be Monday, June 23rd at the Canaveral Port Authority Commission Room, Port Canaveral Maritime Offices, 445 Challenger Road, Port Canaveral beginning at 9:00 am.



Witnesses;



Michael Griffin, Administrator, NASA

William Gerstenmaier, Associate Administrator, NASA

Doug Cooke, Deputy Associate Administrator, Exploration Systems Mission Directorate, NASA

Steve Kohler, President, Space Florida

Randy Berridge, President, Florida High Tech Corridor Council

Lisa Rice, President, Brevard Workforce Development Board, Inc.

Lynda Weatherman, President and CEO, Economic Development Commission of Florida's Space Coast



Sub-Committee Members;



Bill Nelson, Chair

David Vitter, Ranking Member

John Kerry

John Sununu

Byron Dorgan

Roger Wicker

Mark Pryor

Ted Stevens

Daniel Inouye

Limited Edition Knife Raffle

See your steward for tickets, drawing to be held at the July 1st membership meeting. Also, you can email iamwebsteward@gmail.com if you would like to get tickets. You do not have to be present to win the knife, the tickets require a name and phone number to contact the winner.

Your ISC Negotiating Committee

Last night there were nominations and then an election to set the representatives for the ISC contract negotiations. The meeting was a little hot due to a vehicle accident taking power out at the hall, which led to some members leaving before the vote results were known. So without further delay, your elected committee is as follows;

Murray Caldwell
Phil McPherson
Linda Donahoe
Steve Ching
and
Meri-Beth Chewuk

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday June 3rd with Dues presentation

Regular monthly membership meeting will be held at the district hall on June 3rd at 4:30PM.
During the meeting there will be a presentation on the new dues structure the International is proposing. We urge members who have questions and concerns about the proposed changes to attend the meeting. We will have a voice in the matter during the Grand Lodge Convention, this coming September.

On May 6th, the membership held an election to set 9 delegates who will represent the Local Lodge at the upcoming convention. The delegates will need to hear our concerns so they can present them during the convention. There will be time to ask questions after the presentation. Please try to carpool if possible to save on parking spaces.

The address for the hall is: 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

Fired Waste Pro workers to get labor hearing

"Four former Waste Pro employees in Daytona Beach who cried foul for being fired will appear in a hearing before an administrative law judge of the National Labor Relations Board in June.
Led by Keith Massey, the employees attempted to become part of a union because of perceived contract violations.
But it wasn't long before they were fired for their efforts, according to Massey, Kevin Brown, Tyrod Williams and Tremale Morgan."

Full story can be found at this link from the Daytona Beach News-Journal :

http://www.news-journalonline.com/NewsJournalOnline/News/EastVolusia/evlEAST05050308.htm

Apparently we can expect more of this from big business.

A story in the Las Vegas Sun states "Businesses scurry to build defenses for possible unionizing onslaught"

"Big business is taking steps to fend off an expected flood of unionizing drives if Congress approves legislation making it easier for workers to organize.
In a trend being followed closely in Las Vegas and other strong union communities, businesses across the country are moving to improve relations with workers in anticipation of the Democrat-supported Employee Free Choice Act. It would for the first time in 60 years allow workers to organize without putting the issue to a secret-ballot vote."

http://www.lasvegassun.com/news/2008/may/05/businesses-scurry-build-defenses-possible-unionizi/

In the article there are statments from law firms involved in lobbying to prevent the Employee Free Choice Act.
One states: "Unionization drives generally emerge from issues of dignity and respect, lawyer Mark Ross said. “Unions don’t organize employers,” he said. “Bad supervisors organize employers.”"

He also states:
"If the legislation is passed, “employers are headed for a big hurt,” Smith said.
Employers, he said, should mobilize the business community. “Tell them how awful life could be if this thing gets written into law,” Smith said."

I have a hard time understanding the hurt employers will feel, other than providing employees what they deserve with fair wages, good benefits, and equally fair treatment. Companies would rather pay Lawyers, Lobbyists, and Political Action Committiees, than pay fair wages to employees.
Certainly if the Employee Free Choice Act were to pass and be signed into law by the next President, it would not mean every employer would instantly have a Union. Some employers would not have Unions because they pay well and offer good benefits. The only employers who should worry about the act are the ones who have been taking advantage of employees and treating them poorly.

Remember to support candidates that support our needs the next time you vote. Seems our elected officials only understand the public, when we show them by ballot, how we feel.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday May 6th

Regular meeting tomorrow night at the District Hall at 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.
Don't forget the election will be taking place all day for selection of the delegates to be sent to the Grand Lodge Convention.

Polls will be open from 8:00AM and will close at 6:00PM.

Hope to see everyone there.

Grand Lodge Delegate Election Notice.

Nominations for the 2008 Grand Lodge Convention took place at the Regular Membership meeting on April 1st, 2008.

This list of Nominees are:


Johnny Walker

Lew Jamieson

Murray Caldwell

Karen Houston

Murray Hill

Mike May

Steve Ching

Jay Blair

Lynn Beattie

Linda Donahoe

Tim Cooper

Chris Cassidy

Ryan Kiechle

Bill Farina

Robert Livingston

Dave Lovell



The Election to choose the 9 Delegates to represent our Local Lodge will be held on May 6, 2008 at the regular meeting place located at 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920. Polls will be open from 8:00AM and will close at 6:00PM.



Those requiring an absentee ballot are required to return the request to the Recording Secretary, Karen Houston no later than April 26th, 2008.



Ballots were mailed out via postal mail and you should have it or receive it shortly.

There are conditions for absentee ballots:


Live more than 25 miles from polling place

Confined because of verified illness

Away on vacation or official IAM business

On company travel assignment

On reserve military leave


If you meet any of the conditions, please forward your request to Karen Houston in person or by mail to the local lodge.

Address:

Local Lodge 2061 c/o

Recording Secretary

Karen Houston

P.O. Box 3603

Cocoa, FL 32924-3603