Merry Christmas

Wishing you and your family a Merry Christmas from Local Lodge 2061.

Homeless and Living in Cars by CBS 60 Minutes

USA Pension Plan Participants

In October, you should have received a packet from the USA Retirement Plan Administrator. The documents contain information critical to determining your pension plan benefit. You must review the personal information to determine the accuracy of the statement. All information must be accurate, as any mistakes will delay processing of your claim. In particular, you must review the page titled “Your Hours History”. We are aware of inaccuracies in the process of determining credited hours, which can affect your benefit. To receive a full year credit for each year, you must have achieved one thousand, eight hundred (1,800) hours worked. Overtime, vacation and sick leave are included in this calculation. If you detect errors in your personal information, or have reason to believe your work history accrual totals are inaccurate, you must respond no later than December 1, 2011. Included in the packet is a form for this purpose titled, “How to Correct Data”. Should you have any question, please contact us.

Mike Saltsman 321 794-3925

Lynn Beattie 321 289-5954

Lew Jamieson 321 446-7092

Open Your Hearts

In the coming weeks, we will be asking our members to “Open Up

Your Hearts” and donate one (1) hour’s pay to provide presents to

the children or our laid off members this upcoming Christmas.

In the past years, we have given generously to Brevard County

charities benefitting underprivileged children. We believe it is our

calling this year to help our laid off IAM members. Please give

generously to the children of our brothers and sisters.

Your Stewards or the Committee Members below will be accepting

your donations.

You may also donate to the “IAM Toy Drive” at any Kennedy

Space Center Credit Union.

For the flyer click here

Stewards please print a copy of the flyer and post it for the members in your shop(s) (please print it from home).

Job Fair November 8th, 9th, & 10th.

Time: 9:00a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

Date: November 8, 9, and 10

District 166 Union Hall

271 Taylor Ave.

Cape Canaveral, Florida

See the flyer here: Job Fair Flyer

Brevard Workforce, Lockheed, and Spirit Aerosystems will be onsite to meet with members.

Double Health USA will also be onsite to answer questions and help you with medical insurance options.

Service watches will be dispersed to members who have not yet received them.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday November 1st, 2011

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

271 Taylor Avenue

Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

Occupy Space Coast March starts at Brevard Veteran Memorial

The Occupy Wall Street Movement is coming to Brevard County

At least two events are planned for Saturday, a day when similar groups around the world are organizing marches and demonstrations in support of the Occupy Wall Street demonstration that started in Lower Manhattan a month ago.

Saturday morning, one group, Occupy Space Coast, is planning a march down State Road 520 from Merritt Square Mall to the Bank of America near the corner of SR 520 and Courtenay Parkway. The group expects to start marching at 11 a.m and stay in front of the bank until late afternoon.

A separate “Jobs not Cuts” rally is being organized for noon at Palm Bay City Hall on Malabar Road.

Come join us.

We will be on the north side of Merritt Square Mall at 10:30 a.m

"Occupy Wall Street is a leaderless resistance movement with people of many colors, genders and political persuasions. The one thing we all have in common is that We are the 99% that will no longer tolerate the greed and corruption of the 1%. We are using the revolutionary Arab Spring tactic to achieve our ends and encourage the use of nonviolence to maximize the safety of all participants".

LL 2061 Genreral Membership Meeting

The October meeting of Local Lodge 2061 will be Tuesday, October 4th. The meeting will begin at 4:30 p.m. at the IAMAW Union hall at 271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral.

USA Severance Recertification- DO NOT DELAY

All USA employees laid off July 22 must recertify for remaining eligible weeks by Friday, September 30. This recertification is for those weeks you are eligible following the initial 10 weeks. If you do not recertify by Friday, you will lose those weeks. DO NOT DELAY. Recertification directions (Salmon colored pages) are in the out-processing packet you received at the NSLD. Should you require any assistance or have any questions, contact me at 321 446-7092.

USA/IRS Letter

USA is required by federal regulations to keep all pension plan participants informed relative to the progress of plan termination. The recent letter from USA to pension plan participants regarding the filing with IRS for qualification determination of plan termination is an expected part of the process. USA is required to seek approval from the Pension Benefit Guarantee Corporation (PBGC is a federal government agency) and the IRS as part of the plan termination. This IRS letter was expected and hopefully indicates the process is closer to resolution.

Job Fair Monday

Human Resource representatives from the Trident Refit Facility in King's Bay, Georgia will be at the IAM&AW hall in Cape Canaveral on Monday, August 29th. The fair will begin at 12:30 p.m. The HR representatives will provide assistance in application and resume building for available jobs at the facility. There will also be representatives on hand to provide information on affordable health plans and mortgage alternatives. Brevard Workforce representatives will be present, as well.

Hate to say "We Told You So".

"Russia may fail to fulfill its obligations in delivering crews to the International Space Station after Wednesday's accident with Russia's Progress M-12M space freighter, a source in Russia's space industry said.

The space freighter fell in South Siberia's Altai Republic on Wednesday after failing to separate from the Soyuz-U carrier rocket, the first loss of the Progress freighter in the history of Russia’s space industry. A rocket engine failure is believed to have caused the accident.

"The scheduled launches of the [Soyuz] rockets are likely to be suspended because of the space freighter accident... until the reasons [of the accident] are established," the source said.

This means that members of the International Space Station's crew are likely to stay at the station longer than planned and that the new crew will not be able to replace them on schedule, he said.

After the retirement of the U.S. shuttle fleet earlier this summer, Russian Soyuz craft became the only way for astronauts to reach the ISS until at least the middle of the decade. NASA is paying its Russian counterpart Roscosmos more than $1 billion for crew transport services over the next four years."

http://en.rian.ru/russia/20110824/166122514.html

Hope our Politicians are paying close attention to the mess they created.

ISC Election Results

The members elected to serve as the Negotiations Committee are:

Murray Caldwell

Jay Shaw

Steve Ching

Jeff Estes

Phil McPherson

Negotiations Committee Elections

The election of a negotiations committee for members working under the ISC and IHA contracts will be conducted Tuesday, August 2. Polls will be open from 11:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. The voting will be conducted at the IAM&AW hall on Taylor Avenue in Cape Canaveral. The candidates in order of their appearance on the ballot are;

MeriBeth Chewuk

Jeff Estes

Jay Shaw

Matt Reasoner

Phil McPherson

Robert Atkinson

Murray Caldwell

Linda Donahoe

Steve Ching

James Kersey

We will be electing a committee of five (5).

Steward Election Set for Wednesday

The election for Stewards to serve after July 22 has been set for Wednesday, July 20. All IAM members employed by USA present at work on July 22 are eligible to vote. We will elect one Steward from GSS and one from Logistics The candidates are Stewards presently serving. The schedule is as follows;

0630 hrs. K6-1246 Utility Shops All Shops including Logistics and Pneumatics

0630 hrs. K7-0569 All Shops

0630 hrs. Heavy Equipment Area All Area Shops

0900 hrs. Logistics Warehouse All Personnel

0900 hrs. LES Shop All Shops including Logistics

1130 hrs. Crawler/Transporters All Personnel

1130 hrs. VAB All Shops including Logistics

1130 hrs. Generator Shop All Personnel

The stand-alone Logistics Service Centers, including the NSLD will be voted on a non-interference basis between 0700 hours and 1100 hours. Members will be required to vote in their base area. No travel to another voting location will be permitted unless specifically authorized by management. Should you have questions, contact Lew Jamieson at 446-7092.

Award Winning Documentary Film

The documentary film, " The 2nd Assassination of JFK " will be presented Wednesday evening in Titusville. The film tells the story of the end of our manned space flight program through the eyes of the people who sent us. The film received a Remi Award at the Houston Worldfest 2011. Watch the trailer at http://vimeo.com/19921809. The feature presentation will be;

Wednesday, July 6

7:00 P.M.

New Life Auditorium

6755 S. Washington Avenue

Titusville

There is no cost and the presentation is open to the public.

Festival for Florida's Future

Join Union activists this Saturday, June 4 for the festival. This is not a rally. There will be activities for the children, learning opportunities for the Union Activist, speakers and Union vendors. The festival will be open beginning at 10:00 a.m. and continue through 6:00 p.m. The location is Central Florida Fairgrounds at 4603 W. Colonial Drive, Orlando. Join the effort to return Florida to a state government that works for working citizens.

June 4th Fight For Florida Festival at the Central Florida Fairgrounds

"Instead of focusing on creating jobs and addressing high unemployment, Governor Scott and the Florida Legislature proved that they are out of touch with real Floridians, the families living paycheck to paycheck, the retirees surviving on meager state pensions, the unemployed searching for jobs that are not there and students working their way through college. The Festival will combine activism, education and music while serving as a kick-off for a sustained campaign to organize and mobilize working people from all backgrounds and walks-of-life to demand meaningful action by the state legislature and make a difference in the lives of all Floridians.

At the festival, attendees will participate in teach-ins to learn how they can fight for Florida. They will also participate in direct actions such as writing letters and recording video messages. They can register to vote in the upcoming elections in 2012. Noted speakers and live music will entertain families throughout the day. There will be a supervised play area for children, so busy parents can participate in the numerous activities. There will be a food court, educational booths, and various building trades will have their mobile demonstration units on hand to showcase their expertise."

Admission is free and there will be plenty of activities for the kids.

Bring your kids and let them enjoy the safe, supervised Kids’ Klub designed just for them while you learn how to Fight for Florida. Located near the Main Stage, the Kids’ Klub will feature 5 bounce houses, face painting, a roving balloon artist, an arts and crafts area and other super fun stuff. All children will be supervised by our friendly Klub Kounselors and upon check-in receive a wrist/ankle band with a unique number. In order to pick-up your child, you will have to have the matching band. This allows you to attend the various teaching opportunities without worry.

http://fightforflorida.com/

Flyer

Address:

4603 West Colonial Drive, Orlando, FL 32808-8158 (Central Florida Fairgrounds & Exposition Park)

View Larger Map

Services for KC Jones

Services for Ken Jones will be Thursday, May 5th at 7 P.M. at Halifax Memory Gardens and Funeral Home. The home is located at 4815 Clyde Morris Blvd. Port Orange. Telephone number is 386 322-5373. Our thoughts and prayers go out to KC's Family.

Linda Donahoe Wins Election

Linda Donahoe won the election for Secretary/Treasurer in Tuesday's election. Congratulations, Linda and Thank You to Tim Cooper and Michele Seely.

Secretary Treasurer Election May 3rd, 2001

Elections for the Secretary Treasurer will be held on May 3rd, 2011 (same day as the regular membership meeting). Polls open at 8AM and close at 6PM. The election will take place at the District 166 hall located at 271 Taylor Avenue Cape Canaveral, FL 32920.

Your vote will decide who the LL2061 S/T will be from this list of Nominees:

Tim Cooper

Linda Donahoe

Michele Seely

Brevard Workforce & Monster.com Jobseeker Event

Join Brevard Workforce and Monster.com for Let’s

Get to Work, a FREE, job seeker event to help

empower you and your job search. Put the

Monster to work for you with real-time tips and techniques

from Monster experts to energize your job

search and make you stand out in the crowd.

Brevard Workforce Moster.com Flyer.

Register Online at:

http://events.signup4.com/monsterApril28

Or see the Flyer for more information and options to register for the event.

Health Insurance Seminar

Health insurance professionals will be available for consultation Tuesday afternoon, April 12 beginning at 4 p.m. at the IAM Union hall, 271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral. This service is available to all IAM members who are looking for affordable health insurance after the loss of benefits due to layoff. If you think you may be affected by Shuttle fly-out displacement come see what options are available. None of us can risk losing what we have worked for by exposing ourselves to the risk of illness or injury. The advisors will be available Wednesday and Thursday afternoon, as well.

Brought to you by your;

LL 2061 Community Services Committee

This Friday! Protest John Tobia's anti-worker agenda

Florida House Rep. John Tobia of Melbourne is ignoring the needs of his constituents in favor of his own interests. He’s pushed bill after bill favoring corporations and big-money donors over the interests of everyday working Floridians.

Please come out in support of our Union brothers and sisters and all working Floridians in our community. Bring signs, banners and a friend. Let’s show Tobia just who he’s dealing with!

Where: 1905 South Harbor City Boulevard

When: Friday, April 8th, 2011 at 5:00 PM

Representative Tobia has filed HB 1425 which would decrease the minimum wage. He also supported the anti-union HB 1405 which forced state employees to pay 5% into their retirement. This is only the latest in what has been a long line of bad decisions Representative Tobia has made at the expense of working Floridians. This is our chance to let him know that we’re paying attention, and we VOTE!

Friday Rally at John Tobia's Office

Rally to be held at Tobia's office at 5PM Friday April 8th.

State Rep John Tobia District Office
1901 South Habor City Blvd. Suite 508
Melbourne Fla.32901

Health Insurance after KSC

Health insurance professionals will be at the IAM hall to provide assistance in finding affordable health insurance to fill the gap between KSC and our next employer. Those advising us are not insurance salesmen. They are former insurance professionals trained to match affordable insurance plans tailored to your family's needs. There are less expensive options to COBRA. These professionals will work one on one with you and your spouse to find a plan you can afford with the coverage you need. Don't risk losing everything you've worked for. Come, find how you can protect your family with an affordable health insurance plan.

Tuesday, April 12

Wednesday, April 13

Thursday, April 14

All sessions begin at 4 p.m.

Brought to you by your Community Services Committee. If you have questions, contact;

Meri Beth Chewuk IHA

Mike May USA

Karen Houston MET CON

Mike Saltsman USA

Jay Shaw YANG

Carson Yates USA

Murray Caldwell URS

Lew Jamieson USA

Protest Ritch Workman's attack on FRS

Ritch Workman's FRS "reform" bill HB 1405 is just the latest in a series of attacks on Florida state workers. His bill will add even more burden to public employees already straining under rising health care costs, pay freezes and furlough days.

This Friday, April 1st the AFL/CIO needs you to come out and

Protest Ritch Workman's attack on FRS.

Show Ritch Workman we care about our state employees and we won't stand by while Republicans in Tallahassee use them as a scape goat for their irresponsible budgeting!

WHEN:
Friday, April 1, 2011 5PM

WHERE:
Ritch Workman's District Office

33 Suntree Place
Melbourne, FL 32940-7602

CONTACT:
Space Coast AFL/CIO President
Claudie Pouncey
office(321)631-0110
fax (321)631-0103
spacecoastaflcio@bellsouth.net

Triangle Shirtwaist Fire 100 Years Later.

Rally Venue

Today's public sector rally is at the Wickham Pavilion. The pavilion can be accessed off of Wickham Road immediately south of the BCC Melbourne campus. Rally begins at 1 P.M.

Volunteers Needed/ Rally for Public Sector Employees

Rally for Public Sector Employees

Sunday, March 20

Wickham Park, Melbourne

1:00 P.M.

Volunteers needed to assist in setting up prior to the rally and help in cleaning up post rally.

Call Lew (321 446-7092) if you're interested in helping our Brothers and Sisters employed by the state, county and local cities.

Florida's governor and state legislator have declared war on the state's employees and the organizations that represent them. Let's show Tallahassee that we value our employees and will not sit idly by while they are stripped of collective bargaining rights, pensions and other benefits.

Let's show them Machinists care.

This Is What Democracy Looks Like

The day after Scott Walker's ceremonial signing of a bill stripping collective bargaining rights from Wisconsin's public employees, tens of thousands of protestors once again filled the Capitol Square Saturday. "Kill the bill" was no longer heard, but a new chant rose to take its place: "What's the word? Kloppenburg!"

Although they lost a battle in the legislature, pro-union protestors have pledged to win the middle class war. Their newest slogans centered around this goal, urging protesters to recall the eight eligible Senate Republicans, and to vote JoAnne Kloppenburg to the Wisconsin Supreme Court.

To that end, clipboard-wielding activists commandeered a Carroll Street bus shelter, urging protestors parading past to sign (if they hadn't already) their senator's recall petition. "Vote for Kloppenburg" signs suddenly became a ubiquitous fixture of the protest landscape.

Overall, the rally looked to be the biggest yet, with Madison police estimating a crowd size of 85,000-100,000.

www.thedailypage.com

Thunderous Sound.......The Death Of Democracy

Visit msnbc.com for breaking news, world news, and news about the economy

Awake The State Rally Results

300+ people showed up at the Awake The State rally this afternoon. LL2061 had a strong showing at the rally along with several other local unions. The message was strong and clear, stop attacking workers or pay the price come election day.

There is going to be a follow-up rally on Sunday March 20th, 2011 at Wickham Park in Melbourne. Rally start time will be 1PM but we will meet up prior to rally start.More information for the 20th will be posted in coming days.

For those who attended the rally today, THANKS for coming and if you missed the texting information it is as follows:

Text to 407-710-7258 message BRE (all caps).

Also, don't forget Daylight Savings Time starts on March 13th. Remember to reset your clocks and change the timers on your lawn sprinklers.

AWAKE THE STATE

Machinists will assemble in the south parking lot of Moore Justice Center (Viera Branch Courthouse) at 4:30 p.m. We will march across the street to school district headquarters with out Local banner. Let's support Florida's public sector workers with a good showing.

Brevard Awake The State Rally March 8th 2011

Awake The State is a series of local rallies taking place throughout Florida on March 8th opposing budget cuts Floridians simply can't afford.

Awake The State Website

Brevard's "Awake The State" event will be held Tuesday, March 8th to coincide with the opening of the Florida Legislative Session @ the School Board Headquaters, located at 2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way, Viera, FL 32940.

We will gather together at 4:30pm with the Rally and Speakers beginning at 5:00pm. Invited Speakers include Teachers, City Council Members, Mayors, Union Leaders and Members, Parents, Disability Advocates, Elderly Advocates, and ALL of those members of the Affected Communities!

Please remember that this is an event to wake up our STATE Legislators so that they will do the PEOPLE'S work in Tallahassee this session. We are asking everyone to make their protest signs relevant to what is being affected by the actions of those creating the laws in Tallahassee! It's time for US to let our Legislators know, once and for all, that WE are the ULTIMATE Bosses and WE WILL "AWAKE THE STATE"!

Event Location

Brevard County Public Schools
2700 Judge Fran Jamieson Way
Viera, FL 32940

Please attend the event with your family and friends as we need a loud voice to be heard!

Regular Membership Meeting, Secretary Treasurer Nominations March 1st 2011

Regular membership meeting Tuesday March 1st 2011 at the District Hall. During the meeting, nominations will be held for the Secretary Treasurer, that represents LL2061.

Meeting starts at 4:30PM with a stewards meeting to be held directly after the regular membership meeting.

Address:
271 Taylor Avenue
Cape Canaveral, FL 32920-3025

Secretary Treasurer Election

Nominations for the office of Secretary Treasurer for LL 2061 were noticed and conducted at the February 1st membership meeting. After reviewing the IAM&AW Constitution, I determined the process followed was not in accordance with the prescribed timeline contained in the Constitution. Consequently, I have ruled the February nominations null and void. Nominations will now be held during the March 1st meeting with the election scheduled for May 3rd. Members will be notified by USPS mailing of the new timeline accompanied by a request for an absentee ballot for those members who qualify. Please, carefully read the qualifications for voting by absentee ballot to make certain you qualify. Also, note the deadline for return of the request.

I regret any inconvenience incurred by prospective candidates and the membership as a result of this decision. I urge all Local Lodge 2061 members to vote in this critical election.

Lew Jamieson, President

IAM&AW LL 2061

Brevard Workforce Aerospace Workforce Transition Program

You MUST register for the AWT program prior to lay-off (forced or self-nominated) in order to receive services from the AWT!

The Aerospace Workforce Transition Program provides programs and services to help aerospace workers transition smoothly from Space Shuttle/Constellation jobs to new employment both inside and outside of aerospace. Our mission is to help workers begin now to make a plan for their post-shuttle career by providing skills assessment, resume support, workshops, educational resources, career planning, training and support resources.

www.launchnewcareers.com/

As instructions on Brevard Workforce's website, you must ALSO register with:

http://www.employflorida.com/

If you are having trouble using either websites to register or need hands-on assistance for any reason, call 321-394-0556. They will be happy to assist you in registering or with questions concerning AWT programs.

Brevard Workforce also has a mobile van where you can go for assistance. Here is the schedule for February:

Brevard Workforce Express

February Schedule

Feb 2: Special Event No Public Access
Feb 3: 9am-3:30pm NSLD
Feb 9: 8am-3:30pm Logistics
Feb 10: 8am-3:30pm OPF
Feb 16: 9am-3:30pm NSLD
Feb 17: 8am-3:30pm USA- Titusville
Feb 23: 8am-3:30pm Logistics
Feb 24: 8am-3:30pm OPF

They also have several offices in Brevard County and at locations onsite at KSC(By appointment NASA Headquarters Building Room 1474).

Remember, visits to AWT offices or mobile locations are on the employees own personal time. This also includes registering online, which must also be done on the employees own personal time.

Don't sit idle on the sideline thinking you will not need services, be proactive in protecting your own future. Brevard Workforce's AWT program can only help you if you seek help before lay-off. With the end of the Shuttle program, none of us should feel our job(s) are secure. Assume you need assistance and REGISTER now.

Brevard Workforce Resume & Interviewing Help Class

Brevard Workforce Flyer

Brevard Workforce is having a class on February 2nd in Titusville to help you hone your resume and interviewing skills. Seating is limited and registration is required to attend the event. The attached link has the information required to contact Brevard Workforce to register for the event.

I.A.M NATIONAL 401(K) PLAN USA Participants

This post concerns only members who signed up for the optional I.A.M. National 401(k) plan , not the standard USA/Vanguard 401(k) plan.

As per the collective barganing agreement, USA has terminated participation in our optional I.A.M National 401(k) plan. Currently, Prudential Retirement is the plan administrator. You may contact them at 1-877-778-2100 reguarding your account.

At this time Prudential is still showing the accounts as active as they have not been updated on the status of USA's servicing termination. Information I received via phone by customer service, was that as long as I am employed by USA, the money cannot be rolled or cashed out. The agent informed me when the status changed from "Active-Eligible for Ctbs" to "terminated" I could then move the funds. They also did not know if or when the status will change since USA has not notified them of any changes in plan participation. If you are a participant in the optional 401(k) plan be sure Prudential has your current address and contact information, which you can update on their website.

www.retirement.prudential.com

Future updates will be posted here on the blog as the information becomes available.

Extreme Makeover: Home Edition

A local family has been chosen to receive a new house via Extreme Makeover: Home Edition (ABC Network). They are looking for skilled volunteers to help build the house.

http://www.extrememakeoverspacecoast.com/get-involved/

In order for the build to be a success we need a few things: time, heart, and supplies. This is a community effort, and Extreme Makeover: Home Edition and LifeStyle Homes know that we can’t do this without the great people of the Space Coast. There are many ways to get involved with this project, just look below.

Our Local is full of members with the exact skills they are looking for and this is a nice way to give back to our community by volunteering to help. In the link above there is a sign-up form for skilled and unskilled workers to sign up to help. The shifts appear to be 6 hours long with multiple start times and days to conform to most every schedule.

Financial Secretary Murray Hill Resigns

Brother Murray Hill, longtime Local Lodge 2061 Financial Secretary has submitted his resignation effective January 1, 2011. Murray has accepted a position with the IAM&AW as a Grand Lodge Auditor responsible for Locals and Districts in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina. Murray's departure leaves a large void in the Local. For years, Murray has been the heart beat of this organization, attending to local business while often times assuming responsibility for numerous other duties. Murray has set the standard for IAM&AW F/S's and it will be difficult to replace him in the near term.

The Local By-Laws state in event of a vacancy in office, the President may appoint a replacement until such time as an election can be held - typically not to exceed three (3) months. Consequently I will make that appointment in the near future. Per the By-Laws, the election will be duly noticed at the January 4th membership meeting followed by nominations at the February 1st meeting with an election, if required, March 1st. If you are interested in being considered for the appointment, please contact me (321 446-7092).

In closing, I wish to thank Murray for his service, unselfish commitment and friendship. Your wisdom and advice will be sorely missed, Brother. We all wish you well in your new career.

Lew

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday December 7th

Monthly Membership Meeting for LL2061. Meeting starts at 4:30PM for members, with a Steward meeting directly after the membership meeting ends.
When Tue Dec 7 4:30pm
Where 271 Taylor Ave. Cape Canaveral, FL 32920

Last Financial Seminar

The final in a series of financial seminars will be held Monday afternoon beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the IAM Hall, 271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral.

Financial Seminar Cancelled

The financial seminar scheduled for this afternoon has been cancelled. See you on December 6th.

Financial Seminar

Monday, November 28

4:30 p.m.

IAM&AW Hall

271 Taylor Avenue, Cape Canaveral

Open to ALL Brevard IAM members

Representatives from VALIC Financial Services

Financial Seminars Opportunity

Representatives of VALIC Financial Services will be at the hall Monday afternoon beginning at 4:30 p.m. VALIC is experienced in dealing with Union members and presently advises ten of thousands of members on their financial needs. The VALIC team includes Linda Higgins, daughter of Doug Higgins of the ISC Carpenter shop. The team offers valuable advice on pension planning, 401K rules and taxation law. This is one of the final seminars to be offered to our membership.

Final Financial Seminar

The third and final seminar presented by associates of Raymond James will be Monday, October 18th beginning at 4:30 p.m. at the hall in Cape Canaveral. Learn how you can maximize your pension disbursement and 401K investments at no cost to you.

Financial Seminar-Monday

Representatives from the Massey-Romans Wealth Management Team of Raymond James and Associates will present an informational seminar Monday, October 11th beginning at 4:30 pm at the IAM Hall in Cape Canaveral. Learn asset management of your 401K and ways to maximize your pension monies. The team will be scheduling home visits to review your present financial situation and advise how to set a course for a secure financial future. Don't miss this exceptional opportunity. Questions? Call Lew 446-7092,

Regular Membership Meeting October 5th 2010

Regular Membership Meeting at the District Hall, Tuesday October 5th 2010.
Meeting starts at 4:30PM.

Joe Lucas Passes Away

Brother Joe Lucas passed away Saturday evening. Services for Joe will be held Wednesday, September 29th at Grace United Methodist Church of Merritt Island, 65 Needle Boulevard. Viewing from 2:30 pm - 3:30 pm with services beginning at 3:30. There will be a Celebration of Life BBQ at Kiwanis Park on Kiwanis Island beginning at 5:00 pm. Our prayers go out to Donna and the family.

Volunteers Needed

We need members who are willing to travel to Tampa this Saturday. We are rallying to support IAM&AW members at MacDill Air Force Base. The company is attempting to strip seniority from a custodial group the IAM represents at the base. The District will provide transportation to the rally. Call Lew (321 446-7092) or Johnny Walker (321 783-2431) if you're willing to support our sisters and brothers in Tampa.

Space Coast AFL-CIO Labor 2010

Phone Banking

Every Tuesday and Thursday

4:30 - 7:00 PM

Space Coast AFL-CIO Office

1122 Lake Drive, Cocoa

Door to Door Walk for Endorsed Candidates

Saturday, September 25th

10:30 AM

830 N. Wickham Road Suite 9, Melbourne

We need members and family to volunteer time for candidates who have committed to helping working families.

Call 321 631-0110

USA Machinists Ratify Contract

IAM&AW Local Lodge 2061 members employed by United Space Alliance ratified a three year contract, Saturday.

Graves/Reid Family Benefit

Parking lot between the Catfish Cabin & Louis's Bar-B-Que Shack, Mims

Saturday, August 28th

8am to 2pm

Pulled Pork Sandwiches, hamburgers, hot dogs, baked beans, cole slaw, lemonade & sweet tea

Bake sale and Raffle

This family lost its' home and an 18 month old child in a fire

Contact: George Newman 321 863-9183

IAM / USA Contract Ratification Vote

Saturday, August 28th

Moose Lodge, Merritt Island

SR 3 near the Barge Canal

Start at 9:00 am

Please arrive early so we can be signed in and seated by 9:00

Google Map to Moose Lodge

IAM / USA Negotiations / Thursday

The Union and company met again today with discussion focusing on economic proposals. We have made no progress on those issues you told us were important to you. Barring some discovery of conscience by the company, the Union's committee does not anticipate any movement on the key issues. It's quite likely we will be voting on the most regressive, concessionary contract ever offered by any company in the history of KSC. Lest you think it's just Union members that this company is abandoning- be aware-this company is imposing these same unconscionable economics on all their employees. So much for loyalty.

Undoubtably, the issue that has aroused the most concern among our members is the termination of the pension plan. We have heard rumors ranging from payout of pennies on the dollar to no payout at all. We are told that our pension monies are reasonably protected. Payout will be determined by actuarial reviews done on the plan's benefit worth conducted by an independent firm. If necessary, the Union has the right to challenge those findings. It is our understanding that the annuity option typically results in benefits paid close to the level that would have been paid had the plan not terminated. The lump sum payout is less certain but we understand there is not a great loss with this option, either. There are no guarantees but this is the best estimation at this time.

The negotiating committee recognizes how difficult this period has been for our members. We assure you, we will endeavor to improve the company's final offer.

Negotiations Continue

The Union and company negotiating committees met again today and continued to work through economic proposals. There has been absolutely no movement from the company on the issues most important to our members. The company's proposals related to Retirement Plan termination, employee health care contributions, levels of health care coverage, sick leave policy, no raise in the first year and reduction of holidays remain unchanged. They have shown no willingness to bargain these proposals. Wednesday's adjournment left the two sides very far apart. We will meet again Thursday morning.

IAM / USA Negotiations

The parties met today, continuing discussion of economic proposals. We are still far apart on most significant issues. We will meet again tomorrow morning as we work toward the scheduled Friday conclusion.

Bob Hibdon Passes Away

Brother Bob Hibdon, long time member of Local Lodge 2061 passed away today. Bob was a Machinist in the LES prior to his retirement. Our prayers are with Jimmy and all the Hibdon family.

IAM / USA Exchange Economic Proposals

The Union and company exchanged economic proposals today. Your negotiating committee submitted a wide-ranging package which we felt was a basis to begin reasonable discussion and best reflected the needs you had expressed in the contract surveys. The company responded with the most regressive, concessionary contract proposal ever in this Union's history at KSC. We felt you should have some idea of what was proposed by the company. The following is not all of the company's demands but is representative of their economic proposal;

No raise in the first year

No participation in EIP Plan

Termination of the Retirement Plan (choice of annuity or lump sum payout option)

Termination of the IAM National Pension Fund 401K Plan

Termination of company participation in the IAM Dental Plan

Reduction in the basic life insurance

Elimination of $105.00 per week short term disability Basic Core Plan

Dramatic increases in employee contribution to health care plan (USASO levels)

Decreases in level of coverage in medical care plan (USASO levels)

Reduction in annual holidays (elimination of Christmas Break)

Reduction in annual sick days (USASO levels)

No recall rights for those requesting a voluntary layoff

Consolidation of Machinist, Sheet Metal and Welder classifications

Your negotiating committee will continue to review the company's proposals and determine an appropriate response.

Conclusion of First Week of Negotiations

The IAM & USA negotiating teams concluded the first week of talks with both sides having some non-economic issues still to be resolved. The parties will meet again Monday morning and move into the economic portion of the contract. The Union is committed to finalizing an agreement to bring for a vote of the membership on Saturday, August 28th. Enjoy your weekend.

Your Negotiating Team

IAM / USA Contract Ratification Vote

The contract ratification vote for members working for USA is scheduled for Saturday, August 28th. It will be held at the Merritt Island Moose Lodge located on North Courtney Parkway (SR3) near the Barge Canal. The contract presentation will begin at 9:00 am. Please plan on arriving early so everyone can get signed in and seated by 9:00.

IAM / USA Negotiations Day 4

Local Lodge 2061 and USA negotiators met again today. Significant progress was made on non-economic issues. The two sides will continue to negotiate as we work toward a scheduled conclusion of negotiations on Friday, August 27th.

IAM / USA Negotiations Day 3

Representatives of Local Lodge 2061 and United Space Alliance met for the third consecutive day. The two sides continue to progress through non-economic proposals as they work toward a scheduled Friday conclusion to non-economic issues. They will reconvene Thursday morning.

IAM / USA Negotiations Day 2

Representatives from Local Lodge 2061 and USA met again today. Discussion continued on non-economic proposals. The two sides will meet again Wednesday.

IAM/USA Begin Contract Negotiations

Representatives from the IAM&AW and United Space Alliance opened contract negotiations today. The Union and Company established the ground rules for talks and exchanged initial non-economic proposals. The two sides will resume discussions on Tuesday.

Brother Rick Thompson Passes

Ricky Thompson passed away Saturday afternoon. Our prayers are with Sue and the Family. Details will be posted when they become available.

USA-IAM Member Strike Sanction Vote Results

Today the membership has shown strong solidarity for the Negotiating Comittee's goal of securing a fair and equitable contact. The Negotiating Committee would like to thank the membership for their overwhelming support during the sanction vote. Negotiations are scheduled to start August 16th, more information will be posted here in the coming weeks.

Regular Membership Meeting Tuesday August 3rd.

Regular membership meeting tonight at 4:30PM at the District Hall. Hope to see you there.

USA-IAM Member Strike Sanction Vote

The strike sanction vote for members employed by United Space Alliance will be conducted Tuesday, August 3 at the hall. This vote is required by the IAM Constitution prior to commencement of negotiations. The polls will be open from 8am until 6pm.

Phone Banking For The 2010 Labor Campaign

Brother Robert Livingston is asking for assistance from the membership with working a phone bank at the Space Coast CLC.
The first phone bank will be held on July 28th at the Space Coast CLC, 1122 Lake drive, Cocoa, FL. They will also be holding phone bank sessions every Wednesday and Thursday thru late August. If you can help, please contact Robert Livingston .

Memorial Service For Brother Robert Hemric

Brother Rob Hemric passed away last night after a long illness. Rob worked as a Mechanic on the Crawler Transporter Crew at Kennedy Space Center. There is a memorial service being held for him on Saturday, at the Elks Lodge in Titusville. Address is 2955 Columbia Blvd. Titusville, FL.

Service starts at 2:00 PM.

Space Coast AFL-CIO Labor Kick Off

With election season in full swing, the Space Coast AFL-CIO is prepared to do it's part in fighting off the corporate assault on workers and their jobs.

The Space Coast AFL-CIO will be having their Labor 2010 Kick Off Training on July 15th, the same night as the normal CLC meeting (CLC meets at normal time). Starts at 5PM at the Space Coast AFL-CIO hall, located at 1122 Lake Drive Cocoa, Florida.

The training will focus on the AFL-CIO jobs campaign, the state political plan, election laws, and mobilization tactics. The meeting is for both leaders, local union coordinators, and regular union members that are interested in being a part of Labor's political plan.

Please RSVP with either Claudie Pouncey or Robert Livingston

Local 2061 to Honor Tom McLeod

Local Lodge 2061 will honor our former President, Tom McLeod at the May 4th meeting. Tom will be honored with a plaque to be added to the "Wall of Fame" at the Machinists hall in Cape Canaveral. Membership meeting starts at 4:30 pm. The Executive Board meets at 2:20 pm.

Houston We Have A Message

HOUSTON, April 25, 2010 - The International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers (IAM) held a rally today at the Hilton Americas-Houston Hotel and urged hundreds of supporters of the U.S. manned space program to send a message that could be heard all the way back in Washington, D.C.

“It’s time to let Congress know that American astronauts deserve better than a heavily outsourced space program that relies on Russian, Japanese and even Chinese contractors to provide transportation to the International Space Station (ISS),” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger. “If NASA and the Obama administration have their way, American astronauts will be reduced to hitchhiking to the ISS.”

Speaker after speaker called on President Obama to reconsider his plans to terminate the Constellation program and commercialize the shuttle program. More than 20,000 direct and indirect jobs in Texas, Florida and other states are associated with the two programs.

While the president’s space budget allocates an extra $6 billion for NASA over the next six years, thousands of highly-skilled jobs would be eliminated as the agency turned to private contractors to develop launch rockets and crew capsules.

“Do we really want to risk our astronauts’ safety on equipment and technology developed by for-profit companies with unproven track records in safety and reliability?” asked Buffenbarger. “The manned space program in the United States has been the pride of the nation and the envy of the world for more than 50 years. It has more than earned our continued support."

Vision4Space

http://vision4space.net/

"Vison4Space brings not only space workers across the nation together, but those who share the dream of JFK, who know we must continue our destiny in space. We want to build a groundswell of support that will be heard in the Halls of Congress. We want to save our proud American space program. Join our Facebook group, follow us on twitter and help our Vison4Space grow."

Save Space Community Rally

We still need volunteers to work the rally. No one will be stuck outside during the rally. Once the rally begins we will all move inside. Call me if you can help. (321 446-7092).

Lew

Kosmas added to 'Save Space' rally

As per www.floridatoday.com :

Rep. Suzanne Kosmas has been added to the roster of speakers for Sunday's "Save Space" community rally at the Cocoa Expo Sports Center.

The rally is designed to emphasize that human space exploration should be the critical aspect of NASA policy.

Brevard County Commissioner Robin Fisher, who is the primary organizer of the free event, said both NASA and the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex have expressed support for the community rally, and will be providing educational displays.

Kosmas will join U.S. Sen. George LeMieux, U.S. Rep. Bill Posey, Florida Lt. Gov. Jeff Kottkamp, Florida Sen. Mike Haridopolos, Brevard County School Board member Robert Jordan, Fisher and astronauts Jon McBride, Winston Scott and Bob Springer as speakers.

BBC Report on the End of Shuttle

Could Not Say It Better

SAVE SPACE RALLY

Local Lodge 2061 is a sponsor for a rally to be held April, 11th at Cocoa Expo. Many community organizations, businesses, faith based groups, unions, Florida Today and Brevard County are sponsoring, as well. Congressman Bill Posey has confirmed as a speaker. We have requested Congresswoman Suzanne Kosmas, Lt. Governor Jeff Kottkamp and retired astronauts to speak also. The gates are tentatively scheduled to open at 3:00 pm with the program starting at 4:00 pm. There will be music and attractions for the children. Once again, I am asking those members interested in saving their jobs to volunteer as marshals and other logistical duties. We are hopeful we can build on the momentum of the February 27th rally and gain congressional support for the continuation of human space flight at Kennedy Space Center. Please, call me if you are interested in helping.

Lew

321 446-7092

Tell Congress To Support The Continuation of NASA's Manned Space Program

President Barack Obama's proposed budget promises to send thousands of U.S. space workers to a new frontier: the unemployment line.

The president is proposing to shut down NASA's Constellation program and contract the work to private companies. Constellation's mission is to return man to the Moon, and ultimately Mars. The budget provision, if passed, could mean the loss of tens of thousands of jobs across the country and an end to our nation's role as the leader in space technology and exploration.

Tell Congress to vote yes for the continuation of NASA's manned space program and to protect American jobs.

CLICK HERE TO EMAIL CONGRESS!

Faces of the Space Coast

NASA Workers Rally for Jobs

Nearly 2,000 Space Coast workers, family members and community activists gathered near the Kennedy Space Center in Titusville, Florida, to hear labor leaders call for an end to government plans to outsource critical NASA programs, including include lunar landers, moon bases and the manned shuttle program.

Concern is widespread that President Obama’s proposal to pull the plug on funding for the Constellation and Shuttle programs could cost an estimated 9,000 space jobs. Another 20,000 jobs could be affected as the ripple effect moved across Brevard County, where unemployment is already at 12.1 percent.

“Ending these programs will shatter many vibrant communities here in Florida and across America,” said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez (pictured at right). “Thirty thousand or more jobs are at risk – these people are the greatest in the world at what they do – what a loss this would be for our nation.”

“This is no time to tear out the foundation of this community,” declared AFL-CIO President Rich Trumka. “At a time when so many Florida breadwinners are out of work or working part-time, when over half a million in Florida have lost their homes, does it really make sense to pile on more misery?”

Calling the Shuttle shutdown and the Constellation cancellation an "economic meltdown of epic proportions," a state union leader warned that the effects would be felt across Florida. “The ripples from this thing are going to hit everybody,” said Rich Templin, AFL-CIO state spokesman.


http://www.goiam.org/index.php/imail/latest/6933-nasa-workers-rally-for-jobs

March Regular Membership Meeting

Tue, March 2, 4:30pm – 5:30pm

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.

News Reports From Rally

Video footage from WESH Channel 2 of the SOS Rally.

http://www.wesh.com/video/22694601/index.html

Footage from WFTV Channel 9

http://www.wftv.com/video/22693849/index.html

Footage from Channel 13

http://cfnews13.com/MediaPlayer2/MediaPlayer.htm?video=spacerally_022720100837&cat=Space&title=Space Program Rally

Rally for Space "Jobs Worth Fighting For"

Tomorrow is the day. The rally site is ready and the rally will go on rain or shine. The speakers are in town. Bring your chairs and tents. The event begins at 3 pm. We still need a portable generator and tents. Call if you have one available. See you tomorrow.

Lew

Rally Volunteers Meeting

Rally Volunteers are asked to meet at 12:00PM tomorrow for instructions and task assignments. The meeting will take place at the stage, that is setup for the rally behind BCC in the Chain of Lakes Park. If you have not volunteered, you still can do so by contacting Lew and/or show up at 12:00PM for the meeting.

Rally Flyer

Making Rally flyer available to download for anyone who wishes to print and post them. We ask you to use color printing if possible for copies.

RALLY FLYER

If you can not open/view the file, please visit Microsoft at http://www.microsoft.com/downloads/details.aspx?FamilyID=3657ce88-7cfa-457a-9aec-f4f827f20cac&displaylang=en for a free Microsoft Word Viewer (requires approx 25MB download and then program installation)

T-4 to launch of SOS Rally

There are just four days to the rally which some are predicting could be the largest one day rally in the history of Brevard County. We have been joined by hundreds of businesses and community groups throughout Brevard in forming a formidable group of community activists. Our message is clear-maintain America's presence and leadership in human space flight. We protest against no one. Our purpose is to persuade Congress to return sufficient funding to the 2010 NASA budget enabling America to continue to have a full time human presence in space. We need your help. Every member of the Machinists Union has a stake in the success of this rally. An effort of this magnitude requires not just your participation but your help, as well. We are still in need of volunteers to serve as marshals and in other supporting roles. I ask you again; please call and volunteer to help. Your job may well depend on it.

Lew

321 446-7092

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/

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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