Health Insurance - It will take 7 to 10 days for our insurance to take effect. New insurance cards will be issued by the insurance company. In the meantime if you need to visit a Doctor or fill a prescription you can keep the receipts and turn them into the insurance company for reimbursement. Or visit with your Doctor about waiting to turn in the bill till the insurance takes effect. Visit with the pharmacy about working with you also.
Returning Back To Work - You do not have to call in to let the company know that you won't be in that day as long as you return by Friday. As long as you return by Friday you will also get paid for the Labor Day Holiday.
Strike Benefit Pay Checks - Will be available for pickup Tuesday September 2nd between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. at the District 3830 S. Meridian.
Friday, August 29, 2008
THE RESULTS ARE IN
With 77% of the members that voted from LL2328 and LL733 voting in favor or accepting the latest contract off from Hawker Beechcraft. You can put your walking shoes away and enjoy your Union Negotiated Labor Day Weekend. We'll see you at work next week.
Congratulations to our Members!!! You made the difference.
Congratulations to our Members!!! You made the difference.
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
STRIKE BENEFIT CHECKS
Can be picked up Tuesday September 2nd, 2008 from 8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m. at the District 3830 S. Meridian.
Tuesday, August 26, 2008
CONTRACT PROPOSAL
Click Here for a copy of the contract proposal that we will be voting on this Thursday 8/28/08 at the Kansas Coliseum.
BC/BS Summary of Benefits
Preferred Health Summary of Benefits
Contract Vote Eligibility
Contract Ratification Vote
Thursday August 28th, 2008 at the Kansas Coliseum in the main building. Doors will open at 9:00 am. Reading of the new proposal begins at 10:00 am. Polls will stay open till 2:00 pm. Make sure to contact our members to let them know about today's developments so that they will know what is going on.
Monday, August 25, 2008
FROM YOUR NEGOTIATING COMMITTEE
Brothers and Sisters,
After a long three days working with the Federal Mediator, and a lot of tough negotiating, last night after midnight, we came to a tentative agreement with Hawker Beechcraft, pending your ratification.
After 21 days of striking, we have gained important and substantial improvements over the company’s Last, Best and Final Offer we rejected. Your Negotiating Committee is recommending the contract.
Although you never get everything you want, you should be very proud of the improvements you have won.
- The largest improvement is that the employee share of health care premiums, including vision and dental, has been frozen at current costs for the life of the three-year agreement.
- Our pension was increased to seven dollars, front-loaded and available January 1, 2009.
- No-takeaway ETO for new hires. New-hire ETO will be the same as current employees. And all ETO can be used in one hour increments.
- Overtime – For those on the 3/12 and 4/10 workweeks, the seventh day overtime is voluntary.
- Material Handlers / Expediters will not be downgraded.
- Health insurance will be restored on Friday 8/29/08 if the contract is ratified.
We will be giving a complete contract proposal as soon as they are printed. With the frozen health care costs, your four percent raises are true raises.
Tentatively, we will be voting the contract on Thursday, in order to allow those who have left town to return and vote. If the contract is ratified, we will return to work next Tuesday, and if you return next week, you will be paid for the Labor Day Holiday. Also, you will receive your last strike check next week, for a total of two checks.
Probationary employees who honored the picket lines will be reinstated, and suffer no retaliation. All probationary employees will have their probation extended the amount of days we were on strike.
As we said, we walked out together, and we all return together, with our heads held high. Our solidarity made all the difference in the world, for a successful strike.
In Solidarity,
Your Negotiating Committee
Thursday, August 21, 2008
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
IAM Statement
IAM Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge today received a phone call from the Federal Mediator that has been involved in the negotiations between Hawker Beechcraft and the Machinists Union. The Mediator has requested both the IAM Local Lodge 733 and 2328 negotiators and Hawker Beechcraft negotiators in
“The IAM is ready and willing to meet with the Federal Mediator at any time,” said Mr. Eldridge. “On behalf of the IAM Negotiators, I have accepted his request.”
Beginning the Healing Process
When: Thursday, August 21, 2008, 3 PM
Where: Byrd Building, 520 Byrd Street
We will be gathering to share stories in memory of Jeff, and to discuss the tragedy of Monday morning. We are all dealing with the stress and emotions arising from this traumatic incident. This will help cope with the emotions, and deal with and recover from the tragedy’s aftereffects.
Union EAP (Employee Assistance Professionals) will be available to assist with grief counseling. Also, ongoing one-on-one appointments with trained and certified counselors will be available, under the guidance of IAM Community Services Director Maria Cordone from IAM headquarters.
The Union family sticks together, and we grieve together. Be sure to attend, refreshments will be provided.
Attending the services
Services for Jeffrey Hart Thursday are being held at Countryside Christian Church on South Rock Road. The parking may not be ample enough for everyone planning to attend. We're asking everyone to consider forming some car pools on your own, to attend the services. You can use Strike Headquarters if you wish to car pool from.
Please dress appropriately for funeral services. Red strike t-shirts are not appropriate.
Please dress appropriately for funeral services. Red strike t-shirts are not appropriate.
Tuesday, August 19, 2008
Attention: Brothers and Sisters
Local Lodge 733 is asking our brothers and sisters represented by District 70 to help their members so that they can attend Brother Jeff Harts Funeral this Thursday August 21, 2008. View the flyer and if you can help please call Strike Headquarters at 681-1905.
Today's Imail
From today's Imail, the IAM electronic newsletter:
Wichita Striker Killed in Auto Accident
Public services and private remembrances are taking place in Wichita this week for Jeff Hart, a 45-year old father of two who died shortly after being struck by a vehicle early on Monday morning. A member of Local 733, Hart was on his way to join fellow Hawker Beechcraft workers for a rally in support of the strike at HBC.
Hart was crossing the street in front of IAM Strike Headquarters when the accident occurred. Several IAM members, including Mark Huckabee, Joe Cook and his wife Brenda, a registered nurse, provided first aid and performed CPR until police arrived. Unfortunately, Jeff was pronounced dead a short while later.
"Every IAM member is touched and sorrowed by news of this tragedy," said IP Tom Buffenbarger. "Jeff was up before dawn, volunteering his time for his fellow Machinists when he died. I can think of no better way to remember him."
The planned rally and other strike-related activities were cancelled as IAM members in Wichita, who are entering their third week of a strike against Hawker Beechcraft, held prayer vigils and quietly remembered their fallen brother. "The IAM really is a family and at times like this we grieve just as a family would," said Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge, who is coordinating the strike at Hawker Beechcraft. "We are shocked by the sudden and tragic loss of this good man and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Hart, who recently returned to work after open heart surgery, is survived by two children, Rebecca Westerfield and Jared Hart. A memorial fund will be established to provide educational assistance for both children.
"We will mourn, but we will also carry on with the work that Jeff so clearly believed in," said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. "Our resolve to win a fair contract that respects our members and the work they do is stronger than ever."
Wichita Striker Killed in Auto Accident
Public services and private remembrances are taking place in Wichita this week for Jeff Hart, a 45-year old father of two who died shortly after being struck by a vehicle early on Monday morning. A member of Local 733, Hart was on his way to join fellow Hawker Beechcraft workers for a rally in support of the strike at HBC.
Hart was crossing the street in front of IAM Strike Headquarters when the accident occurred. Several IAM members, including Mark Huckabee, Joe Cook and his wife Brenda, a registered nurse, provided first aid and performed CPR until police arrived. Unfortunately, Jeff was pronounced dead a short while later.
"Every IAM member is touched and sorrowed by news of this tragedy," said IP Tom Buffenbarger. "Jeff was up before dawn, volunteering his time for his fellow Machinists when he died. I can think of no better way to remember him."
The planned rally and other strike-related activities were cancelled as IAM members in Wichita, who are entering their third week of a strike against Hawker Beechcraft, held prayer vigils and quietly remembered their fallen brother. "The IAM really is a family and at times like this we grieve just as a family would," said Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge, who is coordinating the strike at Hawker Beechcraft. "We are shocked by the sudden and tragic loss of this good man and our thoughts and prayers go out to his family."
Hart, who recently returned to work after open heart surgery, is survived by two children, Rebecca Westerfield and Jared Hart. A memorial fund will be established to provide educational assistance for both children.
"We will mourn, but we will also carry on with the work that Jeff so clearly believed in," said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. "Our resolve to win a fair contract that respects our members and the work they do is stronger than ever."
Guest Book at Kansas.com
The Wichita Eagle has set up an online Condolences Book on their website. You can get to it on the strike page on Kansas.com. Please visit and express your words of support to Brother Hart's children and family.
It's a pretty classy thing for the Eagle to do.
It's a pretty classy thing for the Eagle to do.
Monday, August 18, 2008
Services for Jeffrey R. Hart
A Celebration of Life Services for Jeff Hart will be 1:00 p.m. Thursday, at Countryside Christian Church, 1919 S. Rock Road, Wichita, KS.
Jeffrey R. Hart, (May 22, 1963 - August 18, 2008)
Hart, Jeffrey R., age 45, passed away Monday, August 18, 2008, as a result of an accident. The Celebration of Life Memorial Service will be held 1:00 PM Thursday, at Countryside Christian Church, 1919 S. Rock Road. He is survived by his daughter, Rebekah (Aaron) Westerfield, of Wichita, son, Jared Hart, Manhattan, KS, father, Charles Hart, of Lawrence, KS, mother, Karla Amaro, of Wichita, brother, Scott Hart, of Wichita, sister, Carrie (Sherm) Nichols, of Joplin, MO. A memorial has been established for the children in memory of Jeff and can be left at Watson Funeral Home, 3201 S. Webb Road, Wichita, KS 67210 or Countryside Christian Church.Go here to sign the Guest Book
IAM Statement: From Machinists Union Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge
IAM members, including Mark Huckabee, a
The Machinist Union, as well as members who witnessed the accident, are cooperating fully with the Wichita Police Department in the ongoing investigation and we cannot comment further on the accident itself.
Our thoughts and prayers today go out to Jeff's family. Donations are being collected today in every IAM-represented facility in
Donations to the family of Jeff Hart
We have received and have confirmed this notice from the Watson Funeral Home. We will post more information as it becomes available. Click on the image for large size.
Sunday, August 17, 2008
A little Sunday Afternoon Music for Strikers
To know where we're going, we have to remember where we came from. Stay strong, strikers, and be sure to be out bright and early tomorrow morning for the Hands Across Hawker demonstration. Let's show them how strong we are!
Wichita Eagle Letter to the Editor
From today's paper:
Folks, it's support like this that will help us win our demands and have a successful strike!
Back strikers
Wichitans should observe, understand and appreciate the efforts of the Machinists union to even the playing field for its members.
As an aerospace engineer with 20 years of experience, half as a direct employee and half as a contractor, I can tell you with absolute conviction that the companies whose engineers are represented by a union would not have the salaries and benefits they now have without the leverage that comes with a bargaining unit.
So support the strike at Hawker Beechcraft. I've worked there, and the mechanics deserve every increase in salary and every enhancement in health benefits that they can negotiate.
Owners Onex Corp. and Goldman Sachs can afford to meet the union's contract requirements.
RICK HALEY
Augusta
Mr. Haley, we appreciate your support, and your willingness to take a stand for your fellow workers. Thank you.Folks, it's support like this that will help us win our demands and have a successful strike!
Saturday, August 16, 2008
From The Mailbag: Stay Strong From A Retired Boeing Member
As a retired employee from Boeing, I want you Hawker union members to know that all the other IAM union locals are backing you 100%. You stay STRONG and continue to trust in your negotiating committee. I've known Steve Rooney for years and he's damn good!
Don't worry about how many people the company says has returned to work. It isn't "business as usual" by any stretch of the imagination. There's no way it could be. The company better worry about the quality of workmanship that's currently being done. They better worry about the FAA and ensuring that the people that they have working all those rejections and squawks they're creating and that they are certified and have the required training. Are the systems folks certified? What about the people sealing? Have they had their training? How about the folks performing electrical bonding? Are they certified? Oh, the list could go on and on....but rest assured......it's anything BUT "business as usual" at HBC.
They offered you folks a crummy contract. It was so pathetic that I considered it an INSULT. But, in your vote you let them know that. What an incredible vote! 90% said NO and 89% said STRIKE. I wish we had had, that kind of strength in solidarity in the strikes I walked for with Boeing. You folks remain proud and strong. Wichita is an aircraft manufacturing city and I'm glad that the "Beech" IAM is FINALLY TAKING A STAND! 1984 was a long time ago.......and YOU PEOPLE NEEDED TO SHOW YOUR STRENGTH. DON'T LET THEM BACK YOU DOWN! DON'T LET THEM DO THAT TO YOU!
Jeanette Baldwin
Don't worry about how many people the company says has returned to work. It isn't "business as usual" by any stretch of the imagination. There's no way it could be. The company better worry about the quality of workmanship that's currently being done. They better worry about the FAA and ensuring that the people that they have working all those rejections and squawks they're creating and that they are certified and have the required training. Are the systems folks certified? What about the people sealing? Have they had their training? How about the folks performing electrical bonding? Are they certified? Oh, the list could go on and on....but rest assured......it's anything BUT "business as usual" at HBC.
They offered you folks a crummy contract. It was so pathetic that I considered it an INSULT. But, in your vote you let them know that. What an incredible vote! 90% said NO and 89% said STRIKE. I wish we had had, that kind of strength in solidarity in the strikes I walked for with Boeing. You folks remain proud and strong. Wichita is an aircraft manufacturing city and I'm glad that the "Beech" IAM is FINALLY TAKING A STAND! 1984 was a long time ago.......and YOU PEOPLE NEEDED TO SHOW YOUR STRENGTH. DON'T LET THEM BACK YOU DOWN! DON'T LET THEM DO THAT TO YOU!
Jeanette Baldwin
Friday, August 15, 2008
From The Mailbag: Nail in the Fence
Nail in the Fence
"There once was a little boy who had a bad temper. His Father gave him a bag of nails and told him that every time he lost his temper, he must hammer a nail into the back of the fence. The first day the boy had driven 37 nails into the fence. Over the next few weeks, as he learned to control his anger, the number of nails hammered daily gradually dwindled down. He discovered it was easier to hold his temper than to drive those nails into the fence. Finally the day came when the boy didn't lose his temper at all. He told his father about it and the father suggested that the boy now pull out one nail for each day that he was able to hold his temper. The days passed and the young boy was finally able to tell his father that all the nails were gone. The father took his son by the hand and led him to the fence. He said, "You have done well, my son, but look at the holes in the fence. The fence will never be the same. When you say things in anger, they leave a scar just like this one. You can put a knife in a man and draw it out. It won't matter how many times you say I'm sorry, the wound is still there." A verbal wound is as bad as a physical one."Author Anonymous
Each day you cross a picket line you drive that nail in the fence even if you remove all the nails by saying you're sorry, the scar will still be there. After the strike ends, you will be faced with the guilt of looking your co-workers in the face knowing they stayed out, sacrificing for your benefit.
In Solidarity
Steven Gier
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
From the Mailbag: Proud to be a Union Member
Hi brothers and sisters,I am so proud to be a union member I have been in a union for 8 years. I understand without union the company will do anything they want to do to us. I feel ashamed when I saw workers showing up to work and not supporting their union when the union is fighting for them. I realize that everyone has family and responsibilities such as paying bills etc., but if we don't stick together we going to prolong the strike. We need to remember that the company give very little, but they take away a lot. In the future we might not have any more jobs like this in the U.S. that's why we cannot back out now and we must hold on until we win this fight.
God bless everyone who have been supporting this fight, especially those who have been standing outside in the cold rain or burning sun with picket signs protesting.
Jennifer Nguyen
Department 304
God bless everyone who have been supporting this fight, especially those who have been standing outside in the cold rain or burning sun with picket signs protesting.
Jennifer Nguyen
Department 304
2328 Salina is UNION STRONG!
KNS TV did a story yesterday on the Salina folks on strike. Here it is:
Salina members say they appreciate the support they get from LL733, and they want everyone to know that the Wichita strikers have the FULL SUPPORT OF THE SALINA STRIKERS!
The miles between us does nothing to diminish our Solidarity!
Salina members say they appreciate the support they get from LL733, and they want everyone to know that the Wichita strikers have the FULL SUPPORT OF THE SALINA STRIKERS!
The miles between us does nothing to diminish our Solidarity!
Fox and Hounds brings the Munchies!
Fox and Hounds, the bar and grill on 13th and Webb, yesterday brought chicken wings, pizza and chips to the 2nd shift crew at strike HQ. Here's a photo of DBR Steve Rooney with F&H Manager Tom Pala and server Anna Young.
Fox and Hounds is a popular east-side hangout for IAM workers, and they strongly support our strike. We appreciate the support, and we won't forget!
Fox and Hounds is a popular east-side hangout for IAM workers, and they strongly support our strike. We appreciate the support, and we won't forget!
From the Mailbag: There Are Many Rumors Flying Around
Brothers and sisters in Solidarity,
We are here in the middle of week two of what could be a very long strike. There are many rumors flying around, and I believe everyone is desperate for some news on how it is going. I wish I had answers, but I will remind you of a few things that have happened so far and maybe a few facts that not everyone wants to remember.
The "Company" keeps telling us that this is the best contract in 20 years that they have offered. Now, I've been at Raytheon/Hawker Beechcraft since 96 and I remember things. I remember a 5 year contract that was rejected. Then in 2001, there was a 3 year contract that was rejected. OH, then in 2004, a 3 year deal that was REJECTED. In each of the previous mentioned years, the membership did not show the willingness to strike, so we had to go to work under contracts that we REJECTED. The Senior Management team seems to not want to remember that fact.
The company wants you to believe that things are "normal" inside. I ask you this, IS THERE ANYONE THAT CAN DO YOUR JOB AS WELL AS YOU? Do you actually think that the salary folks are capable of stepping in and doing the type of work that you do? I do not believe so. I'm not saying they wont try, But I bet that when we do finally get a contract that is accepted by this membership, that we all have to go into those plants and FIX THEIR MISTAKES.
I really hope that the company and OUR CUSTOMERS read this and remind them all...WE BUILD THE PLANES!!!. Simple truth folks. ONE DAY LONGER!!!
Bob Parsons
We are here in the middle of week two of what could be a very long strike. There are many rumors flying around, and I believe everyone is desperate for some news on how it is going. I wish I had answers, but I will remind you of a few things that have happened so far and maybe a few facts that not everyone wants to remember.
The "Company" keeps telling us that this is the best contract in 20 years that they have offered. Now, I've been at Raytheon/Hawker Beechcraft since 96 and I remember things. I remember a 5 year contract that was rejected. Then in 2001, there was a 3 year contract that was rejected. OH, then in 2004, a 3 year deal that was REJECTED. In each of the previous mentioned years, the membership did not show the willingness to strike, so we had to go to work under contracts that we REJECTED. The Senior Management team seems to not want to remember that fact.
The company wants you to believe that things are "normal" inside. I ask you this, IS THERE ANYONE THAT CAN DO YOUR JOB AS WELL AS YOU? Do you actually think that the salary folks are capable of stepping in and doing the type of work that you do? I do not believe so. I'm not saying they wont try, But I bet that when we do finally get a contract that is accepted by this membership, that we all have to go into those plants and FIX THEIR MISTAKES.
I really hope that the company and OUR CUSTOMERS read this and remind them all...WE BUILD THE PLANES!!!. Simple truth folks. ONE DAY LONGER!!!
Bob Parsons
Area Businesses feeling the pinch, but supporting the strike
From KSN Monday:
We know the local businesses are feeling the pinch of the strike, and we've gotten a lot of support from area businesses, and more coming in every day. Our support page is here.
Poblano Mexican Grill, featured in the story, supports the strikers, and has posted our support sign in their window.
To all the businesses that are supporting us, THANK YOU! We WILL remember your loyalty to us with our loyalty when this strike is over. We will also distribute flyers among the rest of the 23,000 IAM members in the Wichita area that you are a business that supports our union when in need, and that you should be at the top of their list when they decide how to spend their union-negotiated wages!
Thanks again!
We know the local businesses are feeling the pinch of the strike, and we've gotten a lot of support from area businesses, and more coming in every day. Our support page is here.
Poblano Mexican Grill, featured in the story, supports the strikers, and has posted our support sign in their window.
To all the businesses that are supporting us, THANK YOU! We WILL remember your loyalty to us with our loyalty when this strike is over. We will also distribute flyers among the rest of the 23,000 IAM members in the Wichita area that you are a business that supports our union when in need, and that you should be at the top of their list when they decide how to spend their union-negotiated wages!Thanks again!
Rumor Busters
Strikers, the rumors are coming quick and heavy. Some are that the company won't come back to the table for months. Some are that the company will be coming back VERY soon, and end the strike with a REAL offer.
Other rumors are that the company has tried to restart negotiations, but the union refused.
The truthfulness of the first two are undetermined, but the last one is flatly false. The IAM has NOT heard from the company.
Here's the thing about rumors - they are MIND GAMES (see previous post). The company will float rumors around to either make you think it's hopeless, or to get your hopes up, and then dash them.
If a manager comes to you with a rumor, you can be pretty sure he's been told to do that. It's all part of the company mind games. They very likely aren't true, and they are put out to divide us.
Here's the bottom line: Don't put your hopes into these rumors.
Just don't listen to them. We have to do our job - HOLD THE LINE. The rest will come. AS SOON as we hear something about negotiations, we WILL announce it on the blog and websites. If you simply keep your eye on the prize, and don't listen to the rumors, we'll all have a successful strike, and win a truly fair and equitable contract.
Other rumors are that the company has tried to restart negotiations, but the union refused.
The truthfulness of the first two are undetermined, but the last one is flatly false. The IAM has NOT heard from the company.
Here's the thing about rumors - they are MIND GAMES (see previous post). The company will float rumors around to either make you think it's hopeless, or to get your hopes up, and then dash them.
If a manager comes to you with a rumor, you can be pretty sure he's been told to do that. It's all part of the company mind games. They very likely aren't true, and they are put out to divide us.
Here's the bottom line: Don't put your hopes into these rumors.
Just don't listen to them. We have to do our job - HOLD THE LINE. The rest will come. AS SOON as we hear something about negotiations, we WILL announce it on the blog and websites. If you simply keep your eye on the prize, and don't listen to the rumors, we'll all have a successful strike, and win a truly fair and equitable contract.
STRIKE PAY
Strike Benefit Checks will be available for pickup starting Monday August 25th.
Those with last names starting with A - L pick up times are from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.
Last names starting from M - Z pick up times are from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Anyone that can't pick up their check on Monday can pick their check up on Tuesday from Noon to 6:00 pm at the District 3830 S. Meridian.
Any checks not picked up during these times will be returned to the International.
Those with last names starting with A - L pick up times are from 9:00 a.m. till 1:00 p.m.
Last names starting from M - Z pick up times are from 1:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m.
Anyone that can't pick up their check on Monday can pick their check up on Tuesday from Noon to 6:00 pm at the District 3830 S. Meridian.
Any checks not picked up during these times will be returned to the International.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Story and video from KWCH
Go to the story and video,
For the do family, school starts Monday. Hai Do and his wife, Vanessa Nguyen stocked up on all their supplies a couple of weeks ago.
Nguyen says, "We prepared before strike. We knew, we think maybe everybody strike so we prepared before to be ready."
That's right, Do and Nguyen are both on strike from their machinists jobs at Hawker Beechcraft. "We did for the future of my kids and for my life," Do said.
The couple has worked for the company 12 years. Much of Nguyen's family works in aviation in Wichita. So she says she knows what their benefits could be.
Better benefits and more money are at the heart of the fight and keeping do, Nguyen and thousands others on the picket line.
*snip*
The parents hope this time without an income pays off to last them through the school year and beyond.
The family says people in the union are a big help. The machinists are working to provide food, school supplies, any support they can offer.
This is what it's all about, people standing together and helping each other! Families like the Dos are what it's all about.
For the do family, school starts Monday. Hai Do and his wife, Vanessa Nguyen stocked up on all their supplies a couple of weeks ago.
Nguyen says, "We prepared before strike. We knew, we think maybe everybody strike so we prepared before to be ready."
That's right, Do and Nguyen are both on strike from their machinists jobs at Hawker Beechcraft. "We did for the future of my kids and for my life," Do said.
The couple has worked for the company 12 years. Much of Nguyen's family works in aviation in Wichita. So she says she knows what their benefits could be.
Better benefits and more money are at the heart of the fight and keeping do, Nguyen and thousands others on the picket line.
*snip*
The parents hope this time without an income pays off to last them through the school year and beyond.
The family says people in the union are a big help. The machinists are working to provide food, school supplies, any support they can offer.
This is what it's all about, people standing together and helping each other! Families like the Dos are what it's all about.
Wichita Eagle Article
There was an article in the Eagle today about the statement of "the amount of workers crossing the line has tripled" and "over 1,000 have crossed".
Gotta take a look at those two statements. Who wants to bet they took the REAL number, and tripled it?
The Eagle article, however, debunked the soaring statements of all the work that's getting done:
It also delivered two aircraft to customers in the past week.
That's down from an average of 10 deliveries a week it made during the second quarter of this year.
All those planes nearly ready to go, they were only able to cobble two together - if that!
The Eagle has a lot of comments on the article, please log in and make our union voice heard even louder than it is now.
Also, the Eagle has now set up a special strike page.
Keep it up on the line, folks!
Gotta take a look at those two statements. Who wants to bet they took the REAL number, and tripled it?
The Eagle article, however, debunked the soaring statements of all the work that's getting done:
It also delivered two aircraft to customers in the past week.
That's down from an average of 10 deliveries a week it made during the second quarter of this year.
All those planes nearly ready to go, they were only able to cobble two together - if that!
The Eagle has a lot of comments on the article, please log in and make our union voice heard even louder than it is now.
Also, the Eagle has now set up a special strike page.
Keep it up on the line, folks!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Press Statement
Machinists Blast Hawker Beechcraft for false claims on company website.
Wichita, KS, August 11, 2008 – IAM leadership today countered false numbers posted on the Hawker Beechcraft negotiations website. The company website touted “well over 1,000 hourly employees are now working on our production lines and the numbers are growing every day.”
“This is absolutely why we’re on strike,” said Union spokesman Bob Wood. “Company negotiators, led by lead company negotiator Dan Dymarkowski, lied repeatedly to union negotiators at the table, and they are now lying to the public.”
“It’s nowhere near one thousand workers,” said Wood. “We have enough friends on the inside to know they are not building new aircraft, just pushing things around.”
“Our strike is strong, and it’s clear that HBC Management is in a panic mode, and resorting to false claims,” said Wood.
************************************************
Folks, we ALL know there haven't been 1,000 who've crossed the line. It's the same as when they told the paper that they didn't hand out. proposals with the union logo on them - they have NO credibility.
They said the numbers have "tripled". Maybe that means that they took the real number, and tripled IT!
This simply shows our strike IS working, and they are grasping for straws to try to scare people into crossing the line.
Wichita, KS, August 11, 2008 – IAM leadership today countered false numbers posted on the Hawker Beechcraft negotiations website. The company website touted “well over 1,000 hourly employees are now working on our production lines and the numbers are growing every day.”
“This is absolutely why we’re on strike,” said Union spokesman Bob Wood. “Company negotiators, led by lead company negotiator Dan Dymarkowski, lied repeatedly to union negotiators at the table, and they are now lying to the public.”
“It’s nowhere near one thousand workers,” said Wood. “We have enough friends on the inside to know they are not building new aircraft, just pushing things around.”
“Our strike is strong, and it’s clear that HBC Management is in a panic mode, and resorting to false claims,” said Wood.
************************************************
Folks, we ALL know there haven't been 1,000 who've crossed the line. It's the same as when they told the paper that they didn't hand out. proposals with the union logo on them - they have NO credibility.
They said the numbers have "tripled". Maybe that means that they took the real number, and tripled IT!
This simply shows our strike IS working, and they are grasping for straws to try to scare people into crossing the line.
Patronize these Businesses that are Supporting our Striking Members
Please Patronize the business listed below now and after we return back to work. Be sure to thank them for support our striking members.
Dr. Lawrence Trimmell (316)686-6663 will wave payment of fees till after our members return back to work.
Knolla's Pizza - 50% off
Looney Bin Comedy Club - Free Admission on Sunday
Golden Coral - Discount Food Coupons
Lizard Lounge - Discount Food and Drink
Celebrations Wine & Spirits - 10% off
Dr. Lawrence Trimmell (316)686-6663 will wave payment of fees till after our members return back to work.
Knolla's Pizza - 50% off
Looney Bin Comedy Club - Free Admission on Sunday
Golden Coral - Discount Food Coupons
Lizard Lounge - Discount Food and Drink
Celebrations Wine & Spirits - 10% off
Saturday, August 9, 2008
"HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE THAT REQUIRES EFFORT AT TIMES"
To all of those that have or are thinking about crossing that line....We are a family of 6 with one child that requires medication on a daily basis($300a month w/no ins.) and there is NO way my husband is crossing that line.
He is NOT sitting at home doing neglected chores, he was out finding himself a temporary job! Learn to budget your money and you would be able to feed your family and still be on strike! Why don't you try teaching you children about sacrifices and standing up for themselves?
Teach them that times are not always steak and potato's but sometimes they are PB&J? You pay all of those union dues and for what to become a scab and cross that line? Knowing all the while, others are tightening their belts and fighting for what they believe in? To think that you will benefit too is sickening!
Strength comes in numbers and people like you only hurt the outcome of this contract by giving in to the company! That is exactly what they are banking on - SCABS! So STAND STRONG and fight till the end!!!
With support to ALL that fight the good fight-
Proud wife of a striking union member!!!
CAROLYN DAY
"HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE THAT REQUIRES EFFORT AT TIMES"
He is NOT sitting at home doing neglected chores, he was out finding himself a temporary job! Learn to budget your money and you would be able to feed your family and still be on strike! Why don't you try teaching you children about sacrifices and standing up for themselves?
Teach them that times are not always steak and potato's but sometimes they are PB&J? You pay all of those union dues and for what to become a scab and cross that line? Knowing all the while, others are tightening their belts and fighting for what they believe in? To think that you will benefit too is sickening!
Strength comes in numbers and people like you only hurt the outcome of this contract by giving in to the company! That is exactly what they are banking on - SCABS! So STAND STRONG and fight till the end!!!
With support to ALL that fight the good fight-
Proud wife of a striking union member!!!
CAROLYN DAY
"HAPPINESS IS A CHOICE THAT REQUIRES EFFORT AT TIMES"
Sometimes it takes the voices of a few to stand up for the many.
I am deeply saddened and grieved that the negotiations resulted in a strike. Our family has endured nearly 10 years with the company. This is the fourth contract our family has been presented and the first strike we have experienced. In the past we have feared a strike because we did not want to bring about undue hardship upon ourselves. Today we are uniting together not only for ourselves, not only for those who work at Hawker Beechcraft but for workers all over America who are concerned about today’s present and future corporate greed, treatment of workers, benefits, and loosing their jobs to foreign soil. This is America, land of the free! Blood has spilled for the freedoms we have today. The ‘take aways’ we are experiencing today are not only in companies being operated in America but also in the laws of our country. The plaque on the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty, written by Emma Lazarus in 1883, known as The New Colossus, says, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses, yearning to breath free….” The plaque carries a universal message of hope and freedom.
So the time has come for the voices of those who represent the union to be heard in unity. Sometimes it takes the voices of a few to stand up for the many. These individuals often march to the beat of a different drum. Their core values reach deep into the heart of their soul with a compassion that cherishes life as a precious gift. “All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” (Edmond Burke).
The promotion of harmonious relationships with both the company and employees are necessary for the success of the company. This can be demonstrated in part by the ability for both the employer and employees to communicate effectively to negotiate a fair and equitable contract that clearly values ALL of their employees. A team effort on behalf of both the company and their employees promotes an espirit de core that embraces the mission of the company which creates loyalty among workers.
The Hawker Beechcraft strike is about telling the truth, treating workers with decency, respect, dignity and honoring their families in the process. People who do not work at Hawker probably will not fully realize the concerns of the employees and their families. People need to get the facts. There is no sense in bickering, downgrading, and actions leading to bitterness and ongoing rivalry which will ultimately contribute to ongoing economic downturn. Truthfully, many employees at Hawker Beechcraft and their families are already making sacrifices, are in the process of loosing or have lost their homes, vehicles, and some have lost their jobs. Their families are WHY they work. While families may not have it all together, together they can GET through it all. Together, families are learning how to survive these difficult times.
Anonymous
So the time has come for the voices of those who represent the union to be heard in unity. Sometimes it takes the voices of a few to stand up for the many. These individuals often march to the beat of a different drum. Their core values reach deep into the heart of their soul with a compassion that cherishes life as a precious gift. “All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing.” (Edmond Burke).
The promotion of harmonious relationships with both the company and employees are necessary for the success of the company. This can be demonstrated in part by the ability for both the employer and employees to communicate effectively to negotiate a fair and equitable contract that clearly values ALL of their employees. A team effort on behalf of both the company and their employees promotes an espirit de core that embraces the mission of the company which creates loyalty among workers.
The Hawker Beechcraft strike is about telling the truth, treating workers with decency, respect, dignity and honoring their families in the process. People who do not work at Hawker probably will not fully realize the concerns of the employees and their families. People need to get the facts. There is no sense in bickering, downgrading, and actions leading to bitterness and ongoing rivalry which will ultimately contribute to ongoing economic downturn. Truthfully, many employees at Hawker Beechcraft and their families are already making sacrifices, are in the process of loosing or have lost their homes, vehicles, and some have lost their jobs. Their families are WHY they work. While families may not have it all together, together they can GET through it all. Together, families are learning how to survive these difficult times.
Anonymous
Strike Pay?
If a strike lasts more than two(2) weeks, benefit payments are paid commencing with the 3rd week.
Strike benefits shall continue to be paid through the last day of the week in which the strike terminates.
As of January 1, 2005 the IAM’s strike benefits are $150.00 per week.
In your Negotiations Survival Guide on page 29 you will find the above information.
Also in order to receive strike benefits we are currently asking members to either walk the picket line or serve on a committee at least 4 hours each and every week.
Strike benefits shall continue to be paid through the last day of the week in which the strike terminates.
As of January 1, 2005 the IAM’s strike benefits are $150.00 per week.
In your Negotiations Survival Guide on page 29 you will find the above information.
Also in order to receive strike benefits we are currently asking members to either walk the picket line or serve on a committee at least 4 hours each and every week.
Friday, August 8, 2008
Thursday, August 7, 2008
Our Health Care Contributes to Financial Difficulties.
I completely support my husband's decision... we talked about it together before he voted. I read the paperwork over and did not feel the company was telling the truth... there were some things that were unclear. I shared this with him but did not suggest how he should vote. We prayed about it.
The healthcare from the last contract has contributed to our financial difficulties... we lost our house. Still trying to get it sold on a short sale... but we moved out last October. After the last contract was voted in... I had surgery. At which point we learned the horrible truth of our health insurance. It was the co-insurance that got us and we have about $1,000 in bills we still have not pd and will likely be turned over to an attorney now that we cannot pay those. I am not working... my son has a learning handicap so I work to tutor him at home. These have additional expenses for my training of which is not pd except out of our pocket. There have been other issues as well...
Please do not disclose my name if you share this information. I had my battles with the insurance company as well but never thought to make the union aware of the issues. I was laid off back in 2001 from Raytheon... it was such a horrible experience I vowed never to work in manufacturing again... I went back to college and got a dual Masters degree in Human Resource Development and Computer Resources and Information Management. This work is my husband's life... so I support his decision. It is scary for me right now... I am praying... I have the Brooklyn Tabernacle praying for us!
God Bless You!
Wednesday, August 6, 2008
One Proud Union Member's Wife Speaks Out!
| After meeting with the President of the Union, I went to a BBQ with my husband. (He's in the union and walking PROUD!) When we got there, I was introduced to a lot of people. One of the people there was a scab. I was instantly upset. Here is this guy crossing the very line that my husband was picketing for that scabs rights too! The more this scab talked, however, the more excited I got. Why? He was telling us that its a ghost town inside. There is nothing but chaos. Salary people attempting to do what we do. He said the tension was THICK where ever he went. People that worked in a certain area was being shoved into areas where they had no clue what to do! Do you know what that means? It means we're winning! Their contingency plan is to run around like they have their heads cut off scrambling to do our jobs! I felt so good knowing that we are making a difference! We are going to get the respect we deserve! Even though I'm not a part of HBC, I felt the unity on Sunday night. I felt like most Americans did right after 9/11! There was such a united front and a sense of family! I'm proud to tell people my husband is in the Union and he is standing up for what is right! Keep your heads up! We ARE going to make it! Just one more day! Stephanie Whitman, wife of a union member. |
International President visits picket lines!
Big thanks to I.P. Thomas Buffenbarger for visiting the pickets in Wichita for a few hours. It's a great show of Solidarity from our International.
Click on the pics for larger size, we're working on video, will be up this evening.
Speaking at Strike H.Q.
Walking with ADBR Rita Rogers
Walking picket on a hot August day!
With KAKE TV's Chris Frank
Click on the pics for larger size, we're working on video, will be up this evening.
Speaking at Strike H.Q.
Walking with ADBR Rita Rogers
Walking picket on a hot August day!
With KAKE TV's Chris Frank
Yesterday's video from KAKE TV
Experts weigh in - and they say the union is solidly behind the contract. It was a message to Hawker Beechcraft - listen to the people!
Watch the Mailbag!
The 733 Mailbag is growing quickly. Check it out, and if you've got something to say, send it in to the Communicator. We'll be printing a selection of the mail received. We're also getting support letters from your fellow union members around the country. Let's hear from you!
Today's News
From the Wichita Eagle this morning:
Pickets say they're resolved to stay out as long as it takes to get a better offer.
Val Barker, a 34-year employee, said it's difficult to predict how long the strike will last.
It will be over "once they figure out they can't build airplanes without us," Barker said.
Workers say they're striking over health insurance costs, pensions, job security, overtime and changes in earned time off and the downgrading of two job codes for new hires.
Randy Maddux, an assembler who has worked for the company 18 years, said one of the reasons for rejecting the contract was that the proposal was unclear.
In the last two years of the contract, the cost of insurance premiums is unknown, he said.
Our strike is strong and effective. Keep up the good work!
Hawker Beechcraft recorded an increase in orders, sales and earnings for the second quarter of 2008 compared to a year ago, the company said Tuesday.
Earnings were released on the second day of a work stoppage by 4,700 Hawker Beechcraft hourly workers in Wichita and about 500 in Salina. The workers, represented by the Machinists union, voted overwhelmingly to strike on Saturday and walked off the job Monday.
Wow. Not building airplanes is gonna sting on that bottom line, isn't it?
More from the article:
The strike has been peaceful and gone well, said Kurt Holtz, a strike coordinator and union steward.Pickets say they're resolved to stay out as long as it takes to get a better offer.
Val Barker, a 34-year employee, said it's difficult to predict how long the strike will last.
It will be over "once they figure out they can't build airplanes without us," Barker said.
Workers say they're striking over health insurance costs, pensions, job security, overtime and changes in earned time off and the downgrading of two job codes for new hires.
Randy Maddux, an assembler who has worked for the company 18 years, said one of the reasons for rejecting the contract was that the proposal was unclear.
In the last two years of the contract, the cost of insurance premiums is unknown, he said.
Our strike is strong and effective. Keep up the good work!
THERE ARE NO PLANES BEING BUILT
I think our membership needs to know that planes are not being built. I know the company says they are, but I talked to a man inside that is a non-barging employee today.
He says there are a few scabs that have crossed but there are no planes being built. I think a little encouragement is needed for the ones on the out side looking in.
We need to know that if we stick together we will be victorious. I know what sacrifice is, In 2004 I left my family for 365 days to protect my country. If I can do it for 365 we as a group can make a sacrifice for one day longer than the company can take it.
Stay true to your brothers and sisters. Remember those who fought before us and the kids who follow us don't let them down.
Brandon Lowe LL733
He says there are a few scabs that have crossed but there are no planes being built. I think a little encouragement is needed for the ones on the out side looking in.
We need to know that if we stick together we will be victorious. I know what sacrifice is, In 2004 I left my family for 365 days to protect my country. If I can do it for 365 we as a group can make a sacrifice for one day longer than the company can take it.
Stay true to your brothers and sisters. Remember those who fought before us and the kids who follow us don't let them down.
Brandon Lowe LL733
Surprise Visit!
IAM International President R. Thomas Buffenbarger will be in Wichita today at 1:30 P.M. to visit Strike H.Q. and the picket lines. Come by to speak to our International President!
Sports Physicals
Hawker spouse here!! Just wanted to let you know that we have located a
Dr. that will do sports physicals for school for $20.00. That's not a
co-pay; it's just $20.00.
Dr. Patrick Carmen
517 State
Augusta
316-775-5661
Just wanted to share this info!! My daughter was panicking that she might
get to play volleyball. This Dr. is a chiropractor, but I was referred to
him by the school district.
Angie Watson
Dr. that will do sports physicals for school for $20.00. That's not a
co-pay; it's just $20.00.
Dr. Patrick Carmen
517 State
Augusta
316-775-5661
Just wanted to share this info!! My daughter was panicking that she might
get to play volleyball. This Dr. is a chiropractor, but I was referred to
him by the school district.
Angie Watson
Tuesday, August 5, 2008
Bagels Donated
Bill Ralls former Boeing Union member today Tuesday 8-5-08 stopped by District 70 and dropped off 12 boxes of bagels for our striking members. Each box contained 10 packages of 6 bagels each.
Thank you Bill
From the members of LL733.
Thank you Bill
From the members of LL733.
Any member needing the services of a Dentist
If any of our members is in need of a Dentist while we are on strike.
Please visit --
Dr. Lawrence Trimmell
(316)686-6663
He will wave payment of fees until after the members return to work.
East Office:
8118 E. Douglas
Suite 105
Contact his secretary -- Dorothy
Please visit --
Dr. Lawrence Trimmell
(316)686-6663
He will wave payment of fees until after the members return to work.
East Office:
8118 E. Douglas
Suite 105
Contact his secretary -- Dorothy
Rumor Busters
From today's Eagle article:
The strike doesn't affect non-union workers, who must show up for work.
This does NOT mean members of the bargaining unit that aren't members. That meant the management, office and engineering staff.
ALL workers covered by the contract has the RIGHT under the law to honor the picket lines, without repercussion from the company.
Remember, Hawker Beechcraft will put out as much misinformation as possible. They have no credibility. Keep watch on this website for the TRUTH.
The strike doesn't affect non-union workers, who must show up for work.
This does NOT mean members of the bargaining unit that aren't members. That meant the management, office and engineering staff.
ALL workers covered by the contract has the RIGHT under the law to honor the picket lines, without repercussion from the company.
Remember, Hawker Beechcraft will put out as much misinformation as possible. They have no credibility. Keep watch on this website for the TRUTH.
Hawker reports solid second-quarter earnings
From the Wichita Eagle:
Hawker Beechcraft reported increased orders, improved sales and higher earnings during the second quarter compared to the same period in 2007.
They probably didn't want you to see this before you voted on the contract...
Hawker Beechcraft reported increased orders, improved sales and higher earnings during the second quarter compared to the same period in 2007.
They probably didn't want you to see this before you voted on the contract...
"Detailed Contingency Plans"
HBC Management continues to say they have plans to keep delivering airplanes, they just don't tell anyone WHAT they are... Reporters are asking, but they won't say.
Here's what the Wichita Eagle has to say this morning:
Company impact
Because Hawker Beechcraft has a record backlog of orders, the strike is "coming at a bad time," said Teal Group analyst Richard Aboulafia.
"That sounds like an instant production bottleneck," he said.
The good news is that strikes in the aerospace industry seldom last more than a few weeks, he said.
A strike isn't good for a young company like Hawker Beechcraft "that's probably still getting its act together," said JSA Research analyst Paul Nisbet.
Besides deferring deliveries, they also will "probably irritate quite a few customers in the process," Nisbet said.
The company should have clauses in its sales contracts absolving it of financial responsibility if it can't deliver because of the strike, he said.
"But it doesn't make the buyer any happier," Nisbet said.
Stay strong, strikers! The parking lots are empty, the lines are silent.
Here's what the Wichita Eagle has to say this morning:
Company impact
Because Hawker Beechcraft has a record backlog of orders, the strike is "coming at a bad time," said Teal Group analyst Richard Aboulafia.
"That sounds like an instant production bottleneck," he said.
The good news is that strikes in the aerospace industry seldom last more than a few weeks, he said.
A strike isn't good for a young company like Hawker Beechcraft "that's probably still getting its act together," said JSA Research analyst Paul Nisbet.
Besides deferring deliveries, they also will "probably irritate quite a few customers in the process," Nisbet said.
The company should have clauses in its sales contracts absolving it of financial responsibility if it can't deliver because of the strike, he said.
"But it doesn't make the buyer any happier," Nisbet said.
Stay strong, strikers! The parking lots are empty, the lines are silent.
Pounding the Pavement with Pickets!
...while we are Picking a Peck of Pickled Peppers???
KAKE TV's Mike Ieun has always had a sense of humor, and this intro yesterday to the story was worth a giggle:
Go to KAKE TV for more info.
KAKE TV's Mike Ieun has always had a sense of humor, and this intro yesterday to the story was worth a giggle:
Go to KAKE TV for more info.
Monday, August 4, 2008
The heat is on!
Be careful out there, strikers. Keep two words in mind:
Water.
Sunscreen.
It's waaaay hot, folks. Take care of yourselves, and don't get overheated. Stay safe, and we'll win this strike!
Water.
Sunscreen.
It's waaaay hot, folks. Take care of yourselves, and don't get overheated. Stay safe, and we'll win this strike!
Important links on LL733's website
Below are some important links on LL733's website.
LL733
Strike Central
Information on COBRA
Committees
Picket
Jobs
Kitchen
Food
Mail Bag
Is an area where you can send an e-mail to the webmaster for your Local Lodge Website with your thoughts and comments concerning our Strike. The e-mails will be reviewed prior to posting for content.
LL733
Strike Central
Information on COBRA
Committees
Picket
Jobs
Kitchen
Food
Mail Bag
Is an area where you can send an e-mail to the webmaster for your Local Lodge Website with your thoughts and comments concerning our Strike. The e-mails will be reviewed prior to posting for content.
Sunday, August 3, 2008
Strike HQ Phone Number
The Strike HQ is now open, 24 hours a day until the strike is over. As soon as a phone is set up at Strike HQ we will post the number.
Just a reminder...
As the contract expires at midnight tonight, the contract is no longer in effect. Anyone in the bargaining unit who crosses the picket line and goes to work can be fired for any reason or no reason at all, and that termination will be permanent, with no possibility of a grievance or any other way to reverse it.
You have NO job protections when you cross the line. Every strike, the management will take advantage of the situation and fire people - just because they can!
Crossing the line means you are no longer a free American, you are simply a wage slave, who is at the mercy of the company. We on the outside are proud, free Americans, who are standing up for what is right. It's a good feeling.
You have NO job protections when you cross the line. Every strike, the management will take advantage of the situation and fire people - just because they can!
Crossing the line means you are no longer a free American, you are simply a wage slave, who is at the mercy of the company. We on the outside are proud, free Americans, who are standing up for what is right. It's a good feeling.
A little music for a Sunday before the Strike...
From the great Billy Bragg... There is Power in the Union!
Strike Headquarters will open at 6pm today.
Strike Headquarters will be open today Sunday August 3rd starting at 6:00 pm.
Strike Headquarters is located at
300 S. Greenwich
Suite 171
Strike Headquarters is located at
300 S. Greenwich
Suite 171
Saturday, August 2, 2008
S T R I K E !!! S T R I K E !!! S T R I K E !!!
STRIKE!!! STRIKE!!! STRIKE!!! STRIKE!!!Union Members from LL733 and LL2328 have spoken! And have spoken in a big way.
90% to REJECT the contract.
89% to STRIKE.
HBC Management
CAN YOU HEAR US NOW?????
From the International's Website at www.goiam.org
Machinists at Hawker Beechcraft Vote to Strike
August 02, 2008 - Picket lines will go up at 12:01 am on Monday, August 4, 2008, at Hawker Beechcraft in Wichita and Salina, KS, after IAM members in both locations voted overwhelmingly to reject the company’s offer and to strike the plane maker.
The IAM represents nearly 5,000 aircraft assemblers and production workers at Hawker Beechcraft in Wichita and approximately 500 in Salina.
Additional information is available at http://www.ll733iam.com.
Friday, August 1, 2008
Thursday, July 31, 2008
From Your Negotiating Committee
Full Summary of the Last and Final offer.
Click here (.pdf file).
UPDATE: The Summary has been updated, with a cover page and holiday schedule.
Click here (.pdf file).
UPDATE: The Summary has been updated, with a cover page and holiday schedule.
Machinists Charge Hawker Beechcraft with Infringement
The IAM is filing Unfair Labor Practice (ULP) charges with the National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) over Hawker Beechcraft’s distribution of the company’s contract proposal that prominently displayed the IAM logo, implying union endorsement of the offer.
“We’re prepared to work closely with any company that deals honestly with us and respects its workforce,” declared IAM President Tom Buffenbarger. “Our members at Hawker Beechcraft are highly-skilled professionals that deserve better than secret plans to outsource their jobs to Mexico and deceitful tactics at the bargaining table.”
Negotiations between the IAM and Hawker Beechcraft ended on July 30, with union negotiators unanimously urging rejection of the company’s contract offer. The following morning, the company distributed the offer to workers, bearing the union logo.
“Hawker Beechcraft officials have crossed the line repeatedly in these negotiations,” said Aerospace Coordinator Ron Eldridge. “But the use of our logo to imply we approve of their inadequate offer is a new low.”
The union is also filing ULP charges on Hawker Beechcraft’s continued practice of threatening to discharge probationary employees who honor picket lines if a strike occurs.
“Threatening and deceiving employees and the public is the mark of a management team that needs a quick trip to the ethics woodshed,” said Southern Territory GVP Bob Martinez. “Senior management at Hawker Beechcraft should join us in condemning this latest outrage, lest they share the blame for its consequences.”
A vote on the company’s so-called “last, best and final” offer is scheduled for August 2, 2008. The current contract expires at midnight on August 3, 2008. Updates and additional information about the negotiations are available at www.beechworkersblog.blogspot.com, www.ll733iam.com, and www.ll2328.org.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Contract Offer received.
The Union received the last, best and final offer from the company tonight. Your Union Negotiators recommend to reject the offer, and to strike.
We will have a short synopsis posted soon.
The Negotiating Team is very tired, having been up for two days. We will be getting some sleep and will be communicating with you in the morning.
We will have a short synopsis posted soon.
The Negotiating Team is very tired, having been up for two days. We will be getting some sleep and will be communicating with you in the morning.
Morning Update
After an all-night session, we aren't any closer. The Union proposed a health insurance plan that would save $11 Million for the Company.
They said NO!
Still on the table from the company: Only 5 days ETO every year for anyone hired after August 2008.
Downgrades for Material Handlers and Material Clerks
The company wants to force the Universal Job Codes - sheet metal and machine shop. The Union wants to continue to work on these after contract, because of the important issues involved, but the company says no.
Pension -
2009 - $2 increase
2010 - $1 increase
2011 - $1 increase
NO to IAM Pension
NO movement on Cost of Living
NO EBS Insurance
We don't know when we'll get the last, best and final offer. We'll let you know when we do.
They said NO!
Still on the table from the company: Only 5 days ETO every year for anyone hired after August 2008.
Downgrades for Material Handlers and Material Clerks
The company wants to force the Universal Job Codes - sheet metal and machine shop. The Union wants to continue to work on these after contract, because of the important issues involved, but the company says no.
Pension -
2009 - $2 increase
2010 - $1 increase
2011 - $1 increase
NO to IAM Pension
NO movement on Cost of Living
NO EBS Insurance
We don't know when we'll get the last, best and final offer. We'll let you know when we do.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Negotiating Committee Update - 7/28/08
Today is July 28th, and we finally met with the whole negotiating committee at 8:30 p.m. At this time the Company made their first pass on wages, pensions and holidays.
To give you an example of how far off they are, they only offered $1.00 per year increase in pension. This pass did not have a medical proposal in it. They say they are still working on it.
We have a long way to go and a short time to do it. Show your support for your committee by showing up at 4 p.m., Tuesday, July 29th at the Strike Headquarters, 300 S. Greenwich for the rally.
To give you an example of how far off they are, they only offered $1.00 per year increase in pension. This pass did not have a medical proposal in it. They say they are still working on it.
We have a long way to go and a short time to do it. Show your support for your committee by showing up at 4 p.m., Tuesday, July 29th at the Strike Headquarters, 300 S. Greenwich for the rally.
Come to the Rally Tomorrow!
We're planning a rally tomorrow at strike HQ. Make sure to attend, and bring your family if you can. It's VERY important that EVERYONE turns out! Click on the flyer for larger, and click here for the .pdf.
Support from LL 2328, Salina
Thanks to our Salina members, who sent the Negotiating Committee this petition of support, with 323 signatures! Your Committee thanks you for the support!
You can click on all the images for a large size.
You can click on all the images for a large size.
Saturday, July 26, 2008
From the Mail Bag
Good afternoon all.
I just looked at the new Blog information online and wanted to tell you your count on the V.P.’s hired might be off.
Mike Dennett complained that the company has hired 29 Vice Presidents in the last 29 weeks. He says he has been keeping track.
I find it fascinating that they would even talk about our employee profit ratio in comparison to Cessna’s when you figure that every one of those V.P.’s would be considered high paid non value added employees, and 100% overhead on analysis.
Keep up the good work and let us know if we can do anything for you.
In solidarity, Gary Barnes.
HBC SLT insults every hourly worker
HBC posted several graphs yesterday concerning "HBC versus Cessna". Of course, the whole post was a complete insult to every hourly worker at Hawker Beechcraft. Look at this graph, and think about it, and the mindset they had to have to not only come up with it, then to publicly post it.
They say: Cessna's profit per employee is four (4) times that of HBC
What they are saying is that they hold us in contempt, that Cessna workers are far better, and therefore we don't DESERVE to be paid as much, to have good health insurance, and we don't rate as much pension, because Cessna employees are far more valuable and profitable to Cessna than we are to Hawker Beechcraft.
First, this is a bogus number. They don't even say what time frame they used to come up with this number, or what else they used to come to it. It's simply crap. But let's roll with their graph for a minute.
Why are Cessna employees so profitable? Let's think about it. Many aircraft workers have worked at the different companies here, Bombardier, Cessna, Spirit and Boeing, as well as the subcontractors. We all know that the workers at HBC are every bit as skilled and productive as they are at every other manufacturer.
So, worker productivity isn't the issue. The workers aren't less "profitable", so you need to look at the REAL reason. Let's look at a couple more graphs they posted:
Business has never been better for Hawker Beechcraft. Cessna Revenues are only 1.6 times HBC's, but their Operating Profit is 6 times HBC's. HBC has growing revenues and a record backlog. If they can't make a reasonable profit in this situation, there are obviously serious management problems.
How can this be the fault of the workers? We do everything asked of us, and do high-quality work.
While Cessna has no debt, HBC has $2.1 BILLION in debt.
Is this debt the fault of the workers? Did WE take it on?
Of course not. If your boss buys a house, you shouldn't have to take a pay cut to pay for it, should you?
That's what they are saying. They took on the debt, to buy the company, but WE should pay for their debt. Here's another slide:
It's clear from this slide that Cessna is a well-honed, well-managed, profitable company. This graph on the HBC side shows management problems, careening from profitable one quarter to in the hole the next. It's clear to long-time employees that HBC is too top-heavy with managers, and they keep hiring high-paid Vice Presidents left and right.
Notice they didn't make a graph about profit per Vice President!
Once again, NONE of this is caused by the employees. We build excellent products, and we do high-quality work and we are proud of the job we do. Raytheon mismanaged this company for many years, and there was a lot of damage done. It would take ALL of us to fix the damage done.
Too bad HBC holds we, the employees, in contempt.
This points to plans by HBC to throw an insulting proposal on the table Tuesday night, and they'll do a 'sell job' in the shop to try to tell us that we should be happy that they so generously gave us what they did, because we sure aren't worth it!
Remember, since early this year, they have told us the great job we've been doing, how we are the best in the business. They told us that right up until the time that we wanted to be paid as well as HBC'S competitors pay their employees.
Then they told us how they REALLY feel.
They say: Cessna's profit per employee is four (4) times that of HBCWhat they are saying is that they hold us in contempt, that Cessna workers are far better, and therefore we don't DESERVE to be paid as much, to have good health insurance, and we don't rate as much pension, because Cessna employees are far more valuable and profitable to Cessna than we are to Hawker Beechcraft.
First, this is a bogus number. They don't even say what time frame they used to come up with this number, or what else they used to come to it. It's simply crap. But let's roll with their graph for a minute.
Why are Cessna employees so profitable? Let's think about it. Many aircraft workers have worked at the different companies here, Bombardier, Cessna, Spirit and Boeing, as well as the subcontractors. We all know that the workers at HBC are every bit as skilled and productive as they are at every other manufacturer.
So, worker productivity isn't the issue. The workers aren't less "profitable", so you need to look at the REAL reason. Let's look at a couple more graphs they posted:
Business has never been better for Hawker Beechcraft. Cessna Revenues are only 1.6 times HBC's, but their Operating Profit is 6 times HBC's. HBC has growing revenues and a record backlog. If they can't make a reasonable profit in this situation, there are obviously serious management problems.
How can this be the fault of the workers? We do everything asked of us, and do high-quality work.
While Cessna has no debt, HBC has $2.1 BILLION in debt.
Is this debt the fault of the workers? Did WE take it on?
Of course not. If your boss buys a house, you shouldn't have to take a pay cut to pay for it, should you?
That's what they are saying. They took on the debt, to buy the company, but WE should pay for their debt. Here's another slide:
It's clear from this slide that Cessna is a well-honed, well-managed, profitable company. This graph on the HBC side shows management problems, careening from profitable one quarter to in the hole the next. It's clear to long-time employees that HBC is too top-heavy with managers, and they keep hiring high-paid Vice Presidents left and right.Notice they didn't make a graph about profit per Vice President!
Once again, NONE of this is caused by the employees. We build excellent products, and we do high-quality work and we are proud of the job we do. Raytheon mismanaged this company for many years, and there was a lot of damage done. It would take ALL of us to fix the damage done.
Too bad HBC holds we, the employees, in contempt.
This points to plans by HBC to throw an insulting proposal on the table Tuesday night, and they'll do a 'sell job' in the shop to try to tell us that we should be happy that they so generously gave us what they did, because we sure aren't worth it!
Remember, since early this year, they have told us the great job we've been doing, how we are the best in the business. They told us that right up until the time that we wanted to be paid as well as HBC'S competitors pay their employees.
Then they told us how they REALLY feel.
Negotiation Committee Update 7-26-08
Today is July 26, 2008, and we are still meeting with the Company on Hours of Work and Overtime.
Do not be misled by the Company’s web page into thinking that those hours have been agreed too. Nothing on hours of work or overtime has been signed.
Also on their web page the company states that Cessna employees generate $51K more profit per employee than HBC. Could it be that hiring 18 Vice-Presidents this year alone has made us too top heavy? Can you say “Raytheon”? Hourly worker to hourly worker there is no difference in production from Cessna to HBC, so where is the profit difference coming from?
Let your managers know no more B.S. math and give us a fair and equitable contract!
Do not be misled by the Company’s web page into thinking that those hours have been agreed too. Nothing on hours of work or overtime has been signed.
Also on their web page the company states that Cessna employees generate $51K more profit per employee than HBC. Could it be that hiring 18 Vice-Presidents this year alone has made us too top heavy? Can you say “Raytheon”? Hourly worker to hourly worker there is no difference in production from Cessna to HBC, so where is the profit difference coming from?
Let your managers know no more B.S. math and give us a fair and equitable contract!
Friday, July 25, 2008
Latest flyers
Here's the flyers for the last several days. 
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Click picture for large size. Click here for .pdf
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Negotiation Committee Update 7-24-08
Today is July 24th, and we met with the Company and their consultants on retirement.
The Consultants gave us a presentation on how the IAM Pension compares to our present retirement. According to them our plan at 44 is better than having the IAM Pension, which Spirit has at $60.00.
Then they went on to show us where our pension at $44.00 is actually better than Cessna which gets $55.00. No wonder this company has a problem with schedules and budget. Just look at the way they do the math comparison for retirement.
Tell your managers no more B.S. numbers and negotiate a fair contract!
The Consultants gave us a presentation on how the IAM Pension compares to our present retirement. According to them our plan at 44 is better than having the IAM Pension, which Spirit has at $60.00.
Then they went on to show us where our pension at $44.00 is actually better than Cessna which gets $55.00. No wonder this company has a problem with schedules and budget. Just look at the way they do the math comparison for retirement.
Tell your managers no more B.S. numbers and negotiate a fair contract!
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