Highlights

Buffenbarger Delivers Keynote

37th Grand Lodge Convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers Brothers and Sisters, I have the honor to announce to you that the 37th Grand Lodge Convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is officially open for business. ...
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Buffenbarger Addresses Delegates

Buffenbarger Delivers Keynote to Convention Delegates

37th Grand Lodge Convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers

Brothers and Sisters, I have the honor to announce to you that the 37th Grand Lodge Convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers is officially open for business.

Read entire keynote address here.

Buffenbarger Delivers Closing Remarks to Convention Delegates

37th Grand Lodge Convention of the International Association of Machinists and Aerospace Workers

Brothers and sisters, I am proud of us.

In the eventful week that is now coming to a close, we looked trouble - big trouble for our union - straight in the eye.

Read entire closing remarks here.

Buffenbarger Rallies Delegates for Obama

IAM President Tom Buffenbarger wrapped up Thursday's session with an impassioned address urging IAM members to join "The November 4th Team" and unite behind the candidacy of
Democratic presidential nominee Barack Obama.

On the eve of a live video satellite address by Democratic Presidential candidate Barack Obama, International President Tom Buffenbarger called on delegates to do their part to take back the White House this November.

"We are going to win the White House and we are going to work hard to expand the Democratic margins in the House of Representatives and secure a filibuster-proof Senate," said Buffenbarger. "I want every last member of this union to know that the IAM is fully on board and supporting the Obama-Biden ticket."

Buffenbarger unveiled the IAM's campaign slogan: the TNT - The November 4th Team. "As the November 4th Team, we are an explosive force," said Buffenbarger. "There is nothing more important that you could possibly do on November 4th than get your brothers and sisters out to vote for Barack Obama."

"In every Local Lodge, we have members who have not registered to vote," said Buffenbarger. "These are IAM members we must hunt down and get registered."

Buffenbarger also asked delegates to return home and educate their fellow members on the economic issues that will impact their daily lives.

"This is an America where nothing - not the color of one's skin, not the mere chance of one's birth, not the state or region you grow up in, not the religion you practice, not the schools you went to - where nothing prevents you from serving your country at the very highest levels - or from reaching your dreams," said Buffenbarger. "It is that promise - the promise of America - that we are fighting for in this election.

"What is at stake is nothing less than the opportunity that every one of our children, and our grandchildren, and our great grandchildren must have to achieve their own dreams," said Buffenbarger. "When we win the White House on November 4th, we have fulfilled the promise of America."

Following a rallying cry from Sen. Hillary Clinton for unity, delegates on Monday endorsed Barack Obama for president. To support the Obama candidacy, the IAM is preparing a massive education campaign among IAM members and extensive publicity in union publications and worksites nationwide.

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.

Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 6 - Sept. 12, 2008

In This Issue:

- Acheson, Kourpias Address Delegates
- Convention Honors Spanish Leadership Working Group
- Panel Tackles Issue of Religion and Politics
- Winpisinger Bio Debuts at Convention
- Unique Machinists Quilts Crafted for Raffle
- Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, click here for a PDF version.

Delegates Approve New Financial Plan

Local 1976 Delegate Frank Schifano was among dozens of members who participated in a spirited debate about a new financial plan for the IAM.

Just as delegates to the IAM Convention in 1976 approved the Program for Progress that saw the union through more than three decades, delegates at the 37th Grand Lodge Convention ensured the IAM has a sound financial base to carry the union into the future with the resources necessary to take on corporations and hostile governments.

A university professor described the IAM at Boeing as "the wrong union to mess with" in the New York Times and an aerospace industry analyst called the IAM "one of the last unions with any power in this country." The action delegates took will ensure the IAM will be described in such terms for years to come.

The new financial plan is the result of a democratic process that included opportunities for delegates to provide input into the final proposal, a thorough review of finances by General Secretary-Treasurer Warren Mart, a spirited floor debate and a democratic vote to approve the new plan.

Delegates lined up at the microphones to express their strong feelings on both sides of the issue, but all expressed their commitment as trade unionists. IAM President Tom Buffenbarger gave an impassioned address on the responsibility all members have to keep the union strong for the next generation. "My father was at the 1976 Convention, and I know the fathers of many of you in this room were there, too," declared Buffenbarger. "I want to see a great union for our children and grandchildren - that's what we're here to do today."

The approved proposal takes into account the needs expressed by delegates and lodges to keep the current method of calculating the Grand Lodge per capita tax largely intact. To keep the IAM financially strong, delegates approved a one-time increase of $4.00 in the 2009 Grand Lodge per capita tax. Coupled with the normal weighted average estimated increase of 3.02 percent, or 78 cents, the total increase for 2009 is$4.78, or the equivalent of just 2.76 cents per hour.

There will be a normal increase of an estimated 80 cents in 2010. In 2011 there will be a one-time increase of $2.00 in the per capita base rate and then annual increases will be pegged to the Consumer Price Index.

Local Lodges will have the ability to set their own dues rates and collection methods based on their own needs. Also, provisions remain for the International President to grant special dispensations in certain circumstances.

It doesn't matter what position you took, your character and strength were outstanding," said Buffenbarger. "We are one union of one mind with a common cause of taking care of the brothers and sisters throughout the union."

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.
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Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 5 - Sept. 11, 2008

In This Issue:

- Delegates Approve New Financial Plan
- Hero's Welcome for AFSCME President
- Tofani Receives Kourpias Award for Journalism
- Huckabee Thanks IAM for Historic Endorsement
- Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, click here for a PDF version.

International Leaders Call For Strong Global Action


Canadian Labour Congress President Ken Georgetti was one of many international labor leaders who urged delegates to build global trade union solidarity.

Building international ties to strengthen basic freedoms and build a global economy were strong themes echoed by a distinguished lineup of trade union leaders.

"We can't let any politician ignore the needs of working people anymore, it's too important," said Canadian Labour Congress President Ken Georgetti. "Look at what has happened to our economy since we got the Free Trade Agreement and NAFTA. George Bush and Stephen Harper are just waving jobs goodbye. Free trade is a free ride - for corporate greed to profit.

"How do we make governments and politicians listen to working people instead of big business? Two words - political action," said Georgetti. "Only when we organize and build our collective strength can we improve workers' lives and protect our gains."

Georgetti pointed to the gains labor made in Canada even with a hostile government, such as electing 600 labor-endorsed candidates at the local level. At the federal level, they won stronger protections for workers whose companies go bankrupt.

"The only thing stopping complete corporate power over government and our society is the labor movement," said Georgetti. "We can win on both sides of the border when we work together, act together and speak in one voice the language of workers - the language of solidarity."

For nearly 120 years, the IAM has been an active member of the International Metalworkers Federation (IMF), which represents roughly 25 million workers throughout the world.

"In 1893, IAM members traveled across the ocean to Switzerland for the first meeting of the Metalworkers Federation. They understood the need to join together, regardless of where in the world they were, to challenge the power of companies and governments," said Marcello Malentacchi, IMF General Secretary. "Trade union rights are violated every day in many countries. We need strong international organizations to defend ourselves. Today, as thousands of people at Boeing are again on the picket lines to defend their right to decent jobs and working conditions, we stand by our brothers and sisters everywhere Boeing has facilities to support them in this very important struggle."

Lucie Studnicna, International Secretary of the Metalworkers Union of the Czech Republic (OS KOVO), spoke of the difficulties that all women face trying to balance work and family. Inspired by her mother who became politically active after the sweeping changes in Eastern Europe in the 1990's, Studnicna broke through many barriers to join the ranks of the executive board of OS KOVO. "What I hope my children will understand about my job as a trade unionist and why I put in so many hours is that we're trying to create a better world with the values of dignity, respect, tolerance and solidarity. And if I can do that, I know I'm on the right track."

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.

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Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 4 - Sept. 10, 2008

In This Issue:

- International Leaders Call For Strong Global Action
- Meeting the Challenges of Globalization
- Panelists Discuss Threats to Freedom Of Speech
- Organizing Successes Recognized
- Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, click here for a PDF version.

IAMNPF Highlight - Day 4 - September 10, 2008

	Congratulation to Robert Motisi from Local Lodge 447, winner of the TomTom GPS.
	Also, congratulations to Michael Myhre of Local 2191, winner of the IAM National Benefit Trust Fund drawing for a new iPod. Both winners are for Convention day 4, Thursday, Sep. 11, 2008.

Clinton Rallies Machinists for Obama

Shouts of welcome echoed through the halls of the Convention when delegates gave a rousing welcome to a close friend of the Machinists union, Senator Hillary Clinton. The packed convention hall rose to their feet repeatedly during Clinton's remarks and displayed unequivocal support for her request to back the candidacy of Illinois Senator Barack Obama.

"You were with me from the start, and I want you to know that I will stand with you as we try to change what's going on in this country," Clinton told the delegates. "I believe this country is worth fighting for, and that's why I am fighting to elect Barack Obama the next president of the United States.

"I don't think there's ever been higher stakes in an election than what we're facing this November. Barack and I may have started on different paths, but we are on one journey now, and it's a journey to take back our country because Americans do better when we have a Democratic president," declared Clinton.

"I know Senator Obama. I've seen his passion and determination. He understands both the economic stresses here at home and the strategic challenges around the world," said Clinton. "We've got to start with a president who actually understands the changes we have to make. And no one has more at stake in this election than the American labor movement."

Immediately following her remarks, delegates unanimously passed a resolution endorsing Barack Obama for president. "This union is not half-hearted with its endorsements," said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger, who was an early and strong supporter of Sen. Clinton in the primary race. "We will have boots on the ground in every state to make sure our members understand that Barack Obama is the best chance in a generation to reclaim the American Dream for working families."

The endorsement of Obama will trigger a massive education campaign among IAM members and extensive publicity in union publications and worksites nationwide. The IAM is a significant political presence in the key industrial states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Michigan and Wisconsin.

The IAM, which was the first union to endorse Clinton's presidential campaign, paid tribute to the close friendship with the Senator from New York by awarding an honorary IAM membership, only the third person in the last sixty years to do so. "We found a partner who never gave up, never gave in, never quit until the last vote was counted," said Buffenbarger. "We found a partner who fought like hell, was knocked down and refused to stay down. We found a Democratic leader who would fight for blue - collar families."

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.

Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 3 - Sept. 09, 2008

In This Issue:

- Clinton Rallies Machinists for Obama
- Finance Report Covers Four Tough Years
- Distinguished Panels Discuss Freedom from Fear
- Labor Leaders Speak Out for Change in November
- Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, the click here for a PDF version.

IAMNPF Highlight - Day 3 - September 09, 2008

Congratulations to Wayne Laufenberg from Local Lodge 1238, winner of the TomTom GPS. Also, congratulations to Jack Williams of Local 818, winner of the IAM National Benefit Trust Fund drawing for a new iPod. Both winners are for Convention day 3, Wednesday, Sep. 10, 2008.

Buffenbarger Opens Historic 37th Grand Lodge Convention

International President Tom Buffenbarger opened the 37th Grand Lodge Convention with a stirring call to action and a hard look at the stark choices facing the union on its 120th anniversary.

"Over the next few days, nearly 1,500 delegates will make critical decisions, life and death decisions, about the kind of union the IAM is going to be," said Buffenbarger, who prefaced his remarks by recalling similarly grave choices facing the nation in the early days of 1941.

"FDR saw the storm clouds on the horizon," said Buffenbarger. "He saw how desperately unprepared the nation was for what was coming. And he acted to ready the nation for the almost inevitable conflict. Brothers and Sisters, what was true for a great nation is equally true for our great union."

"In the world as it is today, we confront across the bargaining table the cold-blooded, single-minded true believers in a ruthless business ideology," declared Buffenbarger. "To them, workers are the enemy. And in dealing with us, their objective is simple: to give nothing and to take everything. That's why everybody needs a strong union. It's a fact of life. Either you get a union, a strong, a tough union or you get the shaft."

Buffenbarger also took aim at the union's political adversaries who spent the past eight years working with radical corporate allies to remake the nation into a feeding trough for "bankers, brokers and Wall Street wise guys."

"We've been in a recession for over a year now. And the Bush Administration still cannot get its act together," said Buffenbarger, who also took aim at Republican Presidential candidate John McCain for his record attacking working families.

"The gravest risk to our jobs and our freedoms lies in two words: John McCain," said Buffenbarger. "Twelve years out of the last twenty years we have had to put up with bush-league presidents. And, if John McCain wins the White House, he will make it an even score."

The packed hall of delegates and guests welcomed Buffenbarger with a standing ovation and rose numerous times in agreement with his strongly delivered remarks. When asked if anyone wants to "let the wolves of Corporate America devour our future," the packed convention hall thundered with repeated shouts of "No."

"As delegates to this 37th Grand Lodge Convention, you have a special responsibility to chart a new course for our union. You have a duty to all who went before you, and all who may come after you, to promote the interest and further the principles of this great union of ours," said Buffenbarger.

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.

Click here for a live video feed from the 37th Grand Lodge Convention in Orlando, Florida.

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Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 2 - Sept. 08, 2008

In This Issue:

-Buffenbarger Opens Historic 37th Grand Lodge Convention
-Convention Celebrates 120 Year Anniversary
-Guest Speakers Emphasize Call for Action
-Special Gavels Mark Convention Opening
-Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, the click here for a PDF version.

IAMNPF Highlight - Day 2 - September 08, 2008

	Congratulations to Tom Greaser from Local Lodge 2297 winner of TomTom GPS for Day 2.
	Also, congratulations to Tom Hamlin, of local 1720, was the winner of the IAM National Benefit Trust Fund iPord drawing on day 2, Monday, Sep 8, 2008.

Orlando Welcomes Delegates to the 37th Grand Lodge Convention

The 37th Grand Lodge Convention in Orlando, FL, is certain to be among the most closely watched IAM events since the Grand Lodge Convention in 1976, when delegates approved a sweeping financial restructuring plan known as the 'Program for Progress.'

"This year's convention will determine what kind of union the Machinists will be in the next two years, the next ten years and even the next thirty years," said International President Tom Buffenbarger. "It is the responsibility of every delegate at every convention to set the course for the future, but never in our history has that decision been more important."

Among the special guests at this year's event will be New York Democratic Sen. Hillary Clinton and former Arkansas Republican Governor Mike Huckabee, who both received an historic dual endorsement following last year's Conversations with the Candidates.

In addition to a full roster of guest speakers, delegates will also hear a keynote speech from International President Buffenbarger on the opening day and a full financial report from General Secretary-Treasurer Warren Mart on the following day. This year's convention will also celebrate the vision of Franklin Delano Roosevelt, whose "Four Freedoms" speech rings as true now as it did in 1941.

Each day's agenda will highlight one of the Four Freedoms - Freedom from Fear, Freedom of Speech, Freedom from Want and Freedom of Religion - and provide a worthy reminder of the legacy, as well as the unfinished business of our nation, our union and one of our greatest presidents.

Unlike the 1976 Convention, where closed circuit televisions were needed to give all 2,345 delegates a clear view of the speakers and debates, this year's event will feature live streaming video feeds at http://www.goiam.org that will make selected portions of the proceedings available to members across North America.

To view an interactive newsletter of all the highlights, click here.

Convention Highlights Newsletter - Day 1 - Sept. 07, 2008

In This Issue:

-Orlando Welcomes Delegates to the 37th Grand Lodge Convention
-Law Committee Dedicated to 120-Year Democratic Tradition
-Diverse Delegate Group Arrives in Orlando
-2008 Convention: Four Years in the Making
-Grand Lodge Convention 2008 Host Committee
-Convention Photo Album

Trouble viewing the interactive file, click here for a PDF version.

IAMNPF Highlight - Day 1 - September 07, 2008

Congratulations to Danny Lebron (pictured) from Local Lodge 1781 who was the winner of the TomTom GPS. Also, congratualtions to Anthony Scime, of local 330, who was the winner of the IAM National Benefit Trust Fund drawing for an new iPod for both for Sunday, Sep 7, 2008....
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