from the IAM communications department
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from the IAM communications department |
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Highlights
The IAM's
International President
General Secretary Treasurer
GVP Western Territory
GVP Canada
GVP Midwest Territory
GVP IAM Headquarters
GVP Southern Territory
GVP Eastern Territory
GVP Transportation
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Tuesday, August 28, 2001
Two Members Die in Midair Collision The IAM lost two valued members on Monday, August 27th when the aircraft they were piloting collided in midair. The two pilots, Larry Groff and Lars Stratte of Local 946 in Rancho Cordova, worked for San Joaquin Helicopters and were fighting forest fires in Northern California. “Our hearts go out to the families of these members and their co-workers,” said IAM President Tom Buffenbarger. “I hope they know the prayers and thoughts of this entire union are with them today.” Groff and Stratte were killed when their air tankers slammed into each other over a raging wildfire. They were experienced military veterans doing incredibly dangerous work, state fire officials said. The smokey conditions, the fast shifts in weight, the turbulent winds, as well as constantly dealing with obstructions like trees and power lines make this a very difficult exercise. These workers were part of a group that had voted to join the IAM last April and just ratified their first contract this past week. Grand Lodge Representative Gerry Greer, who led the negotiations, said that the pilots were “a very dedicated, brave group. Their job is one of the most dangerous occupations that exists.” “Workplace injuries and deaths occur too often. We need to remain ever vigilant,” said Western Territory GVP Lee Pearson. “These new brothers made the ultimate sacrifice trying to protect the families in the regions where the fires are occurring. Our sympathy and prayers go out to the families of these brave young men.” Local 777 Strike Ends in Victory Nearly 1,700 members of IAM Local 777 began returning to work today after reaching agreement ending a 27-day strike at 69 auto dealerships in the greater St. Louis metropolitan area. The three-year agreement addresses work schedules, pension improvements and wage scales that led to the work stoppage. Federal mediators helped work out the proposal, noted DBR Jim Brown, District 9. “These members never wavered in their commitment to do whatever it took to reach agreement,” Brown said. “They stood firm from start to finish.” The unit is comprised of body workers, mechanics, service writers and support staff.
Planning Begins for Lockheed Talks Strategic planning for contract talks covering more than 5,000 members at Lockheed Martin got underway with a session chaired by GVP Bob Thayer in Palmdale, CA, last week, reported Dick Floyd, aerospace coordinator. “Job security ranks high on the priority list,” Floyd noted. “Out-sourcing has been a major issue.” Thayer said contract talks could begin later this year after contract proposals are crafted based upon membership surveys. The current agreement expires March 1, 2002.
District 9 Notches Missouri Organizing Wins IAM District 9 won two organizing drives bringing marine service technicians in Lake of the Ozarks, MO to IAM District 9 in Bridgeton, MO. Lake of the Ozarks is located in central Missouri. The first win was on Tuesday, July 31, 2001 for 9 marine technicians at Village Marina. The second win was on Wednesday, August 1, 2001 for 12 marine technicians at Port Arrowhead. These new members repair and assemble boats that range up to 57 feet long. Some of the most popular selling boats they work on are $400,000 to $1.3 million craft. District 9 scored yet another organizing win on Thursday, August 2, 2001 in Granite City, IL at Phillips Service Corporation, a commercial tank cleaning service. Scott Stackle, District 9 Organizer said, “These workers were unanimously for IAM representation.”
GLR Ted Neima Tapped for State Panel California Gov. Gray Davis named GLR Ted Neima to the state’s Public Employment Relations Board (PERB). Earlier, Neima served as special assistant to the Labor Commissioner from 1983-84. “We are proud of Ted and excited for him. Gov. Davis has chosen a true champion of the people, we applaud his decision,” said Western territory GVP Lee Pearson. “Ted has been a true journeyman in his fight to serve IAM members. We all wish him well.” The Board administers the collective bargaining statutes that cover employees of California’s wide-ranging agencies.
Celebrate Union Label Week 2001 Spread the union message to those outside the trade union movement who have little concept of the contributions of America’s union to our nation’s progress. That’s why Union Label Week 2001 is so important. It begins on Labor Day and continues through September 8. Use the week to look for the union label when you shop. Use this opportunity to spread the word about the benefits of union membership in your community. A sample editorial, graphics, a Union Labor Week 2001 proclamation and other materials are available at the Union Label Dept’s. Web site: www.unionlabel.org or by calling 202-628-2131.
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