Strike Update October 16, 2008

Strike Update - October 16, 2008

Update on ULP Charge
Many of you have come forward and spoken out about the Company's blatant attempts to bypass our negotiating team and negotiate the contract directly with employees in crew meetings or in one-on-ones on the factory floor. The National Labor Relations Board is currently investigating the Union's complaint that the Company committed unfair labor practices with its aggressive direct communication campaign.

On October 14, the Union amended its unfair labor practice (ULP) charge to include charges related to attempts by the Company to restrain and interfere with our members' rights to act collectively as a Union and by trying to divide the membership. The Union also charged that Boeing failed to bargain in good faith when it terminated bargaining early and refused to continue negotiating up until the expiration of the contract, something the parties had agreed to do.

The Union is aggressively pursuing these charges with the National Labor Relations Board. We will not tolerate Boeing's disrespect at the bargaining table, and unlawful acts to go around the Union. We will continue to keep you advised as to the status of our charges.

Negotiations
Union leaders continue to talk regularly with the mediator in hopes of resolving this strike. Boeing needs to realize we are not going to negotiate away IAM jobs inside the factory so vendors can perform the work we have traditionally done. We will continue to pursue all avenues to resolve this strike and address your issues.

Health Care Tip for Children
One of our members called with a tip to get health coverage for your children. Children of striking machinists may qualify for free or low cost medical coverage under the Washington Apple Health for Kids program. Click here for the application form. Mail completed applications to Cindy Mai, Kent Public Health Center, 233 2^nd Ave. S., Kent, WA 98032. If you have questions or would like assistance with the application contact Cindy at 206-296-3949 or cindy.mai@kingcounty.gov.

Strike Check Volunteers
We are looking for members to help with the Saturday strike check distribution at all locations. You can volunteer for 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. or 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. If you are interested and would like to volunteer, call 1-800-763-1301 and indicate which location and shift you would like to work.

Wood
As the weather gets colder, we need more wood for the burn barrels to keep the picketers warm at night. If you know of anyone with clean, burnable wood, please contact your nearest Union hall. Please only donate burnable wood. No painted or treated wood.