Strike Update October 21, 2008

Strike Update - October 21, 2008

We remain cautiously optimistic that Boeing will return to the table on Thursday (October 23rd) and sincerely work to resolve this strike.

We hope this is not just a ploy to justify their plunging profit picture. We are all acutely aware that Boeing CEO Jim McNerney will report third quarter Boeing earnings tomorrow. Obviously, the earnings will reflect a huge loss because of our strike and the missed deliveries. Returning to the bargaining table should be to resolve the strike and return our members to building the best airplanes in the world, rather than simply giving the CEO a convenient answer to what this Company is doing to resolve the strike. McNerney should have to justify the lost revenue and answer why they continue to keep their employees on the picket line.

In order to allow the negotiation process to work, we will have a media blackout and provide no details from this new round of talks until they have concluded.

Discounted Medical Care
Family physician Dr. Michael C. Brown in Des Moines is offering to take on striking Machinists and their families for half price or he will bill them. His office is located at 22236 7th Ave. S and is open Monday through Friday from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. Phone: 206-878-8600.

Recent COBRA Bill
NOTE: Several members have called with questions after receiving a Billing Notice from Boeing. The letter is a billing for your Life and Accidental Death and Dismemberment policies. The letter sounds like you will be delinquent unless you pay the $21.40 specified by 10/31/2008. The letter is simply giving you the COBRA option to purchase Life Insurance and Accidental Death & Dismemberment Coverage. While the letter appears to be a bill, it is simply giving you the option to purchase this coverage and informing you of the premium cost. You do not have to take action unless you wish to continue the coverage and pay for it yourself by 10/31/2008.

Keep in mind in the strike settlement agreement, the Union typically insists that your benefits coverage (including life insurance and claims for any members who may have died during the strike) be made whole as though there was no interruption.