We are investigating the new contracts at other plants and hope to have a full report for our Lockheed meeting on April 12. I hope we can have a full and well-informed discussion then.
As we move into the second quarter of 2005, it is good to report that things are looking better here. It is my hope that this year and the following year will be the ones everyone has looking forward to in respect to our jobs and the possible increase in the hourly workforce. The company has employed several new employees, with requisitions for more. There are also a couple of recalls going out for the machine shop. In some areas that have had to reduce headcount, those employees are being absorbed into different jobs so we don't actually see them go out the door.
The meetings that we have been having on Tuesday evenings prior to the regular Local 848 Sunday membership meetings are going well. We attempted to have the one for March at Corsair Park, but the weather did not cooperate. We will try it again April 12, but, of course, keep an eye on the forecast.
I am making every effort possible to expedite the grievances that in procedure as well as can be, considering the schedules of the people involved i.e. our International Representative. I will, if necessary, conduct the 3 1/2 step grievance meetings in the future with who is able to attend, and brief the rest of the committee at a later date.
These were some of the things that I wanted to communicate with you about as we move forward through the next few months. Try to make note of our monthly meetings and come on out.
--Herbert R.Brand Jr., Lockheed Chairman