January 28, 2014

Brothers and Sisters;

Today numerous Company representatives held meetings throughout the system where our Union members were held captive as Duke began their propaganda campaign. This is the Duke agenda where they continue to spread half-truths and false information. This will be the first of many attempts to implement their scare tactics as they try to insight fear amongst the membership. It is important that you do not give any consideration to their “talking points” because their interests are in opposition to your best interests.

Ask yourself this question; “If the company’s benefit plans, policies and the boiler plate language are so good, why are the non-union employees on their side of the house so pissed off right now?” Those non-represented people are pissed because promises were broken, benefits and wages were reduced and some of their benefits were completely removed. In other words… Those unfortunate folks have been Duked. We have sympathy for the way Duke has treated them. But they are employees-at-will and do not have Union representation to protect their interests and to collectively bargain for their rights and benefits.

One of the things management stated in today’s meetings to our Union members was that “Duke removed the Boiler Plate language” from the Company proposals. That statement is not true. The Company has proposed to amend some of the Boiler Plate language in some company proposals. However, the language where the company reserves the right to amend, modify or terminate a benefit plan at any time and for any reason is still included in numerous policies and plans. In addition, in the areas where the Company has “amended” the Boiler Plate language, they tied other detrimental company proposals to the acceptance of the amended boiler plate language.

Your Union Officers have the correct and truthful information and will convey all that information before a contract vote is called.  Special meetings will be called soon and a contract vote will be called shortly after. ONLY DUES PAYING MEMBERS will be allowed to vote on the contract. Your Union Committee will either endorse the contract for ratification or recommend it be voted down. A full explanation of the contract and a written copy of the proposed changes will be posted on the Union websites and copies will be available to the members.

I am hopeful the parties will be successful in concluding our negotiations in a positive manner. More information will be posted in the next few days. PLEASE continue to work safely and conduct yourself in a professional manner as your Union officials conclude our negotiation process with your best interest in mind.

With deep admiration and respect to all my Brothers and Sisters, I am sincerely yours,

Ed Mobsby