Sorry to everyone on the list for the long delayed reply. I
try to be more prompt but a lot of travel and a very dead laptop have
made keeping up more of a challenge than normal. I had to start this
on my personal computer and finish it on one in the office but it
works so here we go.

Scott,
Still trying to figure this out. Our union, Local 669 has not
called for this vote, the members of District 9, Tennessee have.
There was a motion made by a member of District 9 at the union
meeting on Thursday, May 1, 2008 in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The
motion was seconded by another member of District 9. Then a vote to
bring Industry Advancement up for a vote passed unanimously. I can't
figure how this translates to our union hatching a plot against you.
Now, this program has proven itself to be hugely successful in
the 14 districts/20 states that have embraced it. This program has
helped secure work and market share every place it has been tried.
while the District 26 Industry Advancement has proven itself in South
Texas by having virtually zero unemployment in over three years while
District 5 has maintained various forms of unemployment in the teens
and next contract could result in a wage separation between the two
districts because District 26 has taken care of their market share.
This model is the norm everywhere Industry Advancement has been
implemented, more work and less unemployment. You wouldn't think
folks would vote against that if they understood it.
Democracy is still at work though. You can still vote against
this, why you would when you have the opportunity to advance your
District would seem to be less than productive by any measure.
However, this is America where you can throw yourself under the bus
of your choice. Not a good choice when you can ride the bus and
advance and grow but still an inalienable right; both in America and
Local 669.
I hope you choose to grow and protect your District against
unemployment and unfair competition but the choice rests with you.
When work slows because of undercutting by unfair competition,
wouldn't you rather have your family's income and benefits protected
by the Industry Advancement program instead of having to make ends
meet and wish you had? It seems like a logical choice but the choice
rests with you. I hope you make the one that protects your family,
your District and your future.