September 12, 2003

Dear Sisters and Brothers:

Today we met with the Company along with the Federal Mediator to continue negotiations. After separate sessions with the Federal Mediator, we met together in which the Company gave us their first counter proposal since the last package was voted down by 97% of the voting membership.

The Company offered almost the identical package as the previous one you have already voted down. A very long discussion ensued, in which it was emphasized by our committee that improvements needed to be made in order to reach a voluntary tentative agreement, but the Company was unwilling to agree without the members suffering takeaways.

We will reconvene next week September 19, 2003 to continue negotiations. Our committee understands that this is a frustrating time. With this in mind, we cannot stress enough the importance for everyone to continue to work safe. Although many workgroups feel shorthanded and pressured to get more and more work accomplished, please don't cut corners and jeopardize your well being to get the job done.

If you have any questions, do not hesitate to contact us.

In solidarity,

Your Negotiating Committee

Shawn Reents

Mike Pyne

Gary McGarth

Bob Jung

Holly Kaiser