We all look forward with tremendous hope to a fresh new year and a fresh chance to make the kinds of changes we have long been working for. Yet in many ways it does not appear that this New Year will begin on a very happy note. The criminal lords of finance who are destroying the world economy are making the beginning of 2009 into a real challenge for working people.

At Greyhound, we are looking at another huge loss of regular jobs as the company projects an extremely lean few winter months. The Run Committee found it impossible to make anything like a decent run bid for January with the bare-bones schedule structure they were given to work with. There is hope that spring will bring the beginning of a turnaround, and we may be able to make a more attractive run bid when ridership increases.

One positive note is that the company has finally acceded to union demands to change hotels in Montreal. We are still working on safety and security issues in other locations, such as Detroit. Another positive development is that Greyhound’s new president and CEO, Dave Leach, has met twice with the union, and, in complete contrast with his predecessor, Gorman, the meetings were very informative and productive. We’re looking forward to even more productive meetings in 2009.

Extraboard drivers are finally set to have their day in court in early February when the too-long delayed arbitration hearing in the run guarantee case will be held. Roadkill will of course keep you posted on details. Meanwhile, have a safe, healthy and Happy New Year.