Submitted by Bruce Hamilton, President

After weeks of negotiating with Local 1700's executive board, Greyhound has offered drivers and mechanics a new contract that fails to meet our basic needs. The union has been demanding wage increases that exceed inflation, a top-quality medical plan that is affordable, and a 100% match on 401k accounts. We have also demanded changes to the work rules that have caused members all over the country to take to the streets and demand that Greyhound stop treating us like dogs.

Greyhound's offer of February 15 does not come close to what we deserve from a company that has doubled its profits on our backs. We need to send them a strong message that we expect them to return to the bargaining table with an offer we can accept.

The company's offer consists of the current contract as modified by the changes
that are in the packet that is being mailed to each member's home. Another packet will be mailed that will contain a ballot along with voting instructions.

This will be a vote either to accept or reject the company's offer. This vote is NOT a strike vote. We need to tell the company to return to negotiations. A strike vote will be taken if and when it becomes necessary.

Watch your mail for the complete text of the company's offer, and for the ballot to
follow. Attend your union membership meeting to discuss the contract.