11.18.10

InfoRep Hotline November 18. 2010

Hello fellow InfoReps, this is Dane Townsend-Pepper with the hotline for November 18, 2010.

As we all sit anxiously upon the edge of our seats awaiting word from the National Mediation Board (NMB), be assured that President Laura Glading is aggressively seeking our release. Laura recently let me know that she is in the process of scheduling additional meetings with the NMB. As soon as the dates are set they will be announced both here and in the general hotline. In the meantime, please keep encouraging our co-workers to send either a personal letter or CapWiz letter to the NMB.

The National Officers recently videotaped a YouTube video commemorating the 17th anniversary of our successful 1993 strike. †This compelling video reminds us all that ìRemember Novemberî is more than just a slogan.

American recently announced a fire sale on alcoholic beverages dubbed ì5@5î. The sale will apply on all domestic, Canada, Mexico and Caribbean flights departing between 1700 and 1759. The company states, ìAs we wrap up the year, we want to show our customers that we appreciate their business. Offering an in-flight happy hour is our small way of saying thank youî. Given the rise in bad behavior attributed to alcohol on the aircraft over the past several years, one would think AA could find a way to thank customers that doesnít involve hooch.

By the way AA, how about a ìthank youî to all of the employees who have served tirelessly and sacrificed mightily? Something in the form of a contract with meaningful wage and benefit increases would fit just perfectly and I can promise you, itís one gift that wonít be returned!

Anyone interested in further serving our union will get the chance to throw their hat in the ring starting on December 7, 2010. On that date Willingness to Serves (WTS) will be mailed out for the positions of Base Chair and Base Vice-Chair for all bases. The WTSí are due back by 9 am on January 6, 2011. Ballots will be mailed on January 26, 2011 and the count will be held at 1000 on February 25, 2010. As a reminder you must be dues current to run for office as well as to vote.

Patrick Hancock, APFA Retirement Specialist, will give an APFA Retirement Briefing on December 2, 2010 at JFK from 1330 to 1530. The Briefing will be held in the Mark DuPont Room. If you are considering retiring in the near future this will be a very beneficial meeting.