Greetings Members and Retirees...As many of you know Rodney, Paul and I are attending the UAW National Ford Council Convention this week. This is always an important conference as local leadership from across the country gathers to share information and give reports on their local issues as well as hear from the National departments on progress and issues they are working on. This weeks conference takes on greater importance as some Sub Councils are electing officers and all Sub Councils will be electing National Negotiators which will represent the different Councils and their memberships at the main bargaining table in the 2011 National Negotiations with Ford.
I have thought for some time that having representation from our local at the National Table in the form of an elected negotiator would be a positive opportunity. Today that dream is realized! In the election this morning in Sub Council 3 (which is Skilled Trades) R&E Chairman Rodney Clemons was elected as one of two National Negotiators!! This is historic for our local and I CONGRATULATE Rodney for this monumental achievement.
Also in Sub Council 1, I was humbled to be nominated and re-elected to serve as Vice President of the Council. I will keep you updated on other items as they become available!
Watch for information in the coming weeks on information pertaining to submitting resolutions for the national contract.

Greetings Members and Retirees!
I wanted to make you all aware that the channel 7 media in Detroit has done something that is outstanding! Perhaps some of you have already seen the program channel 7 is airing called Its Made in Michigan. tonight they focused on the Chrysler Jeep being assembled in Detroit at Jefferson Assembly, Jets Pizza and Belle Tire. You can see the program by visiting the www.wxyzdetroit.com website. They also said at the conclusion of the program that they are looking for more product Made in Michigan to air in future shows. So...pick up your pens or type a letter and make a phone call to tell them about our Ford products manufactured right here in the great state of Michigan by union labor! Tell them about the greatest History attraction right here in Dearborn the Henry Ford also! It is long overdue that Made in Michigan is being played on local television, so lets spread the word!!!

As you well know today marks the 9th Anniversary of one of the most tragic events in American History, that being the 9-11 attacks on our United States. Take a moment today to remember all of those who lost their lives that day, those that gave their lives trying to save others and also keep our troops in your continued thoughts and prayers as well.

Greetings Members and Retirees!
As many of you know I resigned my position with the International UAW on Friday and have returned to the Presidency at Local 245. This happened after very open discussion with acting President Kim Moore and Director Gamble at Region 1-A. I appreciate the advice support and friendship Kim offered on my return and Thank her for a great job while serving as President. I also appreciate the confidence Rory Gamble had in me and for his understanding upon my desire to return as well.
I thank each of you that I have seen in the plant for your kind words for both Kim and I and for your continued support and understanding. We look forward to continuing to serve the membership in our elected positions.
As always if there are questions or concerns feel free to contact me anytime!
It is great to be Home!!!