A message from UAW Vice President Ron Gettelfinger

On behalf of your regional director, the regional staff, the UAW National Ford Department and myself, I want to thank you for your cooperation and attention during the "Stand Up for Safety / Safety Awareness 1" stand-down that was conducted on November 2, 2000. We also want to thank your local union elected and appointed representatives, as well as corporate and local management, for joining with us in delivering the message that we all must be more conscious of the dangers around us in the workplace.

"Stand Up for Safety / Safety Awareness 1" began on November 2^nd and it is an ongoing initiative. It is about you, your family and your co-workers. The hazards in the workplace, in an instant, can destroy lives. All of us must be ever vigilant and mindful that equipment and tools can cause serious injury or death. Taking the time to lock out machinery and equipment, wearing the proper safety apparel, utilizing pedestrian walkways and other safe practices can prevent accidents. We owe it to ourselves, our families, and those we work with to practice safety every day of our lives; inside as well as outside the workplace.

Our goal and one of the most important things we can do is to enable you to return home safely to your family and loved ones. The joint commitment of the UAW and the company is clear to dramatically improve in the area of safety. You can assist us in this effort by joining with one another in taking personal responsibility for your safety.

In closing, and as we approach the upcoming holidays, it is my pleasure on behalf of International Union President Stephen P. Yokich, the international Union Executive Board and staff to extend our very best wishes to you and your loved ones for a safe and joyous holiday season.

Cost-Of-Living Allowance

The effective date of COLA will be December 2000. The amount will be $0.90 per hour, an increase of $0.14 from the present $0.76.

UAW Ford workers will receive a Christmas Bonuses of up to $600 each. The Christmas Bonuses will be paid in the pay period in which December 1st falls. Those who are eligible will receive Christmas Bonuses based on the following schedule below.