We are negotiating for the future of our members.  We are resisting cost shifting on a healthcare plan that is expected to cost $30,000 per year for a family in 2011. 
 
We are fighting for our retiree healthcare in a world that has almost abandoned retiree healthcare.
 
We are fighting for employment security.
 
We are fighting for new jobs in Verizon while the Company is staunchly against the expansion of Union jobs.
 
We are fighting for work jurisdiction while the Company is determined to subcontract.
 
These are the issues that are on the table and the issues that secure our futures.  They are worth fighting for.  We are fighting for these things at the bargaining table and we may soon be taking the fight to the street.  Everyone should be ready.
 
Locals are advised to communicate with retirees.  Some retirees are being contacted by the Company and are asked to work in the event of a strike.  We need them to understand that they cannot possibly earn enough money to pay for the health care premiums the Company is demanding at the table.  The bottom line is that if retirees help the Company kill retiree healthcare they will have worked for free.
 
Once more we caution our members not to pay attention to rumors.  Your supervisor, manager, or director has no information about bargaining whatsoever.  Our bargaining reports are accurate and timely and the only reliable source of information.  We believe that a completely informed membership is our best weapon.