This being the holiday season, I would like to wish all GM families well. Having said that and under the current situation with Rick Wagoner pleading with the United States Congress for help, I would hope that those that I sit across the table from are eating humble pie. We have been struggling with our management's willingness to offshore our work and them saying, "we don't think that we owe you anything on the Global Issue." To them, I now think that it is appropriate to invite them to take their sorry butts offshore themselves and see how they do begging for help from China, India, Germany and Korea. I wish them good luck and frankly goodbye. That is not meant to be mean spirited but I do mean it.

One thing that you can take to the bank is my recognition that the ability, experience and history of performance of the DES bargaining unit are second to none. I personally thank all of you for your hard work and your tremendous talent and skills, and most importantly, your overwhelming desire to provide for your families. It is that recognition and mindset that drives myself and the Shop Committee everyday.

Thank you also for your continued support and patience, particularly in these bad times. I can't tell you enough how much that means.

Merry Christmas and let's have hope and faith that the New Year brings happiness, good health and prosperity to all of our families.

/s/ Tom Sanders, Shop Chairman

TS:sh/opeiu393afl-cio