November 12, 2002
Gregory P Josefowicz
borders Group
100 Phoenix Dr
Ann Arbor MI 48108-2202
Re: Contract Negotiations Borders #27
Dear Mr. Josefowicz:
I apologize in advance of receipt of this letter, but I need your help. On the 18th of October, the workers at Border's store #27 in Minneapolis, Minnesota voted for us be their certified bargaining representative. The vote was 15 for and 6 against, and I thought it was an even handed campaign free of any real ugliness.
On the 1st of November I sent a letter to the store manager with a request for dates for negotiations to begin. I have the good fortune of more than a few years in the business, and I realize those decisions will be made well beyond her. That's where you come in.
I am certain these talks will be conducted by people other than yourself, though we would love to have you join us. I would appreciate if you could place me in contact with whomever will be heading up these negotiations. I have included a standard request form we use for all contract negotiations. I would appreciate that data be returned to us as quickly as possible. Once we get it there is some preliminary work we need to do, but we should be ready to go shortly after the first of December.
I know in the past, you have used the Jackson Lewis law firm. Unfortunately, their reputation precedes them. I would hope you would have your own in-house human resource people available, but it is obviously your call on who can best negotiate this contract. I would appreciate whomever you are using to contact me at 651-451-6240.
I am certain you are very busy, I will try and avoid writing you unless it is an absolute necessity. Thank you for your help in this matter.
Sincerely,
Bill Pearson
President
UFCW Local 789
PS: As a courtesy, please be aware, all communications exchanged will be available to others