Reading the replies, I'm amazed, I guess MS knows his workers, take it or leave it seems to be the response on this board.
Like others, I have 10+ years with NEMF and wouldn't want to start over elsewhere, have a mortgage and other financial responsibilities, and I depend on the money I bring home.
However I'm willing to stand up and fight for the money I' paid, I think I earn it. I also think that Mike Shevell did not get where he is today without being a shrewd businessman. I believe that this will not be the last demand for concessions. It has only been 6 months since the last one. I think we should say no to more, and if we don't he will only take more. One reply said how the job was putting food on his table. Well our wages are already back 2.5 years, freeze them another 3 years and see if that money buys the same food, you will be working just as hard.
Yes, we all depend on NEMF being in good shape financially, but these demands have never come in request for help. Instead they came with a threat.
The last others responded in the same way, give into the threat, hold on to what we have and hope that is all that will be demanded. Well, 6 months later new demands and no promise that this will be the last.
So, I don't think the choice comes down to take or leave it, there is a third option, to stand (if not as one,in a large enough group) and say, Yes I want to work here, but yes I want fair pay and to be free from wondering when the next demand will come and how much it will be.
As for those who favor giving into the demands, ask yourself, how many givebacks will be enough. I know the economy, job market and pressures to provide for one's family, but don't think this will be the last unless we stop it.