To say the events of mid-September surrounding National bargaining were tumultuous would be an understatement. While those will be elaborated on in the General Chairman’s comments of this newsletter, the important result of September’s dramatic events is that we finally have a potential agreement in the hands of all members for consideration. Rejection or acceptance?  You will have the last word— it is entirely in the hands of the members now, as it should be.  Throughout the past several weeks, this committee heard from a multitude of members who thought that reaching a Tentative Agreement meant that the “show was over” and an Agreement was finalized. Many others expressed discontent and apathy about casting a vote in a process they have somehow grown to distrust.  Let us assure you of this one thing — the only way that your vote will not count is if you neglect to properly return a ballot. Despite the fact we find the distrust unwarranted, an officer of your General Committee will be present to ensure the process is completed in accordance with our Constitution and DOL standards.  You should also know that the BNSF committee represents nearly one third of all members who will have a vote in this election.  That is a pretty big voice.  The question remains: will the BNSF and KCS come together to make their voice heard?  NOW is the time we call on you to decide your future as a group. To be counted, all ballots must be returned in accordance with the ballot instructions, and received by Friday, October 21, 2022.  VOTE! VOTE! VOTE!