March 1, 2013... Today was less about striking than it was waiting to hear an announcement from the negotiators who were working to settle the dispute, which was rumored to be coming any day now. The tension in Jackson City was so thick, you could easily cut it with a knife.

A little before noon local time (3 eastern), the CSP officials present at the negotiations had a *theoretical* heart attack over a profit sharing clause that was written in the new contract... that is to say, Equestria and The Crystal Empire wanted a 60% cut of the haul, which the operators, workers, and families weren't having. The quarrel over that was abated within less than 15 minutes when the contract was revised with a 1.5% profit cut, which somewhat pleased the northerners as well as calmed down the Cosararans' fears over foreign oppression and loss of jobs.

With that out of the way, the contract was approved, and the strike was settled.

"The strike's settled!" (also the very reason why I HATE doing night shots...)

The next day, the Great Leader traveled to Parkersburg, W.Va., to meet with the negotiators and not only read off the terms of the new contract, but also to congratulate them on their hard work, patience, and professionalism during the ordeal.

Before the strike can "officially" end, however, the contract has to be approved by the steelworkers themselves, not just the CSP...

A summary of the terms:

(and this is very important) A clearer explanation on profit-sharing between all involved, since the steel mill complex has become a joint venture, not just owned by the Jamison Brothers anymore

Increase in pay (originally ~K140, or about $10 per hour, now ~K168, or about $12 per hour

New, comprehensive insurance plan (including life insurance)

Better benefits (paid vacations, medical bills paid, worker's compensation, etc.)

Retirement/pension plan

Better safety management

Equal pay for BOTH men/women

Thanks for being patient and staying with me (more-or-less putting up with me) through the strike. I should be back to building stuff maybe in the next week.

~hiddentemple~