Machinists Union Rejects Contract, Strike Looming Mon.

     WICHITA, Kan. - A spokesman for the machinists union at Bombardier Learjet says workers have rejected a contract offer and voted to strike. Bob Wood tells The Associated Press that union members voted 79 percent in favor of rejecting the proposed five-year contract Saturday night. They also voted 79 percent in favor of a strike and will start walking the picket line just after midnight Monday. Bombardier Business Aircraft spokeswoman Danielle Boudreau says the company believed the offer was "fair and reasonable" and is disappointed workers didn't accept it and voted to strike. The proposed contract offered no raises the first year and a 1 percent raise for each subsequent year. It would have retained pension plans but increased the cost of health care. Wood has said health insurance is a main sticking point.