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Union Workers Reject Latest Crystal Sugar Offer

FARGO, N.D. (AP) -- Locked-out union workers at American Crystal Sugar Co. have rejected the latest contract offer from the company.

Union officials announced Tuesday that 92 percent of union members participated in the secret ballot, and 90 percent voted against the proposal.

Union spokesman John Riskey said in a statement that employees want to work, but will not accept a contract that "puts our jobs and the entire community at risk."

Company vice president Brian Ingulsrud told The Associated Press Tuesday that he's "disappointed the union voted no to working again."

It's the second time workers have rejected an offer.

About 1,300 workers have been locked out since Aug. 1 at plants in North Dakota, Minnesota and Iowa. The company is using replacement workers.

The two sides met with a mediator last week.

(© Copyright 2011 The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed.)

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