Steady and Sure is NTM Management Response
In recent meetings, our customers have been asking excellent, rubber-meets-the-road questions regarding the current volatility that our industry is facing and how it is affecting Northwestern Travel.

We have been telling customers simply that although Northwestern Travel has been hit and hurt, we are still a healthy enterprise. I think the best summary on our company's health and outlook for this year and 2002, is this memo from our CEO John Noble to the employees.

The first half of his memo affirms our corporate health. The second portion, that describes John's offer to employees, demonstrates another reason why Northwestern Travel was recently selected by Twin City Business as one of the "Ten Best Places to Work in the Twin Cities." I believe, as John does, that happy employees make for happy customers.

I hope that John's message gives you a deeper sense that Northwestern Travel's commitment to customer satisfaction and premium quality will not be sacrificed in the midst of the turmoil sweeping our industry.

Lisa Miller
Vice President

-----Original Message-----
From: John C. Noble
Sent: Thursday, October 18, 2001 9:52 AM
Subject: Message from John Noble
Importance: High

Northwestern Travel employees:

The short-term future of travel is uncertain. Many of our competitors are going to shortened hours and pay cuts, cutting services and asking their clients to pay more for less. But we're doing better than they are.

John Noble CEO

As you know, we've chosen a "steady as she goes" course, anticipating that the industry will ultimately come back stronger than ever. With your help we've maintained service levels that are the envy of the industry, and we've reduced expenses with voluntary unpaid time off.

Your dedication and sacrifices are extraordinary and I want to recognize them. As thanks for all you've done, I am pleased to announce two extra holidays for 2001:

· Friday, November 23, 2001 (the day after Thanksgiving)
· Monday, December 24, 2001 (the day before Christmas)

These will be handled just as holidays are handled in other cases, which means you'll need to check with your office manager or supervisor for exceptions. For example, department store offices will be ACCESS will continue to be staffed; Northwestern Travel Management on-sites will take their lead from the clients, etc….

Thank you for your commitment, dedication and loyalty. You're all the best!

Appreciatively,
John Noble