Boston Newspaper For Sale _ But At What Price?

Scott Allen, a Globe reporter who serves on the Guild's governing board, said the union postponed the meeting with the labor relations board because Monday's negotiations were "constructive" and the Guild wants the talks to continue.

"The union recognized that it sends a conciliatory signal that their first priority is negotiating a settlement," Allen said.

Guild members say that reducing the size of the pay cut in the earlier contract proposal is a top priority for the union. The rejected proposal called for an 8.3 percent wage cut, five-day unpaid furloughs, cuts in health-care benefits, 401(k) contributions and pensions, and the elimination of lifetime job guarantees for about 190 members.

"The union understands they need to reach the $10 million. It's a question of how do you get to the $10 million. I think they're being creative at the table," Allen said.