SpringfieldNewsSun.com

By Orgon guy

October 3, 2007 1:59 PM | Link to this

Well is see they CSP(certified smart people) are at it again.I am talking about you article screeners.Yanked my comments. You are bush league compared to the Oregonian. You could be compared to Michael Vick,you kill them both if you don’t like the results. SNS/DDN are of my list of interest.Will just read the obituaries, now. At least that can’t be altered.

By ld

October 2, 2007 10:55 AM | Link to this

As of right now there are some people working without a contract the rest of us are laid off. Now the company has a local number for us to call ,which today states the ones on layoff will get no sub because the contract has expired, but yet you have people working with no contract, the company wants their cake and eat it too.You want us to build a truck for you with no contract and thats okay but you lay us off and say since contract has expired no sub.We didn’t chose to leave you put us out.

By gg

October 2, 2007 8:33 AM | Link to this

ActiveUSA Wife- I have been following this for days now. When I was reading the new posts last night I had several laughs, but your post was the best! I laughed out loud! Thanks for sharing.

By gg

October 2, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

ActiveUSA Wife- I have been following this for days now. I justhave to tell you that although I got many laughs while reading the new posts last night, your post made me laugh out loud! Thanks for sharing.

By gg

October 2, 2007 8:31 AM | Link to this

ActiveUSA Wife- I have beenfollowing this for days now. I justhave to tell you that although I got many laughs while reading the new posts last night, your post made me laugh out loud! Thanks for sharing.

By gg

October 2, 2007 8:25 AM | Link to this

A question for the IH workers who are still reporting to work. What is the general feeling of the work force? I hope a resolution is found for all of you…quickly.

By Legacy

October 2, 2007 7:32 AM | Link to this

RV, who made you an authority on rating of wages? RYAN, get a clue, when there are no more unions “your” voice will not stand a chance. Ask the people who have been terminated at Honda! The Kangaroo Courts are a sham. If they let anyone retain their job, they go after them next and that is a fact! See you all later and have a great day!

By Heather

October 2, 2007 1:26 AM | Link to this

I work at IH and I’m not lazy or greedy. The parts I put on are done right the first time and the job I do four people did in the early 90’s, so with out saying I don’t have time to set on my but like some of you may think. My children go to city school, I live in a home on the south west side of Springfield and yes I’m college educated. When I first started working I made $3.50 a hour back in 1990. I worked hard and kept a good work record. Then in 1994 I was hired at IH. Continued on next post

By Ryan

October 2, 2007 1:15 AM | Link to this

RIP International in Springfield, and they only have there union to thank. Do Not Speak for Me I Have a Voice

By gg

October 1, 2007 9:29 PM | Link to this

Beebster-thanks for your condolences. I appreciate it.

By c dean

October 1, 2007 9:11 PM | Link to this

The bottom line is IH leaving has very little to do with the union or wages . IH is on a course of greed and unless its people take wages like those paid in Mexico they will leave. The nonunion jobs in the textile and furniture indsturies all went out of the country. Before you vote ask the vote getter what they will do to repeal nafta?Republican and democrats are both to blame for all this they all voted nafta in.Ill vote for those that oppose nafta and nobody else.

By gg

October 1, 2007 8:56 PM | Link to this

Beebster- yes, Pat was my Dad. I think I know who you are. Dad had a picture with a coworker. He had dark hair and was of thinner build. Is that you? I know my Dad taught us to work hard for the money. That’s what is wrong with people today. They don’t want to give an honest day’s work for their days pay. I know there are lazy people everywhere. I know the union doesn’t always work perfectly. Nothing does.

By gg

October 1, 2007 8:52 PM | Link to this

Misty- you are right. There seems to be no easy answer. I wish there were. I tell you what is even worse than that. When my Dad died, my Mom got less than $500 a month from his pension. She is too young to collect widows pension or social security. Before anyone else says she should work, she does. In fact she works full time. She has to live on $1,500 a month. Thank the Lord she was able to be debt free. I don’t know how others do it with debt. The system is against the working men and women.

By Misty

October 1, 2007 8:24 PM | Link to this

Hey gg, I definately can say that after 30 years they should give someone else a chance to retire! But then again do you know what the retirees benefits look like? I work in the medical field and I can tell you that the benefits SUCK, better than none at all! But they have to pay for all office visits and for all labs(it is $348.00 just to have your cholesterol checked, and you are supposed to have it done every year or 6months if you are on meds!) Their wages are also cut in half!

By chuckynky

October 1, 2007 8:19 PM | Link to this

Right on Larry! this creeping disease begins at the political level.WE need a “WORKERS PARTY”. decades ago that was the Democrates,but no more . they represent “OTHERS” NOW. what happened to the party of decency? pro Christian,pro gun , pro worker,AND PRO AMERICAN.the dems moving to pander to special intrest groups are why hard working americans still vote republican.They put the overall (albeit not long term)good of this great country before their jobs.imho.

By beebster

October 1, 2007 8:04 PM | Link to this

Hey gg: I think you are the one that said that Pat Larkin is your Dad. I had the pleasure of working with him in dept. 10 (press room) for about 3 years. I’m sorry for your loss. Your Dad was a good man and definately a hard worker. He was very enjoyable to be around. NOBODY can say that He was sleeping at work….Keith.

By Larry

October 1, 2007 7:59 PM | Link to this

I have a solution to the problem if it isn’t to late. Go to the polls and get rid of these ELECTED OFFICIALS that are responsible for making BIG PROFITS off of NAFTA AND CAFTA BILLS AND PASSING them without giving the VOTERS a say in there futures. WE should RID our ELECTED OFFICES FROM THE LOCAL LEVEL TO CAPITAL HILL. DEMOCRATES AND REPUBLICIANS THEY AREW ALL GUILTY. ROSS PERROE SAID IT ALL NOW IT IS REALITY !!!!!

By RV

October 1, 2007 7:41 PM | Link to this

The Lagonda Ave plant is the one I am speaking of.

By gg

October 1, 2007 7:27 PM | Link to this

I heard on a financial program that it takes $36/hr to be equivalent to $20/hr in 1980.
The sad fact is none of our jobs keep up with inflation, but that’s not the point I guess. Good luck to the IH worker. I know plenty who DID work hard for their money. Do I think it’s selfish to keep working after 30 years? Yes, I do. Give another person the opportunity to retire.

By gg

October 1, 2007 7:23 PM | Link to this

Rick, all dunnit said was any complaints should be taken to corporate in Chicago. Why is that being greedy? The line worker isn’t the engineer of the vehicles so why would you wish them to lose their jobs? All a person does is defend his/her work and you still attack. Sad.

By chuckynky

October 1, 2007 7:16 PM | Link to this

RV- I DONT KNOW WHAT STAMPING PLANT YOUR SPEAKING OF, BUT OURS (CAS) IS ONLY ABOUT 5 YRS OLD. YOU SPOKE OF THE 90S. -That dog dont hunt, not even in springtucky :)

By RV

October 1, 2007 6:48 PM | Link to this

closes I feel it is the older guys fault. they took it for granted. To you new hires I wish you the best of luck but the outlook doesn’t look good. From what I have seen in the current plant $15.00 to $22.00 an hour with okay benefits should be more tha enough. Okay with that said feel free to bash me.

By RV

October 1, 2007 6:42 PM | Link to this

Now i am not here to bash but I have been through both plants and I have to say that anyone that works at the newer plant did not seem to be braking their backs! I can remember delivering dies that the shop I worked at built back in the 90’s and seeing most employees with their feet up eating reading the paper. that is the common stereotype. I am not saying they do not work hard but not as hard as most that make less. I can say that I work as hard as they do and make as much but if the plant…

By Misty

October 1, 2007 6:04 PM | Link to this

Bible thumping…is that how you see it! I call it faith you idiot! And as I told Marie….you are self-centered and we wouldn’t expect anything more from you! And if they go to the picket line, they will have their wonderful wives at their sides to keep them warm! You are probably not married but if you are, I feel bad for her to have to live with a small-minded fool like you! And we all know Marie isn’t taken care of…so say no more, I wish you all luck!

By Legacy

October 1, 2007 4:45 PM | Link to this

AHHHH Honda, No Good! Wait until the japs bite ya! Then who will you cry to?

By chuckynky

October 1, 2007 4:35 PM | Link to this

Rick and Marie, Im thinking your misinformed opinions will one day change and i hope you remember the inflammatory statements you’ve made.not wanting to be personal ,but I and others see you as vermin .you are small minded idiots and i DARE you to spout off your crap in the presence of any UAW brother….stop in at the hall and lets chat .how dare you kick us when you THINK we’re down. YOU ARE SCUM.

By Legacy

October 1, 2007 4:31 PM | Link to this

Rick, could you please tell me the dollar value of “Greed” in the dictionary? I sure would like to know!

By IH 1086

October 1, 2007 4:26 PM | Link to this

I will part with this: We have a farm full of International Harvester farm machinery that is still running well after 25+ years. (Loyalty!) This equipment was made by the some of the same people who are making trucks now that some of you “experts” complain about! These trucks now are built right but not to last like they used to. Been there, done that & seen it! If anyone doubts me I will gladly show you! If it ain’t Red, leave it in the shed!

International Harvester Pride

By Rick

October 1, 2007 4:22 PM | Link to this

See ya’ll been nice aggravating you. When your freezing your butts off on that picket line remember your comments. I’ll be at work happy not greedy. Enjoy

By Rick

October 1, 2007 4:15 PM | Link to this

Dunnit,I’m directing my comments at the company as a whole. Obviously the company has problems putting out a quality product. Ask anyone who has to get them repaired. So your saying you don’t care about your company as long as you get yours here. More snootyness and greed. I wish IH luck, they need it.

By Rick

October 1, 2007 4:04 PM | Link to this

Now were bringing God into the picture. God and greed don’t mix. Bible thumping won’t help. Viva Honda. fair days work for a fairs day pay. No stinking union.

By Who Dunnit

October 1, 2007 4:02 PM | Link to this

Rick, products now rolled off the line at the Springfield plant are no longer “made” at this plant. The Springfield plant is merely an assembly location for parts made and assembled in other countries.

Direct your “inferior” comments to the right facility, not the employees at IH Springfield plant. Or better, write Chicago, they are the ones making the decisions.

By Rick

October 1, 2007 3:52 PM | Link to this

Why support a company that makes an inferior product? because of Springfield? please,this town has been going downhill for years. Build them right at a decent wage then maybe people will be more accepting.I support IH not their greedy employees.

By IH Wife

October 1, 2007 3:49 PM | Link to this

Misty, Very nice. I couldnt have said it better myself.

By Misty

October 1, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

Well thank you for your well wishes! As I said before you are self-centered and I would not expect anymore from you! But God will!

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:47 PM | Link to this

your acting like this is a personal thing between me and you. My kids go to county schools I own a house in the county and I drive a new car so you are no better than I. I really don’t care like I said I just feel bad for the people less fortunate than “US” and that includes me even though I am practically on welfare compared to you.

By Rick

October 1, 2007 3:44 PM | Link to this

They won’t give Marie, their in this fantasy land from 1975. Which by the way unions have lost at least half their members since then. I wonder why? Could it be corruption? Greed? Crime? Bloated pay?

Not a 402 member happy to say

By Misty

October 1, 2007 3:43 PM | Link to this

Well I guess it will go like this..I want more for myself apparently than you do! Our household will still go the same…I will still drive the same car, my kids will still go to county schools and we will pick up where Navistar left us! My husband is educated, and has many talents that will pay off in the long run! He will not quit! As so many Americans, like yourself do!!! We will fight until the end! I am sorry that you are so self-centered and under-educated! I actually feel sorry for you

By IH13959

October 1, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

At a time when IH was in its heyday, with spinoff companies supporting thousands in the community, no one whined that IH employees made too much money. Now that these jobs have been farmed out to other states, Mexico and Brazil, we stab each other in the back with off the wall comments such as some made here on this board.

Several generations in my family worked at IH. Yes, we made good money, like any other UAW worker in the country. Yes, we fought for the right to have a safe working environment, health benefits for our family and rights to retire at 30 years regardless of age. We were for fortunate and grateful to have worked during these promising times.

After 30 years of working in an environment with no windows, loud machinery that damaged my hearing, calluses on my hands, back problems from falls, carpel tunnel from repetitive motions, paint fumes that damaged my lungs, frostbite on my toes from picket lines in the dead of winter at 30 below zero, I retired. But I didn’t hold grudges because I was able to support my family and plan for my future.

Changes are eminent. Instead of griping about what we now don’t have and stabbing each other in the back with snide remarks, we should be concentrating on the future. With manufacturing practically defunct in this country, we should be collaborating and coming up with new ideas on how we can reemploy people.

Are you happy with products coming out of China? Maybe you’re content with delivering pizzas to one another. If attitudes don’t change it’s exactly where we’re going to wind up. Come up with solutions ……

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:39 PM | Link to this

to that job so that you at least still had one.But because you guys are so greedy your not only going to cause yourself to lose your job but as you said it 4 more for every one of you.So great job everyone else in america thanks you!You have done this to yourselves and everyone else.And Misty you don’t think thats overpaid?I am done here so I hope Misty its you that gets the raw end of this deal cause you’ll have a hard time replacing that job education or not!

By Amanda

October 1, 2007 3:37 PM | Link to this

WHO CARES WHO CLEARED WHAT!! this is supposed to be about supporting IH not smearing each other Come on people. I know you are trying to defend your opinions but geeze.

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:34 PM | Link to this

Well I guess its just gonna end up like this the union has SOME of you believing that you are worth no less than they are paying you but more, its not gonna happen so when your car is repoed, your house is foreclosed,both spouses HAVE to work for less than what 1 made previously and probably w/o benefits, the kids have to go to city schools and you now have to drive their car you bought them and the little ones have to go to some nasty state ran daycare then maybe you’ll wish you gave a little..

By Misty

October 1, 2007 3:30 PM | Link to this

Well, Well, Well….Let me say this! My husband and I cleared $150,000 last year and it was because my husband and myself both went to college and rec’d 4 year degrees and made something of ourselves. I don’t know how much education you all can have if you are only making 30-40,000 a piece! Oh would you like me to give you an answer, b/c ignorant people like you stab your fellow Americans in the back when we are down, and then expect to be blessed! WTF? You are a disgrace to America!

By IH WIfe

October 1, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

You have said so much more than that. You have bashed us in everyway possible. We are people who are just trying to make it. Paying our bills,raising our families and Trying to keep jobs in our home towns. Maybe you should go back and reread your posts. They have insulted our moral values. Not all people cheat Maria.

By Legacy

October 1, 2007 3:28 PM | Link to this

JUST ME, So you just take the money and run. You sound like a rat anyway. Good riddance!

By justme

October 1, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

I will GLADLY give back my union dues and take a job where a guy that can’t pass a drug test or that steals from the company DOES get fired. We are no longer in IH dependant jobs so I don’t have to worry about whether Navistar stays or not. We made our lives better by getting out of that situation, same money, no union, good insurance, good benefits…. So many innocent people getting screwed by the union. At least I AM NOT one of them anymore!

By IH 1086

October 1, 2007 3:24 PM | Link to this

Rick does have his points. I just hope he isn’t a 402 member.

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:21 PM | Link to this

What have I said here today thats so awful other than some people don’t realize how good they’ve got it?????????

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

oh my goodness have you not heard me say I hope they don’t lose their jobs??? I just wish that some would realize how fortunate they are that it could be worse. Again some do but some don’t!!!!The newest hires there may realize that, maybe its the ones that should retire that don’t I don’t know. But why do you all act like everybody owes you something? GEEZ!

By Rick

October 1, 2007 3:19 PM | Link to this

I’m back, did you miss me. No one is against you keeping your job Debbie. It is just the same old stuff every contract. Issues including work rules, job classifications, seniority and attendance are being negotiated locally. And of course its about money. Have head snooter Charlie Hayden settle it. Unions are going bye bye, they are outdated. Companies these days have to keep things tight to survive. And then George Bush is elected, enough said. Yeha

By Misty

October 1, 2007 3:17 PM | Link to this

Misery loves company Marie…that is all I can say to you! You have made yourself look so bad today!

By IH Wife

October 1, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Rick and Marie shouldn’t be insulted here guys. Its not nice to be mean to the Mentally ill. They will lose their income if IH goes out. After all it for every job that leaves IH it will effect 4 other empployees of venders and or supplier. and if there is no money we cant shop at Maries store. Not that she wants our money anyway.

By IH Wife

October 1, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Rick and Marie shouldn’t be insulted here guys. Its not nice to be mean to the Mentally ill. They will lose their income if IH goes out. After all it for every job that leaves IH it will effect 4 other empployees of venders and or supplier. and if there is no money we cant shop at Maries store. Not that she needs our money anyway.

By IH Wife

October 1, 2007 3:15 PM | Link to this

Rick and Marie shouldn’t be insulted here guys. Its not nice to be mean to the Mentally ill. They will lose their income if IH goes out. After all it for every job that leaves IH it will effect 4 other empployees of venders and or supplier. and if there is no money we cant shop at Maries store.

By Legacy

October 1, 2007 3:12 PM | Link to this

Ok JUST ME. You take back the union dues you paid and give back your insurance, SUB, pension, and any other benefits your spouse received. Are you happy then?

By marie

October 1, 2007 3:11 PM | Link to this

so your husband clears 30 so before taxes thats about 40.About the same as me.That 70-80 that my husband and I make BEFORE taxes is for BOTH of us to work many long hours.I don’t know what your benefits are but I also pay 400 per month for health ins. Not to mention the “cost” of having to pay someone else to raise my kids.There is a price I also pay for that, that cannot be measured in dollars.Like I said there are others that would love to have that job that SOME IH workers take for granted.

By Debbie IH wife

October 1, 2007 3:05 PM | Link to this

Actually after taxes and union dues and a few other must pays. My husband clears barely 30,000 a year. I would love to live in a house hold that makes 80,000 a year and still have the nerve to complain about others income. We are a long way from rich. We just want to keep our jobs. Is that so wrong? You people seem to think so. Well when they decide to move your jobs or close you place of employment then maybe you will understand the real issue. American Jobs in America.

By SSWIKING

October 1, 2007 2:58 PM | Link to this

Snooty or Snotty? Are some of you people so talented that you can tell the difference between and a represented and non-represented employee of IH? I’ll bring my neighbor in and see if you can tell the difference!

By justme

October 1, 2007 2:55 PM | Link to this

Sandi- Your husband made enough that you were fortunate and able to stay home and raise your children. That is a privilege, not a given. Most families could not do that. Be thankful people for what you have gotten and realize you were fortunate, now comes crunch time when another company is taking their work south and we just have to learn to deal w/ it. And yes misty if you make more, you pay more in taxes… duh!

By Misty

October 1, 2007 2:52 PM | Link to this

And Marie…there is the typical “poor me” attitude! I can tell that you are unhappy with your life and that is why you are posting negativity towards others! You have shown nothing but jealousy today. Have you heard the saying “Can’t never tried”! That fits you perfect! Try to make something of yourself instead of hating others that are fighting for a good life!

By marie

October 1, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

ok Misty what exactly does the typical IH employee make?For your info. I probably make pretty much the same as they do, mid 40’s.Combined my husband and I make 70-80,000 which means I too pay just as much as you in taxes.I am not a minimum wage Wal Mart worker I am just sticking up for the little guy. The 2 income families with children that are also trying to make it in this world without the luck of being able to get on at IH.(and I dont mean the ones who get assistance thats another story)

By justme

October 1, 2007 2:51 PM | Link to this

First off, the union has given my family NOTHING. It keeps jobs from hard working decent guys by keeping the drunks, druggies and thieves. Our union dues pay for the beer at the union meetings (which we don’t drink). The union of our parents day was the union that got respect and credit for what we all have now, not this modern day greedy union that has contributed to this “all about me” attitude this country has.

By Rick

October 1, 2007 2:50 PM | Link to this

Respect is earned. Put a product out worth respecting. RIP IH

By Debbie IH wife

October 1, 2007 2:47 PM | Link to this

For those of you that are having trouble with your IH truck and think Mexico can do better. Think again for many of the parts that create a great deal of the troubles are made in Mexico and in China. And many of IH workers are non drinkers, just people who want to do their jobs. If we lose Springfield loses.

By Misty

October 1, 2007 2:45 PM | Link to this

Well…everyone you see Marie came back after she found someone as ignorant as she!!!! Sounds like Rick and Marie shall stick together, because it doesn’t sound like either of them have any respect for anyone that may make more money than them!

By amanda

October 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

I wasn’t off track other than when I said we needed to discuss this like adults. I was trying to get it back on track.

By marie

October 1, 2007 2:41 PM | Link to this

Yes Rick I agree that is , your right, the typical “IH snooty attitude” that a lot of them have that can be seen from a mile away. They are better than everyone else don’t you know that. Problem is when they lose their jobs (and even though I don’t care for them I hope they don’t) then they will be on the other side of the fence trying to take ours!

By Rick

October 1, 2007 2:36 PM | Link to this

We simply buy their junk,not dependent on them. If were up to me I would buy somewhere else. Mexicans could build them better.Just another case of the classic snooty IH employee. Have a drink,most of their employees do. I am done with this fiasco.

By marie

October 1, 2007 2:35 PM | Link to this

your post was made at the same time as mine, sorry but that was for Rick! (I know I will be hated for that but as you can see I already am!)

By Debbie IH wife

October 1, 2007 2:34 PM | Link to this

Now for something important. It is not about the money, I repeat it is not about the money. Many have suggested a pay cut and also a payment of some sort for medical. But the Company shot that down. The Company does not want to negotiate in good faith. One proposal was that there be 10-12hr days and 3 weekends a month with no overtime. Does that sound like something you would be willing to do? I really don’t think so.

By IH 1086

October 1, 2007 2:32 PM | Link to this

Thank You Very Much Marie!

By mac

October 1, 2007 2:29 PM | Link to this

You are probably the most ignorant of them all. What is to much money? Is thirteen dollars an hour with no benefits to much, or how about 6.37? There are many jobs out there that make far more than the IH workers. Or is it that anyone who makes more than you makes too much? And being a Vet has alot to do with it. My Air Force career was cut at 17 yrs due to budget cuts. I just want to do my job and support my family the best I can. Is that wrong?

By Misty

October 1, 2007 2:28 PM | Link to this

Hey Rick…You mention that you deliver freight to IH and you also mention that the IH trucks have been used with your company, which tells us that your company and IH work hand and hand! Well buddy laugh now…cry later! If IH goes under, so will a lot of other companies! So when what you say and dish out now comes back to kick you in your teeth…you are another one that will realize…what goes around…comes around?????

By marie

October 1, 2007 2:27 PM | Link to this

Amen!

By IH 1086

October 1, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Who made some of you experts on what is hard work or who is overpaid? Rush Limbaugh?

By Rick

October 1, 2007 2:25 PM | Link to this

Not scared Marie, sick of their whining. Put in a good days work and make a quality product.

By marie

October 1, 2007 2:20 PM | Link to this

uh oh Rick better watch out their vicious!!

By another rick

October 1, 2007 2:18 PM | Link to this

their money in the first place. The same thing goes on where I work, cut the workers that actually do the work, not the fat at the top that does the least. And no, I do not work at a factory, did as a temp worker, liked it ok, and not afraid of hard work, but I never wished to trust my furture to a union or a factory that may or not be there next year. Insulting each other only show your own ignorance, it is sad it always goes that way, instead of constructive conversation and debate.

By IH 1086

October 1, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Yes they used to be the best on the road. With all the outsourcing they have done they have totally lost control of their end product. You cannot make bricks without straw!

By Rick

October 1, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

Whats being a Vet got to do with anything. Honda has vets too. IH employees make too much and will, sooner or later make them move or go out of business. Theres no ignorance everyone in Springfield knows and has known for years that their over paid.

By Misty

October 1, 2007 2:16 PM | Link to this

I don’t feel I was off track at all….DEFENSIVE…YES!

By mac

October 1, 2007 2:02 PM | Link to this

I’ve worked at IH for over 13yrs now,and I can’t believe the negative crap being said toward the IH employees.First off there are a lot of war veterans that work to support their families and community. To wish for us to lose our jobs to satisfy your ignorance is far beyond my comprehension. We fought for your rights and freedoms, now we have to fight you and corporate America to keep our jobs. this vet thanks the workers.

By Rick

October 1, 2007 2:01 PM | Link to this

They used to be the best truck on the road. I have dealt with them breaking down at my company for years. I have also delivered freight there. I always see the guy sitting on his forklift not doing jack and getting paid TOO well for it. Snowball someone else because I know how lousy those trucks run and break down. I do not want them to leave the area but quality must improve. Get rid of the dead wood and tighten things up I say. Maybe it will show a decent profit.

By another rick

October 1, 2007 1:54 PM | Link to this

I have read all the posts and wonder, why does anyone want to work at a job that they do not know if they will have one next month. Laid off how many times in the last few years?? I have experinced the IH product, and we actually joke it is a friday after lunch truck. I do not wish to see anyone loose their jobs, but it is not about being jealous, it is about getting oppurtunity and not appreciating it. It is about the fat cats at the top getting theirs and backstabbing those that made them..

By chuckynky

October 1, 2007 1:53 PM | Link to this

D.S, THATS B.S.! actually, it has its roots in socialism. when the union labor movement started, there were the wealthy few, and then, everyone else. unionism was a compromise so the masses wouldnt rise up like they did in russia and slaughter the wealty and take his wealth to share with “the people”. communism would have not came about if it were’nt for the greedy few.Without a middle class,there soon follows no UPPER class-look at south america.unbridled capitalism doesnt work for “THE PEOPLE”

By sandy

October 1, 2007 1:50 PM | Link to this

My husband worked for IH for 30 years. I stayed home & raised 4 kids. With only one wage earner we were certainly not rich. even back then we had to put up with the jealousy of ignorant people who had no idea of the work our husbands did. It’s too bad the new hires had to go in at such lower,less protected wage& still have to put up with the pettiness of non IH workers. People love to whine about IH wages but they sure don’t mind taking our money.

By RW

October 1, 2007 1:25 PM | Link to this

Misty, Marie, Amanda. You ladies and some others have gotten way off track. There are a lot of improper posts here.

By RW

October 1, 2007 1:18 PM | Link to this

Misty, Marie, Amanda. You ladies and some others have gotten way off track. There are a lot of improper posts here.

By Debbie IH wife

October 1, 2007 1:13 PM | Link to this

Do not criticize the unions, for you see it was the unions who-1.Gave you a 5 day work week. 2.Safer working conditions. 3. Living wages. 4.Medical benefits. 5. Vacations. 6. Protection in wrongful firings or in harassment issues.
I could go on but I believe it would fall on deaf ears. Again it is not about the money but about keeping jobs here where they are needed.

By d.s.

October 1, 2007 1:07 PM | Link to this

The concept of unions was developed by Carl Marx. History has proved time and time again that in the long run, communistic concepts fail every single time - they simply self destruct.

By Debbie IH wife

October 1, 2007 1:06 PM | Link to this

HELLO OUT THERE-Rich-IH workers. NO WAY. We pay far more in taxes than most of you do not to mention union dues. The men and women who work the lines do it with backbone and sweat. NO automation here. Most workers have had back injuries, shoulder injuries and hands and that is just a start. Back in ‘94 everyone in Springfield had the chance to apply at IH. If you didn’t that is your fault.

By ActiveUSA Wife

October 1, 2007 12:33 PM | Link to this

On a lighter note…

Hand to God…My son who works at Assurant just told me they just fired someone that worked there for…doin the nasty in the parking lot.

What’s the odds? lol

Regards to All.

By laid off 402

October 1, 2007 12:29 PM | Link to this

Hang in there everybody!! this union girl is holding out hope, but we must fight to keep our jobs here and keep them fair, I have said it before, unless you have worked at IH you don’t get it. You are entitled to your opinion but once again, if people like us don’t fight to keep jobs here instead of being outsourced to Mexico like they are right now, your could be next. The IH workers need your support right now, like us or not this affects you all. PROUD TO BE UAW!!!

By Misty

October 1, 2007 12:17 PM | Link to this

Active USA wife….Thank You! You said it…but as I said before jealousy is a SOB! They shouldn’t judge, but they may, but they should judge with facts! They don’t see the unity, the fight, all they can see is the $ signs! It doesn’t seem like anyone realizes that America is killing America, and wonder why Japan, China and Mexico are taking over! Unity in America is hitting the slopes! Thanks to some ignorant Americans!

By marie

October 1, 2007 12:05 PM | Link to this

Thanks Spandy.I had been wondering if the union that you all support would give you guys any help at all after you lost your job to find another one.I didn’t know if that was the case or if they just left you all on your own. Its good to know they will help you find another job or go back to school.I am not the awful person you all think I am just wanting to understand and hoping everyone is grateful for what they have because it can always be worse.

By ActiveUSA Wife

October 1, 2007 12:03 PM | Link to this

Unless you have walked in our shoes, don’t judge. You have zero clue how stressful keeping that good job was for us.

You have no idea the struggles we have endured over the years.

And for anyone to say, well other jobs are lost everyday. It is not any of our faults that you took a job with no representation, you made your choices, we made ours. No one way is right for everyone. Union labor disputes get more press because they are dealing with a larger concentrated workforce. Peace to all.

By spandy

October 1, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

So we are clear Marie, I stayed in contact with my union and they suggested places to go to and work. They also explained how I could go back to school. Some of us choose school, and I went pounding the pavement. For three months I applied everywhere I could, and I even took my civil services exam. I was told by an employer that I had a big red X on my back, because I was laid off from IH. Finally, after three months Assurant took a chance and hired me. Awful pay, but the benefits were almost as good as IH. Now a year & a half later I’m leaving Assurant to work at the Post Office!! It comes down to ambition, that is something my former & future UNION brothers & sisters have! For my 402 brothers & sisters I pray for you & so does my parish. Keep up the fight!

Have a Nice Day!

By ActiveUSA Wife

October 1, 2007 11:52 AM | Link to this

As to the Harvester, it has been closed quite some time, but I used to work there, and I can promise you that the lunchtime drinking is WAY OVERSTATED.

I am not saying no one ever had a drink, but I do not ever remember sending ANYONE back to work drunk EVER.

Most of the people came there for FOOD, some to cash their checks, and some to just visit.

But, when we see the executives of IH in a restaurant at lunch drinking a drink, shall we accost them too? They usually have more than 1…

By amanda

October 1, 2007 11:48 AM | Link to this

Good Point ActiveUSA wife!

By chuckynky

October 1, 2007 11:44 AM | Link to this

Marie, please go speak to your pastor. or find one of your choosing. i dont know you and have had limited contact with you, but you are reminding me of the fictional character MRS. OLSEN on little house on the prairie