Your Comments

Is it time for another vote Rocco? Maybe its time to see if everyone still wants to be out of work with no pay ( including unemployment which we were told we would qualify for if the company locked us out) Now in order for us to get a check from the union we have to pay our union dues........with what?

I totally agree with today's topic in that we need to stay focused on the FACTS and start making plans to deal with those facts. The most important of these facts is that UTC has taken a stance on the health care issue and they have said this is the only plan that will ever be offered. The bluff was called and, uh-oh, they weren't bluffing. We must now decide to either accept this health plan or accept jobs elsewhere.

I believe all of our energies must be focused on resolving this situation amicably, even if it means swallowing a little pride, eating a little crow, whatever it takes. The Teamsters Local 1150 cannot survive to protect us if we do not stand together now to protect it.

Perhaps we all need to let our union leaders know that we will accept the health plan as is and that we would ratify that same contract, if it were offered to us again. If we give our leaders our support to accept this offer, then there is the chance the company may come back to the table.

We also need to make our contingency plan for what happens if that contract is never offered to us again for a re-vote. Among other rumors, I have heard that the original contract has been pulled off the table and the new contract we would vote on, if it ever got that far, would be same health plan, no ratification bonus, 3.0% annual increases and a decrease of the company's contribution to our 401(k) plans. I've also heard it could include a pay cut, change from seniority to merit-based promotions, elimination of seniority altogether, a very strict discipline plan, elimination of the points system to cut down on absenteeism, elimination of education reimbursement for hourly employees and a variety of other losses for us. So we need to decide quickly whether we are going to hold out for increasingly worse contracts or if we are going to accept the first offer that comes our way and count our blessings we are still employed.

Another important fact to remember here is that the company is better positioned than we are for a long-term strike. They have more money, more options and, the longer this goes on, more support from the community. We need to all watch our behavior, do not let this situation get the best of us and endeavor to remain calm, cool and collected as we try to work our way out of this mess. Put your best foot forward so that the public doesn't see us as a bunch of undisciplined, lazy thugs. Be respectful of others both on the picket line and behind it. Make your concerns be known to your union rep and let us all do what we can to fix our internal problems so that we don't go down in flames.

Lastly, we need to be prepared for this to last several months. We all knew it would probably be a matter of weeks and months than a matter of hours or days. Stay focused, do what you can to positively impact our cause and keep your noses clean. We must maintain a united front, but more importantly, we must really BE united.

- Let's go back to work -

There is a lot more at stake here than medical benefits. Prior notification was given with regards to outsourcing "Non Core" product. Guess what, this strike has accelerated this activity. Aircraft stuctures and the processes that support them will be exiting the building to built elsewhere and may never return. That's right, I'll say it again, Prior Notification was given that these products were targeted for outsourcing and do not have to return to be assembled here at the conclusion of the strike.

Let's go back to work. We lost Commanche, VH, and outsourced many items. No one at this point in time has lost their job. As a matter of fact several hundred hourly workers have been hired. Do not be so naive to think that the offer of a job for everyone who is willing and able to be redeployed will be a standing offer at this accelerated outsourcing pace. This is no BS, your jobs are at stake.

Let's go back to work. Negotiations are over. The company submitted their best & final offer. UTC is standing firm on the health care package. Many of us help make this company what is today. Let's not help dismantle it brick by brick.

-Let's go back to work-

THIS SUX PEOPLE. I DIDN'T KNOW THIS WAS GONNA LAST THIS LONG. MAYBE A WEEK. ANYWAY, I DON'T KNOW WHO TO BELIVEVE ANYMORE. THE COMPANY OR THE UNION??I WISH THESE PEOPLE CAN COME TO AN AGGREEMENT SO WE CAN GO BACK TO WORK. MONEY IS RUNNING LOW, BILLS ARE GETTING HIGH, AND SO ON. ROCCO...YOU BETTER DO SOMETHING SOON OR THESE BROTHERS / SISTERS OF YOURS ARE GONNA SAY FUCK YOU AND JUMP SHIP.

As the days go by, I just keep saying to myself, when is something gonna happen? It seems that Roccos pryor speeches have come to non reality, our $232/week strike wage has gone down to us paying dues out of it, that was never mentioned? We kep hearing this is the companys final and only offer, how does Rocco get them to change their minds? Then on the other hand, the company is saying the union will not negotiate, but why isnt it that the company wont negotiate? Both sides HAVE to reach a middle ground somewheres, and soon, as people need their jobs, and maybe more importantly, our military needs their parts, etc. I just wish the company would be level headed and honest with the press, not saying they cant afford helth care, when we, the union members have offered to offset the cost of the plan with give backs to the company. People, we need to get a resolution, either way, win or lose, and soon, because the longer we are out of work, win or lose, the less we gain no matter what!

No kidding. The company doesn't seem too afraid of us staying out if they are willing to report to the press that they see no reason to continue negotiating. They've said they won't bend on the medical plan. From what I hear, the salaried guys are doing just fine without us. I would really like to see Rocco make a public statement today from the picket line so that we can put to rest rumors of him going on a cruise. I'd also like to see where our dues are really going and what kind of shape the strike fund is in. If any union leaders are reading this, you need to do some massive damage control super quick because we are fast losing faith in you guys.

It doesn't matter where the money would come from with regard to the medical plan and that is what is so frustrating to me. The company wants everyone on the same plan and the company WILL have everyone on the same plan. It doesn't matter how much you are willing to give up, how much you think you deserve something better, whether or not you are willing to strike indefinitely. Doesn't matter, kiddos, face it. This is the plan. Take it or leave it.

You're wasting your collective breath complaining about it and trying to change it. This is what the company wants and this is what the company will have. It's not a matter of cost, but a matter of getting everyone on the same plan. As soon as you get that through your thick heads, maybe you can begin to find a way to dig yourselves out of this hole. But until you see that money is not the problem for the company, but getting everyone on the same plan is the problem. No company should have to bear the cost of administering two separate health plans for two separate classes of employees just because one class of employees is suffering under the mistake belief that they are entitled to it. It's a benefit, not a right.

I would like to encourage my fellow Teamsters to refrain from the type of behavior that resulted in yesterday's brawl on the picket line. Is this what we want people to see?

Was there a brawl on the picket line yesterday? Be honest? I heard from 2 people there was. ut both stories didn't sound rite. please respond!!!

Good morning all
Just some musings here about what's going on at this end for me.
I think that for SAC to meet it's requirements for the year and have another stellar year in terms of production it would be acheived only by getting the workforce back inside. The one that has met or exceeded expectations each year providing that they had parts available. Remember it's not just about being able eventually to get up to speed, it's also about being able to get the highest quality product of it's kind to the customers on time and we have proved again and again that we can and will do that as long as we have parts. Whether you agree or not, it's a fact. It appears it would be best for the company and it's customers if they could indeed get the people outside inside with a good attitude. Yes, some will come inside willingly and cross a picket line, but that doesn't solve the situation. It's just a footbridge on a gaping chasm. I'm not the only one who loves what I do and where I work. I'm also not the only one who is a union member. Do I want a revote on the previous contract offer? Yes. I sincerely believe that there would be a majority that will carry it. We are more aware of many issues and have had TIME to realize the impact on the communities, UTC, our families, the military and all our other customers, and Sikorsky Aircraft. More importantly I realize that indeed the 80/20 plan is NOT going away. Despite what I may hear otherwise, George David has made it clear that it is staying and I believe it will. I never gave a damn that he makes a trillion dollars a minute and I was glad that he does. I work for one of his companies and it's a strong one at that. I make good money and so does he. Will I ratify a contract that spanks me brutally for being a 28 year veteran of SAC that ended up on the outside because of a majority vote to strike? No, I cannot. If that is how SAC will treat me then I agree it's time to regrettably say goodbye. I am one of the folks that have helped make it happen through the years. I am older now, but I run rings around the few others that can perform my job. Got a knack for that kind of thing after a few thousand.
I think that SAC knows that a revote on the old contract offer would accomplish that. It is my opinion that the membership would ratify the previous offer and go back to work grateful to their employer for the opportunity to continue their careers. As to the Union? The membership will always look at it in another light now. I think that the company would tolerate it's existence for many reasons. I believe that Rocco is doing his best and I believe that SAC, UTC, and all of us are, too (with the exception of the name calling ignorant). I also believe that Rocco and SAC could both save money and reputation by making a public statement together about the needs of UTC, the membership (who comprise the Union), and the country being such that the hand of cooperation has been extended by both parties for the sake of all involved. Have people learned from the strike experience so far? Yes. What will they learn from a protracted unwillingness on the part of the Union to get the previous offer back on the table? What will they learn about the Sikorsky/UTC regard for their careers and contribution should UTC not give the membership a shot at ratifying the previous offer and instead beat the living sh** out of it's veterans that were taking it on the chin during all of this and have given their working lives to SAC? This is an opportunity now for UTC and the Union knock off this unproductive time and get back to the business of making the worlds finest aircraft with the industries most experienced and capable team, both hourly and salary.
My 2 cents. Thanks for intelligent responses in advance.

I wouldn't believe anything you hear about a NEW contract. There hasn't been any talks, so don't get nervous yet. If the union accepts the healthcare, there would be a seperate discussion, I assume about other details (bonus, raises, 401k, etc).

I think a major detail in all of this has been lost out on the union and press. Everyone understands that the union is willing to give up concessions in order to maintain their current healthcare... what I think most union members have failed to see is that you are comparing apples and oranges. For the old healthcare Teamster's have, Sikorsky pays XX dollars per worker. For the rest of the company, Sikorsky pays ?? dollars. Be assured though, that XX > ??. I use symbols bc I don't know the exact numbers.
So in the union's efforts to offset costs with less increase in pay and no bonus, that amount is obviously not covering the difference in the two plans. If it did cover it, UTC would not be putting up such a stance as to NO NEGOTIATING on the healthcare.
Sikorsky obviously values the union, or they would not have guaranteed raises. Salary and management have no such guarantees. So respect you are getting, you are not being disrespected because the company doesn't see proper financial reason to let 1% of a huge corporation receive more expensive healthcare.
If you are still bitter, read the GM Gypsey article on yahoo.com today. I am positive that any displaced GM union member is drooling at the security in your jobs.. well, security providing your union doesn't tie your hands anymore.

Stay warm, be careful when walking on Main Street (that isn't a jab either, I'm being serious)

anonymous 941, great post, i myself have 25 years, have seen the transformation from a family like atmosphere to a business like place. As fort ratifying a new contract at what we are offerd, i have to agree with you, I would not ratify it, but like the many who didnt want to walk but did, I would go back in and do my best, as I have always done. It just befuddles my mind why the company does not want us to have our own plan, well money is the factor undoubtedly, they should bend some? I think even if the last year of the contract(6 weeks) is waived, people would see UTc is dealing in good faith.

I just wanted to add one more note for those union members reading and posting.
I'm a young guy, and I often am amused by the thought process of my elders. That isn't a disrespectful comment, I just mean that you tend to live too much in the past. No doubt, after WWII things were going great for the American worker; pay was great, homes and cars were being bought and big families were supported. Companies tended to treat their employees very well. Of course we all yearn for that time, but you have to open your eyes, those days are gone. It is nothing personal, UTC isn't trying to send a message to you as to your worth buy putting all it's employees on one health system.

Finally, here's the feelings of the people who still show up to work everyday (at least from how I see it).

The strike has been an eye opener to everyone in this community. The last two weeks, salary workers walked into work with a zeal and appreciation for their work. A lot of workers all of a sudden feel a real pride and use in their job, especially those that have stepped into the shop. Are we doing better without the union? No, but Sikorsky isn't dying either. Sikorsky is getting it's obligations covered without the union, but surely, can't do this forever, just like the union workers can't live off of their strike pay forever.

When you come back, some will look on you with hatred for the way some of you treated the female employees who entered the plant. Some will hate you, because they know that some of your brother's are dead weight, bringing the whole company down.

However, we will also be happy that you are back doing YOUR job. Sure, the guys down there now are doing a heck of a job, but it's not their job, it's yours. Everyone just wants to get back to normalcy.

Hopefully, everyone will benefit from this strike. The Teamster's have stuck together, and it is obvious on some of your faces, as I leave the plant, you don't want to be there, but you are, because you are fulfilling your obligations to your Teamster family.

Come back to work, and let's not let Sikorsky loose market to Bell and Augusta Westland.

Oh my God, the union is trying to get Jesse Jackson to come in next week!!! If that is not enough of a reason to drop your picket sign and cross the line, I don't know what is.

Hi people..I just read in todays paper (Ct. Post 3/3/06) that Sikorsky said it WILL NOT resume negotiations. Now it says Sikorsky workers need help. This is BS!! Now the Union wants a rally next week in front of Sikorsky with all Big leaders, and other Teamsters Unions. And they might even bring in Jesse Jackson. That is all fine and dandy but......These people running the show (Sikorsky) are NOT going to budge!! These clowns on the inside are laughing at us. We are gonna loose guys. You can stay out here forever and nothing is gonna change. Steven Finger isn't the one now that is saying this junk. George David is. George made it clear that ALL UTC companies have this medical program and that Sikorsky is sticking to it!!! HELLO??? What does that tell you? I can care less if the company is reading this rite now. I can care less if the union is reading this rite now cause it is true. We should go back to work Monday, say we tried and forget this ever happened. Those salary guys are getting paid. We aren't. Those salary people are building the a/c...we aren't. Those salary people are staying warm....we aren't. You see what I am saying. We are not gonna change because 3,600 hundred people want it to change. Get real. Sikorsky had their meeting yesterday (Thursday 3/2/06) with the Union and no negotiations were talked, met, or resumed. They aren't budging or giving in. The company said this is their last, best, and final offer. I hate to say this but it's true. All the big shots that are out here picketing with us..you will also start to feel the impact. The money you saved will be going faster than you can save it. The new people who have 6 months or less have no clue why their even out here and I feel bad for them. And these are the people that will be getting laid off first (if there is one) all over healthcare. This is wrong guys. Pay the bill and lets go back to work. It's time to come home!!!

Amen to that Anonymous at 10:04!!!!

proud always fall and anonymous 950, thanks for your input posted in a responsible and thoughtful manner. Thank you's for intellingent responses are in order on a board that is riddled with the "other" kind. Much appreciated.

Does anyone know if the 8:15 hearing about unemployment happened and if so what were the results? Nothing new on the 1150 site.

The lock out is over, guys have already crossed the line, No un-employment

Is that the official word from the DOL?

Why should any of you expect un-employment for walking out on your job? You were employed, you decided it would be best to stand out at the gates and sexually harass female employees and threaten to beat up the male employees instead of going to work. You don't deserve unemployment.

Deserving it and having a legal claim to it are two separate issues. Fortunately, this should be easy to decide, since (1) they truly don't deserve it and (2) they lost any legal claim to it when they rejected the contract in favor of a strike. There's no lockout and unemployment is not paid if you strike.

Oh, come on. Jesse Jackson? Give me a freaking break. What does he hope to accomplish, erode our position a little more? Hoffa Jr. will do that enough as it is.

What exactly is your position? That Sikorsky hourly employees deserve something no one else in UTC deserves? Or hardly anyone in the country for that matter?

Hey Amazed
I had to be outside the gate. Get it? Most people here salary and hourly understand that part of the equation without having to explain that again.
I have never sexually or otherwise harrassed a female (or male) employee while outside walking the line. I have told those doing so to knock it off.
I have never threatened an employee with harm, either physical or otherwise. Matter of fact I have said "Have a good day" to many, possibly you.
As to unemployment, I do not believe we qualify.
Thanks for your thoughtful and well mannered intelligent post.

I'm confused as to why there continues to be debate on the issue of the medical plan, either in this blog or elsewhere. The medical plan is a fact of life and is not even up for debate. You may as well spend this time debating about why the sky can't be purple instead of blue. Shouldn't you be turning your thoughts to more productive efforts, like how to salvage your jobs?

Hello everyone,
Here is my story i have been with the company seven months. I was under the assumption that are Union heads would provide some sort of leadership during this strike. I work 3rd shift and have been looking for my strike captain since this whole thing started. We have called the Hall and still no one can tell us why are captain is not there.
A week after the start of the strike I find out my wife is pregnant and the 232.00 dollar check I get from the union will get dues taken out. The union must believe we are walmart employees who want to be on state insurance or must pay 1300.00 To continue are regular insurance. I am not a person who was blessed enough to be making a hundred grand a year before we went on strike. It has been a disorganized ordeal from the vote.
As for the company to say they won't talk is absurd all the signs around the shop talking of family. Where are you now? If this is ever resolved how can we take that motto to heart when we have been pushed out and nobody cares now.
I am one of the young guys out there every other night braving the elements and the only people i can thank are the ten guys who show up (all the time with me) and the people at Dunkin Donuts for bringing us coffee ,along with the SAFD bringing out chicken soup. You question the minds of the young but the remarks and rude behavior have come from the senority people. Do not question me when I came from a job of eight years to walk into this hornets nest, because I respected the family attitude. Now people want to point blame well take it to the high paid salry workers and the high paid union hall guys those are the ones not worried about me and you walking the line. They will make it through this and some will go on vacation as soon as this is over those are the ones to watch a little bit closer. To those who cross the line I don't understand we are all suppose to look out for each other. Hope you like being seen in that light because to know I left guys behind would keep me from sleeping. So in all I don't make alot of money but i will see this to the end whether I have to get another job to stay afloat I will. Also I will not have a guilty conscience for leaving my brothers and sisters behind.

Thank you, Not Amazed, for your ability to respectfully demonstrate your beliefs. Your attitude is one that should be embraced by all those on the picket line.

Rather unresponsible to choose to bring a baby into a situation where you had no idea whether or not you would be employed.

Yep I live my life for you. And considering she is a monthe pregnant I would have thought the company could have worked things out by the time this came about.

Hey "Losing Faith in the Union",
Your remark about being "pushed out" is way off the wall. The rest of your remarks are respectable though. Don't put spin on the facts. Not one Teamster was "pushed out". You WALKED OUT. When your union went on strike, that was you deciding to leave your "family" in a time of need. So bury the family comments along with the respect comments, it's all a bunch of crap. This is purely business. If it were family, everyone would work at Sikorsky their entire lives, through thick and thin, and everyone would work on a performace and seniority pay scale. Until that time, we are a business, not a family. Families work together in the best interest of the family, not the individual person.

I've thrown a lot of sincere comments out towards the union and company, but come on, please, save the pride of yourselves and urge your leadership not to send out Jesse Jackson. Caving in on your fight for better healthcare is still respectable, but having Jesse "fill my pockets" Jackson talking on your behalf is just humiliating.

How ignorant are you Anonymous???
Simple, and I mean simple math would tell you that she became pregnant earlier than the strike began.Who the hell are you to tell someone they are unresponsible? Your an absolute jackass, here's your sign!

I think he was implying you should have the mind powers to see the future, hahaha. Another perfect example of people reacting without thinking.

To the proud always fall. Now I have to be able to see the future. A company that has not had a strike in over forty years and we are now supposed to be able to see it coming. I guess in some ways you are right I should have known the greed of today is out of control and remained a virgin like you til I die. Instead of raise a family and be a productive human being I should raise my kids to steal and take things from people less fortunate.

A few facts from a salary worker, as I see them:
1. We need our "whole" family to make this company work. We need everyone's energy, dedication and talent. Without that, we'll never be as good as we could be.
2. Sikorsky/UTC is NOT going to budge on the health care issue. George David/UTC made that very clear. Everyone gets the same basic 80/20 package. And that is happening nationwide.
3. The union leadership is leading it's members into dire financial straits. The membership needs to think for themselves and do what they need to do to protect themselves and their families. Don't be a cow in the herd!
4. The Salary workers did not "accept" anything. We are told each year what our health care package will be and that is it. Nothing we can do about it except work hard to make this company and corporation as successful as we can. All our jobs ARE directly tied to our customers and their satisfaction...like it or not.
We need to end this labor action and end it quickly. No doubt our union brothers and sisters are suffering the most and I feel for them but only they can take the first step to stop the pain for all.

will we get your retirement plan too?? Everyone gets the same right???

Get back to work before there's nothing to get back too!

Better call hr and reserve a job, they are going fast.
2 today, 200 more next week, then who knows?
Looks like the end of Local 1150.
Rooco probably has Century 21 listing the property on the market!

Ok, so you mean to tell me that the people crossing the line have to worry about being called names (or worse) after the strike is over? Grow up! Reminds me of being in grammar school and the bullies won't be your friend unless you do what they want you to do. And they are robbing you of your milk money too (union dues)!

Nothing like having to pay to work eh?

On the Inside, you're a dope. If I knew where ya sat I'd kick ya.

Here's the math: If he found out she was pregnant a week into the strike and it is possible with today's super quick pregnancy tests to find out before the period is even missed, then that means he got her pregnant during negotiations. Would it not have been smarter to wait a month or two until the contract was either ratified or the strike was on to make such a huge, life-altering decision? And don't even go into the it was an "accident" argument, because any woman who tells you it's an accident is lying through her teeth. And as the mother of five, I would know.

he said she is a month pregnant which means she got pregnant early january or early in february so good math mom of five

Hello, asshole, how long do you think these negotiations have been going on?!

This was cut from a post by:
enlightened1 at March 3, 2006 04:56 AM
http://forum.connpost.com/picketline/archive/2006/03/generation_gap.html#comments

"How many people would kill to have our jobs?
We need...�

Your question should have been, How many people WILL BE KILLED BEFORE WE have our jobs BACK?

That is an answer I do not have, in 1996 it was 4. You may recall good old Irwin. While he was killing off inspection, KAYDON burned.

Sikorsky's senior stable of MBAs suffers from a lack of healthy fear that aviation presents on a continuing basis. Aviation doesn't suffer fools lightly. Aviation doesn't care if you’re an hourly or salary employee. If you mess up it will be reported on the obituary page. The sad part is that the name on the obituary page is usually not the person who created the situation that leads to a disaster. That's how it went down in May of 1996!

One of good old Irwin’s fellow VP’s, (the last of a breed that came up through the ranks & knew how an aircraft was built referred to him as, “Irwin, you ??? bastard!
As I am not an anti-Semite I will let you fill in the blank. I’ll give you a hint, 3 letter word, first letter follows I in the alphabet, last letter is a W.

Wow, why is it anyone's business whether someone is pregnant or not? Please stop judging people and imposing your opinions where they do not belong.

since feb.20 asshole . So that leaves 2-4 weeks before contract. No wonder people can get this strike settled.

I think everyone needs to calm down here and lets try to work together for the benefit of all of Sikorsky and all of it's employees. In-fighting doesn't help anyone. People get upset and frustrated and scared, especially the longer this goes on, but the backbiting doesn't help any of us. I issue this challenge to all readers: WHAT IS YOUR PLAN FOR RESOLVING THIS CRISIS?

maybe you can't read,
yet another dope who needs to use obscene language because well, you're a dope BUT you are right about negotiations.

Correction, these negotiations have been going on for months, well prior to the 2/20 deadline. And how long have union members been threatening STRIKE? Frankly, I don't care who gets pregnant, how long it takes or when it happened, as long as it's not me.

These are the comments that make you look bad, are you now reduced to analyzing a pregnany! Especially the mother of five what are you saying no pregnancy is a suprise and all birth control is 100% This fellow employees' wife is having a baby, and he sounds worried, who's business is it when she concieved. That's the support you give him! Where are the comments to the young guy and his wife like congratulations, good luck etc. So here is a message to "Losing faith in the Union" Congratulations to you and your wife all will work out one way or another. God bless you and your family.

The answer is to give us exactly what salary has which means pay and retirement plan. That would make both sides happy from what it sounds. then each would have the others good and bad.

Is that the proposal?

Glad everyone is interested in my unborn baby maybe you can all help name my child? LOL
Next issue you can take up is fighting cancer..

Well, as far as getting what salary has, I think that is up to you. Resign your union membership and notify the company that you want to come back to work as a salary employee. Just understand that when you say you want the same pay as salaried people, you must understand that pay is determined by your rank, so to speak, within the company. Just as hourly has various labor grades which determine pay, salaried pay has different levels, also. And remember that any increase, bonus or promotion you get will be based on merit and productivity. If this is what you want, then I advise you to resign your union membership and call HR.

I saw the Union posted letter on web-site, will our Union leaders tell me which health benefit Sikorsky is taking form us. They have offered us a plan which just stste we but pay a portion. There is no less ccoverage. Why don't they just stop lying to us, I know they need our $58 to keep there position. If you do the math, how long will they be able to payout weekly strike.
I beleive we are not even going to get a check, they will come up with some lame excuse...

Here is my question what type of contract do the agency employees get is it the same as the union or the same as the salary people?

What are our federal politions doing for us? They showed up on the picket line and wrote letters, but what are they accually doing for us? Have they put any pressure on SAC or UTC or is it just lip service? Maybe we should just say we suport them and not bother to vote in the next election, that's similar to what they are doing to us. What is the military doing? Are they going to accept helocopters built by replacement workers? SAC refuses to talk, are there federal mediators involved to get the parties to talk?

I'm glad you can keep a sense of humor in this, as a new father-to-be, that will come in handy. Congratulations, by the way, and I hope this is resolved well before the big event. As a young mother, I know how hard it can be to wait for the perfect time when you are really anxious to get started on having a family. Good luck to you and yours.

As for this whole big fight over health insurance, I have to agree with the folks who have repeatedly pointed out that the medical plan is no longer up for debate. It is hard for me to sympathize with this, too, because my health insurance isn't as good as what some of you rejected and I'm definitely paying more for it. Some of you see it as being unfair that you have to pay more, some of us see it as unfair that you have gotten to go for so long paying so much less than your salaried co-workers who vastly outnumber you. My advice would be to take it, if you get another chance to vote on it.

I'd also like to say that I fully support your right to demonstrate, but as someone who drives through the area with her young children in the car regularly, I would appreciate it if those of you who are behaving yourselves could try to influence the few bad actors to tone it down.

The only difference between union and agency is that agency don't get to vote or have other rights/responsibilities as full union members. They don't pay full dues, but they do pay an agency "fee." But they still fall under the same contract negotiated by the union for all hourly employees.

I work for UTC and pay $120.00 a week for health benefits for a family of four. That's a total of $1440.00 per year for four people. Now you don't have to do the math because I already did, I know some here are sticklers.

Having said that, I would venture to guess that the majority of you on the picket line have already given up nearly twice that in pay, which should say enough about your fight. You have already lost, don't lose more. For cryin out loud, another week and you could have paid your health benefits for the next three years already.

I asked a question earlier that no one really answered. What has the union really ever done for you besides take your money and put you in the positiion you are in today?

I see it this way, there are hard workers and slackers, hard workers don't need a union and certainly don't need to pay union dues. Slackers, well they need it to protect themselves, why are all the hard workers fighting to protect the slackers?

It's not 1940, it's 2006 people. Unions take your money and give nothing back. You should be picketing union hall on your personal time and earning a living for your family. It's not about brotherhood anymore, it's about doing what you have to do to survive.

Does anyone know if the hearing about unemployment happened this morning or if it was really postponed to next week? Anyone with a status update, please provide it.

Oh, almost forgot, does anyone on here have an previous experience with being on strike and how did that go? Just curious, this is my first time and I am a nervous wreck.

anonymous9:50
I understand that you all are really adament about the health care issue. But the bottom line is that if UTC bent on you, then when the next negotiations came around in their other companies, they would be at a disadvantage and before you know it, they'd have a bunch of health care plans again. It makes perfect business sense as far as managing the plan also i'm sure $$ has something to do with it too. Either way, It really is their right.

Forget the polititions, show me teamster support through out the country and I won't show up for work Monday.

My thought on unions. When I was in grade school, we had this kid named Chuckie Dubrowsky who had been kept back a couple of grades, so he was bigger than anyone else. If you paid him a buck, he would be your "friend" and beat up anyone who picked on you. But if you stopped paying him that buck or if the other guy paid him two bucks, look out. That is kind of what unions represent to me these days, a big bully who will fight your battles if you pay them, but who are not really loyal to you and who will sell you out in an instant. P.S. I think Chuck eventually did time for beating up his girlfriend.

I don't have any firsthand experience with strikes, just what I have witnessed with family members. My dad's union went on strike in the seventies and it was brutal. There were fights, several people got put in the hospital with very serious or even life-threatening injuries, some of the "picketing" actually took place on the front lawns of managers, etc. It was a pretty violent situation that lasted some months. My grandfather, who was salaried, got locked inside the plant for several weeks at one point. It became too dangerous to let people in and out to go to and from work, so they had to lock them in. Eventually, the company made some concessions and the union agreed to go back, but it was a serious loss for the union. They said they'd "won," because they'd got a couple of policies changed, but it was really a huge loss for union members from a financial and image standpoint.

More recently, a cousin's union went on strike and they stayed out for over a year. It didn't get very violent or anything, but I do know that one guy tried to commit suicide because he'd been without work for so long that he started losing his house, car, wife, etc. This one still hasn't been resolved and the last I heard the company was shutting down some of its operations forever.

Albuquerque, N.M. (February 7, 2006) – The National Labor Relations Board (NLRB) in Washington, D.C., has ruled that Teamsters union officials violated workers’ rights by retaliating against workers who chose to do their jobs during the national strike against United Parcel Service (UPS) in 1997. The ruling ensures that UPS drivers in New Mexico may resign retroactively from the union and receive significant rebates of forced union dues.

A group of eight UPS workers from New Mexico, with free help from the National Right to Work Foundation, triggered the NLRB’s prosecution of the Teamsters union after union officials brought internal union disciplinary action against employees, including the threat of fines for working during a strike and firings from their jobs for refusal to pay full union dues and duplicative “initiation fees.�

The NLRB decision in the long-languishing case determined that Teamsters Union Local 492 violated federal labor law because union officials never informed workers of their right to resign their formal union membership and withhold certain forced dues spent on activities unrelated to collective bargaining. The NLRB also ruled that those employees who did not receive the requisite notices could not be considered voluntary members of the union and, therefore, could not be subjected to internal union discipline of any kind.

“Teamsters union officials waged an ugly and illegal campaign of retaliation against workers who decided to honor their commitments to their families and their employer by refusing to walk off the job,� said Stefan Gleason, vice president of the National Right to Work Foundation. “This long overdue ruling vindicates the principled and courageous stand taken by these workers.�

When Teamsters officials ordered UPS workers to strike against the company, some workers discovered on their own that they had a right to resign their formal union memberships in order to continue working during the strike without facing union retaliation. The NLRB found that, not only did Teamsters officials refuse to immediately honor the workers’ resignations as the law requires, but continued illegally to collect full dues, attempted to collect duplicate “initiation fees,� and sought to fine and cause the firing of workers who had refused to walk off the job.

In its ruling, the NLRB ordered Teamsters officials to end all threats of discipline against the workers, retroactively honor the workers’ resignations from union membership, and inform other workers in the statewide bargaining unit of their right to resign their formal union membership. Any employee who exercises that right may also be retroactively reimbursed for any forced union dues seized for purposes other than collective bargaining.

The ruling also implies that similar NLRB prosecutions, such as that of the Teamsters union for workers’ rights abuses during the 2003 California statewide grocery strike, will be resolved in favor of the employees.

The actions of Teamsters union officials violated protections recognized in the U.S. Supreme Court ruling in Communications Workers v. Beck, a case argued and won by Foundation attorneys. Under Beck and related rulings, workers may resign their formal union memberships at any time, and may not be compelled to pay dues beyond the union’s proven collective bargaining costs.

Is it true that they are going to start making us sign in for picket duty and that if we don't picket we don't get strike pay? Also, how much money is in the strike fund?

The Hoffa administration has used accounting windfalls involving an officials-only pension plan so they could claim that they balanced the books in an election year. They are taking credit for what was done during the Carey administration.

Just as bad -- or worse -- the Hoffa administration has shifted priorities away from members and toward perks for officials.

They have increased payments for multiple salaries by 478 percent. This includes the 115 Hoffa appointees who get multiple salaries. More millions would be saved if Hoffa and his elected running mates would live up to their pledge to cut and cap their own multiple salaries.

They have increased payments for officials pensions and benefits by 18 percent.

They have increased payments for PR by 49 percent, money that goes to high priced consultants like Richard Leebove, who was caught making an illegal $167,000 employer contribution to Hoffa’s 1996 campaign.

This fattening up is paid for by cutting strike benefits and organizing. As a result our union has shrunk by 11,000 members since Hoffa took office, dipping below 1.4 million for the first time in decades. Teamster power is eroding, while top Teamster officials are fattening.

Spending Priorities Have Shifted
From Members to Officials
FACT: Hoffa has increased spending for these items:


Prior to Hoffa
(yearly avg. 1/96--3/99)
Hoffa Administration
(yearly avg. 3/99--12/00)
Percent Increase

PR and magazine
$4.1 million
$6.1 million
up 49 %

Officer and staff pensions
$5.5 million
$6.5 million
up 18 %

Multiple salaries and expenses for officers
$0.9 million
$4.3 million
up 478 %


FACT: Hoffa has cut funding for these membership items:

Prior to Hoffa
(yearly avg. 1/96--3/99)
Hoffa Administration
(yearly avg. 3/99--12/00)
Percent Decrease

Strike benefits
$6.3 million
$4.2 million
down 33 %

Organizing
$3.8 million
$1.4 million
down 63 %

Anonymous 12:00
Who's pay and retirement package would you like? Your supervisors? the engineers? the VP's the SF? or GD?
This is why some of you guys were so easily led. Once an idea gets put in the head, nothing including logic can get it out. They make more money because they have a higher degree of education. They are expected to be PROFESSIONAL at all times, part of that is lots of OT without OT pay, for the good of the company. Personal issues sometimes have to take a back seat. Some travel a good part of the time having to be away from the families. Some (SF & GC) RUN major coporations. in short.... THESE ARE DIFFERENT JOBS. If some of you spent more time looking at the reality of the situation none of this would have happened. You cannot have what the big guys have. Most salaried workers don't have anywhere near what they have, but the salaried workers understand that. I am frankly very frustrated that some of you can't. Your job pays what it pays, which is very good. It will have have the healthcare coverage offered. Period. I don't mean to sound harse or judgmental, but I have been following this blog and I'm very frustrated. You were sold a bill of goods by the union. They misrepresented facts to satisfy their own agendas. They know they are obsolete and needed to create drama to prove they are of use. Many of you are smart enough to see that, now. I hope you can get on the list to get back in. You don't deserve to lose everything you have because of this group of thugs.
Also, don't sell the salaried work force short. They know who worked before and who complained. If you go back with the 200 I'm sure it may take a few days, but others will see that you have a good attitude and are willing to chip in and that will be appreciate. I would rather have the respect of people who looked at me as an individual, win lose or draw, rather than be held hostage by this bunch of bullies who want you to sacrifice your family and future for some lame idea that can't work.
Those of you I wish good luck. God Bless.
Also to the guy with the pregnant wife. Babies are a blessing and I'm ashamed of everyone who wrote otherwise. Shame on you for making this forum about that! Good luck. God Bless your family. But I have to say, be smart now and do what you need to do for that family. Rocco won't help you. You'll still have to pay your dues and who knows what's up with your union checks...No one will take care of your family but you and there is no shame in being intelligent enough to know when you were taken advantage of get off that ride... or to change your mind. If you stay together, you'll go down together. I also agree that Jesse Jackson and his crap will only hurt you more with SIK, salary employees and the public. Don't ruin SIKs name over a fight that can't be won. It isn't worth it to anyone

Ok,
This is a fact,
O&R had a new hire start this afternoon,
You should see his smile just thinking how great it was to have a job!

This is just one of many,
I kid you not, better call HR to reserve a job, or you'll have to learn a new phrase: "Would you like fries with that?" or even better:
"Welcome to WALMART" LOLOLOL

Looks like someone already taken our jobs!

Title: Helicopter Personnel
Location: Strafford, CONNECTICUT
Company: Reliance Aerotech Services
Click here to Apply or find out more.
Description: Reliance Aerotech Services is seeking highly qualified Helicopter Specialist in the following skill areas for a short term fill-in contract in Strafford CT.
Aircraft Painters A&P Mechanics Precision assemblers / flight safety parts Machine part assemblers Electrical aircraft installers Electrical assemblers(Avionics) Sheet metal workers Composite workers Machinists Aircraft Inspectors

Applicants must have three or more year's experience in their respective skill discipline. Rotor wing experience required and military aircraft maintenance experience is a plus.

This is a short term contract starting ASAP.

Pay package will be $30.00 per hour straight, $45.00 per hour overtime. Per-diem will range from $50.00 per day for local employees and up to $150.00 per day for out of state employees.

Work schedules will be 40 hours straight time and 15 hours overtime per week.

Contact the Recruiter at (615) 627-0742, email resume to resumes@relianceaerotech.com, or fax to (615)627-0743. EOE
Job Updated: 2/27/2006

http://www.relianceaerotech.com/services/employment/jobList.htm

Here is the job post, read it and weep.

The union guys will be out there till summer and beyond at this rate.

Maybe the can start a lawn care service????

To on the inside, I already have a lawn care service, and whats wrong with that, you sound a bit sarcastic,or jealous even? typical salary attitude, start a lawn care service, I bet i make as much if not more than you do with JUST my litle old lawn care service...loser.

Please don't assume that the attitude of one person is the attitude of all people, whether they are hourly, salaried, anti-union, anti-company or just an outside observer. Everyone has the right to an opinion and this is an open forum. Besides, it has been my opinion that the ones who resort to name-calling are the ones who are truly inferior.

Touche'!

Now see, I call a person a loser for being sarcastic, and it is I that am inferred as being a name caller, or otherwise being inferior, but only you can say in your opinion, but I cant put my opinion in? Then when in a gang, the one who first put people down for starting lawn care services adds his "touche' comment...I dont get your attitudes, that only you and your opinions count, that is why we are at this ampass here now, everyone thinks it is ONLY them that are the important ones?

If you make so much money on lawn care then you don't need a job here, bet you're just milking us for the insurance anyway.
Company has your number, the jig is up.

Guess you'll have to hire some mexicans and go lawn care full time!

I don't have a horse in this race, but as an outsider who follows this blog, I've gotta tell all of you to stop griping and start fixing the problem. I don't think anyone's opinion really matters all that much. You know what they say, opinions are like a-holes, everyone has one and they all stink. Instead of opinions, how about you all start talking about possible solutions.

To on the inside now you have a problem with peoples race to. You should probably stop talking cuz they have your number too.

....I work for UTC and pay $120.00 a week for health benefits for a family of four. That's a total of $1440.00 per year for four people. Now you don't have to do the math because I already did, I know some here are sticklers.....

THE ABOVE IS A QUOTE FROM A PREVIOUS POST. NO WONDER MANAGEMENT CAN'T GET PARTS TO THE FLOOR. IT'S THAT FUZZY MATH. DID ANYONE TELL THIS GUY THERE ARE 52 WEEKS IN A YEAR, NOT 12!

wrong again inside, probably been wrong your whole life! A 25 year employee here, been laid off twice, needed something to fall back on, made out good! As for insurance, yes I do need it, but I am certainly not soaking anyone, not to mention yourself(with the us comment)! Just another quick note...I hire Americans only, and mnamely my own family, so if you want Mexicans, get your own, maybe they can build some helicopters if you give them a hot dog and a coke...now get back to work, get on that tow motor and drive, before youre let go for misuse of company time!

FYI salaried folks have been cleared to work as many hours as they need/want to work, up to and including weekends. Yes, they are getting OT pay. They will also be starting a second shift next week.

Wow, a second shift of do nothing, and the company wont spend a few million on health care, no wonder we cant bargain with these people,they have no brains..

I don't care how a person makes a living, albeit legally. The fact that anyone takes pride in their own work, and sacrifices their time and life to provide for themselves is a wonderful thing.
Your a landscaper, great, I did that through high school and some of college, and it was some of the most gratifying, if not draining work, I've ever done. Laborer, cook, nanny, secretary, custodian, they're all respectable in my mind. Anyone who works, and by work, has a job and works at the job, not just show up, should be respected. This country has too many free-loaders as it is(and of course, I am not referring to those that can't work... disabilities, etc). The working class must stick together.

While production is slow (primarily due to a limited work force while others finish their certifications) it is getting done. One thing of interest is management now knows how quickly these birds can go together now. Tremendous amounts of data on process improvements and timed studies have been done. Production that used to take hourly 6 hours to do is being done by salary (at equal or better quality) in half the time- and this is with relatively new people just trained for these jobs.

In 6 days salary delivered 4 airframes into flight-ops. Yes- you can say that these were airframes partially built by union before the strike, but the fact is others finished the jobs. We are on schedule for 6 to 8 aircraft into flight-ops in March.

As has been pointed out elsewhere, the outsourcing of airframes, parts, etc has increased probably 10-fold. Management is activating and pushing these outsourcing contracts at a rapid pace, the floor is being re-organized in some areas, and even we have heard the rumors that not all hourly will be needed back.

This is not 1950s- jobs can be outsourced very rapidly now, lean manufacturing means doing more with less (proved in this strike- many lean cells are almost back to full production and others are being accelerated to lean even now). Unions simply have no power now- when a company can significantly bounce back in 6 days when the union goes on strike then a strike poses no real threat.

Unfortunately, the union leadership has shot the union in the foot by giving SIk management these opportunities. You all will be coming back to a completely different shop environment and what will be expected of you. I believe the slackers are going to be in for a very, very hard time.

Anyway, I hope this was an eye-opener for a lot of you. WHat appeared to be a generous package voted down, union leaders who apparently lied to you all (unemployment for a walkout? who were they kidding), and now Hoffa can not even waive the union dues (that amounts to roughly 8 cents an hour the union loses per person)? I also notice the union leadership statement that they "know" that no work was being done except for 6S was removed from the website the same day airframes rolled out the door to Kaman.

IF YOU DON'T KNOW, DON'T BLOW.

And before anyone blasts salaried folks for commenting here while on work hours, I just got a phone call from my husband and we chatted for about ten minutes about absolutely nothing work-related. He was on his lunch break. When you are a salaried employee, you are entrusted with something known as flex time. It means if you take an extra half hour at lunch to run an errand, but stay to make it up in the evening by leaving a half hour later, it is perfectly acceptable to do that. If they want to read this blog on their break and post a comment or two, then that's fine, as well. Management knows who are and who are not productive employees, the axe will probably fall on both sides before this is all said and done and only those who are truly hard-working "company men" will get to stay to share in Sikorsky's continued success. It's about what you GIVE, not what you expect to get.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank the union folks for our SECOND free lunch down at the West Palm facility. We're doing test flights, getting real work done, and spirits are high.

Yes, it was a REAL free lunch. Regular cafe, gets rung up just a usual, but management is paying! Thanks guys.

I'm actually glad those guys are out there.
No lines for coffee in the morning....No lines for lunch....no lines at the credit union.

P.S. It's nice and warm in here....

I'd like to thank them, too. My hubby is a much nicer person these days, thanks to the overall improvement in the work environment since the hourly workers left.

One more thought came to mind.

Has anyone ever tried to walk UP a main isle way 0:03 seconds after "quitting time" ? Talk about getting bowled over. These are the same people crying that they gave their life to the company?

26 year as an employee. the company never did anything from detering me from reaching where i am today. started as labor 11 and now im a 3. not bad for no college education. made over 90.000 last year. yes it took away from family but thats my choice. no bill collectors though. put 3 kids through college and its kick back time...until now. i am going in monday. come hell or high water i will keep my head high. im doing this as an individual and for my family and future. its an individual choice and one i made with great thought.agonizing. but no the less its made.. LETS ROLL.

anon 208, just another example of the salaried peoples insight into themselves, your comment,"Salaried employees entrusted with flex time", thats one of the other reasons, salary and hourly cant get along, the inference that hourly are stupid and untrustworthy of flex time? Also, being a 25 year employee, dont let your husband or any other salary goof off lie to you, they, the high majority abuse flex time, and you better watch when he tells you hes at work, start wondering where he really may be!!

THE FOLLOWING IS A QUOTE FROM A PREVIOUS POST IN REPLY TO MY POST. "NO WONDER MANAGEMENT CAN'T GET PARTS TO THE FLOOR. IT'S THAT FUZZY MATH. DID ANYONE TELL THIS GUY THERE ARE 52 WEEKS IN A YEAR, NOT 12!"

Very good point, I'm quite embarrassed of my error to tell the truth, yet I'm comforted by the fact that I still have a job, what comoforts you? By the way no, I'm not management, just brain dead from time to time, which should make me management eligible.

Convenient how you pulled that out of my post but couldn't bring yourself to answer the question, what has the union done for you?

So you got me, the correct annual rate is $6240 per year, so it will only take four more weeks of teamsters standing around with their thumbs up their asses to have lost that much money.

You can double check my math again and get back to me but I do believe I nailed it this time.

anonymous 2:14, if your head is so high, why no name, if you are that proud to walk past the guys you have been with for 26 years?

Yes, I do know where my husband is. He's at work. Which is more than I can say for you, you lazy ass, good for nothing, money-grubbing, sandbagging, illiterate, ignorant, self-righteous, good-for-nothing moron. Have a nice day!

P.S. I'm sooooo going to enjoy spending YOUR overtime pay! ;°)

To the LET'S ROLL guy... too bad there aren't more like you out there! God bless and good luck!

Ok, you, and I mean all you who try to down the hourly people, Teamsters in particular, you would do the same thing if you had the chance to try to get a better deal for yourself, dont deny it!! If my memory serves me correct, about 10 years ago, salary tried to unionize, but didnt have enough backing, but you all tried. I would think salary would back our fight, if we win, maybe you do too? But in the end, you are salary, we are hourly, most of you are just jealous cuz you have some piece of paper, but we still make more money, lets face it, the truth hurts here!

All I have to say is that you all were told a year ago to save your money in the event that a strike vote happened.

The company is hopeing that you people give in to this contract and if the company wins what do you think the next contract will consist of.

George David here is a question for you. ALL OTHER DIVISIONS THAT YOU REFER TO AS HAVEING A 80/20 PLAN, YOU NEGLECTED TO TELL THE PUBLIC THAT THEY ARE SALARY AND SALARY HAS NO SAY OR THEY WOULD BE TERMINATED. RIGHT

All of us union brothers and sisters were told to save your money. With all the overtime that was available to us this year and last year what was your excuse not to.

Now that we've been on the line for 2 weeks how many of you are looking for part time work. Very few I bet.

Stop bad mouthing and suck it up. We are the union not Rocco. All he said was that he recommended that we do not except the contract.

So stop pointing fingers no pun intended and stay strong and stick it out longer.
We will win a better contract but you must stay united and show this corporation that we are a strong union or they will shove a contract down your throats like they do to the salary personel who have no say.

217, sorry, but i have another job, but then again, I am probably gonna be crucifies for that too! Spend what you want to spend, you wont be spending my overtime pay, since i dont work OT!Besides, sand bagging, illiterate, ignorant, what makes you call me that? Maybe thats the kind of guy you like!

P.S. better make sure your soft husband is at work, I saw him last night at his "friends house" LOLOLO

I have Directv and over 200 channels and for the life of me, I can't stop watching this blog.

These comments are more entertaining than anything on TV.

I'm not making light of the situation, I'm really not but from what I'm seeing here, it looks like the teamsters are crumbling, I can't wait to see what people are going to say next.

Hey, let's get this strike over with. I heard there's a company in Dubai that wants to buy the plant.

MADE more money, use it in the PAST tense, that's the reality of it all.

in numbers than the imtimidation factor goes down. we all have our own motives for what we do, and greed is not one of them, supporting our families and supporting the company who gave people with no background a chance to live in an overtaxed state. my life will change dramatically without sikorskys. to the point of relocating. not a good option. be strong and act on with your soul and not by fear tactics. we stand in numbers.

Whatever tense its in, we still make more!!

I have a question. Why are the Union guys striking at the plant screaming at salary guys who have nothing to do with the contract?
Shouldn't they be at UTC headquarters screaming at those guys?
I was called a "scab" the other day. I think they should be looking words up in the dictionary before they use them. I'm doing the same job I did before the strike. I'm not taking one of their jobs!
In my opinion, they don't seem like the sharpest crayons in the box, if you know what I mean!

Maybe the union can get Al Sharpton, Sean Penn or Susan Sarandon to rally with them? They might help about as much as Jesse Jackson will or Senator Dodd, DeLauro, and Lieberman did.

Thers a salary person again"not the sharpest crayon in the box", typical attitude towards the hourly work force. Just imagine, if at the low level of salary worker at Sikorsky having this attitude, what the heck do you think David and his buddies think of us!! Well hes showing us what he thinks, looka at the picket lines!

It are called educamation. Maybie myspelling werds is imdimidating.

anaon 235....STUPIDEST post I have seen yet!!

See what I mean, you can't get this much comedy and drama on Directv, I'm cancelling my subscription and just watching the blog

anon 238, if you have no interest in our strike, etc, you must have NO life watching this blog, I am just watching this blog as a concerened worker with alot to gain, so dont cancel the TV yet, go watch some..

anon 2:14 you won't be alone Monday morning. The number is now in the hundreds. Hold your head high, I'm sure your family is very proud of you. What they think of you matters so much more than some thugs that will threaten to beat you up for thinking for yourself. My husband and his coworker are going back and I couldn't be prouder of them. LETS ROLL

I just want to see names here, if everyone is so proud to cross the lines, no names means no body really crossing?

My attitude towards the hourly work force is pushed on me every morning, when I drive to work to do my job and I have people screaming at me, like I voted for this health insurance. I'm not screaming at you for trying to hurt the company. What your doing out there is effecting me, what I'm doing in here isn't effecting you. If anyone should be yelling, it should be us yelling at you for not working.

I do have an interest but nothing to gain really.
You can't argue that some of this silliness is along the lines of comical.

Maybe you could, I don't know.

If your willing to forgo your signing bonus & 0.5% of your pay increase, why not just except this contract and put the money in the bank towards your health deductables , why would you want the company do it for you ,you know, just like you did with your vacation & sick pay.. by the way what will happen when the replacement workers do learn how to do your jobs (3, 4, 5 mths, a year) , meet the schedules then the company still hasn't budged on health care issue and says we no longer need the hourly employees.does the union have other 18 to 30 dollar an hour jobs we can apply for? did they ever think of this before they reccommened that we reject this contract?...

anon 242, look in Shelton, we have many salary guys yelling at us, but does that make the press, no? Also, if all you salary guys dont have gripes with the hourly, why cant you at least support them for trying to better themselves?

You salary people must be content on health premiums keep going up? Just remember, when the work force does slow down, you are th first to go, so dont count your chickens before they hatch..

Huh?

I'm not content, I just deal with reality. I'd rather be paying a little more and be able to pay my bills. The money you've lost by not working the past 2 weeks, could've made the difference for you for the next year. I'm not worried about finding another job, I went to college.

Don't put all your eggs in one basket, either.

Rocco "Spanky" Cali stole the Gang's money, sic him Petey!

time marches on and so will i on monday morning
back to work yeehaw!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I have a young family to take care of way more important. If i lose my job down the road so be it
in the mean time i'am going to do everything in my power to take care of my family. As I respect your choice in what your doing please respect mine also. I hope you guys get what you want but
i can't afford to stand with you right now given
my current status good luck i mean that sincerly.

It has now become transparently clear to upper management that activities within the plant are common knowledge on the picket line as well.

Misinformation is now being intentionally disseminated within Sikorsky in an attempt to intimidate the Teamsters and their families.

Teamsters should advise salaried spouses, friends and family to be prepared for meetings/conversations describing dire consequences for the hourly workforce. Don't allow this ploy to upset them. Take everything with a grain of salt.

Have a great weekend!!!

HEY EVERYBODY LIFE'S TO SHORT AND YOU DON'T GET TO
COME BACK AND DO IT ALL OVER AGAIN! ENJOY THE SHORT TIME you have here on earth and do what is best for yourself and your family

Are you guys going back on your green badge or are you getting a yellow badge? Godspeed

Question- how did companies implement pshy-ops before the internet age?
This blog seems to be the latest weapon in the war on moral.
Personally, I have given up on finding any truth here whatsoever.
I am not going to read it anymore.

MAC UPDATE

Additional resources are being deployed on a daily basis to continue to support military aircraft production. Two U.S. Army UH-60L BLACK HAWKS are in paint, and an MH-60R is in the hangar being prepared for ground runs.

O&R UPDATE

O&R reports that an H-53E Main gear box has been signed off and will be sent to shipping today. A UH-60L Main gear box has returned from paint and inspection and is being moved to shipping today. Sleeves and spindles for H-53E rotor heads are being inspected.

PRECISION OPS UPDATE

The Precision Operations team started machining the first Canada MHP swashplate yesterday. This is an important milestone in support of the Fly-by-Wire flight this fall.

WEST PALM BEACH UPDATE

Work on UH-60M aircraft includes completion of mechanical and electrical IVHMS mods. Quality Assurance buy out items are being worked today, along with engineering issues. The team is also preparing for the IVHUMS ATP.

Today, an MH-60S aircraft is expected to fly, following completion of the aircraft's armed 7/14 day inspection this week.

ya talk a bunch of junk. most of you don't know jack and don't have the balls to cross. if you do it won't be a big deal really cause once you get a yella badge forget about ever becoming hourly again. work aint for making friends but you will be looked at like what you really are a COWARD.

To the guy who wants the names,
My wife just called you a thug, I said no, he's too stupid to be a thug. What he doesn't understand is, we will be driving right past him Monday morning. People like him are the reason we lost the money to pay for the increases, why some of us are going to lose our jobs, why some of us are going to lose our overtime, why management wants to out-source some jobs. I can go on and on about what is going to happen but I'll stop here. So tell me, who did more damage? Me, who is going back to work Monday? FOR REAL!! Or you, who couldn't think for yourself and ratify the contract. You couldn't even figure out that you can absolutely afford the increase, all the house bills, the harleys, the boats, and the trips to the casino. So by Monday morning you will know my name, and see my face. I will be driving by you without fear. By the way, by Monday there will be hundreds of us. By next Monday it will probably be well over a thousand. See you Monday.

I voted to accept the contract, but I'm not crossing the line. Six weeks or six months, whatever it takes!!!! The unity on the line is unbelievable. Stay united and we will win.

"anon 242, look in Shelton, we have many salary guys yelling at us, but does that make the press, no? Also, if all you salary guys dont have gripes with the hourly, why cant you at least support them for trying to better themselves?"

We do support your right to strike. Sorry we don't show it more. Going through the gauntlet each morning being sworn at has that affect.

Besides, I was told flat out that by waving, honking your own, acknowledging hourly guys in any way would be taken by union guys as "sticking it in your face or showing you up" Make up your minds will ya?

Are there any salaried/hourly married couples (meaning, one is a salaried employye at UTC, going to work, and the other is a member of the union, on strike) on this blog? Would like to hear about their experiences/views on this situation.

That's a good question, anon 4:27! I'd bet that would make for some interesting dinner conversation! This whole thing strikes me as being very similar to a divorce, anyway. Sad, sad, sad, but they brought it on themselves, I have to think.

Does anyone on the hourly side have anything factual to update us on? Any news yet on unemployment, strike checks, etc. other than the out-dated news on the website?

Suppose this strike is deemed by the courts to be an ECONOMIC strike vs what the teamsters are calling an UNFAIR LABOR strike?

The reasons this has been called unfair labor don't add up. You can ask for a new car as a signing bonus and because they don't entertain your request does not constitute unfair labor. Your request to be the only UTC with a different health plan is about that dumb.

So, back to the ECONOMIC strike, in that situation the replacement workers are not teminated if and when this strike ends. They remain permanent workers

I don't work for Sikorsky, but I have been in this situation in my previous job. As a salaried person, I had to cross the picket line each day to do my job. I was a low man on the totem pole and had no real authority in the company, but I took all kinds of abuse from the strikers in that situation. I even had someone throw something that broke the rear window of my car while I was driving down the street. Oh, and that was during off hours and my kid was in the car, too. I do think the salaried people tend to get angry when they are singled out as being the bad guys, when the vast majority of them have no say in any of this. And I think some of the hourly people get a bad rep for no other reason than their affiliation with a union that may have an image problem, to put it delicately. The longer this goes on, the worse it will get. It's only the second week and the union already has a mutiny to fight as well as the losing battle they have waged against the company. The company seems to be doing okay and there's no question they will come out of it smelling like a rose, but the state of Connecticut may end up losing out. It's just a sad situation the whole way around. I think the rational people on both sides will judge one another as individuals, not as stereotypes and it's these rational people who are most likely to have jobs when this thing plays out. It's just too bad when grown-ups don't act like grown-ups and resort to behaving like spoiled children. Just my perspective.

It is fascinating to hear the view from the outside while seeing what is really going on inside... which is less than significant and a bit unorganized. Let's face it, those of us who are trying to do the work would rather be doing our own jobs. But the reality is that management is feeling the need to get something done and is willing to hurt people to get it done. They are asking the striking workers to quit the union and come back to work. Why quit the union first. Apparently it is because they feel that there will be problems once the strike is over between those who came back early and those who stayed out. The way I understand it, they will lay off all the people who quit the union once the strike ends as some sort of good faith gesture to the union. Sacrificial lambs... what a way to thank someone for their help!

I have to tell you that I've been reading these blogs daily and they are absolutely eidiculous....all of you, whether hourly or salary, are acting like children....I am an hourly employee, I will not cross the line and I am out there for my picket assignments plus some...everyone needs to stop getting at each others throats and realize EVERYONE LOSES IN THE STRIKE!!! SIK loses, the teamsters lose, and the salary people lose....I am a pretty intelligent young man with two bachelors degrees and I'm tired of being called ignorant and lazy....don't stereotype all these union guys into a lazy group because I'm not lazy and I value my work more than most people I know! By the way I'm still in school full time for another degree. Everyone get a grip!

hey cracker it's green baby call me coward for taking care of my family.

That Funny That MH-60R should of been the hanger 2 weeks ago. wow it took salary that long to roll a finnished aircraft to the hanger bravo way to go. lol

HR is advising returning workers that the union can charge them fines and penalties for returning early. You can still remain in the union and come back to your job. Yes and the badges are still green.

I'm not sure where the 4:49 guy or gal is spending his day, but I am working my tail off! And I don't seen anyone in management hurting anyone or anything like that, at all. I would suspect this character is an hourly trying to incur a little hate and discontent on the inside and wouldn't give him or her a second thought. I am loving the fact that I can come to work every single day and be part of the team that is going to help this company in its time of need. I take great pride in the job I am doing and am really enjoying my job more these days than I ever have. I do think we are getting a lot done, I've been a part of it and I've seen it happen. So maybe anon 4:49 might not be pulling his or her share of the weight, but most of us are doing it, loving it and getting a lot of well-deserved recognition for it.

As for why hourly employees have to resign their union membership to come back, well, you can't be a part of the union and come back, you have to come back as a free agent. Otherwise, unless you resign your membership, the union still represents you and that presents not only a conflict of interest for the company, but also a serious security risk. Also, if you don't resign your membership, the union can penalize you with fines, blacklisting, etc.

Does anyone know if Jesse Jackson is coming to town to support the teamsters? That'll be a real boost for the cause. STAY THE COURSE................ DEVIDED WE FALL....................... TEAMSTERS ARE THE BEST.................... WHATEVER IT TAKES................ STRONG AND LONG............ WALK THE LINE TILL XMAS

The talk continues back and forth between the strikers and those who disagree with what they are doing. Frankly, I couldn't care less if you all stay out there forever. This company will survive with or without you. What makes me sick is that this will probably devastate people who I care about. The talk from the gold building that Beth A. will likely lose her job over this is just unthinkable. After all that she has done, to be stabbed in the back by her right hand (wo)man! You people have us all scrambling to figure out who is friend and foe. You people out there should think long and hard about what you are doing to others and stop thinking of just yourselves!

One thing is for sure, there will be a whole lot of HR jobs cut once we deunionize.

Everyone
Let's keep the posts current by posting in the latest blog entry. It's a pain in the arse having to keep looking at the previous couple of days for current entries. Savvy?

The IBT... just another relic of a time long past, trying to keep a afloat by brainwashing those too stupid to know better and stealing their money and calling it dues. The real Teamsters union of today is not what it used to be. Why don't you just fade into history with the other dinosaurs?

A 25 year hourly worker here. I voted against the contract based on my feeling that corporate is plain greedy, like I didnt know that! Anyways, can a union guy please explain to me what our rites are to our jobs, if and when we come back, cuz noone ever told me this? After 2 weeks, I will not cross any picket line, but who knows what the future holds, I dont want to lose alot, especially for something that may never come about. And Rocco has to tell us what the chances are we will get what we want, and if those chances are not realistic, why not have a revote, take our chances and see what happens? I know health care is rising all over,and I dont want increases just like the other guy, but honestly, is $25 a week going to kill us, most of who make $70,000 plus? I hope there is a silver lining at the end of the tunnel, but union leadership has to show more than we have seen yet to date, not just politicians running their mouths, and please not Jesse Jackson "helping out", cuz if my work career comes down to Je$$e Jack$on, I will not be a happy camper to put it politely! Rocco, we are trying, but a time comes when you must face reality, we want our jobs back, and sometimes and Im not saying soon, but over the course of say 3 months maybe, you have to say maybe we fought a good fight, but better luck next time.

I'm with the dish dude. This is better than mid-day porn. I'm hooked.

Oh, and my highly scientific observation?

your = hourly

you're = salary

My god people, turn off your TV and read a book. You're driving me crazy!

hate nahn just looking for some fact (or lack of in this place) I know for a fact you guys are working your buts off. I also know your finding out that hourly jobs are not as easy any more (case if fact your not as young as you use to be).

As far as my duties are for today it's looking for imformation which I'm doing right now.
I love Technology it tells you everything.

Sikorsky Aircraft has long wanted the most educated hourly workforce in America. Now that they have it, I'm sure they are dissappointed that they can't pull the wool over our eyes. I agree with the comments about everyone being childish, this is serious stuff. To think that the company could possibly do the work that we do without us is rediculous. To believe that the company cannot afford to listen and be reasonable on the healthcare issue when they pay George David 88.7 million is even more rediculous. I can't immagine crossing this picket line and looking at myself in the mirror or looking my family in the eye. Yes it's difficult to do what we are doing, but we have to fight the fight. To say that we should accept something just because everyone else did is an insult. The difference between us and "everyone else" is that we stepped up and helped this company when they needed it. We helped them lobby for more work when they asked us to. We lead the fight for Marine One when the company needed us to. We answered the call when the company said they were in trouble on the Blackhawk line and we fixed the problems and increased 4th quarter production by 40%. What did we get for all of this above average cooperation? We got what everyone else got! Shame on you George David... Shame on you Beth Amato. I hope the guy who said Beth is going to lose her job over this is right. It's a real shame that our good faith efforts were spit at and stepped on at the bargaining table.

Here here 528. I won't cross that line. How could I possibly explain it to my son that I gave up on a pramise. They might not have any food for a bit but he will under stand. But I will get that job back. I've got to make my plasma tv payments.

Stand strong union brothers and sisters. They are