Your Comments

Hey people! Great showing out there today! It wasn't a big, big rally, but at least the effort was there. Let's move forward and continue to show our support. Nice video of the rally!

Sad! Couldn't even cover the 3600 local teamsters. If there were 2000 it was that many!
Same old lines of BS same old flock of sheep!

Now that Rocco has had his Photo-op he'll get back to work and get a contract. How bad, he couldn't even get the full membership to show up. Great Leader!!

Finally a Rocco sighting...Lets see Hoffa's check...and maybe Calo's too..he's been getin'
them right!!??

Stupid is as stupid does!

I've been reading this blog and haven't felt compelled to write until now. Does anyone realize that the American flag waving going on in the picture line is hypocrisy. You left your job that makes the products and spares to support our boys and girls around the world. Your actions potentially mean some of them are not going to get to come home on time. Shame on you teamsters!

Now that the rally is over,lets get back to the table. That is what's important. A rally will not pay my mortgage. Put food on the table,pay my car payments! My job will. lets focus on what's important here. a rally will not stop the outsourcing that is happening or the layoffs that will happen when you go back to work. this is from a not so proud teamster. Rooco get us back to work you already admitted to your stewards that the 20/80 cannot be won, so what are you waiting for. Don't you think you have made fools of your members long enough. stop it now. have the courage to say i was wrong. we won't hate you. If you stop this before it gets out of hand.

I don't want to hear crying from the union when your jobs move SOUTH!!!!

Most employees in other industries contribute to their insurance costs - I do.

The big question is - Why did so many union members stay away from the rally? I guess we can make all the lazy jokes we want, but WHY did they not show up? And how many are at work or will return next week after seeing today's rally was just that, a rally. I had heard that folks on both sides were thinking Hoffa could have a sit down with SIK and move things along. So far nothing. I guess we'll see Monday.

Why work? - join a union and coast for life.

I say pull the cops from there post. Since everyone was so calm and orderly there's no need for all that OT.

You Teamsters needs to get back to work, be happy you have a job and

Save Stratfords Taxes

your not making many friends in town.

Vote no on all contracts offered.

They can't fire us, IT'S LAW!

To bad your misinformed. Do a search on long strikes. Look at time line, after 3-4 weeks company's always hire replacement workers. Also if and when they settled, not all unionites went back to work. If a company is offering you a contract and you choose not to accept, they have no legal obligation to hold your job once they show federal arbitrator the economic need to be able to hire replacements to honor commitments to contracts. This is free enterprise, you now have no contract, they are offering a package, if you do not want it that is okay , this is America, go seek your fortune some place else. The company will then hire people who want what they are offering. That is capitalism at it's finest!

Have the Union pay for the Cops. Not us taxpayers (Who work!!)

Where was everyone ?

News media said 1500 people ????

WTF ??

All these unions, Hoffa and all we can do is 1500 ??

Pathetic.

Your jobs are going to North Carolina! or was it India? Keep being greedy - from picket line to welfare line. The Unions can screw the tax payers twice.

I guess today's rally could be called a success... that is, if success is defined by getting people who are already on your side to be on your side. Try convincing the taxpaying residents of Stratford, the salaried people who are admirably picking up your slack or the millions of other hardworking Americans who pay more for less health insurance than you turned down if you changed their minds with your pathetic tribute to personal greed. Instead of marching in front of the gate, you all should be marching to Freeloaders Anonymous. Maybe they can help you, you sure as heck can't help yourselves.

A fitting song at the rally:
Kenny Rogers's The Gambler.....
you got to know when to fold 'em, know when to walk away, know when to run.........

I still think Dire Straits' Money for Nothing is quite appropriate... they want their money for nothing and their scripts for free!

Your right this is not the Big Easy. They haven't a house to live in nor a place of employment to embrace. Median Income was 29000 give or take. They didn't have a choice. Thier circumstance was an act of God. Sikorsky workers elected to strike. It was thier majority choice. Sikorsky workers still have a home to go home and job to go back to (if its not outsourced before one realizes it). I have family affected by that awful hurricane. I drive by the plant to get to my job every day. I know healthcare is a big issue. I pay more for healthcare than the proposed contract for Sikorsky employees. I also make less per hour, have no tuition reimbursment and crappy pension. Yes it sucks. But I suck it up. Yes this isn't the Big Easy. This is Connecticut. Greed , Gluttony and survival.

I like the Boston Teamsters Truck's slogan...
"Building a better future for working men and women"

What they forgot to add was, "Making a better future for working men and women in FOREIGN COUNTRIES!"

we aren't haters, we just see it as it is. Wake up!

I think what the teamsters are doing is for the good of all of us that work hard everyday and worry a bought health care. IM 32 year old Auto Body Technician and unfortunately my industry does not have a union or good health care and my trade is a major health hazard. My point is this. when you need your car to get to the office or the golf game and it is broke you need me to fix it and when it comes to the defense of this country you need great military equipment made by hard working teamsters. If your auto body tech or Teamster is sick or he or she needs to worry a bought a family member who is sick then they will not be giving 110% at the job they are doing and maybe your wheel will fall off your car on the way to the golf game or the chopper will not be able to pull soldiers out of harms way because it malfunctions. The jobs we do are just as important or more important then many so called professionals. So it just makes sense to make sure workers and there family's are at 110% health.

As far as the police who are doing a fine job. let us Taxpayers pick up the tab. I would rather see it go to a good cause then slip into some ones pocket or go to another stupid city decoration. Besides Stratford can afford it right Oronoke? Why does it cost so much anyhow?

GOD BLESS AMERICA AND ALL ITS HARD WORKING SONS

MIKE.C 32 years old father of 3

Mr Gozzi, So you had the support of the "brothers".... did they bring you money to feed your kids, pay your mortgage,or pay for your medication??? You know what the teamsters sound like?? a CULT!! they brain wash you into believing their lies. When you finally come to your senses it will be too late.... and you will be out of a job. I will tell you that I, a staunch democrat, have changed my mind about certain politicians... Joe Lieberman, Rosa DeLauro, Diane Farell.... all giving credence to the playground bully a.k.a the teamsters. Let's encourage harassment, name calling, finger pointing! Shame on all of you! This is humanity at it's lowest. What kind of example are you setting for your children? Let's show them how grown ups really act! They shout profanities at, and harass the "scabs" (God forbid a person should want to provide for their family!) They go in the paper and blatently say that those who cross the line will be harassed ( oh, but not physically) when the union returns. Grow up!! If that is the mind set you have, you deserve to lose your job!! May God bless you for you certainly will need it!

Weak. I'm sure George David was quaking in his boots to see the giant inflatable rat. "Give them what they want...just take away the rat!!"

Come June 1st, any one still on the picket line will be free to do whatever they want (except work at SAC). This company is moving forward with or without you. Customers back the company and they essentially call the shots. Hire replacements if you must, just get us the spares now and new helicopters when you're ready.

Consider your pensions frozen as of Feb 20.

I have been reading this blog from day one and have not posted till now. I have been reading the absurdity for far too long.

To all of you Anonymous posters, too low or is it too lame to post without recognition, these lame comments, that like your name will fade and be unrecognized.

A few questions to you, who believe you control all,
If our jobs are to be outsourced from under us, where will you be, once we’re gone? Outsourced yourself, or fired? Which? What happened to Finger? What will happen to you???

If it’s so easy to sell out, to move the company to S.c, India, or whatever, what will happen to you? Learning a new language are we??? And why hasn't it happened yet?

If we could be fired for a strike, and you can hire anyone you wish, to do our jobs, why hasn't it happened yet??? Solidarity??? What do you have? Nothing and no one to turn to. You will fade away, and we will still be here.

It's sad to read most of this stuff, when in reality, this action hurts EVERYONE!

Please come to the table and compromise, it's only a matter of time before even you become truly Anonymous and out there wishing you could be with us., or do you only prefer cringing from your desktops??? The simple fact is, all YOU can do is write this trash on the blog and not accomplish one blessed other thing. How can you, waisting your time on this blog, instead of at the table. Feeling a little trapped are we?????

The definition of Anonymous:

having no known name or identity or known source;
not known or lacking marked individuality;
Having no distinctive character or recognition factor:

Keep the faith brethren; these posters truly have no distinctive character or recognition factor. They are so far from the truth of the matter, it hurts!

BTW, The U.S. is presently involved in 2 campaigns. One in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. Also there is a third, the Nations Healthcare. So wars are fought on a lot of fronts. Stop thinking the real fight is in Iraq. The same fight is being waged right here, IN YOUR FRONT YARD! Stop cowering behind Anonymous. Anonymous don’t make heroes, Anonymous don’t get recognized. Anonymous don’t build Helicopters! We do! Join the fight! Do something selfless, or do you need the definition of selfless, as well?

Is WinWizard2k how you are listed on your birth certificate or does it just say HYPOCRITCAL MORON?

I guess nobody remembers that 'job fair' SIK had last summer.....you know, the one where 5,000 people showed up for about 200 jobs??? True many people were not qualified, but people started showing up at 5am for a 9am start time. Between folks already out there with the skills needed and smart people who can learn fast and be trained, I think SIK has you all over one of those fire barrels you are all burning!!!! Or maybe some of those out-of-town Teamsters here for the big huge 'rally' are also looking for a good paying job with benefits.....kind of like the one you all turned you backs on here at SIK when you went on strike.

So I guess WinWizard2K's is your real name? Where is your courage in using a pen name?

No, WinWizards real name is more like "0verweight, beer belly, uneducated, big ego, very little skill, moron.

If you want the definition of anonymous go to the union's website, click on photo then Stratford--and check out some of the Phd candidates.
The third row, last photo is a beauty...as well as the fourth row, first photo. CLASSIC
All highly skilled employees who will find better jobs once they lose their current positions--CEO types.

Has the union forgotten that Sikorsky recently lost in the competition for the presidential helicopter? Has anybody in the union stopped for a moment to think about that. If not, lets ask ourselves a simple question; did Sikorsky have to give this away to have to win this? I would bet that Sikorsky bid that contract under cost and still lost to a European competitor. What an embarrassment for Sikorsky and the United States. I ask all union strikers including your leader, Rocco, if this was your company what would you do? I am an outsider and it does not take a lot of smarts to figure this out. I do not recall a major layoff after that loss. If I was responsible for the bottom line at Sikorsky I know what I would do, and I am sure the rest of you know also. It is apparent that with this type of employee greed Sikorsky may never be competitive again or able to win contracts to produce the best helicopter in the world let alone in the state of Connecticut.

I honestly can not understand what this strike is all about. It must be far beyond the health care bennefit issue because you all were given the opportunity to participate in one of the best health care plans in the state of Connecticut. A if you really don't like it, you might start thinking about the alternative. Chances are your not going to like that either and you may not have the teamsters to back you.

I have been watching the news, see the web blogs and quite frankly, you are not a very impressive bunch. I guess everybody who has allowed their picture to be plastered on the web or the news is not even considering returning to work especially the nail throwers, the spitters, and the biggest jack-ass with taliban sign. I feel very sorry for the people who voted yes to this contract because you are most likely the people the company needs.

We have United States soldiers over seas fighting for the freedom of this country and this is an example of how the teamsters1150 feel about that. If the ball were in my court, the majority of you would not be asked back to work.

geez, winwizard2k - you really made quite the ass out of yourself!!!!!!!!

how could you rant about all that anonymous bullshit and then not sign your name?

Your obviously as syupid (and ignorant) as the rest of the Teamsters 1150 members.

I can't wait till the day the replacements come in and you are all out of work. What a great country this is.

PS - I am not in a union, and I make a hell of a lot more than $220 per week. I also pay a lot more than $26 weekly for health insurance, just like everyone else in this great country of ours (except you teamsters)

WinWizard2k = Anonymous. Same Thing.

I have degrees and a transportable profession.
I will still be here in Southern Ct. while your blue-collar jobs will be toast.

It all comes down to economics. If it can be done cheaper somewhere else, it will be, or the company will lose every succeeding competition and eventually become a shell of what it once was.

George Steinbrenner doesn't give a damn what his Yankees did for him last season if he doesn't win this years' pennant. Same goes for business. You either win enough to survive, or you're gone.

Stop thinking you're irreplacable or owed anything for the past. It's just that - the past. What counts is today and tomorrow.

If your choice is to cost too much when you could compromise and be the same as everyone else in the world, you will lose.

You will have yourself loaded the round and put your own finger on the trigger.

I've always been amazed at the union-right-or-wrong attitude. It's like you divorced your wife but insisted on living under the same roof with her for the rest of your life. You'll never trust her again, accuse her of cheating you every day, and focus your energy on how to get even with her. That's you world view. Me,Me,Me.

Well, manufacturing is never coming back in America - and I'm sure you believe you had no part to play in it. It's still 1950 and the world is in ruins and it's our game to control.

Afraid not.

Think about it. GM and Ford on practically on their knees - same issue. The only difference is aircraft are not consumer items. But foreign competition have made and are making inroads to what was once a game where you controlled things. It's gone. Wake up.

I was putting the finishing touches on ten pans of lasagna that I was going to bring down to the Strikers when WTNH put on their coverage of today’s rally.

Holy Shit – what a bunch of fat people! You must all be eating VERY well – that free food and other hand-outs. I ended up bringing the trays of lasagna to a soup kitchen. They deserve it more.

As all of you walk around in circles, are you noticing the work that is disappearing i.e. leaving the plant and heading South? So much for paralyzing Sikorsky!

Wake up Hoffa! Sikorsky does have a right for a cookie cutter approach to healthcare. Why should you people be different?

Oh did I miss the Reverend today? I wanted to count the number of times he said the word “wiff� – cause he cannot pronounce “with�.

I was putting the finishing touches on ten pans of lasagna that I was going to bring down to the Strikers when WTNH put on their coverage of today’s rally.

Holy Shit – what a bunch of fat people! You must all be eating VERY well – that free food and other hand-outs. I ended up bringing the trays of lasagna to a soup kitchen. They deserve it more.

As all of you walk around in circles, are you noticing the work that is disappearing i.e. leaving the plant and heading South? So much for paralyzing Sikorsky!

Wake up Hoffa! Sikorsky does have a right for a cookie cutter approach to healthcare. Why should you people be different?

Oh did I miss the Reverend today? I wanted to count the number of times he said the word “wiff� – cause he cannot pronounce “with�.

You know, that's the biggest problem here... some of you have spent your entire working life sheltered by the big Sikorsky
First of all, At least I have the balls to put my name on this blog and most of you don’t! And how about you? Don’t bother you would post a phony name any way coward!
The only problem I have is that you did not say any thing about the facts that I put out. No you attack the fact that I have worked a sheltered life at Sikorsky for too long.
Not that the 3.5 raise for 3 years and the $2000 signing bonus is gobbled up like nothing by this great medical plan.
What are you saying we shouldn’t get anything? We should be happy to have a job and take anything they give us and like it. You go on to say those days are over and you can thank your union for that. Maybe you can spell it out for me. So the union is responsible for higher medical cost?
So let me get this straight, your telling me that we the hourly workers, according to you who sleep all day on the aircraft should expect this contract because medical cost are
Going up all over the country. But as Sikorsky and UTC make record profits we should get a medical plan that takes
Our raises and signing bonus. And to what I would rather be
Doing hoping that you grow a pair of balls post your real name!

R T Ruff

I remember the Job Fair, I was one of the people standing in line for 4 hours and I did get a job. But now was it really worth leaving of job of 8 years to deal with this, I am having 2nd thoughts. What am I to do now? Something needs to happen and happen real soon!! We had our BIG RALLY now lets go back to work before it is to late the clock is ticking. Not much time left or it my be to late already!!! EVERYONE better speak up at the next Union Meeting!!

ruff - you may have put your name down, but it would have been nice if your posting used proper english grammar.

AP Newsbreak: Sikorsky says it will move operations out of state during strike

STRATFORD, Conn. -- Sikorsky Aircraft has hired temporary workers and will move some operations out of state because of a strike by nearly 3,600 workers that is in its third week, a company spokesman told The Associated Press on Thursday.

Bud Grebey, a spokesman for the Stratford-based helicopter-maker, would not say where the company would move operations. Sikorsky has other facilities in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky also said it is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

"We have not hired permanent replacement workers, but the contingency plan is prepared to do so should we get to that point," Grebey said.

Something tells me there will be a lot less people at your next union meeting. Many will not be able to get there without being able to afford gasoline.

Dear RT Ruff,

Yep, now you've finally got it!

More jobs 'over the fence'. And do not fool yourself....THEY"RE NOT COMING BACK!!!!!!

Taht is great news!!! Bring in the replacement workers!!!! It may actually prove to these idiotic teamsters that they are not so special, and certainly not irreplacable, as they obviously think they are. God -what damned idiots. I am embarrassed for my country that unions still exist.

Hey, look, I'm sorry. I was just venting. Never should have opened up my big yap. Now that I've re-read my previous posts, I realize how much whining I've done and agree that you all have had every right to call me a crybaby. You're right, your balls are bigger than mine. I'm just Rocco's whore. Sorry.

"Harvey Jackson, president of Teamsters local 1150, said the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters. He said workers are not worried about replacement workers and are confident the state's congressional delegation would not tolerate a relocation of work out of state."

Now, I ask you, what does the state's congressional delegation have to do with a private company's decision to move out of state? ABSOFREAKINGLUTELY NOTHING. They can cry and beg all they want, the fact is that if a private company wants to move to Mars, Rosa DeLauro, Chris Shays, Joe Lieberman, none of them can do a thing to stop it. Bye bye, Sikorsky!

Number 1
To all the "self" employed, COMPLAINING about how much healthcare cost you or anyone else in this great state or nation. Remember one thing. You all WANTED to own/run your own business or work for yourself, because of either {A} you are not balanced enough mentally to work for someone else {B} No one would hire you {C} You went to a Trade school . We didn't
Number 2
To any of the "educated" work force {IE: WICC Talk show today} who thinks that toggle switch builders is all we are.... GET A CLUE before opening your mouth..
Stay United Teamsters, god bless you. GOD BLESS AMERICA ! Because THAT is where we live AMERICA.
See you on the line
A Captain.

That is not true...each one of those polticians, including Dodd, received a beautiful, rank and file paid for, teamster jacket. Because of this they can force UTC to do whatever they command.
Mighty mighty teamsters.

I'm anon 5:26. I never said that your jobs would be outsourced to another state or country. All I said was that they wouldn't be yours any more. Sikorsky and UTC has a vested interest in the area despite the high costs associated with the region. The physical plant is still sufficient for building (read: assembling) helicopters and past ecological transgressions will assure Sikorsky's not going anywhere (or risk a Superfund site label).

Here's the gist of your problem as I see it: you were offered a contract and refused it. After a suitable period of time, it will be in the best interest of the company to hire replacement workers. The current situation can only last so long before burn out and dissension rear their heads. Simple as all that.

The customers are happy with the contract-producing side of things (Engineering et al), so our jobs are safe for the time being. The customer needs to be convinced that the contract-keeping side of things (Manufacturing et al) is also satisfactory. You strikers are forcing the company to stretch itself thin to maintain the latter condition. If Sikorsky starts to lose contracts because Manufacturing can't produce our product, Engineering will lose its ability to verify and validate our designs and we'll stop winning contracts...bad for everyone.

So there, I'll grant that you are correct; however, the company has a plan to keep that from happening: accept your fate of higher insurance premium sharing and come back to work or be left out in the cold.

To R T Ruff
As hourly employee, I am sure that all you care about is your take home pay. If you had any financial smarts you would realize that the increase would be about?? less than $2.00 per week. Did you not get an extra 1/2% to cover the increase.

My next door neighbor works at Sikorsky. That person works about 16 hours a day 7 days a week. This has been going on since August 2005. That person does not get overtime, has not been able to enjoy vacations with the family and has never complained about the fantastic benefits at Sikorsky. When asked how do you do it, the coment back is "We build the the best helicopter in the world" and I will do my part to keep that going.

When Sikorsky filters out non-performing, time wasting and useless individuals, maybe this company can survive and continue to build the best helicopter in world.

My parents both work for sikorsky and i just want to say these workers need health care and they shouldn't have to pay anymore for it they PAY ENOUGH!! I am behind my parents and the workers of the local 1150, 200% STAND for what you believe in!!!

Disagree with your comment that the ecological transgressions will assure Sikorsky is not going anywhere....that is what the AVCO people thought too, as well as most folks in western PENN steel country, as well as Ohio Valley auto plants.....

om a Joe B:
geez, winwizard2k - you really made quite the ass out of yourself!!!!!!!!

how could you rant about all that anonymous bullshit and then not sign your name?

Your obviously as syupid (and ignorant) as the rest of the Teamsters 1150 members.

and from salaried:
I have degrees and a transportable profession.
I will still be here in Southern Ct. while your blue-collar jobs will be toast.

Well, manufacturing is never coming back in America - and I'm sure you believe you had no part to play in it. It's still 1950 and the world is in ruins and it's our game to control.

Thank you,
You all proved my point, well.

First of all, I do have a few degrees. Secondly, did all that schooling teach you to name call. Very professional. Your job is portable? True, out the door. Especially if the above is true, Why, hows going to do the work (labor) that you won't do. Where is the future money coming from? Paper? China? Thirdly, the only degree I need here is a High school diploma. At least I can spell and type.

Face it; you are also going to be phased out for someone cheaper! Read the headlines, it’s already begun. Still, I see UTC made large moves. Your right, your job is already lost, perhaps along with ours, as well.

Goz, take care of this blog. Cause all I'm getting is the same repetitive junk. Let's just talk facts and common sense. Because this blog is becoming a place to not read good and honest opinions. So please try and clean it up. Thank's, S.M.

The General public NEEDS to know.
Hourly Employees DO NOT, I repeat, DO NOT make $50 an hour.
For YEARS, people always said to me "OH, YOUR LUCKY, YOU WORK THERE, YOU MUST MAKE LIKE $50 AN HOUR"
my reply was always, Yes, I am lucky and love my job, and WTF is wrong with you thinking I make that much. At the time [4 years ago] I was a LG7 making under $20 an hour and told him that.

That is part of the problem with the people here....MISCONCEPTION.

Bet anything Sik keeps a "figurehead" or two in Stratford just to maintain a presence for the sake of history. But make no mistake that most, if not all, of these hourly jobs are gone from Stratford forever.

To why hate unions..
Kid, learn the lessons that will be presented to you over the next few weeks.
Do not strive to be an assembly workers. Get an education with skills that will be in demand. Right or wrong, manufacturing jobs are not the future in the USA.
I hope you will be stronger for the pain that will take place.

wow, 4 years ago as a LG7 making about $20 an hour WITH benefits!!!! how the heck did you ever survive??? You are a real success story, pulling yourself out of a gutter of making $20 an hour to now what LG?? how much an hour?? i wish i had it so tough.

Dan is right kid.
I am blue collar, but stay in school as I tell my son.
Like I tell my sons...
Understand and Have respect for blue collar/Unions, never forget where you came from, but get the education and be white collar.
I pray he never has to fight the fights I fight.

Anon 7:25pm.
You nothing but a Smarta**..
You need a life.
It wasn't easy I tell you that...what world do you live in. ?
Real Estate, taxes, Tuition for kids schooling etc.....you know, LIFE in general 4 years ago was NOT much different than today compared to my pay.

I keep hearing about a revote. Revote on what? the same contract? The one you already rejected 2 to 1. Gee that's showing the company. Standing outside for what you believe in or should I say what the Union believes in ,then coming back in on the same contract after losing a month or more of wages. Not to mention that some of you have had your areas outsourced. I wish you all luck .I made a decision that I have to live with however for me it was the right one.

I totally feel for these 3500 who gave up their jobs, their benefits and their very security to stand up for what they believe. I just think it is too bad that it will all be for naught. When all is said and done, they will have lost everything and for what? Not only will they not have changed the nation's health care problem for the better, they will have totally destroyed their own lives. It is so unfortunate that so many people were lead so far astray because they didn't have either the courage, the education, the intelligence, the self-worth, the family loyalty or the solid work ethic to known that they were being sold a false bill of goods by their union leaders. So, so sad.

I'm crossing! This is going nowhere, and the rally today convinced me to cross.

UTC will own the Sikorsky Stratford and Bridgeport plants forever because they don't want to sully their reputation as a "green" corporation. Whether or not work is done in the plant is up to the people working there now. As an engineer, I'd much prefer to work in a nice clean office building than the bowels of the shop, especially if we aren't going to manufacture anything.

AVCO is owned by the Army last I knew. No one in their right minds would buy it...

To R T Ruff
As hourly employee, I am sure that all you care about is your take home pay. If you had any financial smarts you would realize that the increase would be about?? less than $2.00 per week. Did you not get an extra 1/2% to cover the increase.

My next door neighbor works at Sikorsky. That person works about 16 hours a day 7 days a week. This has been going on since August 2005. That person does not get overtime, has not been able to enjoy vacations with the family and has never complained about the fantastic benefits at Sikorsky. When asked how do you do it, the coment back is "We build the the best helicopter in the world" and I will do my part to keep that going.

When Sikorsky filters out non-performing, time wasting and useless individuals, maybe this company can survive and continue to build the best helicopter in world.

Show me where it's less than $2.00 a week!!!

Scabby,
It is just sad that no one ever taught you to stand up for what you believe in.
That is why you are in the predicament you are in.

i know it's not easy pal. i make $15 an hour with NO benefits!! that's the world I live in. so I am not a smartass, I am going to wait in line for YOUR job.

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

And you still need to grow some BALLS!!!!

Ruff you finally got it right!!! Also, your language shows your true mentality! That is what is keeping you on the picket line! Shelfish and out of control.
Big corporations don't have to share any wealth for lower health care costs. One has nothing to do with the other. I am ashamed to say I know alot of you on the line. I DARE any of you to scrutinize my husband in any way shape or form. It Will be a sorry time for you. Wait.......Wait until you see what is in the next contract. You in for a very rude awakening. Same healthcare plan and less perks. Alot of jobs are gone. Sikorsky doesn't have to save your jobs. Its called business. From the large to the small its the same everywhere. As for the honorable people who have crossed.......what makes you think they are going to suffer or you have the right to get them fired? You are sadly mistaken. You WALKED OUT and have NO CONTRACT. HELLO...any of this getting across? Family first over anything else in this world! ANYTHING!!! You strong headed, can't think for yourselves ignorant unions have royaly screwed up this country. You people really screwed yourselves IF a new contract is brought back anytime soon. IT'S LESS. By that time......lay off slips will be handed out. I can't wait for THAT day to come!

I am glad all you union scum are out. I was laid off 10 years ago when rocco was thin, well rocco was never thin nor did he do any work. My how some things don't change.. You dirt bags should be happy for everything you get. I hope the company locks all you misguided scum bags out for good. I hear McDonalds or Stop & Shop is hiring. Well I am going back to my BIG HOUSE and watch the tv to see all you suckers on it. Local 1150 is a joke just like Hoffa, powers and rocco.

Maybe what Scabby believes in is going to work every day to earn a living to support his family. And by family, I mean his real family, his wife and children, his dependents. Maybe what Scabby believes in is doing an honest day's work for an honest day's pay. Maybe he believes in paying back in loyalty what the company has given him for so many years. Maybe he is standing up for HIMSELF. And there is nothing - NOTHING! - wrong with that. What makes your fight more honorable than his?

Dan

You ought to be more focussed on your future than my postings. I will be looking for a job at Sikorsky when my contracting job is over at the end of the month. I will be happy to take a hourly position with what ever the company offers, and I would enjoy being a part of the company that builds the finest helicopter in the world.

I hope you read what I wrote, the finest helicopter in the world. If you really do not want to be there, you should probally leave now.
Unless you are a really ignorant person, you are probally not going back to work at Sikorsky.

I've spoken to two people who worked over 30 years with a major company (AT&T), thru the Ma Bell days and whatnot. Both started hourly and unionized and retired management. When I asked them who loses the most out of all of this mess, they both had the same answer: The scabs.

Think about that before you act.
STAY STRONG, STAY UNITED

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

QUESTION: Why do Teamsters carry their signs around their necks instead of in their hands?

ANSWER: Because their hands are always palm up waiting for the next handout.

"The company can't fire us."

Check your mailboxes.

Can somebody please tell me what "Unfair labor practices" are?

todays rally?? convinced me to return to work tomorrow. especially the idiot on the news that said we will be out here forever unless we get what we demand. whats the h.r. #

So-- they moved some things out of state.

I'll believe it when I see it!

Thank ypu WICC for the coverage. Even though you could'et use SIKORSKY'S AIR SPACE? Don't forget it's are Sky. That's right Sikorsky owns EVERYTHING!!!!!!!. For what they are doing they should lose everthing to our competition. Most of use built this company to what it is today since the early 80's. This place was not run by faceless headhunters that come out and smile once a year, but by a man called Gene Buckly. At least he was a man for the people. That's why he got out because he did't fit in with the new u.t.c. point of view. Thanks Gene wish we could go back to simpler times. S.M.

You must have been absent when they rolled that Blackhawk out this week. Just one of many, my friend. There is much more to come.

I wouldn't worry too much about the air space and start worrying where you're going to picket when they start having you arrested for trespassing, you dumb f__k.

Hey, this move is even getting NATIONAL NEWS COVERAGE. I barely saw ten seconds worth of rally coverage on the local news! Gee, wonder who's winning this pissing contest?!

Kid,
I hope you get that job at Sikorsky at the end of the month. I do not work there, or have I ever worked there. My future is just a few more years on this earth, so I hope your future is bright and happy.

Hmmmmmm no answer Ruff......go ask the union boys for a comeback on whats been said. They will TRY to think for you

Not rockafeller
I am standing up for what I believe in. The right to do whatever it is I want. In this case it working to provide for my Family.Do you really think that it bothers me that my name is on the Wall. I showed my kids that wall and told them never worry what other people think of you as long as you are true to yourself and your beliefs. I stood up to what I believe is right and not coerced into a losing cause.

Please, everybody wishing to go back to work, use as much profressionalism as you can muster. Put the past behind and look forward to the future. Hopefully you will still have employment with the darn good benefits that were offered before your union misled you into a mistake.

You make a lot of sense anonymous with a small a. Blog off. Goz get rid of this JERK. This is what I was talking to you about today. Your the mediator. Call me. S.M.

HR Phone # 203 386 8699

"I'll believe it when I see it!"

You'll just have to believe it, because you have to be inside the gate in order to see it.

Yep, lots of equipment being broken down inside...

8 for 8 or out the gate!

any see the full page ad in ct. post from sikorsky. arms are open. come back. whats h.r.#

How about Tom Stabler [THE SCAB] who got his ankle broke by a uncertified tow-motor driver. Think Safe, Think Family!!!!!!!!!!!.

FYI: You call HR, they put your name on a list. They ask your supervisor what he/she thinks as to whether or not you should return. If you do not have a proven track record of doing your job, doing it well, not slacking, no absenteeism, no attitude problems, etc., then you may get asked back. Two of mine have asked to come back. I took one, had to say not to a historic troublemaker. The one I work is working his butt off and making me proud. I'm glad to have him back. But there are a lot of jobs that will simply dissolve before this is over. The job you go back to may be temporary. Some salaried employees may get laid off, transferred or reassigned. Some jobs, like any HR jobs dealing with union-related issues, may not be needed anymore at all. This is happening, folks, and it's been in the works for some time now.

"I'll believe it when I see it!"

spend a little time on the picket line and you would have seen the airframes leaving on flatbed trucks. spend a bit more time and you would have seen the machines leaving on Meyers or Industrial riggers trucks.

I thought they take anyone who calls h.r.? this is getting out of hand.

The way I understand it, everyone who calls in will be put on a list. If they want you back, they will call you back. If you don't have a very good history and your supervisor doesn't recommend your coming back, they may not take you. But those who do call in and come back will be the last to get laid off when the axe starts falling.

Good blog 8:02. I agree, and I think most union people agree that the troublemakers, slackers, sleepers, etc are the people who's dragging the union/company down. After all they are the ones who need union protection. I really can't wait for the honest union people to get back and work together with salaried people, honestly. You owe it to your family. As for the troublemakers, I hope HR never calls you back, maybe it will make you think while you're at your next job.

Our competion is hireing skilled labor's.Check it out. Maybe it's a good thing to get out of this state all together. And the pay and bennies are like our old stuff.

IT'S TIME FOR THIS BLOG TO BE SHUT DOWN !
ALL IT IS RIDDEN WITH HATE AND DISCONTENT !!!

Gents, the party is over.

Well all of you Union workers(slackers) did it!
You finally got Sikorsky to move our work out of state.
Rocco got all of you Pumped up with Hoffa.
Your bills still aren't being paid and they will not help pay your bills.
I was laid off from Sikorsky and had no helping hand from the Union to get back to work there.
There are no jobs out there that pay as well as Sikorsky especially if all you had was a High School education.
Tell Rocco at Wednesday meeting on the 15th to tell the company you'll take what they had to offer.
Don't be fooled by a fool.
Put your homes up for sale, because if Rocco doesn't get back to the table soon you will all be bankrupt and nothing Rocco can say will help you.
Finger is going to Pratt to do the same thing.
This rally today was all for show.
Start looking for another job and you will see that noone will be knocking down your door to hire you. Guaranteed.

HATEMONGERS,
THE WHOLE LOT OF YOU!!!!!!!!

ROCCOS PUPPETS!
Say bye bye to your jobs.
Pratt and Whitney is next.
Sundstrand is going.

If I was a betting person, you are all out of a job! I don't care if they have to take you back. After this circus who would want any of you working in a place where we work.

They put Finger in.
Broke the union.
Set up the planned outsourcing.
Executed planned outsourcing.
Rewarded Finger with President of Pratt.
Union played like a fiddle.

Check this link out from the 1150 website. What a bunch of CRAP...get it, crap... These guys have nothing better to do...

Salary jobs are going also
BYE BYE SALARY JOBS
how good it was to work together.
Now both sides lose.

Gee, this whole thing went down like some blog posters said on day one.

The whole thing was planned.

At least the salary guys can get jobs making the same pay in this area. Can you?

Anonymous 8:00 p.m.

Check your facts... there have been NO injuries! Prior to the strike there was an average of 4 a week ! Hmmmm may-be the people in there working actually KNOW what they're doing!

just did 8:28 pm

RT sounds like an abbreviation.

anyway, what are you talking about? Finally, you've awoken from your union induced coma!!!

Not everyone outside of unions get raises every year!!!

AND GUESS WHAT, EVERYONE'S HEALTH INSURANCE GOES UP EVERY YEAR!!!!!!!

You spoiled rats are only upset because you have been sheltered from the explosion of healthcare costs since your last bargaining agreement!

Watch the news, read teh paper, the world doesn't revolve around your mafia family anymore.

http://www.teamsters1150.org/images/STFD/3-7-06/000_0169.jpg

This is truly amazing.

The news said there was 5000. I guess that the conspiracy theories are right and the company did something that hid about 4000 of them from view.

One of the speeches said that they are manning the gate 24 / 7 and nothing has come out to be outsourced. Well I guess that they missed the flat bed trucks with the small parts, like two halves of a UH-60. Or then there was that hard to miss MH-60 under the BIG blue tarp.

Forget the rumors and sound bites. Please each of you, do the math for yourself. Take your lost salary from the start to now. Then calculate what it will cost you to pay the difference in the medical and then what you think that it will cost worse case if you do have detailed medical needs. Is this going to work out for you? Finally top that off with whether you feel your job will in fact be outsourced.

Whatever you do you should think for yourselves and your families. If that means stay on strike then I guess you ran the numbers and you can make it and you want to follow your convictions. If the numbers do not work for you then do not listen to the BS that has been given. Because if you look close at all the information from both sides you should see it. The news coverage today and the fact that this big rally did not seem to bring even 1/3 of you own ranks may want to tell you something.

By the way I am salary. If the salary bashing is what makes you feel better then fine. But for the most part the salary workers did not do this to you or wish this on you. I also have to clearly say that none of us expected to gain if you were to win anything. We never had we probably never will. Yes, we know that there are slackers on our side, but there are many of us who just care about the product we make and do work hard to get it done right.

Good luck to all you either way you choose.

"Keep up the good work with all the negative comments! If we keep it up we might convince those on the picket lines that their efforts are in vain!"

Does the company have a team of trained monkeys working on their image problem? Are random (anonymous) divisive comments in a blog enough to break a strike?

Well, truth be told, it wouldn't take more than a team of trained monkeys to compete with you morons.

That picture above says it all.

The rally looked like something from the W.W.F..a classic, Hoffa screams, Sikorsky"s last offer was horse shi*

Well, it's obvious that Sikorsky won this latest round of oneupmanship. Teamsters rally goes bust to the tune of the fat lady singing about how Sikorsky is moving operations out of state. Guess Finger and David were in DC kissing Jodi goodbye!

To the individual who claimed that he/she could not be fired, exactly where do you think you will be working in one year. My guess is the carnival, ski slopes or maybe the unemployment line with the rest of the 1150.

Stay Strong, Stay Unemployed

They served some kind of bird in the cafe today.

Tasted like golden goose.

For all of you who think Sikorsky wouldn't dare leave Connecticut, do you remember what happened the last time you called their bluff? THEY WEREN'T BLUFFING ON THE HEALTH CARE AND THEY ARE NOT BLUFFING ON THIS. See ya!

Thanks Rocco,you and your croonies have probably destroyed about 3500 jobs,lifes,and families I hope your proud of youself...

Anyone else get put on a list?

Did you all ever stop to think that maybe a prestigous company like Sikorsky Aircraft wouldn't want its corporate image besmirched by a bunch of greedy, sign-wielding Neandertal thugs in stupid matching jackets? You're like rats in a maze. Of course they would want smarter people than that building their aircraft and I'm sure their customers won't blame them.

This blog is more of a hate blog than anything else. Get to the real facts and express yourself with knowledge instead of useless trash. There is more here than just an increase in premiums, the insurance has changed quite a bit, not only will you have increased premiums but you will have alot of out of pocket spending that was not there before. Perhaps if it was just an increase in premiums there would not be a strike today but coverage has also been cut drastically. Get the facts before sounding off. So far what I have read was a waste of my time. I would like to see some intelligent blogs here instead of name calling, etc. If you really want some good information try reading something besides the CT Post, try this article, you may learn something in regards to this strike. http://www.courant.com/business/hc-sikorsky0309.artmar09,0,4799228.story

Good article. It proves that the union and the Hartford Courant Writer didn't read the details of the health insurance.

I think it is ironic, as an insider, how badly people talk about George David and Steve Finger to the press, on the picket line, and on this blog.

I say this honestly, that in Steve Finger's last speech today, he did not take any cheap shots at the union. Actually, he didn't say anything negative about any of the 3600 people outside. You've treated him poorly, and he didn't even speak the truth, about how some of you should'nt come back. He said he would like all of you to come back, so we can continue to please our customer's, for everyone's benefit.

Tell your family to think twice about bad-mouthing a guy who had no say in your healthcare!

George David is rich, get over it, he worked hard, and now he is being rewarded for making a lot of people money on their investment.

You all seem to have a hard time understanding if George David didn't do his job, ALL OF OUR JOBS would be on thin ice.

IF you think David should pay the difference for your healthcare, why don't you guys just pay the difference out of your dues??? Like you have been saying, it's ONLY 31 cents an hour.

Anon 8:47, you want facts, fair enough, and I agree with you that useless bashing is a waste of time and energy.

FACT: Health care is rising for everyone. Please accept this fact.
FACT: The company has offered guaranteed raises & bonuses. You may not see it this way, but use a small portion of this to cover the rising health care costs.
FACT: If we don't start accepting these facts we will never move forward

TPAF makes some good points. George David has money and you want it. Why don't you just jump him in the alley before school and take all his milk money? That's what you all sound like, a bunch of children kicking and screaming because you didn't get the toy you wanted at Christmas. Can't you hear yourselves? Don't you see how immature you are behaving? You sound like spoiled little brats! George David isn't the only person in this world who makes more money than you... none of the rest of them are going to share their hard-earned cash with you, so why should he? Just because you want him to? Get real! It's just sad that you can't see how pitiful this is. It's such a shame for your families and now for all of Connecticut. More than just 3500 people will have been hurt by your greed by the time the final chapter is written on this subject.

He said "Besmirched", like Lord Steven Regal.
That's funny

I'm not sure about the rest of the salary workers, but maybe its time to move on to Pratt.

They are hiring.

There is a lot of bashing on here and a lot of venting, but this blog is a good way for people to air their own opinions in a way that is, if not always politically correct, at least non-violent. So if you don't like reading the comments, then don't visit the blog. But don't preach to others what they should or should not write and Gozzi should not have to screen hundreds of comments per day and weed out "inappropriate" ones. That's censorship, by the way. If you don't like it, don't read it, but allow the rest of us our little bit of entertainment for the day.

To the person who wrote “Lost Worker on March 8, 2006 12:00 AM� on one of the blogs and similar stories, I’m salary person working on the shop floor since the strike began. We had one of workers who cross the line come in yesterday. He felt a little apprehensive with all the salary people doing his job and working out of his tool tray/area, but I think he understands the situation. I did go through his stuff looking for “things to do the job� and kind of felt bad about it after putting then face to the name on tray. A real nice guy (I’ll tell him latter once he settles back in – there are a lot of new faces for him). He sure did looked happy being back to work and was very helpful. I didn’t ask since it was his first day back, but he did look impressed at what we were able to do in such a short time. Like most of blog says; it’s your choice to cross. If you decide to come back, not only would we be glad to see you, but we have the up most respect for your courage. I rather see these people come in first before the ones who think “Sikorsky owes them a job� come back. I hope today’s rally encourage you to make your decision.

Just another day. Same thing happened with me with someone who crossed. They looked very relieved to be welcomed back.

To all of you on previous posts who asked what Rocco's education was, here's the answer:

Thank you, Madam Speaker. This nomination is for Rocco Calo from Newtown and Rocco Calo has been a member of the Commission since July 2nd of last year. He's employed at Sikorsky Aircraft and he's been there since 1987 and he works as an electrical installer.

He served as the Shop Steward for eight years, worked for the Teamster Union 1150 beginning in 1988 and in 1996 he became a business agent and trustee for Local 1150.

He's also, since 2002, elected Secretary/Treasurer, Principal Officer of the local and he's a graduate of the Kaynor Technical School in Waterbury. He graduated with high honors from Gateway Community College with a certificate in labor studies and later studied an associate degree in science and currently pursuing a BA from the University of Connecticut.

His work and his background and experience ties in beautifully with this appointment.

>>>>this was in public records from the Connecticut General Assembly, House of Representatives meeting on March 3, 2004 - public records.

I can only assume that his education was paid for by Sikorsky, and it got him appointed to the gov't legistlature. Imagine what Sikorsky's education reinbursement plan could do for each of you!

So, next time someone asks what Rocco's education is, just google him. It it all there for you to read. (although I must admit it was funny when that question originally got asked, one reply said "special")If nothing else it pays to know who you're dealing with. He's a politician, plain and simple.

No need for Rocco to strike he's got a back-up plan...do the rest of you?

Connecticut as a whole is a pretty smart state, but the morons on strike at Sikorsky have obviously got a lot to learn. Next time you are all together on the picket line, why don't you ask each other why you are out there. Is it because Rocco told you that you can win this issue. I sure as hell hope that your $58. a week can compete with the best and I did say best lawyers money can buy.

If this ever goes to court for unfair labor practices this union has not got a chance. In this day and age there is no need for unions.
There is no future for Rocco and his band of merry men. What value added to they provide to any product made in the USA.

I cannot believe how many ignorant people leave posts on this blog! So many of them do not have a clue as to what they are talking about or have a clue as to what this strike is really about. Many of them need to be educated in more ways then one!

STRIKE = EGO TRIP. 'NUF SAID.

The Teamsters union makes me sick. Every last one of you is a disgrace to hard working Americans. You are lucky to receive the benefits that you have. You should be grateful for that rather then crying over something that is not a huge deal. I really hope that Sikorsky fires everyone of you sorry cowards, but then my tax money would go toward feeding your undeserving mouths. Im glad that all the salary people are getting paid overtime because they deserve it, NOT YOU. You should be ashamed of what low level scumbags you have become standing outside all day making it miserable for people to get in and out of work. SHAME ON YOU ALL!!

PS All the people on the scab list should feel honored because that truly is an honor that you had the courage to do what was right instead of crying like a bunch of babies.

KM, please elaborate. The strike was about not accepting the health plan? Is that all? Be honest, is that all?

meesa thinksa everyonesa crazy!!! Meesa work for 17+/hr plusah many a benefitsah!!!

Who is the uncertified tow motor driver that took out the scab? Whats the fine?

Did I just read that correctly. Rocco was paid by Sikorsky/UTC to go to school!!! Fire every last one of those sorry lazy ass bastards. Not one of those individuals should be within a mile of our military aircraft.

SIK/UTC pays for EVERYONES education if they choose to do so. Has to be the best educational plan I've ever seen. Pays for book UP FRONT, pays for your education WITH time off to study. Can't get any better than that.

To K. M.
Please tell me what this strike is all about.If you ask me, it's about a whole bunch stupid people trying to do something that they cannot accomplish.

I agree that many comments have no merit. It will be to the individual to scan past the rabblerousers and people that are treating this like spoiled children.

It will be up to the Post to censor/ eliminate any of the rude stuff. Unfortunately, stupidity is free. Some very interesting comments have come from strikers, the salary contingent and third parties- those not employed by SIK.

Lastly, a thank you to all those that shook my hand or complimented me for "the column".

Regardless of the outcome with the impasse; today was a day I will never forget

Thanks
JG

Sorry if there was any confusion as to Rocco being paid BY SIKORSKY to go to school. Let me clarify, Sikorsky/UTC pays for any employee to get an education in ANY field they choose. It is part of their education compensation program...

I can only ASSUME Rocco took full advantage of the program to further his education through Sikorsky's generous education plan.

This plan, again, is available to ALL SIK employees.

I ask you please go down the union hall and ask anyone down there if the jobs are being out-sourced. Ask them if the replacement workers are coming. So when and if you go back to work you will know who was telling the truth.

wow, 4 years ago as a LG7 making about $20 an hour WITH benefits

A little late with this one but people in factories around where i am dont make even close to half of that with out bennifits.

and i thought yall had it so bad lmfaooooooooooooooo

It may have been a good show for the press today, but Sikorskys' outsourcing is the top story of the day. Temporary..hmm..for some jobs perhaps.

Just a quick clarification... Rocco Callo and the members of Teamsters Local 1150 Executive Board DO NOT receive their pay during the strike. This is a matter of public record and the Local 1150 books are open for inspection for anyone who would like to confirm this fact. The decision to forfeit pay was made by Rocco. Say what you want about him, but he does have integrity.

Does anyone know the name of insurance company that the union whats us to use?

I just want to say to all the Teamsters to keep the spirit up. And to all the naysayers, if it was your paycheck at stake, you'd be doing the same thing. Or you'd be wishing there was something that you could do about it and didn't know how to start. I have a friend who works at Sikorsky and I think how lucky he is that his wife works and can somewhat support their family. My heart goes out to those families who have no other choice to go back to work for Sikorsky to put food on the table. What a struggle!

We don't need to remind teamsters as to how lucky they are. They already know. They can walk/run around the factory floor, do nothing and blast horns every 15 minutes. And when your shift is over, you run for the parking lot like a bunch of first graders in the playground. It is no wonder that Sikorsky did not win the presidential helicoptor.

Kinda curious here....what was Hoffa paid to come into town?

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike



(Stratford-AP, Mar. 9, 2006 Updated 6:20 PM) _ Helicopter maker Sikorsky this evening told The Associated Press it will move some of its operations out of state and has hired temporary workers as a strike continues in its third week.

A spokesman did not say where some operations may be moved, but Sikorsky operates in New York, Pennsylvania and Alabama.

Sikorsky spokesman Bud Grebey says the company also is prepared to hire replacement workers if necessary.

About three-and-a-half thousand workers went on strike called by the Teamsters on February 20th. The union and the company are locked in a dispute over rising health care costs.

James Hoffa, the president of the Teamsters union, attended a union rally today in Stratford. He promised a stiff fight and vowed that the union will not back down.

The president of the local Teamsters union says the company needs the striking workers to build the helicopters.

I'm going back to work.

I was brought up to fight for what I believe in an to honor promises(union oath).

But, I was also taught my family comes first, and this strike is doing nothing but hurting my family so it is clear what must be done.

Teamster brotherhood means nothing to me when I can not afford to pay my mortgage to keep a roof over their heads and put food on the table. $232 a week barely pays for food.

Did you know that the gold medalist in the Olympic hammer throw was a Teamster? When asked the secret of his success, he replied "My union steward told me if anyone tried to put a hammer in my hand, I should throw it as far away as possible."

Do you think Hoffa would do anything for free? I would like to see the union books to see what todays fiasco cost.

If Rocco and the executive board aren't taking paychecks, why can't our dues be reduced to just what must be sent to the teamsters?

TO: Just another day at work

Sorry, a little late. busy reading all this but that was a great post above (8:59pm)
Thanks for the kind words. It would be an honor to work along side you if I come back inside..

Those out on the picket line, do you really think that you will ever work for Sikorsky again.
Please answer me from your heart. If my job was on the line, I would not be out there. When all is said and done there will be a lot unemployed people in Stratford.

The outsourcing began long before the strike. Just an example...

SIKORSKY COMPLETES KEYSTONE ACQUISITION

STRATFORD, Conn. (15 December 2005) - Sikorsky Aircraft Corporation today announced that it has completed the acquisition of Keystone Ranger Holdings, Inc., which specializes in full-service engineering, completion and technical support for commercial helicopters, and air medical flight operations. Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation (NYSE: UTX).

Keystone, which had been privately owned, will be renamed Keystone Helicopter Holdings, Inc., and is now a wholly owned subsidiary of Sikorsky. It will continue to operate under the brand names of its subsidiaries, Keystone Helicopter Corporation and Composite Technology U.S.A., Inc. (CTI).

Keystone Helicopter specializes in full-service engineering, completion and technical support for commercial helicopters, and air medical flight operations. The firm operates a large technical services depot and completion center in Coatesville, Penn., and operates a large fleet of turbine helicopters in numerous locations across several eastern states, primarily in the air medical mission.

CTI is headquartered in Grand Prairie, Texas, with substantial rotor blade and composite structures overhaul capabilities there and at branch locations in Canada, Brazil, the U.K., and Singapore.

Keystone has done completion work on Sikorsky S-76 and S-92 helicopters for a broad range of missions including VIP, offshore oil, EMS, and multi-mission utility. In addition to Sikorsky, Keystone is and will continue to be factory-authorized by Bell, Eurocopter, and MD Helicopters, and will continue to service and complete Agusta products. The company is also an authorized dealer for virtually every major avionics manufacturer.

Sikorsky, based in Stratford, Conn., is a world leader in rotorcraft design, manufacturing and service. The company's 2004 revenues totaled $2.5 billion.

Sikorsky is a subsidiary of United Technologies Corporation of Hartford, Conn., which provides a broad range of high-technology products and support services to the aerospace and building systems industries. Sikorsky helicopters occupy a prominent international position in the intermediate to heavy range of 11,700 lb. (5,300 kg.) to 73,500 lb. (33,000 kg.) gross weight. The company's helicopters are used by all branches of the United States armed forces, along with military services and commercial operators in more than 40 nations.

In my heart, YES I DO..
For another 25 years.

Kind of curious here. What do your dues go toward? I realize there is strike pay, and union hall payments, but what else? I'm serious, and not trying to be a union basher.

The same thing any dues for any union [steelworkers, plumbers, fitters, stop&Shop, etc]
Way too much to list here.
Easiest to call 381-9240 tomorrow and ask, they will be happy to answer.

Another example of outsourcing from BEFORE the strike... not BECAUSE OF the strike.

KAMAN AEROSPACE AWARDED CONTRACT TO ASSEMBLE FUSELAGE COMPONENTS FOR VARIOUS SIKORSKY HELICOPTERS

BLOOMFIELD, Conn. (October 18, 2005) -- Kaman Aerospace Corp. announced today that it has
received a contract from Sikorsky Aircraft Corp. to assemble mechanical fuselage subassemblies for
various models of Sikorsky helicopters, including the UH-60 BLACK HAWK and S-76 models.
The contract value is $6.4 million.
The program contains nearly 400 different components, with subassembly deliveries scheduled to start in October 2005 and continuing through December 2006. All work will be performed at Helicopters Division facilities in Bloomfield, Conn. In January 2005, the company received a contract from Sikorsky to manufacture cockpits for various models of the BLACK HAWK helicopter. That work is being performed at Kaman's Aerostructures Division facilities in Jacksonville, Fla.

If the teamsters think that they can battle the team(this is a real team) of lawyers at UTC they're kidding themselves. They will get eaten alive!!! You teamsters are going to realize very quickly that nobody likes you, nobody respects you and most do not want to be associated with you.

In the past, some of wound up in the Mob's hands.
Read history.

Blah Blah Blah.
So we keep them in business too. Like all the other suppliers we HAVE to keep working, we can't hord all the work, part of the "contract".
We always did this.
They just decide to "announce" it now for media sake.

Gotta go.. get some sleep
2am-6am marching duty.
Look for me and beep if you are on the road, I'll be the one with the sign. !

Just one more to illustrate that outsourcing is no fault of the current Teamsters strike...

Vought Wins Contract from Sikorsky to Build
BLACK HAWK Helicopter Structure

DALLAS, JAN. 27, 2005 – Vought Aircraft Industries, Inc. announced today that it recently received a contract with a potential value of $1.3 billion to manufacture the cabin structure for Sikorsky’s UH-60L, M, S and S-70A variants of BLACK HAWK helicopters. The contract potentially covers 1,100 shipsets of structure delivered over the next 15 years.
Planning and manufacturing under this contract have already begun at Vought’s facility here. The company has hired about 30 employees to support the work and may add up to 100 more as the program matures. The first phase of Vought’s contract with Sikorsky includes 350 shipsets through 2009.

Not Rock, looks like the story posted in 2005.

As for the education program for UTC employees, it is the best I have ever seen. They pay for everything up front for you. You can get a degree without spending a penny out of your pocket. If anyone is interested in it you can get the information online at WWW.UTCLEARNINGPORTAL.com. They pay for everything and give paid time off to study. I'm going to guess they probably spend 15k a year for school.

Our benefits are excellent comparred to most employers and to basically throw it all away because they want us to contribute more to their medical in just plain stupid. Lets all grow up and go back to work.

Lets also get rid of the union. Salary gets treated very well without a union to protect them. The union is there to protect the slackers. The people they protect would not survive in the real world. I have worked for $20 per hour before I went to Sikorsky, but to make that kind of money, you need skills. Putting together a blade, gearbox, or Blackhawk are not skills needed elsewhere. Most people do not have other marketable skills in the real world, salary and hourly.

I know very well a manager there making 100k+ a year and have been told if Sikorsky ever closes I have no idea where I could go to work.

Also, try to find a job after working for Sikorsky. No one wants to hire an ex Sikorsky employee because their reputation as slow and useless is know throughout the state.

Everyone better consider getting their jobs back while they still can. How are you going to pay for that 3000 sq ft house and F350 working at Home Depot? How many of you seriously considered where you would go do work if you lose your job?

Most will be down the hall everyday seeing what is on job post because they will not survive in the outside world without having 2-3 jobs.

I fortunatley have a trade to fall back on where I can make comparable money and am taking advantage of the education program so I will have even more options if anything ever happens. Everyone better wake up and look at the alternatives you have.

Arguing on the internet is like running in the Special Olympics. Even if you win you're still retarded.

Anonymous on March 9, 2006 10:29 PM
I have decided you are a CHIC.
You type WAY too fast.
Salary CHIC (BA), like an HR company union basher.
Wow, that was EASY... lol

If not a CHIC
Then a TEAM of people, planning, plotting, typing, entering.
DONE.

".......I offer this as nothing more than food for thought. I wish you all the best and God’s speed. "

I'm sorry, we forgot to take credit for the lengthy (albeit well written)statement posted above. We're the skilled propagandists working to cause dissent amongst the ranks! We'll post more soon, our dainty fingers are tired.

lmao

godspeed to you also.

Well that's it...I'm crossing. My wife, kids, and family are backing me after a long talk tonight. We can't survive without a paycheck and I have a child who needs care. Call me what you want, put my name on your pathetic list...do whatever makes you feel like a man. I know what makes me feel like a real man, putting in an honest day's work for an honest day's pay. I gave the union a chance, only to be let down by the lack of communication. I've already talked to a manager who expressed how pleased he was with my work in the past and he will do whatever he can to make my transition back a proud experience for me. I've also talked to others that went back and they assured me that things are good inside and that performance is the new way to get ahead...gee something my father instilled in me through his example of a hard working career in a factory. I will send my resignation letter tomorrow and will be back to work Monday. My family comes first. Goodbye

Tommy G.
Pick up your pay 1st, then fill the card on Monday.
you won't see me, but Good luck. I understand

Not Rockefellar:
Well, whoever you think it is
clearly has a lot deeper thinking than you do !

Not rockefellar, No I am a man, hourly worker, and teamster for now. I probably wont be returning to Sikorsky, but if I do it wont be as a Teamster.

Someone keeps posting the same press release “Sikorsky to move some operations out of state during strike�, but someone already stated this would happen on this blog ‘Walking The Line'. Go and read “Posted by: Sad but True on February 28, 2006 11:27 PM� from February 25, 2006
Week 1: Large Pepperoni.

Sad but True is a co-worker and he said he posted it after he over heard it from two upper managers talking (they didn’t know he was in the same room). He didn’t believe it would come true and said “the hammer will drop; now the new president is in place�. He wouldn’t tell me anymore and he doesn’t know I posted this after finding the blog he was talking about.

It was brought to light at today’s rally (in front of the press) that four (4) Human Resources employees (Personnel Dept.) are assigned to monitor and respond to this blog in an attempt to create dissention and panic within the membership of Teamsters Local 1150. To date, there efforts have been unsuccessful.

salaried on March 9, 2006 10:40 PM

Salaried, Why bash ?
they only gave an opinion or anticdote.
They didn't bash.
You swing the sword for someone you not know ?
Hmm.