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Mitsubishi workers agree to contract
By Michele Steinbacher
msteinbacher@pantagraph.com
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NORMAL -- Mitsubishi Motors North America workers in Normal agreed Saturday to a four-year contract that trades pay and benefit cuts for a promise of job security through 2012. | Video

A little more than half of those voting, OK’d the agreement, said Ralph Timan, president of the United Auto Workers Local 2488. The approval reflects the financial crisis affecting both the nation as a whole, and the auto industry, he said.

“It really comes down to the economic conditions facing us as a nation. …and the economic conditions facing the auto industry in the past year,” said Timan.

A $700 billion bailout bill passed in Congress last week to deal with that financial crisis, and the national discussion of the crisis, likely factored into the union membership’s decision on the MMNA matter, he said.

Company officials say the union’s ratification of the agreement dramatically improves the ability of the Normal, Illinois assembly plant to be a key player in the global success of Mitsubishi Motors.

The key bargaining element was a promise from MMNA that until 2012, the Normal plant would remain a viable, operating facility, and that no union workers would face involuntary lay-offs during that period, said Timan.

In a statement released by the company shortly after the vote, MMNA Manufacturing President & CEO, Shiro Futaki praised the agreement as a symbol of his employees’ teamwork and determination to succeed.

“The leadership of both the UAW and MMNA recognize the tough issues facing the U.S. automotive industry and we have worked together toward solving them,” he said. “This agreement continues a long tradition of partnership and cooperation between MMNA and the UAW.”

MMNA officials announced the contract included a $4.75 per hour cut to production workers pay, to a new base rate of $24. Any future recall of laid-off workers would be at $16.80 (70% of base rate) and progress to $24. New production workers would be hired at a $14 per hour base rate, and progress to a $20 rate.

Maintenance workers pay will be cut $4.79 per hour, to a new base rate of $28.50. New maintenance workers would be hired in at $22 per hour base rate, and progress a $25 base rate.

The contract also allows an opportunity for up to 200 production workers and 30 maintenance workers to participate in a voluntary separation program or take early retirement.

Listed in the UAW’s summary of the tentative agreement, an “equality of sacrifice” clause notes the subject of management and salaried employees taking cuts was part of the tentative agreement. However, Timan declined to comment on that.

Company spokesman Dan Irvin said “equality of sacrifice” was not part of the approved contract, and details about any possible pay or benefit cuts for non-union employees hadn’t been determined.

“All of the focus of this contract has been on the collective bargaining staff,” he said. “I’m not going to speculate on other areas.”

A bargaining team with members representing the union and the company reached the tentative agreement Sept. 26, after 2½ months of negotiations — set against the backdrop of turmoil throughout the automotive industry and several years of recent struggles at Mitsubishi’s only North American manufacturing facility. The workers’ contract expired Sept. 6.

The new contract passed, with 54 percent of voters approving, said Timan. He declined to say how many people voted, but called the two-day voting period a “tremendous turnout.”

MMNA officials say 1,264 union members currently work at the Normal plant. However, laid-off workers still could vote, if their union dues were up to date. In 2004 the carmaker cut about 1,200 workers’ jobs.

Local 2488 opened voting from 5 to 7 p.m. Friday at Illinois State University’s Braden Auditorium; and was greeted with the concourse area lined with members waiting a turn to cast a ballot. Voting began again at 8 p.m. at the union hall on Illinois 9, continuing throughout the night.

Voting closed at 3 p.m. Saturday, with the outcome announced at 5 p.m.

The agreement takes effect Monday, and continues through Aug. 30, 2012.

Karen Hansen contributed to this report.

On the web

www.mitsubishicars.com

www.uaw2488.org



New Contract Details



Economic

-- Reduces current Production Associate base rate by $1.67 to new base rate of $24.00 Eliminate $3.08 COLA. Total $4.75 reduction.

-- Reduces Current Maintenance Associate present base rate by $1.71 to new base rate of $28.50 Eliminate $3.08 COLA. Total $4.79 reduction.

Medical Benefits

-- Implements deductible and increases co-pay of covered medical expenses. Implements out-of-pocket maximum

Provision For Laid Off Workers

-- Any future recall would be at $16.80 (70% of base rate) and progress to $24.00.

New Hire Compensation

-- New production associates are hired in at $14.00 and progress to $20.00

-- New maintenance associates are hired in at $22.00 and progress to $25.00.

SOURCE: Mitsubishi Motors
Take a look
Michael Collins, left front, of Normal, glances at a Vote sign while Romeldie Rogers, left back, of Bloomington, Linda Hickey, right back, of Normal, and Alan Carder, right, of Lincoln, make signs before the UAW members vote on their Mitsubishi contract at the Illinois State University Braden Auditorium in Normal Friday afternoon (October 3, 2008). (Pantagraph/B Mosher)
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Reader comments on this story - 140 total

Note: All views and opinions expressed in reader comments are solely those of the individual submitting the comment, and not those of the Pantagraph or its staff.

AJ12 wrote on Oct 17, 2008 10:25 PM:

" If that contract proposal had been voted down, that plant would have shut down so fast it would have made your heads spin. You can pound your chest and act macho all you want, but the facts are the facts. Take a look at the economy...and thank those who voted "Yes". By the way, now that you still have a job, your kids can have Christmas and you can still make your mortgage payment...for now. "

answerman wrote on Oct 15, 2008 5:21 PM:

" I'm not saying there isn't some gravy support jobs, but back when we were doing 500 cars a shift, we were jumping in, out and around cars at 45 seconds each.

The dwindling production numbers has improved girth size LOL. "

Country Boy wrote on Oct 15, 2008 4:08 PM:

" shiloh, far from jealous and a lot of my friends have been laid off out there over the last 20 years. I have been with the same company for 20 years and make more than $24 an hour and am fairly sure I will have my job in the next 20 years... "

voa wrote on Oct 15, 2008 3:45 PM:

" Gee whiz shiloh....a little touchy are we? Man, if we can't laugh at ourselves, we're in trouble. "

shiloh wrote on Oct 15, 2008 3:06 PM:

" voa and country boy - you both really need to grow up. You both sound like a couple of immature and very insecure children making comments like that. Oh, and I'm also guessing your pay is much, much less than those working at MMNA which would also make you, yes, jealous. Get a life! "

iluvchoc wrote on Oct 15, 2008 2:29 PM:

" Accepting a pay cut to save your job....especially in todays economy....is a good alternative. I have been downsized before and I would have taken a pay cut to stay and other would have too. "

Country Boy wrote on Oct 15, 2008 10:34 AM:

" voa, now thats funny. it cracks me up when I walk into some bar in town and see the "purple shirt brigade" at their finest! "

voa wrote on Oct 15, 2008 8:31 AM:

" answerman wrote on Oct 8, 2008 5:20 PM:

Blue Collar physical labor like an athlete gets paid more than paper pusher daydreaming in cubicle. "

That's hilarious. Have you seen any of the pictures of the "atheletes" that work at MMMA. I don't know how they shoot bolts over those guts. Thanks for the laugh answerman! "

aintgonenone wrote on Oct 12, 2008 6:11 PM:

" throttlejockey. I am not sure what you mean by nothing good has come from the Caterpillar contract. The only way Cat has been able to hire new employees is because of this contract. Because of this contract all of Cat's 100000 employees are very safe in there jobs. That contract has allowed for historic growth for Cat, so much that Cat will reach 50billion in sales this year alone and should be at 100billion by 2020.You should really know about what is going on before you comment on other companies contracts. "

3mom wrote on Oct 12, 2008 8:54 AM:

" Wow Great News: You appear to be quite bitter! I hope your attitude does not reflect everyone you work with. You are fortunate that the union members voted on the contract, or you would find your educated self on the street looking for another "office" position during an economic decline. Although you have not had a raise or a bonus as you stated in the last six years, have you had a pay cut, or had your benefits slashed? Be grateful if you haven't, and be grateful you have a job. Your "education" if you truly have one will not guarantee you will have a position in the future. Good luck as I'm sure you will need it unless you let go of your bitterness with your "coworkers".

Good luck to everyone at MMNA including the union and nonunion workers. I think it is a positive for the community that a contract was signed for another 4 years. I wish all of you a prosperous and strong year as you muddle through these hard economic times. "

Dr.Orangutan Chief Cardiologist Miller Park Zoo wrote on Oct 10, 2008 8:01 PM:

" I have a itchyubishi. "

Laura wrote on Oct 10, 2008 12:14 PM:

" Maybe because if you are republican, you don't like to see lazy people having babies to get more money. Maybe you don't like to give up the money you earned working hard to people that do drugs and gangbang. And maybe, just maybe if you earn a lot of money you don't want to be taxed the amount of a middle class person's entire salary. "

excuseme wrote on Oct 9, 2008 8:55 PM:

" How can any Union worker vote for a Rebublican? A vote for McCain....means a vote to close the plant. "

ironman wrote on Oct 9, 2008 7:03 PM:

" I've read that production at MMNA last year was around 100,000 cars and this year will be around 80,000 with next year's scheduled production at just over 50,000 cars for the whole year. With a reduction of only 100 or so associates through the buy out, how is this possible? Won't half the days be non-production days? "

leroy wrote on Oct 9, 2008 8:21 AM:

" hats off jim4, your right!! dont blame your union blame the republicans that spend all of there time doing away with the labor movement which gave us a 8 hr work day and yes the week end that everyone affords enjoyment from. god bless unions "

answerman wrote on Oct 8, 2008 5:20 PM:

" If your upstairs making minimum wage at the plant, then your "edumacation" has paid great dividends is this a great country or what!

Blue Collar physical labor like an athlete gets paid more than paper pusher daydreaming in cubicle. "

smallone wrote on Oct 8, 2008 12:24 PM:

" To Great news: For all your college education required to do your job they should taught you better grammar. "

Working2jobs wrote on Oct 7, 2008 6:13 PM:

" To greatnews:
I've been at MMNA for almost 20 years. I do have a degree from ISU. I took the job in the late 80's when there weren't too many "good jobs" around. I've done both office work and factory work. I'd bet I'd last alot longer in your job than you in mine. There are many people who work on the floor that have an education and their reason to stay at MMNA varies. The one that kept me there for so long was the great pay and the benefits. If the plant was going to close they would have a long time ago. Regardless, they could close the doors anyway. There is nothing to stop them. We had the job security language there when they laid-off second shift. Yes, as my name suggests I do work 2 jobs since they took the first pay cut 2 1/2 years ago and laid off my husband 4 years ago. "

surviving wrote on Oct 7, 2008 12:25 PM:

" to DNO Go to Bureau of Labor Statistics for B-N You can see what the mean wage for everyone in this area is. Stats show for Production line workers in 2004 mean wage was 16.38 hour. Let's say a generous wage increas of 8% year for last 4 years that would bring you up to about 22.00 hour. I think you all have a pretty good deal and is better than $200 a week strike pay. "

excuseme wrote on Oct 6, 2008 8:30 PM:

" So is everyone enjoying the Bush economy? The rich get richer and the working class poorer. LOL. Oh, be sure to vote for McSame and you won't have a job in 4 years. "

justaperson wrote on Oct 6, 2008 3:06 PM:

" blmnorsux, you could not be farther from the truth. I'm what might be refered to as somewhat of a problem employee. I constantly buck the system and play by my own rules. Suck-ass as you say. Not hardly. However that's the type of wussie whining that I would expect from someone like you. Oh.... I live with a person that hates to go to work there... Well, tell Mr. Guttless to quit then, and if you hate Bloo-Nor that much, beat it. We'd all be better off without most of you loosers. "

Country Boy wrote on Oct 6, 2008 7:40 AM:

" Mitsubishi new car sales in America over the last 8 years:
2000=314,000
2001=322,000
2002=345,000
2003=243,000
2004=139,000
2005=124,000
2006=119,000
2007=128,000
2008 ytd=80,105, tracking 106,000
With numbers like that what will it look like in 4 more years of the same old cars on the same old platforms? I quess this gives all the workers 4 more years to get their resumes just right because in 2012 I think the ride is over... "

protohooman wrote on Oct 6, 2008 5:04 AM:

" It's going to be ugly in there today. "

hootie wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:23 PM:

" The old saying "you have to wear the shoes before ya know they fit" is true words from people who have been backstabbed by the companies (CAT) whom took away all they worked for down through the years. After 42 yrs of service and no pay increases for the last 8 yrs of it, I retired and got what I could - while I could. With rising insurance costs it makes it difficult to even pay monthly premiums but CAT could care less we still pay 100% of our office calls all we get is generic drugs. If your healthy then the pension pays off but if your not then most of the pension goes right back into "big yellow's pocketbook." I feel for the workers at Mitsubishi because this is just the beginning of what hard times will feel like. So all of you who think the Mitsubishi contract was a good contract have no clue what is like to practically be forced to accept it or have no job at all !! I will glady give you the survival shoes I have had to walk in. "

DNO wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:34 PM:

" greatnews NO ONE in management, or the office has....EVER....taken a pay "CUT" I'm sorry that you haven't had a raise. I guess that degree, got you a dead end job like me. Don't worry you'll probably get a bonus next month. "

totheidiots wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:35 PM:

" To "GreatNews". Obviously you are not educated to make such STUPID comments. It really doesn't take an education to make copies in the office. If you were as intelligent as - maybe a Q-tip, you would know that just because you work downstairs in the plant, on the line, does NOT mean you do not have an education. This is an extreme time of stress for all and your comments do not encourage anyone. "

kidsadvocate2 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:27 PM:

" ambeeant, you made it our business when you involved youself in our business. I stand up and fight for what I believe is wrong. I fight just as hard for anybody kids as I would for my own. I was just standing up for my convictions until certain individuals started running us (UAW MEMBERS) down,who were just fighting for what we believed. This means you who critisize us can say what you want about us, but we aren`t allowed to comment back because that then makes us a bad person. This is a bit 1-sided. If your going to dish it out to me you better be able to take it just the same. Thanks for 4yrs of work. "

greatnews wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:37 PM:

" I work upstairs in the office and want everyone reading this to know that NO ONE has had a bonus or raise in over 6 years, so who ever is wrinting that anyone has, is a liar. You also have to remember, that not just anyone off the street can do what we do in the office. It takes years of training and an college education that matches our job. For those associates worried if we get pay cuts, it doesnt matter. Just because you did, doesnt mean we have to. You shoot the nuts and bolts and anyone can do that. Try doing what we do without an education!!!! "

noseriously wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:24 PM:

" see you all whine in 4 yrs when contract is up. GO UNION!! for yourself not the employees. "

throttlejockey wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:18 PM:

" after reading most of these comments and what was the agreed upon contract it's looking more and more like Caterpillar, and nothing good came out of that. "

who cares wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:16 PM:

" i've worked there for 10 yrs,till i got laid off.you know,get over it.i worked on a-line good times.i hope the best for them but it's starting to look pretty dim.i don't work there any more but i remember the stress and i don't miss it.good luck to you all. "

grizz wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:15 PM:

" At the meeting Fred said about MMNA having a years worth of PSU's and a 6 month supply of cars. He said we would sit on strike for 6 months before any damage to MMNA. Wrong. If you remember, the truckers who haul them are teamsters, a real union. They would not have crossed our lines like they didn't last time. I just wish I would have remembered that Friday. The one international rep said about doing their homework before negotions. Did he miss that part or did he hope we did? All other work would not have gotten done either. They say the steel workers are going to do work and a new building is to go up somewhere. The building would need ground work. The steel workers or operating engineers wouldn't have crossed either. Maybe somweday this union will get some backbone. "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 6:25 PM:

" ambeeeant:
You obviously have no answer for my questions. If you have a source then let us know. You must not work there or you would know what you are talking about. I think that my questions are fair. I would just like to know why you think you are right. I have seen what happens at that plant every day. That is the basis for my opinions. What are your's? "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 6:00 PM:

" Associate:
You get your wish. I have to get supper and get the kids to bed so I'm gone for the night. Have a good life. "

associate wrote on Oct 5, 2008 5:27 PM:

" Would sombody Pleaseee shut ambeeant off!! "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 4:59 PM:

" ISU alum, theygotusagain, etc., etc.
I'm glad that your opinions are in the minority. Otherwise there most likely would have been no job for you to return to on Monday. Say what you want but because of the rational "yes" voters you have a good paying job with benefits for four more years. And don't take what you read on the internet so seriously. Go breathe into a paper bag for a while and get your blood pressure back in check. As far as if I work at MMNA or not, it's really none of your business. I'm just concerned about the livelihood of the 1200 plus workers in this community who would have lost jobs if some kind of agreement had not been reached. Oh, and I do know how to spell "liberal" and "Democrat." I just thought the alternate spellings might be easier to sound out. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:25 PM:

" to wakeuppeople:
I'm amazed that you would be willing to allow MMNA to determine who represents the members. Even if it were legal I can't even imagine proposing such a thing. "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:20 PM:

" Doesn't anyone find it strange that we have the same "Job security" that we had in 2004 when around 1200 people were laid off? That does not seem very secure to me. "

drewman wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:19 PM:

" All the stupid comments aside, I believe that the workers made the right decision for the times. Hopefully by the time the next contract comes around things will be better. I believe the word "contract" is the most important part of this. These decisions are not forever. No matter what you feel about how much the workers deserve, the plant is still imporant and I hope they turn things around. "

poster wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:18 PM:

" The fact of the matter is that any of you that are jealous have had every opportunity to get a job at mitsibishi if you envy their pay scale. Another fact is that these people are used to a certain living. IF you take that away these people have to change their way of life. Could you imagine suddeny not being able to afford your home? your car? your childrens activities? And your insurance? if you dont work there (and I dont) quit whining about it, its not even about you. "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:03 PM:

" ambeeeant:
If you work in the plant then you have surely seen these things. If you don't work in the plant then you have no idea as to what you are speaking of. "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:00 PM:

" ambeeeant:
I forgot to mention the new management that was hired shortly after our last wage cut. When I questioned our union leadership I was told that the company did not have the number of management that they were alowed so they hired more. If they ran without them before the wage cut why did they need them afterwards? Are they really trying to save money? What does your crystal ball tell you about that? Please enlighten us. "

rackem wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:51 PM:

" to the 54% that say thier unemployable, DONT TAKE THE BUYOUT!!!!. Let the people that still have thier abilities to work outside this plant get out. To jm your rants and raves arent going unnoticed to me and others, YOU WILL BE ON THE FLOOR WORKING ALONG WITH THE REST OF US, WITHOUT O/T :). FOR 24 DOLLARS AN HOUR, HA "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:51 PM:

" To ambeeeant:
You did not answer my question. Can you guarantee us that the non-union employees at mmna are taking the same pay cut as us, like was stated at the ratification meeting? You seem to know it as a fact. What are your sources? I am just going by what I have seen first hand at the plant. Our pay cut last time bought new skylights, a new power paint striper for the floors, bonuses for the management people, oh, and a new rear fascia for the Gallant. I am not believing Irvin, I am believing in what I see which follows what Irvin says by past practice. Please reveal your all-knowing source. "

WAKEUPPEOPLE wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:25 PM:

" to ambee:
you read like you think are the only knowledgeable one.
possibly if you actually spent time thinking about others comments you wouldn't be so nasty as well as high and mighty.
you quickly spout out more than others. "

ISU__Alumni wrote on Oct 5, 2008 12:05 PM:

" To Ambeeeant: I am not sure who your "pretty good sources" are (unless you were one of the useless members on the bargaining committee) b/c they didn’t post the actual numbers. Don’t embarrass yourself further by even talking about a battle of wits or minimal brain activity--you can't spell or use appropriate English. . . you are clearly the one totally UNARMED! Noticed you didn't address the second part of my post. What have you and the UAW to say about it?? I agree with wakeuppeople the MMMA workers need to take a look at replacing the UAW with a union that doesn't beg (that is really too kind of a statement. . . more like lay down and take it). "

blmnorsux wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:52 AM:

" why wasn't there a strike weeks ago when the contract ended? "

blmnorsux wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:41 AM:

" My husband has been at MMNA for about 20 years and I have been with him the last 5 listening on a daily basis how much it sux to go there everyday. To all of you that don't know anything about MMNA but what you read in the State Farm Pantagraph ( trying to make everyone else feel better about themselves) it does suck going in and watching your supervisors get a $10000 bonus after you just took a cut. It does suck not being able to call in if you are sick at the last minute.

So he'll take the buyout, screw mitsubishi I hope it goes under and --just a person may make $34/hr at Country without his precious degree, but I guarantee he is the biggest suck ass in the building. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:38 AM:

" for NAFTA was put in place by GHW Bush and had overwhelming bi-partisan support. In some respects I think Clinton was bullied into signing it but the fact is that he did sign it and that is to his discredit. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:35 AM:

" Applause to the comment by "sittinback." NAFTA was, without a doubt the low point of the Clinton presidency. I wouldn't care how many midnight trysts he had with Monica if he had not signed that agreement. Just because one is a Democrat doesn't mean they have to blindly accept everything their party has done. I know it doesn't absolve Clinton but all the architecture for NAFTA "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 11:20 AM:

" to ISU_alumni:
From pretty good sources the total number of votes was well over a thousand. "

indianbacker wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:56 AM:

" go ahead.....blame your union.....like they have the control/power to strong-arm mmna....just try to negotiate with out them,and see what you come out with.....times are tough "

sittinback wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:44 AM:

" Corporate greed, dirty politicians and Clinton's NAFTA were the foundation for the mess that we are now in. Hundreds of thousands of U.S. manufacturing jobs have gone to Mexico and Canada in the years since that "free trade" agreement was signed. Too bad our leaders don't realize that nothing is really free - there is a price to be paid for everything - although they themselves may not have to pay it. It's time for us all to quit whining in the Pantagraph about one company and use our efforts collectively to shake up / wake up our elected officials to what the American citizen, taxpayer and voter think of the substandard performance they have been giving us, allowing ALL companies to go for the gusto / almighty dollar at the expense of each and every one of us and our children. What happened to the "big 3"? What happened to Standard Oil even... now a British corporation? What happened to Anheiser Busch - oh yes another British corporation? Our politicians and corporations have sold us all out for nothing more than their own greed. "

sittinback wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:34 AM:

" to kidsadvocate2... You sound like you have a big chip on your shoulder. I certainly wouldn't want you as an advocate for any child with the attitude you present here. Take some advice from ambeeeant, do some self review of what you have written and try to understand why people with good judgement simply blow off your "off the cuff" emotional outbursts. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:31 AM:

" Mr. Bundy:
I'm beginning to see why you think the way you do. And if everyone were functioning on that same minimal level of brain activity, there would probably be more who agreed with you. But take heart! Based on some of the comments here I think there are some possible converts for you.

And to save you some time here are some possible comebacks for you to throw out at me:

"Oh, yeah, well that's what I expect from a librul demcrat!"
or
"Well, uhh, uhhh, same to you but more of it!"
or maybe
"Your mama!"

Hope this helps. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 10:04 AM:

" to theygotusagain:
If you would re-read my post and see what I was saying maybe it would sink in. I asked why, if the company always lies to us, would you believe the company spokesman over those who actually bargained the agreement.

Evidently there are some folks posting here who have the answer to everything but the solution to nothing. Others see reality and have some productive things to say. To those in the first category, you can just continue to wallow happily in your own ignorance. I won't try to continue to have a battle of wits with someone so woefully unarmed. "

JOeBully wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:39 AM:

" Seems like the buyout/early retirement terms would attract "yes" votes, I don't grasp your logic on the "no" votes pursuing/supporting those options. No voters would be more concerned about maintaining wages and remaining. "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:23 AM:

" To ambeeeant:
Are you telling us that this contract guarantees that managemnt will share this financial burden and take a pay cut? Did they take a cut last time? I am sure that you saw the same waste of money as a lot of us saw the last time we gave up money. How about the bonus to the supervisors right after we gave up money? Once again I say that we were SOLD OUT by this union! "

wakeuppeople wrote on Oct 5, 2008 9:15 AM:

" everyone thinks they know best, well let's see when it is your time to sacrafice how much whining you will be doing. i think it would be great for MMNA to get rid of the UAW and look at another union to represent the plant. how about the TEAMSTERS? maybe they would support the hard working men? "

SpitFire wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:57 AM:

" I realize there are alot of workers that felt we should fight back on this agreement, but you need to face reality ! If we were going to fight the company then it should have been done in one of the previous agreements when we actually had some leverage. Last Friday was the ONLY day in months that we actually worked 8 hours, and the plant is running at approximately 20% capability. They have several optional production days through the end of the year, and JPH will go down to 30 cars per hour in January. On top of that...most of the vehicles we are currently building are for export, and the Endeavor may not have much of a future left ! Take a serious look at the BIG picture with the economy / auto industry right now !!! "

ISU__Alumni wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:53 AM:

" Those who voted no, you do have an option. . . leave the union and only pay your "fair share" let the UAW know that you don't feel they represented you. If you hit the UAW with a financial cut maybe they will stand up and take notice. All 46% that will make a financial difference!! 46%. . . whatever that number is--why won't the UAW tell; what are they trying to hide? The UAW played a dirty game of not allowing people to vote until 5:00 p.m. those from out of town had to wait at least two hours after work to vote many of them left without voting b/c the vocal majority indicated there is no way it would pass!! Why didn't they let them vote right after work? Instead they required members to wait at least 2 hours!! The UAW used this time to implement scare tactics and then make them wait for 2 hours prior to voting. No one mentioned that the financial bailout had already passed. Shame on you UAW and those YES votes! "

justaperson wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:43 AM:

" Hey Jimbo.... At Country, I'm pulling in $34 an hour. Plus, I don't have a college degree. Imagine what those folks make that DO have one!!!! Now, aren't you sorry you asked that question?!?!?! "

world's smallest violin wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:19 AM:

" I laid off last week for lack of work. After 14 years with this employer. First time I've been laid off after 25 years in the work force. No extremely generous severance package for me. I would gladly accept the same pay cut percentage wise just be able to punch in at work tomorrow morning.
As I've said before I would happily go to work for Mitsu 14 an hour right now would be a blessing "

greatnews wrote on Oct 5, 2008 8:14 AM:

" It appears that all the people walking around with the "vote no" stickers were blowing smoke. The vote passed and I am glad that everyone involved has security for 4 more years. You had to give up a little money, but you won't starve so suck it up and quit complaining. What would you be doing if Mitsu never came to town? You would be working at Lowes making much less. Don't take a family vacation this year, quit smoking, drive less, shop smart and you can make a difference on your yearly budget. I am so glad the vote passed and the company will be able to save some much needed money to hopefully launch a new model. Good job to all those that made the right choice and for those that voted no, why dont you show the company and quit. I bet No one will quit because you know darn good and well you can’t make anything close to what you make now with a high school diploma. Go back to college, get a degree and get a white collar job that pays more.. "

wrong direction wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:59 AM:

" "Higher prices and the continuing increase in the cost of living are not the result of workers getting too large a share of the nations economic pie. They are a result of irresponsible and selfish pricing policies of a few giant corporations who exercise a monopoly of vital sectors of the American economy and are able to set aside economic laws of supply and demand" Walter Ruther Sept 1 1959
I am sure today he turns in his grave at what has been done to the WORKERS.
I am also sure that when a few giant corporations get our economy fixed there will be no reward for those who gave . Willingly or not. Without middle class spending things won't get fixed. "

these posts wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:57 AM:

" Here is what I think is going to happen: MMNA is going to be looking for ways to get rid of the 1st shift people that they have out there and why not? they can call back 2nd shift laid off employees for what is it $7 less an hour? Better watch abusing your FMLA, or not following doctors restrictions, taking to many occurances. could you have just cut your own throats? And maybe you are not being greedy but ask a laid off second shifter what they think about how they feel? Oh and I noticed that it says if you are a second shift member in good standing you cold vote! Right I douubt many of us make enough money to pay 45 dollars a month to a union that just sold us out! "

Jarhead71 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:37 AM:

" I think Jimbo's last post is an excellent idea. Let's all see what B-N area has as an average and median income demographic across the employment arena. A question for Mitsubishi, are we, the consumers, going to see a drop in prices of your products? You cut wages at your plants, that should translate into cost savings on the show room floor. I would bet you could increase sales if you are the most reasonably priced vehicles. "

DNO wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:05 AM:

" Jimbo, I agree with you, for some reason Mitsubishi management, State farm employees, ISU employees, and Pantagraph employee wage info, are off limits. It seems that their salary information is private....aka personal information. Pantagraph reporters.....you know my wages, cmon report what the average white collar worker makes in this town. That would be GOOD reporting......oh, I forgot that's private. "

Ted Kennedy's Swim Instructor wrote on Oct 5, 2008 7:00 AM:

" Yet another example of selfish baby boomers selling the future generation down the pike for their own benefit. Future new production workers will never make as much as current production workers under the two-tier wage structure they agreed to.

I can only hope that the future generation reaches a critical mass in enough of these unions so that they can strike or bargain in the future to eliminate two-tier wage structures. It's demeaning and unethical to pay people different rates for doing the same work. "

CrazyCooter68 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 6:17 AM:

" It wouldn't matter how much an hour they make, or their benefits. These MMNA workers would still find something to gripe about. Working in 100 degree heat for 24 bucks an hour sounds like heaven to me. I worked no (slaved) in a small mom and pop factory for 10 years with no air in the summer and no heat in the winter for less than $10 an hour and still had to pay for most of my insurance plus my every day bills so cry me a river. Get over it, quit griping and get to work will ya!!! "

jim4 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 2:40 AM:

" albundy54 - Do you think that Obama or any other democrat has the power to negotiate union contracts? Why would a union member vote for an anti-union republican. All the repulicans do is weaken the labor laws to favor of the companies. Using Ronald Regan as an example is proof. Ronald Regan was anti-union and as you stated dissolved the air traffic controllers union. And you wonder why union workers vote for democrats. Thats not to hard for the average third grader to figure out. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:35 AM:

" To kidsadvocate2:
Well, unfortunately you just proved the point of my previous response to you with this post. "

albundy54 wrote on Oct 5, 2008 1:24 AM:

" Ambee I know my labor history and if you re read my post it doesn't say Regan intervened in a positive way for the unions, it simply states he intervened. Unions think they have the world by the short hairs when actually it is the company who calls the shots. Heres a bit of local labor history for you. Sugar Creek Packing company was union and the workers went out on a strike in 1985. They stayed out an entire year and rejected every contract the company offered. The company said OK boys we are shutting the place down; and they did. For one week they closed and then reopened as a non union shop. I am just wondering with all the blame on republicans why you liberal union folks don't blame Clinton who gave all the union jobs to Mexico with signing NAFTA? You guys are really out of touch. "

Jimbo wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:50 PM:

" By the way...Now that everyone knows how much we make an hour, as if they didnt already know from every story the Pantagraph prints about us. How about listing salaries of others in this community. What does the editor of the Pantagraph make, or a reporter? How about a average State Farm Employee, or a professer or coach at ISU. Come on...I think that would be a interesting story, listing what others make would make good reading. "

kidsadvocate2 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:18 PM:

" ambeeant, you don`t have a clue what this place has put this membership through for 20 yrs. ,the company lies to us ,our union lies to us,some of the community don`t support us. and then we have people like you and others making comments about things you have no clue about.You sound like your a individual who never had to work for a living. You sound like a group leader. go sit down and drink your coffee & eat your donuts let the real men do the work you might break a nail. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:02 PM:

" Regarding the comment by Dan Irvin. He is the company "spokesman" and was not involved in negotiations and has very likely not even read the full agreement. If you are so convinced that you can't believe anything the company says then why on earth would you believe this guy? Talk to the guys who actually bargained the agreement to get the facts. "

poppy79 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:59 PM:

" Also, may I give a shout out to Ralph Timan, Fred Morrisette and the other UAW bargaining folk. I think you all did a dang fine job in negotiating the contract given the economic times! "

poppy79 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:56 PM:

" Thank God common sense won over! Does it suck to have to give up approx. $10,000 a year in wages? Duh..yeah! Think about it though. The economy right now stinks! Are you out there buying new cars? Heck no you aren't! Why? Because times right now are bad...period! I'm glad common sense won out in the end and we all have a job to report to come Monday! "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:52 PM:

" To Bama Yankee: Yes, that did happen at that time. This time the agreement is that there will be no change for retiree benefits. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:33 PM:

" I know that I have been posting a lot. Please forgive this excess but there are some things I just can't sit by and allow to go unanswered. I've read several posts where the term "selling out" has been irresponsibly thrown out there. I understand your anger and that you may disagree with the outcome of this ratification vote. But the accusation that those who negotiated this agreement and those who voted yes received some kind of bribe to do so is just plain absurd. Disagree all you want but let's leave the cheap character assassination out of it, please. "

grizz wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:26 PM:

" It sucks that we lost pay. It is even worse for the next generation because the trend is down in pay, not up. The gap is getting bigger between rich and poor. Why don't ALL workers pick a week and stay home. See how well things get done. Then maybe things would change when this country grinds to a halt. Maybe then the politicians would care more about the workers and less about the rich businessmen using lobbyists to buy their way. "

Bama Yankee wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:24 PM:

" To: Tom Terrific
Thanks for the tip. Some cheap Wal-Mart hot dogs, government cheese and canned chili... throw in some of those cheap tortillas and I can eat nearly as good as all those illegals sucking this country dry..... "

Bama Yankee wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:21 PM:

" To: ambeeeant

As far as I know, retiree medical benefits are the same as active employees. When the copays increased for the active employees after the last consession, mine did too, doctor and drugs. "

pseudo-intellectual wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:18 PM:

" Even if it's a sweet and sour deal for the employees, it's good news for the local economy. "

rackem wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:04 PM:

" Just like the Cubbie fans say "wait till next year", $18 an hour, $ 100 copay, no pension, so they can keep plant open YES, YES PLEASE DONT CLOSE!!! "

theygotusagain wrote on Oct 4, 2008 9:55 PM:

" I hope that all of you yes votes remember how your barganing committee stood up at the meeting and told you how the group leaders were going to take a pay cut of $14,000.00 a year. Now I want you read closely the story above, or let me point it out to you "Listed in the UAW’s summary of the tentative agreement, an “equality of sacrifice” clause notes the subject of management and salaried employees taking cuts was part of the tentative agreement. However, Timan declined to comment on that.

Company spokesman Dan Irvin said “equality of sacrifice” was not part of the approved contract, and details about any possible pay or benefit cuts for non-union employees hadn’t been determined.

“All of the focus of this contract has been on the collective bargaining staff,” he said. “I’m not going to speculate on other areas.”

This looks to me like your local and international uaw has sold us all out again. Irvin's comments tell me that the company side once again is taking no pay cuts and no responsibility for the condition of this company. I think we need a real union to represent us! "

associate wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:42 PM:

" I want all the layed off people and retirees to know there was quite a few people that voted no,trying to help protect your rights,we know it was the wrong play and I still dont think there was that many associates willing to sell you out.Somebody or some thing did but I don't think it was us. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:33 PM:

" To Nicksmynick: Your pension will continue to accrue at the current rate of $47.45 per month per year of service on retirement. Your health benefits will be what are negotiated under this agreement if you retire in the next four years. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:29 PM:

" To BigBrother: The bill to which you refer was sponsored by Phil Gramm, a Republican, and had huge bi-partisan support at the time and except for some right wing ideologues is looked at by most economists as having actually softened the blow to some degree. It provided for commercial banks to become involved in investment banking and has actually been seen to have provided the means by which the failed banks have been able to be bought up by those that are still solvent. This bill was no more responsible for the crisis than deregulation. Oversight, or lack thereof, and predatory lending practices have been the main culprit. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:23 PM:

" To Bama Yankee: May be a good idea to check your facts. From what I understand there is to be NO change in the health care for current retirees. Including prescription drug co-pays. The changes only apply to future retirees. Hope this helps. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:20 PM:

" To Albundy54: You might want to check out your labor history. It was Reagan's firing of all the PATCO workers that started the trend we have been suffering for the past two and a half decades. I suppose that being a Republican you oppose Socialism. Government involvement in legitimate labor disputes in any capacity except to protect the public safety and provide security where there is the potential for violence is, you know, one of the things they do in Socialist countries. Maybe also go back and see how the government "helped" Lech Walesa in Poland. "

Controller wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:14 PM:

" I guess there are a lot of rational, realistic union members after all. Congrats to those that voted to keep the plant open. "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:13 PM:

" To Ou812: Yes, the guarantee is for 40 hours per week for the next four years. "

notafraid wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:13 PM:

" By the way, SF and others have had no COLA raises since before 2001! No one is sitting where they used to be! "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:12 PM:

" To kidsadvocate2: I understand you're angry but it may be a good idea for you to do some introspection. You chide someone for what you see as a poor outlook on their fellow man but then say, "I hope you,get shafted just like us." And then the cruel comment about "pear shaped butt." Now really, if you're going to throw out these kind of cruel comments how can you reasonable expect anyone to believe that you have any empathy for others? "

DNO wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:10 PM:

" Sorry, mac1223 I have to blame Bush. The economy going into the crapper for the last 8 yrs happened on his watch. If the economy was great, I would give him the credit, and so would you. "

notafraid wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:08 PM:

" Our economic condition did not happen over night. The unemployment rate in the U.S. has declined over 5 years, and is rapidly declining more. People have lost their job at SF since 2004. People are being hired for a lower wage. Businesses are closing. In Business Week just the other day, it was stated that B/N, IL will be the 2nd hardest hit town in the U.S. economically. Duh! Everyone better get their seatbelts on no matter where you work, or whoever gets into the President's seat. It's going to get worse before it ever gets better. Study what led up to the Great Depression, and why the banks failed. You just might see a pattern. The greed in this country is phenominal. I've been through the crisis already of losing my job, house, automobile, healthcare, 401K, etc. I've adjusted. I pray for those going through the stress at this time. We're not going to take the material things with us when we leave here. Thank God you have each other (family & friends). "

ambeeeant wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:02 PM:

" To mmnafamily: Your reasoning is only valid if we were in a strong position for bargaining. Look around you. The plant is operating at 20% capacity. There are 8 non-production days scheduled for the next two months. Production is shutting down at 1:00 nearly every day. On the news today another GM plant is announcing a closing in 60 days. We have to choose our battles and this is not the time. If we were Big Three we would have been closed two years ago. If things improve and we are making a profit in four years, you bet we will see improvements. But right now $24 per hour is certainly better than being unemployed. "

Jimbo wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:01 PM:

" So...all you no voters are taking the buyout and moving on to those $28 an hour jobs that are so plentiful elsewhere....right? I can make it on $24 because I have been thrifty and been socking lots away. Not living over my means like most of you. It could have been a lot worse. paying for health benifits, losing vacation days, etc. Come on, I know lots of people out there who do just about nothing all day. The last 6 months we have been shutting the lines down at 1:00 and then standing around talking for 2 hours....yeah....tough work. "

flooney wrote on Oct 4, 2008 7:57 PM:

" What an absolutely gutless union. Two years ago we gave them $4.00 an hour of our money to help bail out the company. This contract is how they say 'thanks'. The company knew on that vote that our union was broken and weak. In four more years get ready to get it again. We have shown them (the company) that we will fall for anything and stand for nothing. I have ten years before retirement. I'm sure that by that time MMNA will be a minimum wage job if it's even there at all. "

rackem wrote on Oct 4, 2008 7:19 PM:

" Ok now its political post, see how fast loosing 1/3 your pay dissappeared, now its left for you people. Sorry to Bam Yankee, he is the biggest loser. For me IT IS A SHAME!!! You trusted your Brothers and Sisters, they sold You and the rest of Us out. All other comments about your situation are comming from those that voted against you or pantagraph workers!! "

Danser61701 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:58 PM:

" DNO, Blue collar workers should make double, even triple than office workers. Where I work I see these people talking, eating, drinking coffee, laughing all day long. It is disgusting. And as for men, they should ALL be blue collar workers, that is their job, not prancing around in office attire. If it weren't for blue collar workers (and I'm talking about MEN), our world would be nothing! "

mac1223 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:57 PM:

" To DNO: Don't blame Bush, check out your fellow Dems first before you get all carried away. "

Tom Terrific wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:41 PM:

" To Bama Yankee. Canned dog food? Why not canned chili? It looks the same and is cheaper. "

nicksmynick wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:35 PM:

" Ive asked about the pension language several times. Id like to know how this affects those that left the plant on full term disability. There are several. "

BigBrother wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:22 PM:

" If you want to blame someone for the poor economy I can help you. Bill Clinton signed a bill into effect that deregulated the lending companies in 1999. The subsequent legislation in 2000 forced lenders to accomodate borrowers that would otherwise not qualify for the size of the loans they were getting. The idea was to make housing available to everyone. Homes values were inflated all over the country well above the fair market value. The rest is history. S oif you want to blame someone blame the politcians that failed to plug the holes and regulate the lending industry for the last 9 years. The democratic controlled congress that is now taking 850 billion of your tax dollars to pay off the lending industry for the losses they took because of deregulation. "

Bama Yankee wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:15 PM:

" All the yapping, criticizing and whining and not one comment regarding pensioners.
I retired from MMNA three years ago. I get a whopping $733 in pension funds. Like many in my age bracket, I have a regimen of maintenance drugs to take daily. I just saw my copay go from $75 a pop to $375. To say that I have absolutely no sympathy for one freaking poster on this forum is an understatement. ~ Do I eat canned dog food, or buy medicine? "

DNO wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:14 PM:

" It's official, The Bush economy just raped me. All you guys that voted yes better not complain, 4 years from now, you'll be giving up another $4 if your lucky. Could someone tell me....Who?.. is going to buy the cars, or anything for that matter, if everyone makes $13 an hour? I now pledge allegiance to the United States of China. I'm sure McCain will make things all better. We'll be sitting pretty 4 years from now. "

JMD wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:08 PM:

" To those who voted against their laid off brothers and sisters:
Do you think for a nanosecond that they won't use the layoff pay cut against you later?? I guarantee you, they are going to lay you off too and look in a mirror when you want someone to blame for your lower salary. I can also guarantee you, this will become the standard in manufacturing jobs in this country. SHAME ON YOU! "

albundy54 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:02 PM:

" All I have to say is the labor unions have supported the democratic party forever and what has it gotten them? Why wasn't Barack O'Bama or Blago, or any other big shot democrat behind organized labor to save these folks from having to take such drastic cuts in order to keep working? I remember during the Regan years that the president involved himself to help settle a strike although the outcome was the union being dissolved it still showed a repbulican president took time to help arbitrate a labor situation. Where were the democrats on this very important issue to help their union supporters? Once again the liberals let down constituents that heavily support them. I would be very upset too folks. "

kidsadvocate2 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:37 PM:

" Bet all you MMNA haters are popping your champagne bottles, wait and see your times a comming. Only in the good old U.S.A. Rich .............Poor. What idiots.............
What have your children got to look forward too? Every Union official better be ready to work the line. Election time is comming up and I`m voting for everyone of you to be replaced. We lost everything since you have been there. And we will never get it back. We just set a precedent for Co. to screw all their employees all across America(China). "

musicman wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:35 PM:

" 54% yes 46% no Now lets move on. If voted no take the buyout "

0u812 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:34 PM:

" its great that it passed.but in the new contract are you guaranteed 40 hrs per week? "

0u812 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:20 PM:

" they can live with a pay cut but never give up cola.that's the only raises I've had in 8 years........... "

musicman wrote on Oct 4, 2008 5:03 PM:

" Here is why everybody is paying more for health care.
Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan workers overwhelmingly ratify agreement Brace yourself for another increase. "

Gardener wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:56 PM:

" It passed! :) "

kidsadvocate2 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 4:54 PM:

" Poppy79,
I hope you,get shafted just like us.It`s pretty bad your outlook for your fellow man or woman. You sound selfish & inconsiderate of other peoples hard times.You are the person in which I was commenting about earlier. Hope they replace your pear-shape butt with a computer or maybe a MMNA associate who will do your job for $14. "

beowulf wrote on Oct 4, 2008 3:36 PM:

" Let me see if I have this straight - - - Most jobs don't pay what Mitusbishi pays, and because of this, everybody should strive for a lower standard??? Weird. I thought we, as Americans, have an obligation to raise the standards for the next generation, not lower them. And you guys say union members only think of themselves??? You're selling out your children and grand-childern and WE have the problem??? "

mmnafamily wrote on Oct 4, 2008 3:15 PM:

" To Poppy79 cont.: I hope for you that after you've put in your 20 that you reap the reward of higher pay rather than pay and benefit cuts. It's a slap in the face to say the least. For MMNA workers, the scenario goes something like this: "Thanks for all your hard work! Congratulations, you get a 20% cut in your pay and benefits package." Do you know that Mitsubishi is one of the TOP, if not THE TOP, companies in Japan? They don't just make cars---their real business profits are in BANKS, energy and electronics. So, for them to close one of their little guys in the good 'ole USA is nothing to them. We're just people and we can be replaced. It doesn't matter how much blood, sweat, tears and many years you put into any company...no matter what company...no matter how much you prepare and plan for your future it can all change in an instant. "

mmnafamily wrote on Oct 4, 2008 3:10 PM:

" To Poppy79: In response to your question, "if the contract doesn't pass and you guys strike and the doors at Mitsubishi close, where do you plan on finding a job that pays $24 an hour with no medical premium?", in hindsight, had I known 20yrs ago when I took this job that I'd have my raises and hard earned money taken away after 20yrs., I would've never accepted the position. With over 700,000 people out of work since January 2008, it will be hard pressed to find a job paying what I make now---heck, I can't even make what I'm making now if my contract is ratified. You say you'll be making over $28/hr after 20yrs. where you're working now...how do you know that for sure? I never thought I'd be asked to give up what I'm being asked to give up. Thankfully, I do have a college degree and am therefore marketable. I may have to move from the B-N area, but initially I moved my family from Iowa to come here anyway. "

Papabear wrote on Oct 4, 2008 2:46 PM:

" Let me start out by saying that I support all the union workers at MMNA. What the company is asking of you isn't fair. I also work there, but I am in the office. This contract not only effects the union members, it also hits us also. All the changes in the benefit package we have to live with. No we aren't being asked to take a pay cut, but we also haven't had any type of raise in 6 years. We also don't receive COLA. That in itself is a pay cut. I don't make anything close to $24/hr and can't continue making what I do for much longer. But finding another job isn't easy in this day and age. "

poppy79 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 2:10 PM:

" To mmnafamily: Just to clarify - I don't "envy" you one bit. Also, in my paper-pushing job I'll be making more than $28 an hour after 20 years of service, so thanks for your concern. As far as the new contract terms, does it suck to have to give back money that you earned? Dang right it does, but just tell me this, if the contract doesn't pass and you guys strike and the doors at Mitsubishi close, where do you plan on finding a job that pays $24 an hour with no medical premium? "

WAKEUPPEOPLE wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:34 PM:

" ok everyone has their opinion, i get that, however if you are one of the hard working MMNA people you need support not criticism! no matter what your wage is presently, if you were cut by more than $4. hr you would have difficulties financially. no cost of living, no raises, more taxes and more deductibles for the next four years! come on people think about it! the workers trusted the company when they cut wages last time and said they would present a new model. huh! they didn't keep their word then, should the workers believe them now? no way!!
the company does whatever they desire, not thinking of those faithful that make production possible. if you want better wages get a union started in your work place! have a backbone. "

DNO wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:31 PM:

" Mitsubishi workers are not over paid. Everyone else is under paid! All of you office people think that you should make WAY more than a blue collar autoworker. Why is that? What do you do? Shuffle some papers, type on a keyboard, learn some insurance codes. I'm sorry that you got a degree in something that doesn't make any $. For all working people that are tired of hearing how hard we work at Mitsubishi. I just want to say that some jobs are harder that yours, some are not. Again we are not over paid you are under paid.
If things keep going the way of CAT the American way of life will be over for ever. HELLO, United States of China "

mmnafamily wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:02 PM:

" To Poppy79 cont.: Now tell me, would you really vote yes to this kind of garbage after working for a company 20yrs. of your life when you were making nearly $29/hr, had a 3% 401K benefit company match, had health insurance without deductibles and premiums, could actually call in sick without penalty when you were sick instead of having to be a prophet and call in sick 24hrs before? Obviously, you don't have a clue. Who's fault is it that you make less than MMNA workers? Go ahead---there will be job openings and you're the kind of employee MMNA would love to hire!! Apply within! "

mmnafamily wrote on Oct 4, 2008 12:02 PM:

" To Poppy79 cont.: Cost of living keeps increasing---do the math. $24/hr doesn't buy what it did a year ago, let alone will it even come close to buying four years from now what it buys today. If this contract is ratified, all the laid off workers will be hired back in at $16.80/hr. At the rate they will receive increases, it'll take 10 years for them to reach the $24/hr wage. The contract guarantees our jobs for four yrs., not ten. MMNA "Guarantees" our jobs until they decide they have to make us make more concessions, so they can stay open, in the middle of this contract. Are we selfish for voting NO? At $24/hr, the MMNA worker loses $800/mo, $10,400/yr, doesn't have 401K benefits, pays a $500/deductible + out of pocket medical costs up to $2000/yr. "

mmnafamily wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:57 AM:

" To Poppy79: You just might get your envy fulfilled! If the proposed contract passes, you can apply for a job at MMNA and make a whopping $14/hr---not $24/hr right off the bat and you'll never have an opportunity to ever make $24/hr under the verbage of the proposed contract. It's not just about the current workers at MMNA looking out for their own well-being, but the decisions we make today will forever change the way contracts are written and administrated for many different types of companies across the US. This will set a precedent. If it's ratified, we will never ever see anything better, it'll always be worse than the contract before. "

shiloh wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:19 AM:

" To all who envy MMNA workers -We're (MMNA workers and laid off) are tired of hearing sob stories of those who make less. It's put in such a way that MMNA workers are supposed to feel bad or something. If you don't like what is being said on behalf of the hard working individuals at MMNA, and just can't stand it that someone who works JUST AS HARD as you (if not harder) is making more money, quit reading these posts!!!! Jealousy will get you nowhere. "

ceegees wrote on Oct 4, 2008 11:04 AM:

" To Carol McBride: Isn't it better to take a pay/benefit cut than to lose your job entirely? You won't find another job in town paying anything close to that. Count your blessings! "

kidsadvocate2 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 10:01 AM:

" People bring Cat into the scenario. I would like for everyone to make enough $ to live comfortable. But life is not fair to a lot of people. Why do people think it is O`k for the workers to take huge pay cuts. Then the Corp. announce record profits. Workers never see any of that extra money. Ask the Cat workers, while their Ceo`s, Management & Investors get huge bonuses or raises. I will give them their cuts like 40 million for 2 yrs.(pay) But don`t put it in the bigwigs pockets. They don`t need it. Give it to the homeless, poor, sick, needy........NOT to the rich, and affluent, spoiled, and just think that there automaticly entitled to it. They have no compassion. I heard where there were around 150,000 jobs lost last month. about 750,000 jobs so far this yr. But Cat made Profits, there workers didn`t make more $. But the bigwigs did. Oil barons making huge profits. workers see no more $. Where is this right? $7 hundred billion dollar bailout for the rich, they get you every way they can. We steal -go to jail. They steal - go to vacation home. "

man wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:55 AM:

" Please Mitsubishi workers quit saying how hard you work. I know the line work stinks badly but there are plenty of people in there that got it easy. How many times I have asked somebody there what they do and thier response was........ NOTHING. They tell me they do nothing all day with a chuckle. Don't tell me what I don't know what I am talking about because I worked there for 12 years. Don't use the excuse you work to hard because people that bust thiers butts everyday for less money don't want to hear it. You bargained for those wages and benifits. Tell them you hate to lose something you and the people before you worked so hard to get so you could have a better life style. Don't end up like Cat workers who are losing everything while thier Higher ups are making millions and the company is making billions.

People working for half of what you make and work 10 times harder. I don't agree with a 3 tier wage. It doesnt take 10 years for someone to learn thier job.

There is life outside of Mitsubishi "

2tired wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:13 AM:

" I worked at mitsubishi for a while and the working conditions are not that bad, when you get off work you can do other things. I have aslo worked other jobs such as roofing when it's 110 on a roof and your so dirty you can stand it. But oh the A/C up there helps. Then when you get off work only thing you want to do is sleep because your so exhausted, on top of that I was only making $14 an hour "

2tired wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:12 AM:

" forthegrls your comment make no sense, there are people in a lot harder working conditions making a lot less. People at Mapleton Cat facility has to wear all the protective gear and its about 120 in there during the winter. Plus your a lot dirtier, top pay there is $24 for hourly and new hires is around $12, plus they buy their own close to wear and ruin at work. Plus you complain about the hours, you knew those hours before you hired in on second, plus your contract anything over 8 you get 1.5 pay and that saturday you work every other you get 1.5 pay for the entire day. "

voa wrote on Oct 4, 2008 8:04 AM:

" If it's that bad, quit. "

grillin4alivin wrote on Oct 4, 2008 6:26 AM:

" forthegrls, try working in a restaurant, with a uniform, in a kitchen, with a hair net, with no air, 10/12 hours a day. Restaurant kitchens get around 110 in the summer, and we get 8.00 an hour, with no benefits, and we work EVERY weekend. Try grillin4alivin. I would love to work at MMNA, you guys somtimes dont have a clue what its like in the real world. wheres my union rep? "

jim4 wrote on Oct 4, 2008 2:52 AM:

" Poppy79 - I suggest that you apply for a job at MMNA if you think the pay and benefits are so great. "

forthegrls wrote on Oct 4, 2008 1:21 AM:

" Hey Poppy79~... Let me tell u about that $24 u wish to make. I understand that u pay the same utilities that everyone else does. Mitsu is not an easy place to work. Try working in the summer with a uniform, safety glasses, steel toed boots, a hairnet, gloves, and a nylon jumpsuit over all of that in 100+ degrees w/o air-conditioning. It is true blue-collar work. I did it for 11 years, 2nd shift( not the typical 3-11 either) we worked from 4:30p.m.-3:00a.m. and every other Saturday. I understand how hard it is to make that kind of $ around here, I've hadto start over @ age 32, since being laid off. DON'T HATE~~ MMNA has helped our community tremendously!! "

justnotrite wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:36 PM:

" Well Ms. McBride, you will definitely receive a pay cut and reduction in benefits if the contract is not ratified and the plant ceases production. Ask all of the second shift associates that were laid off and found other jobs. I will never understand how some people's common sense works.....or fails to work! "

Poppy79 wrote on Oct 3, 2008 9:28 PM:

" OMG! What I wouldn't give to make $24 an hour and to have to pay no premium on my medical benefits. I pay the same dang Ameren and Nicor bills that the Mitsubishi folk pay, but for a lot less than $24 an hour! The economy right now stinks. Mitsubishi isn't making the crap up people, but sometimes I guess it takes more than a GED or high school diploma to figure that out. For the sake of the folks out at the plant, who have common sense, I hope this new contract passes. God