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Restraining order arguments denied

 
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Oct 11, 2006 - 02:06:08 CDT
By CRYSTALR. REID
Bismarck Tribune
Union pickets on Tuesday denied committing or threatening to commit any crimes while striking, answering complaints made in a temporary restraining order that went into effect Monday afternoon.

At least eight people, all Bobcat employees, signed affidavits saying pickets temporarily prevented them from entering the property. Five of them said their cars were struck by objects or pickets, and one witness said a police officer directed their car around nails in the road.

United Steel Workers Local 566 also denied causing injury or risk of injury to anyone employed by Bobcat, according to a court document filed by the union and other defendants, in answering an order to show cause made by Judge Sonna Anderson in South Central District Court.

The union document did say, however, that employees of Bobcat may have been delayed a few seconds when arriving at work in the first days of the strike.

"We're making it a peaceful demonstration," said Steve Chmielewski, union president. He had no further comment regarding the complaints.

On Monday, Anderson signed the temporary restraining order sought by Bobcat against the union and several other defendants, prohibiting them from being on property owned by Bobcat, interfering with business, obstructing traffic, engaging in mass picketing, damaging property, threatening violence and picketing with dangerous materials.

But Anderson struck from the restraining order a clause that would have restricted those on strike to only three pickets at any one time at any entrance to the plant.

The temporary restraining order is in place until Oct. 18, when the union is scheduled to show cause as to why the order should not be continued, according to court documents.

Local Union 566 went on strike Saturday after negotiations for a four-year contract with the Bismarck Bobcat plant hit a standstill. The union's previous four-year contract with Bobcat expired at 7 a.m. Saturday.

Both sides had been in negotiations for weeks before the strike, but an agreement could not be reached on several issues, including wage increases and health insurance costs.

Chmielewski said the union has not been contacted about resuming talks.

The Bismarck plant, which makes machinery for light construction, has about 1,100 employees, including 300 salaried, nonunion workers. Bobcat, a unit of Ingersoll-Rand Co. Ltd., is the city's sixth-largest employer, according to the Chamber.

(Reach reporter Crystal Reid at 250-8261 or at crystal.reid@;bismarcktrib-une.com)
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Restraining order arguments denied
Comments

BobcatGwinnerWife wrote on Oct 19, 2006 7:36 PM:

" To everyone I am proud of the peaple that are standing up for the union. Gwinner contract is come and my husband and I are ready for whatever comes are way, we have planed for four years. Because if you look at it every year IR Bobcat gets bigger, and bigger but every four years they offer the working people (who make the money for them to get bigger) get less and less. For as they work at Bobcat they should get what they want, you deserve it all. The Bobcat skid loader is # 1 because it is made in the USA and if IR wants to move it to Mexico for cheaper labor, go for it, they will also hace a cheaper skid loader. The union fight for what the union members should get and they should get it. Because they are the ones that make the money for IR Bobcat. And for some of you who have time to sit at your computer and slam the union maybe you should get of your (!) and try getting a job that makes you work 6 days a week and see how you like it. "

Beesh wrote on Oct 18, 2006 8:43 AM:

" To still angry. You know me? give me a call or email. I am kissing the little ones as we converse!. "

Salaried Worker wrote on Oct 17, 2006 11:23 AM:

" While I do not agree with the strike and think the companies offer was fair, I think all those people (ie WORLD ECONOMY) making assumptions that the union workers are a bunch of uneducated high school dropouts should stop. There are many smart people, some with, some without higher education. Unless you have their HR records, you really are ignorant on the subject and "

8675309 to Dave wrote on Oct 15, 2006 11:58 PM:

" Dave, that's okay. I forgive you for directing your post to me. It's funny though. Didn't that person seem to assume that you and I are the same poster? So, you going to the labor rally? I am thinking there may be a bounty on our heads by now so we best not go, beings some people say they KNOW who we are and all. "

GoodbyeBobcat wrote on Oct 15, 2006 9:35 AM:

" How long before Bobcat pulls out of ND. They are no longer a ND company, and obviously don't care or have special ties to ND. Now with the UNION stepping in and stirring up trouble, I bet you will get your jobs back for a few months before they announce their intentions to pull up roots and move their operations down to mexico, where they will get better quality workers for half the price. "

WORLD ECONOMY wrote on Oct 14, 2006 9:33 PM:

" I want to ask a few simple questions to all you UNION PEOPLE. 1 - Where do you plan to work after Bobcat/IR replaces you? 2 - Do you think that you will get anything near the pay and benefits that are currently on the table? 3 - Which state do you plan on moving to after you realize that this is the best job that you are qualified to do in this area? 4 - When will you realize that with your limited education and extremely specialized experience, you should grab the 3% and be very, very, very happy that you are the best paid, low educated people in Bismarck. Accept the fact that you have limited options in this area and get back to work at the very, very, very generous offer on the table. Do you realize that people in other countries are doing the same job that you are for 1/2, 1/4th, 1/8th, and 1/16th what you are currently making. Most of you made poor choices early in life and did not obtain a 2 or 4 year degree from a university or college, and many of you are high school drop-outs...wake up people...you are not qualified to do much in this world and without Bobcat/IR, you are simply minimum wage entry level grunts!! "

layedoffingwinner wrote on Oct 14, 2006 3:09 PM:

" Wow its saturday and I dont have to WORK , so this is what the rest of the world feels like when ya get to spend the day at home on a weekend..thanks IR for the extra vacation..We had our uniom meeting in gwinner today and holycow ya should of seen all the people...youve got alot of support 566 The 560 is comming to pay a lil respect to you guys on tuesday...Bismark might just never be the same!!! once AGAIN thanks UNIONBUSTERS (IR) for the extra time off to go visit our real family in bismark!!!!!!! "

Get over it wrote on Oct 13, 2006 11:14 PM:

" Hey people maybe you didn't happen to notice but the U.S.W. Local 566 Union Bargaining committee with be meeting with I.R. Bobcat next Wednesday to talk about negotiations. For the rest of you negative bone heads check this out. There is a labor Rally next Tuesday @ 4:00 PM. Lots of Unions will be there. Lots of our supporters will be there. Our families will be there. You should be there. All are welcome to come and check it out. It will be at the corner of Bowen and 26th Street. Unlike most of you I don't make stuff up. For the slow learners, ALL are welcome. Come out and see who really is on our (YOUR) side. Find out what community really means. Find out for yourself why we have Unions. You are not alone. Find out for yourself the true meaning of Friends, Family, Neighbors, Community, and UNIONS!!!!! "

to 8675309 from Dave: wrote on Oct 13, 2006 10:46 PM:

" My apologies. My post at 9:38 should have been to union member. "

to 8675309 from Dave: wrote on Oct 13, 2006 9:38 PM:

" You have no idea who I am. I don't work at Bobcat and never have. I'm just an interested shareholder who is sick of the whining, ungrateful union minions. "

ATTENTION wrote on Oct 13, 2006 5:16 PM:

" Hey all you U.S.W. Local 566 members. Now hear this, Our Union and I.R. Bobcat will be back at the negotiation table next Wednesday. "

8675309 wrote on Oct 13, 2006 4:54 PM:

" union member wrote "8675309 or dave or company puppet,you are still at it. You guys lead the most pathetic lives I've ever seen. For someone that claims they don't have anything to do with bobcat you sure spend alot of time defending the company. Everyone knows on this site who is who and believe me we know who dave is!" Apparently your reading comprehension is not very high. I have NEVER said that I have nothing to do with the company. My husband is a salaried employee there. He is a hard worker and even back when he was hourly he HATED the union because of their tactics. They were THUGS back then and they are THUGS today. I am not a puppet, but I am VERY proud of my husband for being where he is today because of HIMSELF, his hard work and believing in who he is, and NOT because of any union. And to see THUGS yelling at him, threatening him, calling him names, and telling HIM to sign a contract when it's not even anything to do with him, has really hurt. He is a wonderful person. And he speaks really highly of several of the union guys he knows and works with, however, there are at least as many that he says are worthless lazy bums (and thugs on top of it). I said it once and I will say it again. The union has shown it's true colors. The union attacked and made enemies where it didn't have to. The union is shooting themselves in the foot. Oh, nice try to come back by acting all nicey nice on the news yesterday. LOL. Someone had to come and tell them to behave themselves though or that wouldn't have happened. Oh, and I lead a wonderful life thanks. I am not on here anymore than you are so perhaps you should take a look in the mirror. "

right to work wrote on Oct 13, 2006 8:30 AM:

" This is a right to work state. You can go back to work anytime, you do not need a contract. "

gwinnerworkersickofbs wrote on Oct 13, 2006 1:22 AM:

" to sad wife, you call the union members that wanted to strike greedy. what i got out of your posting went something like this, MY family, MY home, MY beautiful life where i didn't have to work. i'm sorry but to me it sound like your the greedy one. your only thinking of yourself. why do you think your husband gets payed so much? because of the union! if you think that your the only one feeling the pinch your just plain stupid. we all feel it. instead of crying about how tough it is why don't YOU go and get a full time job for now to help "YOUR beautiful family" through this tough time. and also, if you have a house payment, car payment, ect. why didn't you plan for that? its not like you didn't know contract was coming up. you knew this was a possibility. don't blame us "greedy union members" who want to be treated like fairly for your bad planning. and yes, you are sad. GO UNION! "

gwinnerworkersickofbs wrote on Oct 13, 2006 12:59 AM:

" did i miss something, or did we not get rid of slavery. from the way some of you are talking, i guess not. i work hard and have no problem with that. but why should we sit back and let IR take more away from us every four years, all while we double production for them. yeah we'll go to work, be quiet, and like it. thats pathetic. we should'nt have to go find new jobs, we just wanted to be treated fairly by this one. if we can't have that we might as well go back to the whipping post. i'm union all the way and will give whatever i can to help bismark strikers. keep it up, gwinner loves you! "

sad wife wrote on Oct 12, 2006 11:39 PM:

" I am so sick and tired of everyone sticking his or her nose in to this situation. My husband has worked at Bobcat for several years and we have a beautiful family and home becuase of what he has earned there. God has blessed us with his good salary so that I have to work only part-time. Yes I have spent over $45000 on a great college education and graduated in top of my class, however I chose to spend my days at home with our small children rather than in an office making money. It sadens me that my families days our now full of worry and uncertianty due to the stupid and selfish desicion made by my husbands "brothers and sisters." The union may idealy stand for something good, for unity in the workplace and the betterment of working conditions... but surely the leadership of the Bobcat Union has ruined any ideal outcome of this strick. Not only have many of the union members been mislead, they have also been down right lied to by the leaders of this so called "union." It truely is disheartening that over 750 families' lives have been turned upside down due to the selfishness of only a number of employees. If the full truth would have been told from the beginning, perhaps several union members would have thought more throughly about their vote and my husband would still have a job. I don't believe for one minute that this "union" has any solidarity, for if it had their would be better communication, no decite, and certianly no lies. This strick is nothing more than young families paying the price so that the "leaders" of this "union" could get what they wanted. I hope they sleep well at night becuase I can't sleep at all! "

Barney wrote on Oct 12, 2006 11:29 PM:

" To Union Wife - in your post on Oct 11 at 1:40 you blame everyone but the union workers, parts, management, etc - be honest and admit it could also be some lazy union worker. I think union wife is getting a little testy from having her husband home too much this week. --------- Union member - I like how you tell others to get off their computer and get to work - still laughing at the hypocricsy of your post - I guess free speech and commenting is only allowed by you if everything someone says is something you agree with. "

Another spouse: wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:50 PM:

" Wow Dave, I am honored. About 1500 comments between the articles and you quote me!!! Guess I hit a nerve. (Don't worry though, I will not try to "brake" any of your bones.) Unlike you, I was raised by my parents to be polite and have a little class. Could be why I have a great job. You know, if you could manage to grow up, I bet you could get a job and do better for yourself and your "mentally tough kids" too. Just a thought. "

Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:16 PM:

" Hey Hey, Ho Ho, The union leadership has got to go!!! "

tired of Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:26 PM:

" Dave you're just lucky you're a minority or you wouldn't hsve a job at Bobcat. "

Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:24 PM:

" I have decided to take the other side for awhile so here goes.....Hey people get over it. A couple of nails, that may all ready have been there. Is there a witness to any of the people tossing them on the ground? Ummmm NO! I saw people trying to cover them up or was it kick them out of the way?!!! Insults? Come on people, have you never heard of "sticks and stones may brake my bones but words will never hurt me!" Get a spine, my kids are mentally tougher than you. What did you really see on the news? Or was what you saw manipulated but what you heard? Just a thought. "

Another spouse: wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:07 PM:

" Union member, thank you. Here is a little more food for thought. I too am blessed with a better paying position than my spouse and have spent many a day in various college classrooms. However, I do believe there is more to life and intelligence than a 4 year (or more)degree. Good people of this site, why are we ALL willing to pay a physican a couple of hundred dollars an hour for his advice? To be healthy of course! And yet we think nothing of the guy getting $12 to $15/hour(at best) to keep the BRAKES working on the car we drive several times each day AND carry our children around in?! Think about it! "

to wow wrote on Oct 12, 2006 8:13 PM:

" I tryed to get a job there,but since I don't know anyone that works there and I'm a single parent and can't work nights. "

Cretin Power wrote on Oct 12, 2006 8:13 PM:

" wow wrote on October 12, 2006 6:46 PM:"all there people saying that they would take that job at bobcat in a heartbeat cuz they dont get paid enuf at their jobs should do something bout it instead of complaining that others get paid to much. instead of trying to better themselves they want everyone else to settle for less so it seems like they get more" Most comments are the result of neuro transmitters eliciting electrical impulses between masses of Gray Matter. Based on this response, I think it is more Taupe Matter. "

What?? wrote on Oct 12, 2006 7:50 PM:

" You all talk about the money everyone gonna lose from you all not working? Well...WAKE UP....you will be replaced very easy and your replacements will be spending all that money your so worryed about everyone not getting! "

wow wrote on Oct 12, 2006 6:46 PM:

" all there people saying that they would take that job at bobcat in a heartbeat cuz they dont get paid enuf at their jobs should do something bout it instead of complaining that others get paid to much. instead of trying to better themselves they want everyone else to settle for less so it seems like they get more "

BOBCAT IR wrote on Oct 12, 2006 4:27 PM:

" Hey I called today to see if you are taking applications and the lady on the phone said you so not having any openings at this time. How can that be? You have 780-800 people without a contract or job. "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 4:21 PM:

" 8675309 or dave or company puppet,you are still at it. You guys lead the most pathetic lives I've ever seen. For someone that claims they don't have anything to do with bobcat you sure spend alot of time defending the company. Everyone knows on this site who is who and believe me we know who dave is! "

To Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 2:03 PM:

" the posting dated dec 31, 1969 is half of my comments and half of 8675309's. So you may as well disregard it. And the date on my computer is correct as you will see from previous postings, so apparently something is going on at the trib. I have reposted my previous comments so we will see if they show up in their entirety..and with the correct time. "

Online Editor wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:58 PM:

" To 8675309: Thanks for pointing out the time difference, it's not Redneck or Dave's fault. After more than 100 comments are posted to a single story the commenting software starts doing strange things. The first is displaying the incorrect time of posts. It will also not display or randomly delete comments. I'm surprised the software has worked this well with this story - it currently has 791 comments. At 1,000 comments the commenting function stops working. "

To Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:51 PM:

" I am going to re-write this as my last posting got messed up. We cannot go back to work until we vote to go back. And we can't do that until we have something to vote on. We also cannot re-vote without a new offer or dialogue from the company. And they know that. As of yet they are not speaking to us so we will have to wait. So the ball is in their court...... "

If you don't work for Bobcat wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:44 PM:

" You should stop posting. This is none of your business. "

hey tribune wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:44 PM:

" fix the posts. it is not 1969 and you mixed together two different postings...... "

local member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:41 PM:

" respond to lunch: the ceo didnt get a 25 million $ bonus. and the union was offered a 3% raise. you must be one of those college educated union workers. "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:40 PM:

" Redneck, or to Dave, or whoever you are. You might want to fix the time and date on your computer. REDNECK wrote on December 31, 1969 6:00 PM To Dave wrote on December 31, 1969 6:00 PM "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:37 PM:

" "As of right now, the company is not talking to us, so until they do" I think the company said their best offer is on the table. You are waiting for them to make a better offer, but what they said is their best offer is on the table. Their best offer is on the table. Their best offer is on the table. Should I say it again? I think that means the ball is in the union's court. "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:35 PM:

" Lunch wrote: "This is ridiculous. If the ceo can get a 25 million dollar bonus how come the union can't get a 3 percent raise!" THEY CAN. That is what the company is offering them. A 3 percent raise annually and to increase what the company pays for their insurance by 15% for the next year and increase it by 7% more every year after till next contract. Does this sound like something to strike over? What's rediculous is the spreading of more misinformation. "

To Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:28 PM:

" A little inside info........we cannot go back to work until we vote to go back, and we can't vote to go back until we have something to vote on. As of right now, the company is not talking to us, so until they do, we have to wait. Even they know we cannot re-vote on the previous offer. Some new dialogue is required. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 12, 2006 1:05 PM:

" To all of you want Bobcat to move out, remember this: If Bobcat left it would economically hurt this entire town and towns around here. They will be spending less at Wal-Mart, Target, car dealerships, sports shops, boat/jetski/snowmobile dealerships, home builders, the list goes on. When these businesses are impacted by lack of sales they will start laying off employees, who will then also be hunting for jobs that are nonexistent because there will be such a demand for employment. You don't realize your narrow minded thinking may turn around to bite you and impact your family and way of life. Will you be laughing then? What goes around comes around... "

Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:54 PM:

" I don't want the worker's fired or replaced. I want them to quit their whining, accept the 3% raise and get back to work. If the 54% that voted for the strike have to be fired, so be it. I'm sure Bobcat won't have any problem replacing them. "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:38 PM:

" Dear IR: DIDDO! DIDDO! DIDDO! DIDDO! THANK YOU!!!! "Dear IR, I am writting you this message to ask for your help in setting the union fools straight. They are attacking the salaried employees in Bismark, who of course can't change your offer or help them find resolution. These fools are destroying every last bit of support they ever had. I think you would be suprised to know that most salaried employees would now be willing work doubles until competent replacements can be found. No one wants these people back in our factory. They have shown their true spirit and nothing good will ever come from them. Send them their pink slips and move forward with a huge improvement in quality and productivity. Lets move forward with a new Bobcat that has a chance at taking back the market they once owned" "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:30 PM:

" When most people think of violations of labor law, they think first of "Big Business." But employees, employers, and labor organizations file thousands of charges each year—called "Unfair Labor Practices"—alleging violations of labor law by union officials. The National Labor Relations Board's annual report for fiscal year 2005 included the number of Unfair Labor Practices alleged against employers and unions. Once again, union officials faced a disproportionately high number of allegations of wrongdoing, when compared to employers. The worst part: The vast majority of allegations said that members were the ones hurt by the union officials that are supposed to protect them. Read more at www.unionfacts.com "

8675309 wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:29 PM:

" Herb wrote: "If I were Bobcat I would pack up and leave this town. If these thugs are childish enough to do petty things like throw nails, who knows what they will do to the plant if they go back to work." You're right on the money! People like my hubby will HAVE to work with these people who are now treating them like this. The people that have yelled at him and called him names. Those guys who were supportive of the union and have been treated like that - many of them are now disgusted and are hoping that they don't have to work with the union anymore. They don't want to ever have to try to be a team with people who would turn on you like a rabid dog like that. That is why the union is losing a lot of the salary people's support. The middle men who can do nothing for them but are being attacked by them - way to go union. You're just making people hate you. "

Lunch wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:10 PM:

" This is ridiculous. If the ceo can get a 25 million dollar bonus how come the union can't get a 3 percent raise! "

To Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 11:49 AM:

" Dave, if you don't want your tax dollars wasted on those things, then you should probably be careful what you wish for. If you want us to get fired or be replaced, thats exactly what will happen. "

nd worker wrote on Oct 12, 2006 11:23 AM:

" Union workers and Families, you have to realize that people like dave, do not understand what a strike can do to the entire economy,we all suffer from your losses one way or another.to dave, the union workers have to stand up for what they believe in. If you spent as much time in this blog as you do work, I for one would give you the pink ticket and send you out the door. "

Dave wrote on Oct 12, 2006 11:00 AM:

" to another wife: It's not me that's pretending to be you. Why would I want to do that? I have more pride and self worth than that! I do have a stake in this strike and so does every other North Dakotan. We don't want our tax dollars wasted on welfare, food stamps and heating assistance for ungrateful, former Bobcat employees. "

Union strong wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:57 AM:

" For all of you out there complaining about the strike at the Bismarck I-R plant, I hope some of you realize the trickle down effects of it to you. If any of you work at a business, or own one I hope you notice some loss of income due to the strike, because I am sure that local 566 IS NOT going out and spending their paychecks like they use to, so I hope you companies face some hard times too. Maybe there will be some layoffs down the road if this keeps up for some of you, well there is that trickle down effect. I am sure if the contract was signed, and these union workers were back to work spending their paychecks, there wouldn't be anyone complaining there, now would there be? "

another wife wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:40 AM:

" Dave let me finish - MY HUSBAND IS NOT RELATED TO ANYONE EMPLOYED BY BOBCAT. He got his job through his knowledge, skills, education & ability. Those farm kids and poeple in our gerneration were brought up right. UNITED WE STAND. "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:36 AM:

" comment going to dave and banker. Maybe you dave should get off your computer and get to work and start pulling your weight. You worry to much about what others are commenting about and as for you mr. banker lets see what kind of loss you take when we can't make our payments and you get our toys and cars and then we won't be coming to you for any more loans. You'll be losing money too. HA HA That's 780 people, sure is alot of money. "

another wife wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:35 AM:

" I said I wasn't going to use these sites anymore because my name has been used three times already by someone else so I change them - could it be Dave? Dave you sound like you have a stake in this strike, maybe you are inside pretending to be the public voice against unions for Bobcat. The gig is up. I have never heard someone so misinformed as you. Like I said before, I hope you do not have kids or grandkids and if you do please have them find a job out of state, we don't need people like them being taught by a mentor like you. Oh by the way "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:18 AM:

" Buying a dodge would have been the first mistake! Material things can be replaced,come get my stuff big deal. At least I'll still have my pride,something most of you will never have. "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:16 AM:

" Your uneducated posts just prove how ignorant of a company man you really are. You think your strong by yourself,if you worked at bobcat with that mentality the company would have beat you down and spit you out and then would have went out and looked for another one just as ignorant as you. "

Proud of the union wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:09 AM:

" TO DAVE. Go ahead fight for yourself. Companies care about themselves not there employees. Its not how hard you work its how much butt you can Kiss. KEEP ON KISSING! "

Dodge wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:04 AM:

" 53%, hope you don't love your hemi ram trucks or your travel trailers and boats too much, they will soon be fond memories. "

to proud of the union from Dave: wrote on Oct 12, 2006 10:02 AM:

" The difference between you and me is that I don't need someone to fight for me. I fully capable to doing that myself. I don't have to hide behind the union for my well being. Unions prey on the weak. "

to 'proud of the union' wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:41 AM:

" If you're going to make fun of something, get it right. McDonalds doesn't use the microwave for their burgers, just all of their breakfast products (minus sausage). Heck, some fast food 'steam' their sandwiches. And to the union workers, keep this up. Your trouble is making go crazy on these forums. It's hilarious. "

proud of the union wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:19 AM:

" To Dave. Life might be great for you now but what happens when your employer(if you have one!) starts to make less money and has to cut your wages or even lay you off. You would have nobody to help you or even fight for you. I guess McDonalds might pick you up it seems most of their employees are smarter than you and can show you how to make a hamburger in the microwave!! Today might be good for you but who knows what tomorrow will bring. You should not judge others till you walk in there shoes. Good luck to all the men on strike. I dont live in Bismarck but if I did I would be there in the cold with you all!! KEEP UP THE FIGHT. "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:16 AM:

" ignorantdave We are not arguing we are bargaining,if you don't know the difference look it up! Isn't it time for you to make some coffee for the people actually trying to work in the factory? "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:12 AM:

" unionwifeyouaremynewhero That was classic,screen saver classic!!! I'm sure our buddy davy is a company boy that was probably not capable of going over the factory so they gave him the job playing on the forums. Nobody outside bobcat would be wasting their time on something that has nothing to do with them if they didn't have to. "

to wife of bobcat employee from Dave: wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:07 AM:

" Here's what you posted: "When is the last time you worked 11pm to 7am? When is the last time you gave up a weekend because you were mandatoried. When was the last time you missed your child's event because you suddenly had to work? When was the last time you were too sick to go to work but had to because you wouldn't get paid and then you are written up with an occurence if you did call in, 6 occurences in one year and you are TALKED TO." ----------------------- Your husband can find a different job and not have to worry about any of that. I think the general public is awfully sick of petty whiny that the union workers are doing. If he doesn't like the working conditions, FIND A DIFFERENT JOB WITH BETTER WORKING CONDITIONS. It's that simple. "

heyforman wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:03 AM:

" hows it like to be a mushroom. Kept in the dark and fed nothing but crap. If you guys don't like showing up to work in these conditions, stand up for yourselves. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 12, 2006 9:01 AM:

" To Dave: If ignorance is bliss as you say, then you must be the happiest man alive. "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 8:29 AM:

" layedoffingwinner Can't wait for you guys to join the front lines!! The support has been overwhelming,the guys are standing strong out in this nasty weather. That alone gives me a new found respect for my borthers and sisters. They are doing to you what they did to us,there trying to get you down before your contract and then they will kick you while your laying there. Anybody that does business like that is not godlike. We've talked about this many times but IR is really showing it's horns right now!!! "

union member wrote on Oct 12, 2006 7:27 AM:

" another spouse All you guys that think you know so much about how bobcat works,read her educated post you could all learn a little. "

wife of bobcat employee wrote on Oct 12, 2006 7:21 AM:

" In response to MR BANKER Keep in mind who keeps your job going. If it wasn't for the bobcat people buying "toys" you wouldn't have the growth in your business. We all help each other out. As far as toys, I don't own a single one. Gas, insurance, interest, college tuition increases etc. are eating up our check as well as everyone else's. When is the last time you worked 11pm to 7am? When is the last time you gave up a weekend because you were mandatoried. When was the last time you missed your child's event because you suddenly had to work? When was the last time you were too sick to go to work but had to because you wouldn't get paid and then you are written up with an occurence if you did call in, 6 occurences in one year and you are TALKED TO. When companies take care of their people unions are not needed. Do Basin or MDU have a union? No they take care of their employees. I know many people at those companies who make more than bobcat people with little college and fewer years of service. You think Bobcat people make such an enormose amount. The only reason Bobcat employees make any money is when they work overtime. Mr. Banker, I'll take your job. You evidently don't have people skills. You should never insult a customer. "

Proud of the union workers wrote on Oct 12, 2006 7:12 AM:

" I just want to make a comment to all the negative writers. To the ones that say unions are in the past. I believe with them still here today that is why the non union members are getting paid as well as they do today. I believe a company is good to most employers when things are going good. Once things go bad they are all for themselves. Thats when a union would be very nice. The employee has no control over their future. To me that is very scary. Strike sounds better you make the choice not some rich man taking your job away!! Not all of us are fortunite to work a union job in ND. Would love to but not many here. Thanks to you guys for making our jobs better!! STAY WARM AND KEEP FIGHTING!!!! "

What?? wrote on Oct 12, 2006 7:12 AM:

" You people are making $18 an hour??? and your whining??? OMG get out and see what us people that are working 6 days a week are making.I'll be the 1st to be in line to take your job and you can have mine. "

gounion wrote on Oct 12, 2006 2:24 AM:

" Its about time we went on strike, I haven't been there too teribly long gut have noticed the crap that has gone on in the last couple years. Nearly everyone that I have talked to that have been there for quite some time said that the last contracts were bad also and should have been turned down also. With this, what would have become in the contract 4 years down the road, or 8years. If you keep letting someone try to crush you, they are going to keep doing it. Maybe its too late to strike buy when a company can bost about record profits, and mess with the numbers to play mind games I'd say its about time. Shutting down Gwinner is the best look in sight for us, They just proved they donot have enough parts stockpiled like a lot of people were scared of. We will all suffer from short term, and material possessions can all be replaced, hang in there, and hang together, we are in this for the long haul. If we settle this our way, or negotiate a fair contract, 4 years from now they will be scared and be better also. We will not gain everything back in 1 contract, lets fight to start gaining what we had rather than losing more. "

part 2 of Let's try wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:19 AM:

" I do love my job. That's why I stay. Some of the management should go. Not all though. Some are good men and women. The bad part is I.R. Has them way more scared than we ever could. The have basically been turned into puppets. They are told what to do and when to do it. Most people are right, those people (salary) do not have a choice if the want to keep their job. That is just a cold hard fact. One of I.R.'S dirty little secrets. Another is they are well known to be a union busting company. People listen to me, please, we are union brothers and sisters fighting for all at Bobcat. It is a well known fact that if the union does well at contract so do the salaried people. So yes to answer many of your question we are all on the same team out there. We have some bad apples and so does salary. I bet if you stop and though for a moment you might find a person a 2 that is not pulling their weight where you work. We have 1100 + people in our Bobcat factory. Chances are we have more bad apples than you do, but I bet the percentages are the same. We are the last of a dying breed out at the factory, WE HAVE THE LAST AMERICAN MADE PRODUCT! We have been asked to go to other countries, China and the Chec Republic to name a couple and help train the people in their factories. Products we used to make here. That's a tough one to swallow. We said NO. Then we got the rap of being uncooperative. Imagine that. Well I had better get going before I get to the really juicy stuff. This place should not be used to air out our (Bobcat employees) dirty laundry "

Another spouse: wrote on Oct 12, 2006 12:08 AM:

" My spouse was hired at Bobcat the day of the test because the test score was extremely high. We were not even residents of the state (so much for the "relatives" theory).We will suppport the union to the end and if necessary, walk. You are welcomed to the position. First you must pass the test, then you must get through the probation. Funny, only a small % of new hires have been "surviving" probation once they get into the plant and see what it is really like.... Good luck!Go 566 and 560! "

layedoffingwiiner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:52 PM:

" 26 starts tonight guys ,the weekends comming looking forward to it! Stay strong, stay safe.. you have alot of support down here in gwinner......... you guys would laugh your butts off if ya seen how the gwinner shop is running atm...Formans are crying mercy god id hate to be sitting in on their morning meetings bet they all lose 30 lbs from all the butt chewings...Cya this weekend!! Hope bismark is ready for us rednecks. "

Another spouse: wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:52 PM:

" Wow, I have not attacked anyone but I guess I have not been worthy of posting… I’ll try again. The behavior of a few on the picket lines has been deplorable, BUT why all of the vehicles with out-of-state plates at the civic center and who is lying on the floor of the buses the salaried folks are in? Maybe ANGRY should suggest her husband ride a different bus so his co-workers can wave at him knowing he is hiding nothing. Apparently no one saw who threw the nails – if it was intentional. Honestly! If you want to pick up nails try any rural Morton County road!! The union protects ALL workers – members AND non-members alike, if requested. How would you feel as a union member knowing that the guy next to you, a non member who has contributed nothing, is given the same protection as you if he gets into trouble with the company? It happens folks. For the “uneducated” comments, Bobcat has pre-employment exams for positions in the plant; only a handful of hundreds of applicants pass it. I think some of you complaining have failed. IR is not a kind company. Both union and salaried people are aware of this. The guys with years invested in this company remember the good days. They are trying to hang on to a career until retirement. New hires wake up! This is for your future too. The “local” IR manager is changed out every 18 months on his way up the “Corporate Ladder”. He couldn’t give rip about Bismarck, Gwinner his employees or ND. He will squeeze all he can out of the facility and move on. IR has removed the inspectors and quality control (NOT the local Salaried or Union) people. IR “selects’ portions of the contract to follow, disregarding the rest. Fight for what you can now, because IR will eventually move this plant overseas and the taxpayers of Bismarck will be stuck. "

proud to be union Not proud ot be IR wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:07 PM:

" to all of you who think it would be so great to work for IR. Local 7-560 has a decent contract with IR but IR apparently doesn't know how to follow a contract. They have blatant disrespect for most everything it stands for and abuse it everyday so the union has to fight them on it. If IR were such a great company to have in the state they wouldn't have their corparate office in Bremuda to avoid paying taxes. As for the quality of the product. That is directly related to the management. They chose what goes out the door and they want numbers before quality. GO 7-566 "

For all those wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:06 PM:

" who want to see us fail. Thank you and your welcome. "

Hey Gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:57 PM:

" Just a quick note from a UNION BROTHER in the LOCAL 566. Thanks for the updates. You guys wouldn't believe the real support we have here. Took a bit of a media beating early on but we got that crap resolved. Even with the weather not really helping the lines are strong, the spirits are high. The boys and girls are talking to each other ever night. You know who I mean. We are getting the real story. It is still nice to see it here though. Sometimes it is hard to get past all the bs to find you guys/gals. We have all been though this before. Same stuff different contract. Sure is funny how all the unions busting laws don't seem to apply to IR. Just a thought. Hope to see you all soon. p.s. Do you think the people down in Bermuda know about this yet? That's right there arnt't any...... Did you happen to notice their stock was down again today? Bummer because we still need a bit more. Did you guys hear what our head of H.R. said awhile back. We were so impressed with his statement when refering to what happens at contract, we went ahead and had buttons made. Funny thing about that, it is a word we can't use here. Can't wait for this weekend. "

Appalled by the Ignorance wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:56 PM:

" I can't believe how many people are spouting off about the union workers. If they knew half of what they think they think they know maybe thier opinions would be worth something. Stand in the strikers shoes for a bit. Are you all so whipped none of you stand up for your rights or for what you believe in. Plenty of moms have said it... if you can't say anything nice, don't say anything at all. One day you may need a hand from one of these "whiners" do you think you would really deserve thier help? I have my doubts, but I bet you would get it anyway, they're good people. By the way, Thanks to all the wonderful people who are being so supportive. "

anonymous wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:44 PM:

" Maybe we should all remember that we live in a free economy (aka democracy)? If you don't like your job, go find another one. If you can't find another one that pays as well as your current job, you are overpaid - be quiet, go to work, and enjoy it. That is simple supply and demand, the foundation of our economy. I don't expect anyone to take care of me and I don't understand people who do. If you are truly unhappy with your career, take responsibility for your life and go back to school for a different degree. If you feel that joining a giant group of immature thugs (aka the union) is the best way to advance your career, best of luck to you. "

to union member from Dave: wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:39 PM:

" I'm not employed by Bobcat. I'm just an interested citizen who doesn't want to see my tax dollars wasted on welfare, food stamps and heating assistance for fired former Bobcat union workers. "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:39 PM:

" unified Just remember that goes both ways about remembering. That's why nobody will cross,it will never be forgotten and they would be working without a contract which would be suicide. The union leaves the money leaves plain and simple,try getting new workers when there offering 10 bucks an hour. The turnover rate is getting higer every year at 18 bucks an hour,change it to ten and you will have a 60 percent turnover rate. You think bobcat wants to spend more time training,not. The union leaves IR is shipping the compact equipment sector overseas! "

Do the Math wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:29 PM:

" +2% over four years. How many weeks of striking will that cover? My math says if you strike for two weeks you will never recover what you lost. You don't think there are 700 people in Bismarck that will take your jobs? Not the mention the people that will cross the line after IR bleeds them for a month. And yea, their NOT building machine their NOT selling. Good luck. "

Unified for sure wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:23 PM:

" The union sure unified this community over the last few days. I think if it had to vote on what to do with these greedy striking workers, we would have no problem getting the 2/3 vote to fire them. IR could rehire the whole factory in a matter of days. The games the union has played and the attacks on the once friends and still neighbors, will not be soon forgotten. It's a dark day for this union and it is only going to get darker if they don't come to their senses. Yeah, we still wave if we have to drive by, but only because we fear for our safety if we didn't wave back. Its not a wave of support, it's a wave of "please don't jump out in front of my car or throw some nails at me". "

The Hawk wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:15 PM:

" Hey Dave wrote on October 11, 2006 8:14 PM:"you said you drove past airport road and noticed only 5 or so workers at about 6:00, well why didn't you drive down behind the plant between it and building 10, or drive all the way around the plant its a big building, they are manning every posistion, not just airport road and 26th street. Get a clue. THOSE LESS-MANNED POSITIONS ARE NOT PROTECTED FROM THE WIND AND SNOW LIKE THE MANNED POSITIONS YOU SPEAK OF. And to those that are threatened to those banging on the side of the bus. Did that hurt your ears or something? Pretty sure those banging on the side of it had a better chance of hurting themselves."PROBABLY RIGHT HERE, BUT NOT EXACTLY "PEACEFUL" AS THE UNION COMMUNICATES IN THE NEWS. "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:15 PM:

" Dave You and crybabies should hook up and go out on a date together,I'm looking you two would have great time together. You could both talk about bobcat and neither one would know if the other was lying. Both of you are definitely salary and everyone knows it. Good try though,you could still bring us some burgers tomorrow if you like. Unity is the foundation of this country,if you don't believe in our quest,oh well we don't need you. Thanks for your support for the united local 566! "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:56 PM:

" It sure is getting cold out there. But as the saying goes, "The worst day striking beats the best day working"! "

To Union: wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:39 PM:

" Get a different job if I-R is such a bad company. If you don't like them now, what do you think is going to change in the future? Are they magically going to become some different company? Get some self pride and quit begging for support. Bobcat is offering a good deal and you won't take it and then expect us to feel sorry for you. If I was guaranteed a 3% raise for the next four years I would be thrilled. When the state employees went a few years without pay raises I'm sure not too many people felt sorry for them. What makes you think that people will support your cause. "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:38 PM:

" Of course the strikers are smiling - ignorance is bliss. I feel sorry for them. They are getting horrible representation from the union. "

xxx wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:32 PM:

" If who gets hired is by who they know, wouldn't it be the companys fault? They are the ones doing the hiring. How can you blame the union? Wow A lot of ignorance in this town. "

xxx wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:20 PM:

" To comment on knowing someone to get a job. I did not even know what bobcat was or anyone that worked there. When I got my job it was a call from job service and I had a mechanics degree, go figure. On using materials, if it is a safety concern we use what it takes to be safe, you obviously never been in there and seen all the oil, grease, lube and other stuff we have to slip and slide around in all day. "

travelingwoman wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:18 PM:

" As I have had to be on the road since the strike happened I tune in at night to find out what is happening. I feel that some of us may have misplaced our values. As I have to travel a lot for my job I am able to appreciate living and raising my children in BisMan, ND. Is there really anyone who wants to raise their children in a place they constantly have to be afraid. I travel to many cities and immediately go to my hotel and stay there because everyone is not like the people that live in BisMan. I would not want to be anywhere else raising my children. If Bobcat decides to close this plant I as well as a lot of others would have to relocate our families. How important is it to us to keep our children safe? I do understand what unions can do, as I was raised in a union family and went through strikes living on what the food pantry and the $100 that we got from the union provided. Is that what we want for our community? I do believe in standing up for your beliefs but I also believe in doing what's best for your family. "

Hey Dave wrote wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:08 PM:

" To the person who wrote a comment at 8:14pm 10/11/06. I thought it was a peaceful demonstration from the Union. You just put it in my mind that it isn't. In your comment it sounds like you guys are about to vandalize vehicles by pounding on any bus that comes by. You say its peaceful. That is NOT. "

why wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:01 PM:

" I think one of the reasons so many people are angry at the employees at Bobcat is that I have heard for years, that if you ever want a job out there it is who you know. I DO NOT agree with this. I know it happens. Some of the most intelligent and smartest people are not hired for this reason. Employees are getting their own friends in the company. I know this also occurs at the mining companies in Underwood and Beulah. This is one of the reasons I have no pitty for the employees. I don't know if it is because it is union but I have heard that these employees will use one pair of gloves one day and throw them away. What a waste! I hope this isn't true but that is what I was told a few years back "

Appalled by the ignorance wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:40 PM:

" Hey "Union Yes NOT", has it not occurred to you that if the strike lasts a long time there may not be any 6.50/hr jobs available at Target or Wal Mart? 780 families will be spending less money in this community. What do you suppose that will do for Bismarck's economy? I'm thinking it's those that are satisfied with low end jobs are the ones whining on this forum not the union workers fighting for what they work hard for and believe in. Come on IR Big wig/CEO share your 8.7 million dollar yearly bonus! "

amegwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:38 PM:

" i am glad that the 566 are standing up for what they believe in. For all you that disagree, put yourself in their shoes! You would be standing exactly where they are today!! Don't underestimate the POWER of UNION!!! Good luck Bismarck!! We are behind you all the way:) "

Vested Interest wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:21 PM:

" While i'm seeing a lot of talk about the pro-union and how it is so commendable what the strikers are doing, what about the other 46% that voted against the strike? Do you think they are happy with having to worry about their families now? Granted, the majority vote rules, but think about it... there are hundreds of workers who would rather be bringing home their usual paycheck right now than wondering where their next check is coming from. What about them? You know as well as I do that the union all but forces you to join. It's not like they truely have a choice in what happens now. "

Hey Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:14 PM:

" you said you drove past airport road and noticed only 5 or so workers at about 6:00, well why didn't you drive down behind the plant between it and building 10, or drive all the way around the plant its a big building, they are manning every posistion, not just airport road and 26th street. Get a clue. And to those that are threatened to those banging on the side of the bus. Did that hurt your ears or something? Pretty sure those banging on the side of it had a better chance of hurting themselves. "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:55 PM:

" Just drove by the troops and seen nothing but smiley faces,I feel proud knowing that the union brothers and sisters are so united and are standing up for what they believe in. Whatever happens I will never forget how a bunch of average people joined together to fight corporate greed and became very special. It gives me the chills driving by these guys knowing that they are standing up for what they believe in. "

Wake up wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:42 PM:

" Union Daughter ,there is lots of people that would love to have a $10 hour job..and be happy to just pay rent on a trailer house. So wake up and stop whining and get to work.You all got it better than most of us ever will!!!!! "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:34 PM:

" dear IR You think that IR cares about you or anyone else in bismarck,if you do you are sady mistaken. If they cared at all they would have given us the tiny raise and extra benefits we deserve and this never would have happened. If you want to point fingers point them in IR's direction. Oh and you are speaking for yourself when you say they would work doubles. My buddy just got off the bus at the civic center and we chatted,pretty sure he is having plenty with the 12's he is working now. Sounded really down and ready to go back to his cushy office job. He also blames IR and is actually on our side!! "

Union Daughter wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:17 PM:

" For or against unions we all have the right to voice an opinion, however doing it in less childish ways would be great. I am quite sure that most of you benefit from workplace standards that were put in place with the help of unions. It has been said they are greedy & should be happy with what they are offered. Would you take less pay & benefits after working somewhere for 30+ years? Would you work mandatory Saturdays and not know if you will be working the next week? Would you do it for $10/hr? Look at the big piture. You think all 780 union employees are over paid? So if they take a cut in pay & benefits how many of those 780 employees will stay in the Bis/man area? Many will be forced to move to other areas with better paying jobs. There will be less $$$ spent in YOUR local economy. This is not just their fight but your communities fight. If your job/industry relies on economic growth or dollars spent in YOUR community you may be the next in line for a pay cut. There is talk of a not so peaceful stike going on. I am sure there has been plenty of things that have occured to those picketing that has not been reported. I hope this ends peacefully and for the sake of your community a better salary for those willing to stand up for what they have worked for. That is a rare thing these days. Stay safe. "

no name wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:06 PM:

" if you're looking for a higher a wage, maybe you should go college. "

nameless wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:03 PM:

" If you are not content with your job, your wage, and the way you are treated at Bobcat. Get a different job !! You ask for respect, where is your respect for those of us who are content with our job, are not in the union and just want to go to work, do a good job, get a pay check and take care of our families. Where is your respect? "

abc123 wrote on Oct 11, 2006 6:10 PM:

" nobody HAS to join the union??? Yeah right !! only if you don't mind being bullied and harrassed day in and day out year after year. Most of us finally knuckle under and pay our dues. "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 6:05 PM:

" I drove by the strikers on Airport road a few minutes ago and they looked like they were having fun. All 5 of them. "

Dear IR wrote on Oct 11, 2006 6:02 PM:

" Dear IR, I am writting you this message to ask for your help in setting the union fools straight. They are attacking the salaried employees in Bismark, who of course can't change your offer or help them find resolution. These fools are destroying every last bit of support they ever had. I think you would be suprised to know that most salaried employees would now be willing work doubles until competent replacements can be found. No one wants these people back in our factory. They have shown their true spirit and nothing good will ever come from them. Send them their pink slips and move forward with a huge improvement in quality and productivity. Lets move forward with a new Bobcat that has a chance at taking back the market they once owned. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 11, 2006 5:41 PM:

" I personally know several Bobcat employees that were "forced" to join the union so the union employees would quit vandalizing thier vehicles and quit harrassing them at work. They went to the union to complain numerous times and nothing ever happened. They joined the union out of fear for thier own safety. Now we are supposed to believe that this is for the most part a "peaceful" strike with only a few bad apples in the bunch? Yeah right. "

Its too bad wrote on Oct 11, 2006 5:07 PM:

" There are 100s of people that wish they had your high paying job and you still have to whine and cry???? Hope you all end up working for $10 an hour or less and no benefits at all like the rest of us!!!!!!!!!!! "

No Spank-You! wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:58 PM:

" Hey all caps typer, tying in all caps is considered yelling and poor netiquette. If you can't type why don't you stick to phone calls and keep your childish, uh, lack of knowledge how to type off of the Tribune's comment section. You may want to look into spell check too. Oh yeah, your comment was worth the space it took up. "

Opie wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:55 PM:

" A big "Thank You!!" to everyone who has chose to stand down and communicate in a civil manner. With a little understanding among us all we may just gain a new perspective on where each other is coming from. Again.... Thanks. "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:53 PM:

" striker,I drove around the lines last night around 10 and was amazed at all the people standing in the rain. Goes to show everyone that we are fighting for what we believe in. I wouldn't have blamed you for quiting early,it was nasty out. I commend you for standing up for what we all deserve. You guys are alot of peoples heros,I've been told that many times over the last several days. We are looking corporate greed in the face,we might not have big numbers but everyone knows north dakotans are anything but weak and that's something to be very proud of!! Thanks for your support for local 566!! "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:48 PM:

" still angry You want a job,the union could use your help! I just want to emphasize that we do not condone some of the things that happened but emotions are running high. I'm sorry for what happened and everyone was told and retold about how to act. You can't watch everyone but we are trying our best. I understand your husband has to do what he has to do and don't blame him one bit. I know alot of the salary get treated harshly by IR also and that we have in common. Thanks for your support! "

TO Still Angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:43 PM:

" IF YOU ARE INTO PR--INSTEAD OF FIGHTING YOUR BATTLES ON THIS WEB- EXCHANGE YOUR PHONE NUBER OR E-MAIL ADDRESS WITH THE UNION WIFE TO KEEP YOUR CHILDISH FIGHT OFF OF THE TRIBUNES COMMENT SECTION "

Striker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:39 PM:

" I am one of those who stood in the rain and cold for 4 hours last night on the picket line. I am really amazed by the strength these folks have in the face of such a challenge. Bobcat underestimated its union workers, and their ability to pull together for a common cause. We know the community is watching us, our own kids as well. Can we expect our sons and daughters to fight for this country, if we don't even have the courage to go up against our employer in a peaceful manner for what we believe is right? This country did not gain or keep it's freedom by being weak. Yes a few mistakes were made by a few folks, who have since toned down. Get over the nails folks. I didn't hear any reports of damage caused by any nails or injuries caused by getting yelled at. Emotions are running high. Our jobs are at stake. We understand that salary employees do not have a choice to be in the union, but you can support us in many other ways. There are many friendships that cross the salary/union borders. We know you are up against the same issues we are. I have seen engineers used and abused by this same company. Our gains will be your gains. Our fight is also your fight. Also a huge thanks to those businesses, and individuals who have supported us with hot drinks, food and encouragement. You are a life line for us. North Dakota folks ROCK!! "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:36 PM:

" well, I wasn't done and hit return and it went. anyhoo what doesn't involve or hurt my family is fine - go about your business. I just see absolutely NO point in the picketers wasting their energy on salaried employees who can't even help them. They should be doing something more productive for their cause like writing emails, letters to the editor, talking to the media (nicely, not having the media get them on tape screaming and acting like jerks). As a profession I am into PR so that's just what I see. "

still ag wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:34 PM:

" "Truce?" Yes, please! I don't think that debates need to turn into personal attacks and insults. I don't understand why everyone can't be civil. That includes my idea of how a union should strike (with a professional PR person's help to WIN over the public, not make them dislike the union). But, whatever. That's just my opinion. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:13 PM:

" To still angry: For the record I did not write the post you just quoted. I wrote at 11:20 AM:"I do hope people are noticing there are 2 people posting under "union wife" All of my posts have the "[U]nion" capped. Please do not be angry at me for comments made by the "[u]nion wife". I am trying to be civil while stating my points." I did not write the words in your post. Someone else did. As for my last comment I apologize. As we all know with writing you cannot always tell the tone being portrayed. I read it as being condescending/sarcastic. I apologize if I took it wrong. Truce? "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:58 PM:

" "you need to keep your mouths shut." That's something that I really think is amazing, how many people here tell others to shut up. Hello?? You are all big about fighting for your rights and everything else and you want the right to comment on everything here but don't want the rest of us to comment IF we disagree with you. That is rude and tactless. We all have the right to comment. If you don't like it, leave. No one is forcing you to be here and read. You have no business telling others to shut up. Shut up and stupid. Two things I have been told/called today. Two things that I forbid my children from even saying. I consider those two statements to be worse than most profanity. "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:52 PM:

" hey there still angry wrote:"I will offer you an apology for the behavior of a select few. I am personally sorry for what they did. I assure you those things are NOT condoned by our union, local 566. That type of behavior is completley unacceptable. It has been dealt with. We are working very hard to make sure thoses things no longer happen." Thank you. That is really good of you to write. Very much appreciated to read someone talking sense here. "

tired of the bs wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:51 PM:

" to private contractor: It's hard to make a quality product when you don't get quality parts from venders because management doesn't want to spend the money for good parts. Union workers don't make the hoses or pumps they can only put on the parts the company gives them. "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:48 PM:

" union wife wrote: to "STILL ANGRY".... like it has been said soooooo many times in these forums. If you husband doesn't like working at Bobcat as a salary employee he should get a different job!!! It is his chioce to be a salaried Bobcat worker as it is our husbands choice to be a UNION worker. So quit your whinning!!!!!" Wow, aren't you nasty! Where did I ever say my husband doesn't like working at Bobcat??? I didn't, because HE DOES. He appreciates his job greatly and has no intentions of quitting. I was absolutely NOT whining, especially about his job. I was complaining (just as you have done on here all day) about his getting harrassed by union members as he carries on about his business and says and does NOTHING to them. Tact? Whew. None in your post! "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:41 PM:

" Excuse me? Did I knot just agree with you? Must you go on and on and on with me? Or did you just want the last word? Jiminy Crickets Lady. Go harrass someone else. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:30 PM:

" To Still Angry: You just don't get it do you? I have clearly stated that I do not approve of the behavior. I agree it should have been done with tact. How many times do I need to say that? Not all salaried employees have been acting with tact as well. There are faults on both sides of the line. "

Wife of a UNION Bobcat worker in Gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:21 PM:

" "Numbers" I know what I know as well and the Gwinner guys are getting laid off next week because there are not enough parts coming from Bismarck. We have friends that are engineers as well as my husband being UNION. Plus a relative that has worked at the Bismarck plant for 28 years and other relatives that work there as well; they have all said the same thing. Sorry if I offended you by calling you "Honey" but it's amazing the comments on this post from people that have NO IDEA what's going on at BOTH plants!!! "

ryanm424 wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:16 PM:

" There is nothing wrong with using nails or threats during a negotiating process. It's just business. Those nails could have been laying there for weeks for all we know. "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 3:02 PM:

" Union wife: "However it would be much better received if it were don with tact." My point exactly. "

another wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:50 PM:

" Some people just like a good debate and argument - Dave. Intellegence should tell you that no one would be striking if there weren't problems. Bobcat likes to play games with their employees, they are doing just that right now. Some of the posts here are so far from the truth that I would be embarassed to put a post that runs others down without a fact to back up their words. The strikers are just trying to make things better for your children and grandchildren. By the way Dave I hope you don't have children for one and if you do - please let them find a job where they will be far from here because Bismarck does not need thinkers like they will be with you as a mentor. "

To: "GwinnerBobcatEmployee " wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:41 PM:

" It seems simple to me, the reason Gwinner will get laid off is becouse if the strike in Bismarck continues, it will run Gwinner out of Cylinders and Valves. Can't really build too many loaders without those. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:39 PM:

" To Barney: Can you please show me where I ever used the word "scabs"? Don't put words into my mouth. I have yet to lump any group together. If you have all the answers, as it seems you always seem to when it comes to comment time, then why don't you CREATE/OWN a big company with great benefits and great pay? Why don't you employ people with a great working environment so they don't have to form unions? Your so full of suggestions so why don't you start making a difference in this community? "

numbers... wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:23 PM:

" I know what I know. Your statements are not based on facts, just what you think you know. There is no game, except that when there is no orders for machines, there is no need for work. And DON"T CALL ME HONEY!! I too have friends in both factories and I am hearing a totally different point of view from union and non-union workers alike. Bottom line-no company, no jobs. No orders-no work! "

Wife of a UNION Bobcat worker in Gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:10 PM:

" to "Numbers" I don't know where you get your info about Gwinner laying off due to the economy but honey, your dead wrong. This is a game that Bobcat plays with the factory works every time there contract is about up. For about a year before contract they make it look like things are tough so they can give the UNION workers a crappy contract. And guess what!?!?!.... after the contract is signed it's amazing, they make the guys work manditory 6 days a week because they are sooooo behind. Any one that works in the Bismarck and Gwinner factory knows this fact, I have friends and relatives that work in both plants. So if you don't have your facts stright PLEASE don't say stuff that's not so!!! Go Local 566, we back you 100%. We have our "Proud to be UNION" signs in our front yard in the Gwinner area!!!!! "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:40 PM:

" To "Confused": I will try to answer some of your questions. 54% is not enough for a recount because they only need 50% plus 1 vote to approve a strike. I do not know who counts the votes. As for the nail situation...as I have said before it was the stupidity of a few union members. No excuses. Can't babysit everyone. These people were wrong in their actions. But that shouldn't be held against the other 99% of union members who are good people. To "Barney": When you manufacturer hundreds of machines there is bound to be a few that are lemons. It has nothing to do with the quality of the workers. Sometimes no matter how much work is put into something it still doesn't work right. I have heard of many situations where the workers have told foremans there is a problem with a machine and it gets ignored because it's all about numbers and how many machines can be manufactured during a shift. They "green tag" them and send them out. That is not due to poor workmanship. Sometimes parts are bad. Other times it's bad judgment from management. "

GwinnerBobcatEmployee wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:35 PM:

" Our backlog was 500 machines as of yesterday afternoon, our "average" everyday intake of orders is 120 machines, that would be 600 machines a week, 2400 a month, why are we getting laid off? Ya think it could be cuz they want to teach us a lesson? Or, is it to teach Bismarck a lesson? "

numbers wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:32 PM:

" To Unionwife... The numbers speak for themselves. Gwinner is shutting down because of the economy, not everything revolves around the loss of the union. If have faith that the guys working now, (salaried, my husband included) will do the job as needed, appreciate the job they have, take pride in the company that gave them their jobs and pull any numbers they need to for getting the job done. Its funny how they need less people to do it. To all union workers who want to go back to work, I feel for you. Stand up to the union and what you really do believe in and everything will work out in the long run. Nobody wins with this strike. All it is doing is causing bad blood between families and friends who are on opposite sides. Isn't family and friendship worth way more than money?? "

confused... wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:25 PM:

" thinking. Who did count the votes, where are the votes stored, who is in possession of them, was there a 3rd party involved in counting them, and maybe there should be a recount. From the sounds of this site, I wonder if there truly was a 54% majority. (In a normal election, that would be close enough for a recount). Although, if the union heads were in possession of them, chances are the votes are sabotaged by now anyway. I still haven't seen any direct answers to why the nails, etc. Peaceful, huh? "

GwinnerBobcatEmployee wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:24 PM:

" What the news said about not brining in anyone from other places is wrong. There have been salary people sent from the Gwinner plant to Bismarck. We also received word that we will be laid off next week and for 2 weeks in November and also possibly in January. Stay strong Union brothers and sisters. We do support you!! "

Barney wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:22 PM:

" Wife of a bobcat worker - the guy that bought the machine bought it b/4 your guys went on strike - so it appears that the dedicated, skilled, extremely hardworking workers who are now striking may have been lacking in quality assurance and they still demand a 5% increase. Go ahead call OSHA - you sound like a bully on the playground - if I don't get my way I'm going to take may ball and go home, or make up a lie to get you in trouble just so I can have my way. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:20 PM:

" To wifeof2ndshifter: I agree the few that acted as they did are an embarrassment. My husband didn't vote for the strike either, however that is how it turned out and he is supporting the decision of those who did vote to strike. Your husband did not have to join the union when he started so please don't blame the them. When he started paying union dues he agreed to support his fellow union members through thick and thin. Being a union member you know there is always a chance a strike could take place and having that knowledge you should also think about whether or not you would like to be a part of that. To "numbers": If they were "gettin 'er done" Gwinner wouldn't have to close their doors for 2 weeks. "

numbers wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:09 PM:

" No joke, true facts.. something that is few and far between with you guys. "

Union wife to Still Angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:05 PM:

" Now you understand where all of us union wives are coming from. We all support our husbands. We all have families to support too and when you start attacking the integrity of my husband I will stand up for him. You have no right to be judging ALL union workers. I understand your husband has a job to do, but so does mine, and right now his job is to take a stand to make the working conditions, pay increases, and benefits better for everyone around him. You have every right to voice your opinion as do I. However it would be much better received if it were don with tact. And for the record i'm not "attacking you". I call it as I see it. "

to"wifeof2ndshifter" wrote on Oct 11, 2006 1:02 PM:

" Maybe your husband has "little to no education " but the rest of us including salery do! Let me see Bobcat hired 1099 people with a great education and 1 with "little to no education". Too bad he slipped though the cracks and landed a job out there. Looks to me like there are a lot of well educated people who would love to work out there after we go back to work. Or maybe he is the one causing all the problems. hmmm kinda makes you wonder though doesn't it. I guess your comment is not so great when it is misinterpreted is it. You really should watch what you say because people are boneheads and will think about all of us that way, including your husband.. just a thought "

Barney wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:53 PM:

" Majority - more than 54% have to stick it out - if you don't it appears the union will threaten, intimidate, etc you whether you agree with the strike or not. Just because more people aren't crossing the picket line doesn't mean they support the strike, rather I think they are afraid of their fellow union members. Dedeye - will you also support state employees and government workers getting a 5% increase every year w/o crying about your taxes going up? Or how about the store clerks - will you not complain when a loaf of bread or laundry detergent goes up so that these people can also get their 5% - or are you just in this for yourself. Union member - I don't know what community you are talking about supporting this strike but it appears by comments here and on the street many people don't support the strike, but keep up the good face and misleading information. Gettininshape - how can you hunt and fish when all we hear about is the union complaining their guys have to work 6 days a week - hmmmmm could that all be for not? Union wife - you ask us not to group all union members together - but you and other union supporter group all the others who want to work and are salaried employees as "scabs" - I guess lumping togther is only good when its not you or your own. "

To Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:52 PM:

" You must really get your kicks being difficult. Let's check your math here. 40 hrs of work plus possible being mandatoried another 32 hrs for a total of 72 hrs for the week. Picketing for 4 hrs per day up to 7 days would be what? Only 28 hrs per week verses up 72hrs! Hmmmm "

wifeof2ndshifter wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:45 PM:

" I think it is really sad that those of you who were on the picket line, were being rude and obnoxious to the non-union guys coming to work. Is is really their fault they have to be bused in to work, come on. All of you portray IR union workers to be IDIOTS!! My husband voted not to strike but still has to put his time into something that he does not even believe in!! All of you that think you are some of the most skilled workers in Bis, get a clue. Where in ND can you go to get a job with little to no education and get paid as much as you do????? "

what the? wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:44 PM:

" To numbers. You are joking, right? "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:18 PM:

" Hey Beesh, it's good to see you here. I was wondering where you were! I always enjoy reading your comments on this site. You're very talented with writing. I appreciate your thoughts & opinions. Perhaps that is in part because I know who you are in real life & you are an exceptional human being. Give those 3 little ones a kiss from me :) And keep posting! "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:13 PM:

" "Your name seems to fit you well. You seem like a very angry person." Actually Union wife I am a very loving person but I am not surprised that you choose to attack me personally rather than address the issues at hand. I give alot more than I take in this world, to everyone & everything I do. I am not hateful. But as many mothers & wives are, if someone hurts my family, it makes me angry. Have you never heard the many phrases there are out there about making mothers angry? They will protect their loved ones with fierce protectiveness. What you "hear" in my tone is not hate. It is PASSION for my husband & what he is going through right now (despite the fact that he did NOT choose this & the union members DID choose this). I just got off the phone with him. He is depressed too. He wanted to thank me for all of my love & support right now & tell me that anyone who would call me "stupid" is wrong & doesn't know me. "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:11 PM:

" A restraining order does seem appropriate since Bobcat is the cause of so many divorces among its employees. "

numbers... wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:09 PM:

" 1/3 less people, 1/2 the time, gettin' er done!! Do the math!! "

confused... wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:08 PM:

" Hey USW, isn't the ball in your court? You guys are the ones that walked, why do you say it is up to bc? Their offer is there for the taking. Seems to me you need to make the first move. Don't say that its bc's fault for not calling. And for the comment about getting your jobs taken away, you are doing it to yourselves. Hope you stay warm! "

wife of Bobcat worker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:02 PM:

" Well, let's just make this clear. My husband is proud to be UNION and stands behind his choice and his union brother and sister's 100%. And the news should really get some new footage showing the guys waving at people that drive by and honk, or smiling and saying thank you to someone that has brougt them hot coffee. The news does not mention how much community support we have or how things are being peacefully reiterated. Thank you to all business, other hard working people, family, friends, neighbors for showing them your support. ALL is greatly appreciated. I have been on this blog since day one and you know what? There is more positive than negative. So, glad that all of you salaried employees have something to do on your 10 minute break every 2 hours. That way there is some negativity to read. Always good to have a good debate. I like to argue. And thank you to the salaried employees that support your workers. You are the ones that probably started out on the floor and know how to really work. AND if it wasn't for Dave and his ignorance we wouldn't have anything to laugh at. Another thought. I think that we should make a little call to OSHA. Maybe a few of us spouses should. Sounds like a good idea. That guy that bought a machine and was complaining about all the problems? Just think of what they are gonna be like with the office people and others that don't have a clue what they are doing. HMMMM....Let's see. "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 12:00 PM:

" So there have been several comments about how strikers act & like it's all supposed to be like this. Perhaps that's why it's not working for you. Seriously, you need a PR person. You need someone (obviously NOT that Steve guy because in all honesty he is not helping you any) to get out and talk to the press. Talk to every radio station. Talk to the news. Write letters to the editor. Hold up signs that SAY SOMETHING MEANINGFUL. Don't act like apes. Stop yelling nasty things. WHY do you think that helps you? Whoever is telling you this is doing you a disservice. Especially here in ND. We are NOT Detroit. Detroit may think that is alright but we in Bismarck ND do NOT. Get a new game plan! Can you not see from the comments made that your strategy is NOT working?? "

Union wife to Still Angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:59 AM:

" Your name seems to fit you well. You seem like a very angry person. Sounds like you are hard to please all the way around. People have tried to apologize for the actions of some union members and yet you still respond with hate. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:55 AM:

" Well said justwondering. I too have talked with my husband regarding the acts of the others and he was very embarassed and upset about it. "

still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:55 AM:

" Union members & wives made a choice to be a part of the union & with that choice came being lumped in with them in this situation. Because there are some who are ruining the reputation of the union do not blame us for "stereotyping". You joined that group, you made that choice, if you can't make the people that represent you act decent then that is not my fault. Why don't you have rules where if they start doing nasty things they're out of the union? They're making you look bad. They're making people NOT support you. They're NOT helping you at all. So kick them out! Don't tell me that I am supposed to not stereotype all union members as, well, union members??? "

lostmoney? wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:53 AM:

" OK lets just say I workered at bobcat for 15 years. I have saved money, and bought a house or land on a 30 year loan. In the last 8 years we keep going backwards. Well how long before I cannot afford what I used to be able to pay for easily. That is why it is hard to quit. Everyone sets their lifestyle to what they make and it is unfortunate that inflation rises so quickly. Obviously every little man is losing money and Every company is making money while breaking the little man. We have our right to fight for what we believe and statistically this company has more to offer than what we are asking for. I doubt we will get the supposedly 100% healthcare we are asking, we haven't even negotiated yet. THE RICH GET RICHER AND THE POOR GET POORER. IT IS TIME FOR EVERYONE TO STICK UP FOR ONE ANOTHER. Where is our money going with such high inflation, I would like to know so we can unite against these companies as well. "

bis resident wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:45 AM:

" oh I might add my past employer drives a jaguar and has a new home,ski toys and all other essential luxuries. his co-owner is no longer with him and works as a cashier at a local gas station. "

justwondering wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:37 AM:

" to STILL ANGRY!!! harsh words- understand the hurt and anger. we're hurting financially and scared about how long this strike will last. husband and I talked about how he would conduct himself on the lines - his kids are watching and so are others - we're not trash and will not show that. I disagree with all that's happening to your family and husband - a true shame. however, do not lose support and hope for the MANY who do not fall in this category. my husband including. showing your children stereotyping is just as harmful as what the ignorant protestors (the handful of them) are doing. "

bis. resident wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:32 AM:

" I agree Union employees are the only ones who knows what is going on inside the plants, we don't. I also believe that some companies disrespect their employees and treat them as unskilled. I have a four year degree and was treated as being uneducated by my last employer who refused to give out raises to anyone or treat them with dignity and respect. I told him in order to earn respect he had to treat us with respect in return. he didn't care about us and nobody wanted to work for him, the result is he ended up losing one of his businesses, the doors remain locked today.so I guess what goes around comes around to these type of employers. thankfully today I have a job where my employer is totally happy to have me as an employee, I get raises,8 in less then 2 yrs.,fulltime hrs.,holiday pay, overtime pay,vacation,health,dental,401k,life insurance and including they pay up to 14,000 on additional life insurance.so with rising costs I understand what the union workers are doing and I support them,just do it safely and make your point! oh and thanks for all you have done for us. as for Dave: he is a big mouth who probably is on welfare I see him on here 24/7 and his opinions mean nothing so don't let him get on your nerves he probably hates himself. "

justwondering wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:31 AM:

" it's a shame to see the picketers screaming at the buses and following salaried workers home. i support the union in what they are doing- the select group standing out there for no pay. yes, bobcat pays better than other places, but all the comments about just being happy with what you get and how you (those complaining of their own benefits) do no apply here. how big is your company? this should be a benefit for the many 6-day mandatoried work weeks. some of us DO NOT waste our money on toys and buying bigger trucks than they other guy. please do not stereotype as such. would like to know how it's legal for the company to NOT make efforts to NEGOTIATE in GOOD FAITH! not returning calls seems to be in complete violation. unfortunate - some of us have to pay bills too. "

Union Yes - NOT! wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:29 AM:

" I hope the strike lasts a long time. It is a good time for the Bobcat production line to be shut down, as seasonal sales are slowing down. In the meantime, the union leaders pull their rank and file in a show of strength. It will be interesting to see how much strength you have six months from now when you are all out of work and whining about making $6.50 at Target or Wal-Mart. It is certainly your right to strike - it is also IR's right to stand their ground and not bow to your demands. I will put my money on IR in this battle. This is the reason that Unions are way out of tune with reality. They had their place in the world, but that place has come and gone. My hearts go out to the 46% that did not want to strike. So much for the unions representing your best interests. Good luck! "

wanttowork wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:23 AM:

" to;rodericus. I agree with you 100% if it wasn't for those "greedy" corporations none of these jobs would exist,probably yours included.Do you really believe it's because of those corporations these are good paying jobs? "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:20 AM:

" I do hope people are noticing there are 2 people posting under "union wife" All of my posts have the "[U]nion" capped. Please do not be angry at me for comments made by the "[u]nion wife". I am trying to be civil while stating my points. "

Hi Dave again! wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:19 AM:

" I did not say Bobcat is a low paying job. I was refering to some of your other comments. Maybe I got the wrong impression. Please know this, If we lose the union out there we will lose the wages and benefits along with it. Here is just one example for you. During bargening the company proposed this.... If for some reason the run out of work for you at any given time you would be sent home. Sounds fair right? No not at all, because you would then be forced to come in on Saturday and possible Sunday just to make your 40hrs. So you would end up working 7 days without over time just to get 40hrs in. We would be worse off that way then we are now with being mandatoried 6 days with over time. Maybe that would be fine with you, but the rest of us think that's a bunch of crap. So as you can see there are many issues that we are fighting for. If we let Bobcat treat us that way and we are union, who is going to stop your employer from doing it to you? Trust me buddy if a company can save a buck or two they will. It is unforunate for you not to be union. You could always try and organize yourselves and try and help us protect what we already have. "

striker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:19 AM:

" Dave you are an idiot. I clearly stated that a few bad apples did act stupid. I never blamed the media for their actions. I asked why the media chooses not to show any footage other than the first day. You sound like a company man who only hears what he wants to hear. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:13 AM:

" Union dues are $32/month. $16 per check. "

To Union Wife from a Bis Bystander wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:11 AM:

" Are you for real??? Let's put the shoe on the other foot and call your hubby names, threaten you & your kids - are these the kind of "family values" you instill in your kids - if so how scary is that!! Everyone has made their choice, your choice to write something so mean and crude is unbelievable!!! "

UNREAL wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:08 AM:

" IF BOBCAT IS SUCH A NASTY AND BAD COMPANY TO WORK FOR AND YOU SAY THAT YOU DO NOT MAKE ENOUGH WHY DO YOU ALL STILL STAY THERE??? DAH THE MONEY!! THE PEOPLE I KNOW THAT WORK THERE WORK AS MUCH AS THEY CAN AS THEY LIVE FOR THE O.T. I DO NOT UNDERSTAND WHY WHEN MOST OF IT GOES TO THE IRS. AND AS FAR AS THE MONEY YOU MUST PAY FOR INSURANCE. I WOULD LOVE TO PAY THAT. MY SPOUSE'S EMPLOYER TAKES OUT $328.00 EVERY 2 WEEKS FOR A BCBS PLAN THAT HAS A $1000.00 DED. MY EMPLOYER RARELY EVEN GIVES RAISES WE JUST RECEIVED ONE THIS SUMMER AFTER 3 YEARS AND IT WAS 2%. I DO NOT LEAVE BECAUSE I LIKE MY JOB. YOU STAY BECAUSE YOU LIKE YOUR WAGES. YOU ALL NEED TO STOP COMPETING WITH YOUR FELLOW WORKERS ON BUYING THE NICE NEW TRUCKS AND TOYS AND SAVE SOME OF THE BIG $'S YOU MAKE. MOST WORKERS WOULD LOVE TO HAVE THE HOURLY WAGES YOU MAKE AND PAY YOUR INS. PREMIUMS. GROW UP. LEAVE AND MAKE A LOT LESS SOMEWHERE ELSE. "

my 2 cents wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:06 AM:

" Amen, Still angry! You nailed it! My husband is a salaried employee, too, and he warned me not to go anywhere near the plant or where they're parked. Even just a few bad apples make him fear for the safety of his family. Too bad! "

MOM of Union worker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 11:01 AM:

" The Union had its place years ago. Not all Union workers are fighting dirty, just a handfull. Many are out there on the picked line for what a whopping $100.00 a week (after the first 3 weeks). Unions seem to get a bad name by the handful that do fight dirty. Many Union workers would just like respect from the company. Union strikes usually hurt more people than help them. OUR PRAYERS AND THOUGHTS ARE WITH ALL THAT ARE EFFECTED BY THIS STRIKE. "

a point wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:58 AM:

" Nobody has made the point yet that those salaried workers who the union workers are calling "Scrubs" are forced to do the floor work because if they didn't they would be fired. They need their jobs to support their families, too. just because they aren't union doesn't mean they're against you. Too bad that they are being forced to be bussed in because the company is concerned for their safety and the safety of their property. They are just doing what they have to do, too. Why is it always "US vs THEM?" "

GO UNIONS IM PROUD wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:57 AM:

" All of you on the picket line KEEP IT UP. Fighting for what you believe is right is so important. I liked the coment hi Dave wrote. Without the fight of your unions none of our union jobs or non union jobs would be where they are today. THANKS FOR FIGHTING FOR US ALL! To those writing the negative comments, You should be thanking those guys out there fighting for all our rights. NO ONE deserves to miss all the time with there families for a job. 6 days manditory come on. It should be a choice to work those days. I do believe that most of these comments are coming from salary positions and other people that have never seen the strength of a union and the importance of one. KEEP IT UP YOU HAVE MY SUPPORT! "

hey gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:54 AM:

" slow down, its time for job security, obviously production is down, I think you should stand around and drink coffee. People don't understand that if we would bust our buts we just might get more unpaid time off. Or maybe even a layoff. Company tells us Market is down so I think our production is allowed to drop so we can protect our union brother in another way. "

To beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:50 AM:

" How much money a month do union dues run? Is it really 240 dollars a month? "

to Hi Dave from Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:46 AM:

" I agree that there are plenty of low paying, no benefit jobs in Bismarck. Bobcat is definately not one of them unless you consider $18/hr low pay (it is in many cities but not Bismarck). "

unions? wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:45 AM:

" I would like to hear some comments from other unions, we have plenty in our area and it seems all have goods and bads. It is the overtime for me and others, that when something is going on it is hard to schedule around it and make plans. we are not guaranteed that we can take them whenever we want. There may be a few people who do not pull there own weight, but are some that work hard to get through the day. Sometimes people run out of parts and they tend to stand around for a period of time. I have ordered parts many of times, told forman if needed, and have waited. Lots of times the forman were either too lazy to find them or get them to me, Some forman work harder than others. I usually try to find an area to go to cause I get bored. Would you like to work 11pm to 7am every day. Have you tried sleeping during the day, I'd say it is pretty tough. Your biological clock is off balance, neighbors mowing lawns, blowing snow, and other noises you normally do not hear at night. Plus reasons like kids, fam in town, freinds or others. Then you throw in the 6th day of work. Theres a little less time for all of that, plus work around the house. It gets old, and people wear out just like your old vehicle. You treat them better and they just might work better for ya a little longer. I guess most of you don't know what it is like to work nearly 6 days a week for nearly 3 to 3 and 1/2 years, and as soon as contract comes economy is down and can't afford to pay you more. But as soon as you take the bone with no meat,a fresh t-bone is out of reach and you keep going after it. Its time to take a stand reach for our what we believe in." "

Union wife to Beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:44 AM:

" I am thankful we have my job to fall back on, however my job doesn't pay the bills. My salary is far from terrific. You talk about those that lose their job for no reason, well let me tell you that if it weren't for the union many of those workers would lose their jobs for no reason. The union is constantly filing grievances against the company for trying to fire workers for no good reason. If the union wasn't there people would be hired and fired just because a foreman didn't like a certain person. Before you comment know your facts. "

k wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:43 AM:

" As for the attendance policy that was not put into the last contract. They only changed it this last year. I remember my husband coming home and telling me that the company was changing their attendance policy. So obviously contracts don't mean anything to the company. So that is why the union is trying to get something written into their contract about the attendance policy. I think it is only fair. I have seen my husband so sick that he had a 101 degree temp and still went to work. The company is only asking for someone to get hurt when they go to work that sick. "

hey there still angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:43 AM:

" I will offer you an apology for the behavior of a select few. I am personally sorry for what they did. I assure you those things are NOT condoned by our union, local 566. That type of behavior is completley unacceptable. It has been dealt with. We are working very hard to make sure thoses things no longer happen. Regrettably I can not be on the lines 24/7. There are how ever a couple of guys who crossed the line. They were expected to do it anyways. Thoses are the true scabs. Those are the ones the insults were intended for. NOT your husband. Now, are you serious a your children being scared? Do you mean some jerk actually threatend them, or do you mean they are scared in general? Both of my children are also scared. They don't really understand what is going on. I am not asking for your forgivness or anything like that, but I do want you to know we are woring very hard to stop the few bad apples we have from behaving in such a disgusting manner. Once again I would like to say I am sorry. WE ARE SORRY! "

union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:42 AM:

" to "STILL ANGRY".... like it has been said soooooo many times in these forums. If you husband doesn't like working at Bobcat as a salary employee he should get a different job!!! It is his chioce to be a salaried Bobcat worker as it is our husbands choice to be a UNION worker. So quit your whinning!!!!! "

Go Still Angry! wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:41 AM:

" She certainly nailed it. I think many in the community who are even removed from this situation would tend to agree. It's too bad it had to happen this way. "

uniondues wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:37 AM:

" What union are you in that you pay $240/month, I pay $32 to the USW566. "

to Still Angry wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:36 AM:

" Have you not seen a strike before? If they weren't going to be loud and get noticed-they could have stayed at home. "

Private Contractor wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:35 AM:

" Ten days ago we purchased a new machine to replace one. Guess what? 10 hours on the machine and it's in the shop. Oil leaks, anti freeze leak, missing grease zirks, crooked boom, smells hot etc. I have only myself to blame for this purchase because we were warned about quality problems with Bobcat machines. What a shame, it was a great product. This country needs to get back to working with workmanship, pride and accountability. QUALITY, hard work and respect deserve good wages and raises, In my opinion, those skills are only acquired if you can be fired. "

Wife of a UNION Bobcat worker in Gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:34 AM:

" I forgot to mention in my last post that Bobcat UNION workers in Gwinner are affected by the Bismarck strike. My husband said that it was posted this morning that they are laid off next week and for 2 weeks in November. "

REDNECK wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:32 AM:

" This strike is not really about money or benifits. Its about respect. Most of us go to work and give 100% every day without complaining. We care about quality and safety, but alot of managament people just care about production numbers. You wouldnt believe have long it takes an issue to be addressed when we bring it up, if it gets addressed at all. Its mostly empty promises. I know some of you say we dont deserve respect for the actions of some union members, but that just a few bad apples. Most of us would go back to work today and give 100% again. Walking the picket line is a way to let off steam for the way we have been treated. The union refuses to meet with the union at this time, so the ball is in there court. "

k wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:30 AM:

" I believe my husbands union dues are about 40.00/month. No where near to 240. "

support the 566 wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:30 AM:

" The question I have is for Dave - what do you do? You seem so sure of yourself and seem very willing to give your rightous opinion on these workers. You seem to have an extreme hatered for these people,it almost seems as if you are jealous. Have you ever worked in a factory or in a place like this? In reading this board, I can not believe how many people that don't know the whole story have to comment badly against the Union people. For those of us not employeed with Bobcat we don't know the whole story. Good, bad or otherwise with 54% or whatever the count is voting to strike - this is a sign that something is wrong there. I know I wish I was union so when there are serious issues at where I work something could be done to help the situation. Instead of being told - either like it or get a different job! Good luck 566 and I hope there can be some sort of solution found soon! "

gettinginshape wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:27 AM:

" well looks like I'll have a full week of family time. So to me, I can enjoy hunting this weekend and not feel bad for leaving the ones I can't take with behind. "

STILL ANGRY!!! wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:23 AM:

" UNION: Again today you're pulling the same dirty tactics. We HAD nothing against the union until you started to pull all your immature crap. We are friends with MANY union members. You KNOW that my husband has NOTHING to do with your issues with the company & is not in any way able to help your cause. You all KNOW that he can’t be in the union even if he wanted to because it is not an option for him as a salary employee. You know that he is NOT a scab. My hubby does not have the CHOICE to strike like you have. Any support we may have ever had for you is GONE. We will NEVER defend you. We will NOT honk for you. We will NOT bring you drinks. We will NOT write a letter to the editor or encourage the management at Bobcat to deal with you. We will do NOTHING for you. You YELL at my husband. You go as far as to go to the parking lot where he now has to park & yell at him there. One of you even got up to his face yesterday & called him a leach, scab, & a rat. While he works you call him names from your picket lines. You bang on the side of the bus that takes him into the plant. My husband & all of these other guys CANNOT HELP YOUR CAUSE & even if they could, do you really think any of them would bother with the way you’re treating them? Threatening them? Yelling at them? Scaring their children? NEVER. We will NEVER again support you. You all have done a horrible disservice to your own brothers & sisters by making this unions name DIRT. You are fighting NASTY & fighting the wrong people, who aren’t even doing ANYTHING against you! You are hurting INNOCENT people, by your own choice. You are choosing to hurt my family. We will be siding WITH the company from here on out, any chance we get. You have shown your true UGLY colors. "

wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:13 AM:

" Dave you must be one of the salaried employees at Bobcat that sits on his computer all day. Shouldn't you get back to work so that you can meet production numbers???? Maybe if you did that then Gwinner could continue to work. "

To beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:11 AM:

" How much money a month do union dues run? Is it really 240 dollars a month? "

Hi Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:11 AM:

" How's the vacations going? Well I hope. Do you know why you have paid a vacation? It is something old school unions fought for! Yep that's right, unions fought for you to have the privilege of a paid vacation. Maybe you have weekends off? Good for you. They fought for that too. Do you like your 8 hour work day? Your welcome! The list is long and I won't bother you with all of it. I see you have been quite busy. I don't want to take up too much of your time by boring you. I would like to remind you that todays unions are fighting each and every day to keep the benefits such as those listed above for people such as yourself. Maybe you don't like unions, and that's fine by me. You don't have to like them but we will keep fighting to retain all the gains we have made. Even for angry people such as yourself. If you do manage to get out of the house today, stop by the union hall and say hi! p.s. don't you think there are already enough low paying, no benefit type jobs around. Maybe you are right and Bobcat should become another one of those. NOT!!!!!!!!!!! "

Beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:05 AM:

" To Union wife, you are fortunate to have a state job. That way when your union hubby is making nothing while striking you have an income to fall back on. Try working in the real world where people lose jobs "just because" and get no benefits or regular wage increases. The $240/month we save not paying union dues buys alot of groceries. "

bis mom wrote on Oct 11, 2006 10:02 AM:

" And Dave, that $95,ooo salary compares to IR's $8 MILLION HOW???? "

Beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:59 AM:

" TO Union Worker, you pretty much nailed (pun intended) the union's position about this whole thing. "This whole fight is about PRIDE". It has nothing to do with cost of living or benefits or best interest of the workers. The union is itching to strike about anything. The only people that benefit are the hardware stores that sell the nails. "

union employee wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:59 AM:

" if these salary people are running a skeleton crew who is doing the jobs they used to do? aren't those jobs important? whose the boss with a bunch of bosses running around? maybe OSHA should do a walk through to see how safe they are working. these are all people that want production over qaulity and safety. "

USW MEMBER wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:53 AM:

" HEY STEVE THE BALL IS IN OUR COURT LETS GET BACK TO THE TABLE AND SIGN THE CONTRACT LOCAL MEMBER "

to Wife of a Union Bobcat Worker from Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:53 AM:

" I hope your husband and daughter are doing well. I feel for the hard working employees like your husband. I don't think that Bobcat should be to blame for the attendance policy though. The union had to agree to that policy when the current contract was signed. It sounds like the union didn't do a very good job of representing it members regarding that issue. "

So you know wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:50 AM:

" For those who say "just go back to work" or "some will be crossing the picket line" --it is not that easy. Bobcat has LOCKED OUT the employees until an agreement is settled on. Bobcat will not allow anyone to work under the expired contract. That includes any employees that were under contract even if they are not in the union. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:49 AM:

" To "Dave": You sure know how to twist things around don't you? It clearly states "that is why they only show the few behaving badly." Can you not read? I didn't see blame anywhere in the statement. I do however blame you for your ignorance. Get a clue! "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:43 AM:

" Here's a link that shows the salaries of the USW employees. According to the site, District 11 Director, Bob Bratulich, made $95,937 in salary and benefits in 2005. http://unionfacts.org/unions/unionOfficers.cfm?id=234530 "

Wife of a UNION Bobcat worker in Gwinner wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:37 AM:

" Hang in there local 566!!! We are behind you 100%. My husband came home this morning from working the night shift at Bobcat in Gwinner with 2 yard signs that say "PROUD to be UNION"!!! We put them both in our yard. As I was driving to my job this morning I saw them on many lawns, I'm sure as the day goes on there will be more!!! FYI to "DAVE" and the rest of you who keep posting negitive things about UNION workers at Bobcat..... for the last year WE HAVE been putting money away getting ready for a strike, (my husbands contract with Bobcat is up in December), we are prepared to hold out as long as we need to!!! Also, this strike is not only about insurance and a pay raise!!! My husband is a hard working man who use to farm and ranch but wanted something more for his family!!! After he started at Bobcat he bacame very ill and had to go to Rochester and Bobcat gave him occurances when he was sick even though he had doctor excusses for every absence!!! Also, we have a 9 year old daughter who is medically disabled, she has had 18 surgies and we go to Rochester with her on a regular bases. It would make you sick to know how many hoops my husband as to jump through for Bobcat to take time off to be with his medically disabled child!! So before you stereo type ALL BOBCAT UNION WORKERS.... stop and think!!! They are human beings with families that they love and want to care for!!! "

bis-mom and bobcat wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:36 AM:

" Dave - I don't think I've seen a bigger jerk posting on this column than you. Don't you think it's about time you go back to work? There must be a union worker on your property somewhere you need to report. "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:34 AM:

" Wow!! Now the media is getting blamed for the bad behavior. Who's next? "

rodericus wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:31 AM:

" Remember: if it weren't for those "greedy" corporations, none of those good paying jobs would exist. "

2nd shifter wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:30 AM:

" To reminder I say we will be madatoried every saturday from the day we go back until May and they will be begging for Sundays. There will be plenty of oppurtunity to make that $ up. Stand up for yourself, no one else will. "

To "Why" wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:29 AM:

" They media wants ratings, that is why they only show the few behaving badly. Regardless of the situation the media will always try to find the worst in every story....that is what people want to read! "

striker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:26 AM:

" Why dont the tv stations show something other than the first day. Yes there were a few bad apples doing stupid things the first morning, but there have not been any problems since. Why dont the tv channels show you the peaceful demonstrations? How about the company employee who hit a union brother with his car and drove off. Yes charges have been filed. I guess nobody wants you to know that stuff. Drive by and see for yourself. We are at several locations around the plant. Also I would like to thank all the local business who have supported us. Thank You. "

Getting in shape for hunting season? wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:22 AM:

" What hunting season? If you are working all the time, when do you go hunting? If you are hunting on Sunday, your only day off, what kind of family values do you really have? "

Reminder wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:15 AM:

" Just a reminder, I did the math, and for every week the union "brothers and sisters" are without a job; that equates to that extra 2% in wage increase for a full year they are fighting for. I'm waiting for the day when they officially have been off of work long enough to negate all wages they are fighting for. That should make only four weeks as the union contract is only four years long. Then, on the fifth week, they begin to lose more than they would have ever gained. "

Union wife wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:12 AM:

" Please do not group all union members together. My husband is a good man along with 99% of the others in his union. There will always be that 1% percent that have to make the rest of them look bad. Other union members were very angry at the behavior of their peers. Please do not hold it against all of them. To those of you being negative towards the union - Until you know ALL the FACTS you need to keep your mouths shut. Some of you comments are so far off. You don't know everything that went on in that factory. For those of you saying you worked there temporarily. You may have seen some things that make you think they are lazy, however you have to remember there are 3 different shifts and several departments. Don't lump them all together when you only saw one small portion of the workers. A lot of people are unhappy about their jobs, pay, benefits, etc., however they don't have the union backing them up. I work for the state and I sure wish we had someone to back us up when they start talking about no raises and taking away our benefits. If could strike we would be we are here to serve YOU so we can't, yet you also criticize us when it comes time to raise your taxes to increase our wages. Your all a bunch of hypocrites. "

someone wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:03 AM:

" Well "Union worker" you say its all about pride .. sometimes you have to swallow your pride. What will you do when you lose your home, cars & cant feed your family? "

gettinginshape wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:02 AM:

" Striking wasn't bad at all. Lots of us hunt or ice fish in the winter and last night wasn't bad at all. Heck some of us went for walks to get into shape for hunting season. I wonder if the salary guys with out of state tags will get their opportunity to go or if the days that they want off are full and have to wait and see if someone will cancel? I just can't see how so many people don't express how they would stick up for themselves and just lay down when someone trys to belittle them. We are the little man here and we have enough support to stand up to this company. I hope this union breaks so i can go work fast food somewhere, We are taking pictures so we recognize who's burgers to spit in. Have a Nice Day. And do you want to work Sunday? Hey its double time, you should work twice as hard! "

WHY? wrote on Oct 11, 2006 9:00 AM:

" About the news with the bus. Why would they just show "the few bad apples" that come with any company. The news failed to show the familys and the way there suffering from this. "

support unition 566 wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:55 AM:

" UNION HANG IN THERE!Im not so sure that I would want to work for a company that would put me out of a job because they dont want to negotiate with the union. Why not offer something great from the start?? This should show a lot of people how much there company really needs them. If you respected your employees maybe they would respect you. "

Bismarck Resident wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:44 AM:

" After watching the local CBS news last night and seeing the Union guys hitting a bus and hearing of these other things they are doing it makes it awfully hard to feel sorry for their situation. "

Supporter wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:44 AM:

" Hello observer! I just thought I would mention it to you. Dont believe everything you hear. Have you seen these men out there? There waving, and being nothing but nice to EVERYONE. And on the other hand would you fight for your job if someone else took it from you??? "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:43 AM:

" How was walking the picket line last night? I'm sure it was a blast. My thermometer showed a low of 27 degrees. You'll need to walk pretty fast to stay warm. I bet those lawn chairs get pretty chilly!!! "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:40 AM:

" Bobcat is obviously in this for the long haul. I'm sure they have anticipated that there would be a strike and have planned accordingly. The plant being shut down for two or three months will hurt the employees a lot more than it will a multi-billion dollar company. I hope the Bobcat employees had been setting aside a portion of their paycheck for this strike. "

ANTI-UNION wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:40 AM:

" Real grown up, union people. More representation of the maturity of the union workers...it reflects quite accurately on their darling political party too. "

Union Worker wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:28 AM:

" We all want our jobs back, we are fighting for our rights, just like all of you would do given the chance. There might be a few bad apples in the group, but that is with any organization. The majority of people have pride in our work and would never mess up machines to get back at the company. Our family and friends also buy the machines so why would we ruin them. This whole fight is about PRIDE "

someone wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:18 AM:

" "Herb" you have a very good point! What does this company have to lose my relocating or closing out the union & hiring people that are willing to work for even less wage because less wage would still be better than what they are able to find at other jobs. These union brothers & sisters better start thinking more. See how strong & happy they are when they dont have jobs & lose their homes & cars & cant feed their kids. "

Hello wrote on Oct 11, 2006 8:12 AM:

" 54 percent is a weak majority. I doubt more than 54 percent are sticking together for the fight. The other 46 percent are too busy figuring out how to feed their families during the strike. "

Herb wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:55 AM:

" If I were Bobcat I would pack up and leave this town. If these thugs are childish enough to do petty things like throw nails, who knows what they will do to the plant if they go back to work. "

Dedeye wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:51 AM:

" In my opinion, I think they should get the 5% raise each year, that barely covers "cost of living" increases. I don't think it's out of line. As far as health care, Bobcat could do a little better, but I think the Union is getting a bit greedy there. They should remember, there are a lot of employers here in Bismarck that don't even offer healthcare benefits. I hope the Strikers realize too, that the whole "nails in the road" thing looked really bad in the eyes of the public! They arn't going to win any hearts and minds with those kinds of antics. "

union member wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:30 AM:

" There has been 100 percent support at the picket lines and the community support has been overwhelming. The union cannot control everyones actions and we do not condone the actions of a few. Overall the protest had been very peacefull. Thanks for your support for local 566! "

Dave wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:24 AM:

" The writing is on the wall. Can the union members read? Bobcat isn't going to give in. The union WILL blink first. I do feel sorry for the 46% that want to work and are being lumped in with the rest of the thugs. "

BANKER wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:15 AM:

" Well Bobcat workers, the 15th is coming, big payments are due for all your toys. Just go back to work, take what there offering, and gas prices are going down, and the price of milk is going up. It's life. Deal with it. Take the money and run, just think you can do this in four more years. "

passer by wrote on Oct 11, 2006 7:07 AM:

" My kids are really watching what your doing so lets keep it peaceful. "

Beesh wrote on Oct 11, 2006 6:54 AM:

" When union thugs don't get their way, they do thug-like things to intimidate others. "

observer wrote on Oct 11, 2006 4:31 AM:

" You call what you're doing a PEACEFUL DEMONSTRATION? How are threats, nails and intimidation considered peaceful? "

majority wrote on Oct 11, 2006 2:44 AM:

" last time I checked 54% was the majority. But I bet way more than 54% are sticking together in this fight. "

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