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Bobcat shutting down for six weeks

 
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Oct 24, 2008 - 04:05:14 CDT
By CRYSTAL R. REID
Bismarck Tribune
More than 2,000 workers will be out of a job in the middle of winter as the flailing economy forced Bobcat Co. officials to shutdown operations in two plants for six weeks.

Employees in Bobcat's Gwinner and Bismarck plants were told of the temporary layoff -which will start Dec. 15 and end Feb. 2, 2009, and includes a one-week paid holiday vacation -early Thursday morning. Bobcat, purchased by South Korean Doosan Infracore International in 2007, has three factories in France, the Czech Republic and China that will not be shut down.

"The timing of it is not good, of course,"said Jeremy Bauer, a forklift operator at the Bismarck plant and president of the United Steelworkers Union Local 560. They're taking three days off for the Thanksgiving holiday, then have to leave work for six weeks around Christmas, he said, adding that there's no guarantee there won't be more shutdowns.

Bobcat Co., based in Fargo, typically has a temporary shutdown during slower winter months, which have lasted up to three weeks in the past and often do not affect the entire workforce in the plants.

Rich Goldsbury, president of Bobcat Americas, said the liquidity crisis has banks reducing lending to their customers and the plunging new home market has cut into residential customer sales.

"It's been harder and harder for our customers to achieve the kind of financing they need,"Goldsbury said.

Although the two plants in Bismarck and Gwinner-which make skid-steer loaders, mini track loaders and Toolcat utility work machines -will not be operational, the facility at the Northern Plains Commerce Centre in Bismarck will still be up and running, Goldsbury said.

"At this point, we are still staying operational with that,"Goldsbury said of the manufacturing operations center, which coordinates distribution of parts and equipment. "We have over 400,000 machines in place in the market today."

Job Service North Dakota said the temporarily unemployed workers could qualify for up to $406 a week in unemployment benefits, after a one-week waiting period.

Workers can apply for benefits online or by telephone; if they get a part-time job, they can earn up to 60 percent of their benefits without being penalized, said Darren Brostrom, director of unemployment insurance.

Brostrom said they've experienced similar influxes of unemployed workers in the past.

"We do deal with these things and we are set up to handle it. We are mostly concerned about the individual workers themselves,"said Brostrom.

Goldsbury said Bobcat will continue to assess the market as the company moves forward, adding that their competitors are facing the same issues.

And they're still developing new products and investing in research, he said.

"When the market turns, historically, Bobcat comes out of the market turns quickly,"Goldsbury said. "I anticipate some performance improvements from the markets by (February)."

Gov. John Hoeven said that although North Dakota seems relatively insulated from the financial crisis, some slowdown is expected in companies that do business nationally and internationally.

"The company is taking steps that other manufacturers are taking to make sure they're not building up too much inventory,"Hoeven said. "They anticipate it being temporary."

He added that the federal government needs to continue to work to inject liquidity and get the credit flowing throughout the nation to minimize the impact.

Bauer, one of the Bobcat workers facing six weeks of lower wages, said the shutdown is the perfect representation of "what's going on in the world,"adding that he'll encourage his union workers to get out and vote.

"When you're talking about 2,000 people that aren't going to have full-time employment during the holiday season, that's going to affect the economy a lot more than people realize,"he said.

(Reach reporter Crystal R. Reid at 250-8261 or at crystal.reid@bismarcktribune.com.)
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Bobcat shutting down for six weeks
Comments

old Bobcat wrote on Nov 1, 2008 3:21 AM:

" To see both sides: This was one of the better comments that have been written. People do need to just try to take care of the debt they have and try to not spend so freely as we never know our future anywhere. I know that the 6-weeks off won't be the worst thing. (anyway for most of us fortunate enough to go back to work) Alot of us will do a reality check on where we are spending in places where we don't need to. I do worry about not having a job also, however I know I can make it on lower wages and there is life after Bobcat. I feel bad for the families where a single is paying child support, as there won't be much left over after insurance and c support payments. "

See both sides wrote on Oct 31, 2008 10:19 PM:

" Let me first wish everyone that this affects well. I'm sure the possibility of losing ones job would be scary to most people. That said, I do know people that work there or have in the past. Some spent money like drunken sailors and when the overtime ran out they couldn't pay their bills. Others saved money like crazy and paid their house off when young. It sounds like most people aren't that worried about a 6 week layoff but more that the plants will eventually close for good. If that's the case I recommend that you bank as much money as possible. Get rid of everything that isn't needed. Cable TV, cell phones, Internet, no eating out, no movies, NOTHING. If you have an expensive car payment, sell it and drive a beater. Pay off everything as quickly as possible and stash as much as you can into savings. Live like your the poorest people in the state. If the plants happen to close in a year or two, hopefully most will have everything paid off except most likely their house. You should be able to pay that on your spouses income. Again, good luck to all of you. If this posts multiple times I apologize. The image verification isn't working. "

Tommy wrote on Oct 31, 2008 5:36 PM:

" I was directing my "idiot" comment to the workers that were on strike.. Born and raised here my whole life.. never even filled out an application at Bobcat.. Want to know why??? because factory work stinks.. somebody told me that along time ago.. or maybe I just figured it out.. Kind of like why I wouldn't want to be a coal miner on the east coast. Struggled for a few years while some of my buddy borrowed a ton of money while working at Bobcat.. Life is pretty easy these days.. Great job that I love. Now I am buying the boat with cash.. 10 years later but paid for. All I am saying is the same thing I said when they were on strike.. You keep giving the boss enough grief... he is either going to find a replacement or in the case of employing Union workers you just close down. (cant fire a union worker) Especially when a Korean company.. you know what the new owners were saying around the board table during that last strike???? I can guess?? Truth kind of hurts.. Doesn't it? By the responses to my previous posts I will take that it does. "

Opps.... to online editor wrote on Oct 31, 2008 5:10 PM:

" I in no way meant for that statement to be slanderous to the BT, it was the person using the word "idiot" in describing Bobcat employees. I know that the paper would not be personally responsible for a bloggers word, as that is the bloggers choice of words, not the papers. Although that is hurtful to the employees of Bobcat that this person used that slang.

I know many Bobcat employees, and many have college degrees yet they still have chosen to work that type of work because the love what they do for a living. I understand some people saying that employees complain about their jobs, but name one place of employment that someone does NOT complain. Let us keep in mind these are people with families that they have to support, just as you and I do. Show some compassion, and think about the kids of these employees reading these comments as many do read them.

I understand disclaimers as I use one on my blog site also, and it states that the bloggers are responsible for their choice of words. I do appreciate your advice though thank you. "

Advanced Notice wrote on Oct 31, 2008 2:14 PM:

" First off, my prayers are with all the workers. I am assuming most of those getting laid off are the main earners in the family and it is not easy to go without insurance when you have a family in these times. Try to keep positive and start looking for greener pastures.

Secondly, I used to work for a large bank that was bought-out about 10 years ago and I found out in the paper also. I worked in HR at the time and they told us that the reason we weren't notified before the press was because in "insider trading". If people in a company are told of a RIF or buy-out prior to the occurance, they can sell their stock and a much more lucrative price than the remaining public and that, as most know, it illegal. Not sure if that was the case here, but thought I'd mention it.

To the rest of us, please show some love and kindness to your neighbors, it could be us next. "

Online Editor wrote on Oct 31, 2008 10:33 AM:

" To opps: I agree that there is no place for personal attacks here. As far as defamation of character, this does not fit the case. It would be very difficult to show that any person has suffered physically or financially from the use of the word idiot in an online comment. Even if a writer were to use the word idiot directed to your user name, it would be nearly impossible to establish some type of link since the parties involved are anonymous. In more than one legal case it has been established that as newspaper Web site is not legally responsible for the comments made by others, instead the original writer is. "

To Tommy wrote on Oct 31, 2008 9:50 AM:

" Tommy, for your information, I work at Bobcat and bought a used 2004 car this year as my main transportation. I rent a 1 bedroom apartment, have no boats, campers or snowmobiles. I'm not sure if you only hang out with the people who think they are high class living in debt or what? I know alot of people that work where I work in Gwinner and they don't live real high class. However, if they have decided to buy these things and have to worry about paying for them with the layoff, that is not my problem. I have to worry about my 2004 car payment and that is my problem I figure. I would not be too jealous of these people and their toys, they will have 6 weeks off to figure how to manage future purchases.
By the way, I don't mind my job and I know there are worse things in life than a 6-week layoff. I just wish I was closer to Fargo to find a part-time job. Just don't assume that everyone is living over their limit. "

L wrote on Oct 31, 2008 9:48 AM:

" I feel for the employees of Bobcat. To those posting negative comments to the workers, you should be ashamed of yourself. This not only affects the workers of this company, it affects the whole community. Would a tax break to business help to save jobs at Bobcat. A tax break to Bobcat would have to be more good then a tax increase. Obama wants to tax business harder, remember this on election day.
Good luck to all the workers of Bobcat. "

LIFE LESSONS wrote on Oct 31, 2008 9:42 AM:

" Okay, are all the negative comments neccessary? Are any of the put downs making a difference? I think all of you who are posting hurtfull, disrespectfull and childish comments should be very ashamed of yourselves and take into consideration, "don't judge anyone, until you have walked in their shoes" it is very sad to see how some of you are such angry people when the situation may not even be affecting the way you live your life~ just be glad you all are hopefully healthy and not fighting an incuable illness such as cancer, so big deal if someone lives in a nice home, makes a good wage or has nice things, big deal if they complain about their jobs~ take a moment and ask yourself "what If I where to find out I am dying? Would any of this really matter?" Leave the Bobcat empoyees alone, and worry about yourselves and hopefully everyone will learn a life lesson or two from this entire economy disaster that our nation is in, not just Bobcat or the employees are going to be in the hurtbag. BUT HOPEFULLY YOU HAVE YOUR HEALTH, UNLIKE SOME OF US. Thank you. "

opps wrote on Oct 31, 2008 8:37 AM:

" I guess I hit a nerve correcting someone on the issue of who owns Bobcat. I will have to add I am not one of the employees that have all the toys. I have survived before Bobcat, and I will do fine if they leave.

As for the Editor posting the comment with the word "idiot" in it, that borderlines on defamation of character and could be looked at by many Bobcat employees as lawsuit material. I do NOT understand the personal attacks as it just shows your ability to act like many third graders. I would consider what you say here, and stick to the subject matter, personal attacks are not constructive in any manner.

I doubt that the BT will print this one since it does raise the question about legal issues as to allowing personal attacks. "

to tommy wrote on Oct 31, 2008 8:14 AM:

" Are those the two reasons you don't work there? Just wondering. There are alot of hard working people out there. There may be a few bad apples but for the most part they are all hard working people who have made a career out of bobcat and that makes them a valuable asset to the company because without the employees (hourly and salary) they wouldn't have any machines to sell. There would not be a company. I'm assuming that is the case where you work too. It does nobody any good to be egotistical. I would also assume that if you looked in the mirror, you would be flawed just like everyone else. If you think your not, there is your flaw. "

To Tommy wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:45 PM:

" Did you get fired from Bobcat or what? Are you Jealous that we make good money and you dont well maybe find a better paying job than you can have a new house boat like your neighbors do. "

To first off from Tommy wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:34 PM:

" You only wished you cashed my paycheck each month buddy... difference is I live within my means.... not beyond them... If for some reason I did loose my cushy job.. I could prob make if for a few year before the bank started knocking to loud... let me guess... most bobcat workers couldn't make it 3 months before the repo man starts knocking... If I owed bobcat I would have pulled out years ago... "

Tommy wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:31 PM:

" Because most of them live a pretty nice life.. all financed but still a pretty nice life.. Campers, fishing boats, Harleys, drag cars. 4 wheelers... big nice homes... all financed to the hilt.... But all you do is hear them complain about the job they have... they go on strike and cost the company even more money... then they wonder why the place might not make it... Unions are the reason places like this close their doors.. Unions are demanding a wage that is wayyy over what the people are worth... I went to high school with allot of these idiots... they were not that smart then and still arent... they are factory workers... I have worked in a few factories around the country in my day and nobody ever likes their jobs... guess what/ ???? get a different job or maybe sell a toy or two... quit going on strike demanding more money and benifits... you have prob made the owners mad enough now that they are looking for a reason to move operations over sees. Where the people are happy to work "

First Off wrote on Oct 30, 2008 4:41 PM:

" Tommy probably got turned down for a job from Bobcat, so he is not making the $20.00 an hour that he thinks he should. Second off the one that said Bobcats "headquarters" are in Bermuda, I guess you missed the news about Bobcat being sold to a South Korean company called Doosan. IR has its headquarters in Bermuda, not Bobcat. I just wish you people making statements would keep up on the news. Also maybe Tommy can go apply at John Deere, although they do a background check too Tommy. "

Auburn wrote on Oct 30, 2008 2:36 PM:

" to 'Concerned' who wrote "To the person who stated Barack plans on raising taxes on busineess that will not effect Bobcat since their "headquarters" are in Bermuda so they can avoid taxes!!!!"

Any income earned in the U.S. is taxed in the U.S. The U.S. already has the second highest business taxes in the world. Will raising taxes on businesses even higher encourage more or less businesses to be here employing our workers? "

Snap wrote on Oct 30, 2008 11:34 AM:

" Geez Tommy!
Say, without nanimg names and such, can you tell us why you are so angry with Bobcat employees? "

Concerned wrote on Oct 30, 2008 11:12 AM:

" To the person who stated Barack plans on raising taxes on busineess that will not effect Bobcat since their "headquarters" are in Bermuda so they can avoid taxes!!!! "

Tommy wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:42 AM:

" And John Deere is doubling its staff in Valley City... Maybe the Cry babies at Bobcat can apply and leave bismarck. Sick of hearing about them. Sick of listening to them. Sick of them all together. "

yoda wrote on Oct 30, 2008 9:17 AM:

" One should have enough money saved to live on in such occasions but like most people how many are living well beyond their means with all the toys. Maybe the government will bail you out like everyone else in this country. "

Surfer wrote on Oct 30, 2008 6:53 AM:

" What happens at a national level with the economy happens here to a lesser extent. We are fortunate that the big swings up and down are buffered here but they are always felt. Companies like Bobcat don't just sell their products locally. They sell them around the country and the world and when things slow down in those places it affects us here.

Barack Obama is proposing to raise taxes on businesses. That will slow down any economic recovery. Anyything that can be done to help businesses survive during tough economic times and to encourage people to start new businesses will be helpful. Businesses employ people and buy from other businesses which also employ people. Raising taxes during tough economic times doesn't make any sense. Tough times is when you want people employed and businesses making money and everyone buying things. That's what turns the economy around. "

I see... wrote on Oct 29, 2008 9:24 PM:

" The other shoe is about to drop at Bobcat!!! "

Wolf wrote on Oct 29, 2008 2:48 PM:

" Anybody who thinks a layoff is a vacation in this economy, has some bad karma coming their way. "

Bono wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:59 PM:

" The effect the media has on the economy is HUGE. Listening to doom and gloom everyday (usually exaggerated) gets people worried and everybody starts yelling fire. ND is not in the same situation that other parts of the country are in so people really need to quit saying it is.

People need to think about their own situations and how they are coping right now. Don't listen to what "everyone" is supposed to be feeling and how bad it is. Is it really that bad in your own household? No. "

smart and hard-working can survive wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:40 PM:

" I have always wondered what I would do, you know, I could sell my house cheap, sell my toys and new cars, then I could pay everything off. I could rent an apartment and buy a cheaper car, that would allow me to live off a lower paying job. If you are able and willing there is no need for the government to have to carry your needy self. Only the elderly, disabled, etc should receive anything free from the government. "

Outsourcing wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:28 PM:

" Now with the closing of the Bobcat plant in Georgia, can Bismarck/Gwinner be far behind? Byron Dorgan's book, "Take This Job and Ship It" was right on the money as far as the closing of manufacturing plants and depending on foreign countries to hire their local people to work at their "new" plants with low wages and no benefits attached to their jobs. I am afraid the hand writing is on the wall concerning Bobcat in North Dakota. Time to update your resumes Bobcat employees. "

HELLO wrote on Oct 29, 2008 1:24 PM:

" I certainly hope the bobcat employees go back after the six week layoff, i like my job and make decent money at it, and would not be happy if i lost it, but if i did, so be it, my kids WILL EAT, AND WONT SLEEP IN THE STREETS, hopefully this is a temporary situation and all is well after the layoff, and all go back to work,...i know those guys work hard for their money, and deserve what they have from good wages and hard worked overtime, but if it all goes south...be resourceful and do what you have to do to find work...you make your own destiny. "

Willis wrote on Oct 29, 2008 12:19 PM:

" Its not Bismarck I'm so worried about as stated there are plenty in Bismarck to keep things going, although I think some places might notice it get tighter. The Bismarck plant has about 900 employees, trust me not all 2,000 work there. The places that worry me are Gwinner and the other small towns such as Lisbon, Oaks, Milnor, Forman, ect.... Here is were the pinch is going to be felt the most. As far as those of you who think we should use this as a vacation, think again. If you haven't noticed this is winter time, and we still need to put fuel in the tanks to keep the house warm. Yes I know that fuel has gone down but filling a 250 gallon tank still runs over $400.00. House payments and vehicle payments still need to be made, bills still need to get paid. "

My Opinion wrote on Oct 29, 2008 11:16 AM:

" I have been watching what's happening in the Country and in North Dakota and things don't look good for the 2009 year. We are having layoffs here in ND and companies and small businesses are struggling. People aren't spending because they don't know how to pay the bills now. The high gasoline prices (down now) during the summer just about ruined the farmers/ranchers I know. And, with lower cattle and crop prices now, most of them won't even be able to cover their costs. This is not good.

I am appalled at Governor Hoeven's comments. He appears much too cavalier about this layoff than he should. 2,000 people in ND is a lot of people (considering our population). He needs to be concerned - whether he is reelected or not.

The people of ND need to know they will make through the winter and this should be a huge concern for everyone. We are beginning to feel the effects of our economy now and I think it is going to get a lot worse before it gets any better. I think there are going to be a lot of hungry and cold people in ND this winter and Governor Hoeven (and the next Governor - Hoeven or not) need to step up and get things in place to help insure these laid off workers and their families can survive. "

Reality wrote on Oct 29, 2008 8:05 AM:

" I just have two comments to make, first off I love the comments about how this will affect the bismarck area without Bobcat employees putting money back into the community, just to give some facts in a survey done in July of 2007 there was 59,503 people living in Bismarck and Bobcat is laying off over 2,000 people, so Bobcat is not the end all of this town there is still thousands of other people in Bismarck that will be putting money back into the community. And my second comment is there is no stopping this you can complain about not being told, how this is a bad time of year for this to happen, but in the end it will happen so my suggestion to all of you spouses of a Bobcat employee is to starting making your Honey do list now, so it is ready at lay off time. I guess I have one more comment, I have seen comments on here about how this will affect the children and they will not get as much or get to do as many things with there friends, but not a single person has stated how this could affect the kids in a postive way as getting to spend more time with there parent that is usually at work. Wow you could really turn this into a postive situation and take the lemons you have and turn them into lemonade. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 29, 2008 6:35 AM:

" old bobkat: I think we agree for the most part, however I am having a real hard time figuring out hwat difference it makes which plant builds which machine. So you build different machines and your OT availability is not always the same. I never siad anything contrary to that, so I am at a loss what point you are trying to make. "

Former Bobcat wrote on Oct 29, 2008 12:10 AM:

" Where do I start? The economic issue we are facing are the same issuethose laid off are facing. Everyone is living on credit!!!!! When is the ast time someone has saved money and paid for something? Bad credit in the housing market started it. Now those that no not have debit problems will have little problems. In addition, you see 800 machines in the lot in august...........gee should I save a few dollars in case I get laid off??? Maybe sell the new pickup for a used one?? In manufacturing and yes union eviroment is part of it, these things happen. One comment was overtime was for extra things not bills.........the extra think for the last 5 years should have been a saving account for bad time! One more comment, salaried employee can not get laid off, by law they must get paid if they are at work or not. In the salaried world you world or you are fired. Talk to the over 20 applied engineers that leave bismark/gwinner each week to other parts of the state to work, they only wish they could get unemployment and go back to work. "

worriedmom wrote on Oct 28, 2008 1:50 PM:

" Mike
What I was saying by stating I have the pay stubs, is just to say that yes, when overtime was available we did take advantage of it. It was money that we could use for extra stuff. So yes we did take advantage of the overtime, when it was offered, no it was not depended on to pay our bills.

Again my point in stating my opinion. Was just to let people know we should not wish bad things on our neighbors, community, even enemies. So to go back to another old saying "If you haven't got something nice to say, you shouldn't say anything at all" "

old Bobcat wrote on Oct 28, 2008 1:37 PM:

" Mike - just to let you know we build different things here in Gwinner. We have had alot of mandatory overtime down here and we build the larger machines here. We do not build any excavators here in Gwinner. You may need to educate yourself on the factory and see the 2 plants do have the same overtime given to them.
Worried Mom-I just hope we will get back to work with not alot more layoffs in 2009, however as Mike said earlier, this is a recession. I'm hoping if they offer the RIF, enough people will take it, otherwise some employees are going to find out what a real layoff is all about. I would rather have a financial setback of 6 weeks, because I'm not sure what all these smalltown people are going to do with their homes if they experience a real layoff. They will have to move - no question about it. We will have more work available than the Bismarck plant when the economy picks up as we do a totally different job down here. Mike R and others need to realize we are 2 different Bobcat plants with different demands for equipment. We are going to be lucky if this picks up in the year of 2009.
By the way Mike R-maybe you could educate me as to what Bismarck Bobcat builds, I don't know what they build anymore than you know what Gwinner builds. "

To Mike R Worried Mom wrote on Oct 28, 2008 1:34 PM:

" Mike - just to let you know we build different things here in Gwinner. We have had alot of mandatory overtime down here and we build the larger machines here. We do not build any excavators here in Gwinner. You may need to educate yourself on the factory and see the 2 plants do have the same overtime given to them.
Worried Mom-I just hope we will get back to work with not alot more layoffs in 2009, however as Mike said earlier, this is a recession. I'm hoping if they offer the RIF, enough people will take it, otherwise some employees are going to find out what a real layoff is all about. I would rather have a financial setback of 6 weeks, because I'm not sure what all these smalltown people are going to do with their homes if they experience a real layoff. They will have to move - no question about it. We will have more work available than the Bismarck plant when the economy picks up as we do a totally different job down here. Mike R and others need to realize we are 2 different Bobcat plants with different demands for equipment. We are going to be lucky if this picks up in the year of 2009.
By the way Mike R-maybe you could educate me as to what Bismarck Bobcat builds, I don't know what they build anymore than you know what Gwinner builds. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 28, 2008 1:02 PM:

" worriedmom: You are right. According to my buddies, there was more OT in Gwinner than Bismarck and in more departments. I am still not calling you a liar, but just stating a fact. Just because your pay stubs don't show any OT doesn't mean that it is not available. I work with lots of people who haven't seen an hour of OT in the past 6 months, where I have seen anywhere between 8 to 20 hours of OT per week for most of it. Just because it is there doesn't mean that people take advantage of it. "

Snap wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:41 PM:

" Whoa now! Calm down! 'Ol Snap was just trying to be positive about the situation. You see, it's going to happen, so you can either be all fearful and full of doom and gloom or you can face the reality with a positive outlook and a smile on your face! "

slave wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:34 PM:

" To Dave. Are you the same Dave that was bragging about all the stock you hold in IR? Just wondering how that is working out for you. "

To Snap wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:19 PM:

" A vacation huh? Are you serious? I am a workaholic---i don't take vacations...i haven't since i started working at the age of 16. I take that back the only "vacation" i have ever took was when i was on maternity leave with my daughter. Yeah we do get unemployment...but, too me that is nothing to be excited about. I rather be working earning my money then getting it from the state. "

sarahr wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:14 PM:

" you guys can always go to Valley City and work for John Deere...they just announced that they are expanding the plant and hiring 250-300 new people. They only get laid off in the summer. "

Bono wrote on Oct 28, 2008 12:01 PM:

" Why do people think their jobs are guaranteed anywhere? They aren't. This happens all of the time. You quit whining, deal with it and move on. There is plenty of work in Bismarck if you want it. Plenty. But then again - you probably won't get your $20+ per hour Bobcat wages. "

worriedmom wrote on Oct 28, 2008 11:33 AM:

" to Mike R
I can't comment on Gwinner because I do have a friend down in Gwinner and they were getting overtime, But as far as Bismarck goes, most all of overtime has/had been cut for sometime. YES in some departments (maintenance) there was some, but as for the majority of the non-management employees overtime has been gone for the majority of the last 6 months. No you would not want to call me a liar because I have the pay stub before June and after to prove it. AGAIN this is not about overtime it's about the loss of income this community (not just the employess) are going to feel when the lay off happens. I am not on here complaining about not having overtime. I enjoy having my husband work 8 hrs instead of 10 to 12, but I would like him to be able to work 8 hrs. I would also like the people in this community to understand that this will effect more than just the employees that work directly at Bobcat and that it is never a good idea for a community to have layoffs. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 28, 2008 11:13 AM:

" worriedmom: Not calling you a liar, but what area of the plant do you work in. I know several people in Bismarck and Qwinner and they all say that there was plenty of overtime right up to the announcement. Just curious. "

MH wrote on Oct 28, 2008 10:43 AM:

" I am an injured worker from Bobcat, and have been off work with a serious injury for over a year. I am now possible in the next few months going to be able to return to work at Bobcat, although now I might not have a job to go back to there. If I am able to return to work before the layoff, I will not be entitled to unemployment, I will have five weeks off with no pay, and no way to support my family.

I moved to North Dakota to raise my kids in a nice state, and to have a good job at Bobcat. We have had different layoffs over the years I have been here, and luckily, I weathered them, although this one I will not be able to weather. The ones that will pay the most are my wife and kids. I will not be able to find a part-time job to help out, as my injury causes me many restrictions. Then again most employers will not hire someone with my type of injury, and remember you have to tell them on an application you have been injured.

I do not blame Bobcat for the downturn, nor do I blame any one entity in this state for this situation with the layoffs. This is just a tough economy, and jobs are lost all over the country, or there are many temporary layoffs like Bobcat. It is a sign of the times. My concern is how many others like me are there facing this type of dilemma of not being able to receive anything during this layoff. How do we tell our kids that we have to cut back on even the necessities? "

worriedmom wrote on Oct 28, 2008 9:49 AM:

" To all especially tommy
I have to say this job is the main income for my family. How would you feel if we said they should take your job and leave. We don't have knew vehicles in the driveway or new toys. We pay our bills every month. Our house is not even close to being new and we raise 3 kids on our salary. We haven't had overtime in 6 months. So to go off and say that you would like Bobcat to up and leave, do have any idea the amount of people that would be affected? This whole community would be. Its not rocket science! We will still be able to pay our bills, YES. But as far as putting extra money back into the much needed economy. We won't be. This includes such things as our kids going to the movies, with their friends, going out to lunch occasionally, putting gas in vehicles to run our kids around to extra activities, buying them such things as maybe there hooded sweatshirts for their basketball team. Or it could be as simple as putting off an oil change that maybe needed. Or maybe paying less than the full amount on a medical bill. So to all thing that all people who work for Bobcat live high off the hog, please check your facts. I wouldn't wish this on anyone. I think there is a saying somewhere about "walk a mile in my shoes". Please don't judge people you don't know. And please don't ever wish someone losing their job, because depending on your occupation it may affect you as well. More than just Bobcat will be affected by this temporary lay off. Ask around town about some of the venders that this will affect. "

Fellow American wrote on Oct 28, 2008 8:52 AM:

" Snap & Tommy: This is no vacation for any of us, we are hard working Americans doing factory work. This lay off will hurt us and not because we all have new toys to pay for but we still have two old vehicles to pay insurance on, house payments, gas, electricity, etc. Some of us work for health insurance because we weren't blessed with being perfect like you two seem to be. Tommy, maybe your neighbors are sick of you going to work (if you work) with your new cars and expensive clothing. What little time off we get we spend with our families. Think before you speak - you could be next then who will you cry to? Wake up and try to help your fellow American. "

billybob wrote on Oct 28, 2008 8:47 AM:

" Amazing, off shifts did not even get told, and first shift did. WAKE UP! You know what the real problem is? Certain individuals go crying to the media right after an announcement like that. I would guess this would be the case here as well. I have some good friends that are part of the barganing unit that told me that. It is very hard to communicate a death in the family, imagine communicating to 2,000 employees and snap out of the dream! Try not to point fingers and help these people. "

Snap wrote on Oct 28, 2008 3:06 AM:

" Now look here, this is what you do. About two weeks before the shutdown you apply for unemployemt. You collect 2/3 of your earnings while you are on vacation. All you have to do is not buy x-mas gifts for every cousin you have and you'll be fine. Youll make your bills and after 6 weks, or whatever, you go back to work. And the next time you get overtime you don't live like it's a normal paycheck, you sock away the extra. What's the big deal? i wish I had ba state paid vacation during the holidays! Good grief, wax the boat or read a book! Lot's of time for projects you've been putting off. Heck, I think you are all lucky! "

jay wrote on Oct 27, 2008 10:42 PM:

" You know what everyone, These comments on here about who has what, and how many sleds were made prior is all wishy wash to me. The thing here is thousands of people are going to be out of a job. Sure they tell you its only 6 weeks, then they extend the lay off for a few weeks longer. As soon as you think things will go back to the norm, Thats when they tell you "sorry dude" you have no more job due to the harsh economy so we have to make some cuts here. Have a little empathy for these families, your job could be next one to fall down on the spiral of this nasty economy. In 2009 it has been said that it( the economy) will get worse before it will get better. What we need to do is support one another during these hard times. Instead of acting like a bunch of heartless individuals. "

sam wrote on Oct 27, 2008 9:04 PM:

" Gwinner bobcat plant was producing over 125 bobcats a day , when IR was owning them. IN june gwinner was down to 55 a day. and they were told the IR flooded the market, and stored bobcats in warehouses all over the U.S. must be blind in bismarck. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 27, 2008 6:45 PM:

" Just the facts what:

Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha Ha HAAAAAAHHH. So there, what's your point? "

just the facts wrote on Oct 27, 2008 6:40 PM:

" to Dave and just the facts what: Ever heard of a contract article called "management rights", or as I call it "mismanagement rights". When you can recite that article to me, and then make a decision on why the unecessary OT was worked, you will be able to figure out the major player in the poor decision making, to excessively build an inventory. For you info, it's article 5, and it's definately not the workers fault. "

bobcatworkeralso wrote on Oct 27, 2008 5:48 PM:

" to Bono: IR didnt flood the market bobcat was producing less than 20 machines a day under IR.when Doosan took over it went up to 25 a day just here in Bis plant.Doosan also scheduled 5-6 weeks shut down at different times a month or two back but canceled because the hurricane down south.5-6 weeks at different times would not hurt as bad as 6 straight.and no i dont work for IR nor am i management. "

go on strike again wrote on Oct 27, 2008 4:03 PM:

" wouldnt this be a great time to strike, lets go bobcat show them how you feel "

Just the facts what wrote on Oct 27, 2008 2:51 PM:

" To Mike R

Ha, ha , ha! "

Mike R wrote on Oct 27, 2008 2:20 PM:

" Just the facts what: Where did I ever say that this was not a recession? I am quite sure that it is. So answer me this - if you know you are going into a recession, why do you force employees to work mandatory overtime and fill the lot with inventory against company policy? Do you think that the employees did not see the inventory building up on the lot? And no I don't believe everything I hear, but when I hear it from everyone that I know who works there, I start to lend it some credability. And tell me why I should ignore what 20 people tell me, but I am suppossed to believe what one person (you) tell me? "

Bono wrote on Oct 27, 2008 2:14 PM:

" To Just the facts what:

You obviously are in denial. It's pretty common knowledge that IR flooded the market before they sold to Doosan. It's irritating when us little guys figure things out isn't it? "

Just the facts what wrote on Oct 27, 2008 1:15 PM:

" To Mike R, do you believe everthing you here? Use some commen sense and make your own decision. A company is in business to make money, well guess what right now there are alot of companies that are not making money. They have to do what they can to make it through this tough time, otherwise they must close down or sell out. If everyone knew this was going to happen why didn't they leave and go somewhere else? The fact is that this is a recession, every business except for a repo company is hurting. Like the old saying goes "What doesn't kill you makes you stronger" "

Mike R wrote on Oct 27, 2008 12:27 PM:

" Correction: At will or right to work - both mean the same thing. Wow talk about trying to split hairs over a minor point. Just the facts what: I know several gwinner employees who have all told me the exact same story that just the facts just spelled out. Seems to me that he does in fact know the facts. You must be in management for his comment to have irritated you like it did. "

Dave wrote on Oct 27, 2008 12:24 PM:

" Where's the union??? "

wifeand4kids wrote on Oct 27, 2008 11:29 AM:

" My husband is employed at Bobcat and we are very grateful for his job. I just hope that this ends after 6 weeks and I would hope that others can just pray that the economy improves and everyone can return to work. I do believe that some workers at Bobcat live beyond their means, but please don't lump us all into that category. Some of use live meager lifestyles and have saved for rainy days such as this. "

do not want to say wrote on Oct 27, 2008 11:10 AM:

" Just the facts What just the facts has it very close to what the truth is. drive by the factory and back in the happier times on the first of the month we would have only a few machines on the lot. Now we have a hundreds of them. That is not very lean. "

my opinion wrote on Oct 27, 2008 11:00 AM:

" My husband works in the Gwinner plant. I find this layoff insane as he is been working between 10-15 hours of overtime off and on for the past several months even this week. Sounds like poor management to me. "

Correction wrote on Oct 27, 2008 10:59 AM:

" to Choice -- ND is NOT a right to work state. ND is an "At Will" state meaning that the employer can terminate one's employment at will with no explanation.

I feel for the employees of Bobcat and that this couldn't have happened at a worse time of year with the holidays coming up. Some of you are stating that you can't make ends meet on 2/3 of your income while getting unemployment benefits? Gee, every Bobcat employee I know has a nice home, new truck, camper, boat, etc. How about selling a toy or two to get you through the layoff? "

Just the facts What wrote on Oct 27, 2008 8:38 AM:

" To just the facts, it sounds like you get a lot of your information out of the bathroom stalls. You need to educate yourself before you try and inform other people. "

djsrebel wrote on Oct 27, 2008 7:29 AM:

" Hang in there guys and gals, I feel your pain. I am a RR employee with low seniority. In the past 2 winters, I have been laid off right after Christmas. It sucks but you will make it. It's business. It takes time to recover, but you will recover. You just need to adjust your lifestyle. When offered overtime, take it and be thankful. Put it away for the next time this happens, and it will happen again. Think like the farmers, make hay when the sun shines. Also it helps to call your creditors and let them know your situation, most are willing to work with you. Your union brothers have you in our prayers "

just the facts wrote on Oct 26, 2008 5:52 PM:

" Since my last blog went a little longer than allowed, I would like to make one more point. A steady paycheck with overtime peaks due to a cycle are far better than unecessary overtime worked followed by a 6 week layoff. "

just the facts wrote on Oct 26, 2008 5:32 PM:

" Consider thes facts. During the 2002-2006 contract, management began a "zero inventory" program. They wanted to only keep a two day supply of parts needed to complete any given machine in the bismarck facility. That did not happen on a regular basis. At the same time and even closer to the expiration of that contract, we were building on average, 10 - 13 machines per day that had no end buyer. At the same time we were forced to work overtime to build this inventory that was not moving because the housing market was already slowing down at that time. A failure to recognize that the inventory level of finished product had grown enormously did not curb the Overtime. So the company paid a higher wage to saturate an already full inventory of equipment on their own lot. This completely contradicted their philosophy of letting the market pull the orders for new equipment. Also contradictory to the zero inventory philosophy. The main worry bobcat has had for the past decade has been market share. They figured if they kept alot of unsold machines on the lot, that they could flood the market at a moments notice, say in a natural disaster or something of that nature, would cause a sudden demand for their product, instead of going with the normal build cycle. As the economy turned farther south, they continued to build for the non-existant customer. Poor management practice in my books. A multi-billion dollar company such as Bobcat should be able to have a better heads up to this than they have. A thinning out of the mismanagers could do nothing but improve this situation and avoid future layoffs. I remember a time when ovetime was worked because the demand was greater and for the most part, was a part of the demand cycle, but to keep excessively manufacturing products that are not moving, is not a very good business practice. Good luck to all those getting laid off, and don't forget to speak up when you feel like Bobcat is making more poor business decisions. "

Personal discretion wrote on Oct 26, 2008 8:47 AM:

" to "Tommy"...what a horrible thing to say...sounds like the green-eyed monster is alive and well in you. "

Mike R wrote on Oct 26, 2008 1:18 AM:

" The real hurt is going to be felt by the small communities surrounding the qwinner plant. Thier economies totally depend on Bobcat. Imagine what would happen if the qwinner plant shut down permanently. Houses that would sell anywhere else for $50,000 sell for $150,000 or more in that area simply because housing is so scarce. Small farmsteads bring a small fortune. If Bobcat shut down, those homes - especially the small farmsteads - would be almost worthless. Hundreds would go bankrupt overnight and several already struggling communities would become ghost towns. It really is scary when so many people and communities rely soley on one business for survival. If you lived in Bismarck, you still might be able to find a job. If I were a bobcat employee living in gwinner, I would be actively looking for a new place of residence. "

Chris wrote on Oct 26, 2008 1:06 AM:

" To all Bobcat employees and their families - I'm sorry for your unlucky turn of events - couldn't have come at a worse time. However, don't take the sutdown personally. We are in the midst of a global economic slow down. As construction and other industries slow down - this results in a decreased demand for skid steer loaders. Every hour the a company pays employees to build machines that they can't sell is money lost. A company can't continue to operate for very long while losing money. I assume that the owners of the company hope that a temporary shutdown will decrease inventory and prevent (or at least delay) the need for a PERMANENT shutdown. The way I see it - this is the companies attempt to weather the tough times and remain in business. When the economy picks up again - which it will eventually - demand will return and production will need to be increased. I don't know of many business owners who will allow their business to lose money without making an attempt (no matter how hard) to save it. By the way - I don't think its very fair to try to blame this problem on the governor of ND (or any specific politician or politcal party for that matter) - I feel the root of the problem lies a little "above his pay grade". What power does the governor of a small midwestern state have to affect the world economy? "

Tommy wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:26 PM:

" I wish they would just shut down.. I am sick of listening to all my neighbors with nice homes, campers, boats, motorcycles and such complaining about their jobs all the time.. I am sick of it. Have any of you ever met a bobcat employee that was in a good mood.... they all like the money just fine...

I wish they would just pull out and go someplace where they where appreciated. "

Bono wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:34 PM:

" Does anyone know that IR saturated the market with products before they sold to Doosan? They were so overstocked they couldn't find storage space for all of the equipment.

Shouldn't some of the "fault" be placed on IR? With all of the other factors, the market saturation played a part in what is happening now. The fat cats at IR aren't worried though. "

Choice wrote on Oct 25, 2008 2:00 PM:

" I dont understand the entitlement attitude... this is a right to work state people. Dont forget its a two way street you choose to work somewhere and they in turn choose to employ you. Investor thank you for sharing your insight to those who choose to live in a bubble. "

ljfrommin wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:53 PM:

" hey Snap (I tried this earlier and it didn't post)
respond to what? Calling me a "know it all"? OK then, you're a , a, you're a, yah, you're a "smarty pants" Hurts, does'nt it? "

John wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:28 PM:

" Just to let you know that Bobcat is not the only company in North Dakota that has done lay offs this year. It is hitting us hard in all areas in the workforce from medical to retail stores and the like. The economy is bad people everywhere. It first started out as a 6 week cut which then declined to more reduced hours. By the end of the week the lay offs were finalized and into effect. If you think the job market is so easy to find a replacement that will cover all my losses including the full bennies I lost out on, then by all means go find me a job. As I have been trying/looking for months already. And before you look down on me people, 20 hours p/wk job that are out there, doesn't make up fro my losses nor is it survivable. The low unemployment check doesn't last forever,or barely covers the bills. Bobcat employees, I feel your pain. "

to Snap wrote on Oct 25, 2008 12:27 PM:

" Excuse me - what's the big deal????? I realize that as of now, anyway, this is just a temporary layoff. But, would you feel comfortable living off of just 2/3 of what you are currently making? Especially during the holiday season and knowing that things may only be getting worse. It's terrible that anyone is losing their jobs in this current economy, even here in ND. "

Destruction Crew wrote on Oct 25, 2008 10:35 AM:

" I am being laid off out here in California. There is a new program that will grant you up to 104 weeks of unemployment, $10,000 for retraining if you have been laid off due to your job moving overseas. If you can prove that the owners are funneling work outside of the US, you may qualify.
I am sure with oil drying up, those type of jobs are also. "

Dusty wrote on Oct 25, 2008 9:43 AM:

" Snap' wrote: "Thank you Silly Bluecollar Squabbles. Ijfrommin and Dusty, our resident "know it alls," your response?"

Snap, i doubt that anyone is going to dispute that Bill Clinton worked very hard to get NAFTA passed, or that Obama is proposing raising taxes on businesses. Those are facts. They are easily verified. No matter which party a person prefers. It has nothing to do with 'know it alls'. "

What The wrote on Oct 25, 2008 9:11 AM:

" I do agree that this is part of what is going on nation wide. But did'nt Doosan tell our local government at the state capital that this plant will remain open and will not be affected. I think that alot of this goes back to the Clinton era also. I do hope people go out and get that extras job that is in the community at local stores instead of just sitting around collecting a check. I dont know but I think you can work X amount of hours and still collect unemployement and prove to the country that that We american's Here in ND are not to proud to do any job to make a living. Remember to get out there a Vote! we don't need another Clinton era "

Dusty wrote on Oct 25, 2008 7:31 AM:

" NAFTA may not have been Bill Clinton's 'idea' but he did push it hard, sign it into law, and it is often highlighted it as one of his accomplishments. Hillary also talked about it as one of Bill's successes but distanced herself from it this go-around when it was proving to be unpopular with voters. "

Snap wrote on Oct 25, 2008 3:53 AM:

" Thank you Silly Bluecollar Squabbles. Ijfrommin and Dusty, our resident "know it alls," your response?

And by the way, as my earlier post stated, "What's the big deal? It's a lay-off, which means you get to apply for, and receive unemployment! It's 2/3 of your usual pay! This will ocurr near the holidays, so enjoy yourselves! It's a ding dang paid vacation! "

Silly Bluecollar Squabbles wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:45 PM:

" When I was in D.C. for six years, I learned many things. One of which is that the NAFTA idea was not Clinton's or the democratic parties idea, nor was it an idea of the republicans. It was an idea born decades earlier out of the Council of Foreign Relations, and would have been put into place regardless which party won the election back in the 90's.

Folks, you've been lied to all your lives. The truth is out there if you look for it, but you will NEVER find it on the nightly news, the newspapers, or the radio talk shows. Sorry. "

ljfrommin wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:03 PM:

" It's too late Dusty, they already drank the kool aid. "

worker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:48 PM:

" As far as the bobcat employees going on strike and shutting the plant down, that was not our choice. Ingersoll Rand made that choice by not letting us return to work under the old contract while negotiations contiunued on for a new contract. We as a union wanted to work and they told us NO. So the only thing that could be done was a strike that IR forced on us by there tactics. "

Dusty wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:15 PM:

" As long as politics is being brought into this, we might as well work from the facts:

1) Part of Bill Clinton's legacy included putting in place his prized NAFTA program. Do you think NAFTA created more or less jobs in the U.S.?

2) Obama is campaigning on raising taxes on businesses like Bobcat. During a worldwide recession. With the U.S. already having the second highest business tax rate in the world. Do you think raising taxes on businesses right now will create more or less jobs? "

Anti unuon wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:03 PM:

" It is sure funny that all you Bobcat workers are so worried about the other people affected by this shut down but when it was your idea to shut the plant down by striking you did not consider the effects of the smaller assembly plants! Look at it from both sides. OK for you to do it but not for them? At least you had some warning and a date it will end. "

enjoy your time off wrote on Oct 24, 2008 5:40 PM:

" I'm a seasonal construction worker and don't mind alittle time off. Hope it's just six weeks, go hunting or ice fishing. Lot of great workers at bobrat, rather run a Cat skidder though. "

BJB wrote on Oct 24, 2008 5:04 PM:

" Although this is not a funny situation, I find it "funny" that some blame Republicans for this shut down. CS: please, name names as to who you exactly think is to blame for this mess. Also, for bonus points, list how they were responsible. I look forward to your response. And I will gaurantee for every one rebublican name you give me, I will give you two democratic names! "

old bobcat to personal discretion wrote on Oct 24, 2008 5:00 PM:

" I do agree with you about at least letting us know in advance about the 6-week lay off. At least people can start planning on their Christmas budget. I guess most people won't understand about having the media know first until it happens to them also. Anyway, please also remember there are also people in small towns around Bismarck that are working for sub-assembly for $8-$10 per hour that will also have a hard time trying to figure where they will make up the difference with the very small unemployment check they will be getting. They will not be able to find part-time jobs, like the Gwinner area. "

Old Bobcat wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:47 PM:

" Just to let the people know they could have told us 3rd shifters when we were clocking out at 7:00 am, knowing the union stewards and foreman on 3rd shift didn't even know was totally disrespectful. I found out about 3 1/2 hours later and it was already on the news and on the internet. They could have had someone by the timeclock letting us know.
How would any of you feel if you were in a managment position and you didn't know until later in the afternoon, after everyone including "joe the plumber" knew from the news media. The foreman are not part of the union and they had nothing to do with the strike as they are NOT union. So they don't even have any respect for the foreman.
Again, times are bad and the ecomony has been low in sales everywhere, they let us know that things are going to be bad until the end of 2009. This is just not Bobcat with sales problems right now. I realize they need the engineers and other office management there to keep the changes going and correct the problems, however they could at least let us know a couple hours in
advance before it hit the news. Most of us didn't believe people when neighbors
called to tell us!!! I am a thankful employee that will be able to get unemployment, however the people at the sub-assembly plants are really going to have a hard time as they won't get as much unemployment and in the local area of Gwinner, Oakes, Milnor, Britton SD, Cogswell, Cayuga, Enderlin there are no part-time jobs to pick up the slack. "

Personal discretion wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:29 PM:

" There is never a good time for something like this to happen - my thoughts are with those employees and their families who will struggle. That said, with the economy in a meltdown right now, this wasn't really a shock...it's just the ugly reality of what is happening in the country and seeing it happen in our community. I'm surprised to see people attack the company about how the news got out...once you tell some of the employees, you can bet the news will travel fast. My first thought was at least they gave the employees some advance warning - better than finding it out a day or two ahead of time. "

bobcat wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:23 PM:

" To those of you that blame this on the strike. The strike was not against doosan. IR owned bobcat then. To those who blame the republicans for jobs leaving this country Bill Clinton was the one that enacted all the free trade treaties like nafta that started this mess. "

bobcatworkeralso wrote on Oct 24, 2008 4:17 PM:

" add another week to shutdown ,week of thanksgiving also.plus the support facilities for bobcat is also out of work. "

employee wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:59 PM:

" Bobcat/Doosan's Carrollton plant is closing on 11/30/08 for good. Be thankful you get to go back to work in February instead of being let go completely. "

ljfrommin wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:45 PM:

" to A Mom, Yeppers and others---how would you go about telling all three shifts at the same time? This was news after the first employee was told. Do you really believe that the first shift people would have kept the info secret for a full 24 hours? "

The Point wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:34 PM:

" I'm impressed. It took 24 posts for someone to blame the Bobcat shutdown on the Repubicans!! "

Investor wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:22 PM:

" To "A Mom": Here's your comment, "I think the GLOBAL meltdown just became a perfect opportunity for Doosan to incorporate more of its well choreographed plan to cease all production in the US which was in place at the time of the purchase." Is there something I'm misinterpreting in your statement?? The dagger comment was directed to everyone because those of you who remember the strike will also remember all of the dagger throwing that was going on between you folks. Bobcat just celebrated 50 years of being the world's leading compact equipment manufacturer. Yet, it amazes me how with all the bickering, slander and finger pointing that goes on amongst you folks, that you made it this far. I guess that says something about all facets of the comany though. They must design and build a good product, they must service their customers well, and they must treat their employees fairly well. Just imagine what could happen if all the ranks joined in this tough time to make all of these assets even stronger by working together instead of slamming one another. Just to reiterize why the company went to the media - perhaps it was to get the truth out before all the rumors and finger pointers went running to the media. Correct me if I'm wrong, but they interviewed the union presidents for the news and I'm guessing (maybe I'm wrong) that the company spoke with the union reps. prior to the public announcement. If that's the case then maybe we should be asking why the union reps. didn't ask for this to be communicated differently. "

mandan wrote on Oct 24, 2008 3:17 PM:

" how come nothing is in the paper about the bismarck teen that has been missing, i seen a poster at the gas station and i heard about it on the radio but nothing in the paper??? "

A Mom wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:47 PM:

" Mr. Investor, I don't believe I said anything about Doosan shipping its production out of the country during the 6 week lay off..............And what in the world did I say that produced an image of a dagger throwing overseas hag? LOL Take a breath Mr. Investor, I bet your blood pressure is way out of control............I would hate to see what kind of condition your condition would be in if you were a Bobcat employee instead of a relative. You might do well to find a new pill.

As I stated in my earlier post.........

I hope that everyone effected by this will get the opportunity to return to their jobs or have other doors open for them. "

Wife wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:38 PM:

" To Reality- you need to remember that not all the employees wanted to strike or supported it. The strike was decided by a little more than half of the employees, my husband was not one of them. He wanted to work and is thankful to have a decent paying job.
To Snap- It is not a vacation...we will barely be able to get buy on unemployment, and with the waiting week and the partial pay for Christmas, they will not qualify for unemployment for all the time. I am not really sure how we will buy Christmas presents for our kids. I know people on Welfare who "take home" more money than those of us who work hard to put food on the table. It is a sad day for ND.
I hope you all realize what this could potentially do to the economy of this town. There is the potential of Bobcat closing. If that happens, your house will be worth less...there would be a flood of employees leaving, selling their homes, and that would cause the market to be overloaded and as a result all of our homes values will drop. The money going into our local economy would drop, and prices will be affected. Wages will dip, because we will lose some of the competitiveness brought in by the higher wage jobs being lost. This will affect us all, not just the Bobcat employees. Please think of all of us, as well as the other companies who will be with out work as well...Menlo, the parts suppliers, etc. The depend on Doosan for employment as well. "

cant believe it wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:36 PM:

" Tell me have we all become such people that we do not care when someone no longer has a job. How sad for those of you who blame the Bobcat workers for this. It is the ecomomy. Please remember all or most of these workers have families and bills like the rest of us. It could be us next and then I hope we do not hear it was the Bobcat workers falut. Grow up. No matter how or who you blame it wil not slove the problem. I do think it is very sad though that The Company did not care enough about their workers to let them know first before the rest of the world knew. I hope my employer thinks more of me if I should fond myself in the same boat. "

Yeppers wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:31 PM:

" I also agree with "A Mom" I read about it on the tribune website. I had to e-mail it to my boyfriend that works 3rd shift, lets just say he wasn't to impressed when he woke up and read that. They should have waited until the next day to release it to the press. But good luck to all of the employees. "

Investor wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:20 PM:

" To "A Mom": Oh and just to set the record straight before you start throwing daggers thinking I'm a salaried employee for Bobcat, I have immediate family working at the Bismarck factory (hourly employee) so I understand how hard this is going to be for all those folks involved. If you are that worried about Doosan shipping production overseas then during the six week layoff you'll have ample time to do some job searching. Might as well do it soon since the factories won't be here in six months, right?. "

Investor wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:18 PM:

" To "A Mom": You are correct! I have been in close proximity of "a pointed finger". In fact I have been for years because I have both business associates, friends, and FAMILY that work for Bobcat (this includes hourly and salaried). I've heard and seen all the finger pointing for years and years. It's really quite amusing, yet grade schoolish, how the engineering types and factory working types love to point blame. Scenario 1: Machine breaks down in the field and the engineers blame factory workers for not putting it together correctly and of course the assembler blames the engineer for a crappy design that doesn't allow him/her to assemble properly. It's sad how people are digging up the strike as an excuse for this. It's just as sad how folks think this is part of some grand scheme to ship production overseas. That's not to say it won't ever happen but do you recall the same babble about Ingersoll Rand? Especially when they incorporated the company in Bermuda! Here's a newsbrief for you - Chrysler just announced this morning that they are cutting 25% of their salaried work force. Oh, and they just announced a permanent layoff of one shift at a factory. By the way the US dollar falls to 95.32 yen, lowest in 13 years (AP). I could go on and on with how this is affecting American companies but I don't think you'd get off your pity wagon and recognize what's going on outside your front door. What will it take for you folks to understand that this isn't about Bobcat's hourly vs. salary or domestic vs. foreign built product. THIS IS A GLOBAL PROBLEM! "

Worker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 2:05 PM:

" To Old Bobcat - Saxrud's gets closed for the 6 weeks...fargo assembly in LIsbon and Lehr get closed for 3 weeks. So, this does not only effect Bobcat like people are thinking. You are right...its going to effect the businesses in these places and the daycares...the daycare that my daughter goes to the parents either work at bobcat, saxrud's or fargo assembly...so, its going to hurt. "

ndgg wrote on Oct 24, 2008 1:46 PM:

" to economic conservative: while they might slow down drilling or stop drilling all together when the price of oil drops, they will not cap wells. they still need to sell the oil to recoup costs, they arne't just going to shut them down. Also, hiring for oilfield jobs is at a standstill? I have family that owns a business in oil country. you can't find people to work! So it makes me wonder, are you just making things up or what?
to the bobcat workers, I wish you well on your 6 weeks off, Hopefully the plants will reopen as scheduled. "

find new work wrote on Oct 24, 2008 1:33 PM:

" I think there are hundreds of other jobs available is Bis/Man. So while being laid off, go find a job for the short term. Lord knows some of out restaurants could use some more skilled workers.. Maybe my burger could be assembled correctly for that period of time. "

A Mom wrote on Oct 24, 2008 1:12 PM:

" Sorry Mr. Investor, I may not be in a position to follow the performance of many industries but something tells me that this isn't a knee jerk reaction by Doosan to the GLOBAL meltdown. I think the GLOBAL meltdown just became a perfect opportunity for Doosan to incorporate more of its well choreographed plan to cease all production in the US which was in place at the time of the purchase. Wow, what a web we weave........................................and maybe I read your posts too many times but it sounds like you have been in pretty close proximity of "a pointed finger." "

Snap wrote on Oct 24, 2008 1:01 PM:

" What's the big deal? It's a lay-off, which means you get to apply for, and receive unemployment! It's 2/3 or your usual pay! This will ocurr near the holidays, so enjoy yourselves! It's a ding dang paid vacation! "

Reality wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:53 PM:

" I am curious why Bobcat employee's feel that they should shut down plants in other countries or have given more notice? When they choose to strike a couple years back and ask the company to pay them more money when the economy was already starting to faulter what did they expect. They make at least 3 times more money then the people working at plants in other countries so of course when you want more money and the company begins to struggle you will be the first to go. And it is not like you walk away with nothing, it may not be your normal salary but still better then nothing, you can get $406 a week for unemployment that is more then some people make in a week. Plus when they choose to strike did anyone then care about how this affected the company so why do you feel that you deserve more from the company to care about how this affects you. "

investor wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:37 PM:

" Some of you folks truly don't understand how a business is operated. You can't lay off every employee if you intend on keeping the company in operation in the future. Companies are not maintained by hourly employees only. Companies stay in operation due to customers. Who is it that takes care of those customers and ensures that the product they offer meets the customers needs, wants and desires? It's not the hourly folks, although they do a fine job of building the product. The service and parts folks need to make sure that customers and dealers can keep their products running. The engineers need to make sure that they are designing new product to meet the customers wants and to keep an edge over competition. The accountants still need to pay bills. Hopefully you get the picture, although there are the ignorant out there that won't understand any of this. "

Investor wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:28 PM:

" Just a few comments here on the previous posts. I'm in a position where I follow the performance of many industries. To all those who can't believe this is happening or are blaming this on Bobcat/Doosan, WAKE UP and turn on the evening news. You've been fortunate to weather this storm out as long as you have. Someone commented on why the foreign plants weren't shut down and it's true that those plants output is a fraction of the U.S. plants and the products built in those plants are sold to those regions only. The majority of the U.S. built product is only sold in the U.S., so of course they're going to shut down the plants that aren't selling product. It's not rocket science, it's basic economics. Bobcat has shut down other U.S. facilities. They closed, yes closed/ceased operations, permanetely, their plant in Carrollton, Georgia, as well as another plant in Virginia, operated by a sister company. They've also let go nearly 4 dozen engineering employees in Bismarck and Gwinner in recent weeks, so this isn't just affecting hourly/factory employees. As well, employees in NC were recently let go and these were salaried employees. Perhaps the reason the company went to the press first was to get the true story out before all the rumors started running rampant as they always do by a select few who want to always point the finger at companies management for the GLOBAL economic meltdown. For those who feel the need to point to the finger and are that unsatisified with your job, FIND ANOTHER JOB. If it's really that bad working there, the beauty of America allows you to quit and find another job. Go for it! But good luck right now, considering our country is entering the worst recession since the 30's. "

family of bobcat worker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:13 PM:

" To gggg..I would like to add....I understand you may think that this will be bad for Bis/Man. but what about Gwinner, Wyndmere, Lisbon, Milnor, etc. these towns strive on bobcat, i.e. the local grocery store and gas stations, etc. We don't have many part-time opportunities in these small towns to carry these workers through. At least Bis/Man has other opportunities for these workers if they choose to work part-time. "

Dave wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:11 PM:

" To: find new work - I would be running to the oil fields right now either. If oil prices keep coming down, that will just be the next bust! "

Dusty wrote on Oct 24, 2008 12:03 PM:

" This is sad for the workers who got laid off and their families. Something to think about: Obama is proposing to raise taxes on businesses such as Bobcat under his tax plan. He's very clear about that. The U.S. already has the second highest business tax rate in the world. Do you think raising taxes on businesses will lead to more jobs or less? Do you think raising taxes on businesses will cause more companies to operate here or look elsewhere? Do you think raising taxes on businesses will help them recover from the recession faster and get back to mormal levels or not? "

Old Bobcat wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:55 AM:

" I work in the Gwinner factory and want people to be informed that there are ALOT of hard working people doing assembly work for Bobcat that are also going to be hurt with this layoff. (Ray-Mac, Fargo Assembly, Saxerud Mfg., etc.) I wonder how many people are working at all these off-site plants? If we don't have work, they don't have work. I don't think it has anything to do with the short strike, the economy is just bad and will probably be that way for most of 2009.

My main complaint is that most of us found out about the layoff by hearing it on the radio or news!!! It would have been nice to find out at least by a note/letter on the memo board. "

employees wife wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:46 AM:

" I couldn't agree more with "A Mom's" comment....If it wasn't for the friends of the previous shift I would have found out about it over the internet, not even from my husband. I just can't believe how horrible that was of the company. And to the person hmmmmm, I would love to know those answers also!! I would like to thank all the people that have posted the comments of thoughts out to the families, we are all going to need it. "

Economic Conservative wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:44 AM:

" I am still baffled by how many people in ND live in a fantasy world. I have got to hand it to "Find new work", another one of the many sheep being fleeced by the current political machine of ND. Fact, oil is dropping like a rock, as I write this it is at $64.75 a barrel. oil field job hiring is almost at a stand still right now and with oil quickly approaching the $60 mark we will start seeing the capping of those wells alreay drilled. Wake up people, ND's ecomony is tanking right along with the rest of the world. Anyone else wondering why our beloved Governor isn't making any public appearances right now? There are no photo ops in an economic situation that John can't hide from us anymore. "

ljfrommin wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:41 AM:

" to hmmmm--that's the kind of thinking that's killing this country. Now more than ever R&D,accounting and sales need to work to find ways to make their product more marketable so as to get production back up and running. How does making your neighbor poor make you less poor? "

CS wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:18 AM:

" Keep voting Republican! Republicans promote exporting our jobs and factories overseas and the philosophy of the rich get richer, the poor get poorer! This is all of the Republicans fault. "

Dakotakid wrote on Oct 24, 2008 11:06 AM:

" This is the result of the GLOBAL ECONOMIC MELTDOWN and we are seeing shutdowns all across the country. In Topeka, Kansas the Goodyear Tire Plant has already shut down three times in the past month and a half, and more shutdowns are planned for the holiday season.

I too expect Bobcat to shutdown the North Dakota operations completely in the first quarter of 2009, based on a continuing decline of the overall economy through all of 2009. Sad to see so many, work so hard, for so long, and then there is nothing!

God Bless You All! "

A Mom wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:48 AM:

" It is never a good time for something like this to happen. But I do think that the employees deserved to be treated with more compassion and professionalism than was shown by Doosan yesterday. The Tribune reported that employees were informed early yesterday morning. While that may be true for the day shift employees, what about those that work the swing and night shift? The shut down news was national news while most of these employees were still sleeping. They woke up to phone calls and emails heralding the news.

I work for a pretty good sized company that also has been known for their unprofessional way of dealing with employees. I don't know how they can get up in the morning and look at themselves in the mirror after something like this (ie, not informing the employees in advance).

I doubt that too many (especially those employed in Gwinner) will see "find new york" 's input very constructive.............but I hope that everyone effected by this will get the opportunity to return to their jobs or have other doors open for them.

This is probably just a first in many situations to come where the excess $$ in the ND coffers could be put to good use..........helping displaced workers and their families. While there are no doubt many workers with many years of seniority, who may have a good nest egg built up for emergencies, there are probably just as many if not more young employees that haven't had the opportunity to do that yet. My prayers will go up for all. "

hmmmmm wrote on Oct 24, 2008 10:40 AM:

" What I don't understand is why is it just the factory workers getting laid off. What about all the salary people and engineers, from what I understand they will be working those 6 weeks that the factory workers are laid off. If they are laying off it should be for EVERYONE that works there. Let them feel the crunch as well!!!! "

find new work wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:36 AM:

" They have shut down for periods of time in the past, never this long, but if you need money, go work in the oil fields. that is a reliable job at this moment in time. "

also to remember wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:36 AM:

" Not only is Bobcat getting laid off for 6 weeks---but, you have lots of small companies in ND that make parts for them...those people will also be getting laid off too...So, don't forget about them. People can go ahead and blame bobcat ...but, the thing is if the economy is crap...noone is going to buy anything...everyone is going to be saving their money for the important stuff...like food, heat, clothing and house payments. If anyone didn't think that this was going to happen in ND...then you were living in LA LA land. "

BabyT wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:31 AM:

" To Anti-outsourcing: Simple economics is your answer. The US plants are vastly more expensive to keep open, ESPECIALLY union shops. It isn't directly because of the strike, but is just a natural affect of the cost of business. The US is not a manufacturing country. If your job is in the manufacturing industry, start looking now. The US has been trying to get out of manufacturing for the last 70 years or so, the current economic conditions will just finish the job. I fully expect Bobcat to completely close the plants in the US within the next year, or at least cut back enough to keep a token plant open to say Bobcat final assembly is done in the US. (aka what the US automakers currently do) "

Poor PR wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:31 AM:

" They could have at least informed the families before informing the press. Tacky, tacky, tacky. "

hang in there wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:18 AM:

" You are a great group of workers who work hard and long hours and as the song goes shiffft work. I want to say I support you and hope that you are all back to work soon. I am feeling sad to hear that they did not make any cuts in other Countries. For some reason this does not seem fair. Hang in there. "

Economic Conservative wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:09 AM:

" That's right, go and blame Bobcat for the economic crisis that is at it's worst in the US. Bobcat made a business decision that was at best difficult to make. If you want to voice your indignation, call the Governor's Office and ask them why they keep telling us that the economic picture in ND is always so rosey? This is just the start of a long hard winter for us due to "trickle down" economics. Thanks John for preparing us for it. "

1830 wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:08 AM:

" To Anti-Outsourcing,

I think its worth noting that the European plants do not build the exact same products and they operate at much lower volumes. I would be surprised if the plant in France built more than a dozen versa-handlers per day. It would take much longer to saturate the market at that rate, then when you are building a couple hundred skid-steers per day.
The article didnt say anything about the attachment plants in Minnesota and Georgia. Without information to the contrary, I would guess that they are not going through an extended shutdown. There are two domestic plants that are open. I think that this has everything to do with dealer inventories of specific products, and nothing else. "

photographer wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:06 AM:

" There is no sick leave for bobcat employees "

Mike wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:05 AM:

" Jeremy Bauer? who's that "

Family of Laidoff Worker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 9:03 AM:

" It comes as no current or future surprise to our family. We have been x~pecting this and other things, as the Nation's economy is in many areas of grave distress. Letz all pray that with the prospect of new leaders entering their governmental offices that they will assist us in these areas of major concern.... as was said in that famous speech by John F. Kennedy in 1961: "Ask not what your Country can do for you, BUT what you can do for your Country"!
Most of you would all agree... after the turmoil, transition, and anguish that WE, the citizens of these United States have endured since 911, will somehow transpire to better times in the future.
God Bless Each and Everyone of you... Your in our thoughts and PRAYERS! "

WD wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:57 AM:

" Does the fact that the foreign factories will remain open while we experience these "shut downs" suggest that the end is near for these plants in ND? "

gggg wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:43 AM:

" This is bad for Bismarck, a lot of money not being spent around Bis. Mandan. Mark my words there will be more time off after feb 2. "

Anti-outsourcing wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:40 AM:

" WOW you have to love Bobcat for keeping the factories open in other countries..NOT!!!! Why not shut down, France, and any of the other 2 factories.. Is there a reason why shut down the 2 in the US?? Is this payback for the strike?? "

Chris wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:32 AM:

" Can they uses unused vacation and sick to help get the bills paid, or is it time with no pay at all? "

friend wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:25 AM:

" Just remember, these people are your friends & neighbors, people you go to church with or maybe your kids go to school together. A kind word & a show of support I'm sure will be greatly appreciated. Also, I hope everybody remembers this first of many of the same headlines to come when they go to the polls on November 4th. We keep hearing about North Dakota's great economy, well here is the first of many to follow examples of the economy only helping a few. I guess with these people out of work, North Dakota will be able to maintain its place as the "state with the people that work 2 or 3 jobs." Remember, a kind word & a friendly gesture goes a long way. "

Traveler wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:24 AM:

" North Dakota is starting to feel what has been happening in other parts of the country earlier. We are not immune; just delayed. The economy is affecting everyone in some way. "

neighbor of bobcatworker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 8:13 AM:

" ...and a Happy New Year. "

Al Gee wrote on Oct 24, 2008 7:30 AM:

" Maybe they could use part of the plant to make "Bob"sleds during the shutdown. Diversification is the key! "

Yikes wrote on Oct 24, 2008 6:43 AM:

" The first of many layoffs to come with the future of our country looking the way it does. God Bless the employees throughout the holidays and the entire 6 weeks, I'm sure this will be a challenge. "

bobcatworker wrote on Oct 24, 2008 6:14 AM:

" Merry Christmas to us "

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