Boeing Strike Day #1

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Reporter: KAKE News
Email Address: news@kake.com

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It's official.

Boeing Machinists are on the picket lines as of midnight Saturday morning. KAKE News was there as workers picked up signs and began their strike. The strike affects some 750 workers in Wichita.

The strike threatens to cost Boeing upwards of $100-million a day, according to the union. Some 27,000 machinists in Washington state, Oregon and Kansas voted down the company's contract offer by 80%, with another 87% voting to strike.

"We're going to follow through with what we said. We are here and willing to meet at any time," said Steve Rooney, a spokesman for the machinists.

Boeing officials say the contract offered to machinists is the best in the industry. There is no word when talks may resume.

"We know the issues were addressed but we couldn't get close enough to an agreement," said Forrest Gossett, a spokesman for Boeing.

The company offered workers raises over three years, plus a signing bonus and a cost-of-living increase, but union officials say issues of job security and rising health care costs could not be resolved.

"One of the big concerns is retention, and the use of special retention and no regulations for the use of special retention," said Ruth Kiker, a machinists.

Some union members said it would have actually cost them money in the end when it came to things like medical benefits.

"Basically the coverage was going to cost you a lot more money, plus you'd be paying more monthly so that makes a big difference," said Kiker.

This strike could also impact Spirit workers as well. During the 2005 Boeing strike, Spirit was put on a 3-day work week. Spirit hasn't announced it's plans yet for how they'll handle this strike.
*************

On it's website, the IAM Local 751 announced Friday that talks between the union and Boeing finally broke down. Here is the statement:

Brothers and sisters:
The strike will commence at one minute after midnight tonight. This Company disrespected the process, bargained illegally and most of all, disrespected the finest Aerospace workers anywhere on the planet by failing to meet your expectations.

Despite meeting late into the night and throughout the day, continued contract talks with the Boeing Company did not address our issues. Armed with your strong strike vote, the IAM Negotiating Committee continues to try and convince the Company to meet our members’ demands.

Your Negotiating Committee appreciates the support of all of our members during this interim time period and will appreciate your continued support as we picket the gates at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, September 6.

I want to thank the mediation service, who diligently tried to help secure a contract short of a strike to avoid hardships on our members. Unfortunately, those services did not secure an offer.

We are ON STRIKE at 12:01am tonight.

If this Company wants to talk, they have my number, they can reach me on the picket line.

In Solidarity
Tom Wroblewski
District President and
Directing Business Representative

Boeing responded shortly after with this statement:

"Over the past two days, Boeing, the union and the federal mediator worked hard in pursuing good-faith explorations of options that could lead to an agreement. Unfortunately the differences were too great to close," said Scott Carson, president and CEO of Boeing Commercial Airplanes.

The IAM has called for a strike to begin at 12:01 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 6. Boeing operations in Washington, Oregon and Kansas will remain open. Employees who are not represented by the IAM are expected to report for work as normal.

During the work stoppage, Boeing will support its customers and their airplanes in service. The company will continue delivering airplanes that were completed prior to the strike, and will continue providing customers with spare parts. Boeing does not intend to assemble airplanes during the strike.

Related Links

International Association of Machinists

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Comments are posted from viewers like you and do not always reflect the views of this station.

Posted by: other side of boeing Location: wichita on Sep 16, 2008 at 09:11 PM
I can say FIRST HAND that SPIRIT is NOT in on the BOEING strike. there I capitalized all the important words for those with literacy problems. Spirit is very LARGLY dependant on boeings business, after all boeing is a spirit CUSTOMER! If this strike goes for more than 45-60 days there WILL be layoffs at spirit. Spirit does not have enought other customers to up hold all the people that work there. point blank...

Posted by: Tired of the Union Location: Wichita Area on Sep 15, 2008 at 11:14 AM
You Union guys and gals need to look at what the Union chairs got out of the HBC strike and what the average union member got...I'm out of it for good, all they did was COST ME MONEY!

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 9, 2008 at 12:49 PM
While I feel very sorry for any inconvenience that my decision to vote to strike has caused anyone either directly or indirectly,I stand behind my decision and the reasoning behind it.I also thoroughly enjoy debating the issues, especially with the Union Haters because while I know this is a very emotional subject you make it so easy to pick on you because you choose to just lash out rather than conduct proper research before posting your responses.Thanks

Posted by: Techiechic Location: Kansas on Sep 8, 2008 at 10:49 PM
You go Frank! JJ, you need to go back to third grade and learn grammar and punctuation again apparently. Do the words "run-on sentence" mean anything to you? Oh and there isn't a spell check on this board so what you need to do is write your comment in office first, spell check it, and copy and paste it into here.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 04:16 PM
Oh Come Now! Are we really going to start calling McDonalds a real job? Yeah, I guess they don't exploit their workers there. Lucky if you get 20 hours per week because they don't want to pay full time benefits. "At any typical McDonald's outlet 80 people are on payroll and 80 percent of those employees are part-time staff. This means that an average work week should be 25 hours, however, many employees work much longer hours. The practice of hiring a "part-time" workforce for full-time hours allows McDonald's to cover overtime work without paying overtime wages. Workers' schedules are adjusted on a daily basis depending upon sales.The demanding work hours, erratic schedules and low pay cause much employment turnover at McDonald's. Within a month, 7 out of 10 starters drop out; old-timers have worked four months". Yeah-what was I thinking!That sounds like a fair place to work.

Posted by: LL839 Union Member Location: Spirit Wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 04:03 PM
After reading through alot of these comments it really sickens me to hear all the local bashing of our union workforce. Where would Wichita be without Boeing? Spirit? Beech? Cessna? Learjet?It would be a ghost town. Why did I join the union? Because I am tired of being pushed around be cooperate america. I am behind you brothers and sisters!! It will be our turn in 2010! So be ready!!

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichit, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 03:10 PM
Boeing got very creative with entry rates.For Grade 5 employee as an example:New rate would have been $16 per hour.Employee who is already employed with 1 year of service would typically be at $15.32 per hour.You would think that the 1 year employee would at least be brought up to the new minimum.Ah, but you would be wrong.The creative minds at Boeing say first you have to figure in a .37 cost of living increase(doesn't exist until December but they count it), plus any shift differential,plus the 5% wage increase.So the current employee is now making $16.07(.07 more than brand new employee)

Posted by: CHRIS Location: WICHITA on Sep 8, 2008 at 03:09 PM
MAYBE BOEING WORKERS NEED TO GET A REAL JOB, LIKE AT MCDONALDS.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 03:00 PM
Wrong with the Contract: 1.Boeing inserted language that sends work overseas without letting Union look at or bid on the work. 2.Boeing raised entry rates only after 16 years and it only applies to those hired after contract would have taken effect.People in the 12 step progression were not included which means that someone brand new will come in making as much as someone with 1 years of experience. 3.Machinists get 5 days of sick leave compared to the other bargaining units that have 10 days. 4. 401K-other bargaining units get matching funds of .75 while machinists get .50 5. Upon the death of an eligable employee in the Pension Plan, the surviving spouse receives a lump sum payment not greater than $36,000(typical funeral costs $10,000)additional funds in the employees Pension account revert back to the Boeing Company.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 8, 2008 at 12:29 PM
NOW NOW NOW, Spirit is not JOINGING in on the strike. So I don't know who told you that Mr. or Ms. M.D. Spirit is being forced to stop production on Boeing made planes because in light of the strike they have closed their doors to anything new. So don't even bring Spirit workers in on this. They are victims!

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 12:20 PM
Funny how people forget why Boeing sold to Onex in 2005...in 2005 Wichita started balking at the $500 million in tax breaks they were giving Boeing and wanted some of that back.Suddenly Boeing wanted to get out of the parts business and sell, and didn't give a second thought to the workforce.In 2005 there were 9000 Boeing employees who started getting their notices.Your right-Corporate America is your friend.My family got 2 weeks to decide whether to take our chances in Wichita or relocate to Seattle.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 12:00 PM
Please don't presume that you are educated or understand the economics of outsourcing if you believe that the Unions or machinists are somehow responsible for Corporate outsourcing.You need to move back home and go back to school.And please if you are going to speak to someone's education M.D. please make sure you at least use proper spelling and punctuation.

Posted by: Proud Union member Location: wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 11:49 AM
Why would anyone think that it's ok for the Boeing Company to KEEP your pension plan in the event of your death and leave your spouse with NOTHING after you spent 30-35 years working hard and making this company as successful as it is today. If you think this is fair then I wouldn't call you a very smart person either.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 8, 2008 at 11:48 AM
M.D. "grammer", is spelled grammar.What's wrong with the contract is that after the takeaways my 11% is worth $100 per year.Boeing inserted new language into the contract that does not give the Union an opportunity to even bid on the work before Boeing sends it over to France or Italy.It's all well and good to bury your head in the sand and take whatever scraps your company gives you, but don't blame me for not being a sheep and asking for what's fair.Sure lets outsource everything.Guess you're not as educated as you would like to believe.It's a good thing to volunteer-employees of Boeing have contributed $500 billion over the last 57 years through the Employees Community Fund which is owned and operated by employees and has nothing to do with Boeing itself although Boeing likes to lend it's name to it in the media.

Posted by: M.D. Location: wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 11:08 AM
Outsource everything!!!!! I'm educated enough, unlike most union members judging by their grammer, to withstand Boeing and Spirit both shutting down. I also volunteer at a nonprofit food bank. I'll see you strikers there soon asking for handouts. Not that each payday isn't a handout to you.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 8, 2008 at 09:19 AM
I would personally like to know EXACTLY What is wrong with this contract. If my husband is losing work due to this strike, I feel as though we should atleast know why!

Posted by: Lizzy on Sep 8, 2008 at 08:48 AM
bunch of cry babies!! I agree 100% with the comment Ralph made on Sept 6th. The union members are a bunch of cry baby children. I WANT I WANT I WANT. Grow up already & go to work without complaining like everyone else in the world!! Your machinist's---not royalty!

Posted by: Jake Location: Wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 07:32 AM
With the economy the way it is, and aircraft workers being what they are, Boeing will not have to wait too long for this strike to be over... Wonder how many of you are going to lose your brand new campers, and your brand new automobiles, or your brand new boats or the house you really could not afford (but had to have) to begin with? You live off overtime like it lasts forever, you live paycheck to paycheck to keep up with the "Joneses" and then something like occurs and you have nothing to except 1 last paycheck and $100/week to hold you over. Try and get a job, you will be over qualified, no one will have you! You will not qualify for unemployment, you walked off a perfectly good job with good pay and benefits VOLUNTARILY. Get on wellfare, you will be despised for being a drain on society. Go ahead and fight the good fight and watch your jobs head to Mexico, or China or even Bangalore.

Posted by: Hard worker Location: wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 05:08 AM
Unions are road blocks that show down an American worker

Posted by: union member Location: salina on Sep 8, 2008 at 03:31 AM
I was hoping that you would have learned from the hbc strike this union sucks we didnt get squat! all we did is lose money i wish better for you guys good luck

Posted by: Hard worker Location: wichita on Sep 8, 2008 at 12:22 AM
I am a union worker and dont work at any air craft company and wouldnt work at one. I believe there is a place for a union,but most union-air craft worker abuses it they want something for nothing it is greed,I would of taken the contract. Lets try this quit working and pay for your own ins lets see how that will work.

Posted by: the carroll dean Location: wichita on Sep 7, 2008 at 10:16 PM
i know everyone has needs, wants, and requirements. all of you must find your place in the midst of strikes, and act accordingly. i'm 100% i.a.m.. i'm the best in the world at what i do. i work at spirit, and we build the most exact to spec. air craft components ever seen. i expect of myself that what i do makes sure that the grand ma of my kids has the best airplane possable for her to come see them. every spirit or boeing employee does their job to make sure that the same is true for them, and 1.26 billion grand ma's that they don't know in korea, australia, or dubai. be it four seater's or 787's, or airbus. we are all the best in the world at what we do. generally no one considers our skill when an airplane brings them their mom or grand ma. it happens all the time. it is assumed. yet not considered are the 10's of thousands of highly skilled people behind what is assumed as everyday, safely delivered, grand ma. i don't like strikes, but i support the iam, and everyones grand ma !!!

Posted by: R Location: wichita on Sep 7, 2008 at 02:57 PM
To all you Union haters! Its so funny to listen to all of you cry about the union workers. It really shows how jealous you are because you DON'T HAVE and not LUCKY ENOUGH to have a union job. So shut up and go back to WalMart and gripe to everyone about this and in the back of your mind wishing you could have a job there. If you don't belong just shut your mouths. just watch what they put on TV and go to bed. WE ARE THE ONES WHO MADE THIS CITY YOU LIVE IN AND THEN COMPLAIN WHEN THIS GOES ON!!!When this is all over with, our money will support you job at Ace hardware, WalMart, McDonalds. So if it wasn't for US, YOU WOULDN'T HAVE A JOB!

Posted by: Palin Location: HBC on Sep 7, 2008 at 12:50 AM
Proud wife of HBC crosser: You have SO much to be proud of. Does your husband always have you do his talking for him. Everything WE went on strike for got resolved. What do you know about loss? your a leech. STRIKE THEM HARRRD, 751!!! Will be there with you Monday!!

Posted by: wichita Location: wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 09:03 PM
well said BYE-BYE to your job out there ,, your out there picket and there in there talking about moving ,, that SO sad ,, over ??????? ins., money , come on think about this some ins. some $ money $ """" or NO JOB ,NO INS., and YES NO MONEY but go ahead and stay out there

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 6, 2008 at 08:35 PM
We don't WANT the bonuses they can keep those.The job provision we want simply gives IAM employees the opportunity to bid on a job before Boeing automatically sends it over to France or Italy.Boeing took that away on this offer so we wouldn't even have a chance!

Posted by: Bryan Location: Salina on Sep 6, 2008 at 08:32 PM
The strike will still effect the city's economy because Spirit is one of several suppliers sold by Boeing in 2005. The reduction will soon affect those employees and Spirit will lose money too. I am glad for that because they felt no pain when laying off many good employees in 2005. The company Onex has just suffered a terrible blow by HBC employees and I hope Boeing employees stick to their strategy of striking like they did at HBC. The reality is that their contract was not much better. So why don't they just come to an agreement now before the economy is hurt more.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichit, Now Seattle on Sep 6, 2008 at 08:04 PM
From Wichita Eagle 2003"But a months-long reporting project by The Wichita Eagle finds Boeing firmly positioned to expand its presence overseas -- at times to the detriment of U.S. workers -- to cut costs, win new orders for aircraft, and remain competitive in its fierce rivalry with Europe's Airbus. The Machinists union asserts that Boeing shed about 1,100 jobs in Wichita in the past two years by subcontracting work, and that some of that work ended up in other countries. The union predicts that more jobs will disappear before the current three-year labor contract expires. Boeing confirms that some work once done here is now handled overseas but maintains that any lost jobs have been more than offset by new work brought to Wichita." Except Wichita began exploring removing tax breaks for Boeing and Boeing suddenly had to sell.Hmmmm...

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 07:38 PM
Boeing employees in more than 60 countries and operations in 26 states. Worldwide, Boeing and its subsidiaries employ more than 150,000 people with major operations in the Puget Sound area of Washington state; Southern Calif.; Wichita, Kan.; and St. Louis, Mo. Quit blaming me for what you do not have and do something about it.You want a Boeing job get one!! https://jobs.boeing.com/JobSeeker/JobSearch

Posted by: Oscar Location: Wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 07:31 PM
Everyone needs to remember - Boeing Wichita is the small fish in the pond. 1000 employees compared to Boeing in Washington's 27,000. In Wichita, the wages are high; in Washington $25/hr is just barely a living wage. Their cost of living is much higher. Boeing is not stupid, they always throw out signing bonuses and wage increases while they try to slide in outsourcing clauses and decrease other benefits. They always watch the numbers! They know the news will publish the $$$ and turn the public against the Union. I've worked for Boeing for 25 years (now Spirit). The Union members will eventually sign when the bills pile up, but they will slow the decrease of their benefits. That's the only course we have left - to try to slow it down. If the aircraft plants close up, this town will blow away.

Posted by: Sick and Tired Location: Wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 06:55 PM
What the public does not understand is that, if Boeing would have taken care of the fine print and left the "goodies" off it probably would have passed. No one wants to put in 30 years and then be let go because he/she is paid more than the first year employee. That is what this about, not the monies. if the companies feel they need to be more efficient, try letting go the dead weight that wont work before they get 5 years. Both the companies and the union needs to pull there head out. As for the whining public, look into what you want to argue about before you open your mouth, and you may not look like an idiot yourself. Thats part of America's Problem! WAKE UP AMERICA

Posted by: Union RIP Location: Wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 06:19 PM
Union guys just don't understand! You want more (money, benefits, ect) yet you offer nothing more. The membership claims to be the hardest working aerospace workers in the world yet when your laid off other employers won't touch you once they learn your an ex-Boeing worker there is a REASON! You think all the "suits" keep the more for themselves and complain why your not paid like the CEO. Yet your hourly contribution on any given day consist of filing bogus grievances, some mindless task called a craft that a chimp could do, and going home to sit on your duff waiting for tomorrow. Wow! And you still wonder why you not rolling in the six figures! You guys are not dum. Your just blind sheep lead by the union sheppards that are justifying their own jobs in a day and age when unions are out date. Your union leaders have really only one interest thats keeping their own jobs. Wake up! While your only making strike pay your union leaders will still be getting their pay.

Posted by: Jake Location: Wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Boeing workers, don't complain when no one will hire you during a strike or a layoff. We all know that once you are called back, all the time, energy and money that went into training you for the new job gets shoved up our butts without a second thought or consideration for you. The only ones feeling sorry for union around here is union. Hey Big Dog layoffees, jobs are opening up...

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 6, 2008 at 04:38 PM
Are you serious?You sheep blame the Unions for labor going overseas?Corporate America has convinced you how bad they have it and you take whatever scraps they hand out and are scared to death to ask for what's fair and then blame me because I am willing to stand up and say enough is enough?The cost of living goes up based on the Consumer Price Index which tracks spending patterns of wage earners and consumers.Companies use the information to track how much your willing to spend for products.They raise prices and you're still buying so they continue to raise them until sales level off.When consumer gets used to inflated price over time they begin raising prices again.Quit telling me how much you want my union job and come get one!https://jobs.boeing.com/JobSeeker/JobSearch.Boeing is here, hiring strike or no strike.Seattle is calling!JJ I have Bachelors and working on Masters while working full time and raising 3 kids on 11.32 per hour.What do you have?

Posted by: Proud Wife of HBC Crosser on Sep 6, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Hawker's strike really lit the fire under your feet didn't it?! How crazy!! You should have learned by seeing what the union got out of that deal. Not a DARN THING! They didn't really make a dent in the former contract but yet they made IDIOTS of themselves and lost a fellow union member. You want to follow in their foot steps???? REAL SMART!!! I wouldn't be so proud to be union!!

Posted by: br Location: wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 03:32 PM
I am actually a union supporter, but I have to say, I bet airbus is loving this...here is their chance... Sorry for all the Spirit folks and countless others who will be screwed by this with no chance to gain anything...

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 03:14 PM
Fire Them And Get People That Need And want a Job like That.I'm sure There are People That would take what Their Getting In a Heartbeat

Posted by: Pro Union Location: Air Capital on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:41 PM
Seattle,Washington is a right to work state. They carried the vote. Have any of you Union haters or Moron callers ever lived in Washington State(cost of living)? Ever been laid off and not found work because you worked at Boeing? Or lost your job because the Boeing company sold your division to a foreign country? Worked at three different aircraft companies? Been in a Union and actually participated?Ever been raised by a single parent that worked at Boeing? I,have. Employees vote in Unions because of unscrupulous employers. Unions aren't perfect ether but we've got to have them. God bless Mom and Dad (stepfather) may they rest in peace. Both had over 30 yrs. each at Boeing. Both Pro Union. Next time you get in an Boeing aircraft remember who built them. Definitely not morons.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wichita, KS on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:37 PM
It is so frustrating to hear these aircraft workers complain about job security and raises and health insurance when it affects everyone regardless of industry. Everyone deals with the same issues but the difference is that we don't get to stop working and whine on the side of the road. We would be fired. If you don't like the job or the pay, FIND A NEW JOB!

Posted by: I'll take your job!!!! Location: wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:27 PM
I wish i never herd of the boeing strikes again they think they get more money but their not do to all the time off striking i will take their job if they continue to strike,good things never last,work and save dummies

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 6, 2008 at 11:12 AM
This strike does not just effect 750 Boeing works. It also effects Spirit employees. Lowering the work week down to just three days a week. For some families it will be a struggle to make ends meet.

Posted by: antiunion Location: wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 10:46 AM
when will you union idiots realize it's because you being so damn greedy is why the biggest part of cost of living goes up. and it is just being greedy when you are already paid higher than any other aircraft plant

Posted by: JJ Location: Wichita on Sep 6, 2008 at 10:30 AM
THE ONLY PLACE WHERE YOU CAN BE UNEDUCATED GET PAID GREAT MONEY AND STILL COMPLAIN THAT THE CEO MAKES MORE THAN YOU SHUT UP PUPPET. HOW DOES IT FILL TO BE A PUPPET. UNIONS ARE LOSERS THAT THINKS SOMEONE OWES THEM SOMETHING IF BOEING HAD ANY GUTS IT WOULD FIRE YOU TODAY. AND THEN YOU WOULD BE CRYING ON THE NEWS ABOUT HOW AFTER SO MANY YEARS YOU GOT LAID OFF. UNIONS MEMBERS GET PAID NOT FOR HOW HARD THEY WORK BUT FOR HOW LONG THERE EMPLOYED 90% OF YOU ARE BUMPS ON A LOG ANYWAY THATS RIGHT YOU KNOW WHO YOU ARE PUPPET

Posted by: head Location: franklin, ohio on Sep 6, 2008 at 08:31 AM
when will you anti-union idiots realize that it is bacause of unions that you get paid 1 1/2 over 40 hours, holiday pay, sick pay, vacation, pay, retirement/401k, have a safe working environment and so-on. if you are looking for someone to blame for the demise of the good paying jobs in america look at the CEOs. in the 1960/70s the average CEO made 10 times that of the average hourly worker. now the same CEO is making 100 times that of the same hourly worker. yes the union worker is making more money but he/she is also worker harder, with one person doing what 3-4 people use to do. in the mean time the CEOs have nore advisors to help them do there job. they are also enjoying there country club memberships, company cars/chauffers, private jets, multi-million dollar office complexes, stock options etc all at the expense of the hard working american men and women who are just trying to provided a comfortable living for there families.

Posted by: 819 Location: plant 4 on Sep 6, 2008 at 06:47 AM
one day longer that is all it takes .I will be out there (beech worker)

Posted by: Ralph Location: I don't know on Sep 6, 2008 at 05:55 AM
Why do you people still go out to Walmart. They don't have hardly any American made products. And I know you wouldn't go out to Best Buy and buy one of those cleap Japenese or Korean Tv's. So boycott these stores UNION members.

Posted by: Ralph Location: Over here on Sep 6, 2008 at 05:29 AM
This reminds me of a little kid who wants something in a store and the parent says no.So the little kid starts crying and hollering and finally the parent gives in.

Posted by: Ralph Location: Anywhere but here on Sep 6, 2008 at 05:20 AM
Yeah HBC you really showed them Froze your 9.32 increase in ins.but lost a month of work.

Posted by: Tom Location: picket line on Sep 6, 2008 at 02:14 AM
Hmmm, pay increases over 3 years, signing bonuses and we still are striking? Must not be a money issue, huh? Boeing always pushes money up front then stabs you in the back. Ah, yes, it's in the fine print. You non-union folks don't know how lucky you are...no union dues, no representation, low wages, minimal at best benefits. Sure glad I have union!

Posted by: the spirit of life Location: across the street on Sep 6, 2008 at 01:49 AM
Someone please tell me why the "big wigs" are worth multi million dollar salaries while the poeple that actually make the company, machinists, should only get a measly 40K. Sure 40K is more than alot, not most by any means, make. The aircraft industry is a muti-BILLION dollar industry that the suits get a LARGE chunk of, why should the men and women that build the planes have their share of wealth? We give our weekends and pull 10 hour shifts on quite the regular basis. Set the way for 2010 union brothers and sisters!! SET THE WAY!

Posted by: Techiechic Location: Kansas on Sep 6, 2008 at 12:35 AM
Stay strong brothers and sisters! People on the outside just don't know. It's our time, this time! Don't let them take more away. And for leslie and KC and other hate posters.....if the union gives in now where will it end? It won't and they'd be making $8 an hour before too long and the corporate suits will only stand to gain from that. Fair is fair, pay our workers what they are worth! If you are not a machinist then just keep your opinions to yourself! If you are a machinist and not in support of these hard working men and women, then shame on you!

Posted by: leslie Location: home on Sep 5, 2008 at 10:46 PM
for HJR well then if your making so much more why are you crying about what you not getting and be happy about what you are getting. for frank whether its $15. or $27. your still making more than most people I know plus all those benefits dont you (educated or Skilled)people know that most people i know dont care about that because its all going to be gone in a few years any way, but thats alright you smart people already knew this right. anonamous is right you machinist complain about pay and benefits but yet when you here of them outsourcing you cuss at htem then too you might be employees but your not the company you cant have it both ways you either accept the lower pay and benefits or you accept them sending wark to another company oversees make up your minds. to stike but if they outsource because of the machinst cost then how will you be able to help think of that. union buster you have no right calling the kettle black after the strike you guys had you still make alot

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 09:52 PM
I bet the majority of you that are complaining about the strike would not turn down a job offer from boeing or any other aircraft place that offered you a job.

Posted by: Keri Location: Anywhere on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:59 PM
How long this time?!?!

Posted by: Anonymous Location: derby on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:52 PM
you know its sad when i have to worry about losing my job when i dont even work for boeing but because my company does business and if the strike last longer then a month they dont know what they are doing with us and that pisses me off so much!!! i understand fighting for what you want but come on now think about all the people you effecting!!!

Posted by: HJR Location: Spirit on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:32 PM
I used to admire people who had a union job especially since almost everything I bought for the farm was union made. So, I got myself a union job and I've not been sorry. I only feel sorry for the turkies that complain that I make sooo much more money than they do. Guess what? If I didn't make the money I do they would still be stuck at that minimum wage level. Either get an education or a skill is the only thing you can do to better yourself because these greedy CEO's aren't going to pay you anymore than they have to. If the CEO's are worth millions of dollars a year, by God I'm worth more than I'm making now. And besides, why aren't you complaining about their salaries? Too bad we live in this "right-to-get-screwed" state.

Posted by: Frank Location: Formerly Wichita, Now Seattle on Sep 5, 2008 at 08:16 PM
The dollar figure the media quotes of $27 per hour or $56000 fo the average worker is not accurate that figure came from 2 years ago. The AVERAGE worker at Boeing with 3 years of service makes $15 per hour. The figure the company likes to quote for union salaries is not just pay-it includes pay, vacation, social security, pension, any bonuses and insurance. Base pay is only $31200.

Posted by: Anonymous on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:58 PM
keep going kc we will just over look your town on our next vacations and you will really fill the pinch .....union strong and united

Posted by: The other side of the coin Location: Kansas on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:37 PM
I am a life-long machinist and work for a non-union company. I have first hand experience of outsourcing, no bonuses for production workers and low pay. Our plant manager believes that it is better to hire in inexperienced labor at $8 an hour than to give raises to retain experience. This is how it is for most factory workers especially now in this maximize profits at any cost. I among most of you would love to have the pay and benefits that Boeing employees enjoy, but wholly support them in striking. Go and fight for your fair share, and I encourage all my other machinist brothers and sisters to band together and fight for our fair share as well.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Wichita on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:27 PM
Unless the Boeing employees insurance went up $34,000 over three years their morons. Everyone ones insurance rates have went up and a lot of companies stopped paying longevity pay. The union is just a greedy monster that cannot be satisfied. Whats going to happen is Boeing is going to send more work over seas where it cost far less to produce the same product, go ahead union price yourself out of a job. 5% the first year, 3% the following two years, PLUS COLA RAISES, a signing bonus, increased pensions, where do I sign. GREEEEED. The union had good intentions back in the days where they used canaries in the mines but in these days they are a joke. I hope Boeing cuts it's losses and closes it's Wichita plant because of this, then they will have wished they weren't so greedy.

Posted by: Jake Location: Wichita on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:22 PM
Well, this might be the answer to illegal immigration... why come here to work, when the jobs will be down in Mexico before too long. You hold true to your greed though, would not want you to go against the values you are teaching your children!

Posted by: strike on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:19 PM
KC. If we were not to strike would you and all the other haters pitch in your money to help our insurance cost stay the same? Give an inch and they take a mile. Dont forget we do our part in charity work, like salvation army, and we donated alot to help the back to school program for the kids. so I see good paying employees that are putting back to the community and LOCAL ECONOMY.

Posted by: 767 Location: Wichita on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:08 PM
So unionbuster you ask what we plan on gaining, we don't plan to gain anything we just will not allow take aways from what we already have. Boeing is at the top of the aviation word for a reason, its employees and we deserve what we are paid.

Posted by: Kane Location: Wichita on Sep 5, 2008 at 07:01 PM
I blame both sides for the situation.... Both sides knew this day was coming since the last contract was signed THREE YEARS ago... but yet they waited til the last month or so to really try and get a deal worked out.... INCREDIBLY STUPID ON BOTH SIDES LEADERSHIP

Posted by: Wade Location: Peck on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:45 PM
I take back all the negative things I said about HBC workers going on strike. Boeing workers are truly the greedy ones!!

Posted by: Right To Work Location: KS on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:41 PM
Oh god. Here we go again.

Posted by: Derrick on Sep 5, 2008 at 06:40 PM
Way to go guys. Tell them you mean buisness. We were out at HBC for 30 days and I think we made pretty good progress. Do I think we could of done sure. But we showed the company that we mean buisness. I will be there to walk the picket line with you all and hope the best for all of you. Oh and as far as KC says.....we all want the econonmy to do good, but we also want our familys to do good also. I say power to the UNION and hope you all come out good. GOD BLESS THE UNION!!!!!!

Posted by: UNIONBUSTER Location: HawkerBeech on Sep 5, 2008 at 05:50 PM
I cant believe the audacity of these morons to go on strike. What do they plan on gaining. UNEMPLOYEEMENT? You greedy fools. I hope you lose everything you own this time.

Posted by: KC Location: Wichita on Sep 5, 2008 at 05:50 PM
Greed kills. Remember that. With a strike you are also hurting the local economy. Thanks alot.

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Fire Department: Fireworks Are Illegal In Most Of Sedgwick County

Posted By: : Park city looked like the first Iraq war last night!!! It was spectacular,the whole sky was lit up waaayyyy into the night in ALL neighborhoods...like it is EVERY year and did not have ONE incident of a feild or house fire! Sorry you people in Wichita did not get to enjoy! If you're good...we might let you come and see us shoot them next year...but thats only if you're good..kiddys.
Posted By: Stacy: These guidelines are good. However, I'm new to Wichita and I have to say I'm shocked at how many people shoot off fireworks in the city proper and in parking lots of businesses andapartment buildings (like the one I live in). If it's illegal to do this, why on earth is it so commonplace? I was in the military for a few years, about 3 of which were spent in a lot of different areas of the continental U.S., not to mention the nearly 18 years I grew up in mosly Montana. I never before have seen an entire city with so many amateur fireworks displays inside of city limits. Law enforcement, why aren't you enforcing anything?
Posted By: Anonymous: I agree with Frankie although the sedgwick county fire department says they only enforce the law, they pushed for the fireworks ban. I believe the original was in 1978. I know it was after bottle rockets were made illegal in Kansas. I wish government would quit trying to protect us from ourselves, we need protection from them. I'm sure our tax dollars paid for the signs, putting them up, and then for taking them down stuck all over! KAKE needs to go through it's archives and find the original ban the sedgwick county commissioners signed and also read the constitution it says that we have the right to celebrate our independance with fireworks. For those complaining about fires in rural areas I've lived out in rural sedgwick for over 50 years and the instance of a house or wheatfield fire being caused by fireworks is pretty uncommon. It's a sparsely populated area unlike city living and fireworks tend to go up not shoot out for miles. Farmers intentionally light the stubble after harvest!
Posted By: Firefighter: Fireworks were banned in Sedgwick County in 1978. Why? There weren't enough firefighters and equipment to go around. Calls were waiting for a response. Firefighters came to work at 7:00 and didn't see their station until the following morning. There were was much damage to fire equipment. The County department had a tank truck roll. This type of response had been occuring for several years. This doesn't even speak to the damage to stuctures, possesions and the persons that where injured. The departments and civic leaders said enough,and fireworks were banned. Some of you say we are unamerican. Far from the truth. You have asked us to watch after you and assist in the time of need. Sometimes that means prevetion instead of action. I love fireworks as much as the next person. Fireworks have slowly made it back into many communities. If everyone can prove they have self control and caution when using fireworks then, they may come back everywhere. Stay safe this 4th.
Posted By: Anonymous: I guess I'm one of the hundreds of others that did not realize ALL FIREWORKS WERE ILLEGAL! (At least For those of us living outside a city limits in sedgwick county). I knew that while some cities Belle Plaine, Clearwater, Haysville, etc.. chose to allow BIG STUFF (the aerials) Wichita did not. The 78' fireworks ban was for the BIG STUFF!! The unincorporated areas had to follow sedgwick county's allowable fireworks same as the city of wichita chose to do. What year did they sneak in NO FIREWORKS AT ALL OF ANY TYPE for unincorporated sedgwick county?? It wasn't in the original ban. Living outside the city limits of any town, even when ALL FIREWORKS were allowed there were no fireworks stands out here, and the news was saying buy where you live, I called the no fire number for the sedgwick county fire department and asked where we should buy fire works that would be legal and I was told in wichita city limits. This is unconstitutional, prejudiced and segregates rural sedgwick county!!!!
Posted By: George Washington: This is all silly. I am going outside to set off Fireworks.
Posted By: Susan: Ok, I will expect everyone who is upset to show up at the next Sedgwick County council meeting. If you don't even at least call your councilman, than you should not complain.
Posted By: Shaun: I think that people in the county needs to remember that this day is to celebrate or freedom as a country!!! China gave us fireworks to help US and a COUNRTY celebrate. To me this is UNAMERICAN!!! Yes, i agree that the big ones that can set major fires sould probly not be shot in rural areas. And all though this law don't affect me personally, it still does as I am a soldier and an American. I am proud of my country. Even if I could only shoot off fountains or what ever I still think that is better than nothing. As long as the person shooting them off is doing it on a concrete surface I don't see why they can't have small fireworks!!!!!
Posted By: donald otnes: My daughter called me at 10:15 pm on July 2, 2009. She had people setting off fireworks in her housing district. The kids were firing off the ones that sound like a bomb going off. Are people that stupid to let kids have fireworks that could blow up and take a hand off or even there face.
Posted By: miss america: My family is apparently among the wild, irresponsible rednecks in unincorporated Sedgwick county that have shot off fireworks every year on the 4th since I was a baby. It's true there is a need to protect farmers' wheatfields, so I can understand why the county might ban the big fireworks that fly up in the air, and bottle rockets, etc. But, why shouldn't we be able to at least set off the smaller fireworks, such as fountains, that are less dangerous? Why are our families denied the privilege of celebrating the 4th in a safe, fun way just because we live in the unincorporated areas? This fireworks ban on the 4th needs to be loosened up. It's really not fair.
Posted By: a: Think about this people! Fireworks are loud and anoying! I am so sick of people setting them off late at night while we are trying to sleep! My baby is being kept up by fireworks because people set them off at two in the morning!Please just think about where you are setting them off like close to houses and apartment buildings. Those are not good places to be doing them!
Posted By: Firefighters daughter: For those who think that firefighters just "sit around" you obviously have no idea what these people do. Just looking at the 4th, I can recall as a child how we all wondered if my dad would get to finish his hamburger before being called out to yet another of the many fires he went on that day . The work they do isn't restricted to a summer holiday. Think about the gear they wear...heavy coats, boots, air tanks, even on 100 degree days. Take a walk in their boots and face the fires, car accidents, tornado/storms, floods, and other emergencies they must face with courage, calm, and strength in order to save lives and property. As for "washing the truck" and other maintenance that must be done, do you want a rusted out, broken hosed truck showing up at your house because they DIDN't do those things? I hope they do get a chance to relax, eat, sleep, etc. between the emergencies they must face. I want a well rested and ready fire fighter showing up at my house should I ever need one
Posted By: rebecca: hey does anyone know if the little boy that went into QT has been found? I know this isn't the topic but I just wanted to know.
Posted By: : h: I believe that fireworks like Black Cats can be used in Derby as well as Wichita (it's been a long time since I've done any here so I wouldn't definitely know). But they might be setting off something bigger like an M50. The main problems they've had is with the ones that burst into showers of colored balls and sparks like we see in the big displays, roman candles, M80s and the ones that spray out sparks. The Eagle Beacon, last year, said that a good rule of thumb is if they shoot out sparks more than about 6 feet from the device then they are probably illegal.
Posted By: h: well they are sure shooting them in derby and we're in sedgwick county either they are not banned or the police in derby are not doing anything about the ones that are shooting off fireworks already. Frankly I'm sick of it, the neighborhood kids are shooting them off close to my property and my dogs are having fits, a call to the local police dpt says nothing they can do....so if they are banned in sedgwick county then they should be banned in derby and the derby police dpt needs to start enforcing the ban, if they aren't banned in derby then they need to be, there are other ways of having a good time on the 4th of July without having to endanger your yard, my yard, your life!!!!
Posted By: : If everyone was a responible person that means for their self and for the one's that have children, then we wouldn't have had these laws made.The population is so high now that the fire departments are on overload because of the people that will not take responsiblity for their actions.And as far as the fire department setting around!!! Let your house be on fire and then have to wait because these people are not at their work area's because you think they are setting around.I would hate for them to be kept busy 24/7. What would happen to our town without them if that were the case.Already the street that I live on is littered with trash from fire works because people are not responsibly.(not all)
Posted By: D: I completely agree with Anonymous at 9:26. Linda, unless you've been living under a rock, it's been well known for years that fireworks are illegal in the city limits. They make the same announcements every year. They don't sell the "big" illegal fireworks in the city but everyone still goes out of city limits to buy them and then come back home and shoot them off out in the neighborhood streets. I've seen fireworks in my neighborhood that would rival the ones at riverfest and Lawrence Dumont stadium and they aren't legal in the city.
Posted By: : Cliff: That's true but when they are burned off purposely there are fire control measures in place. When someone sets a fire with fireworks they tend to run away and then it gets out of control. Like I said, I've missed work because of people who do this. The reason why they made them illegal in Sedgwick County to begin with is because most people here are not responsible enough to use them safely. And Linda: They've been telling people every year that they are illegal. Most people just don't pay attention. And they only selll fireworks in Wichita that you can set off in Wichita. That's why they've always said "Shoot them where you buy them".
Posted By: Rod: I'm with 'Anonymous on Jul 1, 2009 at 08:08 AM'... Helps us Obama! We need you to protect us from ourselves! ALL PRAISE OBAMA!!!
Posted By: Linda: Ok, for one I think if they were illegal, than why didn't we know about it along time ago. I bet that the majority of the people that lives in Wichita didn't know this, and I think it is not right to start enforcing it NOW, I mean come on the main reason why people shoot of fireworks is for the kids entertainment, Also if its going to be illegal than why on earth should selling fireworks at the stands not be? People see the signs that fireworks are illegal, but when they are driving around wichita and see firework stands it just tempts them that much more. So I think its not right.
Posted By: cliff: anonomous at 8;08, fireworks are a tradition on the fourth of july. and the "tinderbox "harvesed wheat fields are usually burnt off this time of year anyway even without fireworks.
Posted By: : Bottle Rocket Roger: What makes you think being American means you should have the right to set off explosives? For the idiots who think they need to have fireworks: how many of you have to call into work and tell your boss you can't come in because some moron set fire to your house or yard? What about when they go outside the city & set them off in newly harvested wheat fields that are nothing more than tinderboxes at this time of year? Every year for the past six years I've lost pay because idiots cannot control themselves or the fires they set.
Posted By: don: its really sad,,,,we are not hardly even "independent" anymore,,,the government has "used" up all are rights,,,,,like the ol' saying goes though "just be glad your not getting ALL the government you pay for",,,,,period, end of sentence !!!!
Posted By: : Anonymous who is coming down on firefighters and their "lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals" has no clue what firefighters do and how many calls many of the stations get,though many are medical. Firefighters are not exactly unpatriotic joy-squelchers, but they are supposed to educate the general public about fire safety. If you even understood all the job entailed you wouldn't talk like that.
Posted By: Bottle Rocket Roger: When I lived in a town just north of wichita,we were able to shoot fireworks ALL day long for a week..Park City allows fireworks ALL day long for week,NO problems in either town! We celebrate the 4th like americans in these towns! The people that made fireworks illegal in Wichita and hate the fireworks are ALL UNAMERICAN! Go hide in you're basements and shake like a coward..the M80's are coming!
Posted By: : We need two things immediately. One, a petition to remove this descriminatory 1978 law against residents of the county, and secondly, another petition to remove the authors of this law if they are still in office, and any other person in authority that supports it. I'll drive any distance to sign those petitions. Our tax dollars were used to print and post these signs and will also be used again to remove them, and patrol neighborhoods looking for little kids shooting ladyfinger firecrackers. This travesty of the use of our tax dollars must be exposed with those that have attacked Independence Day.
Posted By: Bob: Enforce the law! Many firewoks are dangerous, destructive, and disturbing--especially to pets.
Posted By: : I never knew there were so many un-educated people around the state. It even says in the text of the story, that the fire department is not going to be doing extra patrolling, due to staffing. People are very careless with their fireworks in the "uncorperated" area's of the county. You add wind, and some dry wood, or brush.. And you cause a very dangerous situation, and put those "poorly staffed" fire deparments that respond in danger. ****If you live in a town/city in "sedgwick County".. you need to check your local laws. The no fireworks law - is for "uncorprated" - aka *NOT IN CITY LIMITS*
Posted By: Michelle: Can't we come to a compromise? Make them illigal everyday of the year, except the 4th? I agree with the ones on here that said we are celebrating our FREEDOM! This is what the USA is about. Hotdogs, baseball and fireworks! 8-)
Posted By: Kristy: "But many like Sedgwick County Resident Michael Dixson don't plan on breaking the law." Seriously - someone who writes for a news station should be familiar with proper grammar usage.
Posted By: : How ironic it is that it's Independance Day however; they tell you that you can't fire off any fireworks.....at least any that are worth paying money for. Yes, we're slowly on our way to becoming a communist country. I miss Archie Bunker!
Posted By: : Why even celebrate??? Pretty sad when Amerians can't participate in the tradation and celebration of America's Indepandance. I feel for you rual Sedwick County people. Sedwick County SUCKS!!
Posted By: Tim: The Fire Department IS NOT encouraging people to call 911 every time they see people shooting fireworks, this will create an unnecessary strain on the 911 system. The problem is being worked on and will take time to get things all straightened out. If you have an emergency or a problem that warrants calling 911 by all means call 911. What is not needed is a call to 911 every time you see someone shooting a firecracker.
Posted By: : The fire departments are going out of their way with NO FIREWORKS signs just because they don't want to have to work any more than they have to. Little fire here and there disrupts their lazy days of washing the trucks and sleeping and cooking meals!
Posted By: topper: at one time you couldn't shoot fire works in dodge, now that we can the 2nd through the 5th i think. i havent heard of more fires or whatever it is you think is going to happen if you were to allow.. its the 4th of july, and you stoping people from celebrating. thats dumb if you ask me. besides, people are going to shoot them off no matter what you do.
Posted By: Frankie: The Fire Department says it only enforces the law against fireworks in Sedgwick County, but I've lived here since 1938 and I remember that it was the Sedgwick County Fire Department that pushed for the County Commissioners to pass the illegal fireworks law.
Posted By: anoymous: It is a little confusing, because Park City has fireworks tents all over, but I thought Bel Aire and Park City were actually their own "cities", and not part of unincorporated Sedgwick County. And they are allowed in Goddard,I checked out the website. I wish there was a central list posted where they are legal/illegal, because I do think there is confusion about this, especially when I thought I heard people in Bel Aire saying they purchased permits in the past. Can anyone elaborate?
Posted By: Debby: If they are illegal why are they sold in the city where they are illegal?
Posted By: : Isn't it funny how it's called Independance Day but yet big brother wants to tell us we can't shoot fireworks? Screw you big brother!! I'm firing mine off!!
Posted By: Elmer: I saw on the news that you are asking the neighbors to report the people who are using fireworks to the police. Hitler did the same thing when enforcing his laws. Are we coming closer to socialist government, or are you just trying to create a community that is untenable due to loss of trust in neighbors? I can't believe we are repeating history again.
Posted By: bob: i think the county is forgetting what we are celebrating, our independence. so they should let us shoot them where you buy them.
Posted By: Justin: Land of the Free, My hind end. Restrictions yes, understandable. But, all out ban? This is not the America I fought for!!!!! Maybe before long we won't have any independence to celebrate!!! And I'm sure the fire fighters are just having to do what there told. Heck, most of them love fire or they wouldn't be doing there job.
Posted By: : "fire dept only enforces the law" im sure they had a say in how it was created. thats like saying police dont have a quota when writing tickets when im sure they do. how else are police measured when trying for promotions and raises--its by how many tickets they write, how many crimes they solve, ect. people are gonna shoot off fireworks and worry bout what happens later because this is the one time in the year that we get to do so! plus it helps celebrate america's birthday !!
Posted By: Mikea: I sure wish there was something we could do about the rednecks who insist on setting off the big heavy skybursts in our neighborhood at 1am every night. Fireworks should be illegal inside the city. Loud car radios are, and fireworks are more dangerous.
Posted By: Bob: Ok maybe this is a stupid question, but what is unincorporated Sedgwick County? What is meant by that?
Posted By: AJ Simkatu: Everyone knows that fireworks that go up in the sky are illegal, even in the city of Wichita. The problem is that nobody cares. Most people think the ban is a ridiculous overreaction to a small problem. People are sick of the nanny state telling us what we can and can't do with our own lives and property. What's next, ban skydiving, skiing, riding dirt bikes, mountain climbing? The government needs to mind its own business and stay out of ours.

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