Speak Up Tuscaloosa!

Answering UAW’s call | UAW

2011-03-07T05:03:00.000-06:00

Union One - No Union Busters - Don't Believe the Hype!

2010-05-14T04:18:00.001-05:00

Union One - No Union Busters - Don't Believe the Hype!

Posted using ShareThis

And we wonder why they continue to cut our benefits!

2010-04-02T21:57:00.003-05:00

How 'bout this for not having money for teamshares: Bribery
They want to continue to cut our pay and benefits and audit our insurance coverage. This company has a lot more problems than the line workers at MBUSI! They have plenty of money as I've stated many times before, it's the power to toss the employees around like a rag doll that they want! You nonunion hard heads chime in and back them up on this one why don't you! You're pretty darn gullable if you don't see through this bribery fine!

Interesting article in "The Tuscaloosa News"

2010-03-21T11:42:00.002-05:00

Here's an interesting article about the UAW in "The Tuscaloosa News"

Union membership up in Alabama

2010-03-02T07:36:00.002-06:00

http://blog.al.com/businessnews/2010/03/union_membership_up_in_alabama.html

A letter from Dr.Z

2010-02-19T12:50:00.002-06:00

See inside "Comments" for the letter

Keep Sharing

2010-02-17T19:29:00.002-06:00

Just wanted to start a new post. We were having to do a lot of scrolling on the last one just to get to the bottom of the comments. But that's good, we'll just keep it going on this one. Share your ideas. This is where everyone needs to start thinking about what's important to them and share the ideas here. I agree with one of the other comments. I didn't want a union at one time, but now I'm afraid not to have one. It seems to me, when the state incentives ran out, so did the respect for the workers. Does anyone else feel this way? Let me know if I'm the Lone Ranger here.

Tuesday, March 2nd!

2010-02-10T11:42:00.001-06:00

??????????

All Team Meeting

2010-01-24T10:06:00.003-06:00

February 1, 2010

Nick Saban will be there between shift meetings

Looks like management keeps misjudging

2010-01-15T02:08:00.003-06:00

Yes, management is doing their best to try to figure out our next move. My Oh My, give them an A for effort. Looks like they threw out another promise or two for the fence jumpers. A crumb here and a crumb there. What kind of cover up was big "O" trying to spread over the followers. The 1900 Euros that the Germans received was from the year before? OMG, I guess the 2% raise they got was for the year before too! I guess a little $3 or $4 hundred dollar check in April is supposed to fix everything they've taken over the past 3 or 4 years. Oh! Let's don't forget about the teamshare that is going to be reinstated this year after it has magically disappeared over the last couple of years! Give me a break! We didn't all come from Mcdonalds and Wal-Mart! They think we're all retards like the 40 or 50 that stand up there and clap for the lies @ the All Team Meetings!
"I thought Bill explained the fact that there wouldn't be a teamshare this year"! How easy was this to drop off on the drunk? These people are starting to get comical with all the riduculous lies.

Ford offers buyouts to all UAW workers

2009-12-23T06:34:00.002-06:00

DETROIT (Reuters) - said Monday it is offering its 41,000 U.S. factory workers buyouts and early retirement offers in a bid to reduce its payroll costs as it aims to return to profit by 2011.

The buyouts mark the second round of such offers for Ford workers represented by the United Auto Workers union this year. About 1,000 workers took Ford's earlier offer in July.

Ford workers have until late January to accept the offer, which includes payouts of up to $70,000 cash for newer hires to $60,000 cash for veterans already eligible for retirement

New UAW hires at the Detroit automakers will make $14 per hour compared with an average about $28 per hour for older workers under a round of concessions granted by the union.

Link Here

Sounds like they may throw out a crumb to pacify the borderline people

2009-12-20T08:53:00.003-06:00

Yes it's true, you don't run a multibillion dollar business without being sly. Management isn't worried about us that are determined to organize because there are too few of us. They aren't targeting the dense people that are totally against organizing either. the ones they target are all the borderline people that get mad for a week or two and say yes I'm for organizing, then when the company drops a little cookie crumb out to them they change their minds back and think everything is o.k..
Yes, I'm hearing now that they have miraculously found some extra teamshare money and in about April they are planning on dropping another cost of living lump sum like the one we got a couple of years ago and we haven't seen since. Just another ploy to pacify all the short term memory people that jump back and forth across the fence. This ought to fix everything again for them!

Daimler to give German autoworkers 1900 euros or $3,000

2009-12-10T19:48:00.003-06:00

Check out this article (posted by Reuters) slap in the face! On top of a 2.1% cost of living raise, the Germans will also receive about $3,000 in profit sharing. Amazing that they had profits but we didn't! Hmmmm???? What's wrong with this picture?

The Real Team Meeting

2009-12-09T19:46:00.002-06:00

Great meeting today! I thought it was very informative, with an understanding of what it's going to take to stop the bleeding. I guess our real team meetings will be held off campus from now on. Let's all do our part to start educating, we can no longer have short term memories! Every time you talk to someone remember that your family is counting on you to deliver the lifestyle they deserve. We know there is only one way to open the door for this!

UAW meeting tomorrow

2009-12-08T21:39:00.003-06:00

Click to enlarge.

Quick meeting at union hall Wednesday afternoon at 4:30. Here's your chance! Still the best job you've ever had??? It's put up or shut up time! We sure have money for everything else!

Well, it seems official

2009-12-02T05:08:00.001-06:00

Here's an article at AL.com that states Vance will get some of the C-Class production starting in 2014. http://blog.al.com/businessnews/2009/12/mercedes-benz_to_move_producti.html

Mercedes workers in Germany protest production shift to Alabama

2009-12-01T12:11:00.002-06:00

November 30, 2009, 9:46AM

BERLIN -- Workers at Daimler AG's largest Mercedes-Benz factory rallied today in an effort to sway management from shifting production of the C-Class sedan to a plant in Alabama, Bloomberg News reported.

Unions at the Sindelfingen, Germany, factory near Stuttgart plan to continue demonstrations Tuesday during all three shifts, the automaker's worker representatives said today. Daimler is scheduled to decide Tuesday on production plans for a new version of the mid-sized C-Class, which is due in 2014, the statement said.

"We will not let this factory slowly bleed to death," Ergun Luemali, deputy head of the works council, said in the statement. "We need a viable future for Sindelfingen."

Markus Mainka, a spokesman for Daimler in Stuttgart, told Bloomberg the company hasn't made a decision on future C-Class production.

Reports have said the company is considering a plan to move some production of the C-Class to the plant in Vance, where the M-Class, GL-Class and R-Class vehicles are now being produced. Plant officials there have said no decision has been made.

Mercedes CEO Dieter Zetsche has said the move could mean substantial savings for the company.

Vacation? I Think Not!

2009-11-23T07:50:00.002-06:00

Well, here we go again. "Archie & Co." telling us when we can take our vacation days. We must use 9 of them before June 11 on Non-production days. What's wrong with this picture?
Below is the definition of "Vacation" at www.Dictionary.com. If you will notice #3 says it is freedom or release from duty, business, or activity. So by this, I'm assuming if the plant is already shut down, then vacation is not needed to cover for it. Hmmmm??? I think everyone needs to continue to voice about this and even fill out "concerns resolutions" and make them explain this!

–noun
1.
a period of suspension of work, study, or other activity, usually used for rest, recreation, or travel; recess or holiday: Schoolchildren are on vacation now.
2.
a part of the year, regularly set aside, when normal activities of law courts, legislatures, etc., are suspended.
3.
freedom or release from duty, business, or activity.
4.
an act or instance of vacating.

B Shift Beware!

2009-11-16T12:08:00.002-06:00

Well, another surprise. We get to work this morning and find out that the SAP(supplier parts ordering system) system has been down since Saturday. So, since it's to the companies advantage, they just send everyone home at 10:15 without pay. No word on when they will have it running. Just a little heads up for B-Shift to expect anything when you get to work tonight!
Just another takeaway from the company to add to the long list over the past few years!

Tragedy repeated

2009-11-12T20:19:00.002-06:00

I just wanted to mention about the guys involved in the wreck Wednesday night. I don't know who they are but from what I've heard, one passed away and the other 2 are in the hospital. If anyone knows any details please share them with us. They were on their way home from work headed towards north Alabama somewhere. Let's keep them and their families in our prayers.

All Team Meeting Results

2009-10-29T05:16:00.002-05:00

Well, Ola nearly had some people fooled in believing that he is any different than Bill or any of the rest of them. He starts out by saying that we couldn't go to 4 ten hour shifts because of the concern for our safety, health, and quality. But then if you listened close you could hear the real reason. The suppliers couldn't keep up with the production schedule. If they were in the least bit concerned about safety, health, and qaulity, then they would have never had to ask the suppliers in the first place! What a crock!

Teamshare or Not?

2009-10-23T09:14:00.002-05:00

Any rumors about teamshare??? Let me rephrase that! Any info on teamshare, there are always plenty of rumors.

Volkswagen to hire 1200 in Tennessee

2009-10-20T19:13:00.003-05:00

Here is an article out of Tennessee that tells some of the details of employment for the new VW plant in Chattanooga. When you read the article, be sure to notice the top out pay (after 3 years) then you can sort of tell where we're going here over the next couple of years(according to industry standards). Built Proudly Where!!! Click here!

Picking & Choosing

2009-10-05T12:32:00.002-05:00

Well, they're having a hard time getting the volunteers they want. Reckon how long it will be before they start picking and choosing who to let go?

Report:source from within Mercedes that says the Vance, Alabama plant up for C-Class production didn't get the bid.

2009-10-02T23:09:00.003-05:00

Mercedes sales dive in September

2009-10-02T23:05:00.001-05:00

Mercedes Benz Sales Still Plummeting, And It’s No Wonder

2009-10-02T07:12:00.003-05:00

C-Class production may come

2009-09-23T20:59:00.004-05:00

Tuscaloosa News article on the C-Class coming to Tuscaloosa - Click Link!

Manager Bonuses

2009-09-18T08:20:00.008-05:00

Has anyone heard the rumors of the email that was seen by a team member that stated that shop managers who are kept after this next phase of cuts would receive a $60,000 retention bonus. I've heard this in more than 1 place, but still haven't seen any proof. However, this is what companies are known for, when they start cutting jobs. The heart of the operation (workers) get cut and the upper management gets bonuses for combining jobs in their respective areas. If anyone knows anything here, please let us know!

2009-09-16T04:29:00.002-05:00

Well, here we go again! Everyone give your thoughts on this one!

2009-09-09T12:04:00.007-05:00

Well, here we go again. Another all-team meeting. They should just have it on 9/11, as this would be more fitting. Anyone heard how much bad news will be heard at this one?

An article of interest!

2009-09-01T02:43:00.000-05:00

There has been an article posted on the speakuptuscaloosa forum that is noteworthy about JCI. Since they are a huge part of the cars that we build, everyone needs to take a little time and just see what's going on around us. here's the link!

Looks Like Others Are Seeing The Light

2009-08-27T04:54:00.003-05:00

Here is an article link to the Tuscaloosa News from Wednesday that kinda says even the Government knows we're getting the shaft out here! Former Mercedes employees get help Click Link!

Policy Change? It's Official

2009-08-18T16:27:00.003-05:00

As I look around at the end of the day, I see that the company is already taking advantage of the new policy change. They don't seem to mind that people are staying past 8 hours now that they don't have to pay overtime for it. They're sitting back laughing at us upstairs! This was so easy for them to pull over everyones eyes here! I hope all the people that don't want a union sit down and try to figure out how much this will take from their families the rest of the time they're employed here.

July Sales

2009-08-08T07:56:00.001-05:00

Here's a real "pick-me-up" article from the "Birmingham News" on Wednesday.
Click Link

How Deceiving Is This Article?

2009-07-08T11:41:00.005-05:00

Click To Enlarge Article

Another Buyout????

2009-07-08T03:01:00.003-05:00

Rumors are starting to float around about another buyout. Let's hear some input on this, I know nothing concrete. Spill them here so we can sort them out and see how close we are. I'm hearing another 300 are needed. Fess up if you've heard the rumor, the $$$$ amount, or the number of people needed to complete the process.

The Saga Continues!

2009-06-16T21:34:00.002-05:00

Everyone needs to remember that "Casual Time" Taylor needs to get credit for this article on Al.com! Yes, the same man(?) that o.k'd screwing employees out of their pay is going to be heading a team that is supposed to be benefiting the workforce for the whole state of Alabama. Welcome to the "Right to Work State" Governed by a chicken farmer! Here's the link!

Sales for May 2009

2009-06-04T08:18:00.002-05:00

Here is a link to an article showing the sales of all Tuscaloosa made vehicles for the month of May. Mercedes Sales

New UAW Representative

2009-06-03T08:11:00.004-05:00

(Click to enlarge)

In case you didn't receive the letter from the new UAW Rep., this is a copy of it. It has his contact information listed in it.

"Thumbs Up To Biden"

2009-05-14T11:46:00.003-05:00

Here is a good article on the Vice President speaking up for the right to organize! Rebuilding the middle class

This gives meaning to the song!

2009-05-04T16:06:00.002-05:00

We've all heard the song but now there's a video to go with it! Watch it and think about it! "Shuttin' Detroit Down"

That's Right, Cut Me Deeper!

2009-04-29T04:40:00.004-05:00

Well, It seems that Daimler is still writing checks for Chrysler and we're paying the price for it. I'm sorry but I don't feel that it's our problem for the serious lack of managerial decisions throughout the company! Here's an interesting article that shows just how good the management is and has been throughout the last 12-15 years. Chrysler/Daimler
And Bill has the gall to stand up there and say they have too much money invested here to pack up and leave. He must really think we're all idiots! The first car that rolls off the end of the line that's not making the profit they expect, they'll roll up the carpet and be gone!

Latest Rumors From Li'l Mexico!

2009-04-23T12:12:00.006-05:00

Well, supposedly some have already been told that the clothing allowance is dropping from $190.00 down to $100.00. Anyone care to back this one up. I'm also hearing that the perfect attendance checks are now going to be added to our regular checks. I guess we'll get the details at Bill's "State of the Union address" Tuesday. Maybe, they will go ahead and put the Yugo logo on our teamwear while they're at it. It seems this is the type of quality they want. I know I shouldn't say that, we're just following industry standards as usual. I'm so proud!You know that if you turn the Yugo logo upside down, it would kind of favor the Mercedes logo. Hmmmmm.

We Love You, And We'll Miss You "Big Urb"!

2009-04-22T03:53:00.004-05:00

As a big Alabama fan, I usually don't have a lot of good to say about Tennessee. But, in remembrance of one of the best people I've ever known, I'm going to say it now. GoVols!

Terry "Big Urb" Urban passed away yesterday at his home in Tennessee and I'll never forget how lucky I was to know him.

Thanks Bill For The New Software!

2009-04-15T11:37:00.004-05:00

Well, it seems that during these trying times of a bad economy, Bill had enough cash put away to buy this new (peoplesoft) software to calculate the payroll. Just as a precautionary step, you may want to take a look at your check stub! It seems that most (if not everyone) that worked more than the 30 hour target, didn't get paid for it.

Now, let me see if I can understand this one. We're supposedly not selling enough cars to work a full work week, we have machinery to work with that is substandard because they can' t(won't) buy the parts to fix them, but all of a sudden the payroll software that we've been using for years needed to be replaced. I know we're stupid but even the non-canadians can see through this one! Keep the lid off that vaseline jar, cause you're gonna need just one more dab of it for this new software! Built Proudly Where??? That's right! Li'l Mexico!

Pray for "Big Urb"

2009-04-08T04:35:00.002-05:00

Several of us visited Terry (Big Urb) Urban yesterday. His spirits are up but his health is not good. He enjoyed and appreciated the visit. Keep praying for him, he needs our support. If anyone is interested in going to see him, he is at UAB in the West wing in room #m862. If you plan on going, call first to make sure he is still there. He may possibly move out somewhere else for therapy.

Thanks, But No Thanks!

2009-04-03T09:16:00.003-05:00

"Taylornomics for Alabama" Here's the link to the news article that tells how everyone in Alabama will get to experience what only 3000-4000 people have dealt with over the past few years! Welcome to the party everyone! BYOV(Bring Your Own Vaseline)

"Rape"

2009-03-26T14:52:00.002-05:00

Well, Bill & his accomplice Arch' has done it again! No cost of living, no team share....... What's next? I wish they'd give me time to get my clothes off!!!

Na, Duhhhh!

2009-02-19T02:02:00.001-06:00

Mercedes produced fewer vehicles in 2008.

No Support For Our Rights!

2009-02-09T16:43:00.002-06:00

Well, we had the organization meeting today for IAM. A lot of people knew about it and we only had about 5 or 6 people to show up. I guess the employees of MBUSI are happy and satisfied about the financial position they are in. I've never seen so many scared people in my life!

Check out this article in "Tuscaloosa News" about Honda

2009-02-03T18:51:00.001-06:00

Honda layoff

This song says it all!

2009-02-01T21:25:00.002-06:00

John Rich ("Big & Rich) singing his new song "Shuttin' Detriot Down". The first part is just an interview, the actual song doesn't start until about 3 minutes into the video!

Organization Meeting Notice!

2009-01-30T02:23:00.004-06:00

Click the Image to enlarge

Whether you are for or against or in between, we need everyone at this meeting. If you're "for", great then show everyone that you are. If you're against, then show up and atleast have an open mind. What can it hurt? If you don't know, then here's your chance to be educated on the subject, ask questions and atleast have an open mind. (No excuses! Everyone has time to make arrangements to show up!)

While we were off

2009-01-28T11:59:00.002-06:00

Does anyone have any info on the unemployment during the last week we were off in January? Did the company file on this for us? I'm getting mixed answers, has anyone recieved it yet? Or were we supposed to do the filing for ourselves?

The other 5 days

2009-01-27T11:53:00.003-06:00

If anyone knows the answer as to when we have to use the other 5 vacation days originally slated for June shutdown, please let us know. If we have to use them by shutdown then now would be a good time to use some of them (since there is vacation black out through February). We were told that we had to use them for non-production Fridays but weren't told by what date they had to be used.

The New 2010 GLK - Very Sharp Car!

2009-01-26T12:14:00.002-06:00

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Q-RHyZNh0N0 Nice ad. for the 2010 GLK. Sales should increase greatly for this one!

Interesting little message!

2009-01-13T21:59:00.002-06:00

Click the image to read. Take note of the last little paragraph. Sound familiar? this article is from the AHN network. Here lies the link to their site. Downsizing

Why you're not getting paid

2009-01-08T21:08:00.008-06:00

Well, if it weren't enough that Mercedes is spending millions on its annual Open golf championship in Hawaii. Look what they're (we're) paying for now! $29 million in fines! Here's the link to the article in "Motor Trend Magazine". You may say this is Mercedes USA LLC, but you can bet we're taking the hit for it @ MBUSI! This German engineering is getting pretty expensive, don't you think?

HAPPY HOLIDAYS!!!!

2008-12-24T17:07:00.003-06:00

Merry Christmas & Happy New Year from Speak Up!!!!!

About the United Auto Workers Union - UAW

2008-12-21T12:32:00.001-06:00

'The UAW has been a leader in the struggle to secure economic and social justice for all people'

Since its founding in 1935, the UAW has consistently developed innovative partnerships with employers and negotiated industry-leading wages and benefits for its members. UAW members have benefited from a number of collective bargaining breakthroughs, including:

the first employer-paid health insurance plan for industrial workers

the first cost-of-living allowances

a pioneering role in product quality improvements

landmark job and income security provisions

comprehensive training and educational programs

A voice for all

As impressive as it is, the UAW's success record at the bargaining table is only part of the story. From our earliest days, the UAW has been a leader in the struggle to secure economic and social justice for all people. The UAW has been actively involved in every civil rights legislative battle since the 1950s, including the campaigns to pass the Civil Rights Act of 1964, the Voting Rights Act of 1965, the Fair Housing Act, the Civil Rights Restoration Act of 1988 and legislation to prohibit discrimination against women, the elderly and people with disabilities.

The UAW also has played a vital role in passing such landmark legislation as Medicare and Medicaid, the Occupational Safety and Health Act, the Employee Retirement Act and the Family and Medical Leave Act. In Washington and state capitols, the UAW is fighting for better schools for kids, secure health care and pensions for retirees, clean air and water, tougher workplace health and safety standards, stronger worker's compensation and unemployment insurance laws and fairer taxes.

The UAW's commitment to improve the lives of working men and women extends beyond our borders to encompass people around the globe. Through vigilant political involvement and coordination with world labor organizations, we continue to fight for enforcement of trade agreement provisions on human and worker rights, fair labor standards and a new approach to international trade — one that raises the quality of life for working people worldwide.

About the UAW

www.JoeTheAutoworker.com

2008-12-21T10:25:00.002-06:00

Be sure to check out the new site link on the sidebar to www.JoeTheAutoworker.com! there are a lot of interesting facts on this site!

Detriot Free Press, Interesting

2008-12-20T21:47:00.001-06:00

Click this link!

Link Malfunctions!

2008-12-19T05:19:00.002-06:00

We would like to apologize for some of the email links on the site for not working. If you have tried to get an invitation to post and the email would not send it, then please try again! It should work fine now! If anyone needs to get in touch for anything always remember, it's speakuptuscaloosa@gmail.com Thanks, sorry for any inconvenience!

Check out this bashing on Richard Shelby

2008-12-19T04:38:00.002-06:00

Click this link for the video Called: "Let It Rip"

Thank You, Mercedes Communication Dept. (NOT)

2008-12-15T11:46:00.004-06:00

Well, now I'm hearing that Mercedes is filing the unemployment for us. Chalk another one up for the communication in this company! I don't know if it's true or not, please let us know if anyone finds out. I've tried to call the plant with no avail. As always, you can't get in contact with anyone! I've had better luck with customer support in India! When did Bill say he was leaving? It can't be soon enough! I'm sick of him doing us favors and hanging around!!!!!! I hope next time we have an all team meeting, the reporter is there that threw his shoes at George Bush. I'd do it but I can't afford anymore shoes!!!!

Filing for Unemployment Compensation During Shut Down

2008-12-15T11:26:00.003-06:00

If anyone is interested in filing online during shutdown here's the link: "Alabama Department of Industrial Relations" Here is also the phone number if you'd rather do it this way: 1-866-234-5382 Good Luck! It's busy all the time!

Mercedes Benz Announces 2009 Cuts

2008-12-13T22:54:00.001-06:00

Here is a link to a Reuters article about further cuts in 2009.

WOW! Has Everyone Seen This Website?

2008-12-13T06:12:00.002-06:00

Talk about some haters! Check this website out. People are boycotting our State. Here's the link: "Boycott Alabama!" "Proudly Built Where!" Thanks Bob Riley and Richard Shelby!

Many knew NAFTA would cause this!

2008-12-12T10:44:00.006-06:00

Well, once again evidence of NAFTA not good for our base economy! NAFTA has put too much pressure on American businesses. I hate to say it because I do work for a foriegn company, but when you offer such good deals to these companies to set up shop here you are asking for it. Just as Mercedes has done. When they deplete all the resources the state offers, then they start taking away(from the workers) to keep making the same profits. When they can't make the profits they are used to, then they dig up the concrete and head to Mexico, Argentina, Venezuela, (Hungary in Mercedes Benz case) or anywhere else they can make more profit. Then we're out of jobs because we've let our own American businesses get put out of business by foreign companies! Way to go Bill Clinton!! I know it's not only Clinton but I think he was the one that actually signed it! I'm giving him credit for it anyway!
The same goes for our border control. We've opened the flood gates to our south, now we're being warned by our own local governments to be aware of Mexican Drug Cartel in the state. What next! Here is a link to a summary of NAFTA.

Richard Shelby isn't making many friends!

2008-12-12T10:42:00.002-06:00

This was in the local Tuscaloosa News today. Shelby is getting bashed, even in his own state!Link: "Tuscaloosa News". It gets even better here in the "Wall Street Journal"!

Here's a summary of the WARN ACT!

2008-12-11T04:28:00.004-06:00

This is a summary of the WARN ACT! We should read this too!
Link to WARN ACT! You will need Acrobat Reader to view this. It's free at www.adobe.com.

Job Fair For ThyssenKrupp Steel Plant In Mobile

2008-12-10T04:14:00.002-06:00

Here is a link to an article in "The Birmingham News" via al.com about the new steel plant in Mobile holding a job fair next week in Prichard.

Mercedes Announces More Cuts In Germany

2008-12-10T04:03:00.002-06:00

Here's a link to a BBC article about Mercedes making more cuts in Germany during the first half of '09. "BBC NEWS"

Everybody should read this newsletter!

2008-12-08T10:50:00.001-06:00

Whether you are "For" or "Against", you need to read this newsletter! "On The Line"

"Employee Free Choice Act" Summary

2008-12-08T10:45:00.002-06:00

Employee Free Choice Act - Link! You will need Acrobat Reader to view it! If you don't have it installed, go here to get it free. www.abobe.com

A Bad Review For The Bluetec ML 320

2008-12-08T10:24:00.001-06:00

Here's the link to the article- "USA TODAY"

German Government Will Pay Autoworkers!

2008-12-07T23:02:00.001-06:00

Check out this article about Mercedes production in Germany! Here's the link: Breaking News!

Here's a link to an article about Nissan's Buyouts!

2008-12-07T20:33:00.002-06:00

Nissan North America offers buyouts to workers at 2 Tennessee plants!

Unions fate may lie in Obama's hands

2008-11-26T09:59:00.002-06:00

Here is a link to an interesting article in the "Los Angeles Times". If we're ever going to have a say in our employee benefits and our retirement plans, it just may be up to Obama to decide this. Obama has clearly stated that he stands for the right to vote for unionization. We will now see if he makes the effort he promised to make it easier for companies to unionize. This is a pretty good article that everyone should read. I swiped this from another blog; here is a link to the blog I got it from. "Alabama Auto Manufacturers Employees Raw!"

Per your Request Sir, "Un F_ _ _ _ @ng Believable"

2008-11-23T09:04:00.005-06:00

Several of my friends received phone calls at home on Friday November 22 , 2008. It was to inform them that there was yet another MBUSI policy change that is unwritten , undocumented , piss-poorly communicated. Apparently as of now if you marry someone who works for MBUSI you can no longer carry your spouse on your insurance policy. Did you get the memo? Did your Manager or AM communicate this screwing to you? I think , probably not! How many new, interesting and fun-filled ways are there to discriminate! When will our leaders learn toF_ _ _ @ng count? Let's do the math for scenario #1. We'll use tm1,tm2,tm3,and tm4 (for simplicity we will call them Bill,Phil,Archie and Rolf). They all pay insurance premiums to our blue cross plan . Okay that's 4 premiums. Now let's say they marry spouse A,B,C,and D( for simplicity we'll call them BMW Lady,VW Lady,Honda Lady and Toyota Lady ,in any order of course;) . Now you have 4 premium payments which cover 8 people including TMs and their spouses , Bill and BMW Lady, Phil and VW Lady, Archie and Honda Lady, Rolf and Toyota Lady. Now let's look at scenario #2 . Tm1 marries tm3, and tm2 marries tm4. In this instance we have 4 premiums covering 4 people. They would be receiving twice the money with half the exposure. It makes you ask the question..What is the motive, since it obviously isn't money. I charge that the motive is the same as it has always been with the blue bloods.Domination and control of the peasants creating a"rule by fear "environment and a climate of "BECAUSE I F_ _ _ @ng SAY SO DAMMIT !"If the king allows it ...then the king perpetuates it!The names used were for demonstration purposes only.Any similarities between the names and real life people OR situations is strictly coincidental.

Something you may come in contact with!

2008-11-22T03:18:00.007-06:00

Here is a card circulating in many areas of various employers. This is a card that authorizes the union to use your signature added with all other employee signatures to validate the right to vote to organize. This card doesn't mean you will have a union. With enough signatures, it only gives employees the right to vote for a union if they so desire. This is your right as an employee. As it stands now, we don't have many rights. Think about it. The card posted here is only a picture of the card. It is not an official card valid to use. Don't be afraid to touch one or sign one! As far as we know, nobody has been bitten by one, or contracted any kind of disease from it.

Here's a link to an interesting article

2008-11-21T08:42:00.002-06:00

Just one more article of many to come about our "Great Governor" Not!
Business Week

Here's a link to an interesting article

2008-11-21T08:36:00.006-06:00

Follow this link to a recent article in the "Birmingham News"!
I really believe that Don Siegelman could run this state out of a jail cell better than Bob Riley has done!

"The Birmingham News" via AL.com

The Cochran Firm is here (location correction)

2008-11-07T11:41:00.003-06:00

Here is a correction to the location of the meeting in Tuscaloosa. It is at the Microtel on Veterans Parkway . Here are the directions:
Take the MCFARLAND BLVD/ US-82 exit, EXIT 73
6: Keep RIGHT at the fork to go on MCFARLAND BLVD E/ US-82 W/ AL-6 W.
7: Turn RIGHT onto 15TH ST E. 0.5 mi
8: End at 1417 Veterans Memorial Pkwy Tuscaloosa, AL 35404-4702

Thyssenkrupp steel plant - Mobile

2008-11-07T06:28:00.003-06:00

If you are considering the so called "buy out" and are willing to relocate for work, there is a link on this site where you can fill out an online application for the new Thyssenkrupp steel plant in Mobile. We don't know how long the applications will be recieved, but we will keep a link as long as they are letting people fill them out. The hire process is handled by AIDT just as it was for Mercedes.

The Cochran Firm is here

2008-11-06T21:43:00.006-06:00

If anyone is interested, there will be an information meeting regarding the add that ran a few weeks ago in the Tuscaloosa News. If you've ever had to do casual time , work over or stay late for no pay, and in the case of maintenance tm's ,carry and monitor a radio through your lunch for no pay. There will be two meetings held with the firm. The first one will be on Nov.14, in Bessemer at exit 108 at 10 am at Country Inn. The second one will be the same day (Nov.14) in Tuscaloosa at exit 77 at 3pm at Microtel. There is no commitment and all are welcome to come to gather information about possible legal action against Mercedes.

Paltry sum at Mercedes Benz

2008-11-06T10:48:00.003-06:00

Can you believe the pittance that Mercedes is offering as a buyout? I am truly offended.After all the sweat and heart that I have poured into this organization.To be offered $45,000 and $1,000 for every year of service is a slap in the face.I am so outdone.I would have thought that after helping to build this company like so many of us have , it should count for something. It was reported that GM paid in the neighborhood of $170,000 and they haven't turned a profit in several quarters.We only missed 1 profit projection for 1 quarter and Taylor offers us a measly $45,000 no matter how long you've been here or what your contribution to the company has been? It was reported that the mother company(Daimler Germany) offered our brother employees upwards of $200,000. Is it just me or do you guys feel screwed too? They refuse to tell any of the team members where they are in the pecking order. Because it will belay the chaos and confusion. You know all it takes is a keystroke to print that out , so the people will have more information to work with. But that's not the way of the king I guess. We build world class, M-Class Vehicles. But when it comes to taking care of the people, our management treats us like a third-world Yugo ..... without even blinking.

Tuscaloosa News Copycat article!

2008-10-29T16:59:00.003-05:00

I'm wondering why today the "Tuscaloosa News" article about the Mercedes production plan copies everything that the "Birmingham News" wrote yesterday, except the fact that the 150,000 workers in Germany will be recieving their regular pay for the holiday shutdown! Is the editor of the "Tuscaloosa News" Tim Thompson or Bill Taylor????? Here's the link if anyone doubts the facts here! http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20081029/NEWS/810280185/1007?Title=Production_halt_in_Germany_won_t_affect_Vance_plant

There is comfort for some during hard times!

2008-10-29T04:58:00.003-05:00

This is a link to an article in the "Tuscaloosa News" today about the slowing economy. Goodrich is laying off during the holiday season also. Since they have been paying into a union fund, it looks like they will be receiving 80% of their pay while they're down. Here's the link to the article!

How about this article for a slap in the face!

2008-10-28T18:41:00.003-05:00

Meetings to explain the " All Team Meeting"

2008-10-24T15:01:00.004-05:00

What is this! A memo is sent out stating that there is an all team meeting on Oct. 30th. Then it says there will be sub-meetings afterwards to explain the "All Team Meeting". This can't be good for the people who actually build the cars! Can it???

Control Numbers For Employee Pricing On New Vehicles!

2008-10-24T02:19:00.004-05:00

What's the deal here? It seems there is a huge investigation going on about people selling their control numbers. Does anyone know any details on this? I hear it's going to be addressed at the all team meeting next Thursday! Now I'm wondering if the insert in the last "Inside Line" has something to do with this. Let's hear some facts on this! If anyone knows anything, offer it up!

December Layoff At Mercedes!

2008-10-08T16:50:00.002-05:00

Has anyone heard from a reliable source about being shut down the whole month of December???? There sure are a lot of rumors going around!

What's With All The Management Leaving?

2008-10-04T08:52:00.003-05:00

There must be some kind of shakeup going on up the ranks. Or is Kia just a better company to work for? Someone tell me! I don't know the numbers, but how many from Group Leader on up to Managers has Mercedes lost in the last couple of months? Does anyone know? Sounds like part of management is as fed up with slaps in the face as the line workers!

Did Everyone Get The "Inside Line" In The Mail?

2008-10-04T08:45:00.002-05:00

What's with the insert inside it? Sounds like Germany is upset with the possibilities of people cheating on their meals and travel and getting free gifts (maybe for bribery). Hmmmmm? I smell a rat(s). Does anyone have anything else on this.

Still Not Much Union Support!

2008-10-02T05:03:00.002-05:00

Well, the meeting yesterday still shows that the people @ Mercedes are still just crybabies that are just plain scared of Bill Taylor. There was a lot of talk about how people were going to be there, and the people knew about it! All kinds of support around the plant until the day of the meeting, then just a bunch of excuses for why they couldn't make it to the meeting! These losers just need to quit crying to me and just suck on their pacifiers!

Cutbacks @ Mercedes Benz!

2008-09-20T02:07:00.002-05:00

Well, I didn't know there were so many haters out there! Call me naive I guess. I ran across the online version of the Tuscaloosa News and checked out the article on Mercedes cutting back to a 32 hour work week. There were a lot of negative comments on Mercedes workers on it. Not much sympathy for the 4,000 workers at Mercedes, not to mention all the 2nd and 3rd tier companies involved in the cutbacks. Along with a huge part of the local economy going to hell in a hand basket as a result. Everyone needs to check it out for themselves and see what people are saying about it. Here's a link to the Article and all of the comments made about the article! http://forums.tuscaloosanews.com/eve/forums/a/tpc/f/5981059265/m/5921041377

Goodrich Expansion!

2008-09-20T01:57:00.003-05:00

I don't work at Goodrich but I used to so I will get the ball rolling with the big topic at hand for Goodrich. It looks pretty positive over there. I know the expansion may not produce a lot of extra jobs but atleast they're investing in the current operation. If you work there, let us know more about what's going on inside the company. Us outsiders only know what we hear in the news. We'd like to hear first hand from the workers about things happening there! Here is a link to the article in the Tuscaloosa News about the expansion! http://www.tuscaloosanews.com/article/20080919/NEWS/809199998/1007/news&title=BFGoodrich_to_expand_in_city