Police escort needed at Eddy Commons construction site

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Picket line forms at Eddy Street Commons
Posted: 6:19 PM Oct 23, 2008
Last Updated: 7:19 PM Oct 23, 2008
Reporter: Mark Peterson
Email Address: mpeterson@wndu.com

101 comments

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Some non-union workers needed a police escort to enter the Eddy Street Commons construction site near Notre Dame Thursday.

“You had a few (police) officers that were, I think, kind of ready to take us to jail,” said Robert Kara, President of the Ironworkers local 292 in South Bend.

A group of union ironworkers formed a picket line early Thursday morning.

The picketers say they refused to move when two trucks full of non union workers approached around eight a.m. “So they backed up (and) left for quite a while,” said Dustin Green of Ironworkers local 292.

Around noon, the non-union workers returned along with police.

“When they opened the gate for Lamar (Construction),” said Green, “I walked inside the job site and continued to hold the line and the police, M. Grant, pushed me out of the way.”

When asked how close some union members came to getting arrested, the union president said, “It came pretty close.”

Robert Kara added, “certainly we feel strong about our issue, myself and some of our members aren’t afraid to go to jail for something we believe in.”

While work on the site did not stop, it did appear to slow considerably.

Later in the day, the picketers were reluctant to move for two semi trucks that were trying to deliver structural steel to the site. Eventually the trucks did gain entrance, by inching their way past the picketers and the gates.

“Together we can stand up to moneyed interests, together we can stand up to the people who say you guys don't need a living wage,” said Green.

The ironworkers say they’ll stay on the picket line until the non union workers leave the job site.

“We can’t work next to a rat company” said ironworker Desireia Latoya Liggins.

The union workers are involved in the Eddy Street Commons project. They are building the city parking garage.

The non-union workers are said to be working on a building next door to the garage.

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

Posted by: To all anti-union Location: South Bend and vicinity on Nov 4, 2008 at 11:08 AM
I'm sorry for your ignorance! I'm a Union Ironworker, trained for 4 yrs in a quality apprenticeship that entails a college degree! Is it not our right to fight for good pay and benefits. Most years I earn $50k , some yrs. maybe $30k. If you're against unions, that is your right, but DO NOT down somebody for making an honest living. We work awful hard for the money we earn to provide a stable life for our families. You can say that we make too much, maybe because you don't!! At least 50% of college grads are making less than I do. Is that my fault, NO!!! You choose the road you want to travel!! I know alot of people that have went to college and followed their passions, only to be stuck making $20-$30k a year. If any of you have a family, It's really hard to make it on less than $30k a yr. House, Car, Utilities, Gas, Groceries, School Fees, and I'm sure that you can think of a few more that should be on this list!! We work for fair wages that are set before us!

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Nov 3, 2008 at 01:50 PM
Fire & Rain, I will agree that trade unions are different than the UAW and other organizations that simply want to get rich on dues and protect mediocrity. That said, I still maintain that the supermen you reference do not need a union if they are so great at their jobs. As far as your victomhood (sic) reference, I don't get it.

Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 3, 2008 at 12:47 PM
Posted by: I WAS NON UNION Location: SOUTH BEND on Oct 24, 2008 at 11:30 AM Wrote: I WORKED FOR VERY LOW WAGE .90 CENT A HOUR ,NO HEALTH CARE ,NO 401 K ,NO MONEY IN THE BANK , NO SICK PAY, NO VACATION PAY , NO OVERTIME PAY , NO INSURANCE , NO FOOD ON THE TABLE . AS I READ ALL THE POSTED NOTES MAYBE EVERY ONE THAT IS NON UNION CAN PAY FOR MY HEALTH CARE WITH YOUR TAX MONEY AND BUY ME SOME FOOD STAMPS $ $ BUT NOW I AM UNION AND I DO NOT NEED YOUR HELP SO I CAN SPEND MY MONEY AT YOUR PLACE OF BUSINESS SO YOU CAN HAVE A JOB YOU RATS

Posted by: James Location: Michiana on Nov 3, 2008 at 12:39 PM
*Grins and Punches Joseph in the face !!! I am a trained professional in Bridge, Structural, Ornamental and Reinforcing IronWork with over 12 years (on the job) experience. Living, Breathing and working Iron everyday. I have many certifications, from safety to welding and more. My qualifications for this or any other Ironworking job are over 2 pages long. I am a proven drug free worker. I go to work everyday and am a fast pased hard worker. I live, breath and work Iron everyday of my life. I've been on BIG jobs, small jobs, good jobs and dirty jobs. Ironwork is my life and my livelyhood! Non-Unions have second rate workers! So I'm sure you'll get a second rate building!

Posted by: joseph Location: saint petersburg on Oct 30, 2008 at 04:20 PM
Unions, what a joke.

Posted by: Buford Location: Union Member on Oct 30, 2008 at 03:41 PM
The unions want us to support the Democratic candidate who wants to redistribute our hard earned wealth to those who choose not to work. Don't think for a minute the taxing is just for the businesses. There won't be enough money for all their programs. Who needs health benefits when the government will provide them. Nothing wrong with a union to protect individuals. I don't want my union wages redistributed.

Posted by: IronLady Location: Southbend on Oct 30, 2008 at 03:26 PM
Bottom line. The welding industry is huge. Think of the people it takes to do this job. I extreme welded at times. I started welding at 13. Professional by 17. Joined the ironworkers at 19. 21 years as a welder. Unions are not perfect. No job, no money. It wasn't considered workmens comp because it took too long to get diagnosed. Who jumps in to pay your bills if your bedridden? Just like me, no one. All that work paid off. This isn't a perfect system, but I'm still going, an my old people medicine, all 8 prescriptions cost some out of pocket, I kept my home, drive aused cars, an can afford to live ok. If you can say you feel that you and your family would be ok if disaster hits then were not all taking to you. Plan for the worst, hope for the best. I have the opportunity to get my associates degree for free. Not bad for 30 bucks a month dues. For all of you that think we give our soles away, an we vote for change, have representatives, get 4 years training, ect.an quit when you want.

Posted by: IronLady Location: Southbend on Oct 30, 2008 at 02:44 PM
About those sick kids. We all make do because we have to. Even married(also a Union) folks can have serious issues. Just one of many reasons for the deterioration of the worker/employer relationship. Even if your a hard worker. People miss time at work, Union and Non. To the guy that said it looked like my Union protected me well, when i became ill with a progressive disease affecting the central nervous system, called manganism. This problem isn't My problem, its a worldwide problem. Its taken years to get a diagnose. My life turned upside down. I have a family to support, car payment, bills galore, an sole bread winner. It happened over a period of years. I could no longer get out of bed. My muscles jerked, my joints move like a ratchet. My shoulders sagged my feet dragged. I forgot how to do simple tasks, My short term memory not good. My kid, asked why are you always dancing because of tremors on the right side of my body. It started with a pinkie. In time I was in a wheelchair.

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 30, 2008 at 02:14 PM
I would just fire the union company who are holding up the progress and post-poning deadlines and hire all non-union workers to complete the project. With the economy as it is today, we don't need people preventing ANYONE from doing an honest day's work if and when willing!!!

Posted by: Ironlady Location: Southbend on Oct 30, 2008 at 02:13 PM
Good Point, not to mention the countless number of people with out work now?here? Didn't these workers work hard enough to satisfy their employers. Maybe, they weren't running fast enough. Or maybe its something bigger, like a depression. Who should be blamed here. The Union? or how about a person that can't collect unemployment like you and will work till his dying day for minimum wage just to eat. There is nothing sadder than those who have worked so hard all their lives to have nothin to fall back on. Union or Non. oh, you could always get a job minimum wage or is the pay not good enough for you? How bout college? then no matter what you'll be safe from layoffs, downsizing, or losing your job because you and your employer just don't see eye to eye. As long as you go everyday, an give it your all, your jobs safe. How about when your children are sick? I've lived this. As a mother of three, How many people would be happy to babysit your sick child? (1000 characters. see part b.

Posted by: Ironlady Location: Southbend on Oct 30, 2008 at 01:37 PM
The United States of America. Also a Union. Perfect? not at all. 50 states joined together as one. A country providing lives for men and women of all races, backgrounds, social status,an income levels. Are there better places to live? Possibly. Room for improvment? Always. Can one person make change happen? Definetly. Easily? Not likely. Larger scale, United Nations. Another Union of countries banded together to hopefully be stong against those without our best interest in mind. Back to OUR Union, the U.S.A. As this Union, an all our freedoms, we have laws. We pay dues called taxes. Lots of them. Websters dictionary defines union as ONENESS. "A confederation of independent individuals (as nations or persons) for some common purpose. We have rights to keep those rights. You are Union. all of us are. We live among you.My union dues are 30 a month. Brainwashed, uneducated? nope. A Nuclear Certified Welder, All position, Any thickness, UIW. A person fighting to Stay middle class.

Posted by: WHAT HAPPEN TOO Location: SOUTH BEND on Oct 30, 2008 at 12:49 PM
If unions are so great?? I guess I will go apply for a job at Studebaker,Wheelhorse and South Bend Lathe. Oh,wait the union ran them in the ground! I will just keep collecting unemployement thanks to you people!!!

Posted by: Dustin Location: Buchanan on Oct 30, 2008 at 12:05 AM
I want to do something with my life. I want to educate Americans, help build livable housing in walkable cities, live by the six commandments that Christ mentions in Matthew 19. Are Unions perfect? No. I hate the sense of entitlement that is too common in unions. That being said, trade unions were largely responsible for improving the working conditions in our nation's burgening manufacturing centers during just one century ago. Trade Unions were instrumental to our victory over fascism, by agreeing to a freeze on wage and benefit increases despite high inflation during the second world war. Today the working class faces unprecedented challenges. To obese television addicts oppression seems quaint. But mark WB Yeat's words, "Things fall apart; the centre cannot hold." I'm with the local 292 because they require every apprentice to earn an assiciate's degree, because I love helping to build anything taller than 1 story, and because I've seen the charity, honesty nd agape of Ironworkrs

Posted by: 10-4 good buddy Location: 18 wheels on Oct 29, 2008 at 10:59 PM
I not threating anybody! I am Telling you if you stand in my way with your union signs and dont move, you will be stuck to front of my truck.If you have a problem with the guy next door thats between you and them. WHY are you messing with truck drivers? Because theres only one of me and a dozen of you guys! Sounds cowardly!!!

Posted by: Joe Location: Sout Bend on Oct 29, 2008 at 10:52 PM
Union workers = overpaid workers. More companies will move South, more factories in the North will close. Eventually heavily union cities like South Bend will die off.

Posted by: Rain Location: Here, IN on Oct 29, 2008 at 06:57 PM
remain competitive in their respective fields and use their power with a long term focus. Among other reasons to unify the boom and bust nature of construction mandates the need of qualified labor pools to efficently meet shifts in demand. This offers contractors a quickly assembled, qualified, group of skiled laborers. The list goes on and on and is highly debated. The bottom line is these guys work hard, and progress as much as their skillset and desire allows them. Much like you. There is not a textbook in the world that could begin to teach what you learn from these guys. The fact is this rough crowd is very aware of what is required to teach younger generations the multi-faceted world of Ironwork. Having completed three years towards an international business degree with an honors academic scholarship and a file folder of deans list "merits," I know what you mean by "work hard and "get ahead on merit," Show up one day by quitting time u will know victomhood.

Posted by: Fire Location: Rain on Oct 29, 2008 at 06:55 PM
Sir "two point Willie" In regards to your first half of your "arguments, ranting"... I question the research that left you with such an ill-conceived perception of an ironworker. The ironworkers I know are up every day at work on a building you will probably be in one day. They usually are there before the sun finds our little corner of the world. The ironworkers that taught me showed me the meaing to adage "don't judge a book by its cover," old men whose classmates are greeters at wal-mart pounding iron all day like its a race. These guys take great pride in what they do, how they do it, and who they do it with. Did you know these guys job is is in the top ten most dangerous, far more deaths than cops per year, you have to trust who you build with. These guys work harder than you probably could imagine, and they do get ahead on merit, there is no free ironworker lunch. Perhaps you are confusing the ailing UAW and other unions who have undoubtedly lost focus on the need to

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Oct 29, 2008 at 05:01 PM
Two quick points: #1) "Wanted to do something with your lives"? Generally that phrase is used by folks who work hard and get ahead on merit. Evidently all you wanted to do was band together under a union banner to extort better wages from business owners whether or not you were worth it, not caring what effect it had on your employers. #2) "Exercising their right to peacefully protest"? What fantasy world are you living in? You don't see non-union workers vandalizing property and threatening and carrying out physical violence to keep a job. Apparently you've never seen anyone cross a picket line. I think your arguments, ranting and ill-conceived pieces of victimhood that they are, would hold up better if you weren't so obviously delusional. (Oh, and Franklin: trespassing is against the law - seriously, look it up.)

Posted by: rusty Location: mishawaka on Oct 29, 2008 at 04:36 PM
mr unionalltheway, It it union quality that took 2years to build 1 bridge @ 23 and the bybass? how about union quality that makes the drive to elk on the bypass an amusement ride? If I want to better myself I will get better at something, or more educated, not just more time on the job, doing poor work and claiming to be better. You believe in the education of the union because you endured the servitude that comes with years of being someone else's slave before you could get your own. try college, they're in the business of education, unlike the union. ms ironlady, sorry you contracted a disease while working, sounds like the union protected you well. If I get hurt on the job, my family will be taken care of because I PROVIDED FOR THEM, not relied on someone else's work to feed them. I have no need for a union, my skills are marketable at numerous employers who are willing to compensate me for what I believe is fair. Its too bad you all have not been able to, and must rely on unions.

Posted by: Randy M. Location: Lakeville on Oct 29, 2008 at 12:52 PM
I am in a union and I am a democrat because they tell me so. I vote democrat every year cause I can't think for myself...yippee!

Posted by: Franklin Location: Jones on Oct 29, 2008 at 10:32 AM
This discussion is full of anger, misrepresentation of union workers, and ignorance. There is a good reason why most people in the United States want to be in unions: it is statistically provable that people in unions do better than isolated working folks. I am not surprised by people who are business types being against a union; they don't like to pay more. That said, the violent anti-union sentiment that some have expressed here is disgusting on a human level. Its good to remember that there are people who will run you over for disagreeing with them out there. Reminds me why we have a Constitution: to stop people like that.

Posted by: Nick on Oct 29, 2008 at 10:28 AM
To Ironlady, you are brainwashed by the unions. In a competitive market you will get paid a fair wage. Non-Unions indivuals who work hard are making more than then union. For America to stay competitive in a GLOBAL market place, the union has to stop protecting those who do not perform. Wage should be based upon performance not how long you have been on the job. As for unions increasing safty standards, this is a myth. Maybe in the 1930's and 1940 but there would have been an evolution with government intervention as there are law on the books now which protects all workers. Whether you think they were doing what they thought was best for their family, technically they broke the law and should be in jail at this time. With your logic you would say that someone who was robbing a bank, it doing what they think is best for their families, and therfore they should not go to jail since they are caught. THIS IS A UNION MENTALITY which is so backwards I won't even go into it.

Posted by: LOL! on Oct 29, 2008 at 07:57 AM
Unions are overpaid protection. Like paying protection to the mafia. fugetabout it.

Posted by: Ironlady Location: Southbend on Oct 29, 2008 at 01:54 AM
Don't ya like yerselves guys an gals? . Its not the Unions that sent these jobs overseas. Its the people are satisfied making less than the companies are willing to pay. Its simple, our jobs are going overseas because there's always going to be people like you thats willing to do it for less. See.. HOW IT WORKS..Is your life worth less than mine? I worked in all sorts of conditions, in days where the only way up a column, is climb. No Lifts tough guys. You wouldn't think of wearing a safety harness. What was it you said Todd?? "Were not working High Steel?" you got lots to learn. Hope you stay strong, because when your dumb, you gotta be tough! An stay healthy, It wasn't a good thing not to work safe. We all lost some really awesome brother Ironworkers from bad falls. Even this "Low steel" can Be dangerous. LoL! 100% tie off can be a pain. did the companies require that because they love us?? One cannot do as Many. I want a fair share of that PIE. Don't you all like PIE?

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 28, 2008 at 11:24 PM
Well Brian do not blame them blame the people that hired them. ESPECIALLY at a time like this why should anyone wana pay more for you guys? And you are letting them come take the work... they are doing it and you are not.

Posted by: Ironbrave Location: IN. on Oct 28, 2008 at 09:54 PM
Just a point of intrest, after reading through these comments posted. I've noticed that people have called the union men and women thugs, bullies, and scumbags just to name a few. I see also, they talk of threats and deragatory remarks made by union brothers an sisters. But the only threats and ill remarks I see in this blog are made by the people who oppose the union. Now who's the bullies? My union brothers and sisters are simply exercising their right to peacfully protest. Now if I remember our history correctly alot of men and women gave their lives to afford us this right, under our Constitution. Sincerly. Native Ironworker

Posted by: pppppoff Location: niles on Oct 28, 2008 at 08:24 PM
this is directed towards marc...desireia latoya liggins will out work just about any one. she earned her job just like any other union ironworker out there. are you making this a racial issue?? cause this is a union issue and discussion, marc. i think you owe her an apology. we don't discriminate, do you? this is also not a personal issue. think before you say something stupid.

Posted by: unionalltheway. Location: south bend on Oct 28, 2008 at 08:07 PM
part 2...........We are the brother and sister ironworkers who get up everyday in all kinds of conditions, all kinds of weather,and endure blood sweat and tears, to build new hospitals for your wives to deliver your children, to build new schools for your children to recieve an eduacation, your football stadiums so you can watch your games, your jails and police stations so you can feel safe, your amusement parks so your familys can have a good time, and we build your bridges so you can get there, I could go on and on. we are skilled and trained and do the best quality jobs there are. Instead of bashing the union ironworkers, you ought to be thanking us for all the work we do for you. Never call a union ironworker lazy, we work beyond our means everday, we have one of the top ten most dangerous jobs in the world. many (too many) ironworkers have lost there lives out there on the jobs, building america. Show a little respect. You talk about the working man? We are the working Man.....

Posted by: unionalltheway Location: south bend on Oct 28, 2008 at 07:44 PM
Part one.........I am amazed at just how ignorant the majority of you people are that wrote your comments about this whole picket with Lamar construction. First of all i am not sure that even half of you understand what you are even talking about. this is for all you uneducated, $8.00 an hour job having loosers out there. Sounds to me that you are all jealous because of what union ironworkers make for a living.And what standing behind each other really means, We have excellent health insurance do you? We have a great pension to live on after we retire, do you? We have an annuity plan, do you? We make three times more than you ever will. Do you want to know why? Because we wanted to do something with our lives, un like half of you non union non working idiots. you call us cry babies, I don't think I have ever seen any one wine and complain like you anti union people who think you are somebody. you are saddly enough, the people we build america for. We have brother and sister ironworkers

Posted by: Don Location: indiana on Oct 28, 2008 at 07:03 PM
Its not wage that business dont like, the unions have priced themselves out of a job. Look at the numbers when you buy an american vehicle 58% of the price of that vehicle is paying UAW benefits, not the vehicle. this is money that the employee recieves even if they are not working. UAW, UIW, and most other unions have writers that say that if worker shows up they get paid for 2 hours, even if no work is done, there for 2 hours get paid for 8 even if no work is done. I have seen union workers go to work clock in and then leave all as a part of a benefit package. Now tell me why we want union labor.

Posted by: SELMER on Oct 28, 2008 at 03:28 PM
If unions are so great what happened at selmer in elkhart seem to me they (as iron lady would say they stood up for rights)ya what did that get them UNEMPLOYED served them right selmer will never hire ANY of them back either.

Posted by: Ironlady Location: Southbend on Oct 28, 2008 at 12:26 PM
Todd an others, don't doubt that yer a worker an that you are compensated. Nor do I doubt that there are other exceptionally good non union workers out there that are well worth the money your paid. It won't tick me off that your outfit treats you fairly. I can only say when your company bids a job and my company bids a job, your company may win the bid at times. Those Union dues we pay are measly when it comes to unfair layoffs, or when you get injured, or like me, disabled from a disease called manganism, which is a form of parkinsons disease caused sucking up too many welding fumes. Its been 5 years now. I've kept my home, raised my kids, an maintained a decent life. I've worked high steel. at least u die when u hit the ground, an not just mamed. An after all this hard work, u age,or mamed, Who's got yer back?? you'll be replaced, just like us. ONLY our families are taken care of, not by our contractors, but by US, THE UNION. Times r tuff, think beyond today. quit settling for less

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Oct 28, 2008 at 09:27 AM
I don't think "lazy", "whiners", and "complainers" are buzz words intended to manipulate anyone. Based on my experience with unions, they are simply statements of fact. Work hard, do your job well, show up for work every day, and learn as much about your business as possible, and you'll never need a union.

Posted by: Todd Location: Mishawaka on Oct 27, 2008 at 11:25 PM
Union Workers....if you want work in this town you better be giving competitive bids. My company used Lamar and will again. I don't give a rip about unions, give me a fair price. You are not working with high steel in this town, so quit charging like it. Your company bids out so high because they have to pay all your ridiculous union fees. Ask a person for Lemar what they take home...you will be ticked. Making just as much as you..but do not pay dues. They have health insurance and vacation days. So do I..non union all my life...make good money, employer likes me because I work hard.

Posted by: Definition Location: Indiana on Oct 27, 2008 at 03:06 PM
UAW = U Ain't Workin'!

Posted by: N on Oct 27, 2008 at 10:34 AM
Shut up and get back to work. Its that simple.

Posted by: Ironlady Location: Southbend on Oct 27, 2008 at 09:21 AM
Sounds to me like there's flat out some bitter people out there. Like I said, there are ups and downs on both sides, who are u to say how much money you or I should make. You put a group of people down for making the best living they can. Do you think AMERICA IS SHORT ON MONEY? come on people,

Posted by: scott on Oct 26, 2008 at 11:23 PM
Are the 292 iron-workers from around here they act like westsiders(thugs and bullies)if they are dont hire them for any kind of work not even to build a outhouse

Posted by: 10-4-good buddy Location: 18 wheels on Oct 26, 2008 at 11:13 PM
ARE you guys that stupid to stand in the way of a big truck try standing in front on mine! I WOUND NOT HAVE STOPPED!! I'm not a union driver. I don't have the time to piss with guys(scumbags) like you. If I don't deliver. I don't get paid! STAY OUT OF MY WAY or you will be FLAT!!!!

Posted by: DO IT MYSELF on Oct 26, 2008 at 09:09 PM
right on kc9ixv most of the jobs they do, if you got some sense about you are not hard.i ran my own 220/100 amp service to the garage the nipsco guy said i did a better job than most electricians would have done and save over a thousand dollars too. now days with plastic pipe if you cant do your own plumbing you must be retarded or lazy (maybe union)and for their pensions didn't they ever save money on their own or did they just count on it being there when they retired (counting chickens before their hatched) fools

Posted by: kc9ixv Location: the late great u.s.a. on Oct 26, 2008 at 05:50 PM
its about time that everyone feels the pain of losing their job and retirement. what i mean is its nice that its finally hitting the baby boomers and not just the younger people that did not have it so easy like the brain washed baby boomers. where can we go and get a union job making way to much money? where can we get a over paid job and sleep half of the shift away like the lazy steel workers? i used to have them brag to me about sleeping on the job. when you have a bunch of over paid union workers in an area that always raises the cost of living in that same area. i always hear retired baby boomers say why dont the younger people go and get a job like i did. sorry but those jobs dont exist anymore in this second world nation we call the u.s.a. i love it when i hear of rainbow pentions disappearing and health care for life ending early cause now they know how it feels. who can afford to hire a plumber etc thanks to the unions? i do all of my own plumbing and electrical its easy!

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 26, 2008 at 11:09 AM
hey ironlady292 your right we need unions 50 to 70 years ago,but not today! unless you want all the jobs to go to china. if thats the case then go unions go drive all our jobs away!!!! over payed,lazy and think their better than everyone else. did i miss anything

Posted by: Ironlady Location: southbend on Oct 25, 2008 at 08:21 PM
Man I find it so disturbing to read some of these comments. I've been union for nearly 20 years as an Ironworker out of 292 myself & know many of the people on the picket line. We choose to stand up for what we feel is important to our familys. Do you all understand what those before us did to get the 40 hour work week, or conditions such as a 10 minute break that hopefully we all get to enjoy non union and union. Or the fact that our children no longer have to work in conditions that weren't fit for animals. Believe this, if it werent for these Unions, your wage would not be as high as it is now. Do you think your employer cares about you? Maybe some. At times it takes blood, sweat and tears to keep wages, an decent working conditions. None of us are getting rich here, w/the union, at least a little less is going into the contractors pocket and more into the workers an families. I thank God for my Union, which are the men and women I stand beside. There is strength in numbers.

Posted by: steve Location: plymouth on Oct 25, 2008 at 05:42 PM
unions suck i would of ran themall down if they were in my way.unions are the down fall of america

Posted by: Brian Location: La Porte on Oct 25, 2008 at 11:31 AM
i am a union ironworker for 292 and this is not a matter of union and non union..... its a matter of out of towners such as Lamar coming and taking our local jobs.....we have always worked her and are not going to just let these out of towners walk right in... esspecially from another state...they are comming fomr northern michigan and by allowing them to come in is going to hurt us now and down the road somethign needs to be done about this......

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 25, 2008 at 08:08 AM
Does anyone fall for emotionally manipulative buzz words like "lazy", "complainers", "whiners"...? I mean, you see right through such flimsy attempts to emotionally manipulate you, right?

Posted by: GET REAL on Oct 25, 2008 at 04:29 AM
Hey commie oh i mean connie are you saying that if i was non union and did a job that i wouldn't be any good but the next day i joined the union and did the same thing it would be the best get your head out of the union leader rear end and wake up you dont have to be union to be a highly skilled worker you only need to be union if your LAZY,A CRY BABY and WANT TO COMPLAIN ALL THE TIME

Posted by: JIMMY HAFIA Location: LAKE MICHIGAN on Oct 25, 2008 at 04:07 AM
to connie your husband must be union(idiot) and makes the bucks im not and NEVER will be if everybody was union you would have to make that kind of money just to make it because the price of EVERYTHING would be so high that even you the union worker couldn't afford it

Posted by: Connie Location: Michigan on Oct 24, 2008 at 11:12 PM
How apaulling that so many people would be aginst the trades! These union men are trained through school and experience to make every foundation of any building sound in the U.S. Without these union worker's there is no accountability of how sound a stutcture may be. The union worker's are the best that their is. How dare bring in non-union workers after the most important part of any job has been done. The union workers will certify their work for structure work............how can some justify bringing in non-union workers to finish the job. The union workers already made certain that the structer has been done corretly. Thank all union trades....without them the structure of U.S. would be worrysome!!

Posted by: Mr. Obvious Location: South Bend on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:50 PM
I would put the truck in drive and keep on pulling into the driveway. If they don't want to move, they will meet Mr. Bumper. It's against the law what they are doing so they literally wouldn't have a leg to stand on if they got in my way.

Posted by: brian Location: La Porte on Oct 24, 2008 at 06:41 PM
i am a union ironworker for 292 and this is not a matter of union and non union..... its a matter of out of towners such as Lamar coming and taking our local jobs.....we have always worked her and are not going to just let these out of towners walk right in... esspecially from another state...they are comming fomr northern michigan and by allowing them to come in is going to hurt us now and down the road somethign needs to be done about this.....

Posted by: Jeff Location: SB on Oct 24, 2008 at 05:23 PM
Lousy economy, layoffs, foreclosures, food prices, retirement funds evaporating and these crybabies want to stop a person from working? Forget it you union bullies. Let the market set the rate you are paid. Inflated prices for construction services and auto workers ruined South Bend 50 years ago just like they are going to turn Kokomo into a ghost town when GM can't afford to pay $35.00 an hour for some moron to tighten a bolt. Your timing for this whining is a joke. Get back to work and shut up.

Posted by: Matthew Smith Location: Hartford MI on Oct 24, 2008 at 04:12 PM
For all of you that don't support the unions and what there doing. At Notre Dame you people are the uneducated mobs. They are standing up not just for the union but for those guys to. To help them make a higher wage. To help support there famlies. But hey you idiots out there that are pro non-union. You wouldn't understand what its like to make more money an hour. Because to you $8.50 is still a good hourly wage. So you people are the ones that are lazy workers that don't have a back bone to stand up for yourself to live a better life. With better benefits. So go unions and support the 292 ironworkers and what they believe in.

Posted by: Nick on Oct 24, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Any union worker that "stood the line" is a moron and should be going to jail. They broke the law and should be paying a heavy fine. Then Union itself should be tried at this point for racketeering... As you pay a price for "protection" from the union. If you look at the laws all unions, if union members act this way should be tried under RICO.

Posted by: Tony on Oct 24, 2008 at 01:51 PM
This story reminds me of the complainers that worked on the toll road as cashiers. They complained about making $28,000.00 plus benefits a year for counting change! Their union cost them their jobs because the pay was so out of line! In todays economy I would not be standing there watching someone else make money when I could be using my skill to make money and support my family! Union in some areas can be necessary but with today's regulations including OSHA they are becoming a thing of the past

Posted by: Chip on Oct 24, 2008 at 01:14 PM
Rusty: That line, "I am my best advocate" is the one supervisors everywhere use when there is about to be a vote to decertify a union. It has an emotional appeal. After all, a real man don't need nobody else talkin' for him. The problem is that you are not advocating for yourself. You are the boss. You are the company. You already have lawyers representing you. And you aren't competing with dozens, or hundreds of other people for promotion. What is wrong with a contract between employee and employer? Isn't it kind of pathetic to go to an employer with hat in hand, with cow eyes, ready to kiss arse? In a first world country? Isn't that all about intimidation? But, the bosses, et al. are more educated than the employees, on average, so your emotional manipulation is usually successful. Ultimately, you will not hire based on merit. It's just human nature that you will promote who you like personally. We have contracts in our soceity to keep each other honest. They're not "adversarial".

Posted by: lucy Location: south bend on Oct 24, 2008 at 01:13 PM
Unions are good for ONE thing--and that's collecting your weekly dues. $$$$$$-- Yeah vote Obama if you want the government to rule your life!!!

Posted by: I WAS NON UNION Location: SOUTH BEND on Oct 24, 2008 at 12:30 PM
I WORKED FOR VERY LOW WAGE .90 CENT A HOUR ,NO HEALTH CARE ,NO 401 K ,NO MONEY IN THE BANK , NO SICK PAY, NO VACATION PAY , NO OVERTIME PAY , NO INSURANCE , NO FOOD ON THE TABLE . AS I READ ALL THE POSTED NOTES MAYBE EVERY ONE THAT IS NON UNION CAN PAY FOR MY HEALTH CARE WITH YOUR TAX MONEY AND BUY ME SOME FOOD STAMPS $ $ BUT NOW I AM UNION AND I DO NOT NEED YOUR HELP SO I CAN SPEND MY MONEY AT YOUR PLACE OF BUSINESS SO YOU CAN HAVE A JOB YOU RATS

Posted by: Annonymous Location: South Bend, IN on Oct 24, 2008 at 12:21 PM
Here is a prime example of Obama socilist thinking. The union wants "living wages" regardless of if they have earned it or not. They feel "entitled" to every job regardless if they earn it or not. They earn it by their job qualifications and pricing their jobs strategies. Obviously they did not do that here so quit crying. Quit breaking the law by obstructing the efforts of those that "EARNED THAT JOB". Go out and EARN your work and you will EARN your living wage you request. You are not entitled to it. People, we must vote McCain/Palin Nov 4 or we will be seeing much more of these situations with people with their hands out for cash regardless of their EARNING the cash they request or not. We will be forced to deal with much more of this and on a much worse scale. VOTE MCCAIN/PALIN now to save this country from socialist/communist views and policies that would destroy this country that I and so many others have fought for.

Posted by: Willie Location: Niles on Oct 24, 2008 at 12:10 PM
Get ready for exponentially greater worker intimidation by unions once the Employee Free Choice Act (an incredibly ironic misnomer) is passed into law by a democrat Congress, effectively eliminating secret ballots for unionization votes. It's fairly obvious to anyone who has had experience with unions that they're not afraid to break the law in order to extort employers, as evidenced once again by these brainwashed dunderheads. I have a serious question though: How do these picketers have time for this? Why aren't they working?

Posted by: Brad Location: Indianapolis, Indiana on Oct 24, 2008 at 11:28 AM
Unions are nothing more than legalized mafia. The day an union worker tries to keep me from doing my work and making money, will be the day that union worker gets a azz kicking, or maybe even shot.

Posted by: Anonymous Location: Indy on Oct 24, 2008 at 10:54 AM
I almost feel sorry for these workers. They've clearly been brainwashed and coerced into thinking that the unions have their best interests at heart. This is ignorance... has it occurred to them that while they stand there on the picket line, free enterprise contractors are performing 87% of the work nation-wide? And beyond that, do they realize that it's actions like this that have directly impacted the downfall of ALL unions? Ask yourself... what kind of a statement are you REALLY making to the public? You should be embarrased of yourselves... go home, or better yet, TRY to go back to work... somewhere. P.S. If you think the unions... with their brainwashing, lazy workers and dirty tactics... are a good thing, Obama's your man on November 4th.

Posted by: dbuff Location: New Buffalo on Oct 24, 2008 at 10:35 AM
I'm not saying that unions are a bad thing,but their members should not be allowed to break the law the way they do.My family experienced firsthand many threats of physical harm and constant harrassment from union organizers. They went so far as to try and run my husband off the road.This kind of violence might seem funny and justified to them,but it is sick and deplorable to normal people. These thugs belong in a cell with a bunch of non-union cellmates. Maybe they could organize their fellow perverts.

Posted by: Mayor Steve Location: 227 E Jefferson on Oct 24, 2008 at 10:29 AM
Anon said "Unions are a great place for lazy workers to get and keep jobs. Whiney babies." So is St Joseph County government.. but I digress. I always shake my head when driving by the union rat and the guys standing around protesting over using non union workers- when the union practices and extra expense of union workers comes in as a factor and the unions are no longer bid competitive, the unions themselves need to look inside, rather than complaining about companies that are getting the same quality work for less. Time to do away with labor unions.

Posted by: American Location: South Bend on Oct 24, 2008 at 09:31 AM
My family WAS union for a generation. Even union stewards. What the union did for us was to steal union dues, lie to get members and run our factories out of the US. At the end of the day they are just government backed mob like groups of uneducated greedy people. Union members need to look closely at their pension funds. Oh wait, that might get them kicked out of the brotherhood or worse. The rat is an appropriate union mascot. Think about it all you indentured union servants.

Posted by: To Jerry Location: Niles on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:52 AM
Vote Obama!

Posted by: Kerry Location: LaGrange County on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:37 AM
I support Lamar Construction with the right to work and to do business within the laws of the State of Indiana. If you don't agree with what the union is doing please vote for McCain/Palin.

Posted by: George Location: Elkhart on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:36 AM
As a non union worker I just love the big rat and the rat watchers with the rat. It show just how low the union mentality has gone. Put a picture of a non union worker with hard hat and safety glasses next to a picture of the rat and rat watchers smoking and sitting in lawn chairs...and who's the scab? And which looks like a rat? Give it up boys...fair competition wins. No longer is 12% a majority in this country. Further, you have to back a Muslem for President because he is going to "stand in line organizing companies" with you......sad for America, sad for our fathers who faught in wars so you could stand on the main streets of America next to a rat!

Posted by: Alan Location: Elkhart on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:15 AM
Sorry, but I wouldn't be a SCAB for any amount of money.

Posted by: Jerry Location: Niles on Oct 24, 2008 at 08:14 AM
I own a business, I know for a fact, we need to get rid of the unions!!!! Once we get rid of the union,then we can get rid of the min. wage, overtime pay, company paid insurance, paid vacations & paid Holidays. I really can't wait to get the unions out of this county, so I can keep my keep my money in my pocket and not in the pockets of my employees!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: Mike Location: South Bend on Oct 24, 2008 at 01:49 AM
You go ahead and stand there watching until the job is finished, fighting for a job that is gone. The Union is a way of the past, don't you see how many jobs are leaving the country? I want change vote for Obama, he will give the jobs and unions back to us!! Think about it?

Posted by: Mitch Location: Mishawaka on Oct 23, 2008 at 11:07 PM
This is exactly why we need to abolish unions! They are the rats. They need to get of the picket line and back to work to build the project they are being paid for. There is a little thing in this world called competition. It is healthy for business.

Posted by: Ann on Oct 23, 2008 at 10:54 PM
Sounds to me like the union workers aren't working on anything except keeping those who desire to work from getting their job done. If they are preventing people from working then they need to be arrested. Also, do they have a signed contract to do the job for a set amount of money on the Eddy Street Project? Why aren't they working based on their contract? If they don't have a contract then they need to leave and stop causing trouble. In case the union hasn't noticed, jobs like this are done with contracts now days. So, do you have a signed contract or not? You may also take note that antics like what you are pulling is a big reason why large construction projects don't want to hire union anymore. Now days it is all about a sound contract with a sound business that wont stand around with a giant rat.

Posted by: steve on Oct 23, 2008 at 10:31 PM
Unions are horrible, they had a use in the past, but they do nothing but increase costs for all over silly things...

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 10:05 PM
Unions are a great place for lazy workers to get and keep jobs. Whiney babies.

Posted by: Gary Location: Warsaw on Oct 23, 2008 at 09:57 PM
Oh come on....these union workers are greedy. The non-union workers have nothing to do with the project they were working on. The way I see it, SBPD should arrest all of them picketing. This is the problem with unions. They think that only union workers should get jobs. To them its union workers or forget it. Unions are overrated and no longer needed in this country.

Posted by: Susan Location: South Bend on Oct 23, 2008 at 09:41 PM
Many people who don't work for a union company earn a living wage. And they don't pay union dues. They talk directly to their boss. Maybe if the union workers would have submitted the winnng (probably lowest because they didn't have to pay the union overhead expenses) bid they would have gotten the job. Not every worker wants to work for and deal with the a union. I would hope the union workers would respect that fact and let others make their living the way they want to.

Posted by: union hater on Oct 23, 2008 at 09:40 PM
if the union want a be bullies and doesn't want to work that's ok but don't stop others who do the truck driver should have flatten them or maybe the police should have arrested them with no bail that way they wouldn't be back in a few hours

Posted by: Scott Location: Granger on Oct 23, 2008 at 09:14 PM
Welcome to free enterprise you UNION THUGS! Boohoo, wah wah, cry me a river. Here's a tip, price yourself out of more work.

Posted by: NA Location: NA on Oct 23, 2008 at 09:07 PM
UNION ALL THE WAY.. GET THOSE RATS OUT OF THERE

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:44 PM
uaw = lazy

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:44 PM
Whoever is in charge of the traffic during construction needs to be fired. Talk about an endless mess lane changes and backups in the AM.

Posted by: Brandon on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:27 PM
I think It would be nice if all these people I see picketing would work this hard at a real job

Posted by: No Union for Me on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:27 PM
Sometimes the Union people need to step back and give up some wages in order to keep working. In this case no one buckled to their demands--ya snooze ya loose. As for the other people being rats--nope--just honest people willing to work in a tough economy.

Posted by: Robert Location: Mishawaka on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:25 PM
Get a life union scum!

Posted by: hooliganx Location: S.B.I. on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:20 PM
Its good to see this, Union workers standing up. Its sad that this country has lost sight of what's really important, and thats the working man.

Posted by: Annoyed on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:17 PM
Run them over if they won't move or take them to jail since they have so much money to spend on bail.

Posted by: LB on Oct 23, 2008 at 08:08 PM
Think about all the Americans that are laid off and cannot find work and yet these yahoos sit around all day and picket. Is the Union hiring?

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:58 PM
Hey unions... do you know why you didn't get the job? YOU PRICED YOURSELVES OUT OF A JOB! If you want to make a statement, do it peacefully and don't impede others!

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:44 PM
What is wrong with these union idiots? It is better to have a job for 10.00 an hour than no job. I bet they had no trouble finding people to work as non union. I bet the city's garage using union labor cost 10 times more than the building going up next door. This is why are city and county is in such bad shape is because of the unions. I have a problem with a crossing guard making 20.00 an hour and benefits. I bet there are people out there who would work for 10.00 and no benefits, just to be sure that the kids get safely across the streets. Unions have killed this country. They have caused jobs to go elsewhere. Ask Con Selmer union that is still on strike, what they have gained. NOthing, and they will never will. Right to Work.

Posted by: NIck on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:34 PM
Also who are they calling a rat? Those who aren't in unions? or the unions and their members that have destroyed the idea of capitalism and are communist, I mean socialist by nature. Again... this just demonstrates why to NEVER NEVER NEVER hire union.

Posted by: Nick on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:24 PM
What loosers. Union workers make more for LOWER quality work. I would never hire a union work and always will tell everyone never to do so. If you want high quality for a fair, not inflated wage. Hire non-union. Let them go back to their trailer park.

Posted by: solution on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:06 PM
heres one why dont these tuff guys go over to the westside and act this way maybe they could help catch the thugs(lol) they wouldt last 5 minutes

Posted by: NON UNION on Oct 23, 2008 at 07:01 PM
UNIONS are past the days of their worth long ago they were needed now they are just bullies over paid and under quailfied for most jobs their running AMERICAN companies in the ground look at FORD,GM AND DODGE they cant compete with the others most cars would be 5 to 10 thousand less if you didnt have to pay a union worker for his crappy work

Posted by: jimmy Location: NJ on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:57 PM
“Together we can stand up to moneyed interests, together we can stand up to the people who say you guys don't need a living wage,” said Green. Moneyed interests? Isn't that what you guys are in it for?

Posted by: jason on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:57 PM
lets all just be happy we got jobs

Posted by: Scott Location: Nappanee on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:53 PM
Oh grow up! Union or not these people are trying to make a living just like the rest of us.Your union by your choice,not by someone else. I was a union member once and I'm here to tell ya what a joke that was! All they did was take our dues and that was it. Never helped anyone for anything. Do your job and they'll do theirs. U should be so fortunate that u have a job.Just hearing about union members harassing non union members makes me sick.I'm sure you were union from your very first job right!? I think not! Grow up!!

Posted by: rusty Location: mishawaka on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:40 PM
Indiana is a right to work state, but these union sheep tried to infringe on others' right to work. Then, they lowered themselves to name calling and illegal activity. Sounds like they should have gone to jail. Say what you want, but don't block someone from trying to work, just because they found a company to work for that needs no mediation between labor and management. I would never work somewhere that needed a paid third party to discuss pay and work conditions with management. If you really need this kind of representation at your company, it's time to find one that is worth working for. I am my best advocate, not someone else who makes a living off my labor like union leaders. It's not like they are paying in credit at the company store, come on. You can work wherever you like, and others can do the same. Too bad you got a bad deal. Denying others' ability to work and intimidation will not solve your inability to market your skills profitably.

Posted by: Mark on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:36 PM
In these times I'd think Desireia Latoya Liggins would just be glad someone offered her a job at all . . . What's in a name?

Posted by: Cole Location: Mishawaka on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:35 PM
Some of the union guys ARE c-r-a-z-y psychos and out of control. I know of some instances where the union guys try to intimidate by following the non-union workers home, throwing bricks through their windshield AND loosening the hooks on trailer hitches. "The ironworkers say they’ll stay on the picket line until the non union workers leave the job site"... Maybe that is the kind of job I need. Get paid to stand around and do nothing.

Posted by: cgh Location: michiana on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:33 PM
go go go non union workers! im tired of being raped by these unions and seeing a man complaining about his 63 dollars per hour. the unions started as a good thing but they've gone waaaay too far, thats part of the reason we pay so much for new cars and such. i believe a worker should earn a honest decent wage, unions are far from honest anymore. where does that rat patrol get the money to buy all these vehicles and pay people just to sit on their butts to strike? of course from the workers union dues! money well spent huh! i will never hire union!

Posted by: Anonymous on Oct 23, 2008 at 06:29 PM
this is so stupid what do they think this is mafia or a mob, work is work and everyone has a right to have a job and people have a right to get things built for a fair price too...thats why there is a minimum wage in america....