Out of Work and Out of Favor
Out of Work and Out of Favor Save Email Print
Posted: 12:25 AM Nov 23, 2008
 Last Updated: 12:37 AM Nov 23, 2008
 Reporter: Amanda Goodman
Email Address: Amanda.Goodman@wsaz.com
79 comments
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ASHLAND, Ky. (WSAZ) -- Hundreds of steel workers knew it was coming, today they worked their last shift, and they are now temporarily laid off.

But what AK Steel employees didn’t know was how much flack they would get because of the help that has poured in for them.

So what was meant to be a helpful gesture has sort of backfired.

AK Steel employee John Akin says he is going to be able make it through the holidays thanks to the contracts the Union negotiated, and as he drives away from a job that may or may not may not be there in a few months he is heading into a community that cares.

But food drives, shopping deals, and even fast food discounts offered up to employees of AK Steel have others spitting mad.

“It’s a terrible situation and I read it on your blog, people say hey you know they deserve it, ya know no one deserves it,” said Steelworkers Union President Mike Hewlett.

Some feel these union men and women don't need the help because of their pay and benefits.

In fact wsaz.com has been over run by comments, mostly negative about the outpouring of support for laid off AK workers.

One posting by "hurting too" asks why only AK Steelworkers are benefiting from the food drive.

She says her husband was laid off from his job a year ago, but they did not get any discounts.

Another comment posted by "tired of it" points out that people have been on the streets for years but they are not being helped.

Hewlett says he understands their frustrations but that this in not the time to be critical because everyone is feeling the pinch.

“They're hurting, it’s Christmas time they don’t think that they've got much of a chance either but I would tell them we’re here for them too,” Hewlett said.

All of the more than 500 workers that were laid off will retain their healthcare benefits through February First.

AK Steel announced on November 11th they would be putting the blast furnaces at the Ashland Works Plant on “hot-idle” which means the furnaces will keep going although they are not producing steel.

The company says it plans to keep the plant closed until early to mid-January and says the slumping economy lead them to this decision.
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Posted by: PR on Nov 27, 2008 at 11:40 AM
Nikki, you are right. If the Auto industry gets a bailout, AK steel will benefit but AK Steel workers will have to pay those same taxes too. My husband works for AK Steel here in OHIO we lived through the lockout, we lived modestly before it and now live very frugaly after it. All we want is to be able to afford our ONE car payment and our very modest little ranch which is home for our son and new baby. Yes the workers and families in Ashland will survive, those that don't will move out of state to make ends meet, families will split and local businesses will suffer. We're still recovering here from the 13 month lockout. Ashland may recover faster but only time will tell. All I can say is at this time prayers need to be said for everyone. The AK Steel workers, families and people of Ashland.
Posted by: james on Nov 27, 2008 at 08:06 AM
just put in for your bail out and the check will be in the mail.
Posted by: Nikki on Nov 26, 2008 at 08:08 AM
The auto industry bail out will help AK workers. The price we will pay for all of the bail outs will come to tax payers. Just remember that as time goes on.
Posted by: Danny on Nov 25, 2008 at 11:48 PM
I think I want to start off by saying that there are people on both sides of this arguement that have ticked me off with their generalized comments. If you'll notice at least I had the guts to attach my first name to my opinions. I am a single father of 1 teenager who spent 10 years in the military, did factory work for years, went to vocational school to learn comp. drafting, went to college for 3 years (while I worked for the state of WV), and now I'm one of those welfare bums while I fight for my disability benefits because I can barely walk now at the age of 38. My back is bad enough so all you prejudice people get off of it. On the flipside, my father has worked at AK longer than I've been alive (I've seen the toll that kind of work has taken on him) and I have 3 cousins and a brother working there (all with young families). They are still low on seniority there so they don't make an ungodly amount of money like some think. In tough times we should pull together they need it too.
Posted by: What on Nov 25, 2008 at 10:43 PM
What's going on here seems to me you and anyone else here need's to Thank our Lord Jesus for what ever we have period. Yes am poor but not going to grap about it. I have Jesus which makes me rich.
Posted by: sorry4now on Nov 25, 2008 at 02:53 PM
Afraid there will more before Obama takes office. Then all shall be changed.
Posted by: Keith on Nov 25, 2008 at 10:46 AM
Im tired of reading all the BS comments. Bottom line, anyone who needs help, regardless of who it is, should receive it. Doesnt matter if you are laid off from Mickey Ds or AK.There is no excuse for anyone to have to do without in the richest country in the free world. Lets pull together and say no more. Charity begins at HOME.
Posted by: AK Wife2 on Nov 25, 2008 at 10:38 AM
I'm 31 and married to a soon to be layed off AK worker, he is the greatest husband and I'm just so thankfull that we have no children and I do worry about my housekeeper instead of her coming in once a week I will have to cut her back to every 2 weeks, she has 3 children,single and all 3 by diffrent fathers, so sad! I also worry about my hairdresser & salon/spa appts. cutting back again from going to them once a week 2 every 2 weeks. As for the help the area has offered us, I gave them as xmas gifts to the needy in the Tri-State area. What I'm greetfull for this holiday season is my husband & I will still be able to go on are annual holiday cruise ship to the Virgin Islands for 2 weeks. I hope you poor people wake up and realize that my husband has a college degree in engineering & we already have our 5 bedroom/ 6 bath house w/pool up for sale and plan to return to South Florida ASAP!
Posted by: AK spotter on Nov 25, 2008 at 08:37 AM
I make $20/hr as a spotter for AK.
Posted by: BillB on Nov 25, 2008 at 06:46 AM
To AK Wife 11/24 AT 8/19 AM:You are very wrong when you say AK can't find people who can pass a drug test or will work the hours your husband works. I lost my job 1/1/94 after 24 yrs and I would have been glad to go back to AK Steel. We didn't get anything from the area but that is ok with me. I am glad you are getting help. I would say if I needed help bad enough I could get it. I let you get to me when you said we are lazy and can't pass the drug test. Hope everyone gets back to work soon and have a MERRY CHRISTMAS.
Posted by: Concered Wife on Nov 25, 2008 at 05:55 AM
What about the contractors for AK? Has anyone sat up anything for them?
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:52 PM
AMEN TO CSX WIFE.
Posted by: fat man on the floor on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:47 PM
We ak workers are abused at work, and now being abused by our neighbors. So thanks to all you jealous people and thanks to a corporation that is no different than any other. Hey, maybe that place will never open back up and this area will loose more good paying jobs forever. While were at it, why not shut down the refineries and chemical plants up and down the rivers around here. Those guys make good money as well. Welfare is the ticket around here anyway. but until i can get welfare, i'll have to run out of subpay and unemployment. So that's what i'll be doing for the next year or so. i'm gonna like having the holidays off with PAY. Now that i've got that off my chest, I think I'll go grab a beer over at Froggtown on my new Harley (FLHTCU), no wait, to dang cold, i'll drive my new hummer. Merry Christmas to All!! BTW,,i will NOT be accepting any donations or handouts. my share will be at the union hall on carter ave in ashland. any of you can stop by and get it. so quit crying losers.
Posted by: ps on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:32 PM
i feel very sorry for these people at ak. but this happened to my mom in the 90's after 19 years. she never got back, but alot of young people got hire after that was that fair? how it has happened to them. you learn no job really care for you or your family.
Posted by: CSX Wife on Nov 24, 2008 at 07:31 PM
I think it is ridiculous that there are so many AK worker "spotters" out there! How do you all know they are shopping everyday and in the bars every night, you there too? You're complaining about no discounts for yourselves, apparently you don't need them with all that running around you are doing.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 07:11 PM
well the people at ak steel got laid off look on the news it is happening everywhere i think that what charity u get should be counted on what assets u have if u can sell something u r not using i live on 700 dollars a month since i have become disable with lung disease i to made more than that working but i had to adjust to my means of living on what i had and god has been with me every step of the way in these trouble times lets help each other and be thankful for what we have help someone maybe a single mother or volunteer to help at food pantry just find something u can do to show there is still good in the world to these workers now u will no what it is like on the other sid eit is not what u have but your attitude when u have it may god bless everyone and be thankful for every breath u take i am
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 04:33 PM
i do feel for them but hey i consider they are no better than me or anyone else mcdonalds is hiring my job hires everyday its a hotel,hey onces u have to live on 150 a week doing what ya have to, you get use to it, trust me if i could get5 the help these people laying down having babies everyday does i would have never lifted a finger to do anything either....its sad the government lets these lazy bums do these things and people who work all their lifes if the get sick cannot get help because they have to much resources or something a WORKING PERSON DON'T HAVE A CHANCE IN THIS WORLD.......ONLY THE LAZY BUMS AND DRUG ABUSERS .........
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 03:50 PM
Everyone keeps talking about all of the belongings that these people have. Some are saying let them sell it. Everyone on here is whining they make more than I do or have been laid off the same as these guys. So tell me, Who do you propose buys my vehicles and other belongings? Heck if you want to buy my 44,000.00 vehicle you can have it for around 20 grand. Any takers? I have an atv and another vehicle I'll sell along with some other items. Get with it if everyone's barely making it I don't think you'll be buying it either. So now what do you say I do?
Posted by: Richard on Nov 24, 2008 at 03:24 PM
If AK is so important to the area.and them not having a job is going to be so tuff on the whole area. then why not just give the whole area discounts?on every thing.instead of just giving to a few.because there are other ppl. that this is going to hurt i have seen it before with union layoffs.they go out and take work for cash under the table while telling the union im not working send me my check.and drawing a check means they can take my work cheaper than i can affored to do it. we allready face that problem with gov.assisted ppl.so just be fair to every 1 who is having it tough.because they will remember who gave all a break and who just gave it to a few in this area. and i will be spending my money at the fair to ever1 places...GOD bless.
Posted by: Janet on Nov 24, 2008 at 03:15 PM
If AK Steel is only closeing until mid Janurary the workers will be fine. I worry about the long run. The mill has been good to my family. We pray it will come back strong. We pray for all who are out of work .
Posted by: yourwelcom on Nov 24, 2008 at 03:04 PM
well to all those ppl who have decided that the proper course of action is to run ak employees down for a community showing support to the layed off ak workers has to be out of jealousy. i hope that those running us layed off employees have a job. i would hope that someone who doesnt move off the couch other than to go to the kitchen or bathroom wouldnt have the courage to say anything. now u think your jokes about our making and spending habits. yes we make good money absolutely. but however we dont have the best working conditions. we do a hard dangerous job and we get compensated. but however how do u think the fact that 650 ppl with good jobs who now are layed off is going to affect the local economy? think about it u might be next. now to those of you living off welfare and too busy trying to fugure out how to get more by having more children etc. if we arent working we arent paying as much taxes to take care of your lazy deadbeat butts. so u may think about what our jobs do for u.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 24, 2008 at 02:47 PM
It seems to me that all of the discounts that are given to the AK Steel workers should be given to anyone that is layoff or cut back due lack of orders. They need to look down the river to the Wurtland area at plants like Pregis and Sun Chemical. Both Plants have lay off people,this month, who could use some help also.
Posted by: To Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:08 PM on Nov 24, 2008 at 02:00 PM
"What will they do??? where will they go with a 6 month old and another on the way?" I know what they should stop doing!!! If your son lost his job 1 month after the birth of their first child, why on gods green earth did they opt for a second?
Posted by: What a McCain support is sayn.... on Nov 24, 2008 at 01:56 PM
I love it that the community is supporting us "rich" people. This is how it has been done the last 8 years people, why change it now. Unfortunate that the next president won't be giving us "rich" the handouts we deserve. I'll miss George W. and can only dream of how it could have been under an McCain administration. Now I have to worry about my guns and my bible. Who cares about my job, Guns are much more important. So, when president Obama starts handing out to you poor working folk, the tax breaks, the stimulus packages, Just remember who you voted for.... :) I know I seen a many of McCain/Palin stickers coming in and out of the AK plant, which actually shocked me. Didn't think these union folk would vote for someone who is totally against all they work for or stand for.... But that goes to show their priorities are in line.... The 3 G's....
Posted by: Just me on Nov 24, 2008 at 12:33 PM
Seems to me there a great deal of people out there because they did not have a union to back them up. These workers have paid their dues to the union year after year. They have broken their backs to do a job. Now they see some benefit from it. They should not be demonized bacause they have options.
Posted by: Ex AK Guy on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:42 AM
A few years ago a large number of AK Salary employees got laid off and there was no help for them. This time the salary empolyees are being affected also and there seems to be no help for them. If there are food baskets and other items being given out for people who suffer in the area it should deffinately not be given to people with two or three $40,000 vehicles sitting in their driveways, it should be given to the people who have been out of jobs for a year or more. If this sounds insensitive, it is. I was laid off 5 years ago along with 100 other guys and not one offer of help from the community.
Posted by: Boo Hoo on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:20 AM
I think of alot of people are mad, because they are not getting any of the discounts and help with food. Maybe some of you should get off your butts in front of the computer and get a job. Keep Your Heads Up AK Employees.
Posted by: fed up on Nov 24, 2008 at 11:01 AM
These steelworkers will be drawing more benefits than most people that work. What about the single working mothers that are telling children no CHRISTMAS we need to pay for food and heat. Tell the steelworkers to sell a boat or motorhome and live like us.
Posted by: AK-WORKER on Nov 24, 2008 at 10:51 AM
WHIN-WHIN-WHIN, PUT A PLUG IN IT, AK WORKERS ARE NOT DOING WITHOUT,THEY RECEIVE AS MUCH MONEY AS IF THEY WERE WORKING,
Posted by: Bob on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:58 AM
If I get 80% of my pay, they can lay me off for a while, I will do a little work to compensate for the 20%, do a little work on my house. Wow, sweet deal.
Posted by: Keep your head up on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:20 AM
Many of the people who live in this community have made some really bad decisions in life and instead of trying to look inward and better themselves most choose to lash out at those who they perceive as being different. This “difference” can take many forms. One such form is materialism as you can see from the posting here. If they even think that you might have something they don’t have (e.g. money, job, education, house, car…) they will resent it and you. The smart ones will use it as a catalyst to set goals in their lives at strive to better themselves but most will simply berate you and kick you while you’re down. It comes natural, it is a hard wired reaction that their parents taught them; part of their ignorant up bringing. These people are parasites on society. They are so jealous of others and what they have, it literally consumes them. Some go to their local church every Sunday, sing in the choir but no amount of religion will ever change their character. If I were you, I'd take this opportunity to start a new chapter in your life and get as far away from these people as possible.
Posted by: Debbie on Nov 24, 2008 at 09:12 AM
Hard to believe there are so many insensitive people , Just remember Karma is a you know what, and crow sure is tough meat. It would be fitting if a lot of you have to eat it.
Posted by: sarah on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:42 AM
What's going to happen when AK Steel doesn't re-open and unemployment stops for the employees? They won't be able to qualify for most of the assistance that is out there. They make too much for any help. I think the help they are recieveing now should be put on hold til they really need it! All the help from surrounding businesses should go to the other people of this county that don't have it made like AK Steel employees.
Posted by: kiddykid on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:25 AM
Who are all you whiners mad at? It's the community that is helping. People helping people. And those people decide who to help. IF you want to help the homeless, vets, or aynone else, go ahead.
Posted by: AK Wife on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:19 AM
Do all of you negative people realize how little I see my husband? We sacrifice for the income we receive. Yes, we make decent income but in turn we spend it in the community. Also, AK has tried to hire new employees for years and can't find workers who can pass the drug test or be willing to work the hours required. If people in this community would get off their butts and work as hard as my husband does and quit using their drugs, maybe they would be as blessed as all these "AK Workers" are. This area is so lazy and all they want is handouts!! Do you want AK to complete the application for you? Grow up and get off your butts! And then sacrifice having your family with you on the holidays every year forever. Of course the AK worker is happy to be off the month of the holidays? He probably hasn't had a break since he was hired on!!
Posted by: to: Heather on Nov 24, 2008 at 08:18 AM
Heather, you need to check YOUR facts. THese employees are receiving extra compensation on top on unemployment. I have spoken to AK emplyees and they are receiving health benefits, seniority pay (over 3 years) and unemployment. And who says "diarrhea of the mouth" anyway?
Posted by: Heather on Nov 24, 2008 at 01:17 AM
In response to "Hoorah", you need to check your facts before you develop diarrhea of the mouth. Speaking from experience, you do NOT get to draw unemployment plus compensation pay. The unemployment benefits will only kick in once your compenstaion pay has ended.
Posted by: AK STEEL NEIGHBOR on Nov 24, 2008 at 12:07 AM
My neighbor has worked for AK Steel for years and is laid off. He and his wife have a lovely home and 2 new cars. They keep money back for times like this because they know it can happen. Just thought everyone would like to know that he is glad to be laid off. Yes, that's right. He is hunting and going to the bars every night and having a good time. They are not hurting for anything. His wife went shopping this weekend and out to the Roadhouse with friends. I know alot of working people that can't afford that
Posted by: freddie on Nov 24, 2008 at 12:00 AM
whin-whin-whin, i am sick of this maybe AK-STEEL, can feel now how we feel!
Posted by: To Maria on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:04 PM
There is appoximately 32 hourly people left in the plant right now and a few salary people. Yes they are working 40 hours a week.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:35 PM
The AK Steel workers are human. I say if the community wants to help them out in their time of need, by all means do it.
Posted by: stay@home-mommy on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:26 PM
I agree with hoorah & everyone cares, Yep the ppl that really need help can't get it but the one's that have thousands saved up in their savings acct. and gets to draw a check plus keep insurance can.That's a crock! How about ppl like us, the one's with no health insurance, living week to week doing whatever we can plus our 40hr work week to raise our kids, where's our help, we are from Carter Co. but still, it all boils down to money, the rich get richer, the poor get poorer or just stay poor.As I say "We may not have it all, but together we have everything!" The most important thing that we have is love & each other.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:43 PM
Yeah it is true they r keeping fifty workers there to keep the plant running
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:35 PM
IT'S JUST NOT FAIR!!
Posted by: Kim on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:47 PM
This is crazy, all these negative comments. Dont be jealous from what most of you are saying your have been having a hard time for awhile. Well AK just got laid off so up until now they have been buying from the community which in return helps out the local businesses. So what is so wrong with giving AK a discount. Those of you making negative comments are probaly just lazy and need to get a job. So get over it and find something to run your mouth about. It is very nice considering AK is the heart of the community and they have not ask for the first thing. They work hard for what they have and it takes alot of time away from their family. Seems like these days you cant be nice without someone getting mad and people wonder whats wrong with the world today.
Posted by: Maria on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:41 PM
Are any AK workers going to be in the plant? A friend said he'll be there only getting 40 hrs week, is this true?
Posted by: hoorah on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:25 PM
Ya its sad that they got laid off, and not ganna be making the money they was... They are ganna be drawing unemployment, plus their compensation pay, which is greater than alot of people working 10bux a hour are making! I agreee with jd, ashland and everyone is freaking spoon feeding it! Im a vet of 3 OIF/OEF tours, and was jobless around here for 6 months, because there was no good work to be found! Had to relocate to find good work! Ashland is going to be a ghost town if they dont change their ways!
Posted by: everyone cares..... on Nov 23, 2008 at 07:49 PM
There is a lot of companies that give to charities within Ashland, besides AK Steel. I do feel sorry for anyone that has been laid off or has lost their job during the holiday season or anytime... however, AK Steel will come back probably stonger than ever but we need to remember that there are a lot more people in ashland that need help; among other companies that are laying off too. Why doesn't everyone get together and help the people that are living in central park among other places and help them, because they do not have a place to live. It just seems that we help people that really don't need help and the people that do need help don't receive any. I know my opinion doesn't count for much, but I have lived in ashland all my life and we need to focus more on the people that need help instead of helping the ones that are going to be receiving unemployment and benefits throughout the holidays. We need to get our priorities straight.
Posted by: jd on Nov 23, 2008 at 05:00 PM
its sad to see that the city of ashland seems to be helping the workers of ak steel more than the veterans of the 201 engineers and the homeless in the city of ashland
Posted by: Ashamed of the favortism in my community! on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:21 PM
AK Steel is being noticed for it's lay off. Pregis and PCI are right next door but is anyone stepping up to help them? Of course not as always the wealthier get help the wealthier get noticed! I believe the credit union initiated the help from local businesses and the food baskets. My family is also a member of that credit union and my husband has been laid off. Where's my discount and food basket?
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:17 PM
you know this comment made by Hewlett is bull here is the comment “They're hurting, it’s Christmas time they don’t think that they've got much of a chance either but I would tell them we’re here for them too,” Hewlett said. I know for a fact they would not be here for anyone else. look at all the families who struggle everyday. These people who work at Ak will make it .they will draw alot of unemployment. My brother n law drew unemployment from AK and he made it with money left over. Yes, I am sorry they lost their jobs but I am not gonna feel sorry for them so much to give them things. When I am struggling more than they will ever know.
Posted by: I care on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:08 PM
Maybe the ones who say all the negative things should think about what AK Employees does for this community, alot donate to charity and they spend their hard earned money here in the community.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:08 PM
I appreciate the community stepping up and helping the families of those that are being laid off work. But I also understand the frustrations of others in the surrounding area who have been laid off and not gotten any help at all. My son was laid off work in June. He just recently was able to find employment at a fast food resturaunt at a considerably compromised rate of pay. They have lost everything that he and his wife have worked for and were making payments on. Including their credit. The lay-off came one month after the birth of their son. They have sold everything that hasn't been repoed already and barely scrape by. My husband and I have been helping with diapers, etc. but their electric is still being shut off soon. What will they do??? where will they go with a 6 month old and another on the way? West Virginia needs to step up to the plate and help people everywhere who have lost their jobs due to this economic slump. No wonder WV is in the shape it is in.
Posted by: Pamela on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:25 PM
First to all the laid off workers at AK Steel, my thoughts and prayers are with you and your families. Secondly, to ANY family that is feeling the stress of hard times, my prayers are also with you. What I find extremely insulting is the attitudes that people in our fine community have taken with the kindness of the retailers and persons in the community that stepped up and wanted to help the laid off workers. I have a son that just got laid off at AK Steel. Not once has my son or any of his fellow workers ASKED for a hand out. These men and women are fine additions to our area. During times of their employment they pour thousands of dollars into our community EVERY day. I believe that is why the area chose to step up and offer assistance to them. For that I am proud to live in this area. They have a right to hold their heads up high and not feel humiliated by the attitudes of such a narrow minded area. I for one would like to thank the area business for having a HEART.
Posted by: me on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:00 PM
I agree, what makes the AK workers so special? There are a lot of people out there going hungry, why aren't they getting help? What about homeless vets, the elderly, the shut-ins, the disabled? The AK workers are no more deserving than them.
Posted by: MELINDA on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:58 PM
I CANNOT SAY I BLAME THEM, I UNDERSTAIND. WE HAVE YOUR FILTHY RICH BANKERS GETTING BAILED OUT BECAUSE OF SOMEONE THEY KNOW AND WHO IS BAILING THE WORKERS OUT, WE WHO HAVE JOBS WORK HARD FOR WHAT LITTLE WE GET TO PROVIDE FOR OUR FAMILIES AND PAY THE BILLS, AND HOLIDAYS. AND IF ANYONE IS GOING TO HELP OUT ANYONE IT SHOULD BE THE ONES WHO HAVE WORKED NOT THE ONES WHO HAVE STOLEN AND WE HAVE TO PAY FOR. EVERYTHING IS SO HIGH ANYMORE YOU NEED THREE JOBS JUST TO GET BY, ITS RIDICULIOUS FREDDIE MACK SHOULD HAVE NEVER RECEIVED HELP BUT THEY DID AND WE HAVE TO PAY FOR IT THIS COUNTRY IS BECOMING COMMUNISM! WE ALL NEED TO PRAY FOR EACH OTHER AND GET RIGHT WITH GOD AND LEAVE THESE BIGGITS TO HIM BECAUSE HE WILL MAKE SURE THEY ANSWER FOR WHAT THEY HAVE DONE TO OUR FAMILIES, DON'T DEPEND OFF OUR GOVERNMENT TO HELP THEY ONLY HELP THE RICHES OF THE RICH!
Posted by: Frustrated with WSAZ on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:37 PM
WSAZ it seems to me like your trying to nag those frustated, whiny people on. It seems like so many people's bad misfortune is a top story for you. Why don't you all stop making everything seem so negative and bad? I guess if it wasn't for everyone else's bad luck to report on you too would be in the unemployment line with us. I have posted many well wishing comments to everyone laid off but for some reason those don't get posted, just the negative ones.
Posted by: ed on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:57 AM
Over a hundred people lost their jobs at SNE Enterprises this year and what did we get?NOT A THING!No discounts,no benefits, not even much help at finding another job.These people at least have a chance at getting their jobs back,ours are gone.Alot of us still need a job and have trouble paying the bills.But I guess we don't matter!If anyone knows of somewhere paying a decent wage ,put it in your comment.
Posted by: Tom on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:34 AM
It's great how the United Steel Workers 37 in Huntington, WV has worked out something for the men laid off from SWVA. That's right they haven't worked anything out for us. AK's union at least went to bat for them and kept their benefits at least for a while. I have not heard from my union "brothers" since being laid off on Oct. 4th. My healthcare on my family runs out on Dec. 1st. Where will my union be then?
Posted by: What about us on Nov 23, 2008 at 11:23 AM
My husband has been laid off at Steel of WV for over a month now, and we aren't getting any help for the holidays, they have men in there working tons of overtime, bringing home big fat paychecks for Christmas, while their fellow brothers are telling their children that there won't be a Christmas this year. Really fair, these men need to stand up for the ones that are laid off and refuse to work all that overtime, where is the Union that is supposed to protect all these men
Posted by: needy on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:21 AM
i to have no income, because of accident at work. Now not able to work,and not drawing a wage for over 3 years. Even asking state rep. for help with disabilty,but here i still sit with no help. But to all if you ever get hurt on the job, beware the company willlllll turn there back on you.
Posted by: sharon on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:17 AM
ak steel employees will get subpay and unemployment which is equal to their regular pay so help the people that dont have these benefits, and unemployment has depleted or was laid off with no benefits. that's what is wrong with this country, help always going to people who dont need it or just greedy.
Posted by: hungry too on Nov 23, 2008 at 10:09 AM
I was laid off 4 years ago, along with 10 other coworkers. there was not any kind of food discounts offered to help our families. AK steel is not the only employer in Ashland. The thing is the steel workers will make more in a week on unemployment than most people who work at various jobs through out the community. Kinda like the old saying what is offered to one person should be offered to everybody.
Posted by: matt on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:51 AM
how does this really help the homeless in huntington.........a homeless person in huntington can't set a fire to keep warm, they would get the police or fire department called on them.......and the part of the mobile canteen serving hot meal and drinks???????.....when do they do that for the homeless????????......i think this isn't right!.....HELP THE HOMELESS NOW!.......the homeless is something no one thinks about.....not even the city of huntington cares.......its sad if you ask me.
Posted by: reader on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:50 AM
so do the fat cats in the office still get a christmas bonus? any kind of bonus? just wondering.
Posted by: Michelle on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:49 AM
Do not judge these people for trying to help out the steelworkers. Yes, the steelworkers made good money. Make more spend more, but also our entire community is affected because the steelworkers who spent their money no longer have it to spend. Pray for the steelworkers for them to stay strong and faithful. As an entire community, we need to pray for one another. Giving to the steelworkers is not just a monetary gesture, it is a gesture of faith and kindness. I know when people loose their jobs they no longer have money to help the local economy. We need to look at the big picture. These businesses are trying to help people, and people want to rip them apart for it. Be nice! The impact will affect all of us in one way or another, you just may not realize it. With the upcoming holiday season, remember your community, your families and friends. We all need to help each other.
Posted by: Brenda on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:39 AM
These people are getting so much help and thankfully they will get unemployment benefits.They also could help some of these homeless people.
Posted by: Anonymous on Nov 23, 2008 at 09:23 AM
First of all I have nothing against helping those that need help, but in a news story I read in the Ashland paper, one woman stated that her husbands unemployment was ONLY going to be about $500.00 a week, and it was going to be hard living on about a fourth of what they were use to living on,....well boo hoo for them. It takes my husband and myself both working to EARN the equivalent of what they will get in a month of unemployment. The only health care we have has a 3000.00 a year deductable, but we get by. We don`t have big car payments, big house payments, and we can`t afford someone to come in and clean the house once or twice a week either, we can`t afford them. We have trouble paying medical and utility bills! I feel bad for the AK employees, but let them see how everyone that`s strugling on a daily basis does it.
Posted by: vickie on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:59 AM
I feel for these families because like a lot of others my husband lost his job a year ago after 24 years no warning or anything we lost our insurance and his wages he drawed out his unemployment and still hasn't found a job a lot of it is because of his age 55 and he worked in the coal so this is the only thing some know so ithink that we all need to pull together and make these hard times better by helping each other anyway we can even if its just a prayer a small dicount here and there will help but most just stick together
Posted by: AKmomof4 on Nov 23, 2008 at 08:31 AM
Here's a clue...... Get a job, get a UNION and then maybe your UNION will put together a food drive and help put together discounts and such. The UNION and the area stores are just making sure these men and women are taken care since they are normally the money spenders at their local stores. These men have taken care of this community for so long, giving to local charities and such that now their UNION is making sure they are being taken care of. And you know, we arent all bad people. We are just trying to take care of our family the same as you. Have a Wonderful Christmas and a Happy New Year!
Posted by: Robin on Nov 23, 2008 at 06:46 AM
Seems like the layoffs always come right before Christmas.
Posted by: Sue Miranda on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:49 AM
Life is about choices. Therefore, those who are upset and negative need to make a choice to be positive and positive things will happen in their life. This AK layoff is history repeating itself. I am one of the employees who lost my job in the 90's, after morethan 15 years at Armco. But I made the choice to turn all the negative to positive. #1 I am very thankful to have had a good job at Armco, I was able to provide for myself and my children a very gool life. But, then I had to make the choice, I chose to go back to school, I set a goal to study, work, and with a positive attitude, I accomplished my goals and now I have a job equal to a AK job. I have much empathy for the AK employees, therefore, I encourage everyone to be positve, take advantage of career opportunties that will be provided to each AK employee and make the best of a bad situation. Live by the GOLDEN RULE and good/positive opportunities will come into your life.
Posted by: Amy on Nov 23, 2008 at 04:18 AM
btw.. feel free to point out to those that are complaining that at this time of the year, there are a multitude of charities helping needy families in the tri-state. I for one have every year picked out a boy & girl from the giving tree at the Ashland Town Center Mall & bought toys to be given away so that a child's Christmas could be a little brighter - HOWEVER with my husband being laid off from AK Steel, we are going to be lucky to provide a Christmas for our own. Please please ppl, don't be mean and hateful towards the community for stepping up and helping the men & women at AK. Remember, there are plenty of places you go for assistance during the holiday season.
Posted by: Jane on Nov 23, 2008 at 03:13 AM
I am happy for the help but several years ago my husband worked at Kentucky Electric Steel we went thru a lot and they did not work for a very long time but no company or individual helped us just our union hekped with some money to pay our bills. My husband worked sutting brush for people and anything he could do we had a family of 4 and got (((($142.00)))) food stamps a month. The Ak Steel men always thought themselves a little better than others. Just seems unfair at the people who have been out of work so long and no help for them.
Posted by: Dont You See on Nov 23, 2008 at 01:23 AM
Great! All the perks for laid off AK Steel Workers. Not that I begrudge them any help but when my husband lost his job when SNE closed, we didnt get squat. I dont really think the story in the Herald Dispatch about the "COMING HELP", those people never even showed up at the plant. The Steelworkers Union was voted in, and they didnt STEP IN to help our people. This sucks. I wonder what the difference in SNE workers and AK Steel workers was? They didnt count for the Help, and trust me, it was needed. A losey $5 coupon would have even helped. We are in a better place without any perks. The so called "UNION" even negoitated a ongoing Health contract, our insurance ended the day the closed. Well, lately I have seen many acts of what goes around coming around. The old days of the UNION are almost gone and I say good riddance. They never helped us with a dam thing.
Posted by: AK Wife on Nov 23, 2008 at 12:58 AM
These men did not know this layoff was coming. They were informed about 2 weeks before they were laid off that it was going to happen. Most of them knew they were slow, but never dreamed that they would be laid off. Yes, these men do make good money for our area, but they also work their butts off and deserve to spend their money on what they want. So many people have been so negative about this situation, but my husband and I have been through a layoff before and we made it through without any help from welfare or any other handouts. We do not live in a 250,000 dollar home and we drive 2 vehicles that have salvage titles and paid $3,000 each for them. Yes, some of these workers do, but what people don't think of is the fact that the ones who do have these luxuries have wives that work and make good money as well and I say way to go because they have earned it. We are just thankful for our family and the fact that we have a roof over our head and food for our family.
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