Janesville's GM plant to close
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Janesville’s sprawling General Motors plant has survived the Depression, World War II and GM’s major layoffs in the 1980s, but it will close in 2010 or sooner in the automaker’s restructuring plans.
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Rick Wagoner, chairman and CEO of General Motors, fields questions at a press conference where he announced plant closings.
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General Motors products wait to be hauled to dealers at Allied Transport in Janesville. The assembly plant will close by 2010.
JANESVILLE — A decades-old rumor became harsh reality today when General Motors announced that it will cease production at its storied Janesville assembly plant by the end of 2010.
In advance of an annual meeting with shareholders, GM CEO and President Rick Wagoner said high gas prices have hurt sales of pickup trucks and sport utility vehicles and driven consumers to smaller car and crossover models.
That has forced the automaker to shift its product mix, one that will move from a 50-50 balance of cars and trucks to one of 60 percent cars and 40 percent trucks.
“There are changes in market conditions here in the U.S. that we believe are far more structural than cyclical,” Wagoner said, adding that 18 of the next 19 new product launches GM is planning involve cars and crossovers.
In addition to the closure in Janesville, Wagoner said, GM will close a pickup truck plant in Oshawa, Ontario, a mid-size SUV plant in Moraine, Ohio, and a medium-duty truck plant in Toluca, Mexico.
Oshawa employs 1,000 workers and builds the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra pickups. Moraine, with about 2,500 workers, produces the GMC Envoy, Chevrolet Trailblazer, Saab 9-7X and Isuzu Ascender. The Mexican plant has nearly 400 hourly workers turning out Chevrolet Kodiak medium-duty trucks.
First-shift employees at the Janesville plant learned this morning of GM’s decision—one that has been feared in Rock County for decades.
John Dohner Jr., United Auto Workers Local 95 shop committee chairman at the plant, said that while the plant’s closure had been rumored for years, the reality of this morning’s announcement shocked his co-workers.
“It’s bull----,” Dohner said when asked for his reaction.
“This plant and these people have done everything they can do to work with this company,” Dohner said. “We ratified the national agreement; we’ve jumped through the hoops with all the re-rates, both up and down, and we’ve always produced a quality vehicle.
“This has absolutely nothing to do with there being an issue about union and management not getting along. We’ve worked together, and management hates to see this just as much as the union does.”
Dohner said the union has no indication whether the plant will close sooner than the 2010 date that Wagoner announced.
“All I know about that is we’re set up for one shift at 58 jobs per hour starting in July,” he said.
GM President Troy Clarke said the automaker’s forecasts necessitate one-shift production in Janesville into 2010.
“At the end of the day, this segment of the marketplace has almost collapsed,” Clarke said. “The decision is how we allocate our capacity.”
GM officials also said today that the plant’s medium-duty Isuzu truck line in Janesville will end production by the end of 2009. It employs fewer than 50 workers.
GM last spared the Janesville plant in 2005, when it pledged a $175 million investment to retool the plant for the newest version of Chevrolet Suburbans and Tahoes and GMC Yukon XLs and Yukons.
That product is expected to expire in 2010, as is the Janesville plant.
Wagoner said GM’s plant in Arlington, Texas, will be its sole producer of full-size SUVs after 2010 and will be able to meet the dwindling demand. In addition to Suburbans and Yukons, the Arlington plant builds the Cadillac Escalade, the Escalade ESV and the two-mode hybrid Tahoes and Yukons.
GM’s plant in Silao, Mexico, which has also built Chevy Suburbans, will primarily build full-size pickups and the Chevy Avalanche.
“It’s no fun choosing any plant (for closure),” Wagoner said, adding that the decisions were based on product mixes at the various plants and changing consumer behavior.
Wagoner said it’s “highly unlikely” that any of the four plants tagged for closure Tuesday will be assigned a new product.
“These are very serious decisions that are difficult for the people affected,” he said. “They are made after very careful study.
“It’s not likely that any new products will be assigned to the plants scheduled to cease production, and it would be inaccurate for me to leave anyone with a lot of optimism about that.”
Clarke echoed that comment, saying the automaker’s decision reflects its view on the current and future market.
Wagoner said GM doesn’t expect its truck market to improve any time soon. Sales numbers due out later today were expected to continue the trend of declining SUV and pickup deliveries. For the fourth quarter of last year, GM averaged about 105,000 sales of the big trucks each month. That number has fallen to about 65,000 vehicles, he said.
GM’s truck plants recently were affected by the American Axle strike, which started affecting Janesville in March and cut production in Janesville by about half until this week, when the plant returned to two-shift production.
Some industry analysts suggested the UAW strike against American Axle would help GM deplete its inventories of big trucks.
But since the American Axle strike started in February, dealer inventories of Suburbans, Tahoes, Yukon XLs and Yukons have grown for all but the Suburban. Dealers typically like to have a 60-day supply of vehicles, but at the end of April, they reported a 119-day supply of Suburbans, a 125-day supply of Tahoes, a 186-day supply of Yukon XLs and a 188-day supply of Yukons.
Clarke told The Janesville Gazette in February that he expected truck sales to rebound in the second half of this year, but the numbers over the last six to eight weeks have altered his outlook.
“The numbers that came in for May are so startling,” he said. “I hope May is not an indicator of things to come.”
Tuesday’s announcement was the equivalent of the other shoe dropping for the Janesville plant. In April, GM said it would cut second-shift production in Janesville and eliminate up to 756 jobs in July.
The automaker also is wrapping up a special attrition program that is expected to cut its hourly workforce of 74,000 by 25 percent. In Janesville, about 600 of the plant’s 2,400 hourly workers plan to leave the plant later this month. Today’s announcement will not affect the buyout agreements.
GM’s closing will directly affect GM suppliers in Janesville.
Soon after GM announced its impending production cut, seating supplier Lear Corp. said it will lay off up to 336 of its 670 hourly employees. LSI, which sequences parts into the plant, said it will eliminate up to 132 of its 235 jobs. They are expected to end production entirely by 2010 when GM shuts down here.
“This was an extremely difficult decision for us to make,” Clarke said. “They’ve done a fine job at that facility producing great vehicles.
“We’ve had a great relationship with the people and the community.”
GENERAL MOTORS TIMELINE
1882—You can argue that General Motors began in Janesville in years before the company officially located here, with Janesville Machine Co.’s start in manufacturing farm machinery.
1897—Olds Motor Vehicle Co. organized and first Oldsmobile produced.
1901—First American car to be manufactured in quantity was the famous curved-dash Oldsmobile runabout.
1908—Fisher Body Co. organized. General Motors Co. organized (Sept. 16). Cadillac won Dewar trophy in London for demonstrating interchangeability of parts, a basic element in mass production.
1911—Chevrolet Motor Co. and General Motors Export Co. organized. First successful electric self-starter developed by C.F. Kettering and installed in a Cadillac.
1918—General Motors bought the Janesville Machine Co., merged it with Samson Tractor Co. of Stockton, Calif., and built a new plant for Samson operations in Janesville.
1923—The Janesville General Motors plant produced its first car. Four-wheel brakes appeared on 1924 Buicks.
1924—General Motors Proving Ground, Milford, Mich., established.
1933—No-draft ventilation, developed by Fisher Body, introduced on all GM cars. Individual front-wheel suspension, called Knee-Action, developed by GM engineering staff.
1939—Hydra-matic, first completely automatic shift transmission, introduced by Detroit Transmission Division on Oldsmobile’s 1940 models. First turn signals in the automotive industry developed by Guide Lamp Division and introduced by Buick.
1940—GM produced its 25,000,000th car (Jan. 11).
1940-45—GM delivered more than $12.3 million worth of war material, including airplane engines, airplanes and parts, trucks, tanks, marine diesels, guns, shells and miscellaneous products. Janesville plant produced more than 16 million shells.
1948—Cadillac and Oldsmobile introduced first high compression V-8 engines. Buick introduced first torque converter type automatic transmission offered in U.S. passenger car. First mass-produced car to be manufactured in Australia, the Holden, introduced by GM.
1952—Power steering offered by Cadillac, Oldsmobile and Buick.
1953—12-volt electrical systems, developed by Delco-Remy division, installed on Cadillacs, Oldsmobiles and Buicks. First of 30 GM training centers opened in Detroit. Power brakes offered by Buick and Oldsmobile. Chevrolet Corvette introduced featuring first molded plastic body to be produced in quantity. GM acquires Euclid Road Machinery Co.
1954—GM announces $1 billion two-year capital expenditure program. GM produced its 50,000,000th U.S.-made car. GM introduced the XP-21 Firebird, first gas turbine automobile built and tested in United States. Turbocruiser, world’s first gas turbine bus, introduced GM Desert Proving Ground, Mesa, Ariz., established.
1961—Buick introduced first American V-6 passenger car engine.
1962—GM produced its 75,000,000th U.S.-made vehicle. Number of General Motors’ shareholders passed the 1 million mark.
1966—Energy-absorbing steering column introduced. Cadillac’s front-wheel drive Fleetwood Eldorado introduced.
1967—GM produced its 100,000,000th U.S.-made vehicle, a Caprice Custom Coupe Chevrolet made in Janesville.
1968—Chevrolet and Fisher Body Divisions in Janesville merge to single operation and become known as General Motors Assembly Division.
1970—GM announced that all its 1971 cars would be able to operate on low-leaded or unleaded gasoline.
1978—Employment reaches new peak at General Motors plant in Janesville: 7,100 employees—6,450 hourly, 650 salaried—make 274,000 full-size Chevrolet Caprices and 114,700 pickup trucks for Chevy and GMC.
1980—Layoffs begin on Janesville’s two shifts on both lines as sales slump auto industrywide.
1981—Chevrolet ends full-size automobile production that began in 1923.
1982—Production of compact Chevrolet Cavalier and Cadillac Cimarron begins on one of Janesville’s shifts with 2,500 workers. Truck line layoffs continue intermittently.
1983—Janesville’s second-shift car-line workers called back to work. Full employment now is 6,500, of whom 5,600 are hourly employees.
1984—GM announces pickup production—and 1,800 jobs—will move from Janesville to Fort Wayne, Ind.; 1,250 local workers accept transfers to Fort Wayne.
1985—United Auto Workers Local 95 members vote to change their working conditions—the chief change is a new work week of four 10-hour days—to try to win a replacement product.
1986—GM announces that Janesville will receive crew-cab pickups as an interim product with 1,100 people, 700 fewer than the previous pickup line.
1987—GM announces that Janesville will receive the remodeled version of its medium-duty truck, which will be transferred here from Flint, Mich. Total employment, hourly and salaried, stands at 6,500.
1989—Medium-duty truck production starts here with about 1,200 jobs, not 1,800 originally announced by GM.
1990—Compact car production ends in Janesville; plant being renovated to make full-size sport-utility vehicles. Employment stands at 5,500—4,950 hourly, 550 salaried.
1991—SUV production starts here at slow pace.
1994—GM and Isuzu Motors work together to make commercial low-cab forward medium-duty trucks in Janesville. 600 workers from other idled GM plants transfer to Janesville.
1999—Janesville plant starts making a new generation of full-size SUVs while trying to boost productivity by eliminating jobs.
2002—Production of medium-duty trucks moves back to Flint, Mich., taking 800 jobs from Janesville.
2004—GM announces the next generation of full-size SUVs will be made in Janesville and two other plants.
2005—Chevrolet Suburban receives a three-peat “Best in Segment” designation in the J.D. Power Initial Quality Study. GMC Tahoe is ranked second and Yukon is ranked fourth in the segment. The 50,000 Isuzu/GM gas low-cab forward medium-duty truck is built. Preparations are underway for the new GMT900 line of products. The Janesville plant produces its 16 millionth vehicle.
Also, in November of this year, the GM plant in Janesville escaped a closing or production cutbacks list. It was told that it would continue building full-size sport utility vehicles such as the Chevrolet Suburban and GMC Yukon for the foreseeable future and perhaps the entire product cycle—six to eight years—of GM’s next generation of full-size SUVs—if the market allowed.
2008—GM announces it will eliminate the second-shift and about 750 jobs at the Janesville plant in July. Before the announcement, employment stands at a total of a little more than 2,800.
Jun 6, 2008 at 10:31 p.m.
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Its not the end of the world believe it or not..... Its just the end of the LINE!!!!!
Jun 6, 2008 at 4:54 p.m.
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Plus they have mass transit making it easier to commute.
Jun 6, 2008 at 2:59 p.m.
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Kenosha comparison: Gas prices are putting a squeeze on bedroom communities. Plus being between Milwaukee and Chicago is a lot different than being between Madison and Rockford.
Jun 6, 2008 at 2:50 p.m.
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Anyone trying to make comparisons to Flint, Michigan needs to do their research.
"Of the nearly 80,000 people that worked for General Motors in Flint during its peak years in the late 1970s, only about 8,000 are left after the most recent 2006 buyouts."
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Flint,_Mich...
Jun 6, 2008 at 1:35 p.m.
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I think it's time to become the Las Vegas of the Midwest and start building casinos around Janesville!
Jun 6, 2008 at 1:13 p.m.
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We could turn into a "Kenoshoa", but we could more easily turn into a "Flint Michigan."
Jun 6, 2008 at 11:57 a.m.
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Read the Economy section of this article. This could be janesville in the future only if the proper steps are taken http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kenosha,_Wi...
Jun 5, 2008 at 10:06 p.m.
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I hope Janesberg doesn't turn into the next B-town.
Jun 5, 2008 at 3:54 p.m.
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Nothing wrong with a half full cup! :^)
Jun 5, 2008 at 3:47 p.m.
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Notta chance jp53545. Janesville still has tons of growing to do. Do you really think that our city planners haven't been thinking about this for over a decade now? This could be a very lucrative spot for the right business/industry. Janesville's gonna be fine. Possibly even better off in the long run. I'm sorry. My cup is half full today.
Jun 5, 2008 at 3:26 p.m.
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Here's the deal: Janesville is far too small of a town for this kind of economic loss to be anything other than an unmitigated disaster. The loss of GM is catastrophic, and that together with the loss of related businesses and income will have ripple effects from which it will take Janesville years to recover if in fact it ever can. Housing sure will be cheap to buy, though.
Jun 5, 2008 at 2:58 p.m.
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Ever hear of filibustering? Most of the countries in the middle east have hated us since we reconized Isreal as a country back in the 60's.
Jun 5, 2008 at 2:20 p.m.
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sorry-
8 years ago you had a Republican President and a Republican Majority in both the House and the Senate, and had that majority until 2 years ago. Ummmmm, it seems to me the Republicans wasted their opportunity to vote for drilling for oil and building refineries.
If the Republicans had the majorities in the House and Senate AND a Republican President, then how would the Democrats be able to out-vote the party that had all the majorities for 6 years? You had your majorities, and you STILL blame it on the Democrats. WOW!
Jun 5, 2008 at 2:13 p.m.
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Sorry: I am not sure how old you are, but I do remember when not all these countries hated us. I have watched our popularity go down as our government has become more greedy and power hungry. I agree Saddam was a huge problem and a ticking time bomb, but I wasn't one who believed he had WMD. Now, about the drilling. It isn't as simple as just saying, oh there is oil lets drill. The big picture has to be seen. There are envionmental issues to consider with the drilling also. It may have been voted down, but with that has come the research into finding ways to do it with the least environmental impact possible. If we keep killing the wildlife, the vegetation and yes, even the bugs, it will impact human life as well. We have made the mistake before of rushing in and acting before things were thought out. I agree that we should tap into our own resources, but I think it should be done correctly so we aren't regretting it later on. Don't we already have enough regrets about past decisions that we wish we would have thought through first?
Jun 5, 2008 at 1:34 p.m.
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Wiskitty news flash these countries all hated us before Bush. As for Iraq how many times was Saddam told he needed to comply to UN resolutions. Like you said don't believe what the media and news tell us, anyone who does think Saddam had WMD is kidding themselves. Just because we cant see something doesn't mean it doesn't exist. As for the Dems in this case I do blame them for high gas prices. 8 years ago and several times since the repubs have tried to pass a bill that will allow the drilling and building of refineries and everytime the Dems voted against it. It's a fact, plain and simple. I think it sucks that the people GM support(DEMS) are the ones that blocked these bills and now they have essentially help shutdown the plant here.
Jun 5, 2008 at 12:32 p.m.
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Dear sorry, It is not I that needs to open my eyes. I wish I could shut them tight and live in denial. You blame all this on Democrats and third world countries. Haven't you noticed that whether they are Democrat or Republican, it just doesn't matter anymore? They all lie anyway. It is mostly about power and greed now, it certainly isn't about what is best for the people or the country. You say one man can't be responsible? You need to go read about Hitler...one man can be blamed for a whole country's problems. Bush has angered the wrong people, now we all have to pay...AGAIN! We are already paying dearly for a war we shouldn't have even started, at least not on the false pretenses we were all duped into believing. Talk about a huge cost to this country, and not just money, but also human lives. The US had never attacked anyone first before. Then Bush lies about weapons of mass destruction, attacks, the lie is made public...now we have lost credibility with other countries. We impeached Nixon for Watergate, why wasn't Bush impeached for all his mess? Plain and simple...money and greed. Our own country is circling the bowl and where is all the money going...overseas to "help"...NOT, it is being used in an attempt to buy friends back. Helping the other countries is great, but it isn't being done from the heart, there are strings attached and that is wrong. As far as the oil supply, I can hear OPEC laughing all the way over here. You may want to open your eyes and see the other side of the coin. Talk to people from other countries and pay attention to the lies our governement tells..Republican and Democrat. Don't be so niave that you believe everything you hear on TV and read in the news.
Jun 5, 2008 at 11:38 a.m.
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UH I cant believe people didnt realize this earlier, I knew this was going to happen years ago it was just a matter of time. People say "Oh this is such a surprise" Making only SUVs in these times is not very smart thinking how is that a surprise? Who the hell wants a suv right now that costs 100-150$ or more to fill up, when people cant afford to pay their own bills to keep their house. Foreclosures are up 65 percent from last year. Prices go up for EVERYTHING and guess what? your paycheck stays the same. I feel like I am in a foreign country and want to escape to the U.S for a better life. but the complete opposite. kind of ironic. And you can all thank your wonderful president bush and our government for being so corrupt. If nothing changes soon our near futures arent so bright.
Jun 5, 2008 at 10:14 a.m.
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Darius: I love your posts. Though my heart also goes out to the GM folks that will have some obstacles to face in the near future, you're right about the need to open their minds to new world of technology and ultimately finding the liberation in all of this. Very inspirational!
Jun 5, 2008 at 9:57 a.m.
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Wingnut 721
For sure. One valuable life lesson I learned in my 10 years at GM was the fact that there are so many other people out there who certainly had it worse than me. Infact, I often thought how difficult it must be for other people to make ends meet when it seemed like I was having a struggle making $27/hr! The more people make, the more they seem to spend. Which is why there are many people outside of GM who made less than half of what GM employees made and were able to build a bigger savings or "nest egg" for themselves. It's all a mindset. It's not a knock on anyone, it's just the way our brains have been taught to think our whole lives. It's called "industrial age" thinking. Now in the "information" age, there is definately a pot of gold at the end of the rainbow, however, it will require re-tooling the brain and learning different principles to attain it. You don't have to be smart to prosper in the new age, you just have to be willing to learn new information and become WISER! Which, by the way, was a major change for a person like me! It was hard to humble myself to learn new info. when at that time, I thought I already knew everything! (Gulp!) I was very wrong! I wish everyone the very best in these trying times. I truly do. God bless.
Jun 5, 2008 at 8:34 a.m.
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Thank you hankstevens! Great article. Keep the ideas and suggestions coming. You never know who might be reading this. My big idea is construct a massive indoor/outdoor waterpark. People from Illinois would love not having to drive all the way to the Dells. GOLDMINE!
Jun 5, 2008 at 7:22 a.m.
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Darius, your comment of "Otherwise, it was nothing more than a dungeon of horror." cannot go by unnoticed, man......that totally sounds like my 7 years working for Ashley Furniture in Arcadia... lol, and to think, we had no union(i say "had" because I am no longer an employee there, i got out before it got even worse), so we pretty much got bent over the table at every opportunity. how sad history repeats itself, union or not....god bless corporate america!
Jun 5, 2008 at 5 a.m.
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'angeroonie', your positive contributions to this discussion would be appreciated by a few folks closer to my neck of the woods.
Paper mills are notoriously capital intensive but a well oiled machine and dedicated residents can manage to take heart in the future:
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/05/nyregi...
Jun 5, 2008 at 1:19 a.m.
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Home based businesses are where the future is at. GM workers, don't let your future be dictated by CORPORATE AMERICAN bullies like GM! I can feel your pain. I walked the "bricks" at that place for 10 years. The only rewarding thing I pulled from that place was some great friendship from some awesome people. Otherwise, it was nothing more than a dungeon of horror. Life isn't about how much money you can make. The money doesn't make you happy! It's the time you can create for yourself and your loved one's that really matters! You may not see it yet, and I totally understand, but, you've just been liberated! It's time to begin the rest of your lives! Make it count! I wish you all God's blessings!
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:50 p.m.
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cmg75 Thank you! Let's not give janesvillezero the audience that he so obviously craves. One has to wonder how such a successful and self proclaimed "respected businessman" finds the time to come on a message board and chat for several hours a day. HMMMM. I suspect he/she is tapping away at their computer in their basement as we speak. It's actually kind of scary that some people create these little fantasy worlds because they never got over very apparant jealousy issues from their childhood. ANYHOW. When you cut through the inevitable negative comments here, what I see are mostly positive and inspirational ideas for Janesville's future and the future of those that will be most affected.
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:34 p.m.
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Janesville Hero -If you are so smart, why do you spend so much time on here criticizing everyone else? It seems like an intelligent person would be able to find a more productive way to spend their time. Also,intelligent people would be able to back up their beliefs with some sort of logic or facts. Have you said anything that is logical or factual?
I don’t believe for one second that you are a leader or have above average intelligence. You have not demonstrated any leadership skills nor have you demonstrated that you are an intelligent person in any of your postings. Actually, you talk in circles, which makes you sound like an idiot.
One last thing, if you are so sure of yourself, why do you feel the need to defend yourself every time someone replies back to you? Isn’t that a little below someone with such power and knowledge?
Jun 4, 2008 at 6:31 p.m.
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re: ANWR drilling. There is not enough oil in ANWR to make a significant impact on fuel prices. The biggest misconception is that all the oil would go directly to the U.S. It would not. The oil drilling would not be owned by the U.S., so the oil companies are free to sship it to whomever they wish, and only a small percentage would actually make it to the U.S.
Jun 4, 2008 at 4:25 p.m.
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Sorry, JanesvilleHero, but you are not using me. I am sorry you have such a cynical outlook on life and feel bragging about yourself on the gazette's website will make you somehow cool. The point is if all you do is sit back and complain, you are no better than anyone else. If you are not part of the solution, you are part of the problem.
Jun 4, 2008 at 3:38 p.m.
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14isntenough: You say "I will lose my job like many others, but I'm not here to complain. The fact is many of the complainers are the people who for whatever reason hate GM & their employees."
You are right-and I’ve seen it all along. Someone name the complainers! Who are they and who have they been all along? Where are the GM complainers? Name them (their gazettextra name will do!) Then name the "others"-the real whiners. Those who claim to be “heroes” or-(well-we all know who I mean) who put themselves head and shoulders above the likes of an uneducated, drugged up factory worker (obviously the only kind of lives the real complainers are familiar with in their realm of existance) are the main "complainers".
I've heard complaints even that our local auto factory has been called "The plant" like it's some sort of “important edifice”! So what-it’s been here around 100 years! It’s been a huge-a tremendous-part of the city. It’s been called “the plant” since before most of us were born. Count all those that come close to that local record. You won’t run out of fingers-probably not even on one hand.
I’ve heard complaints that GM workers think they’re really important to suggest the city in general will be affected by the closing but, they say, it won’t be affected except to be better off, then I’ve heard complaints that other people will be adversely affected by this closing but not GM workers and that makes GM workers even worse than before because their company is giving them benefits. Which is it?
I’ve read the complaints that there are too many GM articles, and now that those articles are seemingly endless the last 2 days-who dominates them? The complainers-and not ones from GM-but ones who can’t live without ripping them apart.
To all of you GM workers, yes-you who have ordinary lives who got your job through fortitude or fortune, and gratefully give all you have to earn the wages and benefits you’ve deserved all these years-I’d suggest you network your thoughts, share your news and views, pass along your ideas by private conversation available through the private email feature here, because there’s no reasoning with irrational, uncivilized creatures. This is only feeding the trolls and allowing them to vent their irrational rage at those who share the same latitude and longitude (and whose county has been better off because of the likes of many of you even though they’ll never admit it). It is presently, apparently, their whole life. I’ve never been ashamed of my hometown, (and previously my home), before, I’ve talked about it with pride. Until now.
Jun 4, 2008 at 3:29 p.m.
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If you stuck to the facts it would be fine. Its when you bash other people quote:
"Well it's about time. Good riddance to a relic that should've closed years ago. Maybe now Janesville can move on from it's trashy car-plant image and grow into a city of intellectuals and individuals who can make a more positive impact on society and their neighbors. But considering the quality of most around here and the GM folks who'll be wandering the streets soon...I'm guessing this town will only get worse. It's too bad for us all."
I would call that slander...and I can see why people like Annie50 would take offense to it and try and defend her father! A true Hero as you call yourself would not say things such as this! Try just sticking to the facts and maybe you won't get attacked as you call it.
Jun 4, 2008 at 3:14 p.m.
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And BiGCaT, you'll notice I start by leaving my opinions. Just like most others. I only get back on and send personal replies (not slander) to those who first engage me! Check your facts. And I don't need to send friends on here to support me. To be honest I've yet to figure out who cannotsay is. I find it humorous you are so appalled by the fact someone may agree with my beliefs...and NOT yours. Boo hoo.
Jun 4, 2008 at 3:09 p.m.
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Sorry Jade, but I actually don't live here full-time. I have more business interests here. That is all. I go where the money is. There are plenty of people like you I'm able to use to live my way on my terms. It's rather nice!
Jun 4, 2008 at 3:06 p.m.
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wiskitty blaming Bush? Open your eye's and see the truth. If the Democrats would quit blocking Drilling in Alaska and Building of new refineries then gas would not be the problem. One man cannot be held accountable for the death of the suv market. It all comes down to one fact CHINA,INDIA and other 3rd world countries are consuming more oil then they did 5 years ago, that means less oil to go around. That is simple economics.
Jun 4, 2008 at 2:55 p.m.
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(As I clap) Yeah for JanesvilleHero!! I don't care if he is succesful and I really don't care if I spend money in his store. lol! I really don't care if he is a "Hero". ( Still Clapping) :^) However JanesvilleHero you really don't offer much in debate other than slandering people and trying to make them feel lesser than you. Only those who are full of themselves would get on a blog and toot his own horn about how succesful you are and then send a friend into blog to back it up! LMAO!!! :^)
PS: CannotSay we probably really wouldn't be surprised who it is nor would I send him to Washington to represent anyone with his constent degrading of people!
Jun 4, 2008 at 2:34 p.m.
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GM HATERS REJOICE! That should have been the articles headline. I read most of the articles & some posts, but today is the first day I felt like commenting. I will lose my job like many others, but I'm not here to complain. The fact is many of the complainers are the people who for whatever reason hate GM & their employees. For the people bitching we get paid until the end of the contract BOO HOO. And when the next contract comes up they'll probably keep paying us if their are no job openings at other plants. That is why we have a Union & negotiated that deal. That way GM can't close plants without paying the price. We were promised the next generation of SUV's with the clause as long as there was market demand. The gas prices have killed the demand & consumers need something better. GM should have seen that years ago, but they are short sighted. Don't feel sorry for us feel bad for all the Lear seating & LSI workers who won't have a chance to transfer to other plants. Some of us will go back to school, others will find work else where & many will try to get jobs at other plants. Long after we are gone the same people will be bitching, but now they'll have to find another group to complain about. Good Luck to everyone this effect, but life will go on. Personally I'm glad to have the Summer off with pay. Thank You GM. Would I do this job for $14 not on your life.
Jun 4, 2008 at 2:27 p.m.
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I know JanesvilleHero very well and can attest to his abrasive nature. Every time he talks about topics on here, I think to myself, "What a crummy viewpoint" or "That isn't very nice." But, what I always say immediately after is, "But, he's right!"
Most of you will probably never understand him, and you would probably need to know him well to get his humor. But, he is a great person that would, and does, give people the shirt off his back when they are in need. He may point out their series of poor decisions that led them to the need, but he always takes care of people.
He runs a very busy and profitable business in Janesville and many would be surprised to know who he really is. The people that attack him on the forums here are certainly also his customers. Remember that the next time you are frequenting the best Janesville has to offer, and no it is not a bar.
Everyone knows that janesville is on the downslide but is unwilling to admit it here. Don't attack the messenger just because he offers educated opinions on topics you are unwilling to admit are true. If everyone were as up front and honest about everything as JanesvilleHero, things would go a whole lot smoother.
Send him to Washington and see what he does with the criminals there...
Jun 4, 2008 at 1:40 p.m.
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JanesvilleHero, all your comments degrade the community and it citizens. If you are so unhappy with the area, why do you live here? Perhaps, you are not as smart as you think.
Jun 4, 2008 at 1:28 p.m.
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Poor GM workers....I heard they get 2yrs pay AFTER the plant closes. Keep handing them the golden spoon and they keep crying "poor me". This is why it doesn't upset me that the plant it closing. Nobody else in any other business would be handed this parachute and I bet they wouldn't be sitting on here bitching about how bad they got it!!!!!
Jun 4, 2008 at 1:09 p.m.
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I agree that unions are a bit outdated and have seen them cause more trouble than they help. It's awful about GM. This will have an impact of great magnitude for Janesville and many other communities. Looking at the big picture is not pretty. I also agree WI taxes are too high to attract the businesses. As far as gas prices,I do hold Bush responsible. Does anyone else realize how angry at us most of the world due to his actions? I have friends and family in other parts of the world and it's sad to hear other country's views of us. Things are backwards in this country. We used to be free, now the government and big busines owns us. The only ones that have rights anymore are big business and the criminals. A government for the people, by the people no longer exists. Jobs are ripped away and out sourced to other countries. How about brining the jobs from the GM plants in other countries back to the US? How about our governments help their own citizens for a change? I'm not a cold person and love to help others, but I also believe charity starts at home. Society's values just astound me. No one wants to help anyone unless they get something from itand money is God now. Massive unemployment, no one asks to lose their jobs. GM workers make a lot an hour, why are they condemned for that when sports figures and celebrities make millions? I think people who are actually making needed products and providing needed services should be making the most money, not entertainers, governement workers, and CEO's! And how about that bronze Fonzie statue they had to have in Milwaukee? That money (I don't care if it was donated!) could've fed many people! How ridiculous! Maybe they could've set up a gas fund for low income people so they can get to their low paying jobs. Between gas going up and now another major job loss on the horizon what are people going to do? I'm a nurse and loss of jobs means loss of health benefits, and we all know how expensive health care is. People with no benefits tend to be more ill by the time they seek health care because they don't want to rack up the bills, so their health needs are actually more by the time they seek help. GM closing is a HUGE impact on this whole area and the whole state.
I think the idea of a new plant should be entertained and the museum idea for the old plant is a good one. Like someone else said, " Make lemonade out of these lemons..." that WI has been dealt. There HAS to be a way to preserve these jobs. If things don't change, people will have to move to other countries just to make things for the US! How about all the government officials and the CEO's of all the companies take pay cuts?? Don't hold your breath waiting for that to happen! I have a better chance of finding the Fountain of Youth!
Jun 4, 2008 at 12:14 p.m.
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And thanks for asking, Edgewater. I'm doing well. Encountering friction amongst the mindless masses, as usual. Too bad I did not hear back from you earlier when I was in your area. Will you be visiting the U.S. anytime this summer?
Jun 4, 2008 at 12:10 p.m.
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hankstevens, you still just don't get it, do you? My little smiley faces and "lols" were purposely placed to add effect to my point. I wouldn't expect someone of your caliber to receive its true meaning. People like you amuse me. Attack me if you will. But I'm still making money off of simple folk such as yourself, because almost everyone in town visits my place of business often;-) :-) LMAO! And I'm surprised it took you so long to use the old "jealousy" attack when GM workers/supporters encounter debate against them. See you in my store soon, I'm sure! Thanks!
Jun 4, 2008 at 11:56 a.m.
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They are absolutely corect in saying that the GM worker will get the benifits they need to land on there feet. It really is not the GM worker that will have the greatest effect on the Janesville economy. They will be the least of the City of Janesvilles concerns. It is all folks that work for other local companies that supply GM that will have the impact! These folks won't get the same support no matter how much the Govenor or Local 95 promises. These folks will do what ever they have to to support their families. They will feel cheated (rightfully so) and will carry a chip on their shoulder for quite some time. These folks didn't make the high dollar wage that the GM worker did...for most it was alot less. They to will lose their health care benefits and will have to find a way to make ends meet the best way they can. These folks won't get the oppurnity to re-school themselves...instead they will compete for a job with people who already are unemployed or working for a temp agency for even less than they make now and probably with no hope of getting benefits!
We all will be effected in 1 way or another...if you don't think so then you better buy bullet proof glass for your glass house so it don't break when it does affect your life. Will things get better...Absolutely but it will take some time and alot of work!
Jun 4, 2008 at 11:43 a.m.
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wingnut: your 20 years too late in now offering concessions. There is more than one place to blame in this fiasco. That said, the UAW needs to quit blaming high management salaries everytime a contract comes up. Rick Wagner is over-paid, however, divide all the executive salaries among GM's workforce and were talking about a $1.00 an hour at most. For GM to compete, they need wage and benefit reductions in the $10-20 an hour range and they needed it back in 1990. The goose is on life support.
Jun 4, 2008 at 11:05 a.m.
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wingnut: That is part of the problem. You can't keep paying wages that high and compete with the companies that are not. I agree with an earlier post that basically said that the UAW has outgrown its need. I would venture to say that most of these people that work for GM would rather take a significant pay cut than lose their job. I know I would rather earn $10 buck less an hour and at least still have a job with a very competitive wage. I think the union failed these workers and concessions should have been made much earlier. I believe that the workforce is probably one of the best GM has but GM can't afford to keep paying wages like this.
The idea to build a new plant would be great and would benefit this area and our state greatly. Can you convince the rest of the state to pay taxes towards something like this? I would definately agree to it but the vast majority won't because they can't see down the road far enough to see how it would in fact help.
Jun 4, 2008 at 10:04 a.m.
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billy- I am glad to hear of your support for the GM workers, and i read and re-read your outline for a new plant in Rock County to make the new models. I LOVE THE IDEA! it seems feasible and makes sense, i just wish that the GM brass could see past their last pay raise and realize this golden opportunity! but knowing the way the business world works, it wouldnt shock me to see all these laid off GM workers(such as my father) find different jobs elsewhere, only to have GM turn around and say either they will build a new plant in Rock County or retool the old one again, outfitting the plant to built cars again, only to bring in new hires at $12 an hour....that wouldnt surprise me in the least.
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:09 a.m.
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Ladies & Gentlemen,
Look around you, what has changed? The pro union anti business, high tax state in which you reside still exists as it has for much to long. Lived there for 27 years and when you are inside the house with the drapes closed you cannot see the sunshine outside. Departing the house (the state of WI) you see a different world and a much different tax, social structure and quality of life truly does exist.
I feel sorry for anyone losing their positions but really just how long did you believe it was going to last.
One last thought; how long will the union leadership from the shop continue to receive their basket full of eggs or will they retire with a package much bigger than the men and women who entrusted and followed the cult?
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:07 a.m.
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JanesvilleHero said "This is hitting you hard, I can tell. I do wish you luck, believe it or not."
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"This" is hitting me hard not because I'm an employee or a family member of an employee. In fact, I don't know anyone who works at the plant. "This" is hitting me hard because I hate to see good jobs disappearing and families suffering. I have an aunt who got stung by the Famous Footwear headquarters move to St. Louis, a friend who is still looking for a job after his position was eliminated several months ago and a co-worker's spouse who lost his job in the Lands' End downsizing. It's hard to watch those families struggle to get by. And all were professional positions that required college educations.
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I like BillyDurant's idea, though. I'd love to see it happen.
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:06 a.m.
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MOCO428,
I believe I posted earlier I feel a ton of empathy for the families who may have some tough times ahead. "What doesnt kill us, will make us stronger." I do hope that the children of the displaced workers see the value in realizing dreams, independence and aspirations for themselves.
I am not a teacher. I go to UW-Whitewater part time an education major. If/when I decide to teach, it would be a step down in pay, but the rewards will be unbounded. I own two business' in Janesville and have since the mid 90's. I grew up here, left and came back to raise my children. My grandfather told me when I was young(1960's) that unskilled labor has no guarantees, no REAL security, and more importantly no aspirations to improve one's self or the world around you.
I do believe the best decisions ever made were ones that were educated decisions. I believe that teaching can change the world ONE child at a time.
Moco, I am glad you supported the teachers. I believe every one should. FYI, my head is not buried anywhere, thanks. I appologize if my opinion offends. It doesnt change it, but I do appologize.
Jun 4, 2008 at 9:01 a.m.
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Why don't you ask the management of G.M. why they never produced the car that their designer Louis Pappas built back in 1982. It averaged 105 mpg on the highway and 75 mpg in the city. I saw an clip of it in the Nov. 2006 issue of Hot Rod magizine . This was not a hybrid but a regular gas engine.
Jun 4, 2008 at 8:30 a.m.
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I see a lot of comments about trying to convince General Motors to place a new product line in Janesville Assembly. This will not happen. It would be cheaper for General Motors to build a completely new assembly plant in the area rather than re-tool the current one. A new paint shop and body shop are the most expensive parts of the plant. The current layout of Janesville Assembly is outdated and not a flexible plant to capable of building multiple lines. I think the Governor, Janesville City Management, Beloit City Management, UAW Local 95 and General Motors need sit down and hammer out a deal and what it will take for the corporation to build a new plant in Rock County. There is plenty of land on the I-90 corridor between Janesville and Beloit that would be attractive to GM. Still has easy access to rail lines, easier for trucks and even the best workfoce.
Wisconsin and Local 95 leaders should also be meeting with the leaders of Lansing, MI. Lansing is the home of the two newest GM plants in the United States. Before Janesville had the oldest GM plant in the world, this title belonged to Lansing (Lansing Chassis and Lansing Body). Once GM decided to shutter their oldest complex, the UAW, local Government and GM got together to hammer out a deal to bring car production to Lansing for another 100 years. Lansing now has Lansing Grand River Assembly (2001) and Lansing Delta Township Assembly(2006).
A new local competitive operating agreement should be the backbone of these discussions. The Janesville area already has the best workforce in General Motors' stable. The leaders should also petition for a new stamping plant adjacent to the assembly plant. Possibly even an engine and transmission plant to complete the world-class complex.
No doubt, if the current leaders come up with a nice package, General Motors would be hard to refuse the deal since they will inevitably need more small car production capacity in North America as the economy moves away from truck-based vehicles. Right now, GM only has Lordstown, Ramos Arizpe, San Luis Potosi and Hamtramck (Chevy Volt 2010) as their small car plant capacity in North America. (I did not count the plants making midsize vehicles such as the Malibu.) The corporation WILL need to have a new plant to keep up with the demand of small and compact cars.
Area Leaders - please come together and start the framework to a NEW plant in Rock County.
Jun 4, 2008 at 8:10 a.m.
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I feel bad for the people of Janesville. It really unfortunate. This is what happens when Daddy thinks the golden goose never runs out of money. Too bad the UAW didn't rein in their demands earlier. This whole crises could have been averted.
Jun 4, 2008 at 7:30 a.m.
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futureteacher: I supported you and all the other teachers during the janesville teacher contract mess. Here is something for you, if you don't like the wages and benefits the JSD are willing to pay then MOVE. I know for a fact that there were some GM workers that supported you, maybe you could show some compassion and give a bit back. Do you think you will ever change the JSD? I doubt you will, so take some of your own advice. These are people's live and it is not as simple as you make it out to be, pull your head out of your ...
Jun 4, 2008 at 7:24 a.m.
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For the last few weeks many workers were wondering if they would be eligible(seniority wise) for working when they cut to one shift. Now they are very worried if they will even have job at all.I can't think of many things more stressful than being able to support your family.
Jun 4, 2008 at 7:20 a.m.
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Welcome to evolution 101, where the strong survive and the weak . . . move. You can follow or you can lead or you can sit still, whine, and bitch about things you will never change.
Jun 4, 2008 at 6:51 a.m.
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New manufacturing companies such as Toyota or Honda have built plants in other states because the taxes are lower. Sure we got a great workforce here but, the taxes are driving away business.
Jun 4, 2008 at 6:25 a.m.
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optimism: You are right all of these people do pay taxes, eat, and buy things here. It will be a lot of dollars out of the local economy but I doubt it will have the impact all the pessimists of the world believe it will. Janesville is a prime location for people who travel to outlying cities for employement. It is not far from Madison, Rockford,Milwaukee or Beloit which offer quite a few job opportunities. Yes all of this will have an impact on the city but saying it is the end might be a bit premature.
Jun 4, 2008 at 6:11 a.m.
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displacedworker. you are right but aren't the Toyota and Honda plants non-union? I don't doubt the quality coming from our plant but I bet they aren't paying near the wages down south and I know for sure that in Kentucky (Toyota) it is a right to work state. I'm not trying to say you are overpaid but they definately aren't making your wages. It would be nice if another automaker looked at this facilty and saw something in it.
Jun 4, 2008 at 5:34 a.m.
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I would hope for the next generation eletric vehicle be designed and put into full scale production by the smart local population. Wouldn't that show GM and all of the synics out there what Rock county and J-ville is all about. Wish upon a star. Click your heels together 3x. Rub the lamp and hope for the best.
Jun 4, 2008 at 5:19 a.m.
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I've read 300 comments on GM closing stories. I've never been so embarassed at the lack of compassion and commen sence of most of these bloggers. THE WORLD is capable of seeing these comments. Lets show the world our work ethics and show our resolve. Ok gm vehicle sales are down, Honda Toyota and Nissans are up. We have a plant. We have good workers that have already agreed to a pay cut and insurance concessions. We have suppliers set up. We have direct roads and railways. Lets appease Honda Toyota and Nissan to build here! Lets show them we care.
Jun 4, 2008 at 2:52 a.m.
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Time to make lemonade from lemons: Historic Janesville, way too underdeveloped in terms of its rich legacy, now has the oldest GM plant to utilize in cooperation with GM to establish a state of the art museum. It could commemorate US manufacturing, factory management, labor and its colorful, struggling history intertwined with them, and civic unity between big business and municipal interests. Think of the hundreds of thousands of lives, millions of worker hours, reams of untold stories within those walls throuigh the various periods of our history! Documenting them, sharing them, displaying them, honoring them - this could be an amazing outcome, with historically preserved facilities, employee stories, and intelligent tours effectively utilizing both the massive plant and its rich history to educate and entertain visitors - local, state, national, and international. What an American story (including its demise)! Planning efforts on several fronts should be running at it full gear now. City leaders, GM officials, historically dedicated politicians, local volunteers - hopefully all will work together in this visionary manner. And what an Ammerican chronical over the decades, and what a tribute it could be to the hundreds of thousands who have served and the community they have lived in.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:47 p.m.
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There is much to read and I am sure that by the time I finished and refreshed the page, there would be much more.
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I love Wisconsin, and I love Janesville. This is all very tragic news, but I wasn't surprised one bit.
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Red..... you made an outstanding post. I was thinking the exact same thing when I heard the plant was closing. I do believe, though, that by 2020 the population of Janesville will drop by 1/3 due to our inability to adapt. I seriously hope I'm wrong.
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I'm also living in So Cal. I'm paying about $4.30 a gallon right now (mid-grade.) A little more than a week ago it was $4.20. Before that it was around $3.93. My car had been in the shop about a week and a half, but before that, it was around $3.83. It seems this will -never- stop. Not even one solid month of the same price. I flew from Japan to So Cal in November, and I asked my cab driver about gas prices, and a comparison of on base versus off base. He eventually said that he believed that while gas was around $3.30 (I think), the prices would probably drop to around $3.00. Then, a few months after Christmas, they would shoot up to $4.00 or so, and no one would be able to do anything. He was right! (Not surprisingly so).
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Right now Green is the way to go in California. I do not like California one single bit, and I think they should all... "live in eternal pain" for saying they have better dairy than Wisconsin! However, they are on the right track as far as energy goes. Wisconsin needs to take the lead in living green. I think if we did that, we could benefit greatly.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:46 p.m.
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What plans are there for the building, land, power, sewer etc that supports the plant? Is Janesville, the county or State going to ensure GM leaves the site environmentally friendly or is the company just going to walk away?
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:57 p.m.
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When I clicked on the story, a Hyundai ad was running in the corner. Kind of says it all.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:49 p.m.
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norcal1...you are absolutely correct.
As I stated previously...if we could only figure out a way to bottle all of the anger and hostility here, we'd have enough energy to keep the plant going for another 90 years.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:45 p.m.
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I get really sad when I read all of this. It's like whenever we have something to argue about, that's all we do. When the teacher contracts were up, all we did was argue about that. Then when someone wanted to say the Pledge in Spanish, we were in an uproar about that. C'mon people, we have different opinions, that's obvious and expected.
The plant closing is bad news. We all know that. There is no positive here--but lets not get on blogs and just bicker about each others opinions. If we all had the same opinion....well you all wouldn't have anything to argue about! Take this for what it is...state your opinion....try not to bash each other and move on. Geesh...people are losing their jobs here---don't sit here and ridicule this and that. These are people's lives. Just be respectful and try to be a little positive. No one likes a negative Nancy. :)
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:11 p.m.
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JanesvilleHero... what more can be said about your opinion that hasnt already been expressed? Well, for starters, the plant that is closing basically built Janesville, and now a city that was poised for enormous growth 10 years ago, now has two big empty holes, Parker Pen and now GM...intead of moving forward, this is a hell of a step back and a slap in the face to all the families affected by this, not only at GM, but Lear and other businesses that are right there with GM with their necks in the guillotine. we can point fingers and blame shift all we want, but why when the answer is staring us right in the f-ing face? it all starts from up top, all the way down to Mr. Rick Wagoner, who said that they are planning on launching 18 new crossovers and cars, but going to close 4 plants, Janesville being one of them.... how do they plan on keeping up with this when the doors close in 2010? either Wagoner drank the bong water or he cant see past all the zeroes in his annual salary. Rick, Janesville trusted you to step up and do something for a change. Thanks for nothing. Hope you can realize that its not the market demand that is killing GM, its the same damn thing that is killing virtually every american business, Corporate greed and complete idiocy.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:07 p.m.
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localboy, no, I wouldn't call milking large vehicle sales a good plan. The biggest difference between the Japanese and the Big 2.8 are the products they sell. When has GM ever had a coherent brand strategy? Why do Buick and GMC and Saturn exist? Rick Wagoner should have fixed that a long time ago. Instead, the longer he waits, the harder the cuts will be. He has yet to outline a specific plan for a return to profitability.
The new crossovers are nice, but sales are tanking along with trucks. The GMC Acadia is down 27.6 percent. The Saturn outlook is down 38.1 percent.
I have no allusions that Janesville GM would last forever. The delay of the closure is also unusual in the business world, and gives people time to adjust. I just think that the crappy GM management has been under reported.
(btw, neither I nor my immediate family is involved in the auto industry; I'm just an enthusiest.)
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:07 p.m.
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Bicker..bicker..back and forth. I just moved away from Janesville after living there most of my life. It did not take me long to realize that in my new community people are actually nice to each other and not demeaning. Janesville may be going through hard times but plant or no plant, education or no education, it does not make a bit of a difference if Janesvillites do not figure out that true happiness comes from kindness and respect to all. It saddens me to read these comments.
Jun 3, 2008 at 9:47 p.m.
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And last I checked, I didn't notice 2500 help wanted ads in the paper! So, now where do you suppose these people are going to go for work? Probably NOT Janesville.
Jun 3, 2008 at 9:40 p.m.
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JanesvilleHero - I see your wit, wisdom, and overall lack of charm and compassion are still shining through all the way here in the far east. Hong Kong was wonderful and Singapore is still beautiful. How is your life in Janesville these days, my lackluster friend?
Jun 3, 2008 at 9:32 p.m.
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mymaro, please reread my comment and try to understand the point I am making. This is a HUGE opportunity for the area to show its' stuff. As for wishing I lose my job, thats just plain mean. Even if I were to lose my job, you wouldn't see me here begging for sympathy and crying about my evil employer or predicting armageddon. Not gonna worry about it since I don't have one. Hopefully, more people in this community embrace change and look for opportunity than stick their heads in the sand and cry "woe is me". Man up or roll over, its entirely up to you.
Jun 3, 2008 at 9:28 p.m.
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All I have to say is I wonder how we are going to make it as a country when we can't unite and find compassion for our neighbors? No wonder why we are crumbling, the freedoms our ancestors gave us with their lives, has come to bite us in the rear end. Obviously we are not mature enough to handle freedom. Most of you on here should be supervised going to the bathroom. I can't believe the hate and evil that has been displayed on here. All of you that say that Janesville is not dependant on this company, what planet are you from? It is not "GM" that makes our comminity, it is the amount of jobs GM supplies that makes our comminity. It brought people to the area, or kept them here, because it was a way to make a living. When there are that many jobs in one company, how can you not say that it directly impacts the economy of our community? Do you think that these people don't shop here? Eat here? Pay taxes here? Or do you think it is ALL YOU?
Jun 3, 2008 at 8:41 p.m.
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I'm sure Phil Woodman is to blame for this too...
Jun 3, 2008 at 8:23 p.m.
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Well I guess someone from menards will have a job. ans a HS diploma
Jun 3, 2008 at 8:21 p.m.
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Yes big oil had a lot to do with the closing of the plant and just as a reminder these are the places to get fuel if you want to support US oil and not foreign.
Here are some large companies that do not import Middle Eastern oil:
Sunoco......................... 0 barrels
Conoco........................ 0 barrels
Sinclair....................... 0 barrels
BP / Phillips................ 0 barrels
Hess. ............................. 0 barrels
ARC0............................. 0 barrels
Maverick........................ 0 barrels
Flying J. .......................... 0 barrels
Valero............................ 0 barrels
Murphy Oil USA* ............. 0
Jun 3, 2008 at 8:17 p.m.
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curt3900 - I don't think you are in the position to own a house, or you would have already had one. If you already do, you would have to sell it to buy another one, and who are you going to sell it to? Somebody who works at the new Mendards?
Jun 3, 2008 at 8:05 p.m.
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Well maybe i will wait and buy a house from a GM worker forcloser or when the house prices go down lol
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:52 p.m.
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Zoom, how is GM making decisions that are at the expense of the worker? Would you not milk it as much as possible? If people were still buying it, you would sell it. GM knew this would not last long, that is why the new cross-over is hot, and the new Malibu's are a huge seller. What GM did know, is that the current plant would only be as good as the current product demand. If you are an employee there, you had to know it also. The current facility is a cobbled up patch of several buildings, with a porius roof that can't be fixed. The layout is several levels and not in a linear layout which is preferred, since the shortest distance between two points is a straight line. You are correct about the labor costs, but you forget the retirement/legacy burdens. And don't forget the outdated, unflexible Union worker rules. That is the big difference between Japanese and US automakers.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:45 p.m.
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About the timing: GM would want to see how many took the buyout before making a decision. Hypothetically, if 90% had taken the buyout, to be replaced by workers being paid half as much, maybe the decision would have been different.
The main reason for making the announcement today was to lump it together with the dismal May sales figues.
http://www.thetruthaboutcars.com/truck-s...
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:37 p.m.
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Honda, Toyota and Nissan build and sell many vehicles in North America, and are not suffering the way GM is. All the manufacturers are operating under the same economic conditions and the same government, so you can't place blame there. The cost of labor plays a small part (and will level out by 2010), but poor management and foresight is the main reason. It's amazing that many people that post comments never admit that the GM management is actually at fault. Some get it, most don't. GM, Ford and Chrysler milked the truck/SUV cow for far to long, and are now paying the price, at the expense of workers.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:32 p.m.
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It is not ironic. You would have to been crazy not to see the writing on the wall. Anybody who was on the fence with the SAP provided in 2006, had a second chance. Not too many second chances in those type of situations. If you didn't take the SAP, you were probably not in the position to do it, or not looking at the current situation which was provided to everybody in PEL class. The people at GM bitter about the decision, are probably the same people who were sleeping off a hangover in the same PEL class, thinking this education is stupid. The ones paying attention were preparing themselves for a new life, or even putting themselves in a position for a new career. The current facility is not flexible enough for the new platforms required to be efficient. GM needs a new facility in Janesville to continue in Janesville. Anybody who tells you that the current facility can be retooled for any thing other than a version of the MRAP or such, is not in touch with reality.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:29 p.m.
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sonja, signing up for SAP expired on May 22nd, not June 2nd. The deadline to back out of the buyout was May 29th. Still kind of ironic that this announcement came so soon after that deadline had passed. Maybe more people would have taken the buyout if they knew that this was coming.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:24 p.m.
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Isn't it ironic that signing up for SAP expired June 2nd at midnight and GM makes their plant closure announcement June 3rd. Hindsight is 20/20 we've all been told. My heart goes out to all GM workers and their families as they now try to redirect their lives. God Bless You All
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:12 p.m.
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You just don't get it do you, buckyfan? It's sad really. Well, I'd feel sad for you if I cared more about people on your level. This is hitting you hard, I can tell. I do wish you luck, believe it or not:-) ;-) lol.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:11 p.m.
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People - whether you are happy about the announcement or not, it is a huge loss for the city and the state. You can't have that size of a payroll and not see an impact locally! We have to change with the times and create opportunities for our workforce that is needed. Where are the lamp post lighters? Where are the elevator doorman? What happened to the local blacksmith? The livery stable guys? The milkman? The record player repairman? Do I need to keep going? They all were replaced with technology or changing times, yet America is still here. We need to have an economic strategy that will support more than what the DNR wants, or we will only have jobs left serving up hunters and fisherman by selling licenses, and park permits. We have to demand that Wisconsin have some other vision then a tourist destination, and that the city of Janesville be more than the city of parks. It has to be attractive to other types of businesses than manufacturing, and we have to be able to support it educationally, culturally, financially and employement wise. How do we do that? I don't know, or have the answer. That is for our leaders to do, but only after we demand it as citizens.
Jun 3, 2008 at 7:03 p.m.
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'janesvillehero': As tempting as it would be to use you as a piñata, it is more important that you seek the root of your expression of jealousy toward the many good men and women who have labored so long and so well in order to raise families and help this community grow.
And, not wishing to belabor the point, always remember that when someone as kind as me points out an error, just say 'whoops' and move along, and don't always give away your immaturity with lol's and smilies.
Jun 3, 2008 at 6:55 p.m.
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283, 327, 396, 409, 427, 454. Evoke any memories?
Get out of the mall, put the cell phone down, and get your face out of American Idol. Your at war. It just came to your hometown & mine.
I mention the cubic inch displacement of the mighty, legendary GM V-8 power plants. Hang your heads, they are now converted to liters - what’s left of them... Why? NAFTA and the stellar Washington set that led us to this disastrous trade agreement, among other influences. We have provided the expertise to drill, transport and refine oil to the Mideast since WWII, while supplying security. The American Service Man body count is easily accessible on the Internet. This too is our thanks from our OPEC 'friends'.
And for all of you people that think this is a good thing - it is not and you need to get grounded fast or leave the country now. While the rest of the world was pulling ox carts, the United States of America was making automobiles - affordable automobiles in short order. We brought the production of affordable automobiles to the WORLD people.
So gloat about the demise of this distinguished, old auto manufacturing plant. You get what you hope for - these days more often than not. Me, well I'm into some old bourbon. Each drink, I hold it high and salute the GM employee's that kept the American way and spirit high for all those years. Have fun pulling a boat or hauling anything in your Kia Rio as you try to cover the state of Nebraska combating those 18-wheelers with 8 passengers.
One last thing. My Yukon XL has been the best vehicle I have owned over 40 years... Thanks Janesville UAW brothers & sisters.
Will somebody step up to the wheelhouse of United States of America and make a stand?
Pass the bourbon.
Jun 3, 2008 at 6:49 p.m.
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lovetoscrap, agree with you 100% on the oil prices and bush thing. These people must not have read the article about gas being over $10 a gallon in parts of europe. Or is that Bushs fault to? some people just arent logical
Jun 3, 2008 at 6:28 p.m.
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I have a couple of things to contribute here.
to thekid: How can Bush be solely responsible for oil prices? I always find that humorous when I hear people blaming Bush for this, that, and the other thing, and finally have the chance to ask the question. How can one man be responsible for our gas prices? Yes, he does have the power to send our country to war but the last time I checked, he didn't have the sole power to raise oil prices. Correct me if I am wrong.
Bucky: The reason our jobs are going over seas and our factories are closing should be quite evident. Look around you. I have a GM employee living next to me with two grown kids living at home. I mean, one is 23 and one is 19. They had their power shut off. Neither kid has a job. The older one doesn't like to be told what to do. How sad. This is what our country is becoming. A generation of youth/young adults who don't want to work, who want everything handed to them on a platter. They have no respect for their elders and they have no pride in their work, when they actually do it, and they want premium money for very poor work. Why wouldn't a company want to hire workers who will give a good days work for the money they earn. Not only that, but affirmitive action has also out lived it's usefulness. I need to be able to hire the person that is best for the job, not the skin color I need most represented in my business. If I owned a company the choice would be easy, sorry to say.
areseburg: Embrace change! Don't say it's sad to see change. Change is what makes us grow and not become stagnant. If we are willing to embrace change...we are willing to become better people.
Jun 3, 2008 at 6:16 p.m.
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I am a Janesville native and have had many relatives walk through the doors of the plant. Although I am saddened by the news that the plant will be closing as well as concerned about the economic fallout that may occur, I am also relieved. It is about time Janesville begins to move beyond the factory worker mentality and starts the progression to a community that supports and boasts about education! Too many of Janesville's residents place little to no value on education. Maybe it was because at one time many of our residents knew what they were going to do with their lives after graduation - "I'm getting a job at GM," and there was no need to further their education. However for many years now even though many knew that getting a job at GM probably was not an option anymore, the lack of value placed on education maintained. Isn't it about time we encouraged our children and grandchildren to do well in school? If there is one thing Janesville is lacking, it is the desire to produce highly educated citizens that want to come back to this community and impact it in a positive manner. It is time Janesville starts to lead by example and value education so that our children and grandchildren grow up with those same values. I believe the more an individual feels supported, the more they will want to impress. Our children and their education could be the key that helps Janesville bounce back from this devastating blow. But that can only happen if they are backed by a community that supports them, their teachers, and their efforts.
Jun 3, 2008 at 6:02 p.m.
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GM Closing isn't just about Janesville - this stuff is happening all over the country! People are losing jobs everywhere, yet we continue to import gobs of crap from China, making their economy strong. STOP BUYING stuff that isn't made in the USA, and look to new, innovative ideas. Janesville has a long history of entrepreneurs - so let's not focus on the bad - let's start working on the next big manufacturing company. How about a company that makes a product out of recycled 3-7 plastics? How about focusing on local food production - farming, etc? This community needs to take a step back and look at what is happening all over the nation. We need to buckle down before an all out depression hits - and support each other. All this cutting on GM employees, what good can come from that? Our City will be applauded if we take this negative, and turn it into a positive, but we need to stop spending money, stop sprawling into the farm lands, and get back to basics.
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:58 p.m.
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JanesvilleHero "It was a form of sarcasm. Big word, I know. Look it up."
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I did what you asked and looked up sarcasm and was correct: YOU don't know what sarcasm is. Sarcasm is the use of irony to mock or convey contempt. And what is irony, you might ask? Irony is the expression of one's meaning by using language that normally signifies the opposite.
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So, when you said "...Try offering realistic opinions, such as mine, instead of trying to "get me" by leaving high school level "your a jerk" attacks. lol...", is the sarcastic part that you felt your opinions were realistic or was it that you actually were crying when you wrote lol? Just wondering...
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And in the above quote from you, you did misuse "your." So you owe HankStevens an apology.
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And working a blue collar job is not a sign that a person lack intelligence, just as you are proof that business owners (as you have claimed to be) aren't always intelligent!
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:40 p.m.
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It certainly is a sad day for Janesville, BUT we need to only look to the south where the city of Beloit survived when thousands had their jobs terminated at Beloit Corp, Fairbanks, Pate Foods, Freeman Shoes and the Beloit Mall. It was tough for a while but if everyone starts to look at this situation in as much a positive way as possible, Janesville will survive. I lived in Beloit for 15 years during those lay offs and I feel Beloit has been very positive in its survival. I have never worked there at GM but negative comments will never help in the long run. Please be positive.
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:33 p.m.
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To all of you who are "glad" GM is gone because it opens up opportunities, teaches GM workers a lesson, etc., and those criticizing the Janesville officials for not "doing more" to bring jobs to the community.
This is from the Bureau of Labor Statistics: "Nonfarm payroll employment was little changed in April (-20,000), following job losses that totaled 240,000 in the first 3 months of the year"
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So, the country lost 240,000 jobs in the first three months of this year. Jobs are leaving this country, not coming. Try to find American made electronics, clothing, bedding, toys, etc. You can find them, but it's not easy. Why? Because our factories are closing!
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And it's not just blue-collar jobs that are leaving. It's tech jobs, too. So when you're griping about the Janesville officials not bringing businesses here, ask yourself this: where are these fabled communities that are successful in attracting businesses? It's not the fault of local leaders, this is a nationwide problem.
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:33 p.m.
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rascal says 'democrats from the east and west coast who enacted the new cafe rules are responsible for this' really?? requiring better fuel economy in the YEARS to come is why the gm plant closed?? rascal do you think it maybe had anything to do with the republican president who bleeds and urinates oil?? $40/barrel when we invaded iraq.......
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:22 p.m.
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the government need s to put a huge import tax on anything not made here , with the money they get from these taxes invest in american companies that give legal citizens jobs,
Jun 3, 2008 at 5:05 p.m.
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I find it hard to believe that so many people are blind to one of the principle symptoms of this death. Unions, back at their conception had a purpose, & they were reasonable with their demands of companies. I've belonged to a union myself when they actually did something for members. In economics we have Supply & Demand. In Today's economy, because of gas prices, demand for trucks have been dropping. Foreign auto manufacturers got it right away, & they engineered better fuel efficient trucks. GM & other American truck manufacturers kept kicking out the gas hogs, & now supply out weighs demand. Here comes "Cause & Effect!" A company can not (I repeat "NOT") pay unskilled workers $75 hr (including benefits) in todays economy & expect to survive. They got away with it for a long time, but you don't need to be a rocket scientist is know, you can't pay out more then your taking in in over the red. Basic accounting... Don't get me wrong.. I'm all for making as much as you can, & I'm very sorry this is happening. For the Userid (don't remember what it was, & can't go back & get it because the gazette deleted the thread)that asked "where's my compassion" (or something to that affect). Believe me.. I do have compassion, & lots of it. But for the UAW (entity)I also have a little bit of anger because they saw this coming, & not very long ago, instead of saying to GM "Ok GM, we see your having some hard times right now, we'll recommend a small pay cut, maybe reduction in benefits at least till the economy gets back on its feet. We'll do whatever we have to do to keep our jobs right here in Janesville." Instead of doing that they recommend striking for more money & more benefits. What do they care, they'll still have their jobs. They may have to move, but.. "Ouch UAW!" Oh yeah.. for the GM employees who are about to become unemployed, & their families, i feel compassion. For the UAW.. Lets just say i believe they could have done something to prevent this. They could have made some gesture of good will, gone to their members & instead of lying to them, telling them the truth & giving the members an opportunity to save their jobs. I'm open minded.. If i'm wrong, I'll be the first to admit it.
Jun 3, 2008 at 4:25 p.m.
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Anyone know where I can pick up a nice boat for a cheap price?
Jun 3, 2008 at 4:08 p.m.
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Rascal you are right about that. We should point the finger at the Government and the lack of looking for oil in our own country. If we would have done this 10 or 15 years ago we would be producing oil right now. We have been ignoring this problem for years. Now it slaps us in the face and we still won't do anything about it until it's to late. Ease the restrictions and that will certainly help.
Jun 3, 2008 at 4:01 p.m.
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This is what happens when management is getting paid millions and a company is losing billions; and the union is demanding unreasonalbe salaries to produce a product few people want. The good businesses of Janesville will have to fill in. It will good for Janesville in the long run.
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:59 p.m.
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screw what oppurtunity up seabee? what makes you think anymore businesses will come here now? GM leaving sure wont encourage anyone to build or open up here. To say you are "glad this plant is closing" is terrible. I hope you lose your job, if you have one, for making an assenine comment like that. I dont work at GM or for anyone directly related to GM, but to see fellow Americans losing there jobs sure as heck doesnt make me glad.
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:47 p.m.
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I am actually glad they are closing this plant. Like it or not, we are in a global economy. This plant and workforce cannot compete for a number of reasons that we all know so I won't go into it. Too long this town has done next to nothing in terms of bringing jobs here, and has consistently ignored the assets we have in place. WE have an excellent education system here, colleges and technical. Yet most of the local college grads move out of state when they graduate. Don't know about the techies, never been one. Anyway, bring in some companies that will actually use the talent we are creating right here in southern WI. I didn't spend all that money getting a degree to work in the paint booth or welding seats together. Most likely they will just screw this opportunity up.
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:44 p.m.
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Here you all go again, with your calling out one another...some people never get out of high school. Instead of arguing with eachother, we need to ban together, brainstorm, fight for our town, or lives! These are good people, reguardless of how much they were paid for what they did, this is a horrible tradgedy for Janesville, for Rock county, and as citizens we need to stand together. Strength must be provided to our economy, to our local business owners, and with will, and percistance, Janesville will over come this. Reguardless, I find it hard to see the point of "buy american" when "american" isnt even made in America any more...its a sad day today not only for this town, but this country...
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:39 p.m.
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I am sorry to all the workers. It complete BS they don't close the Mexico plant. Thanks for US support GM!!!!
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:24 p.m.
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this whole gm thing is like a double edge sword, on one side you have gm , who takes a plant to mexico , and keeps it open, they accept money from wisconsin and then close this plant, the workers take concessions, and are treated like dirt gm is wiping off their feet, on the other side you have the workers,the only people i know that when they get laid off get their whole paycheck work at gm, some dont buy the vehicle s they make, they support businesses that dont support their jobs, while i would never say they are overpaid, maybe the concessions they took werent in the right places,i personally will no longer buy another gm vechicle, unless something changes and the plant stays here
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:16 p.m.
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GM Workers described as a execptional workforce , subsidized by the government for decades . someone will let you milk the system for a few years like it has since 1919 . Good Luck finding a $38 a hour job with your "work skills" Not to sound mean but you can only live high on the hog as long as the hog is alive .
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:15 p.m.
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Well HankStevens, are you sure about my grammatical error? Maybe YOU need to learn the difference between "your" and "you're"? As in...you're only proving my point more about the level of intelligence in this town. And by my leaving the "lol" at the end of that other comment...I was making a point about something. It was a form of sarcasm. Big word, I know. Look it up;-) lol.
Jun 3, 2008 at 3:07 p.m.
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Condolances to all the workers and their families who will be effected. I know what's it's like (grew up in Detroit). All the best to all those who will soon be out of work. May seem bad now, but there is plenty of opportunity out there.
Jun 3, 2008 at 2:57 p.m.
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rascal, I think there is enough blame to go all around for all sides don't you think? We could spend days (probably more) on who is to blame. Won't solve the problem will it?
Jun 3, 2008 at 2:46 p.m.
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Thanks for leading us on GM. Enjoy your bonus Wagoner. Nothing worse than not being able to trust your employer.
Jun 3, 2008 at 2:38 p.m.
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This news is unfortunate for everyone. The Janesville community will find investments to get through this. Look on the bright side, the GM property will make a great fair grounds. Comes with easy access to HWY 351. The city can even put the GM memorial park right in the middle as a tribute to the employees.
Jun 3, 2008 at 2:09 p.m.
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democrats from the east and west coast who enacted the new cafe rules are responsible for this. Big suvs are destroying the planet. GM is going to build what the tree huggers tell them to make (like the old soviet union) .democrats like high gas prices no matter what they tell you. Would like to see Obama stand at the main Janesville Assembly gate and tell the workers why his party believes saving the planet and destroying the US manufacturing base is the real agenda. No matter what happens to the price of oil these big vehicles are history anyway, thnks to the fuel rules democratic senators enacted. The real mind boggler is the UAW supports the very party that is destroying it
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:52 p.m.
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The horse-drawn buckboard evolved into the truck which evolved into the full-sized pickup. Maybe in 10 years Janesville will be producing electric, short-range, high-torque trucks for heavy loads? If so, we'd never look back.
I'd love to buy the plant. There are lots of needs in the American economy that can be met by labor from the good folks of Janesville. It's just that the day of the full-sized gas truck is waning.
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:46 p.m.
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The members of the local GM group and local 95 should consider the same approach many others have in simular situations. Become employee owned...if the closing of the facility is as detrimental to the local economy as it is being percieved within these comments, maybe the city of Janesville should invest a bit of capital and do short term funding of it.
If this approach is taken, you may want to do a retool to a product that average working Joes can afford and will actually purchase. There is an opportunity for someone to make a difference. Get off the net and call your city manager and union reps to sponsor this program.
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:40 p.m.
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I too am pleased to see the optimism of 'rooster' and others who can help start planning for the future.
And, like 'kenbjammen' I prefer to keep it light:
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"In lighter news, the Gazette staff is happy as their site stats have gone up 125% in the last 8 hours"
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As opposed to the 'hero':
"...Try offering realistic opinions, such as mine, instead of trying to "get me" by leaving high school level "your a jerk" attacks. lol..."
who is apparently so smart he doesn't have to know the difference between 'your' and 'you're' while also foretting that on internet boards, anyone, ANYONE, who uses 'lol' to close is always, ALWAYS, awarded with a loud chorus of dismissive guffaws one generally accords an eight year old throwing a tantrum.
Janesville needs people like 'rooster' and others and 'hero' needs either anger management or group therapy...and I mean the gentle kind...I think it is still illegal to abuse the retarded in our society.
So, let's all give a good 'huzzah' for 'rooster' and a 'guffaw' for 'hero'.
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:19 p.m.
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I like the way you think rooster and I totally agree.
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:16 p.m.
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look for a new plant producing small cars to begin with but having the ability to convert easily. think positive.
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:10 p.m.
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Sure am glad we passed that rather large school referendum and had our taxes increase!!
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:06 p.m.
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HMM. Why did I get deleted? I still think "Janesvillehero" is just a "Janesvillezero" with some unresolved issues. JMO!
Jun 3, 2008 at 1:01 p.m.
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I would like to know what JanesvilleHero wants to see come to the "City of Whiners" to make it more intellectual. Should everyone wear a suit and tie? Maybe Menards, Home Depot and like should leave also as we all know that people like him are afraid to get dirty.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:59 p.m.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:58 p.m.
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Hero: The problem with your comments is that they appear to be from someone who lacks both class and tact. One would think, considering you claim to be educated, that you would already know that an education doesn't give you the right to condescend to others. I hope your line of thinking is not representative of Janesville. It would be difficult to attract other educated people to a community filled with arrogant people like you.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:52 p.m.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:48 p.m.
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Time to turn the GM plant into a waterpark.
Seriously, this is bleak news that will affect the economy of Janesville and Rock County. I feel badly for the workers and families involved. I grew up in Janesville and remember the early '80s, when I was a student, when the layoffs had a direct effect on so many of my friends whose dads worked at GM. The ripple effect was felt by all of us, even those trying to find part-time jobs--we were competing w/ moms trying to find work all of a sudden.
The post by Red has a good point about hopes for the plant to be re-purposed into a green energy industry provider. I live in California. That is the way of the future. "Green" products are very popular here and increasing.
Here in Calif., gas prices right now are $4.75 for premimum. About 20 years ago, the aerospace industry, which thrived post WWII, left So.Cal and that hurt the area badly. The McDonnell Douglas plant sat dormant for years, eventually was razed and in its place is a series of big-box stores. Here's the other rub, Escalade SUVs and trucks, which GM will continue to build at the Texas plant, seem to have no shortage for demand among actors and music stars because they are de rigueur for celebrity image. Back to Jville GM, I wish a miracle could happen and the plant could stay operational.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:41 p.m.
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I can't believe that you, "JanesvilleHero", would post such a negative comment towards GM and the employees. I feel sorry for you if you go through life with an attitude like that. I was personally offended by your statement as my mother is a current GM employee. She has been there for 28 years and as you may think GM workers are "not intelligent" I must say my mother went to college, has a four year degree, and by working for GM was able to provide a good life for her family. What is horrible about that?! There are MANY individuals and families being effected by this decision, Janesville and the surronding area will feel the impact of GM shutting its doors...maybe even you "JanesvilleHero"! I really hope that you understand how your attitude effects our neighborhood and community. I just want to say Good Luck to everyone!
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:40 p.m.
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Hero. I doubt a true hero would feel the need to tell everyone he/she is a hero.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:39 p.m.
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To sarab: I'm with you. Janesville won't see a real HERO like Ken H. in our lifetime. We're certainly going to need one before 2010.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:38 p.m.
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"Janesville can move on from it's trashy car-plant image and grow into a city of intellectuals and individuals who can make a more positive impact on society and their neighbors"? What an arrogant cry for help. What's the matter...daddy never tell you he loved you? Some residual feelings of childhood trauma maybe?
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:34 p.m.
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Well Annie50, I'm merely being realistic. Future doesn't look too bright for this town now, does it? Trying to gain sympathy by using your military hero father as an example is sad, actually. I also served in the military, but do not feel the need to throw that out there to gain support for my opinions. Why do you? Oh yeah...desperation. And to those who know me I am not an embarrassment. I am a hero. Hence, the name. Heroes come in all shapes and sizes. Someone on your level just has trouble understanding that concept.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:28 p.m.
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In lighter news, the Gazette staff is happy as their site stats have gone up 125% in the last 8 hours.
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:24 p.m.
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Sorry to hurt your feelings LongTimeGone. But someday you may discover that being nice and being realistic do not always go together well. I offer educated comments. Not always nice ones. "Simple" people are usually nice. I am on a level you will probably never quite understand. Try offering realistic opinions, such as mine, instead of trying to "get me" by leaving high school level "your a jerk" attacks. lol
Jun 3, 2008 at 12:15 p.m.
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Wow! Im a little scared! I am loading up a truck and U-haul this Friday and moving back from Wyoming. Makes me wonder if I should hold off. Half the kids I went to school with parent's worked at GM and Lear, most of them run farms too, but we all know how that is getting harder and harder to do. So working for GM has helped them survive! I dont think it would get as bad as Flint did, but just take a second and think about what a closing factory can do to a comunity or a region. Sometimes people leave to find jobs elsewhere, like too Wyoming(due to the boom).
Jun 3, 2008 at noon
Jun 3, 2008 at noon
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I am really sorry the people of Janesville are going through this. I grew up in the area and many of my relatives worked for GM. At one time, getting into GM was the "golden ticket" for high school grads. How sad that things change. I hope Janesville and the surrounding area can bounce back from this. Those who are going to lose their jobs have my sympathies.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:59 a.m.
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I hope people do realize the impact this will have on the area. Janesville relies heavily on income from GM workers. I hope the powers that be come up with some good ideas for keeping the city afloat. As far as the employees, there are many who are smart enough to know that someday this was coming and planned ahead. However, the problem is going to be the ones who had to have all the "toys" in their yards and driveways, and are now facing the possibility of losing everything because they figured the union would always protect them and they would always have a job. I'm curious to see how the UAW is going to handle this. Does anyone know if they can step in and try to stop the plant closing?
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:57 a.m.
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JanesvilleHero? Hero of what? You sound like a real winner.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:56 a.m.
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I've been missing him all along, but now I really miss the ingenuity of Ken Hendricks.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:52 a.m.
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JanesvilleHero -
Staff got me again.
*
OK, let's just say, you are not nice.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:40 a.m.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:39 a.m.
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It makes me sad when others characterize the GM workforce as under educated or in any other way incompetent. The plant closing announcement in no way reflects on the hard working, fine people employed by GM.
The plant closing is a reflection on our economy which in turn is a reflection on our government. We should all march on Madison and Washington with tar and feathers. Everytime you fill your tank at $4.00 + per gallon you should think about the Dubai skyline which now boasts the worlds tallest skyscraper. Capitalism particulary in the US worked because there were regulations. See where deregulation of banking, telecom, utilities has taken us.
Our economy has been based on reasonably priced oil, gas, and electricity. Does anyone think the huge variations in energy prices are a given. Again, march on Washington with tar and feathers. Our government has been purchased by highly paid lobbyists only interested in their own special agendas.
If I were the powers that be in Janesville I'd be promoting a soon to be vacant plant to the "Green" energy industry and anyone else with emerging technology that looks promising. GM with its vast resources could make wind turbines, solar panels and any number of other things that will benefit our great nation. To do that one needs to think outside the box.
My prediction is that GM will in the near future file for bankruptcy the main benefit being that they will be able to shed their pension responsibilities. I wonder about the revenue stream to the proposed new Janesville hospital when the GM retiree health insurance and pension benefits become insolvent.
Again, the future is very bright for those who think outside the box. Put your best foot forward, trust in God and move on.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:30 a.m.
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People are afraid because they have been suckling on GM for a long time.I feel bad for some hard working,honest people,but I dont feel bad for the fat,lazy,abusers,and you know who you are.So many GM workers walk around with their knose in the air,like they are special.Anybody can make $20 an hour,but you have to actually work.I say good ridance.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:28 a.m.
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LongtimeGone:
The head of the union Dohner had nothing to do with this decision-neither did the national UAW. They are powerless to stop it. An elected mayor would be powerless as well.
This is a tough business decision, made in Detroit, directly affecting thousands of people. No one should be blindsided by this.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:24 a.m.
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to JanesvilleHero......who are you to think that you are so righteous as to condemn others? You have offended many, many good and hard-working citizens of this community. My father for one. He worked at GM...then entered the military and put in 24 years of military service and retired from there...came back to GM and until he reached retirement age. He was an outstanding man and of excellent character who accepted people from all walks of life. Do YOu? Obviously not. Your are an embarrassment, hopefully, to those who know you. Your reference to the quality of people in Jansville is disgusting. Look around you. Perhaps you need to do some self analysis for how people view you. Your user name "JanevilleHero" is not befitting of someone who makes comments like you just have.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:17 a.m.
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For all you folks out there that have been wishing for this to happen, I hope you are proud of yourselves. Now, if you think Janesville will be a better place because of this think again. Your property taxes will go through the roof. Be careful what you wish for.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:16 a.m.
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JanesvilleHero...
You don't have a clue, do you?
Move if you don't like it here, you will do us all a service.
I find that folks like you, are just the ones I really try to avoid! You have just validated those beliefs once again!
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:15 a.m.
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Well, hero is partially right. The "GM mentality" held by most of this city is scary. Most people think in a box and I for one am glad my husband moved on after he got laid off from Allied. This could be a great thing for Janesville, if people will let it be. Try something new. Try something different. Yes, it's been hard while he is starting a new career, but he has a much better attitude and actually enjoys going to work now. Amazing difference.
Jun 3, 2008 at 11:07 a.m.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:59 a.m.
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Well it's about time. Good riddance to a relic that should've closed years ago. Maybe now Janesville can move on from it's trashy car-plant image and grow into a city of intellectuals and individuals who can make a more positive impact on society and their neighbors. But considering the quality of most around here and the GM folks who'll be wandering the streets soon...I'm guessing this town will only get worse. It's too bad for us all.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:40 a.m.
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Sure wish John Dohner could be in charge of future economic developement for Janesville and all of Rock County.
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His ability to lead, to cooperate, to do what was (is) neccessary to bring (keep) jobs is something that the current group of politicians at city hall and the county courthouse just have not kept-up with....
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If only my ole hometown had an elected county executive, or an elected mayor, like my current area has....then change could come faster.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:38 a.m.
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I hope the city of Janesville will now move forward with new ideas for businesses to come in and take GM's place.
I feel the city fathers and it's people should have been feeling this a long time ago, and should maybe have had a plan in place, instead of the city manager spending like GM would always be here.
The fine folks that work there, should also have adjusted their life styles to prepare for this.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:36 a.m.
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stripes1: I'm not sure where futureteachers reamarks are posted as I don't see them here, but you are right. I am one to defend teachers and usually agreed with her but she is out of line on that one. It takes more than white collar workers to get things done. The blue and white collar workers were nothing more than a team of workers. Why do we have to label people anyway? This is a very sad day for our community and state. This will be a huge blow to the local economy. Good luck to all that have been impacted by this.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:33 a.m.
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Amen stripes1 - A-friggen-men.
Jun 3, 2008 at 10:05 a.m.
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Future Teacher: Wow what a chip you have on your shoulder! Education is great, however not everyone has the God given capacity to get a Masters degree. Some individuals are better suited to do blue collar work. Engineers who design vehicles are needed just as those who manually build them. Physical hard work is a must in this world as is brain power. Blue collar worker is NOT a dirty term and your arrogance is appauling.
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