Why New Process Gear workers risked it all

by Charley Hannagan and Michelle Breidenbach/The Post-Standard

Syracuse -- Seven union leaders tried to explain the deal to save New Process Gear over the boos of 800 United Auto Workers. Many stood at the back and along the sides of the hall, rather than line up on benches.

They had heard the rumors about more wage cuts and the loss of vacation. That the plant would close if they didn't accept Magna Powertrain's offer. And they weren't happy.

"It's not a message I wanted to deliver, and it was no place I wanted to be," UAW Local 624 President Scott Stanton said afterward. "It was tough to get that message out with all that anger in the room."




FOLLOW UP: March 5, 2009

Over the next four days workers rejected the contract 843 to 251, and Magna announced plans to close the plant. Now a 121-year-old company that survived world wars, a depression, recessions and a Chrysler bankruptcy is dead......

.....One man told the UAW officials on stage that they should all burn in hell....