Indecision is often worse than wrong action.~Henry Ford.

This is the fundamental problem with GM and what has happened. Everyone stood pat, as the world around them changed. Gas didn't suddenly spike 3 dollars over night. It was a gradual increase and GM did nothing to counteract these moves. Yes, they have the volt coming out, but who even knows if there will be a GM around for that to happen. The UAW could've helped matters had it not been so blinded by it's own agenda.

Indecision becomes decision over time. GM failed to do anything to stave off elimination and the American people made it's choice for them. We have moved on to smaller more efficient vehicles and we may never come back to SUV's for risk of driving gas prices back up.

And now they want the government to bail them out. Please, why should we give money to an industry that is obviously short sighted and irresponsible.

The Federal government should take that 700 billion and do what FDR did. Invest it in public works projects. We have roads, bridges, and other public facilities that are in dire need of upgrade/repair. These jobs will employ thousands of workers and at the same time change our landscape from the rotten facade it has slowly been allowed to become.

We want to build nations, while the land of the free erodes from the inside out.

Re my previous post, please wait through short advertisement for appropriate song for this thread.

http://www.npr.org/templates/player/medi...

The nature of warfare is always changing. The failure and reluctance to realize this simple fact has been the downfall of great powers throughout history.

The days of being able to build tanks at automotive facilities is long gone. The nature of modern warfare has replaced thousands of small, simple tanks with much fewer, sophisticated machines. Tanks, but no tanks.

chad_vader: There is only one organization estimating 3 million jobs lost, and it's the Center for Automotive Research. There has been no alternative examination of their conclusions, and their biggest cheerleader appears to be Michian Gov. Jennifer Granholm, who would hardly be objective. The media simply keeps repeating their singular opinion. That 3 million figure assumes the ENTIRE industry would collapse if only GM does.

I don't want GM to fail, but I fear they will, through Chapter 11, with or without our tax money. I prefere without.

As far as the flushing theme, I am going to blame that one on Joe the Plumber. ;-)

I agree that we need manufacturing jobs in this country and I think that it is a matter of national security. Our national defense depends upon our ability to produce goods to supply our troops in a time of war. With no manufacturing base, we will be at the mercy of our enemies and their ability to influence other countries not to supply us. This concern is one that I feel that our government is overlooking when they encourage the movement of our manufacturing base to other countries.

While we're discussing the closing of the plant in our town and GM loosing billions a month -- they (GM) opened a new plant in Russia last week. http://www.themoscowtimes.com/article/60...

garyprimer - I was just going off what you wrote. The cars are affordable and once the credit crunch lets up, vehicles will be sold in a decent market number. More unemployed (3 million by economists estimates) because of a collapse of the Big 3 will not help the economy. The credit fiasco caused by unregulation and no government oversight has put a squeeze on both domestic and imports because no one can get a loan. Not because they can't find a nice car they like. And we won't even get into the falsely inflated gas prices driven up by unregulated speculation ... There are multiple factors at work that have attacked the auto industry. But this is an industry worth keeping in America, as becoming a service and consumer economy is running our country down. we need manufacturing jobs too.
I hope that was the point ;)

If Toyotas and Hondas are so reliable, then why do they need repair shops? Drive by Hesser's and Rock County Honda, and you will see they are doing more than oil changes. I know a mechanic at Hesser's, and Toyotas have plenty of problems. The Japanese are much better at being secret about them. Also, the liberal media (who attended liberal anti-american colleges) report and write pro-foreign autos, and take any chance to bash an American one.

I own three GM vehicles, that is not the point.

garyprimer - first, there are many people who buy vehicles from the big 3 and LOVE them. All the foreign vehicles are not all the greatest as some like to imply. Yes, some have had bad experiences with GM/Ford/Chrysler vehicles but so have Toyota owners. In fact last year GM had less recalls than Toyota or Honda. There are many GM vehicles that get as good as gas mileage as Toyota. So your generalized statement is not really on target. Yes, Toyota is ahead on the hybrids and more small cars, but there are changes in the works to match them. And can you show where big 3 cars are more expensive , except for the cracker boxes that some imports are? Oranges to oranges.
I am not looking for the bailout to keep Janeville open, but to keep an estimated 3 million jobs going in the manafacturing sector. Changes still need to be made, but why flush the baby down with the bathwater (keeping with your flushing theme).

If someone would assure me that they could fix the leaky roof, then I might be more open to a bailout/loan.

I think it would be like fixing a wood floor, directly under a leaky roof.

If I thought for one minute that an influx of government cash would help to keep the Janesville plant open for a reasonable amount of time, I would absolutely support the initiative. Is there any reason to believe that would happen?

I feel for anyone that is losing their jobs, however, if I was a GM employee, which I'm not, I would be absolutely furious with GM and the management that controls the company. They proved how incapable they are at running a corporation successfully and should be ashamed.

Excuse me, that was a poor choice of words. I meant to say flushing money down a toilet.

What is your idea to "fix the problem"? You tell me why this isn't pouring money down a rat hole.

garyprimer - what is your idea to fix the problem? Keep in mind, several hundred thousand jobs hinge on your plan.

Please provide details to your idea.

Why should our government give money to a company that manufactures cars that no one can afford or wants to buy? What will they do with the cars that they make? Will the government buy them and give them to foreign countries? Will we subsidize dealerships to keep cars on their lots? Will we spend millions of dollars to rent land to store the unused cars like the trailers in the Katrina debacle?

Mocash, you should be ashamed of yourself for making such a comment about myself. I will ask that your comment be removed.

Jealousy is a terrible trait.

momof5- Thanks for the nice comments! As you saw, we have to work in some cold conditions sometimes even inside. Not exactly cushy.

Opinion80- why is AIG getting a break>?The wallstreet goons got way more golden parachutes than anybody. So why not help the auto industry too? It would severely affect the manafacturing base in america, and we cannot be just a consumer society. Do I as a tax payer like it. Well, it is all hard to take. But everyone forgets that Japan subsidized (and probably still does) Toyota when it was having problems. They apparently saw value in helping the local manufacturing base.

When total U.S. auto sales go from 16 million cars a year to 10 million, jobs will be lost, no matter what kind of bailout the government plans. GM does not have a business plan to make a profit, so how would they ever pay back loans? Also, the goverment can't magically increase demand for autos. A bailout is just delaying the inevitable, unfortunately, at the expense of taxpayers.

GM needs to go through a traditional chapter 11 reorganization, and come out smaller and leaner. GM has too many brands, too many models, too many dealers, and a high cost of laber (until 2010). Yes, some suppliers will also close, but with total auto sales down by 6 million vehicles per year, those suppliers will close anyway.

This isn't the death of the auto industry, just the death of a U.S. auto company as we know it today. Factories of the popular models will stay open. Suppliers of those models will stay open. Ford and the transplants will pick up the slack (there is no help for Chrysler). The transition will be long, painful and expensive, but also inevitable.

I have a life,do you mean for Janesville or GM staying in Janesville?

I have a life, please clarify your comment. Thank you.

Chad - I have heard what the economists say but it still really bothers me that GM lied to the State of WI to get the training grants we gave them and still chose to close the Janesville plant. I do not feel confident that they will be any more honest repaying the "loan" they are now trying to swindle the US Government out of.

I wasn't too happy with the bank bail outs but understand the Government has to keep money flowing or we will fall into a deep recession if not a depression. I don't think bailing out every big industry in the country is the answer to our economic woes however. Somewhere, we have to put our foot down and say 'Hey, you got yourself into this mess, get yourself out of it'.

The average American is forced to file for bankruptcy and not have access to any form of credit for years afterward when they get themselves into situations like this. Why should a large corporation that chooses not to make good decisions be somewhat rewarded?

PS--Joker: The Janesville Mall is a "C" mall--was even before the GM announcement came down. I predict there will be retailers who will close in the next 6-18 months (which NO retail complex is immune to right now), but I do not forsee the structure as a whole going belly up in 2010-2011. If a big box retailer announces a closure in Jan of 09, I again doubt it will come as a surprise to many in the area. I too have already heard the whispers of such a closure.
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As far as Lear, LSI, etc..., I feel bad for ALL involved in these closures. However, Lear employees are fairing better than many of the other suppliers. I realize, before everyone starts throwing stones at me, that they do not get the sup pay that GM gets: only the $355 from UEC. However, they do get 2 years of schooling. If you work or worked at Lear and were "laid off" during 2008, and you didn't know of this, look into it NOW. Because 4 jobs were lost from the weldshop to Canada in Feb of 08, Lear employees qualify for the TRA benefit from the federal government.
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In the end, pointing fingers and lauging at another's plight is not going to save "you" from this recession and uncertainty. "You" may dislike GM and can be glad that Janesville is finally rid of the ugly bow-tie monster who once occupied 1000 Industrial Avenue. However, to MANY MANY MANY others, that "monster" was a way of life for many generations. Try and have some compassion! The plant closing could be equated to a death to some of these workers, retirees and families. And, you can assume that by "plant" I mean just GM itself, but I don't. GM-Janesville involes SO much MORE than just the few million square footage campus. Those involved with producing these trucks know that they are important to the overall process, whether they punch a clock on Industrial Drive, Delavan Drive or Enterprise Drive, in Janesville or Brodhead. Not everyone has an inflated ego like you, joker, and needs a constant pat on the back or recognition.

Red and Opinon 80, well said. Socialism is around the corner.

Chad, you finally admit that you work at GM. Figures with all of your bashing of anyone who dares question GM workers. Perhaps the auto industry should fail. It has failed America, including workers such as yourself. A severance package has been promised. But we know what GM promises are worth.

Woodsman, I understand that GM is the straw that stirs the drink. But their workers are no more important than any other worker. To believe or argue otherwise is stupid.

lakennedy: I went on the tour yesterday morning with my 2 sons. It was very bittersweet. The news really didn't hit me until I drove in the parking lot and in through the double doors. Waiting to sign our names to the visitor's sheet in the lobby, you could see Suburbans, Tahoes and Yukons rolling their way to completion on the line. We were given a ticket and then entered a conference room. A large projector was at the front of the room with a slide show in black and white. It contained a lot of history. From the inception of the plant in 1919, to the 100 millionth car. The tram tour, guided by a UAW retiree volunteer, was very cool--even from an adult's eyes. My sons marveled at the robots and conveyor belts above us carrying the doors and other parts to the truck right below it. It really was awesome and I am glad I took the boys to see it before it was too late. It certainly gave me deeper appreciation for not only what goes into the vehicles we drive everyday, but what goes on "down there." Seeing raw steel rear tailgates stacked in crates by the hundreds and right across the line seeing a tailgate painted and on a nearly fully assembled SUV: it was a marvel. Our favorite was "the claw" that dipped the body onto the chassis. The real marvel to that was remembering the black and white photo from the 50s and 60s during the slide show: an Impala was shown being manually "pinned" together.
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Of course there was no way to take the 15 minute tram ride by every department in the plant or passed all 1200+ workers. But if some of the nay-sayers on here were on the tour and saw what I did, there is no way they could continue to say that "they" do crossword puzzles, read newspapers and screw around for 10 hours a day.
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Walking into the plant, watching management(including "MaryFanning") interact, the retirees who guided the tours and of course the workers: one couldn't help but get caught up in the pride that is exuded at GM-Janesville. It made me all the more proud to drive a locally built Yukon.
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Someone on here had said that the majority of the Janesville trucks are made for export. And, at the time, that statement was met with a lot of criticism and disbelief. I'd say 80% of the Tahoes and Suburbans I saw roll off the line had "FOR EXPORT ONLY" stickers instead of the traditional US mandated window price sticker. (They were also mostly all champagne in color and had NO tinting to the windows, as our tour guide "Bob" pointed out.) So, I don't buy that this plant is closing because of the U.S. economy and/or gas prices after I saw that. I speculate there is more going on behind the curtains in Detroit than meets the eye: obviously.
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My one piece of advice though: DON'T leave your jacket in the car. I did and was shivering by the end of the tour.
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I think we can all take a life lesson away from the tour with us: solidarity and pride.

Joker- try reading my post again, if you can see past your self inflated ego. I did say it would be a hardship for the suppliers too. Quit talking about GM workers and what they think, something you know nothing about. I don't think you know about Janesville before Sampson Tractor / GM came in with good jobs, so quit acting like an expert. And so far we have not been offered a severance package. Duh!

Red - good FORWARD thinking!
Opinion80 - I hear what you say, but economists estimate 3 million jobs lost if the big three go down. (that includes suppliers/ dealers/ect.) Plus those 3 million jobs are supplying money into the economy as consumers. That would be quite a loss. I did read where GM execs would not get bonuses/pay raises/ ect. if given the loans, so there would be no robbing the bankroll. Just something to mull over.

JOKE: People worry about G.M. so much,because if it wasn't for G.M. Lear & LSI,and other trickle down suppliers, Would not be in the equation,RIGHT! Not that they are less concerned about,no big dog,no little dogs,the way it works.

GM promised Wisconsin they would keep employment levels in Janesville at a certain level when the state granted them over 5 million dollars for training. Since they did not live up to their end of the bargain, are they paying the State of WI anything back? I doubt it, so why should the tax paying citizens of this country trust them to pay back a "loan" to keep them afloat in these hard economic times? The Government can't bail out every citizen so why should the corporations with execs taking huge golden parachute payments etc. be given a free ride.

The best hope for the soon to be defunct Janesville assembly plant might be in manufacturing wind turbines and solar panels for the "green energy" initiatives that will be forthcoming from Washington. The big 3 auto manufacturers are already so far gone that even a government bailout is not certain to turn things around. Don't worry about losing your GM health insurance. The health insurance system in the United States is on the verge of total collapse just like the financial banks on Wall Street have collapsed. The government will step in and provide some kind of health insurance for all Americans. The beginning of the shift from employer funded to government-funded healthcare is just around the corner. We are all going to have to tighten our belts and stop spending beyond our means. Credit will become increasingly difficult to come by and maybe that is a good thing. It was the lure of easy credit that steered us from a society based on savings to a society based on spending. It's probably time that we stopped looking to money and the things it buys to make us happy and learn the proven qualities of self-reliance, self-sufficiency, genuine brotherly love, civil service, patience, meekness, faith, hope, charity, love, etc. The coming times will be difficult but they will also provide an opportunity for real personal and social growth.

Woodsman, first, please learn to spell. Second of all, the terms of the deal are not certain. It may not be a loan. One report has GM offering stock for the government to buy. So please do not jump to conclusions. Even if it is a loan, GM has a poor record of paying loans back. Is GM paying back the money Gov. Doyle gave the company? I don't think so.

Chad, I am sad that GM is closing and will impact many families. Yet very few who have been laid off recently have such a nice severance package. And Janesville has survived before GM and will survive after GM leaves. GM is not the only business in our city Chad. You and others constantly think GM employees are more important than any other workers.

Where is your concern for Lear, LSI and many other smaller company employees who have lost their jobs? These people are suffering as well. But in many people's minds, GM employees are what we should worry about. Spare me!

JOKE why do YOU always read things wrong?? You say your always right,but what part of always don't you understand? IT IS A LOAN,THEIR IS A DIFFERENCE.

Woodsman, just so you know, thejoker ,aka* Caca de Toro, called me the same stuff. He can't even come up with new insults. Joker - No, I am not Sheridan. People give you dirty looks because you are driving around with your underwear on your head.

It is nice to see so many people come out and tour the plant. There is a lot of wonderful history there. Some families have generations that have worked there.Thanks to those who really care and understand that the plant closing is not just a hardship on the workers at GM and it's suppliers, but for the whole community.

I agree Shopiere, it is very sad and it will be a very long and bumpy road to recovery. Janesville will never be the same and many lean years are ahead for us.

What do you think about the bailout of the auto companies? Are you in favor?

It's very sad to see this plant close, and how it will negatively affect so many, the GM employees, the suppliers' employees and others. And then the "trickle down" that will affect so many in the retail sector, the service sector, the food industry, restaurants, grocery stores, etc.

All of that for the local economy, coupled with a national economy that is on a nosedive, is going to make for some rough times, likely worse than any of us have ever seen. Buckle your seatbelts, folks.

What if everyone clicks "suggest removal" on all his posts? Hmmmm, sounds crazy, but it might just work.
OK, everyone!

Woodsman, why so serious? Why so negative?

Your most recent post is so dumb, I won't even respond.

The JOKER is just like a little kid starving for attention. Listen people,if you just ignore him,maybe he will go away! Joke says he's NEVER wrong,must be lonely living alone ALL YOUR LIFE. A sad waste of air,you are. Don't respond,LALalalalalalalalal!

Ok, following CJ's point, here is a topic. Should the government bail out the auto companies? Should they loan them money? If so, on what terms? More environment friendly cars,etc?

CJ, I agree. Stick to the point local boy. Nice gutter talk too. You really show your ignorance. I wish people would give me the respect I deserve and am entitled to.

Lulu, a big box store will announce closing in early 2009 and then the Mall will start to lose tenants. By early 2010, it will be all over for the Mall. I hate to see this but it is already starting to happen.

Localboy you want a point.... OK neither you or Joker are adding anything to this post but your need to read each others insults. This story was about taking the last tours of GM Janesville. It has nothing to do with who has the best contacts or whos rumors better that the other ones. The plant closing effects alot of people in this town including me and my wife. So stick to the story that was posted not the insults.

localboy - If, according to news reports, GM may run out of operating money soon, just how do you think they would pay back a loan? The 25-50 billion the auto industry is asking for indeed does sound like a bail out to me.

TheJoker - God you are obnoxious! Good thing the Gazette does not discrimate against jacka@*'s.

MaryFanning - please excuse TheJoker. You are not the only one he despises.

Great another thread with the joke talking about his "sources"... When did you say the mall was going to close down again? I want to hit that clearance.

MaryFanning - the people of Janesville should and will thank you for your tireless work put forth in coordinating this event. You will most inevitably bring back fond memories for many, and create new ones for even more, for all who take this tour. I am sure the employees are even grateful to share the exposure to the public on what they were able to do everyday while making a living. Most employees are very proud to let the public watch them work. Again, a huge thanks to you!!

Mary, what are you really saying? Sounds like corporate double talk and denial to me.

Did anyone here go on the tour yet? If so, how was it?

Contracts and agreements mean nothing to GM, local boy. Thought you were smarter than that.

My sources are telling me that any start up on January 5th is doubtful. Hate to be the bearer of bad news but I tell it like it is.

TheJoker - so come January 5th, when the Isuzu lines starts up, can I call you out for the dealer of false information you are? By the way, Isuzu and GM have a contract, that would be costly for GM to void, since they don't have the extra money to pay the penalty. This contract is good until June 3rd, 2009. Tell your unreliable sources that.

I was unable to respond to these direct queries as I was helping to orchestrate another hectic, yet successful "Heritage Day." I should preface this response by reiterating my intention for participation in this blog was/is to answer inquiries pertaining to our heritage event and will continue to be such in the future.

Yes, we have two production lines at Janesville Assembly. Line 1 produces full-size SUVs and line 3, in a joint venture with Isuzu, produces low cab forward medium duty trucks. It has also been reported that production for line 3 is expected to last until May, 2009.

The communications department of Janesville Assembly is not responsible for inaccuracies posted in this public forum or any other. The comments in Ms. Idzerda's story are her own, unless otherwise attributed. Accurate information pertaining to the plant is conveyed in myriad materials, including: site fact sheets, event brochures, presentations, press releases and most importantly - employee communiqué.

Thank you to the (approximately) 1,200 community members whom toured during the past two "Heritage Days." We look forward to commemorating our history with UAW/GM retirees and inactive employees tomorrow.

Local boy, my sources are reliable. Trust me.

Lynda, if you actually believe the world is coming to an end for you and your children, then you are really a joke. Please go back to your gnashing of teeth and crying because the gravy train at GM is over.

I am allowed to be full of myself because I am always right.

cjjs35 - Mary's employer is really not a point. She was still hired to be the communication manager for the Janesville plant. What is your point?

cjjs - Gary is splitting his time between both plants, with his primary focus on his new assignment. This for all purposes means he is gone and removed from daily business. That was my meaning.

Local Boy- The plant manager is not gone. The assistant plant manager was transfered to another plant in the same position. Mary Fanning doe not even work for GM allthough she speaks for GM she really is a contract employee.

Oh and: Get over yourself.

Joker, you live up to your handle. You are a joke and a bad one at that. You run your mouth off, yet noting of value comes out that makes anyone think you are anything but nasty, mean sprited person. You must have had a bad life. Too bad....

Sorry - adament.

TheJoker - you are something else. I don't believe you when you say that you have reliable sources. There isn't any such thing at GM Janesville unless you are the plant manager (he's gone)or Mary Fanning. Therefore - nobody on this post should read your "facts" which are really not true.

Lynda, I know,the truth hurts. Ever hear of free speech? Were you serious in your earlier post?

Local boy, first learn to spell. Second of all, cry me a river! 52 jobs is only 52 jobs. Yes, 52 families. But it is nothing compared to the big picture of people losing jobs and homes. DHL will putting 8,000 people out of work at a shipping center in Ohio. Now that is pain. Regardless, GM employees have a great severance package. They just won't be able to keep all of their toys.

Spark, keep up with the good posts. I am with you.

If anyone gave me a dirty look driving a non GM car, they should be ashamed of themselves. This is a free country.

Chad, are you really Mike Sheridan? I ask because you sound as dumb and whiny as he is.

For those who don't know, the Joker is just a sad sack that likes to start flame wars on this site. Instead of adding quality comments about the article, he delves into childish rants and anti-GM rhetoric. If ignorance is bliss, he must be the happiest person on the planet.
This is a sad time for many families in Janesville, and only a loser would kick people while they are down.

I was talking about the "Big 3"-he (or she) said Ford, I said Ford, Chrysler or GM product (when talking about the GM parking lot). There was no difference as far as what you could drive or where you could park it.

I realize the worker's had a separate lot for foreign vehicles. Not sure how I feel about that-I guess I would look at it the same as if your boss at Burger King (for example) made you eat your McDonald's lunch in the back room. He still let you eat it on the premises-just didn't let you parade it around the dining room.

Correct me if I am wrong but wasn't Lear the only one who got the Trade Assistance package to pay for schooling. GM and LSI were denied.

RUserious- You do realize there was a sign over at the union building that said no foreign cars were allowed to be parked there.

noteworthy-you can't be serious! You begrudge these people who've worked 30-40 or more years their pensions and insurance?! You feel they are looking callously at those yet to be laid off because they may not see 30-40 years? You feel bad for those that won't get that far-don't you realize that they intended to enjoy those same benefits for working for it a full half of their lives? Just what do you want from the American worker? 35 years and then assisted suicide?

chemical-6-do you mean comical 6? Fords, Chevrolets, Chryslers all parked side by side in the parking lots. Just who gave you the looks? Maybe because you were carrying a weapon because of your wild imagination? Just like the person who said they got threatening looks driving down local streets in their foreign car.

What a classic picture of what the GM plant stands(stood) for - a retiree making 30k/year pension with more health insurance than most working people of today riding around on a cart looking at all the unfortunate workers losing their jobs next month. The retirees have seen the best financial times throughout their life and put GM into bankruptcy. I hope their last tour satisfies their greed.

ihavealife - like I said, I don't know how much they're covering. Point being, they're paying for it regardless of how much. Not many companies would do that, so they should be happy.

TheJoker - "a puny 52 jobs, who cares?" You can't be for real. You must know that their are 52 families (homes, food, clothing) behind those 52 jobs. Every job is important and worth saving. Now you are saying that you "doubt" they will be there that long. Which is it. First you were adamanet (per your sources)that you knew that they were done in a "few weeks". You have to get your story straight.

Irishlady - I need to clarify for everybody about the money GM/Ford are seeking from the Government. First, it is not a bailout. The financial industry situation was a bailout. The federal government is responsible for the security of our currency. When these financial institutions failed, it was the feds responsibility to ensure the security of our currency. They had no choice but to bailout these banks, in exchange for part ownership which was the long term payback on the money. Second, the auto industry is looking for a LOAN. Loans need to be paid back. Neither auto company is looking for part ownership by the feds. Third, since currently the feds have complete control of all of the money, nobody has the $50B to loan the auto companies. This is why they went to the feds. The press has conviently started a smear campaign and fear by calling it a "bailout" which the public is tired and fed up with the mess wall street companies have made. Fourth, auto dealerships need to floorplan (temp finance) their stock. This is done by the auto companies. They don't have the money to loan the dealerships, or offer financing to prospective buyers, and so on. Can you see the viscous circle? Please do not consider the money the auto industry is seeking as a bailout. If the auto companies had money, they probably would spend money on a PR campaign to educate the public (tax payers), but they can't afford it. I just wish the media was more honest with their reporting, especially in the most important headlines, which is what people only see sometimes.

Joker: You are a cruel person. Why don't you just get off here and let people with some common sense (not you) blog.

GM kinda sucks. I drove in there with a Ford Taurus one day... lol ... Man, the looks of hatred I got!! I felt like someone was going to whack me. They are a bunch of overpaid-overworked-out of a job-people that unfortunately will suck up whatever "package" they were able to get and then they will have to do something else. Whatever.

As usual, I am talking with children and feeble minds. Local boy, I cracked up with your article. A puny 52 jobs? Who cares? I also doubt they will be there that long. So many promises have been made by the auto industry and UAW, and they are all pipe dreams.

Lynda, please tell me you are kidding or a 5 year old wrote your post? If you did write this, then my first point on this post has been proven.

First of all, they are paying for a lot of schooling. How much, I don't know. I know of a few people they are doing this for. Second of all, our children not being able to work at GM is not the end of the World. There is more out there people. Everyone should be encouraged to further an education growing up. Why wouldn't they? Grow and prosper in Janesville? So if you don't work at GM, you can't grow? Are people really that brainwashed with GM?

Nice article. One thing I would like to mention is GM wanting millions from the government Why not go to the UAW they have billions and are they not the UNITED AUTO WORKERS. The workers including myself paid in now the union needs to help the workers and give back and help get something going for the members of this fine union, Why should the government and tax payers always have to bail out companies that dont look to the future when they know what is upfront.....IMO

Everybody needs to quit belly aching about G.M and the poor people who work there or worked there and move on, our country in whole is in a said state of affairs.

Our children will never have the chance to work at GM, therefore, they will need further education to really get anywhere in life. It won't be their life in Janesville, so we will lose our children to the areas where they can grow and prosper. We will be the poorer for it. So sad.

Wow, it baffles me that 'adults' are still bickering about this. Oh wait, maybe if we bicker back and forth long enough, the 'commoners' will get the final say so over the big corporate world.

It's nice seeing all of you bickering back and forth like my children. What nobody ever talks about is what is really going to happen to GM employees. Yes, they are losing their jobs, and that is sad, however, they will be getting almost full weekly pay, without working, until their contract is up, which I believe is 2010, but don't quote me on that. I have a friend that has worked there for years and she is going back to school to get a degree. Did I mention that she is getting almost $50,000 from either the State or GM (not sure who is footing the bill for that) to pay her tuition? I sure wish I could spend the next 2 years getting full pay, not having to work, and having someone pay my tuition to get a college degree. Yes it is sad, but don't make it sound like all these employees are going to be on the streets begging for food because I don't see that happening for a while.

you are totally right spark

TheJoker - http://gazettextra.com/news/2008/oct/24/...

It is a report from the Gazette, so it must be true.

Well said Jim P. Spark-GM wrecked GM, UAW wrecked GM and the workers wrecked GM.

Woodsman, if you don't have anything nice to say, well, then don't say anything at all. You are just jealous.

Local Boy, wake up please. ALL production of cars is ending at the end of this year. That is a few weeks. I don't need to drop names. I am a name and I am in the "inside". All of my sources have been correct.

What report are you talking about regarding
production continuing until June? Is it the same one that said GM would not be closing.

You really have no idea what you are talking about. I suggest you refrain from making any more silly comments.

Yes, it is sad that such an icon will soon be no longer in the City of Janesville. It is sad that an industry thought to be almost bulletproof has begun to fall. However, these employees aren't exactly being just left out in the cold. If I recall the article that ran a few weeks ago correctly, they will be receiving severance packages that are quite lucrative. Something like 90% of their salary for the next two years. That's not exactly being left high and dry.
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Don't get me wrong, I know these folks worked darn hard at the GM plant. And they deserve to be treated well, they've earned it. I'm not begrudging their efforts nor their compensation at all. Nor am I jealous. It wasn't like those jobs were nice, cushy office jobs.
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But I won't be shedding any tears for GM. The days of graduating high school and getting a job at the local factory until retirement have been gone a long time now. People need to learn how to adapt and change with the times.

Gas is $2.19 now. Gas didn't destroy GM. GM destroyed GM.

It is sad to think about this place closing, but perhaps it will see another day. There are still a lot of people who would rather buy a good GM truck than some little toy that can barely pull a trailer. What is surprising to me is that two key events seem to be the focus of the blame for closing this plant. One is of course the price of gas back in the summer. The other is the demise of the credit markets. We have already seen that oil prices don't necessarily stay put since a good chunk of it is pure speculation. The credit crunch will come to an end as well, and I'm sure the market will recover.

What GM needs to do now is concentrate on a smaller range of products that can be built cheaper, have a bit higher mileage, and for gods sake, have a real market. I owned three Jimmys because they were good trucks and my wife could climb in the passenger seat without a ladder. When I went back to GMC for a replacement, guess what? They did not have anything small. The SUV's they had were $40K monsters with 4 TV screens. Chrysler has a similar problem with the Jeep except they did have the good sense to bring in the Liberty.

Remember the volkswagon? They made millions of them that looked the same year after year to save costs and they kept the line rolling.

Good luck to all of you that worked there.

Joke you SHOULD live by the RULE,ONLY beleave half of what you see,and nothing in what you hear! Then you will be atleast half right & half wrong! Isn't a few more weeks,just like for awhile?? sounds the same to meeeeeeee! RUDE,not yet!!

TheJoker - you can't even spell Isuzu properly, and you wan't us to take you seriously? Everybody thinks they know somebody who knows the inside scoop at GM. The town is full of name droppers. Even GM workers think they have the inside scoop. Everybody wants to feel important. Isuzu (it was reported)is working until June. That is more than a couple of weeks. Therefore you have no facts other than some loose talk. By the way, nobody on this post mentioned anything about Isuzu retooling. The question was about the medical department turning off the light (presumably closing), when there is still production, and workers that could possibly use the medical department.

thediplomat - how did you read into my comment that I thought it was good for people to lose those things, when I also said I'm glad GM is finally leaving, and don't let the door them them on the way out? I said the exact opposite of what you think. It's bad that people are losing everything, and I'm not happy about it, and for that I say I'm happy GM is leaving. My friends worked at GM, and are losing. What about the value of our homes in the future? I didn't have a lot of money in GM stock, but that's mostly gone, too. Then you made some remark about my knowledge of local economics, and made a reference that I'm on welfare, or something. Where is your head at? My head is reading the latest news about
GM:

Despite the down economy, falling gas prices have driven consumers back to the sport utility vehicles they once gave the cold shoulder.
Workers at General Motor's Arlington, Texas, SUV assembly plant began working overtime this month and are scheduled to remain on overtime for the rest of the year. -WSOCTV

It doesn't seem like GM cares much for Janesville.

The Joker Did you just step off the short bus?

The Gazette has published this story with only half of the story in the name of sensationalism, which will reap sales. It is more exciting to report that "The GM assembly plant will fall silent for the first time in nearly 100 years". It isn't exciting to report only the 900 side will close, and production will still run on the Isuzu side. Again, the media is in control of information, and information is power. The truth often is not sensational. Catherine did not report the whole story, therefore she didn't do her job fully.

Local boy, you have a lot of nerve to call me a liar. I always speak the facts and truth, unlike people here who drink the koolaid for the elite of Janesville. Of course I knew about Izuzu building here in Janesville. I am challenging the belief that Izuzu is going to retool the GM plant and continue to build cars. They are not going to do it and anybody who thinks otherwise is a fool.

Woodsman, you need to get some manners and speak the truth. Izuzu is only going to build a few more weeks, not "for awhile". Wake up! And I have many sources in the plant-both management and the union.

Psycho nurse, how dare you call Sannio jealous? You do not know anything about him. Seems like anytime someone questions GM workers, they are considered jealous and haters. I am not jealous and a hater. I speak common sense. The workers have made their bed and now have to lie in it. There are plenty of other people out of work and suffering. Spare me the pity routine about GM workers.

We are all affected by this and that is why commerce, schools and population are all going to suffer greatly. Face it Janesville, it will get worse before it gets better.

MaryFanning - are you reading these posts? That is the main reason GM has a communication department. It is to release accurate, and reliable information. If you don't release the whole information, people like TheJoker go running around town misinforming people.

TheJoker - Isuzu and GM have been building a joint commercial truck in Janesville since late 1993. Again, if you are not able to provide facts, please refrain from comments that are perceived as facts, but keep your comments to opinion only. If you read the news, you would know of this joint venture. Again, another person (TheJoker) making comments that are not true.

Sannio you are one of those people who are jealous of what the employees of GM have! Get over it! We have to stand behind our community, and remember this will be affecting everyone whether you work there or not!!!!

Like i said joke: You have "NO" clue in what goes on in the plant! The Isuzu has been building trucks for YEARS here,IT IS THE LINE THAT WILL BUILD for awhile yet! Just shut up! Sorry don't drink & don't kill,just protect!

Woodsman, what the heck are you talking about? You make no sense. Izuzu is not coming to build cars in Janesville.

I would suggest you quit drinking and go find Bambi to shoot in your precious woods.

JOKE;You are,if you don't know what your talking about,be gone! IZUZU is already here DAAAAAAA! SANNIO: You can leave too,you must be a very depressing person to be around,the both of you. BYE BYE!!!

Local Boy, what are you talking about? Izuzu is not coming to Janesville. Please face reality. Auto production is over in Janesville. You should be ashamed of yourself with spreading rumors and false information.

sannio,

What is good about people losing their pensions, healthcare, and stock? You will end up paying for it in taxes by the increased used of government social services. Of course, judging by your knowlege of local economics you won't have to pay since you are probably already using them.

In reading this story today,i am saddened for the lose of this plant & the workers. Life will go on,but life WILL NEVER be the same for the people or this town. This is suppose to be a day of remembrance of our hero's,past and present,but it feels like a very hurtful lose. I to have family that worked their,and family that had to move away,and thoughts of NEVER having another family member getting a chance at a good way of life. Some kinds of change is good,but this kind of change takes away the belief of the american dream,something "IS" wrong,when americans feel like life is going in reverse. GOOD LUCK TO ALL MY BROTHERS & SISTERS.

But they have each other, their life, and this is America. So they do have hope.

For now, at least.

It will be good not to have Janesville under the thumb of GM anymore. Everyone will lose their retirement, GM stock, health care, and everything they've worked for. Get out of Janesville, and don't let the door hit you on the way out.

Will the medical sign light be turned off for the Isuzu department people? The medical department will not be needed for them until next June?

By the way posters, the Isuzu line will still continue production until next June. Only a portion of the plant (Suburban line) will be shut down.

Mary, you are on the inside. Do you know the answers to these questions?

Come gather 'round people
Wherever you roam
And admit that the waters
Around you have grown
And accept it that soon
You'll be drenched to the bone.
If your time to you
Is worth savin'
Then you better start swimmin'
Or you'll sink like a stone
For the times they are a-changin'.

Tours are available today from 8 a.m. until the end of production, with the exception of lunch. Tomorrow is reserved for retirees and inactive employees. Walking tours of any sort are NOT permitted this week. Thank you for your understanding and cooperation.

It truly is sad to see such a city icon go away. Good luck to those who will now need to find new employment. Although hindsight is 20/20, it is sad that the city of Janesville didn't attract other business to the area throughout the years so this would not have as big of an economic impact.