To the Editor,
First of all, I would like to thank the Newton Daily News for their editorial on Friday, July 29, titled “Altering Maytag retiree’s benefits not honorable.” I have written similar opinions over the years, not only about the retirement benefits but also about the demise of the Maytag Company.
I believe the demise of the Maytag Company was also dishonorable. Several years ago I wrote a letter to Harvard and “60 Minutes” asking them to do a study of the demise of the once-great fortune 500 Maytag Company. I will not mention the individuals that made me suspect there were dishonorable actions concerning the Maytag factory closing in Newton. I think those who worked there know of what I speak. Do you remember when the Maytag stock peaked above $75 dollars a share? Did you ever wonder who really profited from that overpriced stock, and how? Didn’t it also seem funny to you that some folks seem to have had two places they called their company and/or work place? I wonder why the powers that be did not look into these Benedict Arnold red flags.
Anyway, I actually feel more happened than just cutting of benefits; It actually killed a few folks because of not being able to afford the insurance. They probably did not see doctors when they needed to.
Folks, this final ruling by the court is no doubt all about money and not having the proper language in the contract to satisfy the judge. So, blue and white collar workers, my message is to all unions — it seems to me we dare not depend on laymen to do the work on our contracts. We evidently need a group of lawyers negotiating and checking our contracts. Good faith, verbal and poorly worded contracts will not protect the little people from the greed of our corporate and political corrupt world. Once upon a time, a handshake and one’s word stood up in courtrooms. This is not the way it works today, my friends.
James Wilson McKinstry
Newton