Two-hundred-20 people typically work inside the plant with another 140 on layoff. All of them are outside for the time being. They're getting food, firewood, and moral support from friends and neighbors.
Retiree Bruce Bayliss says, "I've been out here more than I've been home. Just supporting the people I've worked with over the years. Gotta help 'em out."
A union spokesperson says a contract extension expired last week. She explained Titan Tire locked out workers in Bryan, in Des Moines, Iowa and in Freeport, Illinois on Friday night.
Thursday, roughly 1,000 union members will vote on a contract proposal. Until then, they're staying put.
If union members approve the new contract, they'll go back to work Monday. If not, it could mean more cold nights off the job and on the street.
We placed a phone call to a spokesperson for Titan Tire and we are waiting for the company to reply.
