Tropicana Products / QTG / PepsiCo How can those guys down in Florida be so bold and get away with it day after day, night after night? Bradenton Florida

Parker. My mistake. The Coast Guard is part of the Dept of Homeland Security as you stated. I didn't check with Wikipedia as you seem to have. Your posting looks like a cut/paste from there - I did check this morning (grin)

I gave away my age. I left the military in 1992. I forgot about the new bureaucracy that was added after 911.

Combat controller is a unique animal. No other branch of the military has anything like it that I'm aware of. PJ or pararescue is another combat AFSC which is what I think you're referring to. If ya have some free time, look up "combat controller."

Now, Wikipedia aside, when I was in the military, we had a little mandatory training requirement called PME, professional military education - there was a seperate test administered as a promotion qualification. Never heard of 5 branches of the armed forces as Wikipedia describes it (and prior to 2001 the USCG was part of DOT.)

I know the Marines like to think they are seperate and that Wiki states that they are part of the Navy for administrative purposes - don't believe everything in Wiki.

The US military has a chain of command. It goes something like this: The Marine Corps falls under the Secretary of the Navy. There is no secretary of the Marine Corp and the Commandant of the Marine Corp is directly under the Secretary of the Navy. In other words, the Sec of Navy DIRECTS the USMC and all other components of the Navy. I know that the USMC does it's own recruiting and stuff, but it still is under the Sec. of the Navy.

In this context, and as taught during PME training at the time, there are 3 branches of the DOD. If I were to use the politically correct logic of the Wiki article then the Air Force Technical Application Center (AFTAC) which I was a member of for a number of years would also be a seperate "branch." In reality, AFTAC is a seperate operating agency.

I think you're also right about there not being a definitive statement about these "branches" Sorta reminds me about a certain President who answered a question under oath with "...it depends on what your definition of the word is, is..."
(grin)

I agree Robert, the parajumpers (I believe thats what there called) could stand toe to toe with anyone out there, I also came across several of the Air Force security forces guarding convoys in Iraq and they were very good at what they did. My remarks were directed more towards the poster who was throwing around his service in the Air Force as a mechanic like he was combat infantry and fighting wars on a daily basis. After 9/11 the USCG control was transfered from DOT to homeland defense, But I see your point and you are correct.

I agree Robert, the parajumpers (I believe thats what there called) could stand toe to toe with anyone out there, I also came across several of the Air Force security forces guarding convoys in Iraq and they were very good at what they did. My remarks were directed more towards the poster who was throwing around his service in the Air Force as a mechanic like he was combat infantry and fighting wars on a daily basis. After 9/11 the USCG control was transfered from DOT to homeland defense, But I see your point and you are correct.

I agree Robert, the parajumpers (I believe thats what there called) could stand toe to toe with anyone out there, I also came across several of the Air Force security forces guarding convoys in Iraq and they were very good at what they did. My remarks were directed more towards the poster who was throwing around his service in the Air Force as a mechanic like he was combat infantry and fighting wars on a daily basis. After 9/11 the USCG control was transfered from DOT to homeland defense, But I see your point and you are correct.

I agree Robert, the parajumpers (I believe thats what there called) could stand toe to toe with anyone out there, I also came across several of the Air Force security forces guarding convoys in Iraq and they were very good at what they did. My remarks were directed more towards the poster who was throwing around his service in the Air Force as a mechanic like he was combat infantry and fighting wars on a daily basis. After 9/11 the USCG control was transfered from DOT to homeland defense, But I see your point and you are correct.

Parker, I agree that all are part of US "armed forces," however;

The Marine Corp. is part of the Department of the Navy.

The Coast Guard is part of the Department of Transportation.

I'm not gonna debate what the definition of "branch" is. All are part of our armed forces. Just to set the record straight, the Department of Defense has 3 main branches; Army, Navy, and Air Force.

If you're ever interested, I would suggest you research "combat controller" in the Air Force - you might find it enlightening. Not everyone in the Air Force flys a chair.

heres what i found Robert:

"The United States armed forces, are the military services of the United States. The term 'United States Armed Forces' is used inconsistently and without ever being clearly defined in parts of Title 10 of the United States Code. In general, it refers to the five active components, or more commonly known as, branches of the military services of the United States:

U.S. Army
U.S. Marine Corps
U.S. Navy
U.S. Air Force
U.S. Coast Guard

All branches are part of the United States Uniformed Services and are under civilian control with the President serving as commander-in-chief. All branches except the Coast Guard are part of the Department of Defense, which is under the authority of the Secretary of Defense, who is also a civilian. The Coast Guard falls under the authority of the Department of Homeland Security. During wartime, the Coast Guard may be placed under the Department of Defense through the Department of the Navy in times of need acting as a service to the Navy.[2]

Take that as you will, if i'm somehow wrong then i'll admit it. It looks like 4 fall under DOD, but they are all branches of the military.

The second post isnt even worthy of a response.

"nice try steve
Not going to work Steve, its too late for that. Look at your language in the above posts, I am not the one who needs to grow up.

The simple fact is that once any judge sees a copy of this report (and im sure they will) any case you have will be laughed at, and tropicana knows this. This post shows what kind of person you really are. Call me so many derogatory names and Insult the USAR (the people that have gave their blood and are continuing to do so to fight terrorism for ungratefuls like you that sit and have alway sat BEHIND the lines).

Congratulations Steve, you lost."

But I will say you certainly look like a stalker.

When I left the "chair force" as you put it in 1992 there were only 3 branches to DOD. Army, Navy, and Air Force.

I would like to know what the other 2 branches are supposed to be....

You constantly say the reserve is NOT the army, right? WRONG

The Army is ONE of the 5 branches of the military

There are 3 COMPONENTS to the ARMY.

1.) Active Duty
2.) Army Reserve
3.) Army National Guard


They are ALL the UNITED STATES ARMY. This is a fact. But then again, what would YOU know about the ARMY?

Not going to work Steve, its too late for that. Look at your language in the above posts, I am not the one who needs to grow up.

The simple fact is that once any judge sees a copy of this report (and im sure they will) any case you have will be laughed at, and tropicana knows this. This post shows what kind of person you really are. Call me so many derogatory names and Insult the USAR (the people that have gave their blood and are continuing to do so to fight terrorism for ungratefuls like you that sit and have alway sat BEHIND the lines).

Congratulations Steve, you lost.

Parker,

The bottom line here is that you sought me out, and you started with demeaning comments and insults. Not me.

We are now way off the original topic at hand. None of this is productive and I am done wasting my time with you.

Keep in mind that you DO NOT have 9 years experience in the ARMY. You have approx 3 years active duty time and the rest is ARMY RESERVE. That IS NOT the ARMY.

What have you done for the other 6 years? I think at one time you were a debt collector.

And, insulting a man for taking care of his Mother? That is a new low, even for you.

You need to grow up.

because that made my day. "Mr. Tool Parker"? You sound like a child!! You present your opinions as "facts" when you have nothing to back them up with. The reserve maintains a much more strict PT program than the guard. The Reserve conducts PT tests twice a year, while the guard does it only once. Did you know the new ACU was designed with larger waist adjusters specifically to accomodate the guard?

FACT. The guard has the highest rate of BMI and PT failures in all of the components of the Army. FACT. Google it. 3 PT Test failures equates a seperation in the Reserve, not the guard. And the chair force, they perform their 1.5 mile run on a treadmill. Please. But im sure My 9+ years experience In the Army doest hold a candle to the what, 30 days you spent in it? What do i know. As far as your comment about my sexual preference (I find it ironic that a single man in his mid forties who lives with his mother calls ME gay) Im straight, but if I ever switch teams I'll look you up. Im sure youd make an excellent girlfriend.

'I served 9 years active duty consisting of 2 four year enlistments and a one year extension. I got out honorably with a re-entry code, although I only got out because of Clinton's drawdowns. In 2004 I went in the Army after being out almost 11 years and entered ARMY BASIC TRAINING at age 41.'

report#207087
But In your last rebuttal steve you cleary state 10 years active duty. And here, you CLEARLY state you entered Army Basic Training. Another BLATANT LIE from you Steve, you went or attempted to go to WTC.

>>My response>>That information is correct! This was my FIRST period of ACTIVE DUTY service, PRIOR to being put on Active duty in the ARMY 11 years later. No lies here. All facts. Try again.

'Then, 11 years later, I was contacted and offered a chance to come back in. I did. I was accepted by the ARNG and then recruited to Active Duty from the Guard. I immediately got deployed and injured. I now am disabled with a 30% VA rating.'

report#226179

Another Lie. You were on IET status, Not active duty. You were immediatley deployed and injured? lets clarify...... you FAILED out of WTC, you were never deployed with the Army. L-I-A-R.

My response>> MY ARNG unit was deploying to IRAQ, and if I was to go, I first had to complete WTC to be deployable or promotable.>.No lies here. FYI.. In the ARNG anytime you are activated and sent anywhere, they put it on the deployement board to show you are not in the unit. It shows where you are. Deployment is a generic term. >>

just a small compilation of your lies steve. use the advanced search option and search 'steve/bradenton' and over 2400 reports surface that you have written/responded to. Thats pathetic. In almost everyone you mention how you have 'fought for freedom'. Thats funny. A mechanic in the Airforce during our nations most peaceful time period boasting that around. The Air Force is a joke steve, and you even had a rear eschelon MOS in the most relaxed behind the lines branch. By their own admission the Air Force is more like a business than a branch of the military. But according to you its the 'real' branch. How many chairmen have died in Iraq? In afghanistan? compare that to the Army Reserve's losses. I dare you, I triple dog dare you to spout the garbage you typed above the Army Reserve. You wont, being a coward (I know this because anyone and I mean anyone can pass WTC, it was designed to push troops through efficently and quickly with minimal training, so once you got a taste of the Army and sae they wouldnt cater to your 'disability' garbage and you were gonna have to be a real soldier, and fight a real war, you went back home to mother) you wouldnt have the guts to say any of that. If you did, your '30% disability would have turned to 100% in a heart beat.

My response>>What? What the hell are you talking about? You don't even know. Although I do know that virtually every reservist I have ever met was a whiner and a crybaby, and was out of shape. That is a fact. I hereby accept your dare. You are a tool>>

The fact that you would lie about being deployed is disgusting, it is absolutley repulsive. Come back with what ever you may please but you've been exposed for what you are. A liar. A wannabe. >>My unit was leaving and I was on the list to go. My follow on orders were already cut>>

'And, yes, I dumped all of my creditors over 5 years ago. I was way over my head in debt due to 911. And even though I had a spotless credit history and a 735 credit score, there would have been no way to pay them off when my income went from well over $1000 a week, sometimes 1200-1500 per week, to about $400 a week. It is simply impossible. However, I do have letters that I wrote trying to work it out before I dumped them.'

>>This was 3+ years prior to my Army time.>>

So you had 35k in cash, but declared bankruptcy?

LOOK>>>>WHERE did I say I declared bankruptcy? PLEASE show me my exact post where I ever said I declared bankruptcy! This is just ANOTHER UNINFORMED assumption my Mr Tool Parker.>>

how did 9/11 cause you to go from 1500 a week to 400?

I didnt lose money because of 9/11, neither did anyone I know.

>>My response>> I was in VEGAS at that time in a TOURIST industry. It totally died. Lots of people lost jobs, businesses closed and incomes dropped, that is a fact.

My ASVAB score was 61, my GT 109. Not an impressive score, but I could have gone into any branch I wanted to. You make alot of 'guarentees' and 'facts' based upon your own opinions. But then again you have snatched democracy from the hands of evil and shot down americas enemies with your mighty guns and saved America. All while being an AIR FORCE MECHANIC. I laugh in your face. Stay posotive steve, your life has to look up sometime

>>My life is just fine. Never said it wasn't.>>

I don't have time or patience to deal with you anymore. You are a genuine tool. And, WHY the interest in me? Are you a f*g or something? I know the new rule is don't ask, don't tell.

Heres just a few of YOUR documented lies steve:


"I served 9 years active duty consisting of 2 four year enlistments and a one year extension. I got out honorably with a re-entry code, although I only got out because of Clinton's drawdowns. In 2004 I went in the Army after being out almost 11 years and entered ARMY BASIC TRAINING at age 41."

report#207087

But In your last rebuttal steve you cleary state 10 years active duty. And here, you CLEARLY state you entered Army Basic Training. Another BLATANT LIE from you Steve, you went or attempted to go to WTC.

"Then, 11 years later, I was contacted and offered a chance to come back in. I did. I was accepted by the ARNG and then recruited to Active Duty from the Guard. I immediately got deployed and injured. I now am disabled with a 30% VA rating."

report#226179

Another Lie. You were on IET status, Not active duty. You were immediatley deployed and injured? lets clarify...... you FAILED out of WTC, you were never deployed with the Army. L-I-A-R.

just a small compilation of your lies steve. use the advanced search option and search "steve/bradenton" and over 2400 reports surface that you have written/responded to. Thats pathetic. In almost everyone you mention how you have "fought for freedom". Thats funny. A mechanic in the Airforce during our nations most peaceful time period boasting that around. The Air Force is a joke steve, and you even had a rear eschelon MOS in the most relaxed behind the lines branch. By their own admission the Air Force is more like a business than a branch of the military. But according to you its the "real" branch. How many chairmen have died in Iraq? In afghanistan? compare that to the Army Reserve's losses. I dare you, I triple dog dare you to spout the garbage you typed above the Army Reserve. You wont, being a coward (I know this because anyone and I mean anyone can pass WTC, it was designed to push troops through efficently and quickly with minimal training, so once you got a taste of the Army and sae they wouldnt cater to your "disability" garbage and you were gonna have to be a real soldier, and fight a real war, you went back home to mother) you wouldnt have the guts to say any of that. If you did, your "30% disability would have turned to 100% in a heart beat.

The fact that you would lie about being deployed is disgusting, it is absolutley repulsive. Come back with what ever you may please but you've been exposed for what you are. A liar. A wannabe.

"And, yes, I dumped all of my creditors over 5 years ago. I was way over my head in debt due to 911. And even though I had a spotless credit history and a 735 credit score, there would have been no way to pay them off when my income went from well over $1000 a week, sometimes 1200-1500 per week, to about $400 a week. It is simply impossible. However, I do have letters that I wrote trying to work it out before I dumped them."

So you had 35k in cash, but declared bankruptcy?

how did 9/11 cause you to go from 1500 a week to 400?

I didnt lose money because of 9/11, neither did anyone I know.

My ASVAB score was 61, my GT 109. Not an impressive score, but I could have gone into any branch I wanted to. You make alot of "guarentees" and "facts" based upon your own opinions. But then again you have snatched democracy from the hands of evil and shot down americas enemies with your mighty guns and saved America. All while being an AIR FORCE MECHANIC. I laugh in your face. Stay posotive steve, your life has to look up sometime

Parker,

I can see I pushed your buttons now, and all you can resort to is juvenile insults and namecalling. That shows your character, and intelect.

I can read fine. A "bagboy union". Wow, that's impressive! That may be the only union with minors and/or part timers I have ever heard of. I have never seen any union with part timers being eligible for membership, or juveniles.

Manufacturing industries do not hire anyone under 18 as OSHA does not allow it.

I got injured in WTC, as did almost one half of my class. There are things about this particular class you know nothing about. And never will. Sorry to bust your know it all bubble. Almost 1/3 were discharged under a medical. So don't assume that i failed at something or couldn't do something. I wanted to stay and continue on, but the nature of my injuries did not allow that.

Now about your crack about me "living with my Mother". That's real classy. I came back to Florida to assist my Mother and Grandmother. Since then, my Grandmother has passed away. My Mother could not make it as she is disabled and on a very limited fixed income. Without my assistance, she would have been on the street. I guess according to you that's what I should have let happen. I am not here for me. I hate Florida. Always have. low wages and a high cost of living, etc.

The bottom line is, you went in the Army because that is the only service your asvab would allow you to enter. I can tell that by your spelling. And you call me a moron? You should look in a mirror.

Your early posts and rebuttals were vague and misleading. You were puffing up to everyone like you are some kind of hero, etc. You should have come right out and said you were in the Army Reserve. NOT the Army. Two very different things. And, the reserves are the biggest crybabies and whiners I have ever seen. This is a fact.

You can say whatever you want, but I have 10 years FULL TIME, active duty time in a REAL branch of the military. I have 8 years as a Journeyman level aircraft mechanic, and 2 years as a C-130 Flight Engineer where I just reached my Journeyman level before getting out due to Clinton's drawdowns and cutbacks. I had no choices here. Then, I went back in as a member of the ARNG as soon as I could, and then elected to go back on active duty for the specific purpose of going to Iraq. That was my sole reason for going back. It was not the money, etc. I was making very good money in OK as a Truck Driver.

7 whole months at the refinery. WOW! I'm impressed. Again, the way you talked, you misled everyone into thinking you have done this awhile and progressed, etc. The same way you portrayed your "military" service.

I can guarantee you I have done far more in my time in the USAF than you could comprehend. I have nothing to prove to anyone. I have nothing to brag about, like you.

You are my newest hero.

For the third time Steve, my job at the refinery is NOT is NOT is NOT union. can you read that? No union membership before 18? no part time union? Your a moron. Point out one hole in my story Steve, go ahead. I have been Activated twice, once for Noble Eagle and the other for OIF 2/3. just shy of three years Active SERVICE, not active DUTY. I was knocking you steve, not the guard. I have the utmost respect for them. You claimed to be in the NG, but you never even completed training. I served under the 56th BCT which is NG. But why are you preaching? You werent there, you could not even complete a 5 week transition course (WTC). And I wish they gave out E7. Im up for It, but theres no way i'll get it. E7 is easy to obtain in 9 years on Active Duty steve. You see the Army bases alot of their point systems very differently now. For example, college counts towards promotion points. So any yuppi with a degree can hit the fast track. Hey, atleast we agree on one topic. The Army is much different than the chair force you served in so many years ago. But go ahead and brag, wallow in your faded "glory". Desert sheild was a small scirmish, nothing compared to the war over there now, not even close. That would be like me trying to compare my combat status with a vietnam veteran. That would be a joke. A joke steve, much like you. and Im sure you braved all of the bloody hells it had to offer as an electrical mechanic in the Air Force. Thats as clear as a bell Steve. If your vast intellegence is still having clerical errors, since you live with your mother, have her read it to you.

For the third time Steve, my job at the refinery is NOT is NOT is NOT union. can you read that? No union membership before 18? no part time union? Your a moron. Point out one hole in my story Steve, go ahead. I have been Activated twice, once for Noble Eagle and the other for OIF 2/3. just shy of three years Active SERVICE, not active DUTY. I was knocking you steve, not the guard. I have the utmost respect for them. You claimed to be in the NG, but you never even completed training. I served under the 56th BCT which is NG. But why are you preaching? You werent there, you could not even complete a 5 week transition course (WTC). And I wish they gave out E7. Im up for It, but theres no way i'll get it. E7 is easy to obtain in 9 years on Active Duty steve. You see the Army bases alot of their point systems very differently now. For example, college counts towards promotion points. So any yuppi with a degree can hit the fast track. Hey, atleast we agree on one topic. The Army is much different than the chair force you served in so many years ago. But go ahead and brag, wallow in your faded "glory". Desert sheild was a small scirmish, nothing compared to the war over there now, not even close. That would be like me trying to compare my combat status with a vietnam veteran. That would be a joke. A joke steve, much like you. and Im sure you braved all of the bloody hells it had to offer as an electrical mechanic in the Air Force. Thats as clear as a bell Steve. If your vast intellegence is still having clerical errors, since you live with your mother, have her read it to you.

For the third time Steve, my job at the refinery is NOT is NOT is NOT union. can you read that? No union membership before 18? no part time union? Your a moron. Point out one hole in my story Steve, go ahead. I have been Activated twice, once for Noble Eagle and the other for OIF 2/3. just shy of three years Active SERVICE, not active DUTY. I was knocking you steve, not the guard. I have the utmost respect for them. You claimed to be in the NG, but you never even completed training. I served under the 56th BCT which is NG. But why are you preaching? You werent there, you could not even complete a 5 week transition course (WTC). And I wish they gave out E7. Im up for It, but theres no way i'll get it. E7 is easy to obtain in 9 years on Active Duty steve. You see the Army bases alot of their point systems very differently now. For example, college counts towards promotion points. So any yuppi with a degree can hit the fast track. Hey, atleast we agree on one topic. The Army is much different than the chair force you served in so many years ago. But go ahead and brag, wallow in your faded "glory". Desert sheild was a small scirmish, nothing compared to the war over there now, not even close. That would be like me trying to compare my combat status with a vietnam veteran. That would be a joke. A joke steve, much like you. and Im sure you braved all of the bloody hells it had to offer as an electrical mechanic in the Air Force. Thats as clear as a bell Steve. If your vast intellegence is still having clerical errors, since you live with your mother, have her read it to you.

Parker,

First of all, the ARMY RESERVE is NOT the ARMY. You indicated you were in the ARMY 9 years. BIG DIFFERENCE between an ACTIVE DUTY SOLDIER and a WEEKEND WARRIOR! And you were cracking on NG folks! Guess what genius? There are MUCH MORE NG troops in IRAQ/Middle east than there are reservists or even active duty for that matter! National guard is being tasked the heaviest as a percentage of each respective troop strength.

OK. So you are a weekend warrior and you have been on your big bad union job for a whole 7 months. AND, making e-7 in the reserve is having it given to you to fill a slot. There is virtually no way you can make E-7 in the Army on active duty in 9 years. Very hard. Almost impossible. And, you need to know how to spell so that leaves you out.

FYI..My FIRST DD214 is public record and shows my service from the start of desert shield into desert storm, but what would you know about that, you were like 10 years old, right?

And, you have no idea of any of my accomplishments. FYI..I moved back to FL to assist my Mother and Grandmother who live together and mom is disabled and unable to work. Prior to that $1000-$1500 a week was not uncommon for me. I came back to FL with over $35k in my pocket. Cash.

I had my first union job before you were born junior. Get a life. Your story has too many holes in it for someone who has actually been around a little. My head is pulled out, and stays pulled out. I just don't take any crap from wanna be's like you or college boys.


>>>
parker wrote:
here we go
Hey steve!! The army has this new program, well actually its about 99 years old. Its called the ARMY RESERVE!!! You see you enlist, go to basic training, AIT then return to your assigned unit which is located near your home town.You attend battle assembly once a month for two days (depending on the MUTA code for that month) and attend your annual Training for 15 days each year. . I joined the Army reserve at the age of 18. I have had 2 periods of Active duty, my last ending upon my return from Nasiriyah (thats in Iraq, i figured i should tell you since you have never been there) with the 56th BCT. You need to be educated on unions steve. The refinery I work at (wood river) is NOT union, I held membership in the UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS LOCAL 655 in saint louis MO. They have bag boys there, some as young as 15 and they ALL HOLD MEMBERSHIP WITH THE LOCAL 655. I have only worked at the refinery for 7 months. You need to pull your head out of your fourth point of contact. Its really no wonder you have accomplished so little.
>>>

Hey steve!! The army has this new program, well actually its about 99 years old. Its called the ARMY RESERVE!!! You see you enlist, go to basic training, AIT then return to your assigned unit which is located near your home town.You attend battle assembly once a month for two days (depending on the MUTA code for that month) and attend your annual Training for 15 days each year. . I joined the Army reserve at the age of 18. I have had 2 periods of Active duty, my last ending upon my return from Nasiriyah (thats in Iraq, i figured i should tell you since you have never been there) with the 56th BCT. You need to be educated on unions steve. The refinery I work at (wood river) is NOT union, I held membership in the UNITED FOOD AND COMMERCIAL WORKERS LOCAL 655 in saint louis MO. They have bag boys there, some as young as 15 and they ALL HOLD MEMBERSHIP WITH THE LOCAL 655. I have only worked at the refinery for 7 months. You need to pull your head out of your fourth point of contact. Its really no wonder you have accomplished so little.

Parker,

You state that you are 27 and have "held membership" in the Army for 9 years. This means that you went in when you were 18, if in fact you are in the Army at all.

Assuming that you are in the Army at 27 and have been in for 9 years since you were 18, THERE IS NO WAY YOU COULD HAVE THE "work experience, OR the union experience that you claimed. Industrial occupations such as refineries do not hire children, as it is illegal, even in Texas.

Therefore, YOU ARE A LIAR. You have NEVER worked a union job, as you cannot hold union membership prior to the age of 18. And, you cannot hold union membership if you are part time.

Parker wrote:
'I also happen to have enough personal experience and experience through relatives in the union to know you do not get fired from a union represented position without just cause, such as gross negligence, lack of teamwork or the being a very large liability'. **Actually, it happens all the time at Tropicana. Our union contract is very weak, and our member support and unity is also very weak. People are scared of their jobs at Tropicana due to the unfair practices and retaliation that is widespread.**

"I now work at the wood river refinery which is not union". "I have excellent benefits and make 23$ an hour which increases next year to 26$, thenin another 3 years to 31$ an hour. 52k a year isnt bad for a non union, non degree holding 27 year old".
>>

My question is: HOW are you full time Army AND hold a full time job at a refinery?

PLEASE explain that one to all of us.

where to begin? well we wil start at the ripe old age of 27 I earn $23 an hour, have steadely held my membership in the Army for 9 years and will be up for my E7 next month, own the average 152k home, have a beautifal wife and 2 very mischevious children. I may not be the most successful man in the world, but i sure am happy and at the ripe old age of 27 I seem to have a far more superior hold on life than you do at the age of 45? you remind me alot of charles from phenix city, blaming every employer for "victimizing" you. All of your posts paint a picture. Oh yeah for the record, according to payscale the median salary MEDIAN in bradenton is 46,133. I am not sure if you know this but 15 dollars an hour does NOT equate to the above number. You were fired, I applaude tropicana for that. These days every person seems to think they are entitled to any "accomidation" or request they have from an employer and if they are denied the employee screams and points discrimination. There you have it Steve, you were terminated, the union wouldnt even back you and you now have a new job. Case closed. Good luck in your new endeavors.

Parker,

First of all, I wasn't bragging about anything as far as my military service. I was simply corrrecting your uninformed response. Thats it.

As far as jobs go in this area, a $15 an hour job is in the top 5% of what is available. Jobs do not pay anything here. FYI..My job tops out at $17.44 plus cost of living in Jan. $18+. I cannot use many of my military experiences and training in the civilian world. FYI..I was first in the military at the age of 22 when you were 5!

Now, here is the doozy. You seem to have some psychic ability I guess when you say my termination was justified. How in the hell do you know that? You do not know any of the story as to what went on or what is going on.

At the ripe old age of 27 you seem to know it all. You know nothing. Guaranteed.


Parker wrote:>>
oh boy
Steve, just because you were 'in' the NG doesnt mean anything. Thats like those mechanics attached to an SF unit claiming to be Special Forces. And the part of me being union and my relatives holding union membership was a response to you under cutting me for 'probably never holding a union job'. Simply put steve, if your experiences and training extend as far as you claim them to you would NOT be working a 15$ an hour job, much less whining about one.

If your union is that weak than they should be disbarred, and you should be ashamed to hold thier card. Buck up and be a man and quit complaining. You were justly fired. Go after tropicana, im sure the results will be humorus.
>>

Steve, just because you were "in" the NG doesnt mean anything. Thats like those mechanics attached to an SF unit claiming to be Special Forces. And the part of me being union and my relatives holding union membership was a response to you under cutting me for "probably never holding a union job". Simply put steve, if your experiences and training extend as far as you claim them to you would NOT be working a 15$ an hour job, much less whining about one.

If your union is that weak than they should be disbarred, and you should be ashamed to hold thier card. Buck up and be a man and quit complaining. You were justly fired. Go after tropicana, im sure the results will be humorus.

You wrote:
"we've been through this all before steve"

"Steve we covered this, you spent a few weeks in WTC and were injured and seperated from the Army. Do NOT try and swell your feathers to me, or anyone else, you were simply in the Army on paper. You were never a soldier. That aside yes steve I was a member of the UFCW local 655 for two years at the local grocery store while I was in community college and I have one brother in the local 110 laborers and 2 in the local 513 operators union".

**Actually I was in the ARNG before going to WTC. That was a requirement for me to go back on active duty, as it was required before I could go to any Army NCO schools, as my NCO schools in the ASAF were too old as I was out for 11 years before going back in.** AND, how does your brother's experience in a union job mean anything here? So what. My brother is a 3rd term BA in the Teamsters in PA.**

"I also happen to have enough personal experience and experience through relatives in the union to know you do not get fired from a union represented position without just cause, such as gross negligence, lack of teamwork or the being a very large liability". **Actually, it happens all the time at Tropicana. Our union contract is very weak, and our member support and unity is also very weak. People are scared of their jobs at Tropicana due to the unfair practices and retaliation that is widespread.**

I now work at the wood river refinery which is not union. I have excellent benefits and make 23$ an hour which increases next year to 26$, thenin another 3 years to 31$ an hour. 52k a year isnt bad for a non union, non degree holding 27 year old. How many people at the tropicana plant were treated as you were (reprimanded 5 times and terminated while on suspension) for exposing OSHA violations?

**READ what I wrote! I was written 5 Reprimands by HR and supended. Then, while home on suspension, after a week, I was written 1 more reprimand by HR and terminated. That is what I wrote.**And, it is not the standard practice for HR to write reprimands. This is done by dept. supervisors and plant management.**

"If there were more, you should have pretty good grounds for a class action". But Im guessing there wasnt, and there are detailins you are omitting".
**Actually, I have disclosed everything. And, a "class action" is never the way to go. Only the lawyers get rich, and you get nothing. Fact.**

"As always Steve, take care and good luck in pursuit of new employment. Try keeping to yourself at this next one, and always remember, the squeaky wheel always, ALWAYS gets greased".

**And, I only brought this other stuff up like the OSHA stuff and the Jenny/Kahreem issue due to the fact they illegally took me off the job and cost me approx 5k in lost wages, then fabricated a document to use against me.** Those are the facts.** And, I have a clean Class A CDL and can piss clean in a cup, so a job is never a problem. I was on a new one the next day, without even using Tropicana as a reference.**Tropicana is the party getting greased here. Guaranteed. Ball is in motion**

:)

>>>

Actually I was in th ARNG for a while before going active duty Army. And, my periods of service were 11 years apart.

FYI..Tropicana HR has total disregard for our union contract. They simply do what they want to do. We actually have some very good middle management and lower management.

Pepsico wants our union out. That has been made clear. They know how to bust it and are doing just that. Anyone who holds them accountable is gone.

I never had any disciplinary problems or attendence problems or performance problems while at Tropicana prior to this or during.

This all started when I was denied the right to essential medical care.

A doctor's excuse is NOT an excused absence at Tropicana.

I needed 1 hour, twice per week! AND, I scheduled these treatments BEFORE my normal scheduled shift purposely to avoid any problems! Then they put me on the forced early board so I coudn't get my treatments, and if I refused, I took a half occasion of absence, which only a few of those gets you fired.

I filed a written request for reasonable accomodation under the ADA for a work hour modification to allow me to get the treatments. The entire request was quickly denied. No reasonable accomodation was made.

I was then, at that same ADA interview, jerked off the job without cause, or written documentation, and was off for 15 weeks, losing almost $5000 in wages.

It goes on and on, but I can absolutely guarantee you, EVERY bit of wrongdoing was on the part of the company. I did everything by the book.

Steve we covered this, you spent a few weeks in WTC and were injured and seperated from the Army. Do NOT try and swell your feathers to me, or anyone else, you were simply in the Army on paper. You were never a soldier. That aside yes steve I was a member of the UFCW local 655 for two years at the local grocery store while I was in community college and I have one brother in the local 110 laborers and 2 in the local 513 operators union.

I also happen to have enough personal experience and experience through relatives in the union to know you do not get fired from a union represented position without just cause, such as gross negligence, lack of teamwork or the being a very large liability. I now work at the wood river refinery which is not union. I have excellent benefits and make 23$ an hour which increases next year to 26$, thenin another 3 years to 31$ an hour. 52k a year isnt bad for a non union, non degree holding 27 year old. How many people at the tropicana plant were treated as you were (reprimanded 5 times and terminated while on suspension) for exposing OSHA violations? If there were more, you should have pretty good grounds for a class action. But Im guessing there wasnt, and there are detailins you are omitting.

As always Steve, take care and good luck in pursuit of new employment. Try keeping to yourself at this next one, and always remember, the squeaky wheel always, ALWAYS gets greased.

Parker,


You wrote>>
steve steve steve
Dont be so sensitive steve, I am just giving suggestions as you have done hundreds of times on this website. I, myself, have a spine. I have also spent several years in the military (given just service in the U.S Army, not half as rough as the Air Force training you endured to cause you so many injuries) and have had my fair share of injuries, but none the less I still work my 12 hour rotating shifts at the refinery, where its hot, loud and dirty. sure it catches up with you sometimes, but we all have to put up with it. Its called being a m-a-n.

Not everything is handed to everyone, and where I come from an employer wouldnt tolerate non stop tattling on everyone either. I think tropicana made the right decision and i applaude them from it. But go ahead and sue them, try and get something for nothing, and then move on to another job and repeat the process all over again. From your track record i'd be willing to bet my house on it. Me, i'll just WORK, and do what I do and save the complaining, complaining is the sign of a very weak person.
>>>

First of all, I'm not "tattling" on anyone. All you have to do is READ the entire group of posts. They have unfair and uneven application of the rules, depending on who you know or who you are related to or married to.

And, I'm not just complaining. At the foundation of these issues is a 16 month pattern of illegal and unethical practices by this employer that are well documented, AND, I am not the only one.

I have done NOTHING wrong but stand up for myself. That's it.

FYI, I served in the USAF AND the USAR and ARNG, and have more than 10 years of service. I was injured in the ARMY, not the Air Force. And, I can guarantee you that I am far from weak.

You are the weak one here, as you just accept employer abuse of employees. You have probably never had a union job.

You have no idea what you are talking about, because you simply do not have the facts.

Dont be so sensitive steve, I am just giving suggestions as you have done hundreds of times on this website. I, myself, have a spine. I have also spent several years in the military (given just service in the U.S Army, not half as rough as the Air Force training you endured to cause you so many injuries) and have had my fair share of injuries, but none the less I still work my 12 hour rotating shifts at the refinery, where its hot, loud and dirty. sure it catches up with you sometimes, but we all have to put up with it. Its called being a m-a-n.

Not everything is handed to everyone, and where I come from an employer wouldnt tolerate non stop tattling on everyone either. I think tropicana made the right decision and i applaude them from it. But go ahead and sue them, try and get something for nothing, and then move on to another job and repeat the process all over again. From your track record i'd be willing to bet my house on it. Me, i'll just WORK, and do what I do and save the complaining, complaining is the sign of a very weak person.

Parker,

First of all, Robert and I are 2 different people. Get that straight.

Second, it is about self respect. I guess you let people walk all over you, and violate the law, right?

That's your choice to be a spineless kiss a**. That's not me. I have done absolutely nothing wrong here. I have endured about 16 months of illegal and unethical activities and retaliation by Tropicana HR Management. I stood up for myself and was then tagged a boatrocker and troublemaker.

I went through all of the appropriate channels that went nowhere. Out of sheer frustration and anger, I posted my case here on Rip Off Report.

For that, the company engaged in a pattern of even more severe retaliation being 5 reprimands at once and suspension, and now today a termination letter and another reprimand!

How can anyone get reprimanded AND terminated while home on suspension?

Explain that one to me.

Parker,

First of all, Robert and I are 2 different people. Get that straight.

Second, it is about self respect. I guess you let people walk all over you, and violate the law, right?

That's your choice to be a spineless kiss a**. That's not me. I have done absolutely nothing wrong here. I have endured about 16 months of illegal and unethical activities and retaliation by Tropicana HR Management. I stood up for myself and was then tagged a boatrocker and troublemaker.

I went through all of the appropriate channels that went nowhere. Out of sheer frustration and anger, I posted my case here on Rip Off Report.

For that, the company engaged in a pattern of even more severe retaliation being 5 reprimands at once and suspension, and now today a termination letter and another reprimand!

How can anyone get reprimanded AND terminated while home on suspension?

Explain that one to me.

Parker,

First of all, Robert and I are 2 different people. Get that straight.

Second, it is about self respect. I guess you let people walk all over you, and violate the law, right?

That's your choice to be a spineless kiss a**. That's not me. I have done absolutely nothing wrong here. I have endured about 16 months of illegal and unethical activities and retaliation by Tropicana HR Management. I stood up for myself and was then tagged a boatrocker and troublemaker.

I went through all of the appropriate channels that went nowhere. Out of sheer frustration and anger, I posted my case here on Rip Off Report.

For that, the company engaged in a pattern of even more severe retaliation being 5 reprimands at once and suspension, and now today a termination letter and another reprimand!

How can anyone get reprimanded AND terminated while home on suspension?

Explain that one to me.

Parker,

First of all, Robert and I are 2 different people. Get that straight.

Second, it is about self respect. I guess you let people walk all over you, and violate the law, right?

That's your choice to be a spineless kiss a**. That's not me. I have done absolutely nothing wrong here. I have endured about 16 months of illegal and unethical activities and retaliation by Tropicana HR Management. I stood up for myself and was then tagged a boatrocker and troublemaker.

I went through all of the appropriate channels that went nowhere. Out of sheer frustration and anger, I posted my case here on Rip Off Report.

For that, the company engaged in a pattern of even more severe retaliation being 5 reprimands at once and suspension, and now today a termination letter and another reprimand!

How can anyone get reprimanded AND terminated while home on suspension?

Explain that one to me.

hello steve,

I had a question for you Mr. Steve. From all of your posts, you seem to have very extensive expertise is half a dozen fields. You are extremely knowledgable in regulations, rules, and OSHA, USDOL, FMCSA, and DOT, as well as how to go about sueing people and filing for government sanctioned aid. You have filed several suits yourself, used the government benefits and had bouts with several major companies. Where has that gotten you? In your mid 40's, maing 33k a year (provided you are working and have not been permanently removed from your job). Reflect Steve/Robert, maybe its time to walk a different path, because this one seems to lead to nowhere.

First of all, you are confusing my posts with Robert's. We are different people. Please re-read.

Second, I did not pick a fight with anyone. My employer engaged in a pattern of illegal and unethical activity just because they hire incompetent people in the HR office.

Third, you asked what I make. I currently make $15.70/hour that goes to $17.44 in March. I pay approx $24/MONTH for my benefits.

Fourth, My HR office engaged in illegal activity which cost me almost $5000. Do you expect me to sit back and say thank you, or do you expect me to fight for what I am entitled to?

My HR office once again retaliated [illegally] by writing me 5 reprimands at once and suspending me. This was last Friday. See my other posts with Javier Feliciano in the title.

Then, for more good reading Read the post with Jenny / Kahreem Williams in the title. More illegal activity by the HR office.

However misguided, I appreciate your input.

I have posted my wages and cost of benifits are you going to post yours? I am not going into a long arument or statement, without the benifits of the basic facts. I understand we need to keep this generic even on this this blog we must use a form of restraint. I have provided my wages and cost of benifits why have you not posted yours? we are having a discussion on the web you are looking for a jury of your peers so allow me to understand the basis of your argument. You may say your pay has no reason to be posted, I am all for a good cause and argument though you need to realize the audience you are addressing hard working middle calls folks who live with in thier means and have decent credit rating and are willing to work for what they have. I am just curious as to why all of these statements are against the people who you work for. no company no check. LArge lawsuit you win all of the people you work for plus the consumer pays for this regardless of who wins. Look I am not into the company winning nor am I into you winning I already pay 3.97 per half gallon for the juice I would just prefer not to pay more over something that can be solved internally and not from a large court case. Just remember that the lawyers win on every case they get theirs upfront. My accident cost me 40% percent and all they did was sit back and wait, when all was said and done it was the best offer and I was iun limbo while they ate good but my family was eating beans and rice.
Pick your fights carefully and realize it is just not yourself whom you are fighting and hurting, it is the entire customer base along with the folks who are working hard and saving money (401 k) for retirement. we do not have unions helping us they have determined we are to small of a company and they do not wish to help us. What we need to do is unionize Wal-mart, good luck on your case but be open and honest let us the jury of your peers now what your fighting for is it for yourself and your lively hood or is it truly for your fellow employees and or is it for the consumer. To me you have made the case for yourself and you have forgotten who you work for, the consumer. we do care but we have so many choices and though Sunny delight is not the best it is cheaper and right now with all of this and the economy here we come sunny D. that puts 2.00 dollars back into my pocket, one consumer gone, look forward to your reply.

The first thing you must understand Smile is how the Rip Off Report functions differently from other blogs found throughout the internet. This is its unique character and why I choose to participate and encourage others to join the forum. I write the "report" and I write the"updates", that's it. If you read the above material with Robert, from FL in those catagories then you see that I never called anyone a schill or referred in a deragatory manner anyone's minimum wage pay scale. Those comments need to be directed toward the writers of consumer comments, not to me. I do not control reader feedback as posted in this forum which gives people like you, Smile the freedom of speech. You must be able to think and analyse the content in my blogs, then you are welcome to refute "my" statements and cause me to think over your comments directed to me.

I know from my 13 years experience in the Florida job market that there are very few labor unions established here in the "Sunshine State". I am very aware that I am in a priviledged group of laborers that have the support and benefits due to collective bargining power. As you have pointed out, if you receive "a little flak" from your employer and you do not appreciate the manner in which they address your problem, you have the option of leaving that condition on your own free will. That's how I understand the term "Right to Work State" functions and is definitely in the favor of the employer. Any hassle from you and out the door you go, "El Paso"! They don't even have to give you a reason, even a valid reason for the dismissal. Good bye, see 'ya, addios amigo...

Then there's the opportunity to join a local labor union to watch your back and represent you before an impartial arbitrator. Your side of the story gets told and if you are truly a "BAD" person then your out. There are a host of valid reasons why an employer would be justified to expell workers who are untrainable, unsafe, disrespectful to the point where it gets physical in confrontation, dishonest, or hooked on drugs or alcohol. No one wants to be next to those individuals even for a short time when they are obviously out of control. But when the agents of the company you work for are out of control and denie accountability, then that's another story, right Smile? That's the point of my focus on the Rip Off Report forum. I'm trying to reach in any manner possible to communicate with the next higher "chain of command" the things that are obviously out of control in my work environment. I've been stone walled long enough and I am an advocate for change. Not revolutionary in any since of the word, but intelligent dialogue between the partys involved. Contructive critisism should be embraced by any progressive business organization, not repressed as has been my experience with my association with Tropicana Products here in Bradenton, FL

I must confess that I do have human shortcommings and have made mistakes in the course of "Advanced Life Studies". If I had it to do all over again, I would make some decisions with a different outcome. But we all live with our past and hopefully learn from our mistakes so as not to repeat failures. I have been through the class from the school of "Hard Knocks" and I try to live within ethical guidelines in my daily interaction with my fellow human beings... Please do your homework Smile, and don't be afraid to speak your mind. Especially here on the ROR.

The first thing you must understand Smile is how the Rip Off Report functions differently from other blogs found throughout the internet. This is its unique character and why I choose to participate and encourage others to join the forum. I write the "report" and I write the"updates", that's it. If you read the above material with Robert, from FL in those catagories then you see that I never called anyone a schill or referred in a deragatory manner anyone's minimum wage pay scale. Those comments need to be directed toward the writers of consumer comments, not to me. I do not control reader feedback as posted in this forum which gives people like you, Smile the freedom of speech. You must be able to think and analyse the content in my blogs, then you are welcome to refute "my" statements and cause me to think over your comments directed to me.

I know from my 13 years experience in the Florida job market that there are very few labor unions established here in the "Sunshine State". I am very aware that I am in a priviledged group of laborers that have the support and benefits due to collective bargining power. As you have pointed out, if you receive "a little flak" from your employer and you do not appreciate the manner in which they address your problem, you have the option of leaving that condition on your own free will. That's how I understand the term "Right to Work State" functions and is definitely in the favor of the employer. Any hassle from you and out the door you go, "El Paso"! They don't even have to give you a reason, even a valid reason for the dismissal. Good bye, see 'ya, addios amigo...

Then there's the opportunity to join a local labor union to watch your back and represent you before an impartial arbitrator. Your side of the story gets told and if you are truly a "BAD" person then your out. There are a host of valid reasons why an employer would be justified to expell workers who are untrainable, unsafe, disrespectful to the point where it gets physical in confrontation, dishonest, or hooked on drugs or alcohol. No one wants to be next to those individuals even for a short time when they are obviously out of control. But when the agents of the company you work for are out of control and denie accountability, then that's another story, right Smile? That's the point of my focus on the Rip Off Report forum. I'm trying to reach in any manner possible to communicate with the next higher "chain of command" the things that are obviously out of control in my work environment. I've been stone walled long enough and I am an advocate for change. Not revolutionary in any since of the word, but intelligent dialogue between the partys involved. Contructive critisism should be embraced by any progressive business organization, not repressed as has been my experience with my association with Tropicana Products here in Bradenton, FL

I must confess that I do have human shortcommings and have made mistakes in the course of "Advanced Life Studies". If I had it to do all over again, I would make some decisions with a different outcome. But we all live with our past and hopefully learn from our mistakes so as not to repeat failures. I have been through the class from the school of "Hard Knocks" and I try to live within ethical guidelines in my daily interaction with my fellow human beings... Please do your homework Smile, and don't be afraid to speak your mind. Especially here on the ROR.

The first thing you must understand Smile is how the Rip Off Report functions differently from other blogs found throughout the internet. This is its unique character and why I choose to participate and encourage others to join the forum. I write the "report" and I write the"updates", that's it. If you read the above material with Robert, from FL in those catagories then you see that I never called anyone a schill or referred in a deragatory manner anyone's minimum wage pay scale. Those comments need to be directed toward the writers of consumer comments, not to me. I do not control reader feedback as posted in this forum which gives people like you, Smile the freedom of speech. You must be able to think and analyse the content in my blogs, then you are welcome to refute "my" statements and cause me to think over your comments directed to me.

I know from my 13 years experience in the Florida job market that there are very few labor unions established here in the "Sunshine State". I am very aware that I am in a priviledged group of laborers that have the support and benefits due to collective bargining power. As you have pointed out, if you receive "a little flak" from your employer and you do not appreciate the manner in which they address your problem, you have the option of leaving that condition on your own free will. That's how I understand the term "Right to Work State" functions and is definitely in the favor of the employer. Any hassle from you and out the door you go, "El Paso"! They don't even have to give you a reason, even a valid reason for the dismissal. Good bye, see 'ya, addios amigo...

Then there's the opportunity to join a local labor union to watch your back and represent you before an impartial arbitrator. Your side of the story gets told and if you are truly a "BAD" person then your out. There are a host of valid reasons why an employer would be justified to expell workers who are untrainable, unsafe, disrespectful to the point where it gets physical in confrontation, dishonest, or hooked on drugs or alcohol. No one wants to be next to those individuals even for a short time when they are obviously out of control. But when the agents of the company you work for are out of control and denie accountability, then that's another story, right Smile? That's the point of my focus on the Rip Off Report forum. I'm trying to reach in any manner possible to communicate with the next higher "chain of command" the things that are obviously out of control in my work environment. I've been stone walled long enough and I am an advocate for change. Not revolutionary in any since of the word, but intelligent dialogue between the partys involved. Contructive critisism should be embraced by any progressive business organization, not repressed as has been my experience with my association with Tropicana Products here in Bradenton, FL

I must confess that I do have human shortcommings and have made mistakes in the course of "Advanced Life Studies". If I had it to do all over again, I would make some decisions with a different outcome. But we all live with our past and hopefully learn from our mistakes so as not to repeat failures. I have been through the class from the school of "Hard Knocks" and I try to live within ethical guidelines in my daily interaction with my fellow human beings... Please do your homework Smile, and don't be afraid to speak your mind. Especially here on the ROR.

The first thing you must understand Smile is how the Rip Off Report functions differently from other blogs found throughout the internet. This is its unique character and why I choose to participate and encourage others to join the forum. I write the "report" and I write the"updates", that's it. If you read the above material with Robert, from FL in those catagories then you see that I never called anyone a schill or referred in a deragatory manner anyone's minimum wage pay scale. Those comments need to be directed toward the writers of consumer comments, not to me. I do not control reader feedback as posted in this forum which gives people like you, Smile the freedom of speech. You must be able to think and analyse the content in my blogs, then you are welcome to refute "my" statements and cause me to think over your comments directed to me.

I know from my 13 years experience in the Florida job market that there are very few labor unions established here in the "Sunshine State". I am very aware that I am in a priviledged group of laborers that have the support and benefits due to collective bargining power. As you have pointed out, if you receive "a little flak" from your employer and you do not appreciate the manner in which they address your problem, you have the option of leaving that condition on your own free will. That's how I understand the term "Right to Work State" functions and is definitely in the favor of the employer. Any hassle from you and out the door you go, "El Paso"! They don't even have to give you a reason, even a valid reason for the dismissal. Good bye, see 'ya, addios amigo...

Then there's the opportunity to join a local labor union to watch your back and represent you before an impartial arbitrator. Your side of the story gets told and if you are truly a "BAD" person then your out. There are a host of valid reasons why an employer would be justified to expell workers who are untrainable, unsafe, disrespectful to the point where it gets physical in confrontation, dishonest, or hooked on drugs or alcohol. No one wants to be next to those individuals even for a short time when they are obviously out of control. But when the agents of the company you work for are out of control and denie accountability, then that's another story, right Smile? That's the point of my focus on the Rip Off Report forum. I'm trying to reach in any manner possible to communicate with the next higher "chain of command" the things that are obviously out of control in my work environment. I've been stone walled long enough and I am an advocate for change. Not revolutionary in any since of the word, but intelligent dialogue between the partys involved. Contructive critisism should be embraced by any progressive business organization, not repressed as has been my experience with my association with Tropicana Products here in Bradenton, FL

I must confess that I do have human shortcommings and have made mistakes in the course of "Advanced Life Studies". If I had it to do all over again, I would make some decisions with a different outcome. But we all live with our past and hopefully learn from our mistakes so as not to repeat failures. I have been through the class from the school of "Hard Knocks" and I try to live within ethical guidelines in my daily interaction with my fellow human beings... Please do your homework Smile, and don't be afraid to speak your mind. Especially here on the ROR.

Just a simple question? you state that the one individual is a schill and hope he enjoys your product? but yet you attack a working person and state that he is surrving on 6 dollars an hour, but yet he is still your customer so you attack him. Just out of curiosity do you have all of your fingers,toes and appendiges are you an adult and are you of sound mind and body? How much do you make per hour and how much do you pay for benifits? Publize it and allow us to understand these issues that you are so strongly offended by.

I earn 11.50 and hour and I bust my keester for my family with no and I pay 98 dollars a week for our benefits, I am willing to take a little flak from my employer, however if my employer does not listen, nor does the company support its position I would leave at a moments notice, have you or a large number of your fellow employees made this aware to your employer, or are you just using this site to vent your own shortcomings?

This James character is obviously a company man and/ or management shill!

You can just smell the anti-unionism coming off this guy!

I guess he likes making 6 bucks an hour with no benefits in the back woods.

And enjoy your delicious glass of Tropicana Orange juice tomorrow morning with your breakfast. Just remember how respectfully treated the work force was who picked the fruit, transported, sorted, squeezed, pasterized, blended, packaged, warehoused, inventoried, sold, and shipped that fine product to make your day a "Tropicana Morning." An you have a nice day doing what ever it is that you do for your livelyhood.

They make the best tasting orange juice. I could not care less if they are run by the mob or organized crime. The unions themselves are barely just a step away from being organized crime themselves.

Robert,

Thanks for your support.

Tropicana / Bradenton management feels that they are untouchable. They think they can do whatever they want and that all state and federal laws are secondary to their policies.

Total arrogance!

Then when someone like me stands up to them, they freak out. They absolutely refuse to be held accountable by anyone.