Mr. Wizard OMC archived feedback back part 2
Mr. Wizard OMC Article
Archived Feedback
Part 2B
Jan 8 through Feb 18, 2001 |
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This page archives reader feedback received between Jan 8 and Feb 18.
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Reader Comments
Mon Jan 8
Date: Sat, 6 Jan 2001
From: Doug
To: Gary
Subject: OMC
I have spent the last 4 hours reading in the rec.boats newsgroup and the
information on your website concerning the possible demise of OMC.
Let me say this first, this whole situation is in my view very tragic, and I,
just like a lot of other people wish it wasn't so.
At the place that I am employed at, I see also that we are very top heavy
with a lot of managers that do not know what they are doing either. But I
just take orders and do my job.
I do have a point that is worth pondering though. Since OMC is a United
States Corporation, (as far as I know), and it has been around for a very
long time. I don't see why the government could not step in and loan OMC
money to get back on their feet and return to the former status that they
once held, just as the U.S. Government did for Chrysler so many years ago.
I personally own a few OMC products that still run in my little collection of
antique outboards, and think that they are a fine piece of machinery.
Maybe you could put up a poll on your site about the government getting
involved in something like this.
P.S. Please do not use my e-mail address.
RBBI Comment: At the time of the Chrysler situation, the automobile industry
was king and a major driver of the American economy. Chrysler was a zillion
times larger than OMC. The ripple effect from Chrysler and their suppliers
would have a major effect on the entire American economy. Now, the attitude
of the government is much different, plus if they were to elect to bail out
a firm, there are currently many larger contenders at the present (TWA,
Wards, etc).
Date: Sun, 7 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Mr. Wizard:
I understand that the bankruptcy court is deciding on the way in which OMC
will sell, narrowing it down to three ways: (1) sell OMC as one complete unit;
(2) sell off the boat companies and leave the engine division in tact; or
(3) breaking up the engine division as well and selling off Evinrude, Johnson, Ficht
technology, parts department, etc. #3 would be a nightmare for the dealers.
What, in your opinion, is the possibility of #3 happening?
Mr.Wizard Comment: If current ownership goes for absolute greed,
would expect #3 because when firms want a piece, they do not have to
justify their bid against the prior total sales price of OMC and its current
problems. One buyer would have a very hard time giving more than $200
mil for the entire package. If they did, their stockholders and board members
would string them up.
But, no prior OMC sale yardstick exists for board members to compare the
single pieces against. Plus you have auction fever acting over many parcels
instead of just one. This is good for the seller.
Ground pollution issues may prevent anyone from wanting some locations.
Date: Fri, 7 Jan 2000
From: North West Force
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: "job" opportunity
Businesss for sale below is a Western Montana Marine Dealership.
I'm not sure this is something you would post, but we may be able to help at least
one OMC employee. Visit our site and see if this might fit in your site somewhere.
www.marinebusiness.bizland.com
Thanks for your time,
Date: Sun, 7 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Houston Boat Show
Dear Mr. Wizard,
The Houston Boat show featured many OMC Products and rumor has it that they sold.
What do Texan's know that the rest of us need to know?
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: P
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Roger Fix
Thanks for the link to Boating Industry International article with Roger Fix.
I was an OMC employee at the corporate office and that's the first time I've
ever seen the man. Hardly anyone ever seen the guy, he was never around! I
guess it's easier to let people go if you don't have to look at them..
Everyone at OMC knows this guy came in as the hired gun to do the dirty work
and like all the other rich CEOs we've had, he will walk away with millions..
That big salary could have paid a lot of severance pay to the people who gave
all they could to the company only to be left out in the cold right before
Christmas.. One other thing, if they think they can fire the company right
back up with the skeleton crew they have, it will just prove to be another
one of their hair brain decisions....
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001 19:55:49 +1100
From: Andrew
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Latest Guff
what is the differance between OMC and CHYRSLER outboards
you can still buy parts for chyrsler
RBBI Comment: We strongly believe you will be able to buy most
OMC service parts as well, even if only through 3rd party vendors.
We will be posting information later today on a major 3rd party
access tool for dealer use in locating OMC parts.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: reply to OMC customer
Dear Mr. Wizzard,
To the OMC customer that just E-mailed in, EVERY dealer in
the country is WELL aware of his situation, and I am sure they will
make every effort to keep their customers afloat. Every dealerhip
has engines and boats out their that they now must look their
customers in the eyes, and explain to them why, at that moment
they do not have any warranty. Does this mean their dealer won't
help them? The answer in 99 percent of the cases is a resounding
"NO". At our small dealership, we know every customer that walks
through the door, the vast majority are friends. We will do
everything possible to help these people, and I am sure most
dealers will do the same. Understand though, without parts
availibility, and some financial assistance from the customer, all of
the best intentions in the world will be for naught.
If you think this is a losing proposition for the customer, I'll
switch with you any day. You have one boat to worry about, I've
got 15. You have one warranty problem, I could have "loads".
You talk to me about your problems, I have the same conversation
many many time per week. So if you think you're out in the cold,
we as dealers are "FREEZING".
Please put blame where blame is due. Most dealers I know
work very hard to keep their customers happy, in a tough, short
seasoned business. If you have any releationship with your
dealership, they should be the last people you should dump on.
They'll be there (hopefully, if we can survive this) when OMC
isn't.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: C
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Engine Group
I have been tracking the OMC Ch 11 via your web site. Good job and
good service. Question: I have not seen any info concerning Johnson/
Evinrude? The were known as NAEO (North American Engine Ops), but
Fix changed the name to Johnson/Evinrude Outboards, which was a wholly
owned subsidiary of OMC. All of the Ch 11 motions appear to pertain only
to the Boat Groups?? Any info would be appreciated.
Thanks, Mike
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Benefits question
I am a (former) OMC employee. I was participating in their tuition reimbursement
program, while attending job-related schooling. I have a copy of the agreement,
signed by the appropriate HR folks. I am halfway through the courses. Obviously
this will not be paid as agreed, and I am out about $2000.
Could you point me to some resources that would help me possibly recover this
expense? How could I start legal action if possible?
Thanks!
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Tom
To: wizzard@virtualpet.com
Subject: NY Boat Show
Does anyone know what is going to go on at the NY show? OMC had a booth,
1/2 the product had an OMC tie either by its engine, boat or both. Should
be interesting. Also, how can many of these dealers afford the price of the
show with on co-op, and little opportunity to sell product with no warranty.
Sounds like it will be a funeral, not a show. Anyone else with some thoughts?
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: Sun
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What about the petition for bonus payout for transition team leaders
No severance, no vacation, nothing for x-employees and they have the nerve to \
petition the court for a bonus for Romano, Rusk, Merlot, Wainscott and many
others. Check this out at the bankruptcy site.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: charles
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc buy out
I heard that bidding has started on omc.could you tell me if some is close to
buying omc in burnsville.
Date: Thu, 4 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Dear Mr. Wizard I found the article on your website written about how upset
Irwin Jacobs is at the fact that OMC really pulled a fast one on the industries
dealers. What I find ironic is the fact he did just about the same exact thing
when he closed down his cajun boat factory in Winnsboro LA. Believe me
he did not offer to buy back any of the product I had on my show room floor.
Its true what comes around goes around!! Keep up the good work!!!
Dan
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: M
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: petition to court for bonus payout
This in response to note on your site from "sun" on Jan.8 Not sure myself
what is happening with this issue but it sounds like from this note and
another I saw on another site that the good folks who are staying on are not
doing this dirty work for their regular paycheck. Personally, I think a
regular paycheck should be sufficient in light of the fact that sooo many of
their co-workers have no work. However, if Soros wants to reward the folks
who did the layoffs and those who facilitated them then that is his right.
Judge should insist that all creditors be fully satisfied and 85% of former
employees be working somewhere before anyone profits from this in any way.
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Hello,
I used to work at OMC in the Production Development Center. I was
wondering if you knew what they were going to do about the motors that
they had left there? Are they going to auction them off to the public
or is it up to the courts?
Tues Jan 9
Date: Mon, 8 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC products
I have been reading all the posts and notices about the demise of OMC
for several days now . the treatment of dealers and employees bothers
me extremely . but another thing comes to mind also . where did all
those great OMC motors go ?? we all know that mercury was a veritable
latecomer to the outboard industry , only starting in the 40's . while
seahorse outboards were already dominating the lakes and rivers , as
well as Elto and a few other early OMC brands . lawn boy has always
been a good mower , and the evinrude 18HP from 1957-1973 was almost
indestructible . something went wrong somewhere . and it is not just the
fact that OMC did not do as much R&D as Brunswick did . mercury marine
had innovations such as through-hub exhaust long before OMC ever
implemented it . but then again , it took mercury several years to come
up with a full shift outboard . I really saw a lot of screwups by both
companies with their outboards in the late 60's and early 70's . what a
nightmare was the race to create the perfect electronic ignition!!
sometimes we still have to deal with both brands of literal vacuum
technology that they both used in those days . how does a company
that has been around so long , sit lax back on it's heels and do
no real expanding for the last 20 years . it seems to me , that maybe
some of the wrong people had too much control inside OMC . maybe
we ought to check some of the executive pockets to seewhat we find .
mercury marine has always been known at least in the last 10 years to
be hard to deal with. people want to talk about no warranties on new
OMC motors , which is rotten I agree. but I have mercury engines that
are barely 2 years old sitting in my shop with cylinder sleeves that slid
right down into the crankshaft and trashed the motor . mercury did not
cover those on warranty. true , a couple were older than warranty age ,
but who in the world wants an outboard motor that only lasts for 2-4
years?? seems to me that with Brunswick being the frontrunner in the
industry , not to mention being the largest benefactor in OMC's closing ,
that the average boating Joe may have to start dealing with a substandard
product as well as a huge insensitive company with major control over
the entire boating industry . with one of Brunswick's biggest competitors
gone , they can almost do what they want and the rest of us have to
swallow it , product wise . they have already done it with the force line
of outboards. anybody who has any sense knows that Brunswick bought
out Chrysler marine just to close it down . isn't it obvious ? they produce
enough motors under the force name to pay for their initial outlay then they
can discontinue the line and walk away from it laughing the whole way .
everyone knows the force outboards are extremely undependable and
a nightmare to the average boater every marine repair facility has a pile
of them . tell me that with all of Brunswick's R&D money they could not
have redesigned that thing just a little better . they made them affordable
and that was about all . one more question . how much OMC stock did
Brunswick own?? under their name , or any other . I have a few merc
products in my shop , some of the older ones, those were good motors .
but what lies ahead now that they will be king?? B.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bypass OMC
Your article on OMC's lack of placement help is typical of their attitude In
helping their employees. The employees of any company is the most
important asset and should be treated as such. OMC has always taken
it's employees for granted so this is no different.
I would love to see any and all companies interested in ex-OMC talent to
contact the North Carolina Employment Security Commission. This way they
will have access all of the laid off workers. I know, the attitude that the
employees have at this time is, that they would love to find a job with
someone so that if OMC does come back on line they can tell them to kiss
their NO THANKS.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC communications
Just recieved in the snail mail today 1/09/01 a very nice letter from the
Heritage Credit Union dated 12/29/00. Seeing as how it will be three weeks
tomorrow since OMC unceremoniously dumped us in the street, I find it
comforting that the first and only piece of mail since then, albiet from an
affiliate of OMC, would take the time to write a few words of encouragement
and comfort. I guess those decades of service have paid off after all. Thank
you Heritage, your people are a class act. (Please post but shield my
identity) Thank you,
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Check the bankruptcy filings. The law firm that is handling the filing has
billed and collected $450,000 for work from mid-Nov. to the Dec. 22 filing
with another $100,000 estimated in work that was NOT yet billed. That is
$550,000 for just over one-months work. Hourly fees from $450 to $670/hour.
Incredible.
Please don't post my email adddress.
Thanks.
Mr Wizard Comment: That's why I suggested selling them on ebay.
Date: Tue 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: A note of caution
After 30 years as an OMC dealer, we are finding that our customers can
be made to understand what is happening and how we will, as always,
take care of them. They trust us.
Our biggest problem are other OMC dealers who are shooting themselves
in the foot by panicking in front of their employees and customers. We
are getting consumer feedback that indicates dealers are doing more
damage to themselves, their future and the industry in general by being
negative on all aspects of OMC.
Fact of the matter is OMC makes terrific products...and if you don't
believe it then you should never have been an OMC dealer. And, you
should never have received all those special discounts "under the table"
that even a 30 year dealer didn't get to take advantage of.
There is no doubt that all OMC dealers are sitting on their highest
inventory levels ever. We are sitting on close to $2.0 million in OMC
boats and motors. We are concerned, but not panicking. Fact of the
matter is, this is a cash flow business, not a particularly profitable
business, so you better love what you are doing. We are reassuring to
our customers and we are, in fact, consummating OMC boat and motor
sales as I write. Will our business fail if the right things don't happen
soon?...you betcha...but, again, we have to stay positive for our own
sake, that of our employees and that of our loyal customers.
We have to mind our own store...our own business...and keep our
heads above water. Yes...this whole process stinks. Yes...we voted
for Pensky in 1997 but the greedier shareholders went for the money
and not the substance. Yes, OMC had probably made more failed
CEO's millionaires than I care to think about. Yes, we have all been
here before...maybe not chapter 11, but certainly as various aspects
got sold. We have all had delayed warranty payments, rebates, etc.
The good news is that perhaps this shake-up (monumental though it
may be) will weed out the whiners from the dealer side and from the
company side. And, if we are real lucky, we may find some truly
excellent new employees for sales and service who choose not to
work with new owners again.
Let us get to work and not let our hard earned, heavily invested
dollars go to total waste.
God bless all of the employees who have given so much and gotten
so little in return. And, God bless dealerships nationwide who decide
to hang tough and make things work.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Immediate Need
30 year OMC dealer has immediate need for part/service manager. Computer
literate, customer friendly, OMC parts knowledgeable. Paid vacation, holidays
and insurance after 90 days. Contact Larry or Karen a 561-965-9410;
fax particulars to 561-965-9441, and get ready to move to SE Florida!
30 year OMC dealer has immediate need for OMC experienced sales person.
HydraSports, Johnson and Evinrude. Paid vacation, holidays, and insurance
after 90 days. Contact Larry or Karen at 561-965-9410; fax particulars to
561-965-9441 and get ready to move to SE Florida! Boat show season is here!
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: O.M.C.
I would like to know what's wrong with this picture ?. Myself and my
wife both worked for O.M.C. On Dec. 6th. My wife had major surgery for
a life threatening illness. After 5 weeks ,she finely got one sick pay
check and one more after that.As of then ,she has recieved none. After
calling the insurance co. we find out that check's were issued on Dec.
27, and Jan. 3. We now find out that they are not releasing them at
O.M.C. Since she is on sick leave and not released from her doctor yet
she cannot apply for unemployment. This has caused financel
and stress problem's for our family that's uncalled for as this amount
of money wouldn't even buy a dinner for these Low-Life! Executive's.
What's wrong with a Goverment that give's there blessing to these
billionaire's at the exspence of hard working American Citizen's and tax
payer's.O.M.C. went bankrupt because of incompetent managment and bad
judgement, not the workers. I agree with one of your other letters,
O.M.C. can kiss my-NO THANK YOU !!!!
Please do not print my e-mail no
or name. Thank You.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From:T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Just a response for M...
Just for the record, in your email you stated.. "I saw on another site that
the good folks who are staying on are not doing this dirty work for their
regular paycheck"...
That may be true for the higher ups but as a member of the so called
transition team, please don't think the rest of us are doing any dirty work
or that we're getting anything extra... While we're there, we're trying to
keep what little we can up and running so that hopefully someone decent
will buy the place and call back most of our fellow employees. Though we
are grateful to have a check coming in, it's still very sad to work in these
almost empty buildings and know what has happened to so many of our
friends. Here was a company that at one time was number one in market
share, largest marine dealer network in the country and made a good
product that was run into the ground by mismanagement, not by the
employees. And by the way, most of us are looking for jobs too, Believe
me, if a good job offer comes along, we're outta here!
Wed Jan 10
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Musical chair analogy
Wizard,
I liked your musical chair analogy and I believe the courts should make
sure that the X employee's should get the first chair. The courts should
enforce the WARN ACT and make sure that Soros losses are not cut at
the expense of the X employees. As far as the people (not really human
beings) still there if they get any more than their regular salaries it would
be just another "Criminal" act on behalf of Soros and Fix. We all know
their priority is to screw everyone they can and the easy ones twice to
enhance their own severance packages. I hope everyone who reads this
passes the word along to help make it as difficult as possible for these
hencemen Rusk, Meurlot, Fix to sleep at night. Have you ever wondered
what these type of creatures people are going to say when their final
judgement is at hand?????????
Enough for now.
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
mr wizard what do you think will happen to the boat side of the company
i currently own a lowe boat
that is presently down at the factory waiting for warranty work do you
think if someone was to come in and buy the company would it be in there
best interest to honor existing warranty or not ?
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Brian
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc ficth engines
i have just been told that my warranties will not be honored, that the
13k+ i have on the back of my boat that doesn't run is now a trotline
weight. This does not help an already bad situation.
Also, what we are finding out is that the engines will have piston lose
at or about 105 hrs due to injector failure. Do you have any insight
into this or can find out from other owners if they are having the same
problem? I personally know of five engines in my dealers shop that have
failed recently due to the same problem, ranging from 150 to 225hp. It
looks like a bailout to keep from honoring warrenties on something they
know will fail.
I hope i am wrong, but I run the computer checks on these engines and
have the print outs to back up what i have found.
Date: Tue, 09 Jan 2001
From: Norman
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Extended warranty
My heart goes out to the employees of OMC and its divisions who are
suffering through the worst case scenario as far as employment goes.
I am the proud owner of a 1998 Evinrude Ficht. I love my motor but it
does not love me. I have had to replace two power heads since its
purchase. I must say that OMC stood behind their poduct and replaced
the powerheads. My question to anyone who may know is-What about the
extended warranty I purchased for $1940 .Will a future purchaser of the
company honor this ? Full of hope and apprehension.
Date: Tue, 9 Jan 2001
From: b
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Any thoughts for those of us that bought Boats and Engines expecting a
Warranty, What is the status of their honoring the Warranties
RBBI Boater Warranty Comments
We are starting to field a lot of end user warranty
questions today and will respond here to all of them.
First we are not qualified to offer any professional advice in this
area, but here are our thoughts.
Our understanding is OMC has told dealers they will no
longer accept any warranty claims
Warranty issues remain to be sorted out by the courts,
dealers, suppliers and any new OMC division owners.
I suspect warranty is kaput unless courts force those involved
in sale of OLD OMC to somehow put money in a fund for NEW OMC
warranty coverage OR new owners of the specific division over your
product decide to go ahead and include future warranty costs as part
of their basic package in deciding to purchase the company . If they
are willing to pay $50 million for the specific division building your
product, they only bid $42 million and sit the other $8 million aside
for covering warranty of existing units after their purchase. These
may not be the correct numbers, but they illustrate the concept.
Different types of warranty may be handled differently (the
basic warranty package vs any special extra or extended
warranty you bought at time of purchase.
Actual coverage provided in the future might be fractional:
1. Dealers or new owners may give some break on labor or parts
2. Warranty time length might be shortened
3. Warranty may only cover very major items and not smaller failures
4. Your boat might be warrantied, but not the drive or vice versa
5. Some components and subsystems may still be warrantied by the supplier
I am not sure how this has been handled in similar situations in
the past and not had time to check up on it yet.
Dealers are currently very concerned about possibly not being
re-imbursed for warranty expenses already incurred by them.
Bottom line, it all remains to yet be sorted out
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Warranty
The key to the interim period of who owns Johnson/Evinrude would be
greatly improved if we could get the courts to order that warranty would
be paid to customers and dealers. We know that in time we will have a
better situation, but for now we cannot function without warranty. How
do you sell without warranty and how do you repair previously sold product
without warranty support? It seems that everyone is being considered
except the customers and the dealers.
Sour grapes,
Dealers
P.S. Dealers are meeting and we ain't happy
We had a request to post this sentence:
Please let everyone know that everyone "still there" on the transition team
is not part of the Soros clan.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Brian
To: Gary Polson
Subject: Re: omc ficth engines
Thank you for your reply, will keep watch on your website for news. I
feel like you that probably we are sol, but what bothers me, my dealer
and other owners is if the ficht engines will even be in the future,ie
new engines and technology, parts for the engines that are a year old or
less. When you get some insight, please let me know. Thanks so much for
your time and patience in this issue.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Fiesta
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Employment Ops.
Fiesta Marine Products, Inc. Manufacturer of Fiesta pontoon boats and Sunray
Mini Pontoon boats has engineering and production supervision openings. Back
ground in aluminum fabrication is necessary. Located in Tampa Bay Florida.
visit our web site at www.fiestaboats.com or
call Carl Morahan at 727 856 6900
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Lebanon, Mo. plant
You know I haven't heard OMC Lebanon plant mentioned. Well in case anyone
would like to know, everyone is madder than h!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Now to top it off, the
"people" in Waukegan, after informing the unemployment that their employees
would indeed recieve $400.00 for the week ending 12-30-00. However, they
never bothered to inform them the change in plans. Now unemployment is denying
benefits for that week, under appeal. When ask, the only reply given from Lebanon
office was "someone" in Waukegan was working on it. How long does it take to
fax a letter notifing them that the employees were not paid anything. No quartly
bonus, already earned, no yearend bonus, already earned, no vacation pay, already
earned. Please do not give my name or e-mail. Mad in Missouri
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: XXXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Many ex-employees of OMC Andrews, have stated, they will not return to OMC
as long as L*** ******** is still affiliated with the company or new company.
They strongly feel he has stabbed many employees in the back, by not being
upfront with them and playing office politics. With him either your his buddie
and willing to jump for him or your not. A big percentage of workers has found
other jobs, those with technical skills, are now enrolled in school to further
their education, in order to find better paying jobs. Many are also looking to
relocate if possible. Many of the ex-employees cannot afford to sit idle, while
OMC plays games in the business market. They very well could be selling to
another company, but most all the technical skills will be gone, by then. Thanks
to ESC, in assisting us who wish to further our education and Tri-County
Community College for helping us achieve our goal by allowing us to further
our education and broadening our skills for better paying jobs. They are the
ones who have given us hope. As far as OMC goes at this present time.
The way many of us sees it, what goes around comes around.
Please do not use my name.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: Big
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC closing
I live in Spruce Pine,NC where OMC's engine casting plant operated, and
was for nearly 3 years an employee in that plant. Fortunately, I left OMC last
summer.
The sad thing about all of this is that this area is economically depressed.
There are no jobs, and fewer by the month. In March the knitting mill in
town will close--another 230 people out of jobs. At OMC, there were many
husbands and wives both working at the plant. How will they make it? How
about their children? What about the ones that have been there for 17 or 18
years? Who makes their house payment for them now? Who is paying for their
car? How about the power bill? Or should they just decide whether they want
electric or food this month?
It really made me mad when I read the postings on your site and all everyone
is worried about is "Who's gonna fix my motor?!?!?" I understand their
worries, but maybe they should remember that people made that motor and made
their living there, and now they can't.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC - Recent Upheavals
Dear Mr. Wizard, et al.,
What began in 1997 as a bad taste in the mouth has turned to utter
disappointment. "Merry Christmas! Oh, and BTW, you no longer work here"--
you just don't do that to your employees. There is obviously a lot involved
which would substantiate management's untimely decision, but any team
with a modicum of intelligence, a little creativity, and some imagination
would have had plenty of time to steer the company in a more favorable
direction. Unfortunately, such was not the case, and so it makes one wonder...
Managing a company can be likened to a game, albeit an important one. And
if there is not a genuine passion for the game, its process and lore, then
there is no spirit in the game, and a company can quickly become disheartened;
dispirited. Hence, analogously speaking, the company has "lost its swing." In
this situation, management decisions often do become a very bitter pill,
and when this happens, it usually indicates there is something missing in the mix.
In '91 I attended OMC service school in Ft. Lauderdale. One of the old timers
who worked there at the time pulled me aside after class one day to talk about
the company, and how things had changed since my grandfather passed-on in
'86. He intimated that things were definitely not like they used to be, and that
morale had begun to slip. He said that what had started to disappear was a
heart-felt sense of pride, that certain intangible quality which comes from working
in a company with a rich, unbroken history. I understood what he was trying
to tell me, and am confounded that management at the time could not. Over
the years, things did not improve, and it is safe to assume that given these
recent, unfortunate turn of events, morale could probably not sink any lower.
What has transpired over the last decade is in my view unthinkable, a bad
dream come to test the unfaltering heart. Instead of operating under its own
volition, it appears as if OMC is being shuffled from one foster home to another,
losing a piece of its identity (read dignity) in the process. Is there anyone
left with an invested interest, not just from a business perspective (we have
already witnessed the fruits of a hollow, tunnel vision approach), but with an
initiative to preserve the efficacy of a company which at one time was the
dominant force in an industry lead by it's founder? I believe Outboard Marine
Corporation has a soul, and like any dispirited human soul, needs a heart to
beat life back into it. Leaders are not generic, and successful companies
are built upon the backs of its employees.
Since the buyout in '97, I have fallen out of touch with company operations,
for obvious reasons. But this website has gotten me up to speed, telling
things as they are, with no fluff. Thank you for your well-informed articles,
postings, and for allowing the employee's voice to be heard. My heart goes
out to all who have been displaced in these recent upheavals.
Sincerely,
Thurs Jan 11
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: a
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Good help wanted
Lucenti-Bonds Marine
5613 S. Ridgewood Ave.
Port Orange, FL 32127
904-788-5050
Daytona Beach Florida - We Don't Do Snow
We are a small family dealership with 6 boat lines, Angler Boats, Pro-Sport Boats,
Twin-Vee Cats, Rouge Skiffs, Fiesta Pontoons, and a local boat maker Aquaforce
Boats. We have 12 employees, of which we are not all connected to the Lucenti
family but all work together as a family for the same cause. Great sales, Greatest
Service and one heck of a friendly group.
We are looking for hard working, reliable, friendly, people to come share a great
place to live and work .. Daytona Beach. We sell OMC products... Johsons and the
great Evinrude Fichts, Mercury and Honda motors.
We are looking for:
Part Person (male or female)
Riggers (male or female)
Mechanics (male or female)
Send resume or email to Alice at lucenti@bellsouth.net
or mail to:
Attn: Alice
Lucenti-Bonds Marine
5613 S. Ridgewood Ave.
Port Orange, FL 32127
There are a lot of boat builders and dealerships in Florida looking for good
help. If I can't help you, I will send your resume on to other dealerships and
boat builders if your wish.
Good Luck to all OMC X employees and We hope we see things turn around
for all of you and all OMC products.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From:XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC news from Orlando Florida
Mr. Wizard,
It's Wednesday Jan 10 at 10:42pm as I start this email.
I just received a call from my father who is in Orlando Florida for a
Corvette convention and he called me regarding a new article in the Orlando
paper.
The article was talking about the decision of the bankruptcy court to be
announced on Feb8th. The article was referring to a quote from the judge in
Chicago that any decision to break the company apart would not necessary go
to the highest bidder, but rather take into account the "best interest" of
the industry, dealers, employees and not that of the old OMC.
I cannot confirm this, but maybe you can hunt around and see what you can
come up with.
If this is true, then maybe there is hope for the X-OMC employees who truly
love what they were doing and would love to go back.
* Please keep my name and address private.
Date: Wed, 10 Jan 2001
From: H
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Frustrated Customer
1-10-2001
Mr. Wizard:
I am pleased to see OMC customers beginning to contribute to your
feedback page. OMC customers - don't just bury your heads in the sand
and wait for this mess to sort itself out. There are a lot of other much
more organized groups in line ahead of you for their "cents-on-the-dollar"
piece of OMC. You are legally owed the warranty service and product
guarantees you paid for. Want to speculate as to where, in the long
line of those owed money by OMC and their dealers, a representative
for your warranty stands?
I have 2 questions to share:
1. A couple of dealers have offered reassuring words to customers but
thus far there is nothing behind those words. Have any of the dealers
given thought to collectively searching for an alternative bridging warranty
for existing customers? Extended warranties are nothing more than
insurance policies. Why don't dealers get together and search for an
insurance/warranty company that would offer warranties to existing
customers who can produce proof of proper maintenance of their engines
(service records for example). Even requiring passing a service inspection
prior to approval of issuance of the extended warranty would be helpful.
The cost for this alternate bridging warranty could be shared by existing
customers and dealers. I have several affected friends who I believe
would readily cough up a bit more money for the reassurance of having
a warranty they could count on. I know that an easy-out to this suggestion
is to say that a new warranty would be worthless without the availability
of parts. However 3rd party parts are available and a warranty bridge
would entice further investment into this market.
2. Someone claiming to be involved in servicing OMC FICHT engines
recently posted a message containing the following statement;
"Also, what we are finding out is that the engines will have piston lose
at or about 105 hrs due to injector failure. Do you have any insight into
this or can find out from other owners if they are having the same
problem? I personally know of five engines in my dealers shop that have
failed recently due to the same problem, ranging from 150 to 225hp. â^À¦I
hope i am wrong, but I run the computer checks on these engines and
have the print outs to back up what i have found."
Can others reading these messages respond to this comment. Are there
known problems beginning to show up (again) on the new FICHT engines
or are reports like this unusual?
Thanks.
(Please do not post my screen name)
RBBI Comment: You suggest the bridging warranty be paid together
by dealer and boater. Each boater would only have to pay for one, but the
dealers would have to pay for a zillion. Cost prohibitive for dealers.
Date: Thu, 11 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Good people, bad people
Hi Wizard, Please XXXXX out my name this time
First let me say that all of the OMC employee's I met and worked with
during my time there were outstanding people. The failure of OMC was
not the lack of hard work, commitment or pride of the workers it was simply
mis-management at the highest level starting in the late 80's. I know a lot
of people would blame some of the most recent management ( and some
should be there ) but in reality the beginning of the end happen several
years ago when failed strategies were put in place. OMC never recovered
from being caught with their pants down in 1989 with excessive inventory
and the harsh treatment of customers and dealers alike. It was easy to do
that when you were number one in the world and had things going your way.
A good case in point is Mercury Marine today and the way they treat dealers,
customers and employee's. They have major quality problems both internal
as well as external and can't seem to get a handle on either. Morale is at
an all time low, people leaving and the wrong people being brought in from
the outside to run the company with flawed strategies. (Sound familiar) and
it will only be a matter of time before the foreigners will own the marine
market. It seems like the foreigners have a willingness to work together
and help each other in a real time of need and unlike American companies
that seem to gloat when one of their competitors go under. ( Another nail in
the American workers coffin). It's all for the good of the stockholder you
know and never looking to the big picture and the future of American
industry. Let me say in closing that I too feel for all the people hurt caused
by this situation and can only hope that the courts will do what is right
for the working employee's that got screwed by Soros.
Enough said for now.
Fri Jan 12
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Final Chapter Of OMC Hong Kong
Wizard,
OMC Hong Kong finally have to face the liquidation. It all started at this
monday. At the creditor's meeting, which was hold at 1/8/2001, board
of director of OMC Hong Kong passed the resolution and started to
winding-down. All employees are laid-off on 1/9/2001 without any un-paid
holiday and compensation.
OMC Hong Kong is established at the mid-70's mainly at the production
ignition control unit used at the Johnson/Evinrude engines (Carburetor
engine). It is really sad to see a 25 years old company that have to shut-down
forever. Most the employees have been working here for more then 15 years,
I can see there were tears in their eyes at the last general meeting before
they walk out of the building. They knew they will never come back.
Good luck to all!!!
Please remove my name and e-mail.
Regards
Date: Thu, 11 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC retrospective
Dear Mr. Wizard,
Please do omit my name and email address as my perspectives might
not be popular.
I am a former employee of Outboard Marine in Spruce Pine, NC. We,
as a team, were unbeatable. We pulled together during the problems with
Ficht technology, and we worked many hours overtime in the heat of a
foundry to put out the poundage we were asked to. Most of our equipment
was ancient by the standards of modern businesses, but we made it work.
The employees in all OMC facilities are truly the most valuable asset the
company has, and any organization that may buy the divisions out will
have a well trained staff ready to put into place. I, myself, would go back
to the Spruce Pine facility be it boat motors, parts for another company, or
a something totally new and unfamiliar. As long as it's not illegal, immoral,
or fattening.
It is unfortunate that the powers that be saw fit to treat us the way they
did. However, after the preliminary shock, and the anger that followed
close on its heels, I have tried to see it in a different light. The God I serve
says vengeance is His, and I know in my heart that those whose decision
it was to end it as they did will pay for it. You do not hurt faithful
employees and get away with it. No matter where you try to hide you are
never hidden from the eyes of God.
I have heard rumblings, though they are no more than rumors, that a group
of people toured the SP facility earlier in the week, and that they may have
made an offer. Let us hope that all the divisions are sold soon, and that we
are all back to work before the mortgage companies know we were
unemployed.
Keep the faith.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Mr Wizard,
In these very dark days at OMC, you have become a guiding light in that
very darkness.
I know I can speak for many X-OMC persons when I say thank you for the
time and effort you give in keeping the information timely and as close as our
computers.
I can no longer count on OMC, but can count on Mr Wizard!
Thank You
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: Extended Warranty:
When I purchased my Lowe boat equipped with a 50 h.s.p. Johnson motor,
I also purchased an extended warranty. Know I possibly could be out not only
the motor warranty but also the extended warranty. And I'm sure I'm not
alone. I personally don't see how the courts can't hold some moneys back to
at least reimburse the dealers for warranty and extended warranty work.
Another point is that I'll just venture to say that there at the top of the
corporate ladder at O. M. C. There were some folks making some huge bucks
and those same folks will make out like bandits. Who gets the shaft the
workers and the middle folks who trusted in the product. Well, it seems to
me that if the people in management of these corporations aren't sent a
message by the courts and soon we, as a the buying public will be forced to
go to foreign companies who seem to have there ducks in a row as far as
Employee Morale, and Product Quality as a part of there commitment to the
American Public.
Wait and see what happens.
Any thing else that we can do????? Please Inform!
A Satisfied Customer Up Until Now.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 401k
Sirs, seeing as how its been almost three and 1/2 weeks since we were dumped
by OMC, have any ex-ployees recieved their packet in the mail concerning our
pension plan, 401, health ins. etc? Retirees may be interested to know I've
heard rumors that the Soros" group is trying to rape the company pension
fund. Any truth to that? Personally, I want to get my money out of their
401k plan as soon as possible. Please shield my identity. Thanks, the XXXX
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Seeking Mechanic & Riggers
National Top Ten Dealer in Northeast Tennessee seeking a certified mechanic,
rigging team and parts manager. Owner has over 23 years in the marine industry
and is considered "one of the best and most successful in the business."
Beautiful area with many surrounding lakes in immediate area. We have a terriffic
staff, excellent pay plan with benefits and we provide continuing technical
education for the right people. Contact Beverly at 423-534-1765. Leave
complete message with name, phone number and address if no answer. We
will contact you promptly. If interested, you may also contact me at
gsmarine@planetc.com.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: Vicki
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Job Openings
Caravelle Powerboats a southwest Georgia based company of inboard and
outboard fiberglass boats is accepting resumes of experienced persons in the
following positions: Molds, Tooling, Boat Laminations, Assembly, & Final
Finish.
Fax resumes: 229-924-1030
E-mail: caravell@sowega.net
Mailing Address: Caravelle Powerboats
PO Box 1899
Americus, GA 31709
Attn: Vicki Franks - Human Resource Mgr.
Sat Jan 13
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: T
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pensky
If Pensky had won the original bidding war, I would bet things would be
different. I wonder if he would have any interest in it now (maybe in just a
portion of the total company, at least)? I see that he is one of the choices
in the "vote who will buy them" list on this web site. I know Mercury was
relieved when he did not win originally. There is "first class" and "no
class"; unfortunately, looks like OMC got the later a few years ago. I'm a
Mercury man, but I think competition just makes everyone better. On the
personal side, I will keep the OMC employees in my prayers. As far as piston
failures are concerned, is that really related to the Ficht system, per se,
or is it just the engine design that is being equipped with Ficht? Does
anyone know if this also affects Ficht engines that are becoming prevalent on
some brands of personal watercraft (saw some at the boat show today)?
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: S
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Auction Update
Hello,
I would like to know whether or not the auction is a public auction on
the 31st. Also whether or not you will have someone at the auction to
report back to you the results of the auction, minute by minute, piece
by piece. Please set up a information page for the auction
information. This is the most important thing now. It has become a
waiting game for all concerned.
Please let me know your decisions.
Waiting patiently,
Thank you,
RBBI Comment: As posted in the newsclips, OMC will be accepting
bids for its assetts up to Jan 26th. The bids will be opened Jan 31 in the
Bankruptcy Court and a hearing by the court will be held Feb 8 to review the
sale or sales.
We are not sure how fast the court will reach its final decision or if the final
decisions will all be reached at once (may be some parts deferred till later).
We expect it will take the court awhile to sort through the various
options, especially when it comes to selling in pieces vs. larger divisions.
Also not sure how and when the results will be released or what format
they will be released in. Might even be left up to the purchasers to
announce outcome in some cases.
Lots of unknowns, but expect by Feb 12th they will be considerable fewer
unknowns.
In terms of providing live coverage, in case nobodys noticed, we have
already spent a few hundred hours on this out of our own pocket. Travel
expenses would need to come out of our food budget and Mr. Wizard
likes to eat too much. We will not be attending the court.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: A response to"D"of December 31st
FROM "L" to "D"
I was a bit over reactive as I wrote my feelings of the OMC mess, but
Peterborough is the birthplace of all those products. I have lovingly restored
to operating condition one of the first outboards produced here, gone to
school to repair them, spent my childhood exploring lakes and rivers with a
3hp, I thought they were the best bar none.
The plane truth is the your American Corporation stole a gem from this
community, They stole our heritage and left us with nothing but bad feelings.
The mess is still here with contaminated soil that they knew was here but
somehow "forgot". Ask them about the sawdust.
I was at the final auction of the plant equipment and it was sickening to see
the vultures bid off a lifetime of memories of manufacturing toil by a great team
of employee's.
I do not appologize for my comments and yes I wanted to stir the hot pot to
see if someone would rise up. So what are you going to do about it ??? . fight,
to not let this happen again,speak up before it happens.
Lets, as real supporters of OMC products not let this mess happen again.
This type of forum allows open conversations on an industry that has never
been seen this medium before. Hats off to Mr. Wizard to get us all together to
communicate on a issue we feel so passonate about.
I await my dealer to tell me the news on how my $25,000.00 brand new
recreational fun toy will be warranteed. I believe in my dealer,
he sold me back to OMC. I am proud of Lowe and Evinrude.
For all those whom the bell tolled, I ask you when you all get back to building
Evinrude, Johnson, Lowe, Princecraft,Fourwinns,Chriscraft and all the other
products, take a bit of what "D" said and how HD came back, put the effort
in the product and not in the hype. Learn from your competitors, listen to
your customers . The whole worlds waits for your return, make it count.
And for the Corporate Slim who created this, Do the Timex torture test
and tie them to the prop of a Johnson and head up river and see if they
can survive the turrent waters they so greedly operated in.
My livelyhood did depend on OMC being here, when they were here.
How about it CANADA lets bring it home and buy our heritage back.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001 20:41:43 -0000
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC's DEMISE
Please delete my address as what I'm about to say will probably upset a
few people.
I hadn't worked at OMC as long as many of my fellow (ex) co-workers so
I can't speak for what happened before that point in time, 4 years ago.
Much finger pointing has been done at this site and others on the internet
at the most recent OMC owners and management about how terrible they
are. Well while I don't condone the timing of the closure and bankruptcy
filing nor the poor communications and support of the laid off employees,
dealers and customers they did make a valiant financial effort to turn OMC
around. I'm sure they are not going to recover the total amount of their
investments no matter what. They were not totally responsible for the failure
of the company.
Blunders by previous management(s). Workers in all departments, in all
divisions, that did not grasp the significance of what was happening for
many years and sensing the urgency. Instead of saying "what can my
company do for me", say "what can I do for my company" (sorry JFK).
The four years I was at OMC the usual response when salaried people were
asked to put in a little extra time was "will we be paid or get comp time,
what's in it for ME" (I guess the answer was "your job future at OMC").
Employees who didn't have the courage to speak up to their managers
when they found a problem but had no problem bitching behind their backs.
Yeah, we all heard about the guys that got fired for speaking up. That's
funny, I spoke up a lot and was there until the end. The dealers who
expected OMC to pay for their lack of experience, blunders and even
fraud. Customer who just never grasp the meaning of a warranty and
insisted/badgered/sued until they got something despite the fact that
their product may have been 2,3, 4 or more years out of warranty. Dealers
and customers who expected OMC to pay for maintenance items, i.e. Cobra
shift cable 10-12 years after new, damages and failures due to lack of
maintenance, misuse and abuse. How many dealers and customers
registered engines as recreational use when they were actually being
used commercially? These are just some of the reasons companies like
OMC fail.
All the blame shouldn't be directed at Mr's Fix, Soros and friends, probably
very little of the blame should be. They put up their money and lost, how
much more should they have been expected to lose. I don't know any of
these men but I've personally been in their position (on a much smaller
scale): a failing business, a faltering economy (at least that's what the
media got us to believe) requiring a decision to pull the plug and watch
an easy million dollars disappear in the proverbial hole in the water. It
bothered that my employees and loyal customers were affected but at some
point I had to say enough is enough and watch out for my family and myself.
Hopefully some of us will get another chance to work for a company under
the name OMC, Evinrude or Johnson. If so, let's all count our blessing and
try a little harder the next time around.
Good luck.
Date: Fri, 12 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pension and 401(k) Assets
Pension and 401(k) Assets are held in separate trusts. The Soros group
cannot "rape" these funds.
Keep your heads high!
Please remove my identity.
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Spurce Pine------Lost Foam Plant
Dear Mr. Wizard.
I am contracting you in regard to the Lost Foam Plant in Spruce Pine .
It was my undfrstanding we were the best in the best in the world at
production of v-blocks. This being so who do you thing would be intersted
in such a plant ?
Do you think they they would be insterest in bring back the same
workes with the experince ,such as me with 16 years of service.
I really loved my job !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I want to thank you for a job well done. Piease give me all the info you can.
Thank You
D
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: t
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
I am the owner of two 1998 fitch 175 and now two 2000 fitch 200. My 1998 and
1999 boating seasons were filled with nothing but down time. Only my dealer and his
staff kept me from nuking OMC. In hearing that the problems were over, I repowered
in 2000, now I wonder if this was the BIGGEST mistake I've ever made. I am extremely
sympathetic to OMC employees and feel that someone dropped the ball or (engines)
as the case may be.
I hope there is a good solution for OMC employees and consumers if and when a
new buyer comes along.
Mon Jan 15
RBBI Comment: We received several comments on the letter below posted earlier this week.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Do prospective Buyers of OMC & owners of engines know about the
fire hazzard with many Ficht engines????
Mr. Wizard,
I am a former OMC XXXX ........ In late November, OMC informed us of a major
rework of product (They call it an enhancement kit!) for the 200/225 Ficht
engines from 1999 through 2001 models. We were given list of what dealers had
the engines and the unit serial numbers. Also Owner names if the unit was sold.
We received a sample kit and a video on how to install the kit. This video also
went to the dealers. It was to pay 3.4 hours warranty labor to install. Many of the
2001 models only needed a simpler injector bolt kit which they planned to handle
with a Service Bulletin and let the dealer do as the units came in for regular
service. The 2001 models already had most of the improvements.
After looking at the video and the kit, I raised the issue why they were not
addressing the problem with the Vapor separator tops breaking and leaking fuel in
the lower motor pan. Several fires and explosions have occurred because of this
problem. The above mention kits address the other possible fire hazard of
the injectors coming loose and starting a fire, but nothing on the vapor separator.
In hot weather, the fuel in the separator expands after the engine is stopped or
sometimes in real hot weather just the sun shining on the motor cover causes enough
heat expansion of the fuel to push the top cap off the canister. OMC made changes
to beef up the tops to prevent this from happening and stronger parts were in the
system. They just chose to ignore the situation and continue to handle them on a per
case basis. They went so far as to call back any older vapor separators we had in
with us on our service trucks and replaced them with new ones. when I asked why
they wanted them returned, they said "You do not need to know and keep quite
about it!" When it blows the motor cover off, we call it a " 911 code - Motor
cover above expected range!"
I am very concerned that they decided to bail out before this problem became widely
know and people found out how dangerous it really is. If had to stand the warranty
and law suits there would be nothing left for the investors to salvage! Somebody
needs to make this problem known, Before someone is seriously hurt of killed. Engine
owners need to know and prospective buyers of OMC need to know!
I have tired many sources in an effort to "let it be known" but have heard nothing
back. I have pictures of an engine that caught fire in September 2000 and copies
of OMC documents discussing the problem as far back as May 2000. I have the proof
if anyone is interested!
Thanks for your time!
RBBI Comment: Field failures leading to potential injury or death are
evaluated on a combination of severity of injury and frequency. As with any
manufacturer of this size, especially one with this much legacy product in the field
being used by the general public, we suspect there are a few design problems
(liabilities) they will be happy to walk away from. We are certainly not in a position
to comment on this specific one.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Re: OMC Management
I am a former employee of OMC Milwaukee (Evinrude). If Ole Evinrude
could see what has happened to his once proud company he would roll over
in his grave.
I was forced to retire last year after 35 years as an Evinruder. The
new management made a valiant effort, but it was too little too late. The
former management started screwing up OMC the day after Ralph Evinrude
retired with their announcement of the move down south. They invested as
little as possible in training and new equipment, but rewarded themselves
well for their minimal efforts. With nothing but ancient equipment and almost
no maintenance, we put out the best product we could in spite of the
management not because of them. They never had any respect for their
employees and thought that any of us could be replaced without any thought
given to our experience and loyalty. The current employees are now suffering
the consequences of their folly.
We always thought of the "new" OMC employees as outsiders, but now
they are sharing the same fate as we did, without the benefit of a pension
check. To you newly laid off employees I say: don't blame the present owners.
They made a good effort and for the short time we worked for them, they
treated us better and kept us better informed than our former employers ever
did. In other words, they tried to make it work. I only hope that the company
or companies that buy it now, keep up the good effort and make it work this
time. We used to No. 1 in the world. I'd like to see it that way again
sometime.
Please remove my name from publication.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: Boat Master
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Check out investcon.net
RBBI Comment: link above is to a group providing information
on OMCs facilities, production capabilities and work force to those wishing
to bid on portions of OMC. Is nicely done site but not much information on the
people behind it. We e-mailed a request for additional information about their
background, skill and experience. Shortly later we recieved the response below>
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Boat Master
To: Gary
Subject: Re: your mail
At this time we would like to remain anonymous until we become engaged with
someone...Not sure how Fix and Romano are going to respond to this. We are
past Boat Group leaders; corp. finance, corp. manufacturing and divisional talent.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Fires
The "Secret Squirrels" stay awake at nights over this one! Right XXX.
Date: Mon, 15 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc fires
I would like to get in contact with the OMC field rep that left the
message on sun about the fire hazard of the Ficht. When OMC file they were
at out business looking at a motor that exploded and burn the boat
completely. This matter has not been settled yet. I could use some
information because of the legal possibilities.
Thanks
J
RBBI Note: We forwarded this email to the rep.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Boat Purgatory
Wiz,
The next ten days will be tough. We are taking it one day at a time. Our dealership
hopes that the next owners of Evin and John will honor warranty claims. We are
taking care of our customers where we can. We have been honest with our customers
and they continue to buy our products. I pray for all concerned that this ends well.
I saw today that Penske bought Rollins out and I expect that he is not a player here.
Many hope that a domestic company wins the bid. I for one do not care who wins, only
that they do business the right way.
By the middle of Feb., the new owners will hopefully begin operation. Dealers and
product owners will be happy when this happens.
I would like to make this happen faster, but the Judge has no problem with the lenght
of time here. He is not having any problems with this situation. If he understood what
we are dealing with , he would speed this up . If if was a skiff.
Later Wiz,
dealer
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: S
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc meltdown
Could you give me insight on the situation with OMC dealers free
floorplan programs? Do you think the floorplan companies will try to
ride the storm out until something gets settled in court or is the
interest clicking? I wouldn't think the floorplan companies would want
the inventory, which would have to be sold pennies on the dollar. OMC
gave all these great extended floorplan programs to lure the dealers
into taking the product and then they shut the doors. Yes, I believe OMC
is wrong in doing this; but dealers knew they had lost millions and
millions over the last three years. Sometimes you've got to open your
eyes before you walk!
Next, nothing has been mentioned about the fuel injection P.W.C.
technology, which Polaris and Kawasaki are dependant of. I would guess
Bombardier is licking their chops over this. Even though they are the
dominant market player, sales should go up due to the inability of
production of fuel injection systems to Polaris and Kawasaki. Things
will definately work themselves out; but the next few years may be rough
for OMC dealers. Sometimes it's not whether you jump off the boat; but
how to get the concrete blocks chained to your feet off before you do.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: William Brown
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc bulliten board
I would first of all like to say good bye to soo many of the omc dealers that I
talked with on a daily basis.
I am a former Omc Customer Service Rep. Many of Omc's dealers talked with
us on a daily basis. I would like to tell these dealers that I had a great time
talking to them and helping with whatever issues they had. There are several
dealers I wish I had the chance to get a hold of before we were asked to leave
the building. I was only with OMC about two years, but miss the contact from
the dealers.
It would be appreciated, if any dealers remember speaking with William Brown
(me) and would feel it appropriate to send any letters , or comments, which might
be helpful in finding another job. Letters can be sent to XXXXX
Again, I would like to say thank you for the experience and the great conversation.
I hope I get a chance to speak with many of you in the future.
RBBI Comment: Sorry, we are not going to turn this into a help wanted board.
We have identified and posted many opportunities on our
Job Openings for ex-OMC Employees page.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: B
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC History
I feel I can be still no longer. OMC customers, dealers, ex-employees, and
Potential New Owners, have a right to know. God knows they'll all be left in
the dark if the shenanigans and deceptions of the last 20+ years are allowed
to continue. Isn't anyone curious enough to find out what forces Really drove
a well established, global leading, Fortune 500 marine business to ruin? The
answers are simple, yet subtle, and due to the loyalty of really great
employee's, would never be revealed to anyone outside the nucleus, until now.
Obviously, the failure of OMC, was, in great part due to its tremendous
success in the decades preceeding its' decline. I was there when it happened,
I know what happened, I know the players. Over these many years, I can recite
numerous irrefutable examples of gut wrenching, incredible blunders, brought
on by some of the most ego-manical, egotistical, rude, lying, calloused
jackxxxxx that ever inhabited the hallowed halls of OMC. (What's really
disconcerting is, many of them are still there) My inquery (request with no
obligation) to you sir is, where do I go with this? Do I set myself up for
libel? As for the dealers, customers, and ex-employees I feel it's too late
for us. Any advice though, on how to pass on pertinent info to potential new
owners without screwing myself legally would be very much appreciated. I will
keep any advice you may offer to me extremely confidential, as I hope this
correspondance will be. ** (By the way, you do a great job for us ex'ers,. We
all admire you, just keep those editorials comin' ! You've become a
lighthouse to a lot of people). Thank you, God bless you !
Sincerely,
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: ROBERT L. WELLS
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: To OMC History
The subject of the failure of OMC is very interesting to me and I am
planning on doing a book about the how this mess happened. You or any
other interested parties can e-mail me with your thoughts at:
rlwells@ix.netcom.com
I don't need to know who you are, but it would be nice.
Thanks
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001 18:46:41 EST
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Employees
Mr. Wizard , Are any of those displaced employees in the Florida area? Sea
Ray would love to talk with them. Tell them to go to searay.com and see whats
available. The Sykes Facility and the new Cape Canaveral Facility are looking
for skilled boat builders , electricians , laminators , cabinet builders ,
upholsters .
Build boats ......a future ..........a dream
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: Jeff
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc meltdown
On the question of if Transamerica will come after the dealers for the
floor plan interest I have this thought. Good business practice would be to
only forward to OMC the cost of the units less the interest to be accrued.
If a unit is paid off early, then the finance company will forward the bonus
to OMC. If the arrangement was for OMC to get the full amount and then pay
the interest ,that would have been a bad decision on Transamerica's part.
Which in that case if they come to the dealer for interest ,I would say to
bad it was your mistake.
Texas Dealer
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Ficht Kits
Please do not publish my name or address.
OK to publish the following.
In response to the field reps concerns with field kits:
Anyone who has a Ficht engine needs to check and see if the new enhancement
kits have been installed on your fuel injectors. These are for engines with
the all plastic injector housings and injectors retained by bolts and belvil
washers. These kits were in the process of being released to the dealers and
field reps/teams.
The kit includes new injector retention clamps (horseshoe clamp), retention
bolts, injector housing straps with integral fuel line retention clips and
convoluted tubing to cover all plastic fuel lines which flow into and out of
the injectors.
Dealers should have the information on this important kit.
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: K
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Parts Availibility
As an independent OMC technician in Fl, I'd like to know if anyone has heard
when parts are going to be released. I have alot of customers as I'm sure
everyone else has that are wondering what is going on and if their engines
can be maintained and/or repaired. Is February 8th the magic date?? If
anyone knows for sure, please forward the correct info, as all I'm hearing is
rumors.
Scared in Jupiter:(
Tues Jan 16
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: L
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
Please note correct spelling:
Roger S. Penske
Mr Wizard Comment: pilot error.
Date: Sat, 13 Jan 2001
From: Marine
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: the world knows about OMC
Dear Mr. Wizard,
I noticed in one of your articles you mentioned the whole world knows
what's going on with OMC. I've seen ONE news (tv) article on OMC.
This is not receiving the national news coverage it should. My heart goes
out to all the OMC employee's. Unless your involved in the marine
industry, you aren't hearing anything! Mercury faxed us the 22nd of
Dec. that was OMC filing bankruptcy and I went to the internet. Many
of OMC's dealers still didn't know what was happening.
Keep us informed!
RBBI Comment: The "whole world" comment was made in context
of it is no longer a secret they are for sale. Some companies try to hide
the fact they are for sale to conduct ongoing business till time of sale and
do not want to take out a big print FOR SALE ad. Is not the case for OMC.
They have the freedom to openly expose the sale to anyone they wish,
including the ebay approach mentioned by Mr. Wizard.
It is true TWA and Wards bankruptcys have recieved much more attention
in the national news. But they are much larger more widely known firms who
deal direct to consumers.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: What about..
What about customers boats that were at the factory being repaired when
OMC shut down? There isn't even anyone to ask about the problem?
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC asset auction
according to the documents i read on the illinois federal bankruptcy court
website, the papers filed by R. Romano OMC VP LEGAL, states that only
those people/entities which have filed with the court to be present, placed
certified funds in a good faith account and to which the debtor agree's should
attend, may attend the auction. so no, i don't think we could call it a "public"
auction.... pls remove my ename and eaddress if you decide to post this.
also, to the writer " spread the blame " for the demise of the company, i agree
completely with you. although, there were many salaried employee's who did
work into the night when called for. i for one, was still at the office at 2AM
last March. and i was not alone! people were at the plant at all shipping
locations and in the office making sure what needed to get done was done...
it was the same for the shipping crews each quarter or month end..while the
hourly people i'm sure were paid OT, the salaried people received nothing. as
far as comp time, never was given any, never asked for any.
i hold the generations of officers, from strang, to chapman, to bauman, to jones
as totally responsible for the demise of this corporation. they pillaged this once
great company for their own betterment. they still are ... strang chapman and
other ex officers have filed papers to protect themselves with the bankruptcy
court on their "special" post employment officer's programs. i have witnessed
this company being run like a monarchy, and the officers really believing
themselves royalty.....it made me sick at my heart to watch it happen.
anyway, i personally think this will turn out for the best. it's been a very sick
company for a very long time. the proud trade names i hope will live on. it's
just too bad that a few men could trash a proud company thru their own greed
and negligence.
pls remove my name and e address.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: XXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Do prospective Buyers of OMC & owners of engines know about the
fire hazzard with many Ficht engines????
Mr. Wizard,
I am a former OMC XXXX ........ In late November, OMC informed us of a major
rework of product (They call it an enhancement kit!) for the 200/225 Ficht
engines from 1999 through 2001 models. We were given list of what dealers had
the engines and the unit serial numbers. Also Owner names if the unit was sold.
We received a sample kit and a video on how to install the kit. This video also
went to the dealers. It was to pay 3.4 hours warranty labor to install. Many of the
2001 models only needed a simpler injector bolt kit which they planned to handle
with a Service Bulletin and let the dealer do as the units came in for regular
service. The 2001 models already had most of the improvements.
After looking at the video and the kit, I raised the issue why they were not
addressing the problem with the Vapor separator tops breaking and leaking fuel in
the lower motor pan. Several fires and explosions have occurred because of this
problem. The above mention kits address the other possible fire hazard of
the injectors coming loose and starting a fire, but nothing on the vapor separator.
In hot weather, the fuel in the separator expands after the engine is stopped or
sometimes in real hot weather just the sun shining on the motor cover causes enough
heat expansion of the fuel to push the top cap off the canister. OMC made changes
to beef up the tops to prevent this from happening and stronger parts were in the
system. They just chose to ignore the situation and continue to handle them on a per
case basis. They went so far as to call back any older vapor separators we had in
with us on our service trucks and replaced them with new ones. when I asked why
they wanted them returned, they said "You do not need to know and keep quite
about it!" When it blows the motor cover off, we call it a " 911 code - Motor
cover above expected range!"
I am very concerned that they decided to bail out before this problem became widely
know and people found out how dangerous it really is. If had to stand the warranty
and law suits there would be nothing left for the investors to salvage! Somebody
needs to make this problem known, Before someone is seriously hurt of killed. Engine
owners need to know and prospective buyers of OMC need to know!
I have tired many sources in an effort to "let it be known" but have heard nothing
back. I have pictures of an engine that caught fire in September 2000 and copies
of OMC documents discussing the problem as far back as May 2000. I have the proof
if anyone is interested!
Thanks for your time!
RBBI Comment: Field failures leading to potential injury or death are
evaluated on a combination of severity of injury and frequency. As with any
manufacturer of this size, especially one with this much legacy product in the field
being used by the general public, we suspect there are a few design problems
(liabilities) they will be happy to walk away from. We are certainly not in a position
to comment on this specific one.
Date: Sun, 14 Jan 2001
From: Richard
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc not dead yet!
I got into the marine buisness 15 years ago with my father fixing outboards when he
was layed off the first time greenway steped into the picture Iwould like to see the
employee union step in and organize a employee buy out and tell greenway to get lost
the only reason they bought omc was for the money they have a XXXX pore attitude
about the reputation of all and any buisness the posess . OMC has the leading edge
tachnology in fuel injection. There is nothing wrong with the ficht technology like
any other manufacturer the have some bugs to work out Hell IM sure GM ,Ford Didnt
get it right on there first try either .
Sincerly A concerned Tech
Wed Jan 17
Date: Tue, 16 Jan 2001
From: John
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Misplaced Optimism
I am somewhat concerned on the amount of misplaced optimism that I read
from both dealers and former employees of OMC on a number of web sites.
Having worked at OMC a number of years I saw the writing on the wall and
managed to move beyond OMC a few months prior to it's impact with the
ground. As much as I threw myself at my work and the love for the product
and hope for its survival I get the feeling that many are unable to rationalize
what has and is occurring.
The company has failed largely due to poor decisions made 20-30 years ago
while it was still "King of the Hill" however it was also woefully poor in its
training and education of its mid-upper level managers. This failure left the
company handicapped in its decision making process and limited in its ability
to raise the next generation of leader(less).
What does OMC have left to sell today? Its boat companies were largely
ignored in the meetings I attended however it is probably the only thing OMC
can sell for a decent price today. The Waukegan campus is part of an EPA
Superfund Clean-up site 'yeah I will buy it. The engine names of Evinrude and
Johnson are great plus there is FICHT however they are so tarnished right now
it would take a few years to shine them up again and the supply chain required
to build them is shot. You want a crankshaft or any other raw material part
then its cash and carry.
Merc has looked at the manufacturing plants but probably only because they
realize that with OMC dead there is not enough capacity in their system to
produce the 2-strokes required as they try to absorb the OMC market and they
realize if they can not fill the orders then more 2 stroke market is lost to the
foreign made 4 strokes. The only other parties to walk through have been
liquidators who are only interested in scrap price.
I hope for the livelihood of many that they do not think a buyer will descend
and buy OMC in the current market instability and restore all the warranties and
re-hire all the displaced workers revitalizing the Evinrude and Johnson name to
its rightful place. I would love to see that occur but realistically you have to ask
yourself^Åwould you buy it given OMCs record?
Date: Wed, 17 Jan 2001
From: RICK
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: INFO
I'm an OMC-Dealer?????????, I think !!!!! We received our first shipment of parts
today, since the shut down. Just wanted to let you know, Thanks Rick
Thurs Jan 18
We received this note from a member of the Evinrude family to be posted here:
January 12, 2001
Addressed to all concerned about the disturbing situation at Outboard Marine Corporation:
What began in 1997 as a bad taste in the mouth has turned to utter
disappointment. "Merry Christmas! Oh, and by the way, you no longer have a
job here"-- you just don't do that to your employees. There is obviously a
lot involved which would substantiate management's untimely decision, but
one would think that any team with a modicum of intelligence, a little
creativity, and some imagination would have had plenty of time to steer the
company in a more favorable direction (this is management, not rocket
science). Unfortunately, such was not the case, and so it makes one
wonder...
Managing a company can be likened to a game, albeit an important one. And if
there is not a genuine passion for the game, its process and lore, then
there is no spirit in the game, and a company can quickly become
disheartened; dispirited. Hence, analogously speaking, the company has "lost
its swing." In this situation, management decisions often do become a very
bitter pill, and when this happens, it usually indicates there is something
missing in the mix.
While attending OMC service school in '91, one of the old timers who worked
there at the time pulled me aside after class one day to talk about the
company, and how things had changed since my grandfather passed-on in '86.
He intimated that things were definitely not like they used to be, and that
morale had begun to slip. He said that what had started to disappear was a
heart-felt sense of pride, that certain intangible quality which comes from
working in a company with a rich, unbroken history. I understood what he was
trying to tell me, and am confounded that management at the time could not.
Over the years, things have not improved, and it is safe to assume that
given the recent, unfortunate turn of events, morale could probably not sink
any lower. I often wonder how Ole or Ralph would react to finding out what
had become of their life's work.
What has transpired over the last decade is in my view unthinkable, a bad
dream come to test the unfaltering heart. Instead of operating under its own
volition, it is as if OMC is being shuffled from one foster home to another,
losing a piece of its identity (and dignity) in the process. Is there anyone
left with a vested interest, not just with a business agenda, but with an
initiative to preserve the efficacy of a company which at one time was the
dominant force in an industry lead by its founder?
I believe Outboard Marine Corporation has a soul, and like any dispirited
human soul, needs a heart to beat life back into it. Leaders are not
generic, and successful companies are built upon the backs of its employees.
My heart goes out to all who have been displaced in these recent upheavals.
Sincerely,
Thomas Ole Evinrude
La Jolla, CA
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: O
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Dedication to the former OMC Burnsville employees.
I was the coolant technincian at OMC Burnsville. They let me go Dec. 15th
along with all my friends without any warning. I worked very hard at my job and
all of the employees were great to work with. Instead of calling me in to take
care of the coolant I hear they brought in a chemist to preserve it.
I am sending this letter to let all the employees of OMC Burnsville know I really
appreciate the cooperation they gave me over the years. I wish each and everyone
the best and will do anything I can to help them now.
The management at OMC Burnsville have knocked all of the well respected
employees off their feet. They lied to us in so many ways I can't even begin to list.
I want each employee to hold their head up high and move on with their life.
I knew these employees as well as anyone there and know the talent the company
threw down the drain. I really hope a company will come in to this facility and give
these hard working talented former OMC employees the recognizion they deserve.
You could search the world and never find the dedication,talent,and kindness we
had at OMC Burnsville.
Sincerely,
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Important
I have been laid off from OMC in 12-21-00 and I had the chance to work with
the FICHT team.
I am aware of what a great technology FICHT is, I am sure that with the new
owners Evinrude / FICHT technology will be the # 1 in a short period of time.
FICHT is the answer for two cycles, and we will see this technology in all
two cycles engines in the future I believe in the product and you write my
word!!! It will be # 1
PS: I am no longer working for OMC
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: Joel
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Dealer Optimism
In response to the idividual who sees virtually no hope for Evinrude and Johnson,
I believe that he is not aware of the new Rude Ram products that we have sold for
the last few months. The product is the best . I certainly agree that this is a mess,
but I believe that someone with deep pockets will recognize the value of the
names and the technology. The boat companies , for the most part, will be sold
and probably continue. Thirty percent of the market is a lot of business to let die.
I remain optimistic and perhaps foolishly expect Evinrude and Johnson to re-emerge
and continue on.
Sue me,
Optimistic dealer
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX
Sat Jan 20
Date: Thu, 18 Jan 2001
From: XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: auction
just a thought, since OMC is offering parts to their dealers at a cash
only bases, and yet the parts are also up for auction, where is the
cutoff date for them to ship parts. Or is this method of selling parts a
ploy to get more cash in and not send parts ordered and paid for. I ask
this because my dealer has ordered parts for my engine, I paid for cash
in advance,and we have not recieved said parts. The irony is that these
parts are for an engine still in warranty, that should not of been
charged for. I depend on my boats for my living, so I ordered and paid.
Any others out there have this queston?
Please do not use my email addy in public.
PS. I have some good friends that worked up in wakeagan, and were reps
in the field. They did a great job, and this is not aimed at those
people. Thanks
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2001
From: Eugene
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
dear sir,
I have a 2000 Evenrude 225 ficht . My question is, what will happen with
my warranty on my motor and what will happen if I take it in for a
warranty related problem? I have had some problems. If you could help me
with some different sites on the internet it would be appreciated
Thank you
Eugene
Date: Fri, 19 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC bonuses being paid
Mr. Wizard, can you believe this (don't answer that, cause I know
you can believe it)? The Judge has authorized bonuses to be paid
to the remaining employees to total 2.5 million. With some of the
people getting over $60,000 in bonuses and upwards of $400,000,
on top of their current salaries. This just makes me ill. When you
see people like Rusk, Merlot, Wainscott, Romano and Martinez getting
these huge bonuses for doing what? Except for Romano and Martinez,
those employees have been in their positions less than 4 months.
And all the people who worked for OMC for more than 20 years get
nothing. This is just absolutely crazy.
Date: Sat, 20 Jan 2001
From: Ron
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: PENSKE!!!!!
Mr. Wizard,
It's Roger PENSKE..... Please spell it right !
No one likes to see their "Name" misspelled. They can tolerate other
words not being correct but not their name.
Thanks,
Ron
Mon Jan 22
Date: Sun, 21 Jan 2001
From: chris
To: polsong@virtualpet.com
Subject: proline
i have heard rumors of the sale of proline boats ,is there any truth to
this?
Date: Sun, 21 Jan 2001
From:XXXX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bonuses
From xxxxx
This is absolutly nuts that the courts would allow this to happen when so many good
people got screwed by these bandits. I could even expense account money they owed
me before chapter 11 plus final pay check I was promised was never delivered. The
more they can screw you all the bigger there bonus. What about the WARN ACT are
the courts going to do anything about that? Where are all of the lawyers to defend the
thousands of people here who is being screwed by the courts and a hand full bigots.
Thanks, Screwed Again
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: T
To: Gary Polson
Cc: Rob Roehrborn
Subject: Re: ex-OMC Position Openings
The Ariens Company, a leading manufacturer of outdoor power equipment
located in NE Wisconsin, is seeking a number of professional and managerial
employees.
More specifically, current job openings include:
* Senior Project Engineers
* Designers
* Model Makers
* Manufacturing Engineers
* Production Supervisors
* Purchasing professionals
* Product Managers (marketing)
* Programmer/Analysts
The contact person for any OMC employees interested in opportunities with
the Ariens Company would be our Corporate Recruiter, Rob Roehrborn.
Rob may be reached by any of the following means
Mail: Rob Roehrborn
Corporate Recruiter
Ariens Company
655 W. Ryan St.
Brillion, WI 54110
Tel: 920-756-4318
Fax: 920-756-4366
email: rroehrborn@ariens.com
For more information on the Ariens company, I encourage any interested
candidates to visit our website at www.ariens.com.
Thanks for Your Help,
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: A
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
Just printed out document from RACER that was filed 01/17/01 by attorneys
for Orbital Engine Corporation(good history lesson).
- Objection to proposed assumption and assignment of executory
contracts in connection with the debtors' proposed sale of substantially
all of their assets, including objection to proposed cure amount
From what I read doesn't seem like the "FICHT" trademark is going to sell for anything
unless OEC (Orbital) says it is okay. I am curious what constitutes a "substantial
payment that was due to OEC on December 1,2000".
Tues Jan 23
Date: Mon, 22 Jan 2001
From: OMC
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job fair
Please post that OMC is working in conjunction with
the Illinois Department of Workforce Development and The College of Lake
County hosting a Job Fair on Wednesday, January 31, 2001 1 PM to 5 PM.
The job fair will be held at the College of Lake County - Lakeshore Campus,
111 North Genesse Street, Waukegan, IL, North Building Conference Center.
Approximately 40 employers will be represented looking for employees of all
disciplines. Please bring a resume to the job fair.
if employers are interested in participating in job fair or simply sending
postings/company information, please refer them to the college of lake
county, career development center at (847) 543-2059. they should tell
the career center they are interested in the omc job fair.
Thanks!
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: employment
Challenger Offshore has immediate openings for the following positions:
laminating,hand lay up,mold building, rigging, and final assembly. See
our site at www.challengeroffshore.com.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: Riverside
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job opening
Riverside Marine Remanufacturing located in Little Rock, AR. is looking for a
qualified technician to assemble powerheads. Riverside has been rebuilding
powerheads since the 1970s. We have produced more than 14,000 units. This is
a full time job with year-round work. Contact us at Riversidersmtjb@aol.com
or 501-372-0985. Contact name is Tom Booth.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: cobra insurance
Sirs,
FYI, just recieved by certified mail, the Cobra insurance premium rates
for a family of two per month. $ 630.57 for medical and dental. Only
$ 570.52 for just medical, .....gosh what a deal.
Let's see if I have this right. While the "key" omc corporate lawer
Romano gets a reported "bonus" of $400,000.00 to "hang in there", and
execs like Wainscott and Rusk, have to tough it out and bump along
with roughly half that, they, in their collective wisdom, have all gotten
together and were gracious enough to offer us ex-working stiffs insurance
we can't afford. Is that salt I feel in my open wound? This "let em eat
cake" attitude really XXXXXX me off.
Bottom line, after decades of service to omc, I lose my job, no
severance, no anything, (can't afford basic health insurance), but omc
finds it necessary to really assist the people that were at least partially
responsible for driving a fine old company into the ground. It looks like
they own the judges too, for them to be okay with this. At least I'll sleep
tonight. Thanks for letting me get this off my chest.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: 401K monies
From xxxx
I understood that on the 17 of this month these monies were going to be
paid out. Has anyone out there recieved anything yet? We need this money
to pay for insurance and put food on the table not for retirement.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: j
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Four Winns Warranty
I had factory authorized warranty work started prior to the chapter 11 date of
OMC. In fact, the work was completed and the bill submitted 3 days before the
chapter 11 was filed. Now the xxxxxxxx are refusing to pay the shop. They
(Four Winns) are shopping for a buyer, and the buyers are looking to pick up the
boat business without the burden of any outstanding warranty claims. That sucks.
I for one hope they realize that if they screw the boat owners their brand name
won't be worth a damn.
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: C
To: Gary
Subject: Re: North Shore gas filing on the OMC bankruptcy docket 1/22
it is unbelievable, that i as an employee, working over those contaminated
sites, did NOT know that OMC was back in courts over clean up.
they never mentioned anything to us....
i worked there since 1980...god knows, what i have ingested... we had
coffee makers which used local water lines.....things like that...
i think you are right, people sped past the omimous forboding of yor
article..i didn't i read it....
Date: Tue, 23 Jan 2001
From: D
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Milwaukee
The OMC backruptcy has not had much local news coverage in the
Milwaukee area. Any news we retired employees do come accross is via the
internet, a lot from the e-group at
http://www.egroups.com/group/OMC-Alumni ...I must congratulate those
employees from OMC Waukegan for their effort. I'm sure there are
aproximately 800-1000 Milwaukee past employees or retirees that will be
effected with the outcome of OMC and the future of retirement benefits.
Those that didn't spot the very small article in the business section of
the Milw. Journal/Sentinal, or those that don't have a computer at home,
probably are not aware of what's going on.
A book about OMC was distributed to employees around November 30,
1992 titled "Evirude-Johnson and The Legend of OMC" by Jeffery L.
Rodengen. To those that recieved the book, it was a keepsake. I can
remember Ralph Evirude visiting the plant many times. Our United
Steelworkers of America Local 1302 were a proud group of talented
machinists making a quality product.
What a shame it was to watch this company start to come apart after
Ralph Evinrude passed on. Immediately many of the local departments were
transferred to Waukegan under the control of Strang. What followed was
the sale of many OMC affiliates such as companys that made chainsaws,
sailboats, Ryan Lawn Equipment, golf carts, lawnmowers, etc. What once
was a dervisified company became an all-out outboard motor company. "We
want to be the Number-One Outboard maker in the world!" was our new
motto. Need I say more? Yup!
Then came the closing of our assembly plant, to take the trade south
for cheaper labor. It didn't matter that twice the employees were needed
to accomplish the same output, that they lacked experience, it was the
bottom line on hourly wages. "Just-In-Time" production was then
introduced to reduce floor inventory, but w/o the added machines to do
seperate operations, setup time sky-rocketed. This of course was a
different account and costs of setup time wasn't reflected in the
cost-per-unit. That all lead to overtime costs that otherwise weren't
needed until our "Hot" season and cost-effective.
ISO-9000 was introduced later, and to convince the employees of it's
benefits, a phone-pager was used as an example of how good the theory
worked. DUH, a product the size of a pack of smokes sure isn't like an
outboard motor! We really didn't have anything against a new quality
program, but we had only a very few qualified ISO inspectors, and they
eliminated many floor inspectors. Quality programs were then set up in
each department with input from employees during meetings. Problem was
our two cents worth didn't change operations. I guess they didn't want
to hear that management was passing the buck, and they didn't seem to
acknowledge the fact that we on the floor knew what worked. We just
couldn't convince them that it was in our best interests too to make a
quality product as cheap as they wanted. I always felt that a quality
product commanded a higher price, kind of like buying a Caddy or
Lincoln...if you market it right it will sell. Marketing?..That's
another issue, the Milw. boat show used to have OMC guys in blazers
promoting our products in a seperate area w/many of our engines
displayed. They switched to having boat makers display our engines on
their boats, that's it! When was the last time you seen a OMC ad on TV?
When that didn't work, they bought boat companies to make sure they
sold.
Belgium machined our small crankshafts after they pulled those out,
then it was decided that they would bring them back. So some bright
management employee decided to have all their equipment shipped to
Milwaukee. Not only was the equipment out-dated, it rusted on the way
over on the ship! Oh, did I mention that all the machines were European
Electrically wired? Controls were maked in the foreign language. And
some appeared damaged by personnel? OMC dumped mega-bucks into trying to
get them to run, it didn't work, not even one! Opp's, I forgot to
mention OMC had to pay that country mega-bucks to pull out of Belguim,
something about the way foreign companies pulling out had to pay past
employees there.
Ficht came along, and we on the shop floor thought this may be our
savior. Actually it was for awhile, but the Bozo's decided to place that
highly close-tollerance equipment on the shop floor next to oily
vibrating grinders and other equipment, at first w/o cutting the
concrete floors for anti-vibration. Ya know, it's hard to hold micro
finishes that way! Finally the equipment was placed in confined areas,
but rework comtinued to be high, while trying to combine the correct
springs ( spring pressure) to matching parts for correct testing
tollerances. They did a mix and match thing there, rework, rework, then
rework until it passed the test! Actually if you look at a drawing
comparing a Ficht fuel injector vs. a GM fuel injector on a 350 cu.in.
LT1, the design sucks! It's all in those fine springs of the Ficht
design that makes them work properly. The rest of the unit is workable.
My guess is if you own a Ficht and it's not working, check the
springs...of course I would imagine that tempature changes effect the
spring.
Highly close tollerance operations of crankshafts and connecting
rods were then sent to other companies as they tried to reduce labor
costs and shut down the Milw. plant. They even had a Chinese company try
to make con-rods...do you have anything at home made in China that's
worth while? Hey, how about that Kia., nice car hey? Remember the Yugo?,
sorry to say we bombed the factory, hope you don't need parts. During
this time, employees retired and were then hired back as consultants to
train the new driveshaft workers in other states. I believe this is at
the time Soros invested another ton of moola into OMC. Problem was the
new crankshaft company didn't use the old experienced employees of that
company to do our work, they hired new help. How does one replace 30
year employees X's at least 350 employees around 1998 = 10,500 years of
eperienced shop floor machining? My guess is NO-CAN-DO!
While our employees started retiring, OMC found it necessary to hire
new employees off of the street. Rumor has it half couldn't pass the
drug test. My trainee couldn't find 5/8 of an inch on a ruler, then try
to train him to keep .003" tollerance! I spent 18 months trying to train
this dude ( I really did) and when operatons seased in Milw., he knew
the same as when he was hired. The same type of conditions existed when
our retired employees hired as consultants tried to train new employees
for our crankshaft and con-rod operations in year 2000. Actually that's
not a lot ( .003") , but the operaton I was speaking of was a pre-finish
operation. Bottom line, rumor in Milwaukee is that during many of the
changes that were put in place, management knew they made mistakes, but
it was too late too bring some of the operations back to the "Rust-Belt"
areas of Waukegan and Milwaukee. We sometimes wondered how OMC kept
afloat making so many errors in judgement. We knew it was coming, just
didn't know when.
The preceding was just a sample of many more decisions that were
made while I was employed for OMC, there are many more war stories out
here to be told. I'll leave that to others if they wish to share them.
I guess my point of writing this is let people know that the
employees of OMC Milwaukee USWA Local 1302, and I imagine other shop
floor employees of other plants were not the blame of OMC's demise, and
should not have to suffer for the mistakes of our so-called leaders.
While they sip martinies in their mega-buck homes, a product of their
golden parachutes, we wonder about our futures.
Hopefully the bankruptcy judge in this case has enough common sense
and moral judgement to keep us in mind. And I hope this isn't just
wishful thinking.
Best wishes to ALL ex-employees of OMC.
Wed Jan 24
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: XX
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Who wants Evinrude and Johnson?
I have just recieved a call stating that At least one company has made
a considerable offer for the engines and includes a warranty clause. If
this proves to be true, dealers will soon get some much needed good news.
We will see,
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: George Soros NPR Ficht Statement
George Soros Jan 22 quote "There were problems with the [Ficht]
engines that could not be fixed" is totally WRONG!!!! I am not an OMC
employee, but have been intimately involved with the Ficht engines and
its issues since early 1995. The Ficht was brought to the marketplace
prematurely under Bowman's tenure as CEO and, in fact, did have many
unacceptable characteristics. But, the Ficht programs initiated under
Jones and Gowens were about 85-90 % implemented when Soros pulled
the plug for financial reasons. The Ficht outboard product is viable and
competitive in the marketplace. The prospective new Johnson/Evinrude
owners should be made aware of the significant differences between the
"original" Ficht and the "present" Ficht.
The only thing that cannot be fixed is the damage inflicted on OMC's
efforts to sell Johnson/Evinrude by Soros's wreckless comments.
Thanks, M
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: R
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC and Orbital engine
If possible please read docket #219 of the bankruptcy proceedings. Orbital
alledges that OMC did not supply all documents to the court in regards to OMC
license agreement with Orbital. Omc also neglected to inform the court of
Orbitals out of court patent win against their Ficht technology.Orbital seems
to be saying that OMC can not sell said technology.
If that is true,what would happen to the licensees of Fitch that are
producing PWC's and if OMC owes money to Orbital what good is the engine
division without 2-stroke advanced technology.
R
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Lee
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC Warranty
What a tragedy this whole ordeal is for all the rank and file employees
of OMC. Hopefully they find employment with other employers who care
more about their employees welfare. It would be hard to do any worse
than they did with OMC.
I had been a faithful Johnson customer for many years. Now I'm sitting
with a warranty card on a new Johnson 130 that I could just as well
throw in the trash the way it sounds.
It was pretty disheartening to go to the Minneapolis boat show last week.
The first dealer I talked to happened to be a Suzuki dealer. When he
asked what I had for a motor and I told him, what a terrible face he made.
He further stated, "I sure hope you are not planning on trading that
motor." When I inquired as to his comment he further stated, "Nobody
will take that in on trade. They are out of business you know." I looked
him in the eye and said, "Oh OMC is big enough that they won't be gone
for long." I hope I am right. It's too bad some dealers are trying to take
advantage of a situation which has been such a tragedy for the employees
of OMC.
I'm certainly glad I made that $8000.00 investment! Hopefully someone
at least buys the engine division to make replacement parts. Perhaps
that will make my investment worth enough to at least trade it in on
another brand of motor.
X-OMC Customer in WI
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: ken
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: omc
has any body put bid on all of omc.if so how long do think it be before
they start burnsville...........do you know who the high bidder is??????????
............thank you.
Thurs Jan 25
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Omc Wife
I have just been reading some of the veiwer feedbacks and agree with
alot af them. My husband has been with OMC for over 15 years or I should
say "had been" and I have seen him work 18 hrs a day trying to solve
problems. The OMC Facility he was at I got to know alot of his
co-workers and was amazed at the dedecation in that facility,from the
floor to the engineers and the managers and even the plant manager.I
just want to say to all Ex-OMC employees try to keep a positive outlook,
I know it is extremely had right now but God will take care of us if we
just ask and trust in Him! I have read all the comments about Roger
Fix. I agree with them all!This man has to be the most cold hearted
person I have ever heard of!
I just wonder if he realizes how many lives he has affected by taking
what is to me "the easy way out" Mr. Fix if you read these feedbacks and
you read this one I want you to know that you are in my prayers.I hope
some day you will realize how many lives you have affectedby the
dicission you made,not only the employees of OMC but the dealers as
well, and did you hear of one OMC ex-employee that tried to kill
themself luckly they did not suceed.Ih hope you in the future Mr. Fix in
what ever other buisness you get into istead of taking the easy way out
will consider others before making such life distroying dicisions, Mr.
Fix fraom what I can hear is set for life with his 5 million while other
ex-omc employees just try to put food on the table and a roof over their
heads. I hope he is happy. Good luck to all Ex-OMC employees.May God
Bless All Of You.
Please do not use my e-mail address on this letter thanks
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Recovery Room
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: job opportunity
Please post this or contact me with any question.
Thank you in advance.
Immediate opening for someone with experience in the field of marine canvas
and upholstery. (fit, sew and install boat tops, enclosures, seating, interiors,
etc.). Prefer someone with knowledge in all areas, but will train with a good
base knowledge and a willingness to learn.
Shop located in the Panhandle of Florida. We have been in business in the
same area since 1978
Job will be full time 40 hour week, minimal or no weekends, insurance and
retirement benefits. Possible relocation compensation.
Contact Chip: 1-800-CANVAS4 days
1-850-235-1809 eves
1-850-233-6481 fax
e-mail: recovery-room@home.com
Chip Lueck
Recovery Room
1809 Thomas Drive
Panama City Beach, FL 32408
Date: Wed, 24 Jan 2001
From: Ron
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: (no subject)
I am looking to buy a boat, Hydra Sport with twin 250HP Evenrudes.
Dealer is offering 2 year engine warranties through First Protection
Corp. Have you ever heard of them?
RBBI Comment: They have a billboard looking web site at
http://www.fpccorporation.com
There are a few firms of this nature. We run into Warranty Direct now
and then http://www.warrantydirect.com
A viewer wished to post information below:
Just bringing to your attention that any purchaser of that part of OMC which
includes the Ficht technology is in for a serious legal headache from Orbital
Engine Co (developers of Optimax technology).
OMC has already agreed to a settlement against a patent infringement action
by Orbital which requires payment to Orbital (which OMC has defaulted on)
and restricts transfer of Orbital IP (and hence the utility of Ficht technology,
which is dependent on it).
Orbital is also concerned that OMC is not telling prospective purchasers the
full story:
Oribital message board
postwith some details, and link:
9 page document filed on behalf of Orbital giving details.
http://207.41.17.23/ECM/bc_images/__0AV1ESTZZ51201646.tif
RBBI Comment: We pointed this out on the bankruptcy proceedings page discussing
the documents filed Jan 17 in the case docket. Suspect many have not yet seen
them. The docket item is a tiff document and requires a special viewer, info is at
top of the Bankruptcy procedure page.
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: J
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bids are due
Hello Gary,
Hold on to your hat. The closed bids are due tomorrow and the rumors
will fly. I will be happy with any new owner after having no company
behind us. My wish is that the motor company will be purchased and
that we will go back to work. The boat companies are important to
many dealers also. Once the bids are in, we will find out just how
valuable the OMC products really are . Being an OMC dealer and selling
OMC boats has doubled the impact on us. I love OMC products and call
me a fool, but I pray for their return. I will also take on other lines. All
my eggs in one motor crate is not going to happen again.
Tomorrow ,
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: Sonny
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Fire hazzard??
Dear sir, I would like to address this to the field rep that presented
his statement on the potential fire hazzard on the 200 Fichts. I have a
pair of model year 2000, 200's. I noticed this past fall, occasionally a
smell of gas fumes. My dealer credited it to perhaps the vent for the
fuel tank expecially after filling. I let it go at that, however after
reading these reports, it appears that it may be internal on the
engines. I would appreciate any info as you stated you have on this
potential problem. I'm not up to getting "burnt to death" or have to
jump into my own shark chum slick. Thanks.
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: G
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC
Please do not use my e-mail address,Thanks
Hey Wiz, I just want you to know that you sure have been a big help to
alot of Ex-OMC employees. I know it has helped them/us get some things
off our chests. I am not an ex-omc employee but my husband is. I have
been reading your veiwer feedback since this tragedity happened.I have
to agree with alot of peoples veiws. There is one thing we need to do
and that is to try to keep a positve outlook on this situation, I just
don't see the Johnson and Evinrude Industry shutting completly down it
has been around for too many years. Some one will want to buy it I hope.
and maybe It will be some one who cares about people.My husband had been
with OMC for over 15 years and was very dedicated just like alot of
other OMC employees I had come to know, you will never find more
dedicated people than what was employed at all OMC plants. All of this
can not be blamed on just one person but a group of people, if OMC was
in that bad of trouble why were the employees not aware? My husband was
in Managment and he had no clue that it would come to this. Even the
plant Manager of that plant did not know. But these guys in UPPER
Manegment should have and could have given some warning insted of doing
such dedicated employees the way they did.My veiw on Roger Fix is he has
to be the most col hearted person I have ever heard of! In my opion he
just took the easy way out and said to XXXX with everyone else.I hope
one day Mr. Fix realizes how many lives he affected, not only OMC
employees but anyone that was impacted by his doings.The old saying is
that "What goes around comes around" I hate to see anyone have to go
thru what OMC Ex-Employees have had to.Mr.Fix can go to bed at night
with all of his millions and not have to worry where the next meal for
his family is going to come from or if you have enough oil to last the
rest of the winter and if you are going to be able to keep a roof over
your families heads. But one day Mr.Fix may be in the same fix we are.
I wish all of the ex-OMC employees the very best and May God Bless Each
and Everyone Of You. Wife of Ex-OMC Employee
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: C
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: OMC FICHT
Do you know of any sites that have information (true or otherwise) on Ficht.
I would especially like to read about any engineering and performance
reports produced by OMC engineers and how they fixed any of the problems,
The technology still comes across (to me) as the best and simplest.
Sat Jan 27
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: Ken
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: TO OMC DEALERS
Come to: www.egroups.com/group/omc-dealers-alumni
an e-mail group where dealers can share info, and perhaps locate parts
they need or offer parts to other dealers - help each other out!!
Date: Thu, 25 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Pearl Harbour
Geez, with Brunswick actually making money these past years in a booming
economy, badmouthing the coming boating season, and closing four of their own
boat plants, sure sounds like the Merc boys are trying to position themselves
to be a real player in this omc bankcrupcy fiasco. (all I might add, without
raping their employee's pension fund like Jone's did to OMC's, to the tune of
22 million a couple of years ago). Sounds like their managemnt actually has
a clue. All I can say is, hope you don't retain Romano, Wainscot, Rusk and
all the rest of our "key employee's". If you do, expect to lose money and be
out of business soon. Just for the record, I have bled Evinrude Blue my
entire life (more decades than I want to admit to). However, if the black
stacks from Fondulac can stave off foreigners, you have my allegiance, for
what that's worth. (I have it on good authority, my old friend, Mr. Ralph
Evinrude, is now turning up to 120 rpm in his grave). Be careful MERC, lots
of snakes in the grass. (Excuse me now, I have to go puke.)
respectfully,
RBBI Note: From his e-mail address, the gentleman below is in Russia
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: Sergey Sapojkov ulasport@mtu-net.ru
To: wizard
Dear Mr. Wizard,
We are looking for OMC dealer (former or active), who may be interested
in his stock clearance - we need to purchase Johnson outboards and spare parts.
May be you will find possibility to help us with small portion of your wizardry.
Thank you in advance,
Sergei
Date: Sat, 27 Jan 2001
From: M down under
To: "'wizard@virtualpet.com'"
Subject: demise of OMC
I find it very hard to read about the demise of such a company as OMC,I have grown
using and enjoying many OMC products and recently became the owner of a Ficht
outboard. Reliability seems to be the complaint many make but being an Australian
I would like to commend the OMC product as during the recent Sydney 2000 Olympics
the harbour of Sydney hosted the sailing and the waterways authority controlled huge
amounts of spectator and racing craft for many long hard hours enjoying high reliability
with Ficht outboards.
Whatever the outcome of events may it be swift so we may get back to enjoying our
watersport, and those employees of OMC return to work, Our thoughts and foremost
with you.
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: xxxx
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Bids open today
From xxxx
Well today is the big day in that the bids are going to be opened for all of
OMC divisions. I believe were going to find little or no interest on the engine
side other than the the trade names of Johnson & Evinrude probably to the
Japanese's and that's to bad to sad for the American worker. Another nail
in our coffin. Our unions in this country had better wake up and start fighting
for our jobs before there all gone. I don't mean higher wages and more benifits,
I mean start with strong negotiations that work with companies on improvements
in policing out the dead beats that eventually cost us all our jobs. We all
know who they are and this has been one of the unions down falls in the past
50 years. Instead of protecting the interest of 98% of good employee's they
have opted to protect the 2% of dead beats, which cost companies tons of
monies. Wake up unions and go to work for the majority of people you represent
or keep sending our work to other countries. We always blame the companies
( and some is there ) but fail to look at ourselfs and only let the radicals drive
the process which leads to what we have today.
Date: Fri, 26 Jan 2001
From: B
To: wizard@virtualpet.com
Subject: Love that RudeRam 225
Mr. Wizard,
Thanks for providing up to date information on the proceedings with
OMC. I've been following this site since Dec. and I'm happy to be
able to remain informed. I'm writing today to point out something that
seems to be missing from the past comments. It came to me when I
read the Brunswick article posted yesterday.
In a nutshell, Brunswick reports less then stellar earnings in the motor
business during the last quarter of 2000. Buckley claims this is due to
a weakening market and a forecasted decrease in sales. My thoughts
on this are a little different and it raises an interesting question. Is it
possible that sales were off as a result of competition from OMC?
I believe this may be possible and here's why; Everyone I've talked to
who buys a new boat each year (guides, tournament fishermen, fanatics,
etc...) has 86'ed their Mercury or Yamaha to go with Evinrude. Granted I
may not know that many people but, it says a lot to me when someone
drops a Mercury sponsorship so they can hang an Evinrude off the back of
their boat. To go a step further let me point out that last weekend at
the Minneapolis Boat Show dealers were still taking