Union Targets NAC, Owner Says Attacks Unfair
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542 is protesting the Newtown Athletic Club's decision not to use union contractors on a multi-million dollar construction project.
An area union is publicly targeting Newtown Athletic Club owner Jim Worthington, who says the attacks are unfair and bordering on harassment.
The International Union of Operating Engineers Local 542 has set up picket lines in front of the NAC as well as at Council Rock High School North. They’re protesting Worthington’s decision not to use union contractors on a multi-million dollar construction project at the health club.
The NAC is currently in the middle of making significant improvements to the facility, including construction of a new field house, turf field and outdoor pool complex complete with a lazy river.
Worthington said he considered hiring union contractors, but their bids were a third more expensive than non-union companies. He said it didn't make financial sense for his business to pay 30 percent more to get the job done.
“We hire local contractors that pay acceptable wages,” Worthington explained, adding he has nothing to do with how much the contractors pay their employees. He said the companies are local businesses that do quality work. “A lot of these are family owned businesses; they have their kids on the job.”
But the union has a different viewpoint.
“He’s not paying a living wage to the workers there,” said union spokesman Louis Agre. According to its website, IUOE Local 542 is based out of Fort Washington and represents heavy equipment operators in the building and construction industry, along with members who are employed at quarries, landfills, shipyards, breweries, manufacturing, airports, bridges and public works.
Worthington said the picketing and protesting has become more intense over the past few days, with union members staking out at the high school and distributing a flyer that says “Wanted” with his picture underneath.
The flyer reads “tell Jim to stop destroying the American middle class and hire contractors that pay their employees fairly.” It lists Worthington’s cell phone, his home address and his wife’s cell phone, something Worthington takes issue with.
Agre said if Worthington believes he or his family is being harassed he should call the police.
Worthington said he’s particularly frustrated that union members are trying to characterize him as greedy. “Lining my pockets, are you kidding? If they think this is some sort of money making machine, they are welcome to come take me over,” he said.
He added that he’s taken a lot of risk to make such extensive improvements in the current economic climate. “My business is not different than any other business in America. I invest a lot of what I have into growing this business.”
He said he believes the union members are missing the big picture – that he is a local job creator who is trying to offer a top-quality product to residents at a price that’s affordable.
“People like me get vilified. In the meantime, I have 400 employees and I’ll have another 100 this time next year.”
TP
4:37 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
Nothing but union thug tactics. They try to use intimidation when they don't get their way just like on the political arena. That really worked in the Wisconsin recall election didn't it! The people of Wisconsin slapped them down hard because they had enough of these tactics. The people have had enough of these crybabies! Good for Jim Worthington! This has convinced me to join the NAC! Unions are DONE!
mark sanchaz
3:57 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Dosnt look that way JF Unions are here and alway will be.This isnt Wisconson.You probably cant afford the NAC who you kiddin
Chet
9:26 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I was directed to this Article because of some of the misguided perception that is in some of these blogs posing that Mr. Worthington is a Corporate leader and taking some kind of stand against the current establishment. Let me reassure you and what I cite is public information. Mr. Worthington is a heavy contributor to the Democratic Party. NOW AINT THAT A BUMMER to blogers like ‘Obama a failure’ and others here. But you Republiturds should never let the Facts get in the way of your concocted Story!!!
keith byars
10:28 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
The NAC is a business and should be able to hire whomever they want without Unions doing what they are doing. To me this makes Unions look worse than they already do. Are you kidding me, look at the Neshaminy teachers, or the Unions from Detroit making cars. Union wages are out of control!
keith byars
10:43 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Teacher Unions. Yes that's worked out beautifully!
Newtown Mom
5:07 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
Good for Jim! Bunch of thugs!! If they can't compete with pricing then they don't get the job. What's their point?? He's greedy because he won't pay more? Right.
mark sanchaz
3:31 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
No colleen the point is he dosnt mind charging alot to join his club then hires cheap labor.I know them workers cant afford to join his club one of them looked like a little kid .arent there child labor laws?
TMFCAQ
6:19 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
GOOD FOR JIM. FRANKLY, I'M A COUCH POTATO. BUT, THESE UNION GOONS GO TOO FAR. Makes me so HAPPY that jobs have gone to China and Mexico. Unions, you need to COMPETE, or more of your jobs are gonna be gone forever and more of you will work for $9 bucks an hour somewhere. YOU GOON UNIONS DESERVE IT. Trying to humiliate an innocent man. I don't know Jim, but I'm going to now see what the Athletic Club is about, and JOIN IT and SPEND MONEY THERE.
mark sanchaz
3:34 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Hey Couch potatoe get your fat ass off the couch and go to work for Jim you desrve each other maybe he will pay tou in happy meals.
Chet
9:25 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
What kind of couch do you want Jim to install in the workout section........I am sure the excertion you will feel from the car to the front door will overwhelm you. Best stay here and just make an ass out of yourself.
TMFCAQ
6:21 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
Best of luck to Jim and the Athletic Club. Thanks for creating JOBS in our community.
Unions are the reason why so many "working Americans" have lost jobs to Mexico and China.
I'm going to see if I can patronize the Athletic Club in Newtown. Go Jim. Stand strong. More people are with you than you think!!!
vai
10:36 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
your obviously a moron thinking its the unions fault jobs went away when its company's like the nac who exploit low paying jobs and bully their employees,The nac should move to Mexico and see how much money Jim makes there,
Concerned
6:46 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
It's not right they are picketing because they're bid was not accepted. I guess anyone that fills out an application and doesn't get a job should be able to slander a business owner and picket the business. Why are they wasting hours picketing when they should be doing actual work? Maybe if they did their bids wouldn't be so high and they WOULD get the job. The labor laws in place TODAY protect employees. There's no need for unions these days they are just trying to make themselves look like they are needed to justify the union dues they charge to line their own pockets.
mark sanchaz
3:36 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
We cant race to the bottom with wages All people need to feed their familys understood but at least pay your employees a decent wage
Chet
9:22 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
What Labor Law protects employees????????????? Was one created since 5pm Friday I am not aware of? Please enlighten us all!
keith byars
10:29 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
The minimum wage is a labor law created to protect employees.
the VOICE
7:39 pm on Friday, October 26, 2012
WOW !
Ed B
7:35 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Listing his address, phone number and wife's number is way out of line.
mork
7:49 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Jim THANK YOU for taking a stand against these Communist Unions that are ruining our Way of Life.Like the NFT(teamsters) and the UAW. They are making it hard for an Honest Person make an Honest Living.LETS COMPETE ON THE WORLD MARKETS and get USA JOBS BACK.
mark sanchaz
4:00 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Hey Ken half of Mexico is on that work site.Thank Jim now
Chet
9:20 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I was directed to this Article because of some of the misguided perception that is in some of these blogs posing that Mr. Worthington is a Corporate leader and taking some kind of stand against the current establishment. Let me reassure you and what I cite is public information. Mr. Worthington is a heavy contributor to the Democratic Party. NOW AINT THAT A BUMMER to blogers like ‘Obama a failure’ and others here. But you Republiturds should never let the Facts get in the way of your concocted Story!!!
Jen V
7:55 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Go For It Jim! You have overseen tremendous, high quality building projects with fabulous results, and it is fantastic that you are supporting independent business people and bringing more jobs to Newtown. It is ultimately your investment in our community that we all benefit from. The strong arm union tactics are offensive and unacceptable. We all have the right to hire whomever we choose. It is time for the unions to back-off and STAY AWAY FROM OUR SCHOOLS AND CHILDREN!
mark sanchaz
3:37 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
These guys arent goin away you can bet on that
Tommybella
8:10 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Why do these unions think they are entitled to these jobs? Who in their right mind would pay more to have them? All they do is cause problems and halt production, as I have seen in Philadelphia. Good for you Jim, you definitely have supporters! I myself already belong to the NAC and can't wait until that complex is finished!
mark sanchaz
3:39 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Tommybella how would you like someone coming to your job and doing it for half the rate as you and your in the unemployment line? same thing
NBF
8:14 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Thank you jim for bringing job and GROWTH to the Newtown area. Thank you for investing in our community. The unions are THUGS and their flyers falling on deaf ears!!
mark sanchaz
3:41 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Obvious there not falling on deaf ears
Chet
9:19 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Seems the flyers got your ear!!!!!!!!! Maybe your just dumb not deaf!
cathy wallus
9:01 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I have never understood why the unions think they are entitled to receive all the jobs just so their pockets are getting lined! They will continue to use their money to take their members on pleasure trips and treat them to sporting events etc. I believe in hiring our local tradesmen to keep them working in our own town. There are a lot of good qualified local businesses who are more deserving of jobs and who are not paying these unions off to get the jobs. Many hard working men and women can not even get into unions unless they know someone and can pay them off personally. The unions are corrupt and have priced themselves right out of the market. The owners of these union companies will hire their tradesman, only to partially pay them in cash & benefits in order to pocket more money for themselves. Give our local men & women equal opportunity for jobs! Don't line the pockets of corrupt union leaders who think they are entitled! Money and status should not be allowed to buy jobs!
mark sanchaz
3:45 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Cathy you dont know what your talking about yea hire local people not farmers from Montgomery county to do the work.Talk about corrupt their putting kids to work out there.get a clue
GreedyJim
9:10 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Poor Jim. Thankfully he is doing all of this for charity because he makes no money running the NAC. And adding another 100 minimum wage jobs for high school and college kids is perfect. Much like the minimum wages that his contractors are paying (or not paying) the immigrants on the work site. Yes, the contractors have their sons there, but they are listed as a forman getting top dollar. Local contractors cant afford anything but immigrants to do work and make a profit. And the union guys point this out because in the end it takes jobs away from them. So Jim adds 100 minimum wage high school kids and takes away from middle class bread winners. If anyone here knows or has dealt with him, they would understand that its not about benefiting the community, its only about him and the money and that is a fact.
TP
9:34 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
GreedyJim sounds like a union supporter and in turn I'm sure they are an Obama supporter as well...Well guess what Greedy? Obama wants amnesty for those illegal immigrants you claim are working on the work site..and if he is re-elected you and the rest of your union buddies will be screwed for a looooong time. WAKE UP!
mark sanchaz
4:03 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Well said wake up people this guy is laughing at all you.Wait till he raises your membership
John F
9:37 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Worthington should use union labor and contractors who pay living wages with benefits and well trained safe union workers. If not for unions our country would have no 40 hour work week, vacations,health benefits etc. These were all hard earned by the unions of this country.
TP
10:44 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
and they are now obsolete..unless of course you support them schilling for the democratic party.
mark sanchaz
4:06 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
John very true.As far as being safe they were hanging steel out there with a forklift and nobody was in the seat how safe is that?
Woosh
7:10 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Can't tell you the last time I worked only 40 hrs in a week. I would roll the dice Jim can not either. Union have created a kid gloves life for members and think the rest opus should abide by it. Guess what guys. Time to adjust.
GreedyJim
10:21 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
JF - I am a Republican and not a socialist Obama supporter. Whether JW hires union or not, everyone here should know what his intent is. He is here to make megabucks off the NAC, buy another Mercedes, another beach house, have more attractive girls around him, build up his ego, and not really care about anyone but himself. He is not here to provide jobs to the community. This isnt a YMCA. Just be clear on his intent. And you are right; letting Hussien Obama back in to the WH is only going to mess up this country some more.
Deborah Sclafani Montano
11:58 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Hurricane Sandys FRANKINSTORM is coming..lets see who needs Jim Worthingtons NAC for a shelter...
mark sanchaz
4:06 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I think Jim has his own storm to deal with
Newtown Res
11:59 am on Saturday, October 27, 2012
There is clearly a purpose and need for unions in this country. That being said, the tactics and motives I have seen at the NAC and local schools lately make them look petty and juvenile.
Stop worrying about what you assume Mr. Worthington wants, and look at what he provides the community. Not only is the NAC a great entertainnment and activity venue for families, but it does create a significant amount of jobs, many of which are middle class (trainers, sales, operations, marketing, etc.).
Realize that it is all relative when your bid is 30% more than that of other local companies. That will only affect the membership cost of the NAC and allow for less jobs to be provided as these additions take place.
It certainly wouldn't be fair to those parties would it?
Eve
12:23 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
As the CFO for the Newtown Athletic Club, I am well aware of the expenses, not only on a project like this, but day to day. We provide income for well over 300 employees, many of whom are adults and are supporting their families – WELL over minimum wage. Payroll is our number one expense. Fancy expenses are not part of the mentality here. Money is not going back into the owners’ pocket, but rather into a facility for our members to enjoy – that THEY are paying for. When we put a project out to big we go with the best VALUE for the dollar.
Anthony
5:11 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Eve, are you on Drugs? As my Grandmother would say when she heard something like you wrote..........'and the farmer took another load away'
Its apparent you never seen Jims home!
Jeanne A Black
12:59 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Did any of you actually read the patch article? The union bids were 30% higher, would you pay 30% more for the same work? As far as the flyers go that the union is handing out with his and his wife's personal information, that is crossing the line! Very immature if you ask me, why are these people wasting their time and other people time, why aren't you using that time to find a job!
Chet
9:16 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Did you actually believe what you read?? This reporter did not have the savy to even leave her desk to do any investigation! 30% more i heard it was 40% less but he didnt want blacks on the job..............Is that true too???????????
JM
12:59 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
As a resident and active participant in Newtown activities, I disapprove of, not only the harassing behaviors of this union over the last few months in relation to the NAC, but also to the personal nature of attacks on the owner. All I know is the NAC is a cornerstone of the community and provides much support for local charities. I don't think it is fair to criticize a business for not using unions when those unions charge so much more for their services. I have seen this happen time and time again with union bids in my own experience and can't blame the NAC for making a wise business decision.
BAG
1:15 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Anyone who works for wages should have the protection of collective bargaining because, there is dignity in working for wages. Without that protection there is no dignity! Without that protect it also gives companies like the ones Jim Worthington hires to do his construction work, the ability to take advantage of their employees by paying them sub-standard wages with no benefits. Worthington doesn't even realize that the folks building his new project probably can't afford to be members at the NAC ! It's this kind of corporate greed that is the real reason the USA is losing good paying jobs to China and Mexico. Anyone who thinks Jim's behavior is ok in the matter, should have their head examined!!!
Woosh
7:15 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Dignity is in working Hard enough to earn a living wage and if you are not doing it adapt. There are no free lunches. Someone else always has to pay for it.
NACemployee
1:35 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
As an employee of the NAC I can say that the owner and partners of this club are putting money back into the NAC to make it even better and to benefit all the local and non local residents who enjoy the facility. No one in their right mind would choose the more expensive construction route, which in this case is the union workers. Once this 4-acre outdoor pool complex is completed I'm sure there will be a lot less complaining and more satisfaction and amazement that something like this was created in our area.
The Illuminati
1:51 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Next time you need work done on your home, make sure you pay the contractors 30% more so they can be union contractors. Does anyone see how ridiculous that is? If you wouldn't do it then why would Jim Worthington? C'mon.
Chet
9:13 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I personally hire skilled Trades people when working on my home for reason that my family safety is more important than saving a few bucks! And I get the work done right the first time not like YOU!
The Illuminati
1:53 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Unions are helping to cripple this economy. Yes they have served a purpose and in some cases still do. But they are the main reason why jobs keep getting shipped overseas.
Chet
9:12 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
It couldnt be hypocrite americans will not let their children work in sweat shops but will purchase goods from Countries that do............Now that couldnt have any reason why jobs move away from here could it??????????? Live Better shop Walfart
Joe
2:36 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Apparently Kara Seymour will stay as a Reporter here and never proceed farther since her investigation seems to go no farther than her phone!.
First, their was never any picketting done as she reported!
Second, true kids as Worthington stated do work on the project, but if she would have gone out on the project some of the days and seen 13 year olds cutting school and operating heavy equipment before shooting her self in the foot that would have made a better story.
Third, Worthington has enormous wealth in this Community. Mostly acheived by paying his help mininmum wages and under the table. Where the story in that?
BAG
2:50 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
One of the construction workers on the NAC construction site was interveiwed by a Spanish speaking interpreter because he didn't speak English. Not only did this worker not speak English, he was not a US citizen. It was discovered that this guy makes $250.00 per week cash, no benefits that's $13,000.00 per year. He also has 7 children with a wife that doesn't work. The US Census Bureau set the poverty level for 2012 at $23,050.00 for a family of 4. This is NOT ok!!!
Joe
3:05 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Its amazing how many true hypocrites live in Newtown. While many will run to the Polls and vote Romney and beat their chest for Freedom, they condemn those that have been fighting for rights since inception of this Country and that is Union workers. You so called Hypocrites are great at Speech you favor but want to quench speech that is objectionable to you! That’s not American that’s Nazisum!
mark sanchaz
3:09 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I hope the unions keep fighting this I know Jim Worthington actually worked for him and hes a creep and and a bully although hes only 4ft tall he treats people like crap.
Greg
3:13 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Good for those that still protest for what is Right! I although, have a personal matter in this since I am an EX-Member in the Jackass Worthington Club. I complained about fecal matter in his Pool and was told to swim somewhere else! I HAVE !!!!!!!!!!!
mark sanchaz
3:53 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Greg i heard about that issue wasnt while i worked there but got swept under the rug and didnt even drain the pool to clean it this guy has the whole community fooled except for the union guys who just want a fair shake.
Brandi Perkovich
3:44 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
As the Director of Aquatics for the Newtown Athletic Club, I can assure that this is not the response that would have been given if in fact there was a complaint of fecal matter in the pool. To insinuate that we would do anything less than follow the requirements set forth by the Board of Health is an insult to both myself and my staff here at the club. In my years here as the director, my staff and I have done a phenomenal job of keeping the pools clean and safe for swimming. We have spent a lot of time and effort in the aquatics department growning our program to be one of the best in Bucks County. Customer service is very important to all staff members here at the NAC. That being said, please direct any comments, positive or negative, directly to me, the director of aquatics, at brandi@newtownathletic.com.
mark sanchaz
3:21 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I guess the public forgot about it Jim when you slapped one of your employees in the face at the health club but i didnt forget it either will he.Your a real good guy
Pete
3:31 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I recently moved back to this area and haven't seen Jim in years. I'm amazed by the article that Jim Married a woman from knowing him in HS.
Linda Mitchell
4:02 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I am Linda Mitchell and I am the Director of Marketing and Public Relations at the NAC. I have worked at the NAC for 31 years and after reading all of these comments, I am compelled to speak up. It is clear that this issue of union vs non-union is controversial and complicated. There will undoubtedly be opinions on both sides of the fence that resonate. When the comments were objectively supporting one side or the other, the conversation made sense, However, the conversation has degenerated to mudslinging and wild accusations. I am finding it incredible that individuals write comments that are not based on truth or are simply mean spirited and have nothing to do with the issues. In a company as large as the NAC, there will always be disgruntled employees and disappointed former members. We have made mistakes and hopefully have learned from them and endeavor to improve as a result. If there is a true complaint, I would hope that there would be the same transparency as I am offering. Make your case with your full identification so that we may have a reasonable conversation directly, rather than in the framework of a blog comment. Otherwise we are reduced to uniquely ridiculous accusations that only serve to unfairly characterize not only, Jim Worthington, but all of us who work in an organization that we care about. I for one, have dedicated too much of my life to this organization and would not be here if it and Jim did not live up to my standards.
SM
4:38 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
The unions had a time and place in America! However, that time has passed and these people have to stop putting so much effort blaming everyone else for their demise! Union workers are either to lazy or not intelligent enough to make it on there own! As for personally attacking Jim Worthington, I don't blame him at all for not using the unions! Anyone who has had experience working with the unions will agree that they are a complete pain to work with and are way over paid!
JM
4:45 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
NAC employees, dont give in to the union and dont even respond. At the end of the day, they fight for their own cause particularly since they are finally losing the power they have enjoyed for so long. Once a greatly needed organizational tool, now destroying industry after industry with their demands. Just read their jealous words. In the whole scope of the issue at hand - it makes zero difference if Jim had to straighten out one of his employees, who cares what kind of car he drives, who he is married to or if he has a beach house. You jealous bums - he contributes a lot to our community whether or not you like him as a person. He runs an excellent business and I am a paying member. Oh, and if you have a chip on your shoulder because you cant afford it, sucks to be you. Understand, people are against unions because you feel entitled to earn more than others - who are willing to work harder and who are less expensive. Its very simple. And by the way, I have hired some excellent union trades. However, small contractors and foreign workers work harder by all accounts. You guys feel so above being held to a professional standard and resort to attacking people personally with no hesitation. Go f- yourselves and find a new line of work as you will quickly become irrelevant.
Dissatisfied
4:48 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I don’t live far from Jim Worthington and grew up in this area. Jim has benefited enormously throughout life which I am sure he has worked hard at. Unfortunately, climbing the ladder of success steps on other people and sometimes harms them.
I feel compel now to write now in reference to Linda Mitchell, Worthington, Director of Marketing remarks. Linda, you know a few months ago an incident of handing out flyers was done also at your facility. As a member then, and neighbor, I called Jim directly, he clearly told me to find another place to workout if I didn’t like what was going on. I didn’t tell him who I was when calling, for simple reason it was not necessary to use my acquaintance as an avenue of resolve. I was overwhelmed with his attitude, although, it was like most business today, if you don’t like it, lump it! Well I lump it and moved on too.
I am not a union supporter or basher, but as a former patron I deserve polite answers. I will never and suggest others not to patronize Worthington places of business. That I believe is the true and only way of making people like Worthington come back to reality!
Anthony
5:09 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
NAC is overpriced for what you get. Worthington, when I was a member there struts around like some pompous SOB. His own staff doesn’t have anything good to say about him so why would anyone else? Worthington pompous attitude is set for failure. Like me, others have also left after the ‘come on scheme’ to sign up is nothing like the product you get. I find the story nonsensical that the Unions are protesting this. They should let him build it and maybe they will get the demolition when nobody renews membership!
Sherry
5:59 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I was dropping off my daughter yesterday and was given a flyer and found the men distributing them very polite and courteous, unlike the response I received from NAC when I called about it!
My neighbors and my family will never patronize this place!
Freddy
6:31 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Someone will always do it for less that's why we have the problems like we have today. No doubt NAC will charge outrageous fees, when they open, but surely those who work for scraps will never be able to afford what Worthington is building! We are truly becoming a society of the haves and have nots!! And all against those that sound off whether your on a blog or protesting in front of a business the element is the same!
WB
6:45 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Lol!!! 200 , 300 and now 400 employees according to the bloggers who work for NAC! As a former NAC employee I can assure you that it's well under 100!!
While fathead Jim jammed money in his pockets us employees received barely above minimum wages and benefits that nobody could afford!!
He's a despicable employer and human being and his wife ain't any better!
keith byars
10:56 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
as a current employee it's well over 250/300 employees. I've see the pile of paychecks. Mostly part time. Anyway, what does that really matter. We were all teenagers and college kids once and usually paid "barely above minimum wage", what's wrong with that? And even if your 45 yrs. old, if the job you have doesn't require an education , the compensation will match the position. Businesses' purpose by nature is to create a profit. Who are we to judge others. That is what's really 'wrong' with this country. let us find peace within ourselves and not worry so much about what others have and are doing.
Obama is a failure
8:10 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
That's odd. Why would someone use unions and pay more for the same work for no additional value?
How can union workers stake out the site all day?? Don't they have work to be doing someplace?? Is this why they want to be paid more??
Are union jobs more valuable than the employees of the other local firms that are community members. Funny how Unions make class warfare against the middle class.
If the unions want the work based on their cost structure then bid accordingly. If they win, fine. If they lose, suck it up.
GIMMEE GIMMEE SOCIETY.
Tell you what, why doesn't one of the union guys buy the business and hire whoever they want and do whatever they think is best.
vai
10:49 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
maybe we will see chjldren working at the nac next good ole jim can pay them a dollar an hour and create more good paying jobs
Terrence
8:10 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Wow 'concern' must be one of those employees that could never get a job anywhere else! Hope the gym towels at NAC are crying proof! LOL he truly is the epitome of a spineless employee!
I've heard about this from my neighbor and just had to chime in ! Glad to see someone regardless its a union to finally take on a creep like Worthington!
Becky
8:12 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Hmm, a case of the pot calling the kettle black maybe? I find it humorous that two greedy entities are battling.
Using personal information is a typical union tactic which is as about as unethical as you can get though. Shame on the union for that.
Maybe you're both getting what you deserve. :)
Tammy
8:31 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Hey Terry and others, got a call about this to from a friend. Seems a lot of bloggers really have problems with NAC and Worthington Business practices.
We should try to form a Boycott against NAC!
keith byars
11:00 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
as an employee of the NAC, and family supporter. I consider myself a good person, honest, caring, loving, giving. I find it so sad you'd consider such action. Sad world we live in. Such anger, jealousy, displeasure with ourselves running our lives. Sad
JM
7:53 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Who gives a crap about bloggers who have a problem with the NAC. Do you think that people who pay money to be a member would boycott the very facility that they WANT to belong to? You are a true idiot. That is the dumbest idea I have ever heard - they arent Walmart or ACME where you have alternatives, jackass. I actually copied and pasted your comment so I could sent it to others. I bet you were out there occupying Wall Street too. Haaaaaa Tammy is a jackass.
Obama is a failure
8:33 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Yes let's boycott a company and put them out of business and add more to the 25 million unemployed. That make perfect sense.
Maybe that way our union workers won't have time to sit around and picket all day and can maybe do some work
Chet
9:07 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I was directed to this Article because of some of the misguided perception that is in some of these blogs posing that Mr. Worthington is a Corporate leader and taking some kind of stand against the current establishment. Let me reassure you and what I cite is public information. Mr. Worthington is a heavy contributor to the Democratic Party. NOW AINT THAT A BUMMER to blogers like ‘Obama a failure’ and others here. But you Republiturds should never let the Facts get in the way of your concocted Story!!!
Anthony
10:34 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Im for the Boycott!
Obama is a failure
8:43 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Does the phrase "Spread the wealth around" ring a bell? Now we see it in action locally. Shameful!!! Why are union jobs better than non-union jobs? I am tired of all the government money only going to unions.
Chet
9:05 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
I was directed to this Article because of some of the misguided perception that is in some of these blogs posing that Mr. Worthington is a Corporate leader and taking some kind of stand against the current establishment. Let me reassure you and what I cite is public information. Mr. Worthington is a heavy contributor to the Democratic Party. NOW AINT THAT A BUMMER to blogers like ‘Obama a failure’ and others here. But you Republiturds should never let the Facts get in the way of your concocted Story!!!
vcc33
10:05 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Chet, you are out of your skull and need a hobby. You must check your facts at The Onion.
To you and all the other slanderers out there, this is disgusting. Jim and his family are being driven through the mud for a business decision he has every right to do. I was talking to him this morning and his family is even getting death threats. Pro or Anti Union, this is just wrong! I hope others rip apart your lives as you are trying to do to him.
If you don't like Jim or the NAC, don't join, end of story! To trash him like this is ignorant!
vai
10:54 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Its not slander if its true cmon nobody likes this guy and im proud for the people who are standing up to him his workers dont like him their scared of him,for him to tell a member go to another gym is sickining
Anthony
10:33 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
vcc33, I have a bridge for sale. Ben Franklin or Walt Whitman you pick! And after I sell you that, I got a great deal on the Rights to the Moon. Heard Jims putting a Gymn there too for all his loney friends.......
keith byars
11:03 pm on Saturday, October 27, 2012
Your anger is only a reflection of your on dissatisfaction with yourselves. Your need to judge only shows you need to judge. Your obsession with money only shows your lack of wisdom and youth. Your ego deciding what is right or fair, is an illusion you've created trying to control things.
Peggy
7:55 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
My father was a Union Building Trades Tradesman and becasue he earned a good wage he was able to put me through College and with that locate in Newtown. I am a member at NAC but will no longe renew my membership. Anyone that would have children working on a construction site in these days deserves to be put out of business. Shame on you Jim Worthington!
BAG
9:00 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
I can't wait until Obama wins a second term and he cracks down on greedy corporate people like Jim Worthington by making them pay their fair share in taxes!!! Worthington has taken advantage of people and the system way too long!!!
Rob
9:49 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Shame on Worthington on exploiting Child Labor..... JIM KIDS NEED TO BE IN SCHOOL NOT WORKING ON YOUR GYM! My Family will never patronize your business! Your disgusting!
vai
10:56 am on Sunday, October 28, 2012
BOYCOTT this club and the thing that owns it,Boycott the club in horsham and the bank he owns too
hadenough
12:15 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
I just heard about this and had to log on. I also notice a child working on that site and had to do a double take. Are these the Jobs that NAC are creating? Deplorable Worthington. If this is job creation, don't create!!!!!!
Justin
12:34 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
As an employee at the NAC, I can say that Jim Worthington is a great person to work for and treats his employees very well. He is supplying jobs to over 300 employees, and is paying them well over minimum wage. I don't know where these vulgar and inappropriate comments are steming from that insinuate that Jim pays his employees minimum wage and exploits child labor. These comments are way out of line and inappropriate, not to mention completely false. Jim considered all options prior to starting the new additions to the NAC. The union costs were 30% higher than local companies. By hiring local companies Jim is providing income to many local residents and families in our community. We live in a competitive market, and I don't see anything wrong with Jim Worthington basing his decision on what will best benefit his club, his employees, and his members. The money saved from this decision will not be going into Jim's pockets, it will be going directly back into the club and into providing our members with a great community center at the most affordable cost.
peggy
1:06 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Justin, does Jim tell you how to vote and what to eat. Must be becasue your high on something. Look at the project being built! Child labor is on it! Apparently Jim Benefits don't have vision care!
Leeboet
2:57 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Wow! A whole lot of differing opinions thrown around here. The issue is more then just Union vs. Non Union. There a few things for certain when hiring union firms to work on construction projects, first and foremost, all employees pay their fare share of taxes. The union guy lives, works and supports his community, unlike the non union guy being taken advantage of, in the way that he or she is not paid a decent living wage, sometimes being paid cash and then not paying taxes. All union men and women are not the problem. They are not a strain on society now, and will not be in the future due to their pensions and annuities. All are given Health care and pay into all the social systems like social security and Medicare etc. It cost a lot of money to be afforded these benefits, and the decision in business is wether or not to pay a proper living wage which enables someone to sustain a family and a home, as well as benefits to provide for that family. If pressure were to be put on the contractors who are hired to do this project to make sure they provide a decent living with benefits to all their workers, while checking to see that all are legal citizens of the USA, that contractor would have to raise his price. What do we do as a society? We ignore the job sites and hold no one accountable for the destruction of area wages and standards.
Amy
4:56 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Lee makes great points. My neighbors are outraged that Worthington would use a contractor that would employ his children who seems more concern in saving a buck than his children getting an education.
We are all bewildered how anyone can support his position in some of these blogs, apparently they never saw the work being performed! .
Maybe the bid or maybe not was 30 percent more doing it union but as Lee pointsout Adults would be doing the work not Children!!!
We further can't understand how Worthington wife allows this. Is the almighty buck the only concern in Worthinton Home??
baseballcamp
7:42 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Go find someone else for your baseball clinics this Spring! Children should be playing sports, not working on construction sites!
Karen
7:55 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Its absolutely amazing how fabricated and untrue majority of these comments are. As an employee of the NAC I can't tell you how happy I am to have the opportunity to work in such a great establishment. Jim Worthington is the most honest and fair businessman there is and those who actually know him, know that. Those of you who do not know him and continue to write these false and negative comments, not even stating your name, really shows how much of a coward you are. Its amazing when someone needs something, such as a donation, the NAC is the first business in line to do so. However, all of that goes unnoticed and forgotten, just along with anything else Jim or the NAC does for the community, which of course, is much more than you would all know.
Pat
8:44 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
I would like to know how many of Jim's 400 employees are offered full-time hours, decent wages, or health benefits. Last I heard, Worthington's policy was to keep the majority of his employees working under 39 hours so that he would not have to pay into things like health benefits and 401K. Deplorable.
Bueller
9:13 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Don't know how it works there with pay and benefits and don't care. I don't work there. But there are plenty of people that do who are obviously fine with how it works. If not, they wouldn't be there. But why does that matter anyway. There are plenty of business in the area that keep part timers for the same reason. I know popular supermarkets in this area that are much larger corporations than the NAC that practice that. Sounds to me like this whole blog has turned from a union issue to angry people that WANT to work or be members at the NAC but are pissed they didn't get what they wanted and were asked to leave. And I know a number of health clubs around here that tell people to leave if they are not happy also. They're just not as pretty or luxurious so people don't mind. From what's being said it sounds like you are happy you are not apart of the establishment so why so much anger. Move on.
union guys are pussies
1:36 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
spokin like a true pussy
Lookin
10:15 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
I work at NAC and can't afford the Benefits the Company offers. My pay is further far from a livable wage along with the hours I'm given per week to work!
True, I don't have to stay here and many of us won't and some have left since the economy's starting to pick up but for now it's better than nothing! Just about all of us knows Mr. Worthington has taken advantage of the economy like many business as 'Buller' cites that don't hire full time or pay decent wages because of the saturate employment market of help. But is that fair or being a great Guy how he wants others to feel about him?
union guys are pussies
1:35 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
then quit and get a real job..stop crying like a little baby
I'll be fired
11:01 pm on Sunday, October 28, 2012
Lookin... I hear you loud and clear. Maybe we should get a union at NAC to represent us. We all know you can't battle big Jim by yourself. This Article really has the whole place upside down the past two days. Maybe this will be the dawning to the Worthingtons that we should be treated like humanbeings and everyone paid a decent wage. We all saw kids working on the new project and it was a joke at work until it hit this Patch! Whos laughing now!
union guys are pussies
1:34 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
maybe you should grow a sac and get a real job
Sandy LKR
12:13 am on Monday, October 29, 2012
What is wrong with you people who support JW. It's not like he is building a Veterans Hospital, or a homeless shelter. He is out for CASH and caters to the wealth yuppy types who think its preppy to belong to a " fancy" health club. He hires Illegal aliens and children to build huge iron structures ? I just hope no one is in there when the next storm hits.
Unions serve a purpose for american workers, they make sure people like JW doesn't abuse his powers, pays fair wages, makes sure the site is safe and free from harmful chemicals/etc, supplies medical benefits and keeps people working full time. We know he can well afford to pay a little more, to ensure the safety of his employees and clients. He is nothing but a Donald Trump wannabee.
Michelle Perkins
10:12 am on Monday, October 29, 2012
I don't care for unions, but I dislike Jim Worthington even more. Why is he building a swim club in the middle of a corporate park? Not very appealing to me.
Jef
11:53 am on Monday, October 29, 2012
Worthington a pig!
Judy
4:12 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
I have worked part time at Newtown Athletic Club for 12 years. As with any employment there have been ups and downs and as I stated, I'm still here. I have also been offered to work full time and even given incentives if I would increase my hours. I am very busy with my family at this time in my life. Jim and management have been understanding and supportive of that decision. To those of us that work here it is more than just a gym. My children grew up here right along with other employees kids and members kids. That is compensation also that some of you may not be considering. Where else could I have worked all these years with free child care. Freedom to take off when needed. Along with looking forward to going to work everyday because of the people I work with and work for.
John F
5:47 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
Linda Mitchell lead the effort to keep the YMCA out of this area a few years back. Why? So the NAC could continue to gouge it customers and face little to no competition. The Newtown area could greatly benefit from a YMCA facility offering an alternative to NAC. Why doesn't NAC offer Silver Sneakers membership for seniors? Because they don't have to. Why did they vehemently oppose the YMCA before the town board? To maintain their monoploy on the Newtown market. I quit and went somewhere where they offer Silver Sneakers not NAC high prices. Can't wait to see the new rates to pay for the swimming pool fantasy land now in the works. P.S. don't think your personal goods are safe in the NAC..the place is a hot bed of theft from the parking lot to the locker room..
union guys are pussies
1:33 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
pussyu
Kara Seymour
6:27 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
I would ask everyone to refrain from personal attacks. It's not useful and violates our terms of use: http://newtown-pa.patch.com/terms
And before anyone attacks me -- no I am not affiliated with the NAC, no I am not trying to cover anything up, no I don't have a personal agenda. I would just like people to be civil and respectful of others. Some of the comments posted on this story are inappropriate.
Gator
6:30 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
I personally bid on that project and was told I was the low bidder. Only to find out they gave my price to that other contractor to beat . I guess I should hire my 6 year old to run heavy equipment and lower my price.scumbag
union guys are pussies
1:31 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
your a pussy too
Tony
8:06 pm on Monday, October 29, 2012
Newtown Res hit it right on the head! Hiring children and training them is nothing new but somehow business forgot all about it. Jim Worthington is just taking a page out of the history books of the great barons like Jay Gould who said why hire a man and have to pay him a dollar a day when you can pay a child a dime!
Kids today have extreme talent most could do accounting, sales, marketing . Hell most is done by computers and once a program is learned a chimp could do it.
We business owners owe a grate gratitude to Worthington! In fact in China they even have children under 18 doing surgery now, now that's progress!
Thank you Jim your contribution to society will even take care of the Teacher Problem !!
union guys are pussies
1:32 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
pussy
Sam
7:15 am on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
BOYCOTT!!!! NAC!!!!
We had a hurricane party yesterday and this topic was brought up. Two neighbors are members and won't be renewing membership at NAC. Another 2 were planing on getting membership for Christmas, and that will not occur now!
Newtown united and put this place out of business!
union guys are pussies
1:31 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
pussy
Steve
3:09 pm on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
Steve
Does anyone on here actually know what unions do for everyone else's wages in the area. Without unions setting the local wage and fighting for everyone else to get a decent wage for their work. It's not union or non union it's about contractors paying their guys a fare wage. Not paying them cash and them not paying taxes and the contractor avoiding paying taxes on their workers.
union guys are pussies
1:30 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
pussy
Romney
6:30 pm on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
I just needed to comment on the new NAC which the flyers seemed to have an outpouring effect. My trips to China while with Bain proved to me someone will do it cheaper all you have to do is be able to live with yourself after you exploit them. Jim you need to hold the course your on. Who cares if most of Newtown is talking behind your back don't you think that happened to me when I raided Pension Funds and liquidated businesses! You even have support apparently from some of your nitwit-employees for the moment.. I once did to! Now some are even enough of a fool to vote for me!
Jim if I didn't already pick grafting Ryan as my VP I'd be lookin for qualities like you have, heartless, pompous, egotistical, and most important wharts in it for me!
Willard (Mitt)
union guys are pussies
1:30 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
your a pussy too
John F
8:19 pm on Tuesday, October 30, 2012
LOL Mitt you got it right great post!!
union guys are pussies
1:18 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
the union guys are a bunch of pussies.....most of them are gay
union guys are pussies
1:20 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
stop your crying like a little baby girl...and go compete for your job like the rest of us
union guys are pussies
1:21 pm on Wednesday, October 31, 2012
or relocate tp p-town with the rest of your kind