Union workers rally to support strikers

Associated Press -

SUNNYSIDE, Wash. _ More than 300 union workers from as far away as Spokane and Portland rallied in this south-central Washington town Saturday to show support for striking employees of Valley Manufactured Housing.

The 135 strikers walked out nearly eight months ago, primarily over wages. Their union, the Western Council of Industrial Workers Local 2739, is scheduled to reopen negotiations on Tuesday with the home-building company.

Union chief Denny Scott of Portland said the rally provided a lift.

"We are so proud of these people for keeping up the fight," he said.

The company contends its wage of $8.25 per hour after a year on the job is fair. Strikers say the wage is not enough to support their families. The new talks also are expected to focus on health care and the workers' call for an end to mandatory overtime.

The company employs more than 200 workers. Since the strike began Aug. 25, more than 150 replacements have been hired.