Dear Editor:
On February 20, Century Aluminum retirees
being robbed of their healthcare, attended the meeting in Ripley
where Century is requesting a larger break on their tax
bill. Last Monday, the Gazette published an article that Century
was nearing a deal with Appalachian Power, Century seeking a
cheaper power supply. On Friday, Channel 8 reports the power
company seeking a rate increase. Century's representatives
suggested that Governor Tomblin has indicated that they will try
to get legislation passed in this session to assist them. There
is such legislation proposed to put a cap on their power bill.
Century Representatives indicate that a restart would not be
planned until 2013, and only if all cost factors are met! It
appears our state is being held hostage by Century Aluminum, and
those same people in Charleston that are bargaining with
thieves, seem to overlook the slaughter of it's seniors being
delivered by Century's refusal to continue contractual
healthcare for the retirees, some with life threatening
illnesses, and can no longer afford medicines needed to sustain
life. One retiree collapsed in the meeting and was taken out by
ambulance. Corporate profits over retirees lives, and this is
called America. God help us because no one else seems to care.
Where is our legislation?
Karen Gorrell
