There had been minimal reinvestment in the plant equipment, which had become fully depreciated. As if the aging plant, shrinking profitability, and growing competition weren’t enough of a threat, Western States was encountering one of its biggest challenges. Changes in the leadership of UAW local had led to the souring of what had long been a friendly working relationship. Over the next several years, John Wake would need to make tough decisions, and he made them. In 1998, concerned with the growing liabilities created by the Company’s defined benefit pension plan, Wake brought in outside expert analysts to study the plan. They confirmed that something needed to be done. As a result, the Company decided to freeze pensions and move toward a defined contribution 401(k) plan, just as many other employers were doing. Union leaders were furious and called a strike that lasted three weeks. The strike was particularly bitter, driving a wedge in what had long been considered a “family.” right: Larry Miller (April 24, 1998) helping out during the strike of 1998