Strike paychecks coming for Boeing machinists

SEATTLE -- Production workers at Boeing are about to see some paychecks, but nothing like what they're used to getting.

The Machinists union plans to distribute strike pay Saturday when the walkout enters its third week.

Union members shut down Chicago-based Boeing's aircraft assembly plants Sept. 6 after an 87 percent strike vote. There have been no talks since then and none are scheduled.

Union members who perform picket duty are entitled to $150 a week, starting Saturday. That's less than one-seventh of their average paycheck.

The Machinists represent more than 27,000 Boeing workers, including about 25,000 in and around Seattle.

Checks are being distributed at the union hall in Seattle, the Evergreen Fairgrounds in Monroe and Green River Community College in Auburn.