[limejudge69]

I work in utilities for my local town. I am not in a union. This is SC, and there are very few unions. I have received a 2% COL raise annually, since 2005. I also receive a 2% annual raise after a satisfactory performance review. But in that time, I have gone from having my healthcare provided free, to paying for it myself. I also pay close to $700 per month for my 3 daughters insurance. The wife gets hers from her employer. The state of SC also takes 6% of my salary right off the top for my retirement pension. We have not hired a new employee in my dept in 2 years. I am surprised, but also happy, that we do receive raises. We do live in a very nice area that has experienced low unemployment and still has a decent housing market. I am happy to be employed in a secure job and do not take it for granted. When I am in the middle of the road, in the middle of the night, jack-hammering concrete to repair a water main break, I realize that's what it takes to provide for my family. I was a Teamster for 10 years at UPS. When I needed them, they let me down. I feel bad for others who have had bad luck and hard times finding steady employment. I also feel for the folks who run small businesses or are self-employed. They are the backbone of this country. I will never complain that I have to pay more for my benefits. If that's what I have to give back to keep my job and provide for the family, then so be it.