The United Steelworkers union strike against the Goodyear Tire and Rubber Co. stretches toward its fourth month since the initial walkout on Oct. 5.

With the onset of the Christmas holiday both parties involved face more struggles than ever and there is still no end in sight. Additionally, new information has surfaced from both sides to deal with the constant struggle for a reasonable settlement.

Recently, Goodyear held an earnings conference for its investors. The USW has since produced a newsletter titled, “Investor Alert” which, according to the USW Web site is a “scathing critique” of the remarks made at the conference. Also, a Web site has been produced by the USW known as “Goodyear Alert” to inform investors of issues related to the strike and Goodyear’s earnings.

“Goodyear Alert is another tool we’re using to facilitate a dialogue with other Goodyear stakeholders in what appears to be a long confrontation,” said USW President Leo Gerard.

Despite information produced by the USW, Goodyear has announced record sales in the third quarter. Also, as of Nov. 21 Goodyear has closed $1 billion of its senior notes. These notes are similar to bonds issued by the U.S. government. Some of the money from these bonds will be used for general company purposes which, according to a press release, may be used to address the strike.

Bargaining teams from both sides have met twice since the initial strike in Cincinnati, Ohio. During those times several proposals have been developed; however, because the companies are 55 days into the strike, neither side has agreed upon any terms as of late.

The end of the strike may be farther away than many had first estimated. This has not hindered either side from fighting for their own gains.

Many of the workers at the Union City plant still stand behind their original comment, “We will be out here one day longer than Goodyear can stand.”

For now, we will have to wait and see.