THREE RIVERS — A local strike is tough on union workers, and it could start hurting other businesses soon. American Axle workers, including 800 in Three Rivers, have been on strike for three weeks. The union and company have not been able to reach a deal on wages and benefits.

Striking workers are still getting benefits through the union, but no wages. They say they're starting to feel the pinch on their wallets. Many are cutting back on their spending.

Business owners in Three Rivers say they've noticed, too, but it's not hurting them financially yet.

"We are going to be here until we get a respectable wage, what we deserve," said striking worker Randy Page.

Until then, he's on a tight budget, trying to pay the bills.

"We don't go out to eat. We don't go to the movies. We don't do a lot of things. We basically stay at home and try to get things accomplished around the house," said Page.

The strike is hurting workers now. In the long run, it could hurt others.

"The people at the restaurants come to the movies with their tips that they get from the people that eat out. And if they don't eat out, it affects the entire community," said Brian Willoughby, manager of Three Rivers 6, a movie theater.

Business owners have noticed workers outside on the street, not inside their businesses.

"There are a lot of people that I do know that work there that are regulars. And a few of them, I haven't seen in a few weeks that normally would be here. And I totally understand that," said Willoughby.

"We don't want to get in the politics of it or in the middle of it, but we support our town. We have a lot of clientele from America Axle and we feel bad about what is going on," said Tina Wyman, co-owner of Frankie's.

Everyone hopes the strike ends soon.

"There's some anxieties, and we haven't had any news about whether this is going to be settled soon," said Page.

American Axle workers say they're only asking to maintain their current pay and benefits.

The company maintains it has to ask for cuts to stay competitive. American Axle says the union has given similar concessions to other companies.