It’s been three weeks and the AT&T strike is affecting customers

NASHVILLE, Tenn. (WTVF) — Customers and employees remained in limbo Friday night as the AT&T strike drags on for three weeks.

AT&T workers walked off the job last month to protest what they say are unfair labor practices. Their union, the Communication Workers of America, said they were fighting for higher wages and better insurance.

The telecommunications company and the union representing its employees have not yet agreed on a new contract.

Meanwhile, customers say they are caught in the crossfire.

Kara-Anne Hardy says she waited three weeks for a technician to install internet service in her new home before they canceled and told her she would have to wait another three to six months.

“I couldn’t set an alarm. I couldn’t watch TV, stream videos, work from home,” she said.

Still, Hardy said she sympathizes with the striking employees and hopes they can find a solution with AT&T.

For now, Hardy has found his own solution.

“People are switching providers,” Hardy joked. “I switched to Xfinity.”

AT&T has told us that they have contingency plans in place to ensure services continue to operate for customers.

The company also recently said the union was no longer using a mediator to negotiate, which is what caused the impasse.

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Nashville pet shelters face overcrowding

It’s a sad reality that the area’s animal shelters and nonprofit rescue organizations are constantly overcrowded — with so many dogs, cats and other animals waiting for forever homes. Jason Lamb reports here that Metro leaders are working with these groups — including Critter Cavalry — to find solutions. I fostered a dog from Critter Cavalry, so I understand the need is great. And I found my pup Domino through another local group, Proverbs Animal Rescue. Ultimately, it starts with all of us. Getting more dogs and cats spayed and neutered can help control the pet population — and ease the burden.

-Rhori Johnston