Thursday marked 70 days on strike for the 450 workers at Special Metals who walked out Oct. 1 over contract negotiations. WCHS TV reported that union officials with United Steelworkers Local 40, who represent the workers, are hoping by the end of next week, they will have a new contract. Local 40 President Chad Thompson said negotiations have been productive. Union members have been seeking better workplace safety measures, better wages, seniority rights and health care plans that will not make their premiums go up by $700 to $800 a month. Both parties will go back to the negotiating table Tuesday and Wednesday of next week.