The relationship between Severstal and steelworkers is anything but sweet.

"When Severstal had discussions with the United Steelworkers, they had promised the moon," said Jerry Conners, president of USW Local 1223. "There was going to be a massive influx of cash for improvements in all the plants. It was going to be a marriage made in heaven. We're looking for the divorce lawyer."

Conners said talks of a sale of the local plants have been swirling since April.

He said the USW and Severstal are still in discussions with several companies on a possible purchase.

Steelworkers have been working on a day-to-day contract with the Russian steelmakers since August.

The uncertainty of the valley's steel future is causing customers to worry and shop overseas instead of purchasing from the Yorkville plant.

"Ohio Coatings Company, a tin-plating company, is one of our biggest customers," said Conners. "They are actually taking steel from Japan and Korea. They're buying steel there to fill customer orders that we would normally fill."

Conners is concerned selling Wheeling, Warren and Sparrows Point facilities together will put local plants in jeopardy.

As 2010 ends, workers hope for a new year of good news in an industry where not every plant is producing.

"Every steel plant is hoping they're not part of the shrinkage and they will survive," said Conners. "That's what we're looking to do."

Conners wouldn't comment on which companies have been in contact with the USW.

If a sale happens, he would like to see promises made by the purchasing company put in writing so local workers don't feel let down again.