Common Ground March

Take Heidi HomeSee 0

A True CulinaryExperience in the Suburbs

Nightly specials created with passionFresh hand-cut Fish & Meat

Pasta made on-site dailyHand-picked Wine Selection

Sophisticated Ambiance Embodying Authentic Italian Decor

“Jazz in the Woods”Every Saturday Night!

Upstairs in our New Jazz Lounge

VOLUME 1, NUMBER 3

CommonGround“Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about things that matter.” - Martin Luther King, Jr.

MARCH 2010

Join Rhode Island’s largest union of health careprofessionals. Call 831-3674 or email: [email protected] more info, go to www.unap.org.

United Nurses &Allied Professionals

Working to improve thelives of our members...

and our patients.

Color - Front Cover

Our elected officials and leaders do not need to look very far for a job stimulus plan right in our own backyard, or should we say, front port. With its recently dredged channel, excellent intermodal rail and Interstate Highway System connections, generous cargo-handling area, and the advantages of the marine trades in general, ProvPort is an untapped resource that can drive the Rhode Island economic engine. A new initiative of ProvPort and the City of Providence will create an estimated 1,000 new jobs with an average salary of nearly $80,000. ProvPort has been operating and working to improve the Port of Providence for the past fifteen years. These improvements have included dramatically expanding the operations, increasing the number of tenants, growing jobs, and making more than $12.5 million in capital improvements.The result of these improvements has been the dramatic expansion of both jobs and economic impact. These investments have sparked an additional

$70 million in improvements to the campus facilities by the tenants. Under the new ProvPort initiative, ReNEWable Port, plans are underway to transform the Port of Providence into a modern, highly competitive marine cargo center. The ProvPort campus would serve as a model in order to preserve existing port jobs, greatly expanding the maritime-related workforce in the area. It would serve as a major expansion of the Northeast “Marine Highway” as a viable strategy for reducing growing and highly inefficient highway congestion. In addition, by creating renewable, clean energy sources, a lasting positive environmental impact would be made. ReNEWable Port is a regional effort among more than a dozen companies, the State of Rhode Island, the State’s Economic Development Corporation, the City of Providence, the University of Rhode Island, Bryant University, and the non-profit ProvPort Corporation. This joint cooperative effort is a dynamic model for sparking superior

environmental policy and economic growth. Instrumental in this process is the collaboration among Cooley High School, the Met School, and College Unbound Providence to launch the Apprentice Partnership Program that would allowstudents to apprentice with engineers, scientists, designers, and Port staff. Through “live

learning,” students will study and learn in a range of environments and work with faculty, advisors, and fellow students to tackle real world problems. But, in order for ProvPort to expand its activities and capacities, provide dramatic job growth in the region, and replace existing fossil fuel consumption with renewable energy production, federal investment is required. The Department of Transportation has $1.5 billion available through the TIGER discretionary grants (Transportation Investment Generating Economic Recovery). Mayor Cicilline has enlisted the Rhode Island congressional delegation to fight for these TIGER funds. The funds would pay for two barge-based container/cargo cranes, two 150-to-250-foot wind turbines and solar panels providing electricity to operate the entire facility (with any extra sold to the electrical grid. According to a study conducted by Bryant University, the initial investment will generate more than $120 million in economic stimulus. During the past decade, the direct and indirect jobs created by ProvPort have grown by more than 300 percent

according to a study completed by the national maritime research firm, Martin Associates. Jobs created by ProvPort activities now exceed 2,400 high paying jobs. Since 2001, ProvPort has grown from handling approximately 750,000 tons to more than 3.2 million tons in 2008. This growth in tonnage has also fueled job growth. According to marine consulting group Martin Associates, ProvPort creates in excess of 2,300 jobs throughout the Northeast. Today, the Port generates 953 direct jobs, 712 induced, 224 indirect and 469 related. Moreover, ProvPort is a significant economic engine to the region, creating $182.0 million in economic activity.

You do not need to look far for Rhode Island’s Economic EngineUrge our Congressional Delegation to Support ReNEWable Port’s quest for TIGER Fund

Rendering of the Wind Turbines being developed as part of the ReNEWable Port. Federal TIGER grant funding is critical to turn ProvPort green and create 1,000 new regional jobs.

Two 30-year-old cranes that are leased from NJ. These cranes support more than 1,000 direct jobs but are 5-years past life cycle. Replacing the cranes is critical to the protecting jobs.

See Tiger Funds, page 13

Page 9 Employees suggest methods to prevent medical mistakes

Page 10 Addiction solutions need coverage

Page 11 Archambault steps up for BC/BS subscribers

Page 14 Tax planning with life insurance

Page 15 Autoworkers’ job action in 1930s changed course of labor relations

Page 16 Cleaner building protocols touted

Page 17 Local 51 is proud

Page 18&19 Directory of Union Services

Common Ground MARCH 2010

Black and White

INDEX

John J. Tassoni, Jr. - Publisher

John Houle - Co-Publisher/Editor

Paul Pelange - Editor

Glenn Moretti - Advertising Manager

Anna Romano - Office Manager

Kerryn Azevedo - Graphic Design

Jen Davey - Web

-

Common Ground, Inc.111 Wayland Avenue, Providence, RI 02906

c. 401.451.1305 f. 401.831.6111

[email protected]

CommonGround, Inc.

ADVERTISE

call 451.1305 or go online to www.commongroundnews.net

TO

IN

The health insurance com-missioner’s report on payments to hospitals underscored some previously ignored impacts of the proposed but failed Lifespan/Care New England merger. Hospital payment rates favor network hospitals, often without any medical justification.The total insurance payments to the combined Lifespan/CNE entity would have exceeded 75 percent of all payments to hospitals in the state. This merger would have accelerated already steep increases in insurance premiums across the board. This is not something we have to speculate about; this has already happened in Massachusetts as well, due to the growth of one gigantic hospital network, Partners. Since this merger, Boston media and government officials estimate that insurance rates

have gone up significantly in that state to pay for these increased payments to Partners. Ironically, Lifespan and CNE bosses tried to use the market dominance of the Partners system in Massachusetts, and their expansion into nearby Foxboro, Mass., as justification for doing the same thing here. I have never seen a merger that did not result in job loss. Where else can any efficiency be found? Laying off senior management? If Lifespan President and Chief Executive Officer George A. Vecchione and Care New England President and CEO John J. Hynes were serious about their merger being a “jobs engine,” would they have committed to at least keeping the good jobs we already have in our state? Rhode Island does not need any more layoffs. The biggest challenge

facing those with and without insurance in Rhode Island is the annual unrelenting increases in premiums that regularly exceed inflation by 200 to 300 percent.The evidence shows that hospital systems already have used their power to drive up insurance rates. Would they have used their increased market power to hold the line on increases in premiums? Or would they have continued to use their increased leverage with insurers to increase prices at the expense of community hospitals and subscribers? They were not able to explain how the merger would not have made an even more dramatic effect on insurance costs.

Stan Israel is executive vicepresident of the New EnglandHealth Care Employees Union.

The Lifespan-CNE merger would not have cut health care costsBy Stan Israel

The Institute for Labor

Studies and Research is

providing the opportunity for

members of organized labor

who have completed or are

enrolled in a state approved

apprenticeship training

program to get a college

degree.

In 1984 the Institute and

CCRI finalized an agreement

to create an Associate Degree

in Applied Science/Technical

Studies. This degree has three

components: individuals

successfully completing a

state approved apprenticeship

training program receive up

to twenty credits which when

combined with twenty credits

from general education

courses and twenty credits

from other related technical

courses meet the academic

requirements to be awarded

the Associate in Applied

Science/Technical Studies

degree.

Bob Delaney, Executive

Director of the Institute for

Labor Studies and Research

worked with UA Local 51

Business Manager, Tom

Handfield, Business Agents

Fred Foeri and Tim Byrne

and Training Coordinator

Dave Marland to select

the first course offering,

market the opportunity to

their members and set up a

schedule.

The first course offering at

UA Local 51 was “Workplace

Psychology” offered on a

Friday evening at 5:00 pm.

Twenty enthusiastic and

committed students started

and completed the class.

Even more interesting was

the variety of backgrounds

of the students in the class.

They included everyone from

apprentices to journeymen to

UA 51 union leadership, all

of whom offered topical

input each and every

class, making it even

more relevant to the work

they do in their jobs.

Recently, two new courses

were offered on-site at UA

local 51 on Wednesday and

Friday evenings with thirty

eight students enrolled. These

are courses that the Institute

contracted with CCRI to

provide on site. In the next

round of course offerings,

there will be both CCRI

and National Labor College

course offerings, and students

participating will be working

toward either their bachelor

or associate degrees.

Anyone interested in

taking courses offered at

Local 51 is welcome and

can call the Institute for

enrollment details. It is our

goal to have college courses

offered at several on-site

locations around the state.

If any union is interested in

offering an on-site option to

their members just call the

Institute at 463-9900.

College Courses at UA Local 51 Leading to a College DegreeWe sponsor low-cost

spaying/ neutering clinics, provide pet adoption

services, legal Assistance, investigate neglect and

abuse cases, and advocatefor the protection of animals.

To defend the inalienable rights of both companion

animals and wildlife through education, legal and legislative activism.

Annual Membership Fee: $25

DEFENDERS OF ANIMALS P. O. Box 5634

Weybosset Hill Station

Providence, RI 02903-0634

401-461-1922

www.defendersofanimals.org

We sponsor low-cost spaying/ neutering clinics,

provide pet adoption services, legal Assistance, investigate neglect and








401-461-1922


We sponsor low-cost spaying/ neutering clinics,

provide pet adoption services, legal Assistance, investigate neglect and








401-461-1922


Page 1 You do not need to look far for Rhode Island’s Economic Engine

Page 2 College Courses at UA Local 51 Leading to a College Degree

The Lifespan-CNE merger would not have cut health care costs

Page 3 Growing Rhode Island’s Economy via Workforce Development

Page 4 Buy Union Products, Use Union Services

Page 5 A Long Tradition of Pro-Union Publications

Providence Firefighters support American Lung Association’s ‘Fight for Air Climb’

Help Soldiers Call Home

Page 6 Take Charge of Healthcare Costs

Page 7 The Jobs-Producing Power of “Big Wind”

Page 8 Facts Every Retiree Should Know

Roberts Launches Statewide Arts & Culture Tour

Page 9 Intervention: Not just fodder for entertainment

Page 10 Take Heidi Home - Ten Requests From Your Pet

Page 11 Archambault calls on insurers to cut administrative costs

Page 12 Announcing the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans

Page 13 Making The Home Value Fit Your Purse

Page 14 Rebuilding your estate for future generations

Great Flint Sit Down Strike

Page 17 ER Card pilot program extended for one year in Warwick

Page 18&19 Directory of Union Services

MARCH 2010 Common Ground

Black and White

ARTHUR A. COIA

ALBERT J. LEPORE

GEORGE L. SANTOPIETRO

ARMAND E. SABITONI

JAMES J. LEPORE

ALBERT J. LEPORE JR.

MARIA SCARAMUZZO-CONTE

ALFREDO T. CONTE

SHERI M. LEPORE

JOHN F. CASCIONE

PETER J. COMERFORD

MARK SALES

RANDALL J. LEVESQUE

COURTNEY L. MANCHESTER

LESLIE N. TUCHAPSKY

COUNSELORS AT LAW

A Tradition of Client Satisfaction for 40 Years

• Workers’ Compensation

• Automobile Accidents

• Slip and Fall

• Civil Litigation

• Divorce / Child Custody

• Real Estate

• Tax and Financial Planning

• Wills, Trusts and Probate

• Immigration

• Traffic Violations

• Consumer Transactions

• Criminal Litigation

• Bankruptcy

• Medical Malpractice

• Social Security Disability

The Law Firm of Coia & Lepore, Ltd. is proud of its tradition of providing outstanding Legal

Services to satisfied individuals and families. In addition, Coia & Lepore, Ltd. represents more

than twenty union entities including, but not limited to, Laborers, Teamsters and Public Service

Employees throughout Rhode Island and Southeastern Massachusetts.

We invite you to browse our new website at

www.coialepore.com

OUR AREAS OF PRACTICE:

CONTINUING OUR LONGSTANDING PRACTICE, WE DO NOT CHARGE A FEE FOR INITIAL CONSULTATIONS

401.751.5522

At the end of January, the state Senate held an Economic Policy Forum at Bryant University. The focus of this forum was on workforce development. In her open remarks, Senate President Teresa Paiva-Weed spelled out how important workforce development is with regard to growing the state’s economy, saying “A recent national study shared with the Senate Task Force on Small Business Growth and Development indicated that the quality of a state’s workforce and the quality of its education system ranked 2nd and 8th respectively in how businesses decide where to locate. Surprisingly, the top concern is not taxes, not permitting processes, but having the needed skilled or trainable labor supply. Workforce development is economic development.” There are specific industries that have a huge potential for growth in our state, specifically because of where we are geographically. It may be possible to capitalize on these industries, but only through the enhancement of the state’s workforce to meet the labor needs of employers.

Biotechnology, Medical Technology, Alternative Energy Technology, and Advanced Computer Systems Technology – these are high wage jobs that are critical to increasing the state’s median wage, improving the standard of living for many Rhode Islanders, and growing the state’s economy in the long-term. Moreover, middle-skills jobs training would close the wage gap between high income earners and low income earners. Bringing up the income levels of the state’s low-income population would go a LONG way in reducing the state’s tax burden on its residents. This should be a critical subject for everyone complaining that the state’s tax rate is “too high.” It’s been said that if you want to get the biggest bang for the buck, train workers. The economic benefit of this type of expenditure generates a much greater positive economic impact than almost any other development strategy the state can dream up. Customized job training suited to individual firms and tied to

business expansion or location in the state creates about ten times the positive economic impact per dollar than a business tax incentive. Let’s stop spending money to incentivize business location to Rhode Island through tax credit and corporate subsidy programs which don’t work (or I should say don’t work very well), and let’s spend the money and invest in our state’s workforce. Let’s give residents of the state the skills necessary to meet the labor needs of employers seeking to grow. I would argue that we should model a workforce development program after national programs like AmeriCorps, the National Health Service Corps, Learn and Serve, etc. The state can invest in its citizens by providing FREE job training or higher education contingent on business expansion as well as residency requirements. This should be the state’s number one economic development strategy moving forward. If an employer is seeking to expand in the state, but needs a larger workforce in order

to do so, the state should spend the money to train the workforce, and NOT give out tax credits to business with a promise that they’ll create jobs. A tax credit or a corporate subsidy once given cannot be recouped when the promise of job growth isn’t realized. We can pay for this type of workforce development program by eliminating the current corporate subsidies that have no reliable analysis of their effectiveness or cost (there are a lot of them). The state can grow the economy by giving businesses the best reason to come to the state. Forget about the mythical “low taxes” panacea, tell businesses that we’re willing to train an army of workers to meet their employment needs. To modify a Chinese proverb: give a corporation a tax credit, feed it for a day; teach a worker new skills, feed him for a lifetime.

Brian Hull is the owner and editor of the progressive news blog Rhode Island’s Future (www.rifuture.org). He can be reached at [email protected].

Growing Rhode Island’s Economyvia Workforce Development By Brian Hull


TUESDAY 7:00 - 8:00 P.M.

THURSDAY 8:00 - 9:00 P.M.

SATURDAY 5:00 - 6:00 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 33

Brought to you by:

With Additional Support from:

UA 51, National Education Association Rhode Island,RI Federation of Teachers & Health Professionals,

IBEW Local 99, RI Building & Construction Trades Council, SEIU State Council, Painters and Allied Trades District Council

11, United Food & Commercial Workers (UFCW) Local 328, Laborers International Union of North America (LIUNA)

OPEIU LOCAL 25

WE MAKE RHODE ISLAND WORK

One of the easiest ways to support economic development in Rhode Island is to be conscious of where the goods and services you purchase come from. If you make an effort to buy union products and use union services, then you are helping to grow the middle class in Rhode Island. A union job provides good wages and benefits, therefore growing Rhode Island’s taxable wage base and lessening the demand on social programs. With a robust middle class Rhode Island would be well on its way to economic recovery, but it is up to you to make the decisions necessary to lead the way. Making the decision to support union companies does not have to be difficult— you probably use many union services already without even knowing it—all it takes is a little time to educate yourself. This very newspaper is printed by union workers and you can find a guide to other union goods and services on pages 18 and 19 as well as online at www.workingri.com to help you make decisions on where to spend your hard earned money and to help build the middle class. In Rhode Island, services as diverse as grocery stores and cell phone providers are represented by unions. By making a few small changes in your daily routine you can make a big difference in the direction our state. “Buying union” means that you are spending your money at a company

whose workers are represented by a labor organization for collective bargaining purposes. The workers, union representatives and company management negotiate fair wages, benefits and working conditions together, which are then written into a legally binding contract that all parties must follow. Having a contract benefits both the workers and the company because both parties know what is expected of one another to make the company succeed. To determine if something is union made just look for the “Union Bug” a small tag or logo that says what union made it. These labels ensure that you are buying quality goods that were manufactured by union workers. For union services in Rhode Island use the union directory and to find union goods made in the United States visit www.unionlabel.org or www.riaflcio.org. If you have any doubts which union represents the company’s workers, just ask any reputable unionized firm will respect that you are concerned with supporting good jobs and be more than happy to help. By using your purchasing power to buy union goods and services you have the power to help increase the number of union members in Rhode Island, as well as protect the thousands of union jobs already here and contributing to the state.

Buy Union Products,Use Union Services By George Nee

Rhode Island Judicial,Professional and Technical Employees’

LOCAL UNION 808

Frank A. Ciccone Pasquale Zompa Norma M. Sousa Business Manager President Vice President

Claudia Porrazzo David GarzoneRecording Secretary Executive Board Member

Dominick J. Ruggerio Gina M. Sabitoni-ArakelianSecretary-Treasurer Executive Board Member

BUY Union Products. USE Union Services.Use your hard earned money to support hard working union members!

P.O. Box 7613Warwick, RI 02887

(401) 751-7100

Don’t Miss

An informative, one-hour

weekly show highlighting

issues and events affecting

working families.

TUESDAY 7 P.M.

THURSDAY 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 5 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14

VERIZON FIOS CHANNEL 33


Providence’s BravestServing the City of Providence since 1854

PROVIDENCE FIRE FIGHTERS LOCAL 799INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF FIRE FIGHTERS

Paul A. Doughty, President

Philip F. Fiore, Vice President

Scott G. Mello, Secretary

John F. Woodard, Treasurer

Executive Board Representatives

Christopher J. JannittoJoseph P. Moreino

Hans RamsdenWayne C. OliveiraZachariah Kenyon

Anthony Toro

92 Printery Street Paul A. DoughtyProvidence, RI 02904 401-569-4444 401-272-7999 (O)401-274-7999 (F) local799.com










Anthony Toro











Anthony Toro


Southern New Englands Neighborhood Union

David P. FlemingPresident

James P. Riley Secretary-Treasurer

United Food and Commercial Workers Union, Local 328278 Silver Spring Street • Providence, RI 02904-2593 • 401.861.0300 • 800.624.7776 • www.ufcw328.org

The labor newspaper, Common Ground, is only the latest entry in a long list of union oriented publications in Rhode Island. The book, Printers and Printing in Providence, 1762-1907, was issued by Local 33 of the Typographical (Printer’s Union) on its fiftieth anniversary. The volume is also about the formation of labor unions in the area. Printers played a major role in the movement due to their literacy skills and helping to get the word out to others. But they usually worked at mainstream press Rather than labor projects. The Greenback Courier ran for six months in 1878 and described itself as a workingmen’s paper although it had more to do with currency reform than union issues. Several years later the sudden industrial dominance of the Knights of Labor in the US and Rhode Island led to the local publication of The People from 1885-1888. This weekly not only reported labor and political events, but also tries to educate mill operatives about the workings of society. The Knights were unusual for the times, enlisting people of color and women into the group’s and ranks, which is reflected in its articles. When

the Knights hit the skids, the newspaper sadly ceased publication. Apparently, working people and their representatives understood the value of communication so the Providence Central Labor Union (predecessor of the State Federation of Labor Today) issued Justice for two years, 1894-95. This sophisticated and well crafted publication

followed the outlook of the American Federation of Labor, which was emerging into prominence at the time under the leadership of Samuel Gompers. The First issue of the paper, on Labor Day, 1894, featured a front page layout that spaced the

print from left to right to artistically spell out Labor Day vertically. Again, this weekly fell by the wayside after little more than a year. The Rhode Island Socialist Party tried its hand at reporting The Labor Advocate from 1912-1915. Using bold and Provocative headlines, the Advocate took a militant line in all labor disputes around the time of World War I. At times the paper even threw a shot or two at the AF of L as well as employers. Because there was so much labor strife in that era, particularly within the ranks of new Industrial Workers of the World (IWW), the paper is very

valuable for its coverage of conflicts in the textile industry and the plight of many immigrants from the Mediterranean area. Several issues covered the local crowds that turned out to hear presidential candidate and former security-treasurer of the Brotherhood of Locomotive Firemen, Eugene Debs. However, like its predecessor, the Advocate folded after only a couple of years. One subsequent newspaper the Rhode Island Labor News lasted from 1927-1978, a remarkable fifty years but in varying degrees of quality and sporadic appearances. When the paper was at its best, it included variable information about all aspects of the state labor movement. At other times, it was more of an advertising sheet providing publicity for those who bought the ads. Not much is known about the paper in general. All of these papers are available on microfilm at the RI Historical Society Library on Hope Street in Providence; some of the originals are housed at the URI Special Collections in Kingston. As we enter one of the most dangerous anti-union climates in American history, the obvious need for another, longer lasting source of union information is quite clear. Let’s get behind Common Ground and make sure it gets out to the Rank and file. Scott Molloy, Ph.D. is a professor of labor studies at the Schmidt Labor Research Center, University of Rhode Island.

A Long Tradition of Pro-Union PublicationsBy Scott Molloy

Providence Firefighters support American Lung Association’s ‘Fight for Air Climb’ On February 27, the Providence firefighters participated in the American Lung

Association’s fundraising climb of 29 stories of the tallest building in the state.

“As firefighters in the host city we are happy to raise money for a cause that is

close to our heart; lung disease is one of the most common occupational illnesses we

face,” said Paul Doughty president of the Providence Firefighters.

Off-duty firefighters competed in the competition, climbing 58 flights of stairs

wearing their full personal protective equipment including helmet, coat, boots and

breathing apparatus.

“For us, this is similar to what we would do if there is a fire on the upper floors

of any of the high-rise buildings downtown, so it was good practice as well as a good

time,” said Doughty.

This is just one of the many charitable organizations that firefighters support, and

they are proud of their continuing efforts to help those in need, on the job and off.

Help Soldiers Call Home The Teamsters Joint

Council 10 New

England Women’s

Committee is

sponsoring a “Cell

Phones for Soldiers”

campaign starting

immediately and

ending June 30, 2010.

Our goal is to collect

as many phones as

possible to help our

military have a means

of communication

while they are away

from home. Please help us make this a successful venture.

The phones that are collected are sent to a reclamation center. The center clears

out all the information in each cell phone. Proceeds will be used to purchase

calling cards for our troops so they can stay connected with their families.

If you would like to help support our soldiers to communicate back home, you

may drop off cell phones to the Teamsters Local Union No. 251 Union Hall, 121

Brightridge Avenue, East Providence, RI.

“ the obvious need for another, longer lasting

source of union information is quite clear. Let’s

get behind Common Ground and make sure it

gets out to the Rank and file.” - Scott Malloy


International Brotherhood ofElectrical Workers

LOCAL UNION 99

Allen P. Durand Business Manager

Ronald Leddy John P. ShalveyAsst. Business Manager President

22 Amflex Drive • Cranston, R.I. 02921(401) 946-9900 • Fax (401) 946-9907

WWW.IBEWLU99.ORG

1 Free package of Power One batteries (4-pack). Name_________________________________________ Size Battery__________

Adress ____________________________________________________________

__________________________________________ Phone _________________ONe PAckAge Per cuStOmer. Offer exPireS 3-31-10

As health insurance carriers again seek approval for double-digit rate increases, the state’s decision makers and the public are collectively evaluating whether or not the rate increases are justified. However, even if the increases appear justifiable, they are not affordable. While few people question the quality of the United States healthcare system, its costs, which are more than 50% higher than the next highest spending country and as much as 90% higher than many other countries, explain the staggering 70 million uninsured or underinsured Americans. Regardless of one’s opinions about the U.S. system, every issue inevitably comes down to costs, which are simply too high, and leave purchasers feeling powerless. Since immediate, meaningful changes from our lawmakers in Washington appear unlikely, group purchasers of health insurance at a local level must isolate and work with the numerous variables they can control. Some of these variables include requiring a more rigorous evaluation and negotiating process with insurance carriers, evaluating funding alternatives, assessing varying plan designs, considering consumer-driven health plan models, and encouraging member involvement. Rhode Island offers a selection of three viable insurance carriers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. While one carrier may be preferred over

the others, significant cost-savings of the second choice carrier may increase its appeal. Competition is good, and shopping the marketplace can often be worth the effort. If the group purchasing entity is of sufficient size, alternative funding options should be considered. A willingness to assume some degree of financial risk may prove to be cost effective, assuming a thorough review of the risk factors is performed. Conversely, large groups should not automatically assume that self funding is more cost effective than a fully insured offering. In fact, prospective rates at times can be less expensive, and without risk. This can be the result of internal carrier strategies, uncompetitive reinsurance markets, or other external factors, such as legislative and regulatory matters. Since funding changes are invisible to plan members, they should be evaluated yearly. If the decision is made to remain prospectively rated, carriers will often offer “risk-sharing” models, where the group assumes a risk corridor that limits upward exposure, while affording the opportunity for savings if warranted. Plan designs should also be evaluated on a regular basis. Even if no benefit changes are elected in a given year, newly proven medical technologies, treatment protocols, and cutting-edge prescriptions are automatically added to coverage each year,

effectively enriching the plan. As funds struggle to remain financially stable, multi-tier benefits offerings based on hours should be considered. Consumer-driven plan models (CDHP) are considered by some to be viable options, because of their cost-saving potential. The concept promotes the responsible usage of healthcare, with financial rewards for compliance. There are pros and cons to these designs that should be carefully considered, and member education is imperative when implementing such plans. The level of member involvement should be continuously considered and promoted. With more than 70% of healthcare claims being “lifestyle-related,” the best way to control costs is to control claims. Investments in wellness are effective in environments where members and their dependants can be accessed, and where member turnover is minimal. Education is a powerful tool, and putting a competitive spin on health improvement can produce favorable results. Benefit changes, where more costs are shifted to the members, are most effective when coupled with opportunities for health improvement. For example, an imposed deductible may be more tolerated in conjunction with an opportunity for members to earn financial rewards for healthy behaviors. These win-win scenarios serve

to make members more health conscious, thus helping to control costs on a long term basis. An overhaul of the current healthcare system is not imminent, but the situation is far from hopeless. A detailed assessment of each case’s requirements and constraints will determine the appropriate course of action to generate financial savings, or at the very least lessen the rate of cost increases. It is recommended, however, that professional resources are considered, in order to achieve the desired outcome, and maximize group and member satisfaction.

Take Charge of Healthcare CostsBy Bob Dumais

ALLEGIANCE BENEFIT ADVISORS INC.

Health Insurance Consulting Services

40+ years combined

experience ensures you

the best health coverage

at the lowest cost.

Keith R. DemtyPrincipal

Robert A. Dumais, MBAPrincipal

495 Purchase Street • Swansea, MA 02777Phone/Fax: 774.565.2002 • Email: [email protected]

MEMBER AFT


As Rhode Islanders, we have become hyper-energized on new ways to create jobs. From the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce’s perspective, it is a pleasure to work with our colleagues in the labor community to make the knowledge economy “real” for everyone. Together, we are making it “real” for workers at all points across the skills spectrum. So, what’s next? What are we most excited about? Think about this!

Today, Rhode Island has an exceptional opportunity to be the national and international leader in the offshore energy production industry — appropriately referred to as “Big Wind.” By leveraging our world class expertise in ocean engineering and related sciences, we can quickly ignite in Rhode Island an entrepreneurially driven explosion of new jobs, new investment and new tax revenue in the offshore wind sector. Deepwater Wind’s proposal to site the nation’s first off-shore energy production facility in Narragansett Bay is the game changer we need. Further, through this effort, we could finally solve one of Rhode Island’s most stubborn economic challenges — coalescing the community around a common vision for the highest and best use of Quonset and its strategically located port. The just-announced infusion of more than $22 million in federal stimulus monies to fix up the port’s piers and infrastructure is sure to be a huge help. Rhode Island’s considerable

brainpower is another hugely helpful asset. As the global epicenter of knowledge in offshore wind technology, the University of Rhode Island, for example, could spark along the Kingston/Quonset/Providence corridor a critical mass of industry players. Builders, researchers, entrepreneurs, fabricators, shippers, engineers and other vital participants in the supply chain would need to literally and figuratively “beat a path to our door” in order to fully capitalize on this body of knowledge and to collaborate with the best hands and minds in the field. The mammoth wind turbines would be manufactured locally by a ready supply of trades professionals — many of whom have expertise in composites technology due to our strong boat building heritage — then shipped efficiently through the Port of Quonset to destinations domestically and throughout Europe. Business, labor and academia would seize this target of opportunity in the Green and Clean Revolution

with great gusto because it fulfills the market potential identified in the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce Knowledge Economy Roadmap. (Environmental and Alternative Energy Technologies). It is vitally important that all of us move forward with deliberate speed to ensure Rhode Island’s rightful place as the center of “Big Wind”, the offshore energy industry, as other states will undoubtedly attempt similar initiatives. By connecting the dots in this unique way in Rhode Island, “Big Wind” could in fact reinvigorate the state’s storied maritime roots and launch the next wave of our jobs-producing economy.

Laurie White is the president of the Greater Providence Chamber of Commerce.

The Jobs-Producing Power of“Big Wind” Making It RealBy Laurie White

A.C. Jewelers401.349.4094

WE BUY GOLD, SILVER & PLATINUM+ earn an extra 5%- All Work Done On Premises -

GOLD, DIAMONDS, PLATINUM AND SILVER JEWELRY REPAIRS. REMOUNTS & CUSTOM MADE JEWELRY.

35%offdiamonds-any size-

Laurie White

We’re beside you when you need us.

When it comes to everything you value, who you call matters

Brian Hunter, CPCU, CIC, President

For better coverage at a better price,Call 769-9500.

"If you're going to spend

15 minutes on your

insurance, why not

spend it with a Trusted

Choice agency that can

shop 15 insurance

companies for you."


Carpenter’sLocal 94

14 Jefferson Park Road, Warwick, Rhode Island

(401) 467-7070

There’s no place like home

for healing.

Infusion Therapy Compounding Respiratory Services Nursing Services

New England Home Infusion, Inc. specializes in administering adult and pediatric intravenous and respiratory therapies in the comfort of patients’ homes. Licensed in Rhode Island, Connecticut and Massachusetts, we provide for the medical needs of patients throughout Southeastern New England. Specialized medical equipment is delivered to patients’ homes and our pharmacy and nursing staffs monitor dosages, schedules and laboratory results.

401-821-0600 • 888-240-7879www.nehomeinfusion.com

Medicare Drug Bargaining For the past year, seniors across the nation have felt the devastating effects of Medicare Part D. This misguided plan forces seniors to make heartbreaking decisions between paying for medicine and paying for food. Now, Congress has a chance to ease this burden by giving Medicare the right to bargain for lower drug prices. In January, the House of Representatives passed a bill that required Medicare to bargain for lower prescription drug prices. The Senate watered-down its version of the bill to only permit Medicare to bargain. However, 43 Senators blocked a fair up-or-down vote on this issue. We need to tell these Senators to stop putting drug companies’ profits ahead of seniors’ health.

How does Medicare Bargaining affect retirees? Part D prohibits Medicare from

bargaining for lower drug prices. Since Part D took effect, prices of the 15 most-used prescription drugs have gone up by an average of 9.2% — that’s four times the rate of inflation, and three times the Cost of Living increase provided by Social Security. Without bargaining, Medicare is overpaying drug companies by 12% — that money comes directly out of your pockets and goes into CEOs’. Prices under Medicare Part D are at least 50% higher than prices for veterans, because the Veterans Administration is allowed to bargain, while Medicare is not. These high prices push seniors into the infamous “Part D doughnut hole,” and they push Medicare towards insolvency. Giving Medicare the right to bargain wouldn’t just help seniors; it would help all taxpayers, because Medicare Bargaining would save $20 billion in tax dollars every year. Medicare Bargaining would cut costs for seniors

and taxpayers right now. It’s time to tell the Senate to make this crucial change for the sake of all retirees and all Americans.

Help May Be OnThe Way President Obama’s Fiscal Year 2011 budget proposes a $250 payment to Social Security recipients. The relief would come at a time when Social Security beneficiaries will not be receiving a normal cost-of-living adjustment (COLA) because of a formula that forbids adjustments during times of negative inflation. “Without a COLA, far too many of America’s seniors will find it even more difficult to purchase basic necessities, heat their homes and pay for their medications,” said Barbara J. Easterling, President of the Alliance.

“We urge Congress to similarly work to provide much-needed economic relief to older Americans who are struggling to make ends meet during these difficult times,” she continued. “The President’s budget proposal will provide Social Security beneficiaries with the equivalent of a 2% increase in benefits and will help greatly to bolster their financial security.” John A. Pernorio is President of Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans and can be reached at 401-722-2770.

Facts Every Retiree Should Know By John A. Pernorio

Lt. Gov. Elizabeth H. Roberts, Chair of the Small Business Advocacy Council, announced the launch of a Statewide Arts and Culture Tour to support small businesses in the arts and culture sector. The month-long Statewide Arts and Culture Tour highlights arts and culture businesses that create direct economic growth, jobs and new entrepreneurial ventures. “From small jewelry manufacturers, to on-stage performers, to high end graphic designers, the small businesses of the arts and culture sector are a key component of Rhode Island’s economy. Businesses that make up the creative community grow our economy, create jobs, and help make Rhode Island a unique state to live or visit. As we work to support

our locally-grown small businesses throughout the state, we cannot leave the arts and cultural economy behind,” Roberts said. Lt. Gov. Roberts launched Buy Local RI in 2008 to support locally owned, independent businesses, and her “Main Street” tours throughout the state build on existing local initiatives that highlight the opportunity and benefits of choosing to Buy Local RI. The Buy Local RI initiative also launched

a website, www.buylocalri.org, dedicated to expanding the market for local businesses and products by connecting consumers and businesses to independent, locally owned companies. To register a local, independent business at no cost, go to www.buylocalri.org.

Roberts Launches Statewide Arts and Culture Tour


The death of Adam Goldstein, aka DJ AM, is yet another reminder of the effects of the substance abuse epidemic that is facing this country and beyond. The Philadelphia Inquirer reported on September 3rd, 2009 that he had eight undigested oxycontin pills in his stomach and one in his mouth. They went on to say that this was an apparent suicide. As everyone knows by now, Adam survived a plane crash along with one other person last year. Could it be that Adam was quietly suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from the plane crash, which was never addressed? Could it be that no one around him saw that he was suffering? Adam certainly had enough people around him that should have noticed something. After all, he had just finished filming 8 episodes of a highly anticipated series for a major network in which he attempted to help young adults and their families caught in the grip of addiction. I know something about this production because I spoke to the producers in New York about finding individuals for their show. The part that makes me scratch my head is the fact that these producers were more concerned with the casting process and logistics than the person in crisis. The producers obviously new a lot about producing a network show, but didn’t know a heck of a lot about addiction or recovery. If they had been more educated about this topic before producing a show about it, would they have been able to see

that the star of their show was also in crisis? Believe me, I’m not blaming the production company, just asking some questions. While my company and I have assisted several networks in the past, it was generally understood that us (the professionals), and them (the production) each had something the other wanted and therefore were able to coexist rather nicely. We certainly saved lives, which made the process a great deal smoother. It was simple, recovery professionals wanted to share

the message of recovery and hope with millions and the networks wanted content for their production. It was a win-win across the board…until the host of one of these shows dies of an overdose. It is at this moment when the entertainment-recovery paradigm shifted completely. The point is, recovery is not entertaining and cannot be treated as entertainment. From this point forward, new methods for responsible content production will be established or companies like mine will not participate. Now, production companies will need to train their staff to recognize more than just celebrities;

they must recognize the signs of addiction that may be present on the set and beyond. We need to work as a team to accomplish our respective goals and save lives. It is sad that someone had to lose their life for drastic adjustments to be made but that is often how the process works. I’d like to point out, the fact that Adam Goldstein suffered from a deadly disease, and while people will cast judgment, know this, nobody is safe! If humanity is not all working as a

team, we will all lose. Adam lost his life and that is tragic; however, his story has changed the way the message of hope will be shared from this point forward and I guarantee you that his single

cautionary tale will save countless lives from this point forward. These thoughts about Adam actually lead me to some other questions for the readers of this publication. How many people reading this have a loved one or friend that may have an issue with drugs and/or alcohol? How many of you know what to do with your addicted loved ones? How many of you are absolutely frozen with fear because they don’t know what to do or they fear they’re doing the wrong thing? How many believe their addicted loved one would be mad at them for “intervening” on their bad behavior? The last point is obviously one of

the myths associated with the act of Intervention. As far as the other questions posed, get a professional to help you come to a conclusion. That professional will help you decide the proper course of action. The course of action, in most cases, will be the act of intervention. Intervention is the action taken by family, friends and concerned others to actively assist someone in changing their unacceptable behaviors. The problem areas that an intervention typically addresses are alcohol and/or substance abuse. Other problem areas where intervention is useful are eating disorders, internet addiction, sexual addiction and compulsive gambling. The main issue that a family needs to be aware of is that there is hope and it’s usually just a phone call away. Your loved one needs you desperately. In fact, they’ve never needed you more. Choose to help them. If you don’t and this disease claims them, like it’s claimed so many others, you’ll regret it for the rest of your life. Believe me, I know, I speak from experience. Vincent A. Ceraso, BA, CEAP, SAP, CAI is the EAPA Labor Director and Regional Director for Treatment Solutions Network. He can be reached confidentially at 866-53-SOBER (866-537-6237). www.treatmentsolutionsnetwork.com

Intervention: Not just fodder for entertainment By Vincent A. Ceraso

PROVIDENCEAUTO BODY, INC.

Auto Body Work - Estimates - Unconditional 100% Lifetime Guarantee

“Rhode Island’s Largest Volume Auto Body Repair Facility”

• Unibody Specialists • Environmentally Safe Spray Booths

• State of the Art Equipment • Substitute Vehicles Available

- 24 HoUr Towing SErVicE -350 Silver Spring Street, Providence, R.I. 02904

phone: 401.861.2211 fax: 401.421.3160

John & Sandra Petrarca and the staff of Providence Auto Body

“there is hope and it’s usually just a phone

call away. Your loved one needs you

desperately. In fact, they’ve never needed

you more.” - Vincent A. Ceraso


Compliments of international Union of

Operating Engineers

LocAL Union 57Providence, Rhode Island

James J. WhiteBusiness Manager and President

timothy e. QuillenVice President and Bus. Agent

GreGory e. olsonTreasurer and Bus. Agent

Hello my name is Heidi! I’m 6 and a half years old. I know I could stand to lose a few pounds, but I’ve been cooped up for a few years since my former owner was no longer able to walk me. I do need a little work with walking on a leash, but I’m very smart and very willing to learn. I don’t show well in my kennel at the shelter. I do get scared when I feel trapped and cornered so please ask to see me outside. I love to play ball although I tend to entertain myself once you throw it to me. Tennis balls are the best! I really like car rides too! I lived with a 12 year old child so kids that age and older are great. They

can throw a ball too!!!! I did live with cats too. I’m a great dog if someone would like to get to know me. I can get a little protective over my family sometimes so a family with some experience on how to let me know that it’s okay would be perfect. Although I do act like a clown sometimes, I am a Shepherd; I do my job. I’m a loyal playful girl everything a shepherd is just a bit chubbier!

Heidi is up-to-date with routine shots, house trained and spayed. Please call Defenders of Animals, Inc., at 401-461-1922 if you would like to see Heidi.

Ten Requests From Your PetBy Dennis Tabella

1. My life is likely to last 10-15 years. Understand any separation from you is likely to be painful.

2. Give me time to understand what you want of me.

3. Place your trust in me. It is crucial for my well-being.

4. Don’t be angry with me for long and don’t lock me up as punishment. You have your work, your friends, your entertainment, but I have only you.

5. Talk to me. Even if I don’t understand your words, I do understand your voice when speaking to me.

6. Be aware that however you treat me, I will never forget it.

7. Before you hit me, before you strike me, remember that I could hurt you, and yet, I choose not to bite you.

8. Before you scold me for being lazy or uncooperative, ask yourself if something might be bothering me. Perhaps I’m not getting the right food, I have been in the sun too long, or my heart might be getting old or weak.

9. Please take care of me when I grow old. You too, will grow old.

10. On the ultimate difficult journey, go with me please. Never say you can’t bear to watch. Don’t make me face this alone. Everything is easier for me if you are there, because I love you so.


Petrarca & Petrarca

Do you own a vehicle with a model year of 2006 to the present?

• Was the vehicle involved in an accident caused by someone else?

• Was the vehicle repaired?

Then you may be entitled to money for diminished value to your vehicle.

If we agree to handle your matter

we guarantee you willreceive at least $500.00.

Call Us Now!401.273.1111

Healthy Benefits is a single source for a broad spectrum of health care services. Whether you are an employer, self-employed, employee, or independent contractor, Healthy Benefits can deliver discounted health and lifestyle services from the nation’s leading providers. Benefits available are:

• Dental care

• Vision care

• Discounted prescriptions & vitamins

• Electronic medical records

• LifeLock

• TelaDoc

• Hearing care

• Diabetic supplies

• Chiropractic care

• Nursing hotline

• Family consultation services

• Pet care savings program

For more information, call 888-311-4120 or 401-257-6131 or go to www.thehealthybenefits.com.

This is not health insurance.

You can afford Healthy Benefits

Paid For By Friends of Stephen R. Archambault.

“In these tough economic

times, we must re-double our

efforts to protect all of our

residents from fraud and bad

business practices. Truth in

Advertising needs to be more than just a slogan.

As Attorney General, I will work to make it the

Rhode Island way.”

On Our Side

Learn more about Steve Archambault:

www.archambaultforattorneygeneral.com

Paid For By Friends of Stephen R. Archambault.

Steve Archambault, Democratic candidate for Attorney General, called for a new emphasis on cutting administrative costs and sounded his opposition to rate hikes proposed by Blue Cross & Blue Shield of RI, United Health Care of New England and Tufts Health Plan for small and large group employers. Pointing to a recent study released by Health Insurance Commissioner Chris Koller’s office that ranks Rhode Island Health Insurers’ Administrative expenses higher than the average in New England, Archambault called on Health Insurance Commissioner Koller to give administrative costs stricter scrutiny. “These proposed double digit rate hikes pose a serious potential economic hardship to over 300,000 Rhode Islanders. Rhode Island families and businesses are already squeezed as our state faces the most difficult economic situation in at least a generation,” Archambault said. “There needs to be a new emphasis on cutting administrative expenses and

other costs before seeking rate hikes.” Blue Cross is requesting an average increase of 11.6% for small groups and 14.6% for large groups. United Health Care is requesting a rate hike of 10.6% for small groups and 4% for large groups and Tufts Health Plan is requesting an increase of 9.6% for small groups and 9.3% for large groups. Small groups are defined as employers with 50 employees or less and large groups are defined as employers with 500 employees or less. Blue Cross covers the overwhelming majority of small and large group employees. Steve Archambault will submit public comment to the Office of Health Commissioner on the need to put greater emphasis on reducing administrative costs in the factors that determine the acceptability of rate increases. The Commissioner is providing a public comment period at today’s meeting of the Health Insurance Advisory Council and is accepting written public comment through Feb. 22.

Archambault calls on insurers to cutadministrative costs

United Food and Commercial Workers Union Local 328 is using this coupon as a negotiating tool.

As we continue with negotiations, the customer purchases groceries and then hands the coupon directly to the store manager. The intent of this action is to equate the threat of not shopping at Stop & Shop in the event that our members employed at Stop & Shop go out on strike.


Rhode Island Brotherhoodof Correctional Officers

“Representing Those Who Work the Toughest Beat in the State”

-OFFICERS-

Dave Mellon …….……….………………..President

Bob Miller ………….……………1st Vice President

Bob Lantagne ..…………………..2nd Vice President

Michael Hogan.……………………..…….Treasurer

John Meehan………………………………Secretary

Mike McKenna...……….……….Financial Secretary

-EXECUTIVE BOARD-

Ken Rivard Manny Leander

Bill Bove Alan Depalo

John Bray Jeff Golding

Joe Lopes David Pezza

Mark Vierra Letizia Signore

Adam Klaus Carlos Oviedo

Justin Pelissey

Keeping Your Community Safe

In the year 2002, the national AFL-CIO created a new organization called the Alliance for Retired Americans (ARA). This organization is the outgrowth of the National Council of Senior Citizens. We want to inform you of a new organization, the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans. The Rhode Island AFL-CIO is reaching out to all labor organizations along with community based organizations to participate in this unique organization to promote the well being of all Rhode Island seniors. The mission of the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans is to ensure social and economic justice and full civil rights for all citizens so that they may enjoy lives of dignity, personal and family fulfillment and security. The Alliance believes that all older and retired persons have a responsibility to strive to create a society that incorporates these goals and rights, and that retirement provides them with opportunities to pursue new and expanded activities with their unions, civic organizations and their communities. A primary objective of the Rhode Island Alliance is to enroll and mobilize retired union members

and other senior and community activists into a nationwide grassroots movement advocating a progressive political and social agenda-one that respects work and strengthens families. The long-term goal of the Alliance is to become the voice for all older Americans. By engaging in important political battles to protect and preserve programs vital to the health and economic security of older Americans, the Alliance will gain recognition as the country’s leading progressive grassroots senior organization.

In pursuit of these values, the Alliance will: • Buildastrongorganizationofseniorswitha viable structure, ample resources and clear objectives - a structure compatible with that of the labor movement and community-based groups at local, state and national levels. • Createprogramsandmembership organizations designed to promote a commitment by retired workers and older persons to the concept of lifelong participation in their unions, and in their community, political and civic organizations. • Encourageallsegmentsofthesenior population to act with unity on legislative, political and policy issues of importance to retirees and their families in order to maximize their influence on federal, state and local governments and on private organizations that affect their interests.

The RI ARA HealthLink Wellness Mission Since 2001, the goal of the RI ARA HealthLink Wellness program is to initiate a process of prevention and early detection that will become a model for expansion into other community settings. The mission is to create a community health culture that revolves around three principles: Education: Setting up comprehensive approaches to retiree health wellness education. Giving members the knowledge they need to stay healthy through regular health screenings and the HealthLink Wellness Newsletter. Health Programs: Engage a large proportion of retirees in health wellness promotion activities such as walking clubs, healthy cooking & exercise programs to reduce retiree health risk. Partnerships: Develop an extensive network of partnerships that engage retirees in the fabric of the community. For example, outreach for this program should lead to networking with existing senior citizen centers, labor and community based organizations throughout Rhode Island. For more information on the RI ARA HealthLink Wellness program, go to www.newenglandsenior.com

Announcing the Rhode Island Alliance for Retired Americans

Low-cost CatSpay/Neuter ClinicA low-cost Cat Spay/Neuter Clinic will be held on Thursday, March 18 at the SNYPP Clinic in Pascoag, RI. The cost is $65 per cat and includes the check up, rabies and distemper inoculations, and the spay/neuter procedure. The SNYPP Clinic has spayed/neutered over 5,000 companion animals since it opened several years ago.

This scheduled clinic is being held in cooperation with the Humane Association of Northwestern RI, the SNYPP Clinic, and Defenders of Animals, Inc. The appointments for the spaying/neutering of cats for this day are being made through Defenders of Animals, Inc. Please call Defenders of Animals, Inc., at 401-461-1922 for appointment information.

rule is for size only .75”




ADVOCACY H representAtiOn H results

in prOViDenCe:

408 Broadwayprovidence, rhode island 02902

401•331•1300

in WAsHinGtOn:

601 pennsylvania Ave. n.W.suite 900, south Building

Washington, DC 20004

202•220•3013


Christopher M. Rawson John M. Harnett Warren R. WolfAram R. Schefrin

THE LAW FIRM OFLovettSchefrinHarnett

The Leader in Personal Injury and Workers’ Compensation for 30 Years

Medical Malpractice and personal injury claiMs

155 South Main Street, Providence, Rhode Island

863-8800www.lshlaw.com

Struggling with you Monthly Payments?Have you been late on your Mortgage...

Have you missed a payment...

STOP STRESSING!

can cut your mortgage payment in half.

free weekly seminar that explains the how theObama Plan works. We have saved families from high cost loans,

adjustable rate mortgages, Balloon Notes and even FORECLOSURES.

GET THE FACTS!Tune in to 100.3 FM every morning at 8:00

for more information and testimonies from the clients we served!

Call the today at

401-996-1387FREE CONSULTATION SEE IF YOU QUALIFY

Nowadays, it comes as a surprise to me that your homes are no longer a safe haven for our hard earned dollars. With real estate prices plummeting, making homes affordable is not an easy task. The monthly payments were hardly a concern in the past, but with the loss of jobs and underemployment, mortgage payments are becoming a financial hazard for many homeowners. Homeowners can no longer afford the monthly payment of their first loan and are turning to Obama’s Mortgage Loan Modification to make the home loan affordable. In most of the cases, refinancing of the first loan is not possible because of the depreciation of the house values. With that being said, the only option left is to make the loan more affordable with a home loan modification program. Many of the banks have an “in house modification program” but The Obama’s Plan is the best way to obtain a modification. The intent of the Obama Plan is to reduce the monthly payment, lower the rate of interest, and make the monthly payment affordable. The goal is to align your mortgage to 31% of the gross monthly income of the debtor.

Who is Eligible? If you are having a difficult time making your mortgage payment, have been late or missed a month, you may qualify for a loan modification to make your monthly mortgage payment more affordable.

What Can You Expect? Some of the viable solutions with a loan modification include: • Eliminatinglatepaymentsandpenalties • Stoppingtheforeclosureprocess • Loweringyourcurrentinterestrate • Loweringyourpayments • Modifyingyouradjustableratetoafixedrate • Reducingthebalanceofyourloan • Preventingalawsuitbroughtagainstyourlender

David Conti is the director of business development at Loan Modification Group of Pawtucket, RI. Contact David at 996.1387 for a free pre-qualification under the Obama Plan.

Loan ModificationsThe Obama Plan and YouHow to lower your mortgage paymentBy David Conti

The growth at ProvPort stands in stark contrast to the economic condition of the City of Providence and the State of Rhode Island. Presently, Rhode Island’s unemployment rate ranks third in the United States – 12.9% of Rhode Islanders are unemployed. Providence’s unemployment a rate is now in excess of 13% – the fourth highest for a metropolitan area with more than 1 million in population. The Port of Providence in Rhode Island is a source of significant positive economic impact on the City of Providence and the State of Rhode Island. The construction of the proposed ReNEWable Port, in its first year of full operation, will contribute approximately $100 million to the local economy and $121 million to the regional economy. Although projects such as the ReNEWable Port are generally regarded as an asset to a community, the direct service it will provide locally will contribute substantially to the economic wellbeing of the Northeastern Corridor Water Freight Region and the Nation. Simply stated the Port generates income, creates wealth and employment for the citizens of the region, builds tax revenue and will advance the environmental and social wellbeing of the Northeastern corridor region. As a multi-modal transportation facility ProvPort is very well positioned for thecoming future of product transportation.

Tiger Funds, continued from cover

Aerial photo of ProvPort campus. ProvPort is a public-private non-profit partnership that supports hundreds of critical union jobs in Southern New England.

Salt being unloaded at night at ProvPort. Today, ProvPort is responsible for nearly 2,400 jobs in the region and more than 3.2 million tons move through the port annually.

Progressive News,

Opinion & Analysis


MAFFE FINANCIAL GROUP INC875 Centerville Road

Warwick, Rhode Island

Office: 401-828-2090x305Cell: 401-529-5110

www.maffefinancialgroup.com

Put John’s 25 years of experience along with Maffe’s Tax, Estate & Retirement Planning services to work for you today.

John C. Edes, LUTCF

Preparing for retirement and managing income during retirement remains a major concern for millions of Americans. Terms like “the new face of retirement,” “bridge job” or “working retired” have taken on new definition as Americans labor past the traditional retirement age and continue to work into their late 60’s and beyond. The economic crisis continues to be a wake-up call; with typically low savings rate already an issue and as stock and mutual fund holdings decline, U.S. household net worth has fallen to newlows.Withunexpectedhealthcarecosts, inflation concerns and managing or reducing current debt, pre-retirees are making tough financial decisions that will impact their current as well as their future financial lives as many expecttoworkonaverageafulldecadelonger than those already in retirement. Are you one of the many consumers whoareexperiencingsimilareffectson your retirement savings and are lookingforanswers?Evenifyouhaveactively planned and saved, you may be witnessing your hard-earned nest egg cracking right in front of your eyes. It is no wonder that many Americans are feeling financially unstable and are looking for ways to provide financial protection and future security for their family. Fortunately, there are a number of strategies that may help you get back on track with your plans. One possible strategy may include permanent life insurance. Life Insurance provides more than just family protection through the death benefit, it can help restore your financial legacy – and make it easier to keep your goals on target. In addition to the death benefit permanent life insurance provides, there are unique living benefits, including

the policy’s cash value, that may be especially useful today. The cash accumulated inside the policy can be a source of cash to pay the mortgage or the car loan, improve a home for sale, start a business, pay for college or supplement retirement income. The policy loans do not need to be paid back. Any loan amount and interest due is deducted from the policy death benefit amount that is paid out at death. Another benefit of permanent life insurance is as a source for long term care health needs; for an insured with a terminal or chronic illness, some or all of the death benefit can be used, during lifetime, to pay for costs associated with a long term illness. These benefits help make permanent life insurance even more important to families in the current environment where there is an increased desire for a stable, dependable way to protect loved ones. Receiptofacceleratedlifeinsurancebenefits may affect your, your spouse or your family’s eligibility for public assistance programs such as medical supplementary social security income (SSI), and drug assistance programs. You are advised to consult with a qualifiedtaxadvisorandwithsocialservice agencies concerning how receipt of such a payment will affect you, your spouse and your family’s eligibility for publicassistance.Ridersareoptionaland may not be available in all states John Edes is a Registered Representative of, and securities offered solely by Equity Services, Inc., Member FINRA/SIPC, Maffe Financial Group, 875 Centerville Rd, Bldg One, Warwick, RI 401-828-2090 X305. Maffe Financial Group’s independent of Equity Services, Inc.

Rebuilding your estatefor future generations By John Edes

The 73rd anniversary of the ending of the Great Flint Sit Down Strike (1937).

Roscoe Van Zandt, a janitor at the factory, did not have anything to gain

from the strike, but stayed in the plant with the workers (he was the only

black man there; can you imagine that?) He inspired the workers so much

they elected him to carry the flag out of the factory upon victory. Heroes

aren’t born - they’re made; and they don’t make ‘em like Roscoe anymore.

Looking for some good news for a change?

View past issues at www.commongroundnews.net.Rhode Island's only newspaper for unions, and about unions.


105 Railroad Avenue, Johnston, Rhode Island401-232-1660 l 800-427-1660

To See How This Stimulus Package Works Visitwww.hillviewautobody.com

Stimulus Package H Reduce your Deductible

H Free Recondition with Every Repair

H Complete Service Check

You have the legal right to choose your repair facility in RI, so don’t let the insurance industry direct you to their preferred shop.

STM ERAE ST

G

ER

CA

NP

EH

RIC E

FC

NO

OM CM SU NN OI IC TA

Mark Montecalvo-(401) 692 0304

Mark @Montees.net

LOCAL 12NBUY LOCAL

Made in the USA available

-EMBROIDERY SCREEN PRINTING-SIGNS PROMOTIONAL PRODUCTS

-SCREEN WORKSI

UNION LOGO WEAR &U NIFORMS

5.11 TacticalPromote Morale Fund Raising

Athletics eventsOrganizational

I I

Rhode Island Federation of Teachers and Health Professionals

Marcia B. Reback President

356 Smith Street (401) 273-9800 Providence, RI 02908-3761 FAX (401) 331-8815 [email protected] www.rifthp.org

Joseph M. O’Conner Vice President

GRAPHIC COMMUNICATIONS CONFERENCE INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS

25 Louisiana Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20001

202/624-8966E mail [email protected]

Fax 202/624-8145Cell 202/297-2945

Professor, scott molloy, Ph.D.UNIVERSITY OF RHODE ISLAND Schmidt Labor Research CenterHart House36 Upper College RoadKingston, Rhode Island 02881 office 401.874.2239 fax 401.874.2954 home 401.782.3614 email [email protected]

· Zoning, Planning & Land Use · Real Estate Law · Business & Corporate Law · Wills, Estates & Trusts

· Personal Injury & General Litigation· Landlord - Tenant & Evictions· Criminal Law· DUI - Breathalyzer Refusals

Maselli LawAssociates, P.C.

1417 Douglas Avenue, 2nd Floor, North Providence, RI 02904

Phone: 401-490-0455 l Fax: 401-490-045 l www.masellilaw.com

Rhode IslandLabor History Society

www.rilaborhistory.org

A UNION REPRESENTING PROUD UNION PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1918

685 Warren Avenue 401.438-5450East Providence, RI 02914 www.ifpte400.org

LOCAL 400International Federation of

Professional and Technical Engineers

A progressive labor union representing more than80,000 men and women in professional, technical,

administrative and associated occupations.

Investment and Insurance Products: u NOT FDIC Insured u NO Bank Guarantee u MAY Lose Value

®CPRC ,III ,snikwaH .J mailliW rosivdA laicnaniF

0061 etS ,teertS retsnimtseW 001 30920 IR ,ecnedivorP

4286-954-104

-non etarapes a dna relaed-rekorb deretsiger a si ,CPIS rebmeM ,CLL ,srosivdA ograF slleW.ynapmoC & ograF slleW fo etailfifa knab

.devreser sthgir llA .CLL ,srosivdA ograF slleW 9002© ]1v-42147[ 0621-9040

ADVERTISE IN COMMON GROUND call 831-6123 or visit commongroundnews.net


A Coalition of 100,000Rhode Island Union

Workers and Retirees

Unions have improvedthe quality of life for all

working people.

Learn more about the labor movement -Watch LaborVision each week on

Cox (Channel 14), Verizon (Channel 33)and Full Channel (Channel 9)

every Tuesday @ 7pm, Thursday @ 8pm,and Saturday @ 5pm.

www.WorkingRI.com

Child Labor Laws • Social SecurityOvertime Pay • Minimum Wage

Health Insurance • Unemployment InsuranceWorkers’ Compensation

Paid Vacations • Pension Plans

Best of Luck and Continued Success from the Drivers, Maintenance and

Supervisory Personnel ofATU Local 618 & 618A

in Providence & Newport

Stephen S. Farrell thomaS Cute Kevin m. millea

President – Business Agent Vice President Secretary-Treasurer

ExECUTivE BoArDBobDavis•BobDoyle•PaulHarrington•JimMurphy

FrankPlutzner•PeterRitchie•VincentRowan

SChooL BUS DiviSioNS

WarWiCK-JameStoWn

SherriCirelli•LauriePaul•MaryTarbox

JohnSton

DennisJarvis•JohnD’Alo•WendyLaCombe

ER Card is an electronic personal health record (ePHR) service

providing individuals, doctors and other caregivers with anytime,

anywhere access to personal medical information in a secure and

confidential manner. With the ER Card, medical professionals

have instant access by web, phone or fax to:

401-822-1181www.er-card.com

• current medications

• allergies

• chronic conditions

• primary care physician

• physical or verbal limitations

• emergency contacts

• advance directives

• and more

keychain accessory braceletcredit card size

Who knows

your medical

information in

an emergency?

Stephen Roy Power Equipment Inc.

(401) 231-8210 - Fax (401) 233-2830 - 146 Putnam Ave – Rt 44 - Johnston, R1 02919

Annual Open House Demonstrations & Sales Reps On-Site

FREE!! Food & Beverages 2 Day Open House

Friday March 12TH & Saturday March 13TH 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Rain or Shine)

At Our Store Location 146 Putnam Ave, Rt 44. Johnston RI 02919

From Rt. 295 – Take exit 7A – follow Rt. 44 one mile to right

** Special Open House Pricing ** www.stephenroypower.com

FINANCING AVAILABLE FROM SHEFFIELD FINANCIAL AND ADVANCED ACCEPTANCE

Come See Our Walker

Promo Bike

The Walker Promo Bike

KawasakiKawasaki Hand Held ProductsHand Held Products

Instead of trying to do it ALL yourself,

outsource your marketing to

JH Communications and

the Sentinel Group.

HELP WANTEDMarketing Team For HireExperienced professional to direct

multi-faceted campaign including direct mail, print, television, radio,

newsletter, and press relations. • Reasonable Fees • 15+ years experience • Fresh, creative ideas

Who's Directing Your Marketing?

Call 831.6123 for a free consultation.

We are a firm that has tailored our service and fees

to meet your growing needs and continually strives

to meet and exceed your expectations.

Try us on for size and find that we truly are the perfect fit

for you — now and going forward.

Let us grow together.

STEPHEN ROYPOWER EQUIPMENT, INC.(401) 231-8210 - Fax (401) 233-2830 - 146 Putnam Ave – Rt 44 - Johnston, R1 02919

Annual Open House Demonstrations & Sales Reps On Site

FREE!! Food & Beverages2 Day Open House

Friday March 12TH & Saturday March 13TH10:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Rain or Shine)

- At Our Store Location -146 Putnam Ave, Rt 44. Johnston RI 02919

From Rt. 295 – Take exit 7A – follow Rt. 44 one mile to right


UA Local Union 51 Plumbers • Pipefitters • Refrigeration

thomas a. hanDfielD

Business Manager

robert Walker timothy l. byrne freDerick foeri William D. mello

Financial Secretary Business Agent Organizer/Agent Business Agent

Done Once. Done Right SERVING RHODE ISLAND AND SOUTHEASTERN MASSACHUSETTS

II Hemingway Drive, East Providence, Rhode Island 02915

Telephone: 401-943-3033. Fax: 401-943-8027

www.ualocal51.com

If employee participation increases, potential cost savings could reach as high as $876,000. Citing the success of a one-year pilot program, Mayor Scott Avedisian and Maria Gil, managing partner and co-founder of ER Card, announced today that they will extend for another year, at no cost to the city, a program that allows City employees and their immediate family members to enroll in the innovative, electronic personal health record (ePHR) and healthcare management service. In January 2009, Avedisian and Gil announced the pilot program, funded through a $75,000 grant from The Rhode Island Foundation. ER Card will absorb the cost for the second year. ER Card members create their electronic personal health record by accessing and completing ER Card’s private network software on the Internet (www.ercardmember.com), or by supplying their health information to ER Card care managers via phone, fax or email. Member information is confidential and protected within an encrypted database. All sensitive information stored through the ER Card website is VeriSign Secured. In addition, all members must

complete Release and Verification of Information forms in accordance with the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA). ER Card members can update their health records and share their information with caregivers 24-hours-a-day, seven-days-a-week. Members can provide doctors with access to their health record via the Internet, print a hard copy, or synchronize their

electronic personal health record to a portable “flash drive” device to carry with them to medical appointments or keep with them for emergencies. ER Card’s flash drive technology is the first and only portable device that can be synchronized with an online record. Doctors can access the flash drive using any computer, and it even provides optional password protection. A total of 210 employees or family members voluntarily enrolled in the program last year. Of

these, 100 individuals reported one or more prescribed and over-the-counter medications to ER Card care managers. ER Card’s clinical pharmacist reviewed their charts in depth and identified 44 patients who could benefit from having their medication regiment altered, either because of drug therapy duplication, drug interactions or improper dosing. They also examined medication

management issues specific to chronic diseases, such as identifying patients having risk factors for upper gastrointestinal bleeding (UGIB), and who were also using medications

that are known to increase the risk of bleeding. UGIB is a serious and potentially fatal condition, typically requiring costly inpatient medical care. Ultimately, the clinical pharmacist contacted the patient, the prescriber or both, and followed up with 39 letters. In some instances the physician modified the patient’s drug regimen, and it’s anticipated that more modifications will be made in the future. ER Card estimates that the average increase in health care costs due to an adverse drug event is $1,000 to $2,000 per episode. Based on figures from the pilot program, they estimate that if 1,250 employees/family members were to enroll, then approximately 438 medication-

related problems would be identified,

yielding a potential cost savings of

$438,000 to $876,000 annually.

“Mayor Avedisian has taken the

lead once again, to explore ways to

reduce health care costs and improve

care for Warwick employees, retirees

and their families,” Gil said.

“ER Card’s medication

management feature is a unique

offering that could potentially save

the City close to $1 million a year

in medication-related problems

alone,” she continued. “The care

coordination and pharmacist’s

intervention was particularly helpful

to spouses, children and retirees

who do not have access to many of

the specialized health and wellness

programs the City has to offer.”

“We thank Mayor Avedisian for

the opportunity to prove how

fundamental care coordination and

medication therapy support, not

currently available through most

health care plans, can reduce the risk

of costly short and long-term health

care issues. We expect year two to

yield equally remarkable results,”

Gil said.

“I’m very encouraged by the results

of the first year, and thank ER Card

for their willingness to continue this

program at no cost to our employees

and their families,” Avedisian said.

“This provides a critical component

to our ongoing efforts to help

employees take proactive steps to

assure good health and will ultimately

help us to reduce medical expenses.”

ER Card pilot program extended for one year in Warwick

“Mayor Avedisian has taken the lead once

again, to explore ways to reduce health care

costs and improve care for Warwick employees,

retirees and their families.” - Maria Gil


DIRECTORY OF UNION SERVICES

Bristol Branch390 Metacom AvenueBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1313

URI BranchURI Memorial UnionKingston, RI 02881(401) 789-0253

Dexter Credit Unionwww.dextercu.org1 Village Plaza WayNorth Scituate, RI 02857(401) 934-7600

934 Dexter StreetCentral Falls, RI 02863(401) 724-6200

Woodlawn FederalCredit Union744 Main StreetPawtucket, RI 02860(401) 728-8300

The Carpenters’ Unionrepresents:

First Trade Union Bankwww.ftubhb.com14 Jefferson Park RoadWarwick, RI 028881-800-242-0272

FUNCTION FACILITIES

Biltmore Hotel11 Dorrance StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 455-3027Scott Connery, Director ofCatering

Brown University45 Prospect St.Providence, RI 02912(401) 863-1075Cynthia Schwartz, Director ofUniversity Event

Bryant University1150 Douglas PikeSmithfield, RI 02917(401) 232-6921Sheila Guay, Director of Events

BARBERS &HAIRDRESSERS

Some barbers and hairdressersare organized by UFCW Local328. For a list of union barbershops and hairdressers, pleasecontact Local 328 at(401) 861-0300 orwww.ufcw328.org

BUILDING TRADES

For home and businessconstruction, repairs, oradditions please contact oneof the following unions for areputable contractor in yourarea. For general questions orhelp please call Build RI at(401) 553-2100 orwww.BuildRI.org

BoilermakersLocal No. 29(617) 328-8400

BricklayersLocal No.1(401) 946-9940

CarpentersLocal No. 94(401) 467-7070

Elevator ConstructorsLocal No. 39(401) 423-2293

GlaziersLocal No. 1333(401) 781-4736

Heat and Frost InsulatorsLocal No. 6(617) 436-4666

International Brotherhoodof Electrical WorkersLocal No. 99(401) 946-9900

International Unionof Operating EngineersLocal No. 57(401) 421-6678

Iron Workers LocalLocal No. 37(401) 438-1111

LaborersLocal No. 271(401) 331-9682

Painters & Allied TradesDistrict Council 11(401) 467-7010

Plaster & MasonsLocal No. 40(401) 943-1185

Plumbers & PipefittersLocal No. 51(401) 943-3033

Rhode Island Building Trades(401) 438-1111

Roofers & WaterproofersLocal No. 33(781) 341-9192

Sheet Metal WorkersLocal No. 17(401) 831-7150

Sprinkler FittersLocal No. 676(860) 666-4447

TeamstersLocal No. 251(401) 434-0454

BUS SERVICES

RIPTARhode Island Public TransitAuthority265 Melrose StreetProvidence, RI 02907(401) 781-9400www.ripta.com

Peter Pan Bus LinesCorporate HeadquartersP.O. Box 1776Springfield, MA 01102-17761-800-237-8747 ext. 1209www.peterpanbus.com

CHILD CAREPROVIDERS

To arrange on-site child carecoverage for your meetings orconferences, or to locate aDCYF-licensed home-basedchild care provider in yourneighborhood or near yourworkplace, contact the unionof home-based child careproviders, District 1199 SEIU,at (401) 457-5099 orwww. seiu1199ne.org

DELIVERY SERVICES

United Parcel ServiceThe Teamsters Local 251represent Rhode Island’s UPSworkers. For the outlet nearestyou, or to schedule a homepick up, please contact UPS atwww.ups.com or1-800-PICK-UPS.

United States Postal ServiceYour local post office isrepresented by the NationalAssociation of Letter Carriers,the American Postal WorkersUnion and the National PostalMail Handlers Union (a divisionof the Laborers Union.)www.usps.com

FINANCIALINSTITUTIONS

Credit union employees areorganized by UFCW Local328.

Rhode Island Credit Unionwww.ricreditunion.orgProvidence Branch160 Francis StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 751-7440

Cranston Branch570 Pontiac AvenueCranston, RI 02910(401) 941-8770

Community Collegeof Rhode IslandKnight Campus, WarwickFlanagan Campus, LincolnListon Campus, ProvidenceNewport CampusCCRI Downcity(401) 825-2015Edna Mattson

Dunkin Donuts Center1 LaSalle SquareProvidence, RI 02903(401) 331-0700 ext. 150Robert Sturm, Event Manager

Newport Grand150 Admiral Kalbfus RoadNewport, RI 02840(401) 849-5000 ext. 157David Rollin

Providence College549 River AvenueProvidence, RI 02918(401) 865-1000 ext. 2070Victoria Mocshu

Rhode Island College600 Mount Pleasant AvenueProvidence, RI 02908(401)456-8022Kathy Sasso

RI Convention Center1 Sabin StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401)-458-6002Antonia Anthony, Director ofEvent Services

Roger Williams Park Casino1000 Elmwood AvenueProvidence, RI 02905(401) 785-9450 ext. 240Lisa Gonzales, Casino EventPlanner

Roger Williams University1 Old Ferry RoadBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1040 ext. 3793Allison Chase-Padula

Twin River1600 Louisquisset PikeLincoln, RI 02865(401) 723-3200 ext. 8497Alana Barts

University of Rhode IslandKingston, Alton Jones CampusProvidence Campus(401) 874-2214Sherry DavisThe Westin Providence1 Exchange StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 598-8245Alan Swerdolff, Director ofSales and Marketing

HOSPITALS

UNAP members work atthe following locations:

• Fatima Hospital• Greater RI Visiting

Nurse Service• Homestead Group• Kent Hospital• Landmark Medical Center• Memorial Hospital• Rehabilitation Hospital

of RI• Rhode Island Hospital• RI Community Living &

Support Services• RI Dept of Human Services• RI Veterans’ Home• URI, CCRI, RIC Health

Services• Westerly Hospital

(Professional & Technical)• Westerly Hospital (Service

& Maintenance)• Zambarano Hospital

SEIU 1199 members work atthe following locations:

• Butler Hospital• Women & Infants

Hospital

JANITORIAL SERVICES

Some janitorial companies areorganized by SEIU Local 615.For a list of unionized janitorialservices, contact the Local 615office at (401) 521-6150 orvisit their website atwww.seiu615.org.

NEWSPAPERS

Providence Journalwww.projo.comSubscribe(401) 277-7600

Pawtucket Timeswww.pawtuckettimes.comSubscribe(401) 722-4000

Woonsocket Callwww.woonsocketcall.comSubscribe(401) 767-8522

NURSING HOMES


• Bannister House• Charlesgate Nursing

Center• Country Gardens

Skilled Nursing• Crawford Skilled Nursing• Greenville Skilled

Nursing• Hopkins Manor• Pawtucket Skilled Nursing• Parkview Associates• United Methodist Health

Care Center

PRINTERS, BANNERS& SIGNS

American Speedy Printing635 Arnold RoadCoventry, RI 02816Phone: (401) 823-0090Fax: (401) 823-0092

B Sign Graphics27 Libera StreetCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-6941Fax: (401) 943-2287

Cogens, Inc.1 Virginia AvenueProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 421-4436Fax: (401) 331-9032

Crownmark109 Fletcher AvenueCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-1112Fax: (401) 943-1113

Dorrance Engraving635 Prospect StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 725-0504Fax: (401) 725-0504

East Coast Screen Printing22 Partridge StreetProvidence, RI 02908Phone: (401) 272-1166Fax: (401) 272-1167

Federal Signs135 Dean StreetProvidence, RI 02903Phone: (401) 421-3400Fax: (401) 351-2233

Financial Innovations1 Weingeroff Blvd.Cranston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 467-3170Fax: (401) 467-3570

JB Foley Printing1469 Broad StreetProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 467-3616Fax: (401) 467-8309

Lamar Outdoor Advertising360 Warren AvenueE. Providence, RI 02914Phone: (401) 421-4504,Fax: (401) 421-4757

Mandeville Sign Co.676 George Wash. Hwy.Lincoln, RI 02865Phone: (401) 334-9100Fax: (401) 334-7799

Regine Printing Co., Inc.208 Laurel Hill AvenueProvidence, RI 02909Phone: (401) 943-3404Fax (401) 944-1228

Screen Works, LLC62 South Main StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 692-0304

Sheahan Printing Corp.1 Front StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 273-7272Fax: (401) 769-9206

Sign Lite, Inc.6 Corporate DriveN. Haven, CT 06473Phone: 1-800-544-0854Fax: (203) 234-8344

The Sign ShoppeP.O. Box 2296Westerly, RI 02891Phone: (401) 364-7442

Tarvis Graphics Inc.21 Sabin StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 726-5530Fax: (401) 723-6420

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

All public school employees areorganized by the Rhode IslandFederation of Teachers andHealth Professionals or theNational Education Associationof Rhode Island.

The following Charter Schoolsare also unionized:

• Laborers Charter School• Textron Charter School• Times 2 Charter School

RECYCLING AND TRASHREMOVAL SERVICES

Waste Management ofRhode Island(800) 972-4545

SUPERMARKETS

Supermarket employees at thestores listed below are membersof UFCW Local 328 or UFCWLocal 791.

Super Stop and Shop• Bristol• Coventry• Cumberland• Johnston• Lincoln• Middletown• Narragansett• Newport• North Kingstown• North Providence• North Smithfield• Pawtucket• Providence• Richmond• Smithfield• Warwick• Westerly

Shaw’s Supermarket• Barrington• Garden City• Cranston• East Providence• Riverside• Johnston• Middletown• North Providence• Pawtucket• Providence• Wakefield• Warwick

• Lakewood• Westerly• Woonsocket

Eastside Marketplace• Providence

Brigidos IGA• Pascoag• North Scituate

Grand Union Family Markets• South Yarmouth• Provincetown• Buzzards Bay• South Yarmouth

C-Town Supermarket• Pawtucket

TELEPHONE, INTERNET& CABLE SERVICES

AT&T Wireless1 (800) 897-7046www.wireless.att.comUnion members recieve specialdiscounts on AT&T wirelessservice plans. For moreinfomation to towww.unionplus.org

VerizonVerizon, whose employees aremembers of the InternationalBrotherhood of ElectricalWorkers Local 2323, canprovide for all of your homeand office internet, telephoneand cable TV needs throughVerizon’s new FiOS (FiberOptic Service) network.

Simply call 1-888-Get FiOSor 1-888-591-6076 orcontact IBEW 2323 at(401) 946-2323.

R.I. Litho Printing, Inc.1395 Atwood AvenueJohnston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 275-0760Fax: (401) 464-6002


DIRECTORY OF UNION SERVICES

Bristol Branch390 Metacom AvenueBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1313

URI BranchURI Memorial UnionKingston, RI 02881(401) 789-0253

Dexter Credit Unionwww.dextercu.org1 Village Plaza WayNorth Scituate, RI 02857(401) 934-7600

934 Dexter StreetCentral Falls, RI 02863(401) 724-6200

Woodlawn FederalCredit Union744 Main StreetPawtucket, RI 02860(401) 728-8300

The Carpenters’ Unionrepresents:

First Trade Union Bankwww.ftubhb.com14 Jefferson Park RoadWarwick, RI 028881-800-242-0272

FUNCTION FACILITIES

Biltmore Hotel11 Dorrance StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 455-3027Scott Connery, Director ofCatering

Brown University45 Prospect St.Providence, RI 02912(401) 863-1075Cynthia Schwartz, Director ofUniversity Event

Bryant University1150 Douglas PikeSmithfield, RI 02917(401) 232-6921Sheila Guay, Director of Events

BARBERS &HAIRDRESSERS

Some barbers and hairdressersare organized by UFCW Local328. For a list of union barbershops and hairdressers, pleasecontact Local 328 at(401) 861-0300 orwww.ufcw328.org

BUILDING TRADES

For home and businessconstruction, repairs, oradditions please contact oneof the following unions for areputable contractor in yourarea. For general questions orhelp please call Build RI at(401) 553-2100 orwww.BuildRI.org

BoilermakersLocal No. 29(617) 328-8400

BricklayersLocal No.1(401) 946-9940

CarpentersLocal No. 94(401) 467-7070

Elevator ConstructorsLocal No. 39(401) 423-2293

GlaziersLocal No. 1333(401) 781-4736

Heat and Frost InsulatorsLocal No. 6(617) 436-4666

International Brotherhoodof Electrical WorkersLocal No. 99(401) 946-9900

International Unionof Operating EngineersLocal No. 57(401) 421-6678

Iron Workers LocalLocal No. 37(401) 438-1111

LaborersLocal No. 271(401) 331-9682

Painters & Allied TradesDistrict Council 11(401) 467-7010

Plaster & MasonsLocal No. 40(401) 943-1185

Plumbers & PipefittersLocal No. 51(401) 943-3033

Rhode Island Building Trades(401) 438-1111

Roofers & WaterproofersLocal No. 33(781) 341-9192

Sheet Metal WorkersLocal No. 17(401) 831-7150

Sprinkler FittersLocal No. 676(860) 666-4447

TeamstersLocal No. 251(401) 434-0454

BUS SERVICES

RIPTARhode Island Public TransitAuthority265 Melrose StreetProvidence, RI 02907(401) 781-9400www.ripta.com

Peter Pan Bus LinesCorporate HeadquartersP.O. Box 1776Springfield, MA 01102-17761-800-237-8747 ext. 1209www.peterpanbus.com

CHILD CAREPROVIDERS

To arrange on-site child carecoverage for your meetings orconferences, or to locate aDCYF-licensed home-basedchild care provider in yourneighborhood or near yourworkplace, contact the unionof home-based child careproviders, District 1199 SEIU,at (401) 457-5099 orwww. seiu1199ne.org

DELIVERY SERVICES

United Parcel ServiceThe Teamsters Local 251represent Rhode Island’s UPSworkers. For the outlet nearestyou, or to schedule a homepick up, please contact UPS atwww.ups.com or1-800-PICK-UPS.

United States Postal ServiceYour local post office isrepresented by the NationalAssociation of Letter Carriers,the American Postal WorkersUnion and the National PostalMail Handlers Union (a divisionof the Laborers Union.)www.usps.com

FINANCIALINSTITUTIONS

Credit union employees areorganized by UFCW Local328.

Rhode Island Credit Unionwww.ricreditunion.orgProvidence Branch160 Francis StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 751-7440

Cranston Branch570 Pontiac AvenueCranston, RI 02910(401) 941-8770

Community Collegeof Rhode IslandKnight Campus, WarwickFlanagan Campus, LincolnListon Campus, ProvidenceNewport CampusCCRI Downcity(401) 825-2015Edna Mattson

Dunkin Donuts Center1 LaSalle SquareProvidence, RI 02903(401) 331-0700 ext. 150Robert Sturm, Event Manager

Newport Grand150 Admiral Kalbfus RoadNewport, RI 02840(401) 849-5000 ext. 157David Rollin

Providence College549 River AvenueProvidence, RI 02918(401) 865-1000 ext. 2070Victoria Mocshu

Rhode Island College600 Mount Pleasant AvenueProvidence, RI 02908(401)456-8022Kathy Sasso

RI Convention Center1 Sabin StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401)-458-6002Antonia Anthony, Director ofEvent Services

Roger Williams Park Casino1000 Elmwood AvenueProvidence, RI 02905(401) 785-9450 ext. 240Lisa Gonzales, Casino EventPlanner

Roger Williams University1 Old Ferry RoadBristol, RI 02809(401) 253-1040 ext. 3793Allison Chase-Padula

Twin River1600 Louisquisset PikeLincoln, RI 02865(401) 723-3200 ext. 8497Alana Barts

University of Rhode IslandKingston, Alton Jones CampusProvidence Campus(401) 874-2214Sherry DavisThe Westin Providence1 Exchange StreetProvidence, RI 02903(401) 598-8245Alan Swerdolff, Director ofSales and Marketing

HOSPITALS

UNAP members work atthe following locations:

• Fatima Hospital• Greater RI Visiting

Nurse Service• Homestead Group• Kent Hospital• Landmark Medical Center• Memorial Hospital• Rehabilitation Hospital

of RI• Rhode Island Hospital• RI Community Living &

Support Services• RI Dept of Human Services• RI Veterans’ Home• URI, CCRI, RIC Health

Services• Westerly Hospital

(Professional & Technical)• Westerly Hospital (Service

& Maintenance)• Zambarano Hospital


• Butler Hospital• Women & Infants

Hospital

JANITORIAL SERVICES

Some janitorial companies areorganized by SEIU Local 615.For a list of unionized janitorialservices, contact the Local 615office at (401) 521-6150 orvisit their website atwww.seiu615.org.

NEWSPAPERS

Providence Journalwww.projo.comSubscribe(401) 277-7600

Pawtucket Timeswww.pawtuckettimes.comSubscribe(401) 722-4000

Woonsocket Callwww.woonsocketcall.comSubscribe(401) 767-8522

NURSING HOMES


• Bannister House• Charlesgate Nursing

Center• Country Gardens

Skilled Nursing• Crawford Skilled Nursing• Greenville Skilled

Nursing• Hopkins Manor• Pawtucket Skilled Nursing• Parkview Associates• United Methodist Health

Care Center

PRINTERS, BANNERS& SIGNS

American Speedy Printing635 Arnold RoadCoventry, RI 02816Phone: (401) 823-0090Fax: (401) 823-0092

B Sign Graphics27 Libera StreetCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-6941Fax: (401) 943-2287

Cogens, Inc.1 Virginia AvenueProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 421-4436Fax: (401) 331-9032

Crownmark109 Fletcher AvenueCranston, RI 02920Phone: (401) 943-1112Fax: (401) 943-1113

Dorrance Engraving635 Prospect StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 725-0504Fax: (401) 725-0504

East Coast Screen Printing22 Partridge StreetProvidence, RI 02908Phone: (401) 272-1166Fax: (401) 272-1167

Federal Signs135 Dean StreetProvidence, RI 02903Phone: (401) 421-3400Fax: (401) 351-2233

Financial Innovations1 Weingeroff Blvd.Cranston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 467-3170Fax: (401) 467-3570

JB Foley Printing1469 Broad StreetProvidence, RI 02905Phone: (401) 467-3616Fax: (401) 467-8309

Lamar Outdoor Advertising360 Warren AvenueE. Providence, RI 02914Phone: (401) 421-4504,Fax: (401) 421-4757

Mandeville Sign Co.676 George Wash. Hwy.Lincoln, RI 02865Phone: (401) 334-9100Fax: (401) 334-7799

Regine Printing Co., Inc.208 Laurel Hill AvenueProvidence, RI 02909Phone: (401) 943-3404Fax (401) 944-1228

Screen Works, LLC62 South Main StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 692-0304

Sheahan Printing Corp.1 Front StreetWoonsocket, RI 02895Phone: (401) 273-7272Fax: (401) 769-9206

Sign Lite, Inc.6 Corporate DriveN. Haven, CT 06473Phone: 1-800-544-0854Fax: (203) 234-8344

The Sign ShoppeP.O. Box 2296Westerly, RI 02891Phone: (401) 364-7442

Tarvis Graphics Inc.21 Sabin StreetPawtucket, RI 02860Phone: (401) 726-5530Fax: (401) 723-6420

PUBLIC SCHOOLS

All public school employees areorganized by the Rhode IslandFederation of Teachers andHealth Professionals or theNational Education Associationof Rhode Island.

The following Charter Schoolsare also unionized:

• Laborers Charter School• Textron Charter School• Times 2 Charter School

RECYCLING AND TRASHREMOVAL SERVICES

Waste Management ofRhode Island(800) 972-4545

SUPERMARKETS

Supermarket employees at thestores listed below are membersof UFCW Local 328 or UFCWLocal 791.

Super Stop and Shop• Bristol• Coventry• Cumberland• Johnston• Lincoln• Middletown• Narragansett• Newport• North Kingstown• North Providence• North Smithfield• Pawtucket• Providence• Richmond• Smithfield• Warwick• Westerly

Shaw’s Supermarket• Barrington• Garden City• Cranston• East Providence• Riverside• Johnston• Middletown• North Providence• Pawtucket• Providence• Wakefield• Warwick

• Lakewood• Westerly• Woonsocket

Eastside Marketplace• Providence

Brigidos IGA• Pascoag• North Scituate

Grand Union Family Markets• South Yarmouth• Provincetown• Buzzards Bay• South Yarmouth

C-Town Supermarket• Pawtucket

TELEPHONE, INTERNET& CABLE SERVICES

AT&T Wireless1 (800) 897-7046www.wireless.att.comUnion members recieve specialdiscounts on AT&T wirelessservice plans. For moreinfomation to towww.unionplus.org

VerizonVerizon, whose employees aremembers of the InternationalBrotherhood of ElectricalWorkers Local 2323, canprovide for all of your homeand office internet, telephoneand cable TV needs throughVerizon’s new FiOS (FiberOptic Service) network.

Simply call 1-888-Get FiOSor 1-888-591-6076 orcontact IBEW 2323 at(401) 946-2323.

R.I. Litho Printing, Inc.1395 Atwood AvenueJohnston, RI 02919Phone: (401) 275-0760Fax: (401) 464-6002



(401) 751-7100

Don’t Miss




working families.

TUESDAY 7 P.M.

THURSDAY 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 5 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14




(401) 751-7100

Don’t Miss




working families.

TUESDAY 7 P.M.

THURSDAY 8 P.M.

SATURDAY 5 P.M.

COX CHANNEL 14


Affiliated with the INTERNATIONAL BROTHERHOOD OF TEAMSTERS

121 BRIGHTRIDGE AVENUE, EAST PROVIDENCE, RHODE ISLAND 02914www.teamsterslocal251.org

EXECUTIVE BOARD BUSINESS AGENTS Joseph J. Bairos Brian Carroll Secretary-Treasurer Principal Executive Officer Kevin Reddy Kevin Reddy Steven Labrie President Joseph Boyajian James Croce Vice President Douglas Teoli David Demuth Daniel Manocchio Recording Secretary Asst. Business Agents Dennis Mello Linda Russolino Trustee Susan Folan Trustee Janet O’Grady Trustee


PUBLic EMPLoYEES’

LocAL Union 1033Representing the Public Servants

who make government work!

PUBLIC EMPLOYEES = PUBLIC SERVICE

Cranston Crossing Guards Town of North Kingstown Lincoln Highway Department Providence Community Action Program Providence School Department Lincoln Public Library Narragansett Bay Commission Town of North Providence City of Providence Narragansett Town Hall North Providence Crossing Guards Lincoln Water Commission Providence Civic Center Authority R.I. Department of Transportation Warwick Crossing Guards North Providence School Department Lincoln Town Hall

DONALD S. IANNAZZI, ESQ. VICKI A. VIRGILIO Business Manager President

Partnering withrhode island’s Municipalities

toProvide the Most Effective and

cost-efficient Public Employee Benefits

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Health Services Fund

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Legal Services Fund

The Rhode Island Public Employees’ Education,Training and Apprenticeship Fund

Donald S. Iannazzi, Esq.Chairman

Vicki A. Virgilio Pasquale T. D’Amico Trustee Trustee

Sharen Gleckman Joseph F. Kenney Trustee Trustee

Betty Jackson Chris Lombardi Liaison Coordinator

Rhode Island’s Union Built,Operated and Staffed Facilities

ROGER WILLIAMS PARK CASINOACCOmmODATING 50 - 300

(401) 941-5640(401) 785-9450

CITY CENTER SKATING RINK

ACCOMMODATING GROUPS FROm 10 - 400

(401) 331-5544 ExT. 5

Common Ground March

Documents

Transcript of Common Ground March