U of M’s Labor Education Service offers labor studies skills classes— page 8 Minneapolis Labor Review 111th Year No. 9 January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO Teamsters Local 120 wins $1.25 million wage theft settlement for Lakeville Motor Express workers By Steve Share, Katrina Joseph, who has worked Labor Review editor in labor law for 15 years. BLAINE — A measure of Joseph said the settlement in- justice is coming for 95 union cludes $360,000 for workers’ workers who lost their jobs just unpaid back wages, sick time, before Thanksgiving 2016 when and vacation pay. shipping company Lakeville The balance covers part of 2019 Legislature Motor Express closed abruptly what Joseph called “front wag- and left the workers owed their es” — the wages workers would n MN AFL-CIO sets last two weeks of pay, plus have received if Lakeville Mo- legislative agenda earned vacation and other bene- tor Express had continued oper- fits. ating under its Teamsters Local n Union lobby days Teamsters Local 120 an- 120 contract through the con- n SEIU Healthcare seeks nounced January 15 that Finish tract’s end in July 2018. Line Express — a new non- The settlement does not in- $15 minimum wage union company which began op- clude unpaid pension contribu- for homecare workers erating with equipment, man- tions still owed by Lakeville —See page 7 agement and customers from Motor Express to the Teamsters’ Lakeville — has agreed to a Central States Pension Fund. $1.25 million settlement to re- “Central States has a separate Labor news solve unfair labor practice lawsuit against everyone in- updated daily charges filed with the National volved on the Lakeville side — www.workdayminnesota.org Labor Relations Board. that will continue,” Joseph said. “This is the largest settlement Joseph said the settlement November 27, 2017 rally: “What these people did to us was completely I have seen of NRLB charges in will resolve pending enforce- wrong. They’re crooks and thieves,” said former Lakeville Motor Ex- my career,” commented Team- ment action by the Minnesota press employee Jim Sperling, Forest Lake, who worked 13-1/2 years sters Local 120 general counsel TEAMSTERS page 6 there and estimated he was owed $9,000 in pay and benefits. Local federal workers protest shutdown Special Election: Tuesday, February 12 By Steve Share, Labor Review editor Richfield City Council, MINNEAPOLIS — As the Ward 3 Labor Review went to press Jan- uary 18, the partial shutdown of AFL-CIO Endorsed: the federal government brought on by President Donald Trump’s Judy Moe insistence on funding for an See pages 2, 3 ill-conceived border wall was at the 28-day mark — and some 800,000 federal workers were Special Election: about to miss a second paycheck. One week earlier, federal Tuesday, February 5 workers and supporters gathered Minnesota Senate, on Hiawatha Ave. in Minneapo- January 10: Federal workers and supporters protested in Minneapolis. lis near the Veterans Administra- District 11 tion Hospital to protest the shut- ernment Employees District 8. The President and Congress Includes Carlton and Pine Counties, down as part of nationwide “Shutting down the govern- need to find some other way to eastern Kanabec County, and part of rallies January 10. ment is not going to solve any leverage negotiations, he added. southern St. Louis County “They’re holding our pay hos- problems,” he said. “We shouldn’t be the ones AFL-CIO Endorsed: tage, preventing us from doing Past federal government who suffer from their lack of co- our jobs,” said Gregg James, Min- shutdowns, James noted, in- operation,” commented Celia Stu Lourey neapolis, national vice president volved budget disputes — not Hahn, Eagan, president of AFGE See pages 3, 7 for American Federation of Gov- policy disputes. SHUTDOWN page 6 Guest Commentary Hotel workers union is organizing to win real changes in 2019 By Uriel Perez Espinoza, vice president, stand up and fight for them. That call that I UNITE HERE Local 17 had from Laura is just one single example Driving home on a cold winter day in of hundreds of workers who come out of January, I received a call from a longtime the shadows to leave their fear behind and member. She was complaining about an fight for what is just, fight for what is right, abusive manager, schedule changes, peo- fight for themselves, fight for our families. ple being sent home early, or Local 17’s new leadership how her hours were cut while is eager to go back to our others stayed with heavier roots: Organize, organize and workloads. Laura (not her real organize! We are not reinvent- name) simply said: “Uriel, it ing the wheel; we just heard isn’t right. I don’t get double our members’ needs and we pay. I am not slave.” I replied, want to help them take their “you are right.” After our issues to the negotiating table. brief conversation, she agreed Workers want real changes. to meet to discuss this further. Local 17 is not coming to the In our meeting, we conclud- table alone with ideas of our MRLF endorses advocate Judy Moe in special ed that the working conditions can be own and just to win a better contract. Lo- changed, not just by talking to hotel manag- cal 17 president Christa Mello said, “I ers or by filing a grievance (because she has can negotiate a status quo contract with- election for Richfield City Council, Ward 3 that union right) but by out a big fight.” She is MINNEAPOLIS — Delegates to the disproportionately low income, people of improving the contract ‘Local 17’s new leadership right. We can get sta- Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, color, people with disabilities.” in the upcoming negoti- tus quo contract agree- AFL-CIO voted January 9 to endorse dis- “I felt like the City Council needs a ations in 2019 to make is eager to go back to our ments, but we would ability rights advocate Judy Moe in a person like me… someone who is one of real change. She was not achieve the real coming special election for Richfield the people and actually living the strug- fearful at first but, once roots: Organize, organize gains that can change City Council, Ward 3. gles,” Moe says. she understood, she had the lives of our mem- The special election will be “I’ve been a disability ad- agreed to take no more and organize!’ bers and their families. Tuesday, February 12. vocate for over 20 years,” “crap” from her em- Our members are Polls will be open on elec- says Moe. She also is a home ployer. Instead, she will get involved by coming to the table with us. We are orga- tion day from 7:00 a.m. to health care worker. In addi- joining the Negotiating Contract Commit- nized. We have a 200-person contract nego- 8:00 p.m. at the three regular tion to working part-time as a tee to gain better working conditions. tiating committee. We want to see bold polling locations for Rich- direct support staff for Fraser, This year, UNITE HERE Local 17 has a changes in safety. We want real dollars, not field’s Ward 3. which supports special needs big contract year. Sixteen hotels in Minne- pennies. We want to keep intact our union Early voting is already un- individuals and their families, apolis, St. Paul and Bloomington are re- health insurance. We want real gains! derway, either by mailing-in she also cares for her daugh- newing their contracts throughout the year, We extend the invitation to our brothers an absentee ballot or by voting Judy Moe ter, who is disabled, and for plus five more contracts at the MSP Airport, and sisters in all unions to get involved and in-person at the Richfield Mu- Richfield City Council her mother, who has demen- totaling 3,000 workers — all fighting for fight with us across the table from the em- nicipal Center. tia. better working conditions, better wages and ployers and to keep our local economy The special election will Special Election: Moe has lived for five to keep intact their union health insurance. moving forward and working for all work- fill the vacancy created by the February 12 years in Richfield. This is a huge year for hotel workers! ers. Can we count on your support? Please resignation of incumbent She is a member of CURE, Out of those 16 hotels, eight proper- go to our UNITE HERE Local 17 Facebook Ward 3 City Council Member Maria Re- a community-union affiliate of SEIU ties are up for renewal May 1. Isn’t this a page for updates, how to get involved, and gan Gonzalez, who was elected Mayor of Healthcare Minnesota. coincidence? Or just a good day for how you can help in the future. Richfield in November 2018. Moe knows well the benefits of union workers to renew their contracts — on Solidarity forever, Brother and Sisters! For more information about the spe- membership. When her family lived in International Workers Day! Uriel Perez Espinoza, vice president of cial election, visit www.richfieldmn.gov/ Wisconsin, her father got a job as a union Most of our members are sons and UNITE HERE Local 17, is 28-year member departments/city-clerk/voter-services. foundry worker. “That was the first time daughters of recent immigrants and new of Local 17. He also serves as an executive Judy Moe: AFL-CIO endorsed we purchased a house, the only house we Americans. We know that in order to main- board member of the Minneapolis Regional “We have three wards in Richfield and ever owned when I was a kid,” she says. tain and gain “workers’ rights” we need to Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. Ward 3 is very unique,” Moe says. “It’s JUDY MOE page 6

Minneapolis Labor Review Minneapolis Labor Review (USPS 351120) (ISSN 02749017) Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO is published monthly for $10.00 per year in the United States by the Executive Board Since 1907 Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, 312 Central Avenue SE, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414-1097. Steve Share, Editor Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, President; Louise Sundin, All other countries $5.00 additional per year. Executive Vice President; Pete Lindahl, First Vice Next issue: Periodicals postage paid at St. Paul, Minnesota. T S-70 W I N I T I E S AFL-CIO C President; Mike Zagaros, Second Vice President; Dan DULUTH March 22, 2019 McConnell, Financial Secretary-Treasurer; Kelly Wilson, POSTMASTER send address changes to: Deadline: Register Clerk; Paul Mueller, Deputy Register Clerk; March 6, 2019 Minneapolis Labor Review / Minneapolis Labor Review Newspaper, 312 Central Avenue SE, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414-1097. Grace Baltich, Reading Clerk; Jolene Catudio, Recording Secretary; Tommy Bellfield, Sgt.-At-Arms; Uriel Perez See page 11 for complete 2019 schedule Office (612) 379-4725 Fax (612) 379-1307 Espinoza, Aaron Hill, Russ Scherber, Mary Turner and “The rights labor has won, labor must fight to protect.” [email protected] Jigme Ugen — Trustees; Mike Bubalo, Kelly Gibbons, —Floyd B. Olson, Minnesota Governor, 1930-1936 www.minneapolisunions.org Judy Russell-Martin — At Large.

Page 2 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org Events Special Elections February 4: Apprenticeship coordinators plan annual benefit for injured apprentice fund SAINT PAUL — Monday, February 4 dinner at 6:00 p.m. is the date for the 13th annual benefit for RSVP prior to January 30 by sending the “Injured Apprentice Fund” sponsored your check along with the names of those Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation by the Apprenticeship Coordinators As- attending. sociation of Minnesota. Make checks payable to the “Appren- Committee On Political Education: The event will take place at Mancini’s ticeship Coordinators Association of 2019 Special Election Endorsement Char House, 531 West Seventh Street, Minnesota” and mail to: Saint Paul, Minnesota. Bricklayers & Allied Craftworkers Richfield City Council, Ward 3 The fee for the evening is $75 per per- 5420 International Parkway Special Election: Tuesday, February 12, 2019 son and will include hors d’oeuvres and New Hope, MN 55428 refreshments at 5:00 p.m., followed by Judy Moe For voting information: February 8: Save on grocery packages at www.richfieldmn.gov/departments/city-clerk/voter-services ‘Fare for All’ location in northeast Minneapolis MINNEAPOLIS — Fare For All sells 22, from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. will be Minnesota AFL-CIO packages of fresh produce and frozen the next two Fare for All distribution dates Committee On Political Education: meat with prices ranging from $10 to $30 at the Laborers Local 563 hall, 901 14th 2019 Special Election Endorsement per package. Everyone can save up to 40 Ave. NE, Minneapolis (one-half block percent on their food purchases. The pro- west of Central Ave. on 14th Ave. NE). Minnesota Senate, District 11 gram has no income requirements and is Working Partnerships, the AFL-CIO Special Election: Tuesday, February 5, 2019 open to everyone looking to save money. community services program, hosts the Fare For All has 30 locations in the Fare for All site at the Laborers Local Stu Lourey greater Twin Cities metro area where 563 hall. For voting information: mnvotes.org food packages are sold once a month. For more information, call 612-379- Senate District 11 represents all of Carlton and Pine Counties, eastern Kanabec County, and a portion of southern St. Louis County Friday, February 8 and Friday, March 8133 or visit fareforall.org. Opens February 9: Women unionize, stand up to corporation in History Theatre’s ‘Stewardess!’ SAINT PAUL — A new play commis- Set against the backdrop of the civil sioned by History Theatre, “Stewardess!” rights movement and the birth of femi- follows the story of Mary Pat Laffey, nism, this play tells the story of one who begins work as a stewardess for woman’s fight over the span of 20 years Northwest Orient Airlines in 1958. to transform the lives of the women she Weighed, measured, trained and smil- works with by joining a union, taking le- ing, Mary Pat embarks upon a job that gal actions and changing the conscious- she quickly realizes is “unfair.” While ness of the men in her workplace. her male counterparts can work past the “Stewardess!” will run February 9 age of 32, Mary Pat and her female co- through March 3 at History Theatre, 30 horts put up with endless weight checks, East 10th Street, Saint Paul. are prohibited from marrying, can’t wear Tickets are $20-$42 ($15 for students). glasses and must retire when they turn For more information, or to order Need help with grocery bills? 32. tickets online, visit historytheatre.com. Fare for All Express offers fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meats and staple items. Fare for All Express packages cost $10-$30. The program February 21: East Side Freedom Library hosts is open to everyone and has NO income requirements. author of ‘A History of America in Ten Strikes’ Next deliveries: SAINT PAUL — The East Side Free- The Progressive magazine. dom Library will host author Erik Loom- In “A History of America in Ten Friday, February 8 & Friday, March 22 is Thursday, February 21 to discuss his Strikes” (The New Press, 2018, 320 pag- new book, “A History of America in Ten es) Loomis challenges contemporary as- 11:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. Strikes.” sumptions around labor, unions, and Laborers Local 563 Union Hall The event is free and open to the pub- American workers. lic and begins at 7:00 p.m. at the East He examines ten strikes from the Low- 901 14th Ave. NE, Minneapolis Side Freedom Library, 1105 Greenbrier ell Mill Girls strike in the 1830s up St., Saint Paul. through Justice for Janitors in 1990 — and Loomis, an associate professor of his- how they speak to the present moment. For more information, see story page 3 or contact tory at the University of Rhode Island, For more information, call 651-230- Working Partnerships: 612-379-8133 has been called “a brilliant historian” by 3294 or visit eastsidefreedomlibrary.org. www.minneapolisunions.org January 25, 2019 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 3 Ilhan Omar named to U.S. House More Events Education & Labor Committee as March 2: Annual pancake brunch fundraiser well Foreign Affairs Committee to benefit CTUL’s work with low-wage workers MINNEAPOLIS — CTUL will cele- work. CTUL became an independent, WASHINGTON — U.S. Represen- brate victories for low-wage workers and worker-led organization in 2009. tative Ilhan Omar, newly-elected from the completion of a $1.65 million capital Organizing among low-wage workers, Minnesota’s Fifth Congressional Dis- campaign at its annual pancake brunch CTUL has worked to combat wage theft, trict, has been named by U.S. House fundraiser Saturday, March 2. improve working conditions, and win high- Speaker Nancy Pelosi to two key com- The event will take place from 9:00 a.m. er wages. mittees in the 116th Congress: the Ed- to 1:00 p.m. at a new location, Holy Trinity In 2018, CTUL received national recog- ucation and Labor Committee as well Lutheran Church, 2730 E. 31st St., Minne- nition as the winner of the 2018 Eleanor as the Foreign Affairs Committee. apolis. The fee is a sliding scale of $5 to Roosevelt Human Rights Award, presented The Education & Labor Committee $15. by Jobs with Justice. oversees education programs at all CTUL — Centro de Trabajadores Uni- CTUL is a community affiliate of the levels — from pre-school to higher ed- Ilhan Omar addressing the 2018 con- dos en la Lucha, the Center for Workers Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation. ucation — including Head Start, child vention of the Minnesota AFL-CIO. United in Struggle — was founded in 2007 For more information, or to register for nutrition programs, higher education as a program of the Workers Interfaith Net- the pancake brunch, visit ctul.net. programs, and financial oversight of oversees all foreign assistance, nation- the U.S. Department of Education. It al security affecting the country’s for- also oversees labor initiatives—from eign policy, treaties, peacekeeping and March 6: Women Building Success awards will job training to retirement security, war powers. union rights, occupational health and “As someone who has seen firsthand honor apprentice, journeyworker, advocate safety, and the minimum wage. the havoc wreaked by war, I am proud to “I am honored to serve on a commit- serve on the committee that is responsi- MINNEAPOLIS — Honoring women Malcolm Ave. SE, Minneapolis. tee that can make a tangible difference ble for overseeing our country’s — and active in local building trades unions, the Awards will be presented for appren- in Minnesotans’ everyday lives,” Rep- this President’s — actions abroad,” Rep- second annual “Women Building Suc- tice of the year, journeyworker of the resentative Omar said. “In order to resentative Omar said. “This couldn’t cess” awards will be presented Wednes- year, and women’s advocate of the year. build an economy that works for every- come at a more critical time. We need to day, March 6. Interested trades workers The deadline to nominate someone one, we need to raise the minimum use the committee’s human rights juris- should check with their local union for for one of the awards is February 15. wage to $15 an hour, enact stronger diction to hold the President accountable ticket availability. For more information and/or a nomi- workplace safety laws, support work- for deaths in detention centers on his The event will run from 5:00-8:00 nation form, contact Jenny Winkelaar at ers’ right to collectively bargain and watch. We need to investigate how for- p.m. at Surly Brewing Company, 520 [email protected]. create a federal jobs guarantee program. eign governments and their lobbyists We also need to ensure that every parent have violated our laws. And we need to March 7: Carpenters’ local Pheasants Forever has access to affordable child care and reign in arms sales to human rights abus- every student can access… tuition-free ers like Saudi Arabia. I look forward to and debt-free public college.” working with Chairman Engel and the chapter plans annual banquet, member drive “The Education & Labor Commit- committee to pursue these priorities.” SAINT PAUL — Pheasants Forever ing to follow. tee is the committee that can transform Contact information: Chapter 844 — sponsored by the Carpen- Six lifetime small game licenses will these ideas into legislation,” Repre- omar.house.gov ters union — invites habitat conservation be given away to youth ages 4-15 (accom- sentative Omar said. “I look forward Washington, DC office: supporters of all ages to its annual banquet panied by a paid adult banquet member). to working with Chairman Scott and 1517 Longworth HOB and fundraiser Thursday, March 7. Tickets: $50 for annual membership my fellow committee members to ac- Washington, DC 20515 The event takes place at the North Cen- and banquet; $25 for guest dinner (no complish these goals and hold the cur- Phone: (202) 225-4755 tral States Regional Council of Carpenters membership); $10 for youth membership rent administration accountable for its Minneapolis office: union hall, 710 Olive St., Saint Paul. and banquet ticket (age 17 and under). efforts to stack the deck further in fa- 404 3rd Avenue North, Suite 203 Social hour from 4:00-5:30 p.m. will For more information, or to order tick- vor of the wealthy few.” Minneapolis, MN 55401 feature an open bar for members and ban- ets online, visit pheasantsforeverevents. The Foreign Affairs Committee Phone: 612-333-1272 quet attendees. org/event/3673. Or, contact Janette and Dinner will be served at 5:30 p.m., with Michael Busch at 651-464-8963 or by raffles, a silent auction, and a youth draw- email at [email protected]. March 21: 32nd annual Nellie Stone Johnson dinner will raise money for college scholarships BLOOMINGTON — The 32nd annu- African-American union leader and po- al Nellie Stone Johnson scholarship din- litical activist. ner will be Thursday, March 21 at a new The Nellie Stone Johnson Scholarship location, the DoubleTree by Hilton Ho- Program provides financial assistance to tel, 7800 Normandale Blvd., Blooming- racial minority union members and their ton. Reception and silent auction begin at family members who wish to pursue an 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner and pro- education at one of the Minnesota State gram at 6:30 p.m. Ticket prices are $85 Colleges and Universities. per individual, $675 per table of eight. Buy scholarship dinner tickets online The dinner honors student scholarship at nsj32.eventbrite.com. recipients and the legacy of Nellie Stone For more information, contact 866- Johnson (1905-2002), a groundbreaking 738-5238. Page 4 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org Twin Cities workers launch campaign to stop construction industry abuses By Michael Moore, editor, St. Paul Union Advocate MINNEAPOLIS — With a dramatic rally in the streets of south Minneapolis December 18, Twin Cities construction workers launched a new movement to improve labor standards in their industry and guarantee dignity for all workers. “I don’t want to see any more injus- tice in construction,” Yimer Iriarte said at the start of a rush-hour march along Lake Street in Uptown. “We’re tired of seeing our brothers and sisters tired or hurt be- cause of the way these contractors act.” Iriarte is part of a group of local con- struction workers — mostly from resi- dential projects — who began organizing St. Paul Union Advocate photo with the Twin Cities-based worker center The December 18 “March for Dignity and Respect” moved down Lake Street in Minneapolis’ Uptown neighborhood. CTUL two years ago. CTUL’s efforts to document abuses in that didn’t happen, and in the end we working conditions and a voice on the and it stands to gain even more work un- the industry led to the arrest of a local were threatened with Immigration,” job. der the City of Minneapolis’ ambitious construction contractor in September on Iriarte said. “And I know it’s not just Construction workers want large de- new rezoning initiative, Minneapolis criminal charges. The case exposed seri- me.” velopers in the Twin Cities area to meet a 2040. ous problems — wage theft, dangerous To raise industry standards, CTUL’s similar demand: participation in the According to CTUL, Lennar has seen working conditions, labor trafficking — construction members are taking cues “Dignity and Respect Standards Coun- a litany of reported abuses on its projects that are rampant in the industry’s web of from local janitors, who recently won cil.” The council would establish higher locally and across the country, including contractors and subcontractors, workers major improvements in the retail clean- standards in the industry and it would the labor trafficking charges filed in Hen- allege. ing industry after a six-year-long fight. create a process for monitoring construc- nepin County in 2018 and a jobsite fatal- Iriarte said he experienced wage theft Janitors won by pressuring big-box tion sites to ensure all subcontractors are ity in Lakeville in 2016. and trafficking firsthand when a contrac- chains like Target and Best Buy to sign in compliance. During the march along Lake Street, tor refused to pay him and other immi- “Responsible Contractor Agreements,” Workers’ first target is a big one: Len- CTUL members stopped at a Wells Fargo grant workers for their labor. guaranteeing janitors employed by the nar Homes. A nationwide firm, Lennar is branch to point out the bank’s history of “We were promised so many things store’s cleaning contractors have safe the Twin Cities’ largest home-builder, CTUL MARCH page 8

www.minneapolisunions.org January 25, 2019 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 5 Shutdown: ‘They’re holding our pay hostage’ Union jobs fair set continued from page 1 for February 13 Local 899, which represents Transportation Security Administration officers in Minne- BROOKLYN PARK — Con- sota, North Dakota and South Dakota, in- nect with local unions and union cluding 500 at MSP Airport. “Our pay- employers at a union jobs fair checks are not bargaining chips,” she said. planned Wednesday, February 13 at In Minnesota, the shutdown is affecting the Minneapolis Pipefitters training an estimated 5,470 federal employees. facility, 6200 Lakeland Ave. No., President Trump, meanwhile, has Brooklyn Park. threatened that the partial federal govern- Sponsored by Working Partner- ment shutdown could go on for “months or Gregg James Celia Hahn Sara Bergen ships, the union jobs fair will in- even years” if he doesn’t get his way and clude an employer panel from 9:30 get $5.6 billion for a border wall. Many other federal workers, on the oth- have a paycheck doesn’t mean you can not -10:30 a.m., followed by an on-site “We all know what the President says; it er hand, have been furloughed. “A furlough pay your daycare obligation.” hiring event from 10:30 a.m. to doesn’t sound like he’s in any hurry to re- means we’re not allowed to do anything “The work isn’t getting done either,” 12:30 p.m. solve anything,” Hahn said. work-related… whether it’s an essential she added, “which is a big problem.” For more information, contact “We’re in a hurry,” she declared. “We task or not,” said Sara Bergen, Minneapo- “Let’s call this shutdown what it is. It’s Doug Flateau at 612-805-4236 or would like to get paid. They don’t need to lis, who works for the federal Department a lockout,” said AFL-CIO president Rich- [email protected]. agree on anything.” of Housing and Urban Development in ard Trumka, speaking forcefully in Wash- “Everybody’s at different levels of their Minneapolis as a multi-family housing un- ington, D.C at the January 10 rally there. financial stability,” Hahn added. “Some derwriter. Bergen is a 17-year member of “Hard-working American patriots are be- have the resources to ride it out a bit and AFGE Local 3419. ing locked out of their jobs for no other rea- Judy Moe: Endorsed some will be impacted immediately.” “The first day of the shutdown we had son than the politics of fear. Shame on the continued from page 2 Inconceivably, some federal workers four hours to close down our worksta- Senate! Shame on the White House!” whom the Trump administration deems es- tions,” she reported. And, she added, she “This lockout is yet another manufac- “I know it was a very good-pay- sential — including TSA officers — are and her colleagues were given word-for- tured crisis cooked up by politicians look- ing job — and it was hard work, expected to show up and work even though word scripts to use for their outgoing voice- ing to score political points, and American too,” she remembers. “He came they’re not getting paid. mail messages and their e-mail auto-reply workers are FED UP,” Trumka said. “We’re home filthy every day.” “We’re all still working,” Hahn said. messages. tired of being pawns in a game. We’re tired “I’m committed to supporting “We’re keeping the lines moving and the The reality of losing even a first pay- of always being the ones who get hurt. the union members in the commu- planes flying. It says great things about the check promised to put many workers and And, we’re not going to take it anymore!” nity,” Moe says. “I recognize they dedication of the TSA officers at MSP.” their families into crisis, Bergen said. “Peo- “So, hear us loud and clear. Stop play- are the backbone of our community. Hahn, is continuing to report for her ple are going to be having trouble paying ing politics with our lives,” Trumka said. Richfield from the beginning has work as a TSA officer, too, a job she began their mortgages, paying their rent.” And, “End this lockout. Open the government. been a blue-collar community and 16 years ago after the 911 terrorist attacks. she continued, “just because you don’t Do your job so we can do ours.” it’s still that way.” Moe noted that Maria Regan Gonzalez, the former Ward 3 Coun- Teamsters: Members picketed for two-plus years cil Member who is now Richfield continued from page 1 ever, in large part because Teamsters Lo- are, to a person, I think, very happy about Mayor, is a strong union supporter. cal 120 pursued not just legal action, but this,” Joseph said. “I want to carry that on,” Moe Department of Labor and Industry to also maintained a daily picket line at Fin- Local 120 announced the settlement says. “I am committed that we con- seek the workers’ back pay. ish Line Express. Former Lakeville Mo- on its Facebook page, which by one day tinue to provide a good, safe, fami- “We’ve gotten what we were entitled tor Express workers, joined by union later had attracted 85 messages relaying ly community.” to, what we could get, as a remedy,” Jo- members, union retirees and other union congratulations and solidarity. Moe says maintaining afford- seph said. supporters, kept the picket line going for One message was posted by Jim Sper- able housing — for renters and for LME/FLE will make payments di- more than two years. Local 120 also or- ling, former Lakeville Motor Express homeowners — and improving rectly to the impacted workers, Joseph ganized two large rallies at the Finish dock worker, who had worked at the public transit are among her top said, with payments beginning June 1, Line Express terminal in New Brighton company 13-1/2 years (and told the La- concerns. 2019 and continuing twice yearly for five on the first and second anniversaries of bor Review in January 2017 that he esti- She’s brimming with practical, years. the Lakeville Motor Express shut-down. mated that LME owed him about $9,000 common sense solutions which If the company defaults on the pay- In addition, Teamsters Local 120 in- in pay, health and welfare benefits, and she’s already been advancing with ments, she added, the total amount due to formed Finish Line Express customers three weeks of accrued vacation). local city officials. workers from LME/FLE would increase about the wage theft dispute. Sperling’s comment on Facebook: Moe has been endorsed by new- to $2.4 million and the NRLB will be All the while — for more than two “Thank you Local 120 for all you [have] ly-elected Richfield Mayor Maria Re- taking enforcement action. years — the picket line continued. done for us and thank you to all the lost gan Gonzales. Moe’s other endorse- “Local 120 expresses a sincere “We know for a fact that the company time people who came and helped on the ments include former Richfield ‘thank-you’ to the [NLRB] agents at Re- is hurting as a result of that,” Joseph said. picket line — we could not [have] done it Mayor Pat Elliott, Hennepin County gion 18,” Joseph said. “They did a phe- “They have said that.” without you. Teamster Strong!” Commissioner Debbie Goettel, for- nomenal job.” With the fully-signed settlement Teamster Local 120 general counsel mer state legislator and current Rich- As for the executives who crafted the reached January 15, the picket line came Katrina Joseph said the settlement has field Ward 2 City Council Member shutdown of Lakeville Motor Express to down that evening, Joseph reported. been signed by the company, by all three Edwina Garcia, and former state leg- run away from a union contract and con- Local 120 organized a meeting that unions involved, and by the NLRB’s Re- islator Linda Slocum. tinue operations as a “new” company, same night for former Lakeville Motor gion 18 office. Richfield’s Ward 3 is comprised Joseph commented, “what they did is ap- Express workers, all of whom since She said the settlement awaits ap- of the eastern one-third of the city. palling and they thought they could get Thanksgiving 2016 have either found a proval by the NLRB in Washington, Contact: away with it.” new job or retired. which is not impacted by the partial fed- judymoe4richfieldcitycouncil.org They couldn’t get away with it, how- “We had 50-60 people show up. They eral government shutdown. Page 6 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org Minnesota AFL-CIO adopts 2019 legislative priorities Unions set SAINT PAUL — The executive board Fair Tax Conformity of the Minnesota AFL-CIO, the state’s Minnesota needs to amend its tax lobby days largest labor federation, adopted six top laws in response to recent changes in fed- priorities January 15 for the 2019 session eral tax laws. The Minnesota AFL-CIO SAINT PAUL — Here are the of the Minnesota legislature. will support tax conformity that: lobby days announced so far by the The legislative session convened Jan- n does not include more corporate tax state’s unions. Consult union web- uary 8 and must adjourn by May 20. cuts; sites for additional details and/or The Minnesota AFL-CIO’s top six n includes an expansion of the Work- see “Local Unions News” (pages legislative priorities include: ing Families Tax Credit; 9-10) for more about the lobby days n Paid Family and Medical Leave; n includes a deduction for unreim- listed below. n Ending Wage Theft; bursed employee expenses; n MinnesotaCare Expansion; n and has an overall net positive (pro- February 11-12 n Fair Tax Conformity; gressive) impact on working Minneso- Minnesota Nurses Association n 40-Hour Workweek; 2019 Legislature tans. mnnurses.org n Passing Comprehensive Transpor- 40-Hour Workweek tation Funding, Including a Gas Tax In- Ending Wage Theft Overtime pay after 40 hours is re- February 26 crease. The Minnesota AFL-CIO will support quired in 35 states but not in Minnesota, IBEW strengthening authority and funding for which is the only state that has a 48-hour ibew292.org Paid Family and Medical Leave enforcement of wage theft violations. workweek in state law. The Minnesota The Minnesotans for Paid Family and MinnesotaCare Expansion AFL-CIO will support legislation to March 19 Medical Leave Coalition supports a The Minnesota AFL-CIO will support mandate overtime pay after 40-hours. SEIU Minnesota State Council state-administered insurance program in an expanded MinnesotaCare health in- Comprehensive Transportation seiumn.org which everyone contributes and every- surance program that is open to all Min- Funding and Gas Tax Increase one benefits, providing 12 weeks of par- nesotans, retains the current Minnesota- The Minnesota AFL-CIO will support March 26 tial wage replacement and job protection Care benefit set, cost-sharing, provider a comprehensive transportation funding AFSCME Council 5 for workers taking leave to care for them- network, and administrative framework. package, including an increase in the gas afscmemn.org selves or a loved one. The Coalition is In addition, the Minnesota AFL-CIO will tax. During the recent campaign, Gover- co-chaired by the Minnesota AFL-CIO, support repeal for the sunset of the pro- nor Tim Walz expressed firm support for Children’s Defense Fund, and ISAIAH. vider tax that funds MinnesotaCare. increasing the gas tax. Special Election February 5 Minnesota home care workers bring minimum wage proposal MN AFL-CIO backs for at least $15 to negotiations with State of Minnesota Stu Lourey in race for SAINT PAUL — The bargaining team posal is so important to thousands of state: “You’re doing this work because Senate District 11 for home care workers represented by families across Minnesota. you love what you’re doing, but you SAINT PAUL — The Minneso- SEIU Healthcare Minnesota has presented Lauren Thompson is a home care cli- need a fair wage to take care of yourself. ta AFL-CIO has endorsed DFLer a proposal to bring all home care workers ent and a member of the bargaining team This system takes advantage of people Stu Lourey in a special election in the bargaining unit to at least $15 per that is pushing for a minimum wage of at who love what they do, knowing we coming Tuesday, February 5 for the hour during the next two-year contract they least $15 per hour. won’t stop caring for our clients even if it Minnesota Senate District 11 seat. are currently negotiating with the State of “Knowing that good PCAs have to of- hurts our health. My job is to care for Senate District 11 represents all Minnesota. The home care bargaining team ten leave because the pay isn’t enough to others and I can’t afford my deduction of Carlton and Pine Counties, east- includes workers, clients and family mem- make ends meet is frustrating,” Thomp- for my prescription,” said Gibson. ern Kanabec County, and a portion bers of seniors and people with disabilities son said. “To not invest in the PCA work- “Without fair wages and better training of southern St. Louis County. who receive care services. force is to not invest in my well-being we are losing valuable people in such an Tony Lourey, who had served in A #ValueHomeCare rally to build and the wellbeing of thousands of Min- important profession. I really hope our the area’s Senate seat since 2007, has support for higher wages for home care nesotans. It is hard to not take that per- government is aware of what is happening. resigned to accept an appointment by workers and better conditions for the se- sonally when these issues impact me ev- Next week it could be your mother, father, Governor Tim Walz to become Com- niors and people with disabilities for ery day. The care crisis has impacted son or daughter who needs care and has to missioner of the Minnesota Depart- whom they provide care is planned for what I can do and how I can do it.” deal with this crisis,” Gibson said. ment of Human Services. Thursday, January 31 from 11:00 a.m. to “A minimum wage of at least $15 an “Wouldn’t you want them to be able to stay Stu Lourey has worked for the 12 noon at the State Capitol. hour would start to create a stronger work- in their home? This fight is so important to district in the offices of U.S. Sena- The current home care workers con- force,” Thompson continued. “It would everyone. When we say we can only afford tors Al Franken and Tina Smith. tract, which covers nearly 30,000 work- mean that good PCAs would be able to to pay poverty wages it means people’s “With a closely divided Senate, ers across the state, sets the wage floor keep working. Ultimately that means that lives are at stake. We need our governor it is vital that working Minnesotans for this critical work at $12 per hour. we can get better, more consistent care so and elected officials to help us get to a de- have lawmakers they can always Because of the low pay, seniors and we can all be more independent and cent living wage.” count on to stand with them on core people with disabilities are facing a care healthy in life. I feel like I can’t live the The proposal comes on the heels of labor values,” said Minnesota crisis that has grown to the point where life that I should until PCAs are paid a both Minneapolis and St. Paul passing a AFL-CIO president Bill McCarthy. there is a workforce shortage that is caus- minimum of at least $15. I hope Governor phased-in $15 minimum wage for work- “We’re supporting Stu Lourey be- ing Minnesotans to not get the care they Walz and our legislature really think about ers in their cities. cause working people in Senate need to stay in their homes. this, because anyone could one day rely on According to SEIU Healthcare Min- District 11 can count on him to al- According to the state, there are over personal care assistance to live your life.” nesota, with raises started in Minneapolis ways have their backs.” 8,000 unfilled home care jobs in Minne- Patsy Gibson, a home care worker and coming within the year in St. Paul, Candidate website: sota — and a need for an additional from Bloomington, shared the challenges the rates of pay (Medicaid funding) set stulourey.com 68,000 workers over the coming years. that the low wages pose to Minnesota by the state for home care services will Voting information: Members of the bargaining team ex- home care workers who care for seniors need to keep up with the two cities’ rising mnvotes.org plained why the $15 minimum wage pro- and people with disabilities across the minimum wage standards. www.minneapolisunions.org January 25, 2019 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 7 Classes U of M’s Labor Education Service offers labor studies skills classes MINNEAPOLIS — Classes on the Grievance Handling nuts and bolts of union representation — Tuesday, March 19 Collective Bargaining, Grievance Han- 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon dling, Arbitration — will be offered this Fee: $50 winter and spring by the University of This class covers the basics of the Minnesota’s Labor Education Service. union grievance procedure for stewards, In addition, LES will offer classes on leaders and activists. Class includes how “Labor and the Fight for $15” and “La- to determine if something is a potential bor and Mass Incarceration” examining grievance, investigate a grievance, re- these social justice issues. solve the grievance at the first step, and The non-credit classes are open to all. write a grievance. Sessions will meet on the West Bank of the University’s Minneapolis campus. Labor and the Fight for $15 Registration is available online at Wednesday, March 20 https://z.umn.edu/3tda. 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. For more information call 612-624- Fee: $50 5020 or e-mail [email protected]. Amid a crisis of poverty and inequality Rick Phelps, UFCW Local 663 member, performed CPR and saved a Cub Foods Here is a look at the course schedule: in the U.S., the idea of a $15 minimum customer’s life in November. wage has gone from laughable to viable in Collective Bargaining (3-part course) just a few years. Labor organizations in the Thursdays, February 7, February 14, Twin Cities and across the nation have ad- UFCW Local 663 member saves life February 21 vanced the “Fight for $15” through orga- 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon nizing, bargaining, and legislation. of Plymouth Cub Foods customer Fee: $150 Drawing lessons from campaigns in This three-session course is for new Minneapolis and St. Paul, this class devel- By Jessica Hayssen, UFCW Local 663 the store, the victim might not have sur- bargaining committee members, those ops a model for workers to build power to director of communications, and vived. looking for a refresher of bargaining ba- win bold, inspiring demands. In so doing, it Meredith Hackler, CCX Media After paramedics picked up the vic- sics, and unionists wanting to understand encourages attendees to consider how ordi- PLYMOUTH — It was a cold No- tim, Rick said, “I finished my shift. I was the process of bargaining a contract. nary people can make a difference in the vember morning and 15-year UFCW happy to help. It’s what I do. I just really Class covers: preparing for bargaining, struggle for economic justice. Local 663 member Rick Phelps was focused and went through my training. including surveying members and con- working his normal shift at the Haug’s The victim waking up was a bonus — ducting research; bargaining at the table; Arbitration Cub Foods in Plymouth stocking in gro- that was great.” developing proposals; and building pow- Monday, April 15 cery. Phelps a hero er through member and community en- 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon Denise from the Coon Rapids Cub Many people are calling Rick Phelps gagement. The final session is taught by Fee: $50 store was working a shift for another Lo- a hero, including UFCW Local 663 pres- the Federal Mediation and Conciliation This class covers the basic principles cal 663 member who was out. All of the ident Matt Utecht. “On behalf of UFCW Service (FMCS) and addresses avoiding of evidence and preparation of witnesses, sudden Rick heard Denise saying loudly Local 663, I want to thank Rick for sav- impasse and mediation. developing a theory of your case, and the over the radio, “Code green! Code ing a customer’s life,” Utecht said. “He principles arbitrators rely on to decide green!” truly is a hero.” cases. It will also consider such issues as Phelps explained, “a code green Phelps maintained he was just doing discipline, contract interpretation stan- means there is a medical emergency. I re- his job. “I was just doing what I was CTUL march dards, past practices, worker rights and sponded to that and it was in aisle 10.” trained to do,” said Phelps. management rights. The class is designed Phelps took a deep breath before he Phelps is grateful he was able to save continued from page 5 for those who have completed a basic turned the corner to the next aisle — the man’s life. His hope is that others will steward training course. because he didn’t know what to expect. take AED and CPR training as well. lending to Lennar despite the alle- He found a customer lying on the floor. “If you have the opportunity to do it, gations stemming from its projects. Labor and Mass Incarceration “I’ve done small things here — you everybody should do it,” added Phelps. And the march involved a bit of Saturday April 27 know, like low blood sugar, things of that “You never know when the person right street theater. Actors performed an 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. nature,” said Phelps. “I went to check his next to you is going to need it. Fortunate- updated take on a centuries-old tra- Fee: $50 pulse and for any respiration. He had nei- ly, I was in the right place at the right dition throughout Spanish Central Over the past 30 years, the number of ther. So I started CPR. When I was down time.” America, “Las Posadas.” The story people incarcerated in the U.S. has grown doing compressions, our security came From making sure the shelves are alludes to Mary and Joseph’s diffi- from 300,000 to more than 2.2 million, dis- up and I asked him to go get the AED. He stocked at Cub, to saving lives as a vol- cult journey from Nazareth to Beth- proportionately impacting communities of was on top of it.” unteer first responder, UFCW Local 663 lehem in search of a warm place to color and poor people. Meanwhile, labor In fact, 15 years ago Rick took the member Rick Phelps’ commitment to his stay the night, with an emphasis on unions represent thousands of workers who first responder training offered when he community shows. its moral and political message. staff the jails, prisons, and detention facili- first started working at a Cub Foods in The march drew over 100 peo- ties across the United States. Although the Coon Rapids. Then it became something This story originally appeared in the ple, including representatives of the labor movement and the movement to end important to him. He now is a volunteer January 2019 issue of Fact Finder, the Carpenters, Laborers and other mass incarceration appear to be at odds, firefighter in St. Francis. newsletter of United Food and Commer- Building Trades unions, who stood this course will examine the common If not for the union family at Cub cial Workers Local 663. Reprinted by in solidarity with CTUL members. ground between the two movements and Foods, Rick’s training, and the AED in permission. explore possible avenues for collaboration. Page 8 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org Local Union News AFSCME Council 5: Agreement work in Minneapolis in a tele- IBEW Local 292: Federation of Teachers Local 59, be sure Day on the Hill coming March 26 conference office and business collec- February 12 membership meeting the union has your personal e-mail ad- AFSCME Council 5’s Day on the Hill tions center. Another approximately 40 relocated to Ukrainian Event Center dress. By January 17, MFT planned to will be all day Tuesday, March 26. technicians spread across five states are The February 12 general membership have completed a transition of sending Registration begins at 9:30 a.m. at members of CWA Local 7250 who pro- meeting for International Brotherhood of communications to non-MPS e-mail ad- Saint Paul RiverCentre, 175 W. Kellogg tect and maintain AT&T’s core network. Electrical Workers Local 292 has been dresses only, in accordance with best Blvd. After a morning hearing from “AT&T has not moved off the final moved to a new location due to remodel- practices and to further remove reliance elected officials and learning how to lob- offer they presented directly to workers ing work underway at the United Labor on the school district’s systems. by, the afternoon will be devoted to in May 2018 that would allow the com- Centre. When contract negotiations begin at talking with legislators about issues and pany to cut the job security protections of The February 12 meeting will be at the end of January, all updates and MFT’s policies. The day will include a rally in approximately half the current work- the Ukrainian Event Center, 301 NE “State of the Union” newsletters will be the Capitol rotunda at 1:30 p.m. A lobby- force,” Wojtowicz reported. Main Street, Minneapolis (just a few sent only to personal e-mails. ing debrief at 5:00 p.m. will be followed The company also seeks to raise blocks from the United Labor Centre). If you don’t begin receiving the “State by a reception. healthcare premiums on incumbent The meeting will begin at the usual of the Union” e-mails at your personal Advance registration is due by March workers and workers who are new- time of 7:00 p.m. e-mail, make sure to check your junk 21. ly-hired or transferred into the bargain- IBEW Local 292: e-mail folder, and/or send Devin Hogan The registration fee is $20 per person. ing unit, among other retrogressive pro- Day on the Hill planned February 26 an e-mail at [email protected] with For more information, to download a posals. The 2019 Day on the Hill for mem- your current personal e-mail address so registration form, or to register on-line, Wojtowicz noted: “Our members con- bers of the International Brotherhood of you can be added to the MFT e-mail list. visit afscmemn.org. tinue to mobilize on the job and in the Electrical Workers will be Tuesday, Feb- Minnesota Nurses Association: CWA Locals 7200 and 7250: public letting current and potential cus- ruary 26. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m. Day on the Hill set for February 11-12 AT&T workers pass nine month mark tomers know about AT&T’s promise to at the IBEW Local 110 hall, 1330 Con- Members of the Minnesota Nurses working without a contract add 7,000 good (hardhat) jobs with the way St., Saint Paul. A briefing starts at Association are invited to participate in January 14 marked nine months since 2017 corporate tax break, but instead lay- 9:00 a.m., followed by appointments MNA’s 2019 Day on the Hill, planned for approximately 450 members of Commu- ing off thousands of workers and buying with legislators at the State Capitol. February 11-12. nications Workers of America Locals out managers at all levels to reduce the Lunch will be provided. Participants will The two-day event begins late Mon- 7200 and 7250 have worked without a number of good jobs in the United receive a free IBEW Day on the Hill day afternoon February 11 with a legisla- contract at AT&T. States.” shirt. tor reception, dinner, speakers, and “Workers continue to mobilize every “We continue to ask our friends, A RSVP is required by January 25. To break-out education sessions. Tuesday, day in our fight for a fair contract that in- neighbors and allies to sign on to our pe- RSVP, call the Local 292 hall at 612- February 12 nurses will head to the Cap- cludes job security and affordable health- tition online at www.GoodJobsATT.org,” 379-1292 or e-mail [email protected]. itol for appointments with their legisla- care,” said Shari Wojtowicz, president of Wojtowicz said. Minneapolis Federation of Teachers: tors to lobby on MNA issues. CWA Local 7250. CWA also seeks a congressional hear- Union completing move to using only For more information, or to register, The majority of local workers under ing to hold AT&T accountable for the job personal e-mails to reach members visit mnnurses.org. the Nationwide Legacy AT&T Labor cuts that followed billions in tax breaks. If you’re a member of Minneapolis LOCAL UNION NEWS page 10 Retiree Meetings Minneapolis Regional Retiree Council: month, 12 noon, Mattie’s, 365 N. Concord terest in issues related to public education and Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 Retirees: Next meetings February 21, March 21 St., South St. Paul. educators. We meet with community and po- ‘Rusty Tinners’ meet next March 12 The next meetings of the Minneapolis Re- CWA Local 7200 Retirees: litical leaders to explore and become more The Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 “Rusty gional Retiree Council, AFL-CIO will be Thurs- No meetings until April knowledgeable about healthcare, housing, re- Tinners” retirees club will take a winter break day, February 21 and Thursday March 21 from The Retired Members Club of Communi- tirement income, health care, and other issues through February. The next meeting will be 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the United Labor Cen- cations Workers of America Local 7200 will that are important to retirees. Together, we Tuesday, March 12 at the Maplewood union tre, 312 Central Ave, SE, Minneapolis, Room take a winter break, with no meetings planned work to define and forge the RTC 59 agenda hall, 1681 E. Cope Ave. Pizza will be provid- 218. A free lunch will be served after the meet- for January, February or March. for the future. Mark your calendar and join us ed for a lunch beginning at 12 noon (salads ings. The next meeting will be in April. For for lunch, learning and action! and/or desserts welcomed). The meeting be- Parking will be reimbursed if you park in the more information, call the CWA Local 7200 The next RTC 59 meeting will be Tuesday, gins at 1:00 p.m. St. Anthony Main Public Parking Ramp (at the hall at 612-722-7200. February 26 at 11:30 a.m. at the Minneapolis All retired Sheet Metal workers and corner of 2nd St. SE and University Ave. SE), IBEW Local 292 Retirees: Federation of Teachers, 67 Eighth Ave. NE, spouses are welcome to our monthly meet- across University from the United Labor Centre ‘Senior Sparkies’ meet February 12, March 12 Minneapolis. ings. building. Just park and when you come to the The IBEW Local 292 Retirees — “Senior Other coming meeting dates for the year, If available, one of our business agents meeting we will give you a parking voucher. Sparkies”— will be meeting Tuesday, February all Tuesdays at 11:30 a.m., include: March 26, and/or someone from our benefits office will For more information about the Council, 12 and Tuesday, March 12 at the United Labor April 23, May 28. share updates and answer questions. contact Graeme Allen, community and political Centre, 312 Central Ave., Minneapolis, in the Pipefitters Local 539 Retirees: For more information, contact Tom Con- organizer for the Minneapolis Regional Labor Guy Alexander Conference Room (second ‘Fazed Out Fitters’ meet third Wednesday nelly at 651-484-7809 or Paul Lesch at 651- Federation, at 612-321-5672 or e-mail graeme@ floor). Refreshments will be at 12:00 noon. The Pipefitters Local 539 retirees — the “Fazed 433-3748. minneapolisunions.org. meeting begins at 12:30 p.m. We will be having Out Fitters” — meet the third Wednesday of each U of M Facilities Management ATU Local 1005 Retirees: a guest speaker. month at 11:00 a.m. at Elsie’s, 729 Marshall St. and Maintenance Retirees: Meet North, South, and St. Paul Local 292 will be having a Sweetheart’s NE, Minneapolis. New members welcome. Meet last Tuesday of month Here is the schedule for the Amalgamated Dinner Saturday, February 16. Further informa- Plumbers Local 15 Retirees: Retirees from the University of Minnesota Transit Union Local 1005 retiree meetings: tion and RSVP notice will be published in Janu- Meet the third Tuesday of each month Maintenance Department meet the last Tues- Minneapolis North: Second Tuesday of ary’s “Keeping Current.” Please read and re- All retired Plumbers Local 15 members day of each month at 10:00 a.m. for breakfast each month, 8:30 a.m., Coon Rapids VFW, spond accordingly. are invited to attend retiree meetings, continu- at Elsie’s, 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis. 1919 Coon Rapids Blvd. (one block south of For more meeting information, contact the ing the third Tuesday of every month at 12 Hanson Blvd.) IBEW Local 292 office at 612-379-1292. noon at Elsie’s Restaurant, Bar & Bowling If your union local’s retirees group wishes to Minneapolis South: First Wednesday of Minneapolis Retired Teachers, Chapter 59: Center, 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis list your meeting notices here, please contact each month, 8:00 a.m., VFW Post 5555, 6715 Next meetings February 26, March 26 (corner of Marshall and 8th Ave.). For more the Labor Review at 612-379-4725 or e-mail Lake Shore Drive, Richfield. Minneapolis Retired Teachers, Chapter information, contact the Local 15 office at [email protected]. St. Paul: Second Wednesday of each 59, is an active group that takes a special in- 612-333-8601. www.minneapolisunions.org January 25, 2019 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 9 More Local Union News continued from page 9 the Service Employees International Union will be Tuesday, March 19. SEIU Operating Engineers Local 49: members from across Minnesota will Local 49 applauds PCA for issuing come together to talk about the policies final permits for PolyMet that matter to working families, tell their Acting December 20, the Minnesota stories to legislators and rally at the Cap- Pollution Control Agency issued final air itol. and water permits to PolyMet for the pro- The day will begin with sign-in and posed copper-nickel NorthMet mine near breakfast from 8:00-9:00 a.m. (Location Babbitt. to be announced). “Issuing these permits comes after a A program to learn about issues will years-long process that saw the most run from 9:00-11:00. thorough environmental review any con- The action moves to the State Capitol struction project has ever had in Minne- for lunch and visits with elected officials sota,” MPCA Commissioner John Linc from 11:30 a.m. to 3:15 p.m. Stine said. “We are confident the require- The day will conclude with a rally in ments in these permits will protect the the Capitol rotunda from 3:15-4:00 p.m. environment and human health over the For more information, or to register long term.” online, visit seiumn.org/lobbyday. Jason George, business manager for For additional questions or special ac- International Union of Operating Engi- commodations, contact Rebecca Ramirez neers Local 49, released the following at 773-318-0884 or [email protected]. statement: “Today’s news is yet another Local 17’s Sky Chefs workers march on Delta Air Lines UNITE HERE Local 17: very positive step in the permitting pro- MSP AIRPORT — About 30 members of UNITE HERE Local 17 who work for Delta Air Lines subcontractor Sky Chefs workers march on Delta cess for the PolyMet project. Our mem- Sky Chefs marched on Delta offices December 21 (photo above). The workers’ contract expired in De- UNITE HERE Local 17 members bers have strongly supported PolyMet cember. The contract covers about 455 workers at MSP airport and is part of a national UNITE HERE who work at airline caterer Sky Chefs for more than 10 years, and we are agreement covering about 20,000 workers. See story this page. marched on Delta Air Lines offices at thrilled that the time to get to work build- MSP airport December 21. ing this project is here.” n Duluth, February 5, 7:30 p.m. The employer no longer will be able “We are frustrated,” explained Adil Operating Engineers Local 49: n Virginia, February 6, 7:30 p.m. to arbitrarily fire workers, Misgina em- Beker, a Sky Chefs driver who is on Meetings coming to discuss Minnesota n St. Cloud, February 7, 7:30 p.m. phasized. leave from his job to work with the Builders Master Agreement n Bagley, February 11, 7:00 p.m. The new contract also establishes se- union. “We are working without a con- The Minnesota Builders Master n Grand Rapids (Eagles Club), Feb- niority rights for current workers to bid tract right now.” Agreement expires at the end of April ruary 12, at 6:30 p.m. on open positions. The workers’ contract expired in De- 2019. International Union of Operating n Sioux Falls, February 14, 7:00 p.m. In addition, the new contract allows cember and is part of a nationwide con- Engineers Local 49 will be hosting pro- n Metro area, February 20, 6:00 p.m. workers to earn accrued sick time, up to tract between Sky Chefs and UNITE posal meetings in Minnesota to hear n Rochester, February 28, 7:00 p.m. nine days a year, which they can use HERE which covers about 455 workers from members about what issues are im- Pipefitters Local 539: without a note from a doctor. at MSP and 20,000 workers nationwide. portant to pursue in negotiations. February 6 membership meeting Under the agreement, the employer At Delta’s MSP offices, the group of Each office will conduct at least one canceled due to Labor Centre remodel will report to workers on their available about 30 marchers found security block- proposal meeting in January or February. The February 6 monthly membership sick time. ing the door and nobody would even ac- Members who can’t make a meeting, meeting for Pipefitters Local 539 has The agreement also calls for the em- cept a letter outlining worker concerns. can log into the members-only portal of been canceled due to remodeling work ployer to try to provide 40 hours of work The march was a response to the lack local49.org and submit proposal ideas. underway for the second floor meeting each week. of any progress at a national bargaining Local 49 encourages members who rooms at the United Labor Centre. The contract did not provide for wage session December 19 in Baltimore with work under the Minnesota Builders Master SEIU Local 26: increases, Misgina said, but “we are Sky Chefs, which Beker attended. Agreement to make their voices heard. Airline cabin cleaning workers win fighting through the Metropolitan- Air “We’re going to continue actions as Here is the schedule of upcoming first contract at U.S. Aviation ports Commission right now to get the needed,” Beker said. meetings at Local 49 offices: After 12 months of struggle and a full $15 minimum wage.” Delta, which earned $5.1 billion in n Mankato, January 24, 7:00 p.m. day of bargaining, airplane cabin clean- Misgina added that the company re- adjusted pre-tax income last year, sub- ing workers at MSP Airport won their cently has said it will increase wages to a contracts work like catering and cabin first contract last month with Delta Air $12 per hour minimum. cleaning to companies like Sky Chefs Pipefitters Local 539 Lines subcontractor U.S. Aviation and SEIU Local 284: and U.S. Aviation. Leadership assembly February 16 PIPERS have a signed collective bargaining Meanwhile, Beker said, Sky Chefs agreement. The 450 workers now are All members of Service Employees workers have received only small raises Dues Reminder members of Service Employees Interna- International Union Local 284 are invit- in the past three years and are struggling Please remember to pay your dues for January- June tional Union Local 26. ed to the 2019 Leadership Assembly Sat- to pay for expensive health insurance 2019. “We were ready for a holiday strike urday, February 16 from 9:00 a.m. to premiums. No Union Meeting in February but by sticking together, MSP Airport 4:00 p.m. at the Saint Paul Labor Center, Beker highlighted another concern, The Union Meeting February 6, 2019 will be workers won a hard-earned first union 353 W. 7th St., Saint Paul. noting that the Sky Chefs workforce con- canceled because of remodeling of the second floor contract,” SEIU Local 26 posted on The Leadership Assembly is an op- sists primarily of immigrant workers. meeting rooms. Facebook December 20. portunity to learn more about Local 284’s “Management is not good the way they Condolences The contract runs until February 1, agenda for 2019 and get involved. treat us. They don’t respect us,” he said. Condolences to the families of Richard Ellingsworth 2020. Information and registration will be Sources: Labor Review reporting and and Robert Dubois. With the new contract, “the big thing available online at seiu284.org. local unions. Next deadline: March 6. If you would like something added to the Pipers section of is we can file a grievance and protect the SEIU Minnesota State Council: To submit a story idea or news item, the Labor Review, call the office at (612) 379-4711. workers,” said SEIU Local 26 organizer Lobby day coming March 19 contact the editor at 612-379-4725 or Paid for by Pipefitters Local 539 • www.pipefitters539.com Abraham Misgina. The 2019 Lobby Day for members of [email protected].

Page 10 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org $5.00 FOR 25 WORDS An exclusive service for subscribing Union members only. Next deadline for Address Change? Sell, Buy, Rent Ads: March 6. Copy must be mailed or delivered. NO TELE- PHONE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Ads must be accompanied by payment in Subscription Instructions? SELL, BUY, RENTDEPARTMENT check or money order. Each ad must in- clude your union affiliation and your Please let us know if your address will be telephone number, along with your mail- ing label. Over 25 words — 15¢ each extra changing, if your household is receiving more word. Your ad runs in one issue only. than one Labor Review, or if you would like to This reader service is provided for Labor Review subscribing Union members who are in good standing cancel your subscription. with their locals. No commercial ads of business firms or any sidelines or hobbies of union members who Cut out or photo-copy your mailing label from are selling products or services can be advertised in these columns. For display advertising, please contact the Labor Review. Mail or deliver your ad and payment to: Sell, Buy, Rent Department, Minneapolis Labor the front page of the newspaper and mail it to us Review, 312 Central Ave., Suite 542 (Fifth Floor), Minneapolis, MN 55414. NEXT DEADLINE: MARCH 6. with your instructions: Attn: mailing list For Sale: Stopped shooting, For Sale: Shopsmith and all Wanted: Old and broken Minneapolis Labor Review selling off my 9-mm. 115-grain tools and books, $500 or best outboard motors, old gas NOTICE 312 Central Ave. Suite 542 ammo, several brands, $10 to offer or trade. Call Wally, 612- engines and chainsaws, also NEXT EDITION OF Minneapolis, MN 55414 $13 per box of 50. John, 763- 599-3103. engine-related items like old LABOR REVIEW: 522-6988. spark plugs, tools, gas and oil Wanted: Old coins, collections, No phone calls, please, to report address changes, MARCH 22 cans, etc. Tom, 763-785-4031. Next Ad Deadline is March 6 For Sale: Adjustable bed, bullion, paper money, gold stop duplicates, or cancel your subscription. Thanks! queen Serta Perfect Sleeper coins, proof sets, mint sets, Wanted: Guitars and amplifi- Free: “Hom” oak tables match- mattress, mint condition, $500 etc. Anything from pennies to ers made in the USA pre-1980. ing, (1) sofa, (2) end, good con- for set. John, 612-356-3192. paper. Best of all, I’ll pay cash dition, no marks. 952-544-0640. Also interested in drums and and come to you. Please call For Sale: Wallpapering tools some other instruments. Bob, Minneapolis Regional For Sale: 2-1/2 acre lakeshore and equipment; Reel lawn- Dick at 612-986-2566. 612-521-4596. lot, 12 miles west of Hinck- mower and bag from the Wanted: Buying advertising-re- ley, great building site, drive- Labor Federation… 1950s; Brothers electric type- lated items, one piece to entire way and staging area are in, Coming writer with paperwork, extra collections, interests include ‘Like’ us on facebook for: $70,000. Call 612-799-1988. Sell, Buy, Rent ribbons. Call Henry, 763-537- beer, soda, liquor, tobacco, gas • News Updates • Action Alerts • For Sale: 2007 Ariens 26-in. 2192, leave message. and oil and almost anything re- Deadlines commercial-duty snow-throw- lated to advertising, older the March 8 • Links • Photos of Union Events • er, model ST9526DLE, 9.5-h.p., Don’t forget to cut out better. Please call Garry at 763- April 5 great condition, headlight, 546-8010 or text me pictures at your mailing label and May 17 hand-warmers, 120-volt elec- 763-202-9067. tric start, paperwork and man- send it in with your June 14 Be sure to include a price uals, $650. Gary, 763-334-3916. Sell, Buy, Rent ad! July 12 www.facebook.com/minneapolisunions for your ‘For Sale’ items! Minneapolis Labor Review 2019 Publication Schedule The Labor Review will publish 11 issues in 2019. Note: NO issue pub- lished in February. The publication date normally will be the last Friday or second to last Friday of each month. February May 31 September 27 No issue published Deadline: May 15 Deadline: September 11 112th Anniversary Issue

March 22 June 28 October 25 Deadline: March 6 Deadline: June 12 Deadline: October 9 General Election Issue

April 19 July 26 November 15 Deadline: April 3 Deadline: July 10 Deadline: October 30 IBEW Local Union 292 Game Fair Preview Holiday Shopping Guide Minneapolis Electrical Workers Primary Election Issue General Membership Meeting apprentice team took 1st place at the 2018 Ideal August 23 December 20 The February 12, 2019 General Membership Meeting National Championship, netting each team member Deadline: August 7 Deadline: December 4 will be relocated due to the remodel of the Labor Centre $10,000. Our JATC was awarded $5,000. 292 also Labor Day Issue Holiday Issue meeting rooms. The meeting will be held at: had a Journeyman take 3rd place in the professional Ukrainian Event Center Individual contest for $10,000. When we say we have Next Special Issue: 301 NE Main St., Minneapolis, MN 55413 the best, we back it up! May 31, 2019 — 112th Anniversary Issue! New Member Orientation and the Steward’s meeting will Condolences Discounted ad rates available be at the Ukrainian Center. The COPE meeting will be Brother Joseph F. Lupo, Jr.; Brother Kenneth J. canceled. The Union Hall will still be open until 7:00 PM. Gustafson. For more information, to suggest a story idea, The Dynasty continues… See you at the General Membership Meeting, or to advertise, contact the editor at 612-379-4725 For the third year in a row, the 292 JATC-sponsored 7:00 p.m. on the Second Tuesday Paid for by IBEW Local 292 • www.ibew292.org or [email protected] www.minneapolisunions.org January 25, 2019 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 11 Inauguration Day, January 7, 2019 SAINT PAUL — All the hard work on behalf of you today as Minnesota’s 41st Governor…” labor-endorsed candidates became reality January 7: Walz highlighted issues on his agenda, including Governor Tim Walz took the oath of office at a cere- ending educational disparities based on race or zip mony at the Fitzgerald Theater in Saint Paul, along code, providing affordable health care to all, and with Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, State Auditor Julie “protecting the right to collectively bargain for a path- Blaha, Secretary of State Steve Simon and Attorney way to the middle class.” General Keith Ellison. Walz spoke to the divisiveness of the times: “We The inauguration ceremony honored teachers, as find ourselves at a time when economic, social, racial, the state’s new Governor — a former teacher — and geographic division feels rampant. I will not nor- comes from a family of teachers. malize behavior that seeks to deepen and exploit Both Walz and Flanagan echoed the “One Minne- these divides. I will not normalize policies that are not sota” theme of their campaign. normal—ones that undermine our decency and re- Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan explained, “One spect. If Washington won’t lead, Minnesota will.” Minnesota does not mean we are all the same. One “One Minnesota is who we are,” Walz said. “We Minnesota means we work together across lines of just need to foster it. Together as One Minnesota, we differences to find our shared values and improve don’t fear the future. We create it.” people’s lives. Let’s get to work.” In addition to Walz, State Auditor Julie Blaha also In his inaugural address, Governor Tim Walz began, is a former teacher. She served as her local union “as a small town boy turned soldier, football coach and president, as MRLF executive board member, and as high school teacher, never did I envision standing before secretary-treasurer of the Minnesota AFL-CIO. Photo above: Tim Walz takes the oath of office as Minnesota’s 41st Governor.

Photo above: Minnesota’s soon-to-be sworn-in state constitutional officers salute the colors. Left to right: Attorney Photo above: Native American drum circle. General Keith Ellison, Secretary of State Steve Simon, State Auditor Julie Blaha, Lt. Governor Peggy Flanagan, Governor Tim Walz.

Photo above: Keith Ellison takes the oath of office as Photo above: Peggy Flanagan and Tim Walz acknowledge the Minnesota Attorney General. Formerly Fifth District crowd after taking to the stage. Flanagan, formerly a Minnesota U.S. Congressman, Ellison is the first African American Photo above: Minnesota State Auditor Julie State Representative, is a member of the White Earth Band of and the first Muslim American to be elected to statewide Blaha spoke after taking her oath.“We will be Ojibwe and the first Native American to win statewide office in office in Minnesota. In his remarks, Ellison said: “The there for the public as an unbiased and thor- Minnesota. Minnesota Attorney General’s office will be a place ough auditor… You will be able to trust our Labor Review photos where everybody counts and everybody matters.” work.” For more photos from this event visit facebook.com/minneapolisunions

Page 12 • Minneapolis Labor Review • January 25, 2019 www.minneapolisunions.org