Vol. 40 No. 2 the Boilermaker Mar • Apr 2001 The Official Publication of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, Forgers, and Helpers, AFL-CIO Charles W. Jones, Editor-in-Chief http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com Reporter http://www.boilermakers.org IN THESE PAGES Local Lodges 27 and 83 hold NACBE Safety Award goes to Local 132 ...... 4 regional tripartite meeting Union, owner, employers LEAP conference discuss common issues stresses bipartisanship . . 5-12 REPRESENTATIVES OF 27 employ- ers and owners met in Kansas City, Mo., on January 20, 2001, for the first regional tripartite conference spon- sored by Lodge 83, Kansas City; Lodge 27, St. Louis; the Kansas City Power & Light Co. (KCPL); and Enerfab. Representatives of the Greater Kansas City Building Trades also attended. Delegates attend the first Missouri regional These locals are carrying the tri- tripartite conference, January 20, 2001. partite concept to the local and regional level, ensuring that lines of Boilermakers helped screening, pulmonary function and industry and to seek solutions togeth- communication remain open respirator fit testing, safety prescrip- er, it is encouraging.” build the Panama Canal . . . . . between Boilermakers, owners, and 13 tion glasses, and helping to meet man- Contractor and owner representa- contractors. power needs. tives also addressed the meeting, dis- Presentations made at the confer- Roger Erickson, bus. mgr. Local 83, cussing several areas of concern, includ- Will the Bush tax cut ence explained the Boilermaker presided over the meeting. He offered ing manning upcoming work. Demand apprenticeship program and the many benefit your family? ...... 14 these remarks: “Anytime owners, for Boilermakers is expected to be much cost-saving services provided by contractors, and labor come together heavier this year than usual. MOST, including employee verifica- to discuss problems that hinder our tion, safety training, drug and alcohol Continued on page 3 Construction conference looks at manpower challenges, new work NEARLY 200 BOILERMAKER Con- recruit apprentices. During the middle However, Everett warned that the struction Division local lodge leaders 1990s, the number of indentured drop-out rate is still high. Too many and staff from all over the U.S. and apprentices had fallen far below the apprentices leave the program before Retirement didn’t Canada met in Miami Beach, Fla., Feb. levels required to fulfill our journey- graduating. slow Beacham Toler down . . . 19 26 to March 4, to discuss upcoming man/apprentice ratios in most area Everett also reported on our efforts to work, safety, jurisdiction, the appren- contracts. Aggressive recruiting has recruit apprentices from minority tice program, and recruiting members. turned that around in the last year, and groups, including women. The number Settlements ...... International President Charles W. all vice-presidential areas reported of female apprentices is rising some- 20 Jones opened the meeting with having enough apprentices to meet what faster than the total number of remarks on the growing amount of those ratios in 2000 and 2001. indentured apprentices, but the num- work for construction Boilermakers Continued on page 3 Confined spaces and the need to ensure that we can man can lead to tragedies ...... 21 all of our jobs this year without dimin- ishing our reputation for providing excellent work, on schedule, under Joe Meredith retires budget, and safely. CONSTRUCTION DIVISION Director Most lodges in the U.S. are experienc- Joe Meredith retired Jan. 31, 2001, after ing a sudden increase in Boilermaker serving the International Brotherhood work after more than a decade of low for 27 years as an Intl. rep., asst. to the demand. Although we are happy to see Intl. pres., and director of the the work, the sudden jump is challeng- Construction Division. ing. Over the past 20 years, some lodges Joe was initiated into Boilermakers have seen their membership base dete- Local 453 on Dec. 22, 1964, and was riorate because we did not have the first graduate of their apprentice enough work to train apprentices. program in 1968. Just as he did last year, President The following year, he won the first Jones exhorted local lodges to recruit Paul Wedge Award for Outstanding Intl. Pres. Charles Jones (l.) shares a skilled, experienced workers from the Apprentice in the Southeast. laugh with Const. Div. Dir. Joe Meredith nonunion sector. “We have done an In 1973, Joe graduated from the (c.) and Francis McCartin, the UA rep. excellent job of increasing the number University of Tennessee with a on the Jurisdiction Directors Committee, of apprentices now studying the trade, Bachelor of Science Degree in at a UA-sponsored party celebrating but apprentices are by definition still Mechanical Engineering, and later their retirement. learning. In the nonunion sector, there earned a Masters in Labor Studies are thousands of welders, riggers, and from Antioch University. the National Center for several years mechanics with several years and He was also appointed Intl. repre- and has represented the Boilermakers many thousands of manhours of expe- sentative in 1973, and soon became the on numerous boards, including the rience. They can be valuable assets in International’s craft jurisdiction Building and Construction Trades our efforts to man our jobs.” expert, representing the Boilermakers Jurisdictional Directors Committee, After International Secretary-Trea- in dozens of jurisdictional disputes the Common Arc Board of Directors, surer Jerry Willburn briefly discussed and arbitrations. On Oct. 1, 1977, Joe the National Board Inspection Code the finances of the Brotherhood, Dan was named asst. dir. of the Committee, the National Joint Rules Everett, national coordinator of the Construction Division, and on June 15, and Standards Committee, the Special Boilermaker Apprentice Program, 1983, he was promoted to division Committee on the Construction gave an update on the number of director. On Sept. 1, 1996, Intl. Pres. Industry, and the Standing Advisory apprentices currently in the program. Charles W. Jones named him asst. to Committee on Construction. More demand for skilled Boilermak- the International president. Joe’s good humor and agreeable ers has encouraged local lodges to be Joe has taught Trade Technology to personality made him popular with all more aggressive in their efforts to first and second-year apprentices at of the people he worked with. ❑ the Boilermaker Reporter 2 Mar • Apr 2001 NEWSMAKERS Cancer survivor sends special thank-you John Clendennen credits Health & Welfare employees with saving his life WHEN NTL MEMBER John Several times during his ordeal, Clendennen was diagnosed with lung John made Cheryl a promise: If he sur- cancer in 1996, his first thought was to vived, he would come to Kansas City simply give up. It had been only two and take her to dinner. years since he’d lost his wife to cancer, In February of this year, he made and the doctors said his was inopera- good on that promise. His cancer has ble. What was the point? been in remission for several years, But his daughters convinced him to and he no longer requires treatment. undergo chemotherapy and radiation So at the first opportunity, he stopped treatments. Doing so would give him off in Kansas City to take Cheryl and a 15 percent chance of surviving. her husband to dinner. The next year was agony. “You have no idea how special this Chemotherapy and radiation are woman is,” John told the Reporter. harsh treatments. Sometimes he was But Cheryl said she was just doing so weak he couldn’t get out of bed. what everyone in the office does. Boilermakers Health & Welfare “There’s a lot of paperwork to be filled Cheryl Mosier and John Clendennen — five years after he was diagnosed with (H&W) assumed nearly all of the con- out. People often have trouble with it, inoperable cancer. siderable cost involved, but he had the and if they’re sick and not feeling well, paperwork to deal with, and in his they can be cranky. You have to have some kind of disability insurance to “I had great doctors,” he said. “But weakened condition, he often couldn’t a sense of humor about the job. That’s figure out where to start. why John and I hit it off. We have the cover that gap,” he said. if it hadn’t been for the staff of the But at the moment, that seems like a Boilermakers Health & Welfare — One of his many phone calls to the same sense of humor.” H&W office for guidance put him in John was quick to agree. “The entire small problem. His cancer is in remis- especially Cheryl Mosier — I wouldn’t sion, and he knows who to thank. be alive today.” ❑ contact with Cheryl Mosier. John says staff was great,” he said, “but Cheryl that was the turning point in his therapy. was special.” “She guided me through piles of He is on full disability now and has paperwork I could never have com- moved to Idaho to start a new life with L-696 member wins pleted on my own,” he said. “And she a new partner. His only complaint in always had a wonderful attitude and a the entire ordeal is that he had no great sense of humor. Every time I income during the months between county seat phoned her, she made my day better.” diagnosis and being declared disabled by Social Security. “We really need Elected by a wide margin, he’s now chairman of board of commissioners

Holt earns 50-year pin THREE YEARS AGO , thousands of dollars Steve Gromala, an elec- into his campaign. trician at Marinette Gromala walked door Marine Corp. and former to door asking for the president of Local 696, support of working fam- Menominee, Wis., heard ilies and spent $146 of Legislative Director his own money, mainly Ande Abbott speak on on a newspaper ad. the importance of having When the votes were working people in public counted, he had more office. Ande’s words than 80 percent. unopposed. This year struck a chord with him. Once on the board, he was elected chair- Working people do not Gromala was quickly man of the board of get enough representa- appointed chairman of commissioners. tion in political circles. the finance committee Steve Gromala is So when his district and the law enforce- proud to serve his com- seat on the Menominee ment committee. He munity in these and County Board of also served on two many other ways, and Commissioners came other committees, he encourages all union open, he decided to take becoming the only com- members to run for a chance. With the missioner serving on all office. “Workers need to promise of support from four of the most impor- have a voice on city his local lodge, Gromala tant committees. And councils, county boards, International President Charles W. Jones presents a 50-year pin to Glenn Holt (r.), started a “grass roots” he was selected to serve school boards, planning former International President of the Metal Polishers International Union and commissions, and zon- current Metal Polishers Conference Director since our unions merged in 1996. campaign for the office. on the Airport The Republican Party Commission and the ing boards,” he says. selected a well-known local hospital board. And the only way to GLENN HOLT has served Metal Pol- tional Brotherhood of Boilermakers. In get that voice is to get ishers for nearly 55 years, ever since he accordance with the merger agree- businessman for their In November 2000, nominee, and pumped when he ran for re-elec- workers elected to those helped organize the shop he worked in ment, Holt was named director of the positions. ❑ at Pittsburgh Plate Glass Company in Metal Polishers Conference, which tion, Gromala was Kokomo, Ind., in 1946, shortly after his oversees all Metal Polisher lodges. He discharge from the U.S. Army. continues to serve in that capacity. The Boilermaker Reporter is the official publi- He had worked at the shop only a Along the way, Holt had time to the Boilermaker cation of the International Brotherhood of Boilermakers, Iron Ship Builders, Blacksmiths, few months, but earned the respect of marry and raise five children, four Forgers, and Helpers, AFL-CIO. It is published his co-workers by organizing the plant sons and a daughter. Three of his bimonthly to disseminate information of use and getting the company to ratify their sons followed him into the Metal Pol- and interest to its members. Submissions from first contract. As quickly as the first ishers union. Reporter members, local lodges, and subordinate or affiliated bodies are welcomed and contract was ratified, in August 1946, Holt also managed to find time to Mar • Apr 2001 Vol. 40 No. 2 Holt enrolled in Local 24 of the Metal become a Bluegrass music star. He was encouraged. This publication is mailed free Charles W. Jones, International President of charge to active members and retired Polishers, Buffers, Platers, and Helpers known as Chubby Lee and played with and Editor-in-Chief members holding a Retired Members Card. International Union and was elected his Ramblin’ Ridgerunners Band on Jerry Z. Willburn,Intl. Secretary-Treasurer Others may subscribe for the price of $10 for chairman of the bargaining committee. WKMO radio in Kokomo. three years. Standard Mail (A) postage paid He held that position until 1964, Brother Holt continues to live in International Vice Presidents at Kansas City, Kan., and additional mailing when he became an International rep- Kokomo with his wife Marilyn, but he Lawrence McManamon, Great Lakes offices. ISSN No. 1078-4101. Michael S. Murphy, Northeast POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: resentative. He continued as an Inter- has lost weight, given up playing and Newton B. Jones, Southeast The Boilermaker Reporter national rep. until 1976, when he was singing on the radio, and is no longer George Rogers, Central 753 State Avenue, Suite 565 elected International vice president. known as Chubby Lee. Don Lacefield, Western States Kansas City, KS 66101 When International President Jim At the LEAP conference, Interna- Richard Albright, Western Canada (913) 371-2640; FAX (913) 281-8104 Siebert retired in June 1984, Holt was tional President Charles Jones pre- Alexander MacDonald, Eastern Canada Web sites: IBB.workingfamilies.comand www.boilermakers.org elected International president, a posi- sented a 50-year membership pin to Jim Hickenbotham, At-Large PUBLICATION AGREEMENT No. 1475908 tion he held until October 12, 1996. Holt and commended him for his life- Othal Smith Jr., At-Large Editorial staff On that day, the Metal Polishers time of service to the working men and Printed in the USA International Union voted at a special women in the Metal Polishers Union Donald Caswell, Managing Editor convention to merge with the Interna- and now the Boilermakers union. ❑ Carol Dillon, Asst. to the Managing Editor A prize-winning newspaper http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 3 Mar • Apr 2001 NEWSMAKERS Construction conference looks at manpower needs Continued from page 1 numerous incentives each day to mem- ber of minorities is rising more slowly. bers who worked safely. Our difficulty recruiting minorities Local 154 Bus. Mgr. Ray Ventrone may be a byproduct of low unemploy- said, “I am very proud of how Local ment and the growing information 154 members have taken to this industry. Like many vocations, we are training. They have worked hard and losing qualified candidates to com- it is making a difference on the job.” puter jobs. As growth in the informa- He said that his members have gone tion industry slows down, we expect to out of their way to get the safety train- see more minority applicants for the ing, even coming in on weekends dur- apprentice program. ing the busy periods of the year. Local Construction Division Director Dale 154 has put 98 percent of their members through the MOST safety course, and MOST presents safety excellence awards to Locals 74 and 154. Left to right, MOST Branscum and International Rep. Safety Instructor Dave Haggerty, Local 74 Bus. Mgr. Ron Keck, MOST Executive Michael DiCicco discussed work per- about 35 percent through the scaffold course. They expect that number to go Administrator Bill Palmisano, MOST Safety Instructor Bridget McManamon, and formed under the national agreements Local 154 Bus. Mgr. Ray Ventrone and answered questions regarding up substantially as soon as they can jurisdiction. schedule another training session. MOST safety training is Owner representatives showing good results discuss new work BILL PALMISANO, administrator of KEN PHY, OF ENTERGY, presented a Mobilization, Optimization, Stabiliza- detailed discussion of the construction tion, and Training (MOST), reported and transport of nuclear fuel casks, they performed more than 23,000 drug which are used to move and store spent screenings in 2000. Of the 4,282 random nuclear fuel. tests performed in 2000, less than one- As nuclear power plants around the half of one percent were positive. country age, they will need to store MOST also processed over 5,000 tem- their spent fuel. The federal govern- porary work visa applications from ment has not yet named the site they Canadian members seeking work in intend to use for long-term storage of the United States. MOST is able to spent nuclear fuel. Nuclear power streamline the visa application process plants will need to store this material onsite or at a short-term facility until Ken Phy, Entergy, discusses the and help our members from Canada process of moving and storing spent work in the U.S. With unemployment the long-term storage is available. nuclear fuel. in Canada now above seven percent, Phy projects that nuclear power many Canadian Boilermakers are seek- plants will be doing a great deal of 20 years, arranged by rate of return. ing work in the U.S., where many U.S. work in this area in the near future. Each group had good years and bad, locals expect manpower shortages Much of that work will be done by Boil- but rarely two good years in a row. For throughout the year. ermakers. Phy’s discussion centered on example, the listing for 1999 was a mir- Safety instructors David Haggerty the technical aspects of building and ror image of the one for 1998 — the and Bridget McManamon discussed moving the storage casks, specifically stocks that made the most in 1998 made the MOST safety training programs. those made by Holtec. the least in 1999, and vice versa. This These programs continue to be an effec- Entergy is already involved in the chart showed very clearly why the tive way to keep our members from FitzPatrick project, which will provide fund money managers use a conserva- suffering injuries, as has been proven dry storage facilities and transfer 200 tive investing approach that relies by the NACBE safety index (see story spent fuel assemblies by October 2002. heavily on the guaranteed returns of page 4). More than 4,000 construction Doug Kieta, representing Calpine, government bonds. members went through the construc- stirred a great deal of discussion with In 1999, while some stocks soared, tion safety and health class in 2000, and his presentation. Calpine employs one third of stocks lost ground. In 2000, another 435 went through the new class nonunion contractors on several of most stocks lost ground. And this year, Intl. Pres. Charles Jones took the on scaffold safety. In addition, MOST their sites. Kieta’s indifference toward that trend has worsened as many inter- opportunity at the Construction unions was evident in a remark he conference to present membership trained and certified 204 Boilermaker net companies have bankrupted. pins to Central States IVP George safety trainers in their OSHA 500 made regarding union Boilermakers The trust fund managers cannot working for nonunion contractors. Rogers (top), Building & Construction course. Palmisano pointed out that accept that level of risk when investing Trades Secretary-Treasurer Joe grants from the Center for the Protec- the money you’ll need in retirement. By Maloney, a member of Boilermakers tion of Worker Rights (CPWR) pay for Financial advisors explain taking a conservative approach, they Local 128, Toronto (middle), and Hazardous Waste Operations (HAZ- trust fund investments do not enjoy huge gains, but they also former director of the Construction WOP) training. do not suffer huge losses. Division Joe Meredith. Two locals were singled out for their PAUL ERLENDSON of Callan Associ- Erlendson also said that the annuity success in safety training — Locals 74 ates discussed investments made by program we now have in place cannot ermakers on the annuity program and 154. Ron Keck, bus. mgr. of Local the national funds and the possibility of be modified to allow for individually- would be enormous. That expense 74, discussed training done in his local. modifying the pension and annuities directed investment. would be borne by the members hold- Both the owner, Reliant Energy, and programs we now have to allow for We could start a new fund that ing the annuities, so they would be the employer, B&W, were strongly individual investment. He provided a allowed this, but Erlendson said that more likely to lose than to gain from committed to safety. In addition to pro- table that lists the average returns for the expense of tracking individual directing their own investments. ❑ viding special training, they distributed different groups of stocks over the past investments for the thousands of Boil- Locals 27 and 83 hold regional tripartite meeting

Continued from page 1 Iowa. Tracking proposed work in the While addressing the meeting, Ralph entire area will be a big job, but the Boehm, manager of maintenance serv- rewards could be great for the contrac- ices for KCPL, surprised the group by tors and owners we serve — not to suggesting a way to report upcoming mention our overworked dispatchers. manpower needs that will help all This proposal is more proof that the three groups — owners, contractors, tripartite approach is worth the effort. and the Boilermakers — a plan for Because most Boilermaker work future work without revealing any takes place in the months with agree- company’s confidential information. able weather — the spring and fall Attendees endorsed the plan as a months — manpower shortages have good way to avoid manpower prob- always plagued our industry. If this lems caused when several companies reporting method works in this small schedule major maintenance projects at arena, other areas may try it. the same time. They agreed to ask their Erickson closed the meeting with companies to try out the plan. the observation that it had been “extremely successful.” He urged all Between the two of them, Locals 27 Ralph Boehm, manager of maintenance services at KCPL, addresses the region- and 83 represent Boilermakers in all of parties to “keep these lines of commu- nication open.” ❑ al tripartite meeting, flanked by Local 83 Bus.Mgr. Roger Erickson, at left, and Jim Missouri, Kansas, Nebraska, and Prothe, superintendent of construction services at KCPL,at right. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 4 Mar • Apr 2001 NEWSMAKERSPAGE ID Local Lodge 132 wins NACBE safety award Twenty-two locals have no lost-time injuries in 2000

MEMBERS OF LOCAL Lodge How much money is $1.878 classes provided by MOST. 132, Galveston, Tex., won the billion? It would employ No one goes to work intend- national safety award for 2000 more than 3,000 Boilermakers ing to get injured, but inatten- presented by the National for 1,500 hours a year over the tion to details or lack of Association of Construction ten-year period in question. knowledge of safety proce- Boilermaker Employers And although the benefit to dures can lead to accidents. (NACBE). They finished the Boilermakers is not that MOST programs teach year with no lost-time acci- direct, when we save money practical safety methods, ones dents, but even that didn’t for our employers by working that are successful on the job. guarantee the title, because 22 safely, they can win more bids They teach Boilermakers to out of 56 locals did the same and we will get more work. recognize conditions that may thing. To determine the win- Better still, we ensure that lead to accidents and take ner, NACBE had to compare every Boilermaker goes home steps to correct them before Central States International Vice President George Rogers, sec- compensatory accident rates. safe and whole every day. an accident occurs. ond from right, accepts the 2000 NACBE National Safety Award NACBE also presented A key reason our injury rate For information on MOST on behalf of members of Local 132. Presenting the award is awards to the lodges with the is declining is that more safety programs, contact Bill International President Charles W. Jones. Also pictured are lowest lost-time accident in lodges and more members are Palmisano, 913-281-5036. ❑ NACBE President Wendell Bell (second from left) and NACBE each vice-presidential area. participating in safety training Executive Director John Erickson (far right). The following lodges won: Western States: Local 182, Salt Lake City Great Lakes: Local 374, Hammond, Ind. Southeast: Local 69, Little Rock, Ark. Northeast: Local 7, Buffalo, N.Y. NACBE presents this award each year to encourage Boilermakers to keep safety foremost in their minds. The award has helped. Since NACBE began tracking injury Local 374 Bus. Mgr. Chuck Vanover (far right) and Great Lakes rates in 1990, the Boilermakers Dale Branscum, former Local 69 bus. mgr., Southeast Area IVP IVP Larry McManamon (second from right) accept the NACBE Newton Jones, and International Rep. Bill Elrod accept the 2000 have reduced their lost-time Safety Award for the Great Lakes on behalf of L-374 members. NACBE Award for the Southeast on behalf of Local 69 members. injury rate by 90.1 percent. “This is one competition with a desirable outcome for employers as well as Boiler- makers,” NACBE Executive Director John Erickson said. Comparing each year’s injury rate with the rate in 1990, Erickson calculates that by working more safely, Boilermakers have avoided 12,519 lost-time injuries since 1991. Avoiding those acci- dents has enabled employers and owners to avoid over $375 million in direct costs Local 7 Bus. Mgr. Pat Lyons (far right) and Northeast IVPMichael Intl. Rep Tony Gallo (far right) and Western States IVPDon Lacefield and at least $1.878 billion in S. Murphy (second from right) accept the 2000 NACBE Safety (second from right) accept the 2000 NACBE Safety Award for the indirect costs. Award for the Northeast on behalf of Local 7 members. Western States Area on behalf of members of Local 182. Unions join civil rights community to celebrate Martin Luther King Day Working families honor have the right to come together to improve their lives and to be treated King’s legacy with dignity and respect,” said Brown. The community service activities ON MONDAY, JANUARY 15, over 600 union members and leaders in were a high point in the five-day cele- bration of King’s legacy. Working Greensboro, N.C., participated in an annual parade on Martin Luther King families participated in several com- munity service projects in the Day. The parade followed five days of King Day celebrations, including edu- Greensboro area on January 13, including the Poplar Grove Head Start cational seminars, community service events, rallies, and religious services. center, where they moved and repaired playground equipment, Boilermaker Intl. Vice Pres. Jim Hickenbotham joined AFL-CIO Sec.- painted the building’s interior, and Treas. Richard Trumka, Exec. Vice did general landscaping. While one ABOVE: L. to r., AFL-CIO Sec.-Treas. Pres. Linda Chavez-Thompson, Vice crew worked at the center, another Richard Trumka, AFL-CIO Civil and Pres. Clayola Brown, and Civil and group sorted, packed, and distributed Human Rights Director Richard Human Rights Director Richard more than $20,000 worth of clothes, Womack, and Boilermaker IVP Jim Womack at the festivities to honor Dr. paper, and canned goods to local char- Hickenbotham at a breakfast honor- itable groups. Others counseled fami- ing the legacy of Martin Luther King Jr. Martin Luther King Jr. and his civil rights and workers’ rights legacies. lies at a local shelter and landscaped a faith-based health center. AT RIGHT: IVP Hickenbotham with AFL- “The AFL-CIO King Day celebra- CIO Exec. VP Linda Chavez- tion is a unique opportunity for the “Dr. King combined his love of the community with a commitment to Thompson. Thompson and AFL-CIO union movement to show that our Sec.-Treas. Richard Trumka led the goals are the same as Dr. King’s — to progressive change. We want to show Martin Luther King Jr. Day parade and people that change is possible if you ensure that all American workers voter rights rally in Greensboro. organize,” said Womack. ❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 5 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID 33rd Annual LEAPLEAP ConferenceConference March 19-23, 2001 Washington, D.C.

did nationwide, the new president workers. President Bush would rather 33rd annual LEAP conference immediately abandoned the moderate see that burden borne by the 1.6 million pose he had held through his campaign workers who develop carpal tunnel stresses bipartisanship and began an unprecedented attack on syndrome, trigger finger, back prob- unions and working families. lems, and other repetitive stress disor- He issued a series of executive orders ders each year. HE NEARLY 200 Boilermaker (see story page 9) because of his work intended to weaken unions, including In the first two months of Bush’s local lodge leaders who with us on legislation involving our an order banning project labor agree- administration, Congress seemed will- attended this year’s Legisla- railroad and shipbuilding members. ments on federal construction projects ing to pass any legislation Bush sent tive Education-Action Pro- These congressmen and all of the and one that reversed a Clinton order them. In recent weeks, their attitude Tgram (LEAP) conference in speakers at the conference repeated an intended to ensure that companies has begun to change. First the Senate Washington, D.C., March 19-23, important refrain: we need Republican doing business with the federal govern- passed a campaign finance reform bill learned the true meaning of a word the votes to get our bills through Congress. ment abide by the law. Now companies that the president opposed (he spent a president has been using a great deal Republicans hold a five-seat majority in that break labor and safety laws can get record $185 million getting elected and lately: bipartisanship. the House of Representatives, and federal contracts again. raised countless millions in soft money The word wasn’t spoken all that although the Senate is split directly Congress seemed powerless to stop for the Republican Party). often, but the idea was evident. Two of down the middle, with 50 Democrats the president. In fact, they helped him. Then the Senate attacked his $1.6 bil- the six members of Congress who and 50 Republicans, the tie-breaking One of their first orders of business was lion tax cut, paring it down to $1.2 mil- addressed the meeting were Republi- vote (if needed) will be cast by Republi- to block the Occupational Safety and lion. This action not only drags out the cans and four were Democrats. can Vice President Dick Cheney. Health Administration’s (OSHA) new process for approving the bill, leaving it Speakers included congressmen in Clearly, if workers hope to pass any ergonomics rule. open for more detailed scrutiny, but it leadership positions from both parties. legislation in 2001 or 2002, we will need This rule was originally proposed by also sends a message to the White Minority Whip David Bonior (MI-10) support from moderate Republicans. Elizabeth Dole when she was Secretary House. From the moment he proposed and Minority Leader Dick Gephardt That support will not be easy to get, of Labor under the first Bush, but busi- this tax cut, the president has been very (MO-3) represented the Democrats, but dozens of Republicans in Congress ness interests managed to delay its firm about what he wants. Although he along with Rep. Neil Abercrombie (HI- have expressed their willingness to implementation for ten years. Then has avoided saying he would veto an 1) and Rep. George Miller (CA-7). work with us when our interests coin- Congress used a power they had altered tax cut bill, he has stated more The Republicans were represented cide. And our interests may coincide granted themselves in 1996, to revoke than once that he will only accept a $1.6 by Rep. Frank LoBiondo (NJ-2) and more often this year than in others. rules made by government agencies to billion cut — no more and no less. Rep. Don Young (AK-at-large), who is Although President Bush entered the set aside the ergonomics rule. The McCain-Feingold Campaign the chairman of the House Transporta- office under a cloud of illegitimacy Bush signed the order, saying that it Finance Reform Act passed 59 to 41, tion and Infrastructure Committee. because of uncounted ballots in Florida was too burdensome to businesses. with 12 Republicans voting against the Young was also chosen as the Boiler- and the fact that his opponent got more Revoking the rule lets businesses makers Legislator of the Year for 2001 than half a million more votes than he ignore the ergonomics needs of their Continued on page 6 http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 6 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID Annual LEAP conference stresses importance of continuous political action

Continued from page 5 Republicans are reaching out to labor. wishes of their party leader, the presi- They recognize that the Republican dent. This fact alone spells hope that Party has alienated unions to the extent workers can find moderate Republi- that nearly every candidate endorsed cans to support us on some issues. by the AFL-CIO is a Democrat. Delegates to the LEAP conference For their part, unions are reaching didn’t have to go that far, though. They out as well. Bipartisanship seems to be only had to listen to the speakers. just a slogan for President Bush. He has The first congressman to speak on made no real effort to accommodate Tuesday was Rep. Frank LoBiondo, a Democrats in Congress or to amend Republican from New Jersey. He was his radical legislative agenda to very clear regarding his support for include legislation that protects work- working families. ers. But for unions, bipartisanship is a “If we do what is good for working reality, as our LEAP conference and men and women,” he told the confer- political activity have demonstrated. ence, “we do what is good for Amer- The comments excerpted on these ica. Being FOR workers doesn’t mean pages reflect the thoughts of a wide being AGAINST business. Both par- variety of people from different back- ties have their share of people who grounds and political parties, but they don’t understand the issues, but we all share a commitment to ensuring have the ability to come together and that whatever legislation comes out of work together.” Washington will be good for the work- George Pinkerman of Local 667, and Garry Ledford of Local 105, at right, join ❑ Rep. LoBiondo belongs to a group of ing men and women of this nation. delegates from all across the U.S. for the opening day of the 33rdLEAP conference. Republicans who meet regularly with labor leaders and representatives of working people to learn our problems and our issues. He and other moderate Excerpts from Speeches to the LEAP Conference Charles W. Jones Ande Abbott lion getting elected. Labor was outspent International President Legislative Director by businesses 15 to one in political dona- tions. In 1998, it was only eight to one. “PRESIDENT BUSHhas a great speech “THE BOILERMAKERSLEAP confer- “Boilermakers are doing a good job writer. He’s going around the country ence is the longest running legislative raising money for CAF — the Cam- telling people that he wants to give conference in town. We do have paign Assistance Fund. That’s the your taxes back to you, to give you impact, people on the Hill know us and money we donate to candidates for more money to spend so you can they remember us. their campaigns. Donations have been improve the economy. “If we don’t stand up for working going up for several years. We raised “Yet the New York Timessays more people, no one will. There are all kinds over $700,000 in 1999 and 2000. than 40 percent of the tax cut will go to of nonprofit associations that watch out “But LEF contributions are going the richest one percent of Americans. for the environment and government down. That’s the Legislative Education The bottom 80 percent, which includes waste and animal rights and God Fund. That’s the money we use to put nearly all workers, will have to share knows what else, but the only groups on this conference, print the LEAP less than one-third of that cut. And the watching out for workers are the manuals, and do other things to edu- bottom 20 percent will get less than one unions. If we don’t do it, nobody will. cate our members about politics and percent of that cut. “What the government gives, the the political process. We need to get CHARLES W. JONES “The surplus he wants to spend is government can take away. A lot of those contributions back up. International President mainly Social Security money. He’ll people think the government gave “Right now we have one of the throw it all in one pot to make it look them the 40-hour week and safety reg- biggest union busters in the country in like he has enough money for a huge ulations and Medicare, but we had to the White House. Dick Cheney. When tax cut for his rich friends. Then we’ll fight for them. It was unions who did he was in Congress he opposed every- run out of money for Medicare. the fighting. Unorganized workers thing labor brought up. I can show you “Bush said he didn’t want seniors to have no way of being politically active. the list. It’s too long to read aloud. His have to choose between food and pre- “If the Bush tax cut goes through, our company, Halliburton, is also a notori- scription drugs. But under his prescrip- social safety net will fall apart. We are ous union-busting company. tion drug plan, a widow making heading for a recession. A tax cut for “In Bush’s first 30 days in office he $15,000 has to pay $6,000 for prescrip- rich people won’t help that. With a five has pursued a fierce anti-union agenda. tion medicine — that’s $500 a month on trillion dollar debt, we shouldn’t be Nearly every executive order he has prescription drugs — before she can get talking about a surplus. We should be signed has been an effort to weaken a dime from Bush’s plan. That leaves talking about making Social Security and silence unions. “ her $9,000 to pay for housing, utilities, stronger, about a real prescription drug and everything else, including food. I plan for Medicare, one that helps low- Continued on page 7 have a feeling she would be choosing income retirees. between food and her medicine. “We need to get active now for the How important is the “We need a rail system and to get our 2002 elections. We could lose some roads in better shape, but there won’t seats. We need to activate areas that tie-breaking vote? ANDE ABBOTT be any money for that. He has to give have never been active before. In the WITH THE SENATE split 50-50, Legislative Director those taxes back to the rich to repay districts where our members work Democrats to Republicans, Republi- them for getting him elected to office. hard, we elect pro-worker candidates. can Vice President Dick Cheney is “Bush may have snuck into office But there are a lot of districts where the deciding vote in the case of a tie. under the coattails of his daddy’s unions are not active at all or are doing Just how important is that tie- friends on the Supreme Court, but your very little. We need to get them active, breaking vote, really? Very impor- vote did count. We split the Senate and to register voters, and get out the vote. tant. It has already been used to have almost 50 percent of the House. “The most effective way to get your block an effort to help retirees. Without those people in office, Bush message across is leaflets at work.” Senators Max Baucus (D-Mont.) would run right over us. Those are the and Bob Graham (D-Fla.) proposed people you will be talking to all of this Bridget Martin an amendment to trim $158 billion week and those are the people you Deputy Director of Government Affairs off of Bush’s proposed tax cut and need to keep talking to all year.” set that money aside to pay for a pre- “IN THE 2000 ELECTIONS, union vot- scription drug plan for retirees on Union Members As ers made a difference. Labor stayed Medicare. focused on the issues. Percentage of All Voters The Senate vote was split on party “Union voters as a percentage of the lines, with Republicans demanding total vote is going up. It was 19 percent the tax cut exactly as Bush wrote it. 26% in 1992, 23 percent in 1996, and 26 per- Dick Cheney cast the deciding vote 23% cent in 2000. to kill the amendment, ensuring that “Now what do Boilermakers do?We seniors won’t get their prescription BRIDGET MARTIN 19% raise money for pro-labor candidates. medication, but the rich will get Deputy Director of Government Affairs We increase union voter registration. In their tax cut. 1992 1996 2000 1999 and 2000, candidates spent $2.5 bil- http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 7 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID

Continued from page 6 forced government contractors to post Beck notices. Rep. Neil Abercrombie “After ten years of study on Dem. — 1st Hawaii the ergonomics rule, the House would rather go into “LABOR WAS OUR [Democ- recess than allow us more than rats] biggest supporter. It’s no one hour of debate. surprise that the first thing “We picked up four seats in Bush did was take away labor- California because of the union management committees and coalition. They weren’t won project labor agreements. That with big money. They won he put zero dollars into the because they had union mem- maritime industry. That he is bers on the phone, going door- right now going after Davis- to-door. Bacon. All those things are “When the election is over, good for unionized workers. labor’s efforts have to be He had to pay back the corpo- stronger. It can’t be done 30 to rate backers who bought him 60 days in even-numbered REP. NEIL ABERCROMBIE REP. DAVID BONIOR REP. DICK GEPHARDT years. It has to be an ongoing (D — 1st Hawaii) Minority Whip Minority Leader his job. (D — 10th Michigan) (D — 3rd Missouri) “They [Republicans] use the campaign. NRA as a wedge to get “We have to have a pact that me are the contacts from my between working people. The works both ways. After they congressional district. Those NRA board is not for working are elected, candidates must are the people I answer to. I people. We need to form our follow through. They must don’t answer to anyone in own gun association that remember where their support Washington. I answer to the comes from — not get in office would be pro-worker and use people back home.” it against them. and say, I didn’t realize the rich “There will be no shipbuild- had these problems. Rep. Dick Gephardt ing program because that “I want to use my position of leadership to educate mem- House Minority Leader money is going to the tax cut. Dem. — 3rd Missouri They are going to use up our bers of Congress about the Medicare money, too. labor movement.” “ORGANIZED LABOR as a “We spent 13 years getting whole turned out better than it out of that hole, 13 years figur- Rep. Frank Lobiondo had in all of history, because ing out a way to have a surplus Rep. — 2nd New Jersey you encouraged your mem- instead of a deficit so the bers to vote and informed national debt could go down “MY FAMILY WAS in the them of the issues. If you keep trucking business. We had a instead of up, and the first doing what you’re doing, we’ll REP. FRANK LoBIONDO REP. GEORGE MILLER thing they do with the surplus good working relationship have the House back in 2002. (R — 2nd New Jersey) (D— 7th California) with the Teamsters. That’s is give it to the rich guys. It’s “Two weeks ago, Congress not a tax cut, it’s a tax grab. where I learned about unions. struck down the ergonomics goods, then we need to build “If we join with President “There’s no way labor can When there was a problem, we rule. Efforts started ten years compete with the hard money had a way to sit down and highways and railroads and Bush, then we won’t have to ago to write that rule. Clinton ships. We need to use all of our worry about workers’ inter- that Bush brought in. We can work it out. We had a way to finally got it in place in his last compete with votes. communicate. resources, and that includes ests, because they’ll be on the few months in office. Then the the petroleum resources in the endangered species list. “Never forget the basics, the “I have tried to continue that business interests pulled it up fundamentals. That’s what here in Washington. I meet Alaskan wilderness.” “Does it worry you to think for review, no warning, and that with Dick Cheney’s bad wins. Organizing people one- with union leaders. I am part of they allowed only one hour of on-one. An injury to one is an a group we call Republicans Rep. David Bonior heart, Bush is only a heartbeat debate. One hour of debate on House Minority Whip away from the presidency? injury to all. The fundamental Working with Labor. We lis- a rule that took ten years to underlying principle of union- ten, we talk, and we find com- Dem. — 10th Michigan “As labor leaders, you need write. They don’t want the to do five things to fight back ism. We stick together so that mon ground. public to know. “If we do what is good for “THERE WILL BE reports against Bush: nobody gets left out, every- “When Reagan asked for his coming out in a few weeks that body gets a piece of the pie. working men and women, we “1. Educate and mobilize tax cut of $750 billion over five show Al Gore won in Florida “When we win, when labor do what is good for America. your workforce. years, we thought it would by 10,000 votes. He won “2. Build coalitions. wins, America wins.” Being FOR workers doesn’t lead to deficits and high inter- mean being AGAINST busi- nationally by over a half a mil- “3. Organize new members. est rates. I was getting calls lion votes. We’ve got to change Think about this — with five Rep. George Miller ness. Both parties have their from home to give the presi- share of people who don’t our antiquated laws so that percent more union members, Dem. — 7th California dent a chance, we need a tax understand the issues, but we people’s votes count. Gore would be in the White cut, so against my better judg- “There are real workers in House right now. “IT IS VERY CLEARthat this have the ability to come ment I voted yes. administration is going to be together and work together. D.C., but there are those who “4. Take action at the state “The deficit climbed every come here who don’t live in level. We need to gain control hostile to working families. “Thanks to our friendship, year. By 1992, we were $5 tril- They’ve already reformed [AFL-CIO President] John the real world. of state legislatures. lion in debt, interest rates were “There’s only one way peo- “5. Speak out about our bankruptcy, done away with Sweeney comes in and talks to sky-high, unemployment was the ergonomics rule and proj- us when there’s a problem so ple of this country have ever vision for America. high, and we were paying $235 gotten ahead. That’s by stand- “There are some fights we ect labor agreements, and we understand your needs billion a year in interest. better. But what means most to ing up and fighting. For work- can’t win, but if we work “No one liked what Clinton ing people, fighting back has together, there are many we had to do to get rid of that never been more important can win. We owe it to our chil- deficit. But it was right for the than now. dren to fight to make our How President Bush’s tax cut country. We got the deficit “Bush talks about being a vision of America a reality.” will give your Medicare funds to the rich down and have been talking compassionate conservative. surplus for the last three years. Yet he is cutting project agree- David Medina “I don’t want to give Bush a ments, breathing life back into Legislative Representative HE REPEATEDLY DENIES sooner, if President Bush’s chance. I gave the last one a it, but President Bush’s tax cut tax plan gets adopted. That’s Beck, and looking away from AFL-CIO chance and we’ve been clean- Mexican transports that don’t will drain money from the because Bush wants to shift ing up the mess ever since. Medicare trust fund, and most non-hospital costs from the meet our safety standards but “BUSH DOESN’T LIKE the “I want a tax cut for the mid- come into the country because idea of campaign finance of that money will end up in general tax fund to the dle class and those who aspire the pockets of rich people. Medicare trust. of NAFTA. reform, but he knows it’s com- to the middle class. I want “He wants to give the richest ing. His people in Congress Medicare is divided into Doing so leaves more lower interest rates to boost the two parts. Hospital costs, money in the general tax one percent 42 percent of the will tack on amendments economy, not lower tax rates tax cut, while a widow with intended to harm unions and which make up the bulk of fund, so the tax cut seems for the rich.” the program, are paid from easier to afford. But it also two kids working as a waitress working families. Medicare’s share of the drains money out of the will get no tax relief at all. “They’ll tack on a ‘paycheck Social Security payroll tax — Medicare fund, so that Con- Rep. Don Young “Everyone wants a tax cut. deception’ amendment. In the money in the Medicare gress will need to address the Rep. — At-Large Alaska But we need to make sure fact, Bush has said he’ll veto those who need it get it. And the bill if it comes to his desk trust fund. shortfall sooner. “I BELIEVE IN building with The rest of Medicare costs What the president would we need to leave enough without this provision. Pay- union workers. money in the Treasury so we check deception requires are paid from a combination be doing is transferring “The infrastructure of this of general tax funds and resources from Medicare can get programs for prescrip- union member approval country is way behind the tion drugs and keep Social before proceeding with any patient premiums. recipients to mostly well-off country’s economic and popu- The hospital trust fund is taxpayers. Security strong. political activity. This amend- lation growth. “Yes, put money back in ment is intended to tie our now enjoying a surplus, but “If we want to compete in that is expected to disappear SOURCE: Washington Post people’s pockets. But do it hands. If we have to wait for editorial, March 14, 2001 the global economy, to get responsibly. member approval for every in about 15 years — much goods to market and receive Continued on page 8 http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 8 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID

Continued from page 7 political action, we’ll never be able to get anything done. “Another amendment raises the individual contribution limits from $1,000 to $3,000. Less than one percent of all Americans gave $1,000 to a candidate in the 1999-2000 election cycle. The richest one percent. This amendment is intended to make them three times as powerful. “Bush says his tax plan will cost $1.6 trillion, but it will really cost $2.6 trillion. He has hidden a lot of costs and put off CINDY BROWN DAVID MEDINA KEN GROSSINGER DENNIS BOSTON the biggest part of the cuts for Am. Shipbuilding Assoc. Pres. AFL-CIO Leg. Rep. AFL-CIO Field Coordinator BRS - VP, Dir.of Legislation five years from now, when he will no longer be in office and that penalize employees who percent — putting a strain on Ken Grossinger someone else can take the heat leave the industry. our ships, our sailors, and Field Coordinator for the problems it creates. “We want to reduce carrier maintenance crews. AFL-CIO “The Bush administration taxes and require the carriers to “The Navy says they need wants to use all of the surplus ensure that the Railroad Retire- 360 ships. If you figure a ship’s “OVER THE PAST 30 years we for tax cuts. There will be no ment Account maintains a suffi- life at 30 years, we need to have seen a huge decline in money left for prescription cient fund-to-benefit ratio in the build 12 ships a year just to union density. The first impact drugs or education.” future by agreeing to automatic maintain a 360 ship navy. is weekly earnings. There’s a future tax hikes if necessary. “The Congressional Budget direct correlation. Real wages Judy Mazo “Three senators are in our Office says we need to spend declined from 1973 to 1993, as Sen. Vice Pres.- Dir. of Research way. [Sen. Pete] Domenici $12.5 billion to build ships. union membership declined. Segal Company [Rep.-NM], [Sen. Don] Nickels That’s twice what is in the cur- “It also impacts politics. [Rep.-OK], and [Sen. Phil] rent federal budget. Unions give workers a voice in “HR 10 WOULD FIXthe prob- Gramm [Rep.-TX]. They want “There is also great demand government. Without that lems in Section 415 of the IRS to take half of the railroad for commercial ships, espe- voice, they lose faith in the code without creating any new retirement money for the fed- cially double-hull tankers. For process. From 1964 to 1996, the problems. It was passed by the eral government.” the first time in over 40 years, number of people who said House last year, but was the U.S. is building cruise they generally trusted govern- ROGER BLACKLOW attached to unacceptable Sen- Stanley Kolbe, Jr. ships. But commercial cus- ment dropped 41 percent.” ❑ LIUNA Natl. Political Coord. ate bills and died with them. Director of Legislative Affairs tomers have to find affordable “This bill gives multi- SMACNA financing. employer pension plans [like “That’s where Title XI comes Bush’s radical tax cut is reckless the Boilermakers pension] the “THE SO-CALLED Skilled in. It provides loan guarantees same exemptions that federal Workforce Enhancement Act so customers can get the loans and unfair to working families employees get. promotes training by compa- they need to build ships. The IT IS BASED ON FUZZY MATH.BUSH WANTS TO “It would apply to those nies unable to meet federal demand for ships is $4 billion. already retired as well. They standards. It offers $15,000 per pay for his tax cut with the budget surpluses projected for the “President Bush has zero- next ten years. But economists warn that there is little chance could get back benefits in trainee, per year. budgeted Title XI. He doesn’t increments. “Meanwhile, companies the money available from budget surpluses will be enough. want to give this program a Citizens for Tax Justice calculates that unless they use the Social “Congress needs limits for that meet federal standards in penny. Other countries have the top earners like doctors most cases would be ineligible Security and Medicare surpluses, the government will fall at loan programs. These ships least $300 billion short. and CEOs, not union construc- to receive any tax advantage. will be built overseas.” tion workers.” “The federal government See their report: http://www.ctj.org/html/surp0301.htm keeps track of bidders with Roger Blacklow IT COULD LEAD TO A RECESSION.WRITING IN Dennis Boston fines for violations. Felons do National Political Coordinator the New York Times, Franco Modigliani and Robert M. Solow, Vice Pres.- Dir. of Legislation not get federal jobs. Laborers Union Nobel-Prize winning economists, warn that the tax cut, com- Bro. of Railroad Signalmen “Union contractors support bined with our record trade deficits, will put the U.S. at a serious this. They don’t want to do “UNION DENSITY was the disadvantage to the rest of the world. They say, “If Congress is “LAST YEAR OUR railroad business with crooked compa- key to the 2000 presidential acting responsibly, the least it can do is to postpone a deep per- retirement bill passed the nies. But the Bush administra- election. Bush lost every state manent tax cut until this trade balance has turned positive.” House 391-25. We had 83 tion wants to let everyone bid, that has a high percentage of sponsors in the Senate. But it regardless of how many laws unionized workers, except IT BENEFITS THE RICH, NOT WORKERS.SIXTY never got to the floor for a vote. they’ve broken. Ohio, where he won by only percent would go to the richest ten percent of households, with “This year we’re working “We can’t let government three percentage points. only 13 percent coming to the bottom 60 percent of us. with every major railroad and abandon their standards.” “Two things are needed to IT SHORTCHANGES VITAL SERVICES. BUSH’S retiree organization to plan a win an election: money and tax cut eats up every penny of the non-Social Security surplus strategy to get railroad retire- Cindy Brown votes. We don’t have much plus part of the Medicare surplus. Rather than put $960 billion ment improvements through. President money, but we do have a lot of in the pockets of the wealthy, we could provide full prescrip- “We want to bring the age American Shipbuilding Assoc. votes. tion drug coverage ($400 billion), safe, modern schools for all for full annuity down from 62 “Talk to your members who to 60 with 30 years of service. children ($185 billion), and health care for 12 million uninsured “The U.S. Navy has 316 ships voted Republican. Ask them to children and adults ($315 billion). ❑ We want to give surviving in its fleet — the smallest fleet write the president and say, ‘I spouses the full Tier II annu- since 1917. They are procuring voted for you and you’ve ity, not just 50 percent. We six ships a year, the lowest taken away the ergonomics want to reduce vesting from level of ship purchases since rule so now there will be more Bush budget’s dirty trick — hidden costs ten years to five, reduce caps 1932. Yet the number being pain-related injuries.’ See what PRESIDENT BUSH’S tax cut is deceptively expensive. It called on has increased 300 he says to them.” delays much of the cost of the tax cut into later years, so that the revenue shortfalls will be another president’s problem. Bush has played this dirty trick before. He duped the Texas LEAP delegates miss Al Cafrelli legislature to the tune of $110 million with a cheap accounting FOR THE FIRST time in 33 years, Al Cafrelli suit cleaned and his trick. His budget for 2000-2001 provided Medicaid funds to was not at the Boilermakers’ annual legislative shirt pressed so he nursing homes for only 23 of 24 months. That knocked $110 conference. could attend an million off the debit column he submitted to the legislature. A member of Local 154, Pittsburgh, Pa., for 54 Ambridge Water Now legislators will have to add that $110 million to the years, Cafrelli, 74, was chairman of the local’s Authority meeting. 2002-2003 budget. But of course, G.W. is in Washington now, LEAP committee and was known on Capitol “He insisted he get so it isn’t his problem. Hill as a lobbyist for working families. out of the hospital . . . When Texas lawmakers realized the swindle Bush had His death on Feb. 21, saddened Boilermakers he was a hard worker, pulled, they were not pleased. “I might have voted a little dif- ferently on all those tax cuts had I realized that we were only all across the U.S., and was felt by congressional a community servant,” members and community leaders alike. said his son, Richard. funding 23 months of these programs,” Republican state sen- ator Chris Harris told the Associated Press. Cafrelli first served his country as a U.S. Cafrelli told his Marine, then continued that service as a com- daughter, Janet Morelli, Now Bush is trying to pull a fast one with the federal budget. Don’t let Congress force his budget through without a munity leader, holding a variety of public posi- that he loved life. tions in Ambridge, Pa. “I know the doctors said I don’t have long, debate, the way they did with the ergonomics rule. The longer people study this budget, the more likely they are to discover The day he found out he had bone cancer but God is probably upstairs saying I’ll take it and not long to live, he told his son to get his from here. He knows when he wants me.” ❑ hidden costs that will pop up to hurt us later. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 9 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID Boilermakers can go a long way toward ensuring that our economy stays at number one Urge Congress to open ANWR — it will sever our umbilical cord with the Middle East, ease gasoline and heating costs, boost our economy, and create more jobs

IT’S A WHOLE NEW ball game in Relieving traffic congestion in the be created by the exploration and Congress this year. We have a new air, and on water, roads, and rail helps development of ANWR. president in the White House and a lot American workers, creates new jobs, The jobs created would produce of things to get done for this country. and constructs a better traffic system. employment opportunities for Two projects in particular are near and I’m working with the Transportation American workers in every state in the dear to my heart, and the Boilermakers Committee to construct legislation, but U.S. Plus, jobs in the oil and gas indus- have a role to play in both of them. I need your help because I cannot do it try offer some of the highest wages The number one problem facing our alone. and best benefits available to working nation today is not education, or As important as transportation is, men and women. health care, not Social Security, or the number one problem on my mind The Wharton study found that jobs guns. They are all important issues, is energy and our dwindling domes- would be created in the manufactur- but the number one problem facing tic supply. ing, mining, trade, services, construc- this great nation of ours is gridlock We are at the crossroads of a crisis in tion, finance, real estate, and insurance and congestion in our sagging trans- this country. Energy is the lifeblood of sectors. If ANWR were to be opened, a portation infrastructure. This is hurt- American construction. There’s a little new pipeline would need to be con- ing all sectors of our economy. piece of land in my home state of structed, tankers would be needed to American workers, consumers, and Alaska that can help our energy transport the oil, and more refineries our economy would benefit if we crunch and it’s called the Arctic would need to be built. moved our goods and freight quicker National Wildlife Refuge (ANWR). In fact, shipyards in San Diego and DON YOUNG(R - Alaska) and more efficiently. Roads are ANWR is about severing our umbil- New Orleans are constructing state-of- Legislator of the Year clogged with too many vehicles and ical cord with the Middle East. It’s the-art tankers specifically to carry big trucks intimidate Sunday drivers about easing gasoline prices and heat- Alaska oil. Those purchasing orders, tects the environment and the eco- and on into the week. We can use rail ing homes during the winter. It’s with options for more, are worth more nomic health of our nation. to move goods quicker and water- about boosting this great economy of than one billion dollars. It has been more than 20 years since ways to ship more efficiently. ours. Most importantly it’s about jobs, ANWR is potentially the largest the time that Prudhoe Bay on Alaska’s The Boilermakers can get on the jobs, jobs. untapped domestic oil source we North Slope was opened to oil and gas horn in every state and let their repre- An economic analysis by Wharton have. It would stimulate billions of drilling. In that time vast advances in sentatives know that updating our Economic Forecasting Associates, a dollars of U.S. investment — salaries exploration technology have been transportation infrastructure is not leading economic forecasting firm, cal- and wages, engineering and construc- made. The North Slope’s caribou only urgent, but smart, too. culates 736,000 American jobs would tion services, materials, and design herds that were once the subject of services. Such investments would much concern have flourished near stimulate economic development Alaska’s pipeline. Boilermakers name Don throughout the U.S. When drilling began, the caribou Given our past experiences we herd numbered 3,000. They now know that $50 billion was spent on number 27,000. Scientific studies Young Legislator of Year wages, materials, design, engineering, show that populations, physiological and construction services for develop- health, and calving success of caribou ment of Alaska’s North Slope. have not been harmed by responsible Recently, a new coalition of business oil development. and labor leaders launched an aggres- It’s time to start relying on our own sive campaign to urge Congress to energy resources again. After decades open ANWR. The new organization is of turning a blind eye to the necessity called JobPOWER. of building an energy infrastructure to The Boilermakers need to be on handle a vast population and produc- board this important coalition because tivity boom, California is now won- it’s in your best interests. The coalition dering who turned the lights out. has begun a drive to educate members Other western states are balking at of Congress who may not fully under- coming to the state’s rescue. The rea- stand the implications of drilling in son is they’re hoarding their own pre- ANWR on American workers and our cious energy supplies in anticipation economy. of the same thing happening to them. ANWR is vital for our national It’s time to stop this nonsense. defense and economic security, as Exploration for new sources of ener- well as to working men and women gy is critical to our nation’s economic of this country. expansion. There’s no better or The Alaska Federation of Natives smarter place to start than in the Arctic International President Charles W. Jones presents the Legislator of the Year award supports ANWR leasing because it coastal plain of Alaska. to Rep. Don Young (R-AK),at the Boilermakers’ 33rd annual legislative conference. will provide needed revenues to help Congress can help facilitate that impoverished rural villages escape progress, but I need your help. Rep. Don Young’s support retirement, and the Jones and Title XI third-world living conditions. The Boilermakers can go a long way acts, earned him this award. Numerous other state and national toward ensuring that our economy of working men and Young is the 12th highest-ranking organizations support our proposal stays at number one, where it belongs. women earns him award member of the House, and the 6th because they know that ANWR leas- DON YOUNG highest-ranking Republican member. ing can be done in a manner that pro- Congressman for all Alaska DON YOUNG, a 15-term member of He serves as chairman of the the U. S. House of Representatives, is Committee on Transportation and the Boilermakers’ Legislator of the Year. Infrastructure, and is vice-chairman of Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones present- the committee on resources. Add a CAF check-off to your contract ed Young his award during the 33rd He was elected to the 93rd annual conference of the Congress in a special election March THE BOILERMAKERS CAMPAIGN ASSISTANCE FUND(CAF) is made up entirely from money voluntarily Boilermakers’ Legislative Education 6, 1973, to fill the vacancy created by donated by members, staff, and the families of members. We use this fund to make donations to the Action Program, March 20, in the death of Congressman Nick campaigns of candidates who support the Boilermakers union on issues important to our members. Washington, D.C. Begich, and was reelected to each suc- Legislative Director Ande Abbott ceeding Congress. Federal law prohibits unions from using dues money to help finance the campaigns of called Young “a true friend of the Prior to serving as Alaska’s only candidates for office. Unions must create a special fund called a PAC. CAF is the Boilermakers PAC. American labor movement.” He said, member of the House of Candidates who support workers rarely have as much money for their campaigns as candidates “The labor movement could not find Representatives, Young served as an who support large corporations. Businesses routinely outspend labor unions. Every penny we put a stronger ally in the 107th Congress elected member of the State senate, into the campaign of a candidate who supports our agenda is a penny well spent. And the only way than Don Young.” 1970-73; as an elected member of the our union can make these contributions is if our members donate money to and raise money for CAF. Abbott pointed out that Young’s State House of Representatives, If we want our union to support candidates for office, we need to raise money for CAF. Most lodges support of such bread-and-butter 1966-70; on the Fort Yukon City that donate to CAF rely on occasional contributions from members or special fund-raising activities, working family issues as Davis Bacon, Council for six years; as mayor for rail worker protections, ergonomics, four years; as an educator for nine such as raffles, T-shirt and cap sales, or other events.The best way to raise money, though, is to nego- NAFTA cross-border transportation, years; as a river boat captain; and tiate a CAF checkoff into your collective bargaining agreement. In this way, members who wish to give infrastructure investment, railroad two years as a member of the U.S. to CAF can have their contributions deducted directly from their paychecks. This money adds up quickly. retirement reform, building trades Army’s 41st tank battalion. ❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 10 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID Local 744 earns awards for fund-raising efforts Northeast wins area office. Contributions to federal candi- dates must come from a political action award for CAF donations committee (PAC) fund. CAF is our MEMBERS IN THEGreat Lakes and PAC. All CAF contributions are volun- Northeast areas went home with three tary. Most lodges that do donate to CAF awards given to local lodges and a vice- rely on occasional contributions from presidential area for their success in members or special fund-raising activi- raising funds for the Campaign ties, such as raffles, T-shirt and cap sales, Assistance Fund (CAF) at this year’s or other events. LEAP conference. The best way to raise money, though, Each year, awards are presented to is to negotiate a CAF checkoff into your the local lodge contributing the largest collective bargaining agreement. In this amount of money to CAF and to the way, members who wish to give to CAF one having the highest CAF contribu- can have their contributions deducted tion per member. Local 744, Cleveland, directly from their paychecks. This Ohio, earned both of these local lodge money adds up quickly. Local 744 uses a Intl. Pres. Charles Jones (l.) presents CAF awards for the highest contribution by a awards. In 2000, Local 744 members CAF checkoff, as does Local 193, the local lodge and the highest average contribution per member to Local 744’s contributed $33,222.65 (an average of local with the second highest dollar James McManamon. At right is Great Lakes Intl. Vice Pres. Larry McManamon. $84.54 per member) to CAF. amount contributed in 2000 — It was the fourth year in a row that $29,675.39, and Local 85, with the third Local 744 members have earned an highest dollar amount contributed in award for their fund-raising efforts. 2000 — $29,145.63. They nowhave a total of seven CAF Most International officers and staff awards. In 1993, 1998, and 2000, they members use the payroll deduction earned both CAF awards (highest total method to give to CAF. Staff members and highest per member); in 1999 they donated $31,097.50 to the fund in 2000. earned the highest total award. Retirees are also using payroll An award also goes to the vice-presi- deduction to contribute to CAF. Many dential area contributing the most of them have a small amount deducted money to CAF. The Northeast Area from their pension checks each month. earned this award by raising In 2000, retirees donated $94,658.56 in $100,845.89 in CAF contributions. this way. They know that we use CAF monies to help elect candidates who Who contributes to CAF? will help us keep our jobs and our pen- sions, and who will protect Social TOTAL BOILERMAKER contribu- Security and Medicare. tions to CAF in 2000 were $388,563.09. CAF monies are also raised through That total is 15 percent more than sales of raffle tickets and other activities 1999’s total of $337,591.86. at the Construction, Railroad, CLGAW, But our union’s potential for raising and SFEAW division conferences. money to support candidates who will Legislative Director Ande Abbott Intl. Pres. Charles Jones (l.) presents the CAF award for the highest contribution for work for us is much greater than these uses the slogan, “Have your voice a vice-presidential area to Northeast Area Intl. Vice Pres. Michael Murphy. numbers show. Only 53 local lodges heard, put in your two cents worth,” to participate in the CAF program, out of stress the impact Boilermaker members nearly 300 lodges in the United States. can have in the legislative field if each One member’s message to President Bush Local lodges which are not raising one of us simply donates two cents per money for CAF, should consider set- hour worked to CAF. ting up a program to allow them to par- To learn how your local lodge can Don’t make us dependent ticipate in this important endeavor. raise money for CAF, consult the If we want our union to support can- Boilermaker LEAP Manual or call on foreign power, too didates for office, we need to raise Legislative Director Ande Abbott at money for CAF. It is illegal to use union 703 560-1493. ❑ IT IS NO SECRET that the United years. This will buy us time to come dues to support candidates for federal States is dependent on foreign oil. up with viable alternatives. Why does President Bush feel that Fossil fuel burning generators are we need to become dependent on not the villains they are made out to foreign electricity as well? be. We have proven technology to Ingalls honors President Jones We know what happens when produce generators that are clean- OPEC decides to pull the puppet burning and efficient. Big business strings. If we become dependent on does not want to spend the money to foreign power, we are at the mercy of construct and maintain these systems foreign power generation companies. that will clean the emissions. They can increase prices or turn off Conservation alone will never the switch and cripple our economy. reduce our power consumption to There are three reasons for the offset our ever-growing demand. power crisis in the United States: our We must also get rid of the “not in society has become electronic junkies my backyard” mentality. As requiring more power each year, cor- Americans, we must accept the porate greed, and the “not in my responsibility that if we use the elec- backyard” syndrome. tricity generated by these power Inexpensive, reliable power pro- plants, we must accept everything duction will make an economy grow. that goes along with it. We can’t have With photo of USS Cole, l. to r., L-693 Pres. Junius Criddell, L-693 Bus. Mgr. Frank Expensive power, or a limited sup- it both ways. Ludgood, Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones, L-693 LEAP Delegate Sammie Cole, Ingalls ply, will undermine an economy. President Bush should come up Vice Pres. Dan Knecht, Intl. Vice Pres. Newton Jones, and Intl. Rep. Warren Fairley. George W. Bush wants to shift the with an energy policy for generation generation of power to Mexico, in this country that addresses not Local 693 joins Ingalls in terrorists on October 12, killing 17 and injuring 39 crew members. where they have no environmental only the short-term problems, but the standards, no health and safety laws, long-term problems as well. His pro- presentation of photo, In January, the ship was rolled back documents of USS Cole on land from the Ingalls’ dry dock, less and a cheap workforce, so he can posed solution will have a tremen- exploit their people onto prosperity. dous negative effect on the millions than 1,000 feet from where it was built. AT THE BOILERMAKERS’ 33rd Ingalls has been contracted to make In the United States, we know and of American working families who annual legislative conference in Wash- $105.5 million in modifications. The understand the ramifications of are directly and indirectly affected by ington, D.C., March 19-23, representa- work should take 12 to 15 months to industrialization. We act responsibly. this decision. tives of Local 693 and Ingalls complete. Repairs will include decks, U.S. citizens enact laws and policies The jobs related to the power to protect the people and the envi- industry generate billions of dollars Shipbuilding, both located in bulkheads, shell assemblies, and Pascagoula, Miss., presented photos equipment foundations — all Boiler- ronment. Why don’t these same prin- to the United States government. ciples apply when you cross a bor- How does President Bush plan to and documents about the return of the maker work; most of both engine USSCole to Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones. rooms, the machine areas, and the gal- der? They cost money. replace these lost revenues? Coal is a relatively inexpensive MARTIN D. SPENCER , JR. The Cole, originally built at Ingalls by ley also need repair. Local 693 members, was attacked by For more information on the Cole, visit power source. We have an abundant Local 7 Recording Secretary supply, enough for hundreds of Buffalo, N.Y. Ingalls’ Web site at www.ingalls.com❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 11 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID Congressmen, public officials attend LEAP reception

THE MAIN PURPOSE of the LEAP conference is to on ways to make your meeting with your congress- Rep Neil Abercrombie (Dem.-HI), these talks can be put local lodge leaders in contact with the people in men go smoothly. They distribute bulletins describ- very motivating. the federal government who may be able to do their ing our positions on potential legislation. Delegates spend the rest of the week meeting with members some good. The Tuesday night congres- Included in this year’s educational sessions were individual congressmen in their offices. These meet- sional reception is an important part of that. presentations by a number of labor activists in Wash- ings are the heart of the LEAP conference — a chance The first-day-and-a half of the conference is ington from the AFL-CIO and affiliated unions. to talk directly with a congressman or aide about devoted to education. After opening remarks by Intl. Talks by members of Congress are a high point of issues that concern Boilermaker families. Pres. Charles W. Jones, legislative director Ande the educational meetings. These invited speakers give The reception provides a chance to talk to public Abbott, and deputy director of government affairs insight into what is really happening in Congress and officials in a more relaxed setting. These photos are a Bridget Martin, talk about upcoming legislation that what members of Congress feel about the direction record of which congressmen took the time to come to we may want to support or oppose. They give advice the country is headed. Sometimes, as in the case of our reception and meet our delegates.❑

NATIONAL LABOR RELATIONS BOARD (NLRB) with, l.to.r., SECRETARY OF LABOR ELAINE CHAO,center, with, left to Org. Dir. Bill Creeden, NLRB member Peter Hurtgen, IVP INTERNATIONAL TRADE COMMISSION Chairman right, Intl. Rep. Bob Heine, IVP Mike Murphy, Intl. Pres. Larry McManamon, Attny. Mike Stapp, Intl. Pres. C.W. Stephen Koplan, center, with Bridget Martin, Charles Jones, IVP Larry McManamon, Chao, her Staff Jones, NLRB Chrmn. John Truesdale, NLRB Counsel Boilermakers deputy director of government affairs, Chief Steven Law, IVP Newton Jones, Attny. Mike Stapp, Leonard Page, NLRB Exec. Sec. John Toner, NLRB left, and Intl. President Charles W. Jones, right. and Intl. Sec.-Treas. Jerry Willburn. member Dennis Walsh, and IVP Mike Murphy.

REP. ROBERT ADERHOLT (D-4th AL), represented by REP. JAMES BARCIA (D-5th MI), center left, with, l. to r., REP. LLOYD DOGGETT (D-10th TX), center, with Intl. Mark Busching, fourth from left, with, l. to r., Bob Ken Vergowven and Joseph Geyman, L-D408; Ed McGahey, L-455; Ron Dexter, L-108; Danny Phillips, L- Pres. Charles Jones at left, and Peerless Jefferson, Wlodyka and James McDonnell, L-169; Barcia; IP NTL, at right. 112; Busching; Intl. Pres. Jones; John Helvin, L-108; Ed Jones; IVP McManamon; Tony Jacobs and Jaime Vance, L-455; and Ken Crenshaw, L-112. Schulte, L-169; and Steve Gromala, L-696.

REP. MIKE DOYLE (D-18th PA), center front, with L-154 SEN. DANIEL AKAKA (D-HI), second from left, with, l. to REP. SHELLEY BERKLEY (D-1st NV), center, with Intl. delegates, l. to r., IP Charles Jones, Dan Quinn, IR Bob r., Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones, Peerless Jefferson of Pres. Charles Jones, at left, and Legislative Director Heine, Ray Ventrone, Tony Smarra, Tom O'Connor, the NTL, and Legislative Director Ande Abbott. Ande Abbott, at right. Doyle, Onorato Bucci, Michael Ventrone, Stanley Wolfe, and IVP Mike Murphy.

REP. JOHN BALDACCI (D-2nd ME), third from right, REP. DAVID BONIOR (D-10th MI), second from right, REP. BOB ETHERIDGE (D-2nd NC), second from right, with L-29 delegates, l. to r., Joseph Birolini, Stephen with l. to r., Intl. Vice Pres. Larry McManamon, Tony with, l. to r., International President Charles Jones, Goodhart, Sharon Perry, Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones, Jacobs of L-169, Intl. Pres. Charles W. Jones, Bonior, Zack Givens, L-905; Albert Meadowcroft, L-905; Jeff Perry, Baldacci, Jack Meade, and Paul Meade. and Intl. Sec.-Treas. Jerry Willburn. Etheridge; and Gary Stone, L-30.

REP. TAMMY BALDWIN (D-2nd WI), second from left, REP. WILLIAM COYNE (D-14th PA), fourth from right, with REP. FELIX GRUCCI JR. (R-1st NY), second from left, with l. to r., Steve Gromala, L-696; Baldwin; Dale L-154 delegates, l. to r., Ray Ventrone, IVP Mike with, l. to r., Thomas Klein, L-5; Grucci; Intl. Pres. Carlson, L-696; Intl. Pres. Charles Jones, and Al Murphy, Dan Quinn, IR Bob Heine, Tony Smarra, IP C. Charles W. Jones, and Jerry Connolly, L-5. Barnard of Marinette Marine. W. Jones, Tom O'Connor, Coyne, Onorato Bucci, Mike Ventrone, and Stan Wolfe. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 12 Mar • Apr 2001 LEAP PAGECONFERENCEID

REP. JANE HARMAN (D-36th CA), at left, with REP. CAROLYN MCCARTHY (D-4th NY), second from REP. DAVID PHELPS (D-19th IL), fourth from left, with, International President Charles Jones. right, with Local 5 delegates, l. to r., Intl. Pres. Charles l. to r., John Perkins, L-S8; IR Howard Lyon; IP Charles Jones, Thomas Klein, McCarthy, and Jerry Connolly. Jones; Phelps; IVP Larry McManamon; IVP Othal Smith Jr.; Ed Hebert, L-60; and Wayne Moore, L-S8.

REP. JESSE JACKSON JR. (D-2nd IL), represented by REP. MICHAEL MCNULTY (D-21st NY), third from left, REP. JACK QUINN (R-30th NY), second from right, with George Seymore, eighth from right, and REP. BOBBY with l. to r., Thomas Klein, L-5; Martin Spencer, L-7; Local 7 delegates, l. to r., Joseph Brown, Intl. Pres. RUSH (D-1st IL), represented by Nkosi Bradley, fourth McNulty; Jerry Connolly, L-5; Intl. Pres. Charles Jones; Charles Jones; Quinn; and Martin Spencer. from right, with Illinois delegates. and Joseph Brown, L-7.

REP. JAMES LANGEVIN (D-2nd RI), center, with, l. to r., Lee REP. ALAN MOLLOHAN (D-1st WV), third from right, with SEN. JACK REED (D-RI), center, with l. to r., Jack Morse, Electric Boat; John Welch, Michael Toner, l. to r., Michael Baker, Local D208; IR Raleigh Eversole; Meade, L-29; Paul Meade, L-29; Tom Anderson, L- General Dynamics; IP Charles Jones; Langevin; Ken Ronny Vanscoy, NTL; Ray Smith, L-667; Mollohan; IP 614; Reed; Intl. Pres. Charles Jones; Ken DelaCruz, L- DelaCruz, L-614; John Casey, Electric Boat; Jeff Perry, Stephen Goodhart, L-29; and James Papa, L-614. Charles Jones; and George Pinkerman, L-667. 614; and James Papa, L-614.

REP. SANDER LEVIN (D-12th MI), fourth from right, with, l. to REP. JIM MORAN (D-8th VA), center, with l. to r., SEN. PAUL SARBANES (D-MD), center, with L-193 r., Ken Vergowven, Joseph Geyman, L-D408; Ed Wlodyka, George Hanks Sr., L-45; Intl. Pres. Charles Jones; delegates, l. to r., Ernest Dorsey, Linda Konski, James McDonnell, L-169; IP C.W. Jones; Rep. Levin; Tony Johnnie Thomas, L-684; Moran; Michael Patterson, L- Sarbanes, Intl. Pres. Charles Jones, and Michael Jacobs, Jaime Schulte, L-169; and Steve Gromala, L-696. 684; Wilber Brown Jr., L-45; and Michael Russ, L-45. Konski.

REP. KEN LUCAS (D-4th KY), third from left, with l. to r., REP. THOMAS SAWYER (D-14th OH), center left, with, l. Intl. Pres. Charles Jones; Garry Ledford, L-105; Lucas; REP. WILLIAM PASCRELL JR. (D-8th NJ), center, with to r., J. McManamon, L-744; R. Moffitt, NTL; G. Ledford, IVP Larry McManamon; Kay Phillips, L-P3; Intl. Sec.- Local 28 delegates, l. to r., Raymond Cushing, International President Charles Jones, Pascrell, L-105; IP Jones; C. Lemon, L-900; Sawyer, IVP Treas. Jerry Willburn; Gary Scott, NTL; and IVP Othal McManamon; IST Willburn; J. Beitel, L-1073; IR Smith Jr. John Devlin, and Chris Murphy. Pressley; T. Heiser, L-1191; IR Lyon, and Jeff Lyon.

REP. FRANK MASCARA (D-20th PA), center left, with L- REP. DONALD PAYNE (D-10th NJ), center, with Local REP. JOHN TIERNEY (D-6th MA), fourth from left, with 154 delegates, l. to r., Stanley Wolfe, Dan Quinn, IR Bob 28 delegates, l. to r., Raymond Cushing, International Local 29 delegates, l. to r., Joseph Birolini, Stephen Heine, Tom O'Connor, Ray Ventrone, Mascara, IP C. W. President Charles Jones, Payne, John Devlin, and Goodhart, Intl. Pres. Charles Jones, Tierney, Paul Jones, Onorato Bucci, Tony Smarra, and Mike Ventrone. Chris Murphy. Meade, Jeff Perry, Sharon Perry, and Jack Meade. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 13 Mar • Apr 2001 PAGEHISTORYID Boilermakers play major role in one of man’s greatest achievements — The Panama Canal The French failed in their efforts to build the canal in the 1800s — it took Boilermakers to get the job done

By John Heuertz Wallace resigned in 1905, and was replaced by railroad construction engi- IT TOOK TEN YEARS for over 40,000 neer John Stevens, who postponed dig- workers from 97 countries to build the ging until he could build new towns Panama Canal. But without the fleets of literally from the ground up for canal steam shovels, locomotives, and sta- workers, developing their sewers and tionary engines built and maintained utilities from scratch. The mold, cob- by Boilermakers, “The Eighth Wonder webs, spiders, snakes, and scorpions of the World” would have taken much were banished back into the jungle. longer to build, and might not have In 1906, he persuaded the Senate to been possible at all. build a canal with locks modeled on the Europeans had dreamed of a water- Soo Canal between Lake Superior and way across the Panamanian isthmus Lake Huron. Skilled workers, includ- since the 16th century. Americans had ing Boilermakers, began pouring into Members of Lodge 470, Gorgona, Panama, working on the Canal Zone in 1907. managed to build a very profitable the isthmus for the new project. railroad in 1855, mostly to serve peo- Meanwhile, Col. William C. Gorgas ple in a hurry to get to California’s had been appointed the canal’s chief gold fields. Finally in 1881, the French sanitary officer. Gorgas made war on made a heroic, concentrated effort to Panama’s mosquitoes for a year and a build a canal across Panama. half. At one point he spent the enor- They were led by Ferdinand de mous sum of $90,000 on window Lesseps, a gifted civil engineer who had screens alone. By comparison, U.S. built the Suez Canal in Egypt. But the Boilermakers were comparatively well French made two critical mistakes. The paid at about $2.50 per day in 1906. first mistake was to try building a sea- (Income tax didn’t exist.) level canal without any locks, straight By September 1906, yellow fever was through the Continental Divide. The gone from Panama, thanks to Gorgas’ second was to ignore the mosquitoes. relentless efforts, and for a few years In 1881, almost nobody suspected the Canal Zone was actually a healthier that yellow fever and malaria were place for Boilermakers to work than spread by mosquito bites. Panama’s any American city. hot, humid climate and plentiful stand- By 1907, there were three Boiler- The control house is near completion, and the lock gates are ready in this 1913 photo. ing water meant that mosquitoes bred maker lodges in the Canal Zone — everywhere, and the results were disas- Local 463 at Empire, Local 470 at Gorg- trous. After seven years of great strug- ona, and Local 471 at Cristobal. gle, only about 20 percent of the French William H. Witmer, Local 470’s first canal was dug, the company was bank- corresponding secretary, wrote to the rupt and over 19,000 Jamaicans, West Brotherhood Journal: “We expect to Indians, and Europeans had died of have a first-class lodge here soon. disease. De Lesseps finally had to give Nearly all have been old members in up, and almost all work on the canal the states . . . Any brother coming to the stopped for nearly 15 years. canal zone to work should have his The United States government had card and stamp book up to date and in been interested in building a canal good shape.” Witmer also reported that across the isthmus since the 1870s. In Brother Robert S. Brady “placed a large 1869, the U.S. had been joined from American flag on top of a stack 100 feet coast to coast by rail, opening up the high at Las Cascadas . . . that can be seen American interior and spelling the end almost across the isthmus. This is the of the Panamanian railroad’s glory highest that ‘Old Glory’ has been days. But like the new locomotives, iron floated to the breeze here.” Tugs, dredges, and barges make the first lockage into Lake Gatunin 1913. ships grew steadily larger, faster, Much of the Boilermakers’ work on cheaper to build, and more powerful. the Panama Canal was in railroad And like the big new locomotives now shops. Stevens saw the canal as a rail- chugging across the heartland at speeds road project. He moved everything he up to 15 mph, iron ship development could by train. To this railroad man, was stimulated by the growing skill and getting rid of the earth dug up from the sophistication of the men who built the Continental Divide at Culebra Cut new ships in the U.S. and Canada. amounted to constantly moving gigan- By 1900, there was a clear need for a tic amounts of railroad freight. Stevens better sea-route to the west coast than ordered locomotives and flat cars from going all the way around two conti- the States built specially for the task. nents. It was 7,800 nautical miles Their five-foot gauge, three-and-one- around South America from Panama. half inches wider than the U.S. stan- In the U.S., the desire to be a world dard, easily handled the nonstop loads power with overseas dependents was of dirt, rock, and mud. Boilermakers also reaching its first full expression. So kept all this equipment in service 24 in 1903, the U.S. government negoti- hours a day and kept the steam shovels ated a treaty with the government of running that constantly fed the trains. In 1913, these ships await the first lockage from sea level up into Lake Gatun, a the new Republic of Panama — the The Panama Canal could not have been surface elevation of 85 feet above sea level. country had been a part of Colombia built without the special skills Boiler- until just two weeks before the treaty makers brought to the project. Over 43,000 men and women had the canal’s locks and equipment. The was signed — to dig a canal the Ameri- Stevens did an outstanding job, but worked to build the Panama Canal by Canal may no longer be a topic of every- cans would own and operate. resigned abruptly in 1907, to return to August 15, 1914, when Goethals and day conversation, as it was 90 years ago, The Americans set up a commission the U.S., seeking cooler weather, Gorgas watched the S.S. Ancon, a tiny but the Boilermakers who work there in Washington to oversee the canal’s shorter work hours, and better pay. cargo ship belonging to the Panama are as hard-working and proud of their construction, bought out the French for A very angry Teddy Roosevelt didn’t Railroad, become the first ship ever to contribution as ever. ❑ $40 million, and in 1904, appointed a want Stevens’ successor to be able to travel the Canal’s 47-mile length. Both John Heuertz has been hired to write the well-known civil engineer named John quit like Stevens had, so the com- were made generals for their work on a Findley Wallace to design the canal. mander-in-chief appointed a soldier as project called “the greatest liberty man history of the Boilermakers union. The expense of researching, writing, printing, But Wallace hated Panama. Yellow the project’s new chief engineer. If any- has ever taken with nature,” by English fever broke out shortly after his arrival thing, Lt. Col. George Goethals proved historian James Boyce. And the Boiler- and distributing this book will be paid through donations. Contributions to the and killed the project’s chief architect, to be an even better project manager makers in Panama, though a small part among others. Project morale was dis- than Stevens. He stayed on in Panama in numbers of the total workforce, were History Book Project are tax deductible, mal. Supposedly Wallace and his wife until 1916, after Roosevelt had been out an indispensable part of it. and can be sent to: Boilermakers Archives had even brought their own caskets to of office for eight years and the Canal About 150 members of Boilermakers History Book Project; 753 State Avenue, Panama, just in case. had been operating smoothly for two. Lodge 463 still perform maintenance on Suite 570; Kansas City KS 66101 http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 14 Mar • Apr 2001 PAYCHECKPAGEECONOMICSID Economic Trends In Brief How much would you save? New contracts average 5.1 percent gain so far in 2001 Bush tax cut is generous to wealthy, doesn’t give much to low-income families DATA COMPILED BY Bureau of National SINGLE MOTHERS STRUGGLINGto pay the bills by work- ing from his plan. That’s good enough pay to be called mid- Affairs (BNA) in the first 16 weeks of 2001 ing at $9 and $10 an hour jobs can just keep struggling, as far dle class. In fact, it’s more than nearly 25 percent of what U.S. show an average gain of 5.1 percent on as George W. Bush is concerned. His proposed tax cut will taxpayers earn. One-third of workers will see no benefit. newly-negotiated union contracts. That not lift any of your burden. Taxpayers who see some savings will not get enough to figure is far above the average gain of 3.5 According to analysis by H&R Block, the largest tax- pay off their credit card debt or make any substantial invest- percent in 2000, and 3.2 percent in 1999. preparation company in the U.S., a single parent with two ments. In the first year of the tax cut, most two-parent fami- It even exceeds year 2000 gains made children making a middle class income of $19,500 a year will lies making near the median income can expect to save in the industry with the highest weighted see no benefit at all from Bush’s $1.6 trillion tax cut. somewhere near $400, while single-parent families can average increase — construction, with Neither will a married couple with two children earning expect to save about $300. But the average family now has 4.2 percent. It is too early to tell how long the same amount. Nor a retired widow $8,000 in consumer debt; tax savings this trend will last or how new contracts earning a similar amount, mostly from won’t even pay the interest on that. And will be affected by the current downturn Social Security income, according to the One-third of working people the extra you’ll see on your paycheck in the economy. American Association of Retired Per- would pay the same amount will only be $6-7 a week, so it isn’t likely Canadian wage increases have not sons (AARP). The AARP also calculates after the tax cut as before. you can help stimulate the economy by been as substantial, averaging less than that the Bush tax cut will not provide purchasing a new car or buying stock. three percent throughout 2000. any benefit to a retired couple, 69 and Families making twice the median 67, making $28,500 with no children in the home who get all income ($78,000) can expect to save $600-700 on average, but U.S. trade deficit hits record or nearly all their income from Social Security and a pension. fewer than one-fifth of American households earn over While Bush’s tax cut does little or nothing for taxpayers at $75,000 a year. If you’re in this category, you’ll see an extra THE CURRENT ACCOUNT deficit, the the low end of the earning spectrum, it does a great deal for $13 a week — still not enough for a major purchase. broadest gauge of the nation’s global those at the top of that range. The top one percent of earners Economists don’t believe you can stimulate the economy trade, reached a record $115 billion for can expect to save an average of $28,000 once the tax cuts are with tax cuts, anyway. The effect of a tax cut is too broad and the fourth quarter of 2000, reports the U.S. fully phased in five years from now, according to analysis by takes too long to show up. Department of Commerce. the Citizens for Tax Justice (CTJ). Many presidents have tried to stimulate the economy with For the year, the gap widened to $435 tax cuts — Herbert Hoover, John F. Kennedy, and Ronald billion, more than a 30 percent increase Benefits to middle class are overstated Reagan to name a few. They all failed. Hoover saw the coun- over 1999’s record deficit of $331 billion. try sink into the worst depression in our history. Kennedy According to Dean Baker, an BUSH ALSO CLAIMS his tax cut benefits all Americans, saw no change at all, and after Reagan shifted more of the tax economist with the Center for Economic especially middle income families, and would also stimulate burden onto workers and gave a cut to his rich friends (as and Policy Research, current account the economy, reduce consumer debt, and increase savings Bush is doing), he saw unemployment zoom to over ten per- deficits drain future living standards in a and investment. It fails in all of these areas. cent for the first time since Hoover’s Great Depression. way comparable to a budget deficit. In Taxpayers making the median income (about $39,000) or The only economy Reagan stimulated was the economy of the future, the United States will either higher will benefit from Bush’s tax cuts, but Americans in the rich. More millionaires were created under Reagan than have to pay back the money borrowed to lower income brackets receive no benefit. For example, a sin- ever before. And more people were made homeless, too. finance its current account deficit, or pay gle parent working on a job that pays $9 an hour gains noth- interest on this money indefinitely. Learn how the tax cut affects you The news media have devoted extensive coverage to budget deficits of MANY WEB SITES OFFERcalculators to analyze how the this size, but ignore or minimize the Projected Savings for 2001 Bush tax cut could affect your future taxes, but you need to negative effects of our growing trade be careful when using them. Many of them calculate how deficit — perhaps because they believe THE HYPOTHETICAL TAXPAYERS in this analysis much your taxes will be reduced when all of the tax breaks their jobs can’t be shipped overseas. all take the standard deduction, donate one per- have been phased in. That won’t happen until 2006. Any cent of their income to charity, and, if married, reduction you see next year — if you see one at all — will be Stock market’s wild run is over each spouse earns half of the total income. Your much smaller. The calculators at www.HRBlock.comand actual savings may vary considerably. In addition, www.smartmoney.com both overstate the tax break in this THE DOW JONESIndustrial Average, one these graphs overstate the taxes paid by way. The calculator at www.kiplinger.comis the best of the of the most commonly used ways of higher-income families. Those taxpayers rarely ones we tried. It shows you how much you can expect to save measuring performance of the stock take the standard deduction because they can this year as well as in 2006. market, ended the year 2000 at $10,786.85, reduce their taxes by itemizing. But all tax calculators show very rough estimates only. more than six percent below where it had Don’t expect them to be accurate. started the year. ANNUAL Single individual, no children Calculators are also very superficial. They show you a dol- In the first quarter of 2001, it continued INCOME lar number, nothing more. For in-depth analysis of how this to decline, and by April was below $9,500, tax cut affects American families at all income levels, the fed- nearly 20 percent below where it had $19,500 $66 eral budget, and future earnings, visit www.ctj.org — the started the year 2000. Web site for the Citizens for Tax Justice. The NASDAQComposite Index, made $39,000 $127 An especially interesting article on that site is available on up largely of high tech stocks, did even this page: http://www.ctj.org/html/bushmarg.htm worse, finishing the year 39.29 percent $78,000 $542 This article shows how low-income families who receive below where it started. It has continued the Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC) may end up paying to lose ground, and in early April was $156,000 $1,390 marginal tax rates of over 30 percent under the Bush plan — closing near $1,600, less than one-third of very similar to the marginal rate paid by millionaires. ❑ the highs it reached in March 2000. $350,000 $3,797 These are good indications that the stock market’s wild run of the last few Who pays the “death tax”? years is over. Some investment analysts ANNUAL Unmarried head of household believe the market will begin another INCOME with two children MANY WORKERS MISTAKENLYbelieve that they will long run soon, but economic projections benefit from a repeal of the so-called “death tax,” the estate from the Congressional Budget Office $19,500 $0 and gifts tax. This repeal accounts for about 20 percent of the (CBO) indicate a more subdued future for total cost of Bush’s tax cuts, but fewer than two percent of stock prices. $39,000 $312 American taxpayers pay it. The CBO projects that real corporate People who want it repealed claim it causes families to lose profits will decline by ten percent over $78,000 $757 their farms and businesses, but the Citizens for Tax Justice the next decade. Lower profits generally says Internal Revenue Service records show that isn’t true. mean lower stock prices. $156,000 $1,236 If you die and leave an estate worth more than $675,000, your heirs will have to pay taxes on their inheritance — the The new technology has not $350,000 $3,708 estate tax. A married couple can leave up to $1.35 million increased entrepreneurship before the taxes kick in, and family farms worth up to $2 mil- lion are exempt. Life insurance doesn’t count, and in 2006, NEW TECHNOLOGIES were supposed to ANNUAL Married couple with the personal limit will go up to $1 million. usher in a golden age for entrepreneurs, INCOME two children filing jointly More than 98 percent of estates left by Americans in 1998 but it never arrived. The slew of new dot- were under $675,000, so the heirs did not pay this tax. Of the com companies that have appeared over $19,500 $0 estates that paid the tax, fewer than six in 10,000 had more the past few years, many with highly than half their value in farm assets or small-business assets. publicized initial public offerings, have $39,000 $422 Even when heirs pay this tax, they get a better deal than distorted our perceptions. An article by you do on the money you earn working. Since the first David Leonhard in the New York Times $78,000 $660 $675,000 is exempt, an estate worth one million dollars (Dec. 1, 2000, page A1) reports that over would pay only $125,000 in estate taxes — about 12.5 per- the past decade the percentage of $156,000 $1,310 cent. In 1998, nearly half the estates that paid estate tax were workers who are self-employed has under $1 million. They paid an average rate of six percent. actually declined. $350,000 $3,852 By comparison, if your lottery ticket wins you a million dollars this week, you’ll pay more than $370,000 in taxes.❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 15 Mar • Apr 2001 PAYCHECKPAGEECONOMICSID Economic Trends In Brief Record numbers of corporations The president gets a raise CONGRESS GAVE PRESIDENT Bush a and wealthy pay no income tax nice raise. They voted a pay raise for the president that took effect as soon as Two new studies show that the corporations and stock-option transactions as business Clinton left office. wealthy taxpayers don’t live by the rules we do expenses. ITEP found that 233 of the Clinton earned $200,000 a year as 250 companies lowered their taxes president, the same as every president using stock options — by a total of IF YOU’RE AN average taxpayer, you McIntyre, a principal author of both $25.8 billion over the three years. since Richard Nixon. Congress saw that just recently sent in your income tax the new study and previous corpo- $200,000 doesn’t go as far these days, so Microsoft led the pack with $2.7 bil- forms. And you probably qualified for rate tax studies in the 1980s. “We lion in stock-option tax benefits. they voted a raise, but stipulated it take a small refund. Maybe you’ll even get hope our findings will encourage effect only after Clinton was gone. None of these techniques is new; back enough to buy that bass boat lawmakers to reexamine this impor- they are merely being pursued more President Bush will earn $400,000 a you’ve been dreaming about or take a tant area of taxation.” year plus $50,000 for expenses. Even aggressively than in the past — some- short vacation. That can make a per- The impact of this tax avoidance is times so aggressively they cross the adjusting for inflation, that’s a lot more son feel good. enormous. Had all 250 companies than the $25,000 that was offered to line into tax fraud. An article pub- But just imagine how good you’d paid the full 35 percent corporate tax lished in the New York Times after this George Washington — and which he feel if your refund were really big — rate on their $735 billion in pretax U.S. refused. Presidential pay stayed at that report was released reported that say, as much as one-half of your annu- profits from 1996 to 1998, the federal accounting firms are often paid with a level until late in the 19th century. al salary before taxes. Wouldn’t that treasury would have received $98 bil- Adjusting for inflation, $25,000 in share of the tax savings, giving them a be a nice refund check? lion in additional tax revenue. Who strong incentive to suggest practices of 1800 is about $244,000 today, so Bush’s Unfortunately, it’s just a dream — makes up for that lost revenue? You salary is generous by one measure. dubious legality. Since IRS scrutiny unless you happen to be a multination- do — and every taxpayer who puts has been significantly reduced in Coincidentally, Congress gave the first al corporation. In 1998, Lyondell money into the treasury instead of tak- raise in presidential salary to Rutherford recent years, accounting firms can Chemical earned $80 million in profit ing it out. now pursue questionable tax shelters B. Hayes, who, like Bush, took office on sales of $889 million. That’s not a after a contested election in which he with little fear of punishment. bad rate of profit — about nine percent. Not all corporations avoid taxes “The general public has a right to be got fewer votes than his opponent. But their tax rate was even better. ANOTHER FINDING of the study concerned about how their taxes and Rather than paying the usual 35 per- services are affected by this resurgence The stock market is down, will cent corporate income tax on that $80 was that tax rates vary widely by industry and by company. Almost in corporate tax avoidance,” said the budget surplus be next? million in profit — about $28 million McIntyre. “Companies that see their — Lyondell collected $44 million in half of those tax-break dollars went to FUTURE BUDGET surpluses will pay for just 25 companies, each getting more competitors paying much less in taxes tax rebates, making their effective than they do have a legitimate beef, too. Bush’s tax cut for the rich. That’s the plan, income tax rate a negative 55 percent. than a billion dollars in tax breaks. anyway. But what happens if those sur- Tax rates also varied widely by And anyone who worries about our And Lyondell wasn’t alone. economy’s long-term growth has to pluses don’t materialize? Twenty-three other profitable corpora- industry. Companies in the oil indus- The Congressional Budget Office try paid the low- wonder why the tax code is being used tions had negative to favor some industries and some (CBO) projections that show large sur- tax rates in 1998, est tax rates, aver- pluses over the next ten years rely on sig- aging 12.3 per- kinds of investments over others, rather including Texaco, Texaco, Chevron, Goodyear, than letting market forces decide.” nificant amounts of revenue from capital Chevron, PepsiCo, General Motors, and PepsiCo cent. Other low- gains taxes. They keep revising their pro- tax industries Goodyear, and all had negative income tax IRS says more rich Americans jected surpluses upward because the General Motors. included electron- stock market had an incredible run from Their combined rates in 1998 — instead of ic and electrical than ever pay no income tax 1995 through 1999. Stock sales profits paying the government, the equipment manu- profits totaled WHILE CONGRESS SEEMS ready to skyrocketed, driving government income nearly $12 billion, government paid them. facturers (13.1 from capital gains to record heights. percent), paper pass President Bush’s tax cut which and they got mainly benefits the rich, the Internal CBO projections are based on the gov- companies (13.9 rebates of nearly Revenue Service (IRS) says the number ernment continuing to collect capital $1.3 billion. Over the 1996-1998 period, percent), transportation companies gains taxes at those high levels. But now (14.1 percent) and auto companies of rich Americans who pay no income 41 companies paid less than zero taxes taxes at all is higher than ever. An IRS that stock prices are declining, income in at least one year. (17.1 percent). Publishers paid the from capital gains taxes will decline as most — 31.6 percent. report released March 30 shows that Just to clarify, when you get a nearly 1,500 Americans with incomes well. If the market continues to decline or refund, that doesn’t mean you paid no But within industries, rates also var- stays flat for several years, the projected ied widely. For example, Maytag and over $200,000 paid no income tax in taxes. Your refund comes from the 1998, the highest numbers since they’ve surplus will be seriously reduced. excess withholding tax taken from General Electric both make kitchen And if Congress has already given that appliances. But Maytag paid 35 per- been keeping track. The previous high your paycheck. It’s your money; the of 1,253 was reached in 1991. surplus away in tax cuts, the federal federal government was just holding it cent of its profits in taxes from 1996 to budget may again see huge budget 1998, while GE paid only 8.1 percent. The report does not reach any con- for a while. If you paid no taxes at all, clusions about deficits, as we had under the first Bush. you’d get back every penny of that Likewise, Abbot Laboratories and whether withholding tax. And if you had a improper tax shel- Tax cut? We don’t want it Pfizer are both in When a person or company negative income tax rate, you’d get ters are at work, back everything you put in and more. the drug business, avoids paying taxes, the rest SOME 120 WEALTHY Americans, includ- but government but the former of us end up paying more. ing investment guru Warren Buffet, paid almost 29 officials are Tax reform act had little effect increasingly wor- George Soros, and Bill Gates’s father, percent of its prof- urged Congress to vote against Bush’s IT MAY SEEM outrageous that corpo- its in taxes from ried about tax- dodging among well-to-do proposed repeal of the estate and gift tax, rations making billions of dollars in 1996 to 1998, while the latter paid only even though it would give them or their profits would not only avoid paying 3.1 percent. individuals through off-shore trust heirs enormous tax breaks. taxes on those profits, but would also The Alternative Minimum Tax was arrangements and other schemes. Per- A petition drive organized by William H. get refunds. But when the Institute on adopted in 1986 to reduce these dis- sonnel reductions within the IRS have Gates Sr., father of Microsoft founder Bill Taxation and Economic Policy (ITEP) crepancies and make sure that every forced the agency to drastically reduce Gates — perhaps the richest man in the studied income tax payments of the company with substantial profits pays the number of audits they conduct world — argues that “repealing the 250 largest corporations during the some significant tax. But legislation each year. estate tax would enrich the heirs of period 1996 through 1998, they discov- adopted in 1993 and 1997 has left the A separate report from the Center on America’s millionaires and billionaires ered a lot of outrageous things. alternative corporate tax only a shell of Budget and Policy Priorities (CBPP) while hurting families who struggle to Twelve years after the passage of its former self. shows that the richest one percent of make ends meet.” the 1986 Tax Reform Act, which was The methods corporations used to Americans, on average, increased their income by 40 percent between 1989 and What Republicans have been labeling supposed to close loopholes in all lower their federal income taxes the “death tax” applies to estates worth income taxes, these corporations were include accelerated depreciation write- 1998 after adjusting for inflation. The bottom 90 percent of taxpayers over $675,000 (scheduled to go up to $1 paying lower taxes than ever. Their offs, tax credits for research and oil million in 2006). Although less than two average tax rate in 1998 was only 20.1 drilling, and tax breaks for doing busi- increased after-tax income by only five percent over the same period. ❑ percent of the richest estates pay this tax, percent, far below the 26.5 percent ness in Puerto Rico. GE continues to repealing it will account for about 20 per- they paid in 1988, and only slightly slash its tax bills every year through its See the full report from the CBPP at cent of the lost tax revenue. more than half of the 35 percent rate leasing activities, where it essentially http://www.cbpp.org/2-28-01tax.htm In addition, as Warren Buffet, the set by the act. buys tax breaks from companies that fourth richest American according to If you paid any income tax at all in have more than they can use. The Institute on Taxation and Economic Forbes magazine, points out, the estate 1998, you paid more than MCI One fast-growing tax break that had Policy is a non-profit tax policy research tax plays a “critical role” in promoting Worldcom paid on its profits of $2.7 a very significant effect in lowering organization. This study was funded by economic growth by helping create a billion, or Pfizer paid on their profits taxes involved stock options. When grants from the Ford Foundation, The society in which success is based on of $1.2 billion, or J.P. Morgan paid on stock options are exercised, corpora- Shefa Fund, Stanley K. Sheinbaum, Tides merit rather than on inheritance. their profits of $481 million. tions can take a tax deduction for the Foundation and Working Assets Funding Because President Bush owes every- “With significant help from difference between what employees Service. The full 64-page report, Corporate thing he has to inheritance, not merit, it Congress, corporations appear to be pay for the stock and what it’s worth Income Taxes in the 1990s, is available in seems unlikely this argument will finding ways around the tax reforms — even though in reporting profits to PDF format at www.itepnet.org. Printed change his mind. adopted in 1986,” said Robert S. shareholders, companies don’t treat copies can be ordered by calling ITEP at 202-737-4315. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 16 Mar • Apr 2001 STEWARDSPAGESOURCEBOOKID The Stewards Sourcebook Educate your members regarding their contract The more they understand, the contract spells out exactly how the company and the union will work out the easier your job will be problems that arise when a member believes he or she is not being treated ★ ★ ★ Star Stewards ★ ★ ★ TEWARDS WHO continually fairly. Grievance procedures vary from educate their members not only contract to contract, but they usually reduce their own workload, but include several steps, the final one L-744’s Kenneth Sparling is a ‘Star Steward’ also build solidarity within their being an appeal to a neutral third party. Slocal. Education is important in a num- The significance of that last part is KENNETH SPARLING has been a only news we got on the job, which ber of areas — safety, how unions easy to overlook. No businessman work, and the union advantage — but member of Local 744, Cleveland, was day-to-day.” no area is more important than the con- wants to let anyone else tell him how to Ohio, since 1948. He may have retired run his business. And yet, because of tract you work under. in 1994, but his good work is still The union contract is the single most the collective power of organized remembered. Do you know aStar Steward? workers, virtually every union contract Paul Wiseman, a 25-year member of important fact of union life. Your con- DROP US A LINE with the name of the tract defines the relationship between includes a clause that says if the com- Local 433, Tampa, Fla., nominated pany and the union can’t agree how to Sparling as a star steward for work he steward, the local, the company, and a few your local and your employer. Without words about why you think this steward is a written contract that is binding under handle a problem, the company agrees did over 20 years ago. to let some outside person decide what “Back in 1976, I worked in Local 744. so special. Send a photo if you have one. law, we would be no better off than should be done — and they will abide We’d like the world to see what a good nonunion workers. Sparling was one of the best stewards I by that person’s decision. steward looks like. Yet many union members have no ever met,” wrote Wiseman. “He understood when you had a problem Send info to this address: idea what is in their contract or how Teaching members about the important it is. Many don’t even truly on the job and would always have it Star Stewards understand what a union contract is or contract also builds solidarity ‘come to a head’ real soon. He The Boilermaker Reporter deserves to be a star steward for the Boilermakers International why union members have fought and THE CONTRACT WILL spell out the died for the right to bargain collectively outstanding services he did for Local 753 State Ave, Suite 570 rules for the grievance process, includ- 744 and for the way he negotiated the Kansas City KS 66101 with their employers. ing any time limits that apply and how A union contract sets down in writ- each side is supposed to handle each ing what an employer can or cannot do. aspect of the process. Your members Another reason to educate your without union contracts, it is unlikely It also defines what rights union mem- members regarding their contract is they would ever have been offered. bers have and how those rights can be may not have much interest in this part of the contract. That’s why you need to that it will improve their appreciation It can be very instructive to sit down enforced. Members often overlook the of how much the union has accom- with your contract and make a list of all most fundamental parts of the contract make sure you educate them. Members who do not understand plished for them over the years. of the benefits your members get and focus on the economic parts — the Unless you are a brand-new local because of collective bargaining. wages, paid holidays, vacations, etc. their role in the grievance procedure may tie your hands by failing to notify with your first contract, many of the Seniority does not exist in nonunion Those parts are important, and union you in a timely manner or committing benefits in the contract were negotiated shops. Employers dole out overtime, contracts nearly always guarantee some other oversight that ends their long ago. Members, especially those give promotions, and lay off workers much better economic conditions than grievance before you can even get new to the workplace, usually have no based on their personal preferences. workers can get without a contract. But started on it. If that happens, they’ll idea how difficult it has been to gain Do your members get to keep their they can only be effective because the blame you, ignoring their own mishan- benefits over the years. They take your jury pay?Can they bid for schedules or contract gives the union the power to dling of the complaint. hard-won benefits for granted. for positions that come open? negotiate with the employer. Members who are unhappy with For example, vacations. Everyone Even the hours you work have been The single most important aspect of their representation often create divi- gets them, right? And paid holidays? determined by collective bargaining any contract is the union recognition sions within the local. By making sure And sick leave? And emergency leave? and are included in the contract. Mak- clause. It’s usually the first thing in the they understand their role, you can win They’re required by law, aren’t they? ing sure your members understand contract, and it rarely changes, so we more grievances and members will feel No, they aren’t, and not everyone that all of these items were negotiated is may overlook it. The union recognition gets them. Many of today’s workers a great way to show them the advan- clause gives your local jurisdiction over better about the union. Likewise, a poor understanding of don’t realize that until only a few tage of union membership. the classifications and type of work decades ago, very few workers got paid Below is a document created by Fred covered in the agreement. the grievance process may keep a mem- ber from realizing that there is a way to time off for holidays and vacations. Hill, president of Local Lodge D465, to You probably won this right through The same is true for health insurance, show his members exactly how many a union election certified by the appro- solve his or her problem. Some mem- bers will suffer in silence, building up pensions, time off for funerals, benefits they get through collective bar- priate labor board. But that certification employer-supplied safety boots and gaining. As he names a benefit, he really doesn’t mean much until you resentment toward the union as well as the company, simply because they glasses, and dozens of other benefits. names the page of the contract that sign a contract with the company don’t know how to get help. In fact, all of the benefits included in guarantees this benefit for the mem- which includes the recognition clause. You can’t expect your members to your contract are relatively new in the bers. A similar document for your local That’s when you really begin to rep- know every detail of the grievance history of work. After they were added lodge could be very useful for those resent your members. process — that’s your job — but if they to union contracts, many nonunion members who wonder what the union The grievance procedure is another understand the basic parts, they can employers began to offer them as well does for them. When you write it up, aspect of contracts too often overlooked improve their chances of winning a in order to compete for workers. But you might even be surprised yourself. by the average member. This section of grievance and make your job easier. Union contracts do an awful lot. ❑ What has the union done for me today?

I WAKE UP at 6 a.m. to get ready for in place much longer (p. 49). The debris It took some patience and endurance, by Fred Hill work at 7:30 (p. 22 of the contract), and they called a supporting platform but we all knew how it was done if we Local D465 President put on my uniform (p. 46) and safety could have collapsed at any time. really wanted to advance. I am thankful today. The surgeon she is seeing is shoes (p. 50). On arrival, the safety Thinking about that accident waiting that over the years the wages have risen going to need them for her evaluation glasses and ear plugs go on (p. 50). to happen, I remember mishaps that consistently (p. 59). Now even a high for back surgery. By taking one vaca- Some workers have had persistent have occurred over the years. Most school graduate just starting in the job tion day (p. 39), I can be with her to equipment problems, so I troubleshoot notable in my mind was the microfill market can get a wage that exceeds finally understand what is causing her them myself (p.52). I rely on my train- silo. No one suspected there was a dan- most entry level jobs (p. 59) to be found, so much pain. ing (p. 33) to solve the problems, then ger there. It was fortunate the usual and can begin enjoying full benefits When the surgery is finally done, it sit down at the break table (p. 22). shoveling out of the silo floor was not after only three months (p. 45). That will be nice to walk out of the hospital Someone tells some old jokes, going on at the time. As other silos age, was a long time coming. without worrying about settling a big reminding me of Dad, who always told they require special attention (p. 51), as Someone stops me wanting to know bill (p. 63) before we check out. really old, stupid jokes. He could have you see with the structural work being what to do about a subpoena he just It has been a lot of years and I feel used some as he wasted away. I’m glad done now. received. He is worried about getting pride in what the union has done for I was able to take time off (p.29) to help At afternoon break (p. 22), I overhear points for going to court. But that was me. Aside from the principal function Mom through that difficult time. someone telling what they will be earn- taken care of in the last contract (p. 29). of any union, as “sole bargaining rep- Checking out a printer, I notice that ing (p.26) now that they were able to Last week it was someone who pulled resentative for all hourly associates” the great weather I enjoyed on my vaca- win a job bid (p. 6) for the position they jury duty. No lost wages for that (p. 28). (p. 1), a lot of good work has been done tion (p. 37) is holding on, and before I had been seeking. Just before quitting time I run into by loyal people willing to give their know it, it’s lunch time (p. 22). That brings back memories of the someone who just got back from an time and effort for the good of all After lunch I go to the utilities room jobs I’ve held — especially the long extended recovery from surgery. I’m hourly workers. to see if the compressor that had been stretches of night shifts (p. 23) worked sure the sick pay (p. 64) and unbroken The next time that question, “What kicking off is still running. The new after getting the bids, before I was able insurance coverage (p. 43) brought has the union done for me today?” deck over the pumps looks good. I to get on days, sometimes by bidding about some peace of mind. pops into your head, you might ask, shudder to think what would have (p. 6) and sometimes through bumping I’m glad I ran into him. He reminded “What can I do for the union some- happened if the old one had remained (p. 15) moves. me I have to pick up my wife’s X-rays day?”❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 17 Mar • Apr 2001 TRAININGPAGE/ EDUCATIONID Great Lakes Area council Local 112 members continues education attend steward training

An overview of Local 112 members at a steward’s training program. Guests included business managers from Locals 79, 108, and 110. Seminar includes tips on grievance handling, craft IN DECEMBER, MEMBERSof local lodges represented by the Great Lakes Area Industrial Council #1 attended a training seminar in Kenosha, Wis. Pictured jurisdiction overview above, an unidentified member participates in safety discussions led by ❑ TWENTY MEMBERS OF Local 112, Boilermaker Safety and Health Specialist Milan Racic. Mobile, Ala., two Local 108 members, and business managers from Local 79 (Lake Charles, La.), Local 108 (Birming- L-132 members attend ham, Ala.), and Local 110 (Hattiesburg, Miss.), attended a two-day training foreman training seminar, August 21-22, at the Airport Ramada Inn in Mobile. MEMBERS OF LOCAL 132, Galveston, costs — materials, instructor wages, Len Beauchamp, director of research Texas, attended a Leadership/Fore- meeting rooms, and hotel accommoda- and collective bargaining services, man Training seminar in December, at tions, food, and travel expenses for all devoted one day of training to duties of the Ramada Inn, cosponsored by Bab- participants and instructors. the union steward. Program topics cock and Wilcox (B&W), Reliant Conducting the seminar were DRCBS Len Beauchamp reviews steps included structure and service of the of the grievance procedure with union Energy, Houston Lighting and Power, instructors Dwain Smith and Douglas International Brotherhood; duties of a stewards at an August 21, 2000 the Boilermakers National Apprentice- Vandiver, SE apprentice coordinator. union steward; effective grievance han- seminar in Mobile, Ala. ship Program, and the Southeast Area Smith extends his appreciation to dling, from investigation through Apprenticeship Program. Local 132 BM-ST Larry Turner for his analysis to presentation; steward rights All 20 participants are employed by help. In a letter to the editor (see page under the National Labor Relations Act B&W on job sites owned by Reliant 24), he also credits B&W, Reliant and the Duty of Fair Representation; Energy and were paid their hourly Energy, Houston Lighting and Power, and in-plant organizing. wages by B&W, billed to Reliant the National and Southeast appren- Dale “Skip” Branscum, International Energy. This is only the second time ticeship programs, and every boiler- representative — Construction Divi- that foreman training participants maker who contributes to the sion, conducted a one-day program on have received compensation for their apprenticeship program for making craft jurisdiction. Program topics attendance. these educational seminars such a suc- included a historical overview of craft The National and Southeast appren- cess and benefit for our members. ❑ jurisdiction; dispute resolution proce- ticeship programs provided all other dures; and a review of Boilermaker jurisdiction in the water and steam cycle CD Rep. Dale “Skip” Branscum of a boiler and a heat recovery steam discusses craft jurisdiction at a seminar Local Lodge 146 presents generator (HRSG); HRSG components; in Mobile, Ala. and Boilermaker jurisdiction in selec- six apprentice awards tive catalytic reduction (SCR) systems. M. Turner, Joe Waldrup, Acy Wilson, Attendees included Local 112 mem- and Marcus Wilson Jr.; Local 108 mem- bers Billy Allen, Ricky Boyd, Jimmy bers Ronnie Dexter and Bob Henson; L- Butler, Donnie Calloway, Ralph Green- 79 BM-ST Wil Granger, L-108 BM-ST lee, Perry Holmes, Bruce Jones, Ken John Helvin, L-110 BM-ST R. D. Crenshaw, John Lacy, Jim Lough, Louis Havard, and retired L-110 BM Truman Luttrell, Sam Nichols, John Nolen, Roy Havard; and International Representa- Reed, Charles Reviere, H. E. Turner, H. tives Dennis King and Steve Speed. ❑ Training held for new members of Local 1814 Four recipients of the 1999-2000 Rod Springer Apprentice Award include, l. to r., Local 146 apprentices Tony Prosser, Nick Balanko, Ron Damery, and Robert Bazzarelli. Edmonton lodge names number one in his third-period class. In welding, Bazzarelli was awarded award for Rod Springer, a for his efforts in the first period class, strong advocate of Prosser for the second period, and apprentice training Damery for the final period. The entry level through third period SIX LOCAL 146 members, Edmonton, Boilermaker classes each consists of Alberta, Canada, have earned the Rod six weeks of technical training and Springer Apprenticeship Award for 1,500 hours of work experience. The their outstanding performance in the three period welding classes each con- local lodge’s apprenticeship program. sist of eight weeks of technical training Local 146 BM-ST Dean Milton pre- and 1,560 hours of work experience. sented the $500 awards for the 1999- The award is named in honor of for- 2000 apprenticeship term to Darren mer Local 146 dispatcher Rod Hoffman, Nick Balanko, Chris Sparks, Springer, a strong advocate of appren- DRCBS Len Beauchamp conducts a steward training program, March 30-31, for Robert Bazzarelli, Tony Prosser, and ticeship training, who passed away in members of Local 1814, Bridge City, La., who work at Avondale Shipyard. Ron Damery. February 2000. While in office, Hoffman earned two awards for his Springer used his own money to THIRTY STEWARDS OF Local 1814, In addition to the traditional pro- Bridge City, La., attended a two-day gram topics, the stewards discussed marks in the entry level and first peri- award the top apprentices. In 1999, he od Boilermaker classes. Balanko con- paid $500 each to the top apprentice in steward’s training program conducted their first union contract with Avon- by Len Beauchamp, director of research dale Shipyard, where they are forming sistently leaves the rest of his class- seven classifications. Following his mates behind in the second period example, Local 146 instituted the and collective bargaining services, a safety committee to address workers’ Safety and Health Specialist Milan concerns for a safe job site. A workshop Boilermaker classes, and Sparks is annual Rod Springer Apprentice Award so his dream never dies. ❑ Racic, and Intl. Rep. Warren Fairley. on duties of an officer was also held.❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 18 Mar • Apr 2001 NEWSMAKERSPAGE ID Job brings Canadian Boilermakers to KC

Members of Local 73 and 128 visit headquarters before starting a job at the Numerous groups tour the International while working in Kansas City, including Kansas City Power & Light’s Hawthorn plant. Front row, l. to r., L-73’s Gordon these members who discuss health and welfare and pension issues with Jones. MacPherson, L-128’s Dalas Santavy, and L-73 members David Decost and Tom Cormier. Back row, l. to r., L-128’s Jim Watson and Kevin Dalton, Intl. Pres. C. W. Jones, L-128’s Steve Jarvis and Mike McCabe, and L-73’s Rèal Boucher.

MEMBERS OF CANADIAN Local dispatcher have also been indispensa- Lodge 73 (Halifax, Nova Scotia); Lodge ble to this job. “Randy spoke to the local 128 (Toronto, Ontario); Lodge 146 business managers to work out man- (Edmonton, Alberta); and Lodge 359 power needs. He even contacted border (Vancouver, British Columbia) will be guards to make sure the Canadians’ working six to eight weeks as welders entry into the U.S. would go as and riggers at the Kansas City Power & smoothly as possible,” said Erickson. Light’s Hawthorn plant. The Canadians came in response to a John Tindale of the Boilermakers’ call for increased manpower at the MOST program worked with Babcock power plant where they are helping to & Wilcox Construction Company to rebuild Unit #5, which was damaged in Local 359 members meet Intl. Pres. C. Local 146 members, Jose Riffo (l.) and get the Canadian members across the a February 1999 explosion. Over 300 W. Jones, center, before starting work Enrique Salazar (r.), join Intl. Pres. Jones border (and through all the red tape) to Boilermakers from all across the U.S. at the Kansas City Power & Light’s at International headquarters. Riffo is help with this rebuild. are also working at the job site, under Hawthorn plant. Jason Shaw, at left, will working as a welder and Salazar is Local 83 BM-ST Roger Erickson said the jurisdiction of Local 83, Kansas be working as a rigger, and Giovanni working as a welder and fitter at the Randy Cruse’s efforts as the Local 83 City, Mo. ❑ Pagliardi, will be working as a welder. Hawthorn plant in Kansas City. GOOD JOB! Veteran crew brings Letters from Satisfied Contractors & Owners World War II ship home Local 11 members set furnace record for Power Maintenance I WANTED TO drop you a line and let you know how your Boilermakers did on the unit #3 scaffold Both furnaces were completed to the dance floors in a little over six shifts. This is the best time ever in this size unit. They did a great job and there were no recordable accidents. We have a lot of work left and we hope to continue this safety and produc- This LST-325, built by Boilermakers in 1942, is docked in Mobile, Ala., where it will tion rate with your Boilermakers. be renovated to become a museum. F. E. MCKARNEY Built by Boilermakers in donated $2,000 to rehabilitate it and Site Manager bring it home to become a museum. Power Maintenance Resources, Inc. 1942, this warship will The trip took two months. They hit soon be a museum storms, had problems with the steer- ing, the engine failed, and divers had Graycor Industrial praises Local 60 THEIR AVERAGE AGE was 72, the to fix a hole in the bow. And they lost ship was a rusting relic, and the a crew member to heart problems — members on safe, fast work Coast Guard warned them not to he died after returning to the U.S. cross the Atlantic during the winter. But as hard as it was, they were I AM WRITING regarding the success of the AES Edward’s Station reheat But they were determined to bring glad to have done it. “This was the project. This project encompassed the replacement of 122 reheat elements and home the ship that delivered troops greatest thing I’ve ever done in my 1,240 welds in a five-week schedule. Similar projects at this station were com- to Normandy in the D-Day invasion. life,” said crewman Jim Edwards of pleted in six weeks. The ship was an LST-325, built by Canton, Tex. Graycor accepted this job and completed this project on schedule and to the Boilermaker union members in 1942. Now that the 328-foot vessel is owner’s satisfaction through the combined efforts of Local 60 officers in man- It was decommissioned in 1946, and home, it will be turned into a museum. lent to the Greek government. Last ning and supporting this outage, the genuine efforts of the general foreman Donations for the LST 325 summer it came out of service, and a Memorial Ship are tax deductible Gary Lusk and Jeff Innam, and Graycor superintendents Tom Stodola and 29-member crew of veterans from Bruce Plowman. and can be sent to the USS LST Ship World War II and the Korean War Memorial, 64 Ponderosa Drive, This project worked two shifts of seven days per week and ten hours per day. paid their own way to Greece and Oregon, OH 43616-2221. ❑ Safety is Graycor’s first and foremost priority. Due to the efforts of these members and the skilled local craftsmen, there were no recordable accidents. Out of 1,240 welds, there were less than five repairs on this project, which accounts for one-half off the one percent rejection rate. This is a major accom- plishment for all involved — union members, owner, and contractor. On behalf of Graycor and the AES plant, congratulations on a job well done. We look forward to future projects in your area and appreciate all of your efforts in completing a safe and on-time project for this owner, which is in everyone’s best interest in today’s industry. Special thanks to the owner and their team — Tom Watson, Jeff Feree, Mike Chinard, Mark Wilson, and Chad Weise — who helped to make this a safe and successful outage. MIKE MURPHY andJOE GEORGE Graycor Industrial Constructors, Inc.

http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 19 Mar • Apr 2001 LOCAL &PAGERETIREEID NEWS L-363’s Douin is chairman Local 531’s Toler is of national boiler board retired, but still running DAVID DOUIN, a 27-year member of Local 363, LIFE IS A RACE. It always seems you East St. Louis, Ill., has been elected the 34th have to hurry no matter where you chairman of the National Board of Boiler and are going. But when you reach retire- Pressure Vessel Inspectors in a special meeting ment, it’s time to slow down. held Feb. 6, 2001. Wrong. Douin was first elected to the national board When Beacham Toler retired, he in 1990, as one of its youngest members. With 27 didn’t slow down at all. In fact he’s years of experience in the boiler and pressure running more than ever. vessel industry, Douin oversees one of the At 73 years of age, Toler, a retired largest professional staffs among national board member of Local 531, Amarillo, Texas, jurisdictions. is an ultra runner. He participates in Douin began his career as an apprentice boiler- races that are 26.2 miles or more. maker in 1974. He became a boiler inspector in Since he retired in 1988, he has fin- 1982, the same year he earned his national board ished 36 marathons, including the commission; assistant superintendent in 1986; Boston marathons in 1999 and 2000, superintendent in 1990; and the board’s second and has been in 42 ultra races. In July vice chairman in 1997. ❑ of 1995 and 1997, he participated in the Badwater races — 135 grueling miles from the bottom of Death Valley These brother apprentices to Whitney Portal, the gateway to Local 531’s Beacham Toler spends his Mount Whitney. Four times he has retirement on the run. are just that — brothers finished the toughest race in North America — the Western States 100 — to his training program. To get in running 22 miles of the 1998 race in shape for the ultra runs, he participat- the snow. ed in bicycle events, like the seven- The best of his three 24-hour runs day, 500-mile FreeWheel from covered 112.2 miles. Toler says he also Marietta, Okla. to Noel, Mo.; the runs in a lot of shorter races; however, Almost Across Arizona, a 550-mile he doesn’t even keep track of those. event from the Grand Canyon to Toler joined Local 531 in 1948, and Nogales; and a seven-day event from spent most of his career building boil- Paris, Texas, to Hominy, Okla. ers. Because he knew many Toler is not the only family member Boilermakers with breathing difficul- who runs. His daughter, Valen ties, Toler started to jog for his health Harless, won the half-marathon for at the age of 40 years. When his wife, her age group in Amarillo last spring, Zelma, suffered a stroke, he stopped and his 14-year-old granddaughter, running to care for her and their two Frankie Harless, runs track at her high children. It was several years later school and has already run several 5k when he took up his hobby again, this (3.1 mile) events in Amarillo. ❑ Left to right, L-74 Vice Pres. Dennis Smith, apprentice Chris Smith, L-74 BM Ron time adding an old ten-speed bicycle Keck, apprentice Mike Smith, and L-74 Pres. Herman Sullivan. FOR THE FIRST TIME in Local 74’s the Local 74, Houston, Texas, appren- Taking flight with Schapansky history, two brothers in the apprentice tice program. program have taken the Boilermakers’ L-74 Bus. Mgr. Ron Keck says, obligation together. Chris and Mike “Dennis should be proud of his sons. Retiree keeps active by Smith, sons of 30-year Local 74 mem- They both are outstanding apprentices building airplanes ber and lodge vice-president Dennis and will be great assets to the local Smith, are learning the trade through and this organization.” ❑ WHEN JOHN (JACK) Schapansky retired, he didn’t “hang up his tools,” he just started using them for a different purpose. Julie makes dolls while her Instead of working as a boilermaker, Scha- pansky now uses his skills to build radio- Boilermaker is away controlled airplanes. That’s one way to take your work to a MANY PEOPLE DON’T realize that Boilermakers higher level! ❑ provide a variety of products and services that we use every day. My boyfriend, Raymond Klotz, is a proud 31-year member of Local 146 (Edmonton, Alberta, Canada). He, like many other Boilermakers, has to work away Bush’s tax cut and retirees from home a lot. This means those left behind have No provisions are tailored just The American Association of Retired to be understanding, patient, and appreciative for all for older or retired Americans Persons (AARP) hired an independent the things they do. accountant to calculate how the tax cut While my Boilermaker is away, I make Boilermaker THE BUSH TAX CUT should affect would affect a variety of retired Ameri- time-out dolls like the one pictured here. retired Americans in pretty much the cans. That analysis shows that low- JULIE ZUKIWSKY same way it affects working taxpayers. income retirees get no benefit, while Edmonton, Alberta, Canada ❑ Because no provisions have been retirees with incomes over $100,000 a included specifically to benefit older year do very well. Americans, those who benefit most Below are some scenarios as calcu- Lodges present membership pins will be the ones with higher incomes. lated by the AARP’s accountant. Local 1 — Chicago, Ill. Local 374 — Hammond, Ind. $21,000 $28,500 Widow, 72, living alone Married couple, 69 and 67, JOHN SKERMONT, business manager and CHARLES VANOVER, business manager no children secretary-treasurer of Local 1, Chicago, Ill., and secretary-treasurer of Local 374, Ham- Main source of income: reports presentation of pins for continuous mond, Ind., reports presentation of pins for Social Security Sources of income: years of membership to the following Local continuous years of membership to the fol- Pension and Social Security 1 members: 60 Years– Robert McDonough; lowing Local 374 members: 55 Years – Clif- 55 Years– Lee Gustafson; 45 Years– Robert ford E. Duggan and John A. Satalic; 50 Estimated savings: $0 Estimated savings: $0 Haavig; 30 Years – James Altman, Charles Years – Charles W. Bostick and Thomas R. Brannan, Thomas Brennan, Stephen Gold- Byers; 40 Years – Donald A. Petersen;35 man, Benjamin Kosiek, James McDonough, Years – David T. Flannigan, Larry D. Futrell, $74,000 $115,000 Alton F. Sanders, and Andrew Zaner; 25 and Gene M. Stankovich; 30 Years– Dale A. Married couple, 70 and 67, Married couple, 55 and 54, Years – Thomas Barry, Sean Bills, Daniel Hubert, Richard Reeves, and Charles H. no children at home both employed, two chil- Favia, Dennis Finnegan, Russell Flagg, Webb; 25 Years– Michael Fedornock, Sources of income: pen- dren 17 and 23 William Hafner, Robert Hughes, David William E. Gaines, Michael L. Linne, and sions, Social Security, Sources of income: Earn- Nolan Jr., Patrick O’Malley, William Murphy John P. Son; 15 Years – Kevin J. Burnett, some earnings ings, capital gains, interest Jr., Samuel Perez, Christopher Preble, David W. Switt, and William A. Yazel.❑ Andrew Reid, John F. Riel, John Sharkey, Estimated savings: $739 Estimated savings: $2,092 Kevin Sheehan, and James Ward. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 20 Mar • Apr 2001 SETTLEMENTS

You don’t get what you deserve . . . New contract summaries . . . you get what you negotiate A brief listing of recent agreements signed and ratified by Boilermaker local lodges UNION LEADERS, like these pictured here, work long nance work at Lisa Lee hours to negotiate the best benefits they can for L-5—New York City D381—Las Vegas, NV L-656—Chattanooga Boilermaker members. Enterprises; effective July GERALD CONNOLLY JR., BM-ST 24, 2000 to Nov. 1, 2002, for INTL. R EP. M ICHAEL ATCHISON GARY COOKSTON , president of of Local 5, New York City, ten L-104 members who per- reports contract ratification, Local 656, Chattanooga, N.Y., reports contract form tug and yacht con- effective Oct. 1, 2000 to Sept. Tenn., reports contract ratifi- ratification, effective struction at the J. M. 30, 2004, for members of cation, effective March 6, October 1, 2000 to Sept. 30, Martinac Shipbuilding Co.; Local D381, Las Vegas, Nev., 2000 to March 9, 2003, for 375 2002, for six Local 5 effective Oct. 1, 2000 to Oct. who work at Chemical Lime. Local 656 members who members who knock down 1, 2003, for 22 L-104 mem- make boilers and boiler com- heating boilers and tanks bers who fabricate tanks at D385—Vancouver, BC ponents at Alstom Power . for the Delta Welding Corp. the Morse Construction ROB LAUZON, BM-ST of Group; effective Oct. 1, 2000 L-667—Charleston, WV L-13—Philadelphia, PA District Lodge D11, reports to Sept. 30, 2003, for eight L- contract ratification, effec- GEORGE PINKERMAN , BM-ST INTL. REP. R OCCO DEROLLO 104 members who paint tive Nov. 1, 2000 to Oct. 31, of Local 667, Charleston, W. reports contract ratifica- tanks at San Juan Blast; 2004, for 57 members of Va., reports contract ratifi- Negotiating a three-year contract with the greatest effective October 1, 2000 to wage increase Local M24 members have enjoyed in tion, effective June 24, 2000 Local D385, Vancouver, cation, effective Nov. 5, over six years are, l. to r., Intl. Rep. David Lawrence, to June 23, 2002, for mem- Sept. 30, 2003, for 20 L-104 British Columbia, Canada, 1999 to Nov. 4, 2004, for 14 Debbie Grainger, Howard Wolfe, and Tina Riley. bers of Local 13, members who fabricate who produce cement for Local 667 members who Philadelphia, Pa. (formerly steel at T-Bailey Inc.; effec- Lafarge Canada, Inc. work in the production and represented by Local 329), tive Oct. 1, 2000 to Oct. 1, maintenance of tank and who work at the General 2003 for 20 L-104 members L-482—Wood River, IL pressure vessels for Marine Refrigeration Corp. who do repair work at Tri Sistersville Tank Works. State Construction Inc.; and INTL. R EP . JAMES PRESSLEY M24—Kokomo, IN effective July 31, 2000 to July reports contract ratifica- L-1162—Milwaukee, WI 31, 2003, for 25 L-104 mem- tion, effective Nov. 1, 2000 INTL. REP. DAVID LAWRENCE bers who repair marine boil- to Oct. 31, 2003, for 88 mem- INTL. REP . L EN GUNDERSON reports contract ratifica- ers for Walashek Industrial bers of Local 482, Wood reports contract ratifica- tion, effective Nov. 19, 2000 & Marine. River, Ill., who repair large tion, effective Nov. 16, 2000 to Nov. 14, 2003, for 90 and small diesel engines at to Oct. 16, 2003, for mem- members of Local M24, L-132—Galveston, TX Mikes, Inc. bers of Local 1162, Kokomo, Ind., who produce Milwaukee, Wis., who goods for artificial flowers LARRY TURNER ,BM-ST of L-583—Birmingham, AL work at Interstate Forging. at Syndicate Sales. Local 132, Galveston, Negotiating a four-year contract for Local D375 Texas, reports contract rat- MEMBERS OF LOCAL 583, L-1667—Marion, OH members at Lafarge Corp. are, front row, l. to r., Pres. L-27—St. Louis, MO ification, effective Oct. 1, Birmingham, Ala., have rat- Fred Workman and Intl. Rep. Carey Allen; back row, l. 2000 to Sept. 30, 2003, for 36 ified a three-year agree- RON LYON, Industrial Council to r., Vice Pres. Terry Pastor and Rec. Sec. Dee Houter. DONALD LINK, BM-ST of Local 132 members who ment, effective Nov. 1, 2000 representative, reports a Local 27, St. Louis, Mo., work at Dunn Heat to Oct. 31, 2003, for workers one-year contract exten- reports contract ratifica- Exchangers, Inc. who repair Guzzler vacuum sion, effective until Dec. tion, effective Nov. 1, 2000 trucks at Guzzler 2001, for members of Local to Nov. 1, 2003, for 70 Local D229—Springfield, MO Manufacturing. 1667, Marion, Ohio, who 27 members at Continental work at Dana Corp. Fabricators. CLGAW DIV. DIR. CHARLES L-608—Baltimore, MD HUNTBACH reports contract L-2000—Chester, PA L-72—Portland, OR ratification, effective INTL. R EP . STEVE BEAL reports October 1, 2000 to Sept. 30, contract ratification, effec- PHILLIPP EVANS, BM-ST of R. D. LAZOTT, president of 2003, for 57 members of tive Sept. 8, 2000 to Sept. 8, Local 2000, Chester, Pa., Local 72, Portland, Ore., Local D229, Springfield, 2004, for 35 members of reports contract ratification, reports contract ratifica- Mo., who make lime prod- Local 608, Baltimore, Md., effective Oct. 4, 1999 to Oct. Negotiating a four-year contract for Local D381 at tion, effective Sept. 18, 2000 ucts forAsh Grove Cement. who overhaul and repair 3, 2004, for 260 members of Chemical Lime, are, l. to r., Paul Leavitt, John to Sept. 18, 2003, for six ships at the U.S. Coast Local 2000 who work at the Suarez, and David White. Local 72 members who D277—Bamberton, BC Guard Yard. Metro Corp. rebuild electric motors and work in the machine shop ROB LAUZON , BM-ST of at the Reliance Electric District Lodge D11, reports A summary analysis of these contract settlements Industrial Service Center. contract ratification, effec- tive Nov. 1, 2000 to Oct. 31, Prepared by the Research and $1.45 the first year, $1.54 the ings (60% average); a flat $24,000. The remaining agree- D75—Fredonia, KS 2004, for 80 members of Collective Bargaining Department second year, and $1.63 the amount ranging from $1,300 to ments use the annual wage as Local D277, Bamberton, of the International Brotherhood third year. $12,000; or base times the the benefit, double the life CHARLES HUNTBACH, CLGAW British Columbia, Canada, division director, reports of Boilermakers Ten facilities offer a amount off of the current insurance amount, or multiply who produce cement for 401(k);11 have company-spon- unemployment insurance wages by 2080 hours, for the contract ratification, effec- Tilbury Cement Limited. THIS ANALYSIS of the 33 sored plans; one facility offers amount. The length of time off benefit amount. tive May 1, 2001 to April 30, agreements outlined above is a profit sharing program; one ranges from 13 to 52 weeks. 2007 for 76 members of L-359—Vancouver based on information provided offers an employee stock The most common is 52 weeks Vacation Local D75, Fredonia, Kan., in the Contract Summary and ownership plan. found in 13 agreements. Most TWENTY-FIVE agreements who make Portland Cement DARRELL FLEMING, a repre- Transmittal Report forms, and Canadian facilities provide provide a one-week paid at Lafarge. sentative of Local 359, covers approximately 2,152 Shift Differential short-term disability (STD), vacation; 27 provide two- Vancouver, British employees. TWENTY-SIX agreements pro- then long-term disability (LTD), weeks; 25 provide three- L-104—Seattle, WA Columbia, Canada, reports Wage Increases vide a second-shift premium, then the employee may weeks; 24 provide four weeks; contract ratification, effec- of which 20 report a cents-per- receive Unemployment 14 provide five weeks; three TIM CARR, BM-ST of Local TWENTY-NINE facilities hour premium ranging from Insurance Commission (UIC) provide six weeks; eight pro- tive March 15, 2000 to reported pay increases in 104, Seattle, Wash., reports March 14, 2003, for 11 Local $0.10 to $1.00. The average is maximums until the age of 65. vide vacation pay based on contract ratification, effec- 2000, averaging $0.69 per hour $0.45 per hour. Twenty-four These amounts are paid on a a percentage of the annual 359 members who fabri- or 2.79 percent; 28 will receive agreements provide a third- wage, or a per-hour contri- tive Oct. 1, 2000 to Oct. 1, cate steel at Gunn weekly, monthly, or annual 2003, for 12 L-104 members pay increases in 2001, averag- shift premium, of which 19 basis; therefore, an average is bution to a vacation fund. Industries Ltd., and effec- ing $0.58 per hour or 2.71 per- have a cents-per-hour premi- difficult to calculate. who manufacture conveyor tive January 2, 1999 to cent; 26 will receive pay Paid Holidays screws at Austin Mac, Inc.; um ranging from $0.20 to $1.00. December 31, 2001, for two increases in 2002, averaging The average is $0.57 per hour. Life Insurance/AD&D THIRTY-TWOagreements pro- effective Oct. 1, 2000 to Sept. Local 359 members who $0.58 per hour or 3.07 percent; The remaining agreements THIRTY AGREEMENTS pro- vide paid holidays, ranging 30, 2003, for two L-104 mem- work in the office of seven will receive pay provide a percentage of pay or vide life insurance. Twenty- from eight to 13 days. The bers who fabricate steel at McAteer Employee Benefit increases in 2003, averaging full pay for a partial shift; one two have a set dollar amount average is 9.94 days. Brekke Brothers; effective Plan Services Ltd. $0.45 per hour or 3.2 percent; provides a premium for 12- ranging from $5,000 to Oct. 1, 2000 to Sept. 30, 2003, one will receive pay increases hour shifts. $567,000. The average benefit Other Provisions for 12 L-104 members who in 2004, 2005, and 2006. for the first year is $17,000. The TWENTY-SEVEN agreements D375—Paulding, OH Sickness & Accident provide funeral leave; 24 pro- perform weld fabrication Pension remaining agreements use the and repair work at INTL. REP. CAREY ALLEN THIRTY-ONE agreements pro- annual wage as the benefit, or vide paid leave for jury duty ; 16 ALL OF THE facilities partici- have union leave language; 14 Commercial Weld & reports contract ratifica- vide weekly sickness and multiply wages by 2080 hours, pate in some type of pension accident indemnities. Of these, for the benefit amount. provide all or partial reimburse- Fabrication; effective July 1, tion, effective Dec. 16, 2000 program. Twenty-one facilities ment for the purchase of safety to Dec. 15, 2004, for 82 21 pay a set dollar amount Twenty-eight agreements 2000 to July 1, 2003 for ten L- participate in the Boilermaker- ranging from $155 to $400 per provide Accidental Death and shoes; 19 for prescription safe- 104 members who repair members of Local D375, Blacksmith National Pension week. The average rate for the Dismemberment (AD&D) ty glasses; six provide sever- ships at Fishing Vessel Paulding, Ohio, who pro- Trust; contributions range first year is $240.47. insurance. Twenty-four have a ance payment packages; nine Owners Marine Ways; duce Portland Cement at from $0.30 to $5.00 per hour for The remaining agreements set dollar amount ranging from provide paid leave for persons effective Oct. 1, 2000 to Oct. the Lafarge Corporation. the first year. Average cents- either provide a percentage of $5,000 to $150,000. The aver- spending two weeks at military 1, 2003, for one L-104 mem- per-hour contributions are the employee’s weekly earn- age benefit for the first year is encampmenteach year. ber who performs mainte- http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 21 Mar • Apr 2001 SAFETYPAGE& HEALTHID Congress kills ergonomics rule MAKE IT SAFE Working safely in confined spaces Bush tells 1.6 million late in the Clinton administration. As their first order of business in 2001, injured workers ‘I can’t Congress passed a congressional reso- NIOSH offers tips to pre- feel your pain’ lution of disapproval, killing the vent occupational fatal- ergonomics rule before it could be ities in confined spaces REPETITIVE STRESS INJURIES and implemented. When Bush signed the illnesses affect 1.6 million workers and order, he said the rule was “unduly THIS ALERT REQUESTS the cost companies $45-50 billion each burdensome and overly broad.” assistance of managers, year. For ten years, the Occupational Pundits in Washington, however, supervisors, and workers in the Safety and Health Administration say it was simply pay back for the cor- prevention of deaths that occur in (OSHA) worked on developing an porations that donated millions to his confined spaces. Confined spaces ergonomics rule to safeguard workers presidential campaign. may be encountered in virtually and guide companies in preventing OSHA began forming the ergonom- any occupation; therefore, their these illnesses and injuries. ics rule when Bush’s father was presi- recognition is the first step in In their effort to create a rule that dent. During his campaign, George W. preventing fatalities. Since deaths would be effective in solving the prob- Bush committed himself, as a “com- in confined spaces often occur lem without overburdening business- passionate conservative,” to doing because the atmosphere is oxygen es, OSHA held regional public meet- something to address workplace deficient or toxic, confined spaces ings, where representatives from busi- injuries. When he had the opportuni- should be tested prior to entry ness, workers, and the health commu- ty, he decided corporate profits are and continually monitored. You may need to wear a self- nity testified. worth any amount of pain — pain for More than 60 percent of confined contained breathing apparatus The standard was finally completed the workers, that is. ❑ (like those worn by fire fighters) to space fatalities occur among work in oxygen deficient areas would-be rescuers; therefore, a such as silos or pits. well-designed and properly Coworkers honor victims of executed rescue plan is a must. institution of lockout-tagout There are no specific OSHA rules procedures, ventilation of the fatal construction accident that apply to all confined spaces. space, cleaning and/or purging, work procedures, including use OSHA fines company for Scriviner Jr. Scriviner still remains Background of safety lines attached to the removing bracing, under doctor’s care for injuries and THE DEATHS OF workers in person working in the confined complications suffered in the collapse. confined spaces constitute a space and its use by a standby leaving generator In its investigation following the recurring occupational tragedy; person if trouble develops, vulnerable to collapse accident, the U.S. Occupational Safety approximately 60 percent of these personal protective equipment and Health Administration found fatalities have involved would-be required (clothing, respirator, MORE THAN 350 PEOPLE gathered Black &Veatch Construction Inc. had rescuers. The National Institute boots, etc.), special tools required, Friday, February 2, 2001, to remember prematurely removed temporary for Occupational Safety and and communications system to be two co-workers who died exactly one bracing that reinforced the structure, Health (NIOSH) describes a used. The confined space should year earlier in a construction accident thus leaving it vulnerable to collapse. confined space as one that has be continuously monitored to that also injured two others. The company was fined $7,000. limited openings for entry and determine whether the Throughout the state of On behalf of the families, Local 237 exit, unfavorable natural atmosphere has changed due to Connecticut, Boilermakers wore black thanks those who participated and ventilation which could contain the work being performed. armbands in memory of their Local donated to the benefit golf tournament or produce dangerous air 3. Rescue — Rescue procedures 237 brothers, Kevin Winslow and on September 24, 2000; for everyone’s contaminants, and which is not should be established before Wayne Most, who lost their lives generous donations to both of the intended for continuous entry and should be specific for when a heat recovery steam generator memorial funds; and for all the cards, employee occupancy. Confined each type of confined space. A collapsed while under construction. letters, and support received from our spaces include storage tanks, standby person should be During an on-sight ceremony that sister lodges and their members. compartments of ships, process assigned for each entry where was closed to the media and public, For those who wish to contribute, vessels, and tunnels. If you work warranted. The standby person Local 237 Business Manager Anthony please send donations to the following: in a septic tank, sewage digester, should be equipped with rescue DeFrancesco Jr. unveiled a plaque that Winslow Children’s Education Fund pumping/lift station, sewage equipment including a safety line attached to the worker in the was presented to the Milford Power c/o Webster Bank distribution, holding tank, silo, Company. 1120 Main Street vat, duct, utility vault, reaction confined space, self-contained breathing apparatus, protective This plaque will be displayed in the Newington, CT 06111 vessel, boiler, pipeline, pit, or visitor’s area of the administration similar type of structure or clothing, boots, etc. The standby building to remember both Kevin and The Wayne Most Memorial Fund enclosure, you are working in a person should use this attached Wayne, and to also give thanks for the ATTN: Bill Rivenberg, VP confined space. safety line to help rescue the saving of crane operator Robert Fitch Fleet Bank worker. The rescue procedures and Local 237 member George 235 Main St. Recommendations should be practiced frequently New Britain CT 06051 enough to provide a level of NIOSH RECOMMENDS THAT proficiency that eliminates life- managers, supervisors, and threatening rescue attempts and workers be made familiar ensures an efficient and Fireworks Safety Awareness with the following three steps: calm response to any emergency. 1. Recognition — Worker Have a safe 4th of July training is essential to the Helpful NIOSH publications recognition of what constitutes a confined space and the hazards NIOSHHAS PUBLISHED the TO HELP YOU celebrate safely this that may be encountered in them. following documents which Fourth of July, the Consumer Product This training should stress that contain further information: Safety Commission and the National death to the worker is the likely • Criteria for a Recommended Council on Fireworks Safety offer the outcome if proper precautions are Standard .... Working in Confined following safety tips: not taken before entry is made. Spaces, DHEW Publ. No. 80-106. • Guidelines for Controlling ✰ Always read and follow label 2. Testing, evaluation, and directions monitoring — All confined Hazardous Energy During Maintenance and Servicing, DHHS ✰ Have an adult present spaces should be tested by a qualified person before entry to Publ. No. 83-125. ✰ Buy from reliable fireworks sellers determine whether the confined For more information, contact the NIOSH Director of Safety ✰ Ignite outdoors space atmosphere is safe for entry. Tests should be made for Research at 1095 Willowdale ✰ Have water handy Road, Morgantown, W. VA ✰ oxygen level, flammability, and ✰ Never experiment or attempt to Store in a cool, dry place known or suspected toxic 26505; or call 1-800-35-NIOSH (1- make your own fireworks ✰ Dispose of properly substances. Evaluation of the 800-356-4674). ✰ Light one at a time ✰ Never throw fireworks at another confined space should consider DON’T TAKE UNNECESSARY RISKS. person the following: methods for ALWAYSPLAY IT SAFE. ✰ Never re-ignite malfunctioning isolating the space by mechanical fireworks ✰ Never carry fireworks in your AND WHEN YOU ARE AT WORK, or electrical means (i.e., double MAKE IT SAFE! ✰ Never give fireworks to small pocket block and bleed, lockout, etc.), the children ✰ Never shoot fireworks in metal or glass containers. ❑ http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 22 Mar • Apr 2001 CONSUMERPAGE IDNEWS Members Only Facing some unusually The money-saving programs listed below are available only BIG expenses? to Boilermaker members and their immediate families.* Union Privilege offers a variety of loans, all with special union-only benefits UNION PLUS CREDIT CARD WHETHER YOU NEED money for college, to remodel your Call: 1-800-522-4000 home, or to consolidate your credit card bills, Union Privi- lege has a loan program that can help you. 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Phone 1-800-248-7890 to get it. well as general health information 24 PRIVILEGE BENEFITS Avis and Budget rental car compa- hours a day. *Includes retired members. Program nies also offer discounts through Try this program free for 30 days by restrictions apply to members outside the ❑ continental United States. Phone 1-800- Union Privilege. phoning 1-800-228-3523. 452-9425 for clarification of eligibility. http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 23 Mar • Apr 2001 IN PAGEMEMORIAMID

WITH DEEP SORROW the International Brotherhood records the death of these members as reported to the Intl. sec.- 182 Hansen, Melvin E. 549 Thompson, Curtis treas.’s office, and extends its heartfelt sympathy to the bereaved families. 182 Sizemore, Allen 587 Gilcrease, Dan 182 Wride, Wayne 592 Ellis, Merlin Q. LODGE & NAME 186 Trapani, Joseph 647 Simberg, Howard G. NTL Brokaw, Paul 45 Logsdon, Anthony 104 Woodward, Elmer C. 191 Lawson, George 667 Burton, Garlen NTL Faucett, Robert 45 Robertson, Timothy 105 Huck, Clarence P. 191 Woods, William E. 667 McDavid, Ernest NTL Greer, Eurie C. 60 Neiggemann, Frederick 105 Turcott, Benjamin 193 Dehart, William F. 667 Miller, Roger NTL Keller, Frank 60 Wofford, Ralph 107 Boerschinger, Peter 193 Parsons, Ansell 667 Preat, Thomas 1 Radtke, Richard M68 Tranby, Roy 107 Cislo, Andrew 197 Desorbo, Anthony 667 Sampson, Samuel 7 Mazzeo, Joseph 69 Self, Charlie 107 Kelley, Norman 199 Raulerson, Calvin 687 Hart, C. 10 Nordlinger, Don B. 72 Bjorkman, Axel A. 112 Bennett, James 199 Tanner, Laurence 694 Nolan, Robert 13 Rudawski, Walter 72 Rafferty, Lawrence E. 112 Booker, Elzy 204 Bustamente, L. J. 735 Neidhardt, Arthur 13 Verbit, Edward 79 Broussard, Otis V. 128 Hassan, John 208 Hansen, Walter E. 801 Romano, Nicholas A. 27 Bauer, Carl 83 Barnes, Randy 128 Leader, Thomas 271 Gauvreau, Robert 1086 Pariso, James 27 Breedlove, Roy 85 Poindexter, Robert 128 Munro, Daniel 290 Gourley, Richard 1130 Lind, Eugene O. 27 Brueggemann, Alois 92 Dubich, Steve 128 Vansickle, George 290 Parkinson, Kenneth 1147 Benzelock, Peter 27 Cotner, C. M. 92 Elliott, William 128 Winiarski, Walter 357 Ankeney, Samuel 1166 Burden, Allan 28 Blanchette, Fred 92 Hennis, Earl A. 146 Bidas, Kazimierz 363 Gilreath, James 1614 Nibbio, Felix 28 Ciriello, James 92 McGuire, Ashley 146 Johnson, Albert 374 Eichhorn, Jerome 1614 Winger, Marlin 29 Andruskiewicz, Joseph 92 Pettner, Fay 154 Conti, Richard 374 Hagedorn, Nicholas 1620 Johnson, Raymond W. 29 Boyko, Walter 92 Zonneveld, Dick 154 Hopkins, William 433 Castillo, Conrad R. 29 Draheim, John 102 Robinson, L. P. 154 Randolf, Richard 433 Dean, Frank L. 30 Spruill, Cyril 104 Dolan, Edward A. 154 Thompson, Richard 453 Arnold, William 37 Gipson, James 104 Eneberg, Stanley A. 158 Foster, Elmer C. 454 Beavers, Charles

DEATH BENEFITS IF YOU HAVE NOT yet been furnished this information, contact your local lodge, secure the beneficiary forms, complete the required information and forward to the Administrative Office of the Pension Fund, THE DEATH BENEFIT PLANunder the Boilermaker-Blacksmith National Pension Trust has 754 Minnesota Avenue, Suite 522, Kansas City, KS 66101, at the earliest possible date. NOTE: These addi- paid the beneficiaries of the following deceased members who were covered by the plan tional death benefits can only be derived for members who worked under a collective bargaining agree- since the last issue of our publication. ment with an employer contributing to the Boilermaker-Blacksmith National Pension Trust.

LODGE, NAME & BENEFIT 83 Spinello, Charles P. 516.00 154 Macklin, Leroy 4,500.00 487 Koehler, Elmer O. 4,500.00 Intl. Franklin, Lee $4,500.00 85 Altmann, Alfred M. 4,500.00 154 Mulligan, Jerome V. 4,500.00 549 Carr, Clay E. 4,500.00 NTL Boyd, Jack 2,477.32 85 Diaz, Albert E. 4,500.00 154 Weider, Robert W. 3,000.00 549 Huckaby, William H. 4,500.00 NTL DeSpain, Howard G. 3,000.00 85 Jones, Gerald L. 4,500.00 154 Zaph, Warren H. 4,500.00 549 Marini, Alfred L. 4,500.00 NTL Duffield, Howard H. 4,500.00 85 Poindexter, Robert C. 4,500.00 159 Bazzarri, Nello 4,500.00 549 Swinford, Madison M. 4,500.00 NTL Duval Jr., Charles L. 4,500.00 85 Savoie, Emery 1,637.50 169 Bonnell, Dale L. 3,000.00 549 Thompson, Curtis E. 4,500.00 NTL Faucett, Robert I. 4,500.00 85 Savoie, Emery 818.76 169 Capps, Patrick G. 3,885.44 582 Boyette, Charles H. 3,000.00 NTL Fitts, Chester E. 4,500.00 88 Bojarski, Theodore 4,500.00 169 McCloud, Robert L. 4,500.00 583 Grass, Richard W. 3,000.00 NTL Mougin, Richard T. 4,500.00 92 Bolander, Clarence F. 4,500.00 169 Mitchell, Perry 4,500.00 587 Chavez, Rufus 4,500.00 NTL Rackard, L.D. 4,500.00 92 Cotney, Obert F. 4,500.00 169 Saxwold, Thomas D. 3,000.00 587 Gibson, Gaines W. 3,000.00 NTL Rash, John H. 4,500.00 92 Cravey, Royal B. 4,500.00 169 Smith, Richard E. 4,500.00 587 Kirkpatrick, Dale O. 4,500.00 NTL Rutherford, James L. 4,500.00 92 Eastridge, Arthur F. 4,500.00 177 Ferrington, James 4,500.00 587 Monroe, Vessie L. 4,500.00 NTL Stokes, Frank 4,500.00 92 Hardy, Richard C. 4,500.00 182 Beverland, Dick A. 4,500.00 587 VanSchoubroek, Lee M.4,500.00 NTL Walker, Bradley M. 424.94 92 Luna, Manuel R. 4,500.00 182 Hansen, Melvin E. 4,500.00 627 Gunnell, Ernest W. 4,500.00 NTL Walker, Marion T. 4,500.00 92 McLelland, Harry W. 4,500.00 182 Poyer, Thomas J. 1,642.25 627 Parkin, Alvin 3,000.00 NTL Whaley, Richard L. 4,500.00 92 Reynaga, Manuel 4,500.00 182 Thompson, Marvin R. 4,500.00 627 Secody, Daniel R. 4,500.00 1 Mack, Ronald M. 70.02 92 Tufto, Arnold B. 4,500.00 182 Ward, Clarence J. 4,500.00 627 Stanley, Alvin L. 4,500.00 1 Mulvihill, William J. 4,500.00 92 Willis, Kenneth R. 4,500.00 193 Shaffer, Jon B. 28.00 636 Reynolds, Frank E. 4,500.00 6 Albert, Louis J. 4,500.00 101 Mack, Raymond 4,500.00 195 Okerstrom, John W. 4,500.00 647 Anderson, Morris E. 4,500.00 6 Alford, Curtis Lee 4,500.00 101 Steele, Darrel J. 3,000.00 199 Dean, Frank L. 4,500.00 647 Anderson, Vern R. 4,500.00 6 Almojela, Benny 3,000.00 104 Adams, Leonard R. 4,500.00 199 Forehand, Falmer 4,500.00 647 Bodovinitz, Mark 3,000.00 6 Alvarez Sr., Adam 3,000.00 104 Benson, John M. 4,500.00 204 Bustamante, Laurence J. 4,500.00 647 Himmelspach, Thomas 4,500.00 6 Baughman, Berklen L. 4,500.00 104 Brown, Charles D. 4,500.00 237 Cicarelli, James 4,500.00 647 Pool, Bonney C. 4,500.00 6 Brain, Robert L. 4,500.00 104 Cameron, Earl L. 4,500.00 242 Ainsworth, Elmer 4,500.00 647 Simberg, Howard G. 4,500.00 6 Fong, Ying S. 3,000.00 104 Dolan, Ed A. 4,500.00 305 Gonsoulin, Evrard 4,500.00 647 Thompson, Neil F. 4,500.00 6 Gonzales, Marciano 4,500.00 104 Frack, Charles J. 4,500.00 358 Johnson, James 3,000.00 667 Boggs, William R. 4,500.00 6 Hill, Lofty 3,000.00 104 Jackson, Jean R. 4,500.00 363 Shepherd, Malloy H. 4,500.00 667 Brosten, Alf 4,500.00 6 Kayser, Robert W. 4,500.00 104 Menard, Ronald E. 4,500.00 363 Williford, Carl W. 4,500.00 667 Kemp, John L. 4,500.00 6 Price, Lavell R. 4,500.00 104 Pizarro, Baltazar D. 4,500.00 374 Clontz, Homer J. 4,500.00 667 McDavid, James F. 4,500.00 6 Pritchard, Teila 4,500.00 104 Rogers, Edgar A. 4,500.00 374 Colwell, Randal S. 6,152.49 667 Miller, Roger L. 4,500.00 7 Bentzoni, Russell L. 4,500.00 104 Schultz, Paul H. 4,500.00 374 Eichhorn, Jerome J. 4,500.00 667 Totten, Roy E. 3,000.00 7 Knott, Donald E. 4,500.00 104 Taylor, John T. 4,500.00 374 Globke, Edward L. 3,000.00 679 Cannon, Edward H. 4,500.00 26 Martin, George E. 4,500.00 104 Woodward, Elmer C. 3,750.00 374 Hammonds, David L. 4,500.00 679 Carr, Jesse B. 4,500.00 26 Roberson, David L. 1,500.00 105 Carpenter, William E. 4,500.00 374 Miller, Bernard H. 3,000.00 679 Hennessee, Robert L. 4,500.00 26 Wilson, Otis S. 1,882.88 105 Deerfield, Robert D. 358.88 374 Oakes, Stuart W. 4,500.00 696 Bawyn, Floyd J. 4,500.00 27 Burns, Max C. 4,500.00 105 White, Paul J. 4,500.00 374 Williams, Robert E. 4,500.00 696 Hrabik, Edward J. 4,901.76 27 Huffman, Richard G. 4,500.00 106 Van Ostrand, John 4,500.00 433 Douglas, Carl G. 2,250.00 697 Skrzypchak, Norbert E. 4,500.00 27 Mason, Melvin L. 4,500.00 107 Beal, Clarence E. 4,500.00 433 King, William C. 4,500.00 744 Dawson Sr., James H. 4,500.00 28 Cariello, Louis J. 9,500.00 107 Cislo, Andrew J. 4,500.00 433 Melton, Smallwood 4,500.00 744 Lincicome, Claude E. 4,500.00 28 Potter, William H. 9,500.00 108 Ledbetter, Ray L. 3,563.41 433 Parish, Kerry R. 4,500.00 744 Merckle, Everett F. 4,500.00 29 Andruskiewicz, Joseph 4,500.00 109 Rogers Sr., Towner H. 3,000.00 433 Price, Romie J. 4,500.00 744 Wilson, Taylor 4,500.00 29 Dunham, David C. 4,500.00 110 Griffith, Charles 4,500.00 433 Putnel, Arlie C. 4,500.00 802 Anderson, Howard M. 4,500.00 30 Spruill, Cyril C. 4,500.00 110 Morris, Walter C. 4,500.00 433 Ward, Nathan L. 4,500.00 802 Smith Sr., Clarence G. 3,000.00 37 Paretti Jr., Stephen J. 4,500.00 112 Bennett, James H. 4,500.00 449 Kramer, Lloyd E. 4,500.00 906 Huey, Glenn W. 4,500.00 37 Sanchez, Alvin P. 4,500.00 112 Waldrup, Austin C. 4,500.00 453 Frye, Lester L. 3,000.00 1212 Villalovos, Adolph 4,500.00 40 Antle, James D. 4,500.00 128 Birch, Robert J. 5,873.91 454 Brown, Walter E. 633.58 1247 Knor, Joseph S. 4,500.00 40 Hudgins, Howard R. 4,500.00 132 Lara, Jessie G. 4,500.00 454 Kecskes, James S. 4,500.00 1509 Gray, Willie F. 4,500.00 40 Wells, Richard 4,500.00 132 Martin, John W. 4,500.00 454 Keesler Sr., Thomas L. 4,500.00 1509 Kotke, Dale E. 4,500.00 40 Wilson Jr., Edward A. 4,500.00 154 Berardelli, Vincent A. 4,500.00 454 Kendricks, Archie E. 4,500.00 1509 Zeka, Henry J. 4,500.00 72 Andersen, Randal D. 353.26 154 Carouthers, Thomas J. 12,000.00 455 Caine, Robert V. 12,000.00 1592 Hoffecker, George 4,500.00 72 Boyer, Lyle 4,500.00 154 Carr, Thomas Edward 4,500.00 469 Chambers, Travis W. 4,500.00 1603 Vicars, William R. 4,500.00 72 Cogdel, Joseph L. 4,500.00 154 Fontana, John J. 4,500.00 72 Creager, Byron D. 527.63 72 Fish, William A. 4,500.00 72 Gunter Sr., Chester L. 4,500.00 72 Hanson, Newt A. 4,500.00 Moving? Tell us where . . . Mail form to: 72 Kelsey, Roy T. 3,000.00 Name 72 Melhoff, Andrew C. 4,500.00 72 Phillips, Lloyd A. 4,500.00 New Address Publications Department 72 Rafferty, Larry 4,500.00 753 State Avenue, Suite 565 72 Smith, Herman Lewis 4,500.00 City 74 Kaiser, Gene A. 4,500.00 Kansas City, KS 66101 74 Lyle, James J. 4,500.00 State or Province Zip 74 Terry, James A. 9,525.80 Local Lodge No. Register No. 79 Broussard, Otis V. 4,500.00 (Also please notify the secretary of your local lodge.) (Allow five weeks for change of address.) 83 Hernandez, Alexander 4,500.00 http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org the Boilermaker Reporter 24 Mar •Apr 2001 theCOMMENTARY Boilermaker We must stop Bush’s rampage His radical agenda and tax-cut budget weaken worker sales tax, which hits working people the hardest. One-third of the benefits protections, rob Medicare to give the rich a big tax cut from his intangibles tax cut went to the richest six percent of Floridians. N THE FIRST HUNDRED days of As governor of Texas, Bush forced Then the bad news hit. Economists’ his presidency, George W. Bush has through a property tax cut, even projections proved to be wrong. Short- been on an anti-worker rampage. though fewer than eight percent of Tex- falls began popping up. Because the IJust look at a few of his deeds: ans said it was a high priority. Now state constitution will not allow deficit ● He reversed a Clinton executive order they are dealing with their worst spending, Bush has had to cut much- that kept law-breaking companies budget crisis in a decade. needed funds for health care for preg- from getting government contracts. Texas is so broke that Republican nant women, juvenile detention state senator Chris Harris, vice-chair- centers, teachers, and more. ● He abolished federal labor-manage- man of the finance committee, has pro- Even Jeb’s fellow Republicans admit ment partnerships. posed a constitutional amendment to the tax cut was a mistake. Republican ● He banned project labor agreements. rollback property taxes to pre-Bush lev- state senator Burt Saunders told the ● He issued an executive order requir- els. Others say that isn’t enough. New Republic, “We should have gone a ing government contractors to post job Texas is making desperate cuts in little more slowly . . . we have signifi- education, health care, and highway cant needs in Florida that have for site notices informing workers that Charles W. Jones they don’t have to join unions. repairs. Already a low-service state many years gone unmet.” (they spend the least per citizen of all Don Sullivan, another Republican International President ● He delayed rules to help workers senator, admits, “I can’t see where any- with black lung disease. body will come out ahead.” Jim King, the costs are paid with general tax ● He said he would not sign a campaign The governments of Texas and Republican senate majority leader, says funds and patient premiums. finance law unless it included “pay- Florida are suffering their worst the 1999 tax cut “probably wasn’t the Bush’s budget would begin to use the check deception” language designed to budget crises in decades — will smartest thing we could have done.” payroll tax (trust funds) to pay for weaken unions’ political voice. That is a masterful understatement. the U.S. government be the Bush expenses other than hospital costs. As a ● He called for “fast-track” bargaining As the fastest growing state in the result, the Medicare trust fund surplus authority so he can extend NAFTA into family’s next victim? nation, Florida needs to increase spend- would be depleted much sooner than all of South America. ing just to keep up with demand. projected. When that happens, taxes Instead, they are cutting. In a few years, will have to be increased to make up ● He killed a workplace ergonomics states), when Texas cuts services, they they will be in serious trouble. for revenue lost with Bush’s tax cut. rule originally proposed by Secretary of cut to the bone. As state senator and So will the federal government, if As the Washington Post editors say, Labor Elizabeth Dole under George finance committee member Eddie George W. is successful. His ill-con- “Judged by a realistic standard, the tax Bush Sr. — a rule that OSHA spent ten Lucio told the New Republic, “We are ceived budget would slash programs in cut is more than the government can years developing — to address the 1.6 having to scrounge around for some ten of the government’s 25 agencies. reasonably afford.” million repetitive motion injuries very necessary funding.” Most of the cuts would be in programs Bush calls himself a “compassionate workers suffer each year. The president’s brother Jeb has done important to families: money for police, conservative,” but he acts like a self- Watching Bush work, you’d never the same thing in Florida. When he was environmental programs, energy con- absorbed radical. His tax cut, his know this man slipped into the White elected governor two years ago, he servation, pediatrician training, and budget, and his legislative agenda are House on a technicality, with half a mil- vowed to slash taxes, even though only health services. all bad for working families — and for lion fewer votes than his opponent. He three percent of the people said that And of course he hasn’t overlooked the entire nation. He must be held back. is acting as though he has the entire was a high priority. They would have worker protections. He wants to cut the Seeing the Senate reduce his tax cut country behind him. preferred he try to improve education, Department of Labor budget by nearly by one-fourth was encouraging. This Now he wants to pass a $1.6 trillion crime prevention, and health care, ten percent, gutting enforcement pro- body may be able to resist his tax cut that is not only unfair to work- according to polls. grams and the NLRB. onslaught. The House of Representa- ers, but will also deplete the Medicare But the state government was enjoy- Perhaps worse than these cuts is tives, with its five-seat Republican surplus and threaten the U.S. govern- ing large surpluses, thanks to eight what his budget will do to Medicare. majority, seems inclined to pass his ment’s ability to take care of business. years of fiscal prudence under Democ- A March 14 editorial in the Washing- proposals on a strictly party-line vote. You can bet that this tax cut will be ratic Governor Lawton Chiles and a ton Post explained that Medicare is Call your senators and congressmen followed by a tax increase just a few strong economy. Bush saw his oppor- divided into two parts. Hospital costs and ask them to hold the line on Bush’s years down the road. tunity and took it, lobbying hard for the are paid for through payroll taxes. budget and tax cut. We cannot allow That’s what has happened in Texas largest tax cut in the history of the state. That’s the money in the trust fund, him to ramrod his irresponsible fiscal and Florida when the Bushes got in. Bush cut corporate taxes and the which now shows a surplus. The rest of agenda through Congress. ❑ intangibles tax, leaving in place the Letters to the Editors Give credit where credit is due from their check for the apprentice- and unity of Boilermakers on the jobs, That way, working people will die ship program. All of these things com- all of these efforts would be in vain. before we reach retirement age. Isn’t I WOULD LIKE to provide some addi- bined to make this seminar a great Hats off to our brothers and sisters for that what businesses would like to tional facts to the article, “L-74 mem- success and truly a benefit to the a job well done! have, a work force that when it has out bers at foreman training,” which Brotherhood of Boilermakers. DANNY G. PHILLIPS lived its usefulness just dies off??? appeared in the Nov-Dec 2000 issue of L. DWAIN SMITH Local 112 Bus. Mgr. ROGER BRASHER, L-108 the Boilermaker Reporter. While the Local 40 Instructor Mobile, Ala. Hueytown, Ala. participants, all employed by Babcock Elizabethtown, Ky. and Wilcox on Reliant Energy/Hous- L-108’s Brasher speaks out ton Lighting and Power jobs, were L-112’s Phillips sends thanks to THE ASSAULT ON the American Got something to say? paid their hourly wages by B&W, Southeast area’s negotiators billed to the client, all other costs — worker has begun. Comp time instead KEEP IT SHORT and sweet. Avoid materials, instructor wages, meeting ON BEHALF OF the members and of overtime? Give me a break! What profanity and personal attacks. rooms, and hotel accommodations, families of Local 112, I would like to can construction Boilermakers look food, and travel expenses for all partic- express the deepest gratitude to Presi- forward to? Forty-hour paychecks and ipants and instructors (totaling around dent Jones, the International staff, and the promise of time off in the summer? $20,000) — were provided by the Boil- Southeast Area IVP Newton Jones for We get the time off now. ermaker National Apprenticeship Pro- their diligence and perseverance dur- Oh, and let’s not vote on a minimum gram and the Southeast Area ing our recent negotiations, which wage increase. Poor people don’t need Apprenticeship Program. resulted in what is a historic and any more money on their check. We Credit should be given to these pro- remarkable agreement. are going to give them a tax cut! grams — and the instructors: Carl This agreement will help to alleviate Do away with the OSHA ergonom- Oliver and John Standish from the the disparity between different areas of ics rule. It puts too much of a burden National Training Center, and Terry the country and enable us to provide on business. Don’t worry about the Barnes and Dwain Smith from the our contractors and owners the quality employees, we can get more of them. Southeast — for making this seminar a manpower for which we are Put our Social Security money in the SEND A LETTER TO THE EDITOR: success. This seminar was co-spon- renowned. High wage rate differences stock market? The bottom can fall out of the market at any time — in fact, it The Boilermaker Reporter sored, not only by Babcock and made our interstates have a one-way 753 State Ave. Suite 570 just did. I want to put my retirement in Wilcox/Reliant Energy/Houston appearance, but the sunny South looks Kansas City KS 66101 something safer, like a mason jar Lighting and Power, but also by the much better now. FAX: (913) 281-8104 National Apprenticeship Program, the As successful as our leaders were, buried in the back yard. E-mail: [email protected] Southeast Area, and every Boiler- we must never forget that without the How about easing the restrictions on or [email protected] maker who has a deduction taken support, hard work, craftsmanship, arsenic levels in the water we drink? http://www.IBB.workingfamilies.com http://www.boilermakers.org