May 6: State Retiree Council plans conference, ‘Family Security and Retiree Power’— page 4 Minneapolis Labor Review 109th Year No. 12 April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO Labor, advocates urge Governor Dayton to veto preemption bill

ST. PAUL — As the Labor 651-201-3400 or (toll free) 800- Review went to press April 21, 657-3717. legislation to prohibit local com- An e-mail message to Gover- munities from enacting labor nor Dayton may be sent via an policies like a $15 per hour min- online form available at mn.gov/ imum wage and earned sick time governor/contact-us/form. had passed both the Minnesota The legislation (House File House and Minnesota Senate. 600) passed the Republican- A conference committee was majority Minnesota House of expected to soon reconcile dif- Representatives 76-53 March 2. 2017 Legislature ferences between the House and Only two Democrats voted yes. n Rally opposes drastic Senate bills. In the Republican-majority Governor Mark Dayton, as re- Minnesota Senate, the April 20 cuts to Metro Transit ported April 21 by the Pioneer vote was 35-31 (Senate File n AFSCME members Press, said he was waiting to see 580), with only one Democrat the final version of the bill and voting in favor. defend public services added, “I’m not going to make a The legislation aims to block —See pages 6-7 public position at this point.” April 20: Labor union members and community advocates opposing the $15 per hour minimum wage or- Within minutes of the Senate preemption bill demonstrated outside the Minnesota Senate chambers. dinances currently moving for- Labor news vote April 20 to pass the “pre- ward in the Minneapolis and St. updated daily emption” bill, the Minnesota The e-mail read, “the Minne- standards at the local level.” Paul city councils. AFL-CIO sent out an e-mail sota Legislature has passed a bill “Please tell Governor Dayton The legislation also would www.workdayminnesota.org alert urging phone calls and that would steal paid sick days to protect working people and roll back recently-passed ordi- messages to the Governor’s of- from 150,000 working Minneso- veto this bill.” nances in the two cities which Minneapolis Regional fice to ask him to veto the legis- tans and prevent communities Governor Dayton’s office require employers to offer Labor Federation… lation. from raising wages and labor may be contacted by phone at earned sick time. Follow us on facebook! www.facebook.com/minneapolisunions MRLF announces Letter Carriers plan 25th anniversary food drive Minneapolis City Place a bag of donated food by your mailbox May 13 MINNEAPOLIS — Mark Council picks your calendar for Saturday, MINNEAPOLIS — The May 13. That’s the day for the Minneapolis Regional Labor National Association of Letter Federation, AFL-CIO has an- Carriers’ annual “Stamp Out nounced its endorsements for the Hunger Food Drive.” 2017 Place a bag of non-perish- races. able food items near your The endorsements include all mailbox early that morning incumbents who are running for and your letter carrier will re-election plus new candidates pick it up. The food collected running for two open seats. will be donated to local emer- Endorsement by the MRLF is gency foodshelves. the official AFL-CIO labor en- “This year is the 25th anni- dorsement. versary of the food drive so it’s Here are the MRLF-endorsed a big deal for us,” said Saman- “The need is still out there,” than one-half million families candidates: tha Hartwig, food drive coor- said Hartwig, Coon Rapids, a visit foodshelves each year. n Ward 1 — Kevin Reich, dinator for NALC Branch 9 in 13-year NALC member who That’s a lot of people.” first elected in 2009, running for Minneapolis. walks delivering mail in the Hartwig added: “33 percent a third term; Over the previous 24 years, Cedar-Riverside neighbor- of the people we help with the n Ward 2 — , the NALC food drive has col- hood in Minneapolis. food drive are children.” first elected in 2005, running for lected more than one billion “Our food drive will stock Again this year, the United a fourth term; pounds of food nationwide — local foodshelves for six Food and Commercial Work- n Ward 3 — Steve Fletcher, “which is pretty awesome,” months,” she said. “We help a ers will pitch in to assist the ENDORSED page 7 Hartwig said. lot of working families. More FOOD DRIVE page 6 We must protect local control, resist corporate power grab By Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, President, strengthened local unions, expanded our Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation market share in strategic spaces and While many indicators show that we raised standards across industries by le- are coming out of an economic recession, veraging local relationships. We’ve put that’s just not true for most working fam- workers on paths to family-sustaining ilies who have yet to see a meaningful jobs in our local communities based on increase in income and partnerships with employers, wealth. That’s why it is so ex- education institutions, local citing that we are finally on governments, and community the verge of passing a munici- allies. We’ve focused on pal minimum wage increase electing leaders at the local in Minneapolis that would level who understand and ad- help improve the lives of vocate for working families thousands of working people. and collective bargaining. Passing a strong municipal This great work currently is minimum wage increase being threatened by Minnesota would be just the beginning of state legislators influenced by putting more workers on a path to a voice corporate interests. They want to take away MRLF seeks volunteers for community service in the workplace. local control from our cities and counties. It’s been amazing to see the work done More than two dozen bills that restrict local project, planting garden for Loaves and Fishes over the last several years to create a con- decision-making have been introduced in versation in our local communities about 2017 to date. COON RAPIDS — The Minneapolis Up to 25 volunteers will be needed workplace issues and expanding the One of these bills (House File 600) spe- Regional Labor Federation and its com- May 18 from 3:00-5:30 p.m. scope of municipal in- Contact Governor Dayton’s office cifically attacks labor munity services arm, Working Partner- The Loaves and Fishes garden is lo- fluence on labor stan- standards. It would re- ships, each year select a spring volunteer cated at Peace Lutheran Church, 20 dards. Rooted in orga- at 651-201-3400 and urge him verse gains on earned project to assist a United Way partner Northdale Blvd. NW, Coon Rapids. nizing, these issues are to VETO House File 600, which sick time and stop any agency. The date for this year’s project is The Coon Rapids garden site is the being taken up for the minimum wage work in Thursday, May 18. largest of four gardens developed by health and vitality of would block local minimum wage progress. It would have “Join us at Loaves and Fishes, where Loaves and Fishes with support from our local communities. laws and overturn new sick-time profound impacts, both volunteers will help prepare and plant a United Way. Much of this con- ordinances recently passed in known and unknown, garden,” encouraged Doug Flateau, ex- To volunteer for the May 18 service versation has been led on other labor standards ecutive director of Working Partnerships. project, contact Doug Flateau at doug@ by those most affected Minneapolis and St. Paul and labor agreements “This is a large, one-acre garden. The workingpartnerships.org or 612-379- — low income work- that we have fought produce is used to serve individuals in 8133. ers and workers of color. It is so import- hard for and rely on at the local level to pro- need at the 20 Loaves and Fishes dining For more information on Loaves and ant that workers and communities are tect our own membership. sites across the Twin Cities.” Fishes, visit loavesandfishesmn.org. engaged in the process and that changes All the “preemption” bills are an at- are not just legislated. Without this wide tack on local democracy, but the attack on participation, improving labor standards labor standards is particularly egregious Information for candidates seeking endorsement would not truly be an organizing tool that and a shot straight at the bow of our The Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation In addition, all requests should be copied by builds power for workers. unions. This power grab against local screens candidates for State Legislative, County, e-mail to MRLF campaigns manager Casey Hudek at Here at the Minneapolis Regional La- control is just another attack in the long Municipal, School Board or other local elected of- [email protected] and to Barb Boettch- bor Federation, our work always has been line of corporate strategies to limit our in- fices located in Hennepin, Anoka, Wright, Scott, er at [email protected]. centered on building power at the local fluence. Carver, Meeker, and McLeod counties. Please include the following information in your level throughout our seven-county re- In this current environment, and as we The Minnesota AFL-CIO’s endorsement process request: Candidate name; campaign committee name gion. We are successful at this local level approach the 2018 elections, it is more for state legislative candidates in this region be- and office sought; candidate e-mail address and cell because we know best what is happening important than ever that we are fighting gins with the MRLF screening process. phone (or other daytime phone number); campaign in our individual communities and we for working families at every single level, Candidates seeking endorsement in 2017 from the manager name, e-mail address and cell phone (if strive to set high standards for our mem- including locally. We must protect local Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO should applicable); candidate or committee U.S. mail ad- bers and our neighbors. control and that will require union mem- e-mail a request for a screening to MRLF president Chel- dress; campaign website (if applicable). Together with our affiliates, we’ve bers from all corners of the movement to sie Glaubitz Gabiou at [email protected]. helped organize new workplaces, reach out to their state elected leaders.

Minneapolis Labor Review The Minneapolis Labor Review Newspaper — USPS 351 120 — (ISSN Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO 0274-9017) is published monthly for $10.00 per year in the United States Executive Board Since 1907 by the Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO, 312 Central Avenue, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414-1077. Steve Share, Editor Chelsie Glaubitz Gabiou, President; Louise Sundin, All other countries $5.00 additional per year. Executive Vice President; Pete Lindahl, First Vice Next issue: Periodical postage paid at Minneapolis, Minnesota T S-70 W I N I T I E S AFL-CIO C President; Mike Zagaros, Second Vice President; Dan DULUTH and additional post offices. Msy 26, 2017 McConnell, Financial Secretary-Treasurer; Kelly Wilson, POSTMASTER send address changes to: 110th Anniversary Issue Register Clerk; Paul Mueller, Deputy Register Clerk; Deadline: Minneapolis Labor Review Newspaper, 312 Central Avenue, Suite 542, Minneapolis, MN 55414. Grace Baltich, Reading Clerk; Joyce Carlson, Recording May 10, 2017 Secretary; Tommy Bellfield, Sgt.-At-Arms; Martin Goff, See page 11 for complete 2017 schedule Office (612) 379-4725 Fax (612) 379-1307 Kyle Makarios, Russ Scherber, Mary Turner and Jigme “The rights labor has won, labor must fight to protect.” [email protected] Ugen - Trustees; Steve Buck, Carol Nieters, Judy Russell- —Floyd B. Olson, Minnesota Governor, 1930-1936 www.minneapolisunions.org Martin - At Large.

Page 2 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Events April 28: Workers Memorial Day highlights continuing need for workplace safety ST, PAUL — Union members will past year. honor workers who lost their lives on the The event will begin at 10:30 a.m. at job — and renew the fight for safer work- the Workers Memorial Garden on the places — at Workers Memorial Day ob- State Capitol grounds. servances across the country Friday, The Workers Memorial Garden is lo- April 28. cated on the southeast corner of the State The Minneapolis and St. Paul Build- Capitol mall, near the intersection of Ce- ing and Construction Trades Councils dar St. and 12th St. plan a joint ceremony April 28 to honor In the event of inclement weather, the their members who died as a result of ceremony will be moved to the St. Paul work-related injuries or illnesses over the Labor Centre, 353 West 7th St., St. Paul. April 29: Minnesota State Retiree Council hosts annual all-ages ‘Fun(d) Raiser’ ST. PAUL — Food, music and fun for wide raffle are three tickets for $5. all ages will be featured at the 14th annu- The State Retiree Council “Fun(d) al “Fun(d) Raiser” of the Minnesota State Raiser” will offer free food, free parking Retiree Council, AFL-CIO coming Sat- and live music, as well as hourly raffles urday, April 29. The free event will run and a silent auction. from 3:00–7:00 p.m. at a new location, Proceeds support the political educa- the new St. Paul Labor Center, 353 West tion work of the Council to engage union 7th Street, St. Paul. retirees in labor’s electoral efforts. The statewide raffle this year will of- For more information, contact the Re- fer seven cash prizes, including a top tiree Council at 651-227-7647 ext. 121 or prize of $500. Ticket prices for the state- 800-652-9004 ext. 121. May 1: International Workers Day march will Minneapolis Regional Labor Federation include rally at Minneapolis Federal Building Committee On Political Education: MINNEAPOLIS — May 1 is ob- So.) to the Federal Building in downtown 2017 Endorsements served worldwide as International Work- Minneapolis (4th St. S. and 4th Ave. S.). ers Day with strikes, marches and rallies The event begins at 3:00 p.m. with a Minneapolis City Council for workers’ rights, commemorating community gathering at East Phillips workers who died in Chicago in 1886 Park. The march will begin there at 4:30 Ward 1 Ward 5 Ward 10 fighting for the 8-hour workday. p.m. and progress to the Federal Building Kevin Reich Blong Yang In Minneapolis, the Resist from Day for a 6:30 p.m. rally. One Coalition plans a march from East For more information, visit www. Ward 2 Ward 6 Ward 11 Phillips Park (E. 24th St. and Cedar Ave. facebook.com/resisttrumpmn. Cam Gordon Abdi Warsame John Quincy May 2: Two documentaries at ‘Labor Movie Ward 3 Ward 7 Ward 12 Steve Fletcher Lisa Goodman Andrew Johnson Night’ explore 1913 Michigan copper strike Ward 4 Ward 8 Ward 13 ST. PAUL — The “Labor Movie rie song, “1913 Massacre,” which tells Barb Johnson Linea Palmisano Night” film series will present a double the story of the tragic death of 74 people bill of two recent documentaries about — including 59 children — during a Ward 9 the 1913 copper miners’ strike in Michi- union Christmas Party. gan’s Upper Peninsula. The films will be The second film, “1913 Massacre” shown Tuesday, May 2 at 7:00 p.m. at the (USA, 2011, 66 minutes) was inspired by Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board East Side Freedom Library, 1105 Green- Woody Guthrie’s powerful song and fea- brier St., St. Paul. Admission is free. tures his son, Arlo Guthrie, performing District 3 At Large The two films were made inde- the song and visiting Calumet, Michigan A.K. Hassan Bob Fine pendently of each other to mark the to explore the story behind the song. Londell French 100th anniversary of this historic and Together, the two films provide multi- District 6 tragic struggle. ple perspectives on this important but Brad Bourn “Red Metal: The Copper Country largely forgotten story about the struggle Strike of 1913” (USA, 2013, 60 minutes, for better wages, safe working conditions Rated PG) premiered on PBS in Decem- and union rights by the largely immigrant ber 2013. The film includes folksinger workforce in the Upper Peninsula’s cop- This list current as of April 18, 2017. For updates: minneapolisunions.org. Steve Earle performing the Woody Guth- per mines. www.minneapolisunions.org April 28, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 3 ‘Untold Stories’ labor history series: More Events ‘A World in Turmoil: 1917-2017’ May 6: State Retiree Council plans conference, SAINT PAUL — “A World in Tur- mer engineer Dave Riehle; and Dr. Jill moil: 1917-2017” is the theme of this Zahniser, co-author of Alice Paul: ‘Family Security and Retiree Power’ year’s “Untold Stories” series of labor Claiming Power. history programs sponsored by The ST. PAUL —”Family Security and Re- social safety net, and how we can orga- Friends of the Saint Paul Public Li- Nativism and Resistance – Then tiree Power in a Time of Crisis” is the nize for power to make them better.” brary. and Now theme for a conference planned Saturday, The keynote speaker will be Robert This year, the series includes eight Tuesday, May 9, 7:00 p.m. May 6 by the Minnesota State Retiree Roach, Jr., president of the Association of events running from April 26 through East Side Freedom Library Council, AFL-CIO and allied organiza- Retired Americans and former general sec- May 21. 1105 Greenbrier Street, St. Paul tions. The conference will run from 9:00 retary-treasurer of the Machinists union. For the complete schedule, visit The politicization of anti-immi- a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Minnesota Nurses The registration fee is $5 at the door, thefriends.org/events/ongoing-series/ grant fears is nothing new, nor are Association, 345 Randolph Ave., St. Paul. which includes lunch. Register online at untold-stories. grassroots efforts to resist such cam- Organizers plan “an “action-oriented www.afl cio.mn/retirees17. Here are selections from the sched- paigns. Join East Side Freedom Li- discussion about resisting attacks on af- For more information, call 651-227- ule: brary co-executive director Peter Ra- fordable health care, our pensions and 7647 ext. 121 or 800-652-9004 ext. 121. chleff as he discusses the ways that Workers Memorial Event business and political leaders promot- May 15: Solidarity Kids’ puppet show retells Wednesday, April 26, 7:00 p.m. ed nativism in WWI era Minnesota as St. Paul Labor Center a means to squelch the labor move- Lee family’s 1931 encounter with racism 353 W. 7th Street, St. Paul ment and its farmer allies. The presen- Panelists explore workplace safety tation will bring us into a conversation ST. PAUL — “Racism in Our Home- whom were white, protected his family issues in advance of the national com- between the past and the present as we town: The Story of the Arthur and Edith when police failed to defend the Lees memoration of Workers Memorial consider the re-emergence of nativism Lee Family” will be presented Monday, from racist mobs that numbered 4,000 Day. Presenters include Phil Qualy, a today. May 15 at 7:00 p.m. at the East Side and tried to force them from their home. railroad conductor and director of the Freedom Library, 1105 Greenbrier St., The puppet show emphasizes the sig- United Transportation Union Minne- Racism in our Hometown: St. Paul. Admission is free. nifi cance of the Lee family’s courageous sota Legislative Board; John Sielaff, The Story of the Arthur and Edith The program is a multi-media puppet struggle and its enduring inspiration in author of A Workplace Accident: John Lee Family (Minneapolis, 1931) show by the American Postal Workers’ the Twin Cities. Anderson’s Fall from the High Bridge, Monday, May 15, 7:00 p.m. Union’s Solidarity Kids Theater, under The May 15 event is part of this year’s recently published in Ramsey County East Side Freedom Library the direction of Greg Poferl. “Untold Stories” labor history series (see Historical Society Magazine; and 1105 Greenbrier Street, St. Paul The true story introduces the Lee fam- story, left). Mike Scully, an attorney from Sieben (See new story in “Events” section, ily in the years following World War I. Carey, knowledgeable about workers’ right). Arthur Lee was an African-American (For more on the Lee family story, see compensation history and current WWI veteran who worked at the Minne- a Labor Review story from July 29, 2011, changes and threats to the system. Brotherhood of Sleeping Car apolis Post Offi ce and moved his family “South Minneapolis says ‘never again’ to Porters and Maids into a formerly all-white neighborhood in bigotry faced by postal worker Arthur 1917 – A Look Back Thursday, May 18, 6:00 p.m. south Minneapolis. Lee.” Visit www.minneapolisunions.org/ Wednesday, May 3, 7:00 p.m. Rondo Community Outreach Lee’s union co-workers, a majority of mlr2011-7-29_lee_family.php.) Rice Street Library Library 1011 Rice Street, St. Paul 461 North Dale Street, St. Paul May 19: Save 40 percent on groceries with Go back in time to 1917 for a look Professors William Jones, Yuichiro at politics and labor, from the Nonpar- Onishi, and James Robinson will pro- tisan League to the Twin Cities street- vide a portrait of the early history of food packages from Fare for All Express car strike, to women’s suffrage. Panel- the Brotherhood of the Sleeping Car MINNEAPOLIS — Working Partner- program, Working Partnerships, sponsors ists include Augsburg College History Porters and Maids, from the participa- ships’ next Fare for All Express pick-up one of the 30 Fare for All Express distri- Department chair Michael Lansing, tion of A. Philip Randolph to the pres- will be Friday, May 19 at the Sprinkler Fit- bution sites in the greater metro area. author of Insurgent Democracy: The ence of the Brotherhood in St. Paul, ters Local 417 union hall, 1404 Central Fare for All Express is a program of the Nonpartisan League in North Ameri- and how the workers are remembered Ave. N.E., Minneapolis. Pick-up hours: Food Group and is open to everyone. can Politics; local historian and for- today. 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. Visit www.fareforall.org for other Fare for All Express offers a variety of Fare for All Express locations and dates. discounted grocery packages including Fare for All Express accepts cash, produce-only, meat-only, and a combo EBT, credit cards or debit cards. The pro- Congratulationson your retirement package with both produce and meat items. gram is open to all and has no income Prices range from $10 to $25 and offer a 40 requirements. LINDA percent savings. For more information, call 612-379- PIETRZAK! The AFL-CIO community services 8130 ext. 112 or 763-450-3880. All of us at Union Bank & Trust honor Linda Pietrzak for her dedication July 16-20: UW Madison hosts Midwest School to customer service over the past 39 years. Thank you for your dedication, and best wishes for a long and fun-filled retirement! for Women Workers, ‘Women Rising’ MADISON —Register by June 1 for Workers brings together union women to the 2017 Midwest School for Women develop leadership skills, understand the 312 Central Avenue SE • Minneapolis 612-379-3222 • www.ubtmn.com • Member FDIC Workers, planned for July 16-20 at the challenges and issues facing the labor A Tradition Since 1976 University of Wisconsin in Madison. movement, and share experiences. This year’s theme is “Women Rising.” For more information, visit www. COMMUNITY BANKING IN THE HEART OF THE TWIN CITIES The Midwest School for Women midwestwomenworkers.org. Page 4 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org In Minnesota, workplace fatalities and injuries are near all-time lows By Ken Peterson, Commissioner, tragedies, Minnesota OSHA is encourag- MN Department of Labor and Industry Workers Memorial ing every employer and union involved Four workers from St. Louis, in excavations to conduct safety stand- Missouri, will not be alive to ob- Day, April 28, 2017 downs this spring to remind and inform serve Workers Memorial Day on workers and management to make a plan to protect workers and prevent cave-in April 28 this year. Their unneces- ‘Unionized workplaces accidents. sary deaths earlier in the month Safety regulations and education are a stark reminder that despite and those with 50 or don’t prevent all workplace fatalities. calls for cutting back government Each year, smaller businesses, which are regulations, we cannot allow harder to reach out to, account for a dis- more employees tend to proportionate number of deaths. So far in workplace safety standards or en- 2017, three of the five workplace deaths forcement to be reduced. have a lower percentage that Minnesota OSHA has investigated At about 7:30 a.m., Monday, April 3, a have been at firms with fewer than four large boiler blew up in the Loy-Lang Box of accidents of all kinds.’ Ken Peterson employees. Unionized workplaces and factory, two miles south of downtown St. those with fifty or more employees tend Louis, resulting in the four deaths. inspectors. juries are near all-time lows. In 2014, our to have a lower percentage of accidents The force of the explosion instantly Whether a boiler inspection would state had 3.7 injuries for each 100 work- of all kinds. killed boiler engineer Ken Trentham and have prevented the terrible deaths of the ers and 2.3 deaths for each 100,000 Those injured or killed at work should sent a cargo-van size piece of debris St. Louis workers won’t be known until workers. be remembered. Though the injured have rocketing through the factory’s roof and the investigation is done. However, we Economic and technological changes their bodies hurt and their lives disrupt- into another building 500 feet away, kill- do know Minnesota has a well-regarded undoubtedly are partially responsible for ed, obviously, it’s a greater, more terrible ing Clifford Lee and newlyweds Chris boiler inspection program requiring in- the decline in fatalities and injuries. Also, tragedy to have a life cut short, ended too Watkins and Tonya Suarez-Gonzalez. All spections and licensed operators and that fewer people work in historically danger- early, by a workplace accident. That’s three were filling out paperwork to start it’s been at least a half century since an ous occupations and there is greater em- demonstrated by the five Minnesotans their new jobs at a medical linen compa- industrial boiler explosion killed any- ployer awareness of the costs of injuries. killed this year, as well as the four St. ny. Another injured victim remains in body in Minnesota. Nevertheless, it’s clear today for Louis workers killed earlier this month. critical condition. When enacted in 1971, the goal of the working people there is a lot less pain On Workers Memorial Day, we It will be weeks, possibly months, be- federal Occupational Safety and Health and hurt — physically, financially and should consider the lives of every worker fore the specific cause of the boiler’s ex- Act was to reduce the number killed or emotionally — because of enforcement who was killed on the job. Each work- plosion is determined. One thing is injured on the job. Since that time, na- of safety standards. place injury, illness or death is unneces- known, however, and that is — unlike tional fatality rates have been reduced by However, better education of both sary. We all need to do what we can to Minnesota and most other places in the more than 66 percent and injuries by 67 employees and employers is still needed. make sure there are fewer in the future. U.S.— the city of St. Louis does not re- percent even though the U.S. workforce For example, in the past two years, three Ken Peterson has served as Commis- quire boilers to be regularly examined by has more than doubled in size. In Minne- Minnesota workers have been killed by sioner of the Minnesota Department of either government or insurance company sota, both occupational fatalities and in- trench cave-ins. To help prevent these Labor and Industry since 2011, AFL-CIO warns workplace safety regulations are under attack from Trump, right-wing AFL-CIO statement: On April 28, The safety and health gains we have the unions of the AFL-CIO observe won are now threatened. The Trump ad- Workers Memorial Day to remember ministration has launched an all-out as- those who have suffered and died on the sault on regulations. The president has job and to renew the fight for safe jobs. ordered that for every new protection, This year we will come together to de- two existing safeguards must be removed fend hard-won victories by working peo- from the books. At the same time, Re- ple from attacks by right-wing Republi- publicans in Congress have moved cans and business groups. We will quickly to overturn new rules issued by commit to fighting until all workers have the Obama administration. Agency bud- safe jobs and the freedom to form unions gets and enforcement programs are on to seek a better future. the chopping block. The safety and health The Occupational Safety and Health of workers and the public are in danger. Act and Mine Safety and Health Act We must fight back. We cannot and promise workers the right to a safe job. will not let them turn back the clock and Unions and our allies have fought hard to destroy the progress we have made to make that promise a reality — winning make jobs safer and save lives. protections that have made jobs safer, Please join us on Workers Memorial saved hundreds of thousands of lives and Day as we continue the fight for safe prevented millions of workplace injuries jobs. and illnesses. The Minneapolis and St. Paul Build- But our work is not done. Each year ing and Construction Trades Councils thousands of workers are killed and mil- will observe Workers Memorial April 28 lions more injured or diseased because of at 10:30 a.m. at the Workers Memorial their jobs. Garden in St. Paul. See page 3. www.minneapolisunions.org April 28, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 5 AFSCME members rally at State Capitol, push for Dayton budget ST. PAUL — About 1,200 AFSCME ers, Minnesota has come too far and Council 5 members from across the state made too much progress to let the GOP came to the Minnesota State Capitol turn back the clock. March 28 for the public employee That’s why “Protect Our Future” was union’s annual Day on the Hill. the theme of the day. They met with legislators to push for “When we lobby our legislators, it’s a state budget to secure a brighter future about protecting our jobs, protecting our for all hardworking Minnesotans, fami- families, protecting our communities and lies and communities. protecting our rights,” Council 5 presi- They asked their lawmakers to defend dent Judy Wahlberg said during an infor- public employee pensions, reinvest in mational session that morning as part of public services, staff up for safe work- the lobby day. places, move forward on transportation, That means supporting Gov. Dayton’s ban private prisons, protect children, budget, she said, which includes funding make education affordable and support for clean water; for Local Government Aid, local control. which helps pay for parks, libraries, police After a day of lobbying, members and fire protection; and for targeted tax re- filled the Capitol rotunda for a thunder- lief for working families rather than tax ous rally, sending chants of “Who does Photo by Jeff Syme, AFSCME Local 668 member breaks for billionaires and big corporations. the work? We do!” reverberating through AFSCME members rallied in the State Capitol rotunda March 28. AFSCME Local 9 member Marcia the dome. Westbrook, who does utility billing for “AFSCME people have power!” anti-worker agenda here: the state has a surplus of $1.65 billion Minneapolis, called on members to help Council 5 executive director Eliot Seide n House Speaker Kurt Daudt and under Gov. Dayton’s management. Those defeat a local interference bill, “a corpo- shouted to members, who packed all Rep. Tim O’Driscoll are holding public cuts could mean 3,500 layoffs for state rate attack on the working class,” which three open levels of the rotunda, waving pensions hostage, refusing to pass reform employees and a devastating loss of ser- would strip cities of their ability to re- banners and AFSCME signs. “We never that will keep pensions healthy for de- vices for Minnesotans. quire businesses to raise wages and offer surrender at the Capitol or at the ballot cades, unless the Governor agrees to a n The GOP refuses to budget for pub- parental leave or sick time. box… Any politician who tears down GOP plan that strips cities of their ability lic employee pay raises. “Local elected officials know what working people and our aspirations for a to raise wages and improve sick and safe n Republicans want to rob public ser- working standards are best for their com- better future has to reckon with us.” leave. vices and the workers who provide them munity,” she said. “Corporations have no “The enemy is at our gate,” Seide n Rep. Sarah Anderson and Sen. to give $2 billion of tax breaks to billion- business interfering with those local deci- said, giving several examples of how Mary Kiffmeyer want to slash state agen- aires and big corporations. sions. They have no business interfering Minnesota Republicans are pushing their cy budgets by 10 percent — even though Under Gov. Dayton, Seide told work- with our democracy!” HCMC workers win settlement to enforce contract MINNEAPOLIS — Hennepin Coun- court to follow existing labor law. ty Medical Center workers celebrated The legal action followed the layoff of April 18 after reaching a settlement with some 200 HCMC employees, which the HCMC management that was presented workers said was “handled haphazardly.” in Hennepin County District Court. “Much harm was done by the lay- The workers, members of AFSCME offs,” AFSCME said in a statement. “Our Locals 977 and 2472, sought a temporary goal is to force the employer to follow restraining order to stop the employer our union contract, which spells out a fair from continuing to commit unfair labor process for bumping, bidding and reas- practices. HCMC made a commitment in signments.” NALC food drive: Local goal is 1.2 million pounds continued from page 1 The food drive’s Twin Cities goal for this year is to collect 1.2 million pounds NALC food drive nationwide. of food. In the Twin Cities area, UFCW Local “With an increase in paper bags from 653 in Minneapolis and Local 1189 in St. last year, I’m hoping those paper bags Paul together are purchasing 300,000 pa- will get us to our goal,” Hartwig said. per grocery bags printed with messages Meeting that goal, of course, depends promoting the food drive. “They’re real- on the response of the community. ly stepping up,” Hartwig said. In addition to donating food May 13, Letter carriers will distribute the bags you also can help the food drive by vol- along their routes a few days before the unteering that day at selected Cub Food May 13 food collection. stores, where NALC members will bring “We find with the paper bags, people food collected along their routes. tend to give more food,” she reported. You also can donate online from April 30 “The week of May 8, you should get a through May 17 and Land O’Lakes will postcard in the mail and either a paper match your gift, up to a total of $25,000. To bag or a plastic bag delivered to your donate online, visit stampouthunger.2har- house,” she said. vest.org/donate. (If you don’t get a bag, use your own To volunteer May 13, visit bag, Hartwig said). stampouthunger.2harvest.org/volunteer. Page 6 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Transit riders, drivers oppose proposed budget cuts Endorsed continued from page 1 By Michael Moore, editor, St. Paul Union Advocate running for an open seat vacated by Jacob ST. PAUL — Transit riders and oper- Frey. Fletcher was founding executive di- ators rallied at the State Capitol light rail rector of Neighborhoods Organizing for station in St. Paul April 18, looking to Change; derail House Republicans’ plan to cut n Ward 4 — Barb Johnson, City funding for bus, rail and Metro Mobility Council President since 2006, fi rst elect- services by $122 million over the next ed in 1997, running for a sixth term; two years. n Ward 5 — Blong Yang, fi rst elect- The Metropolitan Council, which op- ed in 2013, running for a second term; erates Metro Transit and Metro Mobility, n Ward 6 — Abdi Warsame, fi rst has warned the budget proposal would elected in 2013, running for a second force both fare increases and a reduction term; in service by as much as 40 percent. n Ward 7 — Lisa Goodman, fi rst

The prospect of paying more for less Union Advocate photo elected in 1997, running for a sixth term; frequent bus and rail service didn’t sit Mark Lawson, president of ATU Local 1005, addressed the April 18 transit rally. n Ward 8 — Andrea Jenkins, run- well with more than 150 riders who ning for an open seat vacated by Eliza- joined the rally. One by one, they stepped layoffs for Metro Transit operators and thing,” Lawson said. “And did I mention beth Glidden, who has endorsed her; up to the podium to describe the role maintenance staff, who are members of these are union jobs with good pay, good n Ward 9 — Alondra Cano, fi rst transit plays in their lives — whether it’s Amalgamated Transit Union Local 1005. benefi ts?” elected in 2013, running for a second getting to work or school, or simply get- Mark Lawson, president of the local, Operators and riders also pointed to a term; ting around town. warned job losses would impact commu- Met Council report showing the service n Ward 10 — Lisa Bender, fi rst “These drastic cuts would have a dev- nities of color and immigrant communi- targeted by lawmakers for especially elected in 2013, running for a second astating impact on the elderly, low-in- ties at a time when the state is trying to steep cuts — light rail — operates at the term; come workers, communities of color, address troubling income disparities be- lowest public subsidy, about $1.84 per n Ward 11 — John Qunicy, fi rst people with disabilities and all who are tween white workers and workers of col- passenger, compared with more than $7 elected in 2009, running for a third term; dependent upon transit to get around,” or. Metro Transit and Local 1005 have per passenger for bus services from Sha- n Ward 12 — Andrew Johnson, Jessica Treat, chair of the Transportation partnered in recent years to recruit new kopee and Prior Lake. fi rst elected in 2013, running for a second Forward campaign, said. “This is not workers from neighborhoods Metro “Why are they trying to get rid of the term; what Minnesota needs.” Transit serves, Lawson said. workforce that provides the best value n Ward 13 — Linea Palmisano, In addition to steep service cuts and “The workforce is looking more and for the Minnesota taxpayers?” Lawson fi rst elected in 2013, running for a second fare hikes, the House proposal would mean more like our riders, which is a good asked. term.

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www.minneapolisunions.org April 28, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 7 East Side Freedom Library wins major award for partnership with unions

By Michael Moore, editor, “leadership in raising awareness of work- St, Paul Union Advocate ers, immigrants and the labor movement ST. PAUL — The East Side Freedom to the past, present and future of the East Library in St. Paul has drawn national at- Side, Twin Cities and Minnesota.” tention for its partnership with the local Denise Rodriguez, president of the St. labor movement, as winner of the 2017 Paul Federation of Teachers, called the John Sessions Memorial Award. Library ESFL “a great place to hold difficult con- co-founders Peter Rachleff and Beth versations.” Cleary will accept the honor in June at an SEIU Healthcare Minnesota president awards ceremony during the American Jaime Gulley said his union’s effort to Library Association’s annual conference reach an increasingly diverse workforce in Chicago. “has been mirrored by ESFL’s outreach Sponsored by the Department for Pro- in their own neighborhood, a remarkable fessional Employees, AFL-CIO, the Ses- mix of blue collar white workers and sions Award “recognizes a library or li- newly-arrived immigrants from South- brary system which has made a significant east Asia, Central America, and East Af- effort to work with the labor community rica. We have found ESFL to be a place and by doing so has brought recognition where diverse audiences assemble, hold to the history and contribution of the la- conversations, and explore shared con- bor movement to the development of the May 10, 2015: Folksinger Jan Hammarlund, from Sweden, and Anne Feeney per- cerns.” U.S.” formed at the East Side Freedom Library as part of a tribute to labor organizer and The independent, non-profit library East Siders Rachleff and Cleary songwriter Joe Hill. “I would encourage people from Minneapolis to come over has become a “union hall for the commu- launched the ESFL after obtaining a here,” said ESFL’s Peter Rachleff. “We don’t want to be just a Saint Paul institution.” nity,” St. Paul Regional Labor Federation lease from the City of St. Paul in March president Bobby Kasper said. 2014 for a 100-year-old Carnegie Li- 1,000 programs and 6,000 visitors. Local mances, live music and more. The awards “In just three years, the East Side Free- brary at the corner of Greenbrier and Jes- unions and labor activists have held film committee praised the ESFL for develop- dom Library has established itself as an in- samine in St. Paul. Since then, the li- screenings, political debates, planning ing relationships with organized labor dispensable part of the cultural landscape of brary’s mission has been “to inspire sessions and job fairs at the library, which and community groups that “facilitate St. Paul and as a valuable part of the re- solidarity, advocate for justice and work also offers a robust schedule of indepen- the empowerment, learning and engage- gion’s labor movement,” Kasper added. toward equity for all.” dent programming — author talks, ment of working people,” pointing to Learn more about the ESFL and check The library has built a collection of homework help sessions, Minnesota His- multiple letters from local and regional its calendar of offerings on the library’s 15,000 items, and hosted more than tory Day project help, theatrical perfor- union leaders who spoke to the library’s website: eastsidefreedomlibrary.org. Classes May 17: Labor Education Service offers class on ‘Advanced Grievance Handling’ MINNEAPOLIS – The Labor Educa- write grievances. It is a more advanced tion Service at the University of Minne- class that will build on the skills learned sota will offer a course on “Advanced in basic steward training. Grievance Handling” Wednesday, May The class will meet on the Minneapo- 17, from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m. lis campus of the University. This course is designed for union Tuition is $50.The registration dead- stewards and leaders involved in the line is Friday, May 5. Register by calling grievance process who want to improve 612-624-5020 or online at carlsonschool. their ability to investigate, present and umn.edu/LES. Need help with grocery bills? Fare for All Express offers fresh fruits and vegetables, frozen meats and Main Event Signs staple items. Fare for All Express packages cost $10-$30. The program Minneapolis is open to everyone and has NO income requirements. Locally Owned Next delivery: Union Sign Shop Labor Review Friday, May 19, 2017 We do 1907-2017 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. 110th Anniversary Issue: Sprinkler Fitters Local 417 Union Hall Banners May 26, 2017 Discounted ad rates available 1404 Central Ave. NE, Minneapolis 612.627.9251 To advertise: For more information, see story page 4 or contact 612-379-4725 Working Partnerships: 612-379-8130 ext. 112 Main-Event-Signs.com

Page 8 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org Local Union News AFSCME Local 3800: Tobacco Workers and Grain Millers were Baldinger workers Sue Ingli, An- Minnesota Nurses Association: U of M workers to rally May 1 to Union. thony Schwartz and Keith Strong. Nego- Action advocated Healthcare for All kick-off 2017 contract negotiations “It was a good round of negotiations,” tiations were led by Local 22 president April 11 brought Minnesotans togeth- University of Minnesota workers will reported Bruce Peglow, Local 22 presi- Bruce Peglow, assisted by vice-president er for a Day of Action for Healthcare for rally Monday, May 1 to kick-off 2017 dent. Wally Borgan and by financial secretary All. A crowd gathered near Blue Cross/ contract negotiations. The company, however, initially Matt Ryder, who formerly worked at Blue Shield’s headquarters in Eagan to The event will run from 12 noon to sought to implement a 12 hour per day, Baldinger. rally for a publicly-funded healthcare 2:00 p.m. in front of Morrill Hall. three days per week work schedule — Boilermakers Local 647: system that covers everyone and costs Lunch will be provided. which workers strongly opposed. Free screening for members for less: Medicare for All. Four AFSCME locals — 3800, 3937, Especially for older workers, “you asbestos exposure offered May 25-26 Speakers from the Minnesota Nurses 3260 and 3801 — together with Team- can’t be on your feet that long,” Peglow Boilermakers Local 647 will be offer- Association, National Nurses United, the sters Local 320, will be negotiating for said. “It takes a toll.” ing members free pulmonary screening Land Stewardship Project, and Physi- new two-year contracts for clerical, tech- The union presented studies docu- for asbestos exposure May 25-26. cians for a National Health Program en- nical, healthcare, grounds, foodservice menting problems with fatigue and drop- The screening, which takes only 10- ergized attendees with a call for Medi- and other workers. ping productivity if workers work 12- 15 minutes, will take place at the Local care for All, which would ensure access The four AFSCME locals agreed last hour shifts. 647 hall in Ramsey at 9459 NW High- to quality, affordable healthcare for all December to form a Joint Negotiating Workers with long commutes also ex- way 10, Suite 105. Americans. Committee to bargain together with a pressed concerns about working 12 hours This testing is for members who be- The group then went to Blue Cross/ unified voice for workers throughout the per day. gan working in 1979 or earlier and have Blue Shield headquarters with a letter University of Minnesota system. After five months of negotiations — five years of industrial exposure. asking for Blue Cross CEO Michael They also formed a larger AFSCME and worker push-back — the employer Accurate Medical Diagnostic will Guyette to publicly commit to lowering Assembly to give direction to the negoti- abandoned the 12-hour day proposal. conduct the screening, which will consist premiums and selling individual insur- ating team and to facilitate communica- According to the Local 22 website, of a chest x-ray and an interpretation by a ance products statewide. tion with workers in the workplace. the final contract “included good wage B-Reader physician. Each screening par- Blue Cross and other Minnesota in- AFSCME Local 3800 members who increases, as well as good increases to ticipant will receive a written report of surance companies just received a $542 wish to join the Assembly, or nominate a the pension contributions from the com- the results. million handout from taxpayers in the co-worker to be on the Assembly, can pany.” For more information and to learn form of a new “reinsurance” program. send an email to afscme3800@gmail. The wage increases included 28 cents how to schedule an appointment, visit Promoted as stabilizing the individual in- com. per hour in the first year, 40 cents per boilermakerslocal647.com. surance market, the insurance companies Bakers Local 22: hour in the second year, 35 cents per hour Elevator Constructors Local 9: are not actually required to lower premi- Baldinger Bakery workers approve in the third year, 50 cents per hour in the Cook-out follows May 4 meeting ums or provide policies in under-served new contract with wage, pension gains fourth year and 50 cents per hour in the The next membership meeting for El- areas in Greater Minnesota. Nurses and Workers at Baldinger Bakery in St. fifth year. evator Constructors Local 9, Thursday, allies said that throwing more money at Paul ratified a new five-year contract The employer’s pension contribution May 4, will be followed by a cook-out. the insurance industry would not guaran- March 24. The 40 workers at the high- increased by a total of 30 cents per hour The meeting will begin at 5:30 p.m. at tee high-quality, affordable healthcare tech commercial bakery are members of over the five-year agreement. Local 9’s office at 433 Little Canada Rd for Minnesotans; single payer is the only Local 22 of the Bakery, Confectionery, Serving on the negotiating committee E. in Little Canada. LOCAL UNION NEWS page 10 Retiree Meetings If your union local’s retirees group wishes to the new meeting location, beginning in Sep- Sparkies”— will meet Tuesday, May 9 at the month at 11:00 a.m. at Elsie’s, 729 Marshall St. list your meeting notices here, please contact tember and continuing forward. United Labor Centre, 312 Central Avenue, Min- NE, Minneapolis. New members welcome. the Labor Review at 612-379-4725 or e-mail Minneapolis South: First Wednesday of neapolis, in the Guy Alexander Conference Plumbers Local 15 Retirees: [email protected]. each month, 8:00 a.m., VFW Post 5555, 6715 Room (second floor). Note time change:- Re Meet the third Tuesday of each month Minneapolis Regional Retiree Council: Lake Shore Drive, Richfield. freshments will be at 11:30 a.m.. The meeting All retired Plumbers Local 15 members Next meeting May 18 St. Paul: Second Wednesday of each begins at 12 noon. We will be having a guest are invited to attend retiree meetings, continu- The next meeting of the Minneapolis Re- month, 12 noon, Mattie’s, 365 N. Concord speaker. ing the third Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. gional Retiree Council, AFL-CIO will be St., South St. Paul. Save the date: at Elsie’s Restaurant, Bar & Bowling Center, Thursday, May 18 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 CWA Local 7200 Retirees: n Tuesday, May 9, 2017, U.S. Bank Stadium 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis (corner of p.m. The meeting will be at the United Labor Pizza lunch at next meeting, May 16 tour (immediately following our regular meet- Marshall and 8th Ave.). Centre, 312 Central Ave., Room 219. The Retired Members Club of Communi- ing). For more information, contact the Plumb- We will validate parking at the St. Antho- cations Workers of America Local 7200 will n Wednesday, June 14, 2017, Retirees’ Pic- ers Local 15 office at 612-333-8601. ny Public Parking Ramp (at the corner of 2nd meet Tuesday, May 16 at the CWA union hall, nic at Waubun Picnic Area, Minneapolis. Sheet Metal Workers Local 10 Retirees: St. SE and University Ave. SE), across Uni- 3521 E. Lake St., Minneapolis. n Friday, July 21, 2017, Magnolia Blossom ‘Rusty Tinners’ plan ‘Spring Fling’ May 9 versity from the United Labor Centre build- Please come by 11:30 a.m. We are plan- River Cruise, St. Paul. The Sheet Metal Workers Local 10’s ing. Just park and when you come to the ning pizza for all who attend. For more information, contact the IBEW Lo- “Rusty Tinners” retirees club will meet for our meeting we will give you a parking voucher. Guest speaker Judy Fries, vice president cal 292 office at 612-379-1292. annual “Spring Fling” Tuesday, May 9 at the For more information about the Council, of CWA District 7 Retired Members’ Council, Minneapolis Retired Teachers: Maplewood union hall, 1681 E. Cope Ave. contact Graeme Allen, community and politi- will discuss healthcare coverage. particularly Meet May 23 for ‘Beans, Beer and Brats’ “Spring Fling” begins at 12 noon. The cost is cal organizer for the Minneapolis Regional for those eligible for Medicare. Minneapolis Retired Teachers Chapter 59 $15 per person for a chicken dinner. The event Labor Federation, at 612-321-5672 or e-mail The CWA Local 7200 Retirees will not and will meet for “Spring is Sprung: Beans, Beer will include drawings for cash prizes and mer- [email protected]. meet in June, July or August. However, we and Brats” Tuesday, May 23 from 11:30 a.m. to chandise. For further information contact Paul ATU Local 1005 Retirees: may be needed to step up and support our ac- 1:30 p.m. at the MFT Local 59 offices, 67 8th Lesch at 651-433-3748. Meet North, South, and St. Paul tive members if and when we are called upon Ave. NE, Minneapolis. U of M Facilities Management Here is the schedule for the Amalgamated during this bargaining year for CenturyLink. The agenda will include end-of-legislative and Maintenance Retirees: Transit Union Local 1005 retiree meetings: For more information, call the CWA Local session discussion about pensions. Meet last Tuesday of month Minneapolis North: Second Tuesday of 7200 hall at 612-722-7200. Pipefitters Local 539 Retirees: Retirees from the University of Minnesota each month, 8:30 a.m., Coon Rapids VFW, IBEW Local 292 Retirees: ‘Fazed Out Fitters’ meet third Wednesday Maintenance Department meet the last Tues- 1919 Coon Rapids Blvd. (one block south of ‘Senior Sparkies’ meet May 9 Pipefitters Local 539 retirees — the “Fazed day of each month at 10:00 a.m. for breakfast Hanson Blvd.) Note: the Coon Rapids VFW is The IBEW Local 292 Retirees — “Senior Out Fitters” — meet the third Wednesday of each at Elsie’s, 729 Marshall St. NE, Minneapolis. www.minneapolisunions.org April 28, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 9 More Local Union News continued from page 9 Skrowaczewski conducted his last per- formances of the Minnesota Orchestra in solution that will cover every Minneso- memorable concerts featuring Bruckner tan. Symphony No. 8. National Nurses United co-president UFCW Local 653: Jean Ross presented the letter to a Blue Eastside Food Co-op employees Cross representative who said it would vote to unionize be delivered to the CEO. Workers at Eastside Food Co-op vot- Operating Engineers Local 49: ed April 20 to unionize with United Food Save the date for summer picnic, and Commercial Workers Local 653. coming June 25 The vote count was 48-19 in favor of Members of Operating Engineers Lo- the union, with 11 ballots challenged by cal 49 can RSVP now for the 2017 Local management. The election was conduct- 49 Metro Area Summer Picnic. The pic- ed by the National Labor Relations Board nic will be Sunday, June 25, from 11:30 just 21 days after the union submitted au- a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at Hope Glen Farm, Plumbers volunteer service, repairs to needy homeowners thorization cards from more than 70 per- 10276 East Point Douglas Road South, ROSEVILLE — Volunteer plumbers provided an estimated $70,000 worth of service and repairs to senior, cent of employees at Eastside. Cottage Grove. low-income and disabled homeowners in Minnesota during their unions’ annual “Water’s Off” day of service Workers at Eastside, located at 2551 RSVP by June 12 to be entered to win March 25. The program, begun in 1994, is a joint effort sponsored annually by Minnesota plumbers’ unions Central Ave. in Minneapolis, aim to raise a Local 49 custom Grizzly cooler. and their contractors to give back to the community — and raise awareness of the importance of conserving standards both at their co-op and in the RSVP online at www.local49.org or water. Plumbers donate their labor, contractors donate supplies and community agencies identify homeown- larger retail grocery industry. by calling 612-877-3787. ers in need of assistance. This year, the effort drew 181 volunteers from Minneapolis Plumbers Local 15 and “I support the union movement here Note: Parking will be first-come, first- from St. Paul Plumbers Local 34. In all, plumbers provided assistance to 108 homeowners in Minnesota, at Eastside,” said James Mossak, who serve at Hope Glen Farm. Additional logging 905 hours of volunteer work. The service day kicked-off with a breakfast at the Radisson North Hotel works in the grocery department. “Our parking will be offered at the Cottage in Roseville, where Governor Mark Dayton presented plumbers and their contractors with a framed procla- goals are to continue to support a fair Grove Public Works building located at mation declaring “Water’s Off Day in Minnesota.” Photo above: Group photo following kick-off event. work environment, provide accountabili- 8635 West Point Douglas Road South. A ty and transparency, and to have a strong shuttle bus will operate between the re- voice at the table in regards to policies mote parking area and the picnic. Music will be provided by the Lake members of the Twin Cities Musicians that affect us Eastside employees.” Twin Cities Musicians Union: String Quartet from 11:00 a.m. to 12:30 Union. “I am excited to form a union so we can Membership party planned May 7 p.m. and by the Joe Mayo Jazz Quartet During management’s 2012-2013 ensure Eastside Food Co-op continues to Members of the Twin Cities Musi- from 12:30 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. lock-out of the Orchestra, Maestro be an amazing resource for the community, cians Union are invited to a membership Twin Cities Musicians Union: Skrowaczewski conducted at several and a great place to work for all of us here party planned Sunday, May 7 from 11:00 Members honor Maestro concerts which the locked-out musicians now and in the future,” said Whitney Man- a.m. to 2:00 p.m. at the Pillsbury A Mill Stanislaw Skrowaczewski produced independently. ning from the produce department. Artist Lofts, 315 Main Street SE, Minne- The Minnesota Orchestra performed “Stan was our mentor during that “Working within the cooperative apolis. Members are free, non-member at a March 28 memorial service for Mae- time, he was our guru,” said Tony Ross, movement, I have seen the value and em- guests cost $15. To make a reservation stro Stanislaw Skrowaczewski, who died principal cellist, addressing the March 28 phasis in treating workers fairly. Union- call the office 612-338-5013 or send an February 21. memorial service at Orchestra Hall. izing is one way that we can move for- e-mail to [email protected]. Skrowaczewski led the orchestra as Skrowaczewski maintained a mem- ward and incorporate our vision in the A buffet lunch will be available from music director from 1960-1979 and also bership in the union, which was rare for a local and globalized economy,” said Ab- 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Each reservation as conductor laureate from 1979 until his conductor, reported Brad Eggen, presi- bie Vander Horck, also from the produce will include a drink ticket for a compli- death. dent of the Twin Cities Musicians Union. department. mentary wine or beer. Minnesota Orchestra members are In October 2016, at age 93, The Eastside Co-op workers’ vote fol- lows a February 23 vote by Linden Hills Co-op workers, who also chose to union- Pipefitters Local 539 ize with Local 653. Emily Calhoon, who works in the PIPERS shortly. produce department at Linden Hills Co- New apprentices Apprentice contest op, expressed her support: “My co-work- The JAC interviews are finished and the new We’d like to thank Ben Munn, Joe Osiecki and ers and I at Linden Hills are so thrilled applicants are ready. If any shops need a new Reed Sweeny for competing up at the Minnesota that Eastside workers are going to join our union.” apprentice, they should contact Chad Birk at the Pipe Trades Apprentice contest. Amanda Smith, who works in the Training Center, (763) 533-5514. Condolences health and body care department at Lin- Prevailing wage survey Condolences are sent to the family of Robert den Hills, added, “we start contract nego- It’s that time of year again for Prevailing Wage Bronson, who recently passed away. tiations with our employer in April and surveys. If anybody has worked on a prevailing we know that having more co-op work- wage job, the outstate area especially, please ers in the union with us means we all Website: www.pipefitters539.com contact Jake, Terry or Brandon to give them your have more power.” Pipefitters Local 539 has a website address for information. Eastside Co-op’s board of directors members to look at information and upcoming Wage allocations complete issued a statement: “The Co-op is look- events: www.pipefitters539.com. Wage allocations are complete. We will be ing forward to meeting the union at the bargaining table in the near future.” sending out the new wage cards once they are If you would like something added to the Pipers section Sources: Labor Review reporting and printed and will be notifying the contractors of the Labor Review, call the office at (612) 379-4711. local unions. To submit a news item, con- tact laborreview@minneapolisunions. Paid for by Pipefitters Local 539 • www.pipefitters539.com org. Next deadline: May 10.

Page 10 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org $5.00 FOR 25 WORDS An exclusive service for subscribing Union members only. Next deadline for Sell, Buy, Rent Ads: May 12. Copy Address Change? must be mailed or delivered. NO TELE- PHONE ORDERS WILL BE ACCEPTED. Ads must be accompanied by payment in Subscription Instructions? SELL, BUY, RENTDEPARTMENT check or money order. Each ad must in- clude your union affiliation and your Please let us know if your address will be telephone number, along with your mail- ing label. Over 25 words — 15¢ each extra changing, if your household is receiving more word. Your ad runs in one issue only. than one Labor Review, or if you would like to This reader service is provided for Labor Review subscribing Union members who are in good standing cancel your subscription. with their locals. No commercial ads of business firms or any sidelines or hobbies of union members who are selling products or services can be advertised in these columns. For display advertising, please contact Cut out or photo-copy your mailing label from the Labor Review. Mail or deliver your ad and payment to: Sell, Buy, Rent Department, Minneapolis Labor the front page of the newspaper and mail it to us Review, 312 Central Ave., Suite 542 (Fifth Floor), Minneapolis, MN 55414. NEXT DEADLINE: MAY 12. with your instructions: Wanted: Guitars and amplifi- Wanted: Old coins, collections, Attn: mailing list ers made in the USA pre-1980. bullion, paper money, gold Coming Minneapolis Labor Review NOTICE 312 Central Ave. Suite 542 Also interested in drums and coins, proof sets, mint sets, Sell, Buy, Rent NEXT EDITION OF some other instruments. Bob, etc. Anything from pennies to Minneapolis, MN 55414 LABOR REVIEW: 612-521-4596. paper. Best of all, I’ll pay cash Deadlines MAY 26 and come to you. Please call No phone calls, please, to report address changes, Wanted: Buying advertis- for 2017 Next Ad Deadline is May 12 Dick at 612-986-2566. stop duplicates, or cancel your subscription. Thanks! ing-related items, one piece May 12 Free: 15-foot Lone Star 1956 to entire collections, inter- fiberglass fishing boat, no ests include beer, soda, li- Be sure to list a price June 9 trailer. Call Vern, 763-559- quor, tobacco, gas and oil for your ‘For Sale’ items! 3777. and almost anything related July 14 to advertising, older the bet- Wanted: Gold and silver For Sale: 16-ft. Alumacraft ter. Please call Garry at 763- coins, paper money, jewelry, August 11 boat and trailer, trolling mo- 546-8010 or text me pictures bullion. Diamonds and other tor, cover, 50-h.p. Evinrude, at 763-202-9067. gems. Collection of all kinds. September 15 $1,995 or b.o. by April 30. Watches et al… Top prices Jess at 763-856-2995 (Zim- paid. Call Steven, 651-206- October 13 merman). 8373. November 3 For Sale: Steel roll-in dock NO TELEPHONE ORDERS with cedar decking, 4-feet FOR SELL, BUY, RENT December 8 wide, 96-feet long with bench Don’t forget to cut out DEPARTMENT ADS on the end, good condition, your mailing label and Advertise in the Business Directory and reach send it in with your (Sell, Buy Rent deadline $1,200, south of Aitkin. Call WILL BE ACCEPTED. comes two days after main more than 57,000 union households monthly! Sell, Buy, Rent ad! Larry, 763-757-3393. Labor Review deadline) Call 612-379-4725 Minneapolis Labor Review 2017 Publication Schedule The Labor Review will publish 12 issues in 2017. The publication date normally will be the last Friday or second to last Friday of each month.

May 26 August 25 October 27 Deadline: May 10 Deadline: August 9 Deadline: October 11 110th Anniversary Issue Labor Day Issue General Election Issue

June 23 September 29 November 17 Deadline: June 7 Deadline: September 13 Deadline: November 1 Holiday Shopping Guide July 28 Deadline: July 12 December 22 IBEW Local Union 292 Primary Election Issue Deadline: December 6 Minneapolis Electrical Workers Holiday Issue Drive with caution in work zones Condolences With spring comes the inevitable process of road Our late Brother Charles Lindberg’s wife – Violette Next Special Issue: construction. This year, more than ever. Lindberg; Brother Jack Carlson’s Mom – Stacie May 26, 2017 Large projects and improvements are being initiated for Carlson; Brother Herbert Lemke; Brother Dale Benson’s the upcoming Super Bowl. Wife – Mary Benson; Brother Ralph Wermerskirchen; 110th Anniversary Issue! Work zones along roadways are dangerous places to Brother Steve Oxley’s Wife – Barbara Oxley; Brother work; please slow down and stay off of cell phones. Jerome Grewe; Brother Gary Walen’s Daughter – Jane Discounted ad rates available We worked hard with contractors and the State Luhman; Brother Edward Sanders. Legislature to get new laws passed that increase the See you at the General Membership Meeting, For more information, to suggest a story idea, fines associated with distracted driving in work zones. or to advertise, contact the editor at 612-379-4725 We want our members to make it home alive. 7:00 p.m. on the Second Tuesday Paid for by IBEW Local 292 • www.ibew292.org or [email protected] www.minneapolisunions.org April 28, 2017 • Minneapolis Labor Review • Page 11 Working Partnerships co-hosts union job fair with Anoka County

By Steve Share, Labor Review editor BLAINE — A crowd of about 160 people turned out April 12 for a “Trades and Union Jobs Fair” co-hosted by the Anoka County WorkForce Center and Working Partnerships, the community services arm of the Minne- apolis Regional Labor Federation, AFL-CIO. Participating union employers included CenterPoint Energy, Kraus Anderson Construction Company, Liber- ty Carton, Metro Transit, plus others. Representatives of local building trades unions showcased their apprentice programs, wages, and bene- fits. “You can earn while you learn, that’s the beauty of an apprenticeship,” said Jody Paulson, recruiting direc- tor for the Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers of Min- nesota and North Dakota. And, Paulson said, respond- ing to a question, “yes, there are women in our field.” Paulson was one of several panelists at a stand- ing-room-only forum which preceded the job fair. She noted that the average age of a construction worker currently is 45-55 years old — which means a wave of retirements are coming in the next 10 years. Those retirements already are creating opportunities Photo above: A group of students from Centennial High School listened with rapt attention to Jim Nimlos, appren- for young people considering the construction trades. ticeship coordinator for the Minneapolis Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center. “It helps with figuring “We are looking to diversify our workforce in a big out what I’m going to do after high school,” said one student. “I don’t really want to go to college.” way,” added Vicki Sandberg, Building MN apprentice- ship coordinator. “If you’re a good worker, we’ll sign you up for our union,” said Peter Dubay, apprentice instructor for the Cement Masons, which now has a new pre-apprentice program. “You’re earning money while you’re going to school,” he emphasized. “We’re so short on people, the opportunities are nearly endless,” he said. “You’re not making a student loan payment, you’re making a house payment,” noted Jim Nimlos, appren- ticeship coordinator for the Minneapolis Electrical Joint Apprenticeship Training Center. For most pre-apprentice or apprentice programs, the basic requirement is a high school diploma and a drivers license. Some trades require an aptitude test. “The tool that everybody needs to have is an alarm clock,” urged Gary Larson, apprenticeship coordinator for the Laborers union. And, he added, a 7:00 a.m. start doesn’t mean you show up at 7:00. “You are there at Photo above: Gary Larson, apprenticeship coordinator for the Laborers union spoke at the forum preceding the job 6:30 to be ready.” fair. “The tool that everybody need to have is an alarm clock,” he urged. For more information: minneapolisunions.org.

Photo above: CenterPoint Energy was among the union employers at the job fair, represented by Nate Vassar, Home Service Plus supervisor (left) and Nate West, service tech- nician and Gas Workers Local 340 member (center). Photo left: “We are looking to diversify our workforce in Photo above: Jake Pettit, business representative for a big way.” commented Vicki Sandberg, Building MN Pipefitters Local 539 (right): “We do a lot of outreach apprenticeship coordinator. but we get a lot of applications as well.” Page 12 • Minneapolis Labor Review • April 28, 2017 www.minneapolisunions.org