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Volume 108 Number 6 March 16, 2007 Portland, Oregon

(PHOTO LEFT) Business Agent Steve Pickle shares information about Teamsters Joint Council 37 at the inaugural organizing workshop of the Change to Win labor federation in Oregon. (ABOVE) Lee Ann Halse (center) of SEIU Local 503 talks with Steve Witte of United Farm Workers and Patricia Avila of Local 503 during a break at the conference held March 3 in Southeast Portland. Nearly 125 delegates from around Oregon attended the conference. Change to Win is a national federation comprised of seven unions. Change to Win unions Letter Carriers to deliver message: share organizing ideas Don’t contract out mail service Oregon locals of the Change to Win other unions, community groups, labor federation shared ideas for or- elected officials, responsible employ- By DON McINTOSH mail. Higgins was the first person to move into the Ar- ganizing in the Pacific Northwest — ers, and other allies around the state. Associate Editor bor Parc development, in the Bethany neighborhood and pledged to support each other’s “It was an opportunity for us to A Beaverton postmaster’s decision to contract out north of Interstate 26. Unpacking in his just-finished campaigns — during a daylong organ- have some personal interaction with mail delivery is producing a major outcry among townhouse, he waited for a mailbox key to appear un- izing workshop March 3 in Portland. various activists and leaders of other union letter carriers. National Association of Letter der his mat. It never came. Phone calls to Arbor Nearly125 delegates representing unions,” said Gene Pronovost, presi- Carriers (NALC) Branch 82 has filed a complaint Homes brought bad news: Delivery service — to the all seven unions that make up the dent of UFCW Local 555. against Postmaster John Lee, and as of press time was community mailboxes at the end of his street — Change to Win federation attended. UFCW said Change to Win solidar- planning to picket outside his office on March 15. would have to wait until mid-summer, when the de- The keynote speaker was Geralyn ity will play a huge role in its upcom- Residents aren’t too pleased either. For over a velopment is half-full, he was told. Until then, he’d Lutty, an international vice president ing contract talks with grocers in Eu- month, homeowners at the new Arbor Parc Bethany have to drive to Hillsboro to get his mail, a location of the United Food and Commercial gene and the Willamette Valley. housing development had to drive 10 miles roundtrip that closes at 4 p.m. Workers who also sits on the national The Service Employees Interna- to a postal sorting station to pick up their mail. And yet, all around him and across the street from leadership board of the Change to Win tional Union said it can benefit from The dispute is a local skirmish in a national war of him, older residences and businesses were getting reg- labor federation. CtW resources in its campaign to or- ideology within the United States Postal Service ular mail service. “There are no red or blue states in ganize 3,500 support staff at St. Vin- (USPS). The Bush-appointed majority on the Postal “I don’t understand why the guy who delivers mail working America” Lutty said. “There cent and Providence Hospitals. A can- Board of Governors has been pushing USPS to assign across the street couldn’t simply add the new boxes to is only a state of concern.” dlelight vigil is slated for March 21. more deliveries to private contractors. Board Chair his route,” said L.C. Hansen, president of NALC Lutty said workers are ready to “I’m not a union member (yet), but James C. Miller III, a former Reagan budget director, Branch 82. That’s the way USPS normally handles make a change. “We can go hide, we SEIU has changed my life,” said Jen has called for wholesale postal privatization. NALC new deliveries, Hansen said. can close our eyes and stay the same, Little-Reese, a certified nursing assis- has energetically opposed the shift, arguing that priva- Instead, residents had to pick up their own mail or we can create change. This is why tant who is in the middle of the bitter tization would not only threaten the jobs and incomes while USPS advertised for a contractor. Change to Win was created. The status organizing campaign at the Catholic- of America’s 325,000 letter carriers, but would also USPS area spokesperson Kerry Jeffrey had few an- quo no longer is acceptable.” owned Providence Health Systems. compromise the security, efficiency and integrity of swers to Labor Press questions about the contracting Union officials, staff, organizers “A whole bunch of people I know are the mail, and put the long-term viability of the Postal process, but sources in the Beaverton post office said and activists spent the day sharing or- really scared. I’m just a CNA who had Service in jeopardy. ganizing strategies and discussing how big ideas, but took no action. I had no In Beaverton, Willie Higgins just wanted to get his (Turn to Page 3) they can benefit by partnering with (Turn to Page 7) Let me say this about that Unions promote —By Gene Klare home fire safety at hockey game Members of Plumbers and Fitters Local 290 and Fire Fighters Local 43 participate in annual “Broom Ball” hockey game between periods of the Portland Winter Hawks game March 9 at Memorial Coliseum. Contestants don tennis shoes and plastic brooms and try to slap a foam ball into the net. The event is used to promote residential fire sprinkler safety. “No one has ever died in a house fire when it’s equipped with a sprinkler system,” said Ron Murray, a business rep for Focus on Roseburg Local 290. The union offers A STRUGGLE BY NURSES in Oregon’s Roseburg was the focus of a na- the only training program for tional AFL-CIO advertisement in the New York Times to illustrate the need for residential fire sprinkler passage by Congress of the Employee Free Choice Act to help workers bargain system installation that is collectively for a better life. endorsed by the Portland Fire The ad, three columns wide by 10 inches deep, ran on the page opposite the ed- Bureau and the Oregon itorial page at the end of February. The headline on it asked: “What happened to Building Codes Division. The RNs Peg and Laura when they decided to form a union?” Above the headline firefighters retained the was a picture of Peg Knapp and Laura Garren, registered nurses at Mercy Med- “Broom Ball” cup after ical Center in Roseburg, which is in Southern Oregon’s Douglas County. Their sloshing to a 0-0 tie. (Photo union is the Oregon Nurses Association, based in Portland. courtesy of Randy Malin) THE AFL-CIO told this story in answer to the question asked in the headline: “Between them, Peg Knapp and Laura Garren have been caring for mothers and newborn babies for 47 years. As they saw hospital care change, they believed nurses needed a stronger voice for patients. ‘We worried that inadequate staffing levels were hurting patient care,’ Peg recalls. An overwhelming majority of the Broadway Floral nurses at Mercy Medical Center in Roseburg, Ore., felt the same way and signed Bennett Hartman for the BEST flowers call cards to form a union. b h 503-288-5537 “The hospital’s reaction was ‘an eye-opener,’Laura says. ‘They forced us to go Morris & Kaplan, llp 1638 NE Broadway, Portland through an election conducted by the National Labor Relations Board and it was Attorneys at Law intimidating.’ m k “She says the hospital used the election period to conduct a campaign of fear and misinformation. Anti-union mailings three times a week. Videos saying unions are violent and would slash their tires. Laura says she looked around the room and couldn’t believe any of her co-workers would slash her tires. Oregon’s Full Service Union Law Firm Nurses were pulled off the job and forced to attend anti-union meetings. Laura remembers hearing a colleague say, ‘While I’m here in this mandatory meeting, Representing Workers Since 1960 the nurse upstairs covering for me is now taking care of 10 patients.’ “Despite the hospital’s campaign, the nurses stuck together and won. But now they are struggling to get a contract. ‘Management comes to bargaining meet- ings unprepared to negotiate, stalling the negotiations,’ Laura explains. SeriousInjuryandDeathCases “Today, a full year after the election was certified, Peg, Laura and their col- leagues are still waiting for the hospital to respect their choice. • Construction Injuries “That’s why we need the Employee Free Choice Act. So workers can make a free choice to bargain for better treatment at work and a better life for their fam- • Automobile Accidents ilies.” ### • Medical, Dental, and Legal Malpractice WITHIN DAYS of the AFL-CIO advertisement, the Democratic-controlled • Bicycle and Motorcycle Accidents U.S. House of Representatives passed the Employee Free Choice Act. Now the legislation moves to the Senate where the minority Republicans have enough • Pedestrian Accidents votes to delay passage. At the White House, the anti-worker Republican President • Premises Liability (injuries on premises) George W. Bush threatens to veto the Employee Free Choice Act if it reaches his (International Standard Serial Number 0894-444X) Established in 1900 at Portland, Oregon desk. • Workers’ Compensation Injuries as a voice of the labor movement. ### 4275 NE Halsey St., P.O. Box 13150, KENNETH I. AHO of Portland, a 50-year member of Bricklayers and Allied • Social Security Claims Portland, Ore. 97213 Telephone: (503) 288-3311 Craftworkers Local 1, died on Feb. 27 at age 89. Fax Number: (503) 288-3320 He was born on Jan. 10, 1918 in Portland. He graduated from Benson Tech Editor: Michael Gutwig Staff: Don McIntosh, Cheri Rice High School. In World War II he served in the U.S. Merchant Marine. After the Published on a semi-monthly basis on the first and third Fridays of each month by the Oregon Labor Press Publishing Co. Inc., a non- war he became a tile setter and joined Local 1. We Work Hard for Hard-Working People! profit corporation owned by 20 unions and councils including the Oregon AFL-CIO. Serving more than 120 union organizations in Ore- “KEN WAS AN AVID OUTDOORSMAN who loved to fish and hunt,” his gon and SW Washington. Subscriptions $13.75 per year for union members. family said, adding: “Upon retirement he spent much of his time at his second Group rates available to trade union organizations. 111 SW Fifth Avenue, Suite 1650 PERIODICALS POSTAGE PAID home in Netarts, enjoying the beach and outdoor hobbies.” AT PORTLAND, OREGON. CHANGE OF ADDRESS NOTICE: Three weeks are required for a Survivors include his wife, Florence, whom he married in 1959; eight daugh- Portland, Oregon 97204 change of address. When ordering a change, please give your old ters and sons, Kenneth, Kathy, Joanne, John, Jackie, Jerry Jeanne and Jay; 25 and new addresses and the name and number of your local union. (503) 227-4600 POSTMASTER: Send address changes to grandchildren; 31 great-grandchildren; and two great-great-grandchildren. He NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS, P.O. BOX 13150-0150, PORTLAND, OR 97213 was preceded in death by his twin brother Arnold. www.bennetthartman.com A Memorial service was held March 5 at Mt. Scott Funeral Home. Press Associates Inc. ### Our Legal Staff are Proud Members of UFCW Local 555 (Turn to Page 11)

PAGE 2 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007 ...Beaverton Post Office contracts out mail delivery service (From Page 1) postal delivery contract in Oregon and contract employees who clear $10 an the Arbor Parc Bethany contract was Southwest Washington, and could ac- hour will jump ship when an $11-an- advertised on Craigslist, and no quali- count for as many as a dozen letter hour job comes along. fied contractors stepped forward. carrier jobs. And, Hansen adds, NALC mem- When USPS started getting calls from Jeffrey stressed that Post Office bers are federal employees who take several newspapers, management management isn’t converting existing an oath to uphold the Constitution. asked supervisors if they knew anyone routes to private carriers, just new They have relationships in the commu- who could deliver the route. On March routes. nity, collect food for the needy in an- 9, USPS signed a 120-day emergency But such assurances aren’t much nual drives, and serve as neighborhood contract with the son of a Beaverton comfort to letter carriers, who see Ar- eyes and ears. They are trained and postal supervisor, who then subcon- bor Parc as a foot in a door, and worry ready to deliver medicine in the event tracted with his girlfriend to do the de- that the door will soon be wide open. of a national emergency, and are com- livery. Service to the development be- Lee, who came to Beaverton after a mitted enough that mail service was gan March 12. two-year stint as postmaster in uninterrupted in the days following the But the inconvenience to Higgins Tacoma, Washington, initiated a 2001 anthrax attacks. Two out of five and his neighbors calls into question smaller privatization there last year USPS letter carriers are armed services the postmaster’s assertion — in a Jan. when a newly built 128-unit condo- veterans, owing to federal hiring rules 29 letter to Hansen — that contracting minium — a downtown city block sur- that give preference to veterans. Con- out wouldn’t harm the public interest. rounded by existing postal routes — tractors face no such requirement. Under its nationwide labor agreement was assigned to a contractor. USPS is America’s second largest with NALC, public interest is one of That’s the kind of thing that drives employer after Wal-Mart, and as em- several things USPS is supposed to Hansen up the wall. Computerized ployers they could hardly be more dif- consider before contracting out — route management and automated ferent. along with cost, efficiency and qualifi- sorting have made the U.S. Postal Ser- Jeffrey, the Postal spokesperson, cation of employees. vice the most efficient in the world, but said USPS has worked hard to answer USPS has had the option to con- Hansen thinks privatization could Willie Higgins is one of a dozen early homebuyers at the new Arbor Parc concerns the public has had about con- tract out delivery since the Postal Re- undo that. How could it be efficient to Bethany development in Beaverton. For over a month, he and the others had tract employees. Contract letter carri- organization Act of 1970, and private have letter carriers walking all around to drive five miles to pick up their mail because of a USPS decision to privatize ers will be licensed and bonded, he contractors already handle 1.9 percent a building, but leaving the building it- mail delivery. said, will wear uniforms and a postal of deliveries nationwide — mainly on self to a private contractor who would ID, and go through a criminal back- highway routes in rural areas. have to make a special trip? about erosion of public confidence in personal vehicles and opening mail- ground check. Arbor Parc is a change in scale. “Universal delivery is an economic the mails. While the Internet has boxes? And what will be the impact of In the final analysis, USPS deci- While Hansen was told to expect 374 strength of our postal system,” Hansen emerged as a postal service competi- higher turnover, diluted accountability, sions to contract out are supposed to be new residences at that particular devel- said. “I don’t think it’s possible to lose tor, the public still views mail as the diminished professionalism? Union justified by cost savings. NALC dis- opment, Jeffrey said 12,000 to 15,000 economy of scale and not lose eco- safest way to pay bills. But what hap- letter carriers are long-term, career putes the notion that contracting saves homes are planned for the area. That nomic efficiency also.” pens when the public sees contractors employees of USPS, starting at $17 an money, but that’s the rationale offered would make it the largest private Letter carriers are also worried in street clothes driving up in their own hour and topping out at $22, whereas by Postmaster Lee, who forecast USPS will save $33,878 a year by assigning Arbor Parc to a contractor. Lee didn’t Carpenters, Electricians, Laborers, Glaziers, Sheetmetal Workers, Floorcoverers, Bricklayers, Cement Masons, Roofers, Asbestos Workers, Family, Millwrights, Painters, Elevators, Plasterers Elec return calls, and Jeffrey said he didn’t

rcas C tricians, know how the figure was arrived at. Hansen has demanded to know what

arpenter the figure is based on, but so far hasn’t IBEW & United Workers Federal Credit Union been given the information. ,Lab s, Stopping privatization is important Please join the Credit Union Gl orers, enough to NALC that the union agreed in recent contract negotiations to ac- aziers, cept a more modest health benefit in

Sheet

y, Millwrights, Painters, Elevators, Plasterers exchange for a pledge not to contract

me out existing city carrier work. The a W tal postmaster general seemed to agree, “Annual Meeting” Floor orkers, but the Board of Governors rejected the deal, and the two sides then de-

oees B coverers, clared impasse. Under the rules for Celebration 2007 postal employee contract bargaining, the next phase will be mediation, fol-

ri kaes eetMasons, Cement cklayers, lowed by binding arbitration if no Tuesday, March 20th at 7:00pm agreement is reached. Since then, union leaders say, @ there’s been a ramp-up in contracting out around the country, with managers

Sheetmetal Workers Local #16 Asbe Roofer, Grand trained and given manuals that specify prize drawing how to contract out. 2379 NE 178th, Suite 16 at the end of the “We believe there’s pressure being

tsW stos ecial give-a-way Portland, Oregon 97230 put on Postal Service management by Sp meeting orke the Board of Governors, a Board dom-

r

to all attendees s,

aiy Millwright Family, inated by Bush appointees,” said NALC national spokesperson Drew ItalianPrizes Dinner given throughout will be the servedevent Von Bergen. “These people are un- Dinner will be served abashedly for privatization of the

s,

Pain postal service, and if they can’t do it in

t whole, they’ll do it in parts.”

e

r ,E s, In a nutshell, Hansen says, politi- Please bring your family and fellow union members levators, cians are interfering with effective

Plasterers postal management. “That’s why For more information call (503) 253-8193 * (800) 356-6507 we’re going to the court of public

opinion with a picket. We need the Electricians, Carpenters, Laborers, Glaziers, Sheetmetal Workers, Floorcoverers, Bricklayers, Cement Masons, Roofer, Asbestos Workers, Famil Glaziers, Carpenters, Laborers, Electricians, Sheetmetal Workers, Floorcoverers, Bricklayers, Cement Masons, Roofers, Asbestos Workers, Family, Millwrights, Painters, Elevators, Plasterers public to know what’s going on.”

MARCH 16, 2007 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS PAGE 3 At City of Portland Labor opposes ‘strong mayor’ form of government Organized labor is lining up in op- sure 26-91, although last week Com- donate cash and open its office for chief administrative officer appointed “Fast-tracking this to a May elec- position to a May ballot measure that missioner Sam Adams said he opposes phone banking and other campaign as- by the mayor. The CAO must be con- tion, which guarantees a low voter seeks to change how the City of Port- the measure. sistance. firmed by the City Council, but cannot turnout, with no public process and land is governed. The Committee for Accountable Portland voters have been asked be fired by the Council. Commission- created by a select group of people ... A Charter Review Commission ap- City Government has been created and seven times since 1913 to vote on re- ers would be relegated to legislative it sounds like they’re trying to pull pointed by Mayor Tom Potter is rec- political strategist Mark Wiener has placing the commission form of gov- oversight, strategic planning and pol- something on the public,” he said. ommending that the current “commis- been called on to help with strategy. ernment. Each time it has been re- icy development. Commissioner Sten, appearing be- sion form of government” be replaced Joining the opposition campaign jected. A key argument for reforming the fore the Executive Board of the North- with a “strong mayor” form of govern- are the Northwest Oregon Labor “It really doesn’t make sense,” said system is that most other cities the size west Oregon Labor Council on Feb. ment. Council, Portland Fire Fighters Local Richard Beetle, business manager of of Portland operate under a “strong 26, said that a strong mayor political The Portland City Council had to 43, Portland City Employees Local Laborers Local 483, which represents mayor” format. structure “is a very corporate model — approve moving the Charter Review 189, an affiliate of the American Fed- 900 blue-collar employees at the city. “Just because other cities do it, you deal with the CEO, that’s it.” Commission’s recommendations to eration of State, County and Municipal “It wraps all the power around one doesn’t mean it’s right for Portland,” Sten said under a strong mayor sys- the ballot, which it did 3-2. Commis- Employees; and Laborers Municipal person, with a layer of protection by a said Judy O’Connor, executive secre- tem elected officials rarely are held ac- sioners Erik Sten and Randy Leonard Employees Local 483. chief administrative officer.” tary-treasurer of the Northwest Oregon countable if something goes wrong. cast the dissenting votes. The Fire Fighters contributed Measure 26-91 proposes to strip all Labor Council. “Maybe we’re the ones Under the current system in Port- It is those two commissioners who $35,000 to the campaign, the Laborers city bureaus away from commission- that have it right.” land, citizens at least have an elected are leading the campaign against Mea- kicked in $10,000, and AFSCME will ers and put them under the control of a O’Connor was one of 26 citizens official they can contact if they don’t Potter appointed to a charter review like something. Sten said no one sup- committee in November 2005. The porting the strong mayor reform has committee was charged with review- defined specific problems with the Roger G. Worthington, P.C. leads the fight to find a cure ing the city charter and recommending current system. changes. O’Connor opposed the The Charter Review Committee ac- strong mayor format. tually forwarded four amendments to James Hester, a business represen- the May ballot. The three others are: tative of AFSCME Oregon Council 75 Measure 26-89 would require the Mesothelioma assigned to Local 189, said that pass- City to review its charter at least every for cancer ing such sweeping structural changes 10 years. A 20-member commission to city government requires a “thor- would be formed to review the charter, caused by asbestos exposure ough and thoughtful” process. with super-majority authority (15 or “This can have a very serious im- more votes) to forward changes to the pact on the whole city, not just union ballot box without Council approval. Since 1989, we have been dedicated to helping asbestos cancer patients employees,” Hester said. “Citizens Measure 26-90 would change Civil get justice in the courtrooms and help in the hospitals. In the last ten years, need to be informed of what these changes mean. That hasn’t happened Service language by increasing the we have recovered over $725 million for our clients. at all.” number of classifications that could In testimony prior to the City Coun- serve as “at will” employees. $34 Million: 60 year-old Navy veteran and carpenter cil vote to refer the ballot measure, Ed Measure 26-92 would increase $20 Million: 54 year-old engineer Hall, a firefighter and another union oversight of the Portland Development member on the Charter Review Com- Commission by requiring PDC to ad- $12.6 Million: 69 year-old psychiatrist exposed at home mission, asked City commissioners here to the City Council’s vision, $10 Million: 54 year-old woman exposed via father’s clothes not to do it. “The effort and time the goals, budget process and performance (Charter Review) commission put in measures. $8.4 Million: 60 year-old Navy veteran and crane operator deserve a full public debate,” he said, The aforementioned unions and la- adding that there isn’t enough time to bor council oppose all but the PDC have that debate before May 15. oversight measure, which they Beetle agreed that more public fo- strongly support. rums are needed to allow citizens to be Ballots will hit mailboxes starting 800-831-9399 able to make an informed decision. April 27. Election day is May 15. For a free booklet of medical/legal information, including medical experts, patient profiles, clinical trials and asbestos products, call us or visit our website. Machinists, Teachers, Steelworkers www.mesothel.com unions plan conventions in Portland Hilton Portland & Executive Tower, April 1. Over 300 local leaders are ex- a unionized hotel and meeting space, pected to attend. This year’s confer- will be the site of three major union ence will focus on a campaign to re- Mesothelioma typically We’ve helped hundreds conferences in the next month. verse the decline in pay and job develops 20 to 60 years of patients find the best The 100,000-strong Aerospace Di- security that college teaching faculty vision of the International Association have suffered in recent years. after the first asbestos doctors, coast to coast of Machinist (IAM) will hold its con- And the 42,000-member District 12 exposure. Each year and we’re known for ference there March 27-31. More than of the United Steelworkers will hold about 3,000 new cases providing up-to-date 200 delegates from the United States its conference April 11-14, drawing of mesothelioma are medical information and Canada will take part in the five- 250 to 300 delegates from 11 Western day meeting, which will include train- states. The conference is held every diagnosed in the U.S. and patient education. ings and discussions of how to expand three years and includes several days Asbestos lawyers for life. membership and protect North Ameri- of training for officers and elected del- can aerospace-industry jobs. Oregon egates. This will be the district’s first Offices in Los Angeles, Orange County, and Dallas, Texas • Lawyers licensed in California, Oregon, and Texas Governor Ted Kulongoski and Labor conference in Portland. The Steel- Commissioner Dan Gardner are ex- workers Union has branched out from pected to address delegates. the steel and aluminum industries in Roger G. Worthington, P.C. has donated more than $2.5 Million to medical research The 160,000-member Higher Edu- recent years and added workers in pa- working on a cure for mesothelioma — more than all the asbestos companies combined. cation Division of American Federa- permaking, the rubber industry, health tion of Teachers (AFT) will hold its care and the public sector. annual issues conference March 29 to

PAGE 4 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007 Senate votes to restore safety bargaining ‘Union Yes’ race car driver SALEM — The Oregon Senate tracts. That right was stripped from them allows our firefighters and police to dis- voted March 7 to restore public safety in 1995 by a Republican-controlled cuss their own safety at the bargaining looking for more sponsors officers’ ability to negotiate on safety Legislature. table.” “Union Yes” drag and staffing issues in their union con- The Oregon AFL-CIO hailed the The issue is important, Chamberlain racer Greg Hindman tracts. vote as a major victory this session. said, because safety employees are pro- of Boring, Oregon, Senate Bill 400 passed by a vote of “This is a top priority for us and several hibited by Oregon law from striking. is looking for spon- 16-13. Two Democrats — Joanne Oregon unions,” said Tom Chamberlain, Previous to a change in the law in 1995, sors for the 2007 sea- Verger and Betsy Johnson — and one president of the state labor federation. employees were allowed to negotiate on son. A member of independent — Avel Gordly — joined “Nobody has earned the right to talk safety issues. Plumbers and Fitters Local all the Senate Republicans in opposing about safety issues more than the Ore- The bill now moves on to the Oregon 290, Hindman has been racing his the bill. gonians who put their lives on the line House of Representatives. The AFL- 1992 Grand Prix in the National Hot Rod SB 400 restores the ability of fire- to keep the rest of us safe,” said State CIO is asking union members to call Association Top Comp division for the past fighters, police and corrections officers Sen. Kate Brown (D-Portland), who co- their lawmakers and urge them to sup- three years. to negotiate on safety, equipment and sponsored the bill with State Sen. Floyd port SB 400. The phone number to Union locals, building trades councils and state and regional labor federa- staffing issues when bargaining con- Prozanski (D-Eugene). “This legislation reach lawmakers is 503-986-1000. tions have been some of Hindman’s sponsors. His goal is to go national, but he needs more sponsors to do it. He has been invited to bring his race car to the National AFL-CIO Building and Construc- tion Trades Department Legislative Conference March 25-28 in Washington, JOBS Plus on the radar of GOP lawmaker D.C. There, he will be able to show off the car and his Union Yes program to leaders of national unions. SALEM — Some Republican law- approved by Oregon voters in 1990. go anywhere. The invite was short notice, and the cost to transport the vehicle is steep — makers are trying to resurrect Oregon’s But it required federal approval to di- In a letter to House Speaker Jeff about $12,000. Hindman is looking for financial assistance to help pay for the JOBS Plus program, which died a quiet vert funds from other programs. As Merkley, Oregon AFL-CIO President trip. He must leave Portland on March 19 or 20, so time is of the essence. death June 30, 2005. worked out by the Legislature, the Tom Chamberlain explained why labor Union locals, union vendors, money managers and other union supporters are JOBS Plus, the brainchild of Kla- JOBS Plus program had 10 years to opposes the bill: “JOBS Plus is sup- encouraged to donate, and to possibly sponsor Hindman for the ‘07 season. math Falls conservative Dick Wendt, prove itself. Its backers tried to reautho- posed to limit its subsidies to newly- Last year, Hindman held “Union Solidarity” days at race tracks in Arizona used unemployment insurance funds to rize it in the 2005 legislative session, created jobs, but appears to subsidize and Idaho. He’s planning a similar event in July at the Woodburn Drag Strip in pay employers to hire the unemployed. but opposition from the governor, and jobs that would otherwise be created by Oregon. Unions opposed the program, saying the fact that it couldn’t get a hearing in market forces.” “The car creates a lot of buzz at the track, especially in the right-to-work unemployment insurance was meant as Democrat-run Senate, doomed the bill. That ends up displacing other work- states like Idaho,” Hindman said. “With all these locals, councils and vendors a support for workers, not as a subsidy Still, Klamath Falls State Sen. Doug ers, Chamberlain argued, as when working together towards one message, ‘Union Yes,’ this program is a power- to employers. Whitsett pledged to give it another go JOBS Plus placements filled temporary ful advertising tool. We are able to reach many more people than any one of us JOBS Plus was the result of a six- this year, and the Oregon AFL-CIO is jobs when Cirque de Soleil came to could do alone.” Contact Hindman at 503-260-5593 or 503-740-8806. county welfare-to-work pilot project tracking the bill to make sure it doesn’t Portland in 2004.

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MARCH 16, 2007 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS PAGE 5 bor Center, 2212 NE Andresen Rd., Vanc., Wash. District 5 members meet 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 3, at Coos Bay area members meet 5 p.m. Thursday, April Official Elevator Constructors 23 Gladstone Union Hall, 555 E. First St., Gladstone. 19, at the Labor Temple, 3427 Ash St., North Bend. Members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, April 12, preceded District 4 members meet 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April by a 5:30 p.m. Executive Board meeting, at 12779 NE Lane County 4, at DTC Office, 148 Main St., Hermiston. Whitaker Way, Portland. District 1 members meet 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 5, Sign Painters & Labor Council at Longview Electricians Hall, 1145 Commerce Ave., Notices Delegates meet 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 28, at Longview. Paint Makers 1094 Exterior & Interior 1116 South A St., Springfield. District 1 members meet 8 p.m. Friday, April 6, at Members meet 1:30 p.m. and 3:30 p.m. Monday, Gladstone Union Hall, 555 E. First St., Gladstone. March 19, in the District Office, at 11105 NE Sandy Specialists 2154 District 3 members meet 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, Blvd., Portland. Members meet 5 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, at 1125 Linn-Benton-Lincoln at North Bend/Coos Bay Labor Center, 3427 Ash St., SE Madison, Suite 207, Portland. North Bend. Auto Mechanics 1005 Labor Council District 3 members meet 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April Southern Oregon Members meet 10 a.m. Saturday, March 17, preceded Delegates meet 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, pre- 11, at Courtyard Marriott, 600 Airport Rd., Medford. by a 9 a.m. shop steward training class. Shop stewards Fire Fighters 452 ceded by a 7 p.m. Executive Board meeting, at 1400 District 2 members meet 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April Central Labor Council must attend training class and regular meeting to be com- Members meet 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, at 2807 Salem Ave., Albany. 12, at the Comfort Suites, 969 Kruse Way, Springfield. Delegates meet 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, at the La- pensated. bor Temple, 4480 Rogue Valley Hwy. #3, Central Point. Executive Board meets Wednesday, April 18, at 4:30 NW Fruit Valley Rd., Vancouver, Wash. p.m. All meetings are held at our union hall, 3645 SE Linoleum Layers 1236 Painters & Drywall 32nd Ave. Portland, Oregon. Fire Fighters 1660 Portland area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, March Southwestern Oregon PLEASE NOTE: Rochelle Conrad will be available 22, at 11105 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. PLEASE Finishers 10 from 8 a.m. to noon during the regular lodge meeting to Members meet 8 a.m. Thursday, April 12, at 4411 SW Sunset Dr., Lake Oswego. NOTE: This meeting is SPECIAL CALL to vote on al- Members meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, at Central Labor Council answer any questions you have concerning health, wel- location of the contractual increase effective April 1, 11105 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. PLEASE NOTE: Delegates meet 6 p.m. Monday, April 2, at the Bay fare and pension plans. 2007. This meeting will be SPECIAL CALL to discuss the Area Labor Center, 3427 Ash, North Bend. Glass Workers 740 Executive Board meets 5 p.m. Monday, April 2, at merger of Locals 360 and 78 with Local 10. There will Bakery, Confectionery, Executive Board members meet 5 p.m. Thursday, 11105 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. also be a membership vote on the proposed bylaws. April 5, at 11105 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. Portland area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, April Local 10 will be open from 9 a.m. to 12 noon and 1 ATU 757 Tobacco Workers and Portland area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, April 5 26, at 11105 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. p.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday. Charter members meet 7:30 p.m. Monday, March 19, at 11145 NE Sandy Blvd., Portland. in the Machinists Building, 3645 SE 32nd Ave., Portland. Grain Millers 114 Eugene area members meet 5 p.m. Monday, April 9, at Charter day members meet 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 20, Best Western Grand Manor Inn, 971 Kruse Way, Spring- Machinists 63 Plasterers 82 at Schoppert Hall, 1801 NE Couch, Portland. Executive Board meets 10 a.m. Tuesday, March 27, field. Executive Board meets 4 p.m. Wednesday, April 11. Members meet 5 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, at 12812 Salem members meet 7:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at in the meeting room at 7931 NE Halsey, Suite 205, Port- Salem area members meet 5 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, at Members meet 10 a.m. Saturday, April 14. NE Marx St., Portland. the Comfort Inn and Suites (formerly Salem Inn) 1775 land. Candalaria Terrace, Suite 204, 2659 Commercial St. SE, Meetings are at 3645 SE 32nd Ave., Portland. Freeway Court NE, Salem. Salem. Eugene members meet 7:30 p.m. Wednesday, March Portland City & 21, and Eugene day members meet 10 a.m. Thursday, Bricklayers and Allied Machinists 1432 March 22, at the Woodworkers Local Lodge, 1124 South Craftworkers 1 Iron Workers 29 Swing and graveyard shift members meet at noon Metropolitan Employees A St., Springfield. Members meet 7 p.m., Thursday, April 5, preceded by Wednesday, April 11. 189 Corvallis members meet 7:45 p.m. Thursday, March Members meet 7 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at 12812 Regular membership meets 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 22, at Woodstock Pizza, 1045 NW Kings Blvd. NE Marx St., Portland. a 5:30 p.m. Executive Board meeting, at 11620 NE General membership meets 6:15 p.m. Tuesday, March Ainsworth Cir., #200, Portland. 11. Medford members meet 7:30 p.m. Thursday, March Shop stewards’ training session 9 a.m. Saturday, 27, 6025 E. Burnside, Portland. 22, at the Hampton Inn, 1124 Morrow Rd., Medford. Carpenters 247 March 17. Executive Board meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, at Portland school bus members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, Iron Workers Meetings are at 3645 SE 32nd Ave., Portland. 6025 E. Burnside Portland. March 22, at Rigler School, 5401 NE Prescott, Portland. Executive Board meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, Vancouver members meet 7 p.m. Sunday, March 25, at the Carpenters Hall, 2205 N. Lombard, Portland. Shopmen 516 Roofers & Waterproofers at the Laborers Hall, 2232 NE Andresen, Vancouver, Members meet 7 p. m. Thursday, March 22, at 11620 Metal Trades Council WA. NE Ainsworth Cir., #300, Portland. Delegates meet 5 p.m. Tuesday, March 27, at IBEW 49 Tillamook members meet 1:00 p.m. Sunday, March Carpenters 1388 Local 48 Hall, 15937 NE Airport Way, Portland. 25, at the Odd Fellows Hall, next door to the Bay City Members meet 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, at 276 Executive Board meets 8 a.m. Monday, April 9, at Executive Board meets 7 p.m. Thursday, April 5. Fire Hall in Bay City. Warner-Milne Rd., Oregon City. Labor Roundtable of NOLC board room, 1125 SE Madison, Portland. Members meet 7 p.m. Thursday, April 12. AMR Northwest Josephine County, LAMAR Adver- Meetings are at 5032 SE 26th Ave, Portland. (Phone: tising and Valley Transit- See your liaison officers. Clark, Skamania & Southwest Washington 503 232-4807) PLEASE NOTE: ATU members are invited to attend Delegates meet 8 a.m. Friday, March 30, at Home- Molders 139 any of the above-listed meetings. W. Klickitat Counties town Buffet, 7809-B Vancouver Plaza Dr., Vancouver, Members meet 6:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19, pre- Sheet Metal Wash. ceded by a 6 p.m. Executive Board meeting at the Car- penters Hall, 2205 N. Lombard, Portland. Workers 16 United Association 290 Labor Council Portland area members meet 7:30 p.m. Friday, March Delegates meet 6 p.m. Thursday, March 22, preceded Laborers 483 Portland area VOC meets 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, 16, at 20210 SW Teton Ave., Tualatin. by an Executive Board meeting, at the ILWU Local 4 Northwest Oregon at the Sheet Metal Training Center, 2379 NE 178th Ave., Astoria area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, March Hall, 1205 Ingalls St., Vancouver, Wash. Municipal Employees Portland. 22, at the Astoria Labor Temple, 926 Duane, Astoria. Labor Council Portland members meet 6 p.m. Tuesday, April 10, at Bend area members meet 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March Members meet 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at the the Sheet Metal Training Center, 2379 NE 178th Ave., Musicians Hall, 325 NE 20th Ave., Portland. Delegates meet 7 p.m. Monday, March 26, at IBEW 20, at the Local 290 Training Center, 2161 SW First, Columbia-Pacific Local 48 Hall, 15937 NE Airport Way, Portland. Portland. Redmond. Building Trades Medford area members meet 5 p.m. Wednesday, April Brookings area members meet 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, Laborers/Vancouver 335 11, Abby’s Pizza, 7480 Crater Lake Hwy, White City. March 27, at Curry County Search and Rescue, 417 Rail- Delegates meet 10 a.m. Tuesdays, March 20 and Operating Engineers 701 Eugene area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, April road St., Brookings. March 27, in Kirkland Union Manor II, 3535 SE 86th, Members meet 7 p.m. Monday, April 2, preceded by a 12, at UA 290 Hall, 2861 Pierce Parkway, Springfield, 6:15 p.m. Executive Board meeting, at the Vancouver La- District 4 members meet 7:30 p.m. Monday, April 2, Coos Bay area members meet 7 p.m. Tuesday, March Portland. at Cousin’s Restaurant, 2115 W. 6th, The Dalles. preceded by a 5 p.m. VOC meeting. 20, at the Coos Bay Training Center, 2nd & Kruse, Coos Bay. Eugene area members meet 6:30 p.m. Monday, March Communications 19, at the Eugene #290 Hall. Workers 7901 Retiree Meeting Notices Klamath Falls area members meet 5:30 p.m. Tuesday, March 20, at 4816 S., 6th St., Klamath Falls. General membership meets 7 p.m. Thursday, March Medford area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, March 22, at 2950 SE Stark St., Portland. 22, at 650A Industrial Circle, White City. Executive Board meets 6 p.m. Thursday, April 19, at ALLIANCE FOR RETIRED lville Park Plaza, 20 NE 103rd Ave., Roseburg area members meet 5 p.m. Thursday, March 2950 SE Stark St., Portland. 22, at the Roseburg Labor Temple, 742 SE Roberts, AMERICANS OREGON CHAPTER Portland, and returns at 4:30 p.m. Re- NORTHWEST OREGON LABOR Roseburg. Retirees meet 10 a.m. Thursday, ceive casino coupons and enjoy a RETIREES COUNCIL Salem area members meet 6 p.m. Monday, March 19, Electrical Workers 48 at 1810 Hawthorne Ave. NE, Salem. Marine Unit meets 5 p.m. Monday, March 26. March 22, at Westmoreland Union lunch, plus raffle gifts and snack for Business meeting from 10 a.m. to The Dalles area members meet 6 p.m. Thursday, Residential Unit meets 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 11. Manor, 6404 SE 23rd Ave., Portland. the drive home. Bring friends and let’s 11 a.m. Monday, April 9, in the North- March 22, at the United Steelworkers Local 9170 Union General membership meets 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Hall, The Dalles. March 28, preceded by a 5:30 p.m. pre-meeting buffet. All retirees are welcome to attend. fill the bus! For reservations, please west Oregon Labor Council board Humboldt-Del Norte Co. area members meet 6 p.m. Wasco Unit meets 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, at Executive Board meets 10 a.m. call Vera Larson at 503-252-2296. room, at 1125 SE Madison #100G, Wednesday, March 28, at the Eureka Training Center, the Wasco PUD, 2345 River Rd., The Dalles. 832 E St., Eureka, Calif. Coast Unit meets 7 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, at As- Thursday, April 12, at the Northwest Portland. toria Labor Temple, 926 Duane St., Astoria. Oregon Labor Council, at 1125 SE ELEVATOR CONSTRUCTORS 23 EWMC meets 6 p.m. Wednesday, April 11, in the Ex- ecutive Boardroom. Madison, Portland. Retirees meet 12 noon Tuesday, OREGON AFSCME United Steel Workers Sound & Communication meet 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, April 10, at Kirkland Union Manor, Retirees meet 10 a.m. Tuesday, April 11. 1097 Electrical Women of Local 48 meet 6 p.m. Tuesday, ASBESTOS WORKERS 36 3530 SE 84th Ave. Portland. March 20, at the AFSCME office, Members meet 4 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, pre- March 20, at NIETC, 16021 NE Airport Way. Retiree breakfast 9:30 a.m. Thurs- 6025 E. Burnside, Portland. Call ceded by a 3 p.m. Executive Board meeting, at the union Executive Board meets 6:30 p.m. Wednesdays, office, 91237 Old Mill Town Rd., Westport. March 21 and April 4. day, April 5, at the Dockside Restau- GLASS WORKERS 740 Michael Arken for information at 503- Bylaws Committee meets 6:30 p.m. Tuesday, March rant, 2047 NW Front Ave., Portland. Retirees meet 11 a.m. Tuesday, 239-9858, ext. 124. 27, in the Executive Boardroom. Meetings are at 15937 NE Airport Way, Portland, un- April 17, at JJ North’s Grand Buffet, less otherwise noted. CARPENTERS 10520 NE Halsey, Portland. TRANSIT 757 DEATH ASSESSMENTS: There are no death as- INOLEUM AYERS sessments for March. Retired Carpenters meet for lunch L L 1236 Retirees meet 9:30 a.m. Wednesday, 11 a.m. Monday, April 9, at JJ North’s Retirees meet 11:30 a.m. Friday, April 4, at Westmoreland Union Electrical Workers 280 Grand Buffet, 10520 NE Halsey, Port- April 13, at JJ North’s Grand Buffet, Manor, 6404 SE 23rd, Portland. Quarry 8” Eugene Unit meets 5:30 p.m. Wednesday, March 21, land. 10520 NE Halsey, Portland. Safety toe or reg. Gortex/Vibram. Black at the LU 290 Training Center, 2861 Pierce Parkway, UNITED ASSOCIATION 290 Springfield. Executive Board meets 1 p.m. Wednesday, April 4, ELECTRICAL WORKERS 48 MACHINISTS Retirees meet 10 a.m. Thursday, Try a pair on, you’ll like them. at 32969 Hwy. 99E, Tangent, OR. Retirees, wives and friends meet Retirees meet 10 a.m. Wednesday, April 19, at 20210 SW Teton Ave., Tough boots for the Northwest. Bend Unit meets 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 12, at the IBEW/UA Training Center, 2161 SW First St., Red- Tuesday, April 10, and travel on a April 4, at 3645 SE 32nd Ave., Port- Portland. mond. FREE 48-seat luxury bus to Lucky land for a brief business meeting and Joint Unit meets 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 19, at AL’S SHOES 33309 Hwy 99E, Tangent. Eagle Casino in Rochester, WA. The lunch at a restaurant to be determined bus leaves at 8:30 a.m. from Russel- at the meeting. 5811 SE 82nd, Portland 503-771-2130 Mon-Fri 10-7:30 Sat 10-5:30 Sun 12-6

PAGE 6 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007 ...Change to Win unions (From Page 1) wall hanging contractors. The union is plan- ning a “Taking Care of Business” rally at the power until one day SEIU came and knocked Oregon Convention Center in Portland on on my front door.” April 15. Everyone is invited to participate. Little-Reese said she hopes her message Laborers Union locals said they have cam- will resonate with the delegates at the Change paigns under way targeting asbestos abate- to Win organizing workshop and beyond. “I’ll ment contractors and soft demolition workers. talk to one hundred of you, you’ll talk to a Municipal Laborers Local 483 is going after million others — and (together) we can make about 800 non-represented workers at the the world a better place. It is a life-changing City of Portland. Business Manager Richard event.” Beetle said non-profit corporations also are UNITE HERE Local 9 leader Jim Grogan on their radar. said his union will embark on a “Hotel Work- Change to Win’s ultimate goal is to “cross- ers Rising” campaign this summer as con- fertilize” union organizing campaigns where- tracts expire at major hotels in downtown by each of the seven unions can share re- Portland. Hotel Workers Rising is a national sources, ideas and staff to attract workers strategy that allies with community activists from several jurisdictions. and elected officials to help improve working “Victory creates victories,” said Steve conditions and wages of hotel employees. In Witte of the United Farm Workers Union. He Seattle, UNITE HERE Local 8 recently rati- said it took five years to organize and get a fied a five-year “standard-setting” contract at first contract for farmworkers at Threemile the Westin Hotel that includes employer-paid Canyon Farms in Eastern Oregon. “The next health insurance, no subcontracting of work, group took five months.” a 50 percent increase in pension contribu- “We have more in common than we do tions, and wage increases that will bring differences,” UFCW’s Lutty said. “Our mem- housekeeper pay to $14 an hour. bers grow, transport and sell the food America In San Francisco, housekeepers will make eats. They clean the hotels and take care of $19 an hour as the result of a new pact ratified the elderly.” Following a daylong organizing workshop in Portland, more than 100 members from seven Change to there. The goal, Change to Win said, is to help Win labor federation unions rallied in front of a Wal-Mart store on busy 82nd Ave. in Southeast Portland. The Carpenters Union is bracing for con- make this sector of the the workforce Amer- (Photo courtesy of Dan Clay) tract talks with general contractors and dry- ica’s middle class. National Guard teams up with Labor Arts Festival planned for Portland apprenticeship to train soldiers Planning for a Labor Arts Festival in have already occurred,” said Cook, tional the arts can be,” Cook said. “This Portland is under way by the Labor His- pointing to an art show last year at Port- is something I’ve been thinking about SALEM —In an effort to help It also lets training programs recog- tory Committee of the Northwest Ore- land City Hall, and several labor art fes- for years.” Oregon soldiers returning from the nize “credit for previous experience” gon Labor Council. tivals that take place annually in other Donations can be made payable to war in the Middle East find gainful so that soldiers can more rapidly ad- Scheduled for Veterans Day week- parts of the country. the Northwest Oregon Labor Council, employment, the Oregon State Ap- vance to journey-level status. end, the music and arts festival would NOLC’s labor history fund has pro- Labor Arts Festival. prenticeship and Training Council and For its part, the Oregon National open for two days of performances and vided $500 in seed money to get festival Cook also is looking for volunteers the Oregon National Guard signed a Guard will organize Soldier Enhance- workshops at Bonneville Hot Springs in planning started. Cook is now contact- to serve on the planning committee. memorandum of understanding ment Days and other outreach events North Bonneville, Wash., and culminate ing union locals, vendors, attorneys and For more information, call Cook at March 7 that will ease entry into ap- to give apprenticeship training pro- in Portland Nov. 11 with a Pacific labor supporters for donations to the 503-703-1693. prenticeship training programs. grams access to soldiers interested in Northwest Labor Arts Festival from 1 festival. Flanked by a half-dozen appren- construction and other skilled trades. to 9 p.m. “We would like to raise enough ticeship coordinators and union offi- “This will help open doors for Ore- According to festival coordinator money so that the art festival is free to UFCW organizes cials, Major General Raymond Rees, gonians returning from Iraq and Jim Cook, a member of the Letter Car- the public at the Oregon Convention adjutant general of the Oregon Na- Afghanistan,” said Glenn Shuck, ex- riers Branch 82, if enough money is Center,” Cook said. Fred Meyer crew tional Guard, and Dan Gardner, com- ecutive director of Labor’s Commu- raised the festival will be held at the His goal is to raise $10,000 to At a Hillsboro Fred Meyer store, 84 missioner of the Oregon Bureau of nity Service Agency. Shuck helped Oregon Convention Center. If not, other $15,000. workers in non-food departments Labor and Industries, signed the coordinate the process that resulted in venues, including Portland area union In addition to the cost of renting the joined United Food and Commercial memorandum in the governor's cere- the signed memorandum. LCSA is a halls, will be considered. venue, Cook would like to bring in a Workers Local 555 March 4 — with- monial office. contract partner with the Veterans By proclamation of the governor, couple of well-known performers, such out a union election. The memorandum gives appren- Workforce Investment Program, November is Labor History Month in as Billy Bragg, Utah Philips or Anne Thanks to a provision in UFCW’s ticeship committees the ability to Oregon. Feeney. which assists veterans with training, contract with Fred Meyer, non-food amend their selection methods so that “We’re building on programs that “I know how powerful and inspira- workers at new stores can unionize soldiers who meet certain qualifica- job placement and other services when they return from active duty. when a majority sign union authoriza- tions have preference for admittance. tion cards, a process known as “card- I've helped you design check.” and build factories all over Grocery workers were already Zachary union at the 6495 SE Tualatin Valley the west. Now I'd like to Highway Fred Meyer, which opened Zabinsky help you design and build in the mid 1990s But non-grocery your residential and workers had balked at joining. The • Social Security neutrality agreement also allowed • SSI - Disability Claims investment real estate union staff to talk to workers on break. Personal Attention To Every Case portfolio. In other retail news, UFCW Local Lyman Warnock, Broker 555 added a new category of employ- Working For Disability Rights ees to represent, when three Playland Since 1983 503-860-7724 workers at a Fred Meyer store in NO FEE WITHOUT RECOVERY [email protected] Longview, Wash., voted March 1 to 621 SW Morrison, Portland unionize. If Local 555 is able to bar- gain workplace improvements, the union could be in a position to add 223-8517 Playland workers at other locations.

MARCH 16, 2007 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS PAGE 7 Swanson, Thomas & Coon Local Motion ATTORNEYS AT LAW February 2007 Since 1981 Union election activity in Oregon and SW Washington, according to the National Labor Relations Board James Coon Ray Thomas Kimberly Tucker and the Oregon Employment Relations Board Jacqueline Jacobson Margaret Weddell Cynthia F. Newton Elections held Results: Company Union No Tip of the week: If you are on Social Security disability benefits Date Union Location Union and think you might be able to go back to work, you can give it a try. The law provides for a nine month “trial work period” Dyno Nobel before you lose your benefits. 2/2 Chemical Workers, UFCW St. Helens 15 19 Bay Cities Ambulance (decertification) 2/9 IAEP, NAGE, SEIU Coos Bay 13 17 We represent people on all types of injury and disease related claims. DPI Northwest • Workers’ Compensation • Construction Injuries • Asbestos/Mesothelioma 2/13 Teamsters Joint Council 37 Tualatin 12 7 • Personal Injury/Product Liability • Death Claims • Social Security Disability

We provide straight answers at no cost on any of the above areas of law. Elections requested Company Location CALL US or VISIT OUR WEB SITE Union # of employees (503) 228-5222 http://www.stc-law.com Northern Management Services Eugene United Food & Commercial Workers Local 555 4 Homeshield The Dalles Teamsters Local 670 25 Frito-Lay (decertification) Portland 260 THE UNION PLUS® MORTGAGE PROGRAM Teamsters Locals 58, 206, 305, 324 Provided Exclusively by Chase Home Finance Coast Rehabilitation Services (decertification) Warrenton Oregon AFSCME Council 75 164 Freightliner Pre-Delivery Inspection Portland Machinists District Lodge 24 16 Portland Development Commission Portland Oregon AFSCME Council 75 132

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PAGE 8 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007 Two central labor councils east of Cascade Range merge PENDLETON — The Pendleton- the Umatilla-Morrow Central Labor state can make a big impression. When fighters in April 2006, it was one of Tuesday of each month at the AF- based Umatilla-Morrow Central Labor Council, was chosen as president of a bus-full of union members came to the biggest events in town, Marks said. SCME office, 308 SW Dorion Ave., Council and the Eastern Oregon Cen- the new group. Marks is a retired support a picket by Pendleton fire- EOLC will meet 6:30 p.m. the first Pendleton. tral Labor Council based in La Grande Umatilla County mental health case merged March 6 to form a new entity worker and member of the American now known as the Eastern Oregon La- Federation of State, County and Mu- bor Council (EOLC). nicipal Employees Oregon Council 75 A labor council is an umbrella or- Retirees Chapter. Like its predecessor ganization of union locals in a specific organizations, EOLC has no paid staff. area of the state. Each labor council is Marks said in her part of the state, affiliated with the state body of the unions stick together. She said the lo- AFL-CIO and labor council charters cal affiliate of the independent Oregon are issued by the national AFL-CIO. Education Association often attends In 2005, seven national unions labor council meetings. withdrew from the AFL-CIO to form a The new organization will be re- new Change to Win labor federation. sponsible for fostering labor unity and That departure left a huge financial coordinated action in a politically con- void in state and local organizations. servative and sparsely populated geo- National leaders later created Solidar- graphic jurisdiction that comprises al- ity Charters as a way to keep state and most half the state. The council’s local labor movements together. jurisdiction includes Umatilla, Mor- Still, the withdrawal of several affil- row, Baker, Grant, Malheur, Union iates was a factor in the decision to and Wallowa counties. Pendleton, pop- merge the two councils. ulation 16,354, is the region’s largest EOLC represents just over 1,000 city. members from a dozen affiliated lo- Eastern Oregon is in Oregon’s Sec- cals, including two locals from ond Congressional District, which Change to Win — United Food and elects the state’s only Republican con- Commercial Workers Local 555 and gressman, Greg Walden. Marks said the Laborers Union. labor worked with Walden once to Becky Marks, who was president of keep a Pendleton Post Office from moving to the Tri-Cities area of Wash- ington. But other than that, she said, Labor groups back their relationship has been non-exis- tent. As tallied by the national AFL- anti-war rally in CIO, Walden has a 19 percent favor- able voting record. On March 1, he Portland March 18 voted against the Employee Free Choice Act, the labor law reform that Several labor organizations have is the union movement’s top priority in endorsed a major anti-war march to be Congress. held on the eve of the fourth anniver- Labor does have cordial relations sary of the Iraq War. with plenty of local officials, however, The event, which will take place Marks said. In a region that elects Re- Sunday, March 18 from noon to 5 publicans, labor gets behind the most p.m., will include a march, rally and a labor-friendly. EOLC hopes to get pro- tent for children to make art for peace. labor members elected to the board of At the request of city officials con- Blue Mountain Community College, PROTECTING UNION MEMBERS’ SMILES AND WALLETS. cerned about the size of the crowd, or- and will be supporting plans to bring ganizers have moved the event from new living wage jobs to the area. Orthodontics Available Pioneer Courthouse Square to the In the small towns that make up Quality, Affordable Family Dental Care South Park Blocks at Southwest Madi- Eastern Oregon, Marks said, being • General, cosmetic, and specialty care son and Park. able to belong to a labor community • Most insurance and union plans accepted Organizers expect between 10,000 means a lot. And support from union • Easy credit and low monthly payments, O.A.C. and 20,000 people to attend. members from the Western half of the • Evening and Saturday appointments The march portion of the event will • Ask about our Dental Discount Program begin at 1:30. The event has the back- Grants Pass Portland ing of the Oregon AFL-CIO, Portland 1021 NE 6th St. 3580 SE 82nd Ave. State and Portland Community Col- Grants Pass, OR 97526 Portland, OR 97266 Southgate Mobile & RV Park 541-479-6696 503-777-0761 lege locals of the American Federation Northwest Dental Associates, P.C. Northwest Dental Associates, P.C. 7911 SE 82nd Ave. of Teachers, Service Employees Local Portland, Oregon Gresham Salem 443 NW Burnside Road 831 Lancaster Mall Dr. NE 49 and Portland Jobs with Justice. For Spaces Available up to 35’ Gresham, OR 97030 Salem, OR 97301 more information, visit www.pdx- 503-492-8487 503-362-8359 peace.org or call 503-230-9427. 503-771-5262 Northwest Dental Associates, P.C. Northwest Dental Associates, P.C. Wilsonville Salmon Creek 25700 SW Argyle Ave. 2101 NE 129th St. Wilsonville, OR 97070 Vancouver, WA 98686 “I CAN GO TO ONE PLACE TO FIX IT ALL?” 503-682-8552 360-574-4574 Northwest Dental Associates, P.C. Chau Ngo, D.D.S., M.S. Phong Bui, D.M.D. Klamath Falls Charles Stirewalt, D.D.S. 4052 S. 6th St. Stirewalt, P.C. 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MARCH 16, 2007 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS PAGE 9 Says he’ll veto terrorist-fighting bill BARGAIN COUNTER FREE Bush could risk public safety Free ads to subscribers • 15 words or less • Include address label from front DEADLINE: Friday prior to publication page and telephone number Published 1st and 3rd Fridays • Sorry, we cannot accept ads over in effort to keep unions at bay the telephone Send to: • No commercial or business ads WASHINGTON, D.C. —The Bush portation security officers. DeMint Service and the Army Corps of Engi- NW Labor Press, PO Box 13150, Administration says it will veto an said strengthening airport screeners’ neers. • 1 ad per issue anti-terrorist bill that would upgrade rights would hinder the government’s “One only need look at 9/11. Portland, OR 97213 • Type or print legibly security on passenger and freight rail- flexibility to move them around in re- Unionized workers from both the pub- Classified ads MUST include area code on all phone numbers or they will roads, require all cargo carried on sponse to terrorist threats. Demint’s lic and private sector were first on the not be published commercial passenger aircraft to be amendment was defeated by a vote of scene and worked tirelessly to restore screened for bombs, and provide funds 51-46. what had been. Having union rights for state and local emergency commu- [Oregon U.S. Senator Gordon did not hamper response time or the 3 ELECTRIC CANNON downriggers, 2 digi-troll II, Automotive $500 each; 1 mini-mag, $250, never been used. 503 nications systems — implement basi- Smith voted with DeMint to forbid ability to do their jobs, but instead it 252-2136 ’74 EL CAMINO, 350-350, auto, primer, black inte- 1987 TRAVEL MATE 20’ fifth wheel, FSC, light- cally every recommendation proposed union organizing.] helped prepare them to be ready in rior, PD, PS, PW, no DEQ, $1,100. 503 621 3090 weight, easy tow, exc cond w/hitch, $2,800. 360 546- by a 9/11 panel following the attacks Homeland Security Secretary case of emergency.” 2000 HD FXD, $10,995; 1998 HD Sportster Hugger, 1540 $4,995; 1977 HD FXE, $9,500, OBO. 503 630-2301 on the Twin Towers in New York. Gage said that due to a 2003 PASTIME CAMPER, 8.5’, FSC, queen bed, ’95 DODGE DANA 60 front end, new ring & pinion, elect jacks, utility shower, ex cond, $9,000. 503 632- Why on earth would the president lack of job security, low u-joints, axel, $500. 503 678-2048 2283 ‘One only need look at 9/11. ’89 JAGUAR VANDEN PLAS, 92,500 miles, black veto a bill focused on making America pay and bad working con- ’05 NASH TRAVEL trailer, 17’, like new, awning, up- w/tan leather interior, sun roof, $4,500 OBO. 503 safer? ditions, along with fa- grade tires and wheels, $9,995. 541 367-4651 Unionized workers from both the 655-3679 BUSHNELL ELITE 4200 6x24x40 mm w/side paral- Because it contains a provision that voritism, transportation ’90 HONDA ACCORD, 5 spd, sunroof, lowered, runs lax, new in box, $500 OBO. 503 760-8696 (Bill) public and private sector were first great, gas saver, good tags, $1,500. 503 806-3907 would allow transportation security of- security officers have a ANCHOR WINDLASS, 12 volt, vertical, 5/8” rope or ‘98 OLDSMOBILE INTRIGUE, 104k, very nice, one 3/8” chain, as new, with controls, $300. 503 292- ficers (formerly known as airport on the scene and worked tirelessly higher turnover rate than owner, $3,300. 503 645-2910 screeners) to belong to a union. Some any other group of federal 6406 to restore what had been. Having 2 SNOWMOBILES, 1981 Yamaha 540 and 1987 43,000 screeners work under the au- workers. They also lead Arctic Cat El Tigre 5000. Ready to ride. $950obo thorization of the Transportation Secu- union rights did not hamper all federal workers in in- Housing for both. (971) 327-7007 rity Administration (TSA). jury rates and discrimina- LINCOLN CITY, nice 2-level beach house, sleeps 6, response time or the ability to do $350/wk, $175/wkend. 503 351-1408 (Chris) or 503 In January, the House passed its tion complaints. 762-4816 (Dan) Miscellaneous ROCKAWY BEACH house, just minutes to beach, version of the bill with collective bar- their jobs...’ “This very important UTILITY TRAILER, super HD, 3 ton, steel box, 9x6, sleeps 9, 3 bd. 503 355-2136 or 503 709-6018 elec brakes, $1,150. 503 829-9374 gaining rights included. The House amendment will provide 5 ACRES NORTH Clark County WA, surveyed, flat, AFGE President John Gage COMPUTER PACKARD Bell, Epson printer, moni- illness forces sale, tax value 150k, OWC w/100k vote was 299-128. All of Oregon’s stability to the workforce tor, all work, old, $50 cash all. 360 834-2495 down. 360 263-8930. congressional delegation supported the TSA and the flying public FLAT BED trailer, 8 ft wide, dual axel, 12 ft bed, WOODBURN SENIOR ESTATES, 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 $800. 503 254-1087 (Ralph) bill, as did Southwest Washington De- Michael Chertoff said that screeners so desperately need,” Gage said. car, on the golf course, 55+ community, $179,000. VALLEY 1000 lb weight distribution hitch, adj ball 503 936-2311 mocrat Brian Baird. are as much on the front lines in the Under the House proposal, the se- mount, 2 5/16 ball, $100. 503 648-1537 PARKROSE HOME for sale, large master suite, 3 HANDICAP DELUXE shower chair, like new, $175. In addition to workers’ rights, the war against terror as military troops. curity officers would not have the right bd, 2 bath, RV parking, oversize garage, $277,900. 503 286-8543 or 503 449-0584 House bill also included language “Marines don’t collectively bargain to strike, and the union would not have 971 207-1829 10 DOUBLE PANE windows, approx 5’x5’, sealed mandating inspection of all ship con- over whether they’re going to wind up, the power to negotiate wages — those air space between, no frames, Free. 503 539-7499. tainers headed to the United States you know, being deployed in Anbar would be set by Congress. But the Wanted from overseas. The Bush Administra- province or in Baghdad,” Chertoff told union would be authorized to bargain OLD WOODWORKING tools, planes, levels, chis- For the Home tion and many Republicans — at the reporters after a briefing with senators. on their behalf to establish work rules els, folding rulers, handsaws, slicks, adzes,leather CONN ORGAN, trade for later computer, or car or tools, chests. 503 659-0009 insistence of Wal-Mart, which drops a “We can’t negotiate over terms and to govern overtime and temporary anything, $200 value. 503 771-8823 CASH FOR older oil paintings, older toys, older cos- DINETTE SET, 1 leaf, 4 chairs, good cond, $40. 503 container off at a U.S. port every 45 conditions of work that goes to the transfers and to protect them if they tume jewelry, and older art pottery. 503 653-1506 253-3330 seconds — oppose that language. heart of our ability to move rapidly in file a grievance. PARTS FOR old wooden telephone, need mouth On the issue of unionization, Bush order to deal with the threats that are Ironically, in five airports, as part of piece, etc. 503 762-3280 (Jack) PRIVATE CITIZEN wants unaltered military rifles, and his supporters say that giving emerging.” an experiment, private security firms S&W or Colt revolvers, Glock or SIG pistols, cash transportation security officers a voice That’s nonsense, said American run the screening — and those screen- paid. 503 539-0288 IRS PROBLEMS? on the job will compromise national Federation of Government Employees ers can unionize. RESTORER WANTS log saws, log saw handles/hardware, broad/double bit axes, hard hats. •Haven’t filed for...years? security — even moreso than to allow (AFGE) President John Gage. “The In 2003, as TSA workers at several 503 819-3736 • Lost records? foreign containers to enter the country notion that granting bargaining rights airports were getting ready to vote on CASH PAID for motorcycles, dirt or street, also mu- sical instruments. 503 880-8183 •Liens-Levies-Garnishments? unchecked. to [transportation security officers] joining AFGE, the Bush Administra- CHAIN SAW, in good running condition. 503 668- •Fees are affordable “Collective bargaining will not would result in a less flexible work- tion, citing so-called “national secu- 5768 • Appointments available work for our airports,” said Sen. Jim force is just plain nonsense, and it is rity” concerns, terminated the screen- evenings & weekends DeMint (R-S.C.). On March 6, also an insult to the thousands of dedi- ers’ collective bargaining rights. Cong- Sporting Goods • Working with union members DeMint introduced an amendment to cated federal workers within Home- ressional Republicans then blocked SNOWBOARD, GERRY LOPEZ Mako, 169, tech- for over 20 years the anti-terror bill that would have re- land Security, including the Border Pa- several attempts to restore them. nine bindings, used 3x’s, $400; snowboard boots, moved bargaining rights for trans- trol, FEMA, Federal Protective Since Bush took office, his Admin- size 14, Burton Moto, $80. 503 436-2072 Call Nancy D. Anderson 1 PAIR SNOWSHOES, Vermont-Tubbs, wood istration has attacked the collective w/leather straps, $50. 503 659-6579 Enrolled Agent/Tax Practitioner bargaining rights of 850,000 Defense 1978 STARCRAFT TENT trailer, 14’, sleeps 4, Department workers and more than weatherproofed, battery, propane stove, sink, ice 503-697-7757 Unionists want health care aid box, $850. 503 289-5326 170,000 Homeland Security Depart- ment employees. for 9/11 rescuers in New York In November 2006, the Interna- By MARK GRUENBERG ments like those that afflict Sferazo tional Labor Organization, an arm of NEW YORK (PAI) — Last year, and thousands of other workers and the United Nations, ruled the Bush John Sferazo, a member of Brooklyn New York area residents after the Administration violated the “funda- ramers/metro Iron Workers Local 361 who helped 9/11 attacks. mental” rights of airport screeners clean up debris from the World Sferazo saw a heart-rending scene when it prohibited the workers from K mailing service Trade Center folowing the Sept. 11 which brought home the lasting im- achieving union representation and en- terrorist attacks, went to the wake of pact of the attacks, not just on the gaging in collective bargaining. 3201 N.W. YEON PORTLAND, OREGON 97210 a co-worker. workers who died at 9/11, but on “We’re not going to let big labor (503) 274-1638 FAX (503) 227-1245 Sferazo got to the wake a little those who are sick and dying from compromise national security,” said late, and only his colleague’s family the toxic combinations unleashed Senate Minority Leader Mitch Mc- THE ONLY UNION MAILER and close friends were there. when the Twin Towers collapsed: Connell, R-Ky., noting there are not His friend, Mike, died of respira- Ammonia, asbestos, particulates and IN OREGON enough votes in either the House or Visit our Web site at www.kramersmailing.com tory ailments contracted by breath- other cancer-causing substances. the Senate to override a veto by Presi- ing in toxic gases and debris from At the wake, Sferazo saw Mike’s dent Bush. McConnell is married to MEMBERS OF TEAMSTERS LOCAL 223 the clean-up of “The Pile” — ail- (Turn to Page 11) Labor Secretary Elaine Chao. — Eric Brending, Owner —

PAGE 10 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007 Let me say this about that ...9/11 rescuers suffering from ill health (From Page 10) in nearby buildings where toxic de- 9/11 illnesses. The Victims’ Com- two young children. “They were no bris and gases wafted into rooms and pensation Fund, open only to fami- more than 8 years old, trying to heating, ventilation and air condi- lies who lost kin in the terrorist at- ...Unionists’ obituaries climb in the coffin to say goodbye to tioning systems. tacks, and which is now closed, Daddy,” Sferazo said, with tears in The federal government’s re- should be reopened and extended to (From Page 2) his eyes and a choked voice. sponse to their plight? A Bush the other victims, they added. JOHN W. BOGGS SR. of Fairview, a retired member of Operating Engineers Part of the rasp in Sferazo’s voice budget proposal for $25 million this “Individuals who are now suffer- Local 701, died at age 78 on Feb. 25. is from the ailments he contracted as year for follow-up study of the vic- ing from 9/11 health effects were re- He was born on July 3, 1928 in Morgantown, West Virginia. He served in the one of the thousands of workers tims — just enough to keep two of sponding to an act of war against U.S. Navy in World War II and moved Gresham several years after the war. He from around the country who spent the three treatment centers for them this nation. The government is re- later moved to Milton-Freewater in Eastern Oregon but returned to Gresham in the months picking through and sorting operational. The money would go to sponsible for assisting them, but 1970s. He moved to Fairview in the 1990s. the debris of the Twin Towers, the city Fire Department, which lost New York City cannot bear the re- SURVIVORS INCLUDE his wife, the former Eloise Hudson, whom he mar- dubbed “The Pile.” Workers sponsibility on its own, espe- ried in 1950; a son, John, Jr.; a sister, Eleanor Weisz; and brothers O.J. and loaded debris onto trucks and fer- ...victims of 9/11 want recognition cially for those who aided Franklin Memorial contributions can be sent to the American Heart Association. New York in its time of need ries and carted it off to the Staten of their ills, especially by a Funeral arrangements were by Bateman Carroll. Island landfill without any pro- but now live in other states,” ### tection for their bodies — and es- government that told them it was declared Linda Gibbs, the pecially their lungs. Now they’re safe to work on ‘The Pile’ without city’s deputy mayor for STANLEY D. DORNAN of Vancouver, Wash., a member of Portland-based paying the price. health and co-chair of its Iron Workers Local 29, died Feb. 23 at age 65. A memorial service was conducted “I’m typical of the others who breathing apparatus or masks. World Trade Center health on March 2 at Omega Funeral and Cremation. stayed 29-32 days at the site. My panel, which produced last He was born Aug. 12, 1941 in Webbers Falls, Okla. He served in the U.S. Army medical conditions are reactive year’s report. The city wants in the Vietnam War. Later, he moved to Vancouver. airway disease, restrictive airway 343 union firefighters in the attacks, a permanent dedicated fund to help SURVIVORS INCLUDE his wife, Dorothy, whom he married in 1974; a disease, sinusitis, continual lung in- and to Mt. Sinai Hospital, which pay the health care costs of the vic- daughter, Priscilla; a son, Robert; four grandchildren; his mother, Lola; and two fections, post-traumatic stress disor- treats other first responders — but tims. sisters, Fran Meyer and Joyce Miller. der, anxiety, depression, sleep ap- not those who dug into “The Pile” Besides the money, the continu- ### nea” and gastric diseases, the later, nor the kids nor community ing victims of 9/11 want recognition now-disabled Sferazo told a House residents. They’re treated at Bellevue of their ills, especially by a govern- BLANCHE FEELY of Portland, a retired union grocery clerk, died at age 92 Oversight and Government Opera- Hospital, which gets none of the ment that told them it was safe to on Feb. 8. She had worked for Safeway and Albertsons as a member of Retail tions subcommittee. funds. work on “The Pile” without breath- Clerks Local 1092, which later became part of United Food and Commercial City medical and civic officials And Bush officials told lawmak- ing apparatus or masks. That’s why Workers Local 555. also testified that the Bush Adminis- ers they are concentrating on docu- Sferazo, Bethea and the others hold She was born on Sept. 24, 1914 in Tidewater, Ore.; and later lived in tration harmed clean-up workers menting data of long-range health the Bush Administration responsible Brownsville before moving to Portland in 1939. She married Cyrus McAllister in twice in the aftermath of 9/11: Once effects of 9/11 so future claims are for their ills. 1934; they later divorced. by saying the air was safe to breathe legitimate and victims who become “If I am to be the voice of the re- She married Robert H. Feely in 1970; he died in 1985. at “Ground Zero” without masks ill in coming years will really have sponder,” the now-disabled Sferazo SURVIVORS INCLUDE a son, Gerald McAllister; a brother, Cedric and then by short-changing pro- been sickened by the toxic gases and rasped, “then I am outraged by the Williamson; a sister, Irene Fee; and nieces and nephews. grams to deal with their health prob- particles. lack of responsibility and loss of ob- Remembrances can be sent to the Doernbecher Children’s Hospital Founda- lems. That’s not good enough, union ligation this Administration has to- tion. Riverview Abbey handled funeral arrangements. A study by the city released late members and other witnesses told wards us. We are clearly being ### last year said 681,000 people could the subcommittee. The city report shown that we are expendable. be affected. That includes workers estimates that between $250 million George Bush came to the Trade GLENN E. GREGORY, a retired member of Portland-headquartered Sheet on “The Pile,” lower Manhattan resi- and $393 million will be needed to Center and told us ‘We will never Metal Workers Local 16, died on Feb. 9 at age 89. dents, school children and workers treat all the victims of subsequent forget.’…Well, we feel he forgot.” He was born on April 8, 1917 in Index, Wash. He moved to Portland in 1953 and went to work in the sheet metal trade as a member of Local 16. He later served as a business agent for the union. HE MARRIED Ella B. Reniker in the late 1930s, she died in 2004. Survivors include his daughters, Jan Nerison and Jeanne L. Warren, four grand- children and four great-grandchildren. Workers want unions more than ever Memorial contributions can be sent to the American Cancer Society. Funeral By ROSS EISENBREY Nonunion worker likely vote in a union representation election, Hart polls, 1984-2004 arrangements were handled by American Burial and Cremation. ### Today, more than at any time in the 70 recent past, American workers want to 65 join unions and have unions represent HARROLD GLENN JOHNSTON of Portland, a retired member of Ma- 60 them in the workplace. chinists Auto Mechanics Local 1005, died Feb. 24 of Alzheimer’s disease at age 55 DefinitelyDefinitely or or probablyprobably votevote 80. In 1984, about a third of nonunion againstagainst formingforming a a union union He was born on Aug. 21, 1926 in Portland. He graduated from Roosevelt High workers wanted a union to represent 50 them, while two-thirds said they School. He served in the U.S. Army in World War II and later lived in Los Ange- Percent 45 would definitely or probably vote les before returning to Portland in 1962. He worked as a Local 1005 member at the Definitely or probably vote against forming a union. 40 Freightliner truck manufacturing plant on Swan Island for 28 years. forD efinitelyforming ora probablyunion vote for SURVIVORS INCLUDE his wife, Marjorie, whom he married in 1952, two As shown in the figure at right, by 35 forming a union 2005, nearly the opposite was true: 53 daughters, Kim Peil and Lauren Fox; a son, Randy, a sister, Marci Juarez, six 30 percent of nonunion workers wanted a grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. 25 union and only a little more than a Contributions can be sent to the Alzheimer’s Association. Affordable Funeral 1984 1986 1988 1990 1992 1994 1996 1998 2000 2002 2004 third said they would vote against a Alternatives handled funeral arrangements. Source:SOURCE: HartHart Research Research Associates,Accociates, various various polls, polls, except except 1984. Those1984. year’s Those data year’s are from data Harris are TK. from Harris TK. ### union. According to new survey research These results track a significant im- want unions to represent them. Only DAVID WILLIAM OLNEY of Oregon City, a retired member of Operating by Richard Freeman of Harvard Uni- provement in the general public per- employer hostility and inadequate Engineers Local 701, died Feb. 22 at age 74. A memorial service for hin was held versity that combines results from both ception of unions. While a majority of laws keep employees from having the March 1 at Grand View Baptist Church in Beavercreek. union and nonunion private sector the public has always approved of union representation they want. He was born on Nov. 28, 1932 in Portland. His family later moved to Colton workers, “if workers were provided unions and a minority disapproved, the Further discussion of this topic can where he grew up. He lived in Colton until moving to Oregon City last year. He the union representation they desired gap between approval and disapproval be found in the briefing paper, “Do worked as a heavy equipment operator for about 30 years. in 2005, then the unionization rate grew from about 20 points in 1981 to Workers Still Want Unions? More SURVIVORS INCLUDE his wife, Darl, whom he married in 1953; three would be about 58 percent” almost 43 points in 2005, the largest gap be- Than Ever,” at www.sharedprosper- daughters, Theresa Olney, Julie Olney and Jenny Hopkins; five sons, Jeffrey, Mike, eight times higher than the actual rate tween approval and disapproval of ity.org. Tony, Nick and Charlie; a sister, Mary Wheeler; 30 grandchildren and five great- of 7.4 percent, and considerably higher unions ever recorded in the Gallup and (Editor’s Note: Ross Eisenbrey is grandchildren. than the 44 percent found in polls from Hart Research polls. vice president and policy director for Funeral arrangements were handled by Family Memorial. the mid-1990s. Americans approve of unions and the Economic Policy Institute.)

MARCH 16, 2007 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS PAGE 11 Job Fairs slated March 28 and April 6 Freightliner Machinists prepare for layoff, bargaining By DON McINTOSH Portland by March 30, though the campaigns. Then on March 24, hun- jobs to go abroad. “We are a good ex- renewal in June. The protest will also Associate Editor company’s Western Star brand trucks dreds of workers are expected to at- ample of what happens when trade call out Congressman Earl Blume- Machinists Local 1005 moved into will continue to be produced at the tend the union’s contract formulation agreements are negotiated without nauer, who in defending his 2003 vote speed-up mode in March, as the union plant. Freightliner trucks will be made meeting, at which they will decide ne- any consideration for maintaining job for a trade agreement with Chile, said simultaneously prepares to help 632 at plants in North Carolina and Mex- gotiating priorities, elect a bargaining base in our local communities,” Kear Freightliner officials told him the members due to be laid off at Freight- ico. committee and take a preliminary said. agreement would make it easier for liner at the end of the month and gears Unions, management and govern- strike vote. The vote is intended to un- The Cross Border Labor Organiz- them to sell trucks in Chile. up to bargain a contract for the 655 ment and non-profit agencies teamed derscore members’ willingness to ing Council will assist in the protest, Fourteen of 16 workers at Freight- who remain. up to organize a massive job fair for strike if the bargaining team can’t get which will take place outside the liner’s previously nonunion pre-deliv- Local 1005 — the largest of four the laid-off workers. The event will a satisfactory contract. Edith Green Wendell Wyatt Federal ery inspection facility recently signed unions at Freightliner — is also con- take place at Portland Memorial Coli- The last Freightliner truck is Building in downtown Portland at a petition seeking to join the Machin- sidering a political protest against seum from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., scheduled to roll off the assembly line noon, Wednesday April 4. U.S. Sena- ists. The facility details and cus- politicians who voted for job-destroy- Wednesday, March 28. It will be on March 29 and the last day of work tor Ron Wyden’s offices are located in tomizes new Freightliner trucks for ing trade agreements. And it expects open to workers and their families. As for the employees being laid off is the building. Critics of so-called free customers, so the department could to add a new group of Freightliner many as 100 employers, mostly in March 30. trade agreements want to hold Wyden be working as long as a month after workers, even though they will most manufacturing, are expected to take The layoff will cut in half the Ma- to account for past votes, like the the last truck is assembled in Port- likely be laid off not long after joining part. Event organizers focused recruit- chinists workforce at the plant — and 1993 vote he cast for NAFTA as a land. the union. ment efforts on companies that are that’s after previous waves of layoffs member of the U.S. House of Repre- Freightliner management declined Daimler-Chrysler announced in currently hiring, and that pay compa- over the last seven years had already sentatives. Investor protections and an offer by Portland City Commis- January that it will permanently cease rable wages and benefits. halved the local’s membership, which other guarantees contained in NAFTA sioner Eric Sten to verify the petition. production of Freightliner brand Local building trades unions are stood at 2,600 in 1999. have made it easier for manufacturers Instead, the employees must wait for trucks at its Swan Island facility in also extending a coordinated wel- “They were making money here,” to shift production from the United the results of a government-super- come, not just to the downsized said Machinists Business Agent Joe States to Mexico. Wyden has voted vised election. At the request of the Freightliner workers but to other Kear. “But they want to make even for nearly every NAFTA-style trade Machinists, Sten wrote a letter to workers being laid off this spring, in- more money in Mexico.” At Local agreement since, and labor unions Freightliner asking them to remain CORRECTIONS cluding workers at Georgia-Pacific’s 1005’s March 17 general membership want him to face the consequences of neutral toward the union campaign in An article on the Freightliner layoffs Camas, Washington paper mill, meeting, members will consider en- those votes, and join other members the department. Kear said it appears in the March 2 issue of the Northwest Tigard truck throttle maker Williams dorsing a protest against trade agree- of Congress in opposing “fast track” managers are remaining neutral. The Labor Press contained several errors, Controls, and the U.S. Air Force ments that have greased the skids for negotiating authority, which is up for union election is scheduled April 3. and left out some information. Freight- 939th Air Refueling Wing, which is liner workers top out at $21.55 an hour slated to close in June. Apprenticeship under the Machinist contract, not program coordinators from as many $20.55 as reported. The U.S. Govern- as 21 separate skilled construction ment certified that Freightliner layoffs trades will be available to discuss ca- were trade-related, not because of the reer opportunities at an open house company’s decision to build a new plant Friday, April 6, from 10 a.m. to noon in Saltillo, Mexico, as the article im- at the NECA-IBEW Electrical Train- plied, but because the union had docu- ing Center, 16021 NE Airport Way, mented work moving to the Freightliner Portland. plant in Santiago Tianguistenco, Mex- For members who remain, the cur- ico, in 2005. Also, the article failed to rent three-year Machinists Union con- report that the 2007 truck engines will tract is due to expire July 1. The union achieve much of their reduction in par- is planning a hot dog feed March 22 ticulate emissions through recirculation outside the plant to show appreciation of exhaust gases through the engine. for the members being laid off and to The NW Labor Press regrets the errors encourage members to get involved in and omission. the union’s political and contract

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PAGE 12 NORTHWEST LABOR PRESS MARCH 16, 2007