(ISSN 0023-6667) Get Out The Vote and we make history By Chad McKenna nationally more than 250,000 flyers for months. Now comes Field Organizer, North East volunteers have made 70 mil- time for closing this thing off. Area Labor Council, AFL-CIO lion phone calls, distributed 27 Campaign for Change is the We will make history this million worksite fliers and name of the effort uniting year in American politics. knocking on 10 million doors Obama/Biden, Franken, Not just because we are already. Oberstar, and a long list of electing the first African The Change to Win labor other candidates. It is expecting American to be President of the federation says its volunteers 10,000 volunteers to join and United States. made more than 20 million mobilize statewide for election An Injury to One is an Injury to All! Not just because we are phone calls and knocked on day. That is a truly staggering WEDNESDAY VOL. 114 reclaiming Senator Paul hundreds of thousands of doors number of volunteers. OCTOBER 29, 2008 NO. 9 Wellstone’s seat. nationwide. We are asking local unions Not just because we will Locally we have been to commit to recruiting one elect a president for working incredibly active as well with half of one percent of their people and send him 60 sena- staff and volunteers that have membership towards the Labor tors to get things done for the been making calls, knocking movement’s voter mobilization middle class. doors, and delivering work site plan. Doing the math for many Not just because we will local unions that is only a hand- have to begin to right what the MinnesotaMinnesota ful of people, five for every conservative right has made 100. That small handful could wrong over the last eight years. AFL-CIO make all the difference on But because this year voters Endorsements November 5th. are going to be mobilized to get Endorsements A lot of great work has been to the voting booth in numbers President done already over the last few this country has never seen. On Barack Obama months and it is important to Tuesday, November 4th mil- recognize those efforts. lions of Americans will speak U.S. Senate Things are looking good for in one loud and clear voice: Al Franken many of our candidates, but “It’s time to turn our country U.S. House of picture it as a bicyclist heading around!” for the finish line. He looks With Labor 2008 we are Representatives back and sees that he is so far launching the largest Get Out 8th District ahead that he can’t see an The Vote (GOTV) effort our opponent. He thinks he’s won, Labor movement has ever Jim Oberstar stops pedaling, raises his arms, seen. Our endorsed presidential Minnesota House and pumps his fists again and candidate, Senator Barack Representatives again to the cheering crowd. Obama has infused so much But then he falters, a rock in energy into politics that union Districts the road causes him to lose his members, and progressives at 3A- Tom Anzelc balance and he bites it. Down. large, are taking action in Before he can get up and get unprecedented numbers to 3B- Loren Solberg back on the bike and on track, Senator Hillary Clinton (D-NY) ran the gamut of emotions reverse th impact of eight years 4A- John Persell See Getting out vote...page 4 in a 25-minute speech at a Change We Need Rally in of a right wing administration. 5A- Tom Rukavina Hibbing last week for the Obama/Biden presidential ticket. The AFL-CIO reports that 5B- Tony Sertich WisconsinWisconsin Hillary: Election about “jobs, baby, jobs” 6A- David Dill AFL-CIO Senator Hillary Clinton was had the highest enlistment for America under George Bush. AFL-CIO 6B- Mary Murphy Endorsements on Minnesota’s Iron Range for our conflicts since World War I She said Obama will end 7A- Tom Huntley the first time in her life Oct. 21 and our nation owes you a debt tax breaks for companies ship- President at a “Change We Need” rally in of gratitude,” Clinton said. ping jobs overseas. America 7B- Roger Reinert Hibbing. Judging by the wild “You deserve better than what will start building again by 8A- Bill Hilty Barack Obama reception she got at Miners you’ve been delivered.” investing in infrastructure as U.S. House Memorial Arena from the 4600 She said she came to Congressman Jim Oberstar, 8B- Tim Faust in attendance, it isn’t a stretch Hibbing for the only candidate who spoke earlier, is propos- St. Louis County Representatives to say many had the former that will fight for the middle ing. 7th District First Lady as their first choice class and change the direction “There’s no guess work in Commissioners Dave Obey for the Democratic presidential of the country. the choice for this election, Districts State Assembly nominee. “That’s why I’m here, there’s evidence,” she said. “It 3- Bill Kron That wasn’t to be for the because we need Barack took a Democratic to clean up Districts New York senator, but she Obama and Joe Biden in the after the first Bush, and it will 5- Peg Sweeney included Hibbing in her whirl- White House in January,” she take a Democrat to clean up Lake County 73- Nick Milroy wind ride around the country said to cheers. “This isn’t a after the second Bush!” Commissioners 74- Gary Sherman stumping for her fellow senator question of faith. This is based Later in her speech she said, 75- Mary Hubler from Illinois, Barack Obama. on evidence. Just compare the “America will arise from the Districts Clinton quickly connected last Republican eight years ashes of the Bushes if you give 3- Brad Jones PLEASE VOTE with the raucous gathering by against the prior eight years us a chance to lead.” praising Iron Rangers for help- under Democratic leadership.” More evidence against 5- Rich Sve Tuesday, Nov. 4 ing make America safe while Those eight years were led Republican leadership is that Two Harbors winning its conflicts dating by her husband, President Bill nest eggs are cracking, she City Council back to World War I with their Clinton, who is also touring the said, and people are afraid to work ethic that mined ore for nation on behalf of Obama. open the envelopes containing Ward 4 steel to win wars. Sen. Clinton said 22 million their 401(k) statements. Steve Detlefsen She praised the commit- jobs were created during that Education has become too Duluth Schools ment of the region to Demo- Democratic administration, expensive for many, others are cratic values and voting child poverty was lowered, the losing their health care cover- Levy Vote YES! turnouts that brought the likes budget was balanced and even age, and our economy just isn’t of JFK, Humphrey, and Walter produced a surplus. working. PLEASE VOTE Mondale to victory. Nine straight months have See Hillary:...page 4 “Northeast Minnesota has seen staggering job losses in Tuesday, Nov. 4 Wellstone remembered with doorknock On a cold Saturday morning Republican challenger Norm (Rukavina’s daughter).” Oct. 25 on the Bodas Road Coleman, who went on to win Former state representative south of Eveleth, four dozen the election against Walter Joe Begich told the gathering, people gathered to remember Mondale, who entered in the “Wellstone was the best sena- Senator Paul Wellstone on the last days as Wellstone’s tor Minnesota ever had. I never 6th anniversary of the tragic replacement. met a person so close to work- airplane crash that took his life. But Wellstone wasn’t going ing people, and it was sincere, Also perishing in the crash to Eveleth to campaign. He not like you hear on TV today.” were his wife, Sheila, their was going to the funeral of Mary Rosenthal said when daughter Marcia Markuson, his Rep. Tom Rukavina’s father, Wellstone first ran it was at a campaign staffers Mary Bunny. time when no one thought any- McEvoy, Tom Lapic, and Will “I told Paul you don’t have one could beat Senator Rudy McLaughlin, and pilots to come up here you need to be Boschwitz, who was the num- Richard Conry and Michael campaigning for every vote, ber one national fundraiser for Guess. Rukavina related to the gather- the Republicans. “The The pain of losing them was ing in an observance at the Steelworkers were the first to still very evident, and felt espe- stone remembering Paul and endorse Paul, and his love of cially bad this year, on the eve Sheila. “He laughed and said the Iron Range took off from of another General Election for ‘I’m way ahead’ but it was only there.” Rep. Tom Rukavina, Chad McKenna, and former Rep. Jo the seat Wellstone had held. by a few points in the polls. Mary Theurer said she Begich were among the 40 people at the Wellsto His death came just days Then he said ‘I’m not coming remembered the first time she Memorial last Saturday to mark the 6th anniversary of th before the election in 2002 as to see you I’m coming to see met Wellstone and didn’t talk airplane crash that took Sen. Paul Wellstone, his w he campaigned against his your mother and Ida politics at all, he only wanted Sheila, their daughter, and five others. After the observan to talk about specific issues. the group and others phone banked, doorknocked a Helping others at the holidays Jerry Fallos said Wellstone dropped literature at every home in Eveleth and Gilbert. The Duluth AFL-CIO Community Services Program has was never into making political opened it Holiday Food and Operation Toy/Gift Drop programs points. “After LTV finally Health care education set up to help union families his hard by the recession. closed in spite of all of us try- The Northland Health Care for All Coalition and the Depending upon donations to the program, Holiday Food ing to keep it open, the first Unitarian Universalist Congregation of Duluth are presenting baskets will be delivered at Thanksgiving and Christmas to time I saw Paul he said he felt three free programs to explore “Health Care USA Style: unemployed union members who have no benefits, injured bad for the workers’ kids who Something a Band-Aid Can’t Fix.” workers without compensation, or others with unusual hardships wouldn’t have a picnic that Session I was last Sunday on “How did we get here?” It pre- Donations to Holiday Food can be sent to Duluth Central summer. Then he reached in his sented the "Frontline" documentary on how six countries insure Body, Room 110, Duluth, MN 55812. wallet and gave me his money all of their citizens. Operation Toy/Gift Drop is an effort to provide a more pleas- to start a picnic fund. He didn’t Session II. Sunday, November 2, 12:30-2:30 is “Physicians ant holiday season for strapped families. Donations of money want anyone to know that.” For a National Health Program.” Dr. Faris Keeling of Duluth will be used to buy gifts. If you can purchase gifts yourself and Rob Ecklund related going will show a video prepared by PNHP, which has proposed a plan wrap them just put a tag on them that says “boy, age 6” or “adult to Washington DC to lobby for for single payer health insurance. female” and so forth. his PACE union. Others with Session III. Saturday, November 15, 9:30-11:30 a.m. – Donations to Operation Toy/Gift Drop can be sent, delivered, him were surprised to find they noon “Workshop: How to obtain health insurance for all” All or dropped off at to Yvonne Harvey, AFL-CIO Community actually would have an audi- sessions are at UUC, 835 West College Street. Services, Room 94, 2002 London Road, Duluth, MN 55812. ence with Paul and not an aide “This is really a tough year, with so many unemployed, no as usually happens in DC. MINNESOMINNESOTTAANURSESNURSESASSOCIAASSOCIATION job openings, and fuel and food costs so high,” says Community “We didn’t agree on that Services Director Yvonne Harvey. “Agencies that can help are issue that day and months later 16251625 Energy Energy Park Park Drive, Drive, Suite Suite 200 200 strained too.” For more information contact her at 728-1779. when I saw him he remem- St. Paul, Minnesota 55108 bered the arguments and said, St. Paul, Minnesota 55108 “Rob, wasn’t that fun!” (651)(651) 414-2800414-2800 / /1-800-536-4662 1-800-536-4662 Lisa Radosevich-Pattni, e-mail:e-mail: [email protected] [email protected] I.U.O.E. Local 70 who had staffed Wellstone’s Monthly Arrowhead Regional Meeting Virginia office, said that was NOTICENOTICE OFOF JOBJOB VACANCY VACANCY the most impressive thing Tuesday, Nov. 11, 2008, 5:00 P.M. about Wellstone, “his joy and POSITIONPOSITION TITLE:TITLE: DirectorDirector of of Field Field Operations Operations Duluth Labor Center, Hall B love of his work.” DATE:DATE: OctoberOctober 1, 1, 2008 2008 Dick Lally, Business Manager (651) 646-4566 Joe Moren related how he DEPARTMENT:DEPARTMENT: AdministrationAdministration always was able to get Sheila to ACCOUNTABLEACCOUNTABLE TO: TO: JamesJames Bialke, Bialke, Executive Executive Director Direc speak at Education Minnesota AVAILABLE:AVAILABLE: ImmediatelyImmediately Sheet Metal Workers’ Local 10 functions because of how well she related to children. “I was MinnesotaMinnesota Nurses Nurses Association, Association, the largestthe largest Professional Professiona Retirees’ Luncheon always impressed with how NursesNurses union union in in the the Midwest, Midwest, is seekingis seeking an additional an additional quickly she said ‘yes.’” DirectorDirector ofof Field Field Operations. Operations. This This position position is responsibleis responsibl Tuesday, Nov. 4, 1:00 p.m. Rukavina said all the things forfor thethe management, management, support support and and development development of field of field Wellstone fought for we’re still staffstaff in in order order to to promote promote and and achieve achieve the thegoals goals and priori-and prio Landing 53 fighting for today. tiesties of of the the Minnesota Minnesota Nurses Nurses Association Association (MNA), (MNA), in accor- in acc “Let’s go doorknock and dancedance with with the the directives directives of theof the leadership leadership of the of MNA.the MNA. win this thing for Paul,” he QUALIFICATIONS:QUALIFICATIONS: SHEET METAL WORKERS said. Education:Education:BA/BSBA/BS Degree Degree is required;is required; advanced advanced degree degre Meetings Cancelled Jason Metsa, working for preferred.preferred. Registered Registered Nurse Nurse is preferred. is preferred. the DFL Coordinated cam- Experience: Five years of labor union experience and three The November 2008 regular meeting of the Duluth- paign, stepped into the circle Experience:Five years of labor union experience and t Superior area of Local 10 scheduled for 5:00 p.m., and said, “We’re going to have yearsyears of ofmanagement management experience experience is required. is required. Monday, Nov. 10, 2008 at the Duluth Labor Temple has an Iron Range style doorknock, Salary:Salary:NegotiableNegotiable based based on experienceon experience and education and education been cancelled. we’re hitting every damn house Contact:Contact: JamesJames Bialke, Bialke, Executive Executive Director. Director. For a Fordetailed a detai The November 2008 regular meeting of the Iron Range in Eveleth and Gilbert!” postingposting or or to to send send letter letter of application of application and resume:and resume: via mail via area of Local 10 scheduled for 7:00 p.m., Tuesday, Nov. Folders started flying, people toto the the address address above above (ATTN: (ATTN: James James Bialke) Bialke) or e-mail or toe-mail 11, 2008 at the Hibbing Park Hotel has been cancelled. started leaving with their maps, [email protected]@mnnurses.org. and it was on. Wellstone would The Minnesota Nurses Association is an Equal Opportunity Employer ~Dennis Marchetti, Business Representative have loved it. The Minnesota Nurses Association is an Equal Opportunity PAGE 2 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 Choices clear for workers Editor: While most of us have decided upon our preferences in the Nov. 4 election, certainly quite a few voters have yet to solidify Well, here we go, off into their choices. I’d submit that the differences between federal the wild BLUE (hopefully) candidates for Minnesota's working families couldn't be clearer. yonder. Within a week, or a Illinois Senator Barack Obama has been an advocate for the couple of months depending on working class for decades as a community activist and an Illinois whether or not the Guardians state legislator. He is one of the brightest and energetic new sen- of Privilege decide to jam up ators in Washington. He will be the president that will rebuild voting machines and the vote America by putting the people first. count, we’ll have a better idea Al Franken has earned our support and respect by working of whether or not elections very hard to take the lead in Minnesota's U.S. Senate race. He actually matter in America. honors the memory of Senator Paul Wellstone by pledging to For the sake of our democ- carry to Washington the progressive message of working for the racy and the free world we common good. We need to return Wellstone’s seat to someone hope they do, but never forget that actually believes that again. the hanging chads and 537 given to TV networks, yet. that party admitting “This is the In contrast, John McCain’s only redeeming quality would be votes in Florida that opened up Being the old sentimental best we can do.” Then he picks his past military service. You probably have heard he sacrificed the mess of the past 8 years in type, however, I kind of wish I Palin, Bachmann really loses it, five years as a North Vietnamese POW. We all honor and appre- the White House. Joe Stalin’s lived in Rep. Michele Bach- and you wonder how intelli- ciate that sacrifice. line about “I don’t care who mann’s 5th District so I didn’t gent Republicans are feeling. Ironically, McCain's and Norm Coleman's actions as U.S. votes, I only care about who have to enjoy her from afar. I’d They have, however, enjoyed Senators have made prisoners of war of most of our country. counts the votes” just won’t like to sip from the same 5th BumpleBush for 8 years and Their unwavering support of Bush's unprovoked Iraq War has leave me alone. she’s been hammering on to think Reagan was the Great imprisoned so many in so many ways. Families of soldiers serv- “Dear God, Please leave us come up with the stuff she has. Communicator so maybe it’s ing in this erroneous war are surrounded by fear for their loved a paper trail that can verify the We did get the First Dude been all good by them, but how ones’ safety. The rest of us are blackmailed emotionally to go slot machines we call voting here but he was no fun. Two low can they go? It’s like bad along just to support the troops. machines.” minutes of off the cuff where reality TV, “Campaigning with The economic impact of the Bush/McCain/Coleman war has People who own slot he wipes his snuff comments at No Stars.” Yet they may win ravaged everyone. All our hopes and dreams are held hostage by machines get rich while telling Gander Mountain (when do we the election. “It’s the economy, it. We cannot properly address the issues and conditions here at you about their fair pay-off. start leafletting? deer opener?), stupid!” This is a scary country. home that normally capture our country and demand our atten- Hopefully Nov. 5 brings us two minutes of reading as best How many times in our tion while we continue to spend $10,000,000,000 monthly on closure on this dreaded cam- he could, and that’s it. He hon- long lives have we heard the their stupid war. paign season that makes me estly said “Second Amendment “throw the bums out” refrain Our educational system could be bolstered by the funding wish a president served 6 years. rights” four times in those few when the country has gone to wasted on no-bid contracts with the likes of Halliburton. Those We’re leaving behind the most minutes. Coleman said the hell one way or another. People without healthcare could be rescued with the money wasted on vicious, expensive campaign phrase three times. crying for term limits. Well if private security forces in Iraq. We Americans can escape from season ever. It’s made most of It didn’t get covered in this there’s ever been a time to our foxholes and through the economic insecurity only when we us sick. Have you ever been hit issue but it was a great crowd throw a bum out it’s Norm quit spending on Bush/McCain/Coleman blunders. Do not up for money like this? To be protesting the First Dude’s Coleman, and he can take his expect to see real solutions to our distress from those that creat- visit. A lot of them were union $100 million buddy McCain ed it. ~NOTICE~ members but there were dozens with him. These guys are tout- To become whole, to reconstruct and emancipate the work- of folks I had never seen ing their bi-partisanship and ing class, we need the necessary tools. Both Barack Obama and Next issues of Labor World Al Franken support the Employee Free Choice Act which will be are: Nov. 12, 25; Dec. 17. before. It was actually a small maverick natures after siding crowd for the Dude. They with the worst president in the an essential first step towards rebuilding organized labor. LABOR WORLD bussed parents and children up history of the United States Bush/McCain/Coleman oppose EFCA. Union members and (ISSN#0023-6667) is published for the day because the debate 90% of the time. Bush bi-parti- their families must vote for Barack Obama and Al Franken. semi-monthly except one issue in was that night at UMD. I kinda san? What do have to show for PLEASE VOTE TUESDAY, NOVEMBER 4TH! December (23 issues). Mike Sundin, Painters & Allied Trades Local 106 The known office of publication is miss First Dude’s $150,000 eye it? And then our snubbed GOP Labor World, 2002 London Road, candy wife already. They’ll be Gov. Tim Pawlenty criticizes Room 110, Duluth, MN 55812. glad to get back home and Tivo teachers for not doing their “Quote, Unquote” Periodicals postage is paid at their glory days. jobs? He should come out and "Politics didn’t lead me to working folks-- Duluth MN 55806. Republicans have the endorse Obama because that’s working folks led me to politics." POSTMASTER: the only way the ship of state, Send address changes to: money to get really smart peo- ~Sen. Barack Obama at the AFL-CIO Building and Labor World, 2002 London Rd., ple to develop their strategy and the state of Minnesota, get Construction Trades Conference April 15, 2008 Room 110, Duluth, MN 55812 years ahead of the general pub- righted and it’ll take a while at lic’s thinking and then they go that. I will vote, won’t you? "Barack Obama is the only candidate who can 6 7 and get candidates that couldn’t bring this country together to get the economy (218) 728-4469 sell an igloo to the homeless. This Day In History working again for middle-class families.” FAX: (218) 724-1413 Dan Quayle was a brain sur- from ~Former Republican Minnesota Gov. Arne Carlson [email protected] geon compared to Ms. www.workdayminnesota.org www.laborworld.org Backdrop and Ms. Paleing. ~ ESTABLISHED 1896 ~ Oct. 29, 1929 NOW OPEN! Owned by Unions affiliated with the When McBush got the GOP Duluth AFL-CIO Central Labor Body presidential nod we ran a This day became known as Subscriptions: $22 Annually Huck/Konopacki cartoon about “Black Tuesday” as a massive Larry Sillanpa, Editor/Manager Stock Market crash marked Deborah Skoglund, Bookkeeper The non-profit Labor World, Inc. the start of the Great Board of Directors is the official publication of the Depression, the most severe President/Treas. Mikael Sundin, Duluth AFL-CIO Central Labor financial crisis in the history Painters & Allied Trades 106; Body. It is an educational, advo- of the United States. V.P. Paul Iversen, BMWED 1710; cacy newspaper for workers and unions. The views and opinions Oct. 29, 1966 Sec. Marlys Wisch, CWA 7214; The National Organization Tom Selinski, IBEW 242; Mike submitted and expressed in the Kuitu, Operating Engineers 49; Labor World do not necessarily for Women (NOW) was Al LaFrenier, UNITE HERE!; reflect the views of the paper, its founded in Chicago. For Shane Sweeney, BCTWGM 167G; Board of Directors, the Duluth more about the organization Larry Anderson, Laborers 1091; Central Labor Body, its affiliated and its activities, visit Susan Jussila, MN Nurses Assn. unions, their officers or staff. www.now.org. LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 PAGE 3 Coleman’s buddy Stevens found guilty Getting out the vote...from page 1 Sen. Norm Coleman and his felony counts of corruption he career in the U.S. Senate. John McCain and Norm Coleman cruise through the finish fishing buddy and financial was charged with after lying on The verdict comes just a line. contributor from Alaska, Sen. Senate financial forms about week before Election Day, Our GOTV effort can’t and won’t let that happen. Our Ted Stevens, both Republicans, $250,000 in home renovations which finds Stevens in a diffi- GOTV effort is going to bring it on home to victory. were named in the top four and other gifts he received cult race against former But it is only going to happen with your help. most unethical senators by from an oil contractor. Minnesota state Rep. Joe Four years ago, Duluth had the highest voter turnout in the Citizens for Responsibility and The master of pork, the Begich’s nephew, Democrat entire United States of America. We accomplished that through Ethics in Washington (CREW). “bridge to nowhere” senator, Mark Begich. the hard work of many of you in the months leading up to and On Monday Stevens was beloved by Alaskans, has final- In America you can’t vote if through election day. found guilty on all seven ly been caught after a 40-year you are a convicted felon but in We can do it again this year and it is looking like if we do the Alaska you may still be able to work, the results won’t be so hard to take. Imagine the devasta- be elected to the U.S. Senate. tion we’ll be in for if our candidates don’t win. We won’t let it Vote November 4th Coleman had stood by happen. www.pegsweeney.com Stevens through the indictment If you can help our Get Out The Vote effort call your local Count On Peg For: and refused to return $12,000 union to sign up or call our Labor 2008 campaign at 218-728- Civility he got from Stevens. He appar- 8996 or 310-8412. There is also a lot of information on our Experience ently still holds that sum after website at www.nealc.org. Labor Endorsed Common Sense the conviction as this issue Involvement goes to press. There are thou- ...from page 1 Re-elect sands, perhaps as much as Hillary: It’s about jobs Compassion $30,000, of other cash dona- “It’s not a question of who you are for, it’s a question of who Peg tions to Coleman from is for you,” Clinton said. “It’s time we had a president who puts Stevens-related political action hard working middle class workers first again.” committees. She said those hard working families are invisible to Stevens, 84, faces up to five President Bush even though many can’t pay their mortgages or SweeneySt. Louis County Commissioner- District 5 years in prison on each count. buy gas and groceries. He likely get off much easier. “But he heard it when Wall Street failed!” Where’s your A Commissioner We Can Count On His actual sentencing date is bailout?” still uncertain. When Barack Obama becomes president she said every PaidPaid for byfor the by Sweeney Duluth AFL-CIOVolunteer Committee,Central Labor 826 BodyAlmac COPE Drive, Proctor, MN 55810 American will have quality, affordable health care, Social Security will be restored and pensions will be protected. “This election comes down to jobs, baby, jobs,” Clinton said to cheers that interrupted her throughout her 25 minute speech. 733-0100 She spoke to the huge number of union members at the rally as evidenced by the jackets, hats, tee-shirts and signs. KOLAR “We’ll stand up for our unions and their right to organize and A U T O M O T I V E G R O U P www.kolarnet.com bargain collectively!” Sen. Clinton said Obama and Biden have the resolve and intelligence to turn America around in spite of what they’ll face on Jan. 20, 2009 when they would take office if they win. When Others Won’t...KOLAR Will “It’s hard to believe how much damage George W. Bush has done in eight years to the United States and to the world,” Clinton said in closing. “We’re tougher than the times and you 4781 Miller Trunk Hwy., Duluth, MN have to look no farther than the hard working, patriotic people of the Iron Range. We don’t avoid problems, we solve them...This is our moment, this is our time. Our day of reckoning is upon us.” LOOK UP AND LIVE. Fall Into THE tay clear of power lines on the work site when using cranes, booms, SAVINGS! S buckets, ladders, loaders or any tall equipment. The first rule is to Purchase UP TO A keep looking up. Equipment needs to have ample room in every direction One Pair of $258.95 Vision Pro Glasses VALUE! to avoid the risk of contact with power lines. Plan ahead when operating and Get the tall equipment and have a spotter on the ground to watch for potential Second Pair hazards. FREE!* Electric energy is a powerful tool, but if your equipment comes in contact with a power line you could receive an injurious or fatal shock. Call Minnesota Power if you have any questions regarding power lines Sale Includes: Single Vision • on the job. We are more than willing to assist at any job site to ensure Bifocals • Trifocals Rx Sunglasses • the safety of everyone. Progressive No-Line & Computer Glasses!

® OPTICAL

Gopher State One Call an company DIAL 811Damage Prevention Center DULUTH • SUPERIOR • MOOSE LAKE GRAND RAPIDS • CLOQUET • AURORA * With purchase of glasses. Up to a $258.95 value. Must be of equal or lesser value: select from special collection of A SAFETY MESSAGE FROM MINNESOTA POWER. frames and plastic lenses. Cannot be combined with any other offer or prior purchase. See store for details. PAGE 4 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 Nationwide, efforts to suppress voter turnout hitting weak GOP areas by AFL-CIO President John purge from the rolls people appeared at the polls on organizations, we are deter- join the effort to make this a Sweeney (October 23, 2008) whose information doesn’t Election Day. mined to make it easy, not hard, free and fair election by It is deeply ironic that match other public records— What we are seeing now is for every citizen to vote. We increasing careful reporting Republican operatives are records that are widely just the first wave of voter sup- call on the McCain-Palin cam- and editorial comment on voter working so hard to tarnish the acknowledged to be flawed. pression. We expect it will paign to do more to stop the suppression before, during and most dynamic voter participa- In September, Florida’s grow to include false informa- suppression of votes by any after the elections—and to help tion in our country in Republican Secretary of State tion distributed in communities means, as well as stopping give voters confidence that decades—apparently to justify told election officials to reject where Republican support is hateful smears and disinforma- their rights will be protected. and camouflage their most registrations that do not pass a weak, intimidation and chal- tion. And we urge the media to organized attempt yet to deny computer match process that is lenges of voters at the polls, Americans the right to vote. foiled by typos and other minor lawsuits seeking to throw out Election information The right wing in our country is errors. In just three weeks, 75 voting results and a longer term responding to the massive reg- percent of matching problems escalation of the campaign for Minnesota Secretary of State istration of new voters with a were found to be the result of more voter suppression laws. despicable, massive assault on administrative errors; others It is up to all of us to speak www.sos.state.mn.us voter participation. are still being checked. out and soundly reject this trav- The AFL-CIO strongly con- Also in September, esty. The AFL-CIO and other Why every woman must vote demns the coordinated national Wisconsin’s Attorney General, groups, including the NAACP, By Zandy Zwiebel and Debby Ortman effort by the Republican Party who co-chairs the state McCain ACLU, Lawyers Committee League of Women Voters Duluth campaign, filed suit against the for Civil Rights Under the Law and allied political operatives It is the duty of every woman of voting age to exercise their to suppress voter turnout and state election board, seeking to and the League of Women challenge the registration, by Voters, are responding with our right to vote by voting on Tuesday, November 4th, 2008. deny ballots to newly regis- Eighty eight years ago American women won the right to tered voters, particularly young his count, of tens of thousands biggest voter protection pro- of voters. gram ever. Some 1,400 vote, with the ratification of the Women’s Suffrage Amendment people, the poor and people of to the U.S. Constitution – the Nineteenth Amendment. color. Just last week, the lawyers have joined the AFL- Pennsylvania Republican Party CIO network of labor lawyers Brave women like Elizabeth Cady Stanton, Lucretia Mott, The assault is taking many and Susan B. Anthony led the suffragist fight – and it was a fight forms. By smearing voter reg- filed a lawsuit to force newly to travel into battleground registered voters in the states at their own expense to – to insure that women had equality with men when it came to istration groups such as voting for elected officials at all political levels – local, state and ACORN with false charges of Pittsburgh and Philadelphia staff legal command centers areas to vote under challenge and support the thousands of national. These women led this historic movement in 1848 but voter fraud, the Republican unfortunately did not live to see the Nineteenth Amendment’s Party hopes to discourage new and cast provisional ballots that poll monitors who will assist would not be counted Election people who have problems vot- ratification certified on August 26, 1920. voters and divert attention from Changing social conditions for women during the early the issues that are motivating Day. ing. In nine states, the AFL- Registrars in several states CIO is educating voters about 1800’s and a belief in equality of the sexes led to the birth of the so many—the disastrous eco- woman suffrage movement. Stanton and Mott, two reformers, nomic policies of the past eight have been denying registration their rights, working with elec- to students who give dorm tion officials about election called a women’s rights convention in Seneca Falls, New York years. in 1848. Other brave women continued their struggle – women In state after state, room addresses. In Maryland, administration and recruiting a registrar circulated a memo and training volunteer poll like Alice Paul, Harriot Stanton Blatch (the daughter of Elizabeth Republican tactics are designed Cady Stanton), Lucy Stone and Sojourner Truth. to create confusion and long saying students registering to monitors and workers. We are vote could lose financial aid referring voters to the toll-free What sacrifices did these incredible women make so we can lines at the polls to discourage vote today? Their story is highlighted in a movie released in and unnecessarily alarm voters. and tax dependent status. voting rights hotline operated And in at least one state, the by the Election Protection 2004 by HBO titled “Iron Jawed Angels”. It is a graphic depic- In Ohio, where 800,000 tion of the battle these women waged so that women could pull new voters have registered this GOP stated it would challenge coalition, 1-866-OUR-VOTE, mortgage foreclosure victims’ to check their registration and the curtain at the polling booth and vote. year, the Republican Party is Women over 18 please vote! Do not let the struggles of so filing lawsuit after lawsuit to right to vote when they report problems. The AFL- CIO also is airing radio ads in many brave women over the past 150 years be in vain. Our first targeted communities giving civic duty is to vote. If you don’t vote, you are abandoning your Voting Rights Hotline voters tips on how to protect obligation to be a responsible citizen. 1-866-OUR-VOTE (687-8683) their vote. You may register at the polls on Election Day if you have With vigilance and a major proper identification and have been a resident in Minnesota for effort by a broad array of 20 days. For more information about voter registration please Toll-free, nationwide contact the St. Louis County Auditor’s office: (218) 726-2385. Working State Representative E RE-ELECTMary Murphy TOGETHER A As someone who for N grew up in the West District 6B F D End, “AFL-CIO Carlton & St. Louis Counties Northeast L DFL & Labor Endorsed O Endorsed” means a Minnesota’s - R lot to me. To have the Working together for: C respect and support Future. S Education I of Duluth’s working Jobs O E men and women tells Affordable Healthcare Vote D me I’ve been doing Lower Property Taxes Tuesday, Environment my job to make St. Louis County a better November place to live and work. I’ll continue to work 4th. to keep your trust. Thank You! I’ll appreciate your vote Nov. 4. BILL KRON M. Jaros M. Murphy L. Solberg T. Rukavina T. Huntley B. Hilty T. Sertich D. Dill T. Anzelc R. Reinert St. Louis County Commissioner District 3 Paid for by Duluth AFL-CIO Central Labor Body COPE Not printed at Government expense. Paid for by Mary Murphy Vol. Comm., Jean McDonald Treasurer, 5180 West Arrowhead Road, Hermantown, MN 55811 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 PAGE 5 Barack Obama proposing fundamental change if elected president By Mark Gruenberg their reluctant votes for the Bush banned project labor U.S. health care non-system. ronmentally friendly. If enact- PAI Staff Writer $700 billion Wall Street agreements on federal con- The centerpiece of his plan is ed, the plan would particularly WASHINGTON--What’s in bailout, that he would push for struction projects. That was mandatory health insurance help industrial workers in the it for workers if Barack mandatory mortgage renegoti- just his first scheme to harm coverage for all children, plus Northeast and Midwest, who Obama, the 47-year-old Demo- ation to keep people in their workers, and his record went cost controls and other meas- have seen their plants close and cratic presidential nominee, homes, should he win the downhill from there. The list is ures that--Obama says--would their jobs flee to Mexico and senator from Illinois and the White House. But that is only so long it is impossible to cata- cut insurance premiums by China. first African-American ever one item in a long list of meas- logue it all here, but it is on the $2,500 yearly for adults, mak- And to help stop that flight nominated by a major political ures Obama may have to AFL-CIO’s website. ing health insurance available of jobs in the future, Obama party for the highest office in undertake to help end an eco- Other lowlights: to 34 million more people, ana- has pledged to sit down with the land, wins? The answer, nomic maelstrom not seen Bush considered sending lysts estimate. the Canadian prime minister gleaned from his speeches to since 1929. Extending unem- troops--at a time of war--to Obama would also keep the and the Mexican president to union groups, interviews, and ployment insurance would be man West Coast ports after present business tax deduction renegotiate NAFTA, the con- from other sources, can be another, which he also prom- managers locked out the for employer-paid health insur- troversial U.S.-Canada-Mexico summed up in one word: ised. So would investment in ILWU. Bush stripped building ance. GOP nominee Sen. John “free trade” treaty. Unlike his “Change.” Lots of it. But as infrastructure--rebuilding the trades workers of prevailing McCain (R-Ariz.), would abol- last remaining primary foe, Obama tours the country out- nation’s roads, airports, sewer wage rules in reconstruction ish it and instead tax workers Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.), lining the ways he would differ systems, schools and more. after Hurricane Katrina leveled on the value of employer-paid Obama did not advocate a from anti-worker GOP Obama promised that, too, to New Orleans, before backing health care benefits. Unions, moratorium on negotiating President George W. Bush’s the building trades. down. The Bush-named with the Mine Workers in the future trade pacts. But he regime, there are obstacles vot- THE DEFICIT: The third National Labor Relations vanguard, say that is a de facto promises to write enforceable ers should remember that could problem, he faces, the deficit, Board majority deprives work- tax increase--and that firms workers’ rights and environ- hamper his plans: Congress, may hamper his efforts to solve ers of protection of already would drop millions of people mental protections into texts of the economy and the deficit. the economic ills, though huge weak labor law, usually by call- from health insurance. Obama all future trade pacts. CONGRESS: Even if, as tides of red ink did not faze ing them “supervisors.” would not do that. THE WAR IN IRAQ. seems likely, Obama’s fellow FDR--and Obama would face And the Bush-named jus- For those people whose Obama promised to consult Democrats increase their Capi- an economic crisis similar in tices of the Supreme Court employers would not or could with U.S. generals on the tol Hill majorities, he faces a some ways, though not identi- banned Lilly Ledbetter and not provide health insurance ground on Iraq, but would congressional roadblock: cal in size yet, to the other workers from suing when coverage, Obama would estab- establish a 16-month timetable Republican rigidity in the 100- Depression. The federal deficit they suffered pay discrimina- lish a federally run system to for withdrawing a brigade per member Senate. Political fore- for next year is projected to be tion because of sex. cover them, similar to the month of U.S. forces. Some casts show Democrats gaining approximately half a trillion Obama would go in a com- health care plan now covering soldiers would remain, to help five to seven seats there. They dollars, and that was before pletely different direction. He lawmakers. train the Iraqis, and guard the now have 49, plus two inde- factoring in the $700 billion is a strong supporter of the THE ECONOMY, JOBS embassy. Iraqi Prime Minister pendents who caucus with the Wall Street bailout and the Employee Free Choice Act, to AND TRADE. Obama pro- Nouri al-Malikki generally Democrats, except for inde- money used to buy failing help level the playing field poses a range of measures, agrees with Obama’s 16-month pendent Joseph Lieberman on mortgages, suspect securities between workers and bosses in many of which he has outlined goal. Iraqi unionists strongly the war in Iraq and national and several big shaky compa- organizing campaigns and bar- to union audiences, to help back U.S. withdrawal and have security. But even with seven nies. That deficit will add to a gaining first contracts. And he workers. One is a tax cut for said so repeatedly. Withdraw- more senators, Democrats national debt approaching $11 supports legislation overturn- the bottom 95% of Americans al, Obama says, would free would still be short of the 60 trillion, virtually all accumulat- ing the justices’ Lilly Ledbetter while raising taxes on the rich- troops to fight the war on ter- votes they would need to shut ed under Republican presidents ruling. -whom Bush aided. While lob- ror. It would also spur Iraqis to off Senate GOP filibusters Ronald Reagan, George H.W. The Employee Free Choice bying lawmakers to back the solve their political differences against progressive legislation. Bush and especially George W. Act would write “card-check $700 billion Wall Street and take responsibility for their GOP filibusters halted every- Bush. In Bush II’s eight years, recognition” of unions into law, bailout, Obama said he would own country. thing from the Employee Free the debt rose by almost 50%, short-circuiting employers’ propose measures to help keep Many of the U.S. troops Choice Act to children’s health after he inherited a budget sur- vicious, venal and frequently people in their homes, rather Obama would pull out are care to a timetable for with- plus. When Reagan began in illegal campaigns against than losing their mort-gages. members of the National Guard drawing U.S. troops from Iraq. 1981, the debt was $670 bil- unionization. It would also Congress OKed the bailout or state Reserves. Those two THE ECONOMY: The lion. make court orders easier without mortgage aid. Obama units of the military include economy is headed into, if not The red ink could tie the against labor law-breaking voted yes. many unionists, especially already in, its second Bush hands of any president and companies, impose heftier Obama has also proposed from uniformed services (Fire bust--and it’s worse than the Congress, Democratic or Re- fines for law-breaking and investing in infrastructure, Fighters, police, EMTs). And first. The overwhelming publican, Obama or Sen. John mandate arbitration of first including reconstruction of the many are now on their third, majority of workers never McCain (R-Ariz.). It would contracts if workers and man- nation’s roads, bridges and air- fourth or even fifth tours of recovered from the first Bush mean money for Obama’s pro- agement can’t agree within 90- ports. The AFL-CIO Building duty in Iraq. recession of 2001: Incomes grams--from more spending on 120 days. It is labor’s top and Construction Trades Not all of those troops remained flat or declined for low-performing schools to uni- cause on the campaign trail. Department points out that would come home, however. the bottom 90% of the country, versal health care, from labor Obama not only supports every $1 billion more invested Obama repeatedly says we are while rising by astronomical law enforcement to battling the Employee Free Choice Act, in infrastructure produces short of troops in what he calls amounts for the rich. Now that greenhouse gases--just might but told the Change to Win 47,000 new jobs, most of them the prime front of the war on 90% is losing jobs (11% job- not be available. convention in 2007 he would high-paying construction jobs. terror, Afghanistan. He would less or underemployed, 9.5 With those three big road- campaign vigorously for it and Unemployment in September shift some troops there to aug- million jobless), health care (47 blocks in mind, there is still even “would walk picket lines” in construction, the last figures ment the 37,000 now present. million without insurance) and quite a lot that election of if elected. (The Secret Service available before the election, And he would vigorously pur- homes (3 million foreclosures), Obama would mean for work- may not let him do that.) reached 9.9% and almost a mil- sue the hunt for al-Qaeda to boot. The stock market is ers. Here, gleaned from He has also promised to lion construction workers are leader Osama bin Laden, with tanking, taking the value of Obama’s speeches and other restore a National Labor jobless. cooperation from neighboring workers’ pension funds with it. sources, are what his ascension Relations Board that would Obama’s other big-ticket Pakistan where possible, with- One non-partisan budget offi- to the White House could pro- enforce the act for workers, and investment in workers’ jobs is out it where needed. cial puts pension losses at $2 duce on four top issues: to appoint a Labor Secretary his ringing endorsement of the Obama, unlike candidates trillion in the last 18 months. AN END TO BUSH’S who would not be beholden to 10-year $330-billion “Apollo for decades--since Reagan--has Before Obama does any- WAR ON WORKERS. From business, as Bush Labor Alliance,” pushed by the Steel aroused a movement of enthu- thing else, he must deal with almost the first day he entered Secretary Elaine Chao is. Workers, to both rebuild U.S. siasm and hope on the cam- the economic morass of the last the Oval Office, George W. HEALTH CARE. Despite manufacturing and its high- paign trail. Whether he can eight years. He already prom- Bush waged an unrelenting war the nation’s financial difficul- paying jobs while trying to translate that into victory Nov. ised lawmakers, in return for on workers. On Jan. 30, 2001, ties, Obama refuses to yield on make the nation’s production 4, and how he uses it after- just 10 days into his tenure, his proposals to change the and transportation more envi- wards, remain to be seen. PAGE 6 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 Obama winning over conservatives, picks up important endorsements Barack Obama continues to his endorsement Oct. 23. with VP Cheney and Defense claim, post-Palin pick.” transform our politics and pick up significant endorse- Carlson had backed McCain in Sec. Rumsfeld over the han- Former Massachusetts Gov. restore America’s standing in ments from Republicans as September’s Primary. dling of the Iraq war. He’s wor- William Weld endorsed the world.” America suffers under their “Obama is the only candi- ried about the economy. Obama last Friday after back- Scott McClellan, a former party’s leadership. A Washing- date who can bring this country “When the economic crisis ing Mitt Romney in the spokesman for President G.W. ton Post-ABC poll last week together to get the economy broke, I found John McCain Republican Primary. Weld Bush, said Obama has “the best showed Obama getting 22% of working again for middle-class bouncing all over the place. In called Obama a “once-in-a- chance of changing the way people who call themselves families,” Carlson said. “In- those first few crisis days, he lifetime candidate who will Washington works.” conservatives and 12% of stead of offering a national was impetuous, inconsistent, Republicans. vision for our nation, Senator and imprudent; ending up just Former Secretary of State McCain has resorted to smear plain weird,” Adelman wrote. McCain vs. Obama on Your Taxes Powell, a well-respected mili- tactics in an effort to scare vot- “Having worked with Ronald McCain vs. Obama on Your Tax tary hero, told reporters his ers and stir up the right-wing Reagan for seven years, and decision to endorse Obama was base. Senator Obama has been been with him in his critical TAX INCREASE OR DECREASE driven, in part, by comments a remarkably disciplined and three summits with Gorbachev, TAX INCREASE OR DECREASE like those made by Rep. focused leader who will be- I've concluded that that’s no Michele Bachmann (R-Minn.), come a truly great president.” way a president can act under MCCAIN OBAMA OBAMA who had called Obama un- Carlson was governor from pressure.” YOUR FAMILY FAMILY INCOME: INCOME:➥ American and questioned the 1991 to 1999, during the eco- Adelman told the New ➥ patriotism of Democrats. nomic boom under Democratic Yorker’s George Packer that Arne Carlson, a two-term President Bill Clinton. McCain's pick of Alaska Gov. Up to to $18,981 $18,981 $19 $19 $567 $567 Republican Minnesota gover- Adelman was a key part of Sarah Palin as his running mate $18,981 - - $37,595 $37,595 $113 $113 $892 $892 nor, cited Obama's steady lead- George Bush's defense agency was the last straw. “That deci- $37,596 - - $66,354 $66,354 $319 $319 $1,042 $1,042 ership through economic crisis and held senior policy posi- sion showed appalling lack of $66,355 - $111,645 $1,009 $1,290 $66,355 - $111,645DECREASE $1,009 $1,290 and McCain’s erratic, uncertain tions under presidents Reagan, judgment,” he wrote. “..that DECREASE behavior and his low-road, Ford and even Nixon. A selection contradicted HOW THE WEALTHIER FARE: negative campaign in making staunch conservative, he broke McCain’s main two, and best HOW THE WEALTHIER FARE: two, themes for his campaign-- Police endorse Obama/Biden Country First, and experience $226,982 - -$603,402 $603,402 $31,484 $31,484 $12 $12 The National Association of Police Organizations, represent- counts. Neither can he credibly $603,403 - -$2.87 $2.87 million million $45,361 $45,361 $115,974 ing 238,000 law enforcement officers, has endorsed Barack Above $2.87 $2.87 million million $269,364 $269,364 $701,885 Obama and Joe Biden. “(They) have a proven record of standing with the law enforcement community, from giving our officers on the front lines the resources and tools they need in the fight against drugs and crime in our communities to supporting law Source: Urban-Brookings Urban-Brookings Tax Tax Policy Policy Center Center enforcement officers’ right to work place protections,” stated INCREASE Tom Nee. “NAPO believes that Senators Obama and Biden will GraphicGraphic from from CWA CWA News News INCREASE make ensuring our nation’s law enforcement officers are given every protection they need a top priority of their administration.” ➥ Support your your local local pharmacy pharma Tell youryour union, union, health health fund, fund, and andemployeemployerr Thinking About Retiring you wantwant local local pharmacy pharmacy services services or Changing Jobs? It’s Better...KeepBetter...Keep It Local!It Local! Your LocalLocal vs Mail OrderOrder If so, we invite you to take advantage of our free retirement plan. White Drug Drug Pharmacy Pharmacy Pharmacies Workers can’t 3 3 Personal service service Service only only by by phone/computer phone/compute Considering that it’s likely a person who is 65 years old today will live past afford 4 more 3 3 Consulting at at the the pharmacy pharmacy No personalpersonal contact. contact. How How do do age 85, it is important to plan appropriately for retirement. Regardless of your you getget questions questions answered? answered? current age, you should ask yourself: years of this 3 • Can I afford to retire when and how I would like? 3 3 Questions answered answered reliably, reliably, Allegations of of re-dispensing re-dispensing accurately product that has been returned • What should I do with my 401(k) and pension plans? 4,154 American soliders accurately product that has been returned 3 • Is my asset allocation suitable for my risk tolerance? have died in the Iraq War3 3 15 minuteminute service service on on No abilityability to to customize customize orders orders new prescriptionsprescriptions A personalized retirement plan can help you identify your goals, review your 600,000 Americans have3 3 Ready Refill RefillTMTM (Automated(Automated Two weekweek delivery, delivery, often often LATE LATE assets and understand such influences as market risk and time horizon. Your lost their jobs this year Refills) authorizationsauthorizations Financial Advisor can, depending on your needs, help you implement your 3 Do youyou want want your your meds meds sitting sitting in retirement strategies through both our brokerage and advisory capabilities. 3 3 Free inin town town prescription prescription 47 million Americans have delivery a 110 degree degree mailbox? mailbox? After all—your retirement may need to last more than 20 years. delivery no health insurance 3 3 We contactcontact doctors doctors for for refills refills Some require require you you to toget get your your Call us for a complimentary analysis and start preparing for your financial own refillrefill authorizations authorizations 1 in 50 Americans with a3 3 Monthly health health screenings screenings future today. Why trusttrust your your health health & safety& safety to mortgage has lost their 3 a nameless, faceless faceless person? person? For more information, contact 3 3 Free bloodblood pressure pressure checks checks For more information, contact home to foreclosure SeanSean McGee, McGee, Vice President–Investments Vice President–Investments Your locallocal White Drug Pharmacy isis moremore reliable reliable 21 21West West Superior Superior Street, Street,Duluth, MN Duluth, 55802 MN 55802 Household income has thanthan mail order.order. We areare alwaysalways available available to to answer answer 218-722-3344218-722-3344 800-444-0595 800-444-0595 fallen $1,175 since 2000 your questions face face to to face face with with a alocal local pharmacist. pharmacist [email protected] [email protected] Household expenses in- For aa listing listing of of locations locations visit visit www.thriftywhite.com www.thriftywhite.c www.ubs.com/financialservicesinc creased $4,655 since 2000 Pinetree PlazaPlaza www.ubs.com/financialservicesinc Inside Super One Foods Gas prices have increased Inside Super One Foods 276% since Bush took Cloquet, MNMN office ($1.44/gal. in 2000) 218-879-6768 • •1-800-967-3421 1-800-967-342 AFSCME Co. 5’s Stepping UpStore hours:hours: Mon-Fri Mon-Fri 9am 9am - 8pm - 8pm • Sat • 9am Sat -9am 5:30pm - 5:30pm • Sun 11am • Sun - 5pm 11a LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 PAGE 7 Duluth school levy needs three “yes” votes for students’ education By Mimi Larson, Chair, the levy and encourage voters music, art and sports are elimi- As an adult listening to their levies in the state is currently Vote Yes For Kids to consider the devastating nated from course offerings. impassioned speeches I could $760 per pupil. In Duluth ours Volunteer Committee impact on their education if the Each spoke of the importance not help but think that we is only $365 per pupil, well On Tuesday, October 21, levy is not passed. of teacher-students relation- adults in this community can below the state average. over 100 students from the A student from each high ships in their own lives and learn a great deal from our •Inadequate state funding, three high schools in Duluth school spoke at the rally and their worry that if the levy isn’t youth. What mature and rea- declining enrollment and dras- held a rally in front of the while their individual messages passed and class sizes increase sonable attitudes they demon- tically increasing costs of oper- School District’s Central were unique to their own expe- that this important bond would strated, not only about working ation make for a rather bleak Administration Building to rience all had a similar theme be jeopardized. And of most together in a smooth transition financial future for our schools. show their unified support for of believing in the importance importance, each student during the District’s Long A levy is the public way to sup- the operating levy, which will of a quality education to help talked about how important it Range Facilities Plan process port the general operating be on the November 4th ballot. prepare them to be responsible is to put aside their differences but also to rally together in sup- budget. Although most of the students adults. Each spoke of the posi- and individual school identities port of the levy which will have •Money from the levy will weren’t old enough to vote, tive impact that a well-rounded and instead to work together in a significant influence on qual- ONLY be used for programs. they still felt it vitally impor- education has had on them and support of the levy which will ity educational programming in Money will not be used to fund tant to show their support for their concerns if things like impact all. our District. As an adult, it is the Long Range Facilities Plan, sometimes humbling to be as some might have us believe. reminded of the value of soli- •If the levy is not renewed Mortgage Foreclosures • Crippling Energy Costs • Rising Unemploymdarity by our youth, but thank or increased on November 4th, Plunging Investments • Looming Deficits • Struggling Schools goodness we are! over 7 million dollars will have On November 4th, Duluth to be cut from the District’s Crumbling Infrastructure • Skyrocketing Health Care • Climate Chan voters will have the opportuni- budget next spring. These cuts ty to significantly influence the will be devastating and likely As the old saying goes: “If the only tool face of education in our com- change the structure of educa- you have is a hammer, everything looks munity. We can do so by vot- tion. Cuts very will could ing on the School District’s include: going to a 4 day like a nail.” However, challenging Operating Levy that will be on school week, no school in problems require carefully crafted the ballot, which will ask 3 January, eliminating specialists questions about increasing lev- in the elementary level, cutting solutions, not naively simplistic ones. els of funding. As we consider all sports programs and what level of levy funding to increasing class sizes. Vote for someone who has support please keep in mind Please consider voting YES, these important things: YES, YES, on November 4th! all the tools for the job. •The need for a levy is not a It is for the kids! Duluth only issue. Currently For more information about 306 out of 340 MN school dis- the levy and the ballot ques- tricts have a levy. tions, please see our web site: BILL HILT Y •The average amount of www.voteyesforkids.org STATESTATE REPRESENTATIVEREPRESENTATIVE DISTRICT 8ADISTRICT VOTE 8ANOV. 4 VOTE4 Yes 4 Yes 4 Yes DFL ENDORSED LABOR ENDORSED For Kids and a Vibrant Duluth Prepared and paid for by Hilty Volunteer Committee, Finlayson, MN 55735 For Kids and a Vibrant Dulu ATTENTION: VotersVoters in in the DuluthDuluth School School District District (And any other school district with a Choose your (And any other school district with a levy on the Tuesday, Nov. 4 ballot) baggage wisely. levy on the Tuesday, Nov. 4 ballot) IBEWIBEW 3131 &242242 Thee DuluthDuluth Central Central Labor LaborBody has Bodyunanimously has un Retirees’Retirees’ endorsed the Duluth the School’sDuluth Operating School Levy’s RenewalOperat that will will be on thebe ballot on forthe voters ballot in ISD 709.for vot LuncheonLuncheon Thee progressiveprogressive levy willlevy appear will as three appear separate asballot t Tues., Oct. 28 questions that needthat a “YES” need vote a at“ eachYES level.” vote 1:00 p.m. VOTE ...to renewrenew the the current current levy levy at at$365 $365 per per VOTEstudent. This This means means no no new new taxes taxes but but Ground Round there willwill still still be be a aneed need for for budget budget cuts. cuts. Members & Their 4 Yes Guests Welcome! $7.50 $153 VOTE ...to thethe $700$700 perper student student question. question. This This average average medical VOTEwill help help sustain sustain programs programs and and activities. activities. court fee appointment fee 4 The tax increaseincrease will will be be $8.08 $8.08 a amonth month 4 Yes on aa $150,000$150,000 home.home. 30 minutes of physical activity daily is just one of the ways VOTE ...to thethe $1200$1200 perper student student question. question. This This you can reduce your risk of costly health problems. When it comes VOTEwill keep keep quality quality programming programming and and allow allow to the cost of health care, your choices make a difference. 4 short term term investments. investments. The The tax tax increase increase 4 Yes will bebe $20.25 $20.25 a a month month on on a a$150,000 $150,000 home. home. Learn moremore atat www.voteyesforkids.org Paid for byby Duluth Duluth AFL-CIO AFL-CIO Central Central Labor Labor Body Body COPE COPE

PAGE 8 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008

Here’s voting information for Tues., Nov. 4 Take time off election day At long last, the Tuesday, Registering to Vote in the precinct; November 4 General Election or by, to vote without loss of pay To vote in Minnesota, you Workers who are eligible voters have a right to be absent from is only days away. Here is must register as a voter. You * having a voter who is reg- some Minnesota specific infor- work in order to vote on Election Day morning, Tuesday, Nov. 4, may register to vote by mail or istered to vote in the precinct without loss of pay because of the absence. Minnesota Statutes mation that will help you about in-person at your county court- vouch for you 1999 204C.04 protects this right and prohibits employers from the voting process: house (at least 20 days before * having an employee of a interfering with it. However, it won’t hurt to notify your supervisor In Wisconsin and Minne- the election to appear on the residential facility vouch for before election day that you’re planning to take time off to vote. sota you are able to register to roster) or you may register at you, if you are resident of the Call the Election Division of the Secretary of State’s office (651- vote on election day. Pre-regis- your polling place on election facility (employee must be on a 215-1440) if you have questions about the right to take time off to tration deadlines have passed. day. certified list of employees of a vote. Here is the wording of the statute: If you have voted within the Election Day Registration residential facility) Minnesota Statutes 1999 204C.04 last four years and not moved To register at the polling * having a prior registration Employees; time off to vote you are already registered. If in the same precinct with your place, bring a valid driver's Subdivision 1. Right to be absent. your name has changed, be pre- license with your current resi- former address shown on the pared to prove the legal Every employee who is eligible to vote in an election has the dence address on it with you. roster. right to be absent from work for the purpose of voting during the change. Voters who mailed in If you have an old address on Or, you may prove resi- morning of the day of that election, without penalty or deduction registration cards after the your valid driver’s license, dence on Election Day by pre- from salary- or wages because of the absence. An employer or other 2002 federal election will be bring a utility bill in your name senting one of the items listed person may not directly or indirectly refuse, abridge, or interfere required to show photo identi- (due within 30 days of the elec- under A (photo ID not bearing with this right or any other election right of an employee. fication when voting. tion) with your current resi- a current address) in conjunc- Subd. 2. Elections covered. For purposes of this section, “elec- Voter Eligibility dence address on it. You may tion with one of the items listed tion” means a regularly scheduled state primary or general election, You may vote in Minnesota also combine photo identifica- under B. an election to fill a vacancy in the office of United States senator or on the next election day if you: tion from a U.S. passport or A. Photo identification card United States representative, an election to fill a vacancy in the * will be at least 18 years military identification card with your name and photo- office of state senator or state representative, or a presidential pri- old on election day; with the utility bill. graph: mary as described in section 207A.01 unless it is conducted by mail. * are a citizen of the United Acceptable Forms of ID: *Minnesota driver's license; Subd. 3. Penalty. States; * a valid Minnesota driver’s * a Minnesota identification A person who violates this section is guilty of a misdemeanor, * will have resided in license, or a receipt for one that card; and the county attorney shall prosecute the violation. Minnesota for 20 days immedi- contains your valid address in * a United States passport; ately preceding election day; the precinct * a student identification Labors’ Choice, Your Voice * are not under court- * a valid Minnesota learn- card issued by a Minnesota ordered guardianship in which er;s permit, or a receipt for one postsecondary educational As a lifelong Union Member I’m proud the court order revokes your that contains your valid address institution or; to be endorsed by so many sectors of the right to vote; in the precinct * a tribal identification card * have not been found by a that contains your name, signa- Labor Movement. On the Lake County * a valid Minnesota identifi- Board I’ll represent and advocate for court to be legally incompetent cation card, or a receipt for one, ture, and picture to vote; and * a United States military working families as I always have in my that contains your valid address work life and service to my community. * have the right to vote in the precinct identification card because, if you have been con- * a current student identifi- B. An original bill for gas, I’m proud to be Labor- victed of a felony, your felony cation card that contains your electric, telephone, cellular sentence has expired (been valid address in the precinct telephone, cable television, endorsed! I'll appreciate completed) or you have been * a current student fee state- solid waste, water, or sewer your vote Tuesday, November 4! discharged from your sentence. ment that contains your valid service if: address in the precinct, * the bill shows your name * a copy of a current student and current address in the Vote BRAD JONES INTERSTATE registration card that contains precinct; and your valid address in the * the due date on the bill is www.voteforbradjones.com SPUR precinct within 30 days before or after Election Day. Lake County Commissioner Dist. 3 * a notice of late registration Paid for by the Brad Jones Volunteer Committee mailed to you by the county Who can vouch for resi- auditor or municipal clerk dents of residential facilities? * a tribal identification card Any voter who is registered issued by the tribal government to vote in that precinct and Vote November 4th! of a tribe recognized by the knows that the voter resides at Bureau of Indian Affairs that the residential facility or who is Because St. Louis 2700 W. Michigan St. contains your name, address, employed by and working in a County needs a GAS - DIESEL signature, and picture residential facility in the * a current valid student precinct, whose name appears compassionate, GROCERIES on a certified list provided to identification card from a post- common sense You’ll really like secondary educational institu- the County Auditor by the our car wash! tion in Minnesota and your operator of the facility 20 days commissioner. name on a certified housing list prior to the election. Now By popular demand more than ever. A credit union for East Duluth Re-elect Labor Endorsed EXPERIENCE THE Peg CREDIT UNION DIFFERENCE SweeneySt. Louis County Commissioner- District 5 Open your account today! Details: 218-729-7733 A Commissioner We Can Count On Paid for by the Sweeney Volunteer Committee, 826 Almac Drive, Proctor, MN 55810 PAGE 10 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 Minnesota needs Al Franken in U.S. Senate Franken makes his case...from page 12 By Bill McCarthy Free Choice Act would do. And of St. Louis Park, he relates, in U.S. oil policy tragically also resulted in the “biggest tactical President, Minneapolis that’s why the U.S. Chamber of a two-bedroom, one bathroom error of our time,” the war in Iraq “that Norm Coleman thinks is Regional Labor Federation Commerce is waging a multi- home shared with his parents a good idea,” Franken said. million dollar ad campaign on and older brother. Franken In answer to a question Franken said we took the wrong In the close race for U.S. actions in the war on terror and our actions have actually Senate, only one candidate is a radio and television to smear excelled in Minnesota schools Franken and sow confusion and went on to Harvard and a increased jihadism. “Al-qaeda is on the Afghanistan-Pakistan union member who we can border because of our tragic Iraq decision and because we took count on to be a steadfast advo- about the legislation. successful entertainment Don’t be fooled by this career. He and wife Franni, our eye off the ball,” Franken said. Going to war in Afghanistan cate for working families: Al was the right thing to do because they were protecting the Franken, the AFL-CIO media blitz paid for by big married 32 years, raised two business. The Employee Free children. Taliban, Franken, who has visited Iraq troops four times with the endorsed candidate in the race. USO tours, said. “We need to get out of Iraq, responsibly, and on The U.S. Senate debate Choice Act is pro-worker and While Franken could have pro-union. stayed in the entertainment a schedule. “I’ve been to too many hospitals, our only leverage October 16 featured Franken, is to tell them we’re leaving.” incumbent Norm Coleman, and Incumbent Coleman and his world, he was increasingly supporters want to distract you troubled, like many people, by Franken said Iraq war costs are a big part of the reason we are also Dean Barkley. Of the three suffering at home. He said we could be hiring 5,800 teachers, candidates, Franken is the only from Coleman’s record in the the direction of this country. U.S. Senate these past six He began writing best-sell- increasing Pell Grants and other student aide, repairing our infra- one who will support federal structure, building a green economy, improving health care, and legislation to make it easier for years. Coleman voted with ing books exposing the lies and President Bush nearly 90 per- hypocrisy of right-wing media so many other important domestic needs if we hadn’t invested in workers to organize unions, the a war that will strap future generations as well. Employee Free Choice Act. cent of the time. He has cham- and politicians. He became the In the October 16 debate, all pioned big business interests, featured star of Air America three candidates professed to not working families. And Radio and helped re-energize be advocates for the middle that’s why corporate interests the progressive movement class. Only Franken, however, reward Coleman with piles of nationwide. truly “gets it” when it comes to campaign cash. Coleman has Franken campaigned along- understanding the best way to received a combined total of side Paul Wellstone and, before preserve and expand the mid- more than $3.8 million from launching his own race for dle class: that’s giving more the finance, insurance and real Senate, Franken campaigned workers the opportunity to join estate industries. tirelessly across Minnesota for unions, earn union wages and Franken will be a champion two years for progressive, benefits, and gain a voice on for the middle class because it’s labor-endorsed candidates. the job. part of his DNA. Franken grew Franken is a member of four That’s what the Employee up in the Minneapolis suburb unions: the American Feder- ation of Television and Radio Artists, the Screen Actors’ Guild, the Directors’ Guild, and Need Help? Dial 2-1-1 the Writers’ Guild. Franken Not sure where to turn? Dial United Way’s 2-1-1 to understands just how important get connected to resources throughout Minnesota. unions are to sustaining and For personal services provided by the Community Services building the middle class. He Program sponsored by the Duluth AFL-CIO Central Labor will be a strong ally for work- Body and the United Way of Greater Duluth Call 728-1779 ing families in the U.S. Senate. He will work for change. Community Services Program That’s why he’s the subject of a Duluth Labor Temple vicious corporate attack cam- 2002 London Road, Room 94 paign. And that’s why he Yvonne Harvey, Director deserves our support. STEVE DETLEFSEN TWO HARBORS CITY COUNCIL WARD FOUR A Proud Member of IBEW Local 242 for 27 Years, who feels it’s time to get Two Harbors growing for the future! As a lifelong Two Harbors resident I want our city to be a great place to live, work, play, and raise a family. I'm dedicated to planning for our city's future with a common sense approach to meeting the opportunities and challenges we all need to face together. I’ll appreciate your support and invite you to join in my vision for Two Harbors: • Sound economic development that creates good paying jobs • Revitalizing downtown Two Harbors • Improved infrastructure (lighting, sidewalks, streets, & alleys) • Prioritizing management of scarce resources • Creating easy access & enhancing our city’s appeal • Appreciate diversity & the challenges faced by public officials VOTE FOR DETLEFSEN, 4TH WARD, ON NOVEMBER 4TH,

YOU'LL BE GLAD YOU DID! Paid for by Duluth AFL-CIO Central Labor Body COPE LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008 PAGE 11 Al Franken makes his case for Wellstone seat at UMD senate debate A packed house, well a half and the housing crisis are what ic policy,” Franken said. “If address energy concerns, but it required Bush to give huge tax packed UMD Romano Gymna- caused the meltdown he said. you make less than $200,000 a has been squandered,” Franken breaks to oil companies that sium, attended a U.S. Senate So rather than just bail out bil- year I’ll cut your taxes. The top said. “We continue to have a 60 don’t need them. The only rea- debate Oct. 16 between the lionaires, the middle class, the one percent under George W. to 70 percent reliance on for- son they get their tax breaks is three candidates that will be on engine of a strong economy, Bush got a $1,000 a week tax eign oil under George Bush.” because senators are getting the ballot Nov. 4. needs to be helped he said. cut, the bottom one-fifth got He said we have actually money from oil interests Democratic challenger Al “I agree with Barack $1.20. This is what’s wrong.” increased our dependence on Franken said. Coleman has set Franken, the AFL-CIO’s Obama, and have been saying Tax cuts for the rich have foreign oil every year of Bush’s Minnesota records for his con- endorsed candidate, made his it for a year, that we must have not helped and instead should eight years as president tributions from the oil, finan- case why he’s the guy that a moratorium on foreclosures,” be used for education and cre- because our policy is run by oil cial, and pharmaceutical indus- should replace Sen. Norm Franken said. “We need to reg- ating green jobs. men. try. Coleman and return Paul ulate the economy in spite of “We’ve had eight years to That addiction to foreign oil See Franken...page 11 Wellstone’s seat to the people the anti-regulatory fever in of Minnesota. order to stop the downward Coleman spent the night spiral of home equity.” playing defense against Franken said President Franken and Independence Bush took the largest surplus in Party candidate Dean Barkley. the nation’s history and turned Injured on the job? His opening statement showed it into the largest deficit in his- Injured on the job? why. tory in only eight years because Coleman, who spent years of his policies “tilted to the doing nothing as chair of the wealthy” that don’t trickle powerful Senate Permanent down. Subcommittee on Investi- “Norm Coleman wants to gations, opened by saying that lock in place the Bush econom- those involved in the financial meltdown in America will go to jail. He said there are so many reasons to stop negative ads after spending $7 million on them and finding out they offended people and weren’t working. Yet his friends contin- ue to fund and air them, includ- ing against Senator Barack Obama. Last week he admitted he had not made the calls to have them stopped. After six years of being a lapdog for President George W. Bush and following his failed We’ll listen. policies 90 percent of the time, We’ll listen. Coleman is extolling his virtue as a bi-partisan, reach across the aisle kind of guy. TThehe art art of listening of listening is one of the is qualities one of that the is most qualities important forthat is m “Minnesota you know me,” he said in ending. Yes we do. anan effective e ective Workers’ Workers Comp’ attorney. Comp attorney. That’s because Thatevery ’situation,s because eve The debate had a moderator andand every every unfortunate unfortunate injury, is unique.injury, After is hearing unique. your whole After hearin but also fielded questions sub- mitted by the audience. Al Franken, the AFL-CIO story,story, we thenwe developthen develop a plan to obtaina plan the tobenefits obtain to fairly the bene ts to Franken said he was not for and DFL endorsed candi- compensatecompensate you. you. the bailout of Wall Street date for U.S. Senate, got in his last chance to greet sup- “because it doesn’t get at the We will answer your questions or important concerns, such as matter of what’s wrong with porters before moderator We will answer your questions or important concerns, s the economy.” Deregulation of Patrick Marx, following him medicalmedical treatment treatment options, options, the adverse the medical adverse exam or medical when you exam or the financial services industry to the stage, called for quiet on the debate front. shouldshould return return to work. to work. IIff you’ve you’ sufferedve su ereda work arelated work injury, related call us. injury,It costs you call nothing us. It c PlanningPlanning a a Holiday holiday Party party toto? meet meet? with with a good a listener.good listener. Many unions and other groups are starting to plan their Thanksgiving and Christmas parties. If you’re one of them we can make your food decisions easy. We go well beyond our crowd pleasing pizza selections, too. 2531 West Superior St. 727-0020 Grill Happy Hour M-F 3-6, $1 off drinks, 1/2 off apps

Oh yah, we deliver! Affiliated with UNITE HERE Local 99

PAGE 12 LABOR WORLD NEWS, WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 29, 2008